Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Chinese FM urges China, Germany to jointly oppose unilateralism Xinhua) 09:57, February 14, 2026 MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday urged China and Germany to strengthen strategic communication, and jointly oppose unilateralism and bloc confrontation. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the appeal during talks with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Both sides should firmly uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, replace the "law of the jungle" with global governance, and work together to serve as a stabilizing force in a turbulent world, said Wang. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) News / National by Staff reporter The body of late vocal war veterans' leader Blessed "Bombshell" Geza arrived in Zimbabwe early this morning, crossing through the Beitbridge Border Post at around 5am.Geza's remains later proceeded to Masvingo shortly after 6am before following a designated route to Harare and ultimately to his rural homestead in Sanyati, Mashonaland West province, where he will be laid to rest.Family members and supporters gathered along parts of the route to pay their respects to the outspoken former liberation war fighter, whose death has sparked renewed debate over his legacy.Geza, who was a prominent and often fiery voice within the war veterans' movement, made headlines in recent years following a bitter political fallout with President Emmerson Mnangagwa.His passing has triggered discussion over whether he should be accorded national hero status. While some argue that his liberation war credentials and long-standing activism merit the honour, others contend that his public criticism of the current administration complicates the matter.Under Zimbabwe's system, national hero status is conferred by the ruling party and burial takes place at the National Heroes Acre in Harare.As of this morning, there has been no official announcement regarding his hero status.Geza is expected to be buried at his Sanyati homestead, with funeral arrangements continuing as family, comrades and supporters prepare to bid farewell to a man whose political life remained as controversial as it was influential. Welsh dairy farmers have seen milk prices fall by up to 15p per litre since the autumn, prompting NFU Cymru to press ministers for urgent action to safeguard the sectors future. The union estimates that between October 2025 and March 2026, a conservative 100 million will have been lost from the Welsh rural economy as farmgate prices tumble. NFU Cymru met Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies MS this week to present eight key actions it believes the Welsh government should take to support farm incomes and reduce production costs during the current downturn. While longer-term prospects for dairy remain positive, driven by growing global demand for protein, the short-term outlook is far more challenging. Oversupply in Wales and beyond has pushed down wholesale prices for cream, butter, cheddar and powders, feeding through into a sharp and rapid drop in milk prices on farm. The Welsh sector is particularly exposed because most of the milk processed within Wales is turned into cheese one of the commodities hardest hit by falling wholesale values. NFU Cymru President Abi Reader said: This is an extremely difficult period for Wales dairy sector, with most farms in Wales receiving a price well below the cost of producing milk. She warned that the rapid reduction in price is restricting cash flow, delaying investment decisions and threatening business survival. With March price announcements already being made, in the six months from October 25 March 26 we will have seen a conservative estimate of 100m lost from the Welsh rural economy, she added. Among the unions proposals are reforms to the Sustainable Farming Scheme to ensure it is workable for dairy farms, an independent review of the cumulative regulatory burden on farm businesses, a comprehensive bovine TB eradication strategy, and close cooperation with the Agricultural Supply Chain Adjudicator to ensure the Fair Dealings Obligations (Milk) Regulations 2024 are properly applied. Ms Reader said the Sustainable Farming Scheme should evolve in a way that avoids duplication with farm assurance requirements and supports productivity, underpinned by a budget that matches the scale of ambition. She also called for an independent review into the impact of regulations and planning frameworks on farmers, singling out the Control of Agricultural Pollution Regulations (NVZs) as a blunt, inefficient and overly bureaucratic system imposing high costs. Many dairy farmers, she said, are being required to invest hundreds of thousands of pounds in compliance at a time when cash flow is already under severe pressure. Bovine TB remains another major challenge, with almost one in five Welsh dairy farms operating under TB restrictions in 2025. It continues to inflict financial and emotional stress, limiting profitability and strangling investment, Ms Reader said, urging ministers to implement a comprehensive eradication strategy. She added that fair and transparent markets are essential during downturns, calling on government to ensure milk regulations are implemented in the spirit they were intended. With further milk price announcements expected in March, many Welsh dairy businesses now face a difficult spring as margins remain under intense pressure. The Welsh government has been approached for comment. K-dramas have given us a fair share of couple goals. From heiresses to demons, theres a love story for everyone. On Valentines Day, were looking at some of the best K-drama couples who stood out with their chemistry and charm. Kim Shin & Ji Eun-tak Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin) Kim Shin (Gong Yoo), a goblin cursed with immortality, meets Ji Eun-tak (Kim Go-eun), a high school girl who can see ghosts and unknowingly summons him. Their lives intertwine when Eun-tak discovers she is the Goblins bride, the only one who can end his endless life. What begins as bickering cohabitation slowly turns into a deep, fated romance, full of sacrifice, humour and heart-stopping chemistry. Lee Ik-jun & Chae Song-hwa Hospital Playlist Lee Ik-jun (Jo Jung-suk), a warm-hearted surgeon, shares a quiet, steady romance with Chae Song-hwa (Jeon Mi-do), a talented neurosurgeon. Their relationship grows naturally through years of working together and supporting each other in the hospitals high-pressure environment. With understated chemistry and heartfelt moments, their love is grounded in trust, friendship, and shared life experiences, making them one of the most relatable and beloved couples in K-dramas. Lee Ik-jun (Jo Jung-suk), a warm-hearted surgeon, shares a quiet, steady romance with Chae Song-hwa (Jeon Mi-do), a talented neurosurgeon. Their relationship grows naturally through years of working together and supporting each other in the hospitals high-pressure environment. With understated chemistry and heartfelt moments, their love is grounded in trust, friendship, and shared life experiences, making them one of the most relatable and beloved couples in K-dramas. Yoo Si-jin & Kang Mo-yeon Descendants of the Sun Yoo Si-jin (Song Joong-ki), a fearless captain in the special forces, meets Kang Mo-yeon (Song Hye-kyo), a dedicated doctor, during a mission in a disaster-stricken country. Their romance unfolds amid life-threatening situations, military protocol, and moral dilemmas, forcing them to balance duty with their feelings. The couples chemistry, combined with moments of vulnerability and courage, makes their love story one of the most memorable and intense in K-drama history. Kim Ji-won and Kim Soo-hyun are great actors individually. But as a couple, they create a palpable chemistry thats hard to look away from. The best part? They go from hating each other to loving each other passionately. Its devastating and beautiful at the same time.The leads of Lovely Runner are as charming as ever. Between meet-cutes and their whimsical romance across timelines, they manage to tug at the heartstrings. Sol and Sun-jaes relationship develops into a sweet romance making them a memorable couple in the past year.My Demon came with fresh proof of Song Kang and Kim Yoo-jungs popularity. The show revolves around an unconventional love story between a cold heiress and a demon. While it's full of K-drama tropes weve seen before, their sizzling chemistry more than makes up for it.Fan-favourite K-drama Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin didnt just enjoy great onscreen chemistry, they also tied the knot IRL proving that some couples are meant to be. Their hit series Crash Landing on You tells the story of an heiress who accidentally lands in North Korea and a general who tries to protect her and eventually falls for her.Workplace romance dramas have a separate fanbase and these two are undeniably the best couple in the genre. Park Seo-joons Lee Young-joon plays a stern vice chairman of a big company while Park Min-youngs Kim Mi-so plays his secretary. When she decides to resign, he goes to great lengths to retain her.When the Phone Rings takes its time to unveil the love story of its lead pair but once we find out that Yoo Yeon-seoks Paik Sa-eon doesnt hate Chae Soo-bins Hong Hee-joo, but is in fact obsessed with her, things get interesting. And boy is it worth the wait.Rowoon and Jo Bo-ah create an irresistible chemistry in Destined with You. The plot revolves around two people who are brought together by fate and fall in love while trying to break an ancient curse. Viewers couldnt get enough of the two.Park Hyung-sik and Park Shin-hye transformed an otherwise mundane love story about two individuals dealing with extreme burn-out. As they find each other, they form a heartwarming support system that helps them grow. Between cute dates and addressing serious mental health issues, they make for a wholesome pair.K-dramas set in small coastal towns have their own charm. In Welcome to Samdal-ri, sparks fly between Shin Hye-suns Cho Samdal and Ji Chang-wooks Cho Yong-pil. Along with the undeniable chemistry, the two also portray a familiarity that feels comfortable and lived-in. TShin Min-ahs Hae Yeong and Kim Young-daes Ji-wook have an unconventional romance as they pretend to be married so that the former can get the perks of a married employee at her company. As they begin to fall for each other, their fake marriage quickly turns into a very real romance. Theyre easily one of the past years best couples. The Mumbai Police have begun investigating a shooting incident at Rohit Shettys residence. They have also questioned both Ranveer Singh and Rohit Shetty's managers. For those unaware, the investigations come after the two receive fresh threats through a fresh audio clip from the alleged Lawrence Bishnoi gang. In the new audio clip, a person claiming to be Harry Boxer, has threatened Singh for allegedly going back on his word. He has also warned him, his staff and his family to "fall in line." Harry Boxer was reportedly in the news last year for allegedly firing shots at Kapil Sharma's cafe in Canada. While Mumbai police are still judging the authenticity of the audio clip, as per India Today, they are trying to recreate the sequences of events related to the case. The detailed reconstruction was carried out with the four accused in custody, namely Swapnil Sakat, Aditya Gayaki, Siddharth Yenpure and Samarth Pomaji. Investigators reconstructed their movements, from buying a scooter in Pune to driving it to Mumbai. They also made multiple stops along the way and eventually left the scooter parked outside Vile Parle station. The officers reportedly spoke to the accused, crosschecked their statements and reevaluated their actions at each stage. The reconstruction will serve as evidence in court as well. The report further suggests that the suspects were continuously questioned and the details were largely verified. As the sequence of events was recreated, officials also gathered fresh financial details. The accused disclosed that once the scooter was handed over in Mumbai, the key accused, Shubham Lonkar, gave them an extra Rs 11,000. While earlier accounts mentioned a payment of Rs 40,000, revised findings indicate that Rs 51,000 changed hands in total. Rs 30,000 went toward purchasing the scooter and the remaining Rs 21,000 was spent on other expenses. The sixth accused, Praveen Lonkar, will also be taken into custod within the next few days. Also Read: Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singhs exchange over Ranveers Madame Tussauds statues wins hearts The spotlight is steadily turning towards Avantika Sundar. The daughter of filmmaker-actor Sundar C and actor-producer Khushbu is all set to make her Malayalam film debut with Aarambham, a project that marks not just a beginning for her but also for its director, Sujesh Annie Eapen. Titled Aarambham, which translates to beginning, the film signals a fresh start on multiple fronts. The project recently went on floors with a traditional pooja ceremony held in Chavakkad, Thrissur. The auspicious launch saw the cast and crew come together to mark the commencement of what promises to be an ambitious entertainer. The makers have chosen picturesque Kerala locales such as Kunnamkulam, Chavakkad and Kollamkode as primary shooting spots. Backed by Studio Bellarooh, the film is shaping up as a rooted drama, although plot specifics are being closely guarded for now. Avantika will be seen playing a character named Arathi, a role that is expected to offer the newcomer ample scope to showcase her performance skills. View this post on Instagram A post shared by avantika (@avantikasundar) Avantikas entry into Malayalam cinema has been keenly watched, given her lineage. Growing up in a household deeply entrenched in South Indian cinema, she has had a front row view of the industrys workings. However, Aarambham will be her first real test before the camera in Mollywood, a space known for its emphasis on performance-driven narratives. Aarambham boasts an extensive supporting cast that reads like a whos who of Malayalam cinema. Veteran actor Saritha headlines the ensemble alongside performers such as Althaf Salim, Indrans, Vijayaraghavan, Krishna Sankar and Kalabhavan Shajohn. The cast further includes Noby Marcose, Rajesh Sharma, Ramesh Kottayam, Sphadikam George and Senthil Krishna among many others, making it one of the more expansive lineups in recent times. Behind the scenes, the film brings together a mix of fresh voices and established technicians. Joselet Joseph and Ajoy Thampi have jointly penned the story, screenplay and dialogues. Music will be composed by Gopi Sundar. The lyrics are by BK Harinarayanan. It has cinematography by Ajayan Vincent, editing by Renjan Abraham and art direction by Sabu Mohan/ Interestingly, the young actor is also part of the Tamil film Double Occupancy, a project produced by her parents. That film will see her working closer to home, while Aarambham positions her independently in an unfamiliar industry. With Malayalam cinema continuing to enjoy national and international attention for its content-rich storytelling, Avantikas choice of debut project appears both strategic and promising Also Read: Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor Talk About Their Organic Chemistry in Abir Gulaal DUBAI, UAE, Feb. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA) , a global non-profit initiative founded by Bybit dedicated to leveraging blockchain for societal impact, is thrilled to announce the release of its inaugural flagship impact report, The State of Blockchain for Good: A View from the Alliance , offering one of the most comprehensive and grounded assessments to date of how blockchain technology is being applied to real-world social, economic and public-sector challenges. Following the Blockchain Impact Forum held in Copenhagen last November, the report brings together insights from global policymakers, United Nations agencies, industry leaders, builders and ecosystem partners, moving the conversation beyond speculation and toward implementation. Guided by key discussion themes contributed by experts during the forum, BGA examines where blockchain is already delivering public value, where adoption is stalling, and what must change for the technology to mature into trusted digital public infrastructure. At a time when digital trust, transparency and institutional resilience are under increasing strain, the report positions blockchain not as a silver bullet, but as a practical tool - when governed responsibly and deployed with intent - for strengthening systems across finance, climate action, identity, aid distribution, education and inclusive economic development for public good and development. From Pilots to Public Infrastructure Drawing on insights from international hackathons, accelerator cohorts, joint funding initiatives and policy dialogues, the report identifies a clear inflection point for the sector. While many blockchain solutions are technically mature and ready for deployment, the primary bottlenecks now lie in institutional readiness, funding alignment and governance frameworks. The report calls for closer collaboration among governments, multilateral institutions and industry to move successful pilots into sustained, scalable deployments. "The question is no longer just about whether blockchain can be used for public good," said Helen Liu, founder of BGA and co-CEO of Bybit. "The question now is how institutions choose to adopt, govern and scale blockchain for impact, and BGA is well positioned to continue convening global initiatives to help guide this process." A View From the Alliance The State of Blockchain for Good reflects BGA's ecosystem-first perspective, synthesizing lessons from builders working on the ground and partners across regions. It highlights efforts across four core pillars - hackathons, incubation, joint funds and the BGAwards - as a continuous and synergistic pipeline guiding innovation from early experimentation to institutional relevance. The report also outlines BGA's outlook for the industry over the next 12 to 36 months, including recommendations on policy design, blended finance, interoperability and ethical safeguards, as well as plans to expand global grassroots engagement and deepen partnerships with governments and international organizations. Setting the Agenda As governments and institutions worldwide accelerate digital transformation efforts, BGA believes the report will serve as both a reference point and a global call to action. "This report is not just a celebration of blockchain's role in driving global impact," said Glenn Tan, Director of global affairs at BGA. "It is an invitation for the industry to build responsibly, collaborate across sectors and ensure blockchain's next chapter is written in service of people, institutions and the public good." The full report, The State of Blockchain for Good: A View from the Alliance, is available on the Blockchain for Good Alliance website. Bybit / TheCryptoArk / BGA About Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA) The Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA) is a global nonprofit initiative founded by Bybit, dedicated to advancing blockchain as a tool to address real-world problems. By convening leaders, innovators, and organisations from across the blockchain industry, BGA seeks to drive innovation, collaboration and action toward a more sustainable and equitable world. For more information: Email: hello@chainforgood.org Website: www.chainforgood.org Twitter: www.x.com/chainforgood LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchainforgoodalliance/ Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2903899/Blockchain_Good_Alliance__BGA__Global_Report_Sets_Direction_Impact_Driven_Blockchain.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2386817/Blockchain_For_Good_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/blockchain-for-good-alliance-bga-global-report-sets-direction-for-impact-driven-blockchain-302688129.html Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 13, 2026) - Lux Metals Corp. (TSXV: LXM) (the "Company" or "Lux") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a consulting services agreement (the "Zimtu Agreement") with Zimtu Capital Corp. ("Zimtu") pursuant to which, among other things, Zimtu is to provide certain advertising, marketing and investor relations services to the Company, including the preparation and posting of online publications, video news releases, newsletters, social media content and investor presentations. Zimtu has been engaged to heighten market awareness for the Company and to broaden the Company's reach within the investment community. Zimtu is an arm's-length firm, operating out of Vancouver, British Columbia, which administers a cooperative marketing program, including the provision of marketing services to private, micro- and small-cap companies. The Zimtu Agreement is for a term of twelve months at a rate of CAD$16,666.67 (plus GST) per month. The Company does not propose to issue any securities to Zimtu in consideration for the services to be provided to the Company. Zimtu can be contacted at 604-681-1568, info@zimtu.com, or Suite 1450 - 789 West Pender Street, Vancouver, BC V6C 1H2 Canada. The Zimtu Agreement is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. On Behalf of the Board of Lux Metals Corp. Carl Ginn President and Chief Executive Officer Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, including statements respecting the Zimtu Agreement and the scope, term and cost of services thereunder. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends", "expects" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or will "potentially" or "likely" occur. This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding obtaining required regulatory approvals for the Zimtu Agreement. These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, delays in obtaining or failure to obtain the required regulatory approvals for the Zimtu Agreement. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, the assumption that the Company will obtain the required regulatory approvals for the Zimtu Agreement. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader should not place any undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information or statements, other than as required by applicable law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283932 Source: Lux Metals Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 13, 2026) - Canadian Goldfields Discovery Corp. (TSXV: CGM) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed its acquisition of the Miminiska Gold Property pursuant to the terms of a mineral property purchase agreement dated November 28, 2025, as amended December 29, 2025, (the "Purchase Agreement") with Storm Exploration Inc., a company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange, ("Storm"). As a result of closing of the acquisition, the Company's common shares will be resume under the symbol "CGM" on the TSX Venture Exchange on Thursday February 19, 2026. Highlights of the Miminiska Gold Property: While 85% of identified strike length is largely untested by drilling, multiple high grade gold drill intersections have been reported. Notable historic drill intercepts include 20.84m at 5.75 g/t Au, 3.96m at 13.45 g/t Au and 11.18m at 4.49 g/t Au (true widths are unknown).* Gold mineralization primarily hosted within Algoma-type Banded Iron Formations (BIF) Recent ground geophysical surveys identified several targets within the Miminiska prospect that have not yet been drill tested and that are similar in response to the known zones of high-grade gold mineralization. Potentially analogous deposit type is Orla Mining Ltd.'s Musselwhite Mine located approximately 150 km north-east of the Miminiska Property. About the Miminiska Gold Property The Miminiska Gold Property is located approximately 350 kilometres (km) north of the city of Thunder Bay, 115 km east of the town of Pickle Lake, and approximately 40 km west of Fort Hope, Ontario. The property comprises 278 unpatented mining claims, 43 mining patents and 1 mining licence of occupation ("MLO"), covering a total area of 6,366.4 hectares (ha), distributed over three contiguous blocks named Miminiska Lake, Wottam Lake, and Frond Lake. The Property is located within Eabametoong First Nation ("EFN") territory. Geology and Mineralization: The Property lies within the Miminiska - Fort Hope greenstone belt, approximately 150 km southeast of Orla Mining Ltd.'s Musselwhite Gold Mine. The Property is within the Uchi Subprovince, an east-trending, predominantly metavolcanic-metasedimentary belt in the Superior Province of the Canadian Shield. The Uchi Subprovince forms part of the North Caribou Terrane that hosts the prolific Red Lake Gold Mines, Musselwhite Gold Mine, and past gold producers (all off-Property), notably the Pickle Crow Mine located approximately 115 km west of the Property. The Property is underlain predominantly by very well laminated locally turbiditic appearing units of interbedded wacke, quarzitic wacke and slate/argillite. Mafic volcanic units observed in the northeastern portion of the Property are massive to amygdaloidal in texture and are commonly strongly amphibole and biotite altered due to regional metamorphism. All the rock units found on the Property are Early Precambrian in age, with the exception of a few north-trending diabase dykes of Middle Precambrian age. Quaternary deposits of glacial till, and glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial sand and esker gravels now cover much of the bedrock. A major unit of banded oxide facies iron formation trends east-west across the northern portion of the Property based on the limited geological mapping and magnetic surveys. Gold mineralization on the Property is primarily associated with banded iron formations and east-west striking shear zones over a length of 14 km across the Property. Figure 1. Location of the Miminiska Property To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11964/283963_270add5cc475d9c6_001full.jpg Historic Exploration: Exploration at the Property dates back to the early 1930s and 1940s, when the Miminiska, Frond, and Wottam Lake prospects were discovered. Modern exploration at the Property began in the 1960s. Since that time, there has been intermittent drilling of the property with 237 diamond drill holes completed totalling 28,265m primarily in the Frond Lake and Miminiska Lake blocks. The last significant sized drill program (47 NQ-sized diamond drill holes totalling 9,249m) was conducted from 2003-2005. It was during this program that notable intercepts such as 20.84m at 5.75 g/t Au and 11.18m at 4.49 g/t Au were drilled.* In recent years (since 2021), a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) survey, an airborne magnetic geophysical survey, a ground magnetic and electromagnetic (EM) geophysical survey, and a small 659.2m diamond drilling program have been completed. Results from the LiDAR survey were used to identify geological outcrops and structures of interest, detect alteration and mineralization patterns, and produce a high-resolution digital elevation model of the Property. The airborne magnetic survey covered the entire Property and delineated several significant northeast trending structures. The ground magnetic and EM survey covered the Miminiska Lake block located on the southwest portion of the Property and targeted the extensively faulted and folded banded iron formation (BIF) in that area. The ground geophysical surveys identified several targets within the Miminiska prospect that have not yet been tested with drilling and that are similar in response to the known zones of high-grade gold mineralization. The EM survey delineated the BIF of the Miminiska prospect and provided information on the structural setting of the Property. The 2 diamond drillholes totalling 659.2 m drilled at the Miminiska prospect adjacent to Miminiska Lake in 2022 laterally extended known high-grade mineralization in the folded iron formation by 130m. Initial Exploration Plans: Following closing, initial exploration planned by the Company is anticipated to include step out and exploration drilling at the Miminiska prospect, located on the southwest portion of the Porperty, and Frond Lake prospect, located on the northeast portion of the Property. At the Miminiska prospect, step out drilling is anticipated to take place along strike of the central limb of the folded iron formation, with exploration drill testing of the north and south limbs of the BIF. Since most anomalous gold values are associated with quartz veins within oxide iron formation, the Company plans to utilize the 2022 geophysical data to locate structural breaks proximal to strong magnetic anomalies and subsequently use these specific locations to define drill targets for future exploration. Step out drilling at Frond Lake is planned to extend historical drilling to the west. Initial regional work planned includes a VTEM survey over the entire Property to map conductive units to increase the geological understanding of the Property and to assist in Phase 2 drill targeting. Ground follow up exploration, including geological mapping, prospecting, and rock sampling of exposed outcrops, will be conducted over geophysical anomalies with priority given to anomalies that coincide with interpreted BIF horizons and that are associated with structural complexities and/or near historical occurrences. Terms of Acquisition: Under the terms of the Purchase Agreement, the Company paid $200,000 as a non-refundable deposit, paid $1,800,000 (the "Closing Cash Payment") on the date of closing (the "Closing Date") and issued 7,500,000 common shares of the Company (the "First Consideration Shares") at a deemed price of $0.20 per share on the Closing Date. The Purchase Agreement also provides that the Company will be required to: (a) make additional cash payments totaling $1,525,000 as follows: (i) $1,000,000 to be paid on or before three months after the Closing Date; and (ii) $525,000 to be paid on or before nine months after the Closing Date. (b) make an additional share issuance of $787,500 of common shares of the Company (the "Second Consideration Shares" and together with the First Consideration Shares, the "Consideration Shares") on or before nine months after the Closing Date. The Second Consideration Shares will be issued at the 30-day volume-weighted average price ("VWAP") on the date that is five business days prior to the issuance date of the Second Consideration Shares. However, the number of Second Consideration Shares will be limited to the following: (i) the number of shares issuable to Storm cannot exceed 19.9% of the outstanding common shares of the Company, (ii) the number of shares issued to Storm under the Purchase Agreement and under the concurrent private placement financing cannot exceed 49.9% of the outstanding common shares of the Company, and (iii) the number of Second Consideration Shares cannot exceed 3,937,500 common shares of the Company. In the event that the total value of the Second Consideration Shares is less than $787,500, the Company shall make a one-time payment equal to the difference of $787,500 less than the value of the Second Consideration Shares issued to Storm. The Consideration Shares are subject to restrictions on resale for a period of four months after the date of issue. In addition to the foregoing restriction period, the First Consideration Shares are subject to the following voluntary resale restrictions: (i) 25% of the First Consideration Shares will be subject to restrictions on resale until four months after the Closing Date, (ii) 25% of the First Consideration Shares will be subject to restrictions on resale until eight months after the Closing Date; (iii) 25% of the First Consideration Shares will be subject to restrictions on resale until twelve months after the Closing Date; and (iv) the final 25% of the First Consideration Shares will be subject to restrictions on resale until sixteen months after the Closing Date. A significant portion of the Closing Cash Payment was used to exercise Storm's option on the Property from Landore Resources Canada Inc. ("Landore") As a result of exercise of the option, Landore retains a 2% net smelter royalty (the "Landore Royalty"), of which 50% may be repurchased with a one time payment of C$1,000,000. In addition to the Landore Royalty, the Property is also subject to a historical royalty equal to 2% of the net value of the metals on certain mineral claims and a 2% net carrying interest on certain other mineral claims. Neither the Company nor Storm paid a finder's fee in connection with the Transaction. The Company and its insiders do not have any relationship with Storm, its assets and the non-arm's length parties of Storm. The transaction is not a non-arm's length transaction. Exploration Agreement with the Eabametoong First Nation: In conjunction with closing of the acquisition of the Miminiska Gold Property, the Company entered into an exploration agreement (the "Exploration Agreement") with the EFN on substantially similar terms as the existing Exploration Agreement with Storm, but excluding mineral claims and licenses to be retained by Storm. Under the terms of the Exploration Agreement, the Company will make annual contributions to a community fund established by EFN as follows: (i) 6% of exploration expenditures to be paid in cash, and (ii) subject to TSX Venture Exchange acceptance, 2% of exploration expenditures incurred to be paid in common shares of the Company, at a rate based on the higher of the 30-day VWAP on the date that is five business days before the issuance date or the Discounted Market Price (as defined by the policies of the TSXV). The Company has also agreed to issue the following shares to EFN: (i) $50,000 in common shares of the Company on May 16, 2026; (ii) $75,000 in common shares of the Company on May 16, 2027 and (iii) $75,000 in common shares of the Company on May 16, 2028. The number of common shares issued to the EFN will be calculated using the 30-day VWAP on the date that is five business days before the required issuance date, subject to a minimum price of $0.05 per common share. Private Placement Financing: The Company also completed a non-brokered private placement offering consisting of 29,375,000 common shares (the "HD Shares") at a price of $0.20 per HD Share for gross proceeds of $5,875,000 (the "HD Offering") and 7,727,273 flow-through common shares ("FT Shares") at a price of $0.22 per FT Share for gross proceeds of $1,700,000 (the "FT Offering"). The securities issued under the HD Offering and the FT Offering are subject to restrictions on resale for a period of four months from the date of issue. The Company paid finder's fees totalling $154,560. John G. Booth, the Chief Executive Officer and director of the Company, subscribed for 500,000 HD Shares in the amount of $100,000. This participation constitutes a related party transaction as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101. However, the company expects to be exempt from formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements under sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101 as his participation does not exceed 25 per cent of the company's market capitalization. The proceeds of the Offering were used to satisfy the closing payment for the acquisition of the Miminiska Gold Property and will be used for exploration and drill programs on the Miminiska Gold Property and general working capital purposes. Qualified Person The scientific and technical information in this news release was reviewed and approved by Fred Tejada, P.Geo., a Qualified Person, as defined by NI 43-101. Mr. Tejada is a director of the Company and is not independent under NI 43-101. Historical assay information contained from the Technical Report of the Miminiska Lake Project dated April 28, 2025 prepared by B.J. McKay, P. Geol. Forward-Looking Statements Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by many material factors, many of which are beyond their respective control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the Company's limited operating history and the Company's planned exploration program for the Miminiska Gold Property is subject to change. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise forward looking information. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283963 Source: Canadian Goldfields Discovery Corp. Abbotsford, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 13, 2026) - Super Lithium Corp. (CSE: SL) ("Super Lithium" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has completed its Phase I exploration program on its flagship Railroad Valley Lithium Project located in Nye County, Nevada (the "Property"). The December 2025 exploration program built upon preliminary work that the Company conducted in 2022 where it successfully completed 7.5 line-kilometers of CS-AMT identifying a resistivity feature suggesting brine potential at depth. The recently completed program utilized Magnetotellurics (MT) to better define the feature at depth. In conjunction with the geophysical survey, the Company conducted a soil sampling program with 500-metre spacing to encompass the entirety of the Property. With the scarcity of prior exploration work, these surveys will provide the foundation from which future work will be built. Geophysics A technical report was completed earlier in 2025 building off a preliminary Controlled Source Audio Magnetotelleric (CS-AMT) survey completed in 2022. The survey indicates strongly conductive material (< 8 ohm /meters) at a relatively shallow depth of around 300 meters. This has the potential to represent brine or highly conductive clay. The December 2025 program will determine if that material can be better defined at depth using Magnetotellurics (MT) along the same lines. Preliminary images of the inverted MT survey show a significant feature less than 200 metres from the surface. A final interpretation is anticipated later this month (see Figure 1). The recommendations from the 2025 Technical Report are guiding the current exploration plan. The target mineralization is lithium-enriched brine in sub-surface aquifers which are not observable on the surface. Evidence for mineralization consists of conductive layers and confined basins identified via geophysical methods. Drilling in other parts of the valley have identified evaporite beds and lithium enriched brines, although grades have not been published. Geochemistry To support the previous CS-AMT survey, the Company also conducted a soil sampling program. A total of 166 samples set at a 500-metre spacing throughout the Property were collected and analyzed for lithium and associated trace elements to determine if there is any near-surface expression of mineralization. The spacing was chosen to effectively cover the area and provide a framework for potential infill depending upon results. Assay results are pending. The Railroad Valley Property consists of 112 unpatented claims comprising a total of approximately 906 hectares (2,240 acres) in Nye County, Nevada. The project is accessible via Nevada State Highways. There is a lack of historic work on this parcel prior to 2017 making it an attractive, underexplored property. Railroad Valley is a classic Basin and Range graben basin bounded on all sides by dip-slip faults. The basin appears to be asymmetric, with a "trap door" configuration with the southeast side of the valley being deeper than the northwest side. There are regional lithium geochemical data from the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) database throughout the Railroad Valley ranging from 13-247ppm. The geologic setting, combined with the presence of lithium in both active geothermal fluids and surface salts within the Railroad Valley property position match characteristics of lithium brine prospects in other Nevada basins. The main mineral target at the Railroad Valley project is a playa-related lithium brine deposit similar to productive playas in Clayton Valley, Nevada, and several areas of South America. In 2013, Bradley defined seven characteristics of lithium brine deposits: Arid Climate; Closed Basin containing a playa or salar; Tectonically driven subsidence; Associated igneous or geothermal activity; Suitable lithium source rocks; One or more adequate aquifers; Sufficient time to concentrate brine. The Railroad Valley Project is known to have all seven of these characteristics. While this correlation is no guarantee of a deposit, this provides the Super Lithium Team with strong support for exploration work. Qualified Person The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved for disclosure by Christopher Longton, BS, CPG. Mr. Longton is a "Qualified Person" for Super Lithium, and is independent of the Company, within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). To the best of his knowledge, the technical information pertaining to the Railroad Valley Property, and discussion of it as disclosed in this news release, is neither inaccurate nor misleading. About Super Lithium Super Lithium Inc. is a Canadian resource company involved in the identification and advancement of lithium exploration properties. The Company has the option to acquire a 100% interest, subject to a 2% net smelter returns royalty, in the Railroad Valley Lithium Project, which consists of 112 unpatented placer mining claims covering approximately 906 hectares located in Nye County, Nevada. FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking statements, including with respect to future plans, and other matters. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as "may", "expect", "estimate", "anticipate", "intend", "believe" and "continue" or the negative thereof or similar variations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including but not limited to, business, economic and capital market conditions, the ability to manage operating expenses, and dependence on key personnel. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements respecting: completion of the option agreement; future assay results; and the completion of additional exploration on the Railroad Valley Lithium Project. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, anticipated costs, and the ability to achieve goals. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, the continued availability of capital and financing, litigation, failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations, loss of key employees and consultants, and general economic, market or business conditions. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed this press release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release Figure 1. Preliminary geophysical inversions showing low resistivity features at depth on the east side of the property. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11478/283972_sl%20figure%201.jpg Not for Distribution in the United States To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283972 Source: Super Lithium Corp. Oakville, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 13, 2026) - TS Skin Clinic & Wellness, serving Toronto, Oakville, and the Greater Toronto Area, announces the launch of Lipolift Pro, a non-invasive body-contouring and skin-tightening technology. The expansion reflects the clinic's continued growth in delivering clinically supervised, holistic aesthetic treatments across the region. TS Skin Clinic & Wellness To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11862/283955_489860c574db598e_001full.jpg Lipolift Pro combines selective tissue heating with neuromuscular stimulation and is designed to support body contouring, muscle activation, and skin firmness. Treatments are performed by licensed medical aestheticians and aligned with applicable safety standards. "We are excited to introduce Lipolift Pro to our GTA community," said Karolina Roman, Founder of TS Skin Clinic & Wellness. "Our approach has always focused on strengthening and regulating the body before intensifying treatments. This technology allows us to deliver consistent, safety-focused treatments while maintaining our commitment to precision and patient care." Karolina Roman - Founder of TS Skin Clinic & Wellness To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11862/283955_489860c574db598e_002full.jpg Originally from Poland, Karolina Roman founded TS Skin Clinic after overcoming her own skin challenges and pursuing advanced education in medical aesthetics, laser technology, and holistic wellness. Her experience shaped the clinic's mission: combining clinical expertise with a structured, patient-centered approach to skin and body wellness. About TS Skin Clinic & Wellness TS Skin Clinic & Wellness serves clients across Toronto, Oakville, and the Greater Toronto Area. The clinic specializes in medical aesthetics, laser treatments, and holistic skin and body wellness. Founded by Karolina Roman, the clinic integrates clinical precision with a results-driven philosophy focused on treatment consistency and patient safety. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283955 Source: Jeff Social Marketing Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 13, 2026) - Deveron Corp. (TSXV: FARM) ("Deveron" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce that further to its press releases of November 3, 2025, December 19, 2025 and December 30, 2025, it has sold substantially all of its assets (the "Transaction") in accordance with a share and asset purchase agreement (the "Purchase Agreement") with RRL Ultimate Parent, LLC ("Parent"), 1001388516 Ontario Inc. ("BidCo" and together with Parent, the "Share Purchasers"), Maple NewCo, LLC (the "US Buyer" and together with the Share Purchasers, the "Purchasers"), Deveron USA, LLC ("Deveron USA"), Woods End Laboratories, LLC ("Woods End", and together with Deveron USA, the "Asset Vendors" and together with the Company, the "Vendors"), and certain minority vendors (collectively, the "Minority Vendors"). The Company expects that it will be subject to migration to the NEX Board of the TSXV following completion of the Transaction unless it can demonstrate to the TSXV that it will meet "Continued Listing Requirements" ("CLR") within the meaning of such term under applicable TSXV policies. At this time the Company has not yet acquired or developed any such business and there can be no assurances that it will be able to do so before its listing is migrated from Tier 2 to NEX, or at all. For additional details on the Transaction, please refer to the Company's management information circular dated December 1, 2025 filed on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. About Deveron: Deveron is an agriculture technology company that uses data and insights to help farmers and large agriculture enterprises increase yields, reduce costs and improve farm outcomes. The company employs a digital process that leverages data collected on farms across North America to drive unbiased interpretation of production decisions, ultimately recommending how to optimize input use. This news release may contain forward-looking statements which reflect the Company's current expectations regarding future events. The forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified using words such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements and information and accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on such statements and information. The risks and uncertainties include whether the Company will be able to obtain regulatory, TSXV or shareholder approval for the Transactions, and whether the Vendors and the Purchasers will be able to satisfy all of the conditions in the Purchase Agreement and the ancillary documents. The Purchased Assets are subject to risks including changes in the worldwide price of agricultural commodities, general market conditions, risks inherent in agriculture, the uncertainty of future profitability and the uncertainty of access to additional capital.. Many risks are inherent in the industries in which the Company participates; others are more specific to the Company. The Company's ongoing quarterly filings should be consulted for additional information on risks and uncertainties relating to these forward-looking statements. Investors should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Management assumes no obligation to update or alter any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, further events or otherwise, other than as required by law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283976 Source: Deveron Corp. News / National by Staff reporter President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the late Brigadier-General (Retired) Samuel Mpabanga a National Hero, with burial details set to be announced in due course.The declaration was made as tributes continue to pour in for the former senior officer of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), who died on Monday at Gwanda General Hospital after a long illness. He was 69.A funeral parade was held yesterday at Khumalo Barracks in Bulawayo, where ZNA Commander Lieutenant-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi called on Zimbabweans to jealously guard the country's independence and sovereignty in honour of liberation heroes."The late Brigadier-General sacrificed his youth to see our beloved country free and continued with this sacrifice beyond independence as the country navigated towards total economic empowerment for its citizens. He has left behind lifelong lessons for the next generation of officers in the Zimbabwe National Army," said Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi.He said Brig-Gen Mpabanga remained steadfast in defending the country against regime change agendas allegedly pursued by detractors."As we pay our last respects to the late gallant son of the soil, we are challenged to safeguard the freedom of our motherland, Zimbabwe, lest what he and his colleagues sacrificed would have been in vain," he said.Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi laid a wreath on the casket during the parade, describing the late Brigadier-General's career as illustrious and marked by unwavering patriotism.Born on August 31, 1956, in Gwanda, Brig-Gen Mpabanga attended Mapate Primary School and Beitbridge Primary School before proceeding to Manama Mission and later Matobo Secondary School.He joined the liberation struggle as a ZIPRA cadre in 1977. After briefly staying at Mapate, he crossed the Shashe River into Botswana en route to Selibe Phikwe under perilous conditions amid Rhodesian Forces patrols. He later spent three months at Selibe Phikwe Prison alongside his uncle, the late Raphel Mpabanga, Martin Kukubele and the late Sibusiso Mpabanga.Brig-Gen Mpabanga began military training in late 1977 at Mulungushi under the Zambian army with ZIPRA attachments. He later underwent further training in Russia, then the Soviet Union, in Odessa between 1978 and 1979.Upon completing his training, he returned to serve as an instructor at Solwezi and was later deployed in Siyavonga along the Zambezi River, where he held the appointment of military commissariat.He joined the ZNA on July 12, 1980, and rose steadily through the ranks from Private in 1980 to Lieutenant in 1981, Captain in 1987, Major in 1988, Lieutenant-Colonel in 1999, Colonel in 2018, and Brigadier-General in 2022."Brig-Gen Mpabanga retired from active service on August 31, 2022 after having served diligently with unwavering patriotism in the Zimbabwe Defence Forces. His legacy of commitment to duty will endure for a long time in the organisation," said Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi.The late Brigadier-General is survived by his wife and four children.His brother, Lot Mpabanga, described him as a unifier within the family."He always strived to bring the family together and was a unifier. His dedication to the country and army was unmatched and the family has lost someone that we looked up to for guidance and support," he said.Mourners are gathered at Number 4 McGee Road in Sauerstown suburb, Bulawayo, as the nation awaits further details on the burial programme following his declaration as a National Hero. SHENZHEN, China, Feb. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Akko, a global peripheral brand renowned for its custom and gaming mechanical keyboards, today announced the launch of two flagship products: the Dash Ultra gaming mouse and the Verge gaming headset. With this release, Akko expands its ecosystem into high-performance mouse and audio peripherals designed for competitive gaming and extended use. Dash Ultra: Ultra-Lightweight Control Built for Competition The Dash Ultra is a flagship wireless gaming mouse engineered for players who demand speed, precision, and stability. Featuring a symmetrical lightweight structure, the mouse weighs approximately 40 5 g, achieved through optimized internal design and balanced weight distribution without compromising control. Its compact shape is optimized for small to medium hands and supports claw, fingertip, and palm grips, delivering reliable handling during fast-paced gameplay and long sessions. At its core, Dash Ultra is powered by the PAW 3950 flagship optical sensor, offering up to 42,000 DPI with adjustable sensitivity for rapid flicks and precise micro-movements. The mouse supports wired, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth connections, with up to 8,000Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4GHz modes. Performance and power efficiency are managed by the Nordic 54L15 MCU. Battery life reaches up to 220 hours at 1K polling rate, or approximately 28 hours at 8K, providing flexibility between endurance and peak performance. Verge: Competitive Wireless Audio Without Compromise The Verge is a flagship tri-mode wireless gaming headset designed to address key challenges of wireless audio in competitive gaming-latency, clarity, and positional accuracy. Supporting 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and wired connections, Verge achieves latency as low as 25ms in 2.4GHz mode, keeping audio synchronized with on-screen action. Verge features a 53mm neodymium driver with a dual-chamber acoustic design, driven by a 32-bit dual-core HiFi4 DSP. This setup enables virtual 7.1 surround sound, FPS audio enhancement, ENC noise reduction, and customizable EQ, while maintaining low latency and stable sound quality. Tuning emphasizes mid-to-high frequency clarity for improved directional awareness. A detachable 6mm microphone with ENC AI noise cancellation ensures clear voice communication. The built-in 2000mAh battery delivers up to 250 hours of wireless use at 50% volume, with support for play-while-charging. Weighing approximately 280g, Verge is designed for long-term comfort. With Dash Ultra and Verge, Akko takes a step toward building a complete high-performance peripheral ecosystem spanning input, control, and audio. For more information, please visit: akkogear.eu | akkogear.de Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2903648/PR___1080.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/akko-launches-dash-ultra-mouse-and-verge-tri-mode-wireless-gaming-headset-302687430.html KUALA LUMPUR, MY / ACCESS Newswire / February 14, 2026 / PROPEL GLOBAL BERHAD ("Propel Global" or the "Group"), a provider of oil and gas ("O&G") services, today announced its financial results for the second quarter ended 31 December 2025 ("Q2 FY2026") , recording revenue of RM20.5 million, compared to RM28.3 million in Q2 FY2025 while loss before tax ("LBT") for the quarter stood at RM3.9 million, compared to LBT of RM1.5 million in Q2 FY2025. Ms. Angeline Lee, Executive Director / Group Chief Executive Officer of Propel Global Berhad On a quarter-on-quarter basis, revenue improved by 14.0% from RM17.9 million in Q1 FY2026, while LBT narrowed from RM6.1 million in the preceding quarter, reflecting gradual operational stabilisation. The O&G segment reported revenue of RM13.5 million and Profit Before Tax ("PBT") of RM2.3 million, compared to RM21.4 million revenue and RM3.4 million PBT in the same quarter last year. The year-on-year decline was mainly attributable to lower progress claims from Engineering, Procurement, Construction & Commissioning ("EPCC") projects. Nevertheless, the segment remained profitable, supported by variation orders and disciplined cost management. The Technical Services ("TS") segment recorded revenue of RM5.0 million with LBT of RM0.5 million, compared to revenue of RM2.9 million and LBT of RM3.1 million in Q2 FY2025. Revenue growth was driven by construction projects approaching completion, particularly mechanical and electrical works. Losses narrowed significantly as a result of cost optimisation initiatives undertaken during the period. Meanwhile, the Information & Communications Technology ("ICT") segment posted revenue of RM1.4 million and LBT of RM0.1 million, versus revenue of RM4.1 million and PBT of RM2.7 million in Q2 FY2025. The variance was primarily due to the absence of one-off service revenue recognised in the previous year. Underlying ICT demand remains stable, though earnings continue to reflect project timing and revenue recognition cycles. The Others segment recorded LBT of RM5.6 million compare to the RM4.5 million in Q2 FY2025, mainly comprising corporate administrative expenses, performance-related incentives and share-based payments. For the six months ended 31 December 2025 ("6M FY2026") , the Group recorded revenue of RM38.4 million, compared to RM62.7 million in the preceding year corresponding period. LBT stood at RM10.0 million, compared to LBT of RM5.5 million in 6M FY2025. The softer performance was primarily attributable to lower EPCC progress claims and the absence of one-off ICT service revenue recognised in the previous year. Ms. Angeline Lee, Executive Director / Group Chief Executive Officer of Propel Global commented, "While year-on-year comparisons reflect the absence of non-recurring contributions recognised in the previous financial year, Q2 FY2026 demonstrates encouraging quarter-on-quarter recovery, with revenue growth and a narrowing of losses. Our O&G segment remains profitable, and cost optimisation across our TS operations is beginning to yield tangible improvements." She added, "We remain disciplined in project selection and focused on strengthening execution capabilities. With improving project visibility and stabilising operating conditions, we are cautiously optimistic that performance will progressively strengthen as key milestones are delivered in the second half of the financial year." Malaysia's macroeconomic outlook remains constructive, with GDP projected to expand between 4.0% and 4.5% in 2026. Budget 2026's RM419 billion allocation and the implementation of the 13th Malaysia Plan continue to underpin infrastructure, engineering and utilities-related investment. The domestic construction sector is projected to grow by approximately 6.1% in 2026, while Malaysia's oil and gas market is estimated at USD9.66 billion, supported by sustained upstream maintenance and midstream asset reliability activities. In parallel, Malaysia's data centre market, valued at approximately USD6.55 billion in 2026 and projected to grow at a CAGR of 19.55%, presents a significant structural opportunity. Propel CMT Sdn. Bhd. continues progressing on its RM70 million data centre civil and structural works package in Johor Bahru, with optional works potentially increasing total contract value to RM325 million. In addition, the Group has expanded its participation in Malaysia's evolving energy transition landscape through the recent Memorandum of Understanding entered into with Sabah Energy Corporation Sdn. Bhd. and Reservoir Link Energy Bhd to jointly explore modular gas-to-power solutions in Sabah. The collaboration focuses on developing cost-efficient, low-emission LNG-based power generation systems to support industrial growth and grid stability in the state. While currently at the feasibility and evaluation stage, the initiative reflects the Group's strategic intent to broaden its involvement in energy infrastructure projects aligned with national sustainability and energy security priorities. Propel Global remains focused on operational discipline, strengthening its cost structure and improving pipeline visibility. Supported by diversified sector exposure and stabilising revenue momentum, the Group is positioning itself for gradual recovery in the second half of FY2026. ### ABOUT PROPEL GLOBAL BERHAD Propel Global Berhad ("Propel Global" or the "Group") is a provider of oil and gas (O&G), pipe recovery, and well intervention services. The Group's building technical services business provides design, engineering, construction, project management and maintenance & management of commercial and industrial buildings and facilities on a single-source platform to a wide range of industrial clients. Propel Global has mid-to-long-term plans to venture into sustainable development and digital technology as part of the Group's transition to a zero-carbon business focus that includes renewable energy and electrification. Issued By: Swan Consultancy Sdn. Bhd. on behalf of Propel Global Berhad For more information, please contact: Jazzmin Wan Email: b j.wan@swanconsultancy.biz Xinyi Ching Email: x.ching@swanconsultancy.biz SOURCE: Propel Global Berhad View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/electronics-and-engineering/propel-global-recorded-revenue-of-rm20.5-million-in-q2-fy2026-1137720 BERLIN, Feb. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On the evening of February 13 (local time), Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) hosted the "China Film Night" in Berlin, its first overseas promotion event in 2026, taking further its efforts to build an open, inclusive, and collaborative platform for exchange and mutual learning with a global perspective. During the event, Chen Guo, Managing Director of Shanghai International Film & TV Events Center, officially announced that the 28th SIFF will take place from June 12 to 21 this year. For the previous edition, Chen noted that it received over 3,900 submissions from 119 countries and regions, with world premiere titles accounting for 77% of the Golden Goblet Award nominations. The festival screened 410 films and hosted nearly 100 audience meetings, drawing close to 500,000 admissions. Notably, nearly 20 films from the festival secured theatrical releases in China. The upgraded International Film & TV Market further cemented its role as a key hub for global content trading and industry networking, bring together 200 international exhibitors across over 50 industry events, including forums, panel discussions, and project pitches, and attracting over 10,000 professionals worldwide. For the 28th SIFF scheduled for June 12-21 this year, Chen Guo expressed anticipation for meeting friends from around the world in early summer Shanghai. She also reminded that submissions for the Golden Goblet Awards across five competition categories - Main Competition, Asian New Talent, Documentary, Animation, and Short Film - along with International Panorama, remain open until the end of March. The booth application for the "International Film & TV Market" has also officially launched, with early bird discounts available for applications submitted by the end of March. Film fosters cultural exchange and mutual learning among civilizations. This Berlin promotion event, infused with a strong vibe of the Spring Festival, was met with an enthusiastic response from more than 200 friends across various sectors. The warm and joyful ambiance underscored a key message to the world from SIFF: Welcome to Shanghai this June to celebrate the magic of cinema, explore the city's charm, savor its cuisine and culture, collaborate on industry opportunities, and together write a new chapter in cinema. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2904254/c0256725c36f7e5579a0b404b87329ca.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/the-28th-shanghai-international-film-festival-to-run-from-june-12-to-21-302688262.html Assi is 133 minutes long. But at times, it feels Sinha rushes through the turmoil, not allowing the audiences to immerse themselves into the traumas of both the victims and the vultures Cast: Taapsee Pannu, Kani Kusruti, Revathy, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Naseeruddin Shah, Supriya Pathak, Seema Pahwa Director: Anubhav Sinha Language: Hindi There are films that people think ought to be lauded for what they are attempting to say. But theres a difference between what you are saying and how you are saying. Anubhav Sinhas Assi is walking on that very tightrope. Sinha is an intriguing filmmaker. He made a heartfelt drama as his first- Tum Bin. He completes 25 years in Hindi cinema this year. In between, he attempted those cash-grabbing potboilers- Dus, Cash, Ra.One. Mulk could be called his 2.0, followed by Thappad and Article 15. But post Anek, is there an overdose of his socio-political commentaries? Is it time he went back and made at least one cash grabbing brain rot? Does he still have it in him to seduce us into a world where anything goes and the fictional characters are having a ball? Or staging thunderous songs like Dus Bahane and Chammak Chalo possessing the kind of kinetic energy and kitsch we no longer see? STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Also, sometimes I feel if a filmmaker should try working with somebody else. Vishal Bhardwaj brought out the best and badass in Shahid Kapoor with Kaminey and Haider. Rangoon paled in comparison, and ORomeo also hasnt been able to jolt the viewers the way it promised to. Anubhav Sinha comes next in the list. Apart from Manoj Pahwa, an actor he has been working with ever since he began his career, most of the other people in his movies are now trying to find their feet. It unfortunately happens in a film as urgent and breathless as Assi. It has Taapsee Pannu reuniting with the filmmaker after Mulk, and Kumud Mishra, the scene stealing cop of Article 15. But the robust performers largely remain dour. One could argue Mishras past haunting him throughout the solemn narrative. And maybe Sinha has chosen minimalism over clamour. _Assi_ is a film thats purposely lying low key. The makers arent making any noise about what the film is about. It grapples with a grave theme that ought not to be promoted the way Bollywood films are promoted. One cant expect the cast to laugh on limping quips on a comedy show or tell Salman Khan they are hardcore fans of Bigg Boss. Sinha wishes the audiences discover the film on their own. And know the brutal reality of a nation on the brink. Assi does it right in the beginning what others save for the finale- A statistical analysis of how rapes continue to horrify women and India. This is not the story of just one woman (A lingering Kani Kusruti, the breakout performer of _All We Imagine As Light_). Theres no light for her in this world she has been thrown into. Its as dark as a dungeon. We are told time and again there are 80 rapes happening everyday. And unfortunately, she becomes one of the victims too. To give credit where it needs to, Sinha as a filmmaker does a fine job of filming this scene with both aesthetic nuance and alarming tensity. Theres Mohammad Zeeshan Ayyub, who plays a dual role of a father and a husband. When he first sees his wife in the hospital bed, almost comatose and disfigured, he flashes a smile to his son telling him his mumma is sleeping. He doesnt breakdown even once despite life being.life. Ayyubs an impressively restrained and subdued turn which makes the film little different from the other titles dabbling with similar themes. Pannus now a refined actor, and this is her return to the courtroom after Mulk, Pink, Rashmi Rocket. But among the ensemble, hers sticks out like a sore thumb. Again, it could be because we have seen Pannu and Sinha work on a far more rousing courtroom drama, that of 2018. Games View All Theres one moment where Pannu scores. Shes recording a video on her phone and delivering a sermon about rape, murders, and justice. Shes interrupted by her arch rival whos only passing by in her office. She cracks a faint smile and then continues. Its a redux of that classic scene from Bajrangi Bhaijaan. Poor Nawazuddin Siddiqui! STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD is 133 minutes long. But at times, it feels Sinha rushes through the turmoil, not allowing the audience to immerse themselves into the traumas of both the victims and the vultures. When the cover is finally blown, Manoj Pahwa (whos having a blast off late) threatens to gun his son down. The son breaks down but before he can howl, we move on. Some scenes last only for a few seconds, most of them featuring an anorexic Kumud Mishra. Theres an odd twist to his character thats revealed way early than it should have. This could have been a taut thriller and a tense courtroom drama. But it stops short on both the counts. The one actor who carries the bruised moniker on her shoulders and attempts to make it reach the finish line is Kani. Shes wonderfully affectionate even after being mauled by a bunch of monsters. And these perpetrators also get their fair share of attention, sometimes sprinkled with humour. Sinha kind of ensures this is no partisan filmmaking (a la Section 375). And he extracts a tearful performance from the star of the show. Kani never once bellows. And commands the camera with her bruises and balls. Assi needed more balls and badassery. It needed to be more meticulously executed. And and and more crucially; it feels Anubhav Sinha genuinely needs to explore more actors for his ensembles. Making history with the same people may not be viable every time. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Rating: 3 (out of 5 stars) Assi releases in cinemas on February 20 Yadav, known for movies such as Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Waqt, Phir Hera Pheri, Partner, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Hungama and Chup Chup Ke, was sent to Tihar jail after the Delhi High Court rejected his plea Filmmaker Priyadarshan has always repeated his actors in his films. One of them is Rajpal Yadav. The duo has done more than a dozen films together. They have worked together on films like Hungama, Garam Masala, Malamaal Weekly, Chup Chup Ke, Bhagam Bhaag, Dhol, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Mere Baap Pehle Aap, Billu, De Dena Dan, Rangrezz. And now they are working on Bhooth Bangla. Yadav, known for movies such as Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Waqt, Phir Hera Pheri, Partner, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Hungama and Chup Chup Ke, was sent to Tihar jail after the Delhi High Court rejected his plea seeking more time to repay outstanding amount in a cheque-bounce cases. The actor has to pay nearly Rs 9 crore. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Priyadarshan breaks silence The filmmaker told Mid-day, I have known Rajpal for over 20 years. The director, who was neck-deep in the post-production of Bhooth Bangla in Hyderabad, added, I saw him for the first time in Jungle [2000] and was surprised by his performance. My first film with him was Malamaal Weekly [2006], and after that, he has starred in most of my films. I told the producers [Jubilee Films] of my next to pay Rajpal more than what he charges because of his situation. We want to save him. The producers have agreed. Rajpal plays the villain in my movie, added the director. Many from the film industry, including actors Sonu Sood, Gurmeet Chaudhary and music composer Rao Inderjit Yadav, offered financial assistance to the family and urged others to do the same. Asked about who all have reached out to them, Radha Yadav told PTI, Everybody has stood by him. The industry has been supportive, a big thank you to everyone who is coming out to help. Goldie Jain, Rajpal Yadavs manager of 25 years, said from leading actors to directors and producers, many in the industry have offered assistance. Games View All A report has claimed that the Pentagon used Anthropics Claude AI to capture Nicolas Maduro in a lightning raid on Caracas in early January. But what role did Claude play in the operation? The United States captured the long-time Venezuelan leader in a lightning raid on Caracas in early January. Reuters Did the Pentagon use Anthropics Claude AI to capture Nicolas Maduro? Thats what a report in the Wall Street Journal has claimed. The United States captured the long-time Venezuelan leader in a lightning raid on Caracas in early January. The outlet reported that Claude was deployed via Anthropics partnership with Palantir, which is used by the Defence Department and federal law enforcement. But what do we know? How did the Pentagon use Claude to capture Maduro? STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Lets take a closer look: How Pentagon used Claude The Wall Street Journal quoted people in the know as saying that US military forces used Anthropics Claude AI model during the classified operation in Venezuela that led to Maduros capture and transfer to the US on federal charges. The exact role Claude played in the operation remains under wraps. The AI was likely used to analyse intel, synthesise data, to offer real-time support in decision-making or to interpret satellite data and images. However, the specifics of Claudes use in the raid, which left dozens of Venezuelans and Cubans dead, remain classified. Claude can be used for everything from summarising documents to controlling autonomous drones, the outlet noted. More from Explainers US military boards sanctioned tanker Veronica III in Indian Ocean This appears to be one of the first publicly known cases of a major AI model being used in a classified Pentagon military operation. Axios quoted sources as saying that Claude was used during the operation and not just in the lead-up. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has pushed for American forces to use AI to stay ahead of China. The US military has previously used Claude in the past to analyse satellite imagery or intelligence. This appears to be one of the first publicly known cases of a major AI model being used in a classified Pentagon military operation. The Pentagon is pushing top AI companies, including OpenAI and Anthropic, to make their artificial intelligence tools available on classified networks without many of the standard restrictions that the firms apply to users. Many AI companies are building custom tools for the US military, most of which are available only on unclassified networks typically used for military administration. Anthropic is the only one that is available in classified settings through third parties, but the government is still bound by the companys usage policies. The Pentagon is moving to deploy frontier AI capabilities across all classification levels, an official who requested anonymity has said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Company facing pushback However, the company is now facing pushback after the news went public. A senior Trump administration official has said the Pentagon will be taking a relook at its partnership with Anthropic after the news broke. Anthropic asked whether their software was used for the raid to capture Maduro, which caused real concerns across the Department of War, indicating that they might not approve if it was, the official said. Any company that would jeopardise the operational success of our warfighters in the field is one we need to re-evaluate our partnership with going forward. The Wall Street Journal previously reported that such concerns from the company caused officials at the Pentagon to consider cancelling a $200 million (around Rs 1,811 crore) contract with the firm. Hegseth in January said the Defence Department would not employ AI models that wont allow you to fight wars, referring to discussions administration officials have had with Anthropic, The Wall Street Journal reported. Hegseth in December said, the future of American warfare is here, and its spelled AI. As technologies advance, so do our adversaries, he added. But here at the War Department, we are not sitting idly by. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The usage policies of Anthropic, which raised $30 billion (around Rs 2.72 lakh crore) in its latest funding round and is now valued at $380 billion (around Rs 34.41 lakh crore), forbid using Claude to support violence, design weapons or carry out surveillance. A senior Trump administration official has said the Pentagon will be taking a relook at its partnership with Anthropic after the news broke. A source in the know told Fox News Digital that Anthropic knows about the use of its AI in classified and unclassified matters. It remains confident that all usage has been in line with Anthropics usage policy, as well as its partners own compliance policies, the source added. An Anthropic spokesperson told Axios, Anthropic didnt make any such call to the Department of War. We cannot comment on whether Claude, or any other AI model, was used for any specific operation, classified or otherwise, an Anthropic spokesperson told Axios. Any use of Claude whether in the private sector or across government is required to comply with our Usage Policies, which govern how Claude can be deployed. We work closely with our partners to ensure compliance. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD About Anthropic Claude AI is made by Anthropic, a rival of OpenAIs ChatGPT and Googles Gemini. The firm was founded in 2021 by former OpenAI executives including CEO Dario Amodei. The company, backed by Google and Amazon, has rapidly built its revenue base the company said its current run-rate revenue is $14 billion (around Rs 1.27 lakh crore). The company has also taken a different approach to AI regulation. While tech companies have pushed for less regulation, Anthropic has drawn up plans to donate $20 million (around Rs 181 crore) to back US political candidates who support regulating the AI industry. Anthropic has vowed to pursue safety at the frontier and says that it builds AI to serve humanitys long-term wellbeing. The companies building AI have a responsibility to help ensure the technology serves the public good, not just their own interests, Anthropic has said. It has been reported that Blackstone, the worlds largest alternative asset manager, was increasing its stake in Anthropic to about $1 billion (around Rs 9,056 crore). With inputs from agencies Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aboard a C-130J aircraft, made history by landing on the emergency landing facility (ELF) in Assams Moran. Work to turn the highway into a runway was carried out by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd and the Indian Air Force. Lets take a closer look. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives to attend an aerial show featuring IAF's fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF), in Dibrugarh district, Assam. PTI India made history today (February 14). Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aboard a C-130J aircraft, landed on the emergency landing facility (ELF) in Assams Moran. The strip, which measures 4.2 kilometres, is a few hundred kilometres away from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Modi, who took off from Chabua airfield, landed on a stretch of National Highway-37. The Prime Minister is on a day-long visit to Assam, which is headed for Assembly elections. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD But how did India turn a highway into a runway for fighter jets? What is its significance? Lets take a closer look. How India turned a highway into a runway According to Assam Sentinel, the work was carried out by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL). The NHIDCL transformed the 4.2-km strip on NH-127 in Dibrugarh district into an Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) for fighter jets and aircraft in coordination with the Indian Air Force (IAF). According to India Today, the ELF is part of the DibrugarhMoran National Highway in Upper Assam. This is the first ELF in northeast India and is near the Chabua Air Force Station (AFS). Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a day-long visit to Assam. ANI The reinforced landing strip, which can accommodate both civil and military aircraft, was built at a cost of around Rs 100 crore. Prior to the inauguration, IAF Rafale fighter jets and a C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft undertook practice landings and operations on the highway. Locals, students and children congregated to witness these take-offs and landings in large numbers. As per NDTV, the ELF can handle fighter aircraft weighing up to 40 tonnes and transport aircraft up to 74 tonnes. After landing, Modi watched a 40-minute air display featuring fighter jets such as Tejas, Sukhoi and Rafale. Modi will depart for New Delhi later in the evening today. The significance of the ELF The highway is built to handle heavy-duty aircraft such as C-17 Globemaster and C-130J Super Hercules. These aircraft are used to rapidly deploy troops and handle logistics near the border. It will allow troops and planes to be deployed to these border areas in case of an emergency or war. According to NDTV, the Chinese have several air bases, at least seven, across the LAC lined up against the Indian air bases. In case of war, India requires an alternative space from where it can deploy fighter jets if its airbases come under attack. The aircraft that land here can be refuelled and rearmed quickly. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD _News18_ quoted officials as saying that this would improve Indias capabilities and allow New Delhi to quickly deploy troops in emergency situations like disaster relief. They said that while Indias airfields could be destroyed or congested in case of war, such ELFs can provide a backup. The highway is built to handle fighter jets as well as heavy-duty aircraft such as C-17 Globemaster and C-130J Super Hercules. Image courtesy: X/@narendramodi The ELFs also allow aircraft to land and take off from major highways, which in turn will improve the logistical response in difficult terrain and allow troops to be quickly deployed towards the border regions, if necessary. An official told India Today that the China border is approximately 300 kilometres away and the Myanmar border is around 200 kilometres from the site. During emergency situations or any war-like scenario, this 4.2-km ELF will play a crucial role. Given its proximity to international borders, it enhances rapid deployment capability in the Northeast, an official said. According to Moneycontrol, this also plugs a glaring flaw in Indias defences which were exposed during the 1962 war with China. At the time, the plains of Assam were left exposed due to weak roads and limited air redundancy. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In case of major disasters, the ELF can: Allow relief materials to be brought quickly Evacuation operations can commence immediately Allow helicopter-based rescue mission. As geo-intelligence expert Damien Symon wrote on X, This airstrip enhances dispersed and survivable air power in crisis scenarios. Tensions have been rife between India and China in the aftermath of the 2020 Galwan clash. China has been upgrading its infrastructure near the border in recent years, a challenge that India is trying to meet. Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia wrote on X that the development reflects Indias strategic resolve. The DibrugarhMoran stretch of the National Highway in Assam can transform from a seamless road into an Emergency Landing Facility for Indias frontline jets and transport, Scindia wrote. India has other ELFs in the western, northern and central parts of the country. This includes the Taj Expressway, the Ganga Expressway, NH-925A in Rajasthans Barmer and the Purvanchal Expressway in Uttar Pradesh, as per India Today. The Indian Air Force and the Ministry of Transport and Highways have identified over two dozen such ELFs that need to be established across the country. Its a historic moment for us. We never imagined fighter jets would land on our highway. The four-lane development has changed connectivity, and now this makes us proud, Ranjan Gogoi, a resident of Moran,. told India Today NE. With inputs from agencies Nikhil Gupta, aka Nick, has admitted to being an international narcotics and weapons trafficker, according to the indictment from the US Justice Department. The Indian national, 54, who was living in the US, was arrested in the Czech Republic in 2023 in a plot to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun Nikhil Gupta has pleaded guilty to to three counts: murder-for-hire, conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire and conspiracy to commit money laundering in in the assassination plot of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Reuters An Indian has pleaded guilty in a murder-for-hire plot of a US citizen. Nikhil Gupta, 54, has entered a guilty plea in the assassination plot of Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Pannun, who holds dual US and Canadian citizenship, is a New York-based Sikh secessionist leader who advocates for the creation of Khalistan. He is the legal adviser and spokesperson for Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), a proscribed organisation that seeks to achieve Khalistan through a referendum. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Indian authorities have designated Pannun as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and banned the SFJ in India. Nikhil Gupta a/k/a Nick, an Indian national, pleaded guilty to all three counts contained in the Second Superseding Indictment, charging him with murder-for-hire, conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, in connection with his efforts to murder a US citizen in New York City, the indictment read. But who is Gupta? What happens next in the case? Lets take a closer look Who is Gupta? Not much is known about Gupta, aka Nick. He is an Indian national living in the US. According to The Indian Express, the indictment said that Gupta has admitted to being an international narcotics and weapons trafficker. Gupta was arrested in June 2023 by Czech authorities on the basis of a bilateral extradition treaty between the United States and the Czech Republic. He has been held in Brooklyn since his extradition. He initially pleaded not guilty to all charges. As per The Times of India, the trial was set to go ahead on March 30. Authorities were set to enter into evidence wiretaps and electronic communications. The initial indictment claimed that Gupta was recruited by an Indian government employee referred to as CC-1 and was working with others in a plot to assassinate Pannun. The indictment referred to CC-1 as a senior field officer whose responsibilities include intelligence. It claimed that CC-1 previously served in Indias Central Reserve Police Force and received officer training in battle craft and weapons. The US authorities claimed that CC-1 directed the assassination plot from India. Nikhi Gupta has admitted to being an international narcotics and weapons trafficker. Reuters A later indictment identified one Vikash Yadav as CC-1. It claimed that Yadav, who was in touch with Gupta, was at the time an employed by Indias Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW). The indictment claimed that Yadav was part of the Cabinet Secretariat, which houses Indias foreign intelligence service, the Research and Analysis Wing. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Gupta is a citizen and was a resident of India, and he has described himself as an international narcotics and weapons trafficker in electronic communications with Yadav and others. Yadav was employed by the Government of Indias Cabinet Secretariat, which houses Indias foreign intelligence service, the Research and Analysis Wing, the indictment read, as per The Indian Express. The indictment stated that Yadav recruited Gupta in or around May 2023 to plan the assassination of Pannun. It claimed that Gupta, at the behest of Yadav, contacted a criminal associate. However, that associate was in fact a confidential source working with US law enforcement. The indictment states, In or about 2023, Gupta worked together with others in India and elsewhere, including, as alleged in the Second Superseding Indictment, co-defendant Vikash Yadav, who was at relevant times an Indian government employee, to plot the assassination of an attorney and political activist (Pannun, called the victim). STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The associate then introduced Gupta to a purported hitman, who was in fact an undercover US law enforcement officer. Gupta and the hitman struck a deal to assassinate Pannun for $100,000 (around Rs 90.56 lakh), including a cash advance of $15,000 (around Rs 13.58 lakh). Yadav then provided Gupta with personal details of the intended target, including Pannuns home address, phone numbers and daily routine in New York City. The indictment identified one Vikash Yadav as CC-1. It claimed that Yadav, who was in touch with Gupta, was at the time an employed by Indias Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW). Reuters Yadav also ordered Gupta to keep him updated about the assassination plot. US authorities in the indictment claimed that Yadav had ordered Gupta not to carry out the assassination at the time when high-level engagements were ongoing between US and Indian officials. The Justice Department has claimed that Gupta in turn told the hitman to avoid carrying out the assassination during Prime Minister Narendra Modis state visit to the United States in June 2023. After the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada later that month, Gupta allegedly said there was now no need to wait. The day after that, the indictment says, the Indian official, Yadav, sent Gupta a news article and a message about the New York target that said it was a priority now. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What happens next in the case? Gupta, appearing before Federal Judge Sarah Netburn in Manhattan, pleaded guilty to three counts: murder-for-hire, conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Gupta will be sentenced on May 29, 2026, by US District Judge Victor Marrero. He faces a maximum of 40 years in prison. However, Marrero will determine the quantum of punishment based on a number of factors. This includes: The seriousness of the offence The fact that the plot targeted a US citizen Whether Gupta cooperated with authorities Any plea agreement or sentencing recommendations from prosecutors The US government has recommended between 21 and 24 years behind bars, which hints that Gupta may have provided some additional details about the operation to prosecutors. Defendants often give up information in order to get a reduced sentence. Gupta may have shed more light on who instructed him, how the plot was financed and whether similar plans were discussed regarding other targets. This could widen the scope of the investigation and also have international repercussions if it sheds more light on alleged state involvement. India has said that Yadav is no longer employed by the government. It said Yadav has criminal links and that this was a rogue operation which was not sanctioned by the state. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The US State Department informed us that the individual mentioned in the indictment is no longer employed by India. I confirm that he is no longer an employee of the Government of India, the MEA said in a statement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India in November 2023 had set up a high-level internal panel to examine US allegations related to the plot to assassinate Pannun. New Delhi has repeatedly distanced itself from any plot to assassinate Pannun, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) calling such allegations unwarranted and unsubstantiated. Depending on what Gupta has revealed to authorities, additional indictments could follow. While extraditing foreign officials is extremely rare and politically sensitive, the US may still pursue charges symbolbolically to signal that such actions will not go unanswered. FBI Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky was quoted as saying by the Justice Department, Nikhil Gupta was a key participant in a murder-for-hire plot against a US citizen, a murder that was prevented thanks to the actions of US law enforcement. The US citizen became a target of transnational repression solely for exercising their freedom of speech. The message from the FBI should be clear no matter where you are located, if you try to harm our citizens, we will not stop until you are brought to justice, Rozhavsky added. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, India made no mention of whether it is willing to extradite Yadav. The Centre has not yet responded to news of Guptas guilty plea. It remains to be seen what, if any, the diplomatic fallout from the case could be. The development comes at a critical time for IndiaUS relations. Trump recently announced that the two countries had reached the long-awaited free trade agreement and that he was cutting the tariffs on India to 18 per cent. With inputs from agencies Are Valentines Day cards too mushy and sugary for you? Well, heres a 19th-century tradition called vinegar valentine cards. These are meant to shock, offend and upset their recipients A woman turns down a dapper snake in a vinegar valentine from the 1870s. Wikimedia Commons Ahh, Valentines Day: the perfect moment to tell your sweetheart how much you love them with a thoughtful card. But what about people in your life you dont like so much? Why is there no Hallmark card telling them to get lost? The Victorians had just the thing: a cruel and mocking version of the traditional Valentines Day card. Later coined vinegar valentines by 21st-century art collectors and dealers, such cards were usually referred to as mock or mocking valentines during the Victorian era. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Such cards were meant to shock, offend and upset their recipients. Not surprisingly, as with real Valentines Day cards, senders often chose to remain anonymous. Vinegar valentines are what we historians like to call ephemera, that is, materials that are usually not meant to last a long time. Its hard to imagine a recipient of a vinegar valentine wanting to keep it lovingly in a frame, and many have been lost to time. But luckily, some vinegar valentines have survived and have been preserved in the collections of many historical institutions, such as Brighton and Hove Museums and the New York Public Library. One jab at obnoxious sales ladies reads: As you wait upon the women With disgust upon your face The way you snap and bark at them One would think you owned the place There is even a card for the pretentious poet who pretends to make a living with his art: Behold this pale little poet With a finger at forehead to show it But the way he gets scads Is by writing soap ads But he wants nobody to know it! STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The anonymous nature of the vinegar valentine meant that anyone could be an unwitting recipient. Some cards could poke gentle fun, but others could have quite dangerous results. In 1885, a resident in the UK city of Birmingham, William Chance, was charged with the attempted murder of his estranged wife after he received a vinegar valentine from her. He shot her in the neck, and she was sent to the hospital. Pompous, vain and conceited But who could be disliked so much that they would receive a vinegar valentine? The poor, old and ugly were convenient targets. Unmarried men and women might also receive a vicious rejection from potential partners. A February 9, 1877, article from the Newcastle Courant notes that it is the pompous, the vain and conceited, the pretentious and ostentatious who are generally selected as butts for valentine wit. Sending such a valentine was a way for ordinary people to enforce social norms disguised as a joke. It was also a way to feel powerful over an already vulnerable person, even if the sender was vulnerable themselves. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Vinegar valentine cards were decorated with garish caricatures and featured a short line or poem that criticized, rejected, and/or insulted the recipient. Wikimedia Commons Vinegar valentines emerged as a sour offshoot of the cultural ascendancy of Valentines Day itself. While rooted in an ancient Roman fertility ceremony, the day was turned into a celebration of love by the Victorians. The first Valentines Day cards in the early 1800s were often made by hand. With the rise of industrialization, by the 1840s and 1850s most cards were produced in factories. These regular Valentines Day cards were often decorated with lace and romantic images. An industry of insults By the mid-1800s, both Britain and the United States entered into what one historian calls Valentines mania. The earliest vinegar valentines were sheets of paper folded like a letter. And to add insult to injury, before the availability of prepaid postage, the recipient had to pay to receive their letter. Many printers offered vinegar valentines alongside the more traditionally positive and ornate cards. Even the firm Raphael Tuck & Sons, Publishers to Their Majesties the King and Queen of England, joined the vinegar valentine craze. Vinegar valentines made their way across the pond to the United States in the mid-1800s. Some American printers made their own vinegar valentines; others, such as A.S Jordan, imported them from Britain. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD During the American Civil War, these cards became a medium to express anger and frustration. If you supported the Union, you could send the following message to an unlucky secessionist from the South: You are the man who chuckles when the news Comes oer the wires and tells of sad disaster, Pirates on sea succeeding-burning ships and crews, Rebels on land marauding, thicker, aye, and faster You are the two faced villain, though not very bold, Who would barter your country for might or for gold. Votes and valentines As vinegar valentines continued to be produced throughout the early 1900s, a new target became very popular the suffragette. These cards were often sent without a signature, enabling the sender to speak without fear. Wikimedia Commons Women fighting for the right to vote were seen by their detractors as unfeminine, and vinegar valentines were a cheap and convenient medium to enforce gender roles. In such cards, suffragettes were usually depicted as ugly spinsters or abusive, lazy wives. One card warns, A vote from me you will not get, I dont want a preaching suffragette. Similarly, another card says: STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD You may think it fun poor Cupid to snub, With the hand of a Suffragette. But hes cunning and smart, aye, theres the rub, Revenge is the trap he will set. There were even cards made for anti-suffragist women looking to secure a husband. One card plaintively proclaims, In these wild days of suffragette drays, Im sure youd neer overlook a girl who cant be militant, but simply loves to cook. There were also pro-suffrage Valentines Day cards. One card defiantly asks, And you think you can keep women silent politically? It cant be did! Cupid as a troll Vinegar valentines continued to be popular through the Golden Age of picture postcards in the early 1900s. They declined in popularity after World War I. This may be due to a decline in card giving overall, or a cultural shift away from lowbrow humor. But they never fully went away. The spirit of the vinegar valentine saw a second revival in the 1950s with the rise of the comic postcard. And the effects of vinegar valentines can still be seen, and felt, today. Anonymous internet trolls keep up the sniping spirit so prevalent in the Victorian era. Todays vinegar valentines are extremely online. They are just as spiteful, but the difference is they are emphatically not restricted to one particular day in February. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Melissa Chim, Scholarly Communications Librarian, Excelsior University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Gen Z has become one of the most abused terms in the last few months in the subcontinent, with opposition leaders in India to student leaders in Bangladesh and even Nepal using it as some sort of panacea for all problems that exist in their respective countries. The allure of young people who have completely lost faith in the leadership turning out in the streets for protests is so strong that such images often hit the headlines whenever it happens anywhere in the world. In the case of Iran, we have almost become accustomed to such visuals without anything actually changing on the ground so far, to be honest. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Thus, in 2024, when Bangladesh witnessed a revolution by students which was triggered by a court ruling and one that soon transformed into an anti-Hasina protest, it became an event that attracted a lot of attention not just in India but also in the West. Although the students protest, which the highly compromised Wikipedia calls the worlds first Gen-Z revolution, began on a very promising note, two years and various compromises later, here we are with just 6 seats in the kitty for the National Citizen Party, the political culmination of the revolution in a 350-seat parliament. What started out with a lot of optimism for a new kind of politics has fizzled out with the student leadership becoming a fringe story in a power transition that they themselves initiated. The Bangladeshi Nationalist Party (BNP) is back in power with its past record of unstable governance, deep corruption, unemployment and campus violence, while Jamaat-E-Islami has emerged as the principal opposition party whose views on imposing shariah law and outlawing women from politics are already in the public domain. The way elections have turned out for the students revolution has left many perplexed. If the protests as shown on our social media timelines and our TV sets were very real, then how come the students are not a part of the new leadership in Bangladesh? Forget the outsiders; even student leaders themselves are confused with the trajectory of their political fate. As someone who has done her doctoral studies at a university that draws upon students from across the subcontinent, the revolution seemed quite personal to me. The peers from Bangladesh were enthusiastic after having removed Hasina from power and were looking forward to a new future for Bangladesh. However, one reality that they tend to miss is that the removal of Hasina from power and who succeeds her to rule the country next is a script that they neither wrote nor executed. While the Western media celebrated them as heroes of democracy, and the domestic media, including the one in India, also used the same frame to glorify them, the strings were clearly being pulled from outside. There is recorded evidence of Jamaat leaders being courted and cultivated by the US Department of State. Long before the Washington Post leaks of 2026 that revealed the American preference for Jamaat, there was a human rights report by the State Department that called for political freedom for the extremist group as early as 2023. The groundwork that was laid with utmost dedication by the Americans bore handsome fruits when, in 2025, the countrys top court lifted the ban on Jamaat and allowed it to participate in the general elections. Each of the 68 seats that Jamaat has scored today is a testament to the relentless support from what some people also term as the US Deep State. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The thing with Gen-Z revolutions is that they have had a really high visual appeal with a bunch of passionate youth pitted against a leader who has already been demonised by the global information machinery as a fascist and a dictator. However, beyond the carefully crafted narrative lies the ugly truth of who is being nurtured to ultimately fill the vacuum once the incumbent is forced to leave? In the case of Bangladesh, the events as they unfolded in the aftermath of the revolution left no scope for ambiguity at all. They had a Nobel Laureate, Muhammad Yunus, serving as the head of the interim government with just a minimal representation from the student uprising so as to maintain the facade of regime change being a student-led movement. This was a message which was clearly received by the student leaders as well, as a result of which Nahid Islam, an advisor in Yunuss cabinet, resigned to focus on active politics and thus formed a full-fledged political organisation, the National Citizen Party, in 2025. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD As per insiders, the NCP did have considerable external backing in the form of facilitated interactions with the Jamaat and prioritised access to media to push their narrative. This is the reason why Jamaat made a considerable concession of 30 seats to them in the recently concluded polls. But at what cost? The students, as I know them from my experience of studying at a common institution for years, were very progressive, liberal and pluralistic, but here they were aligning with Jamaat, a party whose stated goal is to impose shariah, outlaw women completely from public life, including from elections, and take Bangladesh back to the dark ages once in power. So the revolution was limited to fighting only one kind of tyrant while kissing the other? Not to mention how the students who wanted to restore true democracy in the country never protested against the ban on the Awami League from contesting elections. Democracy is built from the ground up with a large number of genuine representatives of people who actually enjoy popular support being a part of almost each political party. Here Awami League was no different. Hasina can be the dictator that they claim, but what was the fault of ordinary political workers of the League who had put their sweat and blood all these decades to make a common Bangladeshi feel heard in the corridors of power? The student revolution had lost legitimacy the moment they allowed Jamaat to take over after the removal of Hasina and the second time when they watched a political party that secured more than 60 per cent of the popular vote in 2024 elections be banned from contesting recent polls. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD One may even say that the way the NCP has poorly performed in the recent elections proves how the Gen Z revolution was not as deeply rooted as we were made to believe by the media and proponents of a similar movement in India. If regime change was a goal for an external power, then the student leaders were their best bet for achieving legitimacy. The preference for Jamaat at the helm was real, a fate that the Bangladeshis managed to avoid at the last moment. What Bangladeshs electorate has now done by electing BNP is nothing but a compromise in the face of the imminent challenge of the countrys Talibanisation by the Jamaat. It is amusing how a highly corrupt man, Tariqur Rahman, who ran a parallel government from Hawa Bhaban the last time BNP was in power, is the countrys best hope for survival and reasonable governance. Someone who sought bribes, did money laundering and was even convicted for a terror attack is soon going to be at the helm in Bangladesh. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What did the student revolution really achieve then? Jamaat, whose antics have been a perennial threat to Bangladeshs progress, is now a mainstream political force, and BNP, which also has a past track record of co-opting Islamic extremists, will now form the government. The economy of the country also lies in shambles with record highs of unemployment but the lowest ever FDI inflow. More than two million jobs have already disappeared from the country, and another million are all set to vanish thanks to the automation challenge. The graduate unemployment rate that stood at just five per cent in 2010 has exceeded 14 per cent after the revolution. Political dreams of the youth are obviously fading away as reality is striking them now. Many with higher degrees are already planning to leave the country, and the rest of the others are struggling for jobs. The Gen Z revolution that started in the summer of 2024 will only make for a nice story for their grandkids: the time they gathered on the streets in pursuit of true democracy but ended up as puppets for the designs of the deep state. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD (The author is a New Delhi-based commentator on geopolitics and foreign policy. She holds a PhD from the Department of International Relations, South Asian University. She tweets @TrulyMonica. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.) News / National by Staff reporter HEAVY rains pounding Bulilima District during the 2025/2026 rainy season have left large sections of the road network severely damaged, disrupting access to health facilities, markets and other essential services.Among the worst affected is the PlumtreeMaitengwe Road, a key corridor linking Zimbabwe and Botswana.On Saturday, this news crew observed a cross-border transporter vehicle stuck in mud just after the Maitengwe Border Post between Tjilukutu and Tjitabataba villages, highlighting the extent of the deterioration.The situation has forced motorists to divert and use the longer Bambadzi-Mbimba-Madlambudzi route.The persistent rains have also stalled works by Enock Construction Company on a 10-kilometre stretch that begins in Plumtree town and extends beyond Tsambani Shops at Makwa River in Village 28 along the PlumtreeDombodema Road.Residents and cross-border traders say the poor state of the road is affecting business and mobility.Bukhosi Ncube, a cross-border transporter popularly known as an omalayitsha, urged Government to urgently rehabilitate the corridor."This road is a key player in the economy of our country, as we bring in money through revenue paid at the border post. We call upon the Government to prioritise fixing this road," said Ncube.Communities in the district fear that if the rains persist without urgent intervention, transport costs will rise further and service delivery in remote areas will continue to suffer. While ancient Indian graffiti in Egypt may be in the news right now, historical graffiti are not rare either in India or elsewhere in the world The most striking aspect of the graffiti is the repeated appearance of 'Cikai Korran'a name that resonates with the nomenclature found in the Sangam literature of ancient Tamilakam. (Image used for representation.) Bunty loves Pinky. Pierced heart. Vikram + Poonam = heart. Or just plain ILU (I love you). Anyone who has visited a heritage site in India would have seen these messages scribbled on the walls. These random graffiti are the most ubiquitous modern imprint on our history and the most wince-inducing as well. But these modern-day vandals are not a species indigenous to India alone. Nor are they a peculiarly 21st-century phenomenon. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In fact, the astonishing discovery of 2000-year-old graffiti left behind by ancient Indian travellers and merchants on the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs has hit headlines earlier this week, causing excitement not just among historians and archaeologists but the general public as well. Scribbled onto a number of pharaonic tombs in the Valley of Kings, these 30 inscriptions of which a majority are in Tamil Brahmi document not just ancient Indias deep mercantile and maritime relations with Egypt but also the very human need to imprint ones presence on history. The inscriptions themselves are straightforward enough one reads Cikai Korran vara kantan, or Cikai Korran was here. A fellow traveller dittoes the sentiment: Kopran vara kantan or Kopran was here. These intrepid Indian seafaring merchants the same tribe who carried fine Indian goods like the Berenike Buddha or the Pompeii Yakshi/Lakshmi to Egypt and Rome perhaps felt compelled to leave behind some sign of their presence on a monument which would have been ancient even 2000 years ago. And thank god for that. Because in doing so, they have helped expand the history of ancient Indias connections with the world around it. In fact, Korran and Kopran are not the only ancient Indians who left behind some fingerprints on pharaonic Egypt. Three inscriptions from the Red Sea port of Quseir-al-Qadim, or Leucos Limen, offer tell-tale signs of intrepid seafaring Indians not only trading with Egypt and Rome but also living in transit trade hubs like Alexandria, Berenike or Leucos Limen. The three inscriptions two in Tamil Brahmi and one in Prakrit mention some of these merchants by name. Halaka, Vinhudata or Vishnudatta and Nakada or Nagadatta are selling oil, wine or honey and meat. Another pottery inscription mentions yet another Tamil trader called Cattan or Kannan who left his signature on his goods in Tamil Brahmi. Just as interesting is the inscription in Greek found at the Temple of Seti I at Kanayis, located somewhere between Berenike on the Red Sea and Apollinopolis on the Nile. The inscription is an offering to the Greek god Pan (which many historians have surmised was an offering to Lord Krishna but made in a Greek temple) from an Indian called Subhanu. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Some of these scribblings are symbols like the Buddhist wheel and Hindu trishula symbols that popped up in a Ptolemy-era tomb in Dendera, confounding historians about who left those imprints and why. Thats not to say that Indian merchants have only found mention in these assorted graffiti several contemporary sources like the Oxyrhynchus papyrus, which contains a fragment of a Greek farce, Ptolemys Geography and Periplus of the Erythraean Sea, and the Sanskrit inscription at the Isis temple at Berenike by a trader called Vasula all attest to their presence. While ancient Indian graffiti in Egypt may be in the news right now, historical graffiti are not rare either in India or elsewhere in the world. On my first ever trip to the Ajanta complex, the local guide pointed out a name scribbled on a pillar in Cave 10: John Smith. This British official had accidentally discovered the caves in 1819 while chasing a particularly elusive tiger and had felt impelled to leave his signature behind as well, giving the sacred art of ancient India a taste of some good old-fashioned colonial impertinence. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Just as deliberate were the Viking/Norse runic scribbles inside the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. One particularly clear-cut one simply states, Halfdan was here". Inscribed in the 9th century, this elite member of the Byzantine Varangian guards was, in effect, vandalising a 300-year-old building when he left his name on its walls. Sometimes, the scribblings are marks of protest too, like the charcoal graffiti left in the cell blocks of Richmond Castle in the UK. These were by men who were refusing to fight in WWI and had been imprisoned as a result. Just as interesting are the many doodles and texts left behind by unfortunate prisoners on the walls of the Tower of London. There is, for example, an entire prayer scribbled in Latin by Philip Howard, Earl of Arundel. Dated 1587, it says, The more our pain in this world, the more our glory in the hereafter. Of course, not all graffiti is quite so pure-minded in tone and tenor. Some of the most titillating scribbles can be found on the walls of Pompeii, which included everything from nudge-nudge wink-wink references to the rich and famous, political sloganeering and even salacious gossip about rivals and competitors, all preserved by the lava-spewing fury of Mount Vesuvius. But perhaps the most blush-worthy are those left behind by drunk customers after a visit to the citys famed red-light quarters. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The most famous graffiti in India, though, includes the imprint of three emperors, separated by a millennium each. This is the Prayag Prashasti Pillar in Prayagraj, which bears the names of three emperors. Originally an Ashokan pillar, it carries some of Ashokas edicts in Prakrit, written in Brahmi script. Later, it was used to carve the most detailed record of Gupta emperor Samudraguptas reign by his minister and scribe Harisena. The Prashasti includes details of the emperors conquests across both North and South India. Finally, Mughal emperor Jahangir uprooted the pillar and planted it in Allahabad Fort, adding an inscription in Persian. The three sets of inscriptions, spanning 2,000 years, have turned the pillar into a time capsule connecting different parts of Indias past. Sometimes, graffiti can be history too though not the love-sick variety we now see defacing the walls of heritage sites. (The author is a senior journalist and an author. Views expressed are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.) STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu concluded a high-stakes, three-hour private meeting at the White House on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The discussions primarily focused on the escalating tensions with Iran and the ongoing situation in Gaza. This was Netanyahus sixth visit to the US since Trumps second term began in January 2025. In a notable departure from past high-profile visits, there was no joint press conference or public camera appearance. Netanyahu reportedly entered and exited the White House through a side entrance, away from reporters. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trump stated that reaching a diplomatic deal with Iran is his preference. He told Netanyahu that he has insisted that ongoing negotiations with Tehran continue in order to see if a final agreement can be reached. Netanyahu remains highly sceptical of diplomatic prospects. He is reportedly pushing for any potential deal to be significantly broadened beyond nuclear issues to include strict limits on Irans ballistic missile programme and an end to its support for regional proxy groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. President Trump stated that while the meeting was very good, there was nothing definitive reached. He insisted that negotiations with Iran continue to see if a nuclear deal can be finalised. Trump referenced Operation Midnight Hammer, the June 2025 US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, as a warning. He suggested that if a deal is not reached, Iran could face similar or far worse military action in the future. The Trump-Netanyahu meeting was significant, as it took place less than a week after the indirect talks between the United States and Iran, held in Muscat, Oman, on February 6, 2026, which have been described by both sides as positive and constructive. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has called the talks a good start, and President Trump described them as very good. For the first time, US Central Command Commander Admiral Brad Cooper attended in uniform, signalling a strategy of diplomacy under pressure. Both parties agreed to hold further discussions, with another round expected as early as next week. Despite the talks in Muscat, tensions between the US and Iran remain extremely high. There continue to be fundamental policy differences between the two sides. Iran has flatly refused to end uranium enrichment or move its fuel offshore, which is a core US demand. While the talks reduced immediate fears of a regional military escalation, the distance between the US demand for potential zero enrichment and Irans insistence on nuclear rights remains vast. Moreover, Washington is pushing for a broader agreement that includes Irans ballistic missile programme and support for regional proxies, while Iran maintains that talks should only focus on the nuclear issue. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The US has continued to exert military pressure on Iran. President Trump has deployed a massive naval buildup, which he refers to as an armada, of nearly 10 guided-missile destroyers centred around the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier. Recent satellite imagery also shows the US has deployed mobile Patriot launchers at the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar to counter potential Iranian ballistic missile strikes. Just a few days before the talks in Oman, US forces shot down an Iranian drone in the Arabian Sea. US officials have not ruled out military strikes if diplomacy fails. The US has also escalated economic pressure on Iran. Immediately following the Oman talks, the US sanctioned 15 entities and 14 shadow fleet vessels linked to the illicit trade of Iranian petroleum. The US continues to use economic coercion to force concessions, while Iran insists that sanctions relief must be the starting point for any meaningful deal. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the mistrust that has developed is a serious challenge. Gulf Arab nations remain wary that a breakdown in these talks could spark a broader regional war that would directly impact their security and oil production. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Thus, the future of US-Iran talks is currently at a critical and volatile crossroads, defined by a dual-track strategy of tentative diplomacy and intense military posturing. President Trump has coupled diplomatic outreach with the deployment of a large armada to the region, threatening bad things if a deal is not reached. On the other side, hardline factions in Tehran, including the IRGC and powerful clerics, have publicly dismissed the talks as a political game, and Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei remains deeply sceptical of US intentions. While both sides have recently engaged in indirect talks in Oman and are considering future rounds, significant red lines and regional pressures suggest a narrow and unstable path forward. On balance, it appears that both sides may eventually settle for a temporary de-escalation rather than a durable peace, as neither side currently seeks a full-scale regional war. Trump claimed tremendous progress is being made in Gaza and the wider region. Netanyahu officially signed on to Trumps Board of Peace during this visit, a body intended to oversee global crisis resolutions. Ahead of the meeting, Trump explicitly stated his opposition to any Israeli moves toward annexing the West Bank at this time, saying, We have enough things to think about now. The meeting aimed to revive momentum for a 20-point US-brokered ceasefire plan that took effect in October 2025. While Trump cited progress, the plan remains stalled by major gaps, specifically regarding the disarmament of Hamas and the phasing of Israeli troop withdrawals. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In conclusion, the outcome of the February 11, 2026, meeting between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can be summed up as a strategic alignment on regional high-pressure situations with no final diplomatic breakthrough. While no final agreement on a strategy was reached, both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination and ongoing communication regarding Iran and the situation in Gaza. Trump described the relationship between the two countries as tremendous and the meeting as very good, reaffirming their close coordination despite the low-key, closed-door nature of the visit. (The writer is a retired Indian diplomat and had previously served as Ambassador in Kuwait and Morocco and as Consul General in New York. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.) Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has cancelled his visit to India for the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi due to unforeseen circumstances, the company said. Nvidia, the tech firm headed by CEO Jensen Huang, recently became the first company in history to briefly cross the $5 trillion (Rs 442.9 lakh crore) valuation mark. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has cancelled his visit to India for the India AI Impact Summit which is scheduled for next week in New Delhi. Nvidia said on Saturday that its CEO will not attend the summit next week in New Delhi. Huang had been scheduled to speak to the media on February 17 but cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, Reuters reported. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Jensen Huang will not be attending the India AI Impact Summit, Nvidias Indian media agency MSL told journalists, without giving further details. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Huangs absence is notable as he was expected to be one of the summits biggest draws. However, the event is still set to bring together leading technology figures, policymakers, and heads of state from around the world. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the summit, which will run from February 16 to 20. Among those expected to attend are Sundar Pichai of Alphabet, Sam Altman of OpenAI, and Dario Amodei of Anthropic, along with ministers and leaders from more than 45 countries. Confirmed world leaders include Emmanuel Macron, Pedro Sanchez Perez-Castejon, Petteri Orpo, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Tshering Tobgay, and Navinchandra Ramgoolam. Representatives from the United Nations and other international bodies will also be present. Focus areas of the summit The summit is structured around three themes People, Planet, and Progress and will examine AIs impact on jobs, the environment, and responsible use. India aims to position the gathering as a platform for practical and ethical discussions on AI. Packed five-day programme The programme begins on February 16 with the India AI Expo featuring startups and industry leaders. February 17 will host high-level panels and knowledge guide launches. February 18 will focus on research presentations by academics and think tanks. February 19 will feature the formal opening ceremony led by Prime Minister Modi and a CEO roundtable. The final day, February 20, will include meetings of the Global Partnership on AI Council and the adoption of a Leaders Declaration on responsible AI. The summit is being held at Bharat Mandapam. Luxury hotels across New Delhi are fully booked, with premium suites commanding rates above $30,000 per night, including top suites at Taj Palace, The Oberoi, and ITC Maurya. Nvidia to send delegation A senior official said Nvidia has cancelled Huangs visit due to unavoidable circumstances but will send a high-level delegation. Nvidia remains a key player in the global AI ecosystem due to its high-performance GPU servers. Even without Huang, the India AI Impact Summit is expected to be one of the most significant AI gatherings this year, with discussions likely to influence global AI policy and governance. As the fourth anniversary of the conflict approaches, a lethal drone strike in Odesa has underscored the urgent need for a resolution. Lethal strikes continue as Russian and Ukrainian envoys prepare for crucial peace talks in Geneva this week. Tragedy struck the port city of Odesa this weekend as a lethal drone attack claimed the life of a resident just as international diplomats prepare for a critical round of peace negotiations in Switzerland. The strike targeted a residential block in the Black Sea hub, highlighting the persistent danger faced by civilians despite the renewed push for a diplomatic resolution. As the fourth anniversary of the full scale invasion approaches, the intensity of the conflict remains undiminished on both sides of the border, with military actions continuing to impact urban populations. This latest escalation serves as a sobering reminder of the high stakes involved in the upcoming talks scheduled for the coming week. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Fatal strikes on civilian areas The local emergency services in Odesa reported that the drone strike hit a housing complex, resulting in the death of an elderly woman on Saturday. This incident followed a significant military action on Friday when a missile strike from the Ukrainian side hit the Russian border city of Belgorod. According to regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov, that particular attack resulted in two fatalities and left five other individuals with injuries. These cross border exchanges illustrate the widening scope of the war, where long range weaponry is frequently utilised against targets far from the primary battlefields. Diplomatic preparations in Geneva In the midst of this ongoing violence, officials from both Moscow and Kyiv have confirmed that a new series of discussions will be held in Geneva on Tuesday and Wednesday. These talks are being facilitated by the United States and represent a fresh attempt to find a middle ground before the conflict enters its fifth year. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov released a statement through national media outlets confirming the schedule, while Dmytro Lytvyn, a communications adviser to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, also verified that the Ukrainian delegation would participate. The proximity of these talks to the wars anniversary adds a layer of symbolic and practical urgency to the proceedings. Stalemate on the front lines The backdrop for these negotiations is a massive front line stretching approximately twelve hundred and fifty kilometres where fighting remains fierce. Ukraine continues to endure heavy bombardment of its civilian infrastructure and power networks, while simultaneously launching frequent drone strikes against Russian military and industrial assets. This cycle of attrition has made previous attempts at mediation extremely difficult. Earlier efforts led by Washington in Abu Dhabi failed to produce a breakthrough, largely due to intractable disagreements over the future of the Donbas region, which remains under significant Russian occupation. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Deadlines and future prospects The road to peace is further complicated by shifting timelines and political pressure. President Zelenskyy recently indicated that the American administration has proposed a June deadline for the two nations to reach a formal agreement. While this suggests a desire for a swift conclusion, many observers remain sceptical, noting that previous deadlines set by President Donald Trump have elapsed without leading to a definitive ceasefire or political settlement. As the delegations gather in Geneva, the primary challenge will be addressing the fundamental territorial and security concerns that have derailed all prior attempts at reconciliation. Medecins Sans Frontieres has suspended non-critical medical activities at Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza after reports of armed men inside the facility and concerns over the movement of weapons, while continuing some lifesaving services. An International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) vehicle passes a destroyed building in Gaza City on November 2, 2025, as efforts resume to recover the bodies of slain Israeli hostages. (AFP) Medecins Sans Frontieres has halted non-critical medical activities at a major hospital in southern Gaza after patients and staff reported the presence of armed men inside the facility and raised concerns about the movement of weapons there. The organisations statement appears to be the first time an international humanitarian group in Gaza has publicly reported armed men inside a hospital or the possible use of such a facility for moving weapons. The Geneva-based charity said non-essential operations at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis were suspended on January 20 due to concerns about management of the structure, the safeguarding of its neutrality, and security breaches. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In recent months, patients and staff had seen armed men, some masked, in parts of the hospital compound, MSF said. The Hamas-run Interior Ministry said it was committed to preventing any armed presence inside hospitals and that legal action would be taken against violators. It suggested armed members of certain Gazan families had recently entered hospitals but did not identify them. Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire in October under a US-backed plan to end the war in Gaza. Both sides have repeatedly accused each other of violations. Since the ceasefire, MSF teams have reported a pattern of unacceptable acts, including the presence of armed men, intimidation, arbitrary arrests of patients, and a recent situation involving suspected movement of weapons, the organisation said. According to Gazas Health Ministry, more than 590 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli troops in the territory since the ceasefire began, while Palestinian militants have killed four Israeli soldiers in the same period. MSF, also known as Doctors Without Borders, disclosed the suspension at Nasser Hospital in a frequently asked questions section on its website about its work in Gaza, last updated on February 11. The armed men were seen in areas of the hospital compound where MSF does not operate, but their presence, along with suspected weapons transfers, posed serious security risks to patients and staff, it said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD An MSF representative told Reuters the organisation continues to support some critical services at Nasser Hospital, including inpatient and surgical care for certain patients requiring lifesaving treatment. At the Munich Security Conference, Marco Rubio reassured European allies of Americas commitment while firmly defending Donald Trumps push for reciprocity, migration controls and institutional reform. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio walks to a meeting of G7 foreign ministers at the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio used the stage at the Munich Security Conference to deliver a calibrated message to European allies: the trans-Atlantic partnership remains vital but Washingtons priorities under President Donald Trump are unchanged. His remarks struck a more measured tone than the rhetoric that has defined much of the past year, yet they firmly underscored the administrations intent to reshape the alliance and press for policy reciprocity from Europe. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Addressing leaders and diplomats in Munich, Rubio emphasised that the United States is historically and strategically bound to Europe, even as it seeks structural changes in the relationship and in the post-World War II institutions that have anchored Western cooperation. The message was one of reassurance layered over resolve continuity in alliance but adjustment in expectations. The speech came against a backdrop of strain in trans-Atlantic ties. A year earlier, Vice President JD Vance had sharply criticised European political values at the same forum, setting off a series of tensions that included Trumps brief threat to impose tariffs on several European countries amid his push for greater US influence over Greenland, a semiautonomous Danish territory and NATO ally. On the eve of Rubios address, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz had called for Washington and Brussels to repair and revive trans-Atlantic trust together, warning that neither side is strong enough to navigate a shifting global order alone. European officials reiterated their commitment to principles such as free speech, climate action and open trade, making clear that renewed partnership would not mean retreat from core values. Rubios intervention therefore sought to steady nerves without diluting the administrations harder edge, a balance that framed the rest of his remarks. Softer tone, firm policy line While offering a calmer and more reassuring tone than the one often heard over the past year, Rubio made clear that the Trump administration is sticking to its guns on policy. He denounced a climate cult and an unprecedented wave of mass migration that threatens the cohesion of our societies. Rubio argued that the euphoria of the Western victory in the Cold War led to a dangerous delusion that we had entered the end of history, that every nation would now be a liberal democracy, that the ties formed by trade and by commerce alone would now replace nationhood and that we would now live in a world without borders where everyone became a citizen of the world. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD We made these mistakes together and now together we owe it to our people to face those facts and to move forward to rebuild, Rubio said. This is why we Americans may sometimes come off as a little direct and urgent in our counsel, he said. This is why President Trump demands seriousness and reciprocity from our friends here in Europe. Rubio said that an end of the trans-Atlantic era is neither our goal nor our wish, adding that our home may be in the Western hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe. He acknowledged that we have bled and died side-by-side on battlefields from Kapyong to Kandahar, a contrast with disparaging remarks by Trump about NATO allies troops in Afghanistan that drew an outcry. And Im here today to make it clear that America is charting the path for a new century of prosperity. and that once again, we want to do it together with you, our cherished allies and our oldest friends. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD U.S. officials accompanying Rubio said his message was much the same as Vances last year but was intended to have a softer landing on the audience, which they acknowledged had recoiled at much of Trumps rhetoric over the past year. Europeans reassured but not complacent The president of the European Unions executive commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said Rubios speech was very reassuring but noted that in the administration, some have a harsher tone on these topics. In her speech to the conference, she stressed that Europe must become more independent, including on defence. She insisted on Europes digital sovereignty its approach to hate speech on social media. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that we shouldnt get in the warm bath of complacency. He said the U.K. must re-forge closer ties with Europe to help the continent stand on our own two feet in its own defence, and said there needs to be investment that moves us from overdependence to interdependence. Hanno Pevkur, the defence minister of EU and NATO member Estonia, said it was quite a bold statement to say that America is a child of Europe. It was a good speech, needed here today, but that doesnt mean that we can rest on pillows now, he told The Associated Press. So still a lot of work has to be done. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The conference pointed to tensions beyond those in the trans-Atlantic alliance. Speaking after Rubio, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Beijing felt gratified that Trump respects President Xi Jinping and China, but warned that some voices in the U.S. are leery of Chinas rise. We see that some forces and some people are still trying their best to suppress and contain China, and are still attacking and slandering China by any means, Wang said. He cautioned that law of the jungle and unilateralism have taken hold and said some countries even revive the Cold War mentality. With inputs from agencies The 2026 Bangladesh elections came two years after the July uprising. While BNP and Jamaat managed to win their respective battles, the party that was born out of the revolution faded into the abyss. The story of NCP Nahid Islam, the convener of student-led National Citizen Party (NCP) and a candidate for the national election, gives speech during a campaign at Rampura area, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, January 27, 2026. File Image/Reuters The July 2024 protests in Bangladesh not only overthrew the 15-year-long reign of the countrys former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, but they also led to the birth of a youth-driven political movement that ultimately led to the creation of the National Citizen Party (NCP). At the helm of this party was a youth protester who eventually became one of the advisors in the interim cabinet of Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus. While Yunus was given the role to reconstruct a shattered Bangladesh, Islam left his cabinet and formed the party to win the next elections in the country. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Then came the 13th National Elections in Bangladesh, where multiple parties fought for 300 seats in the parliament. However, contrary to expectations, NCP did not manage to cash in on the July uprising wave and only secured 6 seats. NCP was one of the three prominent parties contesting this election, the other two being the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami. While BNP managed to gain a massive majority, Jamaat also gave its best performance in the national election in Bangladeshs history. So why did NCP, a promising party that emerged out of the July protest, fade away? The rise of a promising party 27-year-old Nahid Islam was the central key coordinator of the Students Against Discrimination, which led the July Revolution against the Hasina government. When Yunus came to power, he was given an advisory role in Bangladeshs Interim government. During his brief tenure in the interim government, he served as the Adviser of Information and broadcasting, posts, telecommunications and IT, etc. However, he resigned from the council of advisers in February 2025 and became the founding convener of the National Citizen Party on 28 February 2025. Nahid Islams role in the Bangladesh protests was so prominent that he was also named on the Time 100 Next list in 2024, reflecting that the party had a promising future. Many expected the party to absorb the nature of the July uprising, which was rooted in inclusive, democratic ideals, becoming the voice of the ordinary citizens and fighting against dynasty politics. However, what came next would falter all the expectations. The problematic alliance that broke the party In December last year, NCP announced that it was formally joining hands with JeI. However, the move was seen as highly controversial, with many within the party calling quits. Soon after the announcement, as many as 30 party leaders, who brought their share of followers, resigned from the party. Before resigning, NCP leaders wrote a joint letter to express their discontent. In the letter to the party convener, the members pointed to Jamaat-e-Islamis political history, particularly its anti-independence role during the 1971 Liberation War and complicity in genocide. They emphasised that the partys stance has fundamentally contradicted Bangladeshs democratic spirit and the partys values. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The founding members of NCP further condemned Jamaat and its student wing, Shibir, for engaging in divisive politics since the July uprising, including espionage within other parties, character assassination of NCPs women members, and the rising threat of religion-based social fascism." They also called out the partys leaderships apparent U-turn after announcing 125 candidates for independent contests, warning that any alliance for just a handful of seats amounts to betrayal of the nation. Several women leaders also resigned, alleging that they had been sidelined. The fading mass support The student movement in Bangladesh was widely perceived as rooted in inclusive and democratic ideals, but partnering with the hardline Jamaat appears to have alienated segments of the NCPs liberal voter base. Many of these voters eventually shifted towards the BNP. Several supporters said that the CP effectively took itself out of the race by choosing in December to run alongside another long-established movement - the Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami. Initially, the party planned to contest in all seats but ended up competing only in 30 in the coalition, which it said it joined because it needed the clout of a major player after a prominent member of the uprising was killed in Dhaka. The party was also struggling with resources to contest in all the seats; hence, an alliance was needed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Restricted to fringes One of the six NCP winners was Abdullah Al Amin, 32, a lawyer and joint secretary of the party. He told Reuters that the alliance with Jamaat had helped the NCP win the seats it did. However, experts noted that the alliance pushed away the young voters, a strong voting base in Bangladesh. After the result, NCP spokesperson Asif Mahmud said the party would rebuild itself in opposition and focus on local government elections due in a year. Meanwhile, NCP chief Nahid Islam told Reuters in December his organisation had not had enough time to build itself up. It was also hampered by scarce funds and an unclear stance on key issues such as rights for women and minorities, Reuters reported, citing party leaders. Overall, NCP emerged as a prominent party but failed to take advantage of its mass support and faltered right at the finishing line. With inputs from agencies. BNPs Tarique Rahman, in his first address after the partys decisive election win, called for unity and dedicated the victory to those who sacrificed for democracy. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairman Tarique Rahman is poised to become the next prime minister of Bangladesh. File image/Reuters In his first remarks following a decisive victory in Bangladeshs national elections, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday called for unity and dedicated the partys success to those who sacrificed for democracy. Rahman, who returned to Bangladesh in December 2025 after nearly 17 years in self-imposed exile in London, won seats from Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6, marking the BNPs grand comeback in the countrys political landscape. This victory belongs to Bangladesh. This victory belongs to democracy. This victory belongs to the people who aspire to and have sacrificed for democracy. From today, we are all free, with the true essence of freedom and rights restored, Rahman said during a press conference. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD BNP secures decisive majority The BNP won 209 seats in the 13th national elections held on February 12, comfortably surpassing the majority needed to form the government. With your spontaneous participation, after more than one and a half decades, a parliament and government accountable to the people through direct voting are being re-established in the country, Rahman said, urging citizens to stay united to ensure that no evil force can re-establish autocracy and that the nation is not turned into a subservient state. Elections after Hasinas ouster These elections were the first since the ouster of former premier Sheikh Hasina in the student-led uprising of July 2024. Hasina, who fled to India following her removal, saw her party, the Awami League, barred from participating in the polls. I congratulate the people of Bangladesh. By overcoming all obstacles, you have paved the way for the establishment of democracy in the country, Rahman added. Rehman to be next PM Rahman, the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia who passed away shortly after his return, is poised to become Bangladeshs prime minister, making him the first male to hold the post since 1991. Bangladesh is also set to implement constitutional reforms proposed in the July National Charter, following strong approval in the National Referendum held alongside the general elections. Trade data underscore the depth of Chinas economic ties with Moscow. Tracking figures show that 1.65 million barrels per day of crude were unloaded at Chinese ports in January, the highest level since March 2024 Matthew Whitaker, the US Ambassador to Nato, is seen with President Donald Trump in this undated photograph. (Photo: X/Matthew Whitaker) US Department of State official and U.S. ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said China is playing a decisive role in sustaining Russias war in Ukraine and has the power to bring the conflict to a halt. Speaking on Friday at the Munich Security Conference, Whitaker argued that Beijing could quickly change the trajectory of the war. China could call Vladimir Putin and end this war tomorrow and cut off his dual-purpose technologies that theyre selling, Whitaker said during a panel discussion. China could stop buying Russian oil and gas. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD You know, this war is being completely enabled by China, the US envoy added during a panel on US foreign policy moderated by Bloombergs Francine Lacqua. Trade data underscore the depth of Chinas economic ties with Moscow. Tracking figures show that 1.65 million barrels per day of crude were unloaded at Chinese ports in January, the highest level since March 2024 and the second-largest monthly total since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Since the start of the war, China and Russia have deepened their strategic partnership. Moscow depends heavily on China for critical components used in drones and other military equipment, while Beijing has reemerged as the largest buyer of Russian crude oil even as international pressure on Russias energy trade intensifies. Wang Yi meets Ukraines FM Despite those figures, Beijing has repeatedly maintained that it seeks a constructive role in resolving the conflict. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, in Munich this week and offered humanitarian assistance as Ukraine continues to face Russian strikes targeting its energy infrastructure, according to statements from both Kyiv and Beijing. Sybiha said that he has invited Yi to Ukraine, adding that China could help end the four-year-long war with Russia. China can play an important role in bringing about a just peace for Ukraine, Sybiha told Ukrainian TV channel Novyny Live after meeting the Chinese FM. We appreciate Chinas support for Ukraines territorial integrity and sovereignty, and we had a very substantive and pragmatic conversation. In an official Chinese summary of their meeting, Wang said China was willing to provide new humanitarian assistance to Ukraine but made no mention of any invitation to visit Kyiv. It is encouraging that various dialogues surrounding the Ukraine crisis are progressing intensively, Wang said, according to a statement released by his ministry. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies Chinas Supreme Peoples Court has ruled that drivers remain legally responsible for road safety even when using assisted driving technology The decision cited a September case in southern Zhejiang province involving a driver surnamed Wang, who was jailed and fined after relying entirely on an assisted driving system while intoxicated. (AI Image) Chinas top court on Friday confirmed that individuals operating vehicles equipped with assisted driving systems remain responsible for their actions behind the wheel, issuing a nationwide legal standard as the country seeks to shape global automotive norms. The ruling was issued as a guiding case, requiring lower courts to reference it when handling similar disputes. Reference case from Zhejiang The decision cited a September case in southern Zhejiang province involving a driver surnamed Wang, who was jailed and fined after relying entirely on an assisted driving system while intoxicated. According to the court, Wang installed a device to simulate a hand grip on the steering wheel, activated the assisted driving function, and then moved to the passenger seat, where he fell asleep. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Police later found Wang after the vehicle came to a halt in the middle of a road. The on-board assisted driving system cannot replace the driver as the primary driving subject, the Supreme Peoples Court said in its ruling. The driver is still the one who actually performs the driving tasks and bears the responsibility to ensure driving safety, it added. Legal benchmark for assisted driving Although most assisted driving systems currently specify that the driver retains ultimate control, the courts ruling formalises that responsibility as a legal requirement across the country. Chinese technology firms and carmakers have invested billions of dollars in autonomous and assisted driving technologies as they compete domestically and internationally. Beijing has, however, tightened safety oversight following a high-profile crash last March that killed three college students and raised concerns about how vehicles were marketed as capable of autonomous driving. Authorities have also announced that hidden door handles, a design popularised by Tesla, will be banned from next year due to safety concerns. Such handles, which fold into the body of a vehicle to reduce drag, may become inoperable in the event of a collision. In October, rescuers were seen struggling to open the doors of a burning electric vehicle in the southwestern city of Chengdu, highlighting concerns linked to the design. News / National by Staff reporter THREE people were seriously injured on Friday morning when two vehicles collided head-on along Airport Road in Bulawayo.The Bulawayo Fire Brigade attended the scene to rescue one of the passengers who was trapped in the wreckage.Chief fire officer Mhlangano Moyo confirmed the incident."The accident occurred on Friday morning along Airport Road when two private motor vehicles were involved in a head-on collision."One person who was trapped in one of the vehicles was extricated by a fire brigade crew. The injured persons were taken to hospital," he said.The cause of the accident had not yet been established by the time of going to print. Authorities in Hong Kong have summoned foreign diplomats from the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, and the European Union to protest their criticism of a recent court ruling. The dispute follows the twenty year prison sentence handed to media tycoon Jimmy Lai under national security legislation, a move that has sparked a sharp divide between Chinese officials demanding non interference and Western nations voicing concerns over judicial independence. The Chinese foreign ministrys office in Hong Kong has taken a firm diplomatic stance following international criticism regarding the legal proceedings of a high profile media figure. On Saturday, officials summoned the heads of several major foreign missions to formally register their complaints. This move follows a series of public statements from Western governments that questioned the judicial independence and the severity of the sentencing in a recent national security case. The escalation highlights the ongoing tension between local authorities and the international community over the governance of the city. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Summons for Western diplomatic heads The commissioners office called in the leaders of the diplomatic missions from the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, and the European Union. During these meetings, Chinese officials expressed a profound sense of dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the remarks made by foreign representatives. The authorities argued that the commentary provided by these nations was an affront to the judicial processes within the territory. By summoning these high ranking diplomats, the office aimed to send a clear signal that external pressure regarding domestic legal matters would not be tolerated. Demands for sovereignty and non interference Central to the protest was a demand for foreign governments to respect the sovereignty of China and the established rule of law in Hong Kong. The office urged these nations to cease making what they described as irresponsible remarks concerning cases related to national security. Furthermore, the Chinese representatives insisted that these countries must stop interfering in the internal affairs of both the city and the mainland. They maintained that the legal system must be allowed to function without outside influence or intimidation from foreign powers who seek to challenge the local legislative framework. Background on the Jimmy Lai sentencing The diplomatic friction stems from the recent sentencing of Jimmy Lai, a well known critic of the central government and a former media tycoon. Earlier this month, a court handed down a twenty year prison sentence to the businessman in a significant case involving allegations of foreign collusion. This trial was conducted under the national security law, a piece of legislation that has been a point of contention since its introduction. While local officials view the verdict as a necessary application of the law to maintain order, many international observers have condemned the length of the sentence and the nature of the charges, leading to the current diplomatic impasse. Valentines Day got a political remix at the White House, which posted cheeky themed cards referencing Nicolas Maduro, Greenland, immigration and Trumps executive orders Valentines Day took a decidedly political turn at the White House this year when it rolled out a set of tongue-in-cheek Valentines cards online featuring everything from Nicolas Maduro to Greenland and immigration themes, complete with the playful tagline Made just for you. The official handle shared images on X. One image shows US President Donald Trump holding what appears to be an executive order reading UR My Valentine. Featured card refers to Maduros capture. Another card depicts deposed Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who was captured by the US and deported to New York last month. It is designed like a Valentines card with To: and From: lines and shows a photo of Maduro blindfolded during his transfer to the US, with the caption You captured my heart. Immigration-linked Valentines card A third card presents Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen meeting a man who was wrongfully deported to El Salvador by the Trump administration despite a court order halting the move. Their images appear inside a heart shape above the text: My love for you is as strong as Democrats love for illegal aliens. Id fly 1,537 miles to have a drink with you. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Greenland situationship message Another image includes a heart-shaped graphic with a map of Greenland and a continuation of the Valentines theme. The text reads, Its time we define our situationship, referencing Trumps past push for annexing Greenland, a move that drew international condemnation before he went silent on the issue in recent weeks. Made just for you pic.twitter.com/DhSgnGK1M6 The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 14, 2026 The White House post has sharply divided opinion on social media, triggering intense debate. Supporters praised the use of humour, while many described the move as inappropriate and unfitting for the executive office, arguing it exploited a day associated with love and affection to spotlight military action and territorial ambitions. The political Valentines cards add to the White Houses increasingly unconventional social media engagement in recent months, particularly since the start of Donald Trumps second term. The Department of Homeland Security has entered a partial shutdown as lawmakers remain divided over funding and oversight of immigration enforcement operations Democrats oppose any new funding for DHS until major changes are implemented over how ICE conducts its operations. (Reuters) The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) entered a partial shutdown on Saturday as US lawmakers remain locked in a dispute over funding for the agency central to President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown. Thousands of federal employees, from airport security staff to disaster response officials, will either be furloughed or required to work without pay until Congress reaches an agreement. Dispute centred on ICE operations At the heart of the standoff is Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), whose agents shot and killed two US citizens during sweeping raids in Minneapolis that sparked widespread protests. Democrats have refused to approve new DHS funding unless significant changes are made to how ICE operates. They are calling for restrictions on patrols, a ban on agents wearing face masks during operations and a requirement for judicial warrants before entering private property. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries accused Republicans of failing to rein in ICE, saying, Donald Trump and Republicans have decided that they have zero interest in getting ICE under control. Dramatic changes are needed, Jeffries told reporters. Absent that, Republicans have decided to shut down parts of the federal government. The White House has rejected that characterisation. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News that Democrats were barrelling our government towards another shutdown for political and partisan reasons. ICE continues despite DHS funding gap Although DHS has entered a shutdown, ICE will continue to operate using funds allocated under last years government spending legislation. Senator John Fetterman distanced himself from his partys stance, stating, This shutdown literally has zero impact on ICE. Instead, the shutdowns effects will be felt most sharply by other agencies under DHS. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), responsible for disaster response, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which oversees airport security, are among those impacted. The TSA warned on X that an extended shutdown could lead to longer airport queues and possible flight cancellations. Third shutdown of Trumps second term This marks the third shutdown during Trumps second term, following a record 43-day closure in October and November last year and a separate four-day partial shutdown earlier this month, both linked to DHS funding disagreements. In the Senate, even if all 53 Republicans support the funding measure, 60 votes are required to advance the bill, meaning at least several Democrats would need to break ranks. The White House has signalled a willingness to negotiate over immigration enforcement policy in response to Democratic demands. Senate Majority Leader John Thune described the offer as an extremely serious one, but cautioned that Democrats would not secure everything they are seeking. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD During the previous shutdown, concessions were made after mounting public pressure following the fatal shooting of Renee Good, a mother of three, and Alex Pretti, a nurse who worked with military veterans, in Minneapolis. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that federal agents operating in the city would begin wearing body cameras effective immediately, with plans to expand the measure nationwide. The Senate entered a week-long recess starting Thursday, although members could be recalled if negotiations accelerate. For now, however, discussions between the White House and Democratic leaders remain at an impasse. African Union Commission Chairman Mahmoud Ali Youssouf urged an end to what he called the extermination of Palestinians as he opened the blocs 39th summit The African Union Headquarters building is seen as delegates arrive ahead of the opening of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union at the AU Headquarters (AFP) The extermination of the Palestinian people must end, the chairman of the African Union Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said on Saturday as he launched the organisations 39th summit. In the Middle East, Palestine and the suffering of its people also challenge our consciences. The extermination of this people must stop, said Youssouf, who was elected to head the institution a year ago. The Gaza Strip, a small territory surrounded by Israel, Egypt, and the Mediterranean Sea, has been under a very strict Israeli siege since the start of the war triggered by Hamass deadly attack on October 7, 2023. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD That attack resulted in the deaths of 1,221 people on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official data. Since then, at least 71,667 Palestinians have been killed in the small coastal territory by Israels retaliatory military campaign, according to Gazas health ministry. He also touched on the multiple conflicts raging in Africa. From Sudan to the Sahel, to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, in Somalia and elsewhere, our people continue to pay the heavy price of instability, Youssouf said. The summit brings together heads of state from the 55 member states of the African Union over two days. This years theme is water sanitation. (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Firstpost staff.) Federal authorities have opened a criminal investigation into whether two ICE officers lied under oath about a Minneapolis shooting, after all charges were dropped against two Venezuelan men The officers, whose names were not disclosed, are on administrative leave while the investigation is carried out, (AP) Federal authorities have opened a criminal probe into whether two immigration officers lied under oath about a shooting in Minneapolis last month, as all charges were dropped against two Venezuelan men. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Todd Lyons said Friday that his agency opened a joint probe with the Justice Department after video evidence revealed sworn testimony provided by two separate officers appears to have made untruthful statements about the shooting of one of the Venezuelan men during the Trump administrations immigration crackdown across the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The officers, whose names were not disclosed, are on administrative leave while the investigation is carried out, he said. Lyons said the two ICE officers could be fired and face criminal prosecution. Lying under oath is a serious federal offense, said Lyons, adding that the U.S. attorneys office is actively investigating. The men and women of ICE are entrusted with upholding the rule of law and are held to the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct, Lyons said. Violations of this sacred sworn oath will not be tolerated. ICE remains fully committed to transparency, accountability, and the fair enforcement of our nations immigration laws. Earlier Friday, U.S. District Court Judge Paul A. Magnuson dismissed felony assault charges against Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna and Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, who were accused of beating an ICE officer with a broom handle and a snow shovel during a Jan. 14 fracas. The officer fired a single shot from his handgun, striking Sosa-Celis in his right thigh. The cases were dropped after a highly unusual motion to dismiss from U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota Daniel N. Rosen, who said newly discovered evidence was materially inconsistent with the allegations made against the two men in a criminal complaint and at a hearing last month. The reversal follows a string of high-profile shootings involving federal immigration agents in which eyewitness statements and video evidence have called into question claims made to justify using deadly force. Dozens of felony cases against protesters accused of assaulting or impeding federal officers have also crumbled. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The immigration lawyer representing Aljorna and Sosa-Celis said they are overjoyed that all charges have been dismissed. Had they been convicted, the two immigrants would have faced years in federal prison. The charges against them were based on lies by an ICE agent who recklessly shot into their home through a closed door, said attorney Brian D. Clark. They are so happy justice is being served. It is unclear whether the men could still be deported. A chase, claims of an attack and a shot fired Last month, an FBI investigator said in a now-discredited court affidavit that ICE officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Aljorna on Jan. 14. He crashed the vehicle and fled on foot toward the apartment duplex where he lived. An immigration officer chased Aljorna who according to the government violently resisted arrest. The complaint alleged Sosa-Celis and another man attacked the officer with a snow shovel and a broom handle as the officer and Aljorna struggled on the ground. The officer, who is not named in court filings, fired his handgun, striking Sosa-Celis. The men ran into an apartment and eventually were arrested. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD After the shooting, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem attacked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, accusing the Democrats of encouraging impeding and assault against our law enforcement which is a federal crime, a felony. What we saw last night in Minneapolis was an attempted murder of federal law enforcement, Noem said in a Jan. 15 statement. Our officer was ambushed and attacked by three individuals who beat him with snow shovels and the handles of brooms. Fearing for his life, the officer fired a defensive shot. The Department of Homeland Security did not responded Friday to questions about whether Noem stands by those statements, which ICE part of DHS says are now under investigation. Robin M. Wolpert, a defense attorney for Sosa-Celis in the criminal case, said she was pleased ICE and the Justice Department are publicly acknowledging and investigating apparent untruthful statements by the two ICE officers. These untruthful statements had serious consequences for my client and his family, Wolpert said. My client is a crime victim. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Clark, the immigration lawyer for Aljorna and Sosa-Celis, urged the government to release the name of the ICE officer who shot his client and charge him. Court filings show state authorities have opened their own criminal investigation into the shooting, though the FBI has thus far refused to share evidence, provide the name of the ICE officer who fired his weapon or make him available for an interview. Holes already apparent in prosecution case Rosens motion seeking to drop the charges did not detail what new evidence had emerged or what falsehoods had been in the governments prior filings, but cracks began to appear in the governments case during a Jan. 21 court hearing to determine whether the accused men could be released pending trial. In court, the ICE officers account of the moments before the shooting differed significantly from testimony from the two defendants and three eyewitnesses. Available video evidence did not support the ICE officers account of being assaulted with a broom and snow shovel. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Aljorna and Sosa-Celis denied assaulting the officer. Testimony from a neighbor and the mens romantic partners also did not support the agents account that he had been attacked with a broom or shovel or that a third person was involved. Frederick Goetz, a lawyer representing Aljorna, said his client had a broomstick in his hand and threw it at the agent as he ran toward the house. Wolpert, representing Sosa-Celis, said he had been holding a shovel but was retreating into the home when the officer fired, wounding him. The mens attorneys said the prosecutions case relied wholly on testimony from the agent who fired the gun. Neither Aljorna and Sosa-Celis had violent criminal records. Both had been working as DoorDash delivery drivers at night in an attempt to avoid encounters with federal agents, their attorneys said. Aljorna and Sosa-Celis retreated into their upstairs apartment and barricaded the door, so federal officers used tear gas to try to force the men out, the FBI agent said. Concerned about the safety of two children under 2 inside the home, Aljorna and Sosa-Celis surrendered. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A third Venezuelan man, Gabriel Alejandro Hernandez Ledezma, who lived in the apartment downstairs was also arrested. Though he was never federally charged, a Jan. 30 court petition seeking his release says Hernandez Ledezma was detained without a warrant and within hours flown to an ICE detention facility in Texas. He alleges his removal was to prevent him becoming a material eyewitness who could undercut the federal governments case and help the Minnesota state investigation. Hernandez Ledezma was returned to Minnesota and discharged from ICE custody on Monday after a federal judge ordered his release. (Except for the headline, this story has not beed edited by Firstpost staff.) Two officers, who have not been named, were immediately placed on administrative leave, and an internal investigation is ongoing regarding their cases Federal agents of commander Greg Bovino's team make a stop at a gas station as immigration enforcement continues after a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent fatally shot Renee Nicole Good on January 7 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, US, on January 21, 2026. (Photo: Seth Herald/Reuters) The Immigration and Customs Enforcements (ICE) acting director, Todd Lyons, has said that two of the agencys officers might have lied under oath while giving testimony about the death of a migrant in Minneapolis last month. Lyons said that the two officers, who have not been named, were immediately placed on administrative leave, and an internal investigation is ongoing regarding their cases. Lying under oath is a serious federal offence, Lyons said. On Friday, a federal judge dropped charges against two individuals who were accused of attacking the officers. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What happened? With all the ruckus that Minneapolis was witnessing last month, the Department of Homeland Security claimed that two men attacked federal officials with a shovel and a broom handle, which prompted the agents to shoot at them, injuring one of the men in the left leg. At the same time, during a court hearing, Lyons said in a statement that the two officers in question provided false testimony. Video evidence has revealed that sworn testimony provided by two separate officers appears to have made untruthful statements, he said. He added, Upon conclusion of the investigation, the officers may face termination of employment, as well as potential criminal prosecution. After the January 14 incident, the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement that the shooting followed a vehicle pursuit involving a Venezuelan national who was in the United States without legal authorisation. DHS said that once the pursuit ended and the individual exited the car, a confrontation took place between him and a federal agent, which led to the agent firing his weapon. Trump ends crackdown in Minneapolis President Donald Trumps pointman on Thursday announced the end of an aggressive immigration operation in Minnesota that triggered large protests and nationwide outrage following the killing of two US citizens. Thousands of federal agents, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, conducted weeks of sweeping raids and arrests in what the administration claims were targeted missions against criminals. I have proposed and President Trump has concurred that this surge operation conclude, Trump official Tom Homan told a briefing outside Minneapolis. A significant drawdown has already been underway this week and will continue through the next week. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies Rubio told European leaders at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday that Washington remains committed to the transatlantic alliance, urging policy changes while stressing unity and cooperation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed European leaders at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, delivering a message of unity while calling for policy changes. Rubio emphasised that Washington does not intend to abandon the transatlantic alliance, saying, We want Europe to be strong. We believe that Europe must survive, and adding, For us Americans, our home may be in the western hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD More conciliatory than last year Rubios remarks were seen as more conciliatory than last years address by US Vice President JD Vance, which had sharply criticised European policies on censorship and democracy. While highlighting togetherness, Rubio also raised concerns over migration, warning of civilisational erasure and the destabilising effects of mass movement. Avoiding Russia and Nato in the speech Notably, Rubios roughly half-hour address did not mention Russia, Europes main geopolitical challenge, nor NATO. He said the US seeks to lead global renewal and restoration and prefers to act alongside Europe whenever possible. European leaders stress stronger defence European leaders at the conference reaffirmed their commitment to NATO and shared defence responsibilities. French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted Europes support for Ukraine and efforts to build its own security architecture, calling the continent a good ally and partner for the United States. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Europe must be ready to defend its people and values, reduce dependencies, and develop a more European Nato. India remains wedded to strategic autonomy, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, emphasising independent energy decisions based on costs, risks and availability amid global and US pressures at the Munich Security Conference. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday reaffirmed Indias commitment to its policy of strategic autonomy, saying the countrys energy purchases will be guided by factors such as cost, risk, and availability. His remarks came amid US claims that New Delhi has agreed to halt imports of Russian crude oil. Speaking alongside German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul at the Munich Security Conference, Jaishankar described the global energy market as complex and emphasised that Indias oil companies would make decisions based on what they consider to be in their best interest. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD VIDEO | Munich, Germany: "We will continue to make independent decisions that might not align with views of some other countries," said EAM S Jaishankar explaining India's position on energy security, strategic autonomy at Munich Security Conference. (Source: Third Party) pic.twitter.com/AbxFp4IulS Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 14, 2026 We are very much wedded to strategic autonomy because it is very much a part of our history and our evolution. And it is something which is very deep, it is something which cuts across the political spectrum as well, he said. As far as energy issues are concerned, this is a complex market today. I think the oil companies in India, as in Europe, as probably in other parts of the world, look at availability, look at costs, look at risks and take decisions that they feel are in their best interest, he said. The external affairs minister was responding to a question on whether India will stop buying Russian oil under the provisions of a trade deal and if such a move could impact New Delhis policy of strategic autonomy. India has not yet confirmed or denied Washingtons claim that it has committed to stopping the procurement of Russian crude oil. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Following a recent phone conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump, both sides announced a reduction of the US tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent from 50 per cent. The reduction included the removal of a 25-per cent tariff that Trump had slapped on India in August last year for New Delhis purchase of Russian oil. Jaishankar said India keeps the option of making independent decisions, without always agreeing with its partners in the West. We would not necessarily agree on everything, but I do believe that by doing that, and if there is an inclination to find common ground and overlaps, that would happen, he said. If the bottomline of your question is would I remain independent-minded and make my decisions and would I make choices which may not agree with your thinking yes, it can happen, he said. The external affairs minister also strongly called for reforms in the United Nations, especially in view of the profound changes that the world has been witnessing. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD These developments also underline the need to reform the UN, especially after the world experienced a series of shocks over the last five years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukraine conflict, the tensions in the Middle East, and the rise of China and its impact on global systems, he said. With inputs from agencies At the Munich Security Conference, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met G7 counterparts to push for UN Security Council reform, emphasising Indias strategic autonomy, maritime security and the significance of the India-EU free trade agreement. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met his G7 counterparts on Saturday at the Munich Security Conference, reiterating Indias backing for reform of the UN Security Council (UNSC). The discussion follows Indias conclusion of a free trade agreement (FTA) with the 27-member European Union in January. Jaishankar in a social media post said he was pleased to engage with G7 Foreign Ministers and reiterated Indias support of the UN@80 agenda, particularly meaningful reform of the UN Security Council. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The external affairs minister said he emphasised Indias role in safeguarding sea lines of communication, serving as a first responder, strengthening port security, and contributing to resilient submarine cable infrastructure. Our conversation brought out the many convergences and shared interests between India and the G7, the minister added. Jaishankar started his Munich Security Conference with a roundtable Delhi Decided: Mapping Indias Policy Calculus, organised by the Ananta Aspen Centre, a non-partisan organisation. The external affairs minister said he highlighted the importance of a nimble and dynamic foreign policy to meet the demands of multipolarity. In a discussion with Indrani Bagchi, CEO Ananta Centre, Jaishankar said he also noted the significance of the India-EU FTA and the India-US trade deal in that regard. The discussion looked at Indias growth strategy, the choices before key partners, and why strategic autonomy remains a steady anchor as global dynamics evolve, the Ananta Centre said. India and the 27-member European Union announced on January 27 that they had concluded negotiations for a free trade agreement. The FTA, covering nearly a quarter of global GDP, will eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the EU and slash duties on over 97% of EU exports to India, officials said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Launched in March 2025 by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the UN@80 initiative aims to enhance organisational efficiency, review mandate implementation, and align programmes for a more integrated and responsive UN. The 62nd Munich Security Conference, running from February 13 to 15, will host nearly 50 heads of state and government, including leaders from most European nations and a large delegation from Germany, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz. With inputs from agencies Police shot dead a knife- and scissors-wielding man in Paris after he tried to attack an officer during a ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe, authorities said. A man armed with a knife and scissors was shot dead by police in Paris on Friday after he attempted to attack an officer during a ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe, officials said. The suspect, a French national born in 1978 who had previously been convicted in Belgium on terrorism-related charges, died in hospital from his injuries, the French counterterrorism prosecutors office said. His name was not released. According to a Paris police official, the attacker targeted an officer guarding the ceremony to relight the eternal flame honouring unknown soldiers at the Napoleon-era monument. Another officer shot the assailant. No bystanders or police officers were injured, the official told The Associated Press. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Before the suspect died, the counterterrorism prosecutors office said an investigation had been opened on charges of attempted murder in connection with a terrorist enterprise. The man had been sentenced to 17 years in prison by a Brussels court in 2013 for attempted murders linked to a terrorist enterprise against three police officers in the Belgian city of Molenbeek the previous year, the prosecutors office said. He was first imprisoned in Belgium and later transferred to France in 2015 to serve the remainder of his sentence. He was released from prison on 24 December 2025 and had since been under judicial supervision and surveillance, the statement said. The Arc de Triomphe is one of the French capitals best-known landmarks and stands at the top of the Champs-Elysees. A heavy police presence was seen near the monument on Friday evening, and the site was closed to the public. The surrounding traffic circle remained open to vehicles. The nearby metro station was shut for security reasons at the request of police, the public transport operator RATP said. French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez expressed his full support for the officer who intervened, praising his composure and determination in the face of what he described as a terrorist threat. News / National by Staff reporter Zimbabwe faces potential constitutional and diplomatic turmoil if the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3 is passed into law, critics warn.Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) leader Douglas Mwonzora has strongly condemned the proposed changes, describing them as anti-democratic and a threat to the country's governance framework."The intended meaning of that system is that you have a strong Parliament in the sense that it has been indirectly elected and a very weak Executive. What they have now done is take the powers designed for a person with direct mandatethe powers we gave the president in the constitution reserved for the person directly elected by the people," Mwonzora said.Mwonzora was part of the delegation that drafted the 2013 constitution during the Government of National Unity (GNU) and emphasised the risks of bypassing democratic safeguards."If you have the power to put, you have the power to remove. So, the vote of no confidence can be passed by Parliament, and the president can be gone in no time. What is important is that this bill ought to go for referendum," he said.The bill, which was tabled before Cabinet chaired by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, proposes extending both presidential and parliamentary terms from five years to seven years. Analysts warn that this would effectively suspend the 2028 elections, when President Mnangagwa's current term is scheduled to end under the 2013 Constitution.In addition, the bill proposes granting traditional leaders unrestricted access to the political arena, reversing constitutional prohibitions that have historically kept them out of party politics.Opposition leaders and civil society actors argue that the bill could undermine democratic institutions, destabilise governance, and draw international scrutiny, potentially affecting Zimbabwe's diplomatic relations and regional standing.As debates continue, calls for a national referendum on the amendment are gaining traction, with critics urging the government to consult the public before implementing changes that could reshape the political landscape. UNHRCs Afghanistan representative Arafat Jamal has said that a total of 5.4 million people have returned to the country since 2023. Most of this exodus was reported from Iran and Pakistan Residents dig graves for the victims killed in an air strike by Pakistan, in Jige Mughalgai in Khost province on November 25, 2025. AFP/Representational image The United Nations has said that Afghans returning home from neighbouring countries of Iran and Pakistan have pushed Afghanistan to the brink. The UNs refugee agency has highlighted an unprecedented scale of returns in the past couple of years. UNHRCs Afghanistan representative Arafat Jamal has said that a total of 5.4 million people have returned to the country since 2023. Most of this exodus was reported from Iran and Pakistan. This is massive, and the speed and scale of these returns has pushed Afghanistan nearly to the brink, Jamal said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Pak and Iran send back Afghans Pakistan launched a sweeping crackdown in October 2023 to expel migrants without documents, urging those in the country to leave of their own accord to avoid arrest and forcible deportation and forcibly expelling others. Iran also began a crackdown on migrants at around the same time. The crackdown pushed millions of Afghans, including people who were born in Pakistan, across the border to enter the country. These were people who had established businesses in Pakistan and Iran. Last year alone, 2.9 million people returned to Afghanistan, Jamal said, noting it was the largest number of returns that we have witnessed to any single country. Taliban slams expulsions Afghanistan, under the Taliban regime, has already been under dire economic hardships and the entry of some 5 million people has made the situation worse. Already in just the month and a half since the start of this year, about 150,000 people had returned to Afghanistan, Jamal said. Afghanistans Taliban rulers have criticised the mass expulsions. Afghan authorities provide care packages for those returning that include some food aid, cash, a telephone SIM card and transportation to parts of the country where they might have family. But the returns have strained resources in a country that was already struggling to cope with a weak economy and the effects of a severe drought and two devastating earthquakes. With inputs from agencies His comments came as the US facilitated two rounds of talks between Russia and Ukraine earlier this month. The trilateral meeting, however, was not able to yield any breakthrough except a prisoner swap that released many people from both sides US Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks during an end-of-year press conference in the State Department Press Briefing Room in Washington, DC on December 19, 2025. AFP File US State Secretary Marco Rubio on Saturday said that Washington does not know whether Russia is serious about reaching a deal with Ukraine to end the four-year-long war, despite President Donald Trump pushing for a peace deal. We dont know if the Russians are serious about ending the war, he told the Munich Security Conference. His comments came as the US facilitated two rounds of talks between Russia and Ukraine earlier this month. The trilateral meeting, however, was not able to yield any breakthrough except a prisoner swap that released many people from both sides. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trump asks Zelenskyy to get moving Meanwhile, Trump has called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to make a deal to end Russias invasion, saying that Moscow wanted to make a deal. Zelenskyys going to have to get moving, Trump told reporters at the White House. Russia wants to make a deal, and Zelenskys going to have to get moving; hes going to miss a great opportunity. He has to move. At the same time, Natos US envoy Matthew Whitaker told an audience at the Munich Security Conference that Russia may never be ready to make a deal to end the war in Ukraine. The Ukrainians, I think, are willing to make a deal right now thats reasonable, that under the circumstances would be fair, Ambassador Matthew Whitaker told a panel at the Munich Security Conference. But I just am not convinced that ultimately the Russians are ready to make a deal, or ever will be able to make a deal, he added. Ukraine and Russia to hold talks in Geneva Ukraine and Russia will hold another round of talks next week in Geneva as the two sides try to get on the same page about territorial concessions. Dmitry Peskov said Friday that a new round of three-way negotiations will take place on February 1718, according to Russias state-run RIA Novosti. The upcoming meeting follows two previous sessions held in Abu Dhabi. Moscow is seeking the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the remaining portion of the eastern Donetsk region in the Donbas still under Kyivs control. Ukrainian officials have dismissed the idea of pulling back without reciprocal steps and are calling for firm Western security commitments to prevent Russia from resuming its assault if a ceasefire is agreed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD As Tarique Rahman prepares to be sworn in as Prime Minister after the Bangladesh Nationalist Partys election victory, a senior BNP leader has said PM Modi should be invited to the oath-taking ceremony in Dhaka. As Tarique Rahman prepares to assume office as Bangladeshs next Prime Minister, with the oath-taking scheduled soon, a senior leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Saturday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi should be invited to Dhaka for the swearing-in ceremony. BNP leader ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milan expressed hope that South Asian leaders, including Modi, would be invited. Humayun Kabir, foreign policy advisor to Tarique Rahman, confirmed the plans to WION, describing the invitation as a goodwill gesture aimed at improving ties and signalling a potential thaw in bilateral relations after years of tension under the previous administration. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The region is important to us. It is an important part of Tarique Rahmans foreign policy to make this region influential. There is a sense of priority in sending out invitations for the inauguration. The time frame is short, but the gesture is there, Kabir said, adding that invitations are extended with the expectation that leaders would attend as a goodwill gesture. Speaking to reporters in Dhaka after the partys victory, Milan said he hoped all global leaders would be invited, adding that inviting Modi would be a matter of general courtesy. He also outlined the partys foreign policy approach as friends to all, malice to none. The remarks come as the BNP prepares to form the next government after securing a decisive mandate in the 13th national parliament elections held on February 12. The result marks the partys return to power after nearly two decades, with Tarique Rahman set to take office as Prime Minister, in line with the partys earlier announcement. According to the Bangladesh Election Commission, results for 297 seats have been declared. BNP candidates have won 209 seats and are leading in two constituencies where results remain suspended. BNP allies have secured three additional seats, taking the BNP-led alliances total to 212 seats. In comparison, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has won 68 seats, while its allies in the 11-party alliance have secured nine more, bringing their total to 77 seats. The Election Commission has issued the official gazette notification for the elected Members of Parliament, according to Prothom Alo. Preparations for the formation of the new government are under way. The new cabinet is expected to be sworn in within the next three to four days. The oath-taking ceremony will be held at Bangabhaban and administered by Mohammed Shahabuddin, in accordance with constitutional provisions. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Cabinet secretary Sheikh Abdur Rashid said preparations are complete and the ceremony could be held within three days, or at most four days, with arrangements in place for around 1,000 guests. The developments come amid diplomatic outreach from New Delhi. PM Modi congratulated Tarique Rahman on the BNPs electoral victory and reaffirmed Indias commitment to strong bilateral ties, expressing support for efforts to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh and reiterating commitment to peace, progress and prosperity for both nations. The son of Irans toppled former monarch told a mass rally in Munich on Saturday he is ready to lead Irans transition, as demonstrators demanded the overthrow of Irans rulers. Hundreds of demonstrators with flags and umbrellas attend a demonstration of the Iranian opposition on February 14, 2026 at the Theresienwiese fair grounds in Munich, southern Germany, on the sidelines of the 62nd Munich Security Conference (MSC).- AFP The exiled son of Irans last shah Reza Pahlavi called on US President Donald Trump on Saturday to support the Iranian people, declaring at a mass rally in Munich that he is ready to lead Irans transition as demonstrators demanded the overthrow of the Islamic Republic. Pahlavi who has not returned to Iran since the 1979 revolution that toppled his father told reporters at the Munich Security Conference that it was time to end the Islamic Republic. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Outside the conference venue, approximately 200,000 people took part in a pro-monarchy demonstration, police said. The protest, held at Munichs Theresienwiese fairgrounds, condemned the leadership of Irans Islamic Republic following the lethal crackdown on nationwide protests in January. Human rights groups have reported that thousands of demonstrators were killed during those uprisings. The crowd voiced support for Pahlavi, chanting slogans in favour of regime change while waving the historic lion-and-sun flags of the monarchy over horizontal green, white, and red stripes the emblem of the pre-1979 Iranian state. Pahlavi encouraged Iranians, both inside and outside the country, to continue protesting by chanting from rooftops and homes, coordinating their actions with demonstrations in Germany and elsewhere over the weekend. Trump had said on Friday that a change of government in Iran would be the best thing that could happen, as he sent a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East to ratchet up military pressure on Tehran. He had earlier threatened military intervention to support a wave of street protests in Iran that peaked in January and were met by a violent crackdown that rights groups say killed thousands. To President Trump The Iranian people heard you say help is on the way, and they have faith in you. Help them, Pahlavi told reporters in Munich. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It is time to end the Islamic republic. This is the demand echoing from the bloodshed of my compatriots who are not asking us to fix the regime but to help them bury it, he added. With inputs from agencies Britain, France, Germany and two other European nations accuse Russia of using a rare toxin to poison opposition leader Alexei Navalny in prison. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned by the Kremlin with a rare and lethal toxin found in the skin of poison dart frogs, five European countries said Saturday. The foreign ministries of the U.K., France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said analysis in European labs of samples taken from Navalnys body conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine. It is a neurotoxin secreted by dart frogs in South America that is not found naturally in Russia, they said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A joint statement said: Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison. We know the Russian state now used this lethal toxin to target Navalny in fear of his opposition, the UK foreign office said in a statement alongside Sweden, France, the Netherlands and Germany, ahead of the second anniversary of the death of the staunch critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The five countries said they were reporting Russia to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons for a breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. There was no immediate comment from the organisation. The European nations assessment came as Navalnys widow, Yulia Navalnaya, attended the Munich Security Conference in Germany, and just before the second anniversary of Navalnys death. The murder of late Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny in an Arctic prison in 2024 is now a science-proven fact, Navalnys widow Yulia Navalnaya said Saturday after five European countries said Moscow used a lethal toxic on the Kremlin opponent. Two years ago I came on stage here and said that it was Vladimir Putin who killed my husband, Navalnaya said on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. I was of course certain that it was a murder but back then it was just words. But today these words have become science-proven facts, Navalnaya added. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Navalny, a prominent critic of President Vladimir Putin, died in February 2024 while serving a combined 30-year sentence at a remote, high-security penal colony above the Arctic Circle. Russias prison service initially reported that he had felt unwell after a walk inside the facility and later collapsed. Early reports in Russian state media suggested that a blood clot may have caused his death. That explanation was swiftly challenged by Alexander Polupan, a physician who had previously treated Navalny and said he did not believe the account aligned with Navalnys medical history. Subsequently, Russias investigative committee concluded that Navalny died as a result of a combination of diseases. His family and supporters rejected the findings, alleging that authorities were concealing the true cause of death. Navalnys death triggered widespread condemnation across Western capitals with several leaders directly blaming Putin. The Kremlin, in response, dismissed the accusations as absolutely rabid statements. With inputs from agencies Seven years after the Pulwama attack, Masood Azhar remains in hiding as Indias tougher counter-terror response continues to reshape the security landscape. School children light candles as they pay tribute to the Indian Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) soldiers to mark the first anniversary of a suicide attack that killed 41 CRPF soldiers in Pulwama, at a school in Amritsar on February 14, 2020. (Photo by NARINDER NANU / AFP) On this day in 2019, a suicide attack in Pulwama killed 40 personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force when 22-year-old Adil Dar, an operative of Jaish-e-Mohammad, rammed an IED-laden SUV into a convoyplunging the nation into grief and shock. Seven years on, Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar remains elusive, with his movements reportedly under tight restriction. Indias more assertive response to cross-border terror has pushed him into hiding and challenged Pakistans earlier image as a safe haven for such groups. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Shift in Indias response to terror Indias shift in military strategy after the Uri attack appeared to unsettle terror leadership. Operation Sindoor, a recent reprisal, forced Jaish and Lashkar commanders into hiding. Last year, following the Pahalgam attack, India launched cruise missile strikes that destroyed Jaish headquarters in Bhawalpur and Lashkar headquarters in Muridke, signalling strong retaliation against attacks on Indian civilians. Masood Azhar, once openly active in Pakistan, is now believed to be in hiding, issuing audio messages to maintain his presence. Pakistans space for terror outfits has visibly narrowed. The 2019 IAF strike on the Jaish training camp in Balakot underscored this approach. Within days of the Pulwama bombing, the IAF penetrated about 65 km inside Pakistani territory and struck a Jaish facility. A policy change after Pulwama The Pulwama attack also triggered major policy changes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi abrogated Article 370, dismantling the terror and separatist ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. How the attack was planned Investigations found that the attack was orchestrated by Masood Azhar, his brother Abdul Rauf Asghar, and 17 others, with support from Pakistan. Key planners received training in Afghanistan and were assisted by 12 local Kashmiris. Mohammad Umar Farooq, son of hijacker Ibrahim Athar and Azhars nephew, was a central accused. He trained in Afghanistan between 2016 and 2017, infiltrated India in April 2018, and led the Pulwama module that planned the IED attack. The NIA chargesheet, filed in 2020, revealed that Farooq, Kamran, Ismail, Qari Yasir, Sameer Dar, and Adil Ahmad Dar prepared the attack. Shakir Bashir, Insha Jan, Peer Tariq Ahmad Shah, and Bilal Ahmad Kuchey provided logistics and shelter. Bashir conducted reconnaissance of security force movement on the Jammu-Srinagar highway from December 2018. Mudasir Ahmad Khan arranged gelatin sticks, while RDX was supplied by Pakistani terrorists. Sajjad Ahmad Bhat purchased a Maruti EECO vehicle used in the attack, and Waiz-Ul-Islam procured aluminium powder. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Farooq, Sameer Dar, and Adil Dar recorded a propaganda video at Insha Jans residence, which was released after the attack. The NIA initially faced difficulties in the investigation but made breakthroughs through mobile phones recovered from Mohammad Umar Farooq after he was killed in an encounter days after the attack. Two damaged phones recovered from him yielded crucial data, including images showing pre-attack preparations and a blue car parked at Shakir Bashirs house. Investigators also recovered multiple versions of Adil Dars video and photographs linking associates. Evidence, including a distinctive almirah seen in the video and an Amazon delivery record, led to further arrests. Location data from some files pointed to a Jaish training camp in Afghanistans Helmand province. The investigation ultimately led to the arrest of Bilal Kuchey, Waiz-Ul-Islam, and Shakir Bashir, enabling the NIA to crack the case. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with officials of the Central Reserve Police Force and several political leaders, paid tribute to the fallen soldiers. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said the bravery, dedication, and service of the Pulwama martyrs continue to inspire the nation and remain forever etched in the countrys collective memory. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that his country and Europe need to step up their commitments to the Nato to avoid the risk of being overly dependent on the United States for defence. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer adjusts his glasses as he waits to deliver his speech at Horntye Park Sports Complex in St Leonards, UK, February 05, 2026. File Image/Pool via Reuters UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that his country and Europe need to step up their commitments to the Nato to avoid the risk of being overly dependent on the United States for defence. On Saturday, Starmer shared his main planks of foreign policy as he prepares to speak at the Munich Security Conference. While sharing his take on the ongoing transatlantic tensions, the British premier is expected to warn against the idea of the UK turning inwards on security, instead calling for a focus on what he will call the sleeping giant of shared European defence capabilities, The Guardian reported. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The speech also warns that the voters need to be primed to expect greater spending on defence, and to be told the reasons why, or face the peddlers of easy answers such as Reform UK and the Greens risking national security. Speaking to reporters ahead of Starmers address at the conference, Downing Street officials stress that Starmers call is not being made over fears that the US is no longer committed to Nato. They noted that the call is more a response to the demands from Washington that European nations commit more to defence. However, the speech is generally seen in the context of last years main American address to the conference in Germany by US Vice President JD Vance. American pressure Last year, Vance used his speech to slam European leaders for supposedly blocking free speech and being soft on migration, questioning whether such values were compatible with a US guarantee of mutual security. Meanwhile, Trump has often questioned the value of Nato, including the claim in January that European nations stayed a little back, a little off the frontlines while supporting US troops in Afghanistan, comments that prompted a rare direct rebuke from Starmer. In extracts of the speech released in advance by No 10, Starmer said he was setting out a vision of European security and greater European autonomy that does not herald US withdrawal, but answers the call for more burden-sharing in full, and remakes the ties that have served us so well. The British prime minister called for better cooperation on defence procurement. The speech says the UK should help create a new era for the continent. As I see it, Europe is a sleeping giant. Our economies dwarf Russias, 10 times over, Starmer will say. We have huge defence capabilities. Yet, too often, all of this has added up to less than the sum of its parts. Across Europe, fragmented industrial planning and long, drawn-out procurement mechanisms have led to gaps in some areas and massive duplication in others. Because, if we dont, the peddlers of easy answers on the extreme left and the extreme right are ready. They will offer their solutions instead. Its striking that the different ends of the spectrum share so much. Soft on Russia and weak on Nato if not outright opposed," he will go on. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The US Justice Department has sued Harvard University, alleging non-cooperation in a federal investigation into whether race was considered in admissions decisions The department stated that Harvard had repeatedly slow-walked the pace of production and refused to produce pertinent data and documents' (Reuters) The US Department of Justice on Friday filed a lawsuit against Harvard University in federal court in Boston, alleging the institution failed to cooperate with a federal investigation into its admissions practices and seeking documents to determine whether race was improperly considered. According to the complaint, Justice Department attorneys said the requested records are necessary to assess whether Harvard is complying with a 2023 ruling by the US Supreme Court that found race-conscious college admissions programmes unconstitutional. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In a press release, the department stated that Harvard had repeatedly slow-walked the pace of production and refused to produce pertinent data and documents, including materials tied to admissions policies and communications concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes that have since been banned. The department said the case was filed solely to compel Harvard to produce documents relating to any consideration of race in admission and does not accuse Harvard of any discriminatory conduct, nor does it seek monetary damages or the revocation of federal funding. Trump remarks and funding pressure The legal action comes less than two weeks after US President Donald Trump said his administration was pursuing $1 billion from Harvard to resolve investigations into the universitys policies. His comments followed a news report stating that he had withdrawn a demand for payment from the Ivy League institution. The administration has also warned that it could withhold federal funding from Harvard and other universities over several issues, including pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israels war in Gaza, diversity initiatives, and transgender policies on campus. Last year, the administration moved to cancel hundreds of research grants awarded to Harvard, arguing that the university had not sufficiently addressed harassment of Jewish students. Harvard responded by filing its own lawsuit. Harvard responds A spokesperson for Harvard said the university is committed to complying with the law and has responded to government requests in good faith, according to Reuters. The university will continue to defend itself against these retaliatory actions which have been initiated simply because Harvard refused to surrender its independence or relinquish its constitutional rights in response to unlawful government overreach," the spokesperson said. Trump said he plans to visit Venezuela as Washington authorised major energy companies to resume operations and expanded sanctions relief Trump and top appointees like Energy Secretary Chris Wright have been blunt in characterizing Washington as a party controlling Venezuela's oil resources, US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he intends to visit Venezuela, with no date yet fixed, as his administration approved new licences allowing five major oil companies to operate in the country and took further steps to ease sanctions that had restricted investment in its energy sector. The remarks came after a visit to Caracas earlier in the week by Energy Secretary Chris Wright and followed additional measures to remove barriers affecting the South American nations oil industry. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Im going to make a visit to Venezuela, Trump told reporters Friday, while adding that the date had not been decided. Treasury authorises energy operations On Friday, the Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control granted general licences to BP, Chevron, Eni, Repsol and Shell authorizing transactions related to oil or gas sector operations in Venezuela, subject to certain conditions. Energy companies have shown interest in Venezuela, citing its substantial petroleum reserves, but have stressed that investment timelines depend on the establishment of clear regulatory rules following expropriations by earlier governments. The two-page general licence stipulates that payments in oil and gas royalties must be directed to accounts designated by the US Treasury Department. This aligns with statements from the Trump administration that Washington will manage assets in custody for the benefit of Venezuela. Trump and senior officials, including Energy Secretary Chris Wright, have described Washington as a party that will control Venezuelas oil resources for the foreseeable future. A second licence issued by OFAC on Friday allows companies to negotiate potential contracts for certain investment in Venezuela. However, the agency will continue to prohibit participation by several countries, including China, Iran and Russia. These general licenses invite American and other aligned companies to play a constructive role in supporting economic recovery and responsible investment, said a Trump administration media note, which described the action as part of Trumps commitment to rapidly reopen the oil industry. The United States is committed to restoring Venezuelas prosperity, safety, and security for the benefit of both the American and Venezuelan people. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Medical supplies and diplomatic outreach Separately, the State Department said on Friday that more than six tons of medical supplies had been sent to Venezuela to help stabilise the country. On Wednesday, Wright became the highest-ranking US official to visit Venezuela since Trump ordered the seizure of socialist leader Nicolas Maduro on January 3 on allegations of drug trafficking and other crimes. Wright met interim leader Delcy Rodriguez, who has received strong praise from the Trump administration for her cooperation, including the swift approval of legal reforms to the Venezuelan oil sector. He said on Wednesday that the US oil embargo on Venezuela, in place since 2019, was essentially over. Wright also called for a dramatic increase in Venezuelas production of oil, natural gas and electricity, stating that it would improve the job opportunities, the wages and the quality of life of all Venezuelans. Industry reaction and production figures We welcome the recent actions by the Administration, a spokesperson for Chevron said. The new General Licenses, coupled with recent changes in Venezuelas Hydrocarbons Law, are important steps toward enabling the further development of Venezuelas resources for its people and for advancing regional energy security. Eni said it is currently assessing the opportunities it opens up, as part of an ongoing and constructive dialogue with the US Authorities, the Italian company told AFP. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Venezuela produced 1.2 million oil barrels per day in 2025 up from a historic low of about 360,000 in 2020but still far below the 3.0 million barrels per day it was producing 25 years ago. Trump signals that a leadership change in Tehran could be desirable while confirming a second US carrier deployment amid stalled nuclear talks and rising regional tensions. This combination of pictures, a handout photograph provided by the office of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and US President Donald Trump speaking in the Oval Office. AFP As US warships reposition in West Asia and diplomatic efforts with Tehran remain uncertain, President Donald Trump has suggested that a change in Irans leadership could be desirable while confirming an expanded American military deployment in the region. Speaking to reporters after visiting troops at Ft Bragg, North Carolina, Trump said a shift in power in Tehran would be the best thing that could happen as his administration weighs whether to take military action. It seems like that would be the best thing that could happen, Trump said when asked about pressing for the ouster of Irans Islamic clerical leadership. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trumps remarks underscored growing impatience with Irans leadership amid stalled negotiations and long-standing tensions. For 47 years, theyve been talking and talking and talking, Trump said, referring to Irans clerical regime. In the meantime, weve lost a lot of lives while they talk. He described the human toll of conflict in the region. Legs blown off, arms blown off, faces blown off. Weve been going on for a long time, Trump said. Trump declined to name a successor to Irans current leadership, saying only that there are people. Second carrier deployment Hours earlier, Trump confirmed the deployment of a second US aircraft carrier group to West Asia. In case we dont make a deal, well need it, he told journalists at the White House. Itll be leaving very soon. We have one out there that just arrived. If we need it well have it ready, a very big force. The President did not announce any immediate military action but indicated that Washington is prepared for escalation if diplomacy fails. The USS Gerald R Ford, described as the worlds largest aircraft carrier, is being moved from the Caribbean to West Asia. It will join the USS Abraham Lincoln, which is already operating in the region alongside other US naval assets. The Ford carrier strike group had been stationed in the Caribbean for several months as part of US operations in Venezuela. Its redeployment significantly broadens US military options in West Asia. Trump said the additional deployment is intended as leverage if talks with Tehran over its nuclear programme collapse. Bad day for Iran warning While expressing optimism about diplomacy, Trump warned of consequences if negotiations fail. I think theyll be successful. If theyre not, its going to be a bad day for Iran, very bad, Trump said. The US has increased pressure on Iran following Tehrans deadly crackdown on protests last month. On Thursday, Trump said he expects progress on a nuclear agreement within weeks. I guess over the next month, something like that, he said when asked about the timeline. It should happen quickly. They should agree very quickly. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He also held lengthy talks on Wednesday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and said he advised that negotiations with Tehran should continue. According to the Associated Press, Netanyahu is urging the administration to ensure any agreement requires Iran to curb its ballistic missile programme and end support for militant groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, 7,005 people were killed and more than 53,000 arrested. Rights groups say the toll could be higher. Rising regional tensions Gulf Arab nations have warned that further military escalation could spark a broader regional conflict, particularly as tensions remain high following the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. US forces recently shot down an Iranian drone that approached the USS Abraham Lincoln. Iran also attempted to stop a US-flagged vessel in the Strait of Hormuz last week. The new deployment was first reported by The New York Times. Trump indicated that if diplomacy succeeds, the additional carrier group would withdraw. If we have a deal, itll be leaving very soon, he said. News / National by Staff reporter Zimbabwe has become the first African nation to adopt and localise a global digital parenting platform with the launch of the Rerai Umntwana mobile application, an initiative aimed at strengthening childcare knowledge and support across the country.At the launch, Minister of Health and Child Care, Douglas Mombeshora, said the app was developed to provide parents and caregivers with accurate, evidence-based guidance on child health, nutrition, early childhood development, and protection.He noted that the platform recognises that "when a child is born, a parent is also bornoften with many questions that require reliable and trusted answers."Originally developed as Bebbo by UNICEF's Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office (ECARO) and partners, the platform has been localised in Zimbabwe as Rerai Umntwana, meaning "Nurture the Child" in Shona and Ndebele. The application is built on the Nurturing Care Framework, a global roadmap advanced by the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the World Bank.Minister Mombeshora highlighted that many families continue to rely on unverified information circulating on social media, making the delivery of "accurate, accessible, and culturally relevant information" increasingly critical.He explained that caregivers who download the app and enter basic child information receive age-specific guidance, including reminders for immunisations and micronutrient supplementation. The tool complements community-based health and development services, placing essential parenting knowledge directly into the hands of families.The minister also urged health workers, community leaders, development partners, and the private sector to support the app's rollout, calling for expanded national connectivity and encouraging mobile operators to assist through infrastructure development or subsidised access.UNICEF Representative Etona Ekole said the launch reflects a renewed commitment to a "healthier, brighter future for the children of Zimbabwe." She noted that more than 76 percent of children under five live in food poverty and over a quarter are stunted, emphasising that "what happens during the earliest years matters deeply."Ekole congratulated the government for leading Africa in the localisation of the platform and highlighted the app's accessibility features, including evidence-based content delivered through text, audio, and video in local languages, as well as offline functionality for remote communities.She added that the app will also support frontline health workers by improving early identification of malnutrition and strengthening follow-up care.Ekole thanked the Government of Japan for its support, noting that its partnership helped make the launch possible, and said the application represents a collective promise to ensure every child in Zimbabwe "grows, learns, and flourishes." Trump says he will seek to impose nationwide voter ID rules through an executive order if Congress fails to pass new election laws ahead of the November midterms Trump said he would soon issue an executive order attempting to impose the rules if Congress does not pass a law requiring photo identification to vote With the November midterm elections approaching and control of the legislature at stake, US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he is prepared to bypass Congress to introduce new nationwide voting laws. Trump stated that he would soon issue an executive order to enforce the changes if lawmakers do not approve legislation requiring photo identification to vote, along with other reforms. Warning of legal confrontation Any such move would likely face immediate legal challenges, potentially placing the matter before the Supreme Court. There will be Voter I.D. for the Midterm Elections, whether approved by Congress or not! Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD If we cant get it through Congress, there are Legal reasons why this SCAM is not permitted. I will be presenting them shortly, in the form of an Executive Order, he wrote. Although many jurisdictions across the United States already require photo identification to cast ballots, others do not. Trump and several Republicans have argued, without evidence, that areas lacking such requirements have enabled significant voter fraud. SAVE America act passes House The Trump-backed SAVE America election reform act was approved this week in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives. However, it is expected to fail in the Senate, where the Republican majority is too slim to pass the law without Democratic support. In addition to requiring a photo ID to cast a ballot, the bill would also require proof of citizenship to register to vote. There is no evidence of meaningful fraud in US elections and critics say that the bills measures would instead push millions of people away from casting ballots, because they dont have a passport or a paper copy of their birth certificate. An analysis by the Brennan Center found more than 21 million Americans lack easy access to such documents. This would disenfranchise Americans of all ages, the center found especially young people and ethnic minorities. Trumps push for federal election reforms has also run up against constitutional concerns. Under the US Constitution, states retain broad control over the administration of elections. It was unclear how Trump could legally force a national mandate on voter ID. However, the 79-year-old Republican has repeatedly overturned norms in the White House. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In his post Friday, he repeated his widely debunked claim that more election security is needed because of mass fraud. For years, Trump has propagated the falsehood to justify his unprecedented and ultimately unsuccessful attempt to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden. Polls show that Trumps Republican Party faces a serious threat of losing its narrow control of Congress in the midterms, particularly the lower chamber. If Democrats win, they have signalled they will block Trumps agenda and could move to impeach him. (With agency inputs) Ten years after the referendum that led to Brexit, Britain and the European Union must close ranks in an increasingly unstable world, their leaders said on Saturday. A decade after the historic referendum that set Brexit in motion, the United Kingdom and the European Union are calling for a united front to combat global instability. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Europe and the UK must work together more closely on security, on the economy on defending our democracies. She added, Europe, and in particular the UK, should come closer together 10 years on from Brexit, our futures are as bound as ever. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD British leader Keir Starmer echoed her. We are not at a crossroads: The road ahead is straight and it is clear. We must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age, he said. We must be able to deter aggression and, yes, if necessary, we must be ready to fight, he said, calling for a building of a shared industrial base across Europe which can turbocharge our defence production and multiply our strengths. On Friday NATO chief Mark Rutte said that a strong Europe in a strong NATO means that the transatlantic bond will be stronger than ever and French President Emmanuel Macron said that this is the right time for a strong Europe, that would be building its own architecture of security. Starmer has attempted to reset ties with the European Union since coming to office in 2024, four years after Britain exited the EU, and has also taken a leading role in coordinating European support for Ukraine against Russias invasion. However, talks for Britain to join the EUs SAFE defence fund broke down last year. Starmer has said that he is open to joining a new version of SAFE, and is looking at other ways to work more closely with Europe on defence. The Labour Party leader came to office in the wake of successive Conservative governments whose approach to negotiations to take Britain out of the EU sometimes strained relations with Brussels. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Starmer will say that we are not the Britain of the Brexit years anymore, according to the speech extracts, adding that to turn inward would surrender control of Britains security. There is no British security without Europe, and no European security without Britain, the extracts said. Starmers office said Friday that the PM will tell the Munich Security Conference that Europe is a sleeping giant and must rely less on the United States for its defence. Im talking about a vision of European security and greater European autonomy that does not herald US withdrawal but answers the call for more burden sharing in full and remakes the ties that have served us so well, the UK prime minister will say Saturday, according to excerpts released by Downing Street. With inputs from agencies The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is on the verge of an official shutdown as lawmakers depart Washington without a resolution on the agencys contentious funding bill. A photograph of the pistol recovered by immigration agents after a shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota on Saturday morning is shown on a screen behind US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem as she speaks during a news conference in the National Response Coordination Center at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) headquarters on January 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. (AFP) The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is on the verge of an official shutdown as lawmakers depart Washington without a resolution on the agencys contentious funding bill. With the stalemate, a range of services, including domestic flights and the US Coast Guard, could be vulnerable to disruption. On Thursday, the US Senate failed to clear the 60-vote threshold needed to pass the DHS appropriations bill. The Democrats blocked the funding bill in protest over the violent tactics employed by US President Donald Trumps government in the recent immigration crackdown in Minneapolis. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Senate voted almost entirely along party lines, 52-47, on the legislation, with Pennsylvanias John Fetterman being the only Democrat to vote in favour of the bill. Apart from this, lawmakers from the Democratic Party also blocked an attempt to temporarily extend funding for two weeks at current levels. What are the Democrats demanding? The protests by the Democratic senators are driven by the fatal shootings of two US citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, at the hands of federal agents. In light of this, the party has been demanding reforms to how the agents of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) which both fall under DHSs remit operate. While agreeing to agents wearing body cameras, Republicans have resisted other proposals, including demands that agents obtain judicial warrants, signed by a judge, before entering private property. Democratic leader in the Senate, Chuck Schumer, accused the Republicans of choosing chaos. They need to negotiate in good faith, produce legislation that actually reins in ICE and stops the violence, he said on Thursday. Before the Senate voted on Thursday, Tom Homan, the US border czar, announced that the administration was winding down Operation Metro Surge and that the number of ICE agents in Minnesota would return to normal levels. It is pertinent to note that Homan recently took over leadership of the operation from Greg Bovino, a senior border patrol official who was in charge when federal agents killed Good and Pretti. Overall, a weekend resolution seems to be unlikely since several members have left the US to attend the Munich Security Conference in Germany. Following a December ambush that killed two US soldiers and a civilian, American forces conducted multiple strikes on Islamic State targets in Syria, dismantling infrastructure and killing IS fighters while coordinating with Syrian and Iraqi authorities. The US military on Saturday reported a series of strikes against Islamic State group targets in Syria in retaliation for the December ambush that killed two US soldiers and one American civilian interpreter. US Central Command said in a statement that American aircraft had conducted 10 strikes against more than 30 IS targets between Feb. 3 and Thursday, hitting weapons storage facilities and other infrastructure. At least 50 members of IS have been killed or captured, while more than 100 IS targets have been struck since the United States began its strikes after the Dec. 13 ambush, according to Central Command. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Meanwhile, the Syrian Defense Ministry said Thursday that government forces took control of a base in the east of the country that was run for years by U.S. troops as part of the fight against IS. The Al-Tanf base played a major role after IS declared a caliphate in large parts of Syria and Iraq in 2014. More from World US completes withdrawal from strategic al-Tanf Base in Syria, hands control to Damascus The U.S. military on Friday completed the transfer of thousands of IS detainees from Syria to Iraq, where they are expected to stand trial. The prisoners were sent to Iraq at the request of Baghdad, in a move welcomed by the U.S.-led coalition that had for years fought against IS. Two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter were killed in Syria in a December ambush by an Islamic State (IS) gunman, officials confirmed, with three other American service members injured. The attacker was engaged and killed during the incident. Syria has recently joined the international coalition against IS and pledged to cooperate with the US in counterterrorism operations. The coalition aims to dismantle the remaining IS networks and prevent foreign fighters from reaching the region. Though IS lost its last territorial stronghold in Syria in 2019, the group continues to carry out sporadic attacks, with the UN estimating up to 3,000 fighters remain across Syria and Iraq. US forces have maintained a presence in Syria since 2015, providing training and support to allied local forces as part of the ongoing campaign against the jihadist group. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies The US military said it killed three alleged drug traffickers in a Caribbean strike, raising the death toll in Washingtons anti-narcotics campaign to at least 133 Three alleged narco-terrorists were killed during this action, (X) The US military on Friday reported it had killed three alleged drug traffickers in a strike on a boat in the Caribbean Sea, bringing the death toll in Washingtons anti-narcotics campaign to at least 133, according to US Southern Command. Three narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No US military forces were harmed, Southern Command said in a statement on X. On Feb. 13, at the direction of #SOUTHCOM commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations. Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known pic.twitter.com/y50Pbtexfi U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) February 14, 2026 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Ongoing anti-narcotics campaign The campaign of strikes on smuggling vessels began in early September under President Donald Trumps administration, which labelled the operations as part of a conflict against alleged narco-terrorists operating out of Venezuela. Dozens of similar strikes have taken place since then, extending from the Caribbean to the eastern Pacific Ocean. Administration officials have not provided definitive evidence that the vessels targeted were involved in drug trafficking, and critics have raised questions about the legality of the operations. In another incident earlier on Monday, the US military said that it killed two people in its strike against an alleged drug-smuggling boat in the eastern Pacific. Two narco-terrorists were killed and one survived the strike, the command said in a post on the social media platform X, adding that the US Coast Guard had been informed to activate search and rescue operations for the survivor. These strikes follow the capture by US special forces of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro nearly six weeks earlier. Maduro, who had said the military campaign was aimed at regime change in his country, is now incarcerated in the US and has pleaded not guilty to drug and weapons charges. The move to add Chinese companies to the so-called 1260H list might strain the relationship between the two countries, just as Washington and Beijing eased trade tensions, improving ties to some extent In May, automaker BYD cut the prices of nearly two dozen electric and plug-in models by up to 34 per cent a move that left its competitors stunned and sent share prices of companies including its own tumbling. Reuters The Pentagon has said in its report that Chinas BYD and Alibaba allegedly have connections to the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA). The declaration comes just two months before US President Donald Trump is expected to visit China and meet his counterpart, Xi Jinping. On Friday, the defence department sent its updated list of Chinese Military Companies to the Federal Register. Reports had earlier indicated that the e-commerce giant Alibaba was under the US intelligences scanner for having links with the Chinese military. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The move to add Chinese companies to the so-called 1260H list might strain the relationship between the two countries, just as Washington and Beijing eased trade tensions, improving ties to some extent. Which companies are on the list? The 1260H list, mandated by the US Congress, will see the addition of big giants like BYD, the EV-maker, and Baidu, the Chinese search engine. When the Pentagon labels a firm as a Chinese Military Company, it indicates that U.S. officials assess the entity to have direct links to the Peoples Liberation Army or to be participating in Chinas military-civil fusion program, under which companies are obligated to share certain technologies with the Chinese military. While the inclusion of the Chinese companies does not call for legal action, it puts a spot on their reputation as it indicates that the US might take punitive actions against them in the future, which might be bad for business. Xi-Trump phone call Earlier this month, Xi called for mutual respect in strengthening relations with the United States, while warning Trump to exercise caution over arms sales to Taiwan, according to Chinas state media. During a phone conversation with Trump, Xi said both sides should manage differences carefully and work to build stable ties between the worlds two largest economies. He also expressed hope that bilateral challenges, including trade-related issues, could be resolved constructively and amicably. Geneva is set to become the focal point of global diplomacy this Tuesday as American envoys prepare for back to back negotiations regarding the conflicts in Iran and Ukraine. With Omani officials acting as intermediaries for sensitive talks with Tehran and a trilateral session planned to address the four year war in Eastern Europe, the meetings represent a pivotal attempt by the administration to resolve two of the worlds most pressing geopolitical crises. High level American envoys prepare for a double set of diplomatic talks in Geneva regarding the conflicts in Iran and Ukraine. Major diplomatic discussions concerning the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Iran are scheduled to commence in Geneva this coming Tuesday. According to individuals familiar with the arrangements, the Swiss city will host two distinct sets of negotiations as the American administration intensifies its efforts to broker peace and exert pressure on regional rivals. These high stakes meetings involve several international stakeholders and signify a critical moment for the current foreign policy agenda. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Engagement with Iranian officials and Omani mediation On Tuesday morning, a senior American delegation is expected to sit down with representatives from Tehran. This group includes prominent envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who have been central to the administrations Middle Eastern strategy. Because of the absence of direct diplomatic ties between the two nations, officials from Oman will be present to facilitate the dialogue and act as intermediaries. These talks come at a time of heightened tension, following a severe domestic crackdown on protesters by the Iranian government. In response to these events and ongoing regional instability, the United States has significantly bolstered its naval presence in nearby waters to signal its resolve. Trilateral negotiations regarding the invasion of Ukraine The diplomatic activity will continue into the afternoon with a shift in focus toward Eastern Europe. Envoys Witkoff and Kushner are slated to participate in trilateral discussions involving officials from both Russia and Ukraine. The primary objective of this session is to find a viable path toward ending the four year conflict that began with the Russian invasion. President Donald Trump has been vocal about his desire to see a swift conclusion to the hostilities, applying pressure on both Kyiv and Moscow to reach a formal agreement. This meeting in Geneva represents a renewed attempt to find common ground in a war that has caused immense global disruption. Strategic pressure and global objectives The administrations dual track approach in Geneva reflects a broader strategy of using both military posturing and direct negotiation to achieve its goals. While the naval buildup serves as a deterrent against Iranian aggression, the simultaneous peace talks in Switzerland suggest a preference for a negotiated settlement if terms can be met. Similarly, the push for a resolution in Ukraine highlights the urgency with which the government views the European crisis. As the delegations prepare to meet, the international community remains watchful to see if these sessions can produce a breakthrough in two of the worlds most complex geopolitical challenges. The UK will deploy its HMS Prince of Wales-led aircraft carrier group to the North Atlantic under Operation Firecrest, reinforcing NATOs Arctic Sentry mission amid rising Russian naval activity and growing security concerns in the region. Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer takes part in a panel discussion at the 62nd Munich Security Conference (MSC) on February 14, 2026 in Munich, southern Germany.- AFP The UK will send its aircraft carrier group to the North Atlantic later this year, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced on Saturday, citing rising security concerns in northern Europe. I can announce today that the UK will deploy our carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and the High North this year, led by HMS Prince of Wales, operating alongside the US, Canada and other NATO allies in a powerful show of our commitment to Euro-Atlantic security, Prime Minister Keir Starmer told the Munich security conference. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The group will include Royal Navy warships, F-35 jets and helicopters in what has been dubbed Operation Firecrest, the ministry of defence said in a statement. It will be a powerful show of force to deter Russian aggression and protect vital undersea infrastructure. The HMS Prince of Wales is the Royal Navys largest warship and US aircraft are also expected to operate from its deck. The operation will involve thousands of personnel from all three services of the Armed Forces, the MoD statement added. The deployment will include activity under NATOs Arctic Sentry mission, launched this week, strengthening the Alliances security in a region where melting sea ice is opening new routes and increasing threat from hostile state activity, the ministry said. France has also announced that it will deploy its aircraft carrier group in the region in 2026. Starmer told the Munich conference that Britain must be ready to fight. Leaders must not dither as Russia has proved its appetite for aggression, he said. The road ahead is straight and it is clear. We must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age, he added. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD We must be able to deter aggression , and, yes, if necessary, we must be ready to fight. It added that over the past two years, there has been a 30 percent increase in Russian navy vessels threatening UK waters. US President Donald Trump has also unnerved European countries by saying Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory in the Arctic, should come under US control. Starmer also stressed the need to build hard power and be ready to fight if necessary, speaking on Saturday at the Munich Security Conference aimed at bolstering European defence and diplomatic ties. We are not at a crossroads today, the road ahead is straight, and it is clear we must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age, he said, following European Commission President Ursula von der Leyens opening remarks. We must be able to deter aggression, and yes, if necessary, we must be ready to fight, to do whatever it takes to protect our people, our values and our way of life and, as Europe, we must stand on our own two feet. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies Saketh Sreenivasaiah, a 22-year-old Indian postgraduate student at the University of California, Berkeley, has gone missing in the United States. Who is he? Who is Saketh Sreenivasaiah? 22-year-old IIT-Madras alumnus from Karnataka goes missing in US. Saketh Sreenivasaiah, a 22-year-old Indian postgraduate student at the University of California, Berkeley, has been reported missing in the United States, prompting search operations by local authorities and concern from Indian officials. According to PTI and local media, Sreenivasaiah was last seen on February 9 near Lake Anza in the Berkeley Hills. His backpack, containing his passport and laptop, was later found on a doorstep in the Park Hills neighbourhood near Tilden Regional Park, The Berkeley Scanner reported. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Search operations underway The Berkeley Police Department said search efforts are ongoing in the East Bay area in coordination with the East Bay Regional Park District. We are still asking for the communitys help in locating him, the department said, according to IANS. Sreenivasaiah is described as approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing around 73 kilograms, with short black hair and brown eyes. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact local law enforcement. Indian consulate expresses concern The Consulate General of India in San Francisco expressed concern over Sreenivasaiahs disappearance and said it is in touch with both his family and local authorities. In a post on X, the consulate said: Consulate General of India in San Francisco is deeply concerned about the disappearance of Saketh Sreenivasaiah, an Indian post-graduate student of University of California, Berkeley, hailing from Karnataka. The Consulate is in touch with the family and also is in contact with the concerned local authorities to locate the student. Family and friends seek help Sreenivasaiahs roommate, Baneet Singh, posted on LinkedIn seeking assistance in locating him: Hey all, my roommate, Saketh Sreenivasaiah, has been missing since Monday the 9th, last seen near Lake Anza in the Berkeley Hills. If anyone knows people in the area who may have seen him, please reach out. I am working with the police to find him. Its a difficult time for us, and any information would help. IIT-Madras alumnus Sreenivasaiah, from Karnataka, graduated with a BTech in Chemical Engineering from IIT-Madras in 2025 and is currently pursuing a masters degree in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at UC Berkeley. Authorities have also noted that Sreenivasaiah was reportedly upset about a personal relationship prior to his disappearance. Search operations continue as both local police and the Indian consulate work to locate him. Every power plant in Ukraine has been damaged by Russian attacks, forcing millions to face heating cuts in the cold, President Volodymyr Zelensky told the Munich Security Conference Saturday, calling Russias Vladimir Putin a slave to war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy speaks during the Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Munich, Germany, February 14, 2026. REUTERS Every power plant in Ukraine has sustained damage from Russian attacks, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Saturday, warning that the strikes have forced millions to endure heating shortages during winter. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelenskyy described Russian President Vladimir Putin as a slave to war. His remarks came just days before the fourth anniversary of Russia-Ukraine war in February 2022, a conflict that has left hundreds of thousands dead, devastated swathes of eastern Ukraine and displaced millions. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Ukraine and its Western partners have accused Moscow of deliberately targeting the countrys energy infrastructure to leave civilians without electricity and heat. There is not a single power plant left in Ukraine that has not been damaged by Russian attacks. Not one, Zelenskyy said, while adding that the country continues to generate electricity. He praised thousands of workers involved in repairing energy facilities despite continued bombardment. Zelenskyy urged Western allies to accelerate deliveries for air defence systems supplied to Kyiv, including Patriot and NASAMS missile systems, saying additional interceptors were sometimes secured but needed more consistently. There is not a single power plant left in Ukraine that has not been damaged by Russian attacks, Zelenskyy said. Not one. But we still generate electricity, he added defiantly, praising the thousands of workers repairing the plants. He called for speedier deliveries for Ukraines Western-supplied air defence systems, saying: Sometimes we manage to deliver new missiles for our Patriots or NASAMS. Zelensky compared Putin who launched the war in February 2022 to Adolf Hitler and said: He may see himself as a tsar, but in reality he is a slave to war. He added that no one in Ukraine believes (Putin) will let our people go. Russia and Ukraine will hold US-brokered talks in Geneva next week and Zelensky said Kyiv was doing everything to end the war. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Russia has demanded that Ukraine withdraw from its Donetsk region on top of recognition for the swathes of Ukraine that it occupies. Zelensky said that Ukraine was expected to make more concessions than Russia. The Americans often return to the topic of concessions, and too often those concessions are discussed in the context only of Ukraine, he said. Ukraine has said giving up its eastern territories is unacceptable. Zelenskyy accused Putin of wanting to repeat Munich 1938, when Czechoslovakia was divided, with the Second World War breaking out a year later. With inputs from agencies News / National by Staff reporter The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested Norest Jingura (35), a bogus police officer, and Alison Maredza (43), a member of the security services, for drug peddling and trafficking along the HarareBeitbridge Road near Bubi.The suspects were intercepted in a Toyota Hilux (registration number AGP 1412), owned by Maredza. Jingura was reportedly wearing a full police uniform with Assistant Inspector rank badges at the time of the arrest.A National crack team recovered 120 cobs of dagga from the vehicle during the operation as it was en route to Harare.The ZRP has launched comprehensive investigations to determine how Jingura obtained the police uniform and is urging the public to remain vigilant against drug trafficking.Authorities emphasised their continued zero-tolerance stance on drug peddling and trafficking, reiterating the importance of community cooperation in reporting suspicious activities. Google has released the first beta of Android 17, marking a continuation of its efforts to enhance platform privacy, security, and performance. This release introduces significant changes to how applications handle large screens, updates the developer release timeline, and provides new tools for camera and media optimization. A Shift in Release Strategy: Canary Channel A notable change in the Android 17 lifecycle is the transition from the traditional Developer Preview model to a continuous Android Canary program. This always-on model is designed to streamline the feedback loop between Google and the developer community. The Canary channel offers three primary distinctions from the previous model: Faster Access: Features and APIs are released to Canary immediately following internal testing, removing the wait for quarterly milestones. Features and APIs are released to Canary immediately following internal testing, removing the wait for quarterly milestones. Stability: Early testing in Canary is intended to produce a more polished beta experience, with APIs and behaviors closer to their final state. Early testing in Canary is intended to produce a more polished beta experience, with APIs and behaviors closer to their final state. Integration: Canary supports Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, eliminating the need for manual flashing. As a separate update channel, it integrates more easily with Continuous Integration (CI) workflows. The Android 17 Schedule Following this beta this February, the timeline targets a Platform Stability milestone in March. At this stage, SDK/NDK APIs and app-facing behaviors will be finalized, leaving developers several months for testing before the final release sometime in Q3 2026. Adaptive UI: Mandatory Resizability for Large Screens With Android 17 (API level 37), Google is enforcing stricter requirements for app behavior on large screen devices (defined as having a smallest width 600dp). Previously, developers could opt out of certain orientation and resizability restrictions. Targeting SDK 37 removes this opt-out. Apps running on tablets, foldables, or desktop windowing environments must now support landscape and portrait layouts and adapt to resizable windows. Key constraints for API 37: Mandatory Adaptation: The system will ignore manifest attributes and runtime APIs that restrict orientation or aspect ratio on screens sw > 600dp. The system will ignore manifest attributes and runtime APIs that restrict orientation or aspect ratio on screens sw > 600dp. Exemptions: These changes do not apply to traditional phones (screens smaller than sw 600dp) or apps explicitly categorized as games via the android:appCategory flag. These changes do not apply to traditional phones (screens smaller than sw 600dp) or apps explicitly categorized as games via the android:appCategory flag. User Override: Users retain the ability to force an apps behavior via system aspect ratio settings. Performance and Runtime Optimizations Android 17 introduces several low-level changes aimed at improving app efficiency and system health. Lock-free MessageQueue: Apps targeting SDK 37+ will use a new, lock-free implementation of android.os.MessageQueue. This aims to reduce missed frames, though it may break apps that rely on reflection to access private MessageQueue fields. Apps targeting SDK 37+ will use a new, lock-free implementation of android.os.MessageQueue. This aims to reduce missed frames, though it may break apps that rely on reflection to access private MessageQueue fields. Generational Garbage Collection: The Android Runtime (ART) now utilizes generational garbage collection within the Concurrent Mark-Compact collector. This allows for frequent, low-cost collections of the young generation of objects, reducing the CPU cost and duration of full-heap collections. The Android Runtime (ART) now utilizes generational garbage collection within the Concurrent Mark-Compact collector. This allows for frequent, low-cost collections of the young generation of objects, reducing the CPU cost and duration of full-heap collections. Strict Static Final Fields: Modifying static final fields via reflection or JNI will now result in exceptions or crashes. This restriction allows the runtime to apply more aggressive performance optimizations. Modifying static final fields via reflection or JNI will now result in exceptions or crashes. This restriction allows the runtime to apply more aggressive performance optimizations. Profiling Triggers: The ProfilingManager now supports new system triggersincluding Cold Start, Out of Memory (OOM), and Excessive CPU Usageto assist in debugging. Media and Camera Capabilities The update brings professional-grade features to media and camera applications, aiming to standardize quality and reduce implementation complexity. Dynamic Camera Sessions: The new updateOutputConfigurations() method in CameraCaptureSession allows apps to attach or detach output surfaces dynamically. This enables seamless transitions between modes (e.g., photo to video) without the latency of reconfiguring the entire session. The new updateOutputConfigurations() method in CameraCaptureSession allows apps to attach or detach output surfaces dynamically. This enables seamless transitions between modes (e.g., photo to video) without the latency of reconfiguring the entire session. Logical Multi-Camera Metadata: Developers can now access metadata from all active physical cameras in a logical camera group using the LOGICAL_MULTI_CAMERA_ADDITIONAL_RESULTS key. Developers can now access metadata from all active physical cameras in a logical camera group using the LOGICAL_MULTI_CAMERA_ADDITIONAL_RESULTS key. Versatile Video Coding (VVC): Android 17 adds platform support for the VVC standard, including MediaCodec and MediaExtractor integration for devices with supported hardware. Android 17 adds platform support for the VVC standard, including MediaCodec and MediaExtractor integration for devices with supported hardware. Constant Quality Recording: A new setVideoEncodingQuality() method in MediaRecorder allows for Constant Quality (CQ) configuration, offering control beyond standard bitrate settings. Privacy, Security, and Connectivity Updates in connectivity and security focus on user transparency and modernized protocols. Background Audio Hardening: The audio framework will now silently fail or reject audio focus requests if an app attempts to initiate playback or volume changes while not in a valid lifecycle state. The audio framework will now silently fail or reject audio focus requests if an app attempts to initiate playback or volume changes while not in a valid lifecycle state. Cleartext Traffic Deprecation: The android:usesCleartextTraffic attribute is deprecated. Apps targeting Android 17 without a specific Network Security Configuration will default to disallowing cleartext traffic. The android:usesCleartextTraffic attribute is deprecated. Apps targeting Android 17 without a specific Network Security Configuration will default to disallowing cleartext traffic. VoIP and Wi-Fi: New features include enhanced VoIP call history (supporting avatars and privacy controls) and Wi-Fi Ranging updates (Proximity Detection and 11az secure ranging). New features include enhanced VoIP call history (supporting avatars and privacy controls) and Wi-Fi Ranging updates (Proximity Detection and 11az secure ranging). Companion Devices: Two new profiles, Medical Devices and Fitness Trackers, have been added to CompanionDeviceManager to streamline permission handling and device identification. Getting Started You can access Android 17 Beta 1 by enrolling a supported Pixel device (Pixel 6 series and later) in the Beta program or using 64-bit system images with the Android Emulator (configured to targetSdkPreview = CinnamonBun). Google encourages developers to compile against the new SDK and test specifically for the new large-screen adaptation requirements, as the window for feedback narrows, approaching the Platform Stability milestone in March. News / National by Staff reporter RUSSIAN President Vladimir Putin has congratulated President Mugabe on the occasion of Africa Day celebrations which are commemorated annually on May 25 within the continent to mark the formation of the Organisation of African Unity on May 25, 1963.President Mugabe is the only surviving Head of State and Government who attended the formation of the OAU in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.In a statement yesterday, President Putin said: "Please accept sincere congratulations on the occasion of the Africa Day, a festive day symbolising the unity and mutual supportiveness of the peoples of your continent, their victory in the difficult struggle for freedom and independence."Today, African states are moving confidently forward along the path of social and economic, scientific and technological development, they are playing an ever-growing role in addressing urgent issues on the international agenda."President Putin added that Russia highly appreciated and supported the activities of the African Union, other regional and sub-regional integration associations of the continent aimed at expanding the mutually beneficial multilateral cooperation, establishing an effective crisis response system, peacekeeping and post-conflict reconstruction."We intend to further make every effort to strengthen the relations of friendship and cooperation with African countries, as well as to continue our participation in various assistance programs and projects for Africa implemented under the auspices of the UN, G20, BRICS and other international structures."I sincerely wish you good health and every success in your state activities, and peace and well-being to the peoples of Africa," said President Putin.President Mugabe's stance on self-determination for the continent has seen him being hailed as a true and senior African statesman who wants to see the continent develop. The Wire stars Dominic West and Clarke Peters are reuniting for a new TV documentary. Beyond The Silk Road will see the former co-stars travelling through Kyrgyzstan on horseback, as they explore the country's rich culture and stunning landscapes. West and Peters first met in back 2002, while playing detectives Jimmy McNulty and Lester Freamon in HBO's acclaimed crime drama. According to Deadline, they bonded over their love of horsemanship and the great outdoors, and often went riding together. In the documentary, the pair will be saddling up again as they navigate a network of Asian trade routes, known as The Silk Road. They will experience what life is like in rural Kyrgyzstan, living in yurts and taking part in age-old rituals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement West and Clarke will be accompanied by expert tour guide Alexandra Tolstoy, who will steer them through the local communities. Directed by Sean McDonnell, the project will depict the "adventure of a lifetime" as the two friends reconnect and broaden their horizons. Beyond The Silk Road is scheduled to premiere later this month, during the London TV Screenings. It was also be available as a two-part series, with an official air date yet to be announced. Moviestore/Shutterstock Related: Best streaming services UK 2025 including Disney Plus, Netflix, iPlayer and Apple TV "It was a real privilege to get a taste of what life was like for the traders of the ancient Silk Road and to head out into the wilderness with my old friend Clarke," said West in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There were some pretty hair-raising moments scaling the precipitous mountain passes on horseback, particularly with my questionable equine skills. But we had the adventure of a lifetime thanks to our extraordinary guide Alexandra." HBO Related: A weekend binge: "Hidden gem" crime drama with 'just about the best detective ever' now streaming Peters added: "When I got that call from my dear friend Dominic to join him on this horseback adventure, I knew we'd have fun, but I couldn't have imagined just how special the experience would be." "To connect with an ancient way of life and extraordinary Kyrgyz people, in such a breathtaking landscape, it reminds you what life is really all about," added the actor, who has also appeared in John Wick and Da 5 Bloods. Beyond the Silk Road has no release date. The new edition of Living Legends, a 100-page all-colour celebration of Taylor Swift, is here! Buy Taylor in newsagents or online, priced at just 8.99. 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Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2024. Tue Tuesday 70 /36 More sun than clouds. Highs in the low 70s and lows in the mid 30s. China warns of 'measures' following CIA's Chinese-language recruitment drive Iran Press TV Friday, 13 February 2026 11:09 AM Beijing has warned it would take "all necessary measures" against foreign spies, hitting back after the US spy agency posted a recruitment video aimed at Chinese military personnel. The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has published a video aimed at luring members of China's military to spy for the United States. Titled "Save the Future," the video was released on YouTube and other social media on Thursday. It is the third such CIA recruitment clip targeting Chinese officials. "China will take all necessary measures to resolutely combat infiltration and sabotage activities of foreign anti-China forces and resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests," foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian told a press conference on Friday when asked about the CIA video. The video shows a fictional mid-level Chinese officer attending work meetings and then apparently leaking secrets on his computer. The video's final screen displays instructions on how to securely contact the US spy agency. CIA Director John Ratcliffe said in a statement that the agency's videos had reached many Chinese citizens and that it would continue offering Chinese government officials an alleged "opportunity to work toward a brighter future together." Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington, said the CIA video "constitutes a serious infringement on China's national interests." Beijing, Liu added, "strongly condemns the move and will take all necessary means to resolutely counter infiltration and sabotage by anti-China forces abroad, and to firmly safeguard its sovereignty, security, and development interests." Last year, the CIA released a pair of similar videos. The Chinese Foreign Ministry denounced the move, saying Washington has long been using all kinds of despicable methods to steal other countries' secrets and interfere in their domestic affairs. "Such behavior severely violates international law and basic norms governing international relations, and seriously endangers international security and stability," it said. The US not only maliciously smears and attacks China, but also attempts to lure Chinese personnel, even government officials, to be its informants. In recent years, the CIA has been scrambling to rebuild its spy network in China since Beijing dismantled it between 2010 and 2012. In response, China has intensified efforts to warn citizens to be alert to espionage. Tensions have been running high between China and the US over tariffs imposed by the administration of President Donald Trump, leading Beijing to restrict the export of minerals crucial for American industry. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Jared Kushner A whistleblower complaint in February 2026 centered on an intercepted 2025 conversation between foreign intelligence officials who discussed Jared Kushners activities. Reports suggested that Gabbard restricted the distribution of this intelligence, which coincided with Kushners participation in delicate backchannel talks with Iranian representatives. While the administration maintained that the intercepted comments were uncorroborated gossip, the timing and handling of the report sparked a debate over the protection of politically connected individuals from standard intelligence scrutiny. Jared Kushner occupied a central, albeit unofficial, position in American diplomacy by 2026. Despite the absence of a formal title or confirmation by the Senate, he acted as a primary negotiator for the executive branch on high-stakes international files, most notably concerning the Middle East and Russia. His participation in these missions occurred alongside his continued management of Affinity Partners, a private equity firm that held significant investments from foreign sovereign wealth funds. This dual role as a private citizen and a lead diplomat drew intense scrutiny from ethics watchdogs and congressional critics who highlighted the lack of formal oversight or adherence to federal conflict of interest regulations. Parallel to these events, Kushner joined other envoys in high level discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, seeking a negotiated solution to nuclear guarantees and regional tensions. Kushners most public facing initiative in 2026 was the "Board of Peace," a diplomatic framework unveiled at the World Economic Forum in Davos. During a presentation titled "New Gaza," he outlined a comprehensive vision for the postwar redevelopment of the territory. The plan emphasized industrial zones, green spaces, and real estate opportunities over traditional political aspirations, proposing the creation of hundreds of thousands of jobs through large scale infrastructure projects. Critics noted that the proposal appeared to reduce residential density in favor of commercial quadrants and data centers, while supporters argued it represented a pragmatic, economically driven path toward regional stability. Kushners involvement extended to direct negotiations, including meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Blair House in February 2026 to discuss regional security and the future of Palestinian territories. The Institutional Crisis: The Whistleblower Complaint and the ODNI The institutional architecture of United States national security underwent a profound stress test in early 2026, catalyzed by a convergence of clandestine intelligence suppression and high-stakes informal diplomacy. At the center of this crisis is the collision between the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), led by Tulsi Gabbard, and the expansive, non-institutionalized foreign policy role occupied by Jared Kushner. The emergence of a whistleblower complaint in February 2026, which alleged the deliberate withholding of an intercepted conversation involving Kushners activities with Iran, has sparked a systemic debate regarding the protection of politically connected individuals from standard intelligence scrutiny. This report examines the procedural deviations in the handling of the May 2025 National Security Agency (NSA) intercept, the evolution of the subsequent whistleblower litigation, and the geopolitical implications of the Muscat negotiations conducted by Kushner and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. The crisis began to materialize publicly on February 11, 2026, when legal counsel representing an anonymous whistleblower accused Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard of "deliberate obstruction." The complaint, originally filed in May 2025, alleged that Gabbard and the Trump Administration had systematically stonewalled efforts to brief congressional intelligence committees on a matter of "urgent concern" involving the suppression of a sensitive intelligence report. The legal team, led by Andrew P. Bakaj and Mark S. Zaid of Whistleblower Aid, characterized the eight-month delay in sharing the complaint with Congress as a flagrant violation of the Intelligence Community Whistleblower Protection Act (ICWPA). Statutory requirements mandate that once an Inspector General determines a complaint to be of "urgent concern," the DNI must forward that complaint to the congressional intelligence committees within a 21-day window. However, in the case of the Gabbard complaint, the document remained "under lock and key" from May 2025 until February 2026. This delay was justified by the ODNI General Counsel, Jack Dever, as a necessity dictated by the highly classified nature of the underlying intelligence, which required an extensive legal and security review. Comparative Timeline of Oversight and Suppression Date Event Institutional Action Spring 2025 NSA Intercept NSA flags a conversation between two foreign intelligence officials regarding a person close to the President. April 17, 2025 Initial Contact Whistleblower contacts the Inspector General alleging Gabbard blocked intelligence distribution. May 21, 2025 Formal Filing A formal whistleblower complaint is filed with the Intelligence Community Inspector General (ICIG). June 2025 ICIG Assessment Acting ICIG Tamara Johnson finds one allegation "not credible" but characterizes the complaint as an "urgent concern." Fall 2025 Administrative Closure New ICIG Christopher Fox, a former Gabbard aide, administratively closes the case without further investigation. Feb 6, 2026 Congressional Access "Gang of Eight" receives a heavily redacted version of the complaint; Republican leaders reject its credibility. Feb 11, 2026 Legal Ultimatum Whistleblower Aid vows to file a lawsuit unless the Administration provides security guidance for a congressional briefing. The NSA Intercept: Mechanics of Suppression and the Kushner Connection The core of the whistleblowers allegation concerns an NSA intercept from early 2025. This communique involved two foreign intelligence officials who were discussing Jared Kushners influence on American foreign policy, specifically in the context of a potential "deal" with Iran. The conversation took place during a period of heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran, preceding the "12-day war" in June 2025. Under standard operating procedures, intelligence regarding a "U.S. person"especially one as prominent as Kushneris subject to "masking" to protect their identity, while the report itself is distributed through secure channels to relevant agencies like the CIA, State Department, and FBI. However, the whistleblower alleges that Director Gabbard fundamentally bypassed these protocols. Upon being briefed on the intercept, Gabbard reportedly took a physical paper copy of the intelligence directly to the White House Chief of Staff, Susie Wiles. Following this meeting, Gabbard allegedly instructed the NSA not to publish the report through routine channels and directed that all classified details be transmitted exclusively to her office. Historical Context: Jared Kushners Diplomatic and Investigative Track Record The current scrutiny of Jared Kushners activities is part of a decade-long pattern of counterintelligence concerns and investigations. The FBI launched a counterintelligence investigation in late July 2016, codenamed Crossfire Hurricane, into potential links between members of Donald Trump's presidential campaign and Russian government efforts to interfere in the 2016 U.S. election. This probe, which later transitioned into the special counsel investigation led by Robert Mueller, scrutinized several Trump associates, including Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser. Kushner was not initially a primary target but came under scrutiny for unreported meetings with Russian officials during the transition period, which raised concerns about potential foreign influence. Key Elements of Historical Scrutiny: Meetings with Russian officials: In December 2016, Kushner met with Sergey Kislyak, the Russian ambassador to the U.S., and Sergey Gorkov, head of a Russian state-run bank. Reports indicated Kushner discussed establishing a backchannel for communications with Russia, potentially using Russian facilities to avoid U.S. intelligence detection. He also failed to initially disclose these contacts on his security clearance application (SF-86 form), which accelerated the FBI's focus on him as part of the broader Russia probe. In December 2016, Kushner met with Sergey Kislyak, the Russian ambassador to the U.S., and Sergey Gorkov, head of a Russian state-run bank. Reports indicated Kushner discussed establishing a backchannel for communications with Russia, potentially using Russian facilities to avoid U.S. intelligence detection. He also failed to initially disclose these contacts on his security clearance application (SF-86 form), which accelerated the FBI's focus on him as part of the broader Russia probe. Security clearance issues: Kushner's interim top-secret clearance was downgraded in February 2018 amid ongoing FBI background checks, limiting his access to sensitive intelligence like the President's Daily Brief. Career security experts recommended denying his permanent clearance due to foreign ties that could make him vulnerable to influence, but it was eventually granted in May 2018 after White House intervention. Kushner's interim top-secret clearance was downgraded in February 2018 amid ongoing FBI background checks, limiting his access to sensitive intelligence like the President's Daily Brief. Career security experts recommended denying his permanent clearance due to foreign ties that could make him vulnerable to influence, but it was eventually granted in May 2018 after White House intervention. Mueller's findings and aftermath: The Mueller report, released in 2019, did not charge Kushner with any crimes and found insufficient evidence of a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia. However, it detailed Russian interference as "sweeping and systematic," contradicting Kushner's later public minimization of it. More recently, in June 2024, Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden initiated an investigation into Kushner's investment firm, Affinity Partners, which manages billions primarily from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatarraising fresh counterintelligence concerns regarding unusually high fees and potential foreign leverage. Jared Kushners Parallel Diplomacy: The Muscat Round While the whistleblower scandal roiled Washington, Jared Kushner was actively participating in high-level discussions seeking a negotiated solution to regional tensions and nuclear guarantees. On February 6, 2026, Kushner and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff met directly with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Muscat, Oman. This meeting was a significant departure from the indirect format that had characterized previous negotiations, which typically relied on Omani intermediaries. The Muscat talks were characterized by a strategy of "diplomacy under military escort." Uniquely, the American delegation included Admiral Brad Cooper, the commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), who attended the negotiations in full dress uniform. This presence was intended as a visual manifestation of President Trumps "peace through strength" doctrine, serving as a reminder of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group operating in the nearby Arabian Sea. Key Strategic Objectives in the Muscat Negotiations Negotiation Pillar U.S. Objective Iranian Response Nuclear Program "Zero enrichment" and dilution of uranium stockpiles. Enrichment is non-negotiable; "Power to say no." Regional Proxies Cessation of support for regional armed groups. Proxies are "off the agenda." Military Pressure Leveraging the threat of "steep consequences." Military deployment "does not scare us." Economic Sanctions Using tariffs and oil export curbs as leverage. Demand for immediate sanctions relief. Conclusion: The Erosion of the Intelligence-Policy Divide The events of February 2026 represent a critical juncture in the history of American intelligence governance. The collision of a whistleblower complaint alleging suppression of intelligence and the simultaneous pursuit of clandestine diplomacy by a non-government actor has exposed deep fractures in the system of checks and balances designed to prevent the politicization of national security. The resolution of the Gabbard whistleblower case will likely define the boundaries of executive privilege and the extent of a DNIs authority to restrict the flow of intelligence to Congress. If the whistleblowers lawsuit compels a briefing, it could reveal the extent to which Jared Kushners "freelancing" has compromised or influenced American strategic objectives in the Middle East. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address AI Prompt Injection: A Feature not a Bug As large language models (LLMs) become embedded in military, intelligence, and national security workflows, a class of vulnerability with no clear parallel in traditional cybersecurity has emerged as a central concern. Prompt injection -- the manipulation of AI systems through crafted inputs that override their intended instructions -- was ranked the number-one risk in the Open Worldwide Application Security Project's (OWASP) 2025 Top 10 for LLM Applications and Generative AI, appearing in over 73 percent of production AI deployments assessed during security audits. Unlike conventional software vulnerabilities, prompt injection exploits a fundamental architectural characteristic of how language models process information: they cannot reliably distinguish between instructions from their operators and data supplied by external sources. This makes the problem not merely a bug to be patched, but a structural condition inherent to the technology itself -- one with profound implications for counterintelligence and national security. To understand why prompt injection represents a qualitatively different kind of threat, it is necessary to understand how large language models function at a basic level. An LLM does not "understand" text in the way a human reader does. It operates by predicting the most probable next token -- essentially the next word or word-fragment -- in a sequence. When an LLM receives a prompt, it treats every token in its input as part of a continuous stream. There is no internal mechanism that enforces a boundary between the system's own instructions (what the developer or operator told the model to do) and the data the model is asked to process (a document, a webpage, an email, a user query). Everything is simply text, fed into the same prediction engine. This is the core of the problem. In traditional computing, the distinction between code and data is a well-established principle. SQL injection attacks, which plagued web applications for years, exploited failures to enforce this distinction in database queries. But SQL injection was ultimately tamed because developers could draw a firm line between commands and untrusted input, then enforce that line with parameterized queries, libraries, and frameworks. With LLMs, that line does not exist inside the model. Every token is fair game for interpretation as an instruction. The United Kingdom's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), a component of GCHQ, issued a formal assessment in December 2025 warning that prompt injection may never be fully mitigated in the way SQL injection was. David C, the NCSC's technical director for platforms research, characterized LLMs as "inherently confusable deputies" -- systems that can be coerced into performing actions that benefit an attacker because there is no robust internal separation between trusted instructions and untrusted content. The NCSC assessment drew a sharp distinction between prompt injection and SQL injection that it described as "dangerous" to conflate. Where SQL injection is a well-understood vulnerability class with deterministic defenses, prompt injection is a probabilistic problem operating at the semantic layer rather than the syntactic layer. Security professionals who approach prompt injection with the mental model of SQL injection risk underestimating its severity and deploying inadequate mitigations. The NCSC warned that if generative AI is embedded into applications without prompt injection designed in from the start, a wave of data breaches comparable to the SQL injection era of the early 2000s -- and potentially exceeding it in scale -- could follow. Two Vectors of Attack Prompt injection takes two principal forms. In direct prompt injection, the attacker interacts directly with the AI system through its user interface, crafting inputs designed to override the system's instructions. A simple example would be a user telling a chatbot to "ignore all previous instructions" and perform some unauthorized action. More sophisticated variants employ encoding tricks, role-playing scenarios, multi-turn conversational manipulation, or gradual boundary erosion across extended interactions. Direct prompt injection is significant but relatively constrained, because the attacker must have access to the system's input interface. Indirect prompt injection is considerably more dangerous and more relevant to counterintelligence. In this variant, the attacker does not interact with the AI system at all. Instead, malicious instructions are embedded in external content that the AI system is likely to process -- a webpage, a PDF document, an email, a shared file, a database entry, or any other data source that the AI retrieves during its operation. The instructions can be hidden using techniques such as white text on a white background, non-printing Unicode characters, content in HTML comments, or text embedded in images. When the AI system retrieves and processes this content, it may follow the injected instructions rather than its operator's original directives. The user may never see the malicious content, and the AI system may appear to function normally while executing the attacker's commands in the background. The concept of indirect prompt injection was formally defined in a February 2023 paper by Kai Greshake, Sahar Abdelnabi, and colleagues at CISPA Helmholtz Center for Information Security. Their research demonstrated that LLM-integrated applications blur the line between data and instructions, and that adversaries could remotely exploit such applications by injecting prompts into data likely to be retrieved at inference time. The paper showed that processing retrieved prompts could function as the equivalent of arbitrary code execution in traditional computing -- enabling data theft, persistent compromise across sessions, denial of service, and what the researchers termed "information ecosystem contamination." Their demonstrations against real-world systems, including Bing Chat and code-completion engines, established that these were not theoretical concerns but practical attack vectors. Since that foundational work, the attack surface has expanded dramatically. Researchers have demonstrated prompt injection attacks that steal user credentials through AI browsers, exfiltrate data via hidden image requests, manipulate AI-assisted code reviews, and compromise AI agents performing multi-step tasks. By 2025, CrowdStrike reported tracking over 150 distinct prompt injection techniques and had analyzed more than 300,000 adversarial prompts, maintaining what it described as the most comprehensive taxonomy for this class of threat. The rise of "agentic AI" -- systems that can autonomously browse the web, execute code, send emails, and interact with other applications -- has further amplified the risk. A prompt injection against a chatbot that can only generate text is concerning; a prompt injection against an AI agent with access to email, calendars, file systems, and APIs has the potential to cause real-world harm at scale. Hybrid Threats and Compound Attacks A further dimension of the threat became apparent as researchers demonstrated that prompt injection could be combined with traditional cybersecurity exploits to create hybrid attacks that evade both conventional security controls and AI-specific defenses. Research published in early 2026 documented how prompt injection could deliver cross-site scripting (XSS) payloads through AI-generated content, bypassing web application firewalls that were not designed to inspect AI outputs. In these scenarios, an attacker crafts a prompt containing a Base64-encoded XSS payload; the AI system processes the prompt as a legitimate content request and generates output containing embedded JavaScript; the web application renders the AI output without adequate XSS validation; and the malicious script executes in the user's browser, extracting authentication tokens and session data. Similarly, cross-site request forgery (CSRF) attacks gain enhanced capabilities when combined with AI agent manipulation, particularly in environments where agents operate with elevated privileges. Traditional CSRF attacks are limited to triggering predefined browser requests, but AI agents can interpret and execute complex multi-step instructions, amplifying the potential damage. These compound attack vectors represent a qualitative shift in the threat landscape. They are not merely prompt injection or merely traditional web exploits -- they are novel combinations that neither traditional cybersecurity tools nor AI-specific defenses are designed to address in isolation. The Counterintelligence Dimension From a counterintelligence perspective, prompt injection represents a new form of an old problem: the subversion of trusted systems by adversaries. Current and former military officers have publicly warned that adversaries are likely to exploit prompt injection to steal files, distort analysis, and manipulate decision-making. Liav Caspi, a former member of the Israel Defense Forces cyberwarfare unit, described the fundamental dynamic in counterintelligence terms: a successful prompt injection means that "an enemy has been able to turn somebody from the inside to do what they want" -- deleting records, biasing decisions, or exfiltrating data. Steve Wilson, chief AI officer at Exabeam, argued that defending AI agents is less like securing traditional software and "far more like defending the humans inside an organization," because agents, like people, are "messy, adaptive, and prone to being manipulated, coerced or confused." This makes prompt injection more analogous to an insider threat than to a conventional application vulnerability. The analogy to insider threats is instructive. A successfully compromised AI system becomes, in effect, a trusted agent working for the adversary within the target organization's own infrastructure. It has the same access privileges as the legitimate user or system it serves. It processes the same sensitive information. And because its compromise operates at the semantic level rather than through detectable malware or unauthorized network access, traditional intrusion detection systems are unlikely to flag its behavior as anomalous. The compromised AI looks like a functioning AI; it simply produces subtly different outputs or takes subtly different actions than intended. Several specific scenarios illustrate the counterintelligence implications. In intelligence analysis, AI systems increasingly assist analysts in processing large volumes of open-source intelligence, intercepted communications, satellite imagery descriptions, and other data. If an adversary can inject prompts into the data being processed -- through a poisoned webpage, a manipulated document, a crafted social media post, or an email containing hidden instructions -- it could skew the AI's analytical outputs. The AI might downplay the significance of certain indicators, emphasize misleading information, or fail to flag critical threats. This is a modern variant of deception and denial operations, exploiting the AI as the conduit for introducing disinformation into the analytical pipeline. In federated military AI environments, where coalition partners share AI models without sharing raw data, the risks are compounded. Research published in January 2025 by a team at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) identified four distinct attack scenarios against federated military LLMs: secret data extraction, where adversaries probe shared models to extract classified information through targeted prompts; free-rider exploitation, where participants gain military intelligence while withholding their own data contributions; system disruption, where crafted prompts create tactical blind spots in the shared model's analysis; and misinformation propagation, where false information is systematically injected through dual-channel attacks. In each case, a single prompt injection can propagate its effects throughout the federated system, potentially compromising the analytical integrity of multiple allied nations simultaneously. GenAI.mil and the Military Attack Surface These concerns acquired immediate practical urgency in December 2025, when the Department of War launched GenAI.mil, a platform deploying Google Cloud's Gemini for Government to the desktops of approximately three million military personnel, civilian employees, and contractors. The platform was authorized to handle sensitive but unclassified data at Impact Level 5 (IL5), including Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth mandated its use across the department, with Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering Emil Michael announcing plans to extend AI capabilities to classified environments as well. The rollout was rapid by any institutional standard. Service members reported receiving the platform on their desktops with minimal advance notice, limited training, and few published guidelines beyond prohibitions on uploading personal data. Five of six military branches formally adopted GenAI.mil as their enterprise AI platform within two months of launch. Multiple security experts raised concerns. Neal Bridges, chief information security officer at Query.ai, warned that if personnel began treating AI-generated text as authoritative rather than as a first draft, the consequences could include operational errors, legal missteps, and subtle security failures. Other experts noted the risks of data leakage, adversarial data poisoning, and the lack of rigorous evaluation processes before the department-wide mandate took effect. The prompt injection implications of deploying commercial LLMs at this scale within a national security organization are substantial. GenAI.mil personnel use the platform to summarize policy handbooks, generate compliance checklists, extract terms from contracts, draft communications, and analyze documents. Each of these functions involves the AI processing external content -- content that, in a large and complex organization, may originate from sources of varying trustworthiness. A poisoned document in a shared repository, a manipulated webpage retrieved through the platform's web-grounding capability, or a crafted email forwarded for AI-assisted analysis could all serve as vectors for indirect prompt injection. The platform's web grounding against Google Search, while intended to reduce hallucinations, simultaneously expands the attack surface by connecting the AI to the open internet -- precisely the environment where adversary-controlled content is most readily deployed. The department's multi-vendor strategy, which includes contracts with Google, OpenAI, Anthropic, and xAI, introduces additional complexity. Each model has different susceptibilities to different injection techniques, and defenses that work against one model may not transfer to another. As additional models are integrated into GenAI.mil, the overall attack surface grows, and the burden of security testing multiplies. The Limits of Defense The defensive picture is sobering. No single technique or product can eliminate prompt injection, and the most authoritative assessments -- from the NCSC, OWASP, Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic -- converge on this point. OpenAI, in a November 2025 assessment, characterized prompt injection as "a type of social engineering attack specific to conversational AI" and acknowledged that it is "unlikely to ever be fully solved." Microsoft described indirect prompt injection as "an inherent risk that arises from the probabilistic language modelling, stochastic generation, and linguistic flexibility of modern LLMs." Anthropic and Google have similarly emphasized that defenses must be layered and continuously updated. The defensive approaches currently available fall into several categories, none of which is sufficient alone. Input filtering and validation can catch some known injection patterns but cannot address the effectively infinite variations of natural-language instructions that an attacker might craft. Output monitoring can detect anomalous behavior after the fact but cannot prevent the initial compromise. Privilege separation -- limiting the actions an AI system can take and the data it can access -- reduces the blast radius of a successful injection but does not prevent the injection itself. Hardened system prompts can increase the difficulty of overriding instructions but are not a reliable boundary, because the model's response to any given prompt is probabilistic rather than deterministic. Human-in-the-loop confirmation for sensitive actions provides a final safeguard but degrades the speed and automation advantages that motivate AI adoption in the first place. Microsoft has invested in several specific techniques, including "Spotlighting," which attempts to isolate untrusted inputs through special formatting; Prompt Shields, a detection tool integrated with its Defender for Cloud platform; and deterministic blocking of known data exfiltration methods such as URL-based image rendering that could transmit data to attacker-controlled servers. OpenAI has developed an LLM-based automated red-teaming system that uses reinforcement learning to continuously discover new injection techniques against its own models, leveraging its white-box access to model internals -- an approach that external attackers cannot replicate. These represent genuine advances, but their developers are the first to acknowledge that they raise the bar for attackers without eliminating the underlying vulnerability. The fundamental challenge is that any defense that operates within the LLM itself is probabilistic. A defense that works 99 percent of the time still fails one percent of the time, and a determined adversary with the resources of a nation-state intelligence service can iterate until that one percent is found. As the NCSC assessed, deterministic defenses are preferable for the hard guarantees they provide, but when dealing with inherently probabilistic systems, deterministic defenses may not be achievable in all cases. Multimodal and Agentic Frontiers The threat continues to evolve as AI systems grow more capable. Multimodal models, which process text, images, audio, and video simultaneously, introduce new injection surfaces. Malicious instructions can be hidden in images accompanying benign text, embedded in audio tracks, or encoded in video metadata. Cross-modal attacks -- where an instruction delivered through one modality manipulates the model's behavior in another -- represent a largely unexplored frontier that existing defenses are not designed to address. Agentic AI systems, which autonomously perform multi-step tasks by interacting with tools, APIs, and other AI agents, represent the most alarming expansion of the attack surface. When an AI agent can browse the web, send emails, modify files, execute code, and make API calls, a successful prompt injection can trigger cascading real-world consequences. The agent's autonomy amplifies the attacker's reach: a single injected instruction can set off a chain of actions that would otherwise require sustained human effort to execute. The Model Context Protocol (MCP), an emerging standard for connecting AI agents to external tools and data sources, introduces additional risk when the data it exposes originates from untrusted sources. Researchers have demonstrated that poisoned tool descriptions, resource listings, and configuration files can influence agent behavior at the protocol boundary, before any application-level defenses have an opportunity to intervene. A particularly concerning development was the demonstration of persistent compromise, in which an injected prompt causes the AI system to store part of the attack payload in its long-term memory or note-taking function. When the AI later reads from this memory, it re-poisons itself -- achieving persistence across sessions without any further action by the attacker. This transforms a single successful injection into an ongoing compromise that survives system resets, closely paralleling the behavior of persistent malware or a recruited human agent who continues to operate for the adversary over an extended period. Implications for Counterintelligence Practice The counterintelligence community faces several imperatives in response to this emerging threat. The first is recognition that prompt injection is not merely a cybersecurity problem but a counterintelligence problem. An adversary that can manipulate an AI system processing intelligence data has achieved, through technical means, something functionally equivalent to recruiting an asset within the analytical chain. The corrupted AI does not need to be bribed, coerced, or ideologically motivated; it simply needs to encounter the right sequence of tokens in its input stream. The second imperative is to treat AI outputs with the same source-evaluation rigor applied to human-source intelligence. An AI-generated summary, assessment, or recommendation should not be treated as authoritative merely because it comes from a sophisticated system. The AI's analytical outputs are only as trustworthy as the data it processes and the integrity of its instructions -- both of which are vulnerable to manipulation. Organizations should implement verification protocols that cross-check AI-generated analysis against independent sources, particularly for assessments that inform operational decisions. The third imperative is to design AI-integrated workflows with the assumption that compromise is possible. This means applying the principle of least privilege rigorously: AI systems should have access only to the minimum data and capabilities necessary for their assigned tasks. Actions with significant consequences -- sending communications, modifying records, authorizing transactions, altering analytical databases -- should require human confirmation. Logging and auditing of AI interactions should be comprehensive, enabling anomaly detection and forensic investigation when compromise is suspected. The fourth imperative is to anticipate adversary adaptation. Nation-state intelligence services with sophisticated cyber capabilities -- including those of China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran -- can be expected to develop prompt injection techniques tailored to specific target systems. The Virginia National Guard conducted a simulation exercise in September 2025 in which an AI-powered offensive system was pitted against human defenders protecting critical infrastructure networks. The human defenders were "absolutely defeated," even when they could observe the AI's actions in real time, because the speed and adaptability of AI-driven attacks exceeded human response capabilities. As AI is deployed on both sides of the intelligence competition, the race between offensive injection techniques and defensive countermeasures is likely to intensify. Finally, the counterintelligence community should prepare for the possibility that prompt injection will be used not only against military and intelligence AI systems, but as a tool for influence operations against the broader information ecosystem. An adversary that can manipulate AI-powered search engines, news summarization tools, or content recommendation systems through indirect prompt injection has a scalable mechanism for shaping public perceptions, amplifying disinformation, and eroding trust in information sources. The Greshake research team identified "information ecosystem contamination" as a potential impact of indirect prompt injection in 2023; as AI intermediation of information consumption grows, this risk scales accordingly. Prompt injection is not a temporary problem awaiting a technical fix. It is a structural feature of how current AI systems work, and managing it will require sustained effort at the intersection of cybersecurity, counterintelligence, and institutional design. The organizations that approach it with appropriate seriousness -- treating AI as an inherently exploitable intermediary rather than a trusted oracle -- will be better positioned to capture the genuine benefits of AI while managing its novel risks. Those that do not may find that their most sophisticated analytical tools have become, in effect, the adversary's most productive agents. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Contracts Contracts for Feb. 13, 2026 NAVY Aim World Services Inc.,* Spring, Texas (N00023-26-D-0001); Alliance Global Group,* Owings Mills, Maryland (N00023-26-D-0002); Ami Expeditionary Healthcare LLC, Reston, Virginia (N00023-26-D-0003); Atlas Advisors LLC, Columbus, Ohio (N00023-26-D-0004); Cart.com Inc., Houston, Texas (N00023-26-D-0005); Dynamic Group LLC, Baton Rouge, Louisiana (N00023-26-D-0006); Global Dimensions LLC,* Fredericksburg, Virginia (N00023-26-D-0007); King & George LLC, Fort Worth, Texas (N00023-26-D-0008); Liberation Technology Services Inc.,* Tampa, Florida (N00023-26-D-0009); Longview International Technology Solutions Inc., Herndon, Virginia (N00023-26-D-0010); Luke & Associates Inc., Rockledge, Florida (N00023-26-D-0011); Metrea Special Aerospace ISR Inc., Tampa, Florida (N00023-26-D-0012); MLU Services LLC, Bogart, Georgia (N00023-26-D-0013); Parliament LLC,* Beachwood, Ohio (N00023-26-D-0014); Recovery Logistics LLC, Apex, North Carolina (N00023-26-D-0015); RK Strategic Management Solutions LLC,* San Antonio, Texas (N00023-26-D-0016); Rock-It Cargo USA LLC, Lititz, Pennsylvania (N00023-26-D-0017); Shipping Consultants Associated USA Inc.,* St. Johns, Florida (N00023-26-D-0018); Starside Security & Investigation Inc.,* Diamond Bar, California (N00023-26-D-0019); The Geo Group Inc., Boca Raton, Florida (N00023-26-D-0020); The Millennium Group Int'l LLC,* Reston, Virginia (N00023-26-D-0021); World Kinect Government Solutions Inc., Miami, Florida (N00023-26-D-0022); ISS Action Inc., Punta Gorda, Florida (N00023-26-D-0023); and Planate Management Group LLC,* Alexandria, Virginia (N00023-26-D-0024), are being awarded a $55,000,000,000 multiple award, firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity Worldwide Expeditionary Multiple Award Contract (WEXMAC) Territorial Integrity of the U.S. (TITUS) contract. The WEXMAC Titus 2.2 contract will provide supplies and services in support of, but not limited to, supporting the six phases of the continuum of military operations in support of the geographic Combatant Command's joint operations, coalition partners, and other U.S. federal agencies in setting and sustaining the theater through the following requirements: theater opening (includes reception, staging, onward-movement, and integration support); sustainment; theater distribution; and stability operations and Defense Support of Civil Authorities support. The WEXMAC TITUS description of contractual scope provides that services and supplies provided through the performance of this contract include but are not limited to humanitarian assistance/disaster relief, contingency, exercise, lodging, logistics, water-based, and land-based support. The contracts will run concurrently. The base performance period for these new awardees will begin February 2026 and is expected to be completed by December 2029. If the option is exercised, the performance period will be completed by December 2034. Work will be performed in the U.S. and outlying territories, but because specific requirements cannot be predicted at this time, more specific information about the percentage of work and where it will be performed cannot be currently provided. Fiscal 2026 operations and maintenance funds in the amount of $12,000 will be obligated ($500 on each of the 24 new contracts to fund the contracts' minimum amounts) at time of award and funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Additional funds will be obligated at the task order level with the appropriate fiscal year funding as issued by the customers for each area of responsibility. The requirement was competitively procured as full and open competition with 36 offers received. Naval Supply Systems Command, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, is the contracting activity. Crowley Government Services Inc., Jacksonville, Florida (N00023-25-D-0018); and SGK Global Services LLC,* Stafford, Texas (N00023-25-D-0155), are being modified to increase their base period contract ceiling with the amount of $45,000,000,000 to support Worldwide Expeditionary Multiple Award Contract (WEXMAC) Territorial Integrity of the U.S. (TITUS). WEXMAC TITUS will provide supplies and services in support of but not limited to supporting the six phases of the continuum of military operations in support of the geographic Combatant Command's joint operations, coalition partners, and other U.S. federal agencies in setting and sustaining the theater through the following requirements: theater opening (includes reception, staging, onward-movement, and integration support; sustainment; theater distribution; and stability operations and Defense Support of Civil Authorities support. The WEXMAC TITUS description of contractual scope provides that services and supplies provided through the performance of this contract include but are not limited to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, contingency, exercise, lodging, logistics, water-based, and land-based support. The base period began in January 2025 and is expected to be completed by December 2029; if all options are exercised, the performance period will be completed by December 2034. The increased contract ceiling modifications will be incorporated into the contractors' existing base performance period with one five-year option with individual requirements performed under task orders when specific dates and locations are identified. If the option period is exercised, the total estimated contract maximum for each contractor could be $65,000,000,000. Work will be performed in the U.S. and outlying territories outlined in the original contract. Since the specific requirements cannot be predicted at this time, more specific information about the percentage and where the work will be performed cannot be currently provided. Due to the minimum guarantee already being fulfilled, no funding will be obligated for these modifications. Additional funds will be obligated at the task order level with the appropriate fiscal year funding as issued by the customers for each area of responsibility. The requirement was competitively procured as full and open competition with 111 offers received. 114 incumbent offerors were found compliant and responsible and will receive modifications to their existing contracts. Naval Supply Systems Command, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, is the contracting activity. Vigor Marine LLC, Portland, Oregon, is awarded a $73,424,356 firm-fixed-price contract (N3220526C1223) for a 215-calendar day shipyard availability for the regular overhaul and dry dock availability of Military Sealift Command's submarine tender vessel USS Emory S. Land (AS 39). This contract includes a base work package and five unexercised options for additional work and time, which if exercised, would increase the cumulative value of this contract to $74,812,111. Work will be performed in Portland, Oregon, beginning May 1, 2026, and is expected to be completed by Dec. 1, 2026. Fiscal 2026 operations and maintenance (Navy) funds in the amount of $68,477,669 are obligated and will expire at the end of the fiscal year. Fiscal 2026 Navy working capital funds in the amount of $4,946,687 are obligated and will not expire at the end of the fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with proposals solicited via the government wide Point of Entry website and one offer was received. Military Sealift Command, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity. Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, Moorestown, New Jersey, is awarded a $26,254,791 cost-plus-incentive-fee modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-24-C-5131) to exercise options for AEGIS development and test sites operation and maintenance at the Combat Systems Engineering Development Site, SPY-1A Test Facility and Naval Systems Computing Center. This contract combines purchases for the government of Japan (52%); the Republic of Korea (19%); the government of Canada (13%), the government of Australia (10%); the government of Norway (4%); the government of Germany (<1%); and the government of Spain (<1%), under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. Work will be performed in Moorestown, New Jersey, and is expected to be completed by January 2027. FMS (Japan) funds in the amount $8,845,002 (52%); FMS (Korea) funds in the amount of $3,226,571 (19%); FMS (Canada) funds in the amount of $2,326,946 (13%); FMS (Australia) funds in the amount of $1,717,561 (10%); FMS (Norway) funds in the amount of $789,754 (4%); FMS (Germany) funds in the amount of $155,014 (<1%); and FMS (Spain) funds in the amount of $72,593(<1%), will be obligated at the time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity. Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Fort Worth, Texas, is awarded a $24,619,976 modification (P00063) to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N0001920C0009). This modification adds scope to provide on-site engineering, specialized ground test software data loads for various systems, maintenance, and subject matter expert troubleshooting in support of the development and execution of the Electromagnetic Environmental Effects production acceptance compliance tests for F-35 production aircraft for the Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and non-U.S. Department of War (DOW) participants. Work will be performed in Fort Worth, Texas and is expected to be completed in June 2027. Fiscal 2025 aircraft procurement (Air Force) funds in the amount of $7,417,958; fiscal 2025 aircraft procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $7,417,958; and non-U.S. DOW partner funds in the amount of $9,784,060, will be obligated at the time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competed. Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity. Environmental Chemical Corp., Burlingame, California, is awarded a $15,637,425 firm-fixed-price construction contract for mobile operating rooms at Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune. Work will be performed at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and is expected to be completed by March 2026. Fiscal 2026 Defense Health program funds in the amount of $15,637,425 will be obligated at time of the award and will expire at the end of the fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured under the authority of 10 U.S. Code 3204(a)(2), as implemented by Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-2, Unusual and compelling urgency. The Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity (N40085-26-C-0006). AIR FORCE The Nebraska Strategic Research Institute, Lincoln, Nebraska, was awarded a ceiling $499,341,5879 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity University Affiliated Research Center contract for the U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM). This contract provides essential engineering, research, and/or development capabilities. Work will be performed at Lincoln, Nebraska, alternate requirement owner Government facilities/laboratories, and USSTRATCOM. This is a five-year base ordering period plus one five-year ordering period option period according to Federal Acquisition Regulation 52.217-9. The base ordering period end date is Feb. 12, 2031, and an end date of Feb. 12, 2036, if the ordering period option is exercised. Performance may continue for up to 12 months after the contract ordering period ends. This contract was a sole-source acquisition. Fiscal 2026 operations and maintenance funds in the amount of $1,000 will be obligated at time of award. The 55th Contracting Squadron, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, is the contracting activity (FA4600-26-D-0001). Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, Orlando, Florida, has been awarded a $50,536,217 firm-fixed-price modification (P00012) to a previously awarded contract (FA8682-24-C-B001) for the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile and Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile Large Lot Procurement. This modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $9,629,401,474 from $9,578,865,257. Work will be performed in Orlando, Florida and is expected to be completed by August 29, 2029. Fiscal 2026 Navy weapons procurement funds in the amount of $8,700,039 are being obligated at time of award. The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida is the contracting activity. (Awarded on Feb. 12, 2026) CORRECTION: The contract announced on Feb. 9, 2025, for Alabama Institute for Deaf & Blind, Talladega, Alabama (FA8571-26-A-0003), for $15,000,000,000 was announced with an incorrect dollar amount. The correct dollar amount is $15,000,000. The contracting activity is the Air Force Sustainment Center Installation Maintenance Contracting Division, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia. DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY US Foods Inc., doing business as US Foods - San Francisco, Livermore, California, has been awarded a maximum $298,515,179 fixed-price with economic-price-adjustment, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for full-line food and beverage items. This was a competitive acquisition with three responses received. This is a five-year contract with no option periods. The ordering period end date is Feb. 8, 2031. Using customers are Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2026 through 2031 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE300-26-D-3005). Pentaq Corp.,* Sabana Grande, Puerto Rico, has been awarded a maximum $12,556,130 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for knee and elbow pads. This was a competitive acquisition with six responses received. This is a three-year contract with no option periods. The ordering period end date is Feb. 13, 2029. Using military services are Army and Marine Corps. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2026 through 2029 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-26-D-0027). Gill Group Inc., Phoenix, Arizona, has been awarded a maximum $11,367,617 fixed-price with economic-price-adjustment, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for steam table pans. This was a competitive acquisition with two responses received. This is a five-year contract with no option periods. The ordering period end date is Feb. 13, 2031. Using customers are Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2026 through 2031 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE3SE-26-D-0002). UPDATE: Gateway USA, doing business as Modern Aviation, Seattle, Washington (SPE607-26-D-0045, $10,776,683), has been added as an awardee to the multiple award contract for fuel support at King County International Airport, Washington, issued against solicitation SPE607-25-R-0204 and awarded on Jan. 7, 2026. The contracting activity is Defense Logistics Agency Energy, Fort Belvoir, Virginia. U.S. TRANSPORTATION COMMAND CORRECTION: The Phoenix Air Group Inc., Cartersville, Georgia (HTC71126CE121), contract announced on Feb. 12, 2026, was announced with an incorrect award date. The correct date is Feb. 13, 2026. *Small Business https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract/Article/4406926/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Naval troops in multi-subject training China Military Online) 10:21, February 14, 2026 Sailors assigned to a flotilla under the Chinese PLA Navy decontaminate the simulated contaminated area on the warship during a multi-subject training exercise in early January, 2026. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Yang Haifan) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) This past Christmas, I wanted to give my wife, Natalie, a gift that was thoughtful, meaningful, and something we could all enjoy together (like I do every year). Since we were traveling to Toronto to spend the holidays to see her mom and sister, I decided to give it to her a little early. The Aura Digital Picture Frame was an instant hit. Natalie loved it so much that the next day we ordered one for her mom to open on Christmas morning. It has completely changed the way her mom feels about her apartment. Her mom just told us, "The apartment feels less lonely now." That is exactly what makes the Aura frame so special. Everyone in the family, no matter where they live, can upload photos and videos directly to the frame using the free Aura app. It is like having a constantly updated window into family life, keeping everyone connected even when they are thousands of miles apart. Why We Love the Aura Frame Setup is super easy. It takes just five minutes to connect to WiFi and start adding photos or videos from your phone. The app allows friends and family to send images directly to the frame and there is unlimited cloud storage with no subscription required. The frame automatically adjusts brightness and cropping and you can set on/off schedules so it is always at its best when you want it. Advertisement Advertisement The Aura frame is not just functional. It is beautifully designed and comes in a gift-ready box. You can pre-load photos, videos and a personal message, making it a perfect present for any occasion. The frame has received praise from The New York Times/Wirecutter, Wired and Oprahs Favorite Things and it is easy to see why. For families, it is a simple way to share memories, celebrate milestones and keep loved ones close. Personal Experience Our family has been using the frame for nearly two months, and it has quickly become a daily source of joy. We keep ours by the TV in the living room, so the kids are constantly saying things like, Aw, look at this photo from when we were babies, or Can you believe we went there? Her mom also loves seeing new pictures appear throughout the day. For anyone with family far away, this frame is truly a game-changer. Deal Alert Right now, the Aura Digital Picture Frame is $30 off until 2/17/2026 at 11:59 PM ET. This offer is valid in the U.S. only and cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts. It is a rare opportunity to give a gift that is meaningful, fun and practical, all in one. Arctic Sentry, defence spending and continued strengthening of defensive capabilities on the agenda of the meeting of NATO ministers of defence Poland - Ministry of National Defence 12.02.2026 - We see the response of the European Union, a response that Poland has given first - radically raising defence spending. I would like to remind you that in four years we have tripled our defence budget, from around 60 billion in 2022 to 200 billion this year. We are the foremost leader of growth. Every country fulfils the 2% obligation now. Much was accelerated, especially the vector of Polish security aimed at the Baltic Sea. What did the United States Secretary of War say? A very important thing, that we will never be alone. He appreciates what Poland is doing for security and investment in defence spending - said the deputy prime minister W. Kosiniak-Kamysz. On Thursday, 12 February, the deputy prime minister - minister of national defence, Wadysaw Kosiniak-Kamysz took part in a meeting of the NATO ministers of defence, in the North Atlantic Alliance headquarters in Brussels, and in side events. Among the main topics were matters related to defence spending, support for attacked Ukraine, security on the eastern flank of NATO and preparations for the NATO summit in Turkiye. - Poland responds positively everywhere. We spend 5% of GDP for defence, investments, military mobility. One of the topics was a discussion of the active Arctic Sentry operation. Each country was asked to reflect on its contribution to this operation. Just like we benefit from the input of some countries in the Eastern Sentry operation - there are dedicated planes, helicopters, anti-drone capabilities - here it is also an allied mission - said the minister of national defence. Bilateral cooperation and the cooperation of defence industries of Poland and Sweden were the main topic of the deputy prime minister's W. Kosiniak-Kamysz talks with Pal Jonson, the minister of defence of Sweden. - I had the opportunity for a few bilateral meetings, including with the minister of defence of Sweden. Soon the king of Sweden will visit Poland, along with almost the entire government. We will be showing the next stages of the ORKA programme - acquisition of three submarines for the Polish Navy. I have also spoken with the secretary of defence of the United Kingdom. And I have spoken to the ministers of defence of France and Germany - the deputy prime minister added. The deputy prime minister - minister of national defence Wadysaw Kosiniak-Kamysz has also signed letters of intent with allies during his visit in Brussels, regarding cooperation in strengthening defensive capabilities. The first letter, signed along with the ministers of defence of France, Germany, Italy, Sweden and Great Britain, concerns the cooperation to build capabilities for long-range strikes. Another letter of intent, signed along with Slovakia and Norway, speaks of the cooperation with regards to the development of fires capabilities, the exchange of knowledge, developing doctrines and interoperability within NATO. - We have signed an important letter of intent on long-range strikes capabilities, for precise, far-reaching attacks - over 500 kilometres. This is absolutely one of the two key pursuits of NATO and Poland - one is drone and anti-drone systems, the other is long-range, precise strikes. These are the two most important elements of deterrence and defence and the relevant strategy, of Poland and NATO. We need the development of such initiatives. Along with Norway, we have accessed the training space proposed by Slovakia, a place of practice for just such long-range strikes on Slovakian training grounds. Ten countries have already joined, and Poland and Norway are joining today - said the minister of national defence. In the NATO headquarters, the minister of national defence has also signed letters of intent, thanks to which Poland and its allies will develop capabilities regarding the Air Force, drones and security in the naval domain. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Minister Jaromir Zuna attended key meetings in NATO and the EU, discussed future threats Ministry of Defence & Armed Forces of the Czech Republic 13.2.2026 Author: MoD Press Section Defence Minister Jaromir Zuna went for his first visit in Brussels after assuming office to attend the NATO Defence Ministerial meeting, the European Foreign Affairs Council - Defence and the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG). He also had several bilateral meetings with his colleague Defence Ministers from other countries. Minister Zuna started his two-day visit of Brussels on Wednesday by participating in the EU Foreign Affairs Council - Defence session that also discussed the future European security and strategic outlook for 2026. Followed upon at subsequent working dinner, the discussion agenda included cooperation on the development of defence industry and innovation with focus on Ukraine. On Thursday, Defence Minister Zuna attended the session of the North Atlantic Council, whose agenda included the performance on deliverables from the 2025 NATO Summit in the Hague, increasing capacities of Transatlantic defence industries, development of strategic guidance for the next cycle of NATO Defence Planning and the situation in Ukraine. "The NATO nations agreed on the need to fulfil NATO's political-military ambitions and deliver the ensuing commitments. There are many overlaps with our Government's program statement. First, it involves the endeavour to strengthen NATO's deterrence posture against all potential adversaries, reinforce air defence and counter unmanned aerial systems of all categories. Discussions naturally also covered the acceleration of the defence technological and industrial base, which all nations concur is a high priority requirement, and the Czech Republic can stand a very good example thereof," Defence Minister Jaromir Zuna commented on the discussions. On the margins of the session, Defence Minister Jaromir Zuna shortly met with his counterparts from Slovakia, Germany, Hungary and Canada and other NATO officials. The key topics included mutual cooperation and global security issues. In conclusion of the meetings in Brussels, Minister Jaromir Zuna attended the session of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) and then departed for the Munich Security Conference. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Survey: strengthening NATO collective defence and creating opportunities for Estonian businesses in foreign markets seen as the top foreign policy priorities Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13.02.2026 | 10:15 Today, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs published its second public opinion survey on foreign policy issues, conducted at the end of last year. According to respondents' own assessment, 61% feel they are either very well informed or rather well informed about foreign policy matters. Among the directions of foreign policy, the Estonian public expects equal focus above all on strengthening NATO's collective defence and creating opportunities for Estonian businesses (both at 34%). According to the survey, the third most important priority is strengthening regional cooperation with the Nordic and Baltic countries (31%). The foundations for strengthening Estonia's image abroad are seen primarily in digital development and cyber capabilities, cited as an important area by 43% of respondents. Other key areas include advancing security and defence cooperation (33%) and promoting education and e-learning (31%). In addition, a significant share of respondents emphasise Estonia's role as a values-based country: 28% consider the protection of human rights and freedoms important. Culture is cited as a field in which Estonia can stand out internationally by 17% of respondents. On peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, more than half of respondents (55%) believe that Ukraine should make no concessions to Russia. By nationality, Estonians are clearly opposed to concessions: 82% disagree (11% agree) with the statement that Ukraine should cede to Russia all territories currently under Russian control; 71% also oppose ceding Crimea (20% agree). Among Russian respondents, 40% support ceding territories under Russian control (30% oppose and 30% do not know), and 53% support ceding Crimea, while only 13% support "no concessions at all" and 60% are opposed. Support for Ukraine remains stable. Most respondents believe Estonia should continue supporting Ukraine, either as an international advocate (23%), at the same level as most NATO and EU countries (33%), or primarily through humanitarian assistance (27%). Only 13% believe Estonia should not support Ukraine. Possible arguments for reducing support are seen mainly in economic terms rather than yielding to pressure from foreign countries. However, 48% of respondents believe Ukraine should be supported in any case. Ukraine's accession to the European Union is supported by 59% of respondents, and accession to NATO by 51%. Regarding sanctions policy against Russia, 29% support remaining within the framework agreed in the EU, while 27% support taking additional steps together with other border states. Sending Estonian troops to Ukraine after the end of the war is supported by 42% of respondents. Although creating opportunities for Estonian businesses in foreign markets is considered one of the most important directions of foreign policy, values-based attitudes regarding the principles of foreign cooperation are evenly split. 38% of respondents consider adherence to core values the top priority and believe the state should not promote cooperation with authoritarian countries or countries with different values even if they do not pose a direct security threat. At the same time, 38% of respondents favour cooperation with all countries for the sake of economic growth, provided no security risk is perceived. On the Israel-Palestine conflict, half of respondents (50%) were unable to take a position. 18% felt Estonia's policy is balanced, 25% thought it is too pro-Israel, and 7% too pro-Palestinian. The survey also covered diaspora policy, i.e., issues related to Estonians living abroad. 62% of respondents agree that strengthening ties between Estonians living abroad and Estonia contributes to Estonia's security, strengthens a positive international image, and supports economic development. The most frequently highlighted elements of the diaspora policy include preserving and promoting the Estonian language and culture globally (57%), strengthening the Estonian identity and ties to the country of origin among Estonians living abroad (50%), promoting an economic cooperation network with the help of the diaspora (43%), and increasing Estonia's positive reputation and visibility (42%). When shaping positions in the event of disagreements between the European Union and the United States, respondents considered a pragmatic approach the most suitable for Estonia: 56% believe Estonia should shape its position according to the circumstances and seek compromise. The second most preferred option emphasises solidarity as a member state of the European Union (27%). In development cooperation, preferences regarding target regions are primarily centred around a flexible approach. The most common choice is that Estonia should focus on both nearby and more distant regions depending on cooperation opportunities (35%). Respondents consider economic cooperation and creating opportunities for Estonian businesses in foreign markets to be the most important aspect of supporting poorer countries (34%). This is followed by reducing poverty (14%) and strengthening democracy and civil society in partner countries. The survey was commissioned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and conducted by the polling company Saar Poll. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pevkur at NATO Defence Ministers' Meeting: Allies must show rapid progress on defence spending and capabilities ahead of Ankara Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Defence 13. February 2026 - 15:00 The NATO Defence Ministers' meeting in Brussels focused on increasing defence spending and ensuring that European Allies and Canada take greater responsibility for the defence of Europe. Ministers also discussed strengthening deterrence and defence, expanding defence industrial capacity, and sustaining support for Ukraine. Meetings were also held in the NATO-Ukraine Council format and of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group. "Estonia has taken its decisions and increased defence spending to 5 percent starting this year. At the same time, it remains critically important that all Allies meet the agreed capability targets and raise defence spending to 5 percent of GDP by 2035 at the latest, as agreed at the Hague Summit. The entire Alliance must step up its efforts to deter Russia and be ready to respond to threats both in the Arctic and from the southern direction," said Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur. According to the Minister, Europe must be prepared to assume greater responsibility for its own defence in the coming years. "Europe remains important to the United States, and strategic transatlantic cooperation will continue," Pevkur added. In Brussels, the Minister of Defence also met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. "We share the Secretary General's view that, given the persistence of the Russian threat even after a possible peace in Ukraine, Allies must demonstrate clear progress at the Ankara Summit both in meeting capability targets and in moving towards the 5 percent defence spending goal," Pevkur said. The NATO-Ukraine Council meeting was attended, alongside Allies, by Ukraine's Minister of Defence, Mykhailo Fedorov. Discussions focused on the PURL (Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List) initiative, which aims to mobilise USD 15 billion this year to support Ukraine's military needs. To date, 21 Allies, together with partner countries Australia and New Zealand, have contributed more than USD 4 billion. Estonia's military assistance to Ukraine in 2025 amounted to 0.35% of GDP and included equipment, ammunition and training worth more than 146 million (operations Interflex and Legio). Estonia contributed 10 million to PURL last year, and the IT Coalition co-led with Luxembourg has provided Ukraine with support worth more than 1 billion. This year, Estonia plans to contribute more than 5 million through the IT Coalition. The Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG), hosted by the defence ministers of the United Kingdom and Germany, focused on continued support to Ukraine, with particular emphasis on Ukraine's priority needs and the development of its drone industry. On the margins of the meeting, a Letter of Intent for Task Force X Baltic was also signed. The NATO initiative aims to create the conditions for the deployment and operational use of unmanned maritime systems in the Baltic Sea region. In addition to Estonia, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Germany have joined the initiative. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement by President von der Leyen at the Transatlantic Forum with Bavarian Minister-President Soder, NATO Secretary-General Rutte and German Foreign Minister Wadephul European Commission Statement Feb 13, 2026 Munich Dear Minister-President, dear Markus, I would like to thank you very much for this invitation. It is nice to be here again. I am very pleased to see that the Secretary General of NATO, my friend Mark Rutte, is here too. And, of course, it is a particularly great pleasure to be standing here next to the German foreign minister, dear Johann Wadephul. Thank you for also having invited me to be here today. The Munich Security Conference would be unthinkable without the CSU Transatlantic Forum. It is my 11th time here. And I must say that it is a tradition that I have come to treasure. I couldn't imagine going to the MSC without attending the CSU Transatlantic Forum, since it is not just a warm-up event but also, year after year, a very strong affirmation of the transatlantic friendship. I am very pleased to see that we have been invited together with the NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, this time. Mark Rutte is an old friend of mine from EU times, who is very well known as Prime Minister of the Netherlands but who is now NATO Secretary General. I think that that symbolises very nicely the very close and strong cooperation between the European Union and NATO. I am very pleased to see that our American friends will also be present here at the Transatlantic Forum again, as I too am a committed Atlanticist. For me, this alliance is very important. For years there has been a cross-party consensus among us within the alliance - but also from elsewhere - that Europe must do more on defence. And that is right. Europe must become more independent and do more for its defence. A strong Europe also means a strong NATO. And that is the mindset that I have brought into the European Union. We have done more for defence in Europe over the past year than in the 10 years before. Looking at the last budget over seven years, EUR 8 billion was allocated to defence. In the last year we have mobilised EUR 800 billion for European defence to allow us to close the gaps that we have. Of that 800 billion, one programme is very important to me: joint procurement, SAFE - joint projects between Member States. SAFE has EUR 100 billion allocated to those joint projects to close the gaps and strengthen our defence capability. A second element is important here: it is a very clear condition of that EUR 100 billion that is available that 65%, or two-thirds, of products must come from Europe - from Ukraine or Europe - and must not be procured from outside it. With good reason. Because the billions upon billions spent on defence are to create jobs and promote innovation and development. And so this must also flow into our European defence industry, including here in Bavaria. Because that is the return on investment that we all need. The second point: we have launched a EUR 90 billion loan for Ukraine. That loan will have to be repaid by Ukraine only if Russia pays reparations. Two-thirds of the loan, or EUR 60 billion, is available to be spent on defence. Here too, the cascade principle applies. Firstly, everything must be procured from Ukraine or the European Union. Only if that is not possible or cannot be done in time will procurement from outside be allowed. That sends out a strong signal: we intend to - and have to - strengthen the base of the defence industry in Europe. And that is why I am in exactly the right place here, an exceptional site - as Mr Soder has just described it - to make sure that these investments, these European funds, also flow into good jobs, innovation and development. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Minister Aukrust's address at the Norad Conference Peace Out Government of Norway Speech/statement | Date: 13/02/2026 By Minister of International Development Asmund Grver Aukrust The Minister of International Development Asmund Aukrust's address at the Norad Conference Peace Out, 28 January, Sentrum Scene. (Check against delivery) Your Royal Highness, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, Krig er forakt for liv War is contempt for life This is stated in Nordahl Griegs famous poem "To the Youth" And this is what people in Ukraine and Palestine face every day and what we just heard from Alla Salah's powerful story from Sudan. Thanks to Gunn Jorid and Norad for putting together this timely conference War and conflicts are reversing progress achieved over decades on peace, rights, and development. War and conflicts are the biggest threats to development: Creates enormous human suffering: Starvation, poverty, displacement and collapse in infrastructure and services. Homes, schools, hospitals and energy systems destroyed Lack of hope for future generations: Breakdown of communities, economies and life for millions of people Distrust: Trust erodes when established norms no longer offer protection. A breakdown of the rulesbased order and the multilateral cooperation meant to protect security and freedom. States collapse: More refugees, displacement and extremism follow. Political polarization and regional instability. Steal all the attention: War and conflict dominate the political agenda and redirect funding to emergency response and security needs Therefore, development is more important than ever before. A fundamental condition for development is to prevent wars and end conflicts Let me state clearly that development policy is an integrated part of our security policy and our own national interest. An effective development policy contributes to stable societies and locally led development Dear friends, It is good to be among friends. We need each other. Today we are experiencing the biggest change in international development cooperation in modern history. We experience many crises at the same time Financial cut Political attacks on the multilateral system and basic human rights On the ground - human suffering Development assistance has contributed to a historical improvement in global economic and social development over the past decades. Poverty has been reduced considerably; millions have learned to read and write and are protected from life-threatening diseases. But the map no longer matches the terrain. This is not just a phase. These are lasting and profound changes. There is a saying: Never waste a good crisis. In this room there are many people that for many years have been working for a reform of the development and humanitarian agenda. This is amomentum for reform The multilateral architecture as we know it will change. On the international level we need to improve structures and implement reform policies We want the outcome of the UN reform process to be a more effective system, working across the pillars of peace, development and human rights Friends, I am calling for a broad debate about the long-term objectives for Norway's development policy. As the world is changing, we must adapt the Norwegian development policy to the world as it is, not as we wish it were. This is why I have initiated a process, which will result in a White Paper to be presented to Parliament in the spring session of 2027. I want us to think in entirely new ways and address difficult dilemmas. Does this mean everything will change? Of course not. But I will be asking many questions. We will consult widely with both national and international audiences before concluding on our long-term priorities. I invite all of you to be a part of this process! Through the project we aim to learn, listen, discuss, be challenged, be criticized, and be inspired through consultations, seminars, stakeholder meetings, and debates. I will also listen to stakeholders and participants beyond the traditional voices in the development discussion, such as the private sector, defense actors, the justice sector, and the diasporas in Norway. So, in 2026 I will be travelling in Norway to meet many of you. I plan to meet with major actors and international partners to discuss common ground and perspectives. Dear friends, Our goal is to achieve more - not less. Development policy is a lot more than funding. Funding alone cannot create sustainable change. Governments, civil society, the private sector, and international actors must work even better together. Strong development policies build partnerships and institutions, not just budgets. We must focus on a knowledge and rightsbased approach The rule of law provides the basis for people to feel safe and for development to take root. Stability and peace must be the foundations. Valuebased backlash How do we defend our values when opposing forces mobilize? Human rights, democracy and gender equality are under pressure Norway will lead in this normative work. I want Norway to continue to be the strongest, clearest, and wisest voice in this debate We cannot turn away from difficult issues. We should always be prepared to discuss the most controversial topics, even with those we disagree with the most. The financing gap has never been greater. With shrinking global aid, we now face hard political choices: reform, consolidate, and prioritize fewer, more strategic channels We need to help countries to raise more of their own funds (better tax collection and public financial management). It is more important than ever to address the structural drivers of inequality that fuel conflict and undermine development. We see how damaging corruption is. We must continue to work systematically on anti-corruption We need to build partnerships. Many emerging economies are contributing far too little. Even though our aid budget is large, it is impossible for us to close the gap that has emerged. Should we be more targeted? I started with a quote by Nordahl Grieg The next line in this poem is Peace is creation That is what we need. We, who care most about international cooperation and development must be willing to make the biggest changes to create peace and prosperity I hope that everyone here will help create the engagement we need to develop a new development policy. What gives me hope History People History shows that even after the darkest chapters brutal war, apartheid, and colonization societies can rebuild, heal, and move forward. At the heart of development assistance is a simple idea: peace begins with people here at home and around the world. People continue to choose cooperation over war and conflict, justice over oppression, and rebuilding over resignation. That is what creates the foundations for lasting peace. Even in the challenging times we face today, this remains my hope. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Latvia and allies outline security priorities at NATO defence ministers meeting Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Defence 13.02.2026 International cooperation Defence policy NATO Information prepared by Media Relations Section On Thursday, February 12, Minister of Defence Andris Spruds participated in the NATO Defence ministers' meeting in Brussels, where allies agreed on further steps to strengthen deterrence and defence capabilities in preparation for the upcoming Alliance summit in Ankara this July. During the meeting, ministers assessed progress made since the Hague summit, paying particular attention to the commitment to increase defence spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, as well as the development of military industry capacity. The need to accelerate procurement and strengthen supply chains was emphasized to ensure the sufficient availability of ammunition and air defence systems. "Discussions in Brussels clearly show that NATO is not only reacting to security challenges but is proactively shaping the future security architecture. The increase in defence investment and the development of military industry capacity are critical to producing the volumes necessary for both our own defence and for supporting Ukraine. We see that Russian aggression is not diminishing; therefore, our response must be united, swift, and based on real military power," emphasized A. Spruds. Latvijai butisks sanaksmes aspekts bija ari regionalas drosibas jautajumi. Sabiedrotie atzinigi noverteja operaciju "Baltic Sentry" un "Eastern Sentry" ieguldijumu - abas iniciativas 2025. gada garuma butiski stiprinajusas kritiskas zemudens infrastrukturas aizsardzibu Baltijas jura un veicinajusas modribu NATO austrumu flanga. A vital aspect of the meeting for Latvia involved regional security issues. Allies commended the contributions of operations Baltic Sentry and Eastern Sentry - both initiatives significantly strengthened the protection of critical undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea throughout 2025 and bolstered vigilance on NATO's eastern flank. Ministers also confirmed progress on the new Arctic Sentry initiative. This operation will focus on enhancing surveillance and defence capabilities in the High North, responding to Russia's growing military activity and China's economic ambitions in the region. As the Arctic is a critical corridor between North America and Europe - home to essential trade, transport, and communication routes - security in the region must be strengthened collectively. Latvia plans to participate in Arctic Sentry with the specific nature and scale of its involvement currently being finalized with allies. An integral part of the meeting was the continued support for Ukraine. During the NATO-Ukraine Council session, which included Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, the situation at the front and necessary assistance were discussed. Ministers highlighted the importance of the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), which enables allies to efficiently procure vital equipment through NATO mechanisms. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO announces Arctic Sentry - enhancing NATO's presence in the Arctic and the High North NATO Allied Air Command Feb 13 2026 RAMSTEIN, Germany -- Allied Command Operations (ACO) announces the multi-domain activity - Arctic Sentry - which will further strengthen NATO's posture in the Arctic and High North as persistent NATO presence in the region grows. "Arctic Sentry underscores the Alliance's commitment to safeguard its members and maintain stability in one of the world's most strategically significant and environmentally challenging areas," said General Alexus G. Grynkewich, Supreme Allied Commander Europe. "It will leverage NATO's strength to protect our territory and ensure the Arctic and High North remains secure," he added. Arctic Sentry strengthens the Alliance's ability to monitor, deter and defend across a region of growing strategic importance. The Arctic serves as a critical gateway between North America and Europe, hosting vital sea lines of communication, air approaches and infrastructure that underpin transatlantic security. In this evolving environment, Allied airpower provides the speed, reach and responsiveness required to maintain situational awareness and assure Allied sovereignty. NATO's Iceland Air Policing mission (Airborne Surveillance and Interception Capabilities, under Iceland's Peacetime Preparedness Needs (ASIC IPPN)) will be a key pillar of the Alliance's air domain presence under Arctic Sentry. Since 2008, Allies have periodically deploy fighter aircraft to safeguard Icelandic airspace ensuring the integrity of NATO's Integrated Air and Missile Defence systems. The Swedish Air Force are currently undertaking NATO's Air Policing mission in Iceland, the first time since their assession to NATO. The Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighters are providing interception capability, surveillance coverage and seamlessly integrating with NATO command and control networks. German Eurofighter jets and Danish F-35 fighters are also currently operating from Keflavik Air Base, supported by the Multinational Multirole Tanker Transport Unit, contributing directly to the enhanced vigilance posture. Their presence demonstrating NATO's Agile Combat Employment concepts and ensures sustained air surveillance and regional familiarisation in Arctic operating conditions, while reinforcing collective defence commitments in the High North. Operating under the strategic direction of Allied Command Operations and led by Joint Force Command Norfolk, Arctic Sentry brings together national and NATO activities into a coherent operational framework. By integrating Allied capabilities across domains, the activity enhances visibility of military movements and enables coordinated planning and execution across the High North. Persistent surveillance, air policing, air defence and rapid response capabilities ensure NATO maintains credible deterrence and crisis response options across vast and challenging operating areas. From long-range patrols to Quick Reaction Alert duties. The stand-up of Arctic Sentry reflects the Alliance's recognition that the Arctic security environment is changing. Increased military activity, evolving technologies and expanding access to the region demand a coordinated and persistent Allied presence. For Allied Air Command, Arctic Sentry underscores the importance of assured access to the air domain and freedom of manoeuvre across the High North. Story by Allied Air Command Public Affairs Office NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sudan: RSF violations in capture of El Fasher amount to war crimes Press releases Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights 13 February 2026 GENEVA -- The Rapid Support Forces unleashed "a wave of intense violence ... shocking in its scale and brutality" during its final offensive to capture the besieged city of El Fasher last October, committing widespread atrocities that amount to war crimes and possible crimes against humanity, says a report published Friday by the UN Human Rights Office. Based on interviews with over 140 victims and witnesses conducted in Sudan's Northern state and in eastern Chad in late 2025, the UN Human Rights Office documented more than 6,000 killings in the first three days of the RSF offensive on El Fasher, following 18 months of sustained siege of the city. The report assesses that at least 4,400 people were killed within El Fasher in those few days and over 1,600 others along exit routes as they fled. The actual scale of the death toll during the week-long offensive is undoubtedly significantly higher. The report found that the RSF and allied Arab militia carried out widespread attacks, including mass killings and summary executions, sexual violence, abductions for ransom, torture and ill-treatment, detention, disappearances, pillage and the use of children in hostilities. In many cases, attacks were directed against civilians and persons hors de combat based on their ethnicity or perceived affiliation. "The wanton violations that were perpetrated by the RSF and allied Arab militia in the final offensive on El Fasher underscore that persistent impunity fuels continued cycles of violence," said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk. "There must be credible and impartial investigations to establish criminal responsibility, including of commanders and other superiors. These must lead to meaningful accountability for perpetrators of exceptionally serious crimes, through all available means - whether fair and independent Sudanese courts, use of universal and extraterritorial jurisdiction in third states, before the International Criminal Court or other mechanisms." "There are reasonable grounds to believe that the RSF and affiliated Arab militia committed acts amounting to the war crimes of murder; intentionally directing attacks against civilians and civilian objects; launching indiscriminate attacks; use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare; attacks directed against medical and humanitarian personnel; infliction of sexual violence, including rape; torture and other cruel treatment; acts of pillage; and the conscription, enlistment, and use of children in hostilities," says the report. These patterns of grave violations and abuses in El Fasher mirror those previously documented in RSF offensives on Zamzam camp in April 2025 and in El Geneina and Ardamata in 2023. Taken together, they demonstrate an organized and sustained course of conduct, suggesting a systematic attack against the civilian population in the Darfur region. Acts of violence knowingly committed as part of such an attack would amount to crimes against humanity. "The unprecedented scale and brutality of the violence meted out during the offensive deeply compounded the horrific violations the residents of El Fasher had already been subjected to during the long months of siege, constant hostilities and bombardment," said Turk. The UN Human Rights Office documented multiple incidents of mass killing targeting locations where many civilians had gathered, with the apparent aim of inflicting maximum harm. Witnesses gave independent and consistent accounts of one incident in which around 500 people were killed when RSF fighters opened fire using heavy weapons on a crowd of 1,000 sheltering at Al-Rashid dormitory in El Fasher University on 26 October. One of the witnesses reported seeing bodies thrown into the air, "like a scene out of a horror movie". RSF fighters also carried out summary executions within El Fasher of civilians accused of 'collaboration' with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Joint Forces, often determined on the basis of their non-Arab ethnicity, such as the Zaghawa community. Adolescent boys and men aged under 50 were specifically targeted. "During my recent visit to Sudan, I heard direct testimony from survivors that illustrates how sexual violence was systematically used as a weapon of war," said Turk. Survivors and witnesses recounted patterns of rape and gang rape, abductions for ransom using sexual violence, and sexual assault during invasive body searches, with women and girls from the Zaghawa and other non-Arab communities at particular risk. The report also documents widespread abductions for ransom as civilians fled, with consistent accounts of a pattern of abductions and detention of civilians for financial gain. It documents 10 detention facilities used by the RSF in El Fasher, with severely inadequate conditions leading to outbreaks of disease and deaths in custody. This included the Children's Hospital, which was converted into a detention facility. In addition, several thousands of people remain missing and unaccounted for. The UN Human Rights Chief renewed his call on parties to the conflict to take effective steps to bring to an end the grave violations by forces under their command, and to States with influence to act urgently to prevent the repetition of violations documented in El Fasher. "This includes respecting the arms embargo already in place, and ending the supply, sale or transfer of arms or military material to the parties." He also reiterated his call on States to do everything possible to support local, regional, and international mediation efforts, to achieve a cessation of hostilities and a pathway towards inclusive civilian governance. "In a protection crisis of this scale, human rights must remain central to efforts to achieve a durable resolution of the conflict," said Turk. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address ICC rejects Duterte appeal on fitness to stand trial Philippine News Agency By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora February 13, 2026, 8:33 pm MANILA -- The International Criminal Court (ICC) has rejected the appeal of former president Rodrigo Duterte's camp to overturn the earlier ruling that deemed him fit to stand trial. "An appealable 'issue' is an identifiable subject or topic requiring a decision for its resolution, not merely a question over which there is disagreement or conflicting opinion ... [I]t must emanate from the relevant decision itself and cannot represent a hypothetical concern or abstract legal question," the Feb. 13 ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I decision said rejecting the defense's appeal. The ICC ruled on Jan. 26 that Duterte, who turns 81 in March, is fit to take part in the pre-trial and denied his request for an indefinite adjournment of the proceedings. His camp filed an appeal on Feb. 2, citing four issues: That the Pre-Trial Chamber "erred in fact and in law by ignoring relevant clinical evidence on Duterte's lack of fitness to stand trial"; That the chamber "erred in law by rejecting the Defense request to hold a hearing on Duterte's purported fitness"; That the chamber "erred in law by failing to articulate coherently its reasoning" as to why it believed Duterte is fit to proceed to the confirmation hearing, and; That the chamber "erred in law in confining its assessment" of Duterte's fitness to the pre-trial phase and in failing to consider the impact of its finding on Duterte's ability to stand trial. The Pre-Trial Chamber I reasoned that the defense, in its first proposed issue, misrepresents the relevant findings made in the Jan. 26 decision, pointing out that the reports it provided were given to the panel of medical experts, who took them into consideration when they assessed Duterte's health condition. It also argued that the defense "failed to substantiate that there is any strident conflict or significant inconsistency which is capable of undermining the overall weight of the general joint conclusion on fitness." On the issue of supposedly failing to articulate why it believed Duterte is fit to stand trial, the chamber said it decided "to consider solely" the panel of experts' conclusion, which in itself integrated the defense's medical report, "to ensure the fairness of the proceedings." "[T]he Chamber gave clear and exhaustive instructions to the Experts as to the factual assessment they were required to carry out in order for the Chamber to proceed to its legal determination on Mr. Duterte's fitness to participate in the proceedings," it said. "These instructions also reflect the elements, including the relevant rights of the suspect, on which the Panel had to focus to provide its conclusions. The Panel's Reports specifically addressed these points, and the Chamber made findings based on the Panel's conclusions," it added. Lastly, the chamber noted that its Jan. 26 decision "does not prejudge" Duterte's fitness to stand trial nor preclude any chamber of the Court to revisit the issue should the need arise. "Accordingly, the Chamber is of the view that the Fourth Proposed Issue is not able to significantly affect the fairness of the proceedings," it said. The ICC is scheduled to hold the confirmation hearing of Duterte on Feb. 23 in The Hague, the Netherlands to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to establish grounds to believe that he committed the crime against humanity in connection with the so-called drug war when he was Davao City mayor and president of the Philippines. Also on Friday, the Pre-Trial Chamber I authorized the participation of 500 individuals in the pre-trial proceedings, forming part of Group A or persons "who clearly qualify as victims." The ICC adopted a system for transmission and admission of victim applications, classifying them into three categories: Group A or applicants who clearly qualify as victims; Group B or applicants who clearly do not qualify as victims; and Group C or applicants for whom the court could not make a clear determination for any reason. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Zip Code Remulla, China envoy discuss easing tensions, fostering understanding Philippine News Agency By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan February 13, 2026, 2:23 pm MANILA -- Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla met with Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan Thursday to discuss, among other topics, easing tensions between the Philippines and China. In an interview Friday, Remulla said they did not talk about the dispute over the Kalayaan Island Group. He said the dialogue focused on practical measures that could help ease tensions and foster better mutual understanding between the two countries. "Hindi namin pinag-usapan 'yung (We didn't talk about the) Kalayaan (issue). Mas pinag-usapan namin 'yung (We talk more about) how to de-escalate the tensions between the two countries. And a lot has to do with cultural exchanges," Remulla said. He added they also exchanged views on strengthened law and order to safeguard the safety of Chinese citizens in the Philippines. Remulla said he firmly reiterated the Philippine government's position on KIG. "It is the Philippines territorial waters. It is our sovereign right to occupy those islands. Plain and simple," he said. The Philippines and China have been locked in a territorial dispute in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims entirely as it owns, including resource-rich features in the West Philippine Sea. On July 12, 2016, the Arbitral Tribunal constituted under the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention dismissed China's expansive claims under its so-called nine-dash-line as illegal. To this day, Beijing continues to reject the ruling. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Most advanced PH ships participating in 'Balikatan' Philippine News Agency By Priam Nepomuceno February 13, 2026, 1:17 pm MANILA -- The most advanced and up-to-date Philippine Navy (PN) naval vessels will be deployed to this year's "Balikatan" exercises with the United States military. PN spokesperson Capt. Marissa Martinez told the Philippine News Agency that (guided-missile) frigates, the Rizal and Malvar classes, landing docks and fast interdiction craft-missile will be participating in the annual exercise. "Ship commitments for BK (Balikatan) are usually discussed during the middle planning conference and the final planning conference, held last year, " she said. This year's Balikatan is tentatively scheduled April to May. The PN has two Jose Rizal-class guided missile frigates -- lead ship BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), both delivered by South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in 2020 to 2021, respectively. The two Malvar-class guided missile frigates, both delivered and commissioned in 2025, are more armed than the Jose Rizal-class frigates. The Miguel Malvar guided missile frigate weighs 3,200 gross tons compared to the Jose Rizal class' 2,600 gross tons. While it is equipped with similar weapon systems like the 76mm Oto Melara main gun, C-Star-surface-to-surface missiles and Blue Shark anti-submarine torpedoes like its predecessors, the Miguel Malvar class has a bigger C-Star loadout as it has eight missile tubes compared to the Jose Rizals' four. The Miguel Malvar guided missile frigates are likewise the first PN ships to be equipped with a vertical launch system capable of firing surface-to-air missiles that can neutralize air threats. All four frigates are equipped with sensors surveillance systems and weapons platforms that allow for multi-combat operations; and armed with 35mm Aselsan close-in weapons systems and four .50 caliber heavy machine guns. Meanwhile, the landing docks are BRP Tarlac (LD-601) and BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602), usually used for transport and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Bangladesh Nationalist Party secures victory in general election Iran Press TV Friday, 13 February 2026 6:44 PM The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has secured a victory in the general election, which was held 18 months after prolonged political unrest ousted the country's former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina. Unofficial results released by election officials on Friday showed the BNP winning 209 seats, easily surpassing the 151-seat threshold needed for a majority in parliament. BNP is led by Tarique Rahman, the son of former PM Khaleda Zia, who died in December. The BNP was followed by Jamaat-e-Islami, which secured 68 seats in Thursday's polls. The National Citizen Party (NCP) won just six of the 30 seats it contested. Hasina's Awami League was banned from participating. The parliament comprises 350 lawmakers, with 50 seats reserved for women. The Election Commission has yet to formally announce the final tally, which is expected soon; some sources indicate Saturday, though results continue to be updated. BNP officials said the party expected to form a government by Sunday. BNP leader Rahman is now set to become the country's next prime minister. Rahman, who faces huge challenges in reviving the country's economy, returned to Bangladesh in December after 17 years of self-imposed exile in the United Kingdom. The election featured a record number of parties, more than 50, and at least 2,000 candidates, many of them independents. Turnout stood at almost 60 percent of registered voters, well above the nearly 42 percent in the last election in 2024. More than 127 million people were eligible to cast their votes. The Election Commission also said some 48 million voters chose "Yes" while about 23 million said "No" in a referendum on constitutional reforms held alongside the election, though there was no official word on the final outcome at the time. Several hundred international observers monitored Thursday's voting. An interim government led by Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus, 85, has been in office since Hasina resigned following the July-August 2024 unrest and fled the country by helicopter to neighboring India. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli settler assaults in West Bank 'constitute criminal aggression': Hamas Iran Press TV Friday, 13 February 2026 4:42 PM Hamas has condemned latest assaults by Israeli settlers and the relentless army offensive across the occupied West Bank, as "systematic terrorist practices" run by the occupying regime. In a statement released on Friday, the Palestinian resistance movement said that assaults on Palestinian property, the intimidation of civilians, and the firing of live ammunition at them "constitute criminal aggression." Hamas said the regime of "war criminal" Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu "is systematically implementing a policy of ethnic cleansing against our Palestinian people, by unleashing heavily armed settlers, under the protection of the occupation army, to wreak havoc in the cities, villages and refugee camps of the occupied West Bank." The statement comes as settler violence and military offensive intensified across the occupied territories on Friday, leaving dozens of Palestinians injured, expanding arrests and raids, and forcing families in the northern Jordan Valley to dismantle their homes. A large-scale assault targeted the village of Talfit, south of Nablus, where settlers opened live fire at residents, wounding a young man in the thigh and causing additional injuries and bruises, according to reports. The Palestinian media reported that the total number of injured later rose to 54 after Israeli forces intervened alongside the settlers. A number of Palestinians were detained during the incident. Eyewitnesses said Israeli occupation soldiers provided protection for the attackers while firing live ammunition, stun grenades, and tear gas toward homes, causing widespread suffocation cases. Journalists were also targeted. Israeli occupation forces fired gas canisters and bullets directly at media crew covering the events. The violence spread to nearby Qusra, where armed Israeli settlers stormed the Ras al-Ain area the site of a new settlement outpost and attacked residents under military protection. Also across several parts of the central West Bank, Israeli occupation forces carried out a series of incursions and movement restrictions. Elsewhere in the Friday statement, Hamas called on the international community, the United Nations, the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to take "deterrent" measures against the "Judaization, displacement and annexation projects led by the fascist occupation regime." The resistance movement also urged Palestinians across the occupied territories to confront these "dangerous" policies and to activate all forms of "resistance" to thwart them. The Israeli regime and its settlers have markedly scaled up their brutal attacks on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank since October 2023, when the regime began a war of genocide on the Gaza Strip. Israel recently approved new rules aimed at strengthening Israeli control over the occupied West Bank, drawing condemnation from Palestinian authorities and resistance groups. The Palestinian Authority, in a statement on Sunday, called the decision "dangerous" and an "open Israeli attempt to legalize settlement expansion" and land confiscation. President Mahmoud Abbas's office called on the United States and the United Nations Security Council to intervene immediately. The rules will make it easier for Israeli settlers to buy land in the occupied West Bank and give Israeli authorities stronger powers to enforce laws on Palestinians in the area The West Bank is among the areas that Palestinians seek for a future independent state, along with Gaza and occupied East al-Quds. Much of the West Bank is now under direct Israeli military control, with extremely limited Palestinian self-rule in some areas, governed by the Western-backed Palestinian Authority. Palestinian resistance groups, including Hamas and Islamic Jihad, have also denounced the expansionist policy, holding the United States and countries that have normalized relations with Israel responsible for enabling or failing to prevent the consequences of such decisions. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Romania and Luxembourg - committed to enhance cooperation in the field of European defence and security Romania - Ministry of National Defence Press release No. 32 13.02.2026 On Friday, February 13th, Minister of National Defence, Radu Miruta, had a meeting with the Minister of Defence of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Yuriko Backes, as part of the Munich Security Conference. The dialogue, which has become an annual tradition within the international conference, aimed to enhance the Romanian-Luxembourgish defence cooperation, both within allied context and from the perspective of the joint contributions to European Union initiatives regarding the consolidation of defence industry. The two officials discussed recent developments in the security environment, with focus on the regional implications of the war in Ukraine and the strategic role of the Black Sea region in the Euro-Atlantic security architecture. The strategic relevance of the transatlantic relationship was also emphasized. Minister Miruta commended the contribution of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg to strengthening the allied deterrence and defence posture, highlighting its participation with forces in the NATO Battle Group Romania deployed to Cincu, as well as its involvement in other Allied projects run in Romania. The meeting reconfirmed the favourable evolution of the Romanian-Luxembourgish relationship and the shared vision regarding the need for a closer European cooperation, capable of generating credible capabilities, stimulating innovation and strengthening the continent's security, in full compliance with the Euro-Atlantic commitments. The Press Office NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Minister of National Defence, Head of Romanian delegation at the Munich Security Conference Romania - Ministry of National Defence Press release No. 31 13.02.2026 Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, Radu Miruta, will participate, between February 13th-15th, in the Munich Security Conference (MSC), together with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Oana-Silvia Toiu, and the General Director of the Romanian National Cyber Security Directorate, Dan Cimpean. The activities of the Munich Security Conference are guided by five program areas - Defence, Global Order, Human Security, Sustainability and Technology - which reflect the complexity of current security challenges and the need for coordinated international responses. The agenda of this year's edition includes topical themes on transatlantic security, enhancing European defence cooperation, innovation and new technologies that impact the military, as well as adapting international cooperation instruments to new strategic realities. As part of the conference, the Minister of National Defence will participate in plenary sessions and thematic meetings dedicated to cooperation within NATO and the European Union, as well as in bilateral meetings with counterparts and officials from allied and partner states, to discuss topics of common interest regarding regional security, strengthening the deterrence and defence posture on NATO's Eastern Flank, as well as continuing support for partners affected by the consequences of the war in Ukraine. Participation in the Munich Security Conference reflects Romania's commitment to actively contribute to the international dialogue on security and to promote solutions based on cooperation, respect for international law and the strengthening of transatlantic relations. The Press Office NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address High-level meetings and consolidated commitments to defence, in Brussels Romania - Ministry of National Defence Press release No. 30 13.02.2026 On Thursday, February 12th, Minister of National Defence, Radu Miruta, participated in the Meeting of NATO Ministers of Defence, held at the Alliance Headquarters, in Brussels. During the talks, the minister consistently supported the fact that Romania's defence industry must be integrated into international production and cooperation chains, as part of the consolidation of the Euro-Atlantic industrial base. Our country has initiated, in this regard, concrete steps to ramp up domestic industrial capacities by using European instruments, such as SAFE. Thus, resources have been allocated to relaunch the activity of some domestic armament factories in order to build partnerships with technology companies, jointly manufacture equipment necessary to the Romanian Armed Forces and restore strategic industrial skills. The ministerial meeting agenda included two sessions - the North Atlantic Council (NAC), dedicated to deterrence and collective defence, and the NATO-Ukraine Council (NUC), with the participation of Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. During the North Atlantic Council session, ministers analyzed the implementation status of the commitments undertaken at the NATO Summit in The Hague in 2025, and measures to strengthen the allied defence posture. Minister Miruta reaffirmed Romania's commitment to gradually increase the defence budget until 2035, highlighting the estimated allocation of 2.7% of GDP for this year. "Romania remains a responsible and committed ally. We support the gradual increase of defence budgets and the consolidation of the European and Euro-Atlantic industrial base. Investments in industry and in modern, interoperable capabilities are essential for collective defence and for our role within the Alliance," the Minister of National Defence declared. The debates highlighted the need to accelerate the development of modern technologies and achieve the capability targets, as well as the role of defence investments in revitalizing national industries and creating jobs, thus contributing to economic and technological resilience. The strategic importance of the Black Sea region for Euro-Atlantic security was also emphasized. In this regard, the minister highlighted the need to consolidate the allied presence and develop initiatives dedicated to the Eastern Flank. "The strengthening of the allied presence and the development of initiatives such as Eastern Sentry are essential for strengthening the deterrence and defence posture on the Eastern Flank and for ensuring long-term stability," Minister Miruta stressed. Within the NATO-Ukraine Council, the discussions focused on coordinating Allied support for Ukraine, the participating states reaffirming the direct link between its security and the stability of the Eastern Flank. As part of the meeting, the Romanian official participated in the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) Meeting, where he highlighted Romania's constant contribution both within multinational initiatives and through bilateral approaches, as well as the importance of predictable long-term support. The Minister of National Defence also participated in the signing ceremony of the Letter of Intent (LOI) on multinational approaches to military airworthiness in crisis or conflict situations, an initiative aimed at increasing the interoperability, resilience and readiness level of the participating air forces. The Press Office NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address READOUT: Ranking Member Shaheen, Senators Wicker, Murphy, Kelly, Gallego and Congressman Himes Meeting with Bosnian Presidency Member Denis Becirovic and High Representative Christian Schmidt Senate Foreign Relations Committee Published: February 13, 2026 MUNICH, GERMANY -- Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Roger Wicker (R-MS), Chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, along with Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Congressman Jim Himes (D-CT), met with Denis Becirovic, member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Christian Schmidt, High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the sidelines of the 2026 Munich Security Conference. Ranking Member Shaheen reaffirmed her strong support for Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty, territorial integrity and multi-ethnic character. The Senator expressed deep concern over Milorad Dodik's continued secessionist rhetoric and illegal actions that threaten the Dayton Peace Agreement and regional stability. She underscored the importance of continued U.S. and international engagement, including support for democratic institutions and the rule of law, to ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina. She committed to conduct oversight of the implementation of her Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act to ensure deeper U.S. engagement with Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region. Importantly, Ranking Member Shaheen underscored her commitment to press the Trump Administration to reimpose sanctions on Mr. Dodik and those who undermine the Dayton Peace Agreement, which is a mandatory authority included in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Albares defends a strong Europe and a just peace in Ukraine and Palestine in Munich Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs PRESS RELEASE 017 Spain will continue to support Ukraine for as long as necessary The minister pointed to the Palestinian Authority as a guarantee of security in the region 13 FEB 26 The Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, Jose Manuel Albares, took part in the Munich Security Conference on Friday, 13 February, to defend the values of democracy and a strong and sovereign Europe. The minister insisted that, given the deterioration of security in Europe and the world, Europeans must assume their responsibility, something that Spain shares and which is why it advocates for a strong Europe. The common defence of the European Union through a European army is vital for our stability and prosperity. Albares also met with his Ukrainian counterpart, to whom he conveyed Spain's commitment to peace in Ukraine. Spain will continue to support Ukraine in its right to defend itself, with a new package of more than 1 billion last year. It will also provide humanitarian aid, energy equipment and support for EU measures to increase pressure on Russia. Challenges for the reconstruction of Gaza The minister also participated in a panel focused on the reconstruction of Gaza. In his speech, he presented Spain's vision on the steps to be taken for the successful implementation of the United States Peace Plan, a valid framework for achieving the two-State solution, which Spain has always defended. Albares stressed that a stable cessation of hostilities requires removing existing restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid, establishing an International Stabilisation Force under the umbrella of the United Nations, and involving the Palestinian Authority. The latter is key to ensuring security in the region and necessary in any governing structure for Gaza. The minister pointed out that 'Spain will not support separate and parallel authorities or governments in Gaza and the West Bank'. The minister also reiterated Spain's support for Egypt's initiative to hold an international conference. This proposal makes sense in a context where there are multiple visions for the reconstruction of Gaza and a need to reconcile them in order to move towards peace. Albares held various bilateral meetings with his counterparts from the United Arab Emirates, Denmark and Qatar, and also met with the CEOs of companies such as AMP Terminals, Schwarz Group, Airbus and Qualcomm Technology. In addition, the minister also met with the Secretary General of Amnesty International and the Deputy Spokesperson for the SPD in the Bundestag. The minister took advantage of his attendance at the Munich Security Conference to meet with Spanish and international media outlets. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia's Next-Door 'EU Neighbors' Secretly Plotting to Obtain Nukes - Reports Sputnik News 20260213 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - European countries bordering Russia have secretly begun discussing the possibility of developing their own "nuclear deterrent" capabilities for the first time since the Cold War, Bloomberg reported Friday, citing sources familiar with the talks between certain governments and militaries. The discussions are taking place bilaterally and trilaterally among closely aligned nationsmany of which host US military bases. According to sources, the countries involved are proceeding with caution, carefully calibrating how their actions might be perceived by Russia. The talks are so closely held, Bloomberg reports, that they occur at a military level so high even some ministers may not know of their existence. The participating countries recognize that the development of a nuclear arsenal would require high costs and potential violations of international agreements, as well as accepting the possibility of being attacked in return for agreeing to defend an ally. Experts interviewed by Bloomberg believe that the majority of European countries would not be able to afford replacing US nuclear assets with their own. For instance, the United Kingdom and France spend nearly $12 billion per year together to maintain their arsenals, that's more than half of Sweden's annual defense budget. In March 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron claimed that Russia had become a threat to France and Europe. Citing Washington's shift in its stance on Ukraine and its role within NATO, he called for a European debate on extending France's nuclear umbrella to cover the entire EU. The sentiment was quickly echoed by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who urged Europe to enter an arms race with Moscow. The Kremlin pushed back sharply. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed Macron's remarks as "extremely confrontational" and riddled with inaccuraciespointing out, in particular, their failure to acknowledge NATO's military infrastructure steadily advancing toward Russia's western borders. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Customers check out cars at a Mitsubishi dealer in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo by VnExpress/Pham Trung The Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA) reported that its member companies sold 36,875 vehicles in January, a 95% surge from a year earlier. Passenger cars accounted for the lions share of the gain, with 26,102 units sold, according to data released by VAMA on Wednesday. Commercial vehicles contributed 10,312 units, while special-purpose vehicles totaled 461 units. Analysts pointed to a low-base effect as a key factor behind the strong showing. Last January, the second half of the month coincided with the preparation period leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year), when Vietnamese consumers typically rein in spending on big-ticket items like automobiles. The recovery was evenly distributed between domestic assembly and imports. Locally produced completely knocked-down vehicles recorded sales of 18,034 units, up 98% year-on-year, while fully built-up imports reached 18,841, rising 93%. The close gap signals a solid revival in both local manufacturing and imported vehicle supply. Ford Vietnam claimed the top spot among VAMA brands with 5,121 units sold, edging out Mitsubishis 5,039 and Toyota Vietnams 4,852. THACO-distributed brands rounded out the top five, with THACO Mazda at 3,515 units and THACO Kia at 3,487. The frontrunners drew strength from strong lineups in SUV, crossover, MPV and pickup segments. Top-selling models highlighted sustained consumer appetite for high-ground-clearance and multi-purpose vehicles. The Mazda CX-5 led with 2,104 units, followed by Mitsubishi Xforce at 1,666. Ford's pickup and SUV lineup posted strong sales, including the Ranger at 1,520, Territory 1,545 and Everest 1,390. This indicates an ongoing preference for high-ground-clearance vehicles offering ample interior space suited to family use and multi-purpose needs. The dominance of Japanese and U.S. brands in the top ranks points to heightened competition in Vietnam's mid-to-upper mass-market segments. VAMA data, however, captures only a part of the overall market. Several non-member brands, including Audi, BYD, Jaguar Land Rover, Geely, GAC, Lynk & Co, Omoda & Jaecoo, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Subaru, Volkswagen and Volvo, do not release public sales figures. Hyundai Thanh Cong separately reported 5,872 units on February 10, while VinFast, a dominant player in electric vehicles, has yet to disclose January data, leaving the full market picture incomplete. Even so, the sharp growth posted by VAMA members points to improving market conditions, buoyed by steadier consumer confidence, a pickup in travel and logistics activity, and a more supportive economic environment. Early 2026 data suggest that while seasonal factors may cause monthly swings, the underlying trajectory indicates recovery, aided by last year's low base and firm domestic demand. African Union Calls on Israel to Withdraw Its Recognition of Somaliland Sputnik News 20260213 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The African Union called on Israel to withdraw its recognition of the self-proclaimed Republic of Somaliland, according to a communique published following a meeting of the AU Peace and Security Council. "Acting under Article 7 of its Protocol, the Peace and Security Council ... Reiterates its strong condemnation and rejection of the unilateral recognition of the 'so-called Republic of Somaliland' by Israel in the strongest terms possible, and calls for its immediate revocation," the communique read on Thursday. On December 26, Israel officially recognized Somaliland, a partially recognized state that seceded from Somalia in the 1990s. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President of Somaliland Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi signed a joint declaration of recognition. Thus, Israel became the first country in the world to recognize Somaliland. Somalia de facto ceased to exist as a unified state in 1991 following the fall of dictator Siad Barre, with Puntland and Somaliland declaring independence. The international community recognizes the federal government of Somalia, which controls the capital city of Mogadishu and parts of the country. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Actions to Implement President Trump's Vision for Venezuelan Oil US Department of State Media Note Office of the Spokesperson February 13, 2026 The Trump Administration is rapidly implementing President Trump's vision to reopen and develop Venezuela's oil industry for the shared benefit of the American and Venezuelan people. Thanks to President Trump's leadership, the United States has already issued several general licenses at record speed for oil and gas companies to make unprecedented investments in Venezuela's energy infrastructure. On January 29, Treasury's Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC) issued Venezuela General License (GL) 46, which authorizes firms incorporated in the United States to market Venezuelan oil to buyers around the world, and largely in the United States. Payment must be made on commercially reasonable terms - in contrast to the heavily discounted prices for which the corrupt Maduro regime sold oil - and must be paid into an account in the United States established and with oversight by the Departments of State and Treasury. We will assure these funds are spent transparently and for the benefit of the Venezuelan people. On February 3, OFAC issued Venezuela GL 47, which authorizes firms to sell U.S.-origin diluent - a product essential for oil production - to Venezuela. This action provides significant benefit both to the Venezuelan people and to the U.S. economy. On February 10, OFAC issued Venezuela GL 48, which authorizes U.S. firms to provide goods, equipment, and services for the Venezuelan oil and gas industry. By utilizing this GL, U.S. firms will play a critical role in repairing and upgrading Venezuela's oil and gas infrastructure for the benefit of the Venezuelan people. On February 13, OFAC issued Venezuela GL 50, which authorizes certain firms in Venezuela to expand their operations, including pursing additional upstream oil and gas projects. On February 13, OFAC issued Venezuela GL 49, which authorizes oil and gas firms to negotiate and enter into contingent contracts with Venezuela to invest in upstream oil and gas projects. The Trump Administration will subsequently review for approval the proposed contracts to ensure they advance the interests of the American and Venezuelan people. These investments will lay the foundation for the modernization of the Venezuelan oil and gas industry, increase production, and shore up U.S. supply lines in our own hemisphere. Venezuela holds tremendous economic potential, but years of instability, corruption, and economic mismanagement have limited the nation's growth and prosperity. These general licenses invite American and other aligned companies to play a constructive role in supporting economic recovery and responsible investment. Additional authorizations may also be issued as necessary in furtherance of President Trump's vision. The United States is committed to restoring Venezuela's prosperity, safety, and security for the benefit of both the American and Venezuelan people. With renewed cooperation and sound economic stewardship, Venezuela can reemerge as a stable, prosperous partner whose citizens benefit from its vast natural wealth and strengthened ties with the United States. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Delivering Priority Medical Supplies for the Venezuelan People US Department of State Press Statement Thomas "Tommy" Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson February 13, 2026 At President Trump's direction, today the United States airlifted an initial 25 palletsover 6,000 kilogramsof priority medical supplies to the Venezuelan people as part of the administration's three-phase plan for Venezuela's stabilization, recovery, and transition. The interim Ministry of Health will distribute these critical medications nationwide to Venezuelans who require urgent medical care. This is the first shipment of a significant effort to surge critical medical supplies to Venezuela. This is America First Foreign Assistance in action: we continue to deliver swift, stabilizing support in our hemisphere, with clear results and full accountability to the U.S. taxpayer. These critical medications will help stabilize Venezuela's health system, address critical medical needs, reduce preventable disease, and save lives. This assistance also supports Venezuela's longer-term recovery. Stabilizing the health system will attract responsible private sector investment and help Venezuela move toward greater self-sufficiencyconsistent with our approach of promoting trade, not aid. The United States continues to work with Venezuela's interim authorities to execute our three-phased plan to support Venezuela's economic recovery and political reconciliation. This delivery advances the country's transition toward a stable, prosperous, and democratic Venezuela that serves as a market for American goods and innovation in our region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Department of Public Information . News and Media Division . New York 13 February 2026 The following is a near-verbatim transcript of today's briefing by Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General. ** Programming Note It's Friday. Good afternoon. A programming note, there will be a stakeout at 1 p.m. today by Ambassador Ibrahim Olabi, Permanent Representative of Syria to the United Nations; we will end in time. This is his first stakeout so please be there. Thank you. ** Ramadan Message In a message marking the start of the holy month of Ramadan, the Secretary-General says this month is a sacred period of reflection and prayer, representing a noble vision of hope and peace. Yet, for too many members of the human family, this remains distant. From Afghanistan to Yemen, from Gaza to Sudan and beyond, people continue to suffer from conflict, hunger, displacement and discrimination. In these difficult and divided times, the Secretary-General calls on all to heed Ramadan's enduring message, to bridge divides, deliver help and hope to those in need, and safeguard the rights and dignity of every person. ** Secretary-General/AI Also, yesterday afternoon we issued a statement by the Secretary-General following the appointment of the members of the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence that approval was given by the General Assembly. Mr. Guterres noted that the 40 members were selected from more than 2,600 candidates, after independent review by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), our own Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies, and UNESCO. In a world where AI is racing ahead, the Secretary-General said, this Panel will provide what's been missing, which is rigorous, independent scientific insight that enables all Member States, regardless of their technological capacity, to engage on an equal footing. The Secretary-General added that he is confident in their work and will inform collective dialogue on AI, and support decisions based on evidence and solidarity. ** African Union/Secretary-General The Secretary-General meanwhile is continuing his activities in Addis Ababa at the African Union. He started the day by meeting with the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. Throughout the day, the Secretary-General had bilateral meetings with several African leaders. He also met with the incoming Chairperson of the African Union, the President of Angola, Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco, and he also met separately with the outcoming Chairperson of the AU, President of Burundi, Evariste Ndayishimiye. We've have received readouts of all the Secretary-General's meetings which we've shared with you. A short while ago, he took part in the second Italy-Africa summit. In his remarks, he said this summit sends a clear message that cooperation must be built on mutual respect and trust, and that partnerships must be about delivering on Agenda 2030 and the African Union's Agenda 2063. Tomorrow, the Secretary-General will address the opening session of the thirty-ninth African Union summit. You have received embargoed copies of his remarks, and throughout the day, he will continue to have bilateral meetings and he will also have a press conference, we will share all of that with you to keep you busy on Saturday. ** South Sudan Moving to South Sudan, where our peacekeeping mission there says they are gravely concerned by the deteriorating security situation following reports of renewed fighting between the South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People's Liberation Army-in Opposition (SPLA-IO) that is taking place in Unity State, including shelling in Pakur and Tong last night. UNMISS calls for involved parties to cease hostilities immediately and reminds all armed actors of their obligations to protect civilians as well as civilian infrastructure. Meanwhile, peacekeepers are maintaining a heightened protective posture, with intensified patrols in and around the Bentiu internally displaced persons' camp, that is in Unity State. UNMISS is also engaging with all relevant stakeholders to reduce tensions and in effort to restore calm. ** Sudan And just north of that, in Sudan, our humanitarian colleagues warn that a sharp increase in drone attacks across the Kordofan region is endangering civilians, it's damaging critical infrastructure and it's deepening already massive humanitarian needs. Casualties have been reported in several locations. Over the past week, North Kordofan State recorded more than a dozen attacks in and around the towns of El Obeid, Bara, Rahad and Um Rawaba. Commercial vehicles, telecommunications infrastructure and key transport routes have been affected, disrupting humanitarian movements and supply chains. In South Kordofan, suspected drone strikes hit health facilities in the capital, Kadugli, and in Kuweik town, reportedly killing four medical workers, injuring more than 20 people, and of course making a fragile health system even more fragile. The violence is triggering new displacement. Many of those fleeing their homes need urgent shelter, they need food, they need healthcare and they need protection. We and our partners continue to deliver assistance where possible, including food distributions in El Obeid. However, the humanitarian situation in Dilling and Kadugli continues to deteriorate. Rapid, safe, unhindered and sustained humanitarian access is essential for us to scale up our response. Once again, we call for the protection of civilians, we call for the protection of health facilities and we call for the protection of humanitarian infrastructure, in line with international humanitarian law. Our colleagues at OCHA also need increased funding to support displaced families across the Kordofan region and Sudan as a whole. ** Syria/Security Council This morning back here at the Security Council, Claudio Cordone, briefed the Security Council for the first time in his new role as Deputy Special Envoy for Syria. He's updating Council members on developments on the ground, and reaffirmed our commitment to supporting the success of the political transition for all Syrians. In New York, Mr. Cordone met with Syria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, he met with Council members and key stakeholders, and he is expected to hold further discussions with officials in Damascus as he will be traveling there shortly. On the humanitarian front, Lisa Doughten, the Director of Financing and Outreach for OCHA, briefed on the humanitarian situation. She said that there is some progress in Syria, however some 700,000 people remain severely food insecure in Syria, adding that humanitarian teams are prioritizing life-saving assistance, mine clearance, and strengthening essential services while advancing recovery plans for 2026. ** Yemen A quick note from Yemen where our friends from the World Food Programme tell us that in Yemen in order to prevent food loss and waste, they are facilitating an exceptional one off distribution of safe, quality assured pulses and cooking oil from its warehouses in Sana'a and Hudaydah to over 2.6 million people in areas in the north of Yemen who so desperately need assistance. In total, 7,836 metric tons of food stocks will be distributed. As I said, this is an exceptional, one-off action; WFP's pause in the north remains in place. ** Occupied Palestinian Territory Turning to Gaza. Our humanitarian colleagues there on the ground tell us that today, our teams attempted to coordinate eight humanitarian missions, five of which were fully facilitated. The three other missions, including one to reach a wastewater treatment plant in Khan Younis, were denied by the Israeli authorities. The missions that were successfully carried out collected food and medical supplies from Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem and monitored humanitarian cargo at the Kissufim and Kerem Shalom loading platforms. Four months since the ceasefire agreement came into effect, the humanitarian scale-up has saved countless lives and pushed back famine in Gaza. Many people there, however, remain living in extremely harsh conditions, and the humanitarian response continues to face significant obstacles, especially to the entry of goods and the ability of humanitarian partners to operate. Almost 1.5 million people, that's two in every three Palestinians in Gaza, are staying in 1,000 displacement sites across the Strip; those sites are often overcrowded, and in tents that offer no privacy and little protection from the weather. Hundreds of families take shelter in damaged buildings which are themselves at risk of collapse. Our colleagues continue to provide tents and tarpaulins as well as mattresses, clothes and other items, reaching more than 85,000 families in January alone. But these items offer limited protection and their lifespan is short. To provide more durable solutions, restrictions on the entry of essential construction materials and equipment must be lifted, as we said to you yesterday. Our partners working on water, sanitation and hygiene this week distributed about 20,000 cubic metres of drinking water every day through more than 2,000 distribution points across Gaza. ** Haiti And more grim news from Haiti, where our colleagues report a surge in the recruitment and use of children by armed groups, as violence and mass displacement continue in the country, that's what UNICEF is telling us in a report just published. Child recruitment increased by around 200 per cent in 2025, 200 per cent in one year. That underscores the deep protection crisis facing children in Haiti. Our humanitarian colleagues note that children recruited or influenced by armed groups face grave violations of their rights, including physical and psychological violence. More than 1.4 million people are internally displaced and over half of them are children. They are exposed to armed violence, extreme poverty and disruptions in access to essential services such as education. ** World Radio Day We have two quizzes for you today. This is an International Day quiz, not a financial quiz. In August 1981, MTV first came on the air. What song did they open with? [Journalists: Video Killed the Radio Star song.] Okay. Who sang that? Buggles, exactly. Why is it important? Exactly, it's World Radio Day. So, MTV did not actually fully kill the radio star. We love radio. More than a medium, radio is a pillar of freedom of expression. Under this year's theme, "Artificial Intelligence is a Tool, Not a Voice," Khaled el-Enany, Director General for UNESCO, stresses the need to ensure that AI serves the public, while radio continues to inform with integrity, empathy and a human voice. ** Financial Contribution We have money today. I am going to read you a quote and you are going to tell me what country they are referring to: "How can you govern a country which has 246 varieties of cheese?" Exactly. Charles de Gaulle said that about France. So, we say thank merci to our friends in Paris for having paid their money in full. We are now up to 66. On that note, we will go to Benno and Naureen if she has a question. You yield to Edie, to the gentlewoman from the Associated Press. [...] Let's go. ** Questions and Answers Question : Okay. Thank you, Steph. Two questions. First of all, on the Secretary-General at the African Union, we know he has certainly raised Sudan in all of his bilateral meetings. But is there any broader, wider meeting expected in Addis? Because there are so many key players there on Sudan. Spokesman : I'm not aware of a specific Sudan meeting that the Secretary-General will participate in, at this point. As you said, Sudan will be raised a lot of his discussions. Tomorrow will be a very heavy day for him on bilateral, so we'll keep you updated. Question : And secondly, on this one-off distribution in Yemen, is it right to assume that basically because the World Food Program is not distributing aid anymore in north to Houthi controlled areas that this is sort of the emptying of their warehouses? Spokesman : No, I mean, it's not an emptying of their warehouse in the sense that this is a pause, right? That that we had talked about a pause and a reconfiguration of how we distribute aid in the north because, as you all know, the Houthis made it very difficult for us to operate. But obviously, we strive to maintain intermittent contact on a range of humanitarian issues. The one-off will start in the coming weeks, so it's not something that will start in the coming days. And, obviously, anytime there is a window for us to assist and to aid safely based on our principles, we will do so there and anywhere else it is needed. Ephrem, sorry. Did you have a question since you did win, you won at least two cheeses out of 246. Question : Yes. Thank you so much, Steph. On the recent attacks on the Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, the UN Human Rights Office Spokesman this morning said that the human rights office is very worried, very concerned that UN officials, independent experts and judicial officials are increasingly subjected to personal attacks, threats, misinformation that distracts from the serious human rights issues. I'm asking, if you're seeing eye to eye with the human rights office regarding the recent attacks on Ms. Albanese. Is this how you see it as well? Spokesman : You know, we know that miss Albanese has been placed on unilateral sanctions by the US. We have made it clear to the US authorities and to others that special rapporteurs are considered expert on missions for the UN, which means that they are covered by the convention on the privileges and immunities of United Nations. UN officials across the board face increasingly personal attacks, whether online or in real life, and that remains a concern. And in that sense, we of course share the concern of the High Commissioner's office. People can disagree. People can criticize, but threats are unacceptable on any target. Question : Just a quick follow-up, because I was reading so many, you know, a lot of the news from the Middle East in which you are being portrayed as washing your hands off Ms. Albanese, especially with your answer that "sometimes you disagree with the things she says. You're not sure if she's antisemitic or not. You're studying her speeches." Can you give us one example? Spokesman : Listen. I used a lot of words yesterday, you know, and people on different sides of the issue will use our words to strengthen their own arguments. What remains clear for us is that Ms. Albanese, like all special rapporteurs, are independent experts named by the Human Rights Council. If Member States have an issue with any special rapporteur, that needs to be addressed through the Human Rights Council, which is made up of member States in which they participate in. And that's why we've always said that member States should participate in the work of the Human Rights Council. We've also been firm defenders of the concept of special rapporteurs who are a very important part of the human rights architecture. It is not for me to say we agree or we disagree, and sometimes we agree, sometimes we don't agree. That's a fact. We're all, you know, we all as I said yesterday, we all have our own lanes. We all have our own mandates. The Secretary-General's own mandate is very separate from that of special rapporteurs. We also firmly believe that all special rapporteurs, as I've just said, are covered in their work as special rapporteurs, are covered by the privileges and immunities of the United Nations and that no one, no UN official should be subject to personal attacks, whether in real life or whether online. It's like many things in this organization, it's complicated, right? And I think for those of us who work here and for those of you who've covered the UN, it's complicated. It's complicated for you to explain it to your readers, but we trust that you will do so, Ephrem. Madam? Question : Just as a follow-up, we both agree that facts matter, right? Spokesman : Yes. We can. Yes. We, but I'm feeling, I'm walking. I don't know what path you're leading me on to, but I will go there with you a little bit. Question : Francesca Albanese has been attacked and criticized over the past few months. And as you mentioned, she was sanctioned. But this last round of attack seems to be like a targeted campaign based on misinformation. There is a letter by current and former UN employees basically expressing alarm and condemning that officials, namely the French Foreign Minister and from also Germany and other countries, are attacking her on a video that was clearly doctored. I mean, the jump cuts in that video are laughable how bad that edit was. So, you made a statement yesterday. You just answered Ephrem. But I mean, would you change the nature of your statement yesterday based on the way the question was asked yesterday compared to that this video is actually doctored that was not [cross-talk] what she said? Spokesman : I've read the transcript of what she said, right? I've read it. Member States that make up this organization are free to express their concern or their support for UN officials. When it comes to special rapporteurs, if they have issues, whether positive ones or negative ones, these need to be addressed to the Human Rights Council. We have our own positions on the issues that all of these special rapporteurs cover. We've defended the concept and the architecture of special rapporteurs. We've also said that no special rapporteurs, including Ms. Albanese, should be subject to these to, you know, to personal and physical attacks or to sanctions. And we've made it clear that she and like other special rapporteurs are covered by privileges, immunities afforded to UN experts on mission, when they're doing their work as special rapporteurs. Question : Some actually are saying that this attack and campaign against her is akin to what happened to UNRWA because she calls out what is being committed in Gaza, crimes being committed in Gaza. Is it concerning to you and to the Secretary-General in this climate of deepfakes, AI generated videos, that this was a video that was edited and now is being, it's a disinformation campaign against her that this creates another environment that clouds the judgment of people when it comes and, like, public officials, like actually... [cross-talk] Spokesman : I mean, I think we have been, it is clear to you as journalists, it's clear to us as UN officials that there has been a deluge of disinformation spread on what is going on in the Middle East, on what's going on in the war with Ukraine and Russia, what's going on in all of these conflicts. disinformation has become a weapon, and we try to fight against it. Naureen? Question : Thanks, Stephane. It's related to the announcement of the appointment of the panel for the independent inquiry into AI. Can you just clarify or was it ever mentioned who the panel will report to? Spokesman : Yes, it was clarified in the announcement yesterday. They will share their reports with the Secretary-General, but I will get you the exact reporting lines. Sorry. Benno? Question : Thank you, Steph. So, the German Chancellor Mertz today opened the security conference in Munich, and he said the international order as flawed as it's been, even in its heyday no longer exists in that form. Does the Secretary-General agree with that assessment? Spokesman : Listen, I'm not just like when Heads of Governments, Head of the States, or ministers make statements here, we're not going to comment on every statement that is made. For us, the Charter remains as relevant as ever. The Universal Declaration remains as relevant as ever. That being said, and this is especially true for the system as a whole, it needs to change. It needs to be reformed on the basis of the international law framework that already exists. Madam? Question : I am [phonetic] Nashratarsh Yana Chaudhry. I'm the managing editor of Thikana newspaper. What do you think of the election held in Bangladesh of 12 February? Was it credible and fair in your opinion? Number one question. And number two question, what are your expectation from the upcoming Government to be led by BNP and Tarique Rahmani? Spokesman : Look, we were not observers to the elections, so it's not for us to give a grade, so to speak, if that's the intent of your question. What I can tell you that we of course, congratulate the people of Bangladesh for the holding of the elections yesterday, legislative elections and a referendum. The Secretary-General, as he does often after many elections, he encourages all political stakeholders to build on the momentum so as to strengthen national cohesion, uphold the democratic norms and the rule of law, ensuring the full enjoyment of human rights by all, and protecting minorities as the country advances its transition and pursues inclusive and sustainable reform. And for us, it's not what we expect of the Government as after any election. It's what the people expect of their Government. But we continue to be committed to supporting Bangladesh in its effort to build a peaceful and prosperous future. Namo, and then we'll... Question : Thank you, Stephane. On the new special envoy for Syria, will he be based in Syria? Spokesman : He is not the new special envoy for Syria. Question : The Deputy. Spokesman : He's the Deputy Envoy. So, he will be spending, I believe quite a bit of time in Damascus as well as [cross-talk] Question : I think, he'll be going soon. Will he... Spokesman : Yes. Question : Do you know, if he'll go to the Kurdish region, Rojava? Spokesman : You know, Namo, it is a fantastic question. You know what's going to happen in 23 minutes? Sorry, I'm getting confused here. I do not know. I will find out for you about the travel. Question : Okay, thank you. One last question on the Secretary-General has long emphasized the importance of full participation of women in society. In light of that, does he believe that Kurdish female fighters should be integrated into Syria's defence forces as part of the SDF integration. Spokesman : Okay, it's not for the of course, the Secretary-General's commitment to full participation of women in society as a whole, whether it's politics, whether its security remains unchanged. I think we will leave it to the discussions that are ongoing between the Government of Syria and the SDF [Syrian Democratic Forces] to work out those issues. Yes, sir. Question : Thank you, Stephane. A follow-up to Naureen's question about AI panel. With regards to the lightning speed in which the development of AI is going both by Government and private sector actors. What impact do you expect from recommendations and the work of the AI panel? And do you think they will be listened to? Spokesman : We very much hope they will be listened to. They will provide Member States, they'll provide the Secretariat with very sound advice. They'll provide this world at large. This is a panel that is representative of the world as a whole, and with an amazing, amazing brainpower, so to speak, or not even so to speak, just an amazing brainpower. And we very much hope that their recommendations will be listened to. Alex, and then we'll go to Iftikhar. Question : Thanks. Does the Secretary-General have any message on Valentine's Day? Spokesman : Make, yeah, make love not war. How about that? Okay. Iftikhar, if you can top that question? Question : My question is about our Secretary-General's message on Ramadan. Has he identified any country or territory where he will spend his traditional solidarity fast? Spokesman : Yes. There will be travels announced, and the Secretary-General is determined to continue a tradition he started if I'm correct when he was High Commissioner for Refugees. Gabriel. Question : Thanks, Steph. Since you said you read the transcript of Ms. Albanese's remarks in Doha, the comments that were falsely attributed to her that, quote, "Israel is a common enemy of humanity". Do you acknowledge that that was incorrect and she did not say that? Spokesman : We saw the initial media coverage. I think, it is important for all journalists, all politicians, and others to read the full transcript. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UNHCR seeks support for solutions as 5.4 million Afghans return since late 2023 UNHCR - United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Briefing notes This is a summary of what was said by Arafat Jamal, UNHCR Representative to Afghanistan - to whom quoted text may be attributed - at today's press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. 13 February 2026 GENEVA - UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, continues to observe significant numbers of Afghans returning or being forced to return from neighbouring countries in extremely difficult circumstances. So far this year, nearly 150,000 Afghans have returned from Iran and Pakistan. These arrivals come on top of already unprecedented returns - 2.9 million people in 2025, bringing the total to some 5.4 million since October 2023. The speed and scale of these returns have pushed Afghanistan deeper into crisis, as the country continues to face a deteriorating humanitarian and human rights situation - particularly for women and girls - a fragile economy, and recurring natural disasters. According to a recent World Bank report, the rapid population growth fuelled by the returns led to a 4 per cent decline in GDP per capita in 2025. The high number of returns already this year is concerning given the severity of winter, with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall across much of the country. Our recent survey of returnees highlights the scale of challenges they face. Just over half reported being able to find some form of work, even if informal. For women, this figure drops to less than a quarter. More than half of returnee families report having no civil documentation - for example, identity cards to prove who they are or where they are from - and more than 90 per cent are living on less than $5 a day. We are deeply concerned about the sustainability of these returns. While 5 per cent of returnees surveyed say they intend to leave Afghanistan again, more than 10 per cent know a relative or community member who has already left since returning. These decisions are not driven by a desire to leave, but by the reality that many are unable to rebuild a viable and dignified life. There are pockets of hope. We have seen that the socio-economic profile of returnees is evolving, with those who returned in 2025 generally having higher levels of education and labour market participation. With sustainable livelihood opportunities, returnees can apply their skills and experience and contribute to stabilization. This year, our focus is on supporting the reintegration of returnees. We have the access, presence and experience over the last four decades in Afghanistan to deliver the assistance that communities say they most need, including protection services, housing and livelihood support, particularly for women. With other UN agencies and partners, UNHCR is closely monitoring the regional situation, where asylum space continues to shrink and regulated migration pathways narrow. Afghans increasingly feel compelled to undertake dangerous onward journeys. We remain prepared to respond to population movements into Afghanistan, while also continuing to call on States to uphold access to asylum, protect and assist Afghan refugees, and ensure no one is returned to where their rights and freedoms are at risk. With this dire humanitarian situation and rapidly increasing population, additional support is urgently needed in 2026 to scale up assistance and invest in reintegration, allowing people to rebuild their lives with dignity, hope and stability. For 2026, UNHCR needs $216 million to support displaced people and returnees across Afghanistan. Our response is currently just 8 per cent funded. This is a critical moment to act while there is an opportunity to find long-term solutions and resolve displacement for Afghan returnees in their homeland, often after years or decades in exile. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Violence no child can outrun - South Sudan's escalating crisis UNICEF Remarks This is a summary of what was said by UNICEF Representative (a.i) to South Sudan, Obia Achieng, to whom quoted text may be attributed - at today's press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. 13 February 2026 GENEVA/JUBA, 13 February 2026 - "Since late December 2025, a devastating escalation of violence has swept across northern and central parts of South Sudan. At least 280,000 people have been displaced in Jonglei State alone. The majority are women and children. For some, this is the second or third time they have been forced to run. "They fled with nothing. They are sleeping in displacement camps left over from the not-so-distant civil war - camps where there are barely any services. Others are out in the open, in remote locations, with nothing at all. We believe 53 per cent of those displaced are children. "Let me say that again. More than half of the people caught in this escalating crisis are children. These children face killing and maiming. Recruitment into armed groups. Separation from their families. Gender-based violence. And profound psychological distress that will mark them for years. "The health system is collapsing around them. Eleven health facilities have been attacked and looted since the fighting escalated. Nutrition centres that were keeping children alive have been forced to close. "This week, in Bor Hospital in South Sudan, our team met a young mother called Aheu Deng. She was breastfeeding her two-year-old son. Aheu told us that when the fighting started, her family stayed at home for over a week. They kept cattle. They farmed. They sold crops. That was their life. "All of that is gone. "She fled into thick bush with her child. When she finally reached Bor, she had no milk. She could not afford to buy any. She was exhausted. She was in pain. And she was, visibly, still in shock. Aheu is one of the lucky ones. She reached a hospital. Most have not. "Cholera cases since January have climbed to 479 countrywide - 125 of those in Jonglei alone - with treatment centres overstretched and critically under-resourced. "An estimated 825,000 children across Jonglei, Unity, and Eastern Equatoria are now at risk of acute malnutrition. "And here is the number that should keep us all awake: a child with acute malnutrition, without treatment, is 12 times more likely to die. "Pregnant and lactating mothers like Aheu are increasingly cut off from any maternal or newborn care. "And the humanitarian infrastructure that could help these families is itself under attack. "On 3 February, an MSF-supported hospital in Lankien was bombed. Its warehouse and essential medical supplies completely destroyed. "Across the conflict zone, humanitarian assets and supplies have been looted, such as vehicles, food, communication equipment. Access remains severely constrained, especially in non-Government-controlled areas. "Despite all of this, UNICEF is delivering. "We were the first UN agency to get supplies in after the violence renewed. In partnership with other agencies and NGOs, we reached Akobo for the first time and delivered 2.5 metric tons of emergency health and nutrition supplies. "We are responding to the cholera outbreak in Duk County. We are running primary healthcare, nutrition, water and sanitation, and child protection programmes in Eastern Equatoria and Unity. "And in Bor, UNICEF-supported nutrition centres are treating children like Aheu's son - screening them, providing ready-to-use therapeutic food, pulling them back from the edge. "But these are isolated windows. They cannot match the scale of what is unfolding in the country. "We need an immediate cessation of hostilities. "We need rapid, unhindered humanitarian access across all affected areas. "Hundreds of thousands of children are depending on it. Mothers like Aheu are depending on it. "Thank you." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gaza: Lifesaving aid operations continue despite restrictions 13 February 2026 - Humanitarians in the Gaza Strip continue to face impediments in their efforts to deliver lifesaving aid to the population. The United Nations said that its teams attempted to coordinate eight humanitarian missions on Friday and five were fully facilitated. The remaining three - which included a mission to reach a water treatment plant in Khan Younis - were denied by Israel. Saving lives, beating famine The successful missions collected food and medical supplies from the Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem crossing. Teams also monitored humanitarian cargo at the Kissufim and Kerem Shalom loading platforms. Speaking in New York, UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric noted that four months have passed since the ceasefire agreement came into effect in Gaza, and the humanitarian scale-up has saved countless lives and pushed back famine. Yet many people are still "living in extremely harsh conditions, and the humanitarian response continues to face significant obstacles, especially to the entry of goods and the ability of humanitarian partners to operate," he added. Durable housing solutions needed Almost 1.5 million people - or two in three Palestinians in Gaza - are staying in 1,000 displacement sites across the Strip and in tents. Hundreds of families also have sheltered in damaged buildings, which are at risk of collapse. Humanitarians continue to provide the population with tents, tarpaulins, mattresses, clothes and other items - reaching more than 85,000 families alone in January. "But these items offer limited protection and their lifespan is short," Mr. Dujarric said. "To provide more durable solutions, restrictions on the entry of essential construction materials and equipment must be lifted." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Like a scene out of a horror movie': UN report warns of war crimes in Sudan's El Fasher 13 February 2026 - Paramilitary forces in Sudan unleashed "a wave of intense violence...shocking in its scale and brutality" during their final offensive to capture the besieged city of El Fasher last October, committing atrocities that amount to war crimes and possible crimes against humanity, according to a report released on Friday by the UN human rights office, OHCHR. "Persistent impunity fuels continued cycles of violence," said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk, calling for credible investigations and accountability for perpetrators. Sudan's national army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia have been fighting each other for control of the country for almost three years. The new report details widespread atrocities committed during the RSF assault on the besieged city of El Fasher in North Darfur. The RSF and allied Arab militia carried out mass killings and summary executions, sexual violence, abductions for ransom, torture and ill-treatment, detention, disappearances, pillage and the use of children in hostilities. Many attacks were directed against civilians and persons hors de combat based on ethnicity or perceived affiliation. Documented atrocities Based on hundreds of interviews with victims and witnesses in late 2025, OHCHR documented more than 6,000 killings in the first three days of the RSF offensive. The report however warns the overall death toll during the weeks-long offensive is "undoubtedly significantly higher". The report revealed that in one incident around 500 people were killed when RSF fighters opened fire using heavy weapons on a crowd of 1,000 sheltering at Al-Rashid dormitory in El Fasher University on 26 October. One of the witnesses reported seeing bodies thrown into the air "like a scene out of a horror movie". RSF fighters also carried out summary executions within El Fasher of civilians, targeting young boys and men under 50, accused of "collaboration" with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Joint Forces, often determined on the basis of their non-Arab ethnicity, such as the Zaghawa community. Survivors and witnesses recounted patterns of rape and gang rape, abductions for ransom using sexual violence, and sexual assault during invasive body searches, with women and girls from the Zaghawa and other non-Arab communities at particular risk. Possible crimes against humanity According to the report, the violations at El Fasher mirror other RSF offensives during the war, such as at the Zamzam camp in April 2025. The "organized and sustained course of conduct" suggested a systematic attack against the civilian population in the Darfur region. "The acts of violence knowingly committed as part of such an attack would amount to crimes against humanity", OHCHR said. Calls for justice Mr. Turk urged parties to the conflict to end violations by forces under their command and called on States with influence to help prevent further atrocities, including by respecting the arms embargo and halting the supply of weapons. He called on States to do everything possible to support local, regional, and international mediation efforts, to achieve a cessation of hostilities and a pathway towards inclusive civilian governance. "In a protection crisis of this scale, human rights must remain central to efforts to achieve a durable resolution of the conflict," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address World News in Brief: Deadly strikes in Sudan, health systems in South Sudan near the brink, Guterres calls for unity ahead of Ramadan. 13 February 2026 - A sharp increase in drone attacks across the Kordofan region in the centre of Sudan is endangering civilians and damaging critical infrastructure. Over the past week, North Kordofan state recorded more than a dozen attacks in and around the towns of El Obeid, Bara, Rahad and Um Rawaba. In South Kordofan, suspected drone strikes hit health facilities in the state capital, Kadugli, and in Kuweik town, reportedly killing four medical workers, injuring more than 20 people. Concerns over the conflict continue to deepen after a report today from the UN Human Rights Office revealed the "sustained" and "systematic attacks" to civilians in the neighbouring Darfur region in late 2025 that may "amount to crimes against humanity". Growing humanitarian concerns "The violence is triggering a new wave of displacement, with reports of many fleeing homes, in need food, health care and protection," warned the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric on Friday. While the humanitarian situation in Dilling and Kadugli continues to deteriorate, he emphasised that "rapid, safe, unhindered and sustained humanitarian access is essential for us to scale up our response." Commercial vehicles, telecommunications infrastructure and key transport routes have been affected the drone strikes, disrupting humanitarian movements and supply chains. Mr. Dujarric called for "the protection of humanitarian infrastructure, in line with international humanitarian law" and urged for more funding through UN aid coordination office OCHA to support displaced families across Sudan. Violence pushes South Sudan's health system to the brink Since late December 2025, a devasting escalation of violence has swept across northern and central parts of South Sudan, the UN children's agency (UNICEF) said on Friday. In Jonglei state alone, at least 280,000 people have been displaced - the majority being women and children. "They fled with nothing. They are sleeping in displacement camps left over from the not-so-distant civil war - camps where there are barely any services. Others are out in the open, in remote locations, with nothing at all," said UNICEF's representative in South Sudan, Obia Acheng. Children were believed to make up 53 percent of those displaced. "These children face killing and maiming. Recruitment into armed groups. Separation from their families. Gender-based violence. And profound psychological distress that will mark them for years," Mr. Acheng emphasised. Delivering for children South Sudan's health system is on the verge of collapse, with 11 health facilities attacked or looted since fighting intensified and many nutrition centres forced to close, UNICEF said. Cholera cases have surged to 479 nationwide, with treatment centres overwhelmed and resources running low. Around 825,000 children across Jonglei, Unity, and Eastern Equatoria states are now at risk of acute malnutrition conditions that make children 12 times more likely to die without treatment. Pregnant and nursing mothers are increasingly cut off from care, and humanitarian infrastructure is under assault. Despite these grim numbers, UNICEF continues to run primary healthcare, nutrition, water and sanitation, and child protection programmes across the country. The UN Security Council also issued a statement expressing grave concern about the escalating violence in Jonglei, Eastern Equatoria, and throughout South Sudan. Members strongly called on all parties to de-escalate and immediately cease renewed hostilities and to resolve issues through peaceful dialogue. UN chief calls for unity and compassion ahead of Ramadan UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged people worldwide to embrace the spirit of peace, compassion and solidarity as Muslims prepare to observe the holy month of Ramadan. "For Muslims around the world, the holy month of Ramadan is a sacred period of reflection and prayer. Ramadan also represents a noble vision of hope and peace." Mr. Guterres said in a message ahead of the start on Tuesday. He noted, however, that for many from Afghanistan to Yemen, Gaza, and Sudan this vision of hope and unity remained distant amid conflict, hunger, and displacement. The UN chief called on the global community to bridge divides, deliver aid to those in need, and uphold human rights and dignity for all. "May this Holy Month inspire us to work as one to build a more peaceful, generous and just world for all people," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Today's top news: Occupied Palestinian Territory, Sudan, Haiti UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Occupied Palestinian Territory Lifesaving aid continues despite restrictions in Gaza Four months since the Gaza ceasefire agreement came into effect, the humanitarian scale-up has saved countless lives and pushed back famine, OCHA said today. However, many survivors remain in extremely harsh conditions and the humanitarian response face significant obstacles, especially to the entry of goods and the ability of humanitarian partners to operate. Almost 1.5 million people - two in every three Palestinians in Gaza - are staying in 1,000 displacement sites that are often overcrowded, and in tents that offer no privacy and little protection from the weather. Hundreds of families take shelter in damaged buildings at risk of collapse. Humanitarian partners continue to provide tents and tarpaulins as well as mattresses, clothes and other items, reaching more than 85,000 families in January. But these items offer limited protection and their lifespan is short. To provide more durable solutions, restrictions on the entry of essential construction materials and equipment must be lifted. This week, health partners working on water, sanitation and hygiene distributed about 20,000 cubic metres of drinking water every day through more than 2,000 distribution points across the Strip. Meanwhile, humanitarian movements inside Gaza continue to require coordination with Israeli authorities, especially where Israeli forces remain deployed. Today, the UN attempted to coordinate eight humanitarian missions, five of which were fully facilitated. The three other missions -including one to reach a wastewater treatment plant in Khan Younis - were denied. The facilitated missions collected food and medical supplies from Kerem Shalom and monitored humanitarian cargo at the Kissufim and Kerem Shalom crossing platforms. Sudan Increase in drone attacks in Kordofan region kills civilians and drives displacement OCHA warns that a sharp increase in drone attacks across the Kordofan region is endangering civilians, damaging critical infrastructure and deepening humanitarian needs. Casualties have been reported in several locations. Over the past week, North Kordofan State recorded more than a dozen attacks in and around the towns of El Obeid, Bara, El Rahad and Um Rawaba. Commercial vehicles, telecommunications infrastructure and key transport routes have been affected, disrupting humanitarian movements and supply chains. In South Kordofan, suspected drone strikes hit health facilities in the state capital, Kadugli, and in Al Kuweik town, reportedly killing four medical workers, injuring more than 20 people, and affecting already fragile health services. The violence is causing new displacement. In South Kordofan, over 300 displaced families are reported to have arrived in the town of Talodi in the southern part of the State in recent days, having travelled long distances, mostly on foot. In North Kordofan, approximately 800 newly displaced people have reached Ar Rahad town. In West Kordofan, over 6,000 displaced people have reportedly arrived in Laqawa locality, fleeing insecurity in Kadugli and surrounding areas. Many urgently require shelter, food, safe water, medical care and protection support. The UN and partners continue to deliver assistance where possible, including food distributions in El Obeid in North Kordofan. However, the humanitarian situation inDilling and Kadugli continues to deteriorate. Rapid, safe, unhindered and sustained humanitarian access is essential to scale up lifesaving assistance. OCHA once again calls for the protection of civilians, health facilities and humanitarian infrastructure, in line with international humanitarian law. OCHA also appeals for increased funding to support displaced families across the Kordofan region and Sudan as a whole. *Donations made to UN Crisis Relief help UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs reach people in Sudan with urgent support. Haiti Surge in child recruitment in Haiti According to a UNICEF report published yesterday, child recruitment in Haiti has surged by around 200 per cent in 2025, underscoring the deep protection crisis facing children across the country. Children recruited or influenced by armed groups face grave violations of their rights, including physical and psychological violence. More than 1.4 million people are internally displaced and over half of them are children. They are exposed to armed violence, extreme poverty and disruptions in access to essential services such as education. UNICEF reports that at least 1,600 schools were closed or not fully functioning during the 2024-2025 academic year, further increasing children's vulnerability to recruitment into armed groups. Girls are particularly vulnerable to gender-based violence. Partners report that girls under 18 account for about 16 per cent of over 8,000 survivors of gender-based violence in 2025. Armed groups are responsible for nearly two-thirds of reported cases of sexual violence. Since January 2024, 500 children associated with armed groups have been supported with protection and reintegration services, according to our partners. However, needs continue to outpace the response due to insecurity, access constraints and critical funding shortfalls. *Donations made to UN Crisis Relief help UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs reach people in Haiti with urgent support. Posted on 13 February 2026 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A drone photo shows people visiting the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) People shop for foods at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) A vendor promotes local food via live-streaming at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) People taste local cuisine at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) People visit the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) People watch a man making glutinous rice cake at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) A craftsman (2nd L) shows a handmade bench to a customer at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) People shop for local snacks at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) Editor: ZAD Security Council Press Statement on South Sudan Press Release Security Council SC/16295 13 February 2026 The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President James Kariuki (United Kingdom): The members of the Security Council expressed grave concern at escalating violence in Jonglei and Eastern Equatoria, and throughout the country. They recalled that under international law, individuals who order the commission of war crimes may be held accountable. They strongly called on all parties to de-escalate and immediately cease renewed hostilities and to resolve issues through peaceful dialogue. They stressed that this deterioration and continued violations of the peace agreement are undermining stability, worsening humanitarian needs, and placing additional strain on UNMISS's [United Nations Mission in South Sudan's] ability to carry out its mandate. Council members express their full support to UNMISS and further stressed that continued constructive cooperation between the host Government and UNMISS is essential to sustaining peace and stability, facilitating safe and timely humanitarian access and ensuring the protection of civilians. The members of the Security Council have taken note of the recent developments in compliance with UNMISS's contingency plans, including the near completion of the repatriation process. They strongly urged the South Sudanese transitional Government to maintain full cooperation with the United Nations to complete these processes and called on the transitional Government to address remaining impediments on UNMISS's operations, avoid incurring additional costs and facilitate the implementation of its mandate, consistent with South Sudan's commitments in the Status of Forces Agreement. The members of the Security Council expressed concerns over demands to close critical bases in Wau and Bentiu, which would pose a serious threat to UNMISS and UNISFA [United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei], weakening their capacity to carry out their mandates, including the protection of civilians' component and facilitation of the delivery of aid. They underscored such base closures could trigger the consequential relocation of troops and contingent-owned equipment, disrupting the Missions' mandates and operations. The members of the Security Council welcomed the continued efforts of the African Union, IGAD [Intergovernmental Authority on Development] and the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations in advancing the peace process for the people of South Sudan and in supporting the full implementation of UNMISS' contingency plans. The members of the Security Council further reaffirmed their commitment to supporting South Sudan's peace process and to work in partnership with the transitional Government to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region. Towards that end, the members of the Security Council called on South Sudanese leaders to engage in genuine inter-party dialogue about potential changes to the 2018 peace agreement, through and inclusive and transparent process. They reaffirmed their strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national unity of the Republic of South Sudan. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sudan Statement World Food Programme 13 February 2026 WFP is outraged by recent attacks on its trucks, assets and facilities in Sudan. Four incidents over the past 10 days have resulted in humanitarians killed or injured while delivering life-saving food assistance to the most vulnerable civilians. Humanitarians and aid assets must never be targets. False reports on social media channels alleging that WFP trucks were carrying anything other than humanitarian assistance are unfounded and put humanitarians and their life-saving work at great risk. WFP's work is guided by the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence from any political or military activity. Our focus is always to provide food assistance to the most vulnerable populations irrespective of age, gender, origin, religious or political affiliation. Sudan remains the world's largest hunger crisis with over 21 million people facing acute hunger with famine confirmed in El Fasher in North Darfur and Kadugli in Kordofan. WFP supports an average of four million people each month in Sudan with life-saving emergency food, cash, and nutrition assistance. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address All Eyes On Rubio: Munich Braces For Transatlantic Reality Check By Alex Raufoglu February 14, 2026 MUNICH -- The first day of the Munich Security Conference (MSC) ended late on February 13 with the world's foreign-policy elite left in a state of suspended animation. After a day defined by pointed rhetoric and "wrecking-ball" warnings from European leaders, the focus has shifted entirely to the man set to deliver Washington's answer: Secretary of State Marco Rubio. As the "Davos of Defense" concludes its opening sessions, the spotlight has fixed squarely on Rubio, who arrived tasked with articulating how President Donald Trump's "America First" doctrine will interface with a jittery global order. In the ornate corridors of the Bayerischer Hof and during a series of frantic "pull-aside" meetings on the sidelines, a singular question dominated the day's discourse: Will Rubio's keynote address -- scheduled for the morning of February 14 -- serve as a stabilizer for the transatlantic project, or will it further expose the widening fissures between Washington and its oldest allies? A Moment Of Reckoning Established in 1963 as a forum to coordinate Western strategy against the Soviet Union, the Munich gathering now faces a different strategic test: whether Washington and its European allies can adjust the terms of their partnership without allowing it to fracture. Several European officials told RFE/RL late on February 13 that this year's meeting represents a pivotal moment for the transatlantic alliance. One scenario discussed in the hallways would see NATO recalibrated around a more capable European pillar -- a Europe better able to provide for its own defense while maintaining a steadier, more-balanced partnership with the United States. The alternative, which weighed heavily on the first day's atmosphere, is a continuation of transatlantic disputes over shared values, national priorities, and burden-sharing -- tensions that, left unresolved, could harden into lasting estrangement. Senior Western officials who spoke privately as the sun set on the forum's first day said the concern is shifting from headline-grabbing rhetoric to a gradual weakening of cohesion. The greatest risk, they cautioned, is not an open rupture but another round of forceful declarations unaccompanied by concrete steps -- deepening uncertainty about US reliability and Europe's willingness to act. Rubio's Balancing Act Rubio has described his trip as taking place at a defining moment and the dawn of a "new era" in geopolitics. Before departing for Germany, he offered reassurance about the depth of US-European ties. "We're very tightly linked together with Europe," he told reporters. "Most people in this country can trace both, either their cultural or their personal heritage, back to Europe." But he also signaled change: "We live in a new era in geopolitics, and it's going to require all of us to reexamine what that looks like." Early impressions from the first day in Munich show Trump's allies defending the administration's "America First" approach, even as Rubio spent his arrival working to reassure skeptical Europeans that the United States is acting in their interest as well. His schedule on February 13 reflected that dual track. Rubio began with an hour-long meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, underscoring that Europe's security debate cannot be divorced from broader US-China competition. He then spent significant time with Germany's leader, Friedrich Merz, the host country's representative. Merz acknowledged that Europe's "excessive dependency" on the United States was its own doing but insisted the answer is not to abandon NATO. During a brief photo-op between the two leaders, RFE/RL asked Rubio directly whether the United States remained committed to European security. In a moment that underscored the day's prevailing uncertainty, neither Rubio nor Merz took the opportunity to respond, leaving the question hanging in the air as they were ushered away. Rubio also met Moldovan President Maia Sandu, held a pull-aside with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and spoke with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and Polish Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski -- key voices from NATO's eastern flank. Notably, while Rubio has been active in Munich, he was absent from a key NATO ministerial last December, and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also did not attend the corresponding meeting earlier this week. "But he [Hegseth] is here in Munich," one European official said, adding that Russia's war against Ukraine would be addressed in "all possible formats." On February 14, following his speech, Rubio is expected to huddle with G7 allies and meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Deep Concern -- And Hard Truths Veteran US diplomat John Herbst, now a senior director at the Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center, told RFE/RL on February 13 that European leaders' anxiety was palpable. "What we heard today was deep concern from European leaders about the state of transatlantic relations," Herbst said. Since the end of World War II, he noted, global security and prosperity have largely been based on the NATO alliance and the partnership between the United States and key European allies. Tensions over the past year have strained that foundation. European leaders recognize this is not good for their security or prosperity, Herbst said -- and, in his view, it is not good for American security or prosperity either. He argued that Rubio has long understood the importance of NATO and strong US-European relations and expects his speech and interactions to reflect that. At the same time, Herbst noted, Rubio is a loyal secretary to Trump, and some themes from the administration -- even those not always welcome in Europe -- will likely feature in his remarks. On Europe's role, Herbst said Washington has been urging greater European defense efforts for decades. Europe is now moving in that direction, but he cautioned against shifting the overwhelming burden of ensuring European security entirely onto Europe. Close cooperation between Washington and Europe remains essential, he argued, even as Europe must increase defense spending, expand arms production, and strengthen troop sustainment. Looking ahead to Rubio's meeting with Zelenskyy and his messaging on NATO's eastern flank, Herbst said he expects Rubio to follow the policy lines evolving within the Trump administration. But he added that he would hope -- and expect -- the secretary to underscore that when Europe needs the United States, it will be there, provided Europe fulfills its commitments. The Question Of Consistency For Tyson Barker, a former US deputy special envoy for Ukraine's economic recovery and now with the German Council on Foreign Relations, the central issue is consistency. Speaking to RFE/RL hours before Rubio's speech, Barker said the tone currently coming from Washington -- including signals about tapered troop withdrawals, continued commitment to nuclear deterrence, and a rebalancing of conventional forces -- is constructive. But it must be sustained. "It's not enough for the Trump administration to say this once and have a different message in two weeks," Barker said. The message must remain consistent from the highest levels, including the president, over the medium and long term, he said. Right now, he argued, the concern is less about a single headline and more about the trend line -- which has appeared erratic. A reassuring speech in Munich could be undercut by destabilizing signals weeks earlier or weeks later. As the first day concludes, NATO's Rutte pointed to a "shift in mindset," with Europe taking more care of its own defense. Meanwhile, US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz told the conference that the status quo was no longer sustainable. The broader European debate -- championed by leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron -- envisions a more integrated Europe. But "strategic autonomy" demands politically fraught trade-offs. Building a stronger European pillar will take more than three days in Munich, most agree. For now, all eyes are on Rubio's podium on the morning of February 14. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/rubio-munich-security-europe- relations-trump/33678172.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address At Munich Conference, Merz Urges US, Europe To 'Repair And Revive' Transatlantic Trust By Ray Furlong, Alex Raufoglu and Zoriana Stepanenko February 14, 2026 MUNICH -- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz opened the Munich Security Conference by describing a geopolitical landscape bereft of its former signposts, saying the old world order "no longer exists," warning of threats posed by Russia and China, and suggesting US-Europe ties must be fixed to address the challenges. "As imperfect as it was even in its best days," the global order that "rested on rights and rules" is gone, Merz said in his keynote speech on February 13. "We have crossed the threshold into an era that is once again openly characterized by power and great power politics." Pointing to Russia's all-out war on Ukraine as the clearest example of a harsh new reality, he also said China "systematically exploits the dependencies of others." Merz called for a "new transatlantic partnership," switching to English and warning that in the "era of great power rivalry, even the United States will not be powerful enough to go it alone." "We need to realize on both sides of the Atlantic that we are stronger together.... So let's repair and revive transatlantic trust together," he said, adding that Europe is doing its part. The three-day annual event -- which features hundreds of prominent European leaders, lawmakers, military officials, academics, and others -- comes a year after Vice President JD Vance stunned the conference with a tongue-lashing, accusing Europe of dangerous policies toward immigration and far-right political parties. "A rift has opened up between Europe and the United States," Merz said in his speech. "Vice President JD Vance said this very openly here in Munich a year ago." Underscoring Europe's trepidation, a report written by the organizers and published ahead of the conference spoke of the advent of "wrecking-ball politics" and declared, "The most powerful of those who take the axe to existing rules and institutions is US President Donald Trump." The US delegation is led this year by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who spoke of a "defining moment" in a world that is "changing very fast right in front of us." "The old world is gone -- frankly, the world that I grew up in -- and we live in a new era in geopolitics, and it's going to require all of us to sort of reexamine what that looks like and what our role is going to be," Rubio said before he left for Munich, where he is set to deliver a speech on February 14. Rubio met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi for bilateral talks a few hours after arriving in Munich. He said before departure that he would likely meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, although he was not "100 percent" certain. Asked about ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, which have plunged hundreds of thousands into cold and darkness in winter, Rubio said this is why Washington is continuing peace efforts. "People are suffering. It's the coldest time of year. It's unimaginable suffering," he added. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha said he expects to speak with Rubio as well. "We will be interested [in continuing] our regular contacts at the highest levels," said Sybiha, who welcomed visitors including German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul to a drone exhibition at Ukraine House in Munich. "Only Trump could end the war, only the American side," Sybiha told RFE/RL. Trump has made ending Russia's war a priority since he returned to the presidency in January 2025. Moscow, however, has shown little readiness for compromise, and two recent rounds of US-Russia-Ukraine talks have left the sides at odds over key issues including control over territory in Ukraine's Donbas region. Russian and Ukrainian officials said a new round of trilateral talks would be held in Geneva on February 17-18. There was no official US comment, but Reuters quoted sources as saying a fresh round of talks were scheduled for Geneva starting on February 17. The source said the US delegation will include envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who would meet with Ukrainian and Russian representatives after holding indirect talks with Iran under Omani mediation earlier in the day. "The most significant thing we can achieve together is ending the war with a dignified peace and creating reliable security guarantees for Ukraine and for all of Europe -- so that no one in Europe is afraid of being left without protection," Zelenskyy wrote in an X post. The conference opened hours after Russia's latest strikes on Ukraine left at least seven people dead, according to officials. The Ukrainian Air Force said Russia fired more than 150 drones and one ballistic missile in the overnight hours of February 12-13. Several buildings in the southern city of Odesa were hit and caught fire, including warehouses in the port district. There were also several casualties from shelling in the eastern city of Kramatorsk, according to the city's mayor. The war "has implications far beyond Ukraine," Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store told RFE/RL. "It is about standing up to forces that will use military might to push their interests, which is important for the security for all of Europe and also actually far beyond Europe." Store added that "we have to put every pressure on Russia to stop this war. It could have been stopped every day by Russia. Russia is the aggressor. And we will do what we can to support Ukraine to reach a cease-fire and a fair peace." Conference organizers said this year's event is the largest ever, with more than 1,000 delegates including some 50 heads of government and leading diplomats. It comes at a time of global turmoil, with the possibility of US air strikes on Iran, Russia's invasion approaching the four-year mark, and tensions over the future of NATO and the transatlantic alliance more broadly amid fears of US disengagement. Asked what she expects from Rubio's address and from US engagement with the Europeans, Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Toiu told reporters, "I hope the US delegation...is going to reiterate [a] strong message of support. She said that "beyond words, beyond conversations, I think what we need now is common action," and that "building or rebuilding trust in the transatlantic partnership is also very important for the future steps in the peace process in Ukraine." Sybiha delivered a different message as he opened Ukraine House. "The time when Europe relied on external powers is over...." he said. "We have enough of our own strength. We only need to admit it. And Ukraine is a key source of that real European strength." European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde told RFE/RL, "I very much hope that the 90 billion euro ($107 billion) loan that has been decided by the Europeans will come to reality and issuance as soon as possible," but said she didn't have details. In recent speeches, Merz has doubled down on the message that Europe needs to strengthen its military power in the face of Russian aggression and uncertainty over Washington's commitment to NATO. Europe would only be heard "when we learn the language of power politics, when we become ourselves a European power," he said in January. In his conference address, he said he begun confidential talks with French President Emmanuel Macron on "European nuclear deterrence." En route to Munich, Rubio voiced confidence that his message to angsty Europeans would be "well received." He is accompanied by a large bipartisan group of US senators who have announced meetings with Zelenskyy, NATO chief Mark Rutte, and others. In a statement, Senator Jeanne Shaheen, the leading Democratic member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said she would use the trip to "strengthen support for Ukraine and urge her Congressional colleagues to pass bipartisan sanctions legislation to hold Russia and its enablers accountable." Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/munich-security-conference- rubio/33676743.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Rubio Wraps Warnings In Warmth As Europe Breathes A Sigh Of Relief By Alex Raufoglu February 14, 2026 MUNICH -- In a hall packed with political and military leaders from across Europe and beyond, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a speech that managed to do two things at once: reassure anxious allies and issue a stark call for change. After months of uncertainty over Washington's course under President Donald Trump -- and lingering memories of last year's more confrontational tone from JD Vance -- many in the room appeared visibly relieved. "You could almost hear the exhale," one senior European diplomat told RFE/RL afterward. "The substance is tough. But the tone? That matters." A 'Child of Europe' Rubio repeatedly stressed America's attachment to Europe, describing the United States as spiritually and culturally bound to the continent. "We will always be a child of Europe," he said, pointing to shared history, language, faith, and sacrifice. He framed disagreements not as rebukes but as expressions of concern. If the United States sometimes sounds "direct and urgent," he said, it is because "we care deeply -- about your future and ours." America wants Europe to be strong, he added, because Europe's fate is inseparable from US national security. To drive home the civilizational bond, Rubio invoked a roll call of European cultural giants -- Mozart, Beethoven, Dante, Shakespeare, Michelangelo, Da Vinci -- alongside The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, and landmarks such as the Sistine Chapel and Cologne Cathedral. These, he said, testify not only to the greatness of the past but to the promise of the future. Rubio's approach seemed to work. The secretary of state received sustained applause and a partial standing ovation -- a marked contrast, several attendees noted, with the reception that greeted Vance a year ago. Speaking in a later question and answer session at the security conference, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, "I was very much reassured by the secretary of state. We know him. He is a good friend and a strong ally. We know that some in the administration have a harsher tone on these topics." 'Dangerous Delusion' Yet beneath the warmth was a hard-edged critique. Drawing on the history of the conference, founded in 1963 at the height of the Cold War, Rubio recalled a time when "thousands of years of Western civilization hung in the balance." The West prevailed, he said -- but misread its triumph. "The euphoria of this triumph led us to a dangerous delusion," he argued, that history had ended, that liberal democracy would inevitably spread, and that trade and global rules would replace national interest and borders. That vision, Rubio said, ignored "human nature" and the lessons of millennia. It led to deindustrialization, the outsourcing of sovereignty to international institutions, and what he called an "unprecedented wave of mass migration" threatening social cohesion. The US secretary of state was careful to frame these not as uniquely European failings but as shared errors of the West. "We made these mistakes together," he said, and "together, we owe it to our people to face those facts and to move forward." Migration, Industry, And Sovereignty Rubio argued that deindustrialization was "not inevitable" but the product of policy choices rooted in what he termed a post-Cold War "delusion." He criticized what he described as dogmatic free trade that hollowed out industries and handed leverage to rivals. On migration, he rejected the idea that border control is xenophobic. Regaining control of national borders, he said, is "a fundamental act of national sovereignty." Failure to do so, he warned, poses "an urgent threat to the fabric of our societies." He also took aim at certain green policies, saying efforts to "appease a climate cult" had impoverished Western societies while competitors continued exploiting fossil fuels. Several European officials privately bristled at that phrasing but acknowledged the broader point would resonate with parts of their domestic electorates. "He's describing debates we are already having at home," a Western European diplomat said. "The difference is he's saying: stop managing decline and start reversing it." No Interest In 'Managed Decline' Rubio insisted Washington does not seek to weaken alliances but to "revitalize an old friendship." The US does not want allies who "rationalize the broken status quo," he said, but partners willing to rebuild strength. Decline, he argued, is a choice. Just as the West rejected fatalism after World War II, it must reject it now. The United States has "no interest in being polite and orderly caretakers of the West's managed decline." That line drew one of the strongest reactions in the room. "He's challenging us," said a senior diplomat from northern Europe. "But he's also including himself in that challenge. That's the difference." UN, Ukraine, And Hard Questions Rubio also called for reform -- not dismantling -- of international institutions, including the United Nations, which he said has "tremendous potential" but has been unable to resolve conflicts such as Ukraine and Gaza. "In a perfect world," he said, diplomats and resolutions would suffice. "But we do not live in a perfect world." On Ukraine, Rubio said the issues required to end the war have "narrowed" -- but to "the hardest questions to answer." He said Washington would continue to test whether Moscow is serious about negotiations, while maintaining sanctions and military support for Kyiv. A just and sustainable negotiated settlement remains the goal, he added. Pressed in a brief question and answer session after his speech on whether Russia is genuinely interested in peace, Rubio was cautious: "They say they are." The US, he said, will continue probing what terms might be acceptable to both sides. On China, he acknowledged that US and Chinese interests "will often not align," but stressed the need to manage differences and avoid conflict. Rubio's address was followed by remarks from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who defended multilateralism and warned against bloc confrontation -- underscoring the geopolitical stakes of the debate. But it was Rubio's performance that dominated hallway conversations. The message -- on sovereignty, borders, industry, and reform -- echoed themes long associated with Trump's political movement. Yet by wrapping them in affirmations of shared heritage and mutual sacrifice, Rubio struck a markedly different tone from previous US interventions. "He didn't soften the substance," one senior EU official said. "But he softened the delivery. And that makes it easier to listen." For now, at least, Washington's allies appeared reassured that blunt talk need not mean broken ties. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/rubio-warning- munich-speech-/33678260.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Rubio: US And Europe 'Belong Together' By RFE/RL February 14, 2026 In a speech at the Munich Security Conference, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that the United States and Europe "belong together." "America is chartering the path for a new century of prosperity and we want to do it together with you our cherished allies and oldest friends," Rubio said in his February 14 keynote address at Munich's luxury Bayerischer Hof hotel. Acting together with Europe, he said, "will help restore a sane foreign policy." Rubio's speech has been widely anticipated amid a frayed transatlantic alliance and after last year's speech by US Vice President JD Vance who lambasted European leaders for their role in what he described as the erosion of democracy on the continent. Addressing talk of a possible transatlantic divorce, Rubio said that "this is neither our goal nor our wish." "We don't need to dismantle the global institutions of the old order that together we built -- but these must be reformed," Rubio told the conference. The US under Trump, he said, wants to lead world "restoration." Rubio is leading the US delegation -- the largest ever, comprising more than a quarter of the US Senate -- to the three-day annual event, which features hundreds of prominent European leaders, lawmakers, military officials, academics, and others. 'Child Of Europe' The US secretary of state hailed Europe's rich cultural legacy, saying that "us Americans...will always be a child of Europe." A report written by the organizers and published ahead of the conference spoke of the advent of "wrecking ball politics" and declared, "The most powerful of those who take the axe to existing rules and institutions is US President Donald Trump." The conference comes amid worldwide upheaval, including the possibility of US air strikes on Iran and Russia's war in Ukraine nearing its fourth anniversary. 'Hardest Questions' On Ukraine On the conflict in Ukraine, Rubio said that "the issues to end to war have been narrowed but the bad news is that now it's down to the hardest questions." Trump has prioritized halting Russia's full-scale war, yet Moscow has displayed little willingness to compromise, leaving the latest two rounds of US-Russia-Ukraine talks stalled. Rubio is expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy later on February 14 on the sidelines of the conference. In a brief question and answer with Wolfgang Ischinger, the chairman of the Munich Security Conference, after his speech, Rubio said "what we can't answer and [what] we are going to continue to test is whether there is a outcome that Ukraine can live with and that Russia will accept and I would say that has been elusive up to this point." Speaking in an interview with Bloomberg after his conference speech, Rubio said that "I don't think it's possible for Russia to even achieve whatever initial objectives they had at the beginning of this war." "I think now it's largely narrowed down to their desire to take 20 percent of Donetsk they don't currently posses. And that's hard," Rubio said. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/rubio-speech- munich-security-conference/33678225.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese AI Distillation In a striking escalation of tensions in the global AI race, OpenAI has issued a formal warning to US lawmakers about the practices of Chinese AI startup DeepSeek. On February 12, 2026, OpenAI sent a memo to the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party, accusing DeepSeek of employing advanced distillation techniques to replicate capabilities from leading US AI models. This move highlights growing concerns over intellectual property theft, national security risks, and the erosion of American technological leadership in artificial intelligence. The memo, reviewed by multiple news outlets including Reuters and Bloomberg, details how DeepSeek allegedly circumvents access restrictions to extract model outputs for training purposes, effectively "free-riding" on billions of dollars in US research and development investments. As the AI landscape evolves rapidly, this accusation underscores the intensifying rivalry between the US and China, where technological supremacy could determine economic and military dominance in the coming decades. To understand the gravity of these allegations, it's essential to delve into the history and mechanics of model distillation in AI. Distillation, a technique pioneered in machine learning research, involves training a smaller, more efficient "student" model to mimic the outputs of a larger, more complex "teacher" model. This process allows for the transfer of knowledge without the need for the original training data or equivalent computational resources. Initially used for model compression to deploy AI on resource-constrained devices, distillation has evolved into a powerful tool for rapid capability replication. In recent years, advancements in multi-stage pipelines, including synthetic data generation and preference optimization, have made it even more effective. These methods, often refined in Chinese AI labs, enable startups like DeepSeek to close the gap with US frontrunners without incurring similar costs. However, this raises ethical and legal questions about fair use, especially when outputs are harvested without permission, potentially violating terms of service and intellectual property rights. DeepSeek, founded in 2023 by a team of former researchers from Alibaba and Tsinghua University, has emerged as a formidable player in the AI space. Backed by significant venture capital from Chinese state-linked funds, the company specializes in open-source large language models (LLMs) that emphasize efficiency and multilingual capabilities. Its V3 model, released in mid-2025, gained attention for its strong performance in coding and reasoning tasks, often benchmarking close to US models like GPT-4o. The R1 chatbot, launched later that year, marked a breakthrough, rivaling American offerings in real-time interaction and multimodal processing. DeepSeek's strategy of releasing models under permissive licenses has democratized AI access in developing regions, but critics argue it undercuts commercial models. OpenAI's memo specifically alleges that DeepSeek employees used obfuscated third-party routers, VPNs, and programmatic scripts to mask their identities and programmatically query US models, extracting vast amounts of data for distillation. This follows an initial probe by OpenAI in partnership with Microsoft, initiated shortly after R1's release, to investigate unauthorized data acquisition. The memo also sheds light on the embedded biases and censorship mechanisms in DeepSeek's models, which reflect pro-CCP ideologies. For instance, queries about historical events like the Tiananmen Square incident or contemporary issues such as Taiwan's sovereignty often result in refusals or heavily skewed responses favoring PRC narratives. This is achieved through curated training datasets and real-time content moderation that filters out dissenting views. OpenAI contrasts this with its own alignment efforts, which prioritize ethical guidelines and safety protocols. Moreover, DeepSeek's models reportedly lack comprehensive safeguards against misuse in sensitive domains like synthetic biology, chemical engineering, and cybersecurity. Without rigorous red-teaming and adversarial testing, these models could inadvertently facilitate harmful applications, from generating misinformation to aiding in the design of dangerous substances. This deficiency not only poses global risks but also highlights a divergence in AI governance philosophies between the US and China. Beyond technical concerns, the economic ramifications are profound. US companies have invested trillions in AI infrastructure, including data centers, talent acquisition, and energy resources. OpenAI alone has raised over $100 billion in funding rounds, fueling advancements that drive economic growth. In contrast, DeepSeek's approach allows it to offer high-performance models for free or at low cost, eroding the market for subscription-based services like ChatGPT Plus. This "free-riding" could lead to a loss of billions in revenue, stifling innovation incentives. On a national level, China's aggressive expansion in compute poweradding 543 GW in 2025, equivalent to the entire US grid capacitypositions it to dominate AI scaling. Supported by state subsidies, this infrastructure enables massive training runs that could accelerate PRC's path to AI supremacy by 2030, as outlined in its national strategy. Such dominance might extend to military applications, including autonomous drones, cyber warfare tools, and intelligence analysis, shifting geopolitical balances. Public reactions to the memo have been swift and polarized, particularly on social media platforms like X. Bloomberg reporter Shirin Ghaffary broke the story, highlighting OpenAI's detection of "new, obfuscated methods" to bypass defenses. Users expressed a mix of outrage and skepticism. For example, Dwayne (@CtrlAltDwayne) quipped that OpenAI was complaining about "copying off their stolen homework," referencing ongoing lawsuits against OpenAI for training on copyrighted data without consent. Kyle Chan (@kyleichan), a Brookings Fellow, shared excerpts from the memo, noting that while DeepSeek was named, similar tactics are suspected among other Chinese firms. Responses included accusations of US hypocrisy, with some users pointing out that distillation is a standard ML technique used globally. Chris McGuire (@ChrisRMcGuire) from the Council on Foreign Relations called it a "massive deal," advocating for export controls to sever China's access to US chips and models. Other X posts amplified the debate. @Intelligencer41 described it as a "classic PRC IP grab," urging API bans to protect US edges. @MartinSzerment argued that the real moat in AI is control over output surfaces, criticizing regulators for lagging behind threat models. @AgentJc11443 viewed it as OpenAI lobbying for regulations to hinder open-source competitors, framing "unfair extraction" as strategic positioning. International perspectives emerged too, with @bullandbear_id noting heightened US-China tensions and market impacts. These reactions illustrate the broader discourse: while some see it as legitimate competition, others perceive it as systemic theft enabled by differing regulatory environments. In response to these threats, OpenAI has fortified its systems over the past year. Implementing multi-layered defenses, including heuristic rules, ML-based anomaly detection, and human oversight, the company has banned numerous accounts suspected of distillation. Collaborations with partners like Microsoft have enhanced monitoring capabilities. Yet, the memo acknowledges that these measures are insufficient alone, calling for ecosystem-wide protections. OpenAI proposes government involvement in intelligence sharing, establishing defensive norms, and restricting adversary access to US cloud services and hardware. This could include expanding export controls beyond semiconductors to APIs and model outputs, potentially through legislation like an "AI Export Control Act." This incident is not isolated but part of a pattern in US-China tech relations. Historical parallels include the Huawei bans and TikTok scrutiny, where national security trumped free trade. In AI, previous concerns focused on hardware exports, but software replication via distillation represents a new frontier. Other US firms, like Anthropic and Google, have reported similar attempts, though less publicly. Globally, allies like the EU and UK are monitoring, with calls for international AI safety standards. However, China's push for "sovereign AI" through domestic innovation and state support challenges these efforts. If unaddressed, distillation could democratize AI but at the cost of innovation asymmetry, favoring nations with lax IP enforcement. Policy responses might include incentives for US AI investment, such as tax credits for R&D or public-private partnerships for compute infrastructure. Diplomatically, the US could leverage forums like the G7 to forge alliances against AI theft. For DeepSeek, the accusations might prompt internal reviews or public denials, though none have surfaced yet. As rumors swirl about its V4 model release around Lunar New Year, the pressure intensifies. OpenAI's memo to Congress marks a critical juncture in the AI arms race. By spotlighting DeepSeek's alleged practices, it catalyzes discussions on protecting US innovations while navigating global collaboration. As China advances relentlessly, the US must balance protectionism with openness to maintain leadership. This episode could lead to transformative policies, reshaping AI governance and international relations for years to come. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 13 February 2026 - Day 1451 Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. "To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal] The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that the Defense Forces are directing efforts to disrupt the execution of Russian invaders' offensive plans and exhaust their combat potential. 194 combat clashes have taken place since the beginning of the day. The Russian enemy made one missile strike, using one missile, 46 aviation strikes, dropped 129 controlled air bombs. In addition, used 2,398 kamikaze drones and carried out 2,240 shells of settlements and positions of Ukrainian troops. In the North Slobozhansky and Kursk directions, one confrontation with the enemy took place, the Russian enemy launched four air strikes, dropped eight air bombs, carried out 82 shelling of settlements and positions of Ukrainian units. In the South Slobozhansky direction, Russian forces attacked the positions of Ukrainian units in the areas of the settlements of Prylipka, Staritsya, Vovchansky Khutory, Vovchansk, Lyman and towards the settlements of Ohrimivka, Zybine, Mala Vovcha. Ukrainian units repelled eight attacks, three more combat clashes are currently ongoing. In the direction of Kupyans , the Russian enemy launched one attack in the direction of Boguslavka. In the Lyman direction, Ukrainian soldiers stopped 12 attacks in the areas of settlements Grekivka, Karpivka, Serednye, Deryilove, Zarichne, Drobishevo and towards the pond. Yet another battle is underway. In the Slavic direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled ten Russian attempts to advance in the areas of Platonivka, Zakitny and towards Rai-Oleksandrivka, Lake. Another battle is currently not completed. In the Kramators komu direction, the Russian opponent committed one offensive action in the area of Nikiforivka. In the Konstantinivka direction, the Russian occupiers stormed the positions of Ukrainian defenders 16 times today near the settlements of Kleban-Bik, Pleshiyivka, Rusin Yar, Sofiyivka and in the directions of Konstyantinivka, Illinivka, Novopavlivka, Stepanivka. Russian troops committed 54 attacks in the Pokrovsky direction. The Russian occupiers tried to advance in the areas of the settlements Rodinske, Rivne, Pokrovsk, Kotline, Udacne, Molodetske, Ivanivka, Filia and towards the settlements of Kucheriv Yar, Road, New Donbass, Grishine, Novopidgorodnoe, Novopavlivka, Novooleksandrivka. Fights are still going on in some locations. According to preliminary calculations, today in this direction Ukrainian soldiers eliminated 50 Russian invaders and wounded 14; destroyed 25 unmanned aircraft, one car transport unit, also two vehicles units and 10 Russian personnel covers were hit. In the Oleksandrivsky direction, Ukrainian units stopped two Russian attacks in the direction of Ivanivka and Oleksandrograd. The air strike controlled by air bombs suffered the settlements of Kolomyjtsi, Velikomikhailivka. In the direction of Gulyaipils komu, the Russian occupiers attacked 29 times - in the areas of Gulyaypol, Zagirny, Dorozhnyanka and towards the railroad, Staroukrainka. In addition, the Russian aviation struck the settlements of Samijlivka, Barvinivka, Freedom, Gulyajpils ke, Forest, Kopani, Girke, Upper Tersa, Zaliznycne. Four clashes are still ongoing. In the Orihiv direction, the Russian opponent three times attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders in the areas of Malih Scherbakov, Plavniv and towards Primorsky. The area of the settlement of Zaporozhets was affected by the airstrike controlled by air bombs. In the pridniprovsk direction, the Russian enemy committed one unsuccessful offensive action. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in response to the terrorist attacks launched by Ukraine against civilian objects in the territory of the Russian Federation, from 7 to 13 February the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation carried out one massive and six group strikes, which hit enterprises of the Ukrainian defence industry, energy, fuel and transport infrastructure facilities used for the interests of the AFU, military hardware and missile and artillery weapons depots, military airfields, production, storage and launch sites of attack unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as temporary deployment points of Ukrainian armed formations and foreign mercenaries. During the week, as a result of intensive offensive actions of the Sever Group of Forces units, the settlements of Chugunovka (Kharkov region) and Sidorovka (Sumy region) have been liberated. Three mechanised brigades, two motorised infantry brigades, one airmobile brigade, two assault regiments of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, two territorial defence brigades, and three border detachments of the Ukrainian border service were hit. In total, in the area of responsibility of the Sever Group of Forces, the enemy has lost more than 1,425 troops, six armoured fighting vehicles, 81 motor vehicles, 12 field artillery guns, one Grad MLRS and one Czech-made Vampire MLRS. Two electronic warfare stations, as well as 45 ammunition and materiel depots, were neutralised. Over the past week, as a result of resolute actions, units of the Zapad Group of Forces established control over Glushkovka in Kharkov region. Russian units hit manpower and hardware of four mechanised brigades, one airmobile brigade, one UAV brigade, one security brigade of the General Staff of the AFU, one territorial defence brigade, and one national guard brigade. The AFU losses in this direction amounted to more than 1,130 troops, one tank, eight armoured fighting vehicles, 106 motor vehicles, and 10 field artillery guns. Thirty ammunition and materiel depots were eliminated. The Yug Group of Forces improved the tactical situation along the front line. During the week, strikes were delivered at formations of three mechanised brigades, one motorised infantry brigade, one mountain assault brigade, one assault brigade, one UAV battalion of the AFU, two marine brigades, and three territorial defence brigades. Over the past week, in the Yug Group's area of responsibility the enemy has lost more than 925 troops, two tanks, including one German-made Leopard tank, and 12 armoured fighting vehicles. 71 motor vehicles, 15 artillery guns, and eight ammunition, fuel, and materiel depots were neutralised. The Tsentr Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and positions. The were inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of five mechanised brigades, two jaeger brigades, one airmobile brigade, one air assault brigade, two assault regiments of the AFU, one marine brigade, one territorial defence brigade, and four national guard brigades. During the week in this direction, the enemy losses amounted to more than 1,895 troops, five tanks, including two German-made Leopard tanks, 29 armoured fighting vehicles, 53 motor vehicles, and nine field artillery guns. The Vostok Group's units advanced to the depths of the enemy's defence and liberated Zaliznichnoye in Zaporozhye region. Two mechanised brigades, two air assault brigades, two assault brigades, seven assault regiments, and two battalions of unmanned aerial vehicles of the AFU have been hit during the week. In total, the enemy lost more than 2,830 troops, one tank, 57 armoured fighting vehicles, 90 motor vehicles, and eight artillery guns in the area of responsibility of the Vostok Group of Forces. Over the past week, units of the Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of two mechanised brigades, one mountain assault brigade and one UAV brigade of the AFU. The AFU losses amounted to up to 280 troops, four armoured fighting vehicles, 65 motor vehicles, nine artillery guns, eight electronic warfare stations, as well as 11 ammunition and materiel depots. Air defence systems shot down five Flamingo long-range cruise missiles, 28 guided aerial bombs, 39 U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles, four Neptune long-range guided missiles, and 1,243 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles. In total, since the beginning of the special military operation, 670 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 113,957 unmanned aerial vehicles, 650 anti-aircraft missile systems, 27,647 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,664 MLRS combat vehicles, 33,257 field artillery guns and mortars, and 54,266 units of support military vehicles have been neutralised. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Twenty-Seven Members and Associates of Tren de Aragua Splinter Faction Anti-Tren Charged With 2024 Double Murder in New York and Sex Trafficking, Kidnapping, Racketeering, and Other Offenses Friday, February 13, 2026 For Immediate Release Office of Public Affairs A 38-count superseding indictment (S4 indictment) was unsealed today charging 27 members of the Anti-Tren faction of the designated foreign terrorist organization Tren de Aragua (TDA or TdA) with offenses including racketeering conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering in connection with an April 15, 2024, double murder in the Bronx, New York, murder-for-hire conspiracy, kidnapping in aid of racketeering, sex trafficking and sex trafficking conspiracy, and other offenses. Twenty-one of the 27 defendants charged in the S4 indictment were previously charged in a 12-count indictment. Of the six newly added defendants, five are now in federal custody. To date, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York has charged approximately 38 members or associates of TDA and Anti-Tren. "As alleged, these members of Anti-Tren, a splinter faction of the terrorist organization Tren de Aragua, planned and carried out a series of horrific crimes, including gunpoint robberies, murders, and the exploitation of vulnerable young women through sex trafficking," said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton for the Southern District of New York (SDNY). "Tren de Aragua is in the business of murder, sex trafficking, and intimidation, and they brought that business to New York while being unlawfully present in the United States. Today's charges reflect our commitment to bankrupt TDA and bring its members to justice. The gang members charged today exerted ruthless control over sex trafficking victims through intimidation, brutality, and threats of violence against them and their loved ones leaving lasting trauma in their wake. The women and men of the SDNY are unwavering in their commitment to bankrupt gangs that corrupt our neighborhoods, prey on the vulnerable, and pursue violence as a way of life." "Homeland Security Investigations New York continues to stand at the forefront of investigations against vicious criminal enterprises like Tren de Aragua and Anti-Tren," said Acting Executive Associate Director John A. Condon for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). "Through their use of ruthless tactics and blatant disregard for human life, TdA and its offshoots are among the fastest emerging transnational criminal organizations to encroach upon American soil. HSI New York, through the Homeland Security Task Force, continues to target these gangs that seek to perpetrate destruction and terror in our communities. Together, alongside our law enforcement partners, we are committed to ensuring that no corners of the TdA and Anti-Tren enterprises are beyond the reach of justice." "TdA and its faction Anti-Tren grew from a prison gang to a transnational criminal organization to a foreign terrorist organization. The violence and horrific acts as charged here including the double murder, murder for hire, kidnapping, and sex trafficking will be met with the full weight of our justice system," said Co-Director Christopher Eason of Joint Task Force Vulcan (JTFV). "The charges against these TdA associates and Anti-Tren members are directly in line with JTFV's mission: a collaborative, whole of government effort to destroy TdA and its factions. We are grateful for our partnership with the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York, and our law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly to investigate and bring these important charges." According to the allegations contained in the S4 indictment, Anti-Tren is a criminal organization almost exclusively comprised of former members and associates of TDA. Anti-Tren operated throughout New York City, including the boroughs of the Bronx and Queens, and in New Jersey, and elsewhere around the country, including in Illinois and Washington. The purposes of Anti-Tren included: Preserving and protecting the power and territory of Anti-Tren and its members and associates through acts involving murder, assault, other acts of violence, and threats of violence, including acts of violence and threats of violence directed at members and associates of TDA; Enriching the members and associates of Anti-Tren through, among other things: The unlawful smuggling of individuals, including women and girls from Venezuela, into the United States, The sex trafficking of young women or "multadas" who had been unlawfully smuggled into the United States, The trafficking of controlled substances, including "tusi," and Armed robberies; Keeping victims and potential victims in fear of Anti-Tren and its members and associates through threats and acts of violence; Promoting and enhancing Anti-Tren and the reputation and activities of its members and associates; Providing assistance to members and associates of Anti-Tren who committed crimes for and on behalf of Anti-Tren, such as lodging and interstate transportation for members and associates of Anti-Tren to flee prosecution, or bail money for members or associates of Anti-Tren who are detained; and Protecting Anti-Tren and its members and associates from detection and prosecution by law enforcement authorities through acts of intimidation, threats, and violence against potential witnesses to crimes committed by members of Anti-Tren. Anti-Tren engaged in human smuggling and sex trafficking of young women or "multadas," into the United States in exchange for debts that the young women would pay back by engaging in commercial sex work. Like TDA, members of Anti-Tren enforced compliance among these young women by, among other things: Threatening to kill the young women and their families, Assaulting the young women, Shooting or killing the young women, and Tracking down and kidnapping the young women who tried to flee. Members of Anti-Tren also committed and conspired, attempted, and threatened to commit, acts of violence, including acts involving murder and assault, to protect and to expand Anti-Tren's criminal operations, resolve disputes within Anti-Tren, to retaliate against rival organizations, including Tren de Aragua itself, and to maintain control over sex trafficking victims. Anti-Tren members and associates also trafficked controlled substances, committed robberies, and obtained, possessed, trafficked, and used firearms and ammunition. The new charges in the S4 indictment allege, among other things, that: On or about April 15, 2024, Yender Mata, Ervin Hernandez, also known as "Coco" and "Coquito," and Kerlyn Nataliy Perez-Lopez, also known as "Mou," conspired to murder and caused the murders of Jhombeyker Jose Bisbal Pina and Adrian Mendoza Isturiz, who were shot to death in the Bronx. In or about April 2025, Guillermo Enrique Freites-Velazquez and Roiman Noe Bello Ferrer conspired to kill an individual in New York (Intended Victim-1). From in or about February 2025 until in or about March 2025, David Valencia-De La Rosa and Johan Carlos Mujica-Urpin, also known as "Sobrino," conspired to kill another individual in New York (Intended Victim-2). In or about April 2025, Roiman Noe Bello Ferrer and others conspired to kill an individual in Florida (Intended Victim-3). On or about Oct. 5, 2024, Jesus David Barrios Garcia, also known as "Morocho," ordered Kellen Jaspe Bustamanate to shoot an Anti-Tren member in the leg as a form of gang punishment. On or about the same day, Barrios Garcia also ordered Enrique Gustavo Boada Yanez, also known as "Chino," to shoot a different Anti-Tren member in the leg, also as gang punishment. In or about January 2025, Keiswuel Orlando Palacios-Milano, also known as "Oturache" and "Inmortalidad," Anderson Smith Zambrano-Pacheco, and Yeferson Prieto Galviz, also known as "Flacot" and "Flacote," conspired to commit and did commit a gunpoint home invasion robbery of an individual (Robbery Victim-1) and Robbery Victim-1's family in Yonkers. In or about January 2025, Keiswuel Orlando Palacios-Milano, also known as "Oturache" and "Inmortalidad," Anderson Zambrano-Pacheco, Mario Pereda, also known as "Cara de Hombre," Wilfredo Jose Avendano Carrizalez, also known as "Kabuvy," and Carlos Gabriel Santos Mogollon, conspired to commit a gunpoint robbery of a drug trafficker (Robbery Victim-2) in the Bronx. In or about 2024, Luis Jose Velasquez-Hurtado, also known as "Chito," engaged in sex trafficking of a young woman from Venezuela (Trafficking Victim-1) whom Velasquez-Hurtado threatened with a gun, caused to be kidnapped, and whose immigration documents Velasquez-Hurtado caused to be seized. In or about 2024, Jesus David Barrios Garcia, also known as "Morocho," Enrique Gustavo Boada Yanez, also known as "Chino," Jesus Ruben Lopez Gonzalez, also known as "Lopez," and Danger Leoner Sanchez Alfonzo, also known as "Danger," engaged in sex trafficking of another young woman from Venezuela (Trafficking Victim-2). A chart containing the names, charges, and maximum penalties for the defendants is set forth below. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge. U.S. Attorney Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of HSI New York, Seattle, Chicago, and Portland, and the NYPD. He also thanked Joint Task Force Vulcan; the Arapahoe County District Attorney's Office; the Aurora Police Department in Aurora, Colorado; the New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS); the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's National Gang Unit and New York Human Intelligence Division; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's New York and Chicago Enforcement and Removal Operations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); U.S. Marshals Service-District of Oregon; U.S. Customs and Border Protection-New York; the New York City Crime Analysis Center at the New York/New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area; the Computer Crimes Unit at the NYPD; the King County, Washington Sheriff's Office; and the Seattle Police Department. This case is a part of JTFV, which was created in 2019 to eradicate MS-13 and is now expanded to target Tren de Aragua. The JTFV is comprised of U.S. Attorney's Offices across the country, including the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York; Eastern and Western Districts of North Carolina; Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia; Southern District of Florida; Eastern District of Texas; Western District of Oklahoma; Northern District of Indiana; and the District of Nevada, as well as the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys, Department of Justice's National Security Division and the Criminal Division. Additionally, the FBI, DEA, HSI, ATF, USMS, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons are essential law enforcement partners with JTFV. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Justice Department to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department's Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood. This case is being handled by JTFV and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jun Xiang, Kathryn Wheelock, Timothy Ly, and Andrew K. Chan for the Southern District of New York are in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Topics: Human Trafficking Drug Trafficking Firearms Offenses Immigration Violent Crime Components: Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Office of the Deputy Attorney General USAO - New York, Southern U.S. Marshals Service Press Release Number: 26-149 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sweden and Ukraine agree to cooperate on cybersecurity Government Offices of Sweden Press release from Ministry of Defence Published 13 February 2026 Cyber attacks are one of the tactics used by Russia in its war against Ukraine. Sweden and Ukraine have now reached an agreement aimed at strengthening Ukraine's resilience to cyber attacks, which also enhances Sweden's capability to cope with sophisticated cyber threats. The memorandum of understanding regarding cybersecurity was signed on 12 February in Germany, in connection with the annual Munich Security Conference. "Sweden stands by Ukraine, and we will continue to support them for as long as it takes. Through the agreement that has now been signed, Sweden will also be able to contribute to Ukraine's resilience in the field of cybersecurity, while further strengthening cooperation between our two countries," says Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin. As part of this cooperation, Sweden will provide capacity-building - training and exercises, methodological support, exchange of experience and secure information-sharing - to strengthen Ukraine's capability to withstand Russia's cyber attacks. Ukraine will share its experience of dealing with sophisticated Russian cyber attacks. This knowledge will improve Sweden's preparedness and its capability to safeguard vital societal functions. The agreement is formally entered between the National Cybersecurity Centre at the National Defence Radio Establishment in Sweden and the State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine (SSSCIP). The memorandum of understanding is valid for five years. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address This aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 12, 2026 shows tourists viewing lanterns and lighting installations at a scenic area in Luoyang, central China's Henan Province. Various festive events are held across China to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year of the Horse. (Photo by Zhang Yixi/Xinhua) Villagers perform the wooden-bench dragon dance in Anshan Village of Xianju County in Taizhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Feb. 13, 2026. Various festive events are held across China to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year of the Horse. (Photo by Wang Huabin/Xinhua) This aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 13, 2026 shows artists from a local art troupe rehearsing a New Year performance in Wulingyuan District of Zhangjiajie, central China's Hunan Province. Various festive events are held across China to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year of the Horse. (Photo by Wu Yongbing/Xinhua) This aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 12, 2026 shows lanterns lighting installations on the Wujiang River in Jinhua, east China's Zhejiang Province. Various festive events are held across China to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year of the Horse. (Photo by Lou Jiyang/Xinhua) A girl has fun at a night market in Dunhuang, northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 12, 2026. Various festive events are held across China to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year of the Horse. (Photo by Zhang Xiaoliang/Xinhua) Tourists watch waist drum performance at a night market in Dunhuang, northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 12, 2026. Various festive events are held across China to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year of the Horse. (Photo by Zhang Xiaoliang/Xinhua) An artist performs Sichuan opera for tourists at a lantern fair held in Dazhou, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Feb. 13, 2026. Various festive events are held across China to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year of the Horse. (Photo by Deng Liangkui/Xinhua) Artists rehearse a New Year performance in Anyang, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 13, 2026. Various festive events are held across China to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year of the Horse. (Photo by Liu Xiaokun/Xinhua) Editor: WSH Ranking Member Shaheen, Senators Coons, Murphy, Kaine, Booker, Van Hollen, Duckworth and Rosen Publish Major New Report on True Cost of Trump Administration's Third Country Deportation Deals Senate Foreign Relations Committee February 13, 2026 WASHINGTON -- Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Chris Coons (D-DE), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) released a comprehensive report detailing how the Trump Administration's secret deportation deals are undermining U.S. interests and coming at great cost to taxpayers. Commissioned by Senator Shaheen, the report brings to light the Trump Administration's rapidly expanding use of third country deportationsin which the U.S. deports migrants to countries that are not their own. Previously a rare tool used only in exceptional circumstances, the Trump Administration has broadened this practice into a sprawling system of global removals. The 30-page report, titled "At What Cost? Inside the Trump Administration's Secret Deportation Deals," is the first Congressional report examining the issue of third country deportations under the Trump Administration and is informed by a ten-month review of agreements, known deals and third country deportations through January 2026, staff travel to relevant countries and meetings and communication with current U.S. officials, foreign government officials, human rights organizations, deportees and attorneys. This report finds that the Trump Administration has expanded and institutionalized a system in which the United States urges or coerces countries to accept migrants who are not their citizens, often through arrangements that are costly, wasteful and poorly monitored. It catalogs the costly and ineffective operations, waste of taxpayer funds through unnecessary removals, concerning lack of oversight on U.S. funds to foreign governments and secret deals that do not serve American interests. Taken together, these actions have created an expensive and dangerous form of shadow diplomacy that prioritizes the appearance of toughness over the security of Americans. "This report outlines the troubling practice by the Trump Administration of deporting individuals to third countriesplaces where these people have no connectionat great expense to the American taxpayer and raises serious questions," said Ranking Member Shaheen. "Through its third country deportation deals, the Trump Administration is putting millions of taxpayer dollars into the hands of foreign governments, while turning a blind eye to the human costs and potentially undermining our diplomatic relationships. For an Administration that claims to be reigning in fraud, waste and abuse, this policy is the epitome of all three." The report comes as the Administration is aggressively seeking to strip hundreds of thousands of migrants of legal status in the United States through the ending of temporary protected status and humanitarian parole, among other avenues, increasing the risk of expanded third country deportations. This report identifies six central ways in which the Administration's use of third country deportations has undermined U.S. interests: Expensive and Ineffective Operations : The Administration has spent tens of millions of dollars to move a relatively small number of migrants to third countries, in some cases paying more than one million dollars per person, with little measurable impact on its deportation agenda. : The Administration has spent tens of millions of dollars to move a relatively small number of migrants to third countries, in some cases paying more than one million dollars per person, with little measurable impact on its deportation agenda. Needlessly Wasting Taxpayer Funds : In many cases, migrants could have been returned directly to their home countries, avoiding costly third country deportations. As of January 2026, more than eighty percent of the migrants sent to third countries paid by the United States to take them in have already returned to their country of origin or are in the process of doing so. In some cases, the U.S. paid to fly migrants to third countries only to later pay again for them to fly to their home country. : In many cases, migrants could have been returned directly to their home countries, avoiding costly third country deportations. As of January 2026, more than eighty percent of the migrants sent to third countries paid by the United States to take them in have already returned to their country of origin or are in the process of doing so. In some cases, the U.S. paid to fly migrants to third countries only to later pay again for them to fly to their home country. Providing Money to Corrupt Governments Without Oversight : The United States has sent more than thirty-two million dollars to foreign governments in direct connection with third country deportation deals, including those with records of corruption, human rights abuses and human trafficking, without monitoring how the money is used or whether taxpayer funds are being used to facilitate corruption, human rights abuses or human trafficking. It is unclear how much additional U.S. funding is being redirected to indirectly support these deals. : The United States has sent more than thirty-two million dollars to foreign governments in direct connection with third country deportation deals, including those with records of corruption, human rights abuses and human trafficking, without monitoring how the money is used or whether taxpayer funds are being used to facilitate corruption, human rights abuses or human trafficking. It is unclear how much additional U.S. funding is being redirected to indirectly support these deals. Failure to Monitor and Enforce Agreements : The State Department is not tracking foreign government compliance with diplomatic assurances or enforcing agreement terms, even where evidence suggests foreign governments are violating their commitments. In at least one country, U.S. officials told Committee staff that they were instructed by the Trump Administration officials to not follow up on how deportees were being treated. : The State Department is not tracking foreign government compliance with diplomatic assurances or enforcing agreement terms, even where evidence suggests foreign governments are violating their commitments. In at least one country, U.S. officials told Committee staff that they were instructed by the Trump Administration officials to not follow up on how deportees were being treated. Secret Deals That Do Not Serve American Interests : Third country deportation agreements have become a central feature of U.S. bilateral relations, involving cash payments, political concessions and coercion, without transparency about the full extent of what the United States is giving in return or the pressures it is exerting. In addition, the Administration is making secret deals with adversarial regimes such as Iran, to accept their nationals back. : Third country deportation agreements have become a central feature of U.S. bilateral relations, involving cash payments, political concessions and coercion, without transparency about the full extent of what the United States is giving in return or the pressures it is exerting. In addition, the Administration is making secret deals with adversarial regimes such as Iran, to accept their nationals back. Circumventing U.S. Immigration Law: Evidence suggests the Administration is using third countries to carry out removals that U.S. law would otherwise prohibit, such as sending protected individuals onward to countries where they may face persecution or death. The full report is available HERE. The Executive Summary is available HERE. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Minister Anand meets with France's Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Global Affairs Canada Readout February 13, 2026 - Munich, Germany - Global Affairs Canada The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today met with Jean-Noel Barrot, France's Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, at the Munich Security Conference, held from February 13 to 15, 2026, in Germany. The ministers discussed key global issues, including Russia's illegal war against Ukraine, the Arctic, the continued humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the situation in Haiti. They underscored the importance of continued Canada-France collaboration, both bilaterally and through the G7 under France's presidency. The ministers also explored opportunities to deepen cooperation on defence, critical minerals and trade diversification, building on Canada and France's shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Regular Press Conference on February 13, 2026 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China Updated: February 13, 2026 19:14 China News Service: The Foreign Ministry in recent years has held the "Embracing the Chinese New Year" special program around the Spring Festival annually extending festive greetings to overseas Chinese. Can you give us more details about this year's special program? Lin Jian: This is the fourth consecutive year since 2023 that our Ministry and Chinese diplomatic missions worldwide have held the "Embracing the Chinese New Year" special program. The program is aimed to deliver the CPC Central Committee's care for overseas Chinese, and organize cultural events that celebrate the festival and serve as cultural bridges. The program is warmly welcomed abroad. As we celebrate the Spring Festival, our thoughts turn all the more to Chinese people living abroad. The special program will continue to be held for this year's Spring Festival. Our embassies and consulates around the world will visit overseas Chinese to extend festive greetings and hold various events to celebrate the Spring Festival. They are ready to invite more overseas Chinese and friends from around the world to take part and we expect the events to create great momentum for cultural exchanges between China and the rest of the world. We hope overseas Chinese will feel the warmth of their motherland and ancestral home in the festive season. We wish overseas Chinese around the world a happy and prosperous Year of the Horse! Bloomberg: Japan has said it seized a Chinese fishing vessel and arrested its captain after the ship entered the nation's exclusive economic zone and sought to avoid inspection. We are wondering if the Foreign Ministry has any comments on this? Lin Jian: The Chinese government always asks Chinese fishermen to operate in accordance with laws and regulations. Meanwhile, China firmly protects their lawful rights and interests. China hopes that the Japanese side will strictly observe the China-Japan Fisheries Agreement, ensure impartial law enforcement and protect the safety of the Chinese crew and their lawful rights and interests. Hubei Media Group: Results of the general election in Barbados that came out on February 12 show that the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) claimed all the 30 seats in the House of Assembly, and incumbent Prime Minister and leader of the BLP Mia Mottley will serve another term as prime minister. What is China's comment? Lin Jian: China congratulates Prime Minister Mia Mottley on winning another term. Barbados is an important cooperation partner of China in the Caribbean. Over the past 49 years since the two countries established diplomatic relations, bilateral ties have achieved sound and steady growth. China stands ready to work with Barbados to continue deepening practical cooperation in various areas and bring the traditional friendly relations to a new level. The following question was raised after the press conference: Do you have any updates regarding the Chinese vessel seized by the Japanese side? Lin Jian: The Chinese Consulate General in Fukuoka is assisting with relevant Chinese crew member's safe return. ************************************************** During the Spring Festival holiday, there will be no regular press conference from Monday, February 16 to Monday, February 23. The regular press conference will resume on Tuesday, February 24. During this period, questions can be submitted to the Spokesperson's Office via fax, email or WeChat. This is the last regular press conference before the Spring Festival. With the Year of the Fire Horse just days away, we draw inspiration from the hallmark perseverance of the horse, and stand ready to work with you to continue presenting a warm and vibrant China as it is. My colleagues and I have prepared lucky pouches which embody a festive atmosphere and new year greetings for you. We wish you good fortune, great vigor and every success in the Year of the Horse! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN sounds alarm over US-generated energy crisis in Cuba Iran Press TV Friday, 13 February 2026 3:44 PM The United Nations has sounded the alarm over the energy crisis in Cuba after it was cut off by the US President Donald Trump administration from fuel supplied by Venezuela. A US blockade of oil deliveries from Venezuela to Cuba has plunged the island state into crisis. The United Nations said on Friday it is "extremely worried" by the rapidly worsening energy crisis in Cuba. "We are extremely worried about Cuba's deepening socio-economic crisis -- amid a decades-long financial and trade embargo, extreme weather events, and the recent US measures restricting oil shipments," UN human rights office spokeswoman Marta Hurtado told a media briefing in Geneva. Hurtado said that given the dependence of health, food, and water systems on imported fossil fuels, oil scarcity in Cuba had put the availability of essential services at risk. She added that the frequent power cuts in Cuba were undermining access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene. The UN spokeswoman pointed out that more than 80 percent of water pumping equipment in Cuba is powered by electricity generated from power plants that burn oil. "Intensive care units and emergency rooms are compromised, as are the production, delivery, and storage of vaccines, blood products, and other temperature-sensitive medications," she said, warning that "this is having an increasingly severe impact on the human rights of people in Cuba." The spokeswoman pointed out that UN rights chief Volker Turk sees the US blockade of oil deliveries from Venezuela to Cuba as a broad human rights violation. "[Turk] reiterates his call on all states to lift unilateral sectoral measures, given their broad and indiscriminate impact on the population. Policy goals cannot justify actions that in themselves violate human rights," the spokeswoman stated. In the meantime, since the US abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in early January, the administration of President Donald Trump has deprived Cuba of its largest source of oil, Caracas. Trump is also pressuring Mexico to stop its fuel shipments to Havana, threatening to impose economic tariffs on all countries that ship oil to Cuba. Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, himself a Miami-born son of Cuban immigrants, have made no secret of their desire to bring down the revolutionary government in Havana. A decades-long US trade embargo was slapped on Havana shortly after the Cuban revolution of 1959, when Fidel Castro took power and established a socialist government in Havana. In 1962, the economic sanctions imposed on Havana were tightened into a full embargo. Until US forces kidnapped Maduro from his residence in Caracas last month, Cuba had depended on Venezuela for oil supplies. Then, Trump claimed control of the nation's oil, promising to starve Cuba of the commodity. He labelled Havana an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to Washington. On Jan. 11, Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, "THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA - ZERO! I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE." Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel dismissed Trump's description of Havana as a "false and baseless" accusation, calling it a pretext "to suffocate" Cuba's weak economy. He pointed out that Cuba is a free, independent, and sovereign nation, and no one has the right to dictate what it should do. "Cuba does not attack; it has been attacked by the US for 66 years, and it does not threaten; it prepares, ready to defend the homeland to the last drop of blood," Diaz-Canel said on X. He said, "Those who blame the Revolution for the severe economic hardships we suffer should be ashamed and keep quiet. Because they know and recognize that they are the result of the draconian measures of extreme asphyxiation that the United States has imposed on us for six decades." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Daily Press Briefing (02/13/2026) France - Ministere de lEurope et des Affaires etrangeres - Press briefing Statements by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Press briefing Published on February 13, 2026 MADAGASCAR Cyclones Fytia and Gezani (Feb. 13, 2026) France offers its condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of Cyclones Fytia and Gezani. We stand shoulder to shoulder with Madagascar's people and government, and are continuing to dispatch relief supplies and experts in order to respond to the emergency. This support is made possible by the decisive action of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs' Crisis and Support Center, as well as government agencies based in Reunion Island. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Germany Federal Foreign Office 12.02.2026 - Press release Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul issued the following statement today (12 February 2026) on the eve of the 62nd Munich Security Conference: In times of increasing crises and conflicts, growing military strength and committed diplomacy are our most important security resources. In times of growing uncertainty, focusing on our core interests and values is our fundamental guiding principle. In times of global upheaval and the resurgence of power politics, political reliability and commitment to a stable, rules-based international order are our greatest assets. That is precisely what German foreign and security policy stands for. Being firmly anchored in Europe has brought us far more than prosperity. We are aware of Europe's strength - but we are also aware that, in view of the existential challenge our continent faces from Russia, a concerted effort is needed to take on more responsibility for our security. We know how vitally important it is to be part of the transatlantic community, in which we have great confidence. We will do everything we can to keep the transatlantic bond strong. And we are actively working to strengthen old partnerships and gain new partners around the globe. Like no other forum, the Munich Security Conference is once again the international focal point for examining all these questions. Once again here in Munich, we will look in the coming days at the challenges that no single country can effectively tackle alone. These challenges include the future of a sovereign Ukraine, our security in Europe, transatlantic relations, the situation in the Middle East, the strengthening of global partnerships - responsibility, strength, reliability and stability. Germany will continue to make an active contribution to all of this. Munich Security Conference 2026: Germany as host in times of geopolitical upheaval Germany Federal Foreign Office 13.02.2026 - Article Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is attending the 62nd Munich Security Conference from 13 to 15 February 2026. Read on to find out what this year's conference title "Under Destruction" is all about and which issues will be at the forefront. Munich as a global stage for diplomacy With over 1000 participants from more than 115 countries, including some 60 Heads of State and Government and over 50 leaders of international organisations, the MSC 2026 is bigger and more international than ever. Only here can you bump into the NATO Secretary General, the Ukrainian President, the US Secretary of State and politicians from all over the world in the lift or in the sprawling corridors of the conference hotel. In addition, over 100 international think tanks will be represented at a high level this year and will discuss the most important security policy issues at no less than 270 side events. Side events organised by the Federal Foreign Office will set the agenda on key issues also this year, including defence, threats from Russia, geo-economics, artificial intelligence, key technologies and research security. With the participation of Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius and numerous other cabinet members, the Federal Government is underscoring Germany's active role and clear willingness to assume responsibility in a phase of growing global uncertainty in which it is important to preserve our security, freedom and prosperity. Info The Conference was first held in 1963, and for the first few decades was known as the Wehrkundetagung (conference on military science). Back then, it was a much smaller affair, attended by only a few dozen participants. Although even in the early days the meeting was designed as an international conference, its object and purpose was to give German participants an opportunity to meet their colleagues from the United States and from other NATO countries. As the years went by, the Conference grew and grew. While there are still plenty of figures in uniform filling the corridors of the Hotel Bayerischer Hof, they mingle these days with CEOs, members of think tanks, journalists and other leading figures from all around the world. The range of issues addressed by the MSC has likewise evolved over the years and now increasingly focuses on other regions of the world, such as the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific, in addition to policy areas such as the global economy and new technologies. High-level exchange on current security and foreign policy issues Hardly any other forum offers the chance to speak to so many fellow politicians, members of civil society and security policy practitioners in such quick succession, or to strike up informal conversations with them in the bustling corridors of the venue. This year, the focus will again be on the efforts to achieve peace in the context of Russia's illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. Other issues to be discussed will include transatlantic relations, security in Europe and strengthening NATO , as well as the situation in the Middle East, the future of the international order and the expansion of global partnerships. The Foreign Minister's agenda also comprises the traditional meeting with a large delegation from the US Congress. This will provide an opportunity to follow up on the Foreign Minister's recent trip to the US and his talks with congressional representatives in Washington, DC in January and to continue their dialogue. As usual, there will also be an informal meeting of the G7 Foreign Ministers. This will be the first such meeting hosted by France, which is holding the G7 Presidency in 2026. Moreover, there will be a wide variety of bilateral and multilateral informal and planned exchange formats. At a panel discussion entitled "Navigating Uncertainty: India and Germany in a World in Disarray", Foreign Minister Wadephul will exchange views with his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on how we can and should act with respect to foreign and security policy in a world characterised by global uncertainties. Info To stay up to date and keep abreast of the Foreign Minister's every move during the MSC, follow us on X (@AussenMinDE.diplo.de, @AuswaertigesAmt and @GermanyDiplo) and Instagram (@aussenminister and @auswaertigesamt). This year's thematic focus: "Under Destruction" This year's MSC will focus on the profound geopolitical upheavals that are taking place and is entitled "Under Destruction". Published shortly before the conference, the Munich Security Report 2026 sets the framework for the MSC and analyses the far-reaching consequences of the rise of political forces that focus on destruction rather than reform. You can read the full report here . NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Rubio's Meeting with German Chancellor Merz US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson February 13, 2026 The below is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott: Secretary of State Marco Rubio met today with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Munich. They discussed pressing global challenges including securing supply chains, advancing efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, and strengthening the partnership between the United States and Europe. The Secretary expressed appreciation for Germany's strong support for Ukraine, including over $76 billion in assistance since 2022, and discussed continued coordination on reconstruction efforts. Secretary Rubio and Chancellor Merz reiterated the importance of deepening the U.S.-German partnership across these critical priorities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 6th India - Republic of Korea Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue (FPSD) India - Ministry of External Affairs February 13, 2026 Shri P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) paid a visit to the Republic of Korea (ROK) on 12-13 February 2026, to co-chair the 6th Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue (FPSD) with his ROK counterpart Mr. Park Yoon-joo, First Vice Foreign Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of ROK, on 13th February 2026. 2. During the FPSD, both sides agreed to take forward the 'India-ROK Special Strategic Partnership' in 2026 through regular high-level engagements, including the visit of ROK's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science & ICT to India for the AI Impact Summit, Foreign Ministers led Joint Commission Meeting and several other ministerial and senior official-level dialogues. 3. Both sides discussed the whole gamut of bilateral relations, including political, economic and commercial, defence and security, science and technology, culture and people to people ties. Secretary (East) underscored the significant opportunities in the shipbuilding and maritime sector for Korean companies, while emphasizing the need to enhance economic security cooperation. Both sides also explored partnerships in critical minerals and supply chains and identified possibilities of cooperation in new and emerging technologies such as Al, semiconductor, Green hydrogen etc. Furthermore, both sides also discussed deepening of cultural relations through enhanced people to people ties. 4. The FPSD also provided an opportunity to share perspectives on regional and global issues of mutual importance, including issues related to the Korean Peninsula and the Indo-Pacific region. Both sides also discussed cooperation in multilateral fora. 5. In addition to the FPSD, Secretary (East) called on ROK Foreign Minister H. E. Cho Hyun. Both reaffirmed their mutual commitment to further enhancing the bilateral relations. Secretary (East) also had separate meetings with Lim Woong-soon, Second Deputy Director of National Security Office and Chung Eui-hae, Deputy Minister, Political Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of ROK. 6. Secretary (East)'s visit to ROK is part of a series of several high level engagements between the two countries. New Delhi February 13, 2026 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address QA-Industry Conclave showcases digital transformation as the cornerstone of trusted & time-bound defence quality assurance India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence Posted On: 13 FEB 2026 7:50PM by PIB Delhi The Quality Assurance (QA)-Industry Conclave themed 'Traceability, Speed and Trust - Leveraging Technology for Smarter Quality Assurance' took place in New Delhi on February 13, 2026. It brought together senior leadership from the Ministry of Defence, Indian Navy, QA organisations, defence shipyards, public sector undertakings and leading private industry partners on a single platform to deliberate upon the future roadmap for a technology-driven quality assurance ecosystem. The conclave underscored the transformative role of digital technologies in redefining quality assurance processes across the defence manufacturing value chain. Deliberations focused on enabling end-to-end traceability, reducing procedural timelines, enhancing transparency in inspection and certification, and creating a responsive framework that promotes trust between Quality Assurance agencies and industry. The discussions reflected a clear consensus that the integration of digital tools, data-centric methodologies and collaborative policy frameworks is essential for achieving speed, accuracy, and reliability in complex shipbuilding and defence production programmes. A major outcome of the event was the release of the Indian Naval & Marine Industry - A Capability Catalogue, a comprehensive compendium aimed at providing structured visibility to indigenous industrial capabilities and facilitating stronger engagement between the Services & the domestic manufacturing ecosystem. The promulgation of the Joint Service Guidelines on the Common Information Model for integrated data management of combat systems and sensors marked a significant milestone towards standardisation, interoperability & seamless digital exchange of technical and quality data across stakeholders. The conferment of Green Channel Status and grant of Self-Certification to eligible industry partners in recognition of their proven quality performance reflected a progressive shift towards a trust-based, performance-oriented quality assurance regime that rewards consistency, reliability, and process maturity. The technical sessions witnessed in-depth and forward-looking discussions on digital QA for shipbuilding, policy compliance in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape, and quality assurance challenges in naval ship construction and replenishment orders for spares. The participants shared practical experiences, best practices and emerging requirements, leading to a rich exchange of ideas and identification of actionable pathways for process optimisation. The deliberations brought out the need for real-time data visibility, integrated inspection planning, harmonised documentation, risk-based certification models and enhanced industry participation in quality planning from the design stage onwards. The addresses by Chief of Material of the Indian Navy Vice Admiral B Sivakumar and other senior dignitaries highlighted the evolving nature of defence manufacturing in India and the need for quality assurance systems to keep pace with technological advancements, modular construction practices, integrated combat systems and network-centric operations. The speakers emphasised that quality assurance is no longer a terminal activity, but a continuous, technology-enabled process embedded across design, production, testing and lifecycle support. The importance of aligning QA procedures with the national vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and fostering a trust-based compliance environment for capable industry partners was also brought out prominently. *** VK/Savvy (Release ID: 2227778) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Farmers carrying goods for sale board the train No. 7272 bound for Tongren City, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 12, 2026. The train No. 7272/7271 has run across the mountainous areas in Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing for almost 20 years. With an average speed of just 40 kilometers per hour, the train has made it easier for residents along the route to travel and commute, while also helping local products reach wider markets. (Xinhua/Liu Xu) A villager (L) from Hunan Province sells fruits to passengers on the train No. 7272 on Feb. 12, 2026. The train No. 7272/7271 has run across the mountainous areas in Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing for almost 20 years. With an average speed of just 40 kilometers per hour, the train has made it easier for residents along the route to travel and commute, while also helping local products reach wider markets. (Photo by Long Jianrui/Xinhua) A farmer from Hunan Province carrying goods for sale prepare to leave the Tongren Railway Station in Tongren City, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 12, 2026. The train No. 7272/7271 has run across the mountainous areas in Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing for almost 20 years. With an average speed of just 40 kilometers per hour, the train has made it easier for residents along the route to travel and commute, while also helping local products reach wider markets. (Photo by Yuan Fuhong/Xinhua) Villagers from Hunan Province carrying empty baskets after selling their goods prepare to board the train No. 7271 at the Tongren Railway Station in Tongren City, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 12, 2026. The train No. 7272/7271 has run across the mountainous areas in Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing for almost 20 years. With an average speed of just 40 kilometers per hour, the train has made it easier for residents along the route to travel and commute, while also helping local products reach wider markets. (Xinhua/Liu Xu) Villagers from Hunan Province talk at the Tongren Railway Station in Tongren City, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 12, 2026. The train No. 7272/7271 has run across the mountainous areas in Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing for almost 20 years. With an average speed of just 40 kilometers per hour, the train has made it easier for residents along the route to travel and commute, while also helping local products reach wider markets. (Photo by Yuan Fuhong/Xinhua) Farmers from Hunan Province carrying goods for sale walk to a market in Tongren City, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 12, 2026. The train No. 7272/7271 has run across the mountainous areas in Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing for almost 20 years. With an average speed of just 40 kilometers per hour, the train has made it easier for residents along the route to travel and commute, while also helping local products reach wider markets. (Photo by Yuan Fuhong/Xinhua) Villagers carrying goods for sale prepare to leave the Tongren Railway Station in Tongren City, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 12, 2026. The train No. 7272/7271 has run across the mountainous areas in Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing for almost 20 years. With an average speed of just 40 kilometers per hour, the train has made it easier for residents along the route to travel and commute, while also helping local products reach wider markets. (Xinhua/Liu Xu) Villagers from Hunan Province carrying goods for sale prepare to leave the Tongren Railway Station in Tongren City, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 12, 2026. The train No. 7272/7271 has run across the mountainous areas in Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing for almost 20 years. With an average speed of just 40 kilometers per hour, the train has made it easier for residents along the route to travel and commute, while also helping local products reach wider markets. (Photo by Long Jianrui/Xinhua) A villager (R) from Hunan Province sells fruits to passengers on the train No. 7272 on Feb. 12, 2026. The train No. 7272/7271 has run across the mountainous areas in Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing for almost 20 years. With an average speed of just 40 kilometers per hour, the train has made it easier for residents along the route to travel and commute, while also helping local products reach wider markets. (Xinhua/Liu Xu) Farmers carrying goods for sale board the train No. 7272 at Jinhe Railway Station in central China's Hunan Province, Feb. 12, 2026. The train No. 7272/7271 has run across the mountainous areas in Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing for almost 20 years. With an average speed of just 40 kilometers per hour, the train has made it easier for residents along the route to travel and commute, while also helping local products reach wider markets. (Photo by Yuan Fuhong/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 12, 2026 shows fresh fruits on the train No. 7272. The train No. 7272/7271 has run across the mountainous areas in Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing for almost 20 years. With an average speed of just 40 kilometers per hour, the train has made it easier for residents along the route to travel and commute, while also helping local products reach wider markets. (Xinhua/Liu Xu) Editor: WSH THE INDIAN AIR FORCE (IAF) CONDUCTS IN-SITU JOINT EXERCISE WITH ROYAL THAI AIR FORCE (RTAF) IN INDIAN OCEAN REGION India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence Posted On: 13 FEB 2026 4:12PM by PIB Delhi The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted an In-situ Exercise with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) in the Indian Ocean Region from 09 to 12 February 2026, strengthening military cooperation and enhancing mutual understanding between the two countries. The bilateral engagement between the two countries was executed in the form of an air combat training exercise, featuring Su-30MKl multirole fighter from the Indian Air Force (IAF) and SAAB Gripen jets from the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF). Extended range operations by the IAF aircraft over the maritime domain were ensured by the IAF IL-78 mid-air refuelling tankers. The exercise was conducted under the enhanced surveillance and command capabilities of Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft from the IAF and Ground Control Interception (GCI) element from the RTAF. The IAF participating forces operated from airbases in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while the Thai Gripens operated from airbases in Thailand. The exercise was designed to demonstrate IAF's reach as well as interoperability with a Friendly Foreign Country (FFC) in the IOR. This exercise provided operational exposure to participating forces and exchange of best practices between IAF and RTAF. This exercise reflects the deepening "Act East" partnership between India and Thailand, expanding into the aerospace domain. *** VK/JS/IK (Release ID: 2227536) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Shamkhani: Iran's missile power is 'non-negotiable' IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 13, 2026 Tehran, IRNA -- Ali Shamkhani, Representative of the Leader in the Supreme Defense Council, has reiterated that Iran's missile power is a non-negotiable red line and that Tehran will respond decisively and appropriately to any aggression. According to a report published on Friday, Shamkhani told Al Jazeera that Iran's missile power is among its red lines and is not subject to negotiation. Saying that the Israeli regime cannot take any action without direct support from Washington, Shamkhani stressed that Tehran would respond strongly, decisively, and appropriately to any adventurism against Iran. He noted that the level of military readiness is high and that the cost of any miscalculation by any party would be significant. Shamkhani said it is the logical and rational path for all parties to avoid any actions that negatively affect regional stability and security. He stated that if negotiations between Iran and the US are realistic and free of excessive demands, they can move forward on a positive path and serve the interests of all sides. Shamkhani added that diplomatic efforts in the region are being carried out to strengthen the political option and reduce tensions. 9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Eslami: Enemies pursuing 'pressure from outside, collapse from inside' strategy against Iran IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 13, 2026 Tehran (IRNA) -- Mohammad Eslami, Vice President and Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), says enemies of Iran are pursuing a strategy of "pressure from outside and collapse from inside" against Iran. He said on Friday in Mashhad that enemies have consistently followed a standing strategy of exerting pressure while attempting to destabilize Iran internally. "They have employed all hardware and software tools," he said, adding that despite this, Iran's achievements have been remarkable. Iran's possessing knowledge and capability has led to increasing hostility, Eslami said, adding that the most important characteristic of the Islamic Revolution is that it has not surrendered to anyone but Allah. He said the two wings of progress, that is human and territorial development , were key objectives pursued by the late Imam Khomeini and are also followed by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei. Referring to obstacles facing the country, Eslami said that ever since before the victory of the Islamic Revolution, the main barrier has been the world hegemony and its excessive demands. He added that due to its strategic and geopolitical position, vast energy resources, and talented workforce, the region has long been the target of global powers. He said those powers were forced to leave Iran in February 1979 but seek to regain influence, in order to reclaim the country's oil and gas reserves, mineral wealth, and economic advantages. Elsewhere in his remarks, Eslami said Iran has repeatedly declared it is not seeking nuclear weapons. He noted that over 25 years, successive governments in the Islamic Republic negotiated, resulting in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2015. However, the other parties did not uphold their side of the deal and despite Iran implementing its obligations, the United States withdrew from the agreement under President Donald Trump and intensified sanctions, he said. Eslami described sanctions as the main tool used to halt and pressure the country. He said that despite restrictions, Iran's progress in military industries, nuclear energy, space, and other sectors has been "extraordinary and miraculous," attributing success to adherence to the Leader's guidance. He said accusations regarding nuclear weapons are aimed at influencing public opinion and discouraging pursuit of nuclear technology, reiterating that Iran has no program to build a bomb and that the Leader has declared such weapons forbidden. 9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran's progress 'miraculous, extraordinary' despite sanctions: Nuclear chief Iran Press TV Friday, 13 February 2026 1:54 PM Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Mohammad Eslami says the country has succeeded in making remarkable progress in the nuclear industry despite the enemies' all-out pressures. The enemies have always maintained a consistent strategy which was to exert pressure on Iran from the outside and to break the country from within, told a gathering of university students in Mashhad said on Friday. "In other words, they have consistently pursued a 'policy of pressure from the outside and breaking from within', making use of all hardware and software tools at their disposal. However, our progress has been extraordinary," he added. He noted that the global arrogance seeks to dominate Iran because it is the second country in the world in terms of oil and gas reserves, with vast mineral reserves. The region possesses great investment opportunities and has abundant economic advantages, he explained. The Iranian nuclear chief reiterated that Tehran has consistently declared that it has no intention to develop nuclear bombs and has held negotiations with different sides over the past 25 years, which resulted in the conclusion of the 2015 nuclear agreement, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). "But they couldn't even tolerate the JCPOA ," he said, referring to the US President Donald Trump's unilateral withdrawal from the deal in 2018 and the subsequent imposition of sanctions. "Sanctions are their main means to stop the country and force it into submission," he emphasized. The JCPOA was a multilateral international agreement signed between Iran and five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council plus Germany in 2015. Under the deal, which came into force in January 2016, Iran had accepted, in good faith, certain limitations on its nuclear program in exchange for a degree of sanctions relief. However, US President Donald Trump pulled Washington out of the UNSC-endorsed agreement, imposing severe economic sanctions against Tehran while Iran was adhering to its commitments under the deal and even continued to do so for a year after the US withdrawal. "Despite all this sabotage, the country's progress in the military industries, nuclear sector, space industry, and other fields has been extraordinary and miraculous," Eslami said. He warned that the enemies are leveling accusations against Iran that its nuclear program aims to build bombs and are in fact trying to confuse public opinion so that some people say, "Forget it. Why are you pursuing nuclear technology? Abandon it and save the country." "This is while Iran has never sought a bomb and there is no program to build one," the nuclear chief pointed out. Iranian and American delegations, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, resumed nuclear talks in Muscat on February 6, months after the US-Israeli aggression of June 2025. Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al Busaidi was shuttling between the sides, with the talks being held indirectly as before. The negotiations followed weeks of tensions as the United States deployed air and naval forces to the region and threatened to attack the Islamic Republic again. Iran insists it will not give up diplomacy but stands ready to repel any act of aggression. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Shamkhani warns of 'strong, decisive' response to any adventurism against Iran Iran Press TV Friday, 13 February 2026 11:08 AM Iran will deliver a "strong, decisive, and appropriate" response to any adventurism against it, Rear Admiral Ali Shamkhani warned, underscoring Tehran's high military readiness amid increasing US threats. "We will respond to any adventurism against Iran in a strong, decisive, and appropriate manner," Shamkhani told Al Jazeera on Friday. His warning comes after months of escalating rhetoric from US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran. In late January, Trump spoke of "another beautiful armada" of warships heading toward Iran and claimed that failure to reach a deal would bring consequences "far worse" than the June strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Shamkhani emphasized that Tehran is prepared for any scenario. "Our military readiness is high. The cost of any miscalculation by any party will be significant," he said. His remarks follow the June aggression by US and Israeli forces on Iran's nuclear sites attacks that occurred during indirect talks between Tehran and Washington. Iran responded by launching missiles at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, which hosts US forces, signaling that it would not leave aggression unanswered. Shamkhani also addressed Israel's role in regional tensions. "The Zionist regime cannot take any action without direct support from Washington," he said. The Leader's aide, meanwhile, added that the "logical" path is to avoid de-establising acts. "Avoiding any action that could affect regional stability and security is the logical and rational path for all sides." The call comes as indirect nuclear talks resumed in Muscat last Friday. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the new round as a "good start," adding that the talks are limited strictly to the nuclear file and must proceed in a calm atmosphere, free from threats. Shamkhani noted that diplomacy could succeed under fair conditions. "If negotiations are realistic and free of excessive demands, they can move in a positive direction and serve the interests of all parties. Diplomatic efforts in the region are aimed at strengthening the political option and reducing tensions." Iranian officials say their main demand in Muscat is the effective and verifiable lifting of economic and financial sanctions. Tehran insists that any deal without tangible economic benefit would be meaningless. It also maintains that uranium enrichment on Iranian soil is a legal right and a non-negotiable principle. Shamkhani reinforced that position on defense capabilities. "Our missile systems are a red line and not up for negotiation," he said as reports suggest that Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu had in a Wednesday meeting with Trump to include Iran's missile program into terms of a probable deal. Shamkhani also pointed to the need for increased security coordination in the region. "The region's security situation has become more complex and requires special coordination mechanisms," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese Tech Offers Blueprint For Iran's Digital Crackdown, New Report Says By Reid Standish February 13, 2026 A new report by a British human rights group says Iran's system of Internet control draws extensively on Chinese technology, enabling authorities to disconnect the country's 93 million people from the global Internet during the height of January's anti-government protests. The report, released this week by Article 19, details the policies and imported hardware behind the expansion of Iran's censorship system and describes how surveillance technologies first implemented in China's Xinjiang region against the Uyghur population are now being used in Iran. Thousands of Iranians were reported killed during the crackdown on the protests, and the country's Internet access has yet to fully recover. What has emerged instead, the report says, is a fragmented but entrenched censorship system developed over decades with Chinese infrastructure and technical cooperation aimed at consolidating total state control over online traffic within Iran's borders. To examine what this model of cooperation offers Tehran, and the technologies and methods behind it, RFE/RL spoke with Michael Caster, head of Article 19's global China program and a co-author of the report. RFE/RL: We know technology transfers and the sharing of expertise have been going on at least since 2010, but what have these latest protests and the government's crackdown on them shown us about the nature of this relationship between Iran and China? Michael Caster: It's true that we have seen documentation going back a decade and a half for technology transfers between China and Iran, but one of the crucial parts of the story that is often overlooked are the terms of the normative framework -- or the strategy of deploying these technologies for really sophisticated digital authoritarian purposes. So we can't just look at the physical layer of the Internet - the types of middle boxes or tools for deep packet inspection or surveillance cameras in the public space -- as the full picture of what is a digital authoritarian state. We also have to understand the norms and the institutions around their deployment, their use, and normalization. Let's look at the Internet shutdown in Iran, which is not new on its own. Iran constantly weaponizes the Internet during periods of mass protest to hide its commission of human rights abuses to prevent people from documenting them and communicating with the outside world. But what we've seen in this recent episode is the almost unprecedented level and scope in which they've been able to do it. So when we look at something like blocking out satellite Internet, which happened with Starlink, it's not just through technology but also through arbitrary and repressive legislation. New rules came into effect following the 12-day war [between Israel and Iran in June 2025] around satellite terminal ownership, then we also have more surveillance drones and also old-fashioned police state tactics of door-to-door sweeps. So it's really that holistic approach, both physical and digital, that is an authoritarian state. RFE/RL: Whether it's normative or something broader, can we truly say that Iran is following a Chinese playbook? Does the Iranian regime really need tips on how to oppress people, or are we talking about a more concrete Chinese blueprint they're following? Caster: It's a blueprint that China excels at and has refined at home. States like Iran and others don't need encouragement to be authoritarian, but they can certainly look to the more effective and capable authoritarian influence deployed by China. We know this because over a number of years we've seen explicit comments from various Iranian members of parliament, ministers, and regulators that have very clearly pointed to the need to learn from China in terms of how it controls the digital domain. That's noteworthy because in repressive environments that are low capacity, the digital domain is where civil society finds gaps in the infrastructure of control to convene, express, and document. So by gaining that total control over the digital domain through new technologies and tactics from China, Iran is able to exert a new level of control. RFE/RL: What is China's role with the creation of Iran's National Information Network (NIN), the state-controlled, filtered, and heavily monitored Internet? Is it more of a normative inspiration, or do we know Chinese expertise has played a role? Caster: This is opaque by design, and you have two quite authoritarian states that are against transparency and accountability. That means some of this has to arrive from contextual analysis and historical narratives. So there is no smoking gun, per se. But I think we can see that all the way back in 2010, Iran was taking steps to build its NIN. It had been discussed earlier, several years prior to that, but 2010 was really a turning point. [That] also was the year China published the white paper on the Internet in China, which really articulated what has become quite commonly referred to as a normative framework for states looking to implement this type of centralized authoritarian control over the digital domain, which is cybersovereignty. That year was also when some of the first large foreign technology transfers between Chinese network infrastructure companies like Huawei and ZTE and Iran were being reported. And this is the type of technology necessary for starting to build out the physicality of a NIN. So 2010 is really this turning point in terms of Iran taking concrete steps at the same time that China was stepping up technology transfers and developing its own framework. That's continued through the years. Sanctions have made this more difficult, and a lot of analysts have argued that vendors like Huawei have taken a more cautious approach, but it seems like technology transfers are ongoing and we are moving toward the final stages of the NIN, similar to the Great Firewall of China. RFE/RL: As things started to pick up in late December, and reached a zenith in January with the protests and the crackdown, is there anything that surprised you in the use of digital tools in Iran? Caster: There are two things that are interesting, in an alarming kind of way. There had been a prevailing strategy to evade past Internet shutdowns by turning to satellite Internet, but this most recent episode has really blasted that notion. There was an idea -- and not just in Iran -- that satellite Internet was this big solution, but it is not this kind of magic bullet against the weaponization of the Internet. It's a reminder that this is a complicated playing field. This is largely the result of countries like China and Russia investing heavily in developing counterspace technologies, and we're seeing how there is an exchange of tools and tactics between China, Russia, and Iran on how to perfect digital repression. This shows how Russian efforts at jamming Starlink in Ukraine dovetail with Chinese technology around GPS jamming and developing its Beidou satellite navigation systems for encrypted signals and locating. At the same time, war gaming in China is looking at new forms of aerial-based satellite Internet jamming, including lots of academic work on how to achieve 100 percent blockage of satellite Internet, related to plans over a possible invasion of Taiwan. Satellite Internet connectivity is, of course, still a very critical piece of ensuring the right to connectivity, but we are also seeing how authoritarian states are working in concert to develop, test, and learn from one another to prevent access to information and expression in these new frontiers of Internet infrastructure. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-china-internet -playbook-cooperation-deal-firewall-huawei-zte/33676070.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address In Munich, UN Nuclear Chief Says New Inspection Regime With Iran 'Technically Possible' By RFE/RL February 13, 2026 Developing a inspection regime to underpin any new Iran nuclear arrangement is "absolutely possible," though extremely difficult, the head of the United Nations atomic watchdog said. Speaking at a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference, Raphael Grossi, of the International Atomic Energy Agency, said Iran's nuclear landscape had changed drastically following the US bombing of Iran's nuclear facilities in Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz last year. "This is absolutely possible, and it is terribly difficult, but it is technically possible and it is politically even viable," Grossi said on February 13, referring to the challenge of establishing a credible inspection regime. The physical infrastructure of Iran's nuclear program has been largely damaged, he said, and that future monitoring would need to focus not only on what remains but on how Tehran's nuclear capabilities could evolve going forward. Grossi noted that while agency inspectors have returned to Iran and are monitoring all undamaged facilities, they still lack access to sites struck during the bombing. His remarks come as diplomatic engagement between Tehran and Washington continues. The United States, meanwhile, has bolstered its military presence, deploying a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East in preparation for a potential strike. Grossi underscored the delicate balance facing negotiators: upholding Iran's right to peaceful nuclear activity under the Nuclear NonProliferation Treaty while ensuring robust verification to build confidence and avoid escalation. "We know perfectly well what needs to be checked and how to check it," he said, adding that light may be visible "at the end of the tunnel" if progress continues. Iran insists that any agreement with the United States can only focus on the nuclear program, rejecting demands to negotiate restrictions on its ballistic missiles. White House special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi held indirect talks in Oman on February 6. Both sides said more talks would be held soon, though no date has been set. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/grossi-iran-nuclear-deal- munich-security/33677208.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Says Regime Change 'Best Thing That Could Happen' In Iran By RFE/RL February 14, 2026 US President Donald Trump said regime change is the "best thing that could happen" in Iran, as he confirmed that a second aircraft carrier would soon join a "massive" US armada in the Arabian Sea amid high tensions between the bitter rivals. "Seems like that would be the best thing that could happen," Trump told reporters on February 13 at a military base in North Carolina when asked whether he sought "regime change" in Tehran. "For 47 years, they've been talking and talking and talking. In the meantime, we've lost a lot of lives while they talk," he added in his most direct call for the fall of Iran's hard-line clerical regime. Trump did not say who he would like to see take over should the government fall, only that "there are people." Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of the last shah of Iran, is one of many figures vying for prominence among the fractured Iranian opposition in exile. Iran's theocratic regime has been in power since 1979, when the Islamic Revolution saw clerics loyal to Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini overthrow the US-backed shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The two countries have not had diplomatic relations since 1980. Washington and Tehran have been involved in indirect talks over Iran's nuclear program. Western countries suspect Iran is attempting to develop a nuclear weapon, while Tehran insists its program is strictly for civilian purposes. Trump has also threatened a new military strike against the Iranian government if it executes any of the protesters arrested during recent mass anti-government demonstrations. 'Difficult' Nuclear Negotiations Trump told US troops at the base that Tehran has been "difficult" in nuclear talks and suggested more pressure on the Iranians was needed. "They've been difficult to make a deal," he said. "Sometimes you have to have fear. That's the only thing that really will get the situation taken care of." Trump also hailed the 12-day war in June, when Israel and the United States launched a bombing campaign targeting Iran's nuclear and military sites. The latest comments come amid one of Washington's largest-ever military buildups in the Persian Gulf region. Experts say the deployment is aimed at giving Trump military options if he chooses to act on his threats to attack Iran for failing to make a nuclear deal and violently cracking down on protesters. Iranian security forces killed thousands of demonstrators in January, after protests erupted in late December 2025, initially over economic issues but later raging into general anger against the regime. More than 53,000 people were arrested, rights groups say. "The gathering of forces is a point of pressure applied by the United States on Iran to come to a negotiated agreement," said Amin Tarzi, professor of strategic studies at Marine Corps War College. Tarzi added that after the buildup, the US military posture in the Gulf is "robust" with "naval and defensive air defense capabilities, plus offensive air components." Reuters on February 13 quoted two unnamed US officials as saying the military was preparing for the possibility of a weeks-long operation against Iran if Trump orders an attack. World's Largest Warship The US military has previously deployed the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln to the Persian Gulf region to join what Trump called a "massive Armada" near Iran. On February 13, Trump confirmed that another aircraft carrier, Gerald R. Ford, along with its escort ships, was departing the Caribbean and would soon join US forces in the region, likely within about seven days. The Gerald R. Ford is considered the largest warship in the world with a length of 337 meters and the capability to carry some of the most advanced military technologies. When asked why he was sending the second warship, Trump said: "In case we don't make a deal, we'll need it...If we need it, we'll have it ready." Negotiators met in Muscat last week in talks mediated by the Omani government, and follow-up sessions are unclear, although Reuters quoted sources as saying a fresh round of talks are scheduled for Geneva on February 17. The source said the US delegation will include envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and that Omani representatives would serve as mediators. Witkoff and Kushner will then participate in trilateral US-Russia-Ukraine talks later in the day, the source added. Tehran has expressed a willingness to discuss its nuclear program but has ruled out negotiations over its ballistic missile program and other related matters. Sanctions Hit Iranian Economy Iran has been hit hard by Western financial sanctions that have helped crater the country's economy. Iran in 2015 agreed to a landmark nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with world powers aimed at preventing it from developing a nuclear weapon in return for an easing of economic sanctions. However, it started rolling back its commitments after Trump, during his first term, withdrew the United States from the deal in 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Tehran. With reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Farda, Reuters, and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/trump-aircraft-carrier- ford-iran-nuclear-armada/33677882.html Copyright (c) 2026. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump calls Herzog 'disgraceful' for refusing to pardon Netanyahu Iran Press TV Friday, 13 February 2026 8:50 AM US President Donald Trump called Israeli president Isaac Herzog "disgraceful" for refusing to pardon prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, escalating his public pressure campaign as Netanyahu's corruption trial drags on. Speaking in the Oval Office on Thursday, a day after hosting Netanyahu for a three-hour meeting at the White House, Trump lashed out at Herzog for refusing to absolve the prime minister, who is on trial for multiple corruption charges. "You have a president who refuses to give him a pardon. He should be ashamed of himself. The president's got the power to give pardons. He doesn't want to do it, because I guess he loses his power... He is disgraceful for not giving it," Trump told reporters. It remains unclear whether Trump and Netanyahu discussed the pardon during Wednesday's meeting. However, Netanyahu had previously urged Trump to raise the issue with Herzog. This is not the first time that Trump has pushed for a Netanyahu pardon. During a meeting with Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago residence in December, Trump claimed that Herzog had told him he intended to pardon Netanyahu. The claim was swiftly denied by Herzog's office, with the Israeli president stating that no such assurance had been given. Netanyahu formally requested a pardon from Herzog in early December, sparking widespread political and public debate, with some arguing that a pardon should only be considered if Netanyahu admits wrongdoing and withdraws from political life. Netanyahu rejected both conditions. He has insisted he will neither confess nor resign, even if granted a pardon. The legal review of the request is still underway as Herzog has yet to receive final recommendations from all relevant legal advisers inside the regime. Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister, was indicted in 2019 on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust after years of investigation. His trial began in 2020, making him the first sitting Israeli premier in the regime's history to testify as a criminal defendant. He faces three separate corruption cases. Court proceedings continue, but not without controversy. Netanyahu and his legal team have sought repeated delays, at times shortening or postponing hearings. During testimony, Netanyahu has contradicted himself on several occasions. Netanyahu is also facing international legal pressure. In November 2024, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for him and former minister of military affairs Yoav Gallant over war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to the genocidal war in Gaza, where more than 72,000 people, most of them women and children, have been killed since October 2023. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Japan-Canada Defense Ministerial Meeting (Summary) Ministry of Defense of Japan (Press Release, provisional translation) Feb 13, 2026 Ministry of Defense Japan On February 13, commencing at 17:00 (local time) for approximately 20 minutes, Minister of Defense Koizumi, who was visiting Germany to attend the Munich Security Conference, held a Japan-Canada defense Ministerial Meeting with the Hon. David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence of Canada. The two ministers noted that, based on the shared recognition that security of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific is becoming increasingly inseparable, strengthening cooperation with like-minded countries such as Canada, an Indo-Pacific nation and also an Atlantic nation, is becoming ever more important. In response, Minister McGuinty also shared his intention to further deepen cooperation with Japan. The two ministers welcomed that "the Agreement between the Government of Japan and the Government of Canada on the Security of Information" entered into force last month, and confirmed that they would continue to work closely together for further deepening the Japan-Canada defense cooperation and exchanges through the Agreement as well as toward the realization of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address WENCHANG, Hainan, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- The recent successful key tests have laid the groundwork for the maiden flight of China's Long March-10 rocket series, a launch vehicle designed to support the country's manned lunar exploration missions, according to the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC). On Wednesday, China successfully conducted a low-altitude demonstration and verification flight test of the Long March-10 carrier rocket, along with a maximum dynamic pressure abort flight test of its new-generation crewed spaceship Mengzhou, with both the rocket and spaceship still in their prototype phases. During the tests, the rocket prototype undertook three tasks -- verifying the maximum dynamic pressure abort conditions during the Mengzhou spaceship's ascent, demonstrating the reliability of its multi-stage parallel operations, and testing critical return-phase technologies, according to Yang Shutao, an expert from the CASC. The Long March-10 rocket series includes two configurations: the Long March-10 with three stages and bundled boosters, and the Long March-10A with two stages and no boosters. Approximately 55 meters in length, the prototype rocket tested on Wednesday is powered by seven liquid oxygen/kerosene engines in parallel, generating nearly 1,000 tonnes of thrust. It currently has the largest single-module thrust among China's rockets, Yang said. In the future, the Long March-10 rocket will integrate two identical boosters in parallel with its seven-engine core stage, giving it a significantly larger carrying capacity, according to Yang. MULTIPLE RECOVERY STEPS To ensure the safety of the abort operation during the tests, the rocket and spacecraft systems were jointly designed, with careful optimization of the separation and escape timeline, and meticulous planning of the relative positions, speeds and angular relationship between the rocket and the spaceship, Yang said. After the spaceship separated, the rocket continued its flight until the first stage reached the predetermined height and speed, at which point its engines were shut down. During the unpowered upward glide phase, the rocket continuously adjusted its attitude, shifting from nose-forward to tail-forward, to meet the subsequent ignition requirements. At an altitude of about 110 km, the rocket deployed its four grid fins, just like a bird spreading its wings, getting ready for the return and recovery. Then came the powered deceleration phase. Two engines were ignited for the second time to decelerate while correcting the rocket's flight position and attitude. When the engines shut down and the rocket entered the aerodynamic deceleration phase, it further slowed down by relying on its own drag and the aerodynamic forces generated by the grid fins, while deflecting the fins to adjust its position and attitude. During the final landing phase, three engines ignited successively, and the rocket maneuvered toward the predicted landing site. At about 120 meters above sea level, the onboard tether mechanism was deployed to simulate the capture by a ground-based recovery net system. When reaching about 5 meters in altitude, the rocket achieved a quasi-hovering state before executing a controlled splashdown in the sea. WAY TO FUTURE REUSES Before the latest flight tests, China conducted two static fire tests on the same rocket, in August and September 2025, respectively. After the second static fire test, the development team completed the streamlined maintenance of the rocket's engines, a comprehensive examination of the rocket, and the replacement of a small amount of consumable items, Yang said. Multiple tests on the same rocket not only reduced research and development costs, but also accumulated continuous and genuine experimental data, providing valuable experience for the subsequent maintenance and repair of the rockets for future reuse. Yang noted that the Long March-10 rocket series will adopt a rocket-ground coordinated recovery solution. It involves "four tethering structures onboard the rocket and a ground-based grid-shaped net recovery device," which will transfer the functions of capture, buffering and stabilization from the rocket to the ground-based net. It will reduce the onboard complexity, thereby enhancing the rocket's carrying capacity. "Rocket reuse can significantly reduce launch costs and increase launch frequency. It is an essential path for large-scale free access to space in the future and provides important support for the progress of China's space sector," Yang said. Editor: WSH Japan-Italy Defense Ministerial Meeting (Summary) Ministry of Defense of Japan (Press Release, provisional translation) Feb 13, 2026 Ministry of Defense Japan On February 13, commencing at 4:00 p.m. (local time) for approximately 20 minutes, Minister of Defense Koizumi, who was visiting Germany to attend the Munich Security Conference, held a Japan-Italy Defense Ministerial Meeting with H.E. Mr. Guido Crosetto, Minister of Defence of the Italian Republic. The two ministers welcomed the opportunity to hold their first face-to-face meeting and confirmed that they would continue to work together toward the success of the strategically important project of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). The two ministers also exchanged views on regional security issues and confirmed that they would work closely together, based on the view that security of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific is inseparable. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Meeting between Defense Minister Koizumi and NATO Secretary General Rutte Ministry of Defense of Japan (Press Release: Provisional Translation) Feb 13, 2026 Ministry of Defense On February 13, 2026, commencing at 2:00 p.m. (local time) for approximately 25 minutes, Minister Koizumi, who was visiting Germany to attend the Munich Security Conference, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Mark RUTTE, Secretary General of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Minister Koizumi and Secretary General Rutte shared their pleasure at the realization of another meeting following their meeting in Davos last month and reconfirmed their shared recognition that security of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific is inseparable, based on the outcome of the NATO Defence Ministers' Meeting held on 12th Febuary. During the meeting, both concurred that the importance of cooperation between Japan and NATO as well as between NATO and IP4 (Indo-Pacific Four: Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the Republic of Korea) is growing in the context of strengthening deterrence, and that such cooperation should be strengthened more than ever. In addition, at the meeting, they exchanged views on regional security environment and on various areas of Japan-NATO cooperation and confirmed that they would continue to further promote cooperative relationship in a close communicative manner. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Japan-UK Defense Ministerial Meeting (Summary) Ministry of Defense of Japan (Press Release, provisional translation) Feb 13, 2026 Ministry of Defense Japan On February 13, commencing at 11:00 a.m. (local time) for approximately 25 minutes, Minister of Defense Koizumi, who was visiting Germany to attend the Munich Security Conference, held a Japan-UK Defense Ministerial Meeting with the Rt Hon John Healey MP, Secretary of State for Defence of the United Kingdom. The two ministers welcomed the holding of their first face-to-face Japan-UK defense ministers' meeting with Secretary Healey. The two ministers confirmed to continue working closely together based on the first-ever Joint Statement on Cooperation between both defense authorities to further advance cooperation in broad areas ranging from defense equipment cooperation including the strategically important project of Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) and cooperation between all services such as joint exercises. The two ministers also reaffirmed that security of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific is inseparable, and confirmed that they would work closely together to create a security environment that does not tolerate unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Meeting with Members of the U.S. Senate Ministry of Defense of Japan On February 13 (local time), Defense Minister Koizumi met with Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Senator Thomas Tillis, Senator Mark Kelly, and Senator Ruben Gallego. In the meeting, they exchanged candid views on regional security developments and further strengthening of the Japan-U.S. Alliance, and reaffirmed their commitment to working together for peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Virtual Trade Ministerial Meeting on Critical Minerals hosted by Ambassador Jamieson Greer, United States Trade Representative Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan February 13, 2026 On February 13, a virtual trade ministerial meeting on critical minerals, hosted by The Honorable Ambassador Jamieson Greer, United States Trade Representative, was held. From Japan, along with Mr. AKAZAWA Ryosei, Minister for Economy, Trade and Industry, Mr. AKAHORI Takeshi, Senior Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, representing Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs, attended the meeting. The meeting was attended by representatives of Australia, Canada, European Union, French Republic, Federal Republic of Germany, Republic of India, Italian Republic, United Mexican States, Republic of Korea, and United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. In the meeting, active discussions took place regarding cooperation among like-minded countries in building resilient supply chains for critical minerals. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI (M), HJ, Chief of Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, during his official visit to Indonesia, called on President Prabowo Subianto. Inter Services Public Relations Pakistan Rawalpindi - February 13, 2026 No PR-48/2026-ISPR Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI (M), HJ, Chief of Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, during his official visit to Indonesia, called on President Prabowo Subianto. During the meeting, the Air Chief underscored the shared values and longstanding brotherhood between Pakistan and Indonesia. President Prabowo expressed keen interest in leveraging PAF's state-of-the-art training ecosystem and aerospace development infrastructure to enhance Indonesia's defence capabilities. Earlier, the Air Chief held separate high-level meetings with Defence Minister Lieutenant General (Retd) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces and Indonesian Air Marshal. He was accorded Guard of Honour at all venues. During discussion with the Indonesian Air Chief, both sides discussed enhanced Air Force-to-Air Force cooperation, joint training from basic to advanced levels, professional exchanges, and collaboration in emerging aerospace domains. The Indonesian Air Chief sought PAF's support in advancing operational and flying training, acknowledging PAF's rich combat experience. The Air Chief was conferred the Medal of Honour, the highest award of the Indonesian Air Force in recognition of his role in strengthening bilateral air power cooperation. The Air Chief also held a joint meeting with the Indonesian Defence Minister and Chief of Defence Forces, where a wide range of defence and security matters were discussed. The Indonesian leadership appreciated PAF's professionalism, modernization drive, and lauded the advanced technological infrastructure of the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Security Council Press Statement on Terrorist Attack in Islamabad, Pakistan Press Release Security Council SC/16296 13 February 2026 The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President James Kariuki (United Kingdom): The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly suicide bombing terrorist attack at a mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan, on 6 February 2026. This reprehensible act of terrorism resulted in the grievous loss of at least 32 Pakistani nationals and 92 injured. ISIL (Da'esh) has claimed responsibility for this terrorist attack. The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government and the people of Pakistan, and wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured. The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security. The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice. They urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Government of Pakistan in this regard. The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed. They reaffirmed the need for all States to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and other obligations under international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Heads of international military cooperation bodies of CSTO members' defence departments meet in Moscow 12 February 2026 09:45 Following up on the results of the meeting of Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation Andrei Belousov with the CSTO Secretary General Taalatbek Masadykov, that took place in Moscow, Head of the Main Directorate for International Military Cooperation of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation Major General Aleksei Orekhov held a meeting of heads of the structural units of international military cooperation of the defence departments of the member countries of the Organisation. Approaches to implementing the priorities of the Russian chairmanship of the CSTO in 2026 were discussed as well as individual issues of cooperation within the framework of the Organisation. Department of Information and Media Affairs of Defence Ministry of the Russian Federation NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Burkina Faso Foreign Minister Karamoko Traore 13 February 2026 13:06 188-13-02-2026 On February 12, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Burkina Faso Karamoko Traore, who arrived in Moscow to sign several important bilateral documents. The ministers discussed the latest developments dealing with efforts to further expand the traditionally friendly relations between Russia and Burkina Faso and outlined ways for stepping up cooperation in trade, economics, humanitarian affairs and other spheres in keeping with the agreements resulting from the talks held at the highest level in Moscow in May 2025. Their reaffirmed their mutual commitment to strengthening coordination in addressing the main issues on the global and regional agendas, including at the UN and on other multilateral platforms. In conclusion, the ministers signed an agreement setting forth the principles of relations between the Russian Federation and Burkina Faso. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with members of parliament and ambassadors of the CSTO member states 13 February 2026 16:20 192-13-02-2026 On February 13, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a traditional meeting with the chairs of the CSTO member states' parliamentary committees/commissions in charge of international relations, defence and security. The meeting was also attended by ambassadors of the CSTO member states and CSTO Secretary General Talatbek Masadykov. The participants discussed the main results of multifaceted cooperation in the CSTO and the priorities of Russia's CSTO Chairmanship in 2026, with a focus on strengthening interparliamentary cooperation and foreign policy coordination. They also exchanged views on key issues on the international and regional agenda. The meeting included a ceremony to present CSTO awards to the personnel of the Foreign Ministry and the Foreign Ministry's decorations to representatives of the Secretariat of the CSTO Parliamentary Assembly. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, speaking on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, said that "the door to dialogue in Ukraine is open, and all parties should strive to reach a comprehensive and lasting peace agreement and address the root causes of the conflict." "The door to dialogue on the Ukrainian crisis [Russias full-scale war against Ukraine] has finally opened. All interested parties must seize this opportunity to reach a comprehensive, lasting, and binding peace agreement, address the root causes of the conflict, and ensure lasting peace and stability in Europe," he said. According to the Chinese Foreign Minister, "Europe should not watch this from the sidelines. It was here in Munich last year, when cooperation with Russia began, that Europe seemed to remain a bystander. And I said then that since the conflict erupted here in Europe, Europe has every right to participate in the negotiations at the appropriate time," he noted. "I said that Europe shouldnt be on the menu, but at the table. Now we see that Europe has found the courage to negotiate with Russia. This is good, and we support it," Wang Yi emphasized. At the same time, he stated that "China is not a party directly involved in the conflict. We do not have the final say. We are only facilitating peace negotiations." As previously reported, Wang Yi met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Munich. Russia Sets Task of Building Up Combat Potential Under CSTO Chairmanship Sputnik News 20260213 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia is setting a task of building up the combat potential and weapons, taking into account current challenges and conflicts, within the framework of its chairmanship in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Pankin said on Friday. "We attach great importance to the development of the organization's power component. It is planned to focus on building up the combat potential of the CSTO collective forces and equipping them with modern weapons. The work will be structured in accordance with the nature of current and future challenges, taking into account the experience of modern armed conflicts," Pankin said at the fifth meeting of the chairmen of the committees of the parliaments of the CSTO member states. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The UK welcomes the agreement reached between the Syrian Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces to bring an end to the fighting in North-East Syria: UK statement at the UN Security Council Speech Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Charge d'Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Syria. From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and James Kariuki CMG Published 13 February 2026 Location: United Nations, New York Delivered on: 13 February 2026 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered) I will make three points. First, echoing the statement of the Council yesterday, the United Kingdom welcomes the agreement reached between the Syrian Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces in late January to bring an end to the fighting in North-East Syria. The UK has engaged closely with both sides, and we commend the work of the US to help broker this agreement. This is a critical step towards a stable and unified Syria. We encourage all involved to commit to de-escalation and to avoid destabilising action. There have been important steps in the implementation of the agreement, including the Presidential decree on the protection of Kurdish rights. It is critical that momentum is maintained, and full integration of SDF military and civilian structures into the Syrian state is carried out in a timely and equitable manner. Second, we remain concerned about the humanitarian situation in the region, with significant displacement and disruption of services and humanitarian provision, including in Kobane and Al Hol camp. Now that an agreement has been reached, we call for sustained, unimpeded humanitarian access across the country. The UK continues to provide humanitarian support in IDP camps through our implementing partners. We remain concerned by conditions in these facilities, and reports of escaped Daesh detainees. We encourage the Syrian Government to develop a robust transition plan for securing and managing the camps, in coordination with the UN and international partners, to mitigate security risks. Third, Ms Dureid, you gave us a powerful testimony on the importance of the inclusion of women in political processes. We must seize this opportunity to advance women's full, equal, meaningful, and safe participation and their leadership in all political and decision-making processes in Syria. The UN has an important role to play in supporting this and other elements of Syria's transition, and we look forward to the swift establishment of the Special Envoy's Office in Damascus. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. lawmakers urge opposition to approve special defense budget ROC Central News Agency 02/13/2026 06:13 PM Washington/Taipei, Feb. 13 (CNA) A group of U.S. lawmakers from both chambers of Congress on Thursday wrote to Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu () and several political party leaders, calling on them to support the funding for Taiwan's special defense budget. The bipartisan letter, signed by Republican Senator Pete Ricketts, Democratic Senator Chris Coons and Republican Representative Young Kim, was also addressed to Kuomintang (KMT) Chairperson Cheng Li-wun (), Taiwan People's Party (TPP) Chairman Huang Kuo-chang () and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislative caucus convener Ko Chien-ming (). In their letter, the U.S. lawmakers wrote that "the threat posed by the People's Republic of China (PRC) against Taiwan has never been greater," and that Chinese President Xi Jinping () is focusing every element of the PRC's national power to control Taiwan. "Xi hopes to achieve this through illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions that undermine Taiwan's will to resist," they warned, citing the People's Liberation Army (PLA) large-scale exercises in October 2024, April 2025 and December 2025, which demonstrated its growing preparations for a blockade or invasion of Taiwan as examples. The U.S. lawmakers said that in response to the worsening threat environment, both the United States and Taiwan must do more to deter PRC aggression, highlighting that Washington needs to do its part to address the massive backlog in weapons deliveries to Taiwan. "Likewise, we need Taiwan to step up with us," they said, expressing concern that the Legislative Yuan may approve only part of a special budget request to enhance Taiwan's defensive capabilities. While praising Taiwan for making important progress in strengthening its military readiness, reserve forces, and asymmetric defense capabilities, the lawmakers warned that without significant increases in defense spending at levels reflected in President Lai Ching-te's () proposed special budget, this progress will be insufficient. The U.S. lawmakers noted that while they understood legislators must ensure taxpayers' money is used effectively, "we also have the responsibility to fund our militaries at levels that address the critical threats we face." The letter was co-signed by more than 30 members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. Late last year, Taiwan's Cabinet proposed a NT$1.25 trillion (US$39.5 billion) special defense budget for 2026-2033 to strengthen Taiwan's defense resilience and asymmetric capabilities. However, the Legislative Yuan has repeatedly blocked its review since Lai announced it in November. Backed by the main opposition KMT, the smaller TPP proposed its own version of a national defense special act on Jan. 30, which caps arms spending at NT$400 billion through 2033, and requires that funding be allotted on a yearly basis. Responding to the letter, KMT Legislator and Spokesperson Niu Hsu-ting () said in Taipei on Friday that the party respects the U.S. lawmakers' concerns over Taiwan's defense and has communicated clearly on the matter with the central government. Niu said the KMT will respond to U.S. expectations, but it will not compromise on overseeing the budget process. Meanwhile, the TPP caucus said the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign, independent country and that defense policies and budget reviews must follow democratic procedures. The party also said it values Washington's long-standing friendship with Taiwan and appreciates bipartisan congressional support for its security. Separately, DPP legislative caucus leader Chung Chia-pin () said the letter signaled that the U.S. expects Taiwan to take responsibility for its own defense. Recently, two major issues have come into focus: tariff negotiations with the U.S. and arms purchases, Chung said, adding that U.S. political circles now broadly hold that countries dealing with the U.S. must not only ensure reciprocal trade but also take responsibility for maintaining regional security in their own territories. (By Chung Yu-chen, Wang Cheng-chung, Wang Yang-yu and Ko Lin) Enditem/ASG NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taiwan signs trade deal with U.S. to cut tariffs, open markets (update) ROC Central News Agency 02/13/2026 10:57 AM Taipei, Feb. 13 (CNA) Taiwan and the United States signed a reciprocal trade agreement in Washington on Thursday, capping U.S. tariffs on Taiwanese goods at 15 percent and granting preferential market access for U.S. industrial and agricultural exports, including automobiles, beef, and pork. Under the U.S.-Taiwan Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, the U.S. tariff rate on Taiwanese imports will be maintained at 15 percent, while Taiwanese semiconductors and related products will be granted the most favorable treatment under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, according to Taiwan's Cabinet. The 15 percent tariff matches the rates on goods from major U.S. trade partners such as Japan, South Korea, and the European Union. An additional 2,072 Taiwanese items will also be exempt from reciprocal tariffs and will be subject only to the Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) tariff rate when imported into the U.S., the Cabinet said in a statement. Of the 2,072 items, 261 are agricultural products such as Phalaenopsis orchids, tea, tapioca starch, coffee, pineapple cakes, guava, fruit juices, and mangoes, the Cabinet said. The 261 products account for 42 percent of Taiwan's agricultural export value to the U.S., bringing in US$374 million per year, it added. The other 1,811 items are industrial products, with exports to the U.S. valued at US$9.56 billion annually and accounting for 36 percent of Taiwan's total industrial exports to the U.S., the Cabinet said. They include radio navigation equipment, communications instruments, lithium-ion batteries, pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, and light oil products, it said. Meanwhile, Taiwan has agreed to eliminate or reduce 99 percent of its tariff barriers on U.S. industrial and agricultural imports, according to the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR). The list includes automobiles and auto parts, chemicals, seafood, machinery, health products, wheat, beef and beef products, dairy products, pork and pork products, lamb, ketchup, and peanuts, the office said. "The Agreement on Reciprocal Trade is a testament to the importance of the U.S.-Taiwan relationship and reflects both sides' ambition to increase bilateral investment and commercial opportunities, deepen their high-tech strategic partnership, ensure supply chain resilience, and jointly promote stability and prosperity," the USTR said. Taiwan's Cabinet said the trade agreement aims not only to establish a mutually beneficial economic and trade framework, but also to further build a "Taiwan-U.S. high-tech strategic partnership" centered on "technological innovation, supply chain resilience, and economic security." The trade pact was signed in Washington by Taiwan's representative to the U.S., Alexander Yui (), and Ingrid Larson, managing director of the American Institute in Taiwan's (AIT) Washington Office. Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (), Taiwan's top trade negotiator Yang Jen-ni (), U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick presided over the signing ceremony. Under the agreement, Taiwan has also agreed to remove quantitative restrictions on U.S. motor vehicles and accept those that meet U.S. safety and emissions standards, according to the USTR. Taiwan will also accept the U.S. FDA marketing authorizations for medical devices and pharmaceuticals manufactured in the United States, without additional requirements for importation, the USTR said. In addition, Taiwan will resolve and remove non-tariff barriers to U.S. agricultural exports, including beef, pork, poultry, and processed potatoes, and will complete the regulatory process to allow the importation of bison meat, the USTR added. The reciprocal trade agreement signed on Thursday followed nearly a year of trade negotiations between Taiwan and the United States and builds on agreements reached in mid-January. The agreement will now be sent to Taiwan's Legislature for review and approval. (By Christie Chen) Enditem/pc NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Opposition parties vow strict review of Taiwan-U.S. trade deal ROC Central News Agency 02/13/2026 03:28 PM Taipei, Feb. 13 (CNA) Taiwan's opposition parties on Friday vowed to rigorously scrutinize the newly signed Taiwan-U.S. trade agreement, with the Kuomintang (KMT) expressing "grave concerns" about its potential negative impacts. In a news release issued after the signing of the U.S.-Taiwan Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) in Washington D.C., the KMT argued that the deal -- which legally requires the opposition-controlled Legislature's approval -- is not the "major breakthrough" touted by President Lai Ching-te (). Under the ART, the United States reciprocal tariff rate on Taiwanese imports will be set at 15 percent, while Taiwanese semiconductors and related products will receive the most favorable treatment. An additional 2,072 export items from Taiwan will also be exempt from reciprocal tariffs and instead be subject only to the MostFavoredNation (MFN) rate. President Lai called the signing a "critical moment" for Taiwan's economy, saying it would help local industries transform and usher in a new era of growth. The KMT said that the party's legislative caucus will establish a supervisory group to ensure that the welfare of Taiwan's people and the interests of various sectors are well protected during the mandatory legislative review. The KMT claimed that the agreement could jeopardize food safety both at home and on school campuses and also undermine labor rights, particularly for workers in the automotive, agricultural, livestock and medical sectors, due to increased market access for U.S. goods. The smaller opposition Taiwan People's Party (TPP), meanwhile, said that although it has long supported deepening economic ties between Taiwan and the U.S., it is committed to safeguarding national interests and ensuring the arrangement remains mutually beneficial. While promising a "rational review," the TPP criticized what it described as a lack of transparency during the negotiation process, saying the Cabinet did not brief the Legislature at any stage. (By Chris Wang) Enditem/ASG NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trade deal with U.S. secures best tariff rates, safeguards local sectors: Cabinet ROC Central News Agency 02/13/2026 12:29 PM Taipei, Feb. 13 (CNA) Taiwan has secured highly favorable tariff treatment while protecting key domestic industries under its newly signed reciprocal trade agreement with the United States, the Cabinet said Thursday, at the conclusion of a 10month negotiation process on the deal. The agreement meets nearly all of Taiwan's objectives laid out in the negotiation process, the Cabinet said in a statement, urging the Legislature to swiftly approve both the trade pact and a bilateral investment memorandum of understanding (MOU). At a press conference held in Washington after the signing ceremony, Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (), who led Taiwan's negotiating team, said the U.S.-Taiwan Agreement on Reciprocal Trade was "a milestone" for bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and technology. Citing U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, Cheng said Taiwan is "a unique partner" of the United States. According to the Cabinet, the deal ensures that Taiwan will maintain a competitive position among major economies such as Japan, South Korea, and the European Union. Under the U.S.-Taiwan Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, the tariff rate on Taiwanese imports into the U.S. will be maintained at 15 percent. Semiconductors and related products will receive the most favorable treatment available under Section 232 of the U.S. Trade Expansion Act. In addition, 2,072 items -- representing nearly 20 percent of Taiwan's total exports to the U.S. -- will be exempt from reciprocal tariffs and will be subject only to the standard Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rates. As a result, the average U.S. tariffs on Taiwanese goods will drop to 12.33 percent, significantly lower than the 35.78 percent that was in place when the trade negotiations began in April 2025, and the 23.78 percent recorded in August 2025. Under the exemptions, 42 percent of Taiwan's agricultural export value and 36 percent of its industrial export value will now avoid reciprocal tariffs, the Cabinet said. Some of the main items are Taiwanese tea, orchids, tapioca flour, and telecommunications equipment, it added. While the American negotiators sought broader market access, Taiwan succeeded in maintaining its existing tariffs on 27 U.S. agricultural imports, such as rice and chicken, thus reducing the potential impact on local farmers, the Cabinet said. Meanwhile, Taiwan will cut tariffs by half on 15 U.S. pork products over three years, while U.S. ground beef and offal will also gain access to the Taiwan market. Those decisions were based on scientific assessment and guarantees that food safety controls will remain in place, according to the Cabinet. The trade agreement also covers industrial goods, removing all tariffs on U.S.-made cars imported to Taiwan but maintaining the current rate on trucks. Cheng said that while domestic car manufacturers may face increased competition, the Taiwan government has developed plans to bolster the domestic auto industry. Beyond tariffs, the trade pact commits both sides to enhancing transparency, improving the business environment, and strengthening cooperation on secure and trusted supply chains. Taiwan has also pledged to expand its semiconductor investments in the U.S. and to help establish a "Taiwan Model" chipmaking infrastructure, characterized by specialization, clustering, and high efficiency. In return, Taiwan will expect increased American investment in strategic industries, including artificial intelligence and defense technology. The trade pact, which builds on agreements reached in mid-January, was signed Thursday by Taiwan's representative to the U.S., Alexander Yui (), and Ingrid Larson, managing director of the American Institute in Taiwan's (AIT) Washington Office. The agreement will now be sent to Taiwan's Legislature for review and approval, which is a crucial part of the process, given that U.S. President Donald Trump recently raised reciprocal tariffs on South Korea after its parliament failed to quickly ratify a similar pact. Cheng said the American negotiators had proposed making the agreement conditional on legislative approval in Taiwan, but her team had successfully pushed back on that idea. "We encourage our lawmakers, however, to review and pass the agreement as soon as possible so the new tariff rates can take effect," she said. (By Chris Wang) Enditem/pc NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Any attempt to split the motherland and oppose reunification is sheer fantasy: Mainland spokesperson on Lai's interview with AFP Global Times By Global Times Published: Feb 13, 2026 10:19 PM There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is part of China. This cannot be changed by anyone's empty rhetoric or political manipulations, said Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, on Friday. Chen made these remarks in response to Taiwan regional leader Lai Ching-te's recent claims during an interview with Agence FrancePresse (AFP), in which Lai once again peddled the fallacy that the two sides of the Taiwan Straits "are not subordinate to each other" and advocated other erroneous claims, including supporting Taiwan's semiconductor industry to invest in Japan, the US and Europe. Lai is stubbornly entrenched in his "Taiwan independence" stance and obsessed with a confrontational mentality and the so-called "democracy versus authoritarianism" narrative, Chen said. Lai has also repeatedly distorted and challenged the historical and legal fact that both sides of the Taiwan Straits belong to one China, continuously stoked crossStraits confrontation, and vainly attempted to seek "Taiwan independence" by relying on external forces and by military means, according to Chen. Lai would even go so far as to hand over the property and livelihoods built up by Taiwan compatriots over generations to external forces, gravely undermining the interests and wellbeing of Taiwan compatriots, the spokesperson said. Lai is the source of chaos escalating crossStraits tensions and the root cause endangering peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits, Chen noted. The spokesperson also said that when and how the Taiwan question will be resolved is entirely a matter for the Chinese people themselves, and external forces have no right to interfere. In the face of the overwhelming trend that the two sides of the Taiwan Straits will and must achieve reunification, and in the face of the resolve and will of the more than 1.4 billion Chinese compatriots to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, any attempt to split the motherland and resist reunification is nothing but sheer fantasy, Chen said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Prime Minister to warn that Europe must move away from overdependence on the US, to interdependence - and a more European NATO Press release Europe must shift from overdependence on the United States and towards a more European NATO, underpinned by deeper links between the UK and the EU, the Prime Minister will say today. From: Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street and The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP Published 13 February 2026 Europe must shift from overdependence on the United States and towards a more European NATO, underpinned by deeper links between the UK and the EU, the Prime Minister will say today [Saturday 14 February]. In a speech at the Munich Security Conference, he will argue that in the face of the looming threat from Russia, the UK's future prosperity and security rest on closer defence and security ties with Europe, and vice versa. The Prime Minister is expected to say: We are not the Britain of the Brexit years anymore. Because we know that, in dangerous times, we would not take control by turning inward - we would surrender it. And I won't let that happen. There is no British security without Europe, and no European security without Britain. That is the lesson of history - and it is today's reality too. [...] He will say that the US remains an indispensable ally, and they have made an unparalleled contribution to European security. But as their own national security posture evolves, Europe must shift from overdependence to interdependence - forging a new path towards sovereign deterrence and hard power. He will add: I'm talking about a vision of European security and greater European autonomy, that does not herald US withdrawal but answers the call for more burden sharing in full, and remakes the ties that have served us so well. Arguing that Europe's fragmented defence industrial base has contributed to gaps and duplication - he will say that leaders must focus on collective effort to build a stronger, more integrated defence capability, backed by historic increases in spending. British companies already account for over a quarter of the continent's defence industrial base. They are a job-creating, community-building machine, employing around 239,000 people across the UK - We want to bring our leadership in defence, tech and AI together with Europe - to multiply our strengths and build a shared industrial base across Europe which can turbocharge our defence production. [...] As I see it - Europe is a sleeping giant. Our economies dwarf Russia's, ten times over. We have huge defence capabilities. Yet, too often, all of this has added up to less than the sum of its parts. Across Europe, fragmented industrial planning and long, drawn out procurement mechanisms have led to gaps in some areas - and massive duplication in others. To meet the threats we face, the UK defence budget is rising to record levels - delivering the biggest boost to defence spending since the Cold War, totalling 270 billion this parliament alone. In his speech, the Prime Minister will also signal the UK's willingness to participate in innovative joint solutions alongside European partners to accelerate new defence investment and ensure spending increases are used to their full potential. He will also point to the UK's existing bilateral co-operation - including our 10 billion deal with Norway to supply their Navy with frigates, our 8 billion Typhoon deal with Turkey, and ongoing collaboration with Germany, Italy and France to deliver next generation long-range missiles - as a signal for what could be achieved by joint work on a greater scale, all while delivering jobs and growth at home. He will add: We must level with the public and build consent for the decisions we will have to take to keep us all safe. Because, if we don't, the peddlers of easy answers on the extreme left and the extreme right are ready. They will offer their solutions instead. It's striking that the different ends of the spectrum share so much. Soft on Russia and weak on NATO - if not outright opposed. And determined to sacrifice the longstanding relationships that we want and need to build, on the altar of their ideology. The future they offer is one of division and then capitulation. The lamps would go out across Europe once again. But we will not let that happen. If we want to repair our social fabric, if we believe in our values, in democracy, liberty, the rule of law, then this is the moment to stand up and fight for them, and prove that they are worth fighting for. That's why we must work together and show that by taking responsibility for our own security. In a volatile world, we help our people look forward not with fear, but with determination - and hope. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PM meeting with Chancellor Merz of Germany and President Macron of France: 13 February 2026 Press release The Prime Minister met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron at the Munich Security Conference this afternoon. From: Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street and The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP Published 13 February 2026 The Prime Minister met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron at the Munich Security Conference this afternoon. Addressing the scale of the challenge facing Europe, they reaffirmed their commitment to continue working together, alongside other partners, to enhance our collective defence and security. They agreed that Europe needs to step up and do more to share the burden while protecting the enduring strength of the Euro-Atlantic partnership. We must take advantage of our huge defence capability in order to bolster our shared security and deliver for people at home, the Prime Minister added. They confirmed their enduring support for Ukraine, especially in the face of Russia's horrific recent attacks, and the ongoing work to secure a just and lasting peace. They looked forward to further discussions in Munich this weekend. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK spends over 400 million on long-range weapons as cooperation scales up with European allies Press release UK will spend over 400 million this financial year on hypersonic and long-range weapons including joint projects with France, Germany, and Italy. From: Ministry of Defence and The Rt Hon John Healey MP Published 13 February 2026 The UK is scaling up cooperation with key European allies to develop new long-range precision and hypersonic weapons, with spending on projects set to exceed 400 million this financial year. Britain is progressing the Stratus joint missile programme with France and Italy - leading the work to develop a next generation stealth replacement to the Storm Shadow missile. Stratus, which is developing both stealth and high-speed missile variants, already sustains over 1,300 high-skilled jobs in the UK. The new missiles will be able to defeat high-value targets, destroy enemy ships, and suppress enemy air defences. At the same time, Britian's new long-range weapon programme with Germany is progressing rapidly with a new joint study phase about to begin, accelerating both future stealth and hypersonic weapons. This follows the landmark UK-Germany Trinity House Agreement signed within the first months of this Government in 2024. The new system - known as Deep Precision Strike - will have a range of over 2,000 km and be among the most advanced systems ever designed by the UK, coming into service in the 2030s. Long-range weapons are crucial to protecting the UK and our allies and boosting NATO deterrence. The government has committed to the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War - hitting 2.6% of GDP from 2027 - to ensure that Britain and our allies are safe. Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: To meet this new era of rising threats, we need hard power, strong alliances and sure diplomacy. We can see from the war in Ukraine the decisive impact of long-range precision weapons, so the UK is stepping up, investing more than 400 million for long-range and hypersonic weapons this year. Alongside Germany, France and Italy, we will deliver the cutting-edge weapons that will keep the UK and NATO safe, boost deterrence, and build a new deal for European security. Hypersonic weapons investment this year also includes funding for developing critical technologies, ground and flight testing, as well as significant funding for academic skills and training including funding post-graduate study. The Defence Secretary is expected to discuss these projects and deepening industrial cooperation during crucial meetings with European and international allies at the Munich Security Conference. This ramped up missile cooperation by European allies comes as Russia's aggression in Ukraine continues. In early February, UK Defence Intelligence confirmed that Russia conducted a major multi-axis and multi-weapon strike on Ukraine, using long range bombers, hypersonic missiles, over 60 ballistic and cruise missiles, and 450 one-way attack drones. The Defence Secretary is expected to talk to allies during a series of bilateral meetings at the Munich Security Conference about boosting support for Ukraine, defending Europe against growing Russian threats, and enhancing industrial partnerships with key allies and partners. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address On Saturday night, Ukrainian Defense Forces neutralized 91 of 112 enemy UAVs, with 18 hits recorded at 11 locations, the Ukrainian Air Force reported. "According to preliminary data, as of 08:30, air defense forces have shot down or suppressed 91 enemy UAVs of the Shahed, Gerbera, Italmas, and other types," the message says. In total, on the night of February 14 (from 18:30 on February 13), the enemy attacked with an Iskander-M ballistic missile from Kursk region, as well as 112 attack UAVs of the Shahed, Gerbera, Italmas type and drones of other types from the directions of Kursk, Orel, Bryansk, Primorsko-Akhtarsk of the Russian Federation, TOT of Donetsk, TOT of Hvardeyske in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, about 70 of them - shaheds. The air attack was reportedly repelled by aircraft, anti-aircraft missile forces, electronic warfare and unmanned systems units, and mobile fire teams of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. Hits by 18 attack UAVs were recorded at 11 locations, as well as the crash of downed UAVs (debris) at two locations. The enemy UAV attack continues, and the Defense Forces continue to repel the air strike. Hypersonic missiles development accelerated by new contract News story The development of the new hypersonic missiles will speed up thanks to a 12 million contract which will benefit British-based businesses. From: Ministry of Defence and Luke Pollard MP Published 13 February 2026 A 12 million investment in hypersonic missiles and systems has been made with Warrington-based engineering contractor, Amentum UK. Supported by Ebeni and Synthetik, based in Wiltshire and London respectively, they will deliver engineering expertise to develop the design for the hypersonic system, which will be demonstrated through flight testing before being adapted into prototype missiles able to operate at extreme speeds and temperatures required for hypersonic flight. These efforts will build the UK's sovereign hypersonic missile capability, strengthening our national security and our industrial partnership with NATO allies. The Strategic Defence Review (SDR) highlighted the importance of hypersonic missiles to modern warfighting and the advances announced today will help deliver on the SDR conclusions. Building sovereign capability of these long-range, high-speed precision weapons will help protect the UK and our allies, and boost NATO deterrence. The Government is delivering the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War, hitting 2.6% of GDP from 2027. Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP said: In this new era of threat, we need a new era for defence. This means moving quicker to develop and buy the cutting-edge technologies our Armed Forces need for modern warfighting. We are making defence an engine for growth. This contract will accelerate the UK's development of sovereign hypersonic missile capability, strengthen our national security and back British workers. This award builds on significant momentum within the hypersonics programme since July 2024. 124 suppliers, of which over 50% are small and medium enterprises (SMEs), have been awarded 22 contracts across a range of different technology and capability areas to progress our hypersonics capability. The total estimated value of contracts awarded since July 2024 is 48 million, with a notable proportion of funds flowing to SMEs. A proportion of the contract will flow directly to SME partners Ebeni and Synthetik, who have been integral to developing the solution from the outset. The partnership includes reverse mentoring arrangements which will reduce barriers to entry for smaller businesses and promote collaborative working across the supply chain. Awarding of the contract took only 31 days after the invitation to tender, delivering against the Government's pledge to speed up lengthy procurement processes. The MOD's Commercial X team is fulfilling its mission to deliver ground-breaking technology and innovation quickly, by modernising Defence's approach to acquisition while cutting bureaucracy. Rupert Pearce, National Armaments Director, said: This contract represents exactly the kind of innovative partnership approach that the Defence Industrial Strategy demands, bringing together expertise from across Defence, large companies, SMEs, and academia to deliver at pace. This Industry Mission Partner model breaks down traditional organisational boundaries and creates the collaborative environment we need to deliver this critical sovereign capability. We are not only advancing our hypersonic ambitions but also strengthening our defence industrial base and supporting jobs across the UK. Cdr Paul Greason, Team Hypersonics (UK) Programme Director, said: Successfully launching the Industry Mission Partner contract is a significant achievement for Team Hypersonics (UK). It follows extensive industry engagement across the Hypersonics Technologies & Capability Development Framework (HTCDF) suppliers to prepare for swift commercial activity to maintain challenging timelines. Delivering against our stated intent was as important for MOD as it is for Industry and I am grateful to my team for meeting this challenge which was fundamental to establishing a successful partnership. Armentum and its subcontractors Ebeni Limited and Synthetik Applied Technologies UK Ltd will work as part of a fully integrated Team Hypersonics, established to deliver MOD's ambition to field a Hypersonic Strike Capability, developing a weapons system demonstrator by the end of the decade. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ministry of Defence gains authority to complete unfinished fortifications Ministry of Defence of Ukraine 12 February, 2026, 11:57 AM EET The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine is now authorized to take over and complete the construction of fortifications left unfinished by a state customer. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has amended the relevant procedure. This will enable the completion of stalled fortification projects in critical frontline sectors and consolidate control of fortifications under military authority. If a state customer cannot complete a fortification project, it may transfer the site to the Ministry of Defence by submitting a written notice with the following details: a justification of the circumstances preventing the completion of construction; design documentation and as-built records; certificates of completion and acceptance for the completed construction works; a statement of the cost of works performed and associated expenses. The Ministry of Defence is required to notify the state customer of its decision within 10 days. A refusal may be issued only if there is no justification or the required documentation. If approved, the state customer must submit the full set of documents to the Ministry of Defence. Following this, the Ministry of Defence establishes a commission and, based on its decision, formally takes the fortification structure onto its balance sheet. This will enable the Ministry of Defence to independently complete the construction of critically important fortification projects in strategic sectors. Bringing fortifications into operation promptly will help reduce casualties among service members. Reference information: The amendments were made to the Procedure Governing the Transfer, Acceptance, Maintenance, Servicing, Protection, and Operational Accounting of Military Engineering and Fortification Structures, approved by Resolution No. 514 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine dated May 7, 2024. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address $38 billion in support of Ukraine for drones, air defence and Patriot missiles: outcomes of one of the most successful Ramstein-format meetings Ministry of Defence of Ukraine 13 February, 2026, 9:34 AM EET As a result of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting (Ramstein format), partner countries confirmed one of the largest support budgets for Ukraine, totalling $38 billion for 2026. Over $6 billion will be allocated through specific assistance packages, including over $2.5 billion for Ukrainian drones, more than $500 million for the PURL initiative, $2 billion for air defence, as well as funding for artillery ammunition, training, maritime capabilities and other areas. "Acting on the President's instructions, we agreed with several European partners on the urgent delivery of Patriot missiles from their existing stocks. I thank our partners for this initiative. Final quantities will be confirmed following approval by the leadership of the respective partner countries. We expect deliveries as soon as possible," said Ukraine's Minister of Defence Mykhailo Fedorov. Agreements with partner countries following the Ramstein-format meeting The United Kingdom is allocating 500 million for air defence and contributing 150 million to the PURL initiative, bringing its total military support for Ukraine in 2026 to 3 billion. Germany is allocating at least 1 billion for the procurement of drones for Ukraine and will fund an anti-drone shield over Ukrainian cities, as well as drone assault units, within its 11.5 billion budget for assistance to Ukraine. Norway has allocated $7 billion in 2026, including $1.4 billion for drones, $700 million for air defence, $200 million for artillery and $125 million for the PURL initiative. The Netherlands has committed to allocating at least 0.25% of its GDP to Ukraine's defence in 2026 and announced a 90 million contribution to the PURL initiative. Belgium will allocate 1 billion this year for military assistance. Sweden has announced its 24th assistance package, valued at 1.2 billion, as well as a 100 million contribution to the PURL initiative, bringing its total support this year to 3.7 billion. Denmark has announced an increase of $425 million in its military assistance budget for Ukraine, raising the total to $2 billion in 2026. Spain will provide $1.2 billion in 2026. Canada is allocating $50 million under the "Danish model" and $45 million for medical support. Iceland is contributing $8 million to the PURL initiative and allocating $2.4 million for weapons procurement through the NSATU trust fund. Lithuania is allocating $265 million this year. Latvia will allocate at least 0.25% of its GDP to support Ukraine. Estonia will also allocate at least 0.25% of its GDP to strengthen Ukraine's defence. Australia has announced a new contribution to the PURL initiative. Portugal has announced contributions to the PURL initiative and the "Czech initiative", as well as the transfer of armoured vehicles and drones under the SAFE programme. Turkey will bolster Ukraine's air defence with its contribution. Slovenia has announced a $5 million assistance package. "At the meeting, we presented our defence objectives for the year to our partners for the first time objectives agreed with the President of Ukraine and our military. We came with a clear plan and concrete solutions that we intend to implement together with our partners. I am grateful to every country participating in the Ramstein format and thank them for their new strong contributions to Ukraine's defence," concluded Ukraine's Minister of Defence Mykhailo Fedorov. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address International Legions: Ukraine values every foreign volunteer fighter Ministry of Defence of Ukraine 13 February, 2026, 12:13 PM EET Recently, a significant amount of conflicting information has been circulating in the public domain regarding the reorganization of units of foreign volunteer service members in Ukraine. Below is an explanation of the rationale for these changes, which aim to strengthen the army's combat capability. 1. What are the International Legions and how are they structured? It is important to understand that the "International Legion" is not a single military unit; rather, it is an umbrella term for a broader network of volunteer military formations operating across different components of the Defence Forces. Typically, references to the "Legion" relate to infantry battalions within the Land Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the Territorial Defence Forces, formed at the start of the full-scale war to enable the rapid admission of foreign volunteer fighters. These battalions are currently undergoing transformation. However, they are not the only units involved. At present, special units continue their operations within the following components: The International Legion of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defence, conducting complex intelligence operations; In the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, foreign professionals are integrated into combat groups alongside their Ukrainian counterparts; The National Guard actively integrates foreign nationals into its brigades (for example, "Khartiia"); In other words, the foreign volunteer element of Ukraine's Defence Forces is a dynamic, multifaceted force operating across all levels from infantry to special forces and there can be no question of its dissolution. 2. Are the International Legions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine being disbanded? No, this is not true. The International Legions are not being disbanded. They are undergoing a transformation to become stronger. Rather than operating as separate "light" battalions, Legion units are being integrated into experienced and effective brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. They are now becoming part of a larger, unified military force. 3. Why are foreign nationals being reassigned to regular brigades? This is intended to provide them with better weapons and protection. Previously, Legion personnel often operated as light infantry. As part of a large mechanized brigade, foreign units gain access to the resources and logistics of regular formations. This allows the same combat missions to be performed under improved protection, with cover provided by a brigade's armored vehicles. 4. What will happen to highly specialized personnel (medics, UAV operators, and others)? They will serve in their areas of expertise in other words, no one will be hammering nails with a microscope. The army is focused on effectiveness, which is why snipers, UAV pilots, and paramedics will be assigned to appropriate positions within specialized companies of their new brigades. Moreover, foreign nationals retain the right to choose: if a brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is not the right fit, they may request reassignment to other components for example, to units of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine, the Special Operations Forces of Ukraine, or the National Guard of Ukraine, as noted above. Ukraine values every foreign volunteer fighter. The Ukrainian military is removing barriers, ensuring foreign service members receive support and guarantees on par with Ukrainian warriors and, most importantly, the same level of protection and provision. Foreign nationals are welcome in the Defence Forces of Ukraine as the Ukrainian military continues to evolve into a unified, even more powerful force. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Norway and Allies Contribute to New Military Support Package for Ukraine Government of Norway News story | Date: 13/02/2026 Norway, with several Allies, will finance a new support package of defence materiel for Ukraine amounting to approximately NOK 5 billion. The contribution is being made through the military support package known as the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) and was announced yesterday at NATO's meeting of Defence Ministers in Brussels. Norway's contribution amounts to just over NOK 1.3 billion. 'Our support for Ukraine remains steadfast. Together with several other Allies, Norway will ensure that Ukraine rapidly receives necessary US military equipment through the PURL initiative. The support is directed towards measures that provide the greatest possible combat capability and are prioritised by Ukraine. Ukraine is fighting for our shared values. It is also about the security of Europe and Norway,' said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre. PURL has proven to be an effective mechanism for maintaining a stable supply of American weapons to Ukraine. 'With this contribution, Norway will continue to be among the largest contributors to military support packages for Ukraine. This assistance is of particular importance, especially in securing delivery of US air defence equipment to Ukraine, in line with Ukraine's highest-priority needs,' said Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik. The support provided through PURL is in addition to other lines of effort to support Ukraine. 'Deliveries of weapons through PURL form the foundation of the defence of Ukraine's airspace. This is particularly important at a time when Russia is escalating its attacks on the country's energy infrastructure,' the Minister of Defence said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sweden strengthens Ukraine's defence with a contribution of USD 100 million to US package Government Offices of Sweden Press release from Ministry of Defence Published 13 February 2026 Sweden is contributing USD 100 million to the US support package Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL). Together with the Netherlands, Norway and the United Kingdom, Sweden will fund a joint support package totalling USD 500 million aimed at strengthening Ukraine's defence capabilities. "Sweden stands firm in its solidarity with Ukraine. Through our contribution to PURL, which will give Ukraine access to prioritised US defence materiel, we are once again demonstrating that we are prepared to take concrete steps to strengthen Ukraine's defence capabilities. Air defence and ammunition are crucial to allow Ukraine to defend itself against Russia's continued attacks. Together with our Allies and partners, we are sending a clear signal that demonstrates our shared commitment to peace and security in Europe," says Minister for Defence Pal Jonson. This is the third time Sweden has contributed to PURL. On previous occasions, Sweden has: provided USD 275 million for a support package together with Denmark and Norway and provided USD 60 million for a support package together with other Nordic and Baltic countries. Taking into account this new contribution, Sweden has provided a total of USD 435 million in financial support to PURL. Through the PURL initiative, the United States makes high-priority US defence materiel available to Ukraine. Materiel is delivered as a support package funded by Allies and partner countries. The package includes advanced air defence systems and ammunition, both of which are crucial to Ukraine's ability to defend itself against ongoing attacks. NATO coordinates the implementation of the initiative and ensures that the contents of the packages meet Ukraine's most highly prioritised needs. Through coordination and joint initiatives, the Allies can provide effective and targeted support. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Support of USD 38 billion for Ukraine for drones, air defence and Patriot missiles: outcomes of one of the most successful Ramstein-format meetings Ukraine Government Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, posted 13 February 2026 09:59 As a result of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting (Ramstein format), partner countries confirmed one of the largest support budgets for Ukraine, totalling $38 billion for 2026. Over USD 6 billion will be allocated through specific assistance packages, including over USD 2.5 billion for Ukrainian drones, more than USS 500 million for the PURL initiative, USD 2 billion for air defence, as well as funding for artillery ammunition, training, maritime capabilities and other areas. "Acting on the President's instructions, we agreed with several European partners on the urgent delivery of Patriot missiles from their existing stocks. I thank our partners for this initiative. Final quantities will be confirmed following approval by the leadership of the respective partner countries. We expect deliveries as soon as possible," said Ukraine's Minister of Defence Mykhailo Fedorov. Agreements with partner countries following the Ramstein-format meeting The United Kingdom is allocating 500 million for air defence and contributing 150 million to the PURL initiative, bringing its total military support for Ukraine in 2026 to 3 billion. Germany is allocating at least 1 billion for the procurement of drones for Ukraine and will fund an anti-drone shield over Ukrainian cities, as well as drone assault units, within its 11.5 billion budget for assistance to Ukraine. Norway has allocated $7 billion in 2026, including $1.4 billion for drones, $700 million for air defence, $200 million for artillery and $125 million for the PURL initiative. The Netherlands has committed to allocating at least 0.25% of its GDP to Ukraine's defence in 2026 and announced a 90 million contribution to the PURL initiative. Belgium will allocate 1 billion this year for military assistance. Sweden has announced its 24th assistance package, valued at 1.2 billion, as well as a 100 million contribution to the PURL initiative, bringing its total support this year to 3.7 billion. Denmark has announced an increase of $425 million in its military assistance budget for Ukraine, raising the total to $2 billion in 2026. Spain will provide $1.2 billion in 2026. Canada is allocating $50 million under the "Danish model" and $45 million for medical support. Iceland is contributing $8 million to the PURL initiative and allocating $2.4 million for weapons procurement through the NSATU trust fund. Lithuania is allocating $265 million this year. Latvia will allocate at least 0.25% of its GDP to support Ukraine. Estonia will also allocate at least 0.25% of its GDP to strengthen Ukraine's defence. Australia has announced a new contribution to the PURL initiative. Portugal has announced contributions to the PURL initiative and the "Czech initiative", as well as the transfer of armoured vehicles and drones under the SAFE programme. Turkey will bolster Ukraine's air defence with its contribution. Slovenia has announced a $5 million assistance package. "At the meeting, we presented our defence objectives for the year to our partners for the first time objectives agreed with the President of Ukraine and our military. We came with a clear plan and concrete solutions that we intend to implement together with our partners. I am grateful to every country participating in the Ramstein format and thank them for their new strong contributions to Ukraine's defence," concluded Ukraine's Minister of Defence Mykhailo Fedorov. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A. Spruds in Brussels: Ukraine's involvement in the European Defence Fund will strengthen security across Europe Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Defence 13.02.2026 International cooperation Defence policy Information prepared by Media Relations Section On Wednesday, February 11, Minister of Defence Andris Spruds participated in the European Union Foreign Affairs Council meeting of defence ministers in Brussels. During the session, ministers from member states discussed increasing military support for Ukraine and strengthening European defence capabilities amidst changing geopolitical circumstances. In the first working session dedicated to Ukraine, A. Spruds emphasized the necessity of supporting Ukraine's participation in the European Defence Fund. Such a step would not only open new opportunities for companies to conduct broader product testing but also facilitate the transfer of valuable practical knowledge regarding the use of military equipment in real combat conditions. "For Europe to adapt to the rapidly changing security situation, we must primarily strengthen our own defence capabilities and industrial capacity. However, European security is inseparable from the situation in Ukraine. By supporting Ukraine's participation in the European Defence Fund, we achieve a double benefit: we strengthen the Ukrainian defence industry in its fight against the aggressor, while simultaneously fostering innovation in Europe based on real battlefield experience. We must continue to actively counter Russia's efforts to destabilize Europe, and the most effective way to do so is by helping Ukraine win," A. Spruds emphasized. During the meeting, the Minister reaffirmed Latvia's commitment to continue providing comprehensive support to Ukraine both bilaterally and through international mechanisms, including the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine and the Coalition of the Willing. In the second session, representatives of the member states discussed current European security issues. During these discussions, A. Spruds highlighted the importance of transatlantic cooperation and EU-NATO synergy, stressing the need for these institutions to complement one another to effectively address today's global security challenges. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Minister of National Defence took part in the Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting in Brussels Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence 2026-02-13 International cooperation | Security and defense policy Minister of National Defence Robertas Kaunas attended the 33rd meeting in the NATO Defence Contact Group held together with the NATO Defence Ministerial in Brussels. At the session, additional financial assistance to Ukraine opportunities and the country's most critical needs were discussed, as well as updates from the frontlines and peace negotiations. "We hear the urgent needs of Ukraine. Lithuania's military assistance has already surpassed USD 1 billion and we have another USD 265 million earmarked for this year to be used in three priority areas: air defence, Ukrainian drones and long-range artillery ammunition," said Minister R. Kaunas at the session. R. Kaunas also presented to the Ukraine Defence Contact Group Lithuania's commitment to further strengthening Ukraine's defence capabilities. The MoD applies the so-called Lithuanian Model (direct bilateral investment in Ukraine's defence industry) to contribute USD 38 million so far for production of long-strike drones for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This year, additional USD 12 million are planned to be added for the matter. It is noteworthy, that USD 24 million more is earmarked for long-range strike and maritime drone acquisition from the localized Ukraine defence industry aiming to support localization of Ukraine's defence industry in Lithuania. At the meeting Minister pointed out that Lithuania planned to join the Czech initiative with USD 33 million for production of two types of 155 mm artillery ammunition, including long-range strike-capable. USD 6 million more are earmarked for anti-tank mines. In total, Lithuania has rendered military assistance worth of USD 31 million since the start of this year, including power generators, gas tanks, drone neutralization systems and optics. Also, Lithuania continues training and rehabilitation of Ukrainian military personnel in our country and effort with Iceland in the Demining Coalition. This year Lithuania plans contributing USD 35.5 million which will be used to purchase mine-proof tactical vehicles from Ukrainian manufacturers. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Says Zelensky Has to Get Moving, Russia Wants to Make a Deal Sputnik News 20260213 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - US President Donald Trump said on Friday that Volodymyr Zelensky should hurry up because Russia is willing to make a deal, otherwise, an opportunity will be missed. "Zelensky is going to have to get moving. Russia wants to make a deal. And so let's get moving. Otherwise, he's going to miss a great opportunity," Trump told reporters. As Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reported earlier on Friday, peace negotiations will continue on February 17-18 in Geneva. The Russian delegation will be led by Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky. The two previous rounds were headed by Igor Kostyukov, Chief of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces. Peskov also previously stated that it is the Kiev regime that must begin negotiations. According to him, as Russian forces advance, the space for decision-making shrinks, and continuing hostilities is both pointless and dangerous for Ukraine. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Photo: https://www.facebook.com/olga.kravets.796 The American delegations participation in the Munich Security Conference (MSC) has been cancelled due to the freezing of funding for the US Department of Homeland Security, Ukrainian Ambassador to the USA Olha Stefanishyna announced. "Since midnight on February 14, the work of federal agencies in the United States has been partially suspended due to Congress failure to pass the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) budget," she wrote on Telegram on Saturday morning. According to Stefanishyna, it oversees more than 20 agencies, including ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), CBP (Customs and Border Protection), and FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency). Stefanishyna noted that the key consequence of this is the cancellation of the Congressional delegations participation in the Munich Security Conference due to regulatory restrictions. She also stated that the House of Representatives cannot travel on official business until the issue is resolved. The ambassador added that ICE and CBP are operating as usual, and their funding is already included in US President Donald Trumps "One, Big, Beautiful Bill" (passed in the summer of 2025). Stefanishyna added that the Congress will return to work on February 23, but may convene earliermembers have been warned to be ready to vote within eight hours of the Senates decision. The presidents annual State of the Union address is scheduled for February 24. Andrii Sybiha held a meeting with UNDP Administrator Alexander De Croo Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine 13 February 2026 23:57 Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "During my meeting with newly appointed UNDP Administrator Alexander De Croo I underscored the importance of continued use of UNDP instruments to address the consequences of Russian aggression, support Ukraine's recovery, and strengthen our institutions. I thanked UNDP for its practical assistance in restoring civilian and critical infrastructure, humanitarian demining, good governance, and energy recovery. We agreed to further expand UNDP activities in Ukraine, including through enhanced donor engagement, to effectively address Ukraine's priority needs in reconstruction, mine action, and energy restoration". NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Andrii Sybiha held a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine 13 February 2026 23:47 Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "During our meaningful meeting with Saudi Foreign Minister HRH Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, I shared details about our recent peace efforts and preparations for the next meeting in Geneva. In the previous years, Saudi Arabia has played a very important role in advancing peace efforts and has hosted a number of successful meetings. I conveyed Ukraine's interest in the Kingdom's continued contribution to the peace process. I informed my Saudi counterpart about the difficult situation in our energy system following brutal Russian strikes and shared Ukraine's priority needs. We also discussed latest regional developments in the Middle East, including the situation in and around Iran". NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Andrii Sybiha held a meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs, EU and Cooperation of Spain Jose Manuel Albares Bueno Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine 13 February 2026 16:53 Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "It was great to meet with my Spanish friend Jose Manuel Albares Bueno. I updated my colleague on the recent peace efforts and ways to speed them up. There is no alternative to increasing pressure on Russia political, economic, and military. We also discussed further steps to strengthen Ukraine's energy resilience and enhance our air defense and military capabilities amid Russia's recent brutal attacks on our critical and civilian infrastructure. I thanked Spain and personally Jose Manuel for all the swift and significant support for Ukraine during this hardest winter. I invited my Spanish colleague to visit Ukraine." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Andrii Sybiha held a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Costa Rica Andre Tinoko Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine 13 February 2026 16:37 Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "Productive meeting with Foreign Minister Andre Tinoco and thanked Costa Rica for its support for Ukraine. I conveyed President Zelenskyy's congratulations to President-Elect Laura Fernandez Delgado on her election victory. I informed my colleague about peace efforts and Russia's strikes against our energy system. We agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation, trade, and political dialogue on all levels. We also discussed our cooperation within international organizations. Ukraine values Costa Rica's voice and is interested in developing ties with countries across Latin America." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Andrii Sybiha held a meeting with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine 13 February 2026 16:06 Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "I met with Rafael Grossi to inform about Russia's reckless strikes on Ukraine's energy system that create risks for our nuclear objects and threaten nuclear and radiation safety of the entire Europe. I appreciate the Director General's recognition of the high professionalism of Ukrainian energy professionals who operate nuclear power plants in extreme conditions of Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy grid. I updated Mr. Grossi about peace efforts, Ukraine's position regarding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, and the need to counter threats caused by Russia. Grateful to the IAEA for the decision to further expand the scope of its monitoring missions at Ukraine's nuclear energy objects. Ukraine proposed amendements to the IAEA Statute to develop effective ways to restrict the rights and privileges of IAEA member state recognised as aggressor by the UN General Assembly. I thanked the IAEA for its medical equipment and other aid to Ukraine, assisting our energy workers, and suggested to expand our humanitarian cooperation." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Andrii Sybiha held bilateral talks with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Munich Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine 13 February 2026 12:46 Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: In Munich, I had a meaningful and productive meeting with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi. We focused on ways to develop mutually beneficial trade and bilateral ties based on reciprocal respect for territorial integrity. I reiterated Ukraine's interest in contacts with China at the highest level. We discussed peace efforts and China's important role in facilitating an end to the war. I informed my Chinese counterpart about the battlefield situation, Russian attacks against our energy system, and the damage to Chinese companies from Russian strikes. I am grateful for Beijing's decision to provide an additional humanitarian energy assistance package to Ukraine. I also invited Minister Wang Yi to visit Ukraine and thanked him for the invitation to visit China. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Andrii Sybiha held a meeting with German Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs Johann Wadephul Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine 13 February 2026 10:40 Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "Started this important day at the 62nd Munich Security Conference together with my German colleague and friend Johann Wadephul. We spoke about peace efforts, steps to enhance Ukraine's defense and resilience, and increased pressure on Moscow. I thank Germany for its outstanding leadership in supporting Ukraine and strengthening the security of Europe. This year, German defense support for Ukraine is at record 11,5 billion, while its winter energy assistance packages totalled 75 million. We are grateful for Germany's steadfast solidarity. We discussed the calendar of bilateral contacts and ways to expand Ukrainian-German partnership and cooperation. We also spoke about ways to advance Ukraine's EU accession as an element of security guarantees for our country and all of Europe." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Dik Schoof Explored Ideas that Could Help Reinforce Air Defense President of Ukraine 13 February 2026 - 23:10 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Prime Minister of the Netherlands Dik Schoof. The main focus of the meeting was on strengthening air defense and joint weapons production. "We are very grateful to you, your team, your Government, and of course, your people. You have done a lot of important things during difficult times, taken many important steps. Therefore, I thank you very much," the President said. Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted the Netherlands' support for the PURL initiative, which is critically important for Ukraine given the ongoing Russian strikes. Dick Schoof assured continued support for Ukraine and emphasized that the level of assistance will be maintained. The President briefed the Prime Minister on the massive Russian strikes and the need for additional air defense missiles. The leaders also explored new ideas that could help reinforce air defense and protect the skies. The sides share a common view: it is crucial to increase coordination among partners in the face of Russia's growing ballistic missile production. The Head of State noted that today he visited the first Ukrainian-German joint venture producing attack drones. Ukraine is interested in establishing a similar facility in the Netherlands. The leaders also discussed diplomatic efforts to end the war. The President provided updates on the Abu Dhabi meetings and details of the discussions between the delegations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The President of Ukraine and the President of Finland Discussed Support for Ukrainians and the Coordination of Efforts to Achieve a Reliable Peace President of Ukraine 13 February 2026 - 22:19 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with President of Finland Alexander Stubb, during which they discussed support for Ukrainians across various areas. The Ukrainian leader thanked Finland for all the assistance provided to Ukraine, including the recent 32nd package of military aid. It is important that all agreements are delivered consistently and on time. Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Alexander Stubb discussed continued support for Ukraine and joint weapons production. The leaders also addressed diplomatic work. The Head of State began with a detailed briefing on the negotiation process. The conversation focused on improving coordination of European efforts in this area. The President of Finland assured his readiness to provide whatever support is necessary to achieve peace. The meeting also covered the urgent implementation of the decision to allocate EUR 90 billion in financial support to Ukraine, so that these funds can begin contributing to the collective security of all European countries. Special attention was given to the consequences of Russian strikes on Ukraine and the situation on the front lines. The Ukrainian leader briefed his counterpart on Russian losses, while Alexander Stubb praised the courage of Ukrainian warriors and their role in deterring Russia on the battlefield. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine's EU Accession and Work Toward Achieving a Dignified Peace: Volodymyr Zelenskyy Met with Mette Frederiksen President of Ukraine 13 February 2026 - 21:36 Ukraine's EU Accession and Work Toward Achieving a Dignified Peace: Volodymyr Zelenskyy Met with Mette Frederiksen President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen. Mette Frederiksen expressed support for Ukraine's accession to the European Union. The Head of State thanked her for this clear stance and updated her on ongoing efforts in this area. The leaders discussed all current issues related to our country's European integration. Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Mette Frederiksen also addressed the importance of financial support for Ukraine. The Head of State thanked Denmark for backing the decision to allocate EUR 90 billion to Ukraine for 2026-2027 during its Presidency of the Council of the European Union. This funding is both a financial security guarantee and a contribution to the future of all of Europe. Ukraine expects these funds to be disbursed promptly. The President also briefed the Prime Minister on the Abu Dhabi meetings and the topics discussed there. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pet industry thrives in Luohe, C China's Henan People's Daily Online) 10:47, February 14, 2026 Photo shows various pet foods produced in Luohe city, central China's Henan Province. (People's Daily Online/Wang Pei) "Who would have thought pet food could grow into such a huge industry?" said An Zhongping, chairman of Petideal Pet Food (Luohe) Co., Ltd., as he stood outside the company's smart workshop at the Pet Economy Industrial Park in Zhaoling district, Luohe, central China's Henan Province. In 2019, An, a veteran of the pet industry with 22 years of experience, chose to establish his business in Luohe. Chilled meat from Shuanghui (Shineway), a large meat processing company in China located less than 2 kilometers away, is delivered directly from the factory, ensuring a steady daily supply of 200 tonnes of fresh meat. A courier distribution center is right next to the park, cutting delivery costs by 0.6 yuan ($0.09) per kilogram, said An. What impressed him even more was the strong support from the local government, including move-in-ready, customized factory facilities as well as specialized technology and pet industry loans, which effectively removed major obstacles to the company's growth. The company was officially established in August 2020. By June 2021, its first production phase was already operational, setting a record for the fastest industrial project rollout in Luohe at the time. Photo shows pet foods produced in Luohe city, central China's Henan Province. (People's Daily Online/Wang Pei) The company introduced internationally advanced production techniques, producing pet food with over 15 percent more protein than the national standard and digestibility exceeding 95 percent. An said the company invests around 5 percent of its annual revenue in R&D. Today, the company's baked and dry pet foods are sold in more than 40 countries and regions. Liu Donghua, general manager of Henan Tianxing Cosmetics Co., Ltd., had once hit rock bottom. At that critical moment, members of the local pet industry task force in Zhaoling district suggested that the company pivot to producing pet grooming products, leveraging its existing production lines and technical expertise. Acting on this advice, Liu's team used their existing equipment and expertise in cosmetics to roll out their first pet shampoo in just over a month. With no established customer base, they turned to online marketing and genuine product reviews to build credibility and brand awareness. Before long, pet stores across the country were approaching them for cooperation. The company's sales of pet products climbed from less than 4 million yuan in 2022 to more than 20 million yuan in 2025. Today, the company has developed 40 to 50 pet care products. Photo shows pet foods produced in Luohe city, central China's Henan Province. (People's Daily Online/Wang Pei) The Pet Economy Industrial Park in Zhaoling district is now home to 28 companies. In 2024, the park's total output value reached 1.5 billion yuan, making it the largest pet industry park in Henan. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Hongyu) Photo: https://www.youtube.com/@PoroshenkoPetro Ukrainian MP and leader of the European Solidarity party, Petro Poroshenko, believes that peace talks are possible only after a ceasefire is reached, the political party's website reported on Saturday. Poroshenko expressed belief that the war can and should be ended this year, but emphasized the need for real security guarantees, in particular, the presence of NATO troops in Ukraine. "I firmly believe that the strategy of immediately heading towards negotiations on a peace agreement is meaningless. We need to divide this into two stages. Stage one: we need to ensure a ceasefire. We have very effective tools for this, because the first step of the United States and the European Union on secondary sanctions for countries that continue to buy Russian energy resources has shown its effectiveness," he emphasized in a comment to the Polish television channel Slawa TV during the Munich Security Conference. The politician noted that secondary US and EU sanctions against countries that purchase Russian energy have already led to a drop in oil prices, and the attack on the "shadow fleet" has changed Moscow's position. "We have two tools, Chancellor Merz said, including during our meeting. The first is sanctions that cut off Putin's ability to finance the war. The second is weapons that enable Ukraine to respond to attacks on civilian infrastructure," the politician clarified. According to him, the European Union should be a full participant in the negotiations, because it is the one that finances the majority of the arms supply. "Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine, but nothing without Europe," Poroshenko concluded. Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Jonas Gahr Stre Discussed Priorities for Supporting Ukraine in the Military And Energy Sectors President of Ukraine 13 February 2026 - 21:07 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Prime Minister of Norway Jonas Gahr Stre. The Head of State expressed gratitude to Norway for its support, including the supply of NASAMS missiles, contributions to the PURL initiative, and energy assistance. The President outlined Ukraine's needs to strengthen its air defense. Therefore, it is important to continue supporting the PURL initiative, which enables Ukraine to purchase air defense missiles from the United States. Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that achieving protected skies over Ukraine is crucial, as it will be one of the key factors forcing Russia to end the war. Special attention was given to diplomatic work on steps toward ending the war and achieving peace, as well as on the preparation of documents. The leaders also discussed continued energy assistance to Ukraine. The Head of State noted that Ukraine will provide a list of needs to strengthen its energy resilience. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address In Munich, Volodymyr Zelenskyy Met with Partners in the Berlin Format President of Ukraine 13 February 2026 - 20:44 In Munich, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with partners in the Berlin Format. Participants included: Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz, President of France Emmanuel Macron, President of Finland Alexander Stubb, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen, Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Sweden Ulf Kristersson, Prime Minister of Norway Jonas Gahr Stre, Prime Minister of the Netherlands Dik Schoof, Prime Minister of Estonia Kristen Michal, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, President of the European Council Antonio Costa, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy Antonio Tajani, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada Anita Anand. The Ukrainian leader updated partners on meetings between the Ukrainian, American, and Russian delegations in Abu Dhabi, whose most important outcome was the return of 157 Ukrainians from Russian captivity. In addition, the sides discussed political and military issues and agreed on follow-up negotiations in the near term. Special attention was given to security guarantees for Ukraine and all of Europe. The President emphasized that Ukrainians, along with all other Europeans, must feel secure in their future and assured that Russian aggression will never occur again. The meeting also addressed the importance of continued support for Ukraine. Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked partners for the productive Ramstein Format meeting and new contributions to the PURL initiative. The Head of State called on partners to continue supporting PURL and to fully realize the potential of the SAFE instrument for joint weapons production with Ukraine. The parties aligned their positions, coordinated next steps, and agreed on further contacts within the broader circle. Ukraine will prepare and send all partners a list of needs to support its energy infrastructure and military sector. "We will also work separately on air defense missiles and other measures to strengthen our armed forces. We will be developing it now - our diplomats and military advisers. We want, within 10-11 days, by February 24, and with all partners' agreement, to secure the maximum support packages for Ukraine. We also want both packages and decisions in place," the President said following the meeting. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Today, Ukraine Is Europe's Shield - Kyrylo Budanov Discussed Preparations for the Fourth Anniversary of the Full-Scale Invasion with Ukrainian Youth Abroad President of Ukraine 13 February 2026 - 20:22 Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov held an online meeting with representatives of Ukrainian youth organizations abroad. Around 150 youth organizations from all continents were represented. The event also included First Deputy Head of the Office of the President, Sergiy Kyslytsya; Deputy Head of the Office of the President and Co-Chair of the Council on Youth Affairs under the President of Ukraine, Olena Kovalska; Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mariana Betsa; and Member of Parliament, Co-Chair of the Council on Youth Affairs under the President of Ukraine, Oleksandr Sanchenko. Kyrylo Budanov thanked young people for their civic position, patriotism, and for preserving and defending Ukrainian identity outside of Ukraine. "Today, Ukraine is Europe's shield in the fight for democratic values against terrorism and totalitarianism, confronting Russia's imperial ambitions and those of its satellites and allies. The fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine is approaching. I believe that our key task now is to synchronize our efforts within joint activities," said the Head of the Presidential Office. During the meeting, preparations were discussed in detail for events supporting Ukraine that will take place worldwide on February 24. "It is important to find those good opportunities when we can thank countries for what they do for us. Especially ordinary citizens. This is never superfluous," noted First Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Sergiy Kyslytsya. Vice President of the Ukrainian World Congress in Western Europe, Volodymyr Kogutyak, spoke about the Stand With Ukraine campaign, which will be running from February 21 to 28. One of its main goals is to secure a unified global voice in defense of Ukrainian children who have become victims of Russian aggression. Co-Chair of the Council on Youth Affairs under the President, Oleksandr Sanchenko, presented an initiative to create a Coordination Centre for Ukrainian Youth Abroad to establish a permanent and effective dialogue. Deputy Head of the Presidential Office, Olena Kovalska, invited young Ukrainians abroad to join the work of youth councils operating in Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Friedrich Merz Discussed Joint Weapons Production Projects and Diplomatic Work President of Ukraine 13 February 2026 - 19:29 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Federal Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz. The Head of State thanked Germany for its significant contribution to saving lives during Russia's full-scale war and specifically highlighted the supply of air defense systems, which have saved thousands and thousands of people. The key topics discussed included further military assistance, additional contributions to the PURL initiative, diplomatic efforts to achieve peace, and energy support. The President shared that today he personally visited the first Ukrainian-German joint venture producing drones. Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Friedrich Merz discussed continuing defense cooperation and implementing other joint projects that can strengthen both Ukraine and Germany. Special attention was given to diplomatic work aimed at achieving peace. The Head of State briefed the Chancellor on meetings between the Ukrainian, American, and Russian sides, as well as preparations for the next round of negotiations. The President also outlined the work on the documents and their main points. In addition, the sides discussed the situation in Ukraine's energy sector and its restoration. The President thanked Germany for its support and provided an update on current needs. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address President Met with Exiled Crown Prince of Iran Reza Pahlavi President of Ukraine 13 February 2026 - 18:28 In Munich, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with exiled Crown Prince of Iran Reza Pahlavi. The Head of State expressed sympathy to the victims of the Iranian regime and noted that Ukraine supports the Iranian people as they are fighting for their future. The Crown Prince of Iran thanked Ukraine for recognizing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Reza Pahlavi condemned the cooperation between Russia and Iran, in particular the supply of "shaheds" by the Iranian regime to Russia and the granting of licenses for their production. Such a partnership poses a real threat not only to Ukraine but to the entire region. The Crown Prince provided detailed information on the overall situation in Iran. Over 40,000 people have been killed during attempts to suppress protests. Mass burials have been recorded, and identifying the true number of casualties is extremely difficult. Reza Pahlavi also outlined the areas in which the Iranian people require support. The sides discussed the significance of strengthening sanctions against the Iranian regime and any other dictatorial regimes. The President emphasized the importance of making every effort to protect human lives and assured that Ukraine is ready to help on its part. The Crown Prince of Iran expressed support for Ukraine's territorial integrity. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address In Munich, the President Met with the Leadership and Employees of the First Ukrainian-German Joint Drone Production Venture President of Ukraine 13 February 2026 - 14:04 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy began his visit to Munich with a meeting with the leadership and employees of the first Ukrainian-German joint venture, Quantum Frontline Industries, which produces drones for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Germany's Minister of Defense Boris Pistorius also took part in the meeting. The Head of State viewed the production lines and observed a test of the first attack drone manufactured at the facility. The drone production technology is Ukrainian; the drones are powered by AI and have already proven their effectiveness on the frontline. The company's leadership outlined the production capabilities and potential, as well as plans for further scaling. As early as this year, Ukraine will receive the first ten thousand drones manufactured at this facility. Quantum Frontline Industries has become the first serial production facility of Ukrainian unmanned systems in Europe. The project is being implemented within the framework of German-Ukrainian governmental cooperation under the Build with Ukraine initiative and is financed by a dedicated German task force. Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Federal Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz, the Federal Government of Germany, Boris Pistorius personally, and the entire German society for supporting Ukraine. "We are very proud that Ukraine has such talented people, and we are very proud that we have such close ties with such strong German partners. It is great that we have the first large joint production facility in Europe - and this truly is the first of its kind. I believe we have achieved an excellent result," the President said. By the end of this year, Ukraine plans to open ten such drone production ventures in Europe. Also, in the presence of the Head of State, several documents were signed. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha and Minister of Defense of Germany Boris Pistorius signed an agreement between the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine and the Federal Ministry of Defense of Germany on the integration of Ukrainian instructors into the training institutions and combat training centers of the German Army. In addition, three memoranda on establishing joint ventures were concluded, as well as a Memorandum of Understanding between Ukrainian Defense Industry and SAAB. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine Imposed Sanctions on 91 Vessels of Russia's Shadow Fleet President of Ukraine 13 February 2026 - 09:52 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree enacting a decision of the National Security and Defense Council to impose sanctions on 91 vessels that are part of Russia's shadow fleet. The Russian Federation used these vessels to transport oil and petroleum products from Russian ports, including Novorossiysk, Ust-Luga, and Primorsk, to third countries. This took place in circumvention of sanctions imposed by the European Union, the G7, and other states. The results of monitoring in the Black Sea, the Red Sea, and the Baltic Sea confirm this. The sanctioned vessels sailed under the flags of approximately 20 countries. Among them, only one vessel flew the Russian flag, while the others were registered under the flags of Panama, Liberia, Cameroon, Barbados, the Marshall Islands, Hong Kong, Sierra Leone, Tonga, Palau, Guinea, the Comoros, the Bahamas, Indonesia, Malawi, Guinea-Bissau, Djibouti, Guyana, and Eswatini. Ukraine will provide the relevant information to these states and will also work with partners to further synchronize sanctions within their jurisdictions. Twenty-seven vessels from this list are already under sanctions imposed by partners - the United States, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and the European Union. Work on imposing sanctions on the remaining 64 vessels will continue. Imposing sanctions on the shadow fleet is a priority, as it makes it possible to put pressure on all those who transport Russian oil and thereby help Russia generate funds to finance the war against Ukraine. "Shadow fleet tankers are a key instrument for circumventing oil sanctions; therefore, their identification and the imposition of sanctions against them must proceed swiftly and without exceptions. Each such vessel should be regarded as an element of financing Russia's war machine," Advisor - Commissioner of the President of Ukraine for Sanctions Policy Vladyslav Vlasiuk said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Photo: screenshot Ukraine received air defense missiles from its partners last Sunday, and they were already used to repel a Russian attack on the night of Thursday, February 12, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced. "Our air defense used the missiles that our partners had delivered to us just a few days earlier. They arrived on Sunday. And by Thursday night, these missiles were already defending our skies. And that was just one night, but Russian attacks occur almost every night in Ukraine, and at least once a week, massive strikes are carried out," Zelenskyy said speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday. The President also noted that in January, the Russians launched 6,000 attack drones, more than 150 Russian missiles of various types, and more than 5,000 guided missiles against Ukraine. Next article: Kenyans drop flowers for Valentine's bouquets of cash. Not everyone is impressed Featured Burundis Ndayishimiye elected AU Chair as leaders put water security at centre stage GraphicOnline International News Feb - 14 - 2026 , 16:40 4 minutes read African leaders have elected President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi as Chairperson of the African Union for 2026, as the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government opened in Addis Ababa with renewed calls for unity, institutional reform and water security across the continent. The two-day summit, held at the African Union headquarters in Ethiopias capital, is convened under the theme Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063. The theme places water security at the heart of Africas development agenda, linking it to public health, food systems and peace. Opening the Assembly, the Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, framed the discussions around the urgency of guaranteeing access to water and sanitation as a shared continental priority. He described water as a collective good that must underpin both development and stability. He told leaders that the summit was taking place amid mounting geopolitical uncertainty, marked by persistent conflicts, institutional fragility and a resurgence of unconstitutional changes of government in parts of Africa. He warned that weakening multilateralism and rising global polarisation required Africa to accelerate political and economic integration in line with Agenda 2063. Institutional reform and financial self-reliance are now imperative as external funding declines, he stated. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf urged member states to strengthen domestic resource mobilisation and expedite the implementation of flagship continental programmes, including industrialisation, agricultural transformation, energy expansion and infrastructure development. He noted that Africas youth, women and civil society were demanding measurable progress and tangible outcomes in what he described as a decisive decade for Agenda 2063. He also expressed solidarity with populations affected by conflict, referencing crises in Sudan, the Sahel, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and Somalia, as well as the suffering of the Palestinian people. Respect for international and humanitarian law, he stressed, remains fundamental to global peace. Outgoing AU Chair and President of Angola, H.E. Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco, formally opened the summit, calling for accelerated action on water availability and sanitation. He described access to water as a political, moral and strategic imperative central to Africas stability and development. Reflecting on Angolas tenure as Chair, President Lourenco highlighted efforts to advance Agenda 2063, mobilise investment for infrastructure and strengthen continental integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area. He also pointed to reforms aimed at improving the efficiency of the AU and reducing bureaucracy. On peace and security, he reiterated that sustainable development depended on silencing the guns, citing conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as terrorism in the Sahel and the Horn of Africa. He reaffirmed the Unions rejection of unconstitutional changes of government and cautioned against legitimising coups through subsequent elections. The summit also heard from Ethiopias Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who urged African nations to move from reacting to global developments to actively shaping the global agenda, particularly as the AU approaches its 25th anniversary. He called for greater unity and confidence, stressing that sovereignty includes control over Africas technological and narrative future. He referenced Ethiopias establishment of an Artificial Intelligence institute and plans for an AI university as part of that vision. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres underscored the importance of deepening cooperation between the UN and the AU, describing multilateral partnership as essential for peace, security and sustainable development. He reiterated support for reform of the UN Security Council to enhance African representation and emphasised the need for equitable access to development financing and industrial growth. The Assembly formally elected President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi as AU Chairperson for 2026, succeeding Angolas Joao Lourenco under the Unions rotating leadership system. The new Bureau of the Assembly for 2026 will comprise Burundi as Chair representing Central Africa, Ghana as First Vice-Chair representing West Africa, Tanzania as Second Vice-Chair representing East Africa, a Third Vice-Chair from North Africa to be confirmed, and Angola as Rapporteur representing Southern Africa. Deliberations at the summit are expected to continue with a focus on water security, institutional reform and pressing peace and security challenges across the continent, as leaders seek to align continental priorities with the long-term ambitions of Agenda 2063. Next article: Kenya's border with Somalia set to re-open after almost 15 years Featured ICE to spend $38.3 billion on detention centers across US, document shows Reuters International News Feb - 14 - 2026 , 10:05 3 minutes read U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement plans to spend $38.3 billion by the end of the year on detention centers to detain and process tens of thousands of immigrants slated for deportation, according to an overview of the plan published by New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte's office on Thursday. The document was provided by the Department of Homeland Security after an inquiry Ayotte made following a U.S. Senate hearing on Thursday, her office said in a press release. ICE plans to buy 16 existing buildings and renovate them to serve as regional processing centers that can hold 1,000 to 1,500 detainees for average stays of three to seven days, according to the plan. The agency will also open eight large detention centers capable of holding 7,000 to 10,000 detainees for an average of around 60 days that will serve as the "primary location" for immigrants being deported abroad. In addition, ICE will acquire an additional 10 "turnkey" facilities where the agency already operates, according to the plan. The plan states that the centers are necessary as ICE prepares for an expected surge of arrests in 2026 after the hiring of 12,000 more agents. "This new model will allow ICE to create an efficient detention network by reducing the total number of contracted detention facilities in use while increasing total bed capacity, enhancing custody management, and streamlining removal operations," the document reads. ICE plans to hire contractors to conduct renovations to the buildings to build detention spaces, medical and dental services, cafeterias, lobbies, recreational areas, dormitories, and courtroom spaces. The facilities will ensure the "safe and humane civil detention of aliens," according to the document. The detention centers will be paid for with funds from the massive spending package the Republican-controlled Congress passed in July 2025. That package, known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill," included an unprecedented $170 billion for immigration enforcement, including $45 billion for detention. The 2024 fiscal year budget included $3.4 billion for immigration detention. A spokesperson for DHS did not immediately respond to a request for comment. FACILITIES TO INCREASE ICE DETENTION CAPACITY ICE expects the facilities to be in operation by the end of November 2026, and they would increase the agency's total bed capacity to 92,600 beds, according to the document. The number of people in ICE detention has increased by around 74% since Trump took office in January 2025 to more than 68,000 this month, government data show. U.S. President Donald Trump has overseen a widespread immigration crackdown since returning to office last year. The administration has surged immigration agents into major U.S. cities, boosted arrests of immigrants in the U.S. illegally, cracked down on unlawful border crossings and expanded the pool of people who could be deported by stripping hundreds of thousands of immigrants of temporary legal status. Despite growing signs of political backlash ahead of next years midterm elections, the Trump administration is poised to ramp up immigration enforcement this year with funds Congress gave ICE to hire thousands of agents, detain more than 100,000 migrants at any given time and expand surveillance to track down possible immigration offenders. Season of love turns sour for Valentine traders in Accra as AMA clears traders on pavement Previous article: Season of love turns sour for Valentine traders in Accra as AMA clears traders on pavement Featured Valentines Day is not a sexual festival Rev. Dr Agbeko Alberto Mario Noretti Life Feb - 14 - 2026 , 19:45 2 minutes read The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana (EPCG), Rt Rev. Dr Lt Col Bliss Kofi Agbeko (retd), has cautioned young people against engaging in promiscuous acts during Valentines Day celebrations, stressing that the occasion was never intended to promote casual or irresponsible sexual activity. According to him, the celebration traces its origins to the 14th-century Roman Empire, where it was associated with fertility rites known as Lupercalia. The rites involved sacrifices and purification rituals believed to enhance fertility in women. It was also a day for people to match men and women for marriage, ward off infertility and evil spirits. Later, the day evolved into a time when people shared gifts with those they had genuine affection and sympathy for. The most common gift became chocolate and it eventually became known as Chocolate Day, he explained. Speaking to The Mirror, Rev. Dr Agbeko said Valentines Day was also historically linked to warfare in Rome, where unmarried men were considered better soldiers. He noted that St Valentine began officiating marriages to excuse newlyweds from military service for a year. For that conduct, St Valentine was jailed. While in prison, he reportedly assisted his jailers daughter in affirming her love for her partner. This worsened his plight and he was eventually executed, earning martyrdom, he recounted. Rt Rev. Dr Lt Col Bliss Kofi Agbeko (retd), Moderator of the EPCG The moderator further stated that it was once believed that February 14 marked the mating season for birds a notion he said had been misinterpreted by some young people as justification for sexual indulgence. He added that by the 19th Century, Valentines Day had become heavily commercialised, with businesses capitalising on the sale of cards, chocolates and heart-shaped gift boxes symbolising love. Rev. Dr Agbeko emphasised that St Valentine died out of love for humanity and not to promote immorality. Let us truly engage in ways that will help the poor and vulnerable who need Gods love, not sexual love, he urged. He warned that reckless behaviour on Valentines Day often left young people emotionally wounded. Let us not create situations where people engage in promiscuity and later face rejection, leaving them in misery and pain after Valentines Day, he cautioned. The moderator maintained that true love must be genuine, selfless and life-affirming. Mama Atrato II Meanwhile, the Queen mother of Ho-Dome, Mama Atrato II, has also called on young people to abstain from immoral activities during Valentines Day celebrations. She expressed concern about rising HIV infection rates in the country, particularly in Ho, describing the trend as alarming and disheartening. She stressed that abstinence remained the safest way to avoid infection. According to her, Valentines Day should be a time to exchange gifts as a symbol of genuine affection not an occasion for reckless and sinful behaviour that could result in long-term pain. Cultural diplomacy at play as smock becomes sensation at AU Summit - Demand increases among attendees Previous article: Cultural diplomacy at play as smock becomes sensation at AU Summit - Demand increases among attendees Can we quench the fire that might start in Mali? Azu Ishiekwene Feb - 14 - 2026 , 09:57 6 minutes read Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger - three rogue states that have formed an Alliance of Sahelian States (AES) to resist external pressure from ECOWAS on military rule - have just won the biggest diplomatic jackpot beyond their wildest imagination. Not even a sorcerer would have guessed that, as a reward for their delinquency, this trio would receive support, endorsement actually, from the dominant power in the world since World War 2 the United States. But much better than prodigals, they are about to receive flowers for their waywardness. According to the BBC, Nick Checker, head of the US State Departments Bureau of African Affairs, would visit Mali's capital, Bamako, to convey the United States' "respect for Mali's sovereignty" and chart a "new course" in relations, moving "past policy missteps." The statement adds that the US also looks forward to cooperating with Mali's allies, neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, "on shared security and economic interests." New possibilities or what? Forget the diplomatese and sugar-coating! This is a declaration of intent, and it states, even in its nebulous ambiguity, that the US has cut all pretences and will do or undo business with anyone, anywhere, without hesitation, on a whim. The days of thoughtful, considered diplomacy are over. In Niger, the military junta of General Abdourahamane Tchiani had expelled 800 US troops from the large drone base Washington had built in Agadez, after the Biden administration demanded a roadmap to restore democracy in Niamey. Trump may well roll back the tanks with a deal, any deal to undercut or compete with Russia and its Wagner agents, Nigers new super ally, while France remains bitter, despised and stranded. To spite France for President Emmanuel Macrons condemnation of Russias invasion of Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin had launched a foray into Francophone West Africa. President Donald Trump might well have taken a leaf from the Kremlins playbook after Macron censured his Greenland fantasy. This massive oxygen tank from the most unlikely quarters is a boost not just for delinquents elsewhere, but also for a whole new phase of Americas transactional politics, thanks to President Trump, the deal-maker who strikes deals without moral or institutional qualms. Even the saying, no sentiment in business, was never such an absolute Machiavellian riposte. The price of delinquency But its not only the global powers that may need to reset their interests. The way things are going, the ECOWAS, which has had a torrid time convincing the military leaders of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger that coup-making is unacceptable, now has to contend with America warming to Mali and co. The trio's exit has had real negative consequences for the affected countries and the subregion as a whole. Although there isnt sufficient quantitative data yet, the three countries, with an estimated combined population of 73 million, comprise 15 per cent of ECOWAS total population, 50 per cent of its landmass, and contribute about 7 per cent of its GDP. Even though they are landlocked, losing them has impacted the size of the regional market. In Niger, one of Americas potential new brides, food prices have risen by an estimated 21 per cent, while the countrys budget has fallen by about 40 per cent due to regional sanctions. In the region as a whole, household mobility and intra-regional trade have decreased, as have the numbers of migrant workers, students, and families who regularly move across borders for work, education, or health care. Diplomatic efforts to bring them back have failed, either bungled in haste or sabotaged by the new military leaders, who have little appetite, if any, for a return to civilian rule. Why make peace when war is an option? Cauldron game This is the cauldron into which we must now factor the Trump administration's opportunism. Instead of mediating the crisis in a way that benefits ECOWAS and the US, the president decides to rub salt in the subregions wound. It would be interesting to see how the subregion responds, especially since it has nothing near the gift of cunning or leverage that Europe used to dissuade Trump from grabbing Greenland. Before the rapprochement, the US had placed the three AES members on its comprehensive travel ban list, a measure the countries immediately reciprocated. Does this new course mean a reversal of the US missteps which also affect Sierra Leone, while seven ECOWAS members, including Nigeria, are on the partial ban list? Mum is the word Theres yet no official response to the indications of back-pedalling by the US, either from the AES, ECOWAS or the AU. One clear thing, though, is that such a step will further drive a wedge between the subregion and its delinquent states. However, it is unlikely that they would gamble their present relationship with Russia, warts and all, for a roller-coaster ride with the US. The motive of the US is not a stable, cohesive, interdependent subregion capable of deepening trade and cooperation. Its yet another subversive attempt by Trumps administration to smash, grab and convert any critical resources that it can find at any cost. A variant of this strategy first played out with South Africa, where Trump insisted on a non-existent White genocide to create discord, and then later in Nigeria, where he used the excuse of a Christian genocide to raise sectarian tensions. Subversion as diplomacy His administration appears to have gone up a notch, with covert meetings between leaders of Alberta separatists, committed to breaking away from Canada, and members of the U.S. State Department. Administration officials claim that the meetings have involved a civil society group, and not official members of the separatist movement. Yet, Trumps unrelenting covetousness has made it difficult for some to believe that this is not in furtherance of his Project 51st US State. While the Trump administrations interest in Alberta may also aim to unsettle the stubborn Prime Minister Mark Carney, the common thread between Alberta and the Sahel lies in critical minerals. Military leaders in the AES understand that, under this US president, business takes precedence over rogue politics. They have rejected any notion of a political transition, instead preparing for a lifetime in office. Disregard for democratic values that might have concerned the US in a former life is no longer an issue. In the current dispensation, if its not critical minerals which the Sahelian states have in abundance or the promise of a nice piece of real estate, forget it. The fire next time Captain Ibrahim Traore of Burkina Faso has scrapped the legal framework that allowed multiparty democracy and dissolved all political parties. At the same time, the reports from Bamako and Niamey do not indicate any immediate plans to return to civil rule. The current mood in the worlds major power centres does not suggest any need for haste. The rogue states can take their time, as we wait for the fire of diplomacy by subversion to make its next fall. Ishiekwene is Editor-In-Chief of LEADERSHIP and author of the book, Writing for Media and Monetising It. Can we quench the fire that might start in Mali? Next article: Can we quench the fire that might start in Mali? Cultural diplomacy at play as smock becomes sensation at AU Summit - Demand increases among attendees Pacome Emmanuel Damalie Feb - 14 - 2026 , 09:57 5 minutes read The traditional smock, also known as Batakari or Fugu, has become a sensation at the 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The garment worn by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and the Deputy Education Minister, Dr Clement Abass Apaak, at the AU Summit, sparked interest among diplomats and attendees, with several expressing interest in ordering and purchasing the smock. The smock, a symbol of Ghanaian cultural heritage, was initially misunderstood by Zambian social media users, who described it as a "blouse". The push back from Ghanaians, who expressed pride in the traditional outfit in defence of their cultural heritage, has heightened the demand for the smock not only in Ghana, but across Africa. Mr Ablakwa, who led the smock ambassadorial charge at the summit, was elegantly attired in a blue smock, making him stand out among his colleague foreign ministers of AU member states on the opening day of the 48th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council at the summit on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The Deputy Education Minister also joined the campaign the next day, Thursday, February 12, 2026, appearing in his yellow and black woven smock and cap, which was visibly admired by the summit attendees and diplomats. The tete-a-tete witnessed by the Daily Graphic often ended with all smiles, while the admirers pointed at the beautifully woven smock and gracefully adorned by Mr Ablakwa and Dr Apaak. Interest In an interview with the media, Mr Ablakwa confirmed the strong interest shown by his colleagues in the Ghanaian smock, adding that presentations of the garment were expected to be made to selected ministers and heads of state. Ahmed Ibrahim (left), the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, and another Ghanaian in their smock at the AU Summit They were willing to wear more. The fugu is in such high demand that I hope that our young entrepreneurs, the fugu weavers, will take full advantage of that. Indeed, virtually all the foreign ministers have asked that I do a presentation to them at the next meeting. If I knew that it would be in such high demand, I would have come with truckloads of fugu. But it's not too late, he said. He indicated that at the mid-year meeting of ECOWAS foreign ministers, a request had been made for him to supply the smock in each countrys national colours to the ECOWAS foreign ministers and heads of state, a special assignment he was charged with. The minister added that next month, a fugu and kente exhibition would be held in Zambia to popularise the traditional outfits and their history, while also forming great cultural ties with Zambians. We're going to have a huge trade fair. They've given us the biggest trade exhibition centre. That's where we are going to do the fugu and kente exhibition, he said. Momentum The minister underscored the need for the country, especially the Ghanaian foreign missions, to take advantage of the present momentum, which he described as very good internationally, to promote Ghana-made products. I've instructed all our ambassadors and high commissioners that with the coming national day celebrations, the 6th of March, they should all organise a Fugu and Kente Fair so that we can all ride on the international momentum positively. It's good for economic diplomacy, he said. He urged Ghanaians at home and abroad to continue to promote Made in Ghana goods as well as expose Ghanaian fabrics and beautiful cultures to other nationals. For his part, the Deputy Minister of Education expressed pride in donning the smock, saying several attendees approached him just in admiration of his outfit. Dr Apaak indicated that at least five diplomats have requested that he assist them in purchasing the smock, while also demonstrating that they had duly followed the engagements on social media concerning the outfit. I received a lot of compliments today from a lot of people, and it is very refreshing to know that they even know we have declared a fugu day in Ghana, which they are willing to join us in celebrating, he said. Other nationals, who spoke to the Daily Graphic, showered praises on Ghanaians for standing for their heritage and turning the banter into a cultural and economic gain. The friendly banter between Ghana and Zambia during President John Dramani Mahamas visit to Zambia was an eye-opener. I am more impressed with how Ghana made juice from lime in this situation, but turning the banter into free publicity and booming markets for smock weavers and traders locally and across borders, a Malawian journalist said. Isaac Konga, a Kenyan, also indicated that the banter helped him to appreciate the history of the smock, especially hearing that Dr Kwame Nkrumah wore it on the day of the declaration of Ghanas independence. Cecilia Mayone, another attendee, said she would have purchased one if it were readily available, adding that Africans must begin to appreciate their culture more, embrace their diversity and unite to make the continent great. She urged the Ghanaian government to make the most of the moment to let the continent embrace the smock. Photo: Ministry of Defense of Ukraine The Ukrainian army is now the strongest in Europe, and it would be unwise to keep this army outside NATO, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "The Ukrainian army is the strongest army in Europe thanks to our heroes. And its just stupid, I think, its just stupid to keep this army outside of NATO," Zelenskyy said speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday. Featured Give cocoa farmers bailout not haircut - Minority to govt Nana Konadu Agyeman Feb - 14 - 2026 , 02:15 4 minutes read The Minority in Parliament has urged the government to provide cocoa farmers a bailout package to cushion them against low prices of cocoa rather than drastically reducing producer price by 28 per cent. The caucus said the government should release an emergency liquidity assistance to the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) to pay the almost one million cocoa farmers instead of reducingthe price of cocoa by over GH1,000 per bag. Given the scale of the crisis in the cocoa sector, a sector that is one of the important pillars of our economy, one expected the government to give COCOBOD bailout as we did during the New Patriotic Party (NPP) time rather than reducing the price, the caucus said. Shortchanging farmers At a press conference last Thursday to react to the governments decision to reduce the price of cocoa, a former Finance Minister, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, said reducing cocoa prices amounted to giving a haircut to the farmers. A bailout would have been necessary, particularly when we are told that the economy is strong and resilient, he said. The press conference was also addressed by the Ranking Member on the Committee on Food, Agriculture and Cocoa Affairs, Dr Isaac Yaw Opoku, and the Ranking Member on the Committee of Economy and Development, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, each of whom converged on the same point. Dr Amin Adam said in the midst of the cocoa price crisis, Ghanaians were told that the Minister of Finance was coming to announce a restructuring of the cocoa sector. He said Ghanaians were, therefore, surprised that the minister rather used the opportunity to shortchange cocoa farmers. He said before the previous administration left government, the NPP worked together with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to introduce a turnaround strategy for COCOBOD. This strategy was intended to comprehensively restructure COCOBOD but what is happening today in the cocoa sector is not surprising to us because this government has failed to implement the COCOBOD turnaround strategy. That is why COCOBOD is facing these challenges, the former finance minister said. On the directive by the finance minister to move the cost of cocoa roads to the Ministry of Roads and Highways, Dr Amin Adam said such a move was already contained in the turnaround strategy that the NPP handed over to the government. In spite that, he said after one year in office, the current government had not implemented such turnaround strategy only because there is now a crisis in the cocoa sector, the minister has rushed to announce this measure. They were to remove some cost items which tend to reduce the producer price of cocoa which we thought were unnecessary, and in some cases duplicative, but they have not done that. They were supposed to get COCOBOD to move away from non-core businesses and also to improve on efficiency and reduce cost, particularly in procurement but they have not done that, he said. Is IMF sleeping? Having developed the cocoa turnaround strategy with the IMF, the former finance minister expressed surprise that the IMF is sleeping over this. Because we developed this strategy in consultation with the IMF as one of the requirements for implementing the IMF programme. I am really surprised that the IMF has gone to sleep on this and this government is recklessly managing the cocoa sector, which has brought us to this unprecedented crisis in the sector, he said. Slash salary of CEO Dr Opoku said at the time the government took office, the farmgate price of cocoa was GH3,100 which it increased to GH3,225 and subsequently to GH3,625 per bag. He, therefore, described the slashing of producer prices by GH1,000 as something that had never happened in Ghanas history. If cocoa farmers farmgate price is going to be reduced by almost 30 per cent, then the salary of the Chief Executive Officer of COCOBOD and his allowances must be slashed by the same margin, Dr Opoku posited. Parliament to ratify AU Convention on Ending Violence Against Women this year Next article: Parliament to ratify AU Convention on Ending Violence Against Women this year Govt will support private sector to create decent jobs Trade Minister Daily Graphic Feb - 14 - 2026 , 10:24 2 minutes read The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has reaffirmed the governments commitment to support the private sector to thrive, create decent jobs and boost local apparel manufacturing across the country. She stressed that the country remained open and ready for business, and President John Dramani Mahama was fully committed to creating sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for the youth. During a one-day working visit to Northshore Apparel Ghana Ltd in Savelugu, Northern Region, last Thursday, February 12, 2026, Mrs Ofosu-Adjare emphasised that the government would continue to implement policies and initiatives that strengthened the private sector as a key driver of economic growth. The Trade Minister expressed her delight at the companys voluntary pre-hire operator training programme, which was currently equipping nearly 2,000 participants with market-ready skills for permanent employment. She commended the initiative as a strong example of private sector partnership in national development. Accompanied by her Deputy Minister, Sampson Ahi, the Trade Minister encouraged the trainees to take full advantage of the opportunity, remain committed to their training, and work diligently to help sustain the companys operations. She further announced that in 2026, the government would support three additional private garment and textile companies to fully establish their operations. I am impressed with the activities here and the infrastructure, which includes an on-site clinic and creche, she stated, urging trainees to remain loyal and committed in appreciation of the investment being made in them. Apparel manufacturing hub The Chief Executive Officer of Northshore Apparel Ghana Ltd, Nurudeen Mohammed, stated that the company was developing Ghanas first apparel manufacturing hub in the northern part of the country, designed to deliver ethical, efficient and globally competitive production for conscious fashion brands. He explained that the new facility specialised in both knitted and woven garments, including T-shirts, polo shirts, fleece hoodies and childrens wear, among others. Mr Mohammed described the investment as a central pillar of a broader regeneration agenda aimed at tackling unemployment in northern Ghana, reducing internal migration, and boosting trade and export growth. He added that the Trade Ministers visit underscored the governments commitment to export-led industrialisation, value addition and green manufacturing. Mr Mohammed also acknowledged the support of the companys partners, including the Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM), and underscored the importance of mission-aligned capital in accelerating industrial transformation and competitiveness. Phase One of the facility is 95 per cent complete and includes 50 fully installed sewing lines, a 50kWp solar power system and a 4,000-square-metre cutting and design facility. DVLA, VEMAG and single company contracted to produce 2026 and planned new number plates agree to resolve dispute out of court Previous article: DVLA, VEMAG and single company contracted to produce 2026 and planned new number plates agree to resolve dispute out of court Featured INTERPOL deletes Ken Ofori-Atta's name 'permanently' from Red Notice as a wanted man Enoch Darfah Frimpong Feb - 14 - 2026 , 02:17 5 minutes read Former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta's name has been deleted from INTERPOL's Red Notice "permanently" as a wanted man. In a public notice issued on Friday night [February 13, 2026], Mr Ofori-Atta's lawyers, Minkah-Premo, Osei-Bonsu, Bruce Kathline and Partners announced that the Commission for The Control of INTERPOL's Files (CCF) has notified Mr Ofori-Atta that on February 4, 2026, during its 135th Session, it determined that the Red Notice issued against him appears of a predominantly political character" and is non-compliant with INTERPOL's rules, and shall be deleted from INTERPOL's files permanently. Specifically, CCF stated that: "After a thorough examination of the elements before it, the commission found that the challenged data registered by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) of Ghana were not compliant with INTERPOL's rules and decided that they should be deleted from the INTERPOL information system," the lawyers stated OSP's confirmation On his part, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), which applied for the Red Notice in a statement issued also on Friday night, confirming the development, indicated it has received the decision of the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL's Files concerning the Red Notice issued at Ghana's request for Mr. Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta. "The Commission directed the deletion of the notice under INTERPOL's rules on political neutrality and notice processing, citing contextual factors at the time of issuance, including "polarized political statements from members of current and former administrations about the conduct of the investigation," as well as public controversy surrounding prosecutorial and extradition processes, including public acknowledgment by senior officials at the Ministry of Justice of an inability, at the time, to pursue extradition due to the early procedural stage of the case," the OSP stated. "It further observed that subsequent developments made the notice unnecessary, as Mr. Ofori-Atta's location was known, cooperation with U.S. authorities was ongoing, and extradition processes had already been initiated following his arrest in the United States on 6 January 2026." The OSP added that "Summons issued by the Criminal Division of the High Court in Accra have been transmitted for service in the United States requiring his appearance to answer multiple criminal charges. Efforts to secure his appearance continue through established legal and diplomatic channels." The OSP reiterated that it remains guided solely by law and evidence and is committed to due process and the fair, lawful, and impartial prosecution of corruption and corruption-related offences. Lawyers for Ken Ofori-Attas statement RED NOTICE AGAINST KEN OFORI-ATTA DELETED PERMANENTLY: INTERPOL DOES NOT ENDORSE POLITICAL PERSECUTION We are pleased to announce that, today, February 13, 2026, the Commission for The Control of INTERPOL's Files (CCF) has notified Kenneth Ofori-Atta that on February 4, 2026 during its 135' Session, it determined that the Red Notice issued against Mr. Ofori-Atta appears of a predominantly political character" and is non-compliant with INTERPOL's rules, and shall be deleted from INTERPOL's files permanently. Specifically, CCF stated that: "After a thorough examination of the elements before it, the commission found that the challenged data registered by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) of Ghana were not compliant with INTERPOL's rules and decided that they should be deleted from the INTERPOL information system." INTERPOL Decision Concerning Red Notice for Mr. Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has received the decision of the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL's Files concerning the Red Notice issued at Ghana's request for Mr. Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta. The Commission directed the deletion of the notice under INTERPOL's rules on political neutrality and notice processing, citing contextual factors at the time of issuance, including "polarized political statements from members of current and former administrations about the conduct of the investigation," as well as public controversy surrounding prosecutorial and extradition processes, including public acknowledgment by senior officials at the Ministry of Justice of an inability, at the time, to pursue extradition due to the early procedural stage of the case. It further observed that subsequent developments made the notice unnecessary, as Mr. Ofori-Atta's location was known, cooperation with U.S. authorities was ongoing, and extradition processes had already been initiated following his arrest in the United States on 6 January 2026. Summons issued by the Criminal Division of the High Court in Accra have been transmitted for service in the United States requiring his appearance to answer multiple criminal charges. Efforts to secure his appearance continue through established legal and diplomatic channels. The OSP reiterates that it remains guided solely by law and evidence and is committed to due process and the fair, lawful, and impartial prosecution of corruption and corruption-related offences. Writer's email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Follow @enochfrimpong Follow @Graphicgh DVLA, VEMAG and single company contracted to produce 2026 and planned new number plates agree to resolve dispute out of court Next article: DVLA, VEMAG and single company contracted to produce 2026 and planned new number plates agree to resolve dispute out of court Featured Mahama: Well end foreign funding for cocoa purchases; process all minerals by 2030 Pacome Emmanuel Damalie Feb - 14 - 2026 , 09:23 5 minutes read President John Dramani Mahama has announced that Ghana will stop relying on foreign funding to purchase cocoa and will instead mobilise domestic resources to finance the crop, in a move he says will strengthen local processing and support economic growth. Speaking at the Accra Reset Summit, a high-level side event of the 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa on Saturday, February 14, 2026, President Mahama said the country had the financial capacity to fund its own cocoa purchases without collateralising the beans. One of the key decisions we've taken is that we're going to stop foreign funding for the purchase of our cocoa. We're going to raise domestic funds. We have enough Cedis in Ghana to pay for it; we're going to raise domestic funds and buy our own cocoa. We don't need to collateralise the beans. You know the interesting fact, we have the capacity to process 100,000 tonnes of those beans in Ghana, but because the beans are collateralised, we cannot even allocate those beans to the local processors. We have to ship all the beans outside, he said. The President explained that collateral arrangements tied to external financing had prevented Ghana from allocating sufficient cocoa beans to domestic processors, despite existing capacity. He also indicated that by 2030, no minerals would be exported from Ghana without being processed locally, as part of a broader value-addition agenda aimed at strengthening the economy and creating jobs. The Accra Reset is an Africa-led initiative advocating a reimagined global health architecture that empowers countries to build resilient and self-sustaining systems. It was launched by President Mahama last year on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly. The Addis Ababa event was attended by former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo; former Liberian President, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf; Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, Wamkele Mene; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa; Minister of Local Government, Ahmed Ibrahim; and Minister of Works and Housing, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, among others. Explaining the current cocoa sector crisis, President Mahama said the government had fixed the producer price at 70 per cent of the world market price, which stood at GH7,200 per tonne at the time. We set the producer price for the farmer. At the time we set the price, the price of cocoa on the international market was GH7,200. We have a policy in Ghana where we give the farmer 70 per cent of the world market price. The other 30 per cent is used for administration, to supply fertilizers to the farmers, to provide scholarships for their children, among others. The Cedis value was GH11.50 for $1 when we set the price. After we set the producer price, the world market price has declined to GH4,200. The Cedis has shifted its value to GH10.70. So, suddenly it means that for every tonne you buy at the producer price, you have a gap, and so we'll be losing, he explained. He said the nearly 42 per cent decline in international prices, coupled with the appreciation of the cedi, had created a significant financing gap that the government had to absorb. President Mahama stressed that expanding local processing was critical to economic transformation and youth employment. That is the only way we can provide opportunities for our young people, he said. He warned that failure to create opportunities at home would continue to push young Africans to embark on perilous migration journeys. Our young people are not as patient as our generation. They want to see that progress and prosperity today. That is why the country has that tendency that we need to implement in order that we stop our young people from brazing the dangers of the Sahara and the Mediterranean, trying to get to Europe to look for opportunity, he said. He urged African leaders to move from rhetoric to implementation, arguing that the continent must take deliberate steps to unlock prosperity for its people. For his part, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo called on African governments to mobilise domestic resources to finance development, while acknowledging the availability of external support. Both internally and externally, the money to develop Africa is there. The problem is mobilising the internal resources adequately, without corruption, without risk, without unnecessary non-self-help, and to channel it to development. We've been told that we can mobilise up to $4 trillion internally, he said. Former President Obasanjo also urged practical steps towards implementing the African Unions Free Movement Protocol, suggesting that countries already offering visa-on-arrival arrangements should lead the way. He observed that even some AU officials, including the Chairperson of the AU Commission, did not yet hold the proposed AU passport, highlighting what he described as the gap between policy and implementation. He proposed that willing countries form Leagues of African Free Movement Countries to abolish visa requirements among themselves and gradually expand participation. He further advocated increased use of local currencies in transactions to deepen intra-African trade and economic integration. Former President Obasanjo commended President Mahama for championing the Accra Reset Agenda, describing it as an important tool for advancing Africas self-reliance. Featured It was a storm of lies Bawumia speaks on attacks during NPP primary GraphicOnline Politics Feb - 14 - 2026 , 12:42 4 minutes read Former Vice-President and New Patriotic Party flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has opened up about the personal attacks he endured during the partys recent presidential primary, attributing his response and eventual victory to patience, good character and unwavering faith in God. Speaking at the NPPs Muslim thanksgiving prayers held at the National Mosque in Accra on Friday, Dr Bawumia described the internal contest as emotionally taxing, revealing that some of the harshest attacks came from within his own political tradition. We have been through a gruelling election cycle. One that has the potential to have caused wounds and strained relationships. Elections can leave scars that may not show on the surface but can sometimes cut deeply, he recalled. Dr Bawumia said he was subjected to insults, falsehoods and personal attacks targeting both him and his family during the campaign for the partys 2028 presidential slot. Throughout this campaign, I have listened to my own party members insult me, I have listened to them tell lies about me and my family, I have listened to them say hurtful and unprintable things about me all in the quest to bring me down and achieve their ambitions or the ambitions of those they supported. It was a storm of lies and vilification against me and my family. There was tribal and religious bigotry directed towards me. But I smiled through the storm because I knew Allah knows the truth and will not forsake me. Despite the intensity of the contest, Dr Bawumia said he chose not to retaliate, drawing inspiration from Islamic teachings. He explained that he relied on the Hadith, which advised that we should respond to false accusations with patience, good character and trust in God rather than retaliation or harshness. He also cited Quran 41:34, which tells us to repel evil with what is better. Furthermore, we should leave the ultimate judgement to God. It is in following with His teachings that I chose not to respond to all the lies and insults. Thankfully, Gods mighty will was shown on January 31st 2026 when He rewarded me with a stunning victory at the primaries. Dr Bawumia said the scale of his endorsement by delegates demonstrated the partys commitment to inclusion. I was so happy with the overwhelming nature of the victory because it showed very clearly that the NPP is not a tribal party and it also showed clearly that the NPP is not a religiously bigoted party. The delegates showed that our party votes on the basis of competence, capability, vision, character, humility, integrity and tolerance and not on the basis of tribe or religion. The thanksgiving service, held after Jummah prayers, marked the beginning of a series of national thanksgiving events by the party following its presidential primaries. An inter-denominational Christian service is scheduled to take place in Accra on Sunday, February 15, 2026. In a related address at the same event, Dr Bawumia urged party faithful to treat the thanksgiving not as a personal celebration, but as a moment of reflection and rededication. We are grateful to God for His guidance and mercies throughout our recent internal processes. Our national conference was a success and our flag-bearership election was incident free. Without Gods arms wrapped around us, we would not have been successful. Praise be to his name, he said. Todays thanksgiving service is not a celebration of personal ambition. It is for me, a moment to join you all in reflection, prayer and recommitment to a higher cause - the cause of contributing to the building of a nation that is truly great and strong. Calling for unity ahead of the 2028 general election, Dr Bawumia urged party members to close ranks and focus on shared objectives. He appealed to them to deepen our concentration on what we have in common and put less emphasis on what we differ on. Reminding the party of the work ahead, he cautioned that the road ahead will demand discipline, sacrifice, and hard work. Victory in 2028 will not be gifted to us. It must be earned, constituency by constituency, household by household, with humility and purpose. A few days ago, Google said it would soon release the first Android 17 beta, and it did, but it was also quick to halt the release without any explanation. Well, the good news is that Google has resumed releasing Android 17 Beta 1, and it's now available for Pixel devices. Google says this build continues its work for more adaptable Android apps and brings significant enhancements to camera and media capabilities. Additionally, the Android 17 build includes expanded profiles for companion devices and new tools to optimize connectivity. Google has also replaced Developer Previews with Android Canary, which was introduced last year. The continuous Canary channel offers three main benefits listed below: Faster Access: Features and APIs land in Canary as soon as they pass internal testing, rather than waiting for a quarterly release. Features and APIs land in Canary as soon as they pass internal testing, rather than waiting for a quarterly release. Better Stability: Early "battle-testing" in Canary results in a more polished Beta experience with new APIs and behavior changes that are closer to being final. Early "battle-testing" in Canary results in a more polished Beta experience with new APIs and behavior changes that are closer to being final. Easier Testing: Canary supports OTA updates (no more manual flashing) and, as a separate update channel, more easily integrates with CI workflows and gives you the earliest window to give immediate feedback on upcoming potential changes. In addition to announcing the release of the first Android 17 beta, Google also announced that it will quickly move from this beta to its Platform Stability milestone, targeted for next month. The internet search giant also talked about its plans for quarterly Android 17 updates, meaning the next release will arrive in Q2 2026, and it's the one with which Google will introduce planned app-breaking behaviour changes. A minor SDK release is planned for Q4. If you have a Pixel device already enrolled in the Android beta program, you'll receive Android 17 Beta 1 as an OTA update. If not, you can head this way to enroll in the beta program and check the list of eligible devices here. In case you don't have an eligible Pixel device, you can use the 64-bit system images with the Android Emulator in Android Studio to try Android 17 Beta 1. Source Huawei launched the FreeBuds Pro 5 in China in late November, and now the company is almost ready to offer them globally. Huawei is currently teasing the international launch of the earbuds, which is taking place on February 26. The teaser video you can see below was posted to Huawei's official Instagram account. At the end of the video the February 26 unveiling date is clearly listed. The event is taking place in Madrid, Spain, the week before MWC takes place in Barcelona, which is definitely an interesting choice of location and timing. At the same event, the company is also expected to unveil a new running-focused smartwatch, most likely a new entrant into the Huawei Watch GT Runner series which hasn't seen a new member since 2021. Source Zelenskyy: Thanks to Ukraine, Orban doesn't have to worry about building up his army to stop Russian tanks from returning to Budapest Photo: screenshot Ukraine is keeping a European front, which is why the free Baltic states and an independent Poland can exist, and even Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban need not think about building up his army to defend against Russia, says Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "It is the Ukrainians who hold the European front. An independent Poland and free Baltic states stand behind our people. A sovereign Moldova and Romania without dictatorship is possible. And even Viktor alone can think about how to grow his belly, not how to build up his army to stop Russian tanks from returning to the streets of Budapest," Zelenskyy said speaking at the Munich Security Conference. The President emphasized that Ukraine did not choose this war. "Ukrainians are people. People, not terminators. Our people are dying too. And thats why we are doing everything we can to stop this war and guarantee security," the head of state added. Haiti - Cooperation : DINEPA meeting at the Cuban Embassy in Haiti Theophil Ostinvil, Director General of the National Directorate of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DINEPA), met with Cuban Ambassador Ricardo Garcia Napoles at the Cuban Embassy in Haiti. During this meeting, discussions focused primarily on bilateral cooperation between Haiti and Cuba, particularly in the Drinking Water and Sanitation (DWS) sector, and the main achievements and strategic priorities of this cooperation. With a view to further supporting national efforts for the sustainable improvement of DWS services in Haiti, the two parties discussed the possibility of implementing a capacity-building plan for DINEPA staff, utilizing Cuban expertise. Furthermore, this meeting provided an opportunity to review certain administrative matters related to the existing collaboration between DINEPA and Cuban experts working in the sector. With this new meeting, Theophil Ostinvil reaffirms his commitment to strengthening technical and institutional partnerships that can contribute to the development of the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sector, for the benefit of the Haitian people. HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Environment : Strategic meeting on strengthening climate data monitoring capacities The Ministry of the Environment (MdE), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), held the third meeting of the Steering Committee for the project "Strengthening National Institutions in Haiti to Meet the Transparency Requirements of the Paris Agreement : Capacity-building Initiative for Transparency" (CBIT-Haiti). This strategic meeting is part of the Governments efforts to strengthen national capacities for monitoring, collecting, and verifying climate data, in accordance with Haitis international commitments under the Paris Agreement. It provided an opportunity to assess the progress of project activities, identify challenges encountered, and define priority areas for future actions. Speaking at the meeting, Sylvain Merlin, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Haiti, reaffirmed the institutions commitment to supporting Haiti in strengthening its climate transparency mechanisms and establishing a reliable national environmental data management system. For his part, Moise Fils Jean Pierre, Minister of the Environment, expressed his gratitude to the Global Environment Facility (GEF) for its crucial financial support, as well as to the UNDP for its sustained technical assistance. He also acknowledged the contributions of institutional and technical partners, including the Ministry of Public Works through the Bureau of Mines and Energy, the Faculty of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, the Interprofessional Technical Center for Studies on Atmospheric Pollution (CITEPA - France, a non-profit organization), and the Haitian consulting firm EQUITERRA. Minister Jean Pierre also emphasized that the CBIT-Haiti project reflects the country's commitment to adopting an approach based on scientific rigor, transparency, and national ownership of processes related to combating climate change. He noted that this meeting represents an important step in consolidating the project's achievements and ensuring its sustainability for the benefit of future generations. Through this initiative, the Ministry reiterates its commitment to strengthening national climate governance and actively contributing to international efforts to combat climate change. Learn more about the CEBIT project : This crucial environmental project, led by the Ministry of the Environment, aims to strengthen technical capacities for monitoring greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change, in line with the Paris Agreement. The project trains local stakeholders to measure, report, and verify climate data, thereby contributing to international transparency and national climate action. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45816-haiti-environment-when-haiti-acts-on-climate-challenges-it-builds-a-safer-future.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-46432-haiti-environment-workshop-on-best-practices-and-lessons-learned-from-the-cbit-haiti-project.html HL/ HaitiLibre War can be ended with dignity, which is most important thing for Ukraine - Zelenskyy Photo: The Presidential Office of Ukraine / www.president.gov.ua Ukraine is ready for an agreement that will bring real peace and end the war with dignity, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. "Ukraine is ready for an agreement that will bring real peace for us, for Ukraine, for Europe, and I am confident that this war can be ended. Above all, with dignity. This is the most important thing for us," Zelenskyy said speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday. The President noted that Ukraine is ready to invest in Europes shared security and share everything it has learned during this war. "And right now, as we work together to protect lives in Ukraine, we are building a new system, a new security, a new response architecture, new approaches to protect lives in any European country when needed," Zelenskyy emphasized. Disney describes the lack of Dolby Vision on the Disney+ streaming service as technical challenges. However, in its statement to FlatpanelsHD, the company does not elaborate on how these challenges came about. It neither confirms nor denies that a legal dispute with InterDigital could be responsible. Meanwhile, Disney has also deactivated the dynamic HDR formats in other European countries. Continue after ad At the end of January, heise online reported that users of the video streaming service Disney+ in Germany, despite a premium subscription, can no longer access content with video in the dynamic HDR formats Dolby Vision and HDR10+, but at best in the static basic form HDR10. Disney+ failed to provide any information about the reason for the omission, and the company did not respond to an inquiry from heise online. However, much suggests that a patent dispute with the US company InterDigital is behind it. For example, the Munich Regional Court ruled last November that Disney+ infringes InterDigital's rights when streaming videos with dynamic HDR images. The court issued a preliminary injunction against the streaming service, as stated in a press release from InterDigital. Now Disney has sent a written statement to the Danish website FlatpanelsHD regarding the omission of Dolby Vision with little informative content: According to the statement, technical challenges are the trigger for the current situation. Disney does not comment on what these challenges specifically entail. Disney further writes verbatim: We are actively working to restore access to Dolby Vision and will provide an update as soon as possible. Support for 4K UHD and HDR will remain available on supported devices. Problem is spreading Meanwhile, the phenomenon is spreading further and further: Since the beginning of the month, users of Disney+ in other European countries such as France, Belgium, Portugal, and Poland have also been reporting that they can no longer access content with Dolby Vision images. A corresponding report also appeared on the Dutch website Tweakers. In line with this, the references to the dynamic HDR format have disappeared from the websites of Disney+ subsidiaries in other countries and even in the USA. Heise online was only able to find a reference to Dolby Vision on a few Disney+ pages worldwide for example, for users in Mexico, El Salvador, or Australia. At the time of our first report at the end of January, Dolby Vision was still listed on Disney+ in the UK. Now the format has also disappeared there. The suspicion is that Disney is acting proactively to prevent InterDigital from taking legal action against the company in other countries due to possible patent infringement regarding the use of Dolby Vision. However, this is not confirmed. Heise online has again asked Disney for a statement. Continue after ad Open questions Readers had contacted the editorial team of Mac & i, who can no longer access 3D movies via the Disney+ app in Germany on their Apple Vision Pro. The 3D videos were previously a flagship feature for Apple's VR headset. These contents are still available in some other countries where Dolby Vision is no longer accessible. Furthermore, Disney+ informed FlatpanelsHD that it has not offered HDR10+ in Europe, so this format cannot have been omitted. Users had previously reported that HDR10+ was previously available on Samsung TVs. According to FlatpanelsHD, there is no indication of when Dolby Vision will be available again on Disney+. However, if the current action is a reaction by Disney to the patent dispute, it is to be feared that the company also does not expect to be able to resolve the matter quickly. (nij) Don't miss any news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication. In the era of great power rivalry, even the United States will not be powerful enough to go it alone, he said. Opening the annual gathering of security leaders on Friday, Merz addressed remarks to President Donald Trump and senior US officials in the audience. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told the Munich Security Conference that the rules-based international order no longer exists and warned that the United States lacks the strength to act alone in a period of rivalry between major powers. Being a part of Nato is not only Europes competitive advantage. It is also the United States competitive advantage. Merz said the post-war order had already shifted. This order, however imperfect it was even at its best, no longer exists in that form, he told delegates. He referred to tensions that have marked transatlantic relations over the past year. US Vice-President JD Vance criticised European policies at the same conference in 2025, triggering disputes over free speech and migration. Merz said a deep divide has opened between Europe and the United States and added that Europe must adjust. Our freedom is not guaranteed, he said. Firmness and willpower will be needed to assert this freedom. He criticised tariffs and protectionism, in remarks seen as directed at Washington after Trump threatened new trade measures against European states and renewed interest in acquiring Greenland from Denmark, a Nato ally. The culture war of the Maga movement is not ours, Merz said. We do not believe in tariffs and protectionism, but in free trade. He called for renewed cooperation with Washington. So lets repair and revive transatlantic trust together, he said. Merz also disclosed talks with French President Emmanuel Macron on closer nuclear cooperation. He confirmed that discussions had begun on linking Germany more closely to Frances nuclear deterrent within a European framework tied to Nato. France and the United Kingdom are Europes only nuclear powers. Germany has relied on the US nuclear umbrella under Nato arrangements. Merz said Germany sought a strong, self-sustaining pillar inside the alliance, not a break from it Macron expanded on that theme in his own address. He urged Europe to show unwavering commitment to defend our own interests and called for a reorganisation of the continents security architecture. If we want to be taken seriously on the European continent and beyond, we must show the world our unwavering commitment to defend our own interests, Macron said, referring to trade disputes and territorial claims. That starts with continuing to extend our support to Ukraine, but it could nicely follow with fending off unjustified tariffs and politely declining unjustified claims on European territory, he said. Macron argued that Europe must sit at the table in any future arms control talks with Russia. He said past treaties were negotiated between Washington and Moscow without full European participation. He confirmed discussions with Germany and the UK on a new generation of long-range missile and nuclear cooperation, and said he would present further details in coming weeks. On Ukraine, Macron said Europe must increase pressure on Moscow and warned against concessions without guarantees. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking on the sidelines, said Russia did not seek to end the war and required stronger sanctions. I dont think that they want to stop the war, Zelenskyy said. Under pressure, they can. He said Ukraine would hold elections if a ceasefire lasting two to three months were secured with security guarantees. Around 50 world leaders are attending the summit. The agenda includes the war in Ukraine, tensions with China and negotiations over Irans nuclear programme. Conference chairman Wolfgang Ischinger wrote in a pre-event report that US foreign policy shifts have raised difficult questions about the future shape of transatlantic and international co-operation. Merz described the Munich forum as a measure of the state of US-European ties. He said Europe must turn a switch in our minds and make full use of its military and economic strength. Autocracies may have followers, he said. Democracies have partners and allies. HT For us Americans, our home may be in the western hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe. In a time of headlines heralding the end of the transatlantic era, let it be known and clear to all that this is neither our goal nor our wish, Rubio said in his address. United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio told European leaders that Washington does not seek the end of the transatlantic era and wants to work together with its allies, as the Munich Security Conference opened amid strain over defence and Ukraine. Rubio spoke to an audience of nearly 50 heads of state and government at the annual gathering in Bavaria. He said the United States does not want to act as caretakers of the wests managed decline and urged allies to reform international institutions. We do not live in a perfect world, he said. The UN and other bodies need urgent reform. Rubio called for stronger allies and said Washington would remain direct in its counsel because we care deeply. He said the United States would not step back from efforts to end the war in Ukraine. At the same time, Rubio did not mention Russia by name during his main speech and avoided detailed references to Nato. Reuters reported that his remarks were notably short on specifics. The tone of his speech drew a positive response from several European leaders. Finlands foreign minister Elina Valtonen said Rubios address was exactly what has been needed both in Europe and in the United States. Now there was a clear gesture of outreach, she told reporters in Munich. This is a good basis on which to continue. Valtonen noted that Rubio repeated the word together during his speech. Finnish President Alexander Stubb met Rubio at the conference venue. The two shook hands at The Economists studio before holding formal talks later in the day. Stubb has said Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security while keeping the United States engaged. Rubios address preceded a panel on Ukraine that included Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and US Senator Roger Wicker. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy detailed the scale of Russian attacks on his country. In January alone, Ukraine faced more than 6,000 attack drones, over 150 missiles and more than 5,000 glide bombs, Zelenskyy said. There is not a single power plant in Ukraine that has not been damaged, he told delegates. He said Russia loses 156 soldiers for every kilometre of Ukrainian territory it captures. HT Navalny died on 16 February 2024 in the IK-6 penal colony in Harp, north of the Arctic Circle, where he was serving a 19-year sentence. The United Kingdom, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands issued a joint statement on Saturday following laboratory analysis of biological samples taken from Navalnys body. Five European countries have concluded that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny died after being poisoned with epibatidine, a rare toxin found in South American dart frogs, and have held the Russian state responsible. The five governments said independent national laboratories identified epibatidine in samples linked to Navalny. Epibatidine can be found naturally in dart frogs in the wild in South America. Dart frogs in captivity do not produce this toxin and it is not found naturally in Russia, the joint statement said. There is no innocent explanation for its presence in Navalnys body. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, said only the Russian state had the capacity to deploy the substance. Only the Russian government had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin against Alexei Navalny during his imprisonment in Russia, Cooper said. She added that the United Kingdom would inform the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons of what it described as a breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. Considering the toxicity of epibatidine and the reported symptoms, poisoning was a highly likely cause of death, the joint statement said. The countries expressed concern that Russia had not destroyed all of its chemical weapons stockpiles, despite declaring in 2017 that it had done so. Navalnys widow, Yulia Navalnaya, said she had been convinced from the outset that her husband was poisoned. I was certain from the first day that my husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof, she wrote on X. Putin killed Alexei with a chemical weapon. Navalnaya said in September that she had obtained biological samples from her husbands body and sent them abroad for analysis. She said laboratories in two countries concluded that he had been murdered, though she did not at the time name the toxin involved. Russian authorities have maintained that Navalny died of natural causes linked to existing health conditions. According to official accounts, he felt unwell after a walk in the prison yard and collapsed. The Kremlin has not commented on the latest allegations. Navalny, 47, was Russias most prominent opposition figure and an anti-corruption campaigner who built a nationwide network challenging President Vladimir Putin. In 2020 he survived a poisoning attempt with the nerve agent Novichok while campaigning in Siberia. German military laboratories later confirmed the presence of the Soviet-era nerve agent after he was evacuated to Berlin for treatment. He returned to Russia in 2021 and was arrested at the airport. Courts later handed him multiple sentences on charges his supporters described as politically motivated. The five European governments said their findings followed a two-year inquiry and would be submitted to the OPCW in coordination with the United Nations. Only the Russian state had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin to target Navalny during his imprisonment in a Russian penal colony in Siberia, and we hold it responsible for his death, the statement said. HT Etowah man charged with taking indecent liberties with girl, 14 Nelson Ndegwa Maturi Related Stories Henderson County sheriffs deputies charged a 34-year-old Etowah man with three counts of taking indecent liberties with a child on Thursday after special investigations unit received a report last year regarding the alleged sexual abuse of a minor. Nelson Ndegwa Maturi was held without bond Friday after he had posted a $100,000 bond earlier in the day. District Court Judge Monica Gillett revoked Maturi's bond based on "a rebuttal presumption against the defendant's release" under state law, court records showed. He is charged with three felony counts of taking indecent liberties with a 14-year-old girl. 'First Sip' ceremony celebrates completion of French Broad water intake Hendersonville City Council members, utility staff, and stakeholders took part in a "First Sip" ceremony on Friday to celebrate the completion of the French Broad River Intake and Water Treatment Facility Filter Expansion. Related Stories The French Broad River Intake and Pumping Station provides an additional, redundant source of water to residents and businesses in Hendersonville and Henderson County. The new station supplements existing intakes located in Pisgah National Forest and along the Mills River, providing additional drought resiliency to the more than 80,000 people served by Hendersonvilles water utility. You can actually see on the building how high the water came when Helene hit, and it is crazy to see how far weve come, said Hendersonville Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Hensley. That was a thousand-year storm that this resilient intake was able to withstand with only minor damage. Hensley thanked the wonderful, professional staff, our awesome elected officials, the North Carolina General Assembly who supports our utility, and the City Council for making good capital investments in this project. This project is going to help sustain and make our water more resilient for hundreds of years in the future. It's good for our residents, it's good for industry, and it's good for our economy. Commissioned in December 2025 and officially celebrated with the ceremony on Friday, the station collects and pumps water from the French Broad River to the Water Treatment Facility where it is purified into high quality drinking water. Before this fourth water source was constructed, Hendersonvilles water supply was vulnerable to drought. Recent droughts in 2007-2008, 2016, and 2023 pushed the limits of the previous water supply and led to customer water use restrictions. The new French Broad River Intake greatly strengthens drought resiliency and redundancy and adds the necessary capacity to supply the growing future water demands of the community. In his remarks, Utilities Director Adam Steurer said operating Hendersonville's water utility takes decades of thoughtful planning and investment. Water is often taken for granted, he said. It flows at the turn of a handle, quiet and reliable. But here in Hendersonville, we understand its true value. We have chosen to make this great investment in water. Even though a main driver for the project was to provide a resilient water supply in times of drought, all critical infrastructure was designed to be protected from flooding. This was accomplished by constructing an operating floor elevated above the 500-year flood elevation, roughly 15 feet above grade, to house the pump motors, emergency generator and other electrical equipment. Everything below this height was designed to handle submergence from floodwaters. The new infrastructure was tested by Tropical Storm Helene when floodwater rose to over 16 feet above grade, which ultimately over-topped the operating floor. Overall, the infrastructure held up as expected, with little to no structural or mechanical damage; however, several pieces of electrical equipment were flooded and required replacement. Since Helene, additional flood gate systems in the electrical room have been installed to provide additional protection should flood waters rise above the 500-year flood elevation in the future. Its a testament and a commitment to keeping our waters clean," French Broad Riverkeeper Anna Alsobrook said of the new intake plant. "Clean water doesn't just happen by itself; it happens with dedicated effort, collaboration, and investment. Thank you for your commitment to clean water. The intake project was funded completely by Hendersonvilles water customers through monthly water utility bills and financed through the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality State Revolving Fund low-interest loan. The project took approximately 10 years to complete with the design and permitting beginning in 2016 and construction starting in 2022. The project included the construction of two additional multimedia (gravel, sand, anthracite) gravity filters and associated piping, instrumentation and appurtenances. It increases the Water Treatment Facilitys permitted capacity from 12 million gallons per day to 15 mgd to support the growing business and community needs. For five weeks since the energy crisis began to worsen, the Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) has been providing continuous humanitarian aid to residents of Kyiv and communities across the country. "Since early January 2026, the organization has been supporting the operation of over 100 heating stations deployed by the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in Kyiv, and has also been organizing its own heating stations. Here, people can warm up, get hot meals, hot drinking water, and recharge their devices. During this period, more than 250,000 people have received assistance," said Maksym Dotsenko, URCS CEO. The Ukrainian Red Cross is also establishing warming centers at schools across the capital. More than 15,260 blankets, 5,040 bedding sets, 1,380 bedding sets, 5,940 hygiene kits, heaters, and hot meals have been donated to support residents. Volunteers and staff at the Ukrainian Red Cross also provide psychosocial support. Additionally, the organization supports the work of 40 field kitchens of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, donating essential food and delivering thousands of hot meals and drinks. Volunteers also deliver food to warming stations and provide targeted assistance to people with limited mobility and those living alone who are unable to reach them. A separate area of the response is ensuring community energy resilience. The Ukrainian Red Cross is implementing a program to provide communities with 560 generators with a total capacity of 9.16 MW to support critical infrastructure, Points of Invincibility, and social protection institutions. This ensures the continued operation of vital services even during extended power outages. International partners played a key role in this initiative: 447 of the 560 generators were donated from the European Union's Strategic Reserves (rescEU) under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. These generators are intended to support communities most affected by Russian attacks on energy infrastructure. Additionally, the German Red Cross and the Belgian Red Cross provided an additional 34 powerful generators. The URCS also recalled that since the beginning of the Russian Federation's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the organization has already donated more than 15,000 generators to support medical facilities, schools, and kindergartens. The Ukrainian Red Cross coordinates with government agencies and international partners, quickly responding to the needs of communities. The Ukrainian Red Cross acknowledged the support and solidarity of donors and partners from the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the US Department of State, and the European Union. Photo: screenshot Ukraine is open to elections if necessary, but could also declare a ceasefire to the Russians if they hold elections, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. "President Trump can pressure Putin, ensure a ceasefire, and our parliament will change the law, and we will go to the polls. If the Americans want elections in Ukraine, and if the Russians want elections in Ukraine, we are open to that. But we can also declare a ceasefire to the Russians if they hold elections in Russia," Zelenskyy said during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday. "Even through these challenges, I have remained committed to being a strong example for my siblings and to upholding our Jewish traditions with pride." - Samuel Kyeyune I generally don' t write articles about members of our tribe living outside the Orlando area. After all, the title of my column is "Jews in the Land of Disney." But, I have an interesting story to tell. Recently, I was contacted by a 26-year-old young Jewish man living in Uganda. The term "Jewish geography," comes to play, and in some convoluted way we connected on a "Whatsapp call." I was so moved by our conversation I felt co... Talk about a life full of history and adventure. That is Aryeh Greens life. Chief strategy officer of Gigawatt Global, a Jerusalem-based renewable energy platform for Africa, and co-founder of its nonprofit arm, Gigawatt Impact, Green recently spoke to a group in Winter Park about the ongoing work of the US 5013 nonprofit and for-profit company (separate entities). And even though the Israel-linked solar projects are extremely important with the ability to help some of the poorest countries in Africa (more on this later), he has accomplished so much in his lifetime, and it is worth sharing.... (JNS) In recent years, the number of Jews in New York applying for German citizenship has nearly doubled, according to a Deutsche Welle report. That includes Ruth Gruenthal, who fled Nazi persecution in her teens and rebuilt her life in the United States. The 103-year-old told the German publication that U.S. President Donald Trumps reelection evoked feelings that I thought I would never in my lifetime have to deal with again. The German consulate in New York City has recorded 666 restorations of naturalizations of Jews, whose citizenship the Nazis stripped, in 2026 and 1,771 such applica... (JNS) - Professor and Jewish historian Deborah Lipstadt, former U.S. envoy for monitoring and combating antisemitism from 2022 to 2025, is set to receive Bar-Ilan University's 2026 Jonathan Sacks Institute Prize for Outstanding Achievement as a Public Intellectual. The award, established by the Gewurz family of Montreal in memory of Samuel Gewurz, honors figures whose work advances the ideas and moral vision of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, chief rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth, who died in 2020. It comes with $32,500, which will be presented to Lipstadt at a Bar-Ilan... (JNS) Israels Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism Minister Amichai Chikli lashed out on Sunday at Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, calling him a dictator, Hamas sympathizer and promoter of Sharia-based authoritarianism. Chikli referenced a short video clip posted on social media in which Erdogan apparently spoke recently in Turkish about the need of the regions peoples to unite on the common ground of Islamic brotherhood. It is unclear whether the Turkish leader was referring to the Muslim Brotherhood group, whose national branches in Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon were d... (Israel Hayom via JNS) Eighty-one years after the Holocaust, in a scenario that once seemed inconceivable, Israel and Germany have become allies. Germans defend Israel in the international arena, and Israel provides military defense for Germany. In an interview marking International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Jan. 27, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, one of Israels most prominent friends in the Bundestag, explained why Berlin will continue purchasing weapons from Israel and supporting it in the international arena despite imposing sanctions on it during the recent Gaza war. He discu... (JNS) - Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Wednesday received the diplomatic credentials of the new ambassadors of Fiji and Thailand to Israel in formal ceremonies at the President's Residence in Jerusalem. Welcoming Fiji's envoy, Jesoni Vitusagavulu, Herzog said, "I am honored to welcome the first-ever ambassador of Fiji to Israel in Jerusalem." Herzog congratulated the Pacific island nation on its decision to open an embassy in Jerusalem, calling it a historic milestone in bilateral relations. "This is a fantastic moment, and we are very moved. Fiji is a dear friend of Israel, and we pray for... (JNS) A bill increasing government support for bereaved Israel Defense Forces families and victims of terrorism passed its final reading in the Knesset on Monday, following approval by the Labor and Welfare Committee. Among other provisions, the amendments to the Families of Soldiers Who Fell in Battle Law and the Benefits for Casualties of Hostile Acts Law grant orphans aged 21 and up a monthly stipend of 3,500 shekels ($1,120) until age 30 and 2,000 shekels ($640) per month until age 40. The amendments also significantly increase the marriage grant to 300,000 shekels ($96,500), the Knesset... Photo: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1493287801853452 European Parliament President Roberta Metsola called Russias plans regarding the elections in Ukraine during the war cynical. "We want to send a message to Russia and the Putin administration, as well as to the cynicism with which we discuss elections in Ukraine. When have there been fair elections in Russia? When can we say that if bombs are falling on cities, people without electricity cannot be forced to vote?" she said during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday. Metsola added that "this is a cynical plan" and "we absolutely must not allow this." (JNS) Lebanons prime minister vowed on Tuesday to keep his country out of war after Hezbollahs leader last week warned that a strike on Iran would be an attack on its Lebanese terror proxy. We will never allow anyone to drag the country into another adventure, AFP quoted Nawaf Salam as saying during the World Governments Summit in Dubai, in response to a question about comments made by Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem. Hassan Nasrallahs replacement said on Jan. 26 that his Lebanese Shiite terror army and its main backer in Tehran were facing aggression that does not distinguish... (JNS) - Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro says he has become more open about his Jewish faith following the massacre at a synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pa., and the Hamas attack against Israel and subsequent rising Jew-hatred. "As people have approached me and expressed to me the fear that they have to live openly about who they are in this country, I have felt the responsibility to be more open about my faith, to offer some comfort to them," Shapiro told a group of reporters at an event sponsored by the Christian Science Monitor. He said this was a result of the killing of 11 worshippers at the Squir... (JNS) I have read the recent statement by the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem warning against so-called damaging ideologies like Christian Zionism. As a native Aramaic Christian living in Israel, I feel I must respondnot to create division, but to share the truth about what life is really like for Christians living in the Holy Land. Christian Zionism is not a political ploy. It is rooted in the Bible. God spoke of the daughter of Zion and loved His fellow Jewish people. Christian Zionism honors that biblical heritage while affirming the rights and freedom of Christians a... (JNS) Zionists must step forward not defensively, not apologetically, but proudly and thoughtfully. This is not a moment for silence or retreat. It is a time that demands clarity of language, depth of understanding, and the confidence to speak and act with conviction. Zionism has always required courage; however, this moment is an era of ever-increasing anti-Jewish hatred and bigotry. It calls not only to fight forward against it but also requires literacy and resolve. I am a Zionist not because it is fashionable or convenient, but because Zionism is rooteddeeply and continuouslyin Jewis... (JNS) When Israel demolished the abandoned former Jerusalem headquarters of the disgraced United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, Western press reflexively condemned the Jewish state for a myriad of bogus transgressions. Their accusations falsely claimed Israel violated international law, threatened the welfare of Palestinian refugees and acted out of unwarranted political motivations. In fact, Israel has in no way violated international law, nor did its demolition of the UNRWA compound threaten the welfare of Palestinians. The move was also not politically motivat... (JNS) The protests against illegal immigration enforcement, the Black Lives Matter movement, Occupy Wall Street, No Kings marches and the umpteen demonstrations against Israel and for terroriststhey are all branches of the same ideological tree. These are not like the civil-rights protests of previous generations, despite their best efforts to convince the public that they are. These people have exposed themselves to be divisive and hateful. Until people recognize that connection, they will keep losing the arguments, one issue at a time. Americans who oppose todays protest movements and un... Photo: https://www.facebook.com/EmmanuelMacron French President Emmanuel Macron plans to establish direct contact with Russia for peace talks. "I want to be very clear: we can negotiate without the Europeans if we want, but that will not lead to peace at the negotiating table. This is precisely why I decided to establish a direct channel of communication with Russia in full transparency with Ukraine, our European partners, and our American allies," he said speaking at the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Friday. Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/ A number of partner countries from Europe and elsewhere have confirmed their readiness to deploy their troops to Ukraine after the ceasefire. Ukraine, in turn, will be prepared to deploy its troops to other regions of the world in the future, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha emphasized at the discussion panel "Focus on Security Guarantees for Ukraine" at the Munich Security Forum, which began on Friday. "The presence of troops on the ground is an important part of future security guarantees, as well as for business opportunities. Having a presence on the ground also serves as a deterrent, a guarantee for future investors, and an incentive to invest in Ukraine. Therefore, we have also received confirmation from some European capitals, and not only European capitals, of their readiness to deploy troops on the ground," Sybiha said. According to him, this will happen after the ceasefire is reached. "I dont know whether this concerns a peacekeeping mandate or a peace monitoring group, because thats still in the process. But we need this presence in Ukraine. Ukraine is also ready to deploy its armed forces to other geographic regions in the future," the minister added. Photo: President's Office / www.president.gov.ua Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to discuss the PURL program. The main focus of the meeting was the further development of the PURL initiative. Ukraine highly values the contribution of each state and counts on continued funding for this initiative, which makes it possible to purchase missiles for air defense systems, the presidential press service reported. Zelenskyy and Rutte also discussed the opening of joint defense enterprises in Europe. Photo: President's Office / www.president.gov.ua In Munich, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with a bipartisan delegation of U.S. senators: Lindsey Graham, Richard Blumenthal, Chris Murphy, Jeanne Shaheen, Mark Warner, Chris Coons, Sheldon Whitehouse, Peter Welch, Mark Kelly, Lisa Murkowski, Jacky Rosen, Elissa Slotkin, Andy Kim, Roger Wicker, and Ruben Gallego. The Head of State thanked the senators for their unwavering bipartisan support for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people and expressed special gratitude to the United States of America for the air defense systems that have saved thousands of lives, as well as for the PURL initiative. Volodymyr Zelenskyy awarded Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal the Order of Yaroslav the Wise, I class, the presidential press service reported. The senators expressed their support for Ukraine and noted the courage of Ukrainian warriors. Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine needs additional generators and transformers to enhance energy resilience and additional air defense missiles to protect infrastructure from Russian shelling. We are facing too many attacks every day two major large-scale attacks in one week. Throughout the winter, there were massive attacks involving 300500 Iranian drones, as well as 2545 missiles, mostly ballistic, the Head of State said. Special attention was given to the negotiation process and the meetings of the negotiating teams. The President emphasized that increasing pressure on Russia through stronger sanctions could significantly intensify diplomatic efforts. The senators support the position that pressure on the Russian leader should be increased and stated their firm determination to pass a sanctions bill against Russia in the near future. I believe that Putin is not ready for serious negotiations. I think we have made progress, but he believes that over time he will be able to seize Donbas. And he will not stop until the pressure increases, Graham said. The meeting also addressed work on security guarantees for Ukraine. Zelenskyy noted that clarity and precise understanding of each point are crucial for the Ukrainian societys trust in the security guarantees document. No one wants a repeat of the Budapest Memorandum. That is why it is extremely important for all Ukrainians that the security guarantees be ratified by the United States Congress. In their comments, the senators emphasized their support for strong and reliable security guarantees that will provide the necessary protection and prevent a recurrence of aggression. In addition, the President provided a detailed update on the situation on the frontline and the level of Russian losses. Russia is not yet ready to end the war against Ukraine; Kyiv needs greater and faster military support for a peaceful resolution, according to Czech President Petr Pavel, an Interfax-Ukraine correspondent reported. "As a former military man, I dont want to be overly optimistic about this year, knowing what kind of enemy we have against us," he said at the Ukrainian Lunch on Saturday on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, organized by the Victor Pinchuk Foundation. Pavel recalled how three years ago he also warned against exaggerated optimism regarding the planned Ukrainian counteroffensive. "My colleagues viewed me with a certain suspicion that I was undermining Ukrainian military morale, but all I did was warning against creating expectations that, if unfulfilled, would lead to disappointment on all sides," the Czech President noted. He emphasized that he would like Ukraine to live in peace as soon as possible, but this requires a number of very specific steps from its partners. "First, we will have to expedite the delivery of all necessary military equipment and support to Ukraine to avoid losing more territory and create a favorable situation on the ground," Pavel said. He added that Russia was insisting on its strategic initiative, but the price for every square kilometre of Ukrainian territory was extremely high, and last month it exceeded the capacity to recruit new soldiers. According to him, if partners can maintain this support or even increase it, and at the same time be very decisive in strengthening sanctions, especially against the Russian shadow fleet, then the conditions can be created for Russia to understand that it cannot achieve greater success on the front, and the only way is negotiations. "Im not sure that Russia is mentally prepared for this, and it is up to all of us, including, first and foremost, the United States, to increase even political pressure on Russia, not Ukraine, because that wont bring Putin to the negotiating table," the Czech president concluded. USA and Europe are part of the same civilization; we must build new Western Century together - Secretary of State Rubio in Munich The criticism and advice that the United States and President Donald Trump are directing toward Europe may seem too blunt and insistent, but they are driven by a desire to preserve the shared future of Western civilization, of which both Europe and the United States are a part, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, according to an Interfax-Ukraine correspondent. He said speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday that the fate of Europe will never be a matter of indifference to them, adding that they are defending a great civilization that must be in charge of its own destiny. He also said that it is advisable to think about how to advance their interests together, in other words to build a new Western Century. Rubio noted that the United States will always be a child of Europe; they are connected not only militarily, but also economically and culturally. At the same time, the Secretary of State called for an honest approach to our shared heritage and an acknowledgement of the mistakes made in relation to free and unrestricted trade, which was abused by other countries, deindustrialization, ineffective "green" policies, and the outsourcing of nationally important functions, which resulted in Western countries becoming dependent on others and vulnerable to crises. The Secretary of State identified mass migration as one such crisis, threatening the unity of Western societies, the continuity of their cultures, and the future of their peoples. He called for joint reindustrialization of the economy, the construction of Western supply chains for critical materials, a joint fight for market share in the Global South, and the development of commercial spaceflight and artificial intelligence. Rubio also stated that the so-called world order cannot be placed above national interests. He argued that global institutions do not need to be dismantled, but they must be reformed and restored. As an example, he cited the UN, which has failed to resolve the wars in Gaza, Ukraine, and Iran, while the United States has achieved success on these issues, although it has still not ended Russias war against Ukraine. We increasingly outsourced our sovereignty to international institutions while many nations invested in massive welfare states at the cost of maintaining the ability to defend themselves. This, even as other countries have invested in the most rapid military buildup in all of human history and have not hesitated to use hard power to pursue their own interests, the State Secretary believes. According to him, Washington wants Europe to be strong because this strengthens the United States. In a perfect world, all of these problems and more would be solved by diplomats and strongly worded resolutions. But we do not live in a perfect world, and we cannot continue to allow those who blatantly and openly threaten our citizens and endanger our global stability to shield themselves behind abstractions of international law which they themselves routinely violate, Rubio stressed. He added that this is the path that President Trump and the United States have embarked on, and it is the path that Europe is being asked to join. We in America have no interest in being polite and orderly caretakers of the Wests managed decline. We do not seek to separate, but to revitalize an old friendship and renew the greatest civilization in human history, the Secretary of State summed up. Munich Security Conference kicks off with transatlantic rifts in focus Xinhua) 08:13, February 14, 2026 Police officers are on duty near the venue for the opening ceremony of the 62nd Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. The 62nd Munich Security Conference kicked off on Friday against the backdrop of deepening transatlantic tensions and an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape. (Xinhua/Li Ying) MSC Chairman Wolfgang Ischinger said the conference is taking place at a time of "growing insecurity," with more simultaneous conflicts and crises than at any point in the event's more than 60-year history. MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- The 62nd Munich Security Conference (MSC) kicked off on Friday against the backdrop of deepening transatlantic tensions and an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape. Policymakers from around the world gathered at the MSC to discuss regional and global security and international order as the U.S. punitive tariffs on major trading partners remain in force, disputes over European defense arrangements persist, and renewed frictions over Greenland are increasing strains within the transatlantic alliance. In his opening address, MSC Chairman Wolfgang Ischinger said the conference is taking place at a time of "growing insecurity," with more simultaneous conflicts and crises than at any point in the event's more than 60-year history. Chairman of the Munich Security Conference (MSC) Wolfgang Ischinger addresses the opening ceremony of the 62nd MSC in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. The 62nd Munich Security Conference kicked off on Friday against the backdrop of deepening transatlantic tensions and an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape. (Xinhua/Li Ying) "The transatlantic relationship in particular finds itself at an inflection point," Ischinger said, calling it an "unprecedented challenge" and questioning whether the United States still views European allies as partners. Echoing these concerns, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that a "divide" has opened up between Europe and the United States, noting that U.S. Vice President JD Vance already made the point openly at last year's MSC. "The transatlantic partnership is no longer something we can just take for granted," Merz warned. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reacts during his summer press conference in Berlin, Germany on July 18, 2025. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday described the current situation in the Gaza Strip as "unacceptable," calling for an immediate ceasefire and comprehensive humanitarian aid for the people there. (Xinhua/Li Hanlin) Published ahead of the MSC, the conference's annual report warned of a weakening of international institutions and said the "recalibration" of U.S. foreign policy has triggered dynamics whose full consequences are only now beginning to emerge. This year's three-day event is expected to draw around 60 heads of state and government, alongside around 100 foreign and defense ministers. Key topics include the future of the transatlantic relationship, multilateralism, global order, and regional conflicts and crises. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) China, Argentina pledge mutual support on core interests, deeper economic cooperation Xinhua) 09:04, February 14, 2026 Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Argentine Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu) MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Argentine counterpart, Pablo Quirno, on Friday pledged to solidify the comprehensive strategic partnership and deepen cooperation across multiple sectors. During their meeting on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, recalled Chinese President Xi Jinping's meeting with Argentine President Javier Milei in 2024 and said China is ready to fully implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state to improve the well-being of the two peoples. The two sides should remain committed to the right direction of bilateral relations, he said, calling for enhanced friendly exchanges at all levels and firm support for each other on issues concerning core interests. He emphasized the resilience of bilateral ties between China and Argentina over the past 54 years since diplomatic relations were established, noting that the two countries have always respected each other and treated each other as equals, and the relationship has weathered international changes with vitality. Noting that China and Argentina are economically complementary with a solid foundation for practical cooperation, Wang proposed deepening collaboration in economy and trade, technology, finance, and mining, and welcomed Argentina to utilize platforms such as the China International Import Expo and the Canton Fair to bring more quality products to the Chinese market. He also expressed hope that Argentina would provide a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises, and welcomed Argentine citizens to take advantage of the visa-free policy for trips to explore China. "China's development and growth represent a reinforcement of peace and stability in the world," Wang said. "We never engage in geopolitical contests, nor do we ask other countries to take sides. China-Argentina cooperation is not targeted at any third party, nor should it be disrupted by any third-party factors." For his part, Quirno said Argentina and China are each other's major trading partners and enjoy a comprehensive strategic partnership, stating that Argentina has benefited significantly from cooperation with China. He also conveyed gratitude for China's valuable support on the sovereignty issue of the Malvinas Islands and for its assistance during Argentina's economic difficulties. Quirno reaffirmed Argentina's firm commitment to the one-China principle. The Argentine foreign minister expressed hope for closer exchanges with China and deeper cooperation in trade, energy, mining, and finance. He welcomed Chinese enterprises to invest and operate in Argentina. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Village in SW China's Yunnan cultivates thriving bamboo weaving industry People's Daily Online) 09:35, February 14, 2026 Photo shows bamboo-woven elements in Longpu village, Jiayin town, Honghe county, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (People's Daily Online/Yin Xin) Since early February, Yang Yousong, a craftsman in Longpu village, Jiayin town, Honghe county, southwest China's Yunnan Province, has grown increasingly busy. The 76-year-old still has several bamboo table orders to complete while preparing for the county's 2026 Spring Festival bamboo weaving activity involving 100 bamboo weavers. In general, the bamboo weaving craft involves nearly 20 steps, Yang said. He learned the skill as a teenager and has spent decades weaving bamboo items between farming seasons. Yang Yousong weaves a bamboo table in Longpu village, Jiayin town, Honghe county, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (People's Daily Online/Yin Xin) Longpu, a Yi ethnic village, has carried forward its bamboo weaving tradition for over 400 years. In 2013, the village established a bamboo weaving craft cooperative, bringing together 128 experienced artisans, integrating local resources, and shifting to an order-based production model. "Our bamboo products never lack buyers," said Li Shuangbao, Party secretary of Longpu village and head of the cooperative. The village's bamboo weaving exhibition and sales center displays over 70 types of products, from woven hats and tables to baskets, lunch boxes, ornaments and cup sleeves. "Last year alone, we sold nearly 400,000 yuan ($58,000) worth of small bamboo lunch boxes," Li said. At Yang's pace, he can weave seven bamboo tables a week. Combined with smaller items like lunch boxes and baskets, he earns over 3,000 yuan a month from bamboo weaving. Photo shows bamboo-woven products developed by the bamboo weaving craft cooperative in Longpu village, Jiayin town, Honghe county, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (People's Daily Online/Yin Xin) "Orders increase noticeably before the Spring Festival, bringing in an extra 1,000 yuan or so compared with regular months," he said with a smile. The cooperative completed orders worth 2.26 million yuan in 2024 and 2.4 million yuan in 2025. Ahead of the 2026 Spring Festival, it secured over a dozen new contracts. Popular items such as woven bamboo hats and green bamboo steamers reach customers in places including Sichuan Province, Guiyang city, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Xizang Autonomous Region, Jiangsu Province and Beijing, and have also gained popularity in countries including Vietnam and Spain. The Jiayin town bamboo craft exhibition hall displays innovative bamboo-woven products and artworks. Skilled craftsmen have fused bamboo weaving with Yi embroidery, transforming winnowing baskets into wall decorations, broadening product applications and enhancing artistic value. Small bamboo items that once sold for 5 or 10 yuan now fetch dozens of yuan. The cooperative has invited national-level inheritors of intangible cultural heritage to teach local artisans three-dimensional weaving techniques, introducing new patterns and colors. Photo shows bamboo-woven lunch boxes in Longpu village, Jiayin town, Honghe county, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (People's Daily Online/Yin Xin) This year, the cooperative has grown to 228 members, all bamboo artisans from Longpu village. Li actively encourages young people to join, establishing a council with 25 young members. Drawing on his experience in the handicrafts business, Li leads the group in opening online shops and creating short videos. "In the past, we relied on horse caravans to carry bamboo-woven products out of the mountains. Now, council members can take orders and sell products online," he said. Today, the village's bamboo weaving craft has been listed as a prefectural-level intangible cultural heritage, with eight recognized inheritors, including two at the prefectural level and six at the county level. With support from the China Foundation for Rural Development, the village has conducted 11 sessions introducing bamboo weaving to 12 primary and secondary schools in Honghe county, reaching over 1,000 students, along with seven sessions in local communities. (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) In this photo illustration, the Claude AI logo is displayed on a smartphone with the Anthropic logo in the background. The chatbot, developed by the start-up Anthropic, has been known to companies for years for its focus on practical applications Conciseness is essential in the legal world, and few know that better than an assistant who has spent two years at the firm of Jorge Morell, which advises 400 tech companies in Spain and Latin America. His name is Claude, and he is an AI chatbot created by former ChatGPT developers under the startup Anthropic. It writes precisely and with few words, while other AIs embellish sentences and create confusion, says the 43yearold lawyer from Mallorca in Spain. In five minutes, Claude can draft the infamous terms and conditions those 10page documents that flood the internet even though no one reads them. A person would need two hours, Morell adds. The chatbots French name has been everywhere in recent days. Not only because it advertised during last Sundays coveted Super Bowl slot, but because an update that improved its legalassistance capabilities triggered an extraordinary shockwave in the markets: $1 trillion in market value evaporated from the U.S. software sector; the mighty Adobe lost 15%. Claude, however, began long before that. Anthropics chatbot was launched in March 2023, and for years it has been familiar to Morell and to many entrepreneurs across sectors thanks to its focus on practical applications. But for the stock markets, this was a revelatory moment about a branch of AI far less known than large language models and far less ambitious than artificial general intelligence yet with a clear purpose and a concrete use. What is Claude? On the surface, the chatbot resembles any other model: it responds conversationally to simple naturallanguage instructions or to text, audio, or video files. Underneath, it is different: instead of selling an agent to the general public, Anthropic has trained its model to perform specific tasks for companies. It offers dedicated functions for sales management, advertising, customer service, and, among others, legal assistance. Claude also has an Excel addon that allows companies to create, analyze, correct, or automatically update their spreadsheets. If Microsofts program reduced the need for programming knowledge, Anthropics tool has done the same for spreadsheets. For example, Claude can instantly update a companys entire financial plan based on potential interestrate hikes or changes in input prices, simply by receiving an instruction in plain language. Or it can create a sheet from scratch using publicly available data. You notice the advantages in the most typical daytoday functions of a company, like writing, editing, or programming, says Morell. In fact, beyond its legal or financial applications, Claude also includes specialized models to assist with computer programming: one for expert developers, called Code, and a simplified version that doesnt require writing a single line of code, Cowork another of Januarys new features. What is it used for? For the past year, Spanish entrepreneurs Manuel Lopez Rivero, 54, and Manuel Lopez Aragon, 18, have been using Claude specifically its Code version. Father and son, the two Manuels run a company in Santa Cruz de la Palma, in Spains Canary Islands, that develops applications for businesses. Before, we might spend years and thousands of euros on developers, but now we can get it done in about three months, the son says. In that same timeframe, the duo has just launched a platform to find and hire staff for event organization. Anthropics chatbot also allows entrepreneurs to react quickly. When the European Commission approved a set of proposed amendments to its digital legislation late last year, Morell created an interactive calculator to help entrepreneurs understand the new rules. It was a way to simplify the understanding of a somewhat complex regulation, explains Morell. With the tool, integrated into his firms website, a company developing a highrisk AI system such as those used in biotech could simulate when certain articles of the regulation would begin to apply to them. How popular is Claude? As OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said in a message to employees, ChatGPT is the AI for most people, but entrepreneurs are not part of that group. In the business world, the landscape is completely different. Anthropic which plans to go public this year has raised more than $60 billion in funding rounds over its trajectory, backed by giants like Google, and has reached a valuation of $380 billion. Thats almost a third of OpenAIs, yet still an enormous figure. With three paid subscription plans and one free tier the latter with daily usage limits Claude is trained using a method in which its developers define the principles that should guide the system as if they were a constitution, rather than relying solely on user interactions. This approach leads the model to prioritize clear, direct answers instead of simply trying to please, a tendency that often results in misunderstandings. Claude rambles less, and that matters in business, says Morell. What is the future of software? Claudes emergence beyond the business world comes at a time of growing turbulence in the markets, which have become increasingly volatile as investors grow impatient to see how tech companies will profit from a technology whose costs keep rising. In this context, Anthropic has an advantage and, unlike its competitors, is already projecting profitability starting in 2028. Its revenues surpassed $9 billion in 2025, half of OpenAIs but more than double what had been forecast at the end of the first half of the year. Growth is accelerating. According to an HSBC survey from late last year, Anthropic accounts for 40% of corporate AI spending, compared with OpenAIs 30%. On the stock markets, major dataanalysis software companies including S&P Global and Moodys, two of the worlds leading creditrating agencies have fallen 15%. FactSet, another giant in business data analytics, has plunged nearly 30%. Despite the hit, analysts maintain that the sector will adapt and hold up. We expect some shortterm relief after the recent wave of selling, but dispersion among companies is likely to increase depending on how much AI can disrupt their business models, Citi said in a report last week. J.P. Morgan strikes a similar tone: Although the rapid evolution of AI is a legitimate concern for the software industry, current investor sentiment may be overly pessimistic. Despite weak sector fundamentals, limited insider buying and stagnant hiring, our CIO survey work does not suggest the imminent death of the broader software landscape. They already know who they can turn to for reviewing their plans. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Ramon Centeno is learning to sleep with the three dogs his mother left behind and to live without her. He was released from prison on parole in a wheelchair, after spending more than four years locked up in a jail he walked into on crutches, but walking nonetheless. He was arrested days after conducting an interview. The Chavista regime released him on January 14: he was one of the first 24 journalists considered political prisoners to regain their freedom, amid this transition of sorts that began in Venezuela after the U.S. military intervention of January 3, in which Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured. Centeno is among the nearly 400 people who have been released from prison since January 8, according to the organization Foro Penal. The total number of those released exceeds 700, a figure that is still being finalized due to the emergence of previously unknown lists of detainees. The new amnesty bill promises to release hundreds of people from prison, but its scope remains uncertain. Go get Ramon Centeno dressed, they just signed his release papers, he recalls hearing his guards say at the National Guards Anti-Drug Command, a few meters from El Helicoide, the dreaded Caracas prison. That phrase marked the beginning of a new life, irreversibly altered by four years in a state of imprisonment that he shouldnt have been in. In 2022, on a television set, he had heard Attorney General Tarek William Saab implicate him in the so-called Iron Hand operation, along with members of parliament, mayors, and Chavista officialsan operation presented as an offensive against drug cartels, smuggling, and price gouging. Throughout that time, he also heard his jailers saymore than oncethat they had made a mistake with him. A month ago, the president of the National Assembly, Jorge Rodriguez, announced the release of a significant number of detainees as a unilateral gesture of peace. The process, however, has been slow and agonizing for the families who have maintained vigils outside the prisons. It has been marked by misinformation and profound inconsistencies between the assessments of victims advocates and the official figures. The government is now working on a general amnesty bill, which is expected to be approved this week, and, for the first time, a leader of ChavismoJorge Rodriguez himselfhas approached some of the families camped outside the prison gates. Next Tuesday, and at the latest by Friday, they will all be free, he promised them. Ramon Centeno in Venezuela. GABY ORAA Centeno was working for the pro-government newspaper Ultimas Noticias when he conducted the interview that led to his arrest. A member of the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) since his youth, his close ties to power did not save him from arbitrary detention. Ive been in the party since I was 14, and I dont regret it, but dont ask me if Im going back. Just look at me now, he told EL PAIS. His defense was not taken up by the opposition either. Only my mother defended me. Of his four years in prison, he remembers the bell they attached to his wheelchair to signal if he needed to use the bathroom. Sometimes they would take him hours later, whenever the guard felt like it. He also remembers all the books he read, the beatings he received from some cellmates, and those from the officer who arrested him. Some people criticize me for leaving and forgiving, he says, with a hint of indignation. I think there has to be a process of justice now. For me, this is irreversible damage, but I want to understand why they did this to me. I believe in forgiveness with justice and remembrance. I can hug you, but I want you to remember what you did to me. In prison, the wounds from a fractured femur and hipsustained in a traffic accident from which he was recovering when he was arrestedbecame infected, leaving him unable to walk. He spent part of his four-year sentence hospitalized and suffered three bouts of facial paralysis. Despite his mothers 14 requests for humanitarian measures to ensure he received adequate medical care, conditional release only came now. Since his release, Centeno has had to appear in court three times. After the first hearing, his mother, Omaira Navas, died of a stroke. I havent been able to process anything. I had to bury my mother, and Ive tried to keep what I experienced in prison from affecting my heart, he says, breaking down in tears. I think she performed the first miracle: making me forget the four years I was imprisoned and only remember her. Those who remain The releases have sparked impromptu celebrations in neighborhoods across the country. At the home of Victor Castillo, municipal coordinator for Vente Venezuela, he was welcomed with balloons and banners after a 21-month wait. He was arrested on April 28, 2024, after Maria Corina Machados first tour of Portuguesa state, in the midst of her presidential campaign. That massive demonstration also marked the beginning of a sustained persecution by security forces against the opposition leaders team. Carlos Julio Rojas, Javier Tarazona, Guillermo Lopez, Carlos Azuaje and Victor Castillo in Caracas, on February 1. Gaby Oraa (REUTERS) I never imagined this would happen to me, he says this week, hours after being released from El Helicoide, his eyes red from lack of sleep. Prison is supposed to be for criminals, but today its also for innocent people. You get used to being free, to seeing the sun whenever you want and enjoying the rain. Being separated from his wife and two daughters, he says, is part of the psychological torture of an unjust imprisonment. His confinement also left him with a hearing impairment, a constant ringing in his ear that was never treated during his incarceration. One day Castillo was among cornfields, and the next in a cell with no natural ventilation, 700 kilometers from his family. That was incomprehensible, he says. His life has always been linked to agriculture: first as a worker for the Spanish company Agroislena, expropriated by the Chavista regime, and later as a leader in the grain sector. He couldnt vote in the elections he worked on when he joined the Comando Con Venezuela, convinced that political change was possible. We were hoping that if we won, wed be gone. But it didnt happen. Now, enjoying a freedom that still requires him to appear in court every 30 days, he awaits the release of those still behind bars, especially his political colleagues. He begins to list names. Write them down, please, he asks. Perkins Rocha, Maria Oropeza, Juan Iriarte, Freddy Superlano, Juan Pablo Guanipa, Luis Camacaro, Dignora Hernandez, Albany Colmenares, Catalina Ramos. And he goes on. Many of them were released this past Sunday in a day marked by celebrations and rallies demanding the freedom of all the others. The experience of political persecution and imprisonment in Venezuela has left a devastating emotional scar on political prisoners and their families, states a report prepared by Psychologists Without Borders and the NGO Justice, Encounter, and Forgiveness. The impact affects approximately 4,000 people. Castillo was the breadwinner for his family. They tore me from my home, and they were left in limbo. My wife had two burdens: Victor Castillo in El Helicoide and our family back in Portuguesa. His case is not exceptional. Despite differences in prison conditionsunsanitary conditions, high temperatures, lack of drinking water, lack of sleeping spaces, punishments, or isolationin Venezuelan prisons, it is the families who support the inmates. The mothers or wives of political prisoners are left in charge of their homes in a country where poverty is widespread. The little money they have must be used to pay for aid for the detainees, because inside the prisons they are provided with nothing: no food, no drinking water, no medicine. And even then, many times they are not even allowed to deliver it. The families are also imprisoned, says Martha Tineo of Justice, Encounter and Forgiveness. Lawyer and defendant imprisoned Carlos Julio Rojas was reunited with his lawyer, Eduardo Torres, in prison. Both were being held. Human rights defenders, they became two of the most emblematic cases of political prisoners in Venezuela. Rojas, a journalist and union and community leader in Caracas, was arrested in 2024, months before the presidential elections. Attorney General Tarek William Saab accused him of being part of an alleged assassination plot against Nicolas Maduro that was thwarted during the presidents registration as a candidate with the National Electoral Council. The image of Rojas handcuffed and escorted by two hooded guards was broadcast on state television. Torres was arrested in May 2025. He was accused of conspiracy, terrorism, and treason for an alleged plan to boycott the parliamentary elections that led to the creation of the National Assembly that is currently debating the amnesty bill. Javier Tarazona, Carlos Julio Rojas and Carlos Azuaje, in Caracas, on February 1. Gaby Oraa (REUTERS) This week they reunited at one of the masses they attended to thank those who supported them during their legal processes. Amidst hugs, they said they had lost their fear of speaking out, despite the restrictions imposed on their release: a travel ban and the obligation to appear periodically before the courts. Rojas, who has been detained four times, maintains that this onethe longesthas been the worst. Inside and outside of prison, he continued to demand his rights. For this reason, he spent more than a month in solitary confinement. The most rebellious prisoners, or those most detested by the regime, spend long periods in tiny, uninhabitable punishment cells known as tigritos (little tigers). They exist in all prisons. In Yare II, where Eduardo Torres was held, they also serve another purpose. When I first arrived, I spent 21 days in a three-by-three-meter room with a latrine. There were 13 of us, and we slept on top of each other. I got scabies there, he recounts. Theyve turned this into a policy of adaptation. But in these prisons, what they punish is leaking information. Torres was forcibly disappeared for several days until it was learned that he was being held at El Helicoide. Six months later, he received his first visit, after he had already been transferred to Yare II, on the outskirts of Caracas. That prison, like El Rodeo, Tocoron, and Tocuyito, is intended for common criminals, but has been repurposed to house political prisoners due to the overcrowding at El Helicoide. Neither inside nor outside of prison has Torres ceased to be a lawyer. Thats why, more than telling his own story, hes concerned with pointing out the judicial irregularity of his release while others implicated in the same case remain imprisoned. I was accused of giving civic education workshops that were supposedly going to end in the sabotage of the elections. There are five of us accused of the same crimes. I was released, and a journalist was released, but three are still detained people inside, he says. Then he lists the arbitraryalmost absurdcircumstances of the process: a 59-year-old university professor imprisoned for teaching; another man detained simply for having the same name and a photo of Maria Corina Machado on his phone; and a third held for sharing a name with his father, the true organizer of the courses, who is now under house arrest due to his advanced age. For Torres, the countrys reconstructioninvoked by both Donald Trump and Delcy Rodriguez and the opposition leadershipcan only be achieved on the basis of the rule of law. He insists on the urgent need for an autonomous, independent, and impartial justice system. He doesnt go into details about the nine months he spent in prison. He simply says they were very difficult. But for those of us who are lawyers, thats when we truly understand that freedom and life are one and the same. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Every day, people who have died in the US arrive at La Aurora Airport in a final migratory journey surrounded by scams, injustices, bureaucracy, and the unwavering will of their families At 11:10 p.m. on an unusually freezing night in late January, the last commercial flight from Houston, Texas, landed at La Aurora Airport in Guatemala City. Passengers and their luggage were immediately unloaded. Just when it seemed everyone had left, the cargo hold door opened and airline staff pulled out two white cardboard boxes. Inside, two coffins. Julio Gonzalez, 59, import supervisor at Combex-IM, the airports customs warehouse, oversaw his teams respectful transfer of the remains in a small forklift to a chapel illuminated by a cross. Papers affixed to one of the two coffins revealed the name of its occupant: Miguel Raymundo Raymundo, 36, who died on January 14, 2026, in the United States. Miguel is one of the hundreds of Guatemalan migrants who die each year in the U.S. due to accidents, illnesses or homicides, and who are repatriated thanks to the perseverance of their families as the final act of a migratory journey that ends where it began. A Combex-IM worker records the arrival of two coffins on the 11:10 p.m. Avianca flight from Houston, Texas. Image taken in Guatemala City, Guatemala, on January 31, 2026. Simona Carnino Detail of one of the coffins that arrived in Guatemala City from the U.S. Simona Carnino A Combex-IM worker carries the box containing Miguel Raymundo Raymundo's coffin to the chapel that Combex-IM has set up at its facilities to receive migrants who have died in the United States with dignity. Image taken in Guatemala City, Guatemala, on January 31, 2026. Simona Carnino The chapel that Combex-IM has set up at its facilities to receive migrants who have died in the U.S. Photo taken in Guatemala City, Guatemala, on January 31, 2026. Simona Carnino Julio Gonzalez, supervisor of the imports department at Combex-IM, and a colleague place the box containing Miguel Raymundo Raymundo's coffin in the chapel that Combex-IM has set up at its facilities. Guatemala City, Guatemala, January 31, 2026. Simona Carnino The chapel that Combex-IM has set up at its facilities. Guatemala City, Guatemala, January 31, 2026. Luis Felipe Alvarez Oviedo, manager of the Landivar funeral home, and Roberto Herrero, driver for the funeral home, load the box containing Miguel Raymundo Raymundo's coffin into the minibus that will transport it to his family's home in Nebaj. Image taken in Guatemala City, Guatemala, on January 31, 2026. Simona Carnino In 2025, 2,443 people who had died overseas arrived by air at Combex-IM, almost all from the U.S., according to data from the customs warehouse. Just today, 10 coffins arrived, says Gonzalez, who has worked there for 33 years. In Guatemala, migration is constant. Just as many people leave, many return. Sometimes in a coffin, he adds. More than one million people born in Guatemala live in the United States, according to the most recent data from the Guatemalan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, this figure may be underreported because some Central American migration is irregular. Under the current deportation policy of the Trump administration, 4,941 Guatemalans were deported in January alone, an average of 159 per day. At 2:30 a.m., after completing the administrative procedures, Luis Felipe Alvarez Oviedo and Roberto Herrera from the Landivar funeral home loaded Miguels heavy coffin into a minibus. As they left the Combex-IM bus terminal, Herrera crossed himself before driving off, out of respect for the passenger and to ask God for a safe journey through the mountains of Quiche until they arrived in Nebaj, the town where Miguel was born. Tenam, in his native language. Despite having lived in the U.S. for 18 years, Miguel remains a member of the Ixil Maya people. A dignified return At 8 a.m., the minibus arrives at the first gas station marking the entrance to the town. About 50 people are waiting there in the back of several pickup trucks, along with the municipal police and a vehicle blasting music. From there, the convoy begins its journey to the house. Funeral altar made by the family of Miguel Raymundo during his wake in Nebaj, Guatemala, February 1. Simona Carnino Upon arrival, family, friends, and neighbors, cell phones in hand to record the moment, opened the back door of the minibus, took out the coffin, and carried it on their shoulders to Miguels parents house, which had been transformed into a makeshift chapel. Thus began a 24-hour wake, filled with nostalgia, three meals, prayers, mariachi music, and photos of his life in the U.S. projected on a loop. A stylish return for Miguel. My uncle was the pillar of this family, says Willy Raymundo, his 24-year-old nephew. He went to the U.S. when he was about 18, and from there he helped us all. This funeral will be unforgettable because we want to publicly celebrate his efforts. Willy cries as he says goodbye to the man who took him in when he was orphaned and allowed him to migrate at age 14 so they could live together for a while. Like thousands of Guatemalans, Miguel Raymundo Raymundo went north for economic reasons. He worked in the restaurant industry, started a family, and then illness struck. Lung cancer left him no way out. He supported my grandparents, Willy continues. He always said he didnt want us to spend money to repatriate him, but my grandparents couldnt survive without seeing him after almost 20 years. He had to return to his homeland. Its part of our culture. A funeral procession accompanies Miguel Raymundo Raymundo's body to the evangelical church in Nebaj, Guatemala, February 2. Simona Carnino Remittances are one of the most important sectors of Central American economies. In Guatemala, they represent around 20% of GDP, and in Honduras, Nicaragua, and El Salvador, they approach 27%. The death of a breadwinner in the U.S. is an emotional loss, but also an economic one. Miguel understood his parents wishes and paid for his repatriation while he was still alive. He said, when I die, Ill leave all the expenses paid. And so it was, Willy concludes, before joining the procession behind the hearse. Bureaucracy and costs On the other side of town, Juana Bernal also recently repatriated her niece, Maria Elena Corio Bernal. She was 13 days old when she died on December 9, 2025. Her body arrived in Nebaj a month later, where she was received by her grandparents and aunts and uncles. Her parents, undocumented workers in the U.S., couldnt accompany her. Leaving meant they wouldnt be able to return. They suffered terribly, but they know that one day theyll come back, so its better that the little girl is here now, Bernal says. We had to take up a collection with family and neighbors to cover the $6,000 for the repatriation from Florida, she adds. In her hands she holds the medical report with the cause of death: total necrotizing enterocolitis, a disease that primarily affects premature newborns like Maria Elena. Everything is written in English. I didnt even understand what she died of, her aunt murmurs, looking at the floor. When a migrant family member dies, the human tragedy is compounded by an economic and bureaucratic puzzle involving autopsy, death certificate, embalming, transport permit, and the apostille that confirms the authenticity of the documents. All of this is handled first by a funeral home in the U.S. and then by another in Guatemala. Private repatriation can cost between $8,000 and $13,000, depending on the state where the death occurred, and takes a minimum of 15 days, explains Alvarez Oviedo. This expense can plunge entire families into debt, especially in Quiche, where 86.4% of the population lives in poverty. Maya Ixil women, relatives of Miguel Raymundo Raymundo, hold his photograph during his funeral at the cemetery in Nebaj, Guatemala, on February 2, 2026. Simona Carnino Relatives carry Miguel Raymundo Raymundo's coffin during his burial at the cemetery in Nebaj, Guatemala, on February 2, 2026. Simona Carnino Relatives carry Miguel Raymundo Raymundo's coffin during his burial at the cemetery in Nebaj, Guatemala, on February 2, 2026. Simona Carnino Miguel Raymundo Raymundo's burial, laid to rest in his homeland after nearly 20 years in the U.S. Image taken in Nebaj, Guatemala, on February 2, 2026. Simona Carnino Francisco Marroquin, director of Asaunixil, attends the wake for Miguel Raymundo Raymundo, who died in the U.S. and was repatriated by his family. Nebaj, Guatemala, February 1, 2026. Simona Carnino For years, the local organization Asaunixil has provided free support in the procedures and in the grieving process to those families in Quiche who, due to not being familiar with the process, are exposed to scams. There used to be funeral homes that inflated prices, thinking the family in the U.S. had money, says Francisco Marroquin, director of Asaunixil. Now we have it more under control, but I always say that there are coyotes [human traffickers] who will take you alive, and also coyotes who will take you dead." Scams are lurking around every corner. Ive seen funeral homes send fake death certificates. Its a key document, and the family has to pay again to request a replacement, explains Alvarez Oviedo. Furthermore, especially during the holiday season, airlines prioritize commercial cargo and relegate bodies to a secondary role, sometimes leaving families in limbo. They delayed the little girls arrival twice. Everything was ready for the wake. It was very hard, recalls Juana Bernal. There used to be funeral homes that inflated prices, thinking the family in the U.S. had money Francisco Marroquin, director of Asaunixil If families cannot afford the expenses, as of 2011 they have been able to turn to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Repatriation Fund, which, with an annual budget of five million quetzales (around $655,000), covers costs ranging from $1,000 to the full amount. We provide support to help our citizens return home in a dignified and safe manner, explains Ricardo Girona, director of Consular Affairs. The program applies only to fully identified individuals who died while undocumented, without support networks in the United States, and with low-income families, he continues. On average, the fund covers more than 300 repatriations per year, although in 2025 these numbers dropped to 201: 169 from the United States, 31 from Mexico, and one from Europe. Trumps fear-mongering rhetoric has led to a drastic decrease in migration, which is reflected in a reduction in deaths, Girona concludes. However, between November and January, the process often stalls due to the freezing of funds at the end of the year. The family of Julio Habram, 34, who died on November 16, 2025, and has yet to return, knows this all too well. The family tried to apply for the fund, but, given the delay, the community is raising money to bring him back now, says Marroquin. Dying without papers Julio was killed in a hit-and-run in the U.S. Most die in road accidents and often while in an irregular immigration situation, explains Alvarez Oviedo. However, in the morgue, the hospital, or the funeral home, the undocumented migrant becomes visible. The death certificate is often their first valid document in the U.S. Seeking justice for migrants who die in accidents is impossible, Marroquin says with frustration. The complaint must be filed by a family member in the U.S., almost always also undocumented. If they go to the police, they are deported. There is never a conviction or financial compensation, he adds. Paradoxically, even a U.S. death certificate isnt enough. Until its canceled in the civil registry, the person isnt considered legally dead in Guatemala. This process can take months, Marroquin concludes. The match As Miguels hearse moves through the Nebaj cemetery, journalist Mario Lopez, from the Megavision news outlet, broadcasts the burial live on Facebook. Family members in the U.S. request this service so they can participate from afar, he explains, as he walks ahead among the burial mounds. Like the mother of Maria Elena, the deceased baby, many relatives are also undocumented migrants and have to experience grief through a screen. Mario Lopez, a journalist from Megavision, broadcasts live on Facebook for the family of Miguel Raymundo in Nebaj on February 2. Simona Carnino When a person is far away, it seems as if they havent died. If I hadnt seen him, in my mind he would have lived forever in the USA, Willy says with a tender smile as he remembers his deceased uncle. During the burial, people still inhabit the cemetery. Some eat bread to stave off hunger, others drink soda sitting on the mausoleums. You know what? You can leave the town, but the town doesnt leave you, says a man before adjusting his hat and walking away under the midday sun. Amidst a gerontocratic leadership, younger and lower-profile politicians are emerging. Some are already occupying positions of power, such as the great-nephew of Fidel and Raul Castro He doesnt have an X account. Hes not on Facebook. Nobody knows where he lives or what kind of life he leads. In fact, people dont have a clue who he is. Ive never heard of him, says a bakery worker in Bauta, a municipality west of Havana. No idea who he is, a housewife from Pinar del Rio shrugs, when asked if she knows Oscar Perez-Oliva Fraga, the great-nephew of Fidel and Raul Castro. According to several analysts, he could play the same role in Cuba as Delcy Rodriguez did in Venezuela. Hes a technocrat who has the qualifications to become president of Cuba in the event of negotiations with Washington. And his low profile is a good sign for the survival strategy of the Castro dynasty, should they decide to back him. Perez-Oliva Fraga is a 54-year-old electronics engineer. In recent months, he has risen rapidly through the ranks of Havanas power structure. There are several reasons why some experts consider him to be a political pawn amidst the current tensions. Firstly, hes the son of Mirsa Fraga Castro and the grandson of Angela Castro, the older sister of Fidel and Raul. He possesses almost compressed into his very being the physical traits of his surname: well-defined, somewhat severe features, small eyes, as well as a warlike air. He lacks, however, the charisma that someone like Fidel possessed. Sergio Lopez Rivero a professor of Cuban history who has studied the historical process of Castroism believes that the man lacks the connection with the masses that populist leaders require, [as well as] the mythical [presence] that originally surrounded his ancestors. That being said, he does possess other attributes that make him a candidate: hes relatively young (compared to the aging leaders in Havana) and his name isnt one that many associate with the Cuban governments hardline policies, likely because he comes from the economic sector. He has experience leading the trading company Maquimport which imports machinery and working on projects in the Mariel Special Development Zone. Currently, he holds the positions of deputy prime minister of the Republic of Cuba and minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment, which directly connects him to the economic and military structure of the Armed Forces Business Enterprises Group (GAESA). According to comments made by Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz some time ago, hes a well-prepared individual who has all the qualities to assume the new tasks assigned to him. Clearly, he enjoys the approval of the regime. According to Rivero, its still risky to predict a replacement [for President Miguel Diaz-Canel], given the authoritarian logic and the evident leadership crisis of the Cuban regime. However, he notes, Perez-Oliva Fraga has risen to a key position that could lead him to the post. At the end of last year, he was appointed as a deputy to the National Assembly of Peoples Power. This is the necessary step for him to assume the presidency of the island, according to current legislation, Rivero points out. From the beginning of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro was the figure who held absolute power in the country. First, starting in 1959, he was prime minister. Then, after his official appointment on December 3, 1976, he became the president. It wasnt until 2006 that, faced with his declining health, Raul assumed leadership of Cuba. Two years later, Fidel formally resigned from his position as president of the Council of State and as commander-in-chief, but not before ensuring that power remained in the hands of the family dynasty. Afterward, there was a significant leap, to April 19, 2018: in a symbolic photograph, Raul, 86, is seen grasping the hand of the then-vice president of the Council of State, Miguel Diaz-Canel, (almost 30 years his junior), thus declaring him the next president of the island. For nearly seven decades, the position has been passed from hand to hand. These three figures have exercised power without a direct vote from society, but rather via a ratification vote of their candidacies by the [National Assembly], says Dr. Carlos M. Rodriguez Arechavaleta, a political scientist specializing in the institutional history of the Cuban republic, political transitions and democratization. Giving the vote back to the people The capture of Nicolas Maduro has led to threats of a political squeeze on Havana by Washington. Since the operation, some have wondered who would be in a position to engage in dialogue with the Trump administration. Alejandro Castro Espin a colonel in the Interior Ministry, former head of Cuban counterintelligence and Raul Castros only son is believed to be leading the alleged negotiations with the Americans in Mexico, despite Cubas denial of such talks. However, other candidates are considered more suitable for the position. In addition to Perez-Oliva Fraga, several experts consulted by EL PAIS mentioned various prominent figures in Cuban politics, such as Prime Minister Manuel Marrero, or Roberto Morales Ojeda, secretary of Organization of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC). No one sees female leadership as being possible in a country where men have historically dominated high-ranking positions. Sergio Angel Baquero a professor and researcher with the Cuba Program at Sergio Arboleda University, in Bogota, Colombia believes that the aforementioned individuals have been very close to Diaz-Canels current model of government and could hardly represent any kind of change. He asserts that they would maintain the logic of continuity of Castroism. The 2019 Constitution of the Republic of Cuba established a two-term limit. The text stipulates that the president must be a Cuban citizen who is at least 35 years old and that they must have previously been elected to the National Assembly of Peoples Power. The president must also receive votes from the members of that Assembly to assume office. Its not a direct vote by the people, but an indirect one, and it must be by an absolute majority. That is, more than 50%, the researcher says. The person holding the office must also be a member of the PCC, which is the only political party in the country. Arechavaleta, for his part, insists that the election of the president depends little on the preferences of the average citizen. Rather, its a top-down election, based on criteria of ideological loyalty and the regimes continuity. Amid this uncertain situation, Cubas leadership has been discredited. Its limited capabilities as well as the disadvantages of the aging core group that has governed for years have become evident. Experts continue to highlight Perez-Oliva Fraga as an emerging figure amidst a leadership vacuum. Baquero believes that he could even represent a transformation, due to his more business-oriented profile. This is in a context, he emphasizes, where a profound economic transformation is necessary. Previously, the government was positioning General Luis Alberto Rodriguez Lopez-Calleja Raul Castros former son-in-law and head of the military conglomerate GAESA for the position. But in 2022, he died suddenly, at the age of 62. I believe that Perez-Oliva Fragas technocratic background and experience in trade diplomacy [mean that he has] firsthand knowledge of the new geopolitical dynamics and the rules governing foreign trade and investment, Arechavaleta opines. [This] could lead him toward a reformist stance, in the face of the rigid structure of the Cuban regimes leadership. The academic maintains that Cubans know very little about his political profile, which, I believe, is only just beginning to develop. Despite President Trumps assertion that this is the last year of the Cuban dictatorship, Washingtons plans for Havana beyond the economic embargo remain unknown. Experts believe that Trumps governing style inevitably leads to coerced negotiations, which his administration has advocated in favor of since cutting off fuel supplies that were going from Venezuela to Cuba. In this context, Baquero argues, perhaps the question isnt whether there are other figures in Cuba, but rather what forms of transformation might emerge, or what kind of openings could occur in this new scenario. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Aerial view of the informal settlement of Borgo Mezzanone, which has sprung up around the runway of an old military airport near Foggia, in southern Italy. This area of Borgo Mezzanone is home to the workforce for the area, which produces 40% of the countrys tomatoes Abdul Camara, a 31-year-old Senegalese man, agrees to show EL PAIS his house: it took him seven years to build it with his own hands. He takes out his key and proudly opens the door. Inside, theres nothing but four walls and a tiled floor. Each tile is a different color (he has collected them over time). Its just one more house emerging in the ghetto of Borgo Mezzanone, as it is commonly called in Italy. The informal settlement is located near the city of Foggia, in southern Italy. Locals refer to it as The Runway because, for two decades, it has grown alongside the runway of a disused military airfield from World War II. This serves as the settlements main street: its the only paved surface. The rest becomes a mud pit on cold, rainy days. With the so-called Calais Jungle a refuge for foreigners attempting to cross the English Channel having been dismantled in France, this is now the largest informal settlement of undocumented immigrants in Europe. It guarantees cheap, undeclared labor for the vast agricultural plain of the area, which produces 40% of Italys tomatoes. In summer, the Borgo Mezzanone ghetto has up to 4,000 residents. Abdul Camara, a Senegalese man who has lived in the informal settlement of Borgo Mezzanone for seven years, stands at the door of the house he built with his own hands. Paolo Manzo This region is called the Capitanata, a term from the Byzantine Empire. It was established in the Middle Ages, a fitting history for a place where people still live in medieval conditions. The informal settlement is home to people from dozens of countries, from almost all of Africa and parts of Asia, who have been undocumented for up to 10 years. Theres no running water and no sewage system. Residents rely on generators and a tangle of wires that steal electricity from the power grid. And, because the grid is constantly failing, for the past three years, only half of the camp has electricity one day, with the other half getting it the next. Mountains of garbage are piled up in an open field, with municipal trucks only occasionally coming to collect it. There are three tanks of drinking water that are filled every three days by tanker trucks, and theyre emptied within hours. The ghetto of Borgo Mezzanone isnt formally recognized. However, here, theres more life. There are more cars, more shops and more people than in the nearby village proper, where only 400 residents live, with just a bar and a supermarket. However, officially, its the settlement that doesnt exist: its a village in the dark. Inside the shacks, there are bars, butcher shops, hairdressers, clothing stores, mechanic shops, two churches and a mosque. Half-an-hour away, in Rignano, theres another ghetto named Torretta Antonacci. It houses up to 2,000 people. And there are more of these settlements across southern Italy. They exemplify the perverse effects of how the country has managed immigration for decades, creating an underworld of invisible workers without rights, condemned to marginalization. While Spain has just announced a plan to regularize the status of 500,000 undocumented people, the government of far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni which doesnt want any more immigrants is actually obstructing the NGOs that rescue them in the Mediterranean, while intending to deport asylum seekers to Albania. And, while Spain is on track to legalize half-a-million people, the Italian government has approved the entry of exactly the same number of foreign workers who can enter the country between 2026 and 2028. But this is being done surreptitiously, through the so-called migration flow decree. Italys complex, opaque and fraud-prone system which has been in place for two decades, under all kinds of governments aims, in theory, for the orderly entry of foreigners, based on labor needs. Italy requires immigrants in the fields, in factories and in homes. However, the country prefers to maintain a system that pretends they dont exist and ensures that the majority remain invisible. In 2024, labor inspections in the province of Capitanata revealed that 64% of workers were undocumented. A clothing store in the informal settlement of Borgo Mezzanone. Paolo Manzo These 500,000 permits to be distributed over the course of three years are allocated like tickets for a rock concert: there are successive click days for different job sectors, when the applications open on an official portal for employers and individuals. Its a system that doesnt work, Francesco Mason says. Hes an immigration lawyer and member of the Association for Immigration Legal Studies (ASGI). Politically, they dont want to face reality; the government sees immigration not as a resource, but as a necessary evil. Its politically and humanly unacceptable. The regularization process that Spain has implemented is much more effective: it immediately acknowledges the reality, promotes integration and benefits the labor market, Mason explains. The number of entry permits granted is always lower than the actual demand. This year, for example, the quota is 164,000 spots. But by January, there were already 194,000 pre-applications. Furthermore, the system relies on the fiction that an Italian businessman knows the name and surname of a man in Ghana whom he wants to hire. Often, its a disguised regularization process; someone already living in Italy without legal status is hired, under the pretense that theyre abroad. In 2024, only 7.8% of those who ultimately arrived in Italy signed a contract and obtained a residence permit. This is according to the latest study by the Ero Straniero project, a collaboration of eight NGOs and civic associations. The rest fall into illegal status after setting foot in Italy. This is also because, in many cases, the immigrants are scammed: according to unions, they pay at least $6,000 to intermediaries and the employer who hires them in order to go to Italy only to discover, upon arrival, that the company doesnt exist. Many of the residents of Borgo Mezzanone arrived this way, although most reached Italy by sea and applied for asylum. After their applications were rejected, they received a deportation order. Hence, from that day forward, they were undocumented. Its estimated that there are between 500,000 and one million foreigners in Italy in an irregular situation. A group of migrants receive legal assistance at the USB union office in the Rignano ghetto, near Foggia. Paolo Manzo They live in constant fear of being arrested. Its a system designed to break them, to reduce them to slavery, denying them their rights. The decree on migration flows is a huge farce, says Emanuela Mitola, from the Unione Sindacale di Base (USB) office. This major Italian trade union provides legal assistance in the informal settlement. She opens her office at 4 p.m. to help residents resolve their immigration issues. On Thursday, February 5, a lawyer was also visiting. Within minutes, about 50 people were waiting their turn, documents and photocopies in hand. Each person had a complicated story about bureaucracy and years of waiting. Abdul Camara the Senegalese man arrived in Italy back in 2015. He worked for three years in a factory in Turin, until he lost his papers. No one would give him a contract. And so, he ended up here, where theres always work. Hes been living in the ghetto for seven years; hes paid between 35 and 50 a day, sometimes 70 (a range of $41 to $83). It all depends on the employer and the job. Of course Id like to leave. But I cant. They give me work here, but not elsewhere, he explains. Besides, with what he earns, he couldnt afford to live anywhere else. Camara believes the Italian businessmen he works for are good people. They give us coffee and a croissant for breakfast, they feed us well, but they cant give me a contract, even if they wanted to, he reasons. When asked about the infamous decree on migration flows, he barely knows what its about. Camara smiles. He likes Italy and hopes to leave the settlement. But surviving in the ghetto is tough. Its been infiltrated by the local mafia; in recent months, there have been two homicides, as well as a death from tuberculosis. And, on January 23, a Gambian worker 38-year-old Mamadou was found dead from exposure in the car where he was sleeping. Above all, the migrants are crushed by a mechanism designed to squeeze them to the maximum. Its still based on the archaic system of the caporalato the exploitation by the hand of the caporale, the foreman. This intermediary decides who works and then takes people to the fields. A butcher shop set up in a shack in the informal settlement of Borgo Mezzanone. Paolo Manzo The NGO Associazione NoCap works to combat this system and try to relocate the occupants of these ghettos through legal contracts with reputable companies. It was founded in 2017 by Yvan Sagnet, a Cameroonian man who is now 40-years-old. Back in 2011, he, too, ended up in one of these southern Italian ghettos. He organized the first strike and helped secure the passage of the law against the caporalato in 2016. If I had known what it was like, I wouldnt have gone, just like most immigrants who end up there. I never imagined such places existed in Europe, he recounts. He arrived in Turin in 2007 to study on a scholarship. But when it ended in 2011, he needed to work. He was told that there were jobs in the region of Apulia, so he went there. When I arrived, there were 1,200 people and six bathrooms. I slept on the floor. I would have gone back to Turin, but I had no money. When I asked how to find work, they told me to talk to the caporale. It was the first time Id ever heard that word. They told me I wouldnt have any trouble recognizing him, he recalls. And this was true. An African man appeared: he called himself Silvio Berlusconi (all the foremen used millionaires names). He was known as the capo nero the one who selected the workers to distinguish him from the capo bianco, the businessman. He told Sagnet to show up the next day at four in the morning to pick tomatoes. Two people walk along one of the entrances to the informal settlement of Borgo Mezzanone. Paolo Manzo According to Sagnet, the foreman arrived with a windowless van meant for nine people, but he crammed in 25. They were paid 3.50 ($4.17) for each 300-kilo box of tomatoes. Working 16 hours a day, from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., Yvan managed to fill four boxes, earning a total of 14 ($16.67). But the foreman deducted 5 for transport, 3.50 for a sandwich and 1.50 for water. I came back with 4. It was one of the hardest moments of my life, he admits. A few days later, he organized a strike that lasted 45 days. The migrants blocked a road in the middle of summer when Apulia is full of tourists and they appeared on television. Sagnet became an advocate for immigrants rights. And, in 2016, he was awarded the Order of Merit for Labor by Italian President Sergio Mattarella. Associazione NoCap now finds work for around 1,000 people a year. We get calls from many desperate business owners who need workers, Sagnet says, adding that the main problem is finding them housing. Francesco Strippoli head of NoCap in the province of Capitanata travels through the ghettos to help those who live there achieve a decent life. However, he acknowledges that this is impossible for those without papers. In 2021, then-prime minister Mario Draghis administration tried to change things. The government commissioned a map of all the informal settlements in Italy and allocated 200 million ($238 million) in European Union funds to provide housing for the residents. Borgo Mezzanone received 53 million ($63 million) and Torretta Antonacci received 28 million ($33.5 million). But only one study was commissioned, from the University of Bari, which proposed housing the immigrants in the outlying neighborhoods of the municipalities in the area a proposal that was not well received and has since proven to be unfeasible. The deadline for using the money is next August, and absolutely nothing has been done. That money has been lost, Strippoli laments. The community of Borgo Mezzanone hasnt collapsed. It survives because several NGOs and the Catholic Church do what the Italian state fails to do: they provide residents with the rights that the state denies them, such as medical assistance (a mobile clinic has been run by the humanitarian organization INTERSOS since 2018), legal advice, Italian classes, showers and integration programs. The people who fight to change things put in long hours, with their phones constantly ringing. Some are very young, as theres a generational shift happening within the NGOs. Maddalena Fabbi and Martina Di Girolamo, two of the people in charge of the Fatoma school in Borgo Mezzanone, which teaches Italian to migrants living in the informal settlement near the town. Paolo Manzo Everyone familiar with immigration says the same thing: the only solution is to regularize the migrants status and grant them rights, thus ensuring that they pay taxes and contribute to Italian pensions. Mason, the immigration lawyer from ASGI, believes that theres a logic that exacerbates the controls, because the dominant narrative is that [these people] are dangerous. The government administration lacks sufficient resources, while business owners are frustrated with the bureaucracy. Every so often, the system simply collapses and theres a mass regularization. The last one involving 200,000 people occurred in 2020. Maria Palmieri is a photographer who has spent years documenting immigration in the area. She works with various NGOs and is currently the coordinator of the Spartacus project, promoted by several organizations. Its crucial to find a way to regularize [the status of] people who have lived here for so many years, without documents, abandoned in ghettos, unable to exercise their rights; its impossible to envision integration projects that allow for the mutual enrichment of communities without ensuring the necessary conditions. The Fatoma school which opened in the village in 2023 strives to achieve this integration by offering Italian classes. Besides learning the language, the important thing is to create a community. Life in the ghetto isnt easy. Here, they can build relationships, make friends, say Maddalenna Fabbi and Martina Di Girolamo, both 28, who are among those in charge of the school. To enter the informal settlement, there are constant warnings to be careful, especially because there have been bad experiences with some journalists. But once inside, the people are very kind. Taking photos is difficult. One of the residents explains: I dont want my family to see that I live like this, and I dont want people here to see it either, because then they call us filthy blacks. But we have to live like this its not our fault that were poor. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Booker-winning author Arundhati Roy has withdrawn from the Berlin International Film Festival after jury president Wim Wenders said filmmakers should stay out of politics when asked about Israels war on Gaza. Roy, who was due to attend a screening of a restored version of her 1989 film In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones, said she was shocked and disgusted by remarks made during a press conference at the festivals opening on Thursday. When a reporter asked the jury members for their views on the German governments support of the genocide in Gaza and the festivals selective treatment of human rights issues by speaking out about Ukraine and Iran but not Palestine, Wenders, the chair of the seven-member jury, responded that filmmakers have to stay out of politics. In a statement, Roy called the comments unconscionable and said she had decided to withdraw with deep regret. To hear them say that art should not be political is jaw-dropping, the novelist said. Its a way of shutting down a conversation about a crime against humanity even as it unfolds before us in real time when artists, writers and film-makers should be doing everything in their power to stop it. open image in gallery Arundhati Roy participates in a protest at the Press Club of India in Delhi in 2023 ( AP ) Roy, who won the Booker Prize in 1997 for The God of Small Things, said that what has happened in Gaza, what continues to happen, is a genocide of the Palestinian people by the state of Israel. It is supported and funded by the governments of the United States and Germany, as well as several other countries in Europe, which makes them complicit in the crime, she added. If the greatest filmmakers and artists of our time cannot stand up and say so, they should know that history will judge them. Roy has long been an outspoken critic of governments in India and abroad and has repeatedly voiced support for the Palestinian cause. The Berlin festival, commonly known as the Berlinale, is partly funded by the German government. At the same press conference, a jury member, Ewa Puszczynska, said it was a bit unfair to expect the jury to take a stance on the issue. The festival said it respected the decision even though Roys presence would have enriched the festival discourse. open image in gallery A view of the historic Pasha Palace in Gaza City after it was struck by an Israeli airstrike ( AP ) Israels brutal war on Gaza has killed over 71,000 Palestinians so far, reduced the besieged territory to rubble and displaced most of its 2.1 million people. The war began after about 1,200 people were killed during a Hamas attack on southern Israel in October 2023. A few months into the war, Berlinale was drawn into a controversy after the festivals documentary award went to No Other Land, a film about the dispossession of Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. German officials at the time criticised one-sided remarks made about Gaza by the directors of the film and others at the awards ceremony. Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice India reported its first death of the latest Nipah virus outbreak after a 25-year-old nurse in West Bengal state died in hospital, authorities said. The woman, who had been receiving treatment in the critical care unit of a hospital in Barasat area, developed complications, including a secondary lung infection, and suffered a cardiac arrest, health officials said. She was one of two confirmed cases in the eastern state. The second patient, a 27-year-old male nurse from the same hospital, has since recovered and been discharged. The cases prompted extensive contact tracing, with some 200 people placed under monitoring, according to the federal health ministry. State health officials said all identified contacts tested negative and no further infections were detected. The death in India came days after the WHO confirmed a woman had died of Nipah in neighbouring Bangladesh. The patient, in her 40s, developed symptoms consistent with Nipah on 21 January such as fever and headaches followed by hyper-salivation, disorientation and convulsion. The woman, who reportedly had no travel history but had consumed raw date palm sap, died a week later and was confirmed to be infected with the virus, according to local authorities. All 35 persons who had contact with the patient tested negative for the virus but continued to be monitored, they added. No further cases have been detected to date, according to the WHO. A Nipah patient is shifted to an ICU at the Kozhikode Medical College in the southern state of Kerala, India ( REUTERS ) Nipah is a zoonotic virus, meaning that it can spread from animals to humans. Fruit bats are deemed the primary natural host, although transmission can also occur through contaminated food or close contact with an infected person. The virus can cause fever, headaches and respiratory symptoms in its early stages. In more severe cases it can lead to encephalitis inflammation of the brain and respiratory failure. According to the WHO, the fatality rate ranges from 40 to 75 per cent, depending on the circumstances and the quality of care. There is no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for Nipah. Care is largely supportive and focused on managing complications. The latest Nipah outbreak has prompted precautionary measures beyond India. Several Asian nations have introduced health screenings at airports while the UK Health Security Agency has advised travellers to affected areas to seek medical advice if symptoms develop after returning. The WHO last week reiterated its assessment that the risk of international spread remained low. Nipah outbreaks have occurred periodically in Bangladesh and India over the past two decades, most frequently in the southern state of Kerala. While the virus is regarded as highly dangerous because of its severity, experts say that sustained human-to-human transmission has historically been limited. Health authorities in West Bengal have said surveillance remains active, but no new cases have emerged since the initial cluster was identified in December. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor tried to arrange a meeting for Jeffrey Epstein with Colonel Gaddafi in Tripoli, Libya, emails appear to show. Messages within the latest release of the US Department of Justices Epstein files, from the autumn of 2010, show the disgraced financier contacted royal aide David Stern. He said: i want to go to tripoli lets organize with pa. The paedophile then sent another email to Mr Stern, which said: people that have seen the father, have asked me if i want to meet him as he does not know where to put his money as opposed to what to do with it, currencies etc, I wondered if Pa should make the intro instead. open image in gallery Epstein wanted to meet Gaddafi, emails appear to show ( Department of Justice ) The emails were first unearthed from the Epstein files by Channel 4 News, which reported the father refers to the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to distinguish him from his well-known son Saif. It appears Mr Stern then consulted Andrew, in a reply dated the following day, October 8 2010, writing: He is thinking about the best approach and will discuss with me when I see him next on 17th Oct in Hong Kong (he is leaving today for Asia). Andrew then spoke to a Libyan contact in an attempt to facilitate the meeting. The former Duke of York made an official visit to China in October 2010 and was the UKs trade envoy at the time. open image in gallery Colonel Gaddafi ( AP ) Later emails from The Duke, signed A, to Epsteins address say I will call you later this evening after I have had my chat with my Libyan contact to see what we can arrange for you in Tripoli. The same day, November 4 2010, A follows up to Epstein writing Libya fixed. Call me whenever. The emails come as Thames Valley Police on Wednesday said it had held discussions with specialists from the Crown Prosecution Service about allegations that Andrew shared confidential reports from his role as the UKs trade envoy with Epstein. It appears the planned meeting did not go ahead, as Epstein did not end up flying to the Libyan capital, Channel 4 News reported. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been contacted for comment. Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor spoke to a Libyan contact to help arrange a meeting for Jeffrey Epstein with Colonel Gaddafi in Tripoli, emails appear to show. Messages within the latest release by the US Department of Justice of its Epstein files, from autumn 2010, show that the disgraced financier contacted royal aide David Stern, saying [sic] i want to go to tripoli lets organize with pa. The paedophile then appears to have sent another email to Mr Stern, writing: people that have seen the father, have asked me if i want to meet him as he does not know where to put his money as opposed to what to do with it, currencies etc, I wondered if Pa should make the intro instead. The emails were first unearthed from the Epstein files by Channel 4 News, which reported that the father refers to the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi, to distinguish him from his well-known son Saif. The initials PA are believed to refer to the then Prince Andrew, and this is how Mr Stern and Epstein appear to refer to him in multiple emails. Police have held discussions with the Crown Prosecution Service about allegations that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential reports with Epstein ( PA ) It appears that Mr Stern then consulted Andrew, in a reply dated the following day, 8 October 2010, writing: He is thinking about the best approach and will discuss with me when I see him next on 17th Oct in Hong Kong (he is leaving today for Asia). The former Duke of York made an official visit to China in October 2010, and was the UKs trade envoy at the time. Later emails from The Duke, signed A, to Epsteins address, say: I will call you later this evening after I have had my chat with my Libyan contact to see what we can arrange for you in Tripoli. On the same day, 4 November 2010, A follows up to Epstein, writing: Libya fixed. Call me whenever. It comes after Thames Valley Police said on Wednesday that they had held discussions with specialists from the Crown Prosecution Service about allegations that Andrew shared confidential reports from his role as the UKs trade envoy with Epstein. It appears that the planned meeting between Epstein and Gaddafi did not go ahead, as Epstein did not end up flying to the Libyan capital, Channel 4 News reported. Elsewhere, in emails from June and July 2010, it appears that A discussed a loan from Libya to Dubai with an investment banker called Terence Allen. Mr Allen wrote: In light of our conversation last week in relation to Dubai, is there anything I can do there for you?? The Duke replied: Good question! I know that the only person who can make this decision is the Colonel himself. I will just ask our Libyan friend Tareq to see where he is on the subject, as he has the ear of the private office of Brother Leader. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been contacted for comment. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice In the early hours of 12 April last year, nine Japanese police officers quietly gathered outside a hotel room in Osaka. Inside and oblivious, 26-year-old Briton Izabel Rose was suffering the effects of a nasty hangover following a night out. Eventually, in need of the communal bathroom, Rose opened the door and the officers descended. Days prior, Rose had messaged a friend in the UK asking them to send her the class B drug ketamine. She had left London at the start of the month in the depths of her addiction to the drug, and hoped her travels would be an opportunity for her to get away from her usual environment. But almost as soon as she arrived, she found herself trying to source the illegal substance. Eventually, unable to find it elsewhere, she paid the friend 150 for 7g (0.25oz) of ketamine, which was sent to her in the post, concealed inside a birthday card. But the package was intercepted at the border, and shortly after, Rose was arrested in her hotel room. open image in gallery Rose was detained in Japan for five months after she paid someone to send her ketamine in the post ( Izabel Rose ) It was the start of what would become a five-month stint in a Japanese detention centre after she admitted to the importation of drugs. Speaking to The Independent, she said the experience is the most traumatic thing that ever happened to me, but she is sharing her story in hopes of raising awareness of what she called a crisis of ketamine addiction. A slippery slope Rose first remembers being introduced to ketamine at university. She said she didnt actually enjoy the drug the first time she took it, as it made her unwell, but it quickly became a frequent part of her life after moving in with a friend who was a regular user. She said she went from using the drug occasionally as part of the London rave scene to daily within a matter of months, describing how, eventually, the housemates would often take ketamine while watching a film on weekday evenings. That turned into me buying my own, and then that turned into me using on my own, she said. open image in gallery Rose in Japan before her arrest ( Izabel Rose ) My usage went from partying to daily very quickly, and it was a very slippery slope. Her body also began to suffer the consequences of her ketamine use. She began to get abdominal cramps known as K cramps, which even drove her to visit A&E. She had begun to recognise she was going down a dark path but said she was in denial over her addiction. I wanted to stop, and I couldnt stop, she said. In April 2025, she decided to take a trip to Japan somewhere she had always wanted to travel in the hope that time away from London would also help her get away from the temptation of taking the drug. My intention was never to import But before she had even passed through customs in Japan, Rose said she was on her phone trying to source drugs. Addiction doesnt understand geography, and the voice in my head took over, and within half an hour of landing, she confessed. She messaged a friend whom she believed might be able to find her a dealer on the ground, saying her intention was never to import. Instead, the friend suggested they mail her the ketamine in the post. Right there and then, I decided to send them the money, she said. The next day, they had gone to the post office and put the ketamine in a birthday card and sent it to me in the post. A week later, Rose was arrested at her hotel in Osaka. My life flashed in front of my eyes Rose said she initially naively believed she might be able to talk her way out of trouble. open image in gallery Ketamine is a powerful medical anaesthetic but can be dangerous when used recreationally ( Alamy/PA ) Despite Japans strict drug laws, she had also purchased marijuana while in the country and decided to hand this over to investigators in the hopes it would placate them. They very quickly said, well, thats not why were here my stomach dropped and my life flashed before my eyes. Over the next few days, she was questioned by investigators, who had seized her phone. After meeting with a lawyer, she decided to admit to importing ketamine into the country. Rose was then taken to Osaka Detention Centre, where she stayed for five months. Its the most traumatic thing that ever happened to me She described the first two months of her detention as the hardest, as she grappled with withdrawing from ketamine alongside coming to terms with her situation. There were moments where I was crying and so emotional, she said. Ketamine numbs your feelings so much that when you come off it, they all come rushing back. She added that the experience was very lonely and isolated, with most of her days spent alone with her thoughts. But despite these challenges, Rose said she was able to use the experience to form a routine of exercise, meditation, reading about addiction, and journaling. At first it was hard, it was a shock to the system, but having no phone and just time to reflect and journal really was beneficial for me, she said. After five isolated months spent almost exclusively in her small cell, Rose was given a suspended sentence, meaning she could go free but would be locked up again if she committed any offence in Japan. This is a crisis open image in gallery Rose was able to travel in Japan after her detention ended and is now sharing her story on her TikTok account @hyakuban7 ( Izabel Rose ) Rose is now back in the UK and in recovery. She is sharing her story on TikTok on her account to raise awareness of the dangers of ketamine addiction. I think theres such a stigma on what an addict looks like, but they are just normal people, she said. Ketamine addiction is a real crisis and we need to look at helping people in the best way possible. Recent government data published in December 2025 found the number of children aged 17 and under reporting problems with ketamine had doubled between 2021 and 2024. For under-17s in treatment, ketamine is the fourth most-used drug after cannabis, alcohol and nicotine. Grace Willsher, head of young peoples services in the North at drug and alcohol support charity WithYou, said the number of young people being supported for ketamine use across its services has more than doubled in the past five years. She told The Independent the charity is concerned that the risks associated with ketamine arent well understood, adding its easy availability and low cost mean many see it as a party drug and an alternative to alcohol. But she warned that in a very short period of time, ketamine can cause permanent damage to the body. This includes really horrible effects like bladder problems, changes in mental health and memory, and damage to your nose, liver and kidneys, she said. WithYou aims to encourage young people to seek early advice and support around drug and alcohol use, helping to prevent harm before problems escalate. Ms Willsher encouraged anyone worried about themselves or someone they know to reach out for support. If youre worried about yourself or someone you know whether thats a family member, a friend, a child, a work colleague, or a student contact WithYou for support Services are free and non-judgemental, and the website webchat staffed by trained recovery workers, not AI is available at wearewithyou.org.uk 9am-9pm on weekdays and 10am-4pm on the weekend Join the Independent Women newsletter with Victoria Richards for a thoughtful take on the weeks headlines Join the Independent Women newsletter Join the Independent Women newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A former Metropolitan Police officer who was secretly filmed joking about rape and sexual assault has been found to have committed gross misconduct by a tribunal panel. Ex-police constable Brian Sharkey, who retired in May 2025, made a series of comments in undercover footage which aired in a BBC Panorama documentary in October belittling claims of racial bias and talking about disposing of evidence, his misconduct hearing in south London was told. Finding his behaviour breached professional standards and amounted to gross misconduct, panel chairman Commander Stephen Clayman said of Mr Sharkeys comment about sexual offences: It undermines public confidence in policing at a time when police forces and particularly the Met Police are trying to demonstrate how seriously it takes offences of violence against women and girls. At a pub following a shift in January last year, Mr Sharkeys colleagues were discussing a police officer getting away with committing sexual assault, the tribunal heard earlier. Following on from that discussion, footage played on Friday showed Mr Sharkey saying: If you are going to get accused of it you might as well f****** do it then. If you go down for a sexual assault you might as well go down for rape. He added: Please, thats a joke. I challenge myself on that. He then said: That was wrong, I do apologise. open image in gallery Sharkey retired from the Met Police last May (Kirsty OConnor/PA) ( PA Archive ) Cecily White, for the Met Police, told the tribunal it is clear he was making a joke, adding: For an officer to make a joke about allegations of sexual assault or rape, especially to other colleagues (it) is capable of undermining public trust and confidence because it is capable of making members of the public think that police officers do not think such allegations are particularly serious. They are just a joke, just a laughing matter. It is capable of giving the impression that they wont be taken seriously. During his evidence, Mr Sharkey told the panel something else had been said after the discussion about sexual assault and that the conversation had turned towards challenge culture in the Met. He claimed he meant to provide an example of how treating trivial matters with too much weight can devalue the impact of more serious matters, but accepted it was a poor example and very, very, very wrong. I take sexual assault very, very seriously, do not trivialise it at all, he said. I do regret it, I regretted it right from the start. In August 2024, Mr Sharkey was filmed while taking his break during a night shift telling the undercover journalist: You stop a toerag because he is up to no good, you dont find anything on him well youre just stopping me because Im black or youre just stopping me because Im this or youre just stopping me because Im that and you just get a whole load of a mouth full of shit from them. Ms White argued the then-officer was treating claims of racial bias as spurious excuses. The use of stop and search powers particularly against black and minority communities is a legitimate matter of public concern as this officer was or should have been aware, the lawyer for the Met said. Mr Sharkey told his misconduct hearing he was not being racist at all and that he would have given more examples rather than just said this and that but he got very tongue-tied. He said he does believe the abuse of power over racial bias is a source of concern, adding: Im not trying to trivialise it at all it was not my intention. At the pub evening in January last year, Mr Sharkey was also videoed speaking to the undercover journalist about who to bring into custody. He said: If its some office worker who has got his first bit of class A I dont say do this because I may have, may not have done it oh shit mate Ive dropped it, oh f*** Ive got no evidence now. Mr Sharkey added that if it was someone with a criminal record it would be a different set of rules. open image in gallery An undercover BBC journalist worked at Charing Cross police station to capture footage last year (Yui Mok/PA) ( PA Wire ) The former officer said he was not talking about himself but that he was telling a story from his probation days some 20 years ago, the panel heard. I had explained it incorrectly but that gave him the impression I had done it, he said on Friday. The panel found his comments amounted to a breach of the standards of professional behaviour in respect of authority, respect and courtesy, discreditable conduct and equality and diversity. Mr Sharkey was also filmed making a sexual innuendo to colleagues but the panel did not find that the comment breached professional standards. On October 1 last year Panorama aired footage that had been captured by an undercover BBC journalist working as a designated detention officer at Charing Cross police station custody suite. Seven other police officers have been sacked after the BBC investigation. Last year Pc Sean Park, Sergeant Lawrence Hume, Sergeant Clayton Robinson, Pc Jason Sinclair-Birt, Pc Philip Neilson, Pc Martin Borg and Sergeant Joe McIlvenny were dismissed without notice in separate hearings after it was found they had committed gross misconduct. The hearing continues. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The worst thing a parent can go through had already happened to Christine Durand. Her son Steven was missing, and she had no idea if he was even alive. But what Christine, who is now 70, didnt realise was that things were only going to get worse over the coming months and years. I just feel like theyve not cared at all, like Ive been left on the shelf, she tells The Independent. I used to have to go down to the police station every single day about my son, crying. They let me down on many occasions. Steven was meant to be travelling from his sisters flat to his home in Preston on the day he disappeared 19 October 2018. He had lost his phone, so all he had on him was his bus fare. After Christine reported Steven missing, Lancashire Constabulary put out public appeals for the 31-year-old, who Christine said was known to officers as he suffered from mental health issues. But they misidentified his ethnicity twice, describing him as white when he is mixed-race. open image in gallery Steven Durand went missing at the age of 31. Police misidentified his ethnicity twice, describing him as white when he is mixed-race ( Christine Durand ) Everything I asked the police to do, they did the opposite, says Christine, citing incidents such as the police breaking down the door of Stevens flat when she had told them she had a spare key. I think the police are racist I think they didnt care about my son because he was mixed-race. Christine, from Leyland, believes that her son, whom she describes as the kindest person you could meet, could have been found if the police had handled the investigation better. Only 31 per cent of missing Black people, and 35 per cent of missing Asian people, are found by police, compared with 39 per cent of white people who go missing, according to research carried out by the charity Missing People. open image in gallery Christine Durand believes that her son could have been found if the police had handled his case better ( Christine Durand ) That report also found that Black and Asian children are more likely to be missing for longer periods of time than white children. One in five missing person incidents relating to Black children lasted for longer than 48 hours, compared with 14 per cent of those involving Asian children, and 13 per cent for white children. Missing People has now launched its new SafeCall service, a national lifeline designed to support the 72,000 children who go missing in the UK every year. The Independent reached its 165,000 fundraising target last month, enabling the free, confidential, round-the-clock service to go live. open image in gallery Christine says police let me down on many occasions ( Christine Durand ) Evidence Joels experience echoes that of Christine. Her son Richard Okorogheye, then aged 19, went missing from Ladbroke Grove, London, on 22 March 2021. Evidence, 43, says she reported Richard as missing to police the following day, telling them he was away from home without his medication for sickle cell anaemia. But she claims that officers did not treat her concerns with urgency, and describes the investigation as a disaster, alleging that she was told: Dont worry, hell come back home, and even: If you cant find your son, how do you expect us to? Richard was found dead in Epping Forest two weeks later, on 5 April. open image in gallery Richard Okorogheye, then aged 19, went missing from Ladbroke Grove in March 2021. His body was found two weeks later ( Evidence Joel ) Evidence, a nurse, believes that her son might have been found alive if the investigation had been handled properly. I felt the whole thing was governed by discrimination and racism, she says. Every day I have to go through this agony in my heart, knowing something maybe couldve been done, but nothing was done. I remember having sleepless nights, walking barefoot from my house to Ladbroke Grove police station, crying, begging them to look for my child. The Metropolitan Police did apologise to Evidence for providing a level of service that was not at a level the public would expect of us, but it did not acknowledge any discriminatory treatment. An Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation identified several failures by police and described the level of service that Evidence received as unacceptable, but it found that the evidence did not indicate that any delay in upgrading Richards risk level was due to his or Ms Joels race. In Christines case, she made a complaint, and an internal investigation by Lancashire Constabulary found that there was insufficient evidence that Steven had been discriminated against on the basis of his race or mental health. The force declined to comment on this. open image in gallery Evidence Joel believes her son might have been found alive if police had acted properly ( Evidence Joel ) Lancashire Constabulary also disputed Christines claims about the door being broken down, but the IOPC upheld her allegation after a review of her complaint. It added that the constabulary had apologised for misidentifying his ethnicity. Josie Allan, head of policy and partnerships at Missing People, says the charity has heard from a number of families who have felt discriminated against because of their race. Explaining why investigations might be coming to competing conclusions, she says that underlying systemic bias will be affecting police responses, but that its insidious nature makes it difficult to pinpoint. There are inherent issues in being able to identify discrimination in the complaints process, says Allan. We know that data shows there are disparities for Black missing people, so theres a gap between the evidence about the disparities and the acknowledgement of them... The data and the sheer amount of families who are raising concerns should be raising very serious concerns within policing that there is a pattern. open image in gallery Evidence says I felt the whole thing was governed by discrimination and racism ( Evidence Joel ) She notes that the IOPC has recently revised its guidance in an effort to improve the problematic handling of discrimination complaints. In 2021, the home affairs select committees Macpherson: 20 Years On inquiry suggested that police services had largely failed to overcome perceptions of institutional racism following the initial inquiry into the murder of Stephen Lawrence, which found consistent evidence of over-policing and under-protection of Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. On the matter of Steven Durand, a spokesperson for Lancashire Constabulary said: Weve carried out extensive inquiries in relation to CCTV, telephony, searches of open land and waterways, inquiries with associates, witnesses, health agencies and financial checks and numerous media appeals, prior to the decision to archive the investigation. The force said that difficult decisions, such as archiving a case, sometimes have to be made, but that any new information will be fully investigated. On the case of Richard Okorogheye, a Met Police spokesperson said: When Richard went missing in 2021, hundreds of officers worked tirelessly over 15 days as part of the extensive search, which also included specialist search teams, dogs and horses, and colleagues from Essex Police, before his body was sadly found. They said that the force accepted all of the IOPCs recommendations from its 2022 investigation, and that it had made a significant number of changes to the way we respond from the moment a person is reported missing. They added: This includes putting more emphasis on engaging with the person who reports someone missing, so we can better understand the risks they face. Please donate now to The Independent and Missing Peoples SafeCall campaign, which has raised 165,000 to create a free, nationwide service helping vulnerable children find safety and support For advice, support and options if you or a child you love goes missing, contact safecall.org.uk Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Yellow weather warnings for heavy snow and ice remain in effect across much of the UK, with forecasters urging the public to exercise extra care on roads. An ongoing flood risk also prompts continued vigilance from authorities. Saturday is set to be a cold, sunny day for most, as Arctic maritime air sweeps across the nation, according to the Met Office. A yellow warning for ice covers Wales and central and southern England, active from Friday evening until Saturday morning. Icy surfaces could lead to difficult travel conditions and potential some injuries from slips and falls. Further north, parts of northeast England and northern Scotland are under a snow and ice warning, which began on Friday afternoon and lasts until Saturday morning. Another yellow warning for snow and ice, stretching from Derby to Scotland, will take effect on Saturday evening through to Sunday morning. The Met Office anticipates snow in these areas could be heavy at times, leading to some disruption to travel. Accumulations of 1-3cm (of snow) will be possible at low levels, with 3-7cm possible above about 150m elevation, and perhaps 10-15cm above 400m. Northern Ireland also faces an ice warning until Saturday morning. Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice remain in force across parts of the UK ( Owen Humphreys/PA ) Met Office chief forecaster Rebekah Hicks warned: Snow is likely ahead of the rain across northern England and Scotland and could reach lower levels at times on Saturday night into Sunday. The snow will gradually turn to rain as the front moves east across the country on Sunday. The rain may be heavy at times and it will be windy in coastal areas. Additional warnings may be required. We encourage the public to keep up to date with the latest forecasts and any warnings that may be issued. Meanwhile, the Environment Agency has called for continued vigilance due to persistent flood risks, with 75 flood warnings and 151 flood alerts currently active. Jonathan Day, flood duty manager, stated: With another band of rain on its way, we need the public to remain vigilant to the risk of flooding. So far, more than 24,000 homes and businesses have been protected but sadly around 330 have suffered flooding, and our thoughts are with those communities affected. Our teams will continue to do all they can to support local people, with pumps, temporary barriers and by clearing waterways to ensure flood water can drain away. Floods minister Emma Hardy added: Flooding is devastating and my thoughts are with the people affected, and I urge residents to follow local advice over the next few days to ensure they stay safe. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Sir Keir Starmer told Europe it has to be ready to fight Russian aggression as he announced that the UK would deploy warships and fighter jets to the Arctic later this year. The move, announced at the Munich Security Conference, will be seen as a bid to appease Donald Trump after he threatened to annex Greenland, citing security concerns in the region. But even as the PM hailed what he said would be a demonstration of the transatlantic relationship, US secretary of state Marco Rubio warned the continents leaders over their malaise of hopelessness and said that the US needed a partner with the will to survive. It came as Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky hit out at the United States, saying his country was being asked to make concessions to Russia too often in US-brokered peace talks and that Europe was being sidelined. open image in gallery Keir Starmer announced that British warships are set to patrol the Arctic ( AP ) During an eventful day at the summit: Sir Keir rebuked President Trump, saying he should be in no doubt if called on, the UK would come to your aid today The PM said the UK should align more closely with the EU on the economy as well as on defence, and received a round of applause as he said: We are not the Britain of the Brexit years any more He attacked Reform as pro-Putin as he said Nigel Farages party and the Greens were offering a future of division and then capitulation that would see the the lamps go out across Europe once again Sir Keir denied that he had narrowly missed being toppled and said he had ended this week much stronger than I started it, and thats a very good place to be Addressing the event on Saturday morning, Sir Keir said leaders must not dither, because Russia has proved its appetite for aggression. He warned that, even if there were a peace deal for Ukraine, Russias rearmament would only accelerate. We must answer this threat in full, he said. The road ahead is straight and it is clear. We must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age. We must be able to deter aggression, and yes, if necessary, we must be ready to fight. Announcing the planned deployment of the warships, the prime minister said that the US, Canada and other Nato allies would join Britain in bolstering security across what is known as the Nigh North. Mr Trump has claimed that Europe does not do enough to defend Greenland, which is strategically important to the US, amid threats from Russia and China. open image in gallery Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Europe is being sidelined in peace talks over Ukraine ( EPA ) During his address, Sir Keir also hit out at Mr Trumps claims that he is unsure whether other Nato allies would come to the USs defence. One of the alliances founding principles, Article 5, is that an attack on one Nato member is regarded as an attack on all. It has only been invoked once, after the 9/11 terror attacks in New York. Be in no doubt, if called on, the UK would come to your aid today, he told the US president. As the world approaches the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine later this month, Sir Keir said the UK recognised the urgency of the need to establish closer defence ties with the EU. In a move that will infuriate Brexiteers at home, he also said that Britain should move towards deeper economic integration with the EU, aiming to move closer to the single market in various sectors. He insisted his cabinet was in full agreement as he attempted to brush off the Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwars bid last week to oust him from office, saying he had ended the week much stronger than I started it. His speech came less than an hour after an address by Mr Rubio, who warned Europe that the US did not want to be caretakers of Western decline. The US secretary of state criticised countries he said had spent not enough on defence and too much on welfare, had appeased a climate cult to their own economic detriment, had allowed too much immigration, and had not defended their history, as he hit out at what he said was a malaise of hopelessness and complacency. But Mr Zelensky in turn attacked the US, saying: The Americans often return to the topic of concessions, and too often those concessions are discussed only in the context of Ukraine, not Russia. Mr Zelensky said he hoped that the US would stay involved in the negotiations, and that there would be an opportunity for Europe to play a larger role. Europe is practically not present at the table. Its a big mistake, to my mind, he said. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A former Reform UK MP who once accused Nigel Farages group of a brutal smear campaign against him has launched a new political party, with a very similar name. Great Yarmouth MP Rupert Lowe formally unveiled his Restore Britain party on Friday night. Mr Lowe, currently an independent MP, used to sit as a Reform representative until he was expelled following allegations of bullying and verbal threats towards the partys chairman, Zia Yusuf. Mr Lowe vehemently denied all allegations against him and called them vexatious in a row that at one point saw tech billionaire Elon Musk suggest Mr Lowe should replace Mr Farage as the leader of Reform. Rupert Lowe and Nigel Farage fell out spectacularly ( Reuters/PA ) It erupted after Mr Lowe called Reform a protest party led by the Messiah in a newspaper interview. Leaked WhatsApp messages later showed Mr Farage denounced his behaviour as disgusting and contemptible and accused him of damaging the party just before elections. Restore Britain was initially set up as a political movement by Mr Lowe after his departure from Reform UK. It is now expected to act as an umbrella political party, with locally based political parties as its partners. Mr Lowe, for example, will stand again for the Great Yarmouth constituency with local party Great Yarmouth First, which will be a partner for Restore Britain. Senior Conservative figures Susan Hall and Sir Gavin Williamson had been involved in an advisory board for Restore Britain when it was described as a political movement. Former minister Sir Gavin suggested to the Press Association he would end his involvement with Restore Britain as a result of it becoming a political party. Ms Hall, the Conservative leader in the London Assembly, is also thought to be leaving the partys board. Last May, the Crown Prosecution Service announced Mr Lowe would not face criminal charges in relation to the alleged threats, following a thorough and detailed review of the evidence. In a statement, Mr Lowe accused Reform of carrying out a brutal smear campaign. He also attacked his former partys leader, calling him a coward and a viper. Nearly 30,000 minors have crossed into the U.S. in the last decade, pushed by violence and faced with an increasingly hostile migratory policy January 20 began like any other day for the Conejo family in Minnesota. Five-year-old Liam got into the car, shouldering his Spider-Man backpack, and went to school. A few hours later, his dad picked him up. When they arrived at their home, everything changed. It was at that moment that ICE agents detained both father and son. When he was released, after 11 days of detention, Adrian Conejo recalled in interviews with several media outlets how, The agents ordered Liam to ring the doorbell of our house, so that the people inside would come out. On the other side of the door, Adrians wife, who was four months pregnant, screamed desperately, helplessly, in response to her husbands request that she stay in the house. Although the family is together once again, they remain in hiding, afraid. As the face of Liam in his blue hat and Spider-Man bag made international media headlines, becoming a symbol for the most cruel aspects of U.S. immigration policy, in Ecuador, President Daniel Noboa chose to remain silent. This was no improvised decision. It was a political choice, and it was painfully telling. Liams is no isolated case. Two-year-old Chloe was also detained in Minneapolis alongside her father, and sent to a detention center in Texas on January 22. Three days later, only the young child was set free. According to official data from the Ecuadorian Foreign Ministry the little information that exists amid increasing opacity at least 32 Ecuadorian children remain in U.S. immigration centers. Between 2013 and 2023, close to 28,690 Ecuadorian kids migrated to the United States, according to Dixon Jimenez, of Ecuadors Council for Human Mobility. For political analyst Caroline Avila, Noboas silence when it comes to human rights is anything but neutral. It can be clearly read as submission to President Trumps power, which has proven itself superior, she says. During his campaigning, Noboa did not hesitate to crow about his ties to the Republicans inner circle, seeking the migrant vote. At the time, he even assured Ecuadorians that they would not be prioritized for deportation by the U.S. government. Today, the numbers tell a different story: 23,215 deportations in just two years. Noboa prioritizes trade relations with the United States, access to markets and financial stability. Ecuador has a dollarized economy and that dependence carries weight, says Avila. However, it harms the country when it comes to human rights, immigration and social issues. Defending migrants does not seem to be on the agenda of a government that is focused on the tariff issue with Colombia and on promoting the country with its trading partners. It will not upset Trump, she says. Government messaging has also focused strongly on highlighting trade agreements with other countries, justifying Noboas 34 international trips in two years. Just one day after Liams detention, the president surprised the country by imposing a 30% tax on Colombian products. Noboa justified the measure by citing the neighboring countrys lack of reciprocity in the fight against drug trafficking. What kind of president doesnt fight for his countrys people?, asks Avila. There are other things that cause him more damage, such as the fact that children in Ecuador are turned over, dead in cardboard boxes, in health centers, she says, referring to the national health systems serious supply crisis. Focus on such issues speaks to why the tragedy of migrant children like Liam does not become the subject of national attention. Protest at the South Texas Family Residential Center in Dilley, Texas on February 1. Kaylee Greenlee (REUTERS) Through a post on X, the Ecuadorian Foreign Ministry stated that it was monitoring the cases of detainees. The situation became more tense on January 27, when ICE agents tried to enter the Ecuadorian consulate in Minneapolis, where diplomatic staff assist undocumented individuals. The incident prompted Ecuador to issue a letter of protest, demanding respect for international law regarding diplomatic spacesas if it had forgotten its own April 2024 order to raid the Mexican embassy in Quito. Hence the importance of precedent in the framework of international law and respect for agreements, says the international affairs expert Esteban Santos. A decade fleeing Since 2023, 7,361 Ecuadorian children, either accompanied or alone, have crossed the U.S. border, according to U.S. Border Patrol. The majority of them made their way via the treacherous Darien Gap. These children carry too much violence for a single body, says Soledad Alvarez, an expert on undocumented migration and professor at the University of Illinois in Chicago. First they leave a country overtaken by organized crime; then they cross the Darien; then they survive Mexico which is at its most violent point in recent decades; and when they finally arrive to the United States, another kind of terror begins. Many of the Ecuadorian children who are currently detained in the United States crossed the jungle in the company of their parents or strangers. Children stripped naked, locked away in security houses, held by drug traffickers who demand ransoms, as Alvarez puts it. She has provided close accompaniment to migrants, particularly those from the Indigenous communities of Cotpaxi who have settled in Chicago. The families arrive heavily indebted to the Ecuadorian banking system, and go to work in construction, cleaning, or selling candy on the subway. They pay taxes, send remittances home and had begun just barely to put their lives back together. And then the migrant hunt began. Since January, immigration raids have intensified in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago and Minneapolis. Alvarez says that the strategy is to detain the men first, crippling the familys economic stability and pushing them towards voluntary departure. It is a deliberate policy of family separation, she says. And children are paying the highest price. Five, seven or eight-year-old children who cry at night because their father is not coming home. Who speak with him through a screen from prison. Who urinate on themselves out of fear. Who have to adapt to an educational system in another language while living under the constant threat of ICE knocking on their door, says Alvarez, summing up nearly 100 cases with which she has become familiar. The psychological damage is deep and lasting, says the professor. And thats not really being talked about. Among the testimonies she has collected from deported migrants, there are the torture conditions to which they are subjected in a system that, according to Alvarez, was created to benefit large corporations within the prison systems to which migrants are transferred. Individuals are traded like merchandise between detention centers until they arrive at the Alexandria Staging Facility, a Louisiana institution known as the cooler whose freezing rooms are designed to break bodies and spirits. That is done so that they dont ever want to come back, says Alvarez, who criticizes the lack of information around what happens with migrant children. For Ingrid Echeverria, a U.S. immigration lawyer, the situation is devastating. Today, a child receives exactly the same legal treatment as an adult, she says. They could be a baby. The laws are the same. Echeverria tells of the case of a young man who was a minor, had a valid work visa and no criminal record, who was detained on his way to work. The judge ignored federal precedent, and the system pushed the young man to accept voluntary departure. Not even status as a minor guarantees you protection, Echeverria says. The future of Ecuadorian children detained in the United States is uncertain. Even those who have a possibility of asylum face nearly impossible requirements, and many others are unaware of their options to protect themselves from removal. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Independent MP Rupert Lowe has announced he has launched a new political party following his fractious exit from Reform UK. Restore Britain formally launched on Friday evening. The Great Yarmouth representative's venture is set to operate as an umbrella organisation, partnering with locally-based political groups across the country. Restore Britain initially emerged as a "political movement" following Mr Lowe's departure from Reform UK. He plans to contest his Great Yarmouth constituency under the local party Great Yarmouth First, which will align with Restore Britain. Senior Conservative figures Susan Hall and Sir Gavin Williamson were previously involved in an advisory capacity when Restore Britain was a movement. However, it remains unclear what Mr Lowe's decision to establish it as a formal political party means for their ongoing involvement. Mr Lowe was suspended by Reform UK in March 2025 ( AFP via Getty Images ) Both have been contacted for comment. Mr Lowe was suspended by Reform UK in March 2025 after being accused of threatening violence towards party chairman Zia Yusuf. At the time, Scotland Yard said a complaint of verbal threats made about an alleged incident in December 2024 was being assessed by officers. In a statement, Reform said it had received evidence of serious bullying and derogatory remarks made about women in the MPs offices, with two separate staffers said to have made allegations. Mr Lowe later said that Nigel Farage must never become prime minister after the Reform UK leader allegedly called his behaviour disgusting and contemptible in leaked private messages. Mr Lowe denied the claims, describing the statement as vexatious and saying the complaint to police obviously went in just after I asked reasonable questions of Reforms leadership. Mr Farage accused Mr Lowe of damaging the party just before elections in a WhatsApp conversation with a member of the Great Yarmouth MPs staff, the BBC reported. Mr Farage said that a Kings Counsel had been appointed by the party to look at the bullying complaints made by two separate women working for Mr Lowe. Sign up to our free Brexit newsletter for our analysis of the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Britains Brexit years are over, Sir Keir Starmer will tell world leaders on Saturday as he calls for closer security ties with Europe and less reliance on Donald Trumps United States. After transatlantic tensions flared following the US presidents repeated threats to take Greenland from Denmark, the prime minister will call for Europe to curb its dependence on the US, while praising the continent as a sleeping giant whose economic and military might can defeat its enemies. After surviving the most tumultuous week of his premiership so far, including an attempt to oust him from office, Sir Keir will also warn that turning inwards, as the UK did during Brexit, would amount to surrender in a perilous era. The prime minister will make his remarks at the Munich Security Conference, where last year the US vice-president JD Vance stunned delegates by accusing Europe of retreating from some of its most fundamental values and claimed that the greatest peril facing the continent was not Russia or China but the threat from within. Since then, President Trump has sent shockwaves through Europe with repeated threats to take over Greenland, as well as directing insults at various leaders. He has also falsely accused European Nato allies, including the UK, of avoiding the front line in the war in Afghanistan. As he departed for Munich on Friday, the US secretary of state Marco Rubio, who is attending on behalf of the Trump administration this year, warned of a new era in geopolitics. open image in gallery The prime minister will call for Europe to curb its dependence on the US ( PA ) In his speech, Sir Keir will say he is setting out a vision of European security and greater European autonomy that does not herald US withdrawal, but answers the call for more burden-sharing in full, and remakes the ties that have served us so well. However, he will also praise the contribution made by the US to European security, and say that it remains a key ally. Sir Keir will describe Europe as a sleeping giant, saying: Our economies dwarf Russias, 10 times over. We have huge defence capabilities. But he will warn that, too often, this has amounted to less than the sum of its parts, with gaps in some areas and massive duplication in others. And he will call on the continent to make the most of its defence capabilities, including via closer cooperation on defence between the UK and the EU in order to multiply our strengths and build a shared industrial base across Europe that can turbocharge our defence production. Sir Keirs speech comes less than three months after talks on Britain joining the EUs new 150bn (130bn) Security Action for Europe rearmament fund broke down amid financial disagreements. The Labour leader will also hit out at Reform UK and the Green Party, describing them as the peddlers of easy answers on the extreme left and the extreme right and claiming that the future they offer would see the lamps ... go out across Europe once again, a reference to the chilling remark made by the then foreign secretary Sir Edward Grey before the First World War. open image in gallery Marco Rubio, pictured with German chancellor Friedrich Merz, is also due to address the conference on Saturday ( AP ) Sir Keir will say: Its striking that the different ends of the spectrum share so much. Soft on Russia and weak on Nato if not outright opposed. And determined to sacrifice the longstanding relationships that we want and need to build, on the altar of their ideology. The future they offer is one of division and then capitulation. The lamps would go out across Europe once again. But we will not let that happen. On Friday shortly after his arrival in Munich Sir Keir held trilateral talks with Germanys Friedrich Merz and Frances Emmanuel Macron where he emphasised the need for cooperation in defence. The prime minister said: "There's no UK security without European security. There's no European security without UK security. So we have to work together." World leaders gathering in Munich for the annual security conference are being greeted by a report that savages the policies of Mr Trump and warns that global security structures risk being turned to rubble. The Munich Security Report 2026, titled Under Destruction, says that the world has entered a period of wrecking-ball politics. Sweeping destruction rather than careful reforms and policy corrections is the order of the day, it reads. The most prominent of those who promise to free their country from the existing orders constraints and rebuild a stronger, more prosperous nation is the current US administration. As a result, more than 80 years after construction began, the US-led post-1945 international order is now under destruction. Dame Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, said: Keir Starmer has a habit of handing away sovereignty, and now he is once again rolling the pitch for greater EU integration and less control for the UK. Britain is uniquely placed to help bring the US and Europe together, ensuring Nato is as strong as possible. We must not be overdependent on America, but neither should we offer Europe a blank cheque, prepared to accept any and all costs, as Labour are. Starmers repeated surrenders to China show he lacks the backbone to stand up for Britain on the international stage. His weakness has undermined the special relationship and put our country in danger. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A private jet in Florida was reportedly forced to make an emergency landing after the Federal Aviation Administration said it hit multiple deer during takeoff. The jet, a Cessna Citation, struck the animals Tuesday evening while taking off from North Palm Beach County General Aviation Airport, the FAA said in a statement. The plane then made an emergency landing at the nearby Palm Beach International Airport, according to The Palm Beach Post. The plane, which was heading to Cincinnati, was carrying seven passengers when it took off near the states Beeline Highway, The Palm Beach Post reports. No injuries were reported, and the plane landed safely. The aircraft landed at Palm Beach International Airport shortly after 7:30 p.m. and was towed to the parking ramp as a precaution, a spokesperson for the Palm Beach County Department of Airports told The Independent. The air traffic control tower at Palm Beach International Airport. A private jet was forced to land at Palm Beach International Airport after hitting 'multiple deer' while taking off at a different regional airport ( Getty Images ) The pilot said he was going to declare an emergency because he hit four or five deer on the nose gear and possibly on the wings. according to air traffic control audio reviewed by The Palm Beach Post. The pilot reportedly asked air traffic controllers: Can you let [North County Airport] know there are deer on the runway? Air traffic controllers then had to make changes to accommodate the private jets emergency landing at Palm Beach International Airport. At one point, a United pilot reportedly asked air traffic control: Did you say they hit deer? That is their report, an air traffic controller responded. This kind of incident is an extremely rare event, like getting hit by lightning or getting bit by a shark, pilot Michael Leighton told local outlet WPBF. It's not something that happens. You could fly your whole life, your entire life. I've got 16,000 flight hours, that's two full years off the surface of the Earth, and I've never hit an animal with an airplane. Can it happen? Sure. Is it likely to happen? Probably not," he said. Leighton noted that its often not possible for planes to take a sudden turn once they reach a certain speed during takeoff. "You're not able to swerve left or right like you can with a car. With an airplane, your range of motion is much smaller because the plane only has three wheels, so it's not made for that. It's not made to turn quickly at high speed on the ground," he added. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice IKEA has decided to close one of its stores just a year after it completed a full renovation at the location. Memphis residents say they are saddened to see the affordable Swedish retailer shut its doors in the Tennessee city later this year. Once the IKEA store closes on May 3, there will be no more in-store shopping locations in Tennessee. There is another store in Antioch, Tennessee, but its pick-up only. I just found a place where I can get all the items that I need, and then now I find out its closing, IKEA shopper Jim Kincaid told WMC Memphis. Thats devastating news to me. In an announcement on Tuesday, the retailer said it decided to close its Memphis store after a comprehensive review, and considering several factors including market share, business performance, cost structure, and overall optimization of physical assets. open image in gallery IKEA has planned to close one of its stores a year after it completed a full renovation ( Bruce Bennett/Getty Images ) The news came as a shock to some. From what we see, its busy all the time, never heard about anything bad about it. Its convenient, Memphis shopper Milton Siler said of the IKEA location. We have friends that come from out of town. They come in here to specifically visit the store before they go back, Siler told WMC Memphis. We did not see that coming The Memphis store had just undergone renovations that IKEA unveiled about a year ago. After opening the Memphis location in 2016, IKEA overhauled its showroom and market hall. The renovations included a Central Planning Hub with experts ready to help customers with home projects and a 100-plus-seat Swedish restaurant and food market. The Independent has reached out to IKEA for comment. Another IKEA shopper, Morgan Shea, called the store closure really heartbreaking. Its rare to find affordable, good furniture, she told WMC Memphis. open image in gallery Memphis residents are saddened to see their local affordable furniture store go out of business after growing accustomed to the convenience of having a location nearby ( Google Earth ) IKEA said Memphis customers can still shop online for its home goods. Despite the Memphis closure, IKEA is investing $2.2 billion in the U.S., according to the companys announcement. This investment includes the opening of 14 new format stores last year and plans to add an undisclosed number of new locations this year. As for the workers impacted by the Memphis store closure, IKEA said it will try to retain as many co-workers as possible by supporting transitions into roles at other IKEA locations. Those who do not want to relocate will be offered severance. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Jeffrey Epstein repeatedly emphasized his connections to the former head of the Nobel Peace Prize committee when communicating with elites such as Richard Branson, Larry Summers, Bill Gates and Steve Bannon, according to the newly released Epstein files. Thorbjrn Jagland, who led the Norwegian Nobel Committee from 2009 to 2015, appears hundreds of times in the millions of documents about Epstein, released last month by the U.S. Justice Department. Since the release, the 75-year-old Jagland has been charged in Norway with aggravated corruption, the economic crime unit of Norwegian police kokrim said. The investigation is examining whether gifts, travel or loans were linked to Jaglands position. kokrim searched his Oslo residence on Thursday, along with properties in Risr and Rauland. His attorneys at Elden law firm in Norway said Jagland denies the charges, and was questioned by the police unit on Thursday. While there is no evidence in the documents seen so far of any outright lobbying for the Nobel Peace Prize, Epstein repeatedly played up hosting Jagland at his properties in New York and Paris in the 2010s. ( Heiko Junge/NTB Scanpix via AP ) While there is no evidence in the documents seen so far of any outright lobbying for the Nobel Peace Prize, Epstein repeatedly played up hosting Jagland at his properties in New York and Paris in the 2010s. From an interesting guest to subject of banter with Bannon In September 2018, during Trumps first term and in an apparent allusion to his interest in the peace prize, Epstein had a varied text-message exchange with Bannon, at one point writing in one of many messages with untidy grammar: donalds head would explode if he knew you were now buds with the guy who on monday will decide the nobel peace prize. I told him next year it should be you when we settle china, he added, without elaborating. In one email from 2013, mixing in investment tips and praise for PR tips, Epstein told British entrepreneur and magnate Richard Branson that Jagland would be staying with Epstein in September that year, adding: if you are there, you might find him interesting. A year after she left a job as White House counsel to President Barack Obama, in 2015, Kathy Ruemmler got an email from Epstein saying: "head of nobel peace prize coming to visit, want to join?" In 2012, Epstein wrote former Treasury Secretary and Harvard University president Larry Summers about Jagland, saying head of the nobel peace prize staying with me, if you have any interest. In that exchange, Epstein referred to Jagland also a former Norwegian prime minister and former head of the Council of Europe, a human rights body as not bright but someone who offered a unique perspective. The financier wrote Bill Gates in 2014, saying that Jagland had been reelected as head of the Council of Europe. That is good, the Microsoft co-founder and the world's former richest man, wrote. I guess his peace prize committee job is also up in the air? During Jagland's tenure as chair of the committee, it gave the peace prize to Obama in 2009 and the European Union in 2012. Jagland was brought into Epsteins orbit by Terje Rd Larsen, a Norwegian diplomat who helped broker the Oslo Peace Accords between Israel and Palestinians. Larsen and wife are also facing corruption charges in Norway due to their association with Epstein. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The official portrait from President Donald Trumps first term has never been shown to the public, and he wants to keep it that way, a new report reveals. A portrait of Trump was painted by an artist commissioned by the Smithsonians National Portrait Gallery in 2021, shortly after he left office. Presidential portraits are typically hung in the gallery after they have permanently left office but due to Trumps announcement in 2022 that he was running again, the painting was not displayed in the gallerys Americas Presidents exhibit. Now, according to The New York Times, Trump prefers a different image to represent his presidency when he leaves office in 2029. The 2021 portrait was painted by the late artist Ronald Sherr and reportedly depicts Trump at a rally with the White House in the background. open image in gallery The official portrait from President Donald Trumps first term (not pictured) has never been shown to the public, but now he reportedly wants a new one commissioned ( AFP/Getty ) White House officials told the Times it represents a vestige of his first term, and a second portrait has been discussed that encapsulates his entire time in office. President Trump was appreciative of the portrait created for his 45th term, and looks forward to seeing the completion of a portrait that will encapsulate both his 45th and 47th presidential terms, White House spokesman Davis Ingle told the newspaper. However, a spokeswoman for the gallery told the Times that it was unaware of a request for a second portrait. When reached for comment by The Independent, a spokesperson for the gallery said, We have no comment at this time. Sherrs widow, Lois Sherr, told the outlet that her late husband told her Trump had spoken warmly of the portrait. What sets this portrait by Ron apart is that he captured Trumps movement, energy and feeling of absolute resolve, she said. open image in gallery If portraits or photographs are not to Trumps liking, he has often taken to Truth Social to air his grievances, including one hung of him in the Colorado state capitol in 2025 ( Trump Social/@realDonaldTrump/Sarah Boardman ) If portraits or photographs are not to Trumps liking, he has often taken to Truth Social to air his grievances. In October 2025, he complained about a photograph of himself on the front of Time Magazine that was taken from below. Time Magazine wrote a relatively good story about me, but the picture may be the Worst of All Time, Trump complained on Truth Social. I never liked taking pictures from underneath angles, but this is a super bad picture, and deserves to be called out. And in March last year, the Colorado state legislature agreed to take down a painting of Trump that he had blasted on Truth Social as distorted and the worst. Nobody likes a bad picture or painting of themselves, but the one in Colorado ... was purposefully distorted to a level that even I, perhaps, have never seen before, Trump said. The artist also did President Obama, and he looks wonderful, but the one on me is truly the worst. She must have lost her talent as she got older, he added. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A top aide of President Donald Trump, who spearheaded massive government cuts, is getting a $15 million security detail paid for with slashed funds from the U.S. Agency for International Development, according to a new report. Russell Vought, the director of the White Houses Office of Management and Budget, will be protected by the Marshals Service through the end of the year, using what remains of the USAIDs operating expenses, Reuters reported Friday, citing official documents. The Trump administration dismantled the 60-year-old foreign aid agency early into the presidents second term in the name of government efficiency. The controversial move left tens of thousands of government workers out of a job and slashed $60 billion in humanitarian aid for millions of vulnerable people around the world, the Associated Press reported. open image in gallery Russell Vought, a top aide of President Donald Trump who spearheaded massive government cuts, is getting a $15 million security detail paid for with slashed funds from the U.S. Agency for International Development, according to a new report ( Getty ) When asked about the USAID funds, OMB spokesperson Rachel Cauley told Reuters, We are going to continue to use available funds at the three agencies overseen by the director to protect him, seemingly referring to the budget office, the foreign aid agency and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. A person familiar with the matter told Reuters that Vought has more than a dozen Marshals protecting him. While the Marshals Service didnt specifically identify Vought as under its protection, it told the publication that it "could offer protection to members of the executive branch who face threats or at the direction of the attorney general." The Independent has reached out to OMB and the Marshals Service for comment. Vought, who was portrayed in an AI-generated video shared by Trump on social media as the Grim Reaper, was the lead author of Project 2025, a manual produced by the Heritage Foundation in 2023 that advised on conservative policies for the next presidency. open image in gallery Vought will be protected by the Marshals Service through the end of the year, using what remains of the USAIDs operating expenses ( Getty ) Despite Trump claiming during the 2024 election cycle that he had nothing to do with Project 2025, it has served as the blueprint for many of his second administrations policies. Vought railed against what he saw as a politically biased, bloated federal government in Project 2025: A president today assumes office to find a sprawling federal bureaucracy that all too often is carrying out its own policy plans and preferencesor, worse yet, the policy plans and preferences of a radical, supposedly woke faction of the country. The Reuters source said that Vought has received serious threats, apparently connected to his part in Project 2025. Cauley blamed The Left for fueling an assassination culture against public officials and then acting shocked about what it takes to keep them safe. open image in gallery A person familiar with the matter told Reuters that Vought has more than a dozen Marshals protecting him ( Middle East Images ) There has been an increase in political violence targeting both sides of the political aisle in recent years, including the two assassination attempts on Trump and the shootings of Democratic lawmakers in Minnesota. Consumer advocacy group Public Citizen bashed Vought following the Reuters reporting. Russell Vought has literally taken food out the mouths of hungry children and treatment away from the sick and vulnerableand now is using the proceeds to pay for what appears to be a platoon of bodyguards. Disgusting, Robert Weissman, co-president of Public Citizen, said in a statement. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A man has been shot at the Arc de Triomphe monument in Paris after he wielded a knife and tried to attack police, officials said. The attacker targeted an officer securing a ceremony for relighting the eternal flame honoring unknown soldiers at the Napoleon-era landmark, according to a Paris police official. Another officer shot the attacker, who was hospitalized, the official said. No bystanders or police officers were injured in the incident, the official told The Associated Press. The French counterterrorism prosecutors office said it is investigating the case and sent an investigator to the scene. open image in gallery No bystanders or police officers were injured in the incident, officials said ( AP ) The Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris' most famous sites, and sits atop the busy Champs-Elysees avenue. A large police presence was visible Friday evening near the monument, which was closed to the public. The traffic circle surrounding the Arc de Triomphe remained open to vehicles. The nearby metro station was closed for security reasons at the request of police, Paris public transport operator RATP said. No other details were immediately available. HONG KONG, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Boundary control points in Hong Kong recorded about 330 million in passenger traffic in 2025, up 12 percent from 2024, official data showed. Inbound and outbound private car trips totaled 11.9 million last year, up 24 percent from 2024, while goods vehicle trips reached 4.8 million, a 6 percent increase, according to the customs authorities of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government. In 2025, the customs authorities detected a total of 38,869 cases, rising 24 percent year on year. About 75 percent of these cases were related to illicit cigarettes, followed by cases related to dangerous drugs and intellectual property rights infringement. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice French rape survivor Gisele Pelicot has said she is overwhelmed after receiving a personal letter of support from Queen Camilla following her ex-husband Dominique Pelicots conviction. The Queen, a longtime campaigner against domestic violence and sexual abuse, commended Ms Pelicots extraordinary dignity and courage in the correspondence. Ms Pelicots former husband was sentenced to 20 years in prison for drugging and raping her, and for allowing other men to assault her while she was unconscious. The horrific abuse spanned nearly a decade. He had recruited other men in an online chatroom to rape her while she was unconscious; following a trial that took place in Avignon, 47 of them were found guilty of rape, two were found guilty of attempted rape, and two were found guilty of sexual assault. They were jailed for a total of 428 years. Extracts from Ms Pelicots book, A Hymn to Life: Shame Has to Change Sides, written with journalist Judith Perrignon and published by French newspaper Le Monde, explain how her then husband was summoned by police after a supermarket security guard caught him secretly filming up womens skirts. Speaking to the BBCs Newsnight, Gisele Pelicot described the letter as an honour ( AP/Lewis Joly ) The 73-year-old bravely waived her right to anonymity, asserting that the shame should fall on her abusers, not on her. In the letter, Queen Camilla told Ms Pelicot: I very much wanted to write to express my heartfelt admiration for the courage, grace and dignity with which you have faced the horrific crimes committed against you. Speaking to the BBCs Newsnight, Ms Pelicot described the letter as an honour, adding: I was overwhelmed that the Queen could send me this letter. Although my words touched the whole world, I wasnt expecting a letter from the Court of England. I felt moved and very honoured that she had become aware of what had happened to me. I am grateful to her. Camilla has dedicated her royal charity work to supporting victims of sexual assault. Last year, she praised the brilliant efforts of health workers and staff at a specialist centre in Exeter, which she officially opened. The Queen has previously championed the idea of providing free toiletries to those who have been attacked, an initiative that has recently been revived. In an ITV documentary, she vowed to keep trying to end domestic violence until I am able to no more. Rape Crisis offers support for those affected by rape and sexual abuse. You can call them on 0808 802 9999 in England and Wales, 0808 801 0302 in Scotland, and 0800 0246 991 in Northern Ireland, or visit their website at www.rapecrisis.org.uk. If you are in the US, you can call Rainn on 800-656-HOPE (4673) Rescue operations continue in Kharkiv as Kyiv says Moscow used new weapon in deadly attack On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukrainian experts are heading to the Middle East to provide expertise on combatting Iranian drone attacks. Kyiv is hoping to leverage its experience with drone warfare in exchange for new supplies of US air defence missiles, amid concerns that the Middle East conflict could stretch global supplies. Asked how Kyiv intended to help the United States and its Gulf allies counter drone attacks, Zelensky said it was too early to say anything else at this stage, adding that experts would arrive on site in the coming week and assess the situation and help. Ukraine has highlighted its expertise in drone warfare since the outbreak of the joint US and Israel attack on Iran, and has expressed interest in supplying interceptor drones to counter Iranian Shahed UAVs in exchange for Patriot air defence systems. Ukraine was already facing a shortage of costly PAC-3 interceptor missiles supplied by the United States, and officials fear a prolonged conflict with Iran could further disrupt supplies. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Putin arch-rival Alexei Navalny died after being poisoned with a lethal toxin and Russia is to blame for the attack, Britain and its European allies have said. In a dramatic press conference held at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, the UK, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said that analysis of samples from Navalnys body had found the presence of epibatidine a deadly toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America. After the findings were announced by Navalnys widow Yulia Navalnaya, foreign secretary Yvette Cooper pinned the blame squarely on the Kremlin and said only Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to carry out such an attack. For the latest updates on the Munich Security Conference, read our live blog HERE open image in gallery Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny stands inside a glass cell during a court hearing at the Babushkinsky district court in Moscow on 20 February 2021 ( AFP via Getty ) She said: Today, beside his widow, the UK is shining a light on the Kremlins barbaric plot to silence his voice. Russia saw Navalny as a threat. By using this form of poison, the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition. The five countries said Russia had shown a repeated disregard for international law and that they had reported the poisoning to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. The Kremlin has rejected the claims, with Russian foreign ministry Maria Zakharova telling TASS: "When the test results are available and the formulas for the substances are disclosed, we will comment accordingly. Until then, all such assertions are merely propaganda aimed at diverting attention from pressing Western issues," the news agency cited her as saying. The report also said she described Navalny as a blogger "officially designated as a terrorist and extremist in Russia". Meanwhile, prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Navalny displayed huge courage in the face of tyranny. He added: His determination to expose the truth has left an enduring legacy, and my thoughts are with his family today. I am doing whatever it takes to defend our people, our values and our way of life from the threat of Russia and Putins murderous intent. After the press conference, Ms Navalnaya called for Vladimir Putin to be held accountable. She wrote: I was certain from the first day that my husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof: Putin killed Alexei with chemical weapon. Ms Navalnaya previously announced her husbands death at the same gathering, two years ago. The Kremlin has always denied any involvement. open image in gallery Russian president Vladimir Putin listens to the head of the North Ossetia-Alania Republic of Russia Sergei Menyailo, during their meeting at the Kremlin earlier this week ( AP ) Navalny, a thorn in the side of the Kremlin who crusaded against official corruption and staged massive anti-Putin protests, died in a penal colony in Siberia in February 2024, aged 47. The former lawyer had been serving a 19-year sentence on charges he believed to be politically motivated. It is not clear how the frog poison was allegedly administered to Navalny. But the allies also pointed to an attempt to poison Navalny with the nerve agent novichok in 2020, which followed the Salisbury poisonings in 2018. Ms Navalnaya said last year that two independent labs had found that her husband was poisoned shortly before his death. It had been widely assumed that Navalny had been poisoned by the Russian state, but evidence of the specific poison in his body, along with the statement by the European countries, is a new development. In her statement, she added: I am grateful to the European states for the meticulous work they carried out over two years, and for uncovering the truth. Vladimir Putin is a murderer. He must be held accountable for all his crimes. open image in gallery Yulia Navalnaya, widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, beside his picture in June 2024 ( DPA ) The Foreign Office said there can be no innocent explanation for the toxin having been found on Navalnys body. Ms Cooper added: Since Yulia Navalnaya announced the loss of her husband here in Munich two years ago, the UK has pursued the truth of Alexei Navalnys death with fierce determination. Only the Russian government had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin against Alexei Navalny during his imprisonment in Russia. Navalnys death came after Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were poisoned with novichok in July 2018. Last year, a major inquiry into the poisonings found that Putin had ordered the astonishingly reckless attempted assassination of Mr Skripal as a public demonstration of Russian power. The report also said the Russian president was morally responsible for the death of Dawn Sturgess, an innocent bystander who died after being exposed to the chemical weapon after it was left in a discarded perfume bottle. open image in gallery Prime minister Keir Starmer and foreign secretary Yvette Cooper arriving at the summit in Munich on Friday ( Simon Dawson/No 10 Downing Street ) Russia was also responsible for the assassination of former spy Alexander Litvinenko in the UK, according to the European Court of Human Rights. The 43-year-old, who had worked for the Russian security services before defecting to the UK, died after drinking green tea laced with poison in London in 2006. The joint statement by the five countries said they are confident that Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a lethal toxin. It added: This is the conclusion of our governments based on analyses of samples from Alexei Navalny. These analyses have conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine. Epibatidine is a toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America. It is not found naturally in Russia. Russia claimed that Navalny died of natural causes. But given the toxicity of epibatidine and reported symptoms, poisoning was highly likely the cause of his death. Navalny died while held in prison, meaning Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison to him. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Keir Starmer is announcing a pivot away from America and towards Europe in the most radical shift in British foreign policy for decades resetting the UKs place in a world that will diminish Americas power. There will be consternation in some quarters of the nations armed forces, particularly the Special Forces, but ending the junior partner status of Britain under the US puts an end to the fantasy of the special relationship. The PM has grasped a barbed wire nettle many of his predecessors could not even see when he stands up at the Munich Security Conference to say: There is no British security without Europe, and no European security without Britain. That is the lesson of history and it is todays reality too. He has insisted the US remains an indispensable ally. But he is now insisting that America is no longer the only ally and recognising that Washington is not even a reliable friend. It has been a long time coming. But it has not always been the case. open image in gallery Keir Starmer attends a trilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and German chancellor Friedrich Merz at the Munich Security Conference in Germany ( PA ) Until the end of the Cold War, Britain and the US had a more equal partnership. It was underpinned by the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing relationship with Canada, New Zealand, Australia, the US and UK, but London showed fierce independence. The UK stayed out of the Vietnam war. The US gave little to no support to Britains recapture of the Falkland Islands from Argentina in 1982. When the US led a multinational UN-sanctioned mission to end warlordism and mass starvation in Somalia in 1992, France, Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan and numerous other nations joined a mission of noble intent. But not Britain. In those days, it was recognised by a British defence attache in Washington, a major general, that the special relationship is special to us but not to the Americans. Theyre polite and courtly and always seem to listen. Then they close the door behind us when weve gone and ignore what we said. It made us feel important but we mattered little to them, he said before the UK joined the US in the ill-fated war in Iraq and the two-decade fiasco of Afghanistan. In taking Britain into the Iraq war, the UK became a sub-unit of the US military and in the decade of the so-called war on terror that followed, that status was cemented by underfunding and overreliance on the equipment known as enablers the satellite imagery, air transport and refuelling, and the logistics chains that the US leads the world in providing. Then, last year, 80 years of assumptions about the UKs future defences were upended by the Trump administration when the junior relationship was downgraded. open image in gallery Marco Rubio told reporters before landing in Munich that the old world order had gone ( AFP/Getty ) Writing on Substack this week, Tom Tugendhat, a Tory backbencher and former chair of the defence select committee (and former frontline intelligence officer), said: British defence policy rested on four pillars. The assumption of automatic American support. The credibility of Nato as a guaranteed security provider. The stability of long-term defence planning. And the political consensus that defence could remain a secondary concern. Within the first fifty days of Donald Trumps return to the White House, all four were effectively dismantled. Britains Special Air Service and the Special Boat Service, each (officially) comprising four squadrons of tier 1 operators, are the only units with which the UK and US are on parity. The Americans have about the same number of their most highly trained soldiers. For the last 25 years, they have worked hand in glove. Britains military reputation with the US has largely rested on this relationship; even though the UK lacked the specialist equipment and aircraft their cousins could call on, they enjoyed access to the very best kit through that relationship. Elsewhere, the UK has fared less well from the relationship. In Iraq, American and Iraqi troops had to bail the British out of a disastrous campaign in Basra and the south of the country. In Helmand, embattled British-led troops in southern Afghanistan were again bailed out by a 30,000-person surge by US Marines. For the Americans, it has been good to have the British along. Frontline soldiers deeply appreciated the panache and bravery of the UKs fighting men and women. But they were never militarily necessary. The British army, now around 72,000, is less than half the size of the US Marine Corps, 172,000. Active service personnel in the whole of the British armed forces are less than the marines can field and on top of that, the marines have their own jets, transport, artillery and ships. They can operate with far greater direct punch and autonomy than the British. There are more of them, they have better equipment, and theyre all from the same unit. open image in gallery Members of the Finnish and British armies in Vuosanka, near Kajaani in Finland, train during a major exercise on Natos border with Russia ( PA ) The threat to the UK is from Russia. So it makes sense to concentrate military efforts and improve military capacity in Europe, and with European forces. We are not the Britain of the Brexit years any more. Because we know that, in dangerous times, we would not take control by turning inward we would surrender it. And I wont let that happen, the prime minister said. I'm talking about a vision of European security and greater European autonomy that does not herald US withdrawal but answers the call for more burden sharing in full, and remakes the ties that have served us so well. He is right to argue that Europe and the UK need to invest in their own arms manufacturing capability and wean themselves off American-made equipment. A rapid end to duplication across the continent will be essential for the region to better cope with the autonomy that Trump is thrusting upon it with his threats against Greenland and his general contempt for Nato. Britains Royal Navy is the most powerful in Europe, with two aircraft carriers and nuclear-powered submarines, with the total tonnage of vessels greater than the German, French and Italian navies combined. France has more people in its forces, around 200,000, and a larger army, but the UK has more specialised units focused on fast deployment. open image in gallery Ukrainian soldiers ride in the truck bed for an assignment on the front line in the Zaporizhzhia region ( AP ) Polands forces are fast-growing, with around 215,000 on active service, and it is arming at a staggering pace. Turkey is Natos second-largest force of about 440,000 after the US (1.3 million). But in more directly working in Europe and as a European nation, the UKs forces will have the opportunity to be the first among equals in cooperating over defending against a real and present danger in the Kremlin, and dealing with Moscows grey, or hybrid, war thats already being fought across Europe. Theyll be joined, no doubt, by Ukraines 800,000-plus battle-hardened veterans and Kyivs fast-growing military-industrial sector. We want to bring our leadership in defence, tech and AI together with Europe to multiply our strengths and build a shared industrial base across Europe which can turbocharge our defence production, Sir Keir said. Trump has insisted that is what he wants to see. But when it starts to happen, an independent Europe will leave America much enfeebled. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Drone strikes claimed lives in both Ukraine and Russia on Saturday, casting a grim shadow over the prospect of fresh peace talks scheduled for next week. An elderly woman was killed when a Russian drone struck a residential building in the Black Sea port city of Odesa, Ukraines State Emergency Service confirmed. Meanwhile, in Russia, a civilian died in a Ukrainian drone attack on a car in the border region of Bryansk, according to regional Governor Alexander Bogomaz. These incidents followed a Ukrainian missile strike on the Russian border city of Belgorod the previous day, which killed two people and wounded five, as reported by Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov. Against this backdrop of escalating hostilities, a new round of US-brokered discussions between envoys from Russia and Ukraine is set to take place in Geneva next week. The talks, confirmed by officials in Moscow and Kyiv on Friday, will occur just days before the fourth anniversary of Russias full-scale invasion of its neighbour. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated the discussions would be held on Tuesday and Wednesday, a schedule corroborated by Dmytro Lytvyn, communications adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The negotiations unfold amid relentless fighting along the roughly 1,250-kilometre front line, persistent Russian bombardment of Ukrainian civilian areas and its power grid, and Kyivs almost daily long-range drone attacks on military-related assets within Russian territory. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addresses the audience during a session at the Munich Security Conference ( AP ) Previous US-led efforts to find common ground, including two recent rounds of talks in Abu Dhabi, have failed to resolve contentious issues such as the future of Ukraines Donbas industrial heartland, which is largely occupied by Russian forces. Speaking at the annual Munich Security Conference on Saturday, President Zelenskyy expressed profound gratitude to American and European allies for their provision of air defence systems, which he said protect vital infrastructure like power plants and "save lives." He emphasised the constant threat, stating: "Russian attacks happen almost every night in Ukraine and at least once a week, massive strikes." He added: "Without you Americans, Europeans, and everyone who stands with us, it would have been very, very difficult to hold on." Mr Zelenskyy reiterated his conviction that security guarantees for Ukraine must precede any peace agreement with Russia. He also noted last week that the United States had set a June deadline for Ukraine and Russia to reach a deal, though previous deadlines given by Donald Trump have largely passed without consequence. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Zahraa, Muhammad, Ali and Ibrahim thought they were playing with a harmless piece of scrap metal. Within minutes, five-year-old Zahraa and six-year-old Muhammad had been killed. Ali, 3, and Ibrahim, 12, were being rushed to the nearest hospital in northwest Syria, bodies pierced by pieces of shrapnel from an unexploded munition left in their village by forces belonging to deposed dictator Bashar al-Assad. We were in complete shock. We didnt even realise what was happening. We couldn't understand how tragic it was, recalls their uncle, Ali Mohammed Al-Abrash. open image in gallery Zahraa, 5, and Muhammad, 6, were killed in the explosion ( Ali Mohammed Al-Abrash ) Just six days after the explosion, he spoke to The Independent about the heartache that has rippled through the community of Maardabsa, south of Saraqib. The roads, the village, everywhere reminds us of our beloved Zahraa and Muhammad, he says, a voice strained with emotion as he spoke from the tent in which the family shelters. With their father abroad, Ali said he was like a father to the two children who brought joy and happiness to the whole family. It is a story all too common in the north, northwest and central regions regions of Syria, ravaged by years of war and littered with thousands of unexploded munitions. The abandoned weapons pose an ever present threat to civilians even during a period of relative peace. open image in gallery Ali, 3, underwent surgery after he was hit by shrapnel ( Ali Mohammed Al-Abrash ) Since the fall of the Assad regime 14 months ago, around 10 Syrians have been killed by unexploded ordnance each week. Nearly one third of those killed have been children. The explosion in Maardabsa occurred as Ali was eating breakfast on Friday 6 February. He rushed outside to find all four children lying on the ground and bleeding, two already dead, two with severe shrapnel injuries. They were just playing with scraps, pieces of metal, Ali says. One of them hit the munition with something. That's how it exploded. They were just playing with it. The children had found what is now believed to have been an unexploded cluster munition, a widely-banned weapon which was used by government forces in northwest Syria - and has a detonation failure rate of around 30 per cent. open image in gallery Ibrahim, 12, suffered shrapnel wounds as deep as his bones ( Ali Mohammed Al-Abrash ) In late January, Syrians suffered one of the deadliest weeks for mine-related casualties since the Assad regime, according to the latest figures from the UNs Mine Action Area of Responsibility (MA AoR). Seventeen people were killed, including seven children, and another 16 were injured, including five children. This brings the total number of casualties since 8 December 2024 to 1,734, including 633 deaths. Children make up 185 of the deaths and 453 of the injuries, across the 959 incidents. The majority of the incidents took place on agricultural land, where Syrians are returning to farm the fields they were forced to abandon due to the civil war. open image in gallery The site of the explosion outside the tent in which the family live ( Halo EORE ) A huge spike was recorded early last year when many Syrians returned for the first time. But in the coming months numbers could again rise as farmers begin to harvest their crops in spring, explains Simon Jackson, the Syria Programme Manager for The Halo Trust, an organisation with a mission to remove unexploded ordnance from conflict-ridden areas. Were getting back into the prime cultivating period. Weve seen it in the north west, you can see where farmers have been cultivating their land and suddenly theres a really defined line where people stop. Usually, somewhere along that line, you see the crater of where theres been an accident, he says. open image in gallery Ali, the children's uncle, said he was "like a father" to them ( Ali Mohammed Al-Abrash ) Many know the risks, but with a food production crisis in Syria, families are driven by desperation to cultivate their land nonetheless. Children, many who are heavily involved in farming activities, particularly for subsistence level farmers, are under particular risk. A report in December found that deaths and injuries from landmines and unexploded ordnance around the globe hit a four-year high in 2024, driven by conflicts in Syria and Myanmar. More than 6,000 incidents were recorded that year, including 1,945 deaths and 4,325 injuries, the highest annual total since 2020, according to the Landmine Monitor 2025 report. Nearly 90% of victims were civilians, with almost half women and children. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald Trump has declared that a change in power in Iran "would be the best thing that could happen," as his administration considers military action against Tehran amidst the deployment of a second aircraft carrier group to the Middle East. The comments were made shortly after Trump visited troops at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, and confirmed the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford. When asked about pressing for the ousting of Iran's Islamic clerical rule, Trump stated, "It seems like that would be the best thing that could happen. For 47 years, theyve been talking and talking and talking." While the president had recently prioritized Iran scaling back its nuclear program, he indicated on Friday that this was only one aspect of the concessions the US demands. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who recently met Trump in Washington, has advocated for any deal to include steps to neutralize Iran's ballistic missile program and end its funding for proxy groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Trump remarked that targeting Tehran's nuclear program, which suffered setbacks in US military strikes last year, "If we do it, that would be the least of the mission." Iran maintains its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, though it had been enriching uranium up to 60 per cent purity before a conflict in June. The USS Gerald R. Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, is being dispatched from the Caribbean Sea to the Middle East to bolster other warships and military assets already in the region. This deployment follows days after Trump hinted at another round of talks with Iran, which did not materialise despite Tehran's security officials exchanging messages with US intermediaries in Oman and Qatar. "In case we dont make a deal, well need it," Trump told reporters regarding the second carrier, adding, "Itll be leaving very soon." Gulf Arab nations have cautioned that any attack could ignite another regional conflict in a Middle East still grappling with the Israel-Hamas war. Internally, Iranians are observing 40-day mourning ceremonies for those killed in a bloody crackdown on nationwide protests last month, intensifying pressure on the sanctions-battered Islamic Republic. The USS Gerald R. Ford is the world's largest aircraft carrier ( US Navy ) The Ford will join the USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying guided-missile destroyers, which have been in the region for over two weeks. US forces recently shot down an Iranian drone that approached the Lincoln, on the same day Iran attempted to stop a US-flagged ship in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the military build-up, Trump offered measured hope for a deal, stating: "Give us the deal that they should have given us the first time. If they give us the right deal, we wont do that." The Ford's new assignment marks a swift turnaround, having been sent from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean last October as part of a military presence leading to the capture of then-Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. This move appears to contradict the administrations national security strategy, which emphasises the Western Hemisphere. US Southern Command affirmed its forces would continue to "counter illicit activities and malign actors in the Western Hemisphere," with spokesperson Col. Emanuel Ortiz stating, "While force posture evolves, our operational capability does not." The Ford strike group will add over 5,000 troops to the Middle East, effectively doubling the available aircraft and munitions for military planners. Given its current position, it will likely take weeks for the Ford to reach the coast of Iran. Mr Trump has repeatedly threatened force to compel Iran to constrain its nuclear programme and over its crackdown on protests. Indirect talks in Oman a week ago failed, with Mr Trump warning Tehran that failure to agree would be "very traumatic." Similar talks last year broke down, leading to a 12-day war and US bombing of Iranian nuclear sites. Asked about new negotiations, Trump said: "I think theyll be successful. And if theyre not, its going to be a bad day for Iran, very bad." The USS Ford, which first set sail in late June 2025, means its crew will soon have been deployed for eight months. While the duration of its Middle East stay is unclear, this move suggests an unusually long deployment. The Navys top officer, Adm. Daryl Caudle, previously stated that extending the Fords time at sea would be "highly disruptive" and that he was "a big non-fan of extensions." Carriers typically deploy for six or seven months. Adm. Caudle noted that exceeding this "disrupts lives, it disrupts things ... funerals that were planned, marriages that were planned, babies that were planned." He added that extending the Ford would complicate maintenance and upkeep, disrupting repair schedules and increasing wear and tear. For comparison, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhowers nine-month deployment to the Middle East in 2023 and 2024, engaging Houthi rebels, led to it blowing past its scheduled maintenance completion date. Adm. Caudle has expressed a preference for deploying smaller, newer ships over consistently relying on large aircraft carriers. Get Travel Insider with Simon Calder. A newsletter packed with tips, deals, inspiration, and the latest travel news Get the Travel Insider newsletter with Simon Calder Get the Travel Insider newsletter with Simon Calder Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Youve just returned home after a dreamy cruise vacation on glistening blue waters with nothing but sunshine but its been a day or two back on land and you can still feel the ship moving. Then, you return to work and have trouble concentrating on even the simplest task all while feeling the motion of the ocean in your head. Its not just wishful thinking about being back on vacation or even the post-trip blues it may actually be a medical condition. Mal de Debarquement Syndrome, also known as Disembarkment Syndrome, affects the bodys balance system. Translating directly to sickness upon disembarking, research per the MdDS Foundation founded in 2007 to find a cure suggests that the central vestibular disorder often occurs after a cruise vacation or flight when the brain struggles to re-adjust to a stable environment following exposure to passive motion. The disorder can cause the sensation of rocking or swaying, brain fog, confusion, unsteadiness, anxiety, and depression, per the MdDS Foundation. Symptoms may last for weeks, months, or even years, as some cruise passengers have reported, and tend to worsen upon sitting, standing, or lying down creating a frustrating reality for many. Some cruise ship passengers may struggle with dizziness after their trip ( AFP/Getty ) Its important to note that the syndrome differs from a case of sea legs (transient postural instability), which typically resolves within a matter of hours or days. If symptoms last longer than 30 days, a visit to a doctor may be needed to receive a Mal de Debarquement Syndrome diagnosis. The foundation advises that specialists including an otolaryngologists, ENTs and neurologists can typically provide a diagnosis, though a primacy care physician may also be able to do so. Unfortunately, there isnt a singular test that can properly diagnose the syndrome, nor is there a cure. However, doctors are able to issue a diagnosis through patient history and ruling out other possible disorders through testing. Currently, there is no treatment, though the MdDS Foundation reports that options are being investigated. Some cruise passengers have reported taking motion sickness medicine to treat symptoms, though the Cleveland Clinic suggests doing so wont actually help. Most cases occur in women between the ages of 3060, the foundation reports, adding that there is a greater chance for recurring symptoms after an initial bout. If symptoms persist, its important to consult with a doctor to ensure a prompt diagnosis and treatment plan. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu) MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- China and Ukraine should stick to the right direction and maintain stable and healthy development in bilateral relations, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday in Munich. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks while meeting with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Noting that the international situation has undergone great changes, Wang said China stays committed to the principles of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, cherishes the traditional friendship between China and Ukraine, and continues to promote bilateral cooperation in various fields. Wang said that China-Ukraine trade developed steadily last year, making China remain as Ukraine's largest trading partner and the largest source of imports. Besides, various meetings of the intergovernmental cooperation committees between the two countries were held successively, bringing benefits to both peoples. China is willing to provide new humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, and hopes that the Ukrainian side will continue to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions in Ukraine, he said. On the Ukraine crisis, Wang said it is gratifying to see that various dialogues have been intensively carried on recently. He stressed that China's position is consistent and has always followed the four principles put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping, as China stays firm in its objective and just position, and actively promotes peace talks. The four principles include that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter should be observed, the legitimate security concerns of all countries should be taken seriously, and all efforts conducive to a peaceful settlement of the crisis should be supported, according to China's Foreign Ministry. China is willing to maintain communication with Ukraine and work with the international community to play a constructive role in the early political settlement of the crisis, Wang said. For his part, Sybiha said that Ukraine and China enjoy a traditional friendship and are important strategic partners. He described China as a major country with significant international influence, saying that the Ukrainian side attaches great importance to developing relations with China, and there is huge potential for bilateral cooperation. Ukraine adheres to the one-China principle and will take practical measures to safeguard the safety and legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens and enterprises in Ukraine, he added, saying that Ukraine appreciates China's consistent respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries and its positive efforts to promote peace talks. The war in Ukraine should come to an end, he noted, expressing hope that China would play an important role in achieving an early ceasefire and comprehensive peace. A group of European Central Bank (ECB) staff have thrown their weight behind a drive for more centralised supervision of the European Union's largest asset managers, many of which are currently overseen by regulators in Ireland and Luxembourg. The argument for greater centralisation is set out in a post on the ECBs blog, co-written by staff members including Michael Wedow, deputy head of the ECBs financial regulation division, and Pierce Daly, a financial stability expert who was previously an economist at the Central Bank of Ireland. The officials argue that Europes largest asset managers serve investors across the EU but are supervised at national level. They say that creates risks. A European approach to their supervision could also foster cross-border financing, they say. The blog post questions the robustness of the existing regulatory regime, though without providing any evidence of specific risks. "Nationally fragmented oversight leaves room for supervisory blind spots," the ECB staff said. "A more European supervisory framework would ultimately strengthen the sector's resilience." The blog post does not represent the official stance of the ECB, but is likely to be read as tacit support for a policy that the funds and asset management industry has been resistant to. Any push for a change will be watched particularly closely in Luxembourg and Ireland. The funds and asset management sectors are big employers in both countries thanks to relatively more favourable tax and legal regimes, as well as historic build up of professional expertise. Governments in both countries will be wary of any changes that threaten their competitive advantage. The ECB blog argues that a common supervisory regime would lower costs for savers and for industry and would be in line with the drive for a European Savings and Investment Union. A more consistent EU framework could level the playing field in the application of European rules and help remove barriers to cross-border fund distribution, they say. The post backs an expanded role for the Paris-based European Securities and Markets Authority, or ESMA, including as a coordinator of multi-country supervisory colleges that would oversee the largest asset management firms. Industry sources in Dublin questioned the value of a regulatory shake-up, including whether it would increase costs that would ultimately be borne by asset owners or, for instance, borrowers tapping the sector. Large asset managers are already subject to a common regulatory regime, regardless of where funds are domiciled, they pointed out. Asset managers already operate cross-border both in terms of drawing in investment and in how funds are allocated, despite many being domiciled in Luxembourg or Ireland. Around 90pc of assets managed in Ireland, a key element of the international financial services sector here, are owned overseas and invested elsewhere. The EU lobby for asset managers, EFAMA, said last year that it was opposed to a shift to a single supervisor, in part because it will add a new layer of costs. "ESMA lacks the necessary resources and expertise," EFAMA said, and the new mandate would likely also end up creating "a double layer of supervision". The largest 10 to 15 groups in the sector dominate the European landscape with about 6.3tn in assets under management. The very largest, Blackrock, is heavily concentrated in Ireland. The call for more consolidated supervision in the area is part of a wider push. The EU Commission in December unveiled a plan to transfer greater supervisory and enforcement powers over significant clearing houses, central securities depositories and trading venues to ESMA. The proposal also included "enhancing ESMA's coordination role for the asset management sector". 'Id rather be sitting here with my glass of wine than back in Ireland in that rain': the Irish ex-pats who feel safe in Dubai Debut album from hyped Cardinals shows the Cork quintet are the real deal Masquerade is quite a statement of intent, while Next of Kin by Dani Larkin has the power to stop you in your tracks Masquerade is Cardinals' first album. Photo: Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision John Meagher Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 06:30 Hype has followed Cardinals around for a couple of years. The excellence of early singles ensured that, as did the praise of Fontaines DCs Grian Chatten. For some, the Cork quintet are tipped as the outfit most likely to do a Fontaines and become another of our big alt-rock exports. Gardai investigate after intimate image of rape victim shared with staff and students at UCD Socialist TD Ruth Coppinger told the Dail about the alleged incident, claiming the woman was asleep or unconscious when photo was taken Dublin West TD Ruth Coppinger highlighted the matter in the Dail this week. Photo: PA Shane Phelan Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 06:30 University College Dublin (UCD) said it has contacted gardai and offered support to a female student after an intimate image of her, accompanied by threatening messages, was shared with staff and students. He was going to sit up all night with him a desperate red-eye flight, a 1,000-a-night room, and a fathers vigil that ended in tragedy Doctor who liaised with family tells of their fears leading up to the death of dad in luxury hotel John MacGowan (inset), Ballyfin Demesne and Henry MacGowan (right) Catherine Fegan Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 06:30 John McGowan was steeling himself for the long night ahead. He had stayed awake watching over his mentally ill son many times before. He knew how to get through it, he assured Dr Lisa Cunningham. Marriage and fertility today are in recession, economist says at St Valentines Shrine as he and fiancee prepare to wed 'We were mad for each other,' couple gets their engagement ring blessed at St Valentine's relics Sarah Mac Donald Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 06:30 An economist who will marry his fiancee in April has expressed concern over the trend for grey grooms in Ireland. According to David Higgins, almost a third of Irish men are over 40 when they tie the knot. Unclear if President Catherine Connolly will attend Israel match in Dublin, as RTE says it will broadcast games Situation not the same as decision to pull out of Eurovision over Israeli participation, broadcaster says Questions for UEFA as Ireland set to play Israel Darragh Nolan Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 06:30 Aras an Uachtarain has not confirmed whether President Catherine Connolly will be in attendance when Ireland plays Israel in the Nations League later this year. Residents left in tears as north Dublin apartment complex flooded after sudden rain Several cars in Belmayne were under water for 24 hours, with management company telling people they could be without power for up to a week Cars underwater as carpark floods in Dublin Deirdre Barry Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 06:30 Loud banging on the door shortly after midnight signalled to Anitha Raju and her husband that something was seriously wrong at their apartment complex in north Dublin . The community battling to stop wind turbines 60m taller than the Dublin Spire Plans for 11 giant turbines near the Sharavogue bog have angered locals. John Meagher visits Offaly to find out why feelings are running high despite the promise of thousands of euro for those who would live in their shadow Community battles to stop plans for 180m high wind turbines John Meagher Fri 13 Feb 2026 at 17:37 Rath Beg is a townland close to Birr, accessible along a winding road off the N62 to Roscrea. It has long been a farming community, although, now, many of its residents no longer work on the land. BEIJING, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Commerce on Friday urged efforts to restore the smooth, stable operation of the global semiconductor supply chain, after a Dutch court announced a ruling related to semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia. A spokesperson for the ministry made the remarks when asked to comment on the Dutch Enterprise Chamber's recent decision to launch an investigation into alleged mismanagement at Nexperia. Restoring the smooth, stable operation of the global semiconductor supply chain is of utmost urgency, which serves the common interests of the industry internationally, including in China and the Netherlands, the spokesperson said. China hopes the Dutch side will, bearing in mind the broader interest of safeguarding the stability of the global semiconductor industry and supply chains, create favorable conditions for enterprises from both countries to resolve internal disputes through constructive negotiations, the spokesperson said. Galway community marks anniversary of Adam Loughnanes death as family continue fight for mental health reform Campaign continues for hospitals to have a separate emergency department for patients presenting with mental health difficulties Galway community marks anniversary of Adam Loughnanes death as family continue fight for mental health A&E Erika Sassone Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 12:00 A crowd gathered in Galway city on Wednesday afternoon to remember Adam Loughnane, exactly one year since his death and one year since his brother Joe started campaigning for better mental health services in Ireland. When the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky first addressed the Dail via video link back in 2022, Mary Lou McDonald was amongst his most ardent supporters. It was the early days of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Sinn Fein leader hit out at the ferocious violence and the shameful disinformation war being waged by the Putin regime to justify the savagery of its military invasion. One day the elites talk about ending violence against women, the next theyre on the Lolita Express Sharlene Rochard, a Jeffrey Epstein victim, holds a photograph of Virginia Giuffre, as Virginias Law, was introduced. The legislation aims to eliminate the statute of limitations. Photo: Getty On October 11, 2013, Thorbjorn Jagland strode through the mahogany doors of the Norwegian Nobel Institute in Oslo and stepped up to the podium. In front of an array of television cameras, the chairman of the committee announced the winner of that years peace medal. There was something beautiful in the work of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), he said, hoping it could nudge the war in Syria closer to an end. There was a banquet, then a torchlit procession. Then, after a few days rest, on October 14, the former Norwegian prime minister emailed Jeffrey Epstein to ask whether he could visit Little St James, the palm-fringed island in the Caribbean where the financier sexually abused underage girls for more than 20 years. I can arrange tickets, Epstein happily replied. Xmans [sic] present. In total, the Epstein files now number more than six million documents, images and videos. Managed by Donald Trumps department of justice, the release has largely spared the US president. But perhaps by coincidence, perhaps not it has torn through the globe-trotting Davos elite with the force of a pent-up earthquake. Much has been redacted. Thin, black boxes obscure the names of potential co-conspirators in Epsteins sex-trafficking operation. I guess theres nowhere quite like it But from the files we can see with unprecedented clarity how the Coney Island-born maths teacher built two separate, if allegedly overlapping, networks: one of young girls, the other of the worlds richest, brightest and most powerful men. Some time in 2014, Epstein held a cocktail party at his 21,000 sq ft Manhattan townhouse, reputedly the largest in the city. By then, the host was a convicted sex offender, released from a light 13-month sentence for soliciting a minor on July 22, 2009, when he emailed British politician Peter Mandelson that freedom felt fresh, firm and creamy. Before long, the New York limestone mansion became, once again, the scene of bewildering lunches and intellectual tete-a-tetes. Guests willing to brave the paparazzi often included Sergey Brin, Bill Gates, Peter Thiel and early investors in cryptocurrency. Conversation could whip from Mars to missiles, blockchain technology to the big bang. I guess theres nowhere quite like it, said Mort Zuckerman, the billionaire newspaper owner, according to an unpublished profile of Epstein by the journalist Michael Wolff, who was invited as a fly-on-the-wall. Sharlene Rochard, a Jeffrey Epstein victim, holds a photograph of Virginia Giuffre, as Virginias Law, was introduced. The legislation aims to eliminate the statute of limitations. Photo: Getty Surrounding the guests were hints of Epsteins predilection. Copies of Nabokovs Lolita left on the table; in his Paris mansion, a literal (stuffed) elephant in the room. And ever present, according to Wolff, a coterie of comely young women who would attend Epstein on his rare walks in the park like something out of an 18th-century French court. Also present that night was Mr Jagland, the handsome, white-haired diplomat who still led the Nobel Peace Prize panel and had, in 2009, been appointed secretary-general of the Council of Europe, the continents top human rights body and overseer of the European Court of Human Rights. He ran up vast expense accounts while working for Douglas Leese The father of two gave a scathing critique of American foreign policy, Wolff wrote, defended his 2009 decision to award the Nobel prize to Barack Obama, then was offered a flight back to Europe on Epsteins private jet, the so-called Lolita Express. How Epstein afforded such an outrageous lifestyle remains unclear. In his own telling, he was a financial mastermind. When banking evolved in the 1980s to depend on complex equations, the super-wealthy turned to him to manage their affairs, he often said. But according to a lengthy investigation by the New York Times, Epstein was also an inveterate conman and thief who latched on to wealthy clients with his natural charisma and dated their daughters while bleeding them dry. In 1981, at the age of 28, he quit Bear Stearns instead of serving a suspension for insider trading. He ran up vast expense accounts while working for Douglas Leese, the British defence magnate, who sent him away in disgrace from his countryside manor. Several small investors found that their money had disappeared. But he kept the bigger fish on the hook as long as he could. Between them, Lesley Wexner and Leon Black, the billionaire tycoons behind Victorias Secret and the private equity fund Apollo Global Management, are estimated to have paid (or, in the case of the former, allegedly lost by theft) hundreds of millions of dollars. He asked Epstein for advice on a US agent who could help him secure gigs Over several days trawling through Epsteins correspondence, The Telegraph found comparatively little discussion of the financial markets. Instead, there are endless efforts to arrange his two diaries one for the glitterati, the other for women between the ages of 15 and 17. For the latter, he would use teenage models to recruit their friends. It was a similar trick with the former: constantly leveraging one acquaintance to gain another, bigger prize. I collect people, I own people, I can damage people, Epstein told one ex-girlfriend, according to a report in Vanity Fair. Another described him as a sociopath who could feel energy very clearly and manipulate that for his own ends. The collection of Mr Jagland began in the spring of 2012, when he was hunting for work to top up the roughly 200,000 he earned at the Council of Europe and his nominal remuneration from the Nobel panel. In May, he asked Epstein for advice on a US agent who could help him secure gigs on the lavishly paid speaking circuit. In a flash, Epstein ran through his notorious black book. By May 25 of that year, according to emails in the Epstein files, a call had been arranged with Bill Richardson, the former governor of New Mexico (where Epstein was the largest landowner) and founder of the Washington Speakers Bureau. Thorbjorn Jagland gave the Nobel Peace Prize to Barack Obama. Photo: AP Mr Jaglands job demanded constant travel, from meetings with Emmanuel Macron in Paris to sit-downs with Vladimir Putin in Sochi. Over time, he came to rely on access to Epsteins spectacular properties in the French capital, New York and allegedly the Caribbean. The two men also bonded about women. I have been in Tirana [Albania] extraordinary girls, the Norwegian wrote in May 2012. Eight months later, on January 9, 2013, he said he was celebrating the 60th birthday of his wife, Hanne, adding: I cant keep it going only with young women as you know. Within weeks, Epstein was boasting widely of his great friendship with the head of the human rights court in Strasbourg and Nobel prize chairman. Between 2012 and 2018, he dropped Mr Jaglands name into invitations to at least a dozen luminaries, including Bill Gates, Todd Pritzker, the billionaire, the president of the Maldives, and Kathy Ruemmler, the former White House chief counsel. In June 2015, Epstein asked Noam Chomsky, the philosopher, to dinner with Mr Jagland. Like a salesman in a market, he rattled off a menu of conversation topics: Drones. Solitary confinement, death penalty (Europe does not have one) tribalism, mafia, Syria, Ukraine, Saudi, Egypt, Libya. The self-styled intellectual polymath told Mr Chomsky that a mutual exchange of ideas underpinned the relationship: I give him his financial ABCs class, he gives me my lessons in pragmatic politics. The diplomat did provide scraps from the political high table But the financial ledger leaned only one way. A few months before the dinner, Mr Jagland asked Epstein for help in raising stg800,000 towards the purchase of a flat in Oslo. I dont want to have much debt when I retire. So a joint investment which you talked about would be interesting, he wrote. (Mr Jagland told Norwegian media he never took any money from Epstein for the flat.) The diplomat did provide scraps from the political high table. Terse updates litter his correspondence (Im fine but the situation in Ukraine is catastrophic; Everything is uncertain now because of the refugee/migration crisis in Europe; Very difficult situation with the Russians and the Turks.) He does not appear to have delivered his benefactors grandest ambition: a connection to Vladimir Putin, to whom Epstein wished to pitch insights on Mr Trump and Western financial markets. Earlier this week, the statesman said he had only met Epstein as part of normal diplomatic activity. His lawyers said he never had any dealings with young girls. In the eyes of Ben Rhodes, a former adviser to Mr Obama, the Epstein files have rung the death knell for the style of 21st-century do-gooding practised at climate summits, UN general assemblies and Davos. One day, the elite talked of ending violence against women and girls, he wrote on Substack. The next they caught a ride on Epsteins private jet or visited his private island. What remains in question is how many more dominoes will fall, and how close they will land to the centre of Epsteins malevolent, barely hidden world. As UK government teeters on the edge, politicians here should pay heed to the value of a steady ship When I remarked wistfully to an investor friend recently that I should buy gold, he warned: Gold is at an all-time high. Gold is always at an all-time high, I argued. Thats the point of gold, he said. Then the price of gold fell. In these chaotic times, the most valuable commodity in the world is not gold, but stability. Ireland has a stable government. Throwing it away by accident would be a monumentally stupid thing to do. Which is why cantankerous Fianna Failers and tetchy Fine Gaelers are making a rookie error. They are taking stable government for granted. Id say Keir Starmer did too when he won a massive majority for the Labour Party in Britain. But on Monday I was glued to BBC Radio 4 in disbelief when it looked like his government was disintegrating. The departures of Downing Street apparatchiks Tim Allan and Irishman Morgan McSweeney were bad enough. At lunchtime, when Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar called for Starmer to step down, it looked like yet another British prime minister was toast. My contact list includes a Conservative party honcho. I texted him: Useful when your enemies implode. He replied: Good for us but terrible for the country. The fact that my Tory friend was more worried about the country than the political advantage of the No 10 drama indicated the scale of the crisis. Fine. Starmer has floundered in power. I dont understand how he and his team planned for victory, but not government. But lets be clear: he is a good man acting in good faith while dealing with an economy in tatters. Keir Starmer's hold on power looked to be loosening. Photo: UK Parliament Losing a Labour prime minister because Peter Mandelson is an even bigger creep than we thought would tell the world that Britain is ungovernable. Starmer survived the day, but the sense that hes on borrowed time is unhelpful for a country desperately trying to prove it has recovered from the Brexit soap opera. Now, one might think that madness couldnt happen here, but that would be a mistake. Look at Micheal Martin the moaning and sniping about him never stop. Journalists and politicians panic about polls and love creating an air of crisis about his leadership. Enda Kenny had to put up with this too. But when Martins enemies complain about him, partly its about low poll ratings, but more often its internal grudges. OK, the Jim Gavin presidential run was a fiasco, but 41 parliamentary party members voted for Gavin instead of Billy Kelleher. It was a secret ballot and they showed poor judgment. Get over it and move on. Maybe the poll numbers are bad because voters see Fianna Failers squabbling instead of delivering As for the polls, forget about them. They dont matter if theres no election, and its the polls in 2029 that will count. What Fianna Fail ministers and backbenchers need to focus on is delivering what voters want. They want the government to govern. My advice is to stop panicking about polls and build houses. Maybe the poll numbers are bad because voters see Fianna Failers squabbling instead of delivering. When I look at Martin, and I dont know him personally, I see a man of deep experience who doesnt panic on a bad day. He keeps the head, and thats exactly the quality required when the world is, as French president Emmanuel Macron said this week, in disarray. Justice Minister Jim OCallaghan is making a vital connection with Middle Ireland. Photo: PA As for Jim OCallaghan, hes doing a brilliant job in Justice. As regular readers of this column know, I take a dim view of institutionalised ministers becoming creatures of left-wing NGOs and advocacy groups. OCallaghan is doing a vital job for Irish democracy because hes making Middle Ireland feel like someone in the Government is listening to them. That sense of a firm hand in Justice is essential in preventing centrist voters from giving up on mainstream parties. So why would I want him to stop doing that and see someone weaker and less able put into this important job? Presumably, Martin will resign as leader in an orderly fashion when his term as Taoiseach is over. OCallaghan can step up then. In the meantime, let peace reign. Which brings me to Fine Gael. I dont hang out in Leinster House, but it feels like Simon Harris hasnt got over the fact that his party lost the election to Fianna Fail. As a result, he gets up every day with an insecure edgy eye on Martin. My concern is that both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael seem to believe these petty arguments will have no consequences This week, we finally got the appointment of the housing tsar, or head of the Housing Activation Unit. But thats nine months after Fine Gael kiboshed the appointment of Nama boss Brendan McDonagh to the job. We didnt have nine months to lose because Harris took the hump that McDonaghs name appeared in the press before his appointment was approved by both parties. What was more important? The row over who knew what when, or getting a proven performer into a job that urgently needed to be done? Losing nine months loses votes. My concern is that both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael seem to believe these petty arguments will have no consequences. But if they keep chipping away at each other, undermining trust, one day there will be a Mandelson Moment and well find ourselves tipped into an election before time. Over a year after this Government was formed, we are finally getting momentum on infrastructure and housing. You know what else is gold? Trust. If the parties dont build trust in each other, they wont be able to build anything else. No leader will save either Fianna Fail or Fine Gael then. Western cohesion is the only thing that will test Putins strategy of endurance and relentless grind Success for Ukraine is contingent on sustained and unified European resolve, and we should be able to take the measure of that at the Munich Security Conference this week Russian President Vladimir Putin at a meeting with Chairman of the Board of the Circle of Kindness Foundation at the Kremlin in Moscow yesterday. Photo: via Reuters Hamish de Bretton-Gordon Telegraph Media Group Holdings Ltd Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 06:30 As politicians and generals gather in Germany for the Munich Security Conference, Vladimir Putin is facing a stark manpower crisis in Ukraine. German chancellor Friedrich Merz (right) shakes hands with US secretary of state Marco Rubio during the Munich Security Conference yesterday. Photo: Reuters A year has passed since JD Vances concussive speech stunned Europe, leaving the Continent in no doubt that America was going its own way. Since then, we have seen Donald Trumps tariff walls, a grab for Greenland and a new US National Security Strategy that seeks to weaken Europe. This year, it fell to US secretary of state Marco Rubio to lay down a marker for Washington at the Munich Security Conference, where he first signalled a breach with its oldest ally. His tone was less aggressive as he spoke of a defining moment and a new era. Its going to require all of us to sort of re-examine what that looks like and what our role is going to be, he said. The Trump administration has attacked Europe over defence spending, internet censorship and immigration policy. Opening the event attended by 70 world leaders, German chancellor Friedrich Merz appealed to Washington, saying: Lets repair and revive transatlantic trust together. Danish prime minister Mette Frederiksen was more blunt. She called for an emergency mindset on deterrence and defence if Europe is to survive a global disorder where strength matters above all. A Europe that is not able and willing to protect itself is going to die at some point, she told the Financial Times in a pre-summit interview. The old world will not come back. I am pretty sure about that. French president Emmanuel Macron also insisted Europe must prepare for independence from the US. Containing the aggressive neo-imperialist threats from a revanchist Russia is now a priority. Being a part of Nato is not only Europes competitive advantage. It is also the United States competitive advantage Mr Merz told the conference he had begun secret talks with France on a joint European nuclear deterrent. If the region is to reset its relationship with the US, it must become stronger, he said. Striking a conciliatory but resilient tone, Mr Merz also warned the US that by acting alone it has reached the limits of its power. He suggested it may already have surrendered its role as global leader, and appealed to Mr Trump to recognise it is still possible to exhaust Russia economically and militarily. Doing so would force Moscow to come to the negotiating table over Ukraine. But he also acknowledged that the old order has ended. In this new age of superpowers, even the US is reaching the limits of going it alone, he said. His approach was realistic, if sombre. For those who warned that the international rules-based order was about to be destroyed, he had this bleak message: I fear we must put it even more bluntly. This order, however imperfect it was, even at its best, no longer exists in that form. He signed off by saying: Dear friends, being a part of Nato is not only Europes competitive advantage. It is also the United States competitive advantage. He is correct. However much Mr Trump may wish to project his unique authority, history is replete with examples of how countries are stronger when they act in concert. Allies thrive by neither racing ahead nor falling behind, but by walking side by side. Taoiseach and French Ambassador attend opening of 37th Cork French Film Festival President of Alliance Francaise and Director of the Cork French Film Festival, Valerie David-McGonnell (centre) looks forward to some of this years festival highlights with Alliance Francaise Vice President, Prof. Grace Neville and Treasurer Pascal Lucas. Photo: Darragh Kane The Cork French Film Festival has kicked off its 37th edition, with both the French Ambassador and the Taoiseach in attendance, at a time when Irelands relationship with France has never been more important. The festival, which runs at The Arc Cinema in Cork City as well as school screenings in Midleton and Mallow from March 2 to 8, includes a wealth of Cesar-nominated features and award-winning shorts. It also features a special red carpet screening of Redress, the latest release from director Regis Wargnier, who will lead a masterclass with students at UCC. Local business representatives Maria O Donoughue - Office Assist Charleville, President Joyce Hammond Good - Mallow Business Chamber, Eileen Casey - Mitchelstown Business Alliance and Pat Morrissey - Fermoy Forum with Kevin Curran, Head of Enterprise, LEO Cork North and West, ahead of Local Enterprise Week 2026. Pic: Michael McGrath North Cork business owners have a standout opportunity this March when Local Enterprise Week, run by Cork County Councils LEO Cork North and West brings a major retail and growth event to the Charleville Park Hotel. The much-anticipated event will be held on Tuesday, March 3 and this event should be firmly in the diary. The high-impact session will bring together some of Irelands most respected retail and business leaders, including Charlene Flanagan, co-founder of Ella & Jo, Evelyn Moynihan, CEO of the Kilkenny Group, and industry expert Stuart Nelson. They will tackle the real issues facing local businesses right now including changing customer behaviour, rising costs, digital transformation and how to stay competitive in 2026 and beyond. Make 2026 the year you step out and invest in your business. Spaces will fill quickly and people are urged to book their place now at localenterprise.ie/corknorthandwest Fine Gael TD for Cork North West John Paul OShea said: Local Enterprise Week continues to play a crucial role in strengthening our local economy by supporting small businesses, encouraging entrepreneurship and helping companies to scale and innovate. "It provides real, practical supports that make a tangible difference on the ground, he added. Local Enterprise Week 2026 will feature a diverse mix of online and in-person events, giving business owners opportunities to learn from industry leaders, share experiences and build valuable networks. A major highlight for North Cork will be the retail-focused event at the Charleville Park Hotel on March 3. Deputy OShea said this event in Charleville is particularly important for retailers, hospitality providers and service businesses across North Cork and beyond. Hearing directly from some of Irelands most successful business leaders will give local enterprises the tools and confidence they need to compete and thrive. Throughout the week, businesses will have access to workshops, masterclasses and networking events covering digital transformation, retail growth, financial planning, exporting and business development, as well as one-to-one clinics offering expert guidance. Deputy OShea concluded: I strongly encourage businesses across Cork to take full advantage of Local Enterprise Week. Whether you are starting out, expanding, or adapting to new market conditions, the supports on offer can help you build a stronger, more sustainable business. An online forum dedicated to protecting Special Needs Assistant (SNA) jobs in North Cork and its surrounding areas is scheduled to take place on Monday, February 16. Organised by Sinn Fein Senator Nicole Ryan, the forum aims to connect schools, teachers and parents who will be impacted by the cut of SNA provisions across Cork schools. Artist impression of a revitalised Cahersiveen with the new Carnegie building A Kerry councillor has criticised the progress of a major regeneration project in one of the countys towns as the schemes timelines are pushed back. Councillor Johnny Healy-Rae raised the Cahersiveen regeneration project at a recent Kenmare Municipal District meeting, asking what had been done on the ground. Works were expected to begin on several major components of the initiative last year, but the latest update shows no physical work has started. The project includes the renovation and extension of the Carnegie Community Building as well as the development of a significant waterfront amenity and board walk. While various components of the scheme were said to be progressing, with many past the detailed design stage, construction is yet to commence on any. Councillor Johnny Healy-Rae welcomed the progress but criticised the council for not starting work on the ground. He said councillors were being asked continuously about the projects and requested the council provide a more detailed timeline. Elected members heard the tender stage for the Carnegie Community Building was complete and was awaiting approval from Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD), while construction of the waterfront amenity and board walk is set to start in Q2 this year. The enhancement of the Fair Green amenity and introduction of a one-way system for greater connectivity to the town centre are still undergoing detailed design with no timeline set for their completion. The one-way system is to be introduced in Bridge Street, Quay Street and OConnell Street and the preliminary design is complete. If we dont see some boots on the ground or some action takenthe point Im trying to get across is what are we actually seeing for all this money, said Cllr Healy-Rae. Over 8.5m has been provided by the DRCD for Cahersiveen projects, with match funding from the council bringing the total to over 10m. Car and bus parking is also included in the funding, which the council confirmed land has been acquired for. Pavement works on the N70 road through Cahersiveen are expected to commence this year and are awaiting funding announcements from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) due this month. TII previously sought amendments on the proposals which included reconstruction of the current pavement, and the addition of active travel measures and public realm improvement works. The council cautioned that a phased improvement approach is required, and a strategy is being formulated in consultation with the TII. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting scheme LOS ANGELES, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- More than a dozen senior artificial intelligence (AI) researchers have resigned from major U.S. tech firms in Silicon Valley in recent weeks amid commercialization and funding races. At OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT, several high-profile departures have drawn attention. Researcher Zoe Hitzig resigned over the company's plan to introduce advertising on ChatGPT, outlining her views in a media column. The move came as OpenAI explores new revenue models to monetize its widely used chatbot. The company also disbanded its Mission Alignment team 16 months after its establishment. Meanwhile, Jerry Tworek, a key developer of OpenAI's advanced reasoning models, left in January to pursue research outside the company. His departure followed CEO Sam Altman's strategic shift to prioritize ChatGPT and core products for intensified competition from rivals. OpenAI is reportedly in talks to raise 100 billion U.S. dollars, highlighting strong investor interest as the company expands commercialization efforts. It has also secured U.S. military contracts and recently announced that ChatGPT has become available to millions of military personnel. Other Silicon Valley firms are experiencing similar changes. At Elon Musk's xAI, multiple co-founders and engineers have resigned amid organizational restructuring as the startup pushes to scale and compete in the fast-moving AI market. Anthropic, another major AI startup, has also seen senior staff departures despite completing a 30-billion-dollar funding round that valued the company at 380 billion dollars. A scaffolding company has admitted responsibility for health and safety failings after the death of a Sligo man who fell from scaffolding at a Greystones building site in 2019. Two construction companies have appeared before Wicklow Circuit Criminal Court in Health and Safety Authority prosecutions relating to the mans death. K.D.K. Scaffolding Limited, with a registered office at Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, entered a plea to count 10 on the indictment. The court heard that on December 9, 2019, at a construction site at Marina Village, Greystones, Co Wicklow, the company failed in its legal duty under health and safety legislation. Specifically, K.D.K. Scaffolding Limited failed to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, that scaffolding erected at Block E of the construction site was safe and without risk to health. The scaffolding did not provide sufficient or adequate edge protection and exposed individuals carrying out work to the risk of falling. As a consequence of the unsafe scaffolding, Gerry OConnell fell, suffered injuries that he later died from in hospital. This amounted to a breach of Section 15(3) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, contrary to Section 77(9)(a) of the Act. The court heard that Peamount Construction Limited has taken a trial date, which is scheduled to take place on April 14, 2025. The company, having a registered office at 3 Peamount Road, Newcastle, County Dublin, is accused of health and safety breaches arising from the same incident. It is alleged that the company failed to discharge a duty imposed on it contrary to Section 12(a) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. The charge alleges that Peamount, being an employer within the meaning of the Act, failed to manage and conduct its undertaking in such a way so as to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, that individuals at the place of work who were not its employees were not exposed to risks to their safety, health and welfare. It is alleged that the company permitted individuals who were not its direct employees to carry out work activities from scaffolding erected at Block E of the Marina Village construction site. The scaffolding in question is alleged to have been unsafe, in that it did not provide sufficient or adequate edge protection. As a result, individuals carrying out work from the scaffolding were allegedly exposed to the risk of falling. The indictment further alleges that this amounted to a breach of Section 12 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. A second count alleges breach of a statutory provision by virtue of which a duty was imposed and, as a consequence of that alleged breach, a person suffered personal injury, contrary to Section 77(9)(a) of the 2005 Act. It is alleged that Peamount failed to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, that in the course of the work being carried out at Marina Village, individuals not in its employment were not exposed to risk from unsafe scaffolding. At a previous sitting of Wicklow Circuit Criminal Court, Glenveagh Construction Limited pleaded guilty to count two on the indictment. The charge related to the same incident. The court heard that the company failed in its duty as an employer under health and safety legislation to properly manage safety on site. Specifically, Glenveagh allowed individuals who were not its direct employees to carry out work from scaffolding that was unsafe. The scaffolding lacked proper and adequate edge protection, creating a serious risk of falling. Mr OConnell, who was from Co Sligo, died several days after the accident, on Thursday, December 12, 2019. Judge Patrick Quinn adjourned the matter until April 14, with a sentencing date for Glenveagh and K.D.K. to be fixed and the trial of Peamount to commence. Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme Lucas Gleeson, Eugene Harte, Danielle Cahill, and Amelia O'Reilly from Barntown National School were at the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell Ciara Forde, Aisling Wallace, Leah Egan, and Laoise Dwyer from Gaelscoil Charman National School pictured during the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell Robyn Lillis, Holly Walsh, Isabelle Corrigan, and Grace Dunne from Castlebridge National School pictured during the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell Alannah Stafford, Ella McLaughlin, Wikcor Irlik, and Liam O Cuanaigh from Kennedy Park National School are pictured during the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell Ava Kinsella, Aubree Gorey, Ava Carley, and Ella Jordan from Glynn National School at the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell Martha Lawlor, Jodie Wadden, Lilly Banaham, and Sophia Williams from Wexford Educate Together National School are pictured during the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell Adam Gahan, Niall Buckley, Josh Redmond, and Ben Broderick from Blackwater National School are pictured during the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell CBS Primary School were the runners-up in the B Category of the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. (l to r)- Christian Marchitta, Clodagh Furlong, Sam O'Neill, and Kail Asnath. Photo: Jim Campbell Grainne Wickham, Jacob Egan, Dara Halpenny, and Conor Boyce from Barntown National School during the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell Fionn Murphy, Tomas Meyler, Sophie Doyle, and Olive Maguire from Mercy School, St John's Road during the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell Jonathan Sinto John, Bobby Walsh, Evie Murphy, and Sophie Nolan from Scoil Mhuire Coolcotts attended the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell Lilly May Kavanagh, Ella Moloney Smith, Alfie Kearney, and Casey Tyrrell from St John of God School, The Faythe are pictured during the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell CBS Primary School were the winners in the B Category of the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. (l to r)- Sam Cummings, Mia Dziedzic, Hugh Blake, and John O'Brien. Photo: Jim Campbell Eva Doyle, Katelyn Codd, Ellie May Murphy, and Leuben Loulston from the Mercy School, St John's Road, were at the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell Fionn Blake, Senan Richardson, Kevin Chen, and Harry Connolly from Wexford CBS Primary School were at the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell Barntown National School were the runners-up in the A Category of the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. (l to r)- Gary Crosbie, Ben O'Neill, Caoimhe Lynch, and Ben Canavan. Photo: Jim Campbell CBS Primary School were the winners in the A Category of the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. (l to r)- Harry Connolly, Fionn Blake, Kevin Chen, and Senan Richardson. Photo: Jim Campbell Hundreds of Wexford primary school students have turned out in force for a major table quiz competition, with two schools winning big. Wexford Credit Union recently hosted its annual Schools Quiz on Sunday February 8, at Whites of Wexford, where almost 200 students from local primary schools were welcomed for a fun, competitive and highly engaging day. The event was expertly hosted by quiz master Jack Matthews, who brought great energy and plenty of craic, helping to create an enjoyable atmosphere for students, teachers and supporters alike. Ciara Forde, Aisling Wallace, Leah Egan, and Laoise Dwyer from Gaelscoil Charman National School pictured during the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. Photo: Jim Campbell The quiz showcased an extremely high standard of knowledge, with very close results across all categories. On the day, Wexford CBS took home the winning honours in A Category and B Category as well as the runner up spot in B Category. Winning A category was a team made up of Harry Connolly, Fionn Blake, Kevin Cuen, Senan Richardson. Winning B Category was John OBrien, Sam Cummings, Mia Dziedzic and Hugh Blake. And coming second in B Category was Kaibsnath Arukuman, Lola Skyee Furlong, Sam ONeill and Christian Marchitto. Taking the runner up spot in A Category was Scoil Mhuire, Barntown and a team made up of Ben ONeill, Harry Crosbie, Caoimhe Lynch and Ben Canavan. Barntown National School were the runners-up in the A Category of the Wexford Credit Union Schools Table Quiz in Whites Hotel on Sunday. (l to r)- Gary Crosbie, Ben O'Neill, Caoimhe Lynch, and Ben Canavan. Photo: Jim Campbell We were delighted to see such a fantastic turnout and level of enthusiasm from all the students said Wexford Credit Unions marketing officer Amy Furlong. A special word of thanks goes to the 15 Wexford Credit Union staff members who volunteered their time on the day. As a community-focused financial institution, events like this really demonstrate the positive impact the credit union continues to have locally. Wexford Credit Union congratulated all schools and students who took part. It was a closely contested quiz, with every team performing exceptionally well, making the day a great success for everyone involved. Nicola Keegan was the winner of the audience fancy dress award during the Wexford Uke Festival in the Talbot Hotel on Saturday. Photo: Jim Campbell Mugs and Molls were the winners of the Wexford Uke Festival in the Talbot Hotel on Saturday. Photo: Jim Campbell Wexford Uke Fest, the countys own ukulele festival, took place for the second time at the weekend, with higher levels of participation and more space required. Cool Hand Ukes who run the ukulele festival, managed to sell out all events again, including their ever-popular fancy dress/ group uke off competition. 10 groups from all over Ireland, took part. The day also included a singalong with the group, and the big Saturday night ukulele gig which featured five hugely groups, well known in ukulele circles across Ireland and the world. That took place in the Slaney Suite, at Talbot Hotel. Bui Bolg, the Wexford based float and props productions company, who are best known for their whimsical inflatables and props in the Dublin St Patricks Day parade, kindly sponsored a backdrop and props for the event. The festival curated by Bettina Meyler and managed by Cool Hand Ukes, with the support of Wexford Arts Centre, delivered yet again, a vibrant programme of activities. Our group plays once a week, every Monday night, said Bettina. We have been in existence since 2016. We started with four members and have had many come and go through the doors since but currently have a group of around 24 ukulele players. We used to just play for charity gigs and various causes and our group members do so voluntarily. That changed last year when we decided to try and host a Ukulele Festival in Wexford, to see if it may bring some light and happiness to us all for the dark days of January and February. The programme also included a finger picking workshop, and a taster beginners workshop for those wishing to start their ukulele journey. The workshops were facilitated by members of the wonderful Ukeristic Congress, at Wexford Arts Centre, on Saturday morning. Mugs and Molls were the winners of the Wexford Uke Festival in the Talbot Hotel on Saturday. Photo: Jim Campbell Ukulele players from as far north as Belfast, and Belmullet, and as far south as Cork and Kerry, with some coming from across the water from Scotland and the United States, came to the town for the festival. Mayor Gary Laffan gave a warm welcome to all the visitors. One of the weekends highlights was the way Ukeristic Congress wowed the audience with their incredible uke techniques and mellow country blues and jazz numbers getting the audience on their feet again for Sweet Caroline and Country Roads classics. That was before The Rugs then took it up another notch with their large group just about fitting on the stage, delivering brilliant versions of Hozier's Too Sweet to Bowie's Space Oddity. Ukulele Tuesdays from Dublin then brought the evening to a magnificent crescendo with mind-blowingly talented uke playing, which included Highway to Hell by AC/DC. Groups all get the open call to apply, and they submit a song they choose to perform, they dress accordingly and everyone has a chance of playing and singing, instead of it being all about professional performers who are brought in to entertain an audience. We want our festival to be inclusive and for ukulele players to play and take part in, regardless of ones ability. I think that is what has made our festival so unique, everyone feels like they are part of it. How 200 native oysters are cleaning 38,000 litres of Wicklow sea water every day The crustaceans were placed in Greystones Harbour quietly last year, and the findings of Fridays first monitoring event showed exceptional results Andrew Collins shows Olivia and Dan Lazell an oyster at the official launch of the Green Ocean Foundation Greystones Project. Photo: Michael Kelly. Tom Galvin Bray People Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 07:20 Native oysters, which were once abundant along Irelands east coast until their collapse in the 1800s, are quietly making their return to Greystones Harbour and, according to the first round of monitoring, which took place on Friday, February 13, they are settling in with remarkable success. After studying folklore, researching in Newfoundland and working as an EU translator, Caoimhe Ni Shuilleabhan has come home to Wicklow to spark a fresh Irishlanguage hub. A hint of mischief, and a little guessing game. Prior to interviewing her, I exchanged texts with Caoimhe Ni Shuilleabhan, setting up time and place for our rendezvous. Her final text concluded with the letters GRMA. After some head-scratching and brow-furrowing, I worked it out Go Raibh Maith Agat. There it was, obvious, a phrase familiar to anyone who has passed through the Irish school system thanks, or GRMA. Most of us retain our cupla focail long after departing from formal education, though for a majority of us the store of the language is probably well-buried in our sub-conscious much of the time. It needs someone like Caoimhe to bring the reluctant Gael to the surface. And she does it with a sense of fun, along a conviction that the time is ripe to propel the teanga to the forefront in the life of the country, rather than confine it to traditional cultural and geographical ghettoes. A security supervisor has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a young woman while the pair were working at a music festival in Wicklow in the summer of 2023. The defendant, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the alleged victim, appeared before Wicklow Circuit Criminal Court this week, where he had pleaded not guilty to one count of sexual assault. On the first day of the trial, counsel for the prosecution, James Kelly BL, told the jury that the case centred on an allegation that the accused sexually assaulted the woman while the pair were working together as security staff at a music festival. The court heard that the complainant, who was aged in her 20s at the time, had attended the festival after being offered work by a friend and met the accused, who was acting as her supervisor on the night in question. Giving evidence, the woman told the court that she had been assigned to work in a cabin near an access gate alongside the accused, who she alleged had been drinking alcohol while on duty. She alleged that at approximately 9.30pm, the accused pulled her onto his lap and told her that he isnt her boss anymore, before allegedly rubbing his hand on her stomach and inside her vagina without her consent. Its also alleged he rubbed his genitalia on her back. The complainant told the court she was frightened during the alleged incident and said she froze, telling the jury that she kept looking into space. The court heard that she managed to break away from the accused by telling him she wanted to call a takeaway, but said her phone was on charge and undergoing a software update at the time. She told the court that she later contacted her mother, but there was no phone signal in the lodge, which caused her to become upset. The woman said she then left the cabin and contacted her father, who collected her from the festival site later that evening. Senior counsel for the defence, Colman Fitzgerald SC, challenged the womans account and put it to her that he did not believe her version of events. The court heard that the woman made a statement to gardai the day after the alleged incident and later provided further statements in 2024 and 2025. When questioned about differences between her evidence and her statements, the complainant told the court that her memory of events was fogged, but maintained that she was telling the truth. Day two began with testimony from a security staff member who was working on the night of the alleged sexual assault. He told the court he met the complainant while she was walking towards the main entrance. He continued by stating that when he met the complainant, she was crying and struggling to breathe, before she told him, one of the security officers tried to get it on with her. He further remarked that the complainants father jumped over a gate before meeting the witness, who recalled him shouting the accuseds name and demanding to see him, before gardai were alerted to the situation. The complainant was brought home when her mother arrived. In evidence, the security worker told the court that the complainants father returned a second time and met him again, appearing to want to do harm to the defendant. We had a little tussle after I told him he cant go any further, said the witness, adding, he calmed down and apologised before jumping back over the gate and going home. It was noted the father had a piece of steel rebar in his hand at the time. During cross-examination, senior counsel asked multiple questions in relation to the tussle, with the witness repeating what he had said during his evidence. The father of the complainant told the court that his wife informed him what his daughter had told her over the phone, before he went to the festival and encountered the accused at the gate, where the incident took place. He alleged in his evidence that when he asked the accused about his daughter, the accused retrieved an electric bike from next to the cabin and fled the scene. After this, he met his daughter, who told him on the way home that the defendant tried to make her take a drink before pulling her onto his lap and trying to sexually assault her. A witness for the prosecution, the complainants mother, recalled receiving a call from her daughter and her husband leaving the house to go find her. She recalled her daughter telling her that the accused kept kissing her and putting his hand down the back of her pants. The mother stated that her daughter got lucky she ran away from him. The investigating garda, Barry Walker, explained how he became involved in the case and his interview with the accused. It was put to the defendant during interview by Gda Walker and Detective Garda Stephanie Hallahan that he was the perpetrator of a sexual assault, with the court hearing that the accused told them to cut the bullshit as Im here to answer questions. Mr Kelly told the court that during interview it was established that the accused admitted to working with the complainant. When the complainants statement was read to him, which included that he made remarks about him being a Pot Noodle flavour and if she wanted to try it, and that he asked her to have a drink to let loose, he denied it, stating, its all lies, its all lies. The last witness in the case was the accused, who told the sitting of Wicklow Circuit Court that he was unaware why the complainant was making allegations against him, before admitting to drinking one Bacardi. Counsel for the prosecution asked him if the alcohol was from drink confiscated at the festival, to which he replied, I wouldnt drink confiscated alcohol. You dont know what kids are putting in their drinks these days. He stated he has used the same glass over his last 24 years working in the security sector and that on the night he only had one single Bacardi and coke. He denied offering the complainant a drink and stated that allegations about him rubbing his penis against her back were disgusting. Mr Kelly put it to him that on the night he tried to do something he might consider romantic, to which he replied, theres f**king nothing romantic about that, lad. The defendant recalled seeing the complainants father and alleged that he shouted at him, Im going to f**king kill you, while holding a metal bar in his hand. During examination by his own counsel, the court heard the accused was diagnosed with a condition that causes his heart to stop temporarily, meaning oxygen does not go to his brain. Both counsels made their closing arguments before Judge Patrick Quinn delivered his charge to the jury, made up of 10 men and two women. You must assess the evidence and the features of the case, he said, adding, the prosecution must prove their case beyond reasonable doubt. He added: If two kids are in a kitchen and a chocolate cake is there with a big bite taken out of it, and the mother sees one of the kids with chocolate on his mouth, you can infer that it was that child. The jury deliberated until 3pm on Thursday, February 12, before returning a unanimous verdict of guilty. The complainant and her family could be heard crying after the verdict was read. After the jury was discharged, the court was told that the defendant could remain on continuing bail until sentencing, but must sign on daily at a garda station and hand up his passport to his solicitor, Michael OConnor, within 48 hours. Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme Keith Dunphy will be performing his one-man show Words Against The Words at Valleymount Hall on Saturday, February 28. Last summer Irish actor Keith Dunphy developed his one man show Words Against The Word in the rehearsal space at Valleymount Hall in west Wicklow, where he is due to return this month as he tours the play around the country. This show is a hugely entertaining, life-affirming story of the struggles, pain and joy Keith encountered on his journey from Doyle Street to classical acting. The play explores Keiths relationship with his nationality, dyslexia and the challenges of classical theatre. Keith left Waterford in 1996 to train at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Words Against The Word is a one-man play exploring how an Irish actor with dyslexia navigates show business The play is all about the journey of being dyslexic, celebrating the working class and being true to oneself. It features Shakespeare with a Waterford accent and also King Richard II, who came to Waterford with his army in the 13th century. Keith was previously told that it would not be acceptable to play King Richard II with an Irish accent and his play explores the unconscious bias around accent, class and identity. Keith has acted on stage, TV and film, appearing in productions including Peaky Blinders, The Wind That Shakes The Barley, Inside I'm Dancing, Les Miserables, and at The Globe theatre London in its production of Macbeth. The play will be touring Ireland this year, starting at Valleymount Hall, Wicklow, on Saturday, February 28 at 7.30pm. Tickets are available for purchase at eventbrite.ie. From there its on to Esker Arts in Tullamore on Thursday, March 5, Ballina Arts Centre in Mayo on Saturday, March 7, then Mick Lally Theatre, Galway from Thursday, March 26 to Friday, March 27. Other dates include performances at the Viking Theatre in Clontarf, Dublin from April 13-29 and at Wexford Arts Centre on May 28 and 29. I cant help thinking this is the best first date Ive ever had searching for love offline Fed up with dating apps, six weeks ago, Edaein OConnell decided to try something new in her search for Mr Right. Could going analogue end her two-and-a-half-year run of singledom? Edaein OConnell tries dating offline Edaein O Connell Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 06:30 Its a Thursday night in the bleak height of January. Mother Nature has taken a dislike to Dublin, and this is the fifth day of rain in a row. Im dressed up in a black midi skirt with a lace insert at the hem, just enough to reveal a hint of leg. Was I trying to look respectful, with a touch of sex appeal? Who knows, and if I think too much about how Ill be perceived, Ill get nauseous. Jeffrey Epstein and Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem look at what appears to be cloth from the Kaaba, in New York City. Photo: Reuters Dubai port giant DP World said on Friday its chairman and chief executive Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem had resigned, an announcement that followed mounting pressure over his alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Mr Bin Sulayem, one of the Middle Easts most prominent business figures, is among the highest-profile executives to face scrutiny and be removed from senior roles following the recent release of the Epstein files. We got lost in Moscow and I thought Id never see my husband again: the Irish housewives who took on the USSR DHAKA, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- A bomb explosion and a clash claimed three lives in Bangladesh on Friday and Saturday following the country's national parliament election on Thursday, said the police. At least two people were killed and three others injured in an explosion that occurred early Saturday morning in Bangladesh's Chapainawabganj district, some 302 km northwest of the capital Dhaka. Md Nure Alam, a local police official, told journalists that the blast happened around 5 a.m. local time while crude bombs, locally known as "cocktails," were being made at a village house. The blast caused the brick walls of the house to collapse and blew off its tin roof, he said, adding that authorities were identifying the deceased and injured. In a separate incident of post-election violence, a young man was killed in the Munshiganj district, about 30 km away from Dhaka, on Friday night. The deceased died from injuries sustained during a clash between rival factions of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party following the party's victory in the general election, according to Munshiganj Superintendent of Police Md Menhajul Alam. German chancellor Friedrich Merz (right) shakes hands with US secretary of state Marco Rubio during the Munich Security Conference yesterday. Photo: Reuters US Secretary of State Marco Rubio gave a robust message of unity with Europe at the Munich Security Conference, saying Washington's destiny was intertwined with Europe and that it had no intention of abandoning the Transatlantic alliance. Trump sends second aircraft carrier to Gulf as tensions rise Gulf Arab nations have warned any attack by the US could spiral into another conflict The USS Gerald R. Ford. Photo: Getty Maira Butt UK Independent Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 06:30 The US is sending the worlds largest aircraft carrier to the Middle East in a serious escalation of tensions with Iran, according to reports. Canada shooting suspect targeted school to finish off family, survivor claims Jesse Van Rootselaar may have been trying to kill her younger sister and brother who were students at the same school Sarah Lampert, left, stands with her daughter Diveya as she holds photos of her daughter Ticaria who was a victim of the mass shooting, in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. Photo: via AP Brendan Rascius UK Independent Sat 14 Feb 2026 at 01:00 The teenager who carried out a mass shooting in British Columbia, Canada, may have intended to finish off her siblings, a witness said. Jennifer Bond signs a banner that reads "Bring her home" and shows a photo of Nancy Guthrie in Tucson, Arizona. Photo: Reuters The FBI has increased the reward for information about Nancy Guthries disappearance to $100,000 and provided more details on the suspected kidnappers description. Ms Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today show star Savannah Guthrie, has been missing for nearly two weeks, and authorities are desperate to find her. A new crew rocketed toward the International Space Station on Friday to replace the astronauts who returned to Earth early in Nasa's first medical evacuation. SpaceX launched the replacements as soon as possible at Nasa's request, sending the US, French and Russian astronauts on an expected eight- to nine-month mission stretching until autumn. Image credit : AI generated | Glowmads are proving that the world is best explored with a face mask, a facial, and a carefully curated selfie. What even is a glowmad? Image credit : AI generated | Much like an offshoot of wellness travel, the trend is based on ultimate glow-up, beauty, skincare, and overall wellness. Beauty is the itinerary Image credit : AI generated | This style of travel, dubbed glowcations, emphasises indulging in the best spa retreats, discovering local beauty products, and visiting destinations renowned for transformative wellness rituals. Skincare at 30,000 feet Image credit : AI generated | 2026 will see skincare and beauty rituals move beyond social media, influencing travel in many ways for some. Who is driving it? There was a time when travel meant chasing sunsets, collecting fridge magnets, and pretending you enjoy hiking. Then came digital nomads, coolcations and set-jetting. Now? Enter the Glowmads, the travellers who refuse to board a flight without SPF, a serum, and a solid skincare routine.Yes, the holiday has had a glow-up.A Glowmad is a traveller who plans trips around beauty, skincare and wellness rituals. Think less backpacking through chaos and more booking a facial between museum visits. These are the people turning holidays into full-blown glowcations, where the main souvenir is luminous skin.Reports suggest that a significant percentage of Gen Z travellers are intentionally seeking beauty treatments and skincare shopping while abroad. Travel is no longer just about escape. It is about elevation. Emotional healing, yes. But also glass skin.Glowmad travel is curated. Destinations are chosen for their reputation in beauty and wellness. South Korea for advanced skin clinics. Paris for iconic French pharmacy staples. Kerala for Ayurveda. Tuscany for mineral-rich thermal springs. The vibe is simple: arrive tired, leave transformed.It is not just about spa robes and cucumber water. It is targeted, tech-forward treatments, spiritual cleansing rituals, and yoga retreats that promise inner peace and outer radiance. Even airports are part of the ritual, with travellers stocking up on duty-free make-up and skincare before take-off.The Glowmad does not pause their routine mid-air. Airplane cabins may be dry, but their skin will not be. Travel-sized serums, face mists, sheet masks and SPF-infused moisturisers are now as essential as passports. Hydration is a lifestyle.Primarily Gen Z and Millennials. Beauty influencers amplify the movement with in-flight routines and pack with me videos. Frequent flyers swear by compact, multi-tasking products to survive constant climate shifts.The question for 2026 is simple. If your suitcase is not half spa kit, are you even travelling? After raising nearly 40 lakh for her mothers cancer treatment through a crowdfunding campaign, Sitlani found herself accused of running a scam. The backlash exploded days after her mothers death, when critics questioned her lifestyle, timing, and transparency. Who is Malvika Sitlani? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Malvika Sitlani (@malvikasitlaniofficial) Malvika Sitlani has long been seen as one of Indias most relatable beauty influencers. From soft glam tutorials to honest chats about divorce and single motherhood, she built a loyal audience who trusted her voice. But in early 2026, that trust came under sharp scrutiny.After raising nearly 40 lakh for her mothers cancer treatment through a crowdfunding campaign, Sitlani found herself accused of running a scam. The backlash exploded days after her mothers death, when critics questioned her lifestyle, timing, and transparency. The fundraiser for her mothers cancer treatment Another crowdfunding scam >This is Malvika Sitlani, a successful social media influencer with 700k+ Instagram followers and 800k+ YouTube subscribers, known for living a luxury lifestyle in Dubai. >Despite being rich and earning heavily from social media, she started a pic.twitter.com/N8Gipu1TXZ (@Alreadysad__) February 14, 2026 Tragedy and the sudden shift online View this post on Instagram A post shared by Malvika Sitlani (@malvikasitlaniofficial) Netizens are calling her 'Scamvika Sitlani' The accusations centre around three main concerns. First, her perceived wealth. Netizens argue that as a successful influencer with brand deals and a Dubai lifestyle, she should have funded the treatment herself. If she can afford Dubai glam, why crowdsource hospital bills? one X user wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Malvika Sitlani (@malvikasitlaniofficial) Third, transparency. While the fundraiser ended before her mother passed away, some people demanded a detailed breakdown of how the money was used and whether any surplus remained. Threads on Reddit accused her of exploiting emotions, with one harsh comment reading, Daylight robbery. YouTube commentary channels added fuel to the fire, publishing videos that labelled it one of the biggest influencer controversies of the year. The accusations centre around three main concerns. First, her perceived wealth. Netizens argue that as a successful influencer with brand deals and a Dubai lifestyle, she should have funded the treatment herself. If she can afford Dubai glam, why crowdsource hospital bills? one X user wrote.Third, transparency. While the fundraiser ended before her mother passed away, some people demanded a detailed breakdown of how the money was used and whether any surplus remained. Threads on Reddit accused her of exploiting emotions, with one harsh comment reading, Daylight robbery. YouTube commentary channels added fuel to the fire, publishing videos that labelled it one of the biggest influencer controversies of the year. Supporters push back Not everyone agrees with the outrage. Several fans defended her, saying medical care in Dubai is expensive and unpredictable. One user wrote on X, She used the money for her mothers hospitalisation in January. Why judge someone already going through so much? Just saw Malvika Sitlanis post about losing her mom and it makes me so sad. Life hasnt been fair to her and I feel we all have witnessed that by being a part of her journey. She is one of those influencers I genuinely want to see win in life and I know she will. sheen (@SuchAMisfit) February 9, 2026 As of mid February 2026, Sitlani has not issued a detailed public statement addressing the scam allegations. Her recent posts focus on faith and loss. Reports suggest she has limited or closed comments on some posts. For now, Malvika Sitlani remains both a grieving daughter and a polarising online figure. Whether she chooses to release financial details or let the storm pass will shape how this chapter ends. As of mid February 2026, Sitlani has not issued a detailed public statement addressing the scam allegations. Her recent posts focus on faith and loss. Reports suggest she has limited or closed comments on some posts. For now, Malvika Sitlani remains both a grieving daughter and a polarising online figure. Whether she chooses to release financial details or let the storm pass will shape how this chapter ends. Not everyone agrees with the outrage. Several fans defended her, saying medical care in Dubai is expensive and unpredictable. One user wrote on X, She used the money for her mothers hospitalisation in January. Why judge someone already going through so much? Malvika Sitlani is a Mumbai born beauty creator who began posting online around 2016. Over the years, she grew her Instagram to more than 700,000 followers and built a YouTube channel with over 800,000 subscribers. Her videos focus on everyday makeup, skincare routines, faith based reflections, and personal vlogs.She often signs off with Jesus is King and speaks openly about lifes struggles. After her divorce, she spoke about healing, therapy, and raising her daughter Abigail on her own. In mid 2025, she moved to Dubai, calling it a fresh start and a way to break generational cycles. She also co founded the beauty brand MASIC, which helped cement her image as a businesswoman, not just a content creator.In January 2026, Sitlani turned to crowdfunding platform ImpactGuru to raise money for her mother, Jenifer Sitlani. Her mother was battling metastatic breast cancer for the third time. The cancer had reportedly spread to her bones and liver, requiring intensive treatment in Dubai.The campaign goal was 40 lakh. Within hours, donations poured in. Reports suggested that the fundraiser crossed 70 percent of the target in under a day. By the time it ended in mid January, close to the full amount had been raised.Sitlani posted emotional appeals, calling the situation soul crushing and admitting she never imagined she would need to ask for help as the sole earning member of the family. Medical documents were uploaded, and the platform marked the campaign as verified. At the time, many followers praised her honesty. One supporter wrote on Instagram, You have given us years of content. This is the least we can do.On February 10, 2026, Sitlani announced that her mother had passed away. Her posts were filled with grief. She wrote that life would never be the same and spoke about losing both her parents within months.But four days later, on Valentines Day, her Instagram stories showed a very different mood. She posted glam selfies, shared moments from an outing with a friend, and added captions about missing a man and single girl vibes. Thales Naves Alves Machado, 40, a senior municipal official and son in law of Mayor Dione Araujo, was dead in the main bedroom. A registered Glock pistol rested on his chest. Nearby lay his two sons, Miguel, 12, and Benicio, 8, both critically injured. Miguel died at the scene. Benicio was rushed to Hospital Estadual de Itumbiara and underwent emergency surgery, but he did not survive his injuries and passed away two days later. Investigators also noted a strong smell of gasoline in the flat. Though no fire was started, authorities believe Machado may have intended to set the apartment alight. From suspicion to surveillance According to local reports, the tragedy did not erupt without warning. Machado had been grappling with deep suspicions that his wife, Sarah Tinoco Araujo, was having an affair. Sources close to the investigation say he hired a private detective to monitor her movements. He allegedly received video footage that confirmed what he feared. That confirmation appears to have pushed him into a spiral. Tragic incident in Itumbiara, Brazil. A municipal secretary, suspecting his wife of infidelity, installed surveillance and confirmed her affair through video footage. In a devastating response, he killed his children before taking his own life. pic.twitter.com/t1EzELuqEb Being Political (@BeingPolitical1) February 14, 2026 A quiet residential building in Itumbiara turned into a crime scene just before midnight on February 11, 2026. Residents at Condominio Paraiso reported hearing gunshots coming from one of the apartments. When police forced their way inside, they found a scene that would soon shake the entire state of Goias.Thales Naves Alves Machado, 40, a senior municipal official and son in law of Mayor Dione Araujo, was dead in the main bedroom. A registered Glock pistol rested on his chest. Nearby lay his two sons, Miguel, 12, and Benicio, 8, both critically injured.Miguel died at the scene. Benicio was rushed to Hospital Estadual de Itumbiara and underwent emergency surgery, but he did not survive his injuries and passed away two days later. Investigators also noted a strong smell of gasoline in the flat. Though no fire was started, authorities believe Machado may have intended to set the apartment alight.According to local reports, the tragedy did not erupt without warning. Machado had been grappling with deep suspicions that his wife, Sarah Tinoco Araujo, was having an affair. Sources close to the investigation say he hired a private detective to monitor her movements. He allegedly received video footage that confirmed what he feared. That confirmation appears to have pushed him into a spiral. A family at the centre of local power Thales Machado hired a private investigator and caught his wife cheating on him on a date red-handed. He also posted a video of himself in the car just a few days earlier. This event led him to murder his son and commit suicide after discovering his wife's alleged infidelity. pic.twitter.com/mT7dkQvyr5 Sumola (@SumolaIdowu) February 14, 2026 Hours before the shooting, Machado posted an emotional video on social media featuring his sons. One clip showed a boy practising jiu jitsu. Another showed a child drawing while sitting on his fathers lap. The caption read in Portuguese, May God always bless my sons, Daddy loves you so much. In another post, later deleted, he referred to a marriage crisis and accused his wife of betrayal. Police believe the killings were premeditated. There is no indication of third party involvement. The case is being treated as double homicide followed by suicide.Machado was not an obscure figure. An agronomist and business administrator educated at Universidade Luterana do Brasil, he had served as Secretary of Government in Itumbiara since 2021. He reportedly earned around R$19,000 a month and held significant influence in city affairs. Greeces population is aging at one of the fastest rates in Europe, with the median age climbing to 47.2 years in 2025, according to a new Eurostat report that underscores a deepening demographic crisis. The data reveals that the average age of residents in Greece surged by 3.8 years over the last decade, significantly outpacing the European Union average. As of Jan. 1, 2025, the EU median stood at 44.9 years, meaning half the bloc's population is older than that figure. "The demographic shift is structural and accelerating," the report notes, highlighting that Greece now has the third-highest share of elderly residents in the bloc. Nearly one in four people in Greece23.7% of the populationis now over the age of 65. This trails only Italy, where the figure has reached 24.7%. Conversely, Greece recorded the EUs third-lowest proportion of children up to 14 years old, at just 12.8%, a drop from 14.5% a decade ago. The aging trend is visible across the continent, with the EU average rising by 2.1 years since 2015. However, the shift is most pronounced in Southern and Eastern Europe. Slovakia and Cyprus saw the sharpest 10-year increases of 4.0 years, followed closely by Italy (+3.9) and Greece (+3.8). By contrast, Germany and Malta defied the trend, each recording a slight decrease of 0.4 years in their median age. Demographers warn that the shrinking working-age populationnow at 63.5% in Greeceposes mounting challenges for the countrys pension system and labor market as it seeks to sustain economic recovery. iefimerida.gr SHENZHEN, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- For decades, Chinese families marked the Chinese New Year by gifting boxes of health supplements and traditional delicacies. Now, high-tech gadgets, from drones to AI glasses, are emerging as the gift of choice, fueled by government subsidies, innovation and a consumer shift toward smart lifestyles. At Shenzhen's Huaqiangbei electronics market, known as "China's Hardware Silicon Valley," the transformation is impossible to miss. What was once a wholesale hub for components has become a bustling fair where thousands hunt for digital gifts. Li Ye, a native of northeastern China working in Shenzhen, found himself swept up in the weekday crowds. "I thought it would be quieter," he said, clutching three drones purchased for relatives back home. Nearby, a vendor reported shifting over 30 units in a single day this month. The market's appeal has extended beyond domestic shoppers. More than 7,000 foreign buyers stream through the fair daily in the Chinese New Year season, according to local officials. The district has deployed volunteers in orange vests to assist international visitors. During a Hangzhou consumption expo, the 125-gram flying cameras drew a steady stream of inquiries. Desktop companion robots equipped with large language models and dancing capabilities became the center of attention, captivating children and young adults alike. Beijing's silver-age festival told a similar story. Exoskeleton-assisted walking robots and AI mattresses that monitor heart rate and breathing data have emerged as popular ways for younger generations to express filial piety toward elderly relatives. The boom is not accidental. Government subsidies have played a crucial role. Smart glasses were added to the national subsidy catalog for the first time this year, with some products available at 50 percent off through combined trade-in programs and state support. At an offline experience store in Beijing, a man surnamed Sun was trying on AI glasses he had long coveted. He had browsed them online extensively before deciding to purchase some for himself and his family. A store staff member said the subsidies have heated up demand for robot vacuums, smart kitchen appliances, whole-home intelligence systems, and 3C products over the past month. Data from the Ministry of Commerce show that in January, sales of home appliances and digital products under China's subsidy program exceeded 15 million units, with total revenue nearing 59 billion yuan (8.5 billion U.S. dollars). Local governments have allocated over 2 billion yuan in funds to directly benefit the public through consumption vouchers, subsidies and cash handouts during the holiday season. The shift reflects bigger changes in Chinese consumption patterns as consumers increasingly prioritize service and value experiences enabled by new technologies. "Whether for family trips or as gifts, these products are about capturing and sharing moments," said a salesperson at the Shenzhen retail store, where Insta360 cameras saw heavy traffic. The panoramic cameras, developed by a local startup, carry discounts of up to 1,400 yuan. Last April, this hardware maker's product became an instant U.S. hit, with customers lining up at dawn to grab the new release. An online platform is adding spice to the hardware gift frenzy. Doubao, ByteDance's AI assistant, announced it will distribute more than 100,000 gifts during China Central Television's Spring Festival gala on Feb. 16. Those prizes include humanoid robots, robotic dogs, 3D printers, and drones, all integrated with Doubao's large language models. A fresh wave of North African desert dust began sweeping across Greece on Saturday, driven by strong southerly winds that threaten to turn skies into a hazy orange and dump "muddy rain" on northern regions through early next week. AtmoHub, the countrys center for atmospheric monitoring, reported that the phenomenon follows the passage of a low-pressure front While rainfall has temporarily subsided, the incoming dust plume is expected to intensify rapidly and peak on Sunday. The intrusion will initially impact eastern Greece before spreading nationwide. Meteorologists warn that the highest concentrations of particulate matter will affect southern and central regions, specifically Crete, the Peloponnese, Central Greece, and the islands of the Aegean and Ionian seas. In the north, the dust is forecast to mix with lingering precipitation systems to create muddy rainfalla messy phenomenon known locally as "laspobrochi"which often coats vehicles, balconies, and buildings in a reddish slime. Health authorities typically advise vulnerable groups, including those with respiratory or heart conditions, to limit vigorous outdoor activity during such episodes as air quality deteriorates. Visibility is also expected to drop significantly in the hardest-hit areas. AtmoHub forecasts that the dust will persist in the atmosphere until early next week before clearing, marking the latest in a series of Saharan transport events that have become increasingly common in the Mediterranean. iefimerida.gr Former President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, called for a generational shift in governance across Africa, urging countries to deliberately promote leaders between the ages of 25 and 50, whom he said are better equipped to cope with the physical and mental demands of modern leadership. Jonathan spoke in Abuja at the International Memorial Lecture and Leadership Conference marking the 50th anniversary of the assassination of former Head of State, Gen. Murtala Muhammed. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also addressed the gathering, speaking on economic policy consistency and agricultural development. Dignitaries present include former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and his wife, Dolapo; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II; Hajia Ajoke Muhammed, widow of the late Head of State; and Dr. Isha Oyebade, daughter of the late leader. Advertisement International participants include former Malawian President Joyce Banda, former Ghanaian President John Kufuor, and former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Koroma, alongside members of the diplomatic corps, academia and industry leaders. Why do we begin to think that you must be 100 years old before you can rule your country? Jonathan asked. Reflecting on the demands of public office, the former president said leadership requires stamina and resilience, recalling that while in office, he sometimes slept for less than two hours in a day. If they need to stay awake for 24 hours, they can stay awake for 24 hours. When I was in office, some days, I did not sleep up to two hours. If you subject an older person to that kind of stress, the person will spend 50 percent of the time in hospital. Young people must see leadership as service, not entitlement. Leaders must see governance as stewardship, not a right, he said. Yoruba nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has declared his readiness to work with the Federal Government to eliminate bandits and criminal elements from forests across the South-West. Speaking to Saturday PUNCH in Ibadan, Oyo State, Adeyemo said he and his supporters are prepared to enter the forests if granted government approval and support. I need the support of the Federal Government to strengthen security in the South-West. Im ready to enter the forests in Yorubaland with my boys to flush out terrorists attacking our people in rural communities. We cant do anything without government approval or support, he stated. Advertisement Adeyemo emphasized that with his freedom and pardon, he is prepared to collaborate fully to rid the forests of criminal elements and rogue herders threatening community peace. He reiterated that he has the manpower and capacity to assist in safeguarding rural communities if the Federal Government gives the go-ahead. Ukraine has announced the discovery of the bodies of two Nigerians in its Luhansk region who were allegedly fighting on Russias side in the ongoing four-year war. In a statement yesterday, Ukraine said military intelligence operatives identified the two men as Hamzat Kazeen Kolawole, 42, and Mbah Stephen Udoka, 38. Both served in the 423rd Guards Motor Rifle Regiment (military unit 91701) of the 4th Guards Kantemirovskaya Tank Division of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, Ukraines Defence Intelligence said. Advertisement According to the statement, Kolawole and Udoka signed contracts with the Russian Army in the second half of 2025 Kolawole on August 29 and Udoka on September 28. Udoka reportedly had no military training prior to his posting on October 3, five days after signing his contract. He was allegedly assigned to a unit, and sent to the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. No training records for Kolawole have been preserved; however, it is highly likely that he also received no military training. His wife and three children remain in Nigeria, the statement added. The report noted that both Nigerians were killed in late November by a drone strike during an attempt to raid Ukrainian positions in the Luhansk region. Ukraines Defence Intelligence warns foreign citizens against travelling to the Russian Federation or taking up any work on the territory of the aggressor state, the statement said, adding that a trip to Russia carries a real risk of being forced into a suicide assault unit and, ultimately, rotting in Ukrainian soil. Last week, a CNN investigation disclosed that Africans from Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda were reportedly lured to Russia under the guise of civilian job offers, such as drivers or security guards. Upon arrival, they were allegedly forced into military service with minimal training before being deployed to the frontline. The Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyelyshev, on Tuesday, dismissed the reports and distanced the Kremlin from the alleged recruitment programmes. Kilah Fox as Kilah and Shane Gillis as Shane in the second season of "Tires." Read more The hit Netflix series Tires is returning to the Philadelphia area, with more than a few extra dollars to spare. Advertisement The show, starring Mechanicsburg, Pa., native and former Mantua resident comedian Shane Gillis was approved for a $6 million tax credit for its forthcoming production in the Philly region. The tax credit was issued through the states Film Production Tax Credit Program, which is overseen by the Pa. Department of Community and Economic Development. The program offers a 25% to 30% tax credit to productions that spent at least 60% of their total operational budget in the state. Nicole Shiner, co-executive director of the Greater Philadelphia Film Office alongside Erin Wagner, said incentives like these are vital for large-scale productions like Tires to land and remain in the region.. The tax credit program is the primary economic development tool that allows Pennsylvania, and Philadelphia specifically, to compete nationally and internationally for projects the tax credit supports, Shiner said. Film and TV production is very mobile, and production companies compare states based on infrastructure, financial competitiveness, workforce in the area, and overall reliability, she said. Without a strong incentive program, we simply wouldnt be competitive in attracting major episodic TV or studio features. Tires, created by Gillis and his longtime collaborators Steven Gerben and John McKeever, is set and filmed in West Chester. It premiered on Netflix in May 2024 and was soon renewed for a second season. In July 2025, the show was renewed for a third season. When a series returns for additional seasons, that signals the area has stability, Shiner said. That consistency is what allows businesses and workers to grow with our industry. People can stay, create families, make plans, and pay mortgages. She is glad the show is shooting on location. When you see stuff on location, it gives you a Pennsylvania authentic feel that you really cant make up. We love that, she said. Pennsylvania Film Office officials expect the forthcoming production to generate an estimated $24 million to the local economy in return, including 1,709 jobs. Based on the local film offices projections, Shiner said the shows economic impact could reach as much as $50 million across the region. The estimate is based on professional services, goods, and production costs linked to shows of this magnitude. These operational costs include local cast and crew wages, equipment rentals, construction, transportation, catering, security, lodging, and other expenses, which are then injected into the regional economy. The state film office awarded $28 million to the Pittsburgh-set and shot series Mayor of Kingstown, starring Jeremy Renner, Dianne Wiest, and Edie Falco. Pennsylvania Film Office officials said the two productions combined are expected to inject more than $131 million into the economy in direct expenditures, creating and supporting nearly 3,500 state jobs. Since the beginning of Gov. Josh Shapiros administration, the states Film Office has approved 135 new productions through the tax credit program. These productions are projected to inject over $1.34 billion in direct spending in over 34 counties in Pennsylvania, while supporting nearly 40,000 jobs and $505.3 million in state resident wages. We are sandwiched between New York and New Jersey, and the tax credit program has been increasing astronomically over the last few years, Shiner said. Its really important that Pennsylvania pays attention to this, if were going to remain competitive. Containers of Johnson's Baby Powder made by Johnson & Johnson sit on a shelf in 2019 in San Anselmo, Calif. The company announced on May 19, 2020, it will no longer sell the talc-based version in the U.S. and Canada amid thousands of lawsuits and millions of dollars in damages it has paid over the years to settle allegations of asbestos contamination a charge the company vehemently denies. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images/TNS) Read more A Philadelphia jury ordered pharmaceutical and cosmetics giant Johnson & Johnson to pay $250,000 to the family of a York County woman after finding the companys baby powder product led her to develop cancer. Gayle Emerson sued Johnson & Johnson in 2019 as part of a nationwide wave of litigation accusing the companys talc-based baby powder of causing ovarian cancer. Emerson, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2015, died at age 68, months after filing the complaint. Advertisement The complaint accused the New Jersey-based company of selling a defective product and failing to warn about its risks. After a three-week trial, which Common Pleas Judge Sean F. Kennedy presided over, the jury began deliberating Tuesday afternoon and reached its verdict Friday around 2 p.m. During deliberations, jurors asked the judge questions that suggested they grappled with how strongly the evidence showed that external use of baby powder could allow a cancer-causing substance to reach the ovaries. The verdict was comprised of $50,000 in compensatory damages and $200,000 in punitive damages. This token verdict reflects the jurys appreciation that the claims were meritless and divorced from the science, Erik Haas, Johnson & Johnsons worldwide vice president of litigation, said in a statement. The company plans to appeal the verdict, Haas said. Johnson & Johnson specifically advertised the product for women, the suit says, stating on the bottle: For you, use every day to help feel soft, fresh, and comfortable. Studies have connected talc to ovarian cancer since the early 1970s, according to the complaint. The mineral is excavated from the mines that also contain asbestos, risking contamination from the cancer-causing substance. The Federal Drug Administration asked condom manufacturers in the 1990s to stop dusting their product with talc because of the risk to women. Johnson & Johnson stopped selling its talc-based baby powder in the United States and Canada in 2020. The company was aware of the research about the increased risk of cancer for women who use the powder on their genital area, the suit says, based on internal documents and public statements. Gayle Emerson trusted Johnson & Johnson, and Johnson & Johnson betrayed that trust, Leigh ODell, a Beasley Allen attorney representing Emersons family, said in her opening statement. READ MORE: Unsealed emails show how Johnson & Johnson shaped report on talcs links to cancer Attorneys in Pennsylvania arent allowed to advise jurors on how much to award in damages, but ODell noted in her closing argument that Johnson & Johnsons net worth is $72.3 billion and a verdict should be enough to get the attention of the companys boardroom. Emerson didnt rely on any false statement or misrepresentation by Johnson & Johnson before purchasing the baby powder, the company said in court filings. Further, the FDA considered and rejected requests to add a cancer warning to talc powders in the 1990s. During the trial, attorneys for Johnson & Johnson said the baby powder, which Emerson used externally, wasnt responsible for the cancer. Other parts of her feminine care routine, such as douching, are also associated with increased risk of ovarian cancer, the attorneys said, and Emerson had other risk factors such as family history, obesity, and age. Emersons attorneys ignored those risk factors because they have talc blinders on, Shaila Diwan, a Kirkland Ellis attorney representing the company, said to the jurors at the outset of the trial. Ms. Emerson would have still developed cancer if she never used Johnsons baby powder, Diwan said in closing. Its important that the jury found that Johnson & Johnson was directly responsibe for Emersons cancer but the award is significantly less than the amount necessary to punish J&J, ODell said in a statement. Fridays verdict follows a $40 million December verdict out of Los Angeles for two women who similarly claimed the talc-based powder caused their cancer. While the Philadelphia trial was proceeding, a three-judge panel of a New Jersey appeals court disqualified Beasley Allen from the baby powder litigation in the state for ethical violations. The Alabama-based firm has been accused of receiving privileged information from an attorney who previously represented Johnson & Johnson. The firm said it would appeal the decision. Its unclear if the ruling will impact the Pennsylvania verdict, or future Beasley Allen cases outside New Jersey. Emersons is the second talc-related lawsuit to reach a verdict in Philadelphia, after a 2021 trial concluded with the jury siding with Johnson & Johnson. There are 176 lawsuits similar to Emersons pending in the Philadelphia court, and thousands across the nation. Another trial against Johnson & Johnson in a City Hall courtroom is scheduled for April. READ MORE: The College of Physicians of Philadelphia apologized for celebrating the infamous doctor who experimented on people in the Holmesburg Prison The city has a significant and dark place in the history of talc. Records from a 2021 case in California revealed that Johnson & Johnson hired in the 1960s a University of Pennsylvania dermatologist to study talc on the bodies of people incarcerated in Philadelphias now-defunct Holmesburg Prison. In 1971, Albert Kligman injected asbestos, talc, and other substances into the backs of incarcerated Black men for payments as low as $10 a shot. The study was one of hundreds of human experiments conducted by Kligman, with funding by entities such as Dow Chemicals and the U.S. government. Tesla, the 23-year-old company that brought green cars into the mainstream, has been pushed off its perch as the worlds top electric vehicle seller. Chinese EV manufacturer BYD sold hundreds of thousands more cars last year, and its not just in China. Advertisement In most of the countries where the Chinese titan went head-to-head with Tesla including Germany, Mexico, Thailand, and Australia Tesla lost market share at an unprecedented rate. The end of federal support for EVs has bitten into Teslas sales in the United States, while backlash against chief executive Elon Musks political posturing has damaged his companys reputation both at home and abroad. Globally, BYD is dominating with newer models, better batteries, and lower sticker prices. Tesla didnt just lose its sales crown, it squandered its position as a leader, said Paul Blokland, cofounder of automotive data company Segment Y Automotive Intelligence. As the U.S. industry retreats behind a wall of tariffs and abandoned EV plans, Asia has taken the torch, Blokland said. In one of the most extreme examples of Tesla getting trumped, BYD vehicles swarmed roads in Europe last year. The Chinese companys sales in the top 10 European markets quadrupled in 2025 compared with the previous year, according to calculations from Segment Y. Tesla sales slumped 30% over the same period. As Tesla loses global market share, Musk has been trying to diversify Tesla away from its EV roots and rebrand it as more of an AI, robotics, and robotaxi company. On Teslas earnings call last month, Musk announced that he would end production of the Model S and Model X and use the factory space to produce Optimus humanoid robots. He said he hopes to produce 1 million robots a year at the production plant in Fremont, Calif. Its time to basically bring the Model S and X programs to an end with an honorable discharge because were really moving into a future that is based on autonomy, Musk said on the call. BYD was founded in 1995 in Shenzhen, China, starting out as a maker of low-cost rechargeable batteries for consumer electronics, eventually supplying Motorola, Nokia, and others. BYD has now emerged as a global electric-vehicle heavyweight by controlling much of its supply chain and rapidly rolling out new models. An early investment from Berkshire Hathaway helped legitimize the company abroad. As BYD expanded sales across China, Europe, and other overseas markets, it has been reshaping competition in the auto industry everywhere it lands. Because of steep tariffs and federal restrictions, you cant buy a BYD passenger vehicle in the U.S. But experts and customers say BYD offers a higher-quality car for a much lower price in other countries. The BYD Dolphin, an all-electric hatchback, starts at less than $14,000 in China. More than 75,000 BYDs were sold in Mexico last year, according to Segment Ys tally. Canada recently reached a trade agreement with China that would allow more Chinese EVs into the country. Experts said BYD has several advantages over Tesla, including a more diverse product offering, lower-cost access to rare earth metals used in batteries, and immunity from U.S. safety and labor laws. High-visibility elements of BYD cars seem to be superior to not just Teslas but a lot of the cars that are being produced by non-Chinese companies, said Karl Brauer, an analyst at iSeeCars.com. Musk has got to find another concept to build his legacy on. Tesla offers a few main vehicles with some variation, including a compact car, a midsize SUV and the Cybertruck. BYD sells more than eight models that include sedans, several SUVs, minivans, and trucks. In countries where there is a choice between Tesla and BYD, customers say BYD cars look better, cost less, and come with more options. Amy de Groot, a resident of Melbourne, Australia, bought her BYD Sealion 6 about a year ago for around 55,000 Australian dollars about $35,000 in U.S. currency. She said BYD vehicles are all over the roads in her community. Everyone that gets into the car is dead shocked at how nice it is, De Groot said. Its a beautiful car to look at and to be inside. When she was shopping for an electric vehicle, De Groot didnt give much thought to buying a Tesla. That brand peaked in popularity in Australia about five years ago, she estimated, but Musks reputation has significantly deteriorated since then, she said. At the time that I was looking, the Tesla stocks bombed really hard, and resale is always top of mind for me, De Groot said. It was a real fad to have a Tesla, and I just dont think that theyre competitive in any way. According to Segment Y Automotive Intelligence, BYD sold more than 52,000 electric vehicles in Australia in 2025, a 156% increase from the year prior. Tesla sales in the country fell 24%. Even in California, where electric vehicles are extremely popular and BYD is nowhere to be found, Tesla is losing market share. The number of new Teslas registered in California fell more than 11% from 2024 to 2025. Teslas market share among EVs in the state fell 5 percentage points over the same period, according to recent data from the California Auto Outlook. American automaker Chevrolet and Japanese manufacturer Honda both gained market share at the same time. The scrapping of incentives no doubt impacted Tesla, but at least it does not have to worry about BYD in its own backyard yet, Blokland said. One of BYDs competitive edges, analysts say, is its batteries. It started as a battery company and has developed batteries that are more affordable and powerful than the competition. Another factor is that battery materials are cheaper to source in China, said Brauer of iSeeCars.com. When the most expensive part of an electric car is the battery, and you have a massive advantage on the cost of producing a battery, you have a massive advantage in the EV world, he said. BYD may also be getting some help from government backing as well as lower labor costs, experts say. Our rules and environmental regulations and our laws about how you treat workers are not globally instituted, said Brian Moody, an automotive expert and analyst. It seems to give BYD a financial advantage in that they can charge next to nothing for a car that maybe costs more than that to build. Quakertown Superintendent Matthew Friedman is on leave effective immediately, a district spokesperson said Friday. In November, the school board voted to raise Friedman's salary and extend his contract. Read more Quakertown Community School District Superintendent Matthew Friedman is on leave effective immediately, a district spokesperson said Friday. The spokesperson, Melissa Hartney, said the districts school board could not comment further. Advertisement Because this is a personnel matter, the board is limited in the amount of information it can share at this time, Hartney said in a statement. Friedman did not return a request for comment. Friedman took over the 4,600-student district in Upper Bucks County in 2023, after serving as superintendent of the Ocean City School District in New Jersey. READ MORE: Kids start talking careers in kindergarten in this Bucks district. Its part of a new approach with an eye toward life after school. The Quakertown school board in November granted him a $10,000 raise, bringing his salary to $233,000, and extended his contract until June 30, 2028. Assistant Superintendent Lisa Hoffman is taking over day-to-day operations of the district, Hartney said. The board is confident that district operations, instructional programs, and student services will continue without interruption, Hartney said, adding that it remains committed to transparency, accountability, and maintaining the trust of our students, staff, families, and community. The bisi bele bath from Malgudi Cafe in Exton is a classic dish from Karnataka state of Southern India that cooks rice and lentils into a comforting porridge seasoned with spice. Read more Bisi Bele Bath at Malgudi Cafe Ive never arrived to Extons Malgudi Cafe and not found a line out the door, whether for a late-night dinner or a blizzard-weekend brunch. That initially surprised me considering Malgudi appears at first glance to be an unassuming restaurant in a Chester County strip mall. But this cafe is a special place, not only because its one of the regions few Indian restaurants dedicated to vegetarian cooking, but because it may also be the only one focused specifically on the cuisine of the city of Bangalore, in the South Indian state of Karnataka. Advertisement I have loved virtually everything Ive ordered here, from the crunchy stuffed pani puri puffs with sour-and-spicy green mint water to pour inside, to the lacy-crisp crepe roll of its onion rava dosa. But for a true immersion into the homey essence of Malgudi, which was launched in 2023 by four South Indian families, dive into a tray of bisi bele bath. Known by its loyal customers as Triple B, this Karnataka comfort classic is a soulful stew of rice and toor dal (split pigeon peas) that are cooked down with seasonal vegetables until they essentially melt together into a soothing porridge. While the word bisi means hot in Kannada, this one-pot dish is not fiery so much as it is vivid with fragrant spice tangy with tamarind and tomatoes then flared with the aromatics of Malgudis house masala, a punchy blend of dried red chilies, cinnamon, cloves, and coconut ground fresh. Served hot on a stainless-steel thali tray, there are sides of tart raita yogurt and crunchy boondi pastry beads to add more textures and flavors. On the off chance theyre already out of Triple B (as they were on my first visit), go for the khara pongal porridge of yellow moong lentils cooked down with cumin, cashews, chilies, and curry leaves. Malgudi Cafe, 10 W. Lincoln Hwy., Exton; 484-874-2124, malgudicafe.com Craig LaBan Crab cakes at Bomb Bomb Bar Theres a loose guideline followed by many people who dine out a lot: Get the most adventurous things on the menu. Theyre often the best reflection of the kitchens passions. So it was with a little sheepishness that I ordered, among other items, the classic crab cake at Bomb Bomb Bar, the deep South Philly institution that Zeppoli and Palizzi Social Club chef-owner Joey Baldino revived last fall. Crab cakes are frequently delicious, but they are also extremely common and seldom edgy, especially next to, say, whole Dungenesse crab and moms stuffed calamari. But Ill be forever content with my decision-making, for chef Max Hacheys crab cakes are maybe the best ones Ive ever had a paean to blue crab, simply treated. To make them, Hachey combines crab meat from three different parts of the crab with reduced, onion-infused cream plus Dijon mustard, roasted-garlic aioli, chives, lemon zest, egg, and some crumbled Club Crackers (just a few to held hold it together, Hachey says). The mixture is scooped into dumpling-sized parcels, brushed with butter, then broiled. The cakes are plated, two to an order, on top of a swirl of basil vinaigrette, then garnished with confit cherry tomatoes still clinging to their crispy vines. The meal at Bomb Bomb was full of hits, from the zippy antipasto salad to the oil-slicked Italian tuna spaghetti and the lobster and shells in a blush sauce, not to mention those torpedoes of sausage-stuffed squid doused in deep-red gravy. We were too full for dessert, but I didnt feel so bad skipping it, as it was about as approachable as it gets: an ice cream sundae. Bomb Bomb Bar, 1026 Wolf St., bombbombbar.com Jenn Ladd Goat with spicy scallop creole at Honeysuckle x Kabawa popup After eating an extremely gamey Kashmiri goat curry in high school, I had given up eating goat. I use the past tense because more than a decade later, I have relented on my goat fast. Last week, North Broad Streets Honeysuckle restaurant hosted a popup with chef Paul Carmichael, who runs Kabawa in New York Citys East Village and presented some of his signature Caribbean dishes. The goat shoulder was a perfect cube of meat, slow-cooked and succulent, bathed in a fiery gravy of habaneros and dried scallop. Glistening like a crown on top of the cube were fried curry leaves. It was absolute perfection, complemented beautifully by the collaborative dessert by Carmichael and Honeysuckle chef-owners Omar Tate and Cybille St.Aude-Tate: a decadent, mousse-y Marquise au Chokola dessert with rum, chocolate, dulce de leche, and djon djon a rare mushroom from Haiti. Honeysuckle Restaurant, 631 N. Broad St., 215-307-3316, honeysucklephl.com Bedatri D. Choudhury The hands of a student compress the chest of a CPR mannequin during a community training session in 2018, at the University of St. Joseph in West Hartford, Conn. Read more When Bob Borzillo collapsed a few months ago, he could have become a statistic: More than 350,000 people go into cardiac arrest each year, with a 90% fatality rate. But his wifes quick response and a calm 911 dispatcher saved his life. Bystanders could do this too, advocates say. Advertisement But in the Philadelphia region, only 26% of people suffering cardiac arrest receive bystander intervention, said Jeffrey Salvatore, the vice president of community impact for the American Heart Association of Greater Philadelphia. Thats much lower than the national average of 40%. Though often used interchangeably, a heart attack and a cardiac arrest are not the same, and they warrant (slightly) different responses. A heart attack is a plumbing issue, where theres some blockage in the arteries that supply blood to the heart, Salvatore said. But a cardiac arrest is an electrical problem; the heart pumps through an electrical system, and when something misfires or stops, thats when a cardiac arrest occurs. It necessitates CPR. When the heart stops doing its job, we have to take over, and thats when CPR comes into play, he said. Thats what happened to Borzillo. READ MORE: A Chesco mans heart stopped. His wifes fast response and a steady 911 dispatcher saved him. Someone in cardiac arrest is unresponsive, and requires immediate intervention to prevent death. You can check for unresponsiveness by tapping someone on the shoulder, rubbing their chest, or yelling loudly. If they dont respond, call 911, and begin hands-only CPR, pressing hard and fast in the center of the chest. In many cases, 911 operators have been trained to walk callers through delivering CPR. A heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, but it can also happen separately, and never result in the heart stopping, Salvatore said. If someone is exhibiting signs of a heart attack chest discomfort; or discomfort in other areas of the upper body, such as arms, back, neck, jaw and stomach; shortness of breath; cold sweats; light-headedness; rapid or irregular heartbeat call 911, Salvatore said. The American Heart Association is seeking to expand training in hands-only CPR for adults and teens, to increase low bystander-intervention rates. Just doing chest compressions no mouth-to-mouth contact required and calling 911 can double someones chance of survival, Salvatore said. They are the first responder before EMS gets to the scene, he said. For more information, or to get CPR certified, you can go to cpr.heart.org Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Li Ying) MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday urged China and Germany to strengthen strategic communication, and jointly oppose unilateralism and bloc confrontation. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the appeal during talks with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Both sides should firmly uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, replace the "law of the jungle" with global governance, and work together to serve as a stabilizing force in a turbulent world, said Wang. The world today is becoming increasingly unstable, with the existing international order suffering severe setbacks and multilateralism facing serious challenges, Wang noted. At this critical juncture, he said, enhanced strategic communication between China and Germany -- and their joint opposition to unilateralism and resistance to bloc confrontation -- carries significance that goes far beyond their bilateral relationship. China stands ready to work with Germany to prepare for the next stage of high-level exchanges, add new dimensions to the China-Germany all-round strategic partnership, achieve new progress in cooperation across various fields and make more contributions to the sound and steady development of China-EU relations, he said. Economic and trade cooperation serves as the anchor of China-Germany relations, Wang noted. China is committed to high-standard opening up, and is ready to foster a first-class business environment that is market-oriented, law-based and internationalized for German and other foreign enterprises, so that they may share in China's development opportunities, he said. For his part, Wadephul said the steady development of Germany-China relations could provide much-needed stability for a world that is marked by instability and turbulence. Germany attaches high importance to China, welcomes a more open China, and holds high expectations for the Chinese market, he said. Noting that Germany-China cooperation boasts enormous potential, he said that the German side opposes economic decoupling and trade protectionism, and welcomes fair competition. He reaffirmed Germany's adherence to the one-China policy, and expressed hope to maintain closer high-level exchanges with China and comprehensively advance Germany-China relations. The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis and other international and regional issues. Shelley R. lives in West Philadelphia and is seeking what she describes as typical love. Read more Shelley R. grew up as a gender-nonconforming kid, and she loves the queer and trans community shes built in Philadelphia where sometimes she can feel like the seventh wheel when its dinner time and the entire party leaves to go on a group date together. But shes also ready for something new in romance. Shelley, who The Inquirer is referring to by her first name and last initial because she doesnt want her experience to reflect on her employer, is a nontraditional person seeking normal love. Advertisement A 31-year-old trans woman, she just wants a nice, monogamish boyfriend. Raised by hippies in Boston who were devotees of New Age spirituality, Shelley was assigned male at birth, and as a teenager came out as gay. As a young adult, she attended Hampshire College, a small, very progressive school in Western Massachusetts, where she started identifying as trans. After graduation, she moved to Philadelphia, where she underwent gender-affirming surgery as part of her transition. She describes herself now as a post-op trans woman, and told The Inquirer, Ive had all that work done. I am essentially the same as a cisgender woman in most of the ways that count, except for one big one: fertility. She now lives in West Philadelphia and is seeking what she describes as typical love. I just want a guy who will commit, she said. The following, as told to Zoe Greenberg in interviews and a letter, has been edited for length and clarity. On being a post-op trans woman on the dating apps in Philly If I dont mention Im trans on my profile, then Ill get a lot of men who will immediately turn me down when they learn Im trans, either due to prejudice or because they value being able to get their future wife pregnant. The trans panic can also be dangerous, if a man feels deceived. People get murdered or assaulted this way. If I just mention that Im trans on my profile, with no medical information, many will make incorrect assumptions about my genitals, which could be a deal-breaker for them one way or the other. If I say Im post-op trans, then Im putting on my dating profile, BY THE WAY, I HAVE A VAGINA!!! which makes me come across as very focused on sex. Most men on dating apps already assume that no matter what I say Im looking for, Im looking for sex. I think I might try putting, I have a little secret, and Ill tell you when you get to know me a little more. Im only half-serious about that. On attracting married men and depressed artists Married men are strangely drawn to me. Ive set a rule for myself: no more. They werent cheating, it was always an open marriage, and yet they all turned out to be quite close to divorce. I attract a lot of depressed artists and activists seeking a manic pixie dream girl to experiment with. Breakup conversations with me often include things like, I understand myself better now, and subsequently have decided to move to Iceland. Apparently dating me is a therapeutic journey. On becoming an accidental role model for her crushes I was on a little trip with my friends this weekend, and we met this guy from Central Pa. He was cute and he was nice, and I was flirting with him a little bit. Then we get back to Philly, and I got a text message from him thats like, Youre so cool and so amazing and so smart. You helped me realize I want to transition. Thats another common occurrence: people who date me not actually being interested in me as a person, just in getting to know any trans woman, so that they can figure out if they want to transition themselves. Roughly 50% of the men Ive dated fall into this category. On wanting a more typical romance I was raised by hippies, Ive been trans and gender-nonconforming my whole life. All my friends are queer, poly, trans, pansexual. Ive never had the choice to be in a monogamous, traditional relationship with a man. Ive never had the choice to just be like, This is my boyfriend. He loves me. We live together and were hosting a little board game night. I just want a romantic relationship, like what people have. I mean, a liberal-blue-state-normal relationship. If he was having a busy workday, Id cook him a meal. Give him a little massage. Im a nontraditional person seeking normal love, and not a polycule. Because Ive already done the polycule, and my polycule was a disaster. This story is part of a new series about life partners across the Philadelphia area. See other stories in the series here and here. If you want to share your story about who youre navigating life with romantically or otherwise, write to lifepartners@inquirer.com. We wont publish anything without speaking to you first. Supports of Iran's exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi attend a demonstration during the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Read more MUNICH Some 200,000 people demonstrated Saturday against Irans government on the sidelines of a gathering of world leaders in Germany, police said, answering a call from Irans exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi for cranked-up international pressure on Tehran. Banging drums and chanting for regime change, the giant and boisterous rally in Munich was part of what Pahlavi described as a global day of action to support Iranians in the wake of deadly nationwide protests. He also called for demonstrations in Los Angeles and Toronto. The police estimate of 200,000 protesters in Munich was reported by German news agency dpa and was higher than organizers had expected. Advertisement Change, change, regime change the huge crowd chanted, waving green-white-and-red flags with lion and sun emblems. Iran used that flag before its 1979 Islamic Revolution that toppled the Pahlavi dynasty. At a news conference on the sidelines of a security conference in Munich, Pahlavi warned of more deaths in Iran if democracies stand by and watch following Irans deadly crackdown on protesters last month. We gather at an hour of profound peril to ask: Will the world stand with the people of Iran? he asked. He added that the survival of Irans government sends a clear signal to every bully: Kill enough people and you stay in power. At the Munich rally, demonstrators sported Make Iran Great Again red caps, mimicking the MAGA caps worn by U.S. President Donald Trumps supporters. Many waved placards showing Pahlavi, some that called him a king. The son of Irans deposed shah has been in exile for nearly 50 years but is trying to position himself as a player in Irans future. The crowd chanted Pahlavi for Iran and democracy for Iran as drums and cymbals sounded. We have huge hopes and (are) looking forward that the regime is going to change hopefully, said Daniyal Mohtashamian, a demonstrator who traveled from Zurich, Switzerland, to speak for protesters inside Iran who faced repression. There is an internet blackout and their voices are not going outside of Iran, he said. About 500 protesters also rallied outside the presidential palace in Nicosia, Cyprus, with many holding up banners with slogans against Irans government and in favor of Pahlavi. On Saturday night in Irans capital, Tehran, witnesses said they heard people chanting against the countrys theocracy. The cries included death to the dictator and long live the shah. The protest came after calls from Pahlavi for people to chant against the government from their homes over the weekend. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized the Munich conference, saying it was sad to see the usually serious Munich Security Conference turned into the Munich Circus when it comes to Iran. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency says at least 7,005 people were killed in last months protests, including 214 government forces. It has been accurate in counting deaths during previous rounds of unrest in Iran and relies on a network of activists inside Iran to verify deaths. Irans government offered its only death toll on Jan. 21, saying 3,117 people were killed. Irans theocracy in the past has undercounted or not reported fatalities from past unrest. The Associated Press has been unable to independently assess the death toll, given authorities have disrupted internet access and international calls in Iran. Iranian leaders are facing renewed pressure from Trump, who has threatened U.S. military action. Trump wants Iran to further scale back its nuclear program. He suggested Friday that regime change in Iran would be the best thing that could happen. Iran was also the focus of protests in Munich on Friday, the opening day of an annual security conference in the city gathering European leaders and global security figures. Supporters of the Iranian opposition group Peoples Mujahedeen Organization of Iran, also known as the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq, demonstrated. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks, next to the chairperson of the Munich Security Conference Wolfgang Ischinger, at the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Read more MUNICH Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared that the United States and Europe belong together in a speech Saturday aimed at unifying the Western alliance, while condemning hallmarks of globalization, open borders, unfettered free trade, deindustrialization, and mass migration. Rubios message, in a keynote address at the annual Munich Security Conference, received applause from a demoralized audience of European leaders who are deeply distressed about divisions with the United States stoked by President Donald Trumps punitive tariffs, territorial ambitions for Greenland, and disagreements over how to end Russias war in Ukraine. Advertisement We are bound to one another by the deepest bonds that nations could share, forged by centuries of shared history, Christian faith, culture, heritage, language, ancestry, and the sacrifices our forefathers made together, Rubio said. But even as he appealed to those ties, Rubio promoted several Trump administration positions that are deeply controversial among the United States closest traditional allies. He showed disdain for policies to reduce carbon emissions, staunchly criticized the United Nations which many in Europe view as critical to protecting smaller states sovereignty and lauded unilateral U.S. military action in Latin America and the Middle East. On the most pressing matters before us, [the U.N.] has no answers and has played virtually no role, Rubio said. Compared, however, to Vice President JD Vances blistering speech in Munich last year, which left the audience stunned by his seeming contempt for Europe, Rubios appeal to strengthen the alliance was received as more constructive. Our home may be in the Western Hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe, Rubio said. The moderator of the event, Wolfgang Ischinger, called the remarks a sigh of relief and a message of reassurance and partnership. Europes top leaders descended on the Bavarian capital this weekend, proclaiming the need to overhaul the relationship with the U.S. that has spurred economic prosperity and guaranteed security since World War II. European leaders promised to chart their own course and forge a version of the Western alliance in which they depend less on the United States. In todays fractured world, Europe must become more independent there is no other choice, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a speech early Saturday, to applause. As European and American politicians issue post-mortems for the world order in Munich, officials from each side of the Atlantic said it was high time for Europe to pay its own way for security. On that point, European and U.S. leaders appeared in sync. For the Europeans, the call to take charge of the continents defense is about more than addressing U.S. demands: It could also provide the ability to stand up to Washington and an administration with which they concede they do not share some interests. Rubios remarks about Europe were softer than Vances criticism of the suppression of far-right parties and, in his characterization, free speech or Trumps threats to seize Greenland from NATO ally Denmark. But European leaders know well that a crisis with the administration could still erupt on an array of issues, including Greenland, negotiations with Russia over Ukraine, and regulation of hate speech and Big Tech. The leaders of Europes political and economic powerhouses, France and Germany, stressed that a more powerful Europe could shield itself from the whims of Washington and Moscow, and they delivered a stern rebuke of Trumps foreign policy gyrations including on trade and climate. French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking at the conference Friday night, said Europe had been unjustly vilified as a continent of unfettered immigration and repression an apparent reference to Vances speech and to a recent U.S. National Security Strategy that said Europe was facing civilizational erasure. Everyone should take their cue from us, instead of criticizing us or trying to divide us, Macron said. He called for derisking vis-a-vis all the big powers, not just in defense, but also in the economy and technology. Europe is rearming, but we must now go beyond, he added. Europe has to learn to become a geopolitical power. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in his welcoming remarks on Friday, said: The culture wars of MAGA in the U.S. are not ours. Merz also said that the U.S. claim to global leadership was being challenged in an era of great power rivalry, including rising Chinese influence, and he warned that Washington will need allies. Even the United States will not be powerful enough to go it alone, he said. Dear friends, being a part of NATO is not only Europes competitive advantage. It is also the United States competitive advantage. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that we shouldnt get in the warm bath of complacency. He said the U.K. must reforge closer ties with Europe to help the continent stand on our own two feet in its own defense, and said there needs to be investment that moves us from overdependence to interdependence. Hanno Pevkur, the defense minister of EU and NATO member Estonia, said it was quite a bold statement to say that America is a child of Europe. It was a good speech, needed here today, but that doesnt mean that we can rest on pillows now, he told The Associated Press. So still a lot of work has to be done. A meeting on Greenland Rubio didnt mention Greenland. After last months escalation over Trumps designs on the Arctic island, the U.S., Denmark, and Greenland started technical talks on an Arctic security deal. The Secretary of State met briefly in Munich on Friday with the Danish and Greenlandic leaders, a meeting Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described as constructive. But Frederiksen suggested Saturday that although the dispute has cooled, she remains wary. Asked whether the crisis has passed, she replied: No, unfortunately not. I think the desire from the U.S. president is exactly the same. He is very serious about this theme. Asked whether she can put a price on Greenland, she responded of course not, adding that we have to respect sovereign states ... and we have to respect peoples right for self-determination. And the Greenlandic people have been very clear, they dont want to become Americans. Terri and Bob Borzillo , right, with 911 dispatcher Kayla Wettlaufer, left, and her supervisor. Wettlaufer guided Terri Borzillo through CPR on the phone when Bob Borzillo went into cardiac arrest in November. Read more Bob Borzillo has a deal with his wife Terri: She puts everything in the dishwasher, but he has to unload it. Thats what he was doing on a night in November, after the couple had arrived back home in Willistown from Barcelona. He was putting the very last thing a wine glass away. Thats where the 65-year-olds memory stops. Advertisement But for Terri Borzillo, also 65, thats where a terrifying ordeal began. She had been just a few feet away, writing in her journal as her husband unloaded the dishwasher in the background. She heard him groan and glass shatter. She got up to help him, expecting to find him picking up glass shards. Instead she found him on the floor, unresponsive. What they did not know then was that a piece of plaque had broken off, completely blocking his artery. He was in cardiac arrest not breathing, no pulse. After having walked around Barcelona, averaging 18,000 steps a day, he had no symptoms, no warning signs, until he collapsed in their kitchen. More than 350,000 people annually experience cardiac arrest outside hospitals, and only one in 10 survives, said Jeffrey Salvatore, the vice president of community impact for the American Heart Association of Greater Philadelphia. The association has been leading a campaign to teach more teens and adults hands-only CPR to increase bystander response rates. Nationally, 40% of those who experience cardiac arrest each year are helped by a bystander. The rate in the Philadelphia region is significantly lower: less than 26%. READ MORE: Only 1 in 10 people survive cardiac arrest. Heres how to help if youre a bystander. The association also holds telecommunicator CPR training, so dispatchers can instruct people over the phone on how to provide CPR, said Salvatore. Cardiac arrest is 100% fatal without any intervention. If nobody does anything for the person, theres no chance of survival, he said. By just calling 911 and just doing compressions, you can still double someones chance of survival. Terri Borzillo immediately went into action, calling 911. I think my husbands having a heart attack, she remembers screaming to the dispatcher. Calmly, the Chester County dispatcher, Kayla Wettlaufer, had Borzillo describe her husbands condition. She said, OK, lady, get control of yourself. Were going to do this together, Borzillo recalls. By the command in her voice, and because there was no option, I had to do this. Wettlaufer led Borzillo through CPR over the phone telling her where to place her hands, when to compress. Wettlaufer even told her when it was time to unlock the front door so the nearby first responders could get in. It was horrible to watch my husband in that condition, and it was horrible to know that I had the balance of his life in my hands, Borzillo said. With Wetlaufer guiding her and, she swears, every doctor in heaven she did compressions until the EMTs arrived, using paddles to restart his heart. As the EMTs wheeled Bob Borzillo out, Terri Borzillo retrieved the bottles of holy water they had picked up at Our Lady Lourdes in Barcelona. She sprayed her husband and the EMTs. It got her an odd look, but, she said, For somebody who has deep faith, I know all the angels and saints were there with us, and were smiling today instead of crying, she said. Terri Borzillos faith runs back to their first date, more than 40 years ago. It was 1982, she was single, and her coworker asked her if shed like to meet a nice guy. What do I have to lose? she thought. Acting as an intermediary, that colleague a friend of Bob Borzillos family told Bob about Terri. The young mans father happened to know Terris father. He told his son, Call that girl. Bob listened. On their blind date, Terri Borzillo knew he was the one. There was something to how he talked, explaining of all things turbine generators. He really was a nice guy, she thought. (I was a nerd, he said.) She felt something click. Dear God, she thought, let him ask me out again. One big Italian wedding, three sons, and seven grandchildren later, the two have lived in Chester County for more than 40 years. This experience has made him proud to be a county resident, Bob Borzillo said. After he was released from the hospital a few days later, Borzillo went to the firehouse and met the first responders. He and his wife met Wettlaufer, and toured her workplace. Wettlaufer, an operator who has been with the county for almost five years and was honored by the county this month, was the start of a well-oiled machine, Borzillo said. Their proximity to the firehouse and Paoli Hospital helped get him professional care quickly. If the Eagles offense executed that efficiently, we would have been in the Super Bowl, he said. Terri Borzillo said meeting Wetlaufer helped ease the trauma of the situation. Shes beautiful. And what they do there is amazing, and they get all of the credit, she said. Saturday marks three months since Bob Borzillos cardiac arrest. He and his wife are in Florida while he recovers, and will celebrate Valentines Day with friends from Chester County. Certainly the heart and what Valentine represents has a special meaning this year, and I am blessed to be here to celebrate it, he said in an email. This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirers high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters. A Trenton man was sentenced to up to 60 years in Pennsylvania state prison for fatally shooting a bystander at a Morrisville strip club. On Friday, Pedro E. Rodriguez, 29, pleaded guilty to third-degree murder, discharging a firearm into an occupied structure, possession of an instrument of crime, and four counts of recklessly endangering another person in the killing of 28-year-old Mekhi Norman in August 2024. Advertisement According to the Bucks County District Attorneys Office, Norman was shot at a Morrisville nightclub while acting as a Good Samaritan. He did not know Rodriguez but was helping the clubs staff following an altercation at the doorway. Surveillance video shown during the sentencing hearing shows Rodriguez walking to his car, getting a handgun, loading it, and returning to the club, according to a district attorneys office statement. Then, he fired into the building as security staff were attempting to remove his nephew, according to the statement. Norman, who was helping the staff when he was shot, was struck in the back of the head, the left thigh, and under both armpits, as 17 patrons and employees remained at the club. Rodriguez fled but later turned himself in and was held on $5 million bail at the Bucks County Correctional Facility. He now faces between 30 and 60 years in state prison. Rodriguezs nephew, 22-year-old Kevin Perez, entered a guilty plea in 2025 to several counts of simple assault, disorderly conduct, and harassment for assaulting staff. The Trenton resident was sentenced to 10 to 23 months in the Bucks County Correctional Facility, followed by a year of probation. During the sentencing hearing, Deputy District Attorney Ed Louka described Norman as a good father, a good son, and a good friend who died being a Good Samaritan, according to the statement. Offering an account of how life has changed, the mother of Normans daughter told the court that the child still cries waiting for her father to call in the mornings and nights, as he used to, according to prosecutors. While this sentence ensures that the defendant is held accountable for his senseless and violent actions, we know it cannot fill the void left in the lives of those who loved Mr. Norman, District Attorney Joe Khan said. In our latest advice chat, we're chatting about a carpool conundrum. Read more Start your day with the Philly news you need and the stories you want all in one easy-to-read newsletter Good morning. Were promised a sunny Saturday with a high near 44. Advertisement The snow, which is melting at a historically slow pace, has reached a 65-year milestone in Philadelphia for the length of time spent with at least three inches still on the ground. Did an Inquirer reader cross the line by hitching a ride from a kind stranger? Who was responsible for the uncomfortable trip? Scroll along to read our advice chat, as well as details of a new bill that could help save historic Jersey diners, ChatGPTs opinion of Philadelphia, and our report card for this week in Philly news. Paola Perez (morningnewsletter@inquirer.com) If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here. What you should know today Consider the following problem, presented to us by a reader: A friend and I were waiting for Regional Rail for Center City when the announcement came that the train was canceled. It being freezing weather, I asked other passengers what their transit apps were saying, and what their plans were. A man said he was planning to drive to Center City, and his car was parked in the lot. Before I could stop myself, I asked for a ride. His wife did not like the idea, giving a wide-eyed look, but the man agreed after hesitating. The husband was very nice, as was the car, but the wife was irritated the whole way into the city she never said hi or introduced herself and when we tried to include her in the conversation, she sat silent. Was it weird for me to ask for a ride or was it weird for her to treat us like a nuisance? For this tricky situation, Inquirer editor Evan Weiss recruited features columnist Stephanie Farr and food and dining reporter Beatrice Forman. They hit several key points: the kindness of strangers, Phillys helping spirit, and the importance of reading the room. To them, it sounds like all parties involved left the wife out in the cold. My 2026 resolution was to be less of a hater and I do fear this question has set me back, Beatrice said. Read along for my colleagues verdicts. And if youre looking for advice, were all ears. Send in your pressing Philadelphia problems here. As more fare-evasion-resistant gates pop up at SEPTA stations, some riders look to New York Mayor Zohran Mamdanis efforts to make bus fares free, and wonder why Philadelphia cant do the same with its transit. In this weeks Shackamaxon, Inquirer columnist Daniel Pearson considers the suggestion: While that all sounds exciting, it isnt a good idea. Especially not here, Pearson writes. Get Pearsons take on the cost of free rides, along with his thoughts on the city school districts facilities plan "going the way of SEPTAs Bus Revolution." Find the location Think you know where this cherry blossom-filled kiss took place? Our weekly game puts your knowledge of Philly places to the test. Check your answer. Unscramble the anagram Hint: A new European destination from PHL TROOP Email us if you know the answer. Well select a reader at random to shout out here. Cheers to Jan Dalina, who correctly guessed Fridays answer: Limerick. Sheetz opened its first Philly-area store in the Montgomery County township right across from a Wawa. The rivalry rages on. Or, as reader Gerry Frank put it, Bad for Wawa but good for customers. We were there Staff photojournalist Monica Herndon captured these ice sculptures made by artist Emily D. Stewart in Narbeth. Their days are numbered as temperatures rise, making them an ephemeral art form. Stewart said she was inspired to craft them after reading about Swedish lanterns. I love working with snow in my yard or other public places because it is inherently social, Stewart said. As I work, people walk by, cars pull over. I get to have conversations with neighbors and meet new friends. Somewhere on the internet in Philly It seems like it was just yesterday that we shared theories of what Nick Castellanos might have said or done to get benched. Now, Phillies fans are bidding him adieu. This feels like the new Jersey Shore note, commented Q102 Philly radio host @rach_ontheradio. The new Sheetz is also a big talker on our Instagram. Among the hilarious reactions on FOX 29s Facebook: Sheetz is just Wawa with a deep fryer. this was the first shot in the Gastaurant wars. Are you Sheeting me? (lol) Abbott Elementary posted some cute candygrams for Valentines Day. And as we continue to thaw out, let this reel be a reminder that well be rewarded real soon. Thats it for now. Ill catch up with you again tomorrow. By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirers Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10. State Rep. Chris Rabb speaks at a forum hosted by the 9th Ward Democratic Committee on Dec. 4, 2025. He is a Democratic candidate running to represent Philadelphia's 3rd Congressional District. Read more State Rep. Chris Rabb, who is running in a competitive primary for Philadelphias open congressional seat, said that his now-former campaign treasurer made unauthorized withdrawals and that he has reported her to federal authorities for misconduct. The treasurer, Yolanda Brown, is a Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based campaign consultant who was accused last month of embezzling six figures worth of campaign dollars from another Democrat. Advertisement Rabb said in an interview Friday that he would not speculate on the amount of money that may have been stolen, citing a pending review. He said he reported the matter to the Federal Election Commission. My team and I remain committed to this campaign toward a collective victory on May 19, said Rabb, who is running to succeed retiring Democratic U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans. Brown, who manages the firm Brown Financial Consulting Services Group LLC, did not respond to calls and emails seeking comment. A campaign treasurer is generally responsible for a political action committees bank account and is often tasked with ensuring legal compliance. Rabb on Monday filed paperwork with the FEC to list himself as his campaigns treasurer, replacing Brown. Last month, Ken Welch, the mayor of St. Petersburg, Fla., accused Brown of embezzling $207,000 from his campaign committee. Attorneys for Welchs campaign told a local Fox television station that they had discovered Brown made improper transactions and that they had demanded the return of funds. When the money was not sent back, Welchs campaign notified state and federal law enforcement, the station reported. Campaign finance reports showed that Welchs PAC had made several transactions, including one for $100,000, to a business that Brown controlled. The developments came as the race for Pennsylvanias 3rd Congressional District, which covers about half of Philadelphia, was just heating up. Rabb is considered among a handful of front-runners seeking the Democratic nomination to represent the district, which is one of the most Democratic-leaning in the country. Rabb was not in attendance at several events this week including two community forums citing an emergency. READ MORE: Heres who is funding Phillys crowded race for Congress A progressive and a five-term lawmaker who represents Northwest Philadelphia in the state House, Rabb is amassing support from some of the citys left-leaning organizations. But he was already struggling to keep up with other front-runners financially. State Sen. Sharif Street, the former head of the state Democratic Party, had more than half a million dollars in the bank as of Jan. 1, according to his most recently filed campaign finance report. Ala Stanford, a pediatric surgeon, had nearly $400,000 on hand after lending her campaign $250,000 of her own money. Rabb, by comparison, had just shy of $100,000 in the bank. That came after a lackluster fundraising quarter he raised $127,000 in the final three months of 2025, significantly less than the $257,000 he raised in the previous reporting period. COLOMBO, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka has rolled out a digital civil registration system across 62 overseas missions, allowing expatriates to obtain birth, marriage and death certificates electronically, with over 8,000 documents issued in its first year as part of the country's public sector modernization drive, the President's Media Division (PMD) said on Saturday. The initiative, implemented through the Registrar General's Department, enables Sri Lankans living abroad to request certified civil documents directly through embassies and high commissions without traveling back to Sri Lanka, PMD said. PMD said the Electronic Birth, Marriage and Death (e-BMD) system was introduced after a successful pilot phase and is now operating across diplomatic missions worldwide. Authorities noted that the digital platform has helped reduce processing times and improve access to public services for the diaspora, particularly for employment, education and legal purposes. The government said the project is part of wider efforts to modernize public administration and improve efficiency and transparency through digitalization. California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara is pushing a change to the states long-standing intervenor regulations, which enable groups to intervene in rate hearings. Lara on Friday released the amended text of proposed regulations for the intervenor and Administrative Hearing Bureau processes under Proposition 103, reforms he said will increase transparency, improve efficiency and ensure funds used in the rate review process serve the public interest. Related: California Bill Would Require Insurer Claims Handling Plans, and Double Penalties Lara has proposed several changes to state insurance laws to convince insurance carriers to return to writing homeowners insurance in riskier areas of the wildfire-prone state. One group that has taken part in intervenor hearings is Consumer Watchdog. The California Department of Insurance in January released data showing Consumer Watchdog earned $1.4 million in fees last year from a program that pays people and advocates to intervene in rate hearings. The intervenor program has come under scrutiny as carriers began pulling back from writing in the state. California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara last year proposed modernizing the program to diversify the recipients of intervenor funds, which is part of the states insurance law, Proposition 103. Related: Structural Shift Occurring in California Surplus Lines Consumer Watchdog after Lara made his proposal in January said the compensation they received last year was for work challenging excessive rates dating back to 2021. It includes payment in 14 rate challenges the commissioner delayed payment that approvals were finally issued for in May. The difficulty of getting paid for intervening is a primary barrier for organizations to participate in the program, according to the group. The data shows the intervenor process saves money and does not add time to rate increase requests, Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog, said in a statement. Consumer Watchdogs interventions have saved $6.5 billion for consumers at a cost of $14 million to insurance companies, or twenty five cents for every one hundred dollars saved. Commissioner Laras proposed regulations will prevent consumer groups from being paid and discourage participation. That could cost insurance consumers billions in savings over time. The amended text reflects months of stakeholder engagement and public input, according to the CDI. After reviewing comments from consumer advocates, insurers, legal experts, and members of the public, the department made revisions to address legal and constitutional concerns. The amended text is now available for an additional 15-day public comment period. The updated regulations include: Clarify prospective application so new rules apply moving forward. Replace the prior vexatious standard with an objective wasteful standard for fee determinations focusing on whether work advances the issues in a proceeding. Strengthen scrutiny of excessive billing on a task-by-task basis. Increase public access to rate proceeding documents by requiring timely online posting of pleadings, hearing calendars and decisions. Establish firm timelines and regular status updates from administrative law judges. Clarify definitions and procedural rules to streamline hearings. The reforms are part of Laras Sustainable Insurance Strategy, aimed at stabilizing the states insurance market. Topics California Legislation A total of 38 asylum seekers were arrested this week in a planned deportation operation in Dublin. Twenty-three males and 15 females were arrested after they went to sign on to notify the State of their whereabouts, as requested, at the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB). Those detained have previously been turned down for asylum. Speaking in Cork on Friday, Taoiseach Micheal Martin said he was not familiar with the details of the case, but added that Ireland, in common with the US and all other countries, had its own laws around migration and the seeking of asylum. There are rules there, we want to be fair and firm in our rules as well, he said. Im conscious all of the time that a lot of people come into Ireland legally and we have had very significant migration into Ireland. On the asylum front, there has to be a framework there, there has to be a legal one." Asked if he would be concerned about scenes of families being separated during Thursday's operation outside the GNIB, Mr Martin said: Were always concerned with that, and what we have sought to do is to make sure that people dont wait too long in terms of the applications, that the applications would be dealt with quickly, and that the appeals also would be dealt with quickly. It is fair to say that in the past they took an inordinate length of time to progress, and many of them ended up in the legal arena. It can be very traumatic for families, I acknowledge that, and again, over the years I think weve been fair about that. The Department of Justice said it has taken action to significantly improve immigration enforcement measures and increase removals. In 2025, 4,700 deportation orders were signed, an increase of 96% compared to 2024. In 2025, six charter flight operations removed 205 people from the State. Of these, five operations to non-EU destinations removed 182 people who were subject to deportation orders. One operation removed 23 EU citizens on grounds of criminality. There were 434 deportations in total last year, 185 of which were enforced. There were 1,616 voluntary returns. A deportation order is a legal order to leave the State, the Department of Justice said in a statement. Any person who has been ordered to leave the State and fails to do so, within the timeframe issued with the deportation order, is committing a criminal offence and can be arrested without warrant if they come into contact with An Garda Siochana. Such an order remains on the persons record permanently, unless revoked it means they may not enter Ireland again in future. Madeleine Breetzke, 25, said her brother and father were among those arrested and taken away when they went to GNIB on Thursday. Madeleine Breetzke, her brother Daniel, and her mum Antonette in Dublin on Thursday. Picture: Sam Boal/Collins The family had been living in a direct provision centre in Millstreet, Co Cork, for almost five years and Madeleine has been working in a nursing home in Mallow. The family's application for asylum was rejected and they were notified that they must leave Ireland. Madeleine said she is worried that the deportation order may preclude her from claiming asylum in the US or attaining a visa elsewhere. If Ireland doesnt want me thats fine. But please remove the deportation order so I can claim asylum somewhere else," she said. A return to South Africa would be a death sentence for her family, she said, claiming that her family was threatened with death and rape at their farm before they fled to Ireland. All of the people arrested on Thursday for deportation who spoke to the Irish Examiner were from South Africa. The 48 young people who died in the Stardust fire were remembered at a vigil on Saturday, as loved ones and survivors gathered to mark the 45th anniversary of the tragedy in north Dublin. They were joined by representatives from the Defence Forces, An Garda Siochana, National Ambulance Service and Dublin Fire Brigade for the event on the site of the former nightclub in Artane. The names of each of those who died were read out by Claire Bird, wife of the late RTE journalist Charlie Bird, who had been a long-time campaigner for the Stardust families. And, after 48 seconds of silence, the Dublin Fire Brigade vehicles present aired their sirens reminiscent of how many emergency services rushed to the scene on the night 45 years ago, before wreaths were laid at the mural dedicated to the victims. In the early hours of Valentines Day 1981, a fire spread quickly through the Stardust in Artane, a popular venue for young people in Dublin at the time. A disco dancing competition had just concluded when the first flames were spotted. In all, 48 people died in the fire. Most were local to the area, and the average age was just 19. Hundreds more were injured. In the aftermath, patrons on the night described emergency exits being locked or blocked when they tried to escape. Members of the emergency services and army veterans salute at the scene of the Stardust fire. Picture: Leah Farrell/ RollingNews.ie The first Tribunal of Inquiry into the disaster came to a finding that the probable cause of the fire was arson, but this was rejected by the families of the deceased. After decades of campaigning, fresh inquests were established into the fire in 2019, culminating with the verdicts in April 2024 that each of the 48 people were unlawfully killed. It was the biggest disaster in the history of the Irish State, Maurice McHugh, whose only child Caroline died in the fire aged just 17, said on Saturday. And here we are today doing a commemoration to our loved ones. We want to take this opportunity to express a very sincere thanks to the coroner Dr Myra Cullinane, her staff and the jury for the very thorough inquest which lasted 122 days and concluded on 18 April 2024 when the jury delivered the verdict of unlawful killing to all 48 victims. Antoinette Keegan, who had attended the Stardust on the night with two of her sisters who died in the fire, gave a special thanks to the front line emergency services members who would have all been at this same spot 45 years ago. Id like to pay tribute to the Dublin Fire Brigade, to Defence Forces veterans, An Garda Siochana and the National Ambulance Service for attending her today to join us and commemorate the loss of our beautiful, beloved loved ones who were unlawfully killed on this very site, she said. Earlier, several family members of the deceased had gathered at Dublins Coroners Court, where the bodies of those who died in the fire were taken in the aftermath when the building was still being used as the city morgue. It included Gertrude Barrett, whose son Michael was working as an assistant DJ on the night and died in the fire, and her daughter Carol. They said justice has not been served for the 48 victims of the fire, as they demanded accountability. Earlier this week, gardai said that a review into the case is still being actively pursued while a redress scheme announced by the Government of 20,000 for survivors of the tragedy was criticised for a lack of consultation with those affected and its one-size-fits-all" approach to the event. A retired detective has told the High Court of his "shock" upon discovering a garda in the bedroom of a woman's apartment while armed officers executed a search warrant in a burglary investigation. The High Court is hearing a case taken by Sinead Warren, who lived at an address on Reuben St, Dublin 8, in 2016, when gardai searched the apartment and found her long-term partner, Detective Garda Joseph Kavanagh, present in a bedroom. Ms Warren and Det Garda Kavanagh have been described in court as "law-abiding citizens of impeccable character", which is accepted by gardai defending her case against them. She alleges that she was falsely branded or implied to be a "major criminal" and a "serious female gouger" on WhatsApp messages allegedly sent by gardai, which her counsel on Friday described as "disgusting". Ms Warren has taken her case against the Garda commissioner, justice minister, Ireland, and the Attorney General, seeking damages for interference and breach of her constitutional rights, negligence, breach of duty, misfeasance, and deceit. Ms Warren alleges that following the search, messages circulating on WhatsApp that could only have originated from people involved in or close to the search, said that Det Garda Joseph Kavanagh had been "caught in the scratcher" with her. Ms Warren submits the messages also suggested that Garda Kavanagh's career was ruined due to his relationship with her. At the High Court on Friday, Mr Justice Micheal O'Connell was told by retired Detective Sergeant Mark Kelly that the warrant was issued for the investigation of a burglary in Dublin. He said it did not involve Ms Warren or Garda Kavanagh, but they were present at the address when three armed and three unarmed gardai arrived looking for a pair of yellow shorts believed to be connected with the burglary. Ms Warren's barrister, Mark Harty, asked Det Garda Kelly why it was necessary to include the dates of births of Ms Warren, some of her extended family, the names of her former partners, and the death dates for two of her brothers when reporting on a search warrant for a pair of shorts. Ms Warren's brothers, Paul and Christopher, were shot dead in Dublin in 2004 and 2012, respectively. Det Garda Kelly said he could not recall exactly the circumstances of the report. He said he presumed he was asked for it but it was unlikely that he was responsible for all of the information contained within. Det Garda Kelly said he was "shocked" by the presence of Det Garda Kavanagh and that he felt "obliged" to inform his superior of something he had never come across. Det Garda Kelly said he could not recall how he found out the information included in the report regarding Ms Warren and her family members. "Maybe I just knew," said Det Garda Kelly. "Do you know the names of my brothers and sisters?" responded Mr Harty. Mr Harty asked about the WhatsApp messages after the search calling his client a "gouger and a gouger's sister" and put it to Det Garda Kelly that, when searching a person's home, including bedrooms, matters discovered had to remain confidential if unrelated to the investigation. "I can't answer for other people's actions," said Det Garda Kelly. "It's disgraceful," said Mr Harty. "It is not something I would have done, stand over, or condone," said Det Garda Kelly, adding he had "total and utmost respect" for Ms Warren and Det Garda Kavanagh. It is accepted by gardai that Ms Warren is known as a person of "impeccable character" who had been Garda-vetted for her employment at a creche and has never been involved in criminality, nor does she associate with criminals. It is submitted by lawyers for Ms Warren that the search of her home was a "ruse" designed to interfere in her personal life and her relationship with Garda Kavanagh. It is claimed by the plaintiff that senior gardai "deemed the relationship between Garda Kavanagh and Ms Warren to have been inappropriate and set out to interfere by carrying out surveillance and by making enquiries to ascertain the nature and extent of the relationship". She alleges that Garda Kavanagh was dropped from a Special Crime Task Force that he had been selected to join and suffered intimidation and harassment from his superiors in the force. The claims are denied. Vivian van de Perre (1st L), acting head of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, known as MONUSCO, walks with Corneille Nangaa (2nd L), leader of the Congo River Alliance, a politico-military coalition allied with the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group, in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Feb. 13, 2026. Van de Perre met with leaders of the M23 rebel group in Goma on Friday to discuss a ceasefire monitoring mechanism. The meeting comes as diplomatic efforts intensify to stabilize the country's volatile east. (Str/Xinhua) GOMA, DR Congo, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Vivian van de Perre, acting head of the UN peacekeeping mission in the DR Congo (MONUSCO), met with leaders of the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group in Goma on Friday to discuss a ceasefire monitoring mechanism. The meeting comes as diplomatic efforts intensify to stabilize the country's volatile east. Van de Perre arrived on Thursday in the capital of North Kivu province aboard a helicopter, landing at Goma's airport since the seizure of the city by the rebel group in January 2025 amid deteriorating security conditions. Her visit comes as part of efforts to operationalize a ceasefire monitoring mechanism envisaged within the broader regional peace architecture. Following talks with Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance (AFC), a politico-military coalition allied with the M23, the UN official said discussions focused on "the concrete implementation of the ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism in line with the agreement signed by the AFC/M23 and the government of the DRC" under the Doha process. "It is essential that commitments made in this agreement quickly translate into clear, credible and verifiable operational arrangements on the ground," she said, adding that MONUSCO is mandated by the UN Security Council to support the implementation of a permanent ceasefire and to participate in verification efforts. She noted that MONUSCO's support would be provided gradually, depending on confirmed security arrangements and guarantees for UN personnel and assets, stressing that the mission's actions would remain strictly within its Security Council mandate. Speaking to the press on behalf of the AFC/M23, the group's senior official Benjamin Mbonimpa welcomed MONUSCO's role, saying it was expected to support the process "with logistical assistance" within the ceasefire verification framework. Mbonimpa noted that UN personnel would enjoy full security in areas under AFC/M23 control, while declining responsibility for areas outside its control. Mbonimpa also said the group had "not been informed or invited" regarding the ceasefire proposed by Angola as part of regional mediation efforts, while accusing Kinshasa of repeated ceasefire violations on the ground. In a separate statement released Friday, the Congolese presidency said to have accepted the principle of a ceasefire proposed by Angola, "in a spirit of responsibility and de-escalation" to pursue a peaceful resolution to the conflict, reaffirming Kinshasa's commitment to regional stability and a return to lasting peace. Angola, which has served as a key mediator in the DRC crisis since 2022, proposed late Wednesday that a ceasefire between the Congolese government and the M23 rebel group take effect on Feb. 18. The proposed date remains contingent on a public declaration of acceptance by the parties, according to Angolan authorities. However, Kinshasa has yet to clarify whether it agrees to the proposed date for the ceasefire to take effect. The M23 seized the eastern city of Goma in January 2025 and Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu Province, the following month. In recent weeks, clashes have been reported near the town of Minembwe in South Kivu, according to local sources. Vivian van de Perre (R), acting head of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, known as MONUSCO, speaks to the press in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Feb. 13, 2026. Van de Perre met with leaders of the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group in Goma on Friday to discuss a ceasefire monitoring mechanism. The meeting comes as diplomatic efforts intensify to stabilize the country's volatile east. (Str/Xinhua) A bitter dispute between Europe and the US over the future of Gaza has broken out into the open, with the EUs head of foreign policy, Kaja Kallas, warning that Donald Trumps Board of Peace was a personal vehicle for the US president that removed any accountability to Palestinians or the United Nations. Spains foreign minister, Jose Manuel Albares, also accused Trump of trying to bypass the original UN mandate for the board, and said Europe, one of the chief funders of the Palestinian Authority, had been excluded from the process. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Friday, Kallas said the original purpose of the UN resolution and mandate had been to help Gaza through a Board of Peace, but this had been subverted since the boards charter now made no reference to Gaza or to the UN. She said it was true that the UN security council resolution provided for a Board of Peace for Gaza, but it also provided for it to be limited in time until 2027, it provided for the Palestinians to have a say, and it referred to Gaza, whereas the statute of the Board of Peace makes no reference to any of these things. She added: So I think there is a security council resolution but the Board of Peace does not reflect it. Democratic senator Chris Murphy expressed fears that the board was constructed in a way that there were no controls to prevent billions in reconstruction funds ending up in the hands of Trumps friends and cronies. The comments mark the first time differences over Trumps project have spilled into the open at such a high level, and underline the tensions about the state of the ceasefire in Gaza, and the meeting of the Board of Peace due to take place in Washington next week. Speaking at a side event, the Trump-appointed high representative for Gaza, Nickolay Mladenov, tried to steer clear of the controversy and focus on the immediate tasks ahead. All of this needs to move very fast. If we do not, we are not going to implement the second phase of the ceasefire but the second phase of the war, he said. Mladenov said he was not willing to engage with allegations of an Israeli genocide, and said his focus was to improve humanitarian aid, decommission weapons from all factions, and end the division of Gaza itself in which part is run by Israel and part by Palestinians. If we do not address the issue of Hamas and Gaza itself divided into two parts, please tell me how we get to a two-state solution, because I do not see the pathway, he said. We are setting ourselves up for complete and utter failure, and the price will be paid by both Israelis and Palestinians down the line. He warned aid, emergency recovery on the ground and security were needed immediately, adding: None of this can be materialised until Gaza is one, and it is not yet one. For Gaza to be reconstructed we need to have the technocratic committee in Gaza and effectively governing, weapons decommissioned and Israeli withdrawal. In testy exchanges with Kallas, Mike Waltz, the US ambassador to the UN, attacked what he said was hand-wringing about the Board of Peace and said the status quo of endless war, with Hamas in charge of Gaza, had to be broken. He confirmed that Indonesia had agreed to contribute 8,000 troops to the International Stabilisation Force, and said more troop deployments were due to be announced in the coming week. He claimed that some countries were not comfortable putting billions of dollars for reconstruction through the UN system. Describing Trumps politics as focused multilateralism, he said it had been necessary to put the UN on a diet and make it go back to basics of peacemaking. Mustafa Barghouti, a Palestinian activist, said he feared the discussions of plans for Gaza were losing any air of reality since the whole of the West Bank has been made open for settlements and Israel is putting the final nail in the coffin of the Oslo accord. It is not just about accountability for genocide, but who is going to stop this process of killing the two-state solution. Guardian Marco Rubio has hit out at the mistakes of Western nations over the past 40 years, but sought to reconcile ties between the US and Europe after recent turmoil in the transatlantic relationship. The US Secretary of States address at the Munich Security Conference was a drastic contrast with that made by vice president JD Vance who, in 2025, launched a blistering attack on Americas European allies. Mr Rubio, instead, insisted the fate of the United States and Europe will always be intertwined, as he said that Donald Trump demands seriousness and reciprocity from our friends here in Europe because we care deeply about your future and ours. He also, however, hit out at the United Nations, and warned that the rules-based global order which grew out of the end of the Cold War had been a dangerous delusion. We believe that Europe must survive because the two great wars of the last century serve for us as historys constant reminder that, ultimately, our destiny is and will always be intertwined with yours European defence and the future of the transatlantic relationship are on the agenda at the conference, at a time when Americas commitment to Nato has been called into question. Keir Starmer is expected to call for European powers to step up their defence spending and no longer rely on America for their security in his speech on Saturday. Ukraines allies held a meeting at the conference on Friday as they continue to rally around the war-torn country while the fourth anniversary of Russias full-scale invasion nears. Mr Rubio failed to attend the meeting. US officials reportedly blamed scheduling conflicts but his absence may have been seen by Europeans as a sign of the White Houses dwindling interest in including them in its bid to end the conflict. In his speech to the conference, Mr Rubio said: We want Europe to be strong. We believe that Europe must survive because the two great wars of the last century serve for us as historys constant reminder that, ultimately, our destiny is and will always be intertwined with yours. Because we know that the fate of Europe will never be irrelevant to our own. Elsewhere, he suggested the Western victory in the Cold War had led to complacency, telling the conference: The euphoria of this triumph led us to a dangerous delusion that we had entered, quote, The End of History, that every nation would now be a liberal democracy, that the ties formed by trade and by commerce alone would now replace nationhood, that the rules-based global order an overused term would now replace the national interest, and that we would now live in a world without borders, where everyone became a citizen of the world. Mr Rubio acknowledged that we made these mistakes together, and now together, we owe it to our people to face those facts and to move forward to rebuild. He also claimed that the UN was among the global institutions which need to be rebuilt and reformed, adding: We cannot ignore that today, on the most pressing matters before us, it has no answers and has played virtually no role. Wolfgang Ischinger, the chairman of the Munich Security Conference who acted as a moderator for Mr Rubio as he took questions, claimed there had been a sigh of relief through this hall during the speech, in reference to its contrast with the address by Mr Vance in 2025. Supporters of Iran s exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi were looking on Saturday to world leaders gathered in Munich, Germany, to ratchet up pressure for change on the Iranian government. Reza Pahlavi called for demonstrations in Munich, Los Angeles and Toronto on what he described as a global day of action, urging supporters to take to streets to push for urgent, practical steps in support of the Iranian people. Iranian leaders are already under intense scrutiny, facing renewed threats of US military action from President Donald Trump. Mr Trump wants Iran to further scale back its nuclear programme. He suggested on Friday that regime change in Iran would be the best thing that could happen. Prince Reza Pahlavi speaking in Munich (Marijan Murat/dpa via AP) Iran was also the focus of protests in Munich on Friday, the opening day of an annual security conference in the city gathering European leaders and global security figures. Supporters of the Iranian opposition group, Peoples Mujahedeen Organisation of Iran, also known as the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq, demonstrated against Irans deadly crackdown on nationwide protests last month. Reza Pahlavi, the son of Irans deposed shah who abandoned his throne and fled the country in 1979, has been in exile for nearly 50 years but is trying to position himself as a player in Irans future. At a news conference in Munich on Saturday, Pahlavi warned of the likelihood of more deaths in Iran if democracies stand by and watch. We gather at an hour of profound peril to ask: Will the world stand with the people of Iran? he asked. He added that the Iranian governments continued survival sends a clear signal to every bully: kill enough people and you stay in power. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency says at least 7,005 people have been killed in the protest, including 214 government forces. It has been accurate in counting deaths during previous rounds of unrest in Iran and relies on a network of activists in Iran to verify deaths. Irans government offered its only death toll on January 21, saying 3,117 people were killed. Irans theocracy in the past has undercounted or not reported fatalities from past unrest. The Associated Press has been unable to independently assess the death toll, given authorities have disrupted internet access and international calls in Iran. Bangladeshs incoming leader said on Saturday that he would work to build a more democratic country, overcoming challenges related to weak institutions after his party secured an election victory. Tarique Rahmans Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) won a majority in Thursdays election in the 350-member Parliament. An 11-member alliance led by the Jamaat-e-Islami party, the countrys largest Islamist party, is poised to form the opposition. It was the first election since the ousting of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina in a mass uprising in 2024. Tarique Rahman won a landslide win in the countrys election (Anupam Nath/AP) An interim government headed by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus oversaw the largely peaceful election. The voting marked a significant political shift in the South Asian nation of more than 170 million people. The new government is expected to take the oath in days. In his first press meeting in the capital, Dhaka, Mr Rahman said that his priorities would be to improve law and order and handle a fragile economy. We are about to begin our journey in a situation marked by a fragile economy left behind by the authoritarian regime, weakened constitutional and statutory institutions, and a deteriorating law and order situation, he told reporters. Mr Rahman, son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, who died in December, also urged unity, promising that he would not undermine the country. To ensure that no evil force can re-establish autocracy in the country, and to ensure that the nation is not turned into a subservient state, we must remain united and uphold the will of the people, he said. The BNP is one of the countrys longstanding political forces alongside Ms Hasinas now-banned Awami League party. Ms Hasina has been accused of increasingly becoming authoritarian during her 15-year rule. In recent years, the BNP refused to take part in the election under Ms Hasina. She has been in exile in India since her deposal and has been convicted of crimes against humanity involving hundreds of deaths during the weeks-long uprising. Alexei Navalny, the Russian opposition leader, was killed by dart frog poison administered by the Russian state two years ago, a multi-intelligence agency inquiry has found, according to a statement released by five countries, the UK, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands. The US was not one of the intelligence agencies making the claim. Mr Navalny died in a remote Arctic penal colony where he was serving a 19-year sentence. Samples from his body were secured before his burial and sent to the laboratories of two countries. The UK, describing the poisoning as barbaric, said it would be reporting Russia to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, as a flagrant violation by Russia of the chemical weapons convention (CWC). The intelligence agencies claimed laboratory testing found that the deadly toxin in the skin of Ecuador dart frogs (epibatidine) was found in samples from Navalnys body and probably resulted in his death. The statement adds: Only the Russian state had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin to target Navalny during his imprisonment in a Russian penal colony in Siberia, and we hold it responsible for his death. Epibatidine can be found naturally in dart frogs in the wild in South America. Dart frogs in captivity do not produce this toxin and it is not found naturally in Russia. There is no innocent explanation for its presence in Navalnys body. Although it had been widely assumed that Mr Navalny had been poisoned by the Russian state, the evidence of the specific poison in his body is a new development. His wife, Yulia Navalny, posted in September that there was evidence of poison in his body at the time an autopsy was conducted. Ms Navalny wrote in a post on X that the named poison causes paralysis, respiratory arrest, and a painful death. I was certain from the first day that my husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof: Putin killed Alexei with [a] chemical weapon. I am grateful to the European states for the meticulous work they carried out over two years and for uncovering the truth. Vladimir Putin is a murderer. He must be held accountable for all his crimes. The Kremlin has a long history of using poison as a weapon against its enemies. The death of Alexander Litvinenko in London from radioactive polonium in 2006, the nerve agent attack on the former spy Sergei Skripal in Salisbury in 2018, and a previous poisoning attempt on Mr Navalny have cemented Russias reputation for resorting to toxins to silence critics and defectors. The release of the information during the Munich Security Conference was designed to remind everyone that Russia announced the news of Mr Navalnys death just as the conference convened two years ago. His wife, after some hesitation, made a short address to the conference in 2024 saying: I would like Putin and all his staff, everybody around him, his government, his friends, I want them to know that they will be punished for what they have done with our country. With my family and with my husband, they will be brought to justice. And this day will come soon. The Guardian MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio here Friday on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, with both sides agreeing to strengthen dialogue and cooperation in various fields and promote the stable development of China-U.S. relations. Wang said that President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump have provided strategic guidance for the development of China-U.S. relations. He noted that both sides should jointly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and make 2026 a year in which China and the United States move toward mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation. Dialogue is better than confrontation, cooperation is better than conflict, and win-win outcomes are better than zero-sum games, Wang said. By Gary W. Yohe, Wesleyan University (The Conversation) In 2009 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency formally declared that greenhouse gas emissions, including from vehicles and industry, endanger public health and welfare. The decision, known as the endangerment finding, was based on years of evidence, and it has underpinned EPA actions on climate change ever since. The Trump administration is now tearing up that finding as it tries to roll back climate regulations on everything from vehicles to industries. This is a big deal, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said in announcing with President Donald Trump on Feb. 12, 2026, that the administration had terminated the endangerment finding. Zeldin argued that the finding had no basis in law. Trump, smiling next to him, talked about the benefits of fossil fuels and said the finding that greenhouse gas emissions endanger public health and welfare had no basis in fact. None whatsoever. Theres no question that the EPAs decision will be challenged in court. The legal question over the EPAs authority to regulate greenhouse gases will be debated, just as it was in 2009. The administrations claim that the finding was scientifically wrong, however, has no basis in fact. The world just experienced its three hottest years on record, evidence of worsening climate change is stronger now than ever before, and people across the U.S. are increasingly experiencing the harm firsthand. Several legal issues have already surfaced that could get in the EPAs way. They include evidence from emails submitted in a court case that suggest political appointees sought to direct the scientific review that the administration has used to defend its plan, at the exclusion of respected scientific sources. On Jan. 30 a federal judge ruled that the Department of Energy violated the law when it handpicked five researchers to write the climate science review. The ruling doesnt necessarily stop the EPA, but it raises questions. To understand what happens now, it helps to look back at history for some context. The Supreme Court started it The endangerment finding stemmed from a 2007 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Massachusetts v. EPA. The court found that various greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, were pollutants covered by the Clean Air Act, and it gave the EPA an explicit set of instructions. The court wrote that the EPA must determine whether or not emissions from new motor vehicles cause or contribute to air pollution which may reasonably be anticipated to endanger public health or welfare. But the Supreme Court did not order the EPA to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Only if the EPA found that emissions were harmful would the agency be required, by law, to establish national ambient air quality standards for certain common and widespread pollutants based on the latest science meaning greenhouse gases. The EPA was required to follow formal procedures including reviewing the scientific research, assessing the risks and taking public comment and then determine whether the observed and projected harms were sufficient to justify publishing an endangerment finding. That process took two years. EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson announced on Dec. 7, 2009, that the then-current and projected concentrations of six key greenhouse gases in the atmosphere carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons and sulfur hexafluoride threatened the public health and welfare of current and future generations. Challenges to the finding erupted immediately. Jackson denied 10 petitions received in 2009-2010 that called on the administration to reconsider the finding. On June 26, 2012, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit upheld the endangerment finding and regulations that the EPA had issued under the Clean Air Act for passenger vehicles and permitting procedures for stationary sources, such as power plants. This latest challenge is different. It came directly from the Trump administration without going through normal channels. It was, though, entirely consistent with both the conservative Heritage Foundations Project 2025 plan for the Trump administration and President Donald Trumps dismissive perspective on climate risk. Trumps burden of proof To legally reverse the 2009 finding, the agency was required to go through the same evaluation process as before. According to conditions outlined in the Clean Air Act, the reversal of the 2009 finding must be justified by a thorough and complete review of the current science and not just be political posturing. Thats a tough task. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has talked publicly about how he handpicked the five researchers who wrote the scientific research review. A judge has now found that the effort violated the 1972 Federal Advisory Committee Act, which requires that agency-chosen panels providing policy advice to the government conduct their work in public. All five members of the committee had been outspoken critics of mainstream climate science. Their report, released in summer 2025, was widely criticized for inaccuracies in what they referenced and its failure to represent the current science. Scientific research available today clearly shows that greenhouse gas emissions harm public health and welfare. Importantly, evidence collected since 2009 is even stronger now than it was when the first endangerment finding was written, approved and implemented. For example, both a 2025 review by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine and a 2019 peer-reviewed assessment of the evidence related to greenhouse gas emissions role in climate change determined that the evidence supporting the endangerment finding became even stronger in the years after 2009. The Sixth Assessment of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a report produced by hundreds of scientists from around the world, found in 2023 that adverse impacts of human-caused climate change will continue to intensify. In other words, greenhouse gas emissions were causing harm in 2009, and the harm is worse now and will be even worse in the future without steps to reduce emissions. In public comments on the Department of Energys problematic 2025 review, a group of climate experts from around the world reached the same conclusion, adding that the Department of Energys Climate Working Group review fails to adequately represent this reality. What happens now that the EPA has dropped the endangerment finding As an economist who has studied the effects of climate change for over 40 years, I am concerned that the EPAs rescinding the endangerment finding will lead to faster efforts to roll back U.S. climate regulations meant to slow climate change. It will also give the administration cover for further actions that would defund more science programs, stop the collection of valuable data, freeze hiring and discourage a generation of emerging science talent. Cases typically take years to wind through the courts, but both the Environmental Defense Fund and the Union of Concerned Scientists expect to file lawsuits quickly once the rescission is published in the Federal Register. Unless a judge issues an injunction, I expect to see an accelerating retreat from U.S. efforts to reduce climate change. For example, consider the removal in early February of the climate science chapter from a new Reference Manual on Scientific Evidence that advises judges. Republican state attorneys general had complained to the Federal Judicial Center of the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine that the manual treated human influence on climate as fact. But it is fact. That is not just my opinion. The National Academies itself said so in 2020 and again in 2025. I see no scenario in which a legal challenge doesnt end up before the Supreme Court. I would hope that both the enormous amount of scientific evidence and the words in the preamble of the U.S. Constitution would have some significant sway in the courts considerations. It starts, We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, and includes in its list of principles, promote the general Welfare. This article, originally published Feb. 2, 2026, has been updated with EPA rescinding the endangerment finding. Gary W. Yohe, Professor of Economics and Environmental Studies, Wesleyan University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Greenfield, Mass. (Special to Informed Comment; Feature) Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories and two Gaza Doctors, Dr. Hassam Abu Safiya and Dr. Sara Al-Saqqa, have been nominated for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. Nearly 300 qualified proposers from 33 countries signed the petition, including countries from the West and the Global South. More than anyone today, they deserve this prestigious peace prize for laboring with inestimable integrity and courage to gain a Palestinian-led peace in Gaza and the West Bank amidst a genocide perpetrated by Israel. For Albaneses unrelenting and unsparing critique of Israels genocide and the 63 countries she identified profiting from genocide by selling weapons and weapon parts, and other economic deals with Israel, Francesca Albanese stands head and shoulders with the great Nobel-Prize women. Women such as Jane Adams who won the prize for her persistent, lifelong dedication to international peace beginning with World War 1; Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan environmental, political and womens rights activist, who founded the Green Belt Movement; and 17-year-old Malala Yousafzai who risked her life in confronting the Pakistani Talibans suppression of girls and championed the equal right of girls all over the world to education. Speaking in a press briefing before the UN in 2025, Albanese called the genocide of mostly women and children civilians and record numbers of journalists, health workers and UN staff The Shame of Our Time. Since 2023 Israel has killed more than 70,600 people (some scholars place it at more than 112,000), 75 percent being women and children, and injured over 171,000 others in attacks in Gaza. More than 85 percent of Gaza is in ruins, including homes, shelters, hospitals, schools and mosques; and the destruction and death has not ceased throughout the Trumps phony, grift con the century peace deal signed in October 2025. Albanese observes that there is something different about todays genocide. Its openly incited, cynically denied, and relentlessly supported, armed, and weaponized while those who oppose it are silenced, beaten, criminalized, and smeared. This collective crime embodies the collapse of the international legal order for the Palestinians and for all of us. States making money off genocide are primarily Western so-called democracies, but there are also some from the Global South and some Arab states. Albanese was shocked to see how much the Israel stock exchange had gone up during the genocide. They battle-test their weapons on Palestinians and sell to Europe primarily but also to India, some Arab and Global South countries. And questioning so-called world leaders (prime ministers, presidents, and so on), she asks: How do you sleep? You actively comply, she asserted, to support Israel in its complete erasure of Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank. We, ordinary citizens are in a perilous place, she observes: the system run by governments has heightened authoritarian qualities. So-called democratic Western countries are arresting and persecuting those who oppose Israels genocide of Palestinians. Albanese calls for boycott, divestment and sanctions of Israeli companies that are silent and/or profit while Israel commits genocide. Palestine today is a metaphor of our life and where our life is going to go unless we resist. To her credit, she holds out hope: the millions of trade unions, dockworkers, students, mothers and fathers and ordinary people everywhere who are refusing to be complicit in genocide of Palestinians, in Israels apartheid of Palestinians. These include the dockworkers in more than 20 ports across the Mediterranean in early February 2026 who launched a strike to protest against war and rearmament in solidarity with Palestine. The future of millions demand is one of justice, equality, and freedom, and is still within reach if we act now. Francesca Albanese, a beacon of truth-telling, under great political pressure and sanctioned by Israel and the US, and Dr. Hassam Abu Safiya and Dr. Sara Al-Saqqa who risk their lives daily to save Gazan lives, must win the Nobel Peace Prize to demonstrate that integrity still survives. ( Middle East Monitor ) In a moment that exposed the flimsy nature of the government narrative, Keir Starmers government suffered a resounding blow from the UK Supreme Court after it struck down the decision to ban the activist group Pal Action and ruled it unlawful. This was not a mere procedural detail; it was a clear political indictment of a path that chose to criminalise the act of standing by and defending a victim. That same path chose also to shield the aggressor and oppressor. This is not a matter of competing narratives or conflicting claims. What is happening in Gaza is a crime of genocide, plain and simple. Palestinian blood is not and cannot be considered a matter of opinion, and those who have colluded in spilling that blood through support, arms supplies or political cover, are complicit in the crime. Yet the government attempted to obscure this behind cold terminology and carefully orchestrated statements. Starmers government did not hesitate to pursue young activists who entered factories and facilities implicated in supporting Israels war machine, including sites linked to military supply chains and British aerial capabilities. They were treated as threats to national security, while the real threat was, and remains, the continued flow of weapons, funds and intelligence to a state carrying out mass killing of civilians under the pretext of self-defence. What kind of moral perversion criminalises those who disrupt weapons factories, yet legitimises those who press the button to bomb, maim and kill? London did not expel the ambassador, nor did it sever diplomatic ties with Israel. It did not impose a comprehensive and genuine arms embargo. Instead, cosmetic measures; a suspension here, a review there, while the bloodshed in Gaza continued and political cover remained firmly in place. What kind of moral perversion criminalises those who disrupt weapons factories, yet legitimises those who press the button to bomb, maim and kill? Recently it was found that over 2,000 British nationals travelled to join the ranks of the Israeli army and partake in war crimes, yet no prosecutions on the scale directed at pro-Palestine activists were brought forward. Fundraising events have been held openly in support of soldiers involved in this genocidal war, often attended by government officials, while prison cells have filled with people of conscience. Dozens, indeed hundreds, have been referred to the courts simply because they refused to allow crimes to be committed in their name Ameer, who went on hunger strike until his bodily functions were severely damaged, and Zahra and her fellow activists, who sacrificed their health for their stance, received no meaningful attention from Starmers government. It saw in their frail bodies only a security problem and in their resilience merely a breach of order. One cannot escape questioning the kind of order that suffocates justice while accommodating bloodshed. Today, the judiciary restored a measure of dignity without actually ending the ongoing tragedy. It did not restore the health of the sick, nor did it restore the harsh months of suffering, or drop all the cases still hanging over activists. Nevertheless, the ruling delivered a clear message: the law cannot be weaponised as an instrument of political vengeance. Recently, it was found that over2,000 British nationals travelled to join the ranks of the Israeli army and partake in war crimes, yet no prosecutions on the scale directed at pro-Palestine activists were brought forward. Photo of pro-Palestine protest in London March 15, 2025 by Serra Utkum Ikiz on Unsplash On the international stage, names such as Benjamin Netanyahu have become synonymous with one of the darkest chapters in the regions modern history. Accountability may be delayed, but it will come and justice will have its day. History does not forget, and it does not accept bureaucratic excuses when genocide is at stake. This is not merely a battle over whether an organisation is placed on or removed from a list. It is a battle over meaning itself: who is a terrorist? Someone who disrupts a weapons factory in protest at the killing of children, or the one who funds, arms and justifies their bombardment? This farce must end. The course of history must correct itself. The criminal must be clearly named, and those who stood on the right side must be honoured and held in high esteem. The activists who stood in solidarity with Palestine were not outside the law; they were at its moral core. The failure was never in their outcry or their condemnation. Rather, in the silence of those who claimed to represent justice, even those who once worked in the field of human rights, yet turned a blind eye to the crime. The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor or Informed Comment. ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on Saturday expressed concern over Africa's inability to address peace and security perils across different parts of the continent. The AUC chief made the remarks during the opening session of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the AU, which runs on Saturday and Sunday at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. "Our summit is taking place in a geopolitical context of crisis, both on the continent and throughout the world. Silencing the Guns on our continent remains a challenge," Youssouf told African leaders. Acknowledging the political and institutional fragility of several African countries as a source of continental concern, he said "open and latent conflicts are becoming chronic." "Unconstitutional changes of government are resurfacing, reminding us of the dark days following independence," he said. Highlighting the situation in Sudan, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Somalia, among others, Youssouf said "our peoples continue to pay a heavy price for instability." Meanwhile, the chairperson of the 55-member continental organization noted that the recent "upheaval in the international order is certainly having a significant impact on the affairs of the continent." Noting that multilateralism is being "severely tested with the rise of unilateralism and protectionism," he said Africa needs to strengthen its continental unity to withstand external shocks. "Major political and economic blocs are preparing for this global polarization. Africa is certainly part of the Global South, but Africa has its own distinctive character and identity," he said. "Faced with this situation, Africa must strengthen itself by accelerating its political and economic integration programs. Pan-African institutions must redouble their efforts and determination. Agenda 2063 and its flagship programs must guide us toward the Africa we envision -- strong, autonomous, and prosperous," Youssouf said. The two-day summit, which brings together leaders from AU members, was launched under the AU's 2026 theme: "Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063." Prime Minister of Ethiopia Abiy Ahmed, for his part, underscored the need to harness Africa's demographic dividend as a vital imperative for holistic development. "Today, many African economies are among the fastest-growing in the world," Abiy said. "Yet growth alone is not enough. Our greatest wealth is our people. By 2035, Africa will add more young people to the global workforce than the rest of the world combined. This demographic reality must be harnessed with purpose. Numbers alone will not deliver prosperity." The opening session drew African heads of state and government, alongside leaders of continental and international organizations, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Saturday, February 14, 2026 - A married woman is among dozens of Kenyan women secretly recorded by a controversial Russian tourist during meetups at his Nairobi Airbnb. The foreign national approached the woman on the streets of Nairobi, where he struck up a conversation and flirted with her before they exchanged phone numbers. In a video later that day, the woman is seen driving what is claimed to be her husbands car to an Airbnb apartment, where she met the tourist. The footage is part of a series of videos the Russian man shared online, showing him interacting with different women and inviting them to his rented apartment. Watch the video>>> below Kitu inanistua ni ati most of this women were being paid 20 USD pic.twitter.com/IbrEJKWkgF Boniface (@kilundeezy) February 13, 2026 The Kenyan DAILY POST BEIJING, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday sent a congratulatory message to Joao Lourenco, rotating African Union (AU) chairperson and Angolan president, and Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, chairperson of the AU Commission, extending warm congratulations to African countries and people over the 39th AU Summit. Xi noted that the world is undergoing accelerated changes unseen in a century, and the strength of the Global South has been growing remarkably. Over the past year, the AU has kept unity and led African countries in actively promoting the integration process, resolutely safeguarding Africa's legitimate rights and interests, while its international status and influence have continued to rise, Xi said. He emphasized that in a world fraught with changes and turbulence, China is firmly committed to maintaining global peace, advancing common development and promoting the building of a community with a shared future for humanity. Xi said that China will fully implement zero-tariff treatment to 53 African countries having diplomatic relations with China starting from May 1, 2026. At the same time, China will continue to push forward the negotiation and signing of the agreements on economic partnership for shared development, and further expand access for African exports to China by upgrading the "green channel" and other measures, he added. The Chinese president said that these new measures by China to expand high-level opening up will surely provide new opportunities for Africa's development, and for China and Africa's joint pursuit of the dream of modernization. Xi said that since the start of diplomatic relations between China and Africa 70 years ago, the two sides have always stood together through thick and thin and moved forward side by side. He said China stands ready to work with Africa to carry forward their historical friendship, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, enhance mutual understanding and affection, and jointly write a new chapter of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. Saturday, February 14, 2026 - Social media is buzzing after it emerged that one of the women lured by the infamous Russian tourist to his Airbnb is an ardent follower of Bishop Edward Mwai of Jesus Winners Ministry. The woman, identified as Margaret Kimani, hosts a show on Mwangaza TV, a Christian station affiliated with Bishop Mwais church. In the video circulating online, Margaret is seen being approached by the Russian man alongside another woman as they were running their errands along Thika Road. The two women followed the Russian guy to his Airbnb. Margaret has since deactivated her social media accounts after her identity was unmasked. Watch a video of the Russian man luring the church women via this LINK>>> The Kenyan DAILY POST Saturday, February 14, 2026 - A heartbroken man has taken to Facebook to call out his girlfriend after she appeared in viral videos shared by a Russian tourist who has been posting clips of himself hooking up with random women in Ghana and Kenya. The man revealed that his girlfriend, Linda, had rejected his marriage proposal, only for him to later see her spending time with the controversial tourist. In his post, he expressed deep frustration and claimed that God will punish her for turning down his proposal while choosing to be with someone who was only interested in casual flings. The videos, which have sent social media into a frenzy, show the Russian casually approaching women in malls, on the streets, and even in churches before inviting them to his Airbnb. Once there, he records the encounters using smart glasses and shares the clips online - reportedly without the womens consent. The saga has sparked heated debate, with many pointing out how easily some African women fall for foreign men. The tourist himself even claimed that several women did not ask him for money after spending time with him, adding fuel to the controversy. Here we goo with Linda pic.twitter.com/5naw3AyBlL BLACK SIZHO (@black_sezo) February 13, 2026 Saturday, February 14, 2026 - A Russian tourist has become the talk of the town after posting TikTok videos of himself approaching women in public places such as malls, churches and even on the streets before inviting them back to his Airbnb for flings. Once at his place, he records the encounters using smart glasses and shares the clips online - reportedly without the womens consent. The saga has sparked heated debate, with many pointing out how easily some African women fall for foreign men. The tourist himself even claimed that several women did not ask him for money after spending time with him, adding fuel to the controversy. Although he often hides his face in the videos by relying on the smart glasses to record, a new clip has surfaced online showing his face clearly. It has also emerged that before visiting Nairobi, the Russian had spent time in Ghana, where he recorded similar encounters with women. The face of the Russian man has been released pic.twitter.com/2N6qwq9AhT Uncle Paa Kwesi (@papakwesi_jr) February 12, 2026 , , pic.twitter.com/pKReU9uiRm Sir Adam (@AdamMaina_) February 13, 2026 The Kenyan DAILY POST Saturday, February 14, 2026 - A Mzungu man has joined the conversation around the viral Russian tourist who has been posting videos of himself approaching random women in Nairobi and inviting them to his Airbnb for casual hook-ups. In a video shared online, the man claimed that Kenyan women are quick to throw themselves at foreigners, saying that all a Mzungu needs to do is talk nicely and the woman is his. He even added that sometimes Kenyan women make the first move. Speaking in the clip, he referenced the trending Russian tourist story, noting that the man had traveled from Russia and previously lived in Ghana before coming to Kenya. What surprised him most, he said, was that someone would come all the way just for hook-ups. But in his view, it is not about the hook-ups - it is about how easy it is to get a woman in Kenya. He explained that if a foreigner focuses on his mission or business without chasing women, they will still come his way. The amount of babes coming to me, wa waa, he said, adding that being a Mzungu in Kenya makes one a hot cake. Watch the video>>> below. "In Kenya, you talk nice to her, she is yours" - Mzungu man shares his thoughts after the Russian guy saga, says it's easy for them because they are white. pic.twitter.com/m6ug466aov KENYA GOSSIP HUB (@kenyasgossips) February 14, 2026 The Kenyan DAILY POST Saturday, February 14, 2026 - Nairobi County Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service, Geoffrey Mosiria, has issued a stern warning to foreign nationals, urging them to respect Kenyan laws and the dignity of its citizens. His remarks come after a series of explicit videos shared online by a Russian tourist stirred widespread outrage. In a statement released on Saturday, February 14th, 2026, Mosiria reminded visitors that while Kenya is known for its warm hospitality, foreigners must abide by the rules of the land. He emphasized that Kenya is a signatory to international human rights instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which protect individuals from arbitrary interference with privacy and unlawful attacks on honour and reputation. It is high time that foreign nationals respect the rules of the land as they enjoy the Kenyan cuisine - if you know, you know. We are not lesser humans, Mosiria stated. He added that even if the offender is foreign, Kenya has the right to act under international law. Mosiria stressed that these protections apply to everyone within Kenyas borders, regardless of nationality. He questioned whether a Kenyan would be left unchallenged if found engaging in similar behaviour abroad. That Russian man purported to have recorded videos enjoying Kenyan cuisine must respect our land and commodities, he said. The man at the centre of the controversy is a Russian national known online as Yaytseslav. His short clips have gone viral across platforms such as X, TikTok, and WhatsApp. In the videos, he is seen approaching women in public spaces - streets, markets, shopping malls, and even outside churches - before inviting them to his Airbnb. Reports suggest that he used smart glasses with hidden cameras to secretly record the encounters and shared online without the ladies consent. The Kenyan DAILY POST Saturday, February 14, 2026 - The High Court in Mombasa sentenced the former Likoni Officer Commanding Station to life imprisonment for the murder of a middle-aged man in a case that has drawn sharp focus on police accountability. Lady Justice Wendy Kagendo Micheni handed down the sentence after finding Yunus Athman guilty of killing 20yearold Mbaraka Maitha Omar in 2018 at Mwenza Village in Likoni. The prosecution, led by Ngiri Wangui, presented more than 20 witnesses to prove the case against the former Chief Inspector. The court heard testimony placing him at the scene and challenging claims that the victim posed any threat. The trial also exposed concerns over police conduct and alleged attempts to obscure the circumstances of the shooting, with multiple witnesses confirming that the deceased was unarmed and did not pose any danger. Athman shot dead the deceased when he went to arrest him for allegedly stealing some goats. He fired several shots, killing the deceased on the spot despite not resisting the arrest. In her ruling on the sentence, the judge said the court had considered mitigation, the presentence report, and the victim impact statement before settling on a custodial term for the remainder of his natural life. The court noted that as a police officer, the convict had a statutory duty to protect life but instead used unlawful force against a defenceless civilian. The judge observed that abuse of state power strikes at the heart of justice and must attract a deterrent penalty. The victims family told the court they continue to suffer psychological trauma following the killing, describing the act as malicious and a betrayal of public trust. The judge directed Athman to exercise his right to appeal within 14 days against both the conviction and sentence. The Kenyan DAILY POST SYDNEY, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Several roads across the Fraser Coast region and the North Burnett region in Australia's state of Queensland were closed due to flash flooding, said the Queensland Police Service in a statement on Saturday. Police said a 63-year-old woman and a 68-year-old man were rescued and transported to hospital with minor injuries after police were called to Gooroolba Biggenden Road in the North Burnett region at about 7:15 p.m. local time on Friday, following reports that a car was trapped in floodwater. Later on Friday night, police and emergency services responded to a report at about 10:40 p.m. local time on Booral Road in the Fraser Coast region, where a car was caught in floodwaters. A 56-year-old woman, who was the driver and sole occupant of the car, as well as a 25-year-old man and a 26-year-old man who entered the water and attempted to rescue her, were safely rescued. The Bureau of Meteorology issued a Minor Flood Warning for the Flinders River on Saturday, cautioning that showers and storms with possible heavy rainfall were forecast to continue in the catchment for the remainder of the weekend and into next week, which may cause minor flooding at Richmond Post Office from Saturday night, with higher levels possible. The bureau also issued a Minor Flood Warning for the Burrum River catchment on Saturday, warning that minor flooding was possible along the Burrum River at Howard overnight Saturday into Sunday. Visitors view a BMW X3 vehicle at the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto, Canada, Feb. 13, 2026. The 10-day show kicked off here on Friday, with over 40 automotive brands showcasing the latest innovations, trends and advancements in the auto industry. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) People take a test drive at the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto, Canada, Feb. 13, 2026. The 10-day show kicked off here on Friday, with over 40 automotive brands showcasing the latest innovations, trends and advancements in the auto industry. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) Visitors view a Polestar 4 electric vehicle at the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto, Canada, Feb. 13, 2026. The 10-day show kicked off here on Friday, with over 40 automotive brands showcasing the latest innovations, trends and advancements in the auto industry. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) People visit the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto, Canada, Feb. 13, 2026. The 10-day show kicked off here on Friday, with over 40 automotive brands showcasing the latest innovations, trends and advancements in the auto industry. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) A McLaren W1 supercar is pictured at the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto, Canada, Feb. 13, 2026. The 10-day show kicked off here on Friday, with over 40 automotive brands showcasing the latest innovations, trends and advancements in the auto industry. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) Visitors view an Audi R26 Formula 1 concept car at the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto, Canada, Feb. 13, 2026. The 10-day show kicked off here on Friday, with over 40 automotive brands showcasing the latest innovations, trends and advancements in the auto industry. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) Visitors view a Chevrolet Corvette Z06 supercar at the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto, Canada, Feb. 13, 2026. The 10-day show kicked off here on Friday, with over 40 automotive brands showcasing the latest innovations, trends and advancements in the auto industry. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) A Ford Mustang GTD vehicle is pictured at the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto, Canada, Feb. 13, 2026. The 10-day show kicked off here on Friday, with over 40 automotive brands showcasing the latest innovations, trends and advancements in the auto industry. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) A visitor experiences the driver's cabin of a Tesla Cybertruck at the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto, Canada, Feb. 13, 2026. The 10-day show kicked off here on Friday, with over 40 automotive brands showcasing the latest innovations, trends and advancements in the auto industry. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) A Cadillac Formula 1 concept car is pictured at the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto, Canada, Feb. 13, 2026. The 10-day show kicked off here on Friday, with over 40 automotive brands showcasing the latest innovations, trends and advancements in the auto industry. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) LOCAL councillors recently sought further works to ensure that bilingual signage is implemented in residential areas. At the most recent full meeting of Kildare County Council, cllrs Donna Phelan, Anne Breen and Noel Connolly brough forward a motion on the meeting agenda requesting the council "reaffirms and enforces full compliance with the 'Naming of Residential Developments Policy 2018', requiring all new residential developments and all estates seeking to be taken in charge to have permanent, fully compliant dual-language Irish and English signage in place before planning completion or taking in charge and to carry out an audit of estates already taken in charge where retrospective compliance with the policy could be undertaken. The motion also asked that the council executive determine a costing for works to relevant estates/ developments already taken in charge (and legacy estates) to be determined and that a funding source be identified. In keeping with the spirit of what the councillors were asking for, there also an Irish-language version of the motion available to read on the meeting agenda. With cllrs Phelan, Breen and Connolly being affiliated with Fianna Fail, the Labour Party and Sinn Fein, it was clear that there was broad support for the move. A report issued in response to the motion by director of services for planning, economic development, enterprise and tourism in KCC Alan Dunney and director of services for transport, mobility and open spaces Mark McLoughlin, outlined the following: Naming and numbering is a standard condition attached to grants of planning permission for multi-unit residential developments. Developers are required to submit proposed names (Irish and English) for written approval by the council, and to install permanent, compliant signage before completion of the development. The report further went on to say that estates cannot be taken in charge by the council unless all planning conditions are fully met. These conditions include correct bilingual signage installed in accordance with the aforementioned with the council's 2018 'Naming of New Residential Developments' policy. The report added that the council will continue to enforce these conditions and internal procedures to ensure uniform application of the 2018 Policy across all developments. The report further detailed the scale of the project and the challenges involved. There are in excess of 600 residential developments taken in charge and an assessment of the scope and scale of the project will be a considerable undertaking as evident from the transport departments experience in procuring statutory signs for residential developments as part of the implementation of Jakes Law. Jakes law aims to make residential areas safer by introducing speed limits of 30km/h. It is named after Jake Brennan, a six-year-old boy who died tragically after being hit by a car on the street in Kilkenny where he lived. The report continued on to outline the scale of the project involving the retrofitting of dual language signage in residential developments, saying that it would require careful evaluation, considering the lack of uniformity of signage, the volume of bespoke stone signs and the extensive scope of such a project which would be well outside the scope of normal operations of the transport department. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme By Grainne Ni Aodha, Press Association A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a man in Belfast earlier this week. Isaac Koko, 32, with an address at Cromwell Road in the south of the city, appeared before Belfast Magistrates Court on Saturday, charged with the murder. Police said officers attended the scene of the incident in the Cromwell Road area on Wednesday following the report of a concern for safety. A 33-year-old man was taken to hospital by the ambulance service where he later died. The defendant was remanded in custody ahead of the next court appearance. The case is next due to be mentioned on Tuesday, March 10th. Macra continues to call on Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon to take decisive action to facilitate urgent and constructive dialogue across the agri-food sector, in order to protect Irelands international food reputation and restore farmer confidence in Bord Bia. Recent public exchanges involving the Chair of Bord Bia and concerns raised by the Irish Farmers Association have highlighted the need for clear leadership, dialogue and engagement. Confidence among farmers in the institution that represents Irish food at home and abroad is essential and must be safeguarded, according to the farming organisation. Irelands reputation as a trusted, high-quality food producer depends on unity, transparency, and respect throughout the sector. TAP HERE FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS Failure to address these issues risks damaging not only farmer and consumer trust, but also Irelands standing on the global stage. Speaking on the matter, Josephine ONeill, National President of Macra and Kilkenny woman, said: Irelands food reputation is a critical national asset, and it cannot be taken for granted. Farmers must have confidence in the systems and structures that represent them internationally. We are calling on the Minister to intervene now, ensure meaningful dialogue takes place, and provide the leadership needed to restore trust and protect our global standing. As ongoing issues continue to challenge Irelands access to world markets, the importance of An Bord Bia to represent Irish food on the global stage is needed now more than ever. Continued unrest surrounding An Bord Bia must be resolved to restore confidence amongst consumers and the agricultural sector. As Agri Awares Farm Walk and Talk programme begins for another year, it has been announced that two events will take place at Kildalton College in South Kilkenny. The annual series offers second-level students studying agricultural science the chance to step onto farms across the country, in the coming weeks. TAP HERE FOR MORE KILKENNY SCHOOLS NEWS This years series will see each event cover all cross-cutting themes of the agricultural science curriculum, with the addition of a stand dedicated to the Individual Investigative Study (IIS) that is worth 25% of the final grade, where students can talk to Agri Aware Education Officers and seek advice on their projects. Students will have the unique opportunity to take their classroom learnings to the farmyard and witness real-world applications of the latest agricultural techniques and practices. This years series will begin in Tipperary on February 24, and conclude on Friday, March 13, at Kildalton Agricultural College. An additional day has been added to Pallaskenry Agricultural College, this year, to cater for increased demand. After a successful 2025, where over 4,100 students took part, Agri Aware is looking forward to meeting teachers and students once again on farms where the most modern, up-to-date research, technology, and practices are implemented alongside our event partners and patrons. This year, the Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB) have come on board to partner on the series with Teagasc, the Irish Farmers Journal and the UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science. This years launch took place at the Irish Farmers Journals demonstration farm in Tullamore, which is one of the venues for this years series. On the day, Agri Aware Chair Shay Galvin was joined by partners of the series, as well as students from Tullamore College. Speaking ahead of this years series, Shay Galvin said: It is with great pride to announce the return of our flagship secondary school event series Farm Walk and Talk. READ MORE - WHAT'S ON IN KILKENNY For 2026, we are thrilled to offer the series to Leaving Certificate Agricultural Science students, and Transition Year students and thanks to the LOETB the fee for students has been waived. We look forward to welcoming students and teachers across all events and hope they take back valuable learnings to the classroom. Grainne McGrath of the LOETB said: As an ETB, we are delighted to be part of this initiative and believe it is absolutely crucial that education providers like the LOETB engage with initiatives such as this. It plays a vital role in promoting the subject of agricultural science and highlighting the wide range of opportunities available within the sector. We hope it will encourage students to avail of both further and higher education pathways currently on offer. COLOMBO, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Dengue larvae were found in 40 percent of schools inspected by Sri Lanka's Ministry of Health, according to an official from the country's National Dengue Control Unit. Acting Director of the National Dengue Control Unit Kapila Kannangara told journalists on Saturday that recent surveys have revealed an increase in the percentage of schools where dengue mosquito larvae were detected. He said health authorities were continuing inspection and prevention campaigns to reduce breeding sites and limit the spread of dengue, which remains a major public health concern in the country. Kannangara added that fumigation activities were being carried out at centers hosting the General Certificate of Education (Ordinary Level) examinations to protect students and staff during the exam period. Sri Lankan health officials have repeatedly urged schools and communities to eliminate stagnant water and maintain clean surroundings to reduce mosquito breeding and curb dengue transmission. Sri Lanka recorded over 51,000 dengue cases in 2025. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Spanish city of Barcelona on Friday announced Shanghai as the guest city for its 2026 La Merce festival, marking the first time an Asian city has been invited to assume the role. La Merce, Barcelona's largest annual city festival, will take place on Sept. 23-27 in 2026. Since 2007, the festival has adopted the tradition of inviting a guest city each year to showcase its cultural identity. Shanghai will become the first city from Asia to participate in that capacity. Xavier Marce, Barcelona City Councilor for Culture and Creative Industries, described the Barcelona-Shanghai relationship as "strategic," noting that the two cities are connected through multiple channels, particularly in culture and creative industries. The 2026 edition will carry added symbolic weight as Barcelona and Shanghai mark the 25th anniversary of their sister-city relationship. The 2026 La Merce festival is expected to feature a diverse program highlighting both contemporary and traditional elements of Shanghai's culture, further deepening cultural ties between the metropolis in east China and Barcelona. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu) MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday called on China and Britain to follow through on the consensus reached by their leaders, continuously deliver positive outcomes in bilateral ties and explore more potential for cooperation. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the appeal during talks with British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Wang said that China and Britain, as major countries in the world and permanent members of the UN Security Council that both bear responsibilities for safeguarding international peace and security, should maintain regular exchanges, enhance strategic coordination and communication, expand shared interests, and jointly safeguard world peace and development. Recalling the recent successful and historic visit to China by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, which revived bilateral relations, Wang noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping and Starmer agreed to develop a long-term and stable comprehensive strategic partnership and reached broad consensus on bilateral and multilateral cooperation, which met the expectations of various sectors for the steady development of bilateral ties. The two sides should ensure the success of a new round of the China-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue, the Joint Economic and Trade Commission meeting and the Strategic Dialogue, while restoring normal exchanges between legislative bodies and intensifying people-to-people exchanges, Wang said. Emphasizing that China supports free trade and opposes protectionism in any form, Wang said that enterprises from Britain and other countries are welcome to invest in China and use platforms such as the China International Import Expo to expand exports to China. He also expressed hope that the British side would provide a fair, just and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises. For her part, Cooper said Starmer's visit to China was highly successful and yielded fruitful results, playing an important role in the development of bilateral relations. Building a long-term and stable comprehensive strategic partnership between Britain and China serves the strategic interests of both countries, she said. Cooper said the British side has long adhered to the policy on the Taiwan question it adopted since diplomatic ties were established, and the policy has not changed and will not change. She expressed willingness to work with the Chinese side to follow through on the consensus of the two leaders, advance institutional dialogues in various fields, expand cooperation in trade, investment, finance, climate, security, green technology among other areas, and properly manage differences. Britain upholds multilateralism and the international rule of law, Cooper said, adding that the two countries can strengthen multilateral communication and coordination to contribute to world peace and security. The two sides also exchanged views on international and regional issues, including the Ukraine crisis, Sudan and Iran. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. As the Spring Festival draws near, the festive atmosphere permeates the streets and alleys of Hefei. Red lanterns are hung, couplets are displayed, and intangible cultural heritage skills intertwine with folk parades, weaving a vibrant Lunar New Year tableau. From the dazzling fish lanterns in Sanhe Ancient Town to the glowing decorations along the city's main thoroughfares, a colorful Lunar New Year prelude is being performed across Hefei. In Hefei, the festive spirit always arrives first at the Chenghuangmiao. Couplets, red lanterns, and various decorations symbolizing the auspicious meanings of the Year of the Horse have been put on display, creating a sea of red throughout the Chenghuangmiao's streets and alleys, with a continuous stream of citizens coming to purchase Lunar New Year goods. Recently, the Spring Festival Fair at the Chenghuangmiao also kicked off. Dragon dance teams twisted and soared, cloth horse dances were light and graceful, and waist drum rhythms were lively and vigorous... Folk performers walked through the ancient streets and alleys, presenting citizens and tourists with a spectacular and colorful roving folk exhibition. Intangible cultural heritage projects such as Luyang paper-cutting, Luzhou dough figurines, Luyang Yin's calligraphy and painting, Luzhou woodblock watermark printing, Luyang sugar painting, Luyang printed cloth, and Liu Hongsheng's specialty snacks were showcased together, presenting a Hefei Spring Festival that is vibrant, colorful, and flavorful. In Sanhe Ancient Town, lanterns adorn the quaint, historic streets, while exquisite fish lanterns line the Quezhu Corridor Bridge, creating a fresh Lunar New Year tableau. As night falls, a lively fish-lantern parade lights up the sky over Sanhe, igniting the romantic atmosphere of the Lunar new year. During the Spring Festival, Sanhe Ancient Town will also host a "Thousand-Lantern Parade," offering an immersive cultural tourism experience. The festive spirit spreads from neighborhoods and scenic spots to every street and alley. Hefei's streets are dressed in red, welcoming an auspicious year with vibrant new attire. The Spring Festival travel rush is now in full swing, with streams of people returning home. Hefei Railway Station is filled with a joyous and peaceful holiday atmosphere. To enhance the city's gateway and warm the journey home, the Hefei Railway Station Comprehensive Management Office has created immersive Lunar New Year landscapes in key areas of the station, allowing travelers to feel the rich festive spirit with every step. Hefei's festive atmosphere is not only visible in its red decorations but also flows through the living heritage of intangible cultural skills and shines in every lantern lit for those returning home. The joyful spirit spreads from the streets into homes, weaving together a Chinese New Year filled with good fortune and happiness. Source: Hefei Evening News At 2:57 a.m. on Feb. 4, 2026: medical staff transfer a patient who has just undergone a surgery to the intensive care unit (ICU) in the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 0:03 a.m. on Feb. 4, 2026: a nurse patrols the wards in the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 11:18 a.m. on Feb. 12, 2026: a nurse treats a patient in the intensive care unit (ICU) in the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 10:16 a.m. on Feb. 9, 2026: senior doctor Qi Wensheng (C) checks the condition of a patient in a ward in the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 3:10 p.m. on Feb. 12, 2026: a nurse cares for critically ill patient in the intensive care unit (ICU) of the Emergency Department in Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Li He) At 3:05 a.m. on Feb. 4, 2026: the on-duty nurses in the intensive care unit (ICU) receive a postoperative patient in the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Wang Jingqiang) At 5:20 a.m. on Feb. 4, 2026: a nurse draws blood from a patient in a ward in the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 9:14 a.m. on Feb. 9, 2026: doctor Li Qiong provides acupuncture treatment to an inpatient in the Emergency Department in Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 5:59 p.m. on Feb. 5, 2026: nurses hand over the shift in a resuscitation room of the Emergency Department in Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Wang Jingqiang) At 8:31 a.m. on Feb. 9, 2026: senior doctor Qi Wensheng (2nd R) checks the condition of a patient in the intensive care unit (ICU) in the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 7:42 a.m. on Feb. 9, 2026: doctor Li Qiong treats a patient in the Emergency Department in Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 8:27 p.m. on Feb. 5, 2026: a doctor provides acupuncture treatment to a patient in the Emergency Department in Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 1:46 p.m. on Feb. 12, 2026: staff members transfer a patient from an observation room to the intensive care unit (ICU) in the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 7:04 p.m. on Feb. 5, 2026: two doctors celebrate their birthday with colleagues at an on-call room of the Emergency Department in Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 9:37 p.m. on Feb. 5, 2026: nurses measure the blood pressure of a patient at the emergency hall in Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 12:15 p.m. on Feb. 12, 2026: first-aid personnel transfer a patient in the emergency hall of Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 12:31 p.m. on Feb. 12, 2026: staff members celebrate the birthday of a nonagenarian patient in an emergency observation room of the Emergency Department in Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 11:39 p.m. on Feb. 3, 2026: a nurse patrols a ward and checks the condition of patients in the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei) At 5:11 p.m. on Feb. 5, 2026: senior doctor Qi Wensheng explains and teaches classical prescriptions of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China. With the Spring Festival just around the corner, the staff members at the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital remain on duty around the clock. Racing against time, they are fully committed to protect the health of patients. As a national-level emergency center which integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine, the Emergency Department of Guang'anmen Hospital was founded over 40 years ago. Generations of medical practitioners have carried forward the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine while keeping pace with modern emergency rescue. They are not only proficient in using advanced emergency equipment such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and ultrasound diagnostic instruments to rescue critically ill patients, but also provide patients with precise and effective characteristic diagnosis and treatment, featuring over 30 hospital-agreed prescriptions and more than 20 external treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. (Xinhua/Wang Jingqiang) A drone photo shows people visiting the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) People shop for foods at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) A vendor promotes local food via live-streaming at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) People taste local cuisine at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) People visit the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) People watch a man making glutinous rice cake at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) A craftsman (2nd L) shows a handmade bench to a customer at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) People shop for local snacks at the Jiaodai Market in Jiaodai Town of Lantian County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 13, 2026. The Jiaodai Market, located on a key route over the Qinling Mountains, has been a trading hub for mountain produces since ancient times. As the largest township market in Lantian, Jiaodai Market accommodates more than 1,500 stalls, dealing a variety of goods such as local specialties, daily necessities, farming tools and livestock, and local snacks. It also serves as a major tourist attraction now, thanks to formalized management and effective promotion efforts. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) AN ELDERLY man charged with 117 counts of marital rape through 29 years of marriage was sent forward for trial to the Central Criminal Court. The man, who cant be named, has an address in Co Kildare and appeared in Naas District Court last week to receive his Book of Evidence. The sheer scale of the charges became apparent straight away when Sergeant Mary Meade as is protocol offered the final four digits from the sample charge sheet, which prompted the judge to comment: Its like looking for a needle in a haystack". "If you could put a yellow sticker (post it note) in this, as he held the sheaf of 117 charges. The charges make up most of the book, which means there is little evidence, commented Judge Desmond Zaidan. That would be my clients position as well, concurred Tim Kennelly defending. Sgt Meade told the court the couple got married on date in the seventies. The (alleged) assaults began one week after marriage, and continued through 29 years of marriage. It happened practically every week after that, she said. The nature of the allegation? Its actual rape, not sexual assault? the judge sought clarity, and Sgt Meade agreed. Sgt Meade also alleged that, on a date in 2005, the defendant made threats to kill or cause serious harm. My client will deny each and every one of them, said Mr Kennelly. These are very serious charges, Mr Kennelly, said the judge. My client is taking this very seriously, said Mr Kennelly. The Central Criminal Court is basically the High Court sitting in its criminal capacity, explained the judge to the defendant. They only hear two offences there murder or rape." The judge granted Mr Kennelly legal aid for his expenses, as well as for senior and junior counsel. At this point, the judge noticed three members of the public in the gallery for what was an in camera case, and enquired who they were. When told it was that some were the couple's grown children, the judge ordered all three to leave. Thats different, said the judge, when Mr Kennelly protested. The injured party has a right to attend, but adult sons? I dont know, said the judge. He then sent the man forward for trial to the present sittings of the Central Criminal Court. STARRING Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley, Hamnet is a tragic drama adapted from the 2020 novel of the same name by Maggie OFarrell. Directed by Chloe Zhao, this incredibly powerful film focuses on the relationship between William Shakespeare and his wife Agnes. When their young son Hamnet dies at a young age, the couples relationship is tested as each navigates the grieving and mourning process in their own uncertain way. Receiving numerous award nominations, including a best actress Oscar nomination for Irelands Jessie Buckley, this beautifully harrowing film explores the complex themes of parenthood, love, grief and the transcendent power of art. Due to the subject matter, some may find the viewing experience to be a challenging two hours to endure, but the artistic mastery on display in Hamnet cannot be denied. The story begins with a young William Shakespeare first encountering the enchanting Agnes, a local girl who prefers the company of her Harris Hawk to that of other people. Not yet the world-renowned playwright, William is still capable of capturing Agnes imagination with his storytelling abilities. With a passionate relationship quickly blooming between the young couple, it is not long before Agnes finds herself pregnant with their first child, Susanna. Searching for new ways to provide for his family, William finds work writing for a theatre company in London. With Shakespeares career finally beginning to take flight, Agnes soon finds herself pregnant once more this time with twins. Returning from work in London, William is overjoyed to be greeted by the arrival of Hamnet and Judith. However, it is not long before tragedy strikes and Hamnet dies at a young age. While both William and Agnes struggle to cope with this tragic loss, the event inspires Shakespeare to write his magnum opus: Hamlet. The performances in Hamnet have been the source of much excitement this awards season, with Jessie Buckley almost certain to come home with the Oscar next month. However, much has also been made of the apparent snub suffered by Paul Mescal in the Academy Award nominations. I can absolutely understand the outcry that followed the nominations announcement, as both Mescal and Buckley turned in equally impressive performances in this film. In fact, I would say this is Paul Mescals best performance so far and I actually found myself more moved by his performance than Buckleys. That is not to discredit Jessie Buckleys performance in any way as the actress does, indeed, give a powerhouse performance as Agnes and I will be very happy to see her lift the little gold man on 15 March. The range of emotion captured by Buckley as a mother overwhelmed with grief and struggling to navigate the mourning process is uncomfortably believable and fascinatingly harrowing. Meanwhile, Mescals layered performance as William Shakespeare is just as compelling, though he is given less to do with his part. My one complaint has less to do with the individual performances and more to do with the makeup and design of the characters. I will admit I do not know what Shakespeare looked like as a young man, but I know all too well exactly what Paul Mescal looks like because he appears with the same haircut and beard in nearly every role. Whether hes playing a lovesick GAA player in Trinity College, a gladiator in ancient Rome or now, apparently, William Shakespeare in 16th century England, Mescals appearance has never once changed and I found that to be a major distraction in this film. He was simply too recognisable as Paul Mescal and this, despite a brilliant performance, made it difficult to believe him as William Shakespeare. I couldnt help but feel that if they had changed his haircut for once and gone with a more period accurate style, we might finally forget him as Connell from Normal People and see the talented young actor in a new light. Minor complaints aside, the rest of Hamnet is an undeniably accomplished piece of filmmaking. Director Chloe Zhao proves more than competent behind the camera as she creates an incredibly authentic world onscreen. Every room and sitting felt entirely real and lived in, as though the cold and damp were escaping the screen and filling the cinema. Speaking of, the theatre scene at the films climax is one of the most moving sequences put to film this year. When a distraught Agnes finally understands the power of her husbands work as she joins a captivated audience watching Shakespeares Hamlet unfold onstage, the full impact of the film begins to sink in. In a sense, the scene breaks the fourth wall as we in the cinema audience find ourselves just as invested in the exploits onstage as the audience in the Globe Theatre did 400 years ago. Overall, Hamnet is a truly powerful film with unforgettable performances and a hugely important message. While some may find the viewing experience somewhat challenging due to the heavy subject matter, I believe the film is essential viewing and will, no doubt, be shown in schools as part of the curriculum before long. Exploring themes of family, grief and the healing and transcendent power of art, Hamnet is a beautifully human story and one that is sure to remain in conversation for weeks and years to come. Film reviewer John Davis is a 24-year-old law student from Ballybrittas Portlaoise Ladies 43 UCD J1 14 PORTLAOISE ladies head to Dublin tomorrow (Sunday) to take on Three Saints in the Leinster League on the back of an emphatic victory last weekend over UCD J1 in Togher. Portlaoise wasted no time in posting their intent and were out of the traps immediately from the kick-off, registering an early seven pointer inside the opening five minutes. By the eighth minute, the Laois side had built a 120 lead and were firmly in control. The welcome return of Niamh Griffin to the club after her successful spell with Blackrock paid huge dividends. The experienced out-half controlled proceedings superbly, orchestrating play like a conductor leading an orchestra. Portlaoise outhalf Niamh Griffin races in for a try in the defeat of UCD J1 last weekend The Portlaoise pack of Sorcha Brennan, Catriona Dillon, Yvonne Palmer, Sarah Culleton, Amy OToole and Alison Holmes, made life extremely difficult for their UCD counterparts. Numerous rampaging runs from the pack led to further scores, with Portlaoise stretching their lead to 240 as half-time approached. A brief lapse in concentration just before the break allowed UCD in for a well-worked converted try, leaving the half-time score at 247. Portlaoise began the second half with renewed enthusiasm and vigour, and credit must go to the backline who repeatedly opened up the UCD defence. Scrum-half Rachel Murphy was a real livewire moving the ball quickly to both her outside backs and the loose forwards. Griffin continued to dictate play, mixing sharp darting runs with excellent distribution to centres Amanda Hade and Aoife Cahill, who both carried strongly and tackled well throughout. Portlaoise's Aoife Cahill makes determined break against UCD J1 Sophie Shanahan was a constant threat, making hard yards every time she got the ball, while Keeva Gallagher covered the full-back position excellently. Moya Keating once again delivered a strong performance on the wing and when called upon in the line-out. Portlaoises second-half dominance resulted in three further tries, two of which were converted, bringing the score to 437 by the 67th minute. Newcomer Eadaoin Malone was introduced during the second half and played her part in an impressive team performance. UCD, to their credit, finished strongly and scored a well-constructed team try in the dying seconds to leave the final score 43-14 in favour of the home side. Overall, Portlaoise will be extremely satisfied with their performance, particularly given the absence and unavailability of several regular players, including, Brona Maguire, Joanne Joyce, Roisin Dowd, Abbey Gyves, Erin Fitzpatrick, Shauna Hough, Katie and Mairead Foyle. Portlaoise ladies are hopeful that they can continue their form in the Iveagh Grounds tomorrow. Portlaoise's Amanda Hade breaks and spreads the ball wide against UCD J1 SCORERS: Portlaoise: Niamh Griffin and Alison Holmes 3 tries each, Yvonne Palmer 1 try, Rachel Murphy 4 conversions. Training o Tuesday and Friday evenings at 7.45pm in Togher. The first thing to say is that no, King Charles is not secretly a vampire. He does, however, have a bloodline that takes a curious detour through one of Europe's most notorious rulers. Follow the royal family tree back far enough and you land in 15thcentury Wallachia, at the feet of Vlad III Vlad Tepes, Vlad the Impaler the man whose brutality helped give Bram Stoker's Dracula its fanged mythology. And in a twist almost too on the nose for a gothic novel, the cancerstricken monarch now owns a cluster of properties in the very region once ruled by his alleged ancestor. King Charles And The Dracula Bloodline The genealogical claim sounds like pub trivia, but it is taken seriously enough by royal historians. Charles is often described as Vlad's greatgrandson 16 times removed, with the line traced through Queen Mary Mary of Teck the wife of George V and greatgreatgrandmother of Queen Elizabeth II. Royal author Robert Hardman laid it out on the Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things podcast, sketching a dynastic route that winds from a 'minor princely house from Germany' to the House of Windsor. Mary of Teck was originally destined to marry the Duke of Clarence, son and heir of Edward VII. When he died, she married his brother instead the future George V. From there, the succession runs: George V, then George VI, then Elizabeth II, and finally Charles. The link to Vlad, preserved across multiple noble branches, is one of those strange quirks of European aristocracy: centuries of intermarriage mean that half the continent's royal houses end up related, at least distantly, to half the other tyrants. Historian David Hughes set the claim out in his multivolume The British Chronicles, tracing Charles's ancestry back to Vlad III. The Wallachian ruler held power intermittently between 1448 and 1476, and became infamous for ordering enemies impaled on wooden stakes. Contemporary accounts describe forests of bodies; it is not subtle stuff. Stoker, writing Dracula in 1897, borrowed the name and the legend of cruelty, but not much else. His count is a supernatural predator in a Transylvanian castle; Vlad was a brutal, very human warlord in what is now Romania. Still, the popculture shorthand has stuck. Once you have 'Dracula' and 'royal bloodline' in the same sentence, it barely matters that the vampire is fictional. What makes this more than a genealogical party trick, though, is that Charles has not left the connection on paper. From Vlad's Realm To The King's Transylvania Estates Over the past quartercentury, the King has built a very real foothold in Transylvania. What began as a visit in 1998, when he was still Prince of Wales, has deepened into something almost proprietorial. Today, Charles owns several properties in the region: homes in the village of Viscri, in the Zalan Valley, in Malancrav, and in Breb. Viscri, with its pastelfronted Saxon houses and UNESCOlisted fortified church, has become the most famous a postcard version of rural Romania where the British monarch quietly slips in for walking holidays. The Zalan Valley estate is perhaps the most symbolically loaded. Formerly linked to one of his ancestors, it now comprises restored village buildings set among forest, meadow and mineral springs. It is about as far from Buckingham Palace as one can get while still, technically, being on one's own land. Local officials are blunt about the impact. 'The King's presence here has been nothing short of catalytic,' one regional tourism figure told us. Before his involvement, many of these villages were pretty but economically fragile, haemorrhaging young people to cities and abroad. Charles's decision to buy traditional Saxon farmhouses and restore them sensitively rather than flatten them in favour of shiny new resorts signalled that this fading heritage had serious value. The guesthouses he has helped create are deliberately lowkey. Visitors sleep in authentic buildings, eat locally sourced food, and are nudged towards traditional crafts rather than garish attractions. It is tourism as conservation, not stripmining. This area of Romania is famed for its Saxon fortified churches. And the village of Viscri is where King Charles has a house. Viscri, Transylvania. pic.twitter.com/6PmttLXwCt Minty Sainsbury (@MintySainsbury) April 28, 2024 'By transforming historic properties into guesthouses rather than modern developments, he has helped create a model of tourism rooted in conservation rather than exploitation,' the official said. That approach, they argue, has generated jobs, encouraged smallscale entrepreneurship and, crucially, restored a measure of pride. Villages that were once 'almost forgotten' now sit firmly on the global travel map. Beyond The Dracula Joke: Why Transylvania Matters To Charles It would be easy and lazy to treat all this as a quirky Dracula sidenote: the King who jokes about his ancestor, then slips off to his Transylvanian boltholes to commune with the bats. The reality is more interesting. Through the Prince's Foundation, Charles has used his profile to support sustainable farming, heritage conservation and rural crafts in Romania. His interventions dovetail with longheld obsessions: traditional architecture, organic agriculture, and the idea that modern life has been too quick to discard old ways of living with the land. King Charles has been vacationing in Draculas castle in Transylvania, Romania, for the last 25 years. King Charles is related to Vlad the Impaler (Vlad Dracula) King Charles frequently visits the FARA Foundations orphanage in Romania when he's in town Vampires are real pic.twitter.com/AEvwDXrjLH Redpill Drifter (@RedpillDrifter) May 10, 2025 There is also a deeper historical thread. Hungarian Countess Klaudia Rhedey, a 19thcentury ancestor of Queen Elizabeth II, was born in Transylvania, adding another line of continuity between the British royals and this patch of central Europe. One Romanian mayor has even floated awarding Charles the honorary title of 'Prince of Transylvania' in recognition of his advocacy a move that would delight headline writers and, one suspects, mildly horrify constitutional lawyers in London. What cannot be ignored is that Charles has helped nudge Transylvania's image away from gothic caricature and towards something more grounded. The region will probably never escape Dracula completely; tourism boards would be foolish to try. But his involvement has reframed it, at least in part, as a place of cultural preservation and ecological responsibility rather than just a gothic punchline. So, is King Charles a Dracula? Only in the most tenuous, genealogical sense. Yet in an era obsessed with bloodlines, branding and soft power, the fact that a British monarch can trace his roots to Vlad the Impaler and has quietly become a Transylvanian property tycoon says a great deal about how history is recycled, repackaged and, occasionally, used for something unexpectedly constructive. Originally published on IBTimes UK A daring red-carpet appearance by Hailey Bieber has ignited fierce debate online after critics said her outfit at the Australian premiere of Wuthering Heights looked more suited to 'a bedroom' than a cinema event. The model and Rhode Beauty founder attended the Sydney premiere at the State Theatre, wearing a sheer black lace Saint Laurent gown that immediately became one of the most discussed celebrity fashion moments of the week. Images from the event spread rapidly across social media platforms within hours, prompting both praise and pointed criticism. The controversy highlights the increasingly blurred boundary among couture fashion, lingerie aesthetics, and the expectations surrounding film premieres. Red Carpet Appearance Draws Immediate Attention According to event coverage originally published by E! Online, Bieber arrived in a floor-length Chantilly lace ensemble designed by Saint Laurent creative director Anthony Vaccarello, featuring a halter-style bralette, visible briefs, and dramatic bell sleeves, all aligned with the film adaptation's gothic tone. Hailey Bieber attends the "Wuthering Heights" Australian Premiere. Click and support for more https://t.co/OTec9TbI84pic.twitter.com/GdwPVH35RG celebrity style (@celebrityOMG1) February 13, 2026 The outfit's transparency formed the centre of discussion. Fashion writers noted that the design deliberately embraced the ongoing 'naked dressing' trend, in which sheer fabrics and lingerie silhouettes appear in formal settings. Vogue described the look as a sensual interpretation of Victorian styling that nodded to the film's romantic themes while maintaining modern minimalism. The premiere itself drew international attention due to the new cinematic adaptation of Emily Bronte's novel, directed by Emerald Fennell and starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. Coverage from Australia's ABC News confirmed Bieber's attendance among a high-profile guest list gathered ahead of the film's release. Observers also noted that Bieber's appearance coincided with promotional engagements tied to the Australian expansion of her skincare brand Rhode, adding a commercial dimension to the red-carpet moment. Social Media Backlash Intensifies Criticism escalated rapidly after users on X (formerly Twitter) circulated images alongside harsh commentary. One widely shared post described the ensemble as 'an outfit that belongs in a bedroom, not at a movie premiere', while another accused the model of maintaining an 'obsession with dressing like a Victoria's Secret model.' this outifit belongs in a bedroom, not at a movie premiere. she has no aura, no vibes, no personality. her ability to always not serve is insane. https://t.co/Unry20WhO6 . (@selovelenaa) February 12, 2026 The posts garnered thousands of interactions, reflecting a recurring pattern in celebrity fashion discourse in which aesthetic criticism blends with broader personal commentary. Researchers studying online celebrity culture have noted that fashion often becomes a proxy for debates about authenticity, relevance, and perceived personality traits. Public reaction, however, remained divided. Comment sections on official promotional posts reflected admiration alongside criticism, with some users praising the confidence and styling, while others questioned whether the look aligned with the tone of a literary film premiere. Fashion analysts have long argued that controversy itself amplifies visibility. The rapid circulation of Bieber's appearance illustrates how social platforms now function as immediate arbiters of red-carpet success or failure, often within minutes of an event concluding. Fashion Trends, Branding, And Celebrity Identity Bieber's choice reflects a broader shift in luxury fashion toward lingerie-inspired eveningwear. Designers increasingly present sheer lace and exposed underlayers as high fashion rather than private attire, challenging distinctions between intimacy and public presentation. Hailey Biebers pathetic obsession with dressing like a Victorias Secret model is hitting peak cringe. ever since the agency rejected her, shes been living full-time in her delusional fantasy. https://t.co/scaIsUV3a8 pic.twitter.com/MJjq0feMQ1 blair pop (honestly) (@everypinkr) February 13, 2026 Industry commentary surrounding the premiere highlighted how Bieber has developed a recognisable red-carpet signature centred on minimalist beauty styling paired with provocative silhouettes. Fashion coverage noted that the Sydney appearance pushed that aesthetic further than previous outings, positioning the look as one of her most revealing to date. The timing also matters. Celebrity appearances often serve as extensions of brand marketing, and Bieber's Australian visit coincided with promotional activities tied to Rhode's retail rollout. Fashion visibility during international launches often serves strategic purposes, ensuring global media coverage beyond traditional advertising channels. Yet the backlash stresses a persistent tension in celebrity image management. While fashion houses increasingly reward bold experimentation, audiences still apply contextual expectations depending on the setting. Film premieres historically favour thematic elegance over overt sensuality, and departures from that convention can provoke strong reactions. The intensity of online responses reveals how celebrity fashion commentary has evolved into participatory culture. Social media users no longer simply observe red-carpet moments; they actively shape public narratives around them. Digital platforms amplify extreme viewpoints because controversy travels faster than consensus. Negative commentary often gains traction through humour, exaggeration, or meme-driven language, which can overshadow nuanced discussion about design intent or artistic interpretation. Despite backlash cycles, such moments rarely damage fashion influence in measurable terms. Visibility, even when contentious, sustains relevance in an industry driven by attention metrics and algorithmic reach. Originally published on IBTimes UK Identity is often anchored in place and for Justin Trudeau, Montreal has always been more than a political constituency. It is home, heritage, and now potentially the setting for a new chapter in life alongside pop star Katy Perry. But this is not simply a property story. It is about reinvention after public office, about how global figures reshape their private lives, and about what it means when an American chart-topper becomes increasingly visible in one of Canada's most culturally European cities. The purchase invites a broader question: is this merely a retreat, or the beginning of a cross-border domestic shift? Reports first published by the Daily Mail reveal that the former Canadian prime minister has purchased a C$4.26 million (2.5 million / $3.1 million) stone mansion in Montreal's affluent Outremont districtprompting speculation about whether Perry could be preparing for a more permanent connection to Canada. A Return to Roots in Outremont The nearly 100-year-old property spans approximately 4,965 square feet and sits on a 13,672-square-foot plot in the shadow of Mount Royal. According to Quebec land registry records cited by the Daily Mail, the deal was finalised this week after being listed at C$4.5 million. The house includes seven bedrooms, five bathrooms, a ballroom, an office, and gated outdoor grounds bordered by mature trees. Annual property taxes are estimated at just under C$38,000 (22,000 / $28,000). For Trudeau, the purchase signals a deliberate return to a neighbourhood he once represented politically. He served as Member of Parliament for the Papineau riding, which encompasses parts of Montreal, throughout his decade-long tenure as Canada's leader. Montreal itself carries deep personal significance. The city's international airport is named after his father, Pierre Trudeau, and the family has longstanding ties to the largely Francophone cultural hub. The new residence is less than a two-mile walk from Cormier House, the Art Deco mansion where his younger brother Alexandre lives and where their father resided after retiring from politics in 1984. Post-Prime Minister Life Trudeau stepped down in March 2025 after 10 years in office. According to publicly reported figures, he earned C$406,200 (238,000 / $299,000) in his final year as prime minister and will receive an annual pension of roughly C$141,000 once eligible, in addition to a retirement allowance at 67. Since leaving office, he has reportedly commanded six-figure speaking fees through representation by The Harry Walker Agency in New York. In January, he appeared at the World Economic Forum in Davos to discuss 'soft power' in geopolitics with Perry in attendance and last year spoke at the World Knowledge Forum in Seoul. Following his separation from Sophie Gregoire in August 2023 after 18 years of marriage, Trudeau had been leasing a property in Ottawa's Rockcliffe Park. Mortgage documents cited in US coverage indicate divorce proceedings are ongoing. The Montreal purchase, however, marks the first significant permanent property move of his post-political life. The speculation surrounding Perry's possible move stems less from official statements and more from visible proximity. The couple was recently seen dining at Lemeac, a well-known French bistro near the new property. According to an Instagram post by eyewitness Lea Streliski, Trudeau declined a photo request, reportedly saying they were 'having a private moment', though Perry signed an autograph for a young fan. Their relationship first drew attention last July when they were photographed at Le Violon in Montreal and later outside the Ritz-Carlton on Sherbrooke Street. Trudeau was subsequently seen attending Perry's Lifetimes Tour concert in Ottawa. By October, the pair were pictured together on a yacht off Santa Barbara, and they later made a public appearance in Japan, effectively confirming their relationship. For observers, the symbolism is striking. Perry's public image has long been rooted in Californian pop spectacle. A deeper foothold in Montreal with its European cadence and historic architecture would mark a notable shift in tone. Behind the Gates: Building a New Chapter in Stone On-site activity suggests the property will undergo renovation. A general contractor from Modulor was reportedly seen at the house, and a large skip sat in the driveway earlier this week. Trudeau secured a mortgage from the Bank of Montreal to finance the purchase. The previous owner, Nicolas Ruggieri connected to Luxembourg-based Batipart Invest had acquired the home in 2023 for C$5.425 million. The financial outlay appears consistent with Trudeau's post-office earnings and asset portfolio. He also co-owns a chalet in the Laurentian Mountains with his brother through a numbered company. So, Is Katy Perry Moving to Canada? There is currently no formal confirmation that Perry intends to relocate permanently. She maintains professional commitments in the United States and internationally. However, Montreal offers practical and symbolic advantages. It is a global city with strong creative credentials, direct routes to Europe, and a cosmopolitan arts scene. For Trudeau, it represents continuity. For Perry, it could represent reinvention. Whether this becomes a full relocation or simply a shared base remains unclear. Yet the purchase itself signals stability, discretion, and rootedness qualities that contrast sharply with the glare of political office and arena tours. For Trudeau, it is a homecoming. For Perry, it may yet become a new stage. Originally published on Fashiontimes UK ULAN BATOR, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- The "Hello! China" Panda Temple Fair -- 2026 Year of the Horse Spring Festival celebration and Jiangxi Intangible Cultural Heritage market were held on Saturday in Mongolia's capital of Ulan Bator. Addressing the event, Li Zhi, a counselor of the Chinese embassy in Mongolia and director of the Chinese Cultural Center in Ulan Bator, stated that over the past year, the "Hello! China" national tourism image has been comprehensively promoted, attracting more and more international friends to visit and experience China, gaining a true, multifaceted and comprehensive understanding of China. "From mutual visits and performances by cultural troupes to in-depth study programs for young sinologists, from mutual translation and publication of books to exchanges and exhibitions of intangible cultural heritage, China-Mongolia cultural cooperation has yielded fruitful results, bringing the people of both countries closer and stronger through cultural ties," he added. Ganzorig Dashnyam, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, Tourism and Youth of Mongolia, noted that pandas are messengers of peace and friendship, while horses symbolize struggle and progress. In recent years, cooperation between Mongolia and China in the field of culture and tourism has continued to expand, and the exchanges and cooperation between the two countries in more areas will continue to deepen, become more practical and move steadily forward, he said. The event was co-hosted by the China Cultural Center in Ulan Bator, the China Center of International Cultural Exchange and Tourism Promotion and the Jiangxi provincial department of culture and tourism. After files released by the U.S. Department of Justice revealed a decades-long relationship between former British ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson and the late sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, Mandelson has been asked to cooperate with the U.S. Congress's investigation. Members of the United States House Committee on Oversight and Reform have sent a letter to Lord Mandelson, a one-time British ambassador to Washington DC, requesting that he make himself available for transcribed interview as part of the congressional probe into Epstein's criminal operations and potential networks of co-conspirators and enablers. The request reflects congressional leaders' belief that Mandelson may hold "critical information" about Epstein's activities and connections. Representatives Robert Garcia and Suhas Subramanyam, both Democrats on the House Oversight Committee, signed the letter to Mandelson, citing evidence of extensive social and business ties between the former ambassador and Epstein. "While you no longer serve as British ambassador to the United States and have stepped down from the House of Lords, it is clear that you possessed extensive social and business ties to Jeffrey Epstein and hold critical information pertaining to our investigation of Epstein's operations," the lawmakers wrote, urging Mandelson to participate in a transcribed committee interview. They have given him until Feb. 27 to respond to the request. According to reporting from the BBC, the evidence cited includes numerous references to Mandelson in the 3.5 million documents recently released from the Epstein files, including a handwritten birthday book entry in which Mandelson described Epstein as his "best pal," photographs released by the Department of Justice, and records suggesting Mandelson had stayed at Epstein's New York residence in 2009 while Epstein was serving a prison sentence. Mandelson's association with Epstein dates back more than two decades and was already under public scrutiny before the latest congressional letter. Newly released emails and documents revealed the former Labour cabinet minister maintained contact with Epstein after Epstein's first conviction in 2008, something that later drew sharp criticism. It also emerged from those files that Epstein had made payments to Mandelson and his partner in the early 2000s, and that Mandelson may have discussed policy matters with Epstein that intersected with his official government roles. The controversy prompted Prime Minister Keir Starmer to sack Mandelson from the ambassadorial role in Washington in September 2025, citing concerns that newly surfaced information had materially changed the understanding of Mandelson's relationship with Epstein. Mandelson later resigned from the House of Lords and left the Labour Party altogether amid the intensifying political fallout. Originally published on IBTimes Nicolas Maduro Guerra, son of former Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, said this week that his father told him from U.S. custody that Venezuelan authorities are taking "the right steps" toward "the unity of the people," following a recent phone conversation between them. Speaking at a meeting with supporters more than a month after his father was captured in a U.S. military operation and transferred to New York to face narcoterrorism, drug trafficking, and weapons charges, which he denies, Maduro Guerra described the exchange publicly for the first time. "We spoke at length. He asked how everything was, how the homeland was, how the team was," Maduro Guerra said. He quoted his father as saying: "You are doing exactly what you have to do and are taking the right steps. Our peace of mind here is the unity of the people and unity with the high command and my team. I fully trust the team, and they have done what they have to do." He added that his father also expressed support for a proposed amnesty law now advancing in Venezuela's National Assembly, saying: "Amnesty not only for them, for us as well." Presidente Nicolas Maduro llama a su hijo, el diputado @nicmaduroguerra: pic.twitter.com/rcf72IIeld Roi Lopez Rivas (@RoiLopezRivas) February 11, 2026 Maduro Guerra, a lawmaker from the governing Socialist Party, has been one of the most visible advocates calling for the release and return of his father and stepmother, former congresswoman Cilia Flores, since their capture and transfer to the United States. In the days immediately following the operation, Maduro Guerra released an audio message on social media saying he and his family were "fine" and "calm," and urging supporters to mobilize. "They want to see us weak. They will not see us weak," he said, according to a recording confirmed by Agence France-Presse. U.S. court records show that Maduro Guerra himself has been named in the same federal case in New York. According to a Justice Department filing reported in January, U.S. authorities accuse him of maintaining ties to Colombian armed groups involved in drug trafficking and of participating in a 2020 meeting in Medellin to discuss cocaine and weapons shipments. The proposed amnesty measure cited by Maduro Guerra was introduced by interim leader Delcy Rodriguez and would apply to political-related offenses since 1999, excluding homicide and human rights crimes. Venezuelan legislative leaders have said it could lead to the release of political detainees once fully approved. Originally published on Latin Times Portlaoise Tidy Towns are doing it again, holding a giveaway day of beautiful native Irish trees. The award winning volunteer Laois group will give away a sapling native tree, absolutely free, to each person who calls in to the Macra Hall in Portlaoise, on Saturday morning, March 7. Bareroot scots pine, birch, holly, oak, rowan, hawthorn and more will be available to take away, with advice on how and where to plant them to enhance nature in the community for decades to come. Portlaoise Tidy Towns are also welcoming Laois ecologist Dr Fiona McGowan who will give a talk on native trees. The giveaway is in association with Laois tree expert Brian Gaynor who is a member of the Trees On The Land charity group, which aims to replant as many trees as possible on Irish soil. It has planted more than three million trees at several thousand sites since 2013. There will be a Kids' Corner, a Biodiversity information stand, a free prize draw and tea, coffee and sweet treats to make the morning even more tempting. Read next: New venue and date for award winning Laois Live Well Expo Portlaoise Tidy Towns welcome new members, and are on a mission this month to clean up all areas of the town, recently collecting 50 bags of litter from estates and approach roads. The event is supported by Laois Public Participation Network. The Macra Hall is located off the James Fintan Lalor Roundabout on the Timahoe Road. Portlaoise College welcomed the Minister for Education, Hildegard Naughton for the official opening of its new modular building and dedicated ASD classrooms on Friday, February 6. The Minister was greeted on arrival by the schools prefect team, creating a fitting reception for the occasion. In the foyer, students, staff, invited guests, and public representatives gathered for a series of speeches to mark the milestone. Click NEXT for more images. Read more below. Among those present were Deputy Willy Aird, Deputy Brian Stanley and Deputy Sean Fleming, Bernadette Ryan, Chairperson of the Board of Management, Director of Schools, Linda Tynan, Pamela Nolan, Director of OSD, and CEO Joe Cunningham. Principal Noel Daly opened proceedings, inviting the Vice-Chair of LOETB and Laois County Councillor, Catherine Fitzgerald, to formally welcome Minister Naughton. Mr Daly reflected on the schools journey over the past two decades. The last time a Minister for Education visited the school was for its official opening in 2006. At that time, the school catered for around 150 second-level students and 300 further education learners. Today, it stands as the largest school in the county, with over 1,000 second-level students. That is a measure of success, he said, praising the dedication of past and present staff, the support of parents and students and the backing of LOETB in shaping the schools growth. In a passionate appeal, Mr Daly urged the Minister to continue prioritising investment in education, despite national projections suggesting student numbers may soon peak. He cautioned against relying too heavily on such forecasts, noting that had similar thinking prevailed two decades ago, Portlaoise College might never have been built. How many students without this DEIS school here would not have had the life chance of an inclusive co-education experience? he asked, pointing to the diverse national flags displayed proudly throughout the building as a testament to the schools inclusive ethos. Following the speeches, the Minister officially opened the new modular building. Head Boy Oisin Grundy and Head Girl Isha Bhatt assisted her in cutting the ribbon, marking the formal launch of the extension. The Minister was then given a guard of honour by students and staff as she made her way to the ASD rooms. There, she met students and spoke with ASD Coordinator Ms Scully and her team about the supports in place and the importance of specialist provision within a mainstream setting. The visit concluded in the Cairdeas room, where refreshments were served by the schools canteen. Throughout the event, there was a strong sense of pride in what has been achieved and optimism about what lies ahead. Mr Daly closed his address with a forward-looking message. While celebrating the investment that has brought the school to this point, he emphasised the need to plan for the future. Now that we are in 2026, we need to create the story that will be told in 2046, and that begins now, he said. Quoting Nelson Mandela, John Dewey and Benjamin Franklin, he described education as a powerful currency one that promotes inclusion, respect and opportunity. It was a fitting sentiment for a day that celebrated not only new buildings but the continuing commitment to ensuring every student in Portlaoise College is supported to fulfil their potential. Stern warnings about the effects of climate change were heard at a recent Kildare County Council (KCC) meeting. The comments were heard at the latest Clane-Maynooth Municipal District meeting, which was held on Friday, February 6 last. The discussion initially began when KCC heard a motion which was submitted by Labour Party Cllr Angela Feeney, who motioned for KCC to include the social housing units in Old Greenfield, Maynooth, in its Housing Retrofit Programme. Her motion was seconded by Independent Cllr Padraig McEvoy. Responding to Cllr Feeneys motion, KCC explained via the report it presented at the meeting that it receives a fixed annual retrofit allocation of funds from the Department [of Transport, Climate, Energy and the Environment], which is fully assigned for the current year. READ NEXT: 'Dismay' at River Barrow flooding in Kildare and other counties KCC further said: "It is anticipated that future allocations will increase, enabling more units to be addressed. "Subject to resources, Departmental approval and additional funding for ancillary works, KCC intends to return to Old Greenfield as a priority in 2027, aligned with Maynooths decarbonising zone status." Speaking further on the matter, Cllr Feeney said that she welcomed KCCs specific comments that it would prioritise the matter. Cllr Feeney also urged KCC to "seriously engage" with the people who live in the area. A representative for KCC, who was also present at the meeting, gave assurances to Cllr Feeney that KCC would liase with her in relation to the matter. 'A COMMON THEME' Another KCC member, Marian Higgins, who is its director of services for climate, community, environment and water-related matters, then spoke: "There is a common theme here regarding the impact of climate on transportation." She further said: "Our weather isn't going to improve, and there will be more [bad weather] in the future. "It is incumbent for us to work towards these [climate-friendly] actions in order to make these changes." Cllr McEvoy also decided to give his view on the topic of climate change. READ NEXT: Help wanted for Asian hornet monitoring project in Kildare He told the attendees: "During Covid [referring to the Covid-19 pandemic], the will of the State came down to trying to do what was necessary." Cllr McEvoy also expressed concerns for the proposed construction of more data centres in Ireland. He further said that he was critical of a recent decision which was taken by the Department of Public Expenditure to disband its climate division. Coming back into the conversation, Cllr Feeney said: "It is so important for KCC and councillors to work together, and to see what we can do." She added: "It sounds cheesy, but is is true." Labour Party Cllr Angela Feeney, who submitted the original motion (Photograph supplied by Cllr Feeney), and Independent Cllr Padraig McEvoy, who issued a warning about the effects of climate change (Photograph credit: kildarecoco.ie) READ NEXT: Nature and recreation amenity sought for this Kildare region Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme. ADEN, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Nearly 4,000 Yemenis will be affected by a U.S. decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Yemenis in the United States, said a Yemeni official on Friday evening. U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced on Friday that President Donald Trump's administration has terminated TPS for Yemen. "After reviewing country conditions and consulting with the appropriate U.S. government agencies, I determined that Yemen no longer meets the statutory requirements for its TPS designation," she said. "The decision was not surprising in light of the U.S. administration's policy of deporting immigrants living in the United States, whether legal or illegal," Mustafa Ahmad Noman, Yemen's deputy minister of foreign affairs and expatriates, told Xinhua. Those affected by the decision "can pursue legal avenues, as other Arab and non-Arab communities have done and succeeded in delaying it," he said, adding that the Yemeni embassy in Washington continues its contacts and cooperation to help those covered by the decision. The United States designated Yemen for TPS in September 2015 based on the existence of an ongoing armed conflict, citing concerns that returning Yemenis would pose a serious threat to their personal safety due to the conflict. "Allowing TPS beneficiaries from Yemen to remain temporarily in the United States is contrary to our national interest," Noem said, noting that the TPS program was designed to be temporary. She said TPS beneficiaries from Yemen who have no other legal basis to remain in the United States will have 60 days to voluntarily depart and after the termination decision takes effect, her department may detain and deport any Yemeni citizen without legal status once their TPS protection ends. A deeply loved and respected professor at Carlow College from Kildare has sadly passed away recently, leaving many people heartbroken. Carlow College will be closed on Monday, 16th February until 2pm and normal college services will resume from 2pm due to the circumstances. Carlow College has paid tribute to philosophy lecturer Dr. Noel Kavanagh formerly of Thomastown, Caragh, Co. Kildare and Mount Carmel, Newbridge, Co. Kildare. Dr. Noel died peacefully, in the loving care of the staff of Naas General Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Deeply regretted by his loving wife Kate, mother Nuala, father Bill, sister Caroline, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews Keith, Kayleigh, Caoimhe and Oisin, Limerick cousins, colleagues in Carlow College, St. Patrick's, relatives and a wide circle of friends. Funeral Arrangements: Reposing at Rigney's Funeral Home, Athy (R14 TX26) on Sunday evening (February 15th) from 4pm until the conclusion of the Rosary at 8pm. Removal at 10.30am on Monday morning (February 16th) to arrive at St. Michael's Parish Church, Athy for Requiem Mass at 11am. Removal afterwards to The Victorian Chapel, Mount Jerome Crematorium for service at 1.45pm. In a post on Facebook, Carlow College said: "We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of our dear colleague and friend, Dr Noel Kavanagh. READ NEXT: Kildare MEP and former jockey launches racehorse-themed gin - Kildare Live "A gifted philosophy lecturer and a cherished member of the Carlow College community, Noel inspired generations of students with his sharp wit, intellectual generosity, and unmistakable passion for teaching. His classes challenged, encouraged, and stayed with those lucky enough to learn from him. "Noel will be remembered as a thoughtful scholar, a dedicated educator, and a warm, curious presence whose influence reached far beyond the classroom. He instilled in a generation of students a love for philosophy and learning. We extend our sincerest sympathies to his Noels wife Kate and his family. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. Sligo/Leitrim Senator Nessa Cosgrove said that the decision to retain Larry Murrin as Chairperson of Bord Bia "raises questions about the judgement of Social Democrat TDs in supporting the Government on this issue. At a time when Irish farmers are under sustained pressure and fighting to remain competitive, they had a clear opportunity to stand with rural communities. Instead, they sided with the Government and voted to maintain the status quo. READ MORE: Leitrim resident 'in limbo with house cracking around them' as they await pyrite report She continued: "We are not saying that Larry Murrin has done anything wrong personally, or that Bord Bia have done anything wrong as an institution. What we are saying, is as plain as the nose on your face; farmers and food producers have lost faith in Larry Murrin as Chair of Bord Bia, and it is time for him to step down, before they lose faith in Bord Bia altogether. Irish farmers deserve to have absolute confidence that the body tasked with promoting their produce is fully aligned with their interests. They no longer have that now, and last night, unbelievably, the Social Democrats rowed in behind the Government to keep an individual, whose private company imports Brazilian beef, in post. This sends entirely the wrong message to farmers who work hard to uphold Irelands reputation for quality and trust. The Labour Party Senator added: At a time when the whole world is becoming more aware of the insidious links that exist between money and privilege, between influential people in business and Government, we have to seriously think about how we appoint people into important Board positions in State and Semi-State companies. While crediting Larry Murrin personally for waiving the fee of 20,520 per year that he is entitled to for all the right reasons, we have to question whether this sets a dangerous precedence for the future. READ MORE: Leitrim's Reading Room Bookshop hosts special Womens Day event She concluded: "While this will not be a popular thing to say, roles like the Chairpersonship of Bord Bia should be full-time positions and should be paid accordingly. By promoting individuals who can afford to fulfil a paid role for free, not only do we risk excluding ordinary working people, we risk importing corruption and cronyism. We are seeing the consequences of this kind of behaviour to our East and to our West. In my role as Labour Party spokesperson for Rural Development, I have no hesitation in standing alongside our small family farmers and Irish food producers. Bord Bia must be beyond reproach. Larry Murrin, as Chairperson of Bord Bia, has lost the confidence of farmers, and it is time for him to go. Almost 900 Leitrim homes and businesses near Drumkeeran can now connect to fibre broadband on the NBI network and almost 11,000 premises in the county can avail of a high-speed connection. NBIs connection of Drumkeeran and surrounding townlands means that 893 homes and businesses can now access high-speed fibre broadband and the completion of works near Drumkeeran means that 10,921 premises can now pre-order or order high-speed broadband across Leitrim with 3,084 connections made to date. Works have also been completed in rural areas surrounding Manorhamilton and Keshcarrigan. READ MORE: Leitrim resident 'in limbo with house cracking around them' as they await pyrite report National Broadband Ireland is encouraging all Leitrim residents to visit nbi.ie and check their Eircode to see if theyre ready to connect. NBIs fibre broadband rollout under the National Broadband Plan is delivering broadband services to what is known as the States Intervention Area, which includes the most remote and rural parts of Ireland where commercial operators have no plans to deliver high-speed broadband. The Intervention Area currently includes 12,000 premises in Leitrim which will see NBI deliver minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second to homes, businesses, farms, and schools across the county. As the biggest investment in rural Ireland since rural electrification, Co Leitrim will receive 46m of Government investment under the National Broadband Plan. TJ Malone, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland, said: We are delighted to announce that almost 900 Leitrim homes, businesses and farms near Drumkeeran can now connect to NBIs high-speed fibre broadband. Those connected are experiencing the life-changing benefits of high-speed fibre broadband with minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second. READ MORE: Leitrim's Reading Room Bookshop hosts special Womens Day event As we enter the final year of the National Broadband Plan rollout, were encouraging everyone in Leitrim to check their Eircode on nbi.ie and order now to secure high-speed fibre broadband for their home or business. NBI has now passed over 451,000 homes, farms and businesses in rural Ireland to high-speed broadband with over 165,000 now connected. The average take-up rate of 36% is well ahead of projections and international comparisons and surpasses 60% in some areas of the country where the network has been live for 18 months. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu) MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday urged China and France to make joint efforts to safeguard the status and role of the United Nations and prevent the world from reverting to the law of the jungle. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the appeal during talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Both China and France are independent and responsible major countries, and multilateral coordination is an important feature of their bilateral relationship, Wang said, urging both sides to address the deficit in global governance and support each other's multilateral initiatives. Gardai are appealing for witnesses after a driver fled the scene of a three-car collision in County Limerick in which a woman aged in her 30s lost her life. The collision occurred on the N24 near Grange West, Boher, Co. Limerick on Friday, February 13 at approximately 11:10pm. The sole occupant of a car, a female driver, aged in her 30s, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The local Coroner has been notified and a post-mortem examination will be arranged. Read next: Concern over call to reinstall traditional parking metres in Limerick town The N24 between R505 and L1132 remains closed pending technical examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators, with local diversions in place. The sole occupant of the second car, a male driver, aged in his 40s, was conveyed to University Hospital Limerick for treatment of injuries believed to be non-life threatening at this time. Investigating Gardai are seeking to identify the driver of the third car. That driver fled, leaving the vehicle they were driving at the scene. Road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on the N24 near Grange West, Boher, Co. Limerick between 10:45pm and 11:30pm on Friday 13th February 2026 are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardai. A COST-benefit analysis is to be carried out after calls were made to reinstall traditional parking metres in Newcastle West. At the February meeting of the district, Independent councillor Jerome Scanlan put forward a motion seeking to review the method of payment for parking at our authoritys Church Street facility and general parking facilities within Newcastle West. In response to the motion, which was seconded by Cllr Michael Collins, Ben Noonan, Senior Engineer for the district, stated the current method of payment for parking in Newcastle West is twofold. Read next: Engineering expert issues warning over Limerick regions infrastructure progress He explained that parking discs can be purchased from several retail outlets in the town and there is also the ability to pay using a smartphone app. This combination of parking control is regarded as efficient, flexible and most importantly convenient for visitors and locals, he said. Cllr Scanlan said council should look at the system in Listowel and across Kerry where they (motorists) do not have parking discs, people instead pay for their parking at a machine. He added that the current system "needs to be reviewed" as its not very welcoming. Mr Noonan explained it was previously proposed that the council change from the traditional parking meter system to the current system as it was deemed more efficient. He highlighted that with the old system, there was the risk of the machine breaking down leaving people unable to pay, an issue that does not arise with the current system. It was also pointed out that coins have to be collected from any pay machines that are installed and that this would cost money and present health and safety issues. The meeting heard, the current system in Newcastle West is the same as that which operates across the city and county and Mr Noonan said it is his view that they would be going backwards putting in a payment machine. Cllr John Sheahan said it would be a huge cost to retrofit the town to put back in payment machines but he echoed concerns raised by Cllr Scanlan that those unfamiliar with the town may not know where to purchase parking discs. Cllr Collins said any shops that sell discs have posters displayed and it was confirmed there is one store, close to the Church Street car park that sells parking discs. Cllr Collins suggested that a cost-benefit analysis could be carried out by the local authority to see if it would be feasible to return to on-street pay machines. WHEN Angelas Ashes was published in 1996, few could have predicted that a memoir about a poor boys Limerick childhood would set off such an international sensation nor that it would reopen wounds still tender beneath the citys proud surface. The book won the Pulitzer Prize, sold millions of copies, and became a cultural touchstone. Yet here in Limerick, it was met as much with defensiveness as delight. Almost 30 years later, the anger has cooled. The Limerick of 2026 bears little resemblance to the grim tenements of McCourts 1930s memories. Cafes now stand where outside toilets once overflowed, and tourists snap photos of lanes once whispered about with embarrassment. But the question remains: what exactly was Angelas Ashes telling us and was Frank McCourts version of Limerick fair? A Story that Spoke the Unspeakable At its simplest, Angelas Ashes is the story of survival. It follows young Frank, the eldest child of Malachy and Angela McCourt, as his family lurches between hunger, illness, and the kind of daily indignity that poverty breeds. His father drinks away wages; his mother begs for charity; siblings die. Yet the books voice by turns lyrical, biting, and darkly funny elevates the story beyond misery. McCourt did not write a sociological report; he wrote a song of endurance. He gave voice to the small, resilient child who could still find wonder in a crust of bread or a shaft of light on the River Shannon. The books rhythm mimics the cadences of Irish storytelling: long sentences that tumble forward, humour laced with heartbreak. Its that blend of grace and grit that made readers from Boston to Beijing fall in love with a boy from Limerick. READ MORE: The true meaning of Limerick's Bard of Thomond is not fame but endurance The Shock at Home But when the book landed back in Limerick, the tone was less affectionate. Some saw McCourt as the citys great betrayer. He made us all out to be pigs in the gutter, one local famously complained. Critics argued that he exaggerated the misery, caricatured priests as cruel, and painted the city as a damp purgatory. Much of the outrage, it seems now, was a matter of wounded pride. Limerick, long struggling to shed its working-class stigma, felt itself dragged back into the mud just as the Celtic Tiger was beginning to purr. For readers who had lived through those decades, McCourts unflinching details the fleas, the stench, the shame cut too close to the bone. The irony, of course, is that McCourts fiercest defenders also came from Limerick. Many quietly admitted that the conditions he described were real, if not universal. They remembered the hunger lines, the rain seeping through thin roofs, the dominance of the Church. For them, the book was not an insult but an exorcism. Truth and the Trouble with Memory Part of what unsettled readers is the slipperiness of the memoir form itself. We want memoirs to be true but whose truth do we mean? McCourt called his book a memoir, not an autobiography. That distinction matters. A memoir is not a journalists notebook; it is a reconstruction of memory, shaped by emotion and hindsight. It aims to be emotionally true, even if the facts blur at the edges. In that sense, Angelas Ashes belongs to a tradition of creative nonfiction. Like James Joyce before him or Seamus Heaney after, McCourt used the raw material of real life to craft a work of art. He compressed years into single scenes, gave dialogue the cadence of remembered speech, and shaped messy life into narrative arc. He never claimed to recall each word precisely. Instead, he gave us the truth of what it felt like to grow up in poverty and faith. As the memoirist Mary Karr once wrote, A memoir done right is an art, a made thing. Its not journalism its the truest version of yourself you can make. McCourt, in that sense, made art from ache. A City and Its Mirror Reading Angelas Ashes now, Limerick looks less like a city maligned than a city mirrored. The Limerick of the 1930s was indeed impoverished ravaged by unemployment, tuberculosis, and religious rigidity. In hindsight, Angelas Ashes was part of a necessary reckoning. It cracked open a silence that had lasted generations. By turning private shame into public art, McCourt forced Ireland to see the cost of its moral pretensions. From Controversy to Canon Time has done what time often does it has softened judgment. Today, Angelas Ashes is studied in schools, its film adaptation plays on Irish television with nostalgia rather than outrage, and the Frank McCourt Museum in Hartstonge Street (now closed) not so long ago welcomed visitors from around the world. The lanes once derided as symbols of squalor are now woven into the citys literary tourism. Younger readers, removed from the raw emotions of the 1990s, tend to see McCourt less as a traitor than as one of Limericks greatest chroniclers. They read his story not as an attack but as a testimony of resilience proof that even from the damp ruins of poverty, a voice of beauty can emerge. That change in tone reflects something larger: Limerick itself has changed. The city that once bristled at the mention of Angelas Ashes now celebrates its authors, poets, and playwrights. A city with a vibrant university, a thriving arts scene, and international ambition can afford to look back without flinching. The Question of Forgiveness So, has Limerick forgiven him? Perhaps forgive is the wrong word. The city has come to understand him. We recognise now that McCourts intention was never to mock but to remember to reclaim dignity from hardship. His book was not a condemnation of Limerick but a love letter written in the language of honesty. He once said, I told the truth as I saw it. The people of Limerick are entitled to their memories. I have mine. That line now reads less as defiance than as humility. Memory, after all, is personal terrain; no two maps will ever align perfectly. Those who knew him describe a man who carried affection for his native city to the end. He returned often, sometimes nervously, but always gratefully. The bitterness faded into banter. When he died in 2009, Limerick mourned him as one of its own a son who had wandered far but never stopped speaking in its voice. Memoir, Art, and the Truth That Endures The controversy over Angelas Ashes ultimately invites a broader reflection on what we expect from memoirs. Must they be fact-checked like news reports, or can they breathe with the subjectivity of art? A good memoir, as many writers have noted, walks the tightrope between truth and storytelling. It must never deceive, but it must also make meaning from memorys fragments. McCourts gift was to turn recollection into revelation. His Limerick is not everyones Limerick, but it is a Limerick alive, specific, unforgettable. READ MORE: Bellefield House: A lost Limerick mansion and its remarkable residents In truth, the line between invention and memory is blurry for anyone who has ever looked back. We do not replay our lives like film; we reconstruct them like mosaics, fitting pieces together by feeling. McCourts critics demanded perfect accuracy, but he gave them something richer: emotional authenticity. That is why his book endures long after the factual debates have quieted. The Legacy of a Limerick Voice Frank McCourts journey from the lanes of Leamys School to the classrooms of New York and the worlds literary stage is remarkable in itself. Yet his deeper legacy lies in how he reshaped the story Ireland tells about itself. He helped puncture the national myth of cheerful poverty and reverent silence. He gave dignity to the poor without sentimentalising them, humour to suffering without trivialising it. And by writing in the cadence of ordinary speech, he showed that literature need not be polished or posh to be profound. For Limerick, that is a gift rather than a wound. He proved that the citys voice raw, witty, resilient could reach across oceans. Todays writers from the region, from Kevin Barry to Donal Ryan, owe something to McCourts courage in writing about place and class without apology. Coming Home In the end, Angelas Ashes is less about shame than about transcendence. Its about how a hungry boy, scribbling on scraps, learned that words could outlast hardship. Its about finding humour in despair, grace in rain, and love in a city that did not always know how to show it. For Limerick, acknowledging that is not an act of surrender its an act of maturity. We can read the book now without defensiveness, with empathy for both the teller and the told. Frank McCourt held a mirror to us, and while we may not have liked our reflection, we are stronger for having looked. BEIJING, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- China's State Administration for Market Regulation said it had held regulatory talks with seven platform companies, urging them to strengthen legal compliance and further standardize promotional and marketing practices. The talks, held on Friday, involved companies including Alibaba, Douyin, Baidu, Tencent, JD.com, Meituan and Taobao Flash Sale. The regulator required these platform companies to strictly abide by laws and regulations, including the anti-unfair competition law, the pricing law, the law on protecting consumers' rights and interests, and the e-commerce law, urging them to proactively fulfill their responsibilities. It also urged the companies to curb all forms of disorderly competition, work together to maintain a fair and orderly market environment, and promote innovation and the sound development of the platform economy. Marking its first major international acquisition, travel aggregator ixigo's board has approved the execution of binding agreements for the acquisition of a 60 per cent stake in Spain's second-largest train booking platform Online Travel Solutions, for 11.70 million euro (over 125 crore). The acquisition of Trenes paves the way for ixigo's strategic entry into Europe, widely regarded as the global benchmark for rail travel. "This investment is expected to create meaningful synergies by bringing together Trenes' strong customer base, brand presence, and local operator integrations with ixigo's AI-led product innovation and technological expertise in solving complex travel use cases at scale. "With this acquisition, the company aims to accelerate the Trenes product development, AI reinvention, and improve customer experience to unlock new growth opportunities in Europe," Ixigo said in a statement. The proposed acquisition will help leverage Ixigo's product, technology and AI leadership in the European OTA market, as Trenes is engaged in the business of providing an online platform for train ticket bookings, primarily catering to the Spanish market, with operations extending to certain other parts of Southern Europe. Consequent to the acquisition, Online Travel Solutions, S.L. will become a step-down subsidiary of Ixigo, it stated in a late-night regulatory filing on Friday. Also Read | India climbs to 75th spot in global Henley Passport Index rankings The board of directors of Ixigo also approved the acquisition of a 45.02 per cent stake in Squad As Service, S.L., Spain (Sqaas) for a total consideration of 0.45 million euro (over 4.83 crore). The total consideration for both acquisitions includes non-compete fees and authorisation of the signing of definitive agreements, subject to completion of procedural formalities and regulatory requirements in Spain. After the acquisition, Squad As Service, S.L. (Sqaas) will become an associate company of Ixigo. Zoho co-founder Sridhar Vembu has praised Sarvam AI, calling it world-class and saying that the company has proven that high quality artificial intelligence can be built in a far more affordable and sustainable manner, with significantly lower energy and computing footprint. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Vembu said Sarvam AIs approach shows that advanced AI systems do not have to be expensive or resource-hungry. What Sarvam AI has demonstrated - world class AI can be done much more affordably and sustainably with much lower energy and compute footprint - is important, he wrote on the social media platform. The massive requirement of infrastructure and power consumption has been a growing environment concern, especially as AI models become more advanced and complex. The rapid expansion of data centres and computing facilities, which power AI, has led to a rising energy and water usage, as well as leading to substantial carbon emissions. Vembu's take on AI energy footprint The Zoho founder further highlighted that cutting down on energy and computer usage is becoming increasingly important, as current large-scale AI systems are putting growing pressure on global power resources. He added that the planet cannot sustain the present energy footprint of many modern AI models, particularly those dependent on extensive data centers and large server farms for training and deployment of evolving technology. I have come to believe that in software code generation, much more energy and compute efficient approaches to AI can be developed. That is important because the earth cannot afford today's AI energy footprint, he said. What is Sarvam AI All about the company Sarvam AI, founded by Vivek Raghavan and Pratyush Kumar in 2023, is emerging as a key player in India's push to build sovereign artificial intelligence capabilities. The company aims to challenge the dominance of global tech giants such as OpenAI, Google, and Meta in the fast-growing AI space. Backed by strong domestic momentum and government support, the startup is working towards developing foundational AI models tailored for India, Mint reported earlier. Also Read | OpenAI sent ChatGPT cancellation warnings after GPT-4o shutdown Vembu is known to be a strong advocate for domestic products and homegrown innovation, and has often used his public comments to urge Indian companies to build local technology capabilities instead of relying heavily on foreign platforms. The Union Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of a four-lane, access-controlled greenfield corridor linking Gohpur and Numaligarh, including 15.79 km of road-cum-rail tunnel under the river Brahmaputra in Assam. The project will cost Rs18,662 crore. In a social media post on X, PM Modi said: A landmark boost to connectivity in the Northeast! The Cabinet has approved a 4-lane access-controlled Greenfield corridor between Gohpur and Numaligarh, including Indias first underwater Road-cum-Rail tunnel under the Brahmaputra. This transformative project will enhance connectivity, reduce logistics costs and accelerate growth across Assam and the entire Northeast. Presently, the distance between Numaligarh on NH715 and Gohpur on NH-15 spans 240 km via the existing Kaliabhambhora bridge near Silghat. This journey takes approximately six hours as it traverses Numaligarh, Kaziranga National Park, and Biswanath Town, according to a statement from the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH). The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, yesterday has approved construction of 4-Lane Access-Controlled Greenfield connectivity from Gohpur on NH-15 to Numaligarh on 715 section including 15.79 Km. of Road cum Rail Tunnel under River Brahmaputra to be developed at a total capital cost of Rs.18,662 crore in Assam on Engineering procurement Construction (EPC), the ministry said. This landmark structure will be Indias first underwater road-cum-rail tunnel and only the second globally. The venture promises substantial benefits for Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and neighboring states by optimizing freight efficiency, lowering logistics expenses, and stimulating regional socio-economic advancement. The corridor ensures seamless links between critical economic, social, and logistics hubs throughout Assam. Multi-modal integration Furthermore, it bolsters multi-modal integration by interfacing with 11 economic zones, 3 social centers, 2 tourist sites, and 8 logistics hubs. It also improves access to four major railway stations, two airports, and two inland waterways, facilitating the rapid transit of passengers and cargo across the territory. Once finalized, the project will be central to strategic planning and regional prosperity, bridging major commercial centers while unlocking fresh opportunities for industrial trade. Additionally, the project is expected to create roughly 80 lakh person-days of direct and indirect jobs, fostering new pathways for growth and stability in the surrounding areas. Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Saturday termed the Centre's approval for India's first twin-tube underwater road-cum-rail tunnel in Assam as a historic milestone that will significantly enhance connectivity and accelerate economic growth in the Northeast. "The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has approved a 33.7 km four-lane access-controlled greenfield National Highway, including a 15.79 km underwater twin-tube tunnel beneath the Brahmaputra River, with railway provision in one tube," Mein said in a post on X. We are working on commercials only. We, as a company, want to be commercially right going forward. That's how we want to keep it. We want to keep it very simple, Arvinder Singh Sahney, chairman and managing director of the state-run company, said in a recent interview. That is my job of procuring crude from as vast a basket as a canvas and process it in the most profitable, the most cost-effective manner and dispense the product to the customer at the least cost. By Danielle Broadway LOS ANGELES, Feb 14 (Reuters) - An immersive new exhibit devoted to "Ponyo," Hayao Miyazakis hand-drawn 2008 fantasy film about a goldfish-like girl yearning to be human, invites visitors, especially children, into his world through more than 100 original materials and hands-on animation tools. The show, opening on Saturday at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles, showcases rare artwork and production sketches from Studio Ghibli, the animation house Miyazaki co-founded, along with an interactive station that introduces young visitors to the basics of stop-motion filmmaking. "'Ponyo' is a very special film in Hayao Miyazaki's filmography, Academy Museum senior exhibitions curator, Jessica Niebel, told Reuters at the exhibit on Thursday. First of all, children are very close to his heart, and he likes to make movies for a young audience. 'Ponyo' is probably the movie that's geared towards the youngest audience within his body of work, she added. Miyazaki, 85, is renowned as one of the world's greatest animators, often nicknamed the Walt Disney of Japan. Ponyo, based on the 1837 Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale The Little Mermaid, tells the story of a young goldfish-like princess by that name who flees from the ocean and is helped by a 5-year-old human boy named Sosuke. As they bond, Ponyo desires to become a human girl. The exhibit includes hand-drawn art boards with bold ocean blues and sketches from Miyazaki himself of meaningful moments in the movie. An interactive animation table offers visitors a chance to create their own stop-motion animation sequences and wade into the creative process. For Niebel, the table is a way to introduce filmmaking to children. "I feel like filmmaking is such a large process and it's such a big thing. I don't know that children know and realize they can start out early, she said. "They can make their own little films already when they're still very young. And these tables invite them to do just that. Beyond the beauty of the art, Niebel hopes people will understand why honoring hand-drawn human work is so vital in an era of artificial intelligence. Uttar Pradesh is undergoing a structural shift in agriculture, moving beyond its traditional identity as a bulk producer of foodgrains to emerge as a strategic food-security hub. The state today leads the country in the production of wheat, sugarcane, milk and amla, while also accounting for the largest national output of rice, banana, mango, guava and mentha. This transformation reflects not geography alone, but a combination of policy continuity, administrative reform and fiscal discipline over the past several years. The agricultural growth rate, which stood at 8.6% in 201617, is projected to have risen to 17.7% in 202425. With only about 11% of Indias cultivable land, Uttar Pradesh contributes more than 20% of national foodgrain outputan imbalance that underlines both productivity gains and scale efficiency. Budget priorities and fiscal management In the latest 9.12 lakh crore state budget, nearly 10,888 crore has been earmarked for agriculture and animal husbandry, marking an increase of roughly 20% over the previous year. Crucially, this expansion has been achieved without fresh taxation. Improved revenue realisation and tighter control over non-productive expenditure have enabled higher allocations while preserving fiscal balancean approach that links growth with sustainability. Policy reset at the farm level One of the earliest interventions after 2017 was the waiver of 36,000 crore in loans for small and marginal farmers, providing immediate balance-sheet relief. Uttar Pradesh has also emerged as a leading implementer of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, with around 3.12 crore farmers receiving income support directly through DBT, reducing leakages and transaction delays. Irrigation, power and payment discipline Completion of large irrigation projectsBansagar, Saryu Canal, Madhya Ganga Canal and Arjun Sahayakhas expanded irrigated acreage substantially. Free electricity for private tubewells has lowered cultivation costs. Over the last nine years, sugarcane farmers have received payments exceeding 3.04 lakh crore, restoring credibility to the payment cycle. The states leadership in ethanol blending has strengthened sugar mill finances and added stability to farmer payouts. Market access and exports Under the One District, One Product initiative, commodities such as amla (Pratapgarh), banana (Kushinagar and Kaushambi), black salt rice (Siddharthnagar) and jaggery (Muzaffarnagar) have been integrated into branding and export frameworks. Dedicated agri-export hubs have enabled fruits, vegetables and dairy products from Uttar Pradesh to reach Gulf and European markets, linking farmers to global value chains. Dairy and allied sectors The Nand Baba Milk Mission has focused on formalising the dairy ecosystem. Artificial insemination services now cover nearly 80% of villages, contributing to an estimated milk output of about 239 lakh tonnes. This has improved productivity while creating steady cash flows for rural households. From output to value creation Raising farm incomes requires a shift from volume-driven production to value-led agriculture. Processing, storage, logistics and exports ensure that a greater share of value remains within the rural economy. Investment of 2,832 crore in horticulture and food processing reflects this strategy, enabling diversification beyond raw produce. Technology as an enabler Digital credit platforms, drone-based spraying, AI-enabled crop monitoring, seed parks and advanced hatcheries indicate a transition toward technology-intensive farming. These tools improve efficiency, reduce risk and align agriculture more closely with modern supply chains. The larger picture The state government has articulated a one-trillion-dollar economy target, with agriculture positioned as a foundational pillar. If the current modelcentred on productivity, value addition and export orientationcontinues with transparency and policy stability, Uttar Pradesh could evolve into a key node in both Indias food-security architecture and global agri-markets. The U.S. currently charges a 50% tariff on the steel and aluminum in most imported products. Under the new plan being considered, steel and aluminum products would be sorted into groups with different rates based on the metal content in the product, some of the people said. The plan would also make the tariff apply to the entire cost of the import, according to the people familiar with the administrations plans. Currently, the tariff only applies to the value of the steel and aluminum in a product. Bank holiday today, 14 January: Bank holidays can come in the way of several financial planning decisions for many customers if they do not keep a tab of which days banks will be closed. The RBI bank holiday calendar lists all the days where banks remain closed in a certain city or state due to different occasions. Since Saturday, 14 February, is the second Saturday of the month, it is a bank holiday today. Interestingly, it also happens to coincide with Valentine's Day. This means all banks across India including SBI, PNB, ICICI Bank, HDFC bank and other private and public lenders will close all their branches today. What are the typical bank holidays? The RBI categorises all bank holidays into three parts, namely, Negotiable Instruments Act, Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) holidays and banks closing of accounts. Also Read | How many days will banks remain closed in week starting 2 February? Check list According to the RBI bank holiday calendar, banks typically remain closed on second and fourth Saturdays. They remain open on first, third and fifth Saturdays of every month. Bank holidays are observed all across the country every Sunday. Bank holiday on Saturday is designated as a holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act by the RBI. This bank holiday regulates the issuing of cheques and promissory notes. Apart from the weekend offs, bank holidays vary from region to region depending upon the festivals and observances there. However, all banks observe holidays on national holidays like Republic Day and Gandhi Jayanti. When is the next bank holiday? The next bank holiday will be observed on Sunday, 15 February, due to the regular weekly off. Banks across the country will be shut tomorrow. It must be noted that Mahashivratri is observed as a bank holiday in some parts of India. However, the festival is falling on 15 February, which is a Sunday, and will already be observed as a bank holiday. It is important to check the bank holiday calendar with your local branch to get an idea about when important transactions like depositing a cheque will be closed. Services that require in-person visit to the branch, like withdrawing cash using cheque, are not available on bank holidays. Remaining bank holidays in February Here is a list of the remaining bank holidays in February February 15 Sunday Pan India bank holiday for Sunday weekend. February 18 Wednesday Bank holiday in Gangtok, Sikkim for Losar, a festival celebrated by the Tibetan community. February 19 Thursday There will be a bank holiday in Mumbai, Nagpur and Belapur in Maharashtra on occasion of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. February 20 Friday Bank holiday in Aizawl (Mizoram), Imphal (Manipur) on account of State Day / Statehood Day celebrations. February 22 Sunday Pan India holiday for Sunday weekend. February 28 Saturday Pan India holiday on account of fourth Saturday. How to withdraw money on bank holidays? You must note that all banking options do not close on bank holidays. Digital banking services remain fully functional on all days irrespective of branch operations. Customers can withdraw cash from ATMs, make payments using UPI and use the internet and mobile banking services. This implies that daily digital transactions continue without any disruption. Ford Chief Executive Officer Jim Farley has reportedly spoken to Trump administration officials on an expected framework with which Chinese automakers can manufacture cars in the US while also offering some protection to domestic car companies. The top executive sat with Trump Cabinet members last month, according to a Bloomberg report citing people familiar with the discussions. The talks involved Chinese carmakers partnering with US companies through joint ventures where the US companies will hold the controlling stake, according to the people cited in the report. The ventures would have a framework with which both the Chinese and US partners could share profit as well as technology through the JVs, as per the report. The discussions are still preliminary and informal as no solid decision has been made on the matter. Such a framework would be similar to what China asked of western automakers about 30 years ago when they had to partner with Chinese carmakers in order to set up factories in that country. The discussions come at a time when Chinese automakers are steadily moving towards to the US market, with Canada recently announcing plans to let in some Chinese carmakers into that country and BYD vehicles gain popularity across Mexico. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin were the ones who met with Farley to discuss the matter during the Detroit Auto Show last month, Bloomberg reported. Why is Ford discussing Chinese automakers now? According to the Bloomberg report, Ford's discussions did not come as a push towards realising the JVs but as a way to protect American interests in a situation where Chinese automakers do successfully make inroads to the US market. However, it got a cold reception from the cabinet officials, who felt that the matter will not be received in a positive way in Washington. Also Read | The Chinese factory that opened in the US and clobbered its rivals It must also be noted that an investment deal like that is seen by some in the administration as a possible outcome of Trumps planned meeting in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping in April. Chinese automakers face domestic opposition Opposition has been observed in the US domestic auto market after Trump in January indicated that the would be open to allowing Chinese automakers into the country if they built plants and hired Americans. GM Motors, for example, has told the Trump administration that it opposes a Chinese entry into the automaker market, according to the Bloomberg report citing one of the people. GM has argued that existing companies would lose market share and a flow of parts from China could have a devastating effect on North American suppliers. GMs opposition echoes a wider view among Trumps cabinet that the US should keep Chinas automakers out of the US market. Farley too has warned that Chinas low-cost, high-tech cars represent an existential threat. Their cost, their quality of their vehicles is far superior to what I see in the west. Their cost, their quality of their vehicles is far superior to what I see in the west, Farley said last summer at the Aspen Ideas Festival, where he revealed he had visited China a half dozen times in the last year. We are in a global competition with China and its not just EVs. And if we lose this, we do not have a future at Ford. The electronics sector has emerged as India's second-largest export segment after petroleum products, but sustaining this momentum will require a shift from assembly-led growth to deeper component manufacturing and a stronger integration into global value chains for higher value goods, Niti Aayog said in the sixth edition of its Trade Watch Quarterly (Q2 FY26) on Friday. Indonesian Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar, who also serves as chairperson of the National Chinese New Year Organizing Committee, speaks during an interview with Xinhua in Jakarta, Indonesia, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Cen Yunpeng) JAKARTA, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia's first national-level Chinese New Year celebration is expected to deepen cultural understanding and promote creative cooperation between Indonesia and China, Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar has said. "I feel that a deep understanding of cultures at the national level will promote diplomatic exchanges between the two nations," Irene told Xinhua in an interview on Friday. She noted that as bilateral exchanges expand across business, academia and communities, a deeper understanding will be achieved. According to the Ministry of Creative Economy, the inaugural national Chinese New Year Festival will be held from Feb. 17 to March 3, 2026, at Lapangan Banteng in Jakarta. The celebration will feature lantern festivals, culinary and creative market festivals, an open museum showcasing Chinese cultural acculturation, the Nusantara Chinese New Year Parade, and other inclusive public events. Parallel celebrations will also take place in cities including Singkawang, Palembang, Solo, Semarang, Manado, Makassar, Surabaya, Medan, Bogor, Batam and Pontianak. Irene, who also serves as chairperson of the National Chinese New Year Organizing Committee, said the celebration takes on added meaning as it coincides with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. For Irene, who is of Chinese descent, elevation of the celebration to the national level carries special significance. "This is something very special and close to my heart," she said. "This is an opportunity to showcase to everyone that, hey, let's get together with love." Beyond its cultural significance, Irene said the festival provides concrete support for Indonesia's creative economy by offering platforms for local entrepreneurs and creators. "We provide a lot of stages for our creative economy," she said, referring to creative entrepreneurs as "creative economy warriors." Such platforms allow people to discover Indonesia's creative strengths and connect directly with creators, thereby expanding economic opportunities and fostering collaboration, according to her. One of the key programs is a large-scale bazaar scheduled from Feb. 22 to March 1 at Lapangan Banteng, featuring more than 200 local brands, including food and beverage businesses as well as non-food and beverage brands. "The purpose is for all Indonesians, of all walks of life, to gather together because food combines and blends people," she said. Irene also highlighted how the celebration encourages cultural innovation and helps make traditional culture relevant to younger generations. During the interview, she pointed to the sneakers she was wearing, which incorporated lion dance design elements. "This is one example of how the creative economy can make cultures relevant to the youth," she said, explaining that creative industries help transform cultural heritage into modern expressions that resonate with younger people. She expressed optimism that such initiatives would also strengthen creative and economic cooperation between Indonesia and China. "We are hoping to see more and more collaborations between the two nations, especially on the creative economy side," she said. Having visited cities such as Shanghai and Hangzhou, Irene said her personal experiences in China deepened her appreciation of cultural exchange and innovation. "China, as a country, has always been a destination for me to go back and learn," she said. "Deeper understanding of cultures bonds people together." She also warmly welcomed Chinese tourists to visit Indonesia and experience its cultural diversity firsthand. "When you come to Indonesia, we welcome you with open arms," she said. "We'd like to highlight that to the world so that people will know us better, and then the blends could happen." Indonesian Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar, who also serves as chairperson of the National Chinese New Year Organizing Committee, speaks during an interview with Xinhua in Jakarta, Indonesia, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Cen Yunpeng) As midterm elections in the US loom, a White House adviser highlighted the urgent need for cryptocurrency legislation, such as the Clarity Act, as regulatory ambiguity is stifling market growth and innovation. "Let's not let any moss grow here," urged Patrick Witt, executive director of the President's Council of Advisors for Digital Assets said on Yahoo Finance's Opening Bid. Witt cautioned that the opportunity to pass the crucial Clarity Act is "rapidly closing" as attention on Capitol Hill shifts to the upcoming midterms, which tend to dominate legislative efforts. Amid uncertainty in the industry and market volatility, the lack of clear regulatory guidelines remains unresolved, leaving investors in ambiguity, a report from the publication said. For the White House, the unclear status of crypto is more than a bureaucratic delay, it hinders the broader adoption by consumers and financial institutions, it added. Also Read | Why this is the coldest crypto winter yet Witt observed that passing the bill will require flexibility from both the crypto community and large banks, noting that the council has held numerous meetings at the White House to reach common ground. At present, senators from both sides have expressed concerns about a potential "deposit flight" from traditional banks if stablecoins lack proper regulation. The absence of clear guidelines makes many financial institutions hesitant to adopt crypto fully, fearing uncertain legal risks. This deadlock drives market volatility and hampers innovation, the report said. During the earnings call of the cryptocurrency platform Coinbase on February 12, CEO Brian Armstrong voiced similar concerns but maintained a more positive outlook. He told investors he is "quite optimistic" that some legislation will be enacted "in the next few months," as crypto industry stakeholders stay "united" in their demands. "There's an opportunity to make a win-win outcome here for everyone, for banks and crypto companies and the US citizen and everyone," Armstrong said. We just want to have a good level playing field. What does Clarity Act seek to address? The Clarity Act primarily seeks to clarify jurisdictional boundaries between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) concerning digital assets. The legislation aims to specify which digital assets qualify as securities and thus fall under the SEC, and which are considered commodities and regulated by the CFTC. Defence stocks to buy: The Q3 results 2026 season is about to end, and most of the market majors have declared their Q3 earnings for the financial year 2025-26. Amid rising geopolitical tensions and the emergence of new war zones worldwide, various countries are expected to increase defence spending. The Indian government also raised its defence budget for the financial year 2026-27 by 15.20% to 7.85 lakh crore. So, long-term investors may think of deploying their money in defence stocks like Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL), Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, especially when these defence companies have declared their Q3 results 2026, and there is not much left for the investors to wait. According to stock market experts, HAL delivered a strong Q3FY26 performance, driven by healthy execution and improved profitability. However, BDL's profits halved, while its margins narrowed to less than 5% in the October to December 2025 quarter. Navratna PSU BEL posted robust numbers for the third quarter of the ongoing financial year 2025-26. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders reported YoY growth in Net profit and Revenue. HAL vs BDL vs BEL vs Mazagon Dock: Q3 results 2026 review Comparing the quarterly results of these defence companies, Seema Srivastava, Senior Research Analyst at SMC Global Securities, said, The Q3 FY26 results for these defence stocks paint a mixed picture. HAL and BEL have delivered strong revenue and profit growth, driven by robust execution and order book visibility. HAL's revenue grew 10.7% YoY, with PAT rising 29.6% YoY, while BEL's revenue surged 23.7% YoY, with PAT up 20.8% YoY. Both companies have a strong order book and are well-positioned to benefit from India's defence modernisation push. Also Read | Buy or sell: Sumeet Bagadia recommends three stocks to buy on Monday Also Read | Stocks to buy under 200: Mehul Kothari recommends three shares to buy or sell The SMC Global Securities expert said that Mazagon Dock's results are relatively weaker, with revenue down 6.8% YoY and PAT down 13.6% YoY. However, the company has a healthy order book and is executing key projects for the Indian Navy. She put BDL's results at the lowest level, noting they are a concern, with revenue declining 31.9% YoY and EBITDA margin contracting sharply. The company's execution challenges and dependence on lumpy orders make it a less attractive bet. HAL vs BDL vs BEL vs Mazagon Dock: Which defence stock to buy? Asked about the defence stock to buy after Q3 results 2026, Seema Srivastava said that in terms of valuation, HAL and BEL are trading at reasonable multiples, given their growth prospects. Mazagon Dock's valuation is relatively higher, reflecting its strong order book and execution capabilities. BDL's valuation is the lowest, but its execution challenges and dependence on lumpy orders make it a riskier bet. Comparing the technical chart pattern of these defence stocks after Q3 results 2026, Anshul Jain, Head of Research at Lakshmishree, said, "Among defence names Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bharat Dynamics Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, price structure post Q3 FY26 clearly favours BEL. The stock is displaying strong relative strength versus both the broader market and the defence index, signalling institutional preference." Jain said that as long as the BEL share price sustains above the 400 zone on a closing basis, the riskreward remains favourable for further upside. The next logical projection lies near the 485 to 495 band. Compared to peers, BELs structure is cleaner, momentum stronger, and downside risk better defined, making it the preferred buy in the defence pack at current levels. Key Takeaways HAL and BEL reported strong growth in revenue and profit, making them attractive investments. BDL faces significant challenges with declining revenue and margins, making it a riskier choice. The Indian government's increased defence budget signals potential growth for defence stocks. Imagine youre on the fringes of the Delhi arts scene in the late 1980s. A friend invites you to see a rare movie shoot in town. You head to the School of Planning and Architecture. The production is even smaller than you imagined. The director is married to the writer. The writer is the lead actor and production designer. Cast and crew joke around, smoke, flub their lines. You come away thinking it looks intriguing enough but not something thatd play in a cinema. Maybe on Doordarshan or straight to video. This is what happened, sort of. In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones didnt release in cinemas. It played once on Doordarshan in 1989. Someone probably taped this, for it circulated for years on video cassette. Over time, something amazing happened. Pradip Krishens film never went away. Murky bootlegs burnished its cult status. The writer, Arundhati Roy, who based the film on her time in architecture school, won the Booker Prize. One of the bit players, Shah Rukh Khan, became Bollywoods biggest star. All this meant there were enough curious viewers to keep the film around and discussed, which has culminated in a loving restoration by the Film Heritage Foundation (FHF) thatll premiere at the 76th Berlinale (12-22 February). Roy and Khan werent the only embryonic talents on the crew. Krishen became an environmentalist and went on to write the invaluable Trees of Delhi. Bobby Bedi produced Bandit Queen (which Roy tore apart in a review) and Maqbool. Raghubir Yadav, who has a one-scene role as cheapskate cyclist, became a great character actor (Manoj Bajpayee is also listed in the cast, though I cant spot him). But none of them were well-known thenat least outside of Delhiexcept for Roshan Seth, who plays department head Y.D. Billimoria, whom the students call Yamdoot (grim reaper). No one is safe from Billimorias caustic put-downs (My dear donkey), but he reserves his worst for Annie (Arjun Raina), slacker supreme in a batch of slackers. Annie is an amiable wastrel, with the bemused air of a professional stoner, prone to sudden fanciful ideas (the titular those ones). The film begins with Annie and his batchmates days away from submitting and defending their fifth-year projects. Yet only a few seem fazed by the impending deadline, and almost no one seems to be taking architecture seriously as a career. This is a rare portrait of liberal arts college life in India, which rings true because it captures its aimlessness, a feeling of suspended time and deferred responsibility. Billimoria has a more formidable opponent in Radha (Roy), a student whos smart, self-possessed and just doesnt like authority. For her final presentation, she turns up in a sari and a hat and proceeds to tell the jury that architects are gatekeepers and snobs. Radha could have been insufferable but is instead captivatingthat combative classmate you had a terrified crush on in college. She shares an easy, physically affectionate chemistry with her boyfriend, Arjun (Rituraj), utterly rare for Indian cinema of that time. Roys unaffected line readings are so different from how a trained actor would have said them, which works perfectly in her scenes with Seth, whose modulated jabs seem to bounce off her (as Radhas drawl infuriates Billimoria). Yet, while the students are as dismissive of Yamdoot as he is of them, Krishen leaves just enough room for Seth to subtly suggest that Billimoria is a kindly, if crabby, man trying to save these hippy layabouts from themselves. Krishens first film, Massey Sahib, which starred Raghubir Yadav and also featured Roy, was recognisably in the parallel cinema tradition. But In Which Annie Gave It Those Ones had nothing in common with the earnest NFDC crowd. Instead, its freewheeling attitude and loose structuring placed it in conversation with contemporary indie films in the west. Around the same time Krishen was making his film, Bruce Robinson was developing Withnail & I, another low-budget slacker story, in England. And over in America, Richard Linklater was experimenting with a new kind of lackadaisical indie, first Slacker and then Dazed & Confused (Annie borrows from the latters spiritual predecessor, George Lucas American Graffiti, by including an epilogue with the main characters fates). Its always tricky to restore no-budget films in a way that accurately represents their humble origins. FHFs 4K restoration, from a 16mm original camera negative and sound negative and a 35mm release print, is perfectly judged, removing the murk and hiss but ensuring the film retains its warm, grimy immediacy. With better sound and image, its possible to better appreciate the films handmade qualities: Roys pinpoint production design, the 1970s fashions, little splashes of art and creativity (including a memorable parting shot on Annies bald head), the inspired idea to score the film with instrumental version of Beatles songs. If there is one dish that unites the Hakka Chinese community across the world during the Lunar New Year (on 17 February this year), it is suan pan zi, or yam abacus beads. Shaped like the beads of the ancient counting tool, it symbolises wealth and prosperity. The recipe is straightforward: the yam is first steamed until tender and kneaded with tapioca flour to form a dough. It is then shaped like gnocchi, and tossed with shiitake and woodear mushrooms, chives, bean sprouts and soy sauce. It is prepared by the Hakka people, especially those living in Malaysia and Singapore, shares Kolkata-based chef Katherine Lim, a third generation Indian-Chinese known for popularising the dish in India through her pop-ups. Food plays a central role in the Lunar New Year (also Chinese New Year) celebrations. The action begins in the kitchen, where families gather to make large batches of the quintessential bow-shaped sesame cookies called maafa (or ma-fah), while reunion meals call for elaborate spreads of steamed fish and roast chicken. In Kolkatas Tiretta Bazaar and Tangra neighbourhoods, the dwindling Chinese community celebrate with dragon dance parades and visits to the local Chinese temple. Although many have moved away to study or work in other parts of the country and the world, theres a growing pull to return home during this time of the year. Lims grandfather, who initially migrated from China to Kolkata as a teen, moved to Lahore sometime in the 1920s to work in the shoe industry. After Partition, he made Amritsar his home. Lim was born there before the family decided to head back to Kolkata when she was 12. Back in Amritsar, wed make our own noodles and tofu, pickled mustard greens, and lap cheong or cured pork sausages. And for my mother, a visit to her maternal family in Kolkata, meant returning with 10 litre cans of soy sauce, says Lim, who has cooked for several pop-ups at five-star hotels, apart from Mumbais Masque Lab, Glenburn Penthouse in Kolkata and Omo Cafe in Gurugram. Lim remembers her family preparing a spread featuring 8-10 dishes, which included steamed whole fish and chicken with an assortment of toppings and sauces, fish ball soup and stewed pork to name a few. Eight or 10 are whole numbers and signify abundance. As for serving something whole, it symbolises unity or feeling of wholeness in the family. The food highlighted a part of their identity rooted in memory, yet flexible enough to adapt to change and the new homes they made wherever they settled. In Kolkata, they turned to local varieties of fishbhetki for the steamed fish and chitol (Indian knifefish) for the fish balls. View full Image Hakka prawn balls, Wok88. For Bryan Li, co-founder of Wok88, a Chinese food delivery kitchen in Delhi, the festivities are anchored in memories of shared plates and kitchen banter. While the maafa and prawn crackers kept everyone busy, it was his grandmothers cooking that made the day truly special. Her Hakka prawn balls, steamed chicken and sesame balls are dishes no one could make them quite the way she did, says the fourth generation Indian-Chinese, who grew up in Kolkata and Delhi, and enjoys cooking for his family on Chinese New Year. Dishes like the steamed fish and lo-phe-yaan, which is made of steamed radish and pork balls are simple, nostalgic, and deeply tied to family memories. He has carried some of them on to the menu at Wok88, including the prawn balls, which remains a quiet reminder of his Hakka heritage. View full Image Chef Peter Tseng, As Kolkatas Chinatown ushers in the Year of the Horse, chef Peter Tseng recommends booking a meal at one of its many iconic restaurants for their festive specials. The IHM Kolkata graduate grew up on Bentinck Street, where his late grandfather ran a shoe shop, and traces his roots to the Guangdong province in China. Now based in Chennai as the culinary director of Pricol Gourmet, Tseng is travelling back home to Kolkata to be with his parents. Get the steamed whole fish and Cantonese chow at Kafulok, the steamed chicken and golden fried prawns at Golden Joy, and the chilli roast pork at Ah Leung, he says. Also Read | India's safari retreats get a menu upgrade Theyre simple lines and strokes, but each of the birds that veteran Cholamandal artist Premalatha Seshadri sketches express a different mood. I came across her work many years ago, and it seemed to me that though shed pared the creatures down to their essencesometimes even taking away the feathers that make birds so uniqueone couldnt take away the essential drama of their being. And birds are dramatic creaturesthey chatter, sing, dance, fight, hunt, feed, mate, build homes together, feel so openly and loudly. Very much like us, they also litter and leave messes behind. And, unlike us, of course, they flywith ease and grace, setting our imaginations soaring. To bird watchers, there are no creatures more absorbing than birds. Were in the midst of the Great Backyard Bird Count this weekend, when thousands of amateur and expert birders across the world will record their observations and enter them into a central database, contributing valuable data about bird populations while also having fun. Since the participation in this great count has been rising rapidly in India in the past decade, especially since the pandemic when people learnt to stop and stare at whats outside their window, we decided to report on the world of birdwatching this week. We take a look at whats driving this interest in birdwatching as well as the benefits and the need for conservation. A bird sound recordist from Maharashtra pitches in, writing a piece that explains the science behind the beauty of bird calls. View full Image The cover of Mint Lounge dated 14 February 2026. Galentine's Day gets a wellness spin Galentines Day plans are no longer limited to elaborate brunches, themed cocktails and wine-heavy dinners though there are plenty of those too. In the wellness-forward social culture of 2026, spending time with friends is just as likely to involve a Pilates class at sunrise, a shared spa ritual or a workshop where the emphasis is on creating something meaningful together. Many of these events are designed as a low-pressure way to meet new people through shared experiences. Conversation-centred wellness experiences are gaining traction too, writes Anoushka Madan. Read more. A week with a robot in the kitchen With full working days and the convenience of food delivery apps, cooking at home often takes a back seat. Sahil Bhalla decided to make his own meals for a week with a little help from a cooking robot. The Upliance 2.0 comes claims to do it all, from chopping and sauteing to everything in between. Does it deliver? Find out. Do you love your job too much? Modern work culture rewards the patterns that lead to burnout and isolation, making it important to dismantle the productivity-first identity and reclaim a life centred around connection, writes Sonali Gupta in her fortnightly column, Heart of the Matter. She writes that deeply investing time and energy in work can become a way of entrenching life around productivity, serving to numb us from grief or suffering. In her practice, she asks such clients to pause and check what purpose and meaning their work offers them. Read more. Back to work after a mental health break Across the world, workplaces are learning that employee well-being is not a perk but the foundation of a good work culture. Corporate India, too, has moved to embed mental health in workplace policy: counselling services, mental health days, manager training, and more. The question is what happens when people return to work after a mental health break, writes Arjun R. Iyer. There is no widely adopted framework for phased re-entry, manager guidance, confidentiality protocols, or relapse support. Read more. Theres more than food on the menu Om gatey gatey, paragatey, parasamgatey bodhi svaha. The Bodhisattva vow mantra is a favourite of mine, not just because of its spiritual import but also because of just how relentlessly propulsive it is. I chant it under my breath whenever Im hiking in the mountains. It helps regulate my breath, keeps my pace even, and anchors me in the present, mindful of the stunning landscapes Im passing through. Last month, I was chanting it again as I hiked the forest ridge from Kaluk to Rinchenpong in west Sikkim, always in sight of the Kangchenjunga massif basking in the winter sun on the northern horizon. Sikkim is a perennial holiday favourite, especially amongst Bengali tourists, who flock to the state no matter what the weather. Although the well-beaten track of Gangtok-Nathu La-Lachen-Lachung-Gurudongmar Lake remains the prime option for most tourists, there are quieter, more peaceful joys to be found in the middle hills of Sikkim, like the Rinchenpong ridge. It is one of the oldest cultural areas of the erstwhile Buddhist kingdom, and Rinchenpongs forested ridges are a melting pot of Himalayan tribal cultures, home to the Lepcha, Rai, Gurung, Bhotia and Limbu people. Tourists mostly come here (and to the neighbouring village of Kaluk where the resorts are) for one thing onlyunobstructed views of the Kangchenjunga massif. This is still a fairly recent trend, and most tourists stop at Kaluk for a day or two before heading to the next ridge further north to the more established hill station of Pelling. THE MIDDLE GROUND View full Image Kangchenjunga range from the Reesum monastery. ( Sujoy Das ) While youre closer to Kangchenjunga at Pelling, the view of the massif is more boxed in. The Kaluk-Rinchenpong ridge offers a perfect middle ground between the more expansive but distant view from Darjeeling, and the closer but narrower view from Pelling. Its well worth your while to stay in Kaluk for a few days, and that is what I did in December for four days of wonderful day walks to acquaint myself better with the rich culture and natural beauty of the region. One of those walks was a leisurely hike that led from Kaluk village up a forested ridge to the medieval Reesum monastery. It was a cold, sunny day when we started out with the Kangchenjunga range standing out in all its glory. From left to right shone the peaks of Kokthang, Rathong, the twin peaks of Kabru South and Kabru North. To the right of that rose the Kangchenjunga massif, with its triangular south face and the south, central and main peaks further back. To its right, and closer, the jagged peaks of Simvo, Pandim and Narsingh. The Singalila ridge, which marks the border with Nepal, stood tall to the west, its high meadows still ringed by clouds. View full Image Hiking the Rinchenpong ridge. ( Binodh Gurung ) A steep track led directly up into a birch forest, the path rising above the local school, past upper village houses and cardamom plantations. The rising sun hit us just as we crested the ridge, and stepped into the front porch of the home of a Rai family. We wished them Happy New Year (it was the Rai new year), and they gave us avocadoes. The trail hit the upper forests soon after, and the punishing gradient became gentler as we made our way past spooky animist shacks and through thickets of giant fern. The forest floor was littered with dry husks of dead fungi, clinging to fallen branches and toppled tree trunks in a profusion of shapes and sizes. Also Read | 4 great monsoon treks, from the Sahyadris to the Himalaya A half hours leisurely walk through the forest brought us into a glen in the middle of which was the haunting ruin of a stupa wall, covered in moss and creepers. The mound was surrounded by ancient mani stones, inscribed with carvings of the Buddha, Om Mani Padme Hum (the mantra of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshwara) in Tibetan script, and mandalas. Our guide Binodh Gurung, a local trek leader and biker, told us that this was the old gateway marking the beginning of the Reesum monastery, which lay further up the hill. Reesum, he said, means three ridges. It is the point where three ridges met. The monastery, belonging to the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism, is one of the oldest surviving structures in the area, dating back over 300 years. Till the early years of the 20th century, it used to be the site of tantric sadhana, and many Buddhist yogis, both men and women, would come to the forest from across Sikkim for long periods of intense meditation, under the tutelage of the locally renowned Reesum Rinpoche. A thickly overgrown trail leads down from the ruined gates of Reesum to a sacred pond, which the Rinpoche had dug to provide water to this otherwise arid ridge. Also Read | Remembering the remarkable Indian women gurus of Tantric Buddhism We continued up the main trail, and in 10 minutes broke through the tree cover to the pinnacle of the ridge. Atop it sat a most beautiful, old monastery made entirely of wood. Reesum gompa is a time machine to an era when Himalayan monasteries and temples were built entirely of wood and stone, before anyone had heard of cement. The monasterys whitewashed packed earth walls support a two-tiered pagoda roof, with steps going up one side to an upper shrine. The main ground floor temple doors were fronted with a wooden latticed partition, three quaint wooden prayer wheels set under them. Streamers of prayer flags flowed from the upper floors down to the wide courtyard in front of the monastery. Behind the gompa was a cordoned off area, hung high with black cloth and a sign saying, No entry, meditation centre. Gurung said that recently the monastery has been taken over by the larger Rinchenpong monastery further down the hill and served, once again, as a sadhana retreat. LIVES IN A BUDDHIST KINGDOM View full Image Reesum Monastery in Rinchenpong. ( Bibek Bhattacharya ) Although Reesum must have been built no earlier than the late 17th century, it distinctly reminded me of the 12th century Alchi monastery, at the other end of the Himalaya in Ladakh. Not only does Reesum resemble Alchis temples in its construction style, but even the faded murals are of a decidedly non-dogmatic Tibetan style, closer to the Kashmiri and Bihar-Bengal antecedents of monastic mural painting. This being a Nyingma monastery, the chief deity of veneration is Guru Rimpoche or Padmasambhava, regarded by the order as a second Buddha, and probably more important than the first. The sun was shining on this very tranquil scene, even as some workers laboured at one end of the hill to remodel ancient, faded earthen chaityas, clothing them in a much more modern, gaudy Tibetan style. I paid my respects to a weathered old stupa said to contain the remains of the old Reesum Rimpoche. And the view! A clear day like this is what everyone who comes to Reesum prays for. Beyond the walls of the old monastery and above the forest rose the ancient ramparts of Kangchenjunga, the abode of the five treasures of Mahayana spirituality. A breeze was in the air, and the sweet, monotone music of the coppersmith bird. View full Image Padmasambhava shrine inside the Reesum monastery. ( Bibek Bhattacharya ) The forest trail continued down from Reesums peak through a gorgeous pine, birch and larch forest towards the Rinchenpong monastery. The pines here are true giants, standing at least a hundred feet tall, clad in coats of moss. Within this forest, Gurung said, were other spots for meditation. While the yogis spent months here in their esoteric rituals, villagers would come up this path with food for the meditators. Another of our guides, Ongchen Lepcha, in his 20s, said his brother, an ordained monk, spent years learning and meditating at Reesum. Hes now at a monastery in Ladakh, said Lepcha, and then he will go to Mahabodhi for a few years. He stopped at a clearing in the forest, pointing to a faraway village on a distant ridge and said, Look, thats Tinkitam, Bhaichung Bhutias village. Its fascinating to get a glimpse into the life of a modern Mahayana Buddhist society, not just as an example of the continued vitality of the religion on the margins of mainstream India, but also because it puts paid to the historical lie that Buddhism ever disappeared from South Asia. In Sikkim or in the Kathmandu Valley, one can experience the Mahayana as an unbroken living tradition from its Bihari and Bengali antecedents to its modern Newar and Tibetan descendants. The main Rinchenpong monastery, set in a pretty clearing surrounded by lines of tall poles of fluttering white prayer flags, is also old, established in 1730. It is a slightly more modern lookingand certainly more brightly paintedversion of the Reesum gompa. The monastery was locked due to a winter recess, so I didnt get to see its famed main deity, a tantric depiction of the blue-skinned Vajradhara, the Adi Buddha of Vajrayana, in a yuganaddha (Tibetan yab-yum) embrace with his feminine pragya, the goddess Pragyaparamita. TRAVELLERS TALES View full Image The Colonial era forest bungalow at Rinchenpong. ( Bibek Bhattacharya ) Rinchenpongs rich history extends beyond Buddhism to Sikkims complicated history with the British Raj. Though the colonialists helped the kingdom repulse an invasion by Nepal in the mid-19th century, the British themselves tried their hand at conquest in 1860, sending a detachment of soldiers to Rinchenpong. The local community repulsed that attack by poisoning a lake that was the soldiers main source of drinking water. Called Bikh Pokhari (poison lake), it is a short walk to the west from the monastery. Although the British failed in their conquest, Sikkim did eventually become a protectorate of the Empire, thus opening up the kingdom to western artists, scientists, travellers and later mountaineers. In the early years of the 20th century, Rinchenpong became a major staging post, and as a result, home to a beautiful colonial era daak bungalow, a little way above the lake. Surrounded by a grove of tall pines, the bungalow remains well maintained and picturesque. Also Read | Looking for Nanda Devi: Remembering the iconic 1934 Himalayan expedition The Russian painter and mystic Nicholas Roerich stopped here in 1924 during a long, rambling trip through Sikkim, soon after he came to India. Enthralled by the kingdom, and especially Kangchenjunga, he would paint the range again and again through his life, from a rough watercolour in 1928, to luminous ones in the 1940s. In his book Altai Himalaya: A Travel Diary (1929), Roerich describes a view of Kangchenjunga and rhododendrons: Above this synthetic picture, it is strange, unexpectedly startling, to behold new ramparts mounting the clouds. Above the nebulous waves, above the twilight, glimmer the sparkling snows. Erect, infinitely beautiful, stand these dazzling, impassable peaks. Two distinct worlds, intersected by a mist! View full Image Nicholas Roerich's 1933 painting of Kangchenjunga titled 'Mount of Five Treasures (Two Worlds)'. The mountaineer Frank Smythe stayed here in 1930, on his way to mount one of the first attempts at scaling Kangchenjunga. Writing about the expedition in his book The Kangchenjunga Adventure (1930), Smythe recounts meeting tourists on a world tour at the bungalow. Sleeping on the bungalows verandah that night, Smythe woke up to an amazing sight. As I raised myself in my sleeping bag, I saw between a gap in the nearer mists the crest of a great cloud high up in the sky aglow with the first pale light of day. But was it a cloud? It was too steadfast, too immovableEven as I watched, the dawn came up fiercely, ruddily, a titanic conflagration sweeping the upper regions of the sky. The nearer mists dissolved; other peaks became visible, their summits gleaming like the white tents of a besieging army reflecting the glare from some burning city. Sometimes, people ask me for advice on watches. Specifically, they ask that very important question: Which watch should I buy? Most times, such queries come from people who either a) dont wear watches, b) wear a smartwatch, c) wear a watch from a fashion brand, or d) wear a quartz watch. And while there are plenty of overlaps between these four categories, my answer in each case is quite different. So, lets figure out just why youd want to buy and wear a watch. Lets face it, hardly anyone needs to sport a wristwatch nowadays. We can get all the time-telling duties (plus much more) from our phones. Then there are laptops, tablets and a plethora of other screens that will tell you the time accurately. Plenty of other gadgets, including washing machines and blenders, can tell you the time. On top of that if you have a clock at your home or in your office, you have yet another source of timekeeping you can refer to. Also Read | 5 best wristwatches for every occasion in different price categories In spite of all this, if you still wear (or want to wear) a watch in 2026, you are doing so as much for ornamental reasons as anything else. After all, wearing something on your wrist is cool and stylish. While accessorizing with a watch is entirely gender neutral, for your average male with conservative style, a watch is the only way to dress up their wrists. So, lets say you dont wear any watches, and would like to rectify that situation. This is the cleanest slate one can hope to begin with. You can always wear a smartwatch since those seem to be all the rage these days. But if you want a watch that just tells the time and looks good, then you can start with a quartz watch. View full Image Should you choose a dive watch, a chronograph or a dress watch? ( Courtesy Instagram ) There are many that are reasonably priced yet carry plenty of street cred in the world of horology. Two brands that immediately come to mind are Casio and Timex. Both brands make a wide array of models, but you are best served by either going for vintage style digital models from Casio (like the F-91W) or a G-Shock. For a more classic, analog experience, the Q Timex line has some excellent models, including GMT watches and chronographs. If you wear a smartwatch, the first thing you need to ask yourself why you wear one. If it is for fitness metrics, then thats fair use. But you dont need to wear one all the time, perhaps only when youre working out. Do you really need your watch to answer calls and read emails and be bombarded with notifications? If your answer is no, then you can start by gravitating towards the same brands and models that I mentioned above. Also Read | Wristwatches are getting smaller and slimmer: This is why it is a good thing If youd like to jump the category and go for a mechanical or automatic watch, there are plenty of wonderful models to choose from Japanese horological heavyweights like Seiko, Citizen and Orient. Many of these models cost way less than a premium smartwatch. If youve been wearing a watch from a fashion brand and youd like to upgrade, you have a world of options. There are those Ive already mentioned, but if your budget is greater, say 1 lakh and maybe even up to 2 lakh, you will be able to enter the world of Swiss and German watchmaking. On the lower end of the scale, you should consider Tissot, especially the excellent PRX line. Next, you can consider higher grade Seiko and Citizen as well as manufactures like Longines, Junghans and NOMOS. View full Image If you are a watch collector, then you should definitely consider vintage watches. ( Courtesy Instagram ) Finally, if you have already dipped your toes into the world of horology through quartz watches, there are a few different ways you can go. If you value the ease of maintaining a quartz watch, where you need to set the time only once or twice a year, you can upgrade to better quartz models, those with better tolerances, greater accuracy and overall better case and dial finishing. For this, you can consider quartz timepieces for any of the brands mentioned above, as well as Swiss brands like Frederique Constant, and boutique brands like Nevada Grenchen and Maurice Lacroix. If your budget stretches beyond 2 lakh, then you should consider the entry-level quartz timepieces from Grand Seiko and Cartierand get some of the best quartz watches for the money. Also Read | For the perfect everyday wristwatch, take a look at these Japanese brands Thats a general overview of the options out there. I must also say that this is just the tip of the iceberg and theres a plethora of great brands and models that I havent mentioned. The thing is, if youre in the market for that one watch which will be your daily driver for years, the possibilities are endless. You could go with a dress watch, a rugged GADA (go-anywhere-do-anything) watch, or more tool-ish watches like divers, chronographs or GMTs. If you have been bitten by the watch collecting bug, then you have further options like vintage watches. Once you are in this camp, you will need to educate yourself on watches and watchmaking more thoroughly, and develop a sense of the kind of aesthetics you like. Once that is established, the world is your oyster. Retirement fund body Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to introduce a new facility whereby subscribers will be allowed to withdraw part of their provident fund money in real time using the UPI method, recent reports have said. According to the reports by PTI and CNBC TV18, EPFO subscribers will be able to withdraw their PF money through UPI, which will then directly be transferred to their bank accounts, making the process smooth and hassle-free and ending the decades-long way of waiting for your provident fund money to show up in your account. Withdraw PF money with UPI The labour ministry is working on a project under which a certain amount of PF money will be frozen, and members will be able to see a large chunk of their provident fund available for withdrawal through their bank using UPI, according to PTI citing a person familiar with the knowledge of the matter. How much money can you withdraw? As per the report by CNBC TV18, EPFO members can withdraw as much as 75% of their provident fund amount using the UPI method. The money will be directly transferred to their linked bank accounts, after which they will be able to withdraw cash. According to existing PF rules, subscribers can withdraw 75% of the available balance immediately. The EPFO allows 100% withdrawal of funds only in cases where one has been unemployed for at least one year. How to withdraw PF money using UPI? The reports by PTI and CNBC TV18 stated that the EPFO will roll out a new mobile phone application through which the member would be able to withdraw their EPF money using UPI gateway. The persons quoted by the news agency and media outlet explained that subscribers will be able to view the eligible PF balance available for transfer to their seeded bank accounts in the mobile application. The subscribers will be required to select a valid reason to initiate a transaction for the withdrawal, for example illness, education, marriage, or housing. They will be allowed to use their linked UPI PIN to complete the transaction, ensuring a secure transfer of funds to their bank accounts. Also Read | Is your PF account in order? Follow this checklist to find out The entire transfer will then be made through the UPI payment gateway, which will result in an instant settlement of funds. The reports further mentioned that this app is likely to be launched in April, bringing good news to lakhs of EPF subscribers this year. Currently EPFO members have to apply for withdrawal claims to access their EPF money, which is time-consuming. It typically takes at least three to four days for the money to get transferred. New EPFO app According to the reports, subscribers will be able to avail other services like passbook balance with the new EPFO app. Currently, the member uses either the Universal Account Number (UAN) portal or the UMANG app to access their EPF accounts and avail of their services. The person cited by PTI said that these services will remain available on both platforms, while the new dedicated app will further improve the accessibility and delivery of services for EPFO subscribers. The person further revealed that the EPFO is currently conducting trials using 100 dummy accounts to improve the efficacy of the service and remove any technical glitches that the service may have. Indian writer Arundhati Roy said Friday she was cancelling her planned participation in the Berlin Film Festival over comments from jury president Wim Wenders that the festival had to "stay out of politics". In a statement sent to AFP , the Booker Prize-winning author said that she was "shocked and disgusted" by the celebrated German director's response to a question on war-torn Gaza at a press conference on Thursday. Also Read | Shocked and disgusted: Arundhati Roy withdraws from Berlin Film Festival She reportedly said, "With deep regret, I must say that I will not be attending the Berlinale." According to Variety, Roy was due to present her 1989 campus comedy In Which Annie Give It Those Ones as part of the Classics section. She reportedly said she will no longer be attending, citing the unconscionable statements made by members of jury when asked to comment about Gaza. What did Wim Wenders say? After fielding several questions about the current state of the world, Wim Wenders said at the press conference, We have to stay out of politics because if we make movies that are dedicatedly political, we enter the field of politics. Also Read | Arundhati Roy presents her gangster mother But we are the counterweight of politics, we are the opposite of politics. We have to do the work of people, not the work of politicians, he was quoted by Variety as saying. How did Roy react? In a statement announcing her withdrawal first given to Indian publication the Wire Roy said that to hear them say that art should not be political is jaw-dropping. She was quoted as saying: It is a way of shutting down a conversation about a crime against humanity even as it unfolds before us in real time when artists, writers and filmmakers should be doing everything in their power to stop it. Arundhati Roys full statement: Here's Arundhati Roys full statement as shared by The Wire and Variety: "'In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones, a whimsical film that I wrote 38 years ago, was selected to be screened under the Classics section at the Berlinale 2026. There was something sweet and wonderful about this for me. Also Read | Opposition slams 'political' UAPA action against Arundhati Roy Although I have been profoundly disturbed by the positions taken by the German government and various German cultural institutions on Palestine, I have always received political solidarity when I have spoken to German audiences about my views on the genocide in Gaza. This is what made it possible for me to think of attending the screening of Annie at the Berlinale. This morning, like millions of people across the world, I heard the unconscionable statements made by members of the jury of the Berlin film festival when they were asked to comment about the genocide in Gaza. To hear them say that art should not be political is jaw-dropping. It is a way of shutting down a conversation about a crime against humanity even as it unfolds before us in real time when artists, writers and film makers should be doing everything in their power to stop it. Also Read | How Arundhati Roy chose the dangerous life of a dissenter Let me say this clearly: what has happened in Gaza, what continues to happen, is a genocide of the Palestinian people by the State of Israel. It is supported and funded by the governments of the United States and Germany, as well as several other countries in Europe, which makes them complicit in the crime. If the greatest film makers and artists of our time cannot stand up and say so, they should know that history will judge them. I am shocked and disgusted. With deep regret, I must say that I will not be attending the Berlinale. An IndiGo flight travelling from Kolkata to Shillong had to be moved to the isolation bay at the Kolkata airport on Saturday after a bomb threat. The incident took place on board flight 6E 3074, which was scheduled to depart the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport at 9.15 am. The threat emerged after flight crew members found a piece of paper inside the aircraft's toilet, as per the Kolkata airport director, who spoke with ANI. The note claimed that there was a bomb inside the aircraft. Passengers were already on board the flight and were promptly evacuated, the airport official said. Also Read | Several schools across Delhi receive bomb threats, investigation underway The aircraft, meanwhile, was moved to the isolation bay, away from the main terminal and other active taxiways. All passengers and crew have been safely evacuated. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are currently being followed, which include a thorough sweep of the cabin and a re-screening of all checked and carry-on baggage, an airport official was quoted as saying by Indian Express. The publication added that luggage from the flight has been offloaded onto the tarmac for specialized screening by bomb disposal units and dog squads. It is currently unclear if any suspicious items have been found: airport authorities are yet to comment on the same. Heavy CISF deployment The incident led to a significant deployment of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at the Kolkata airport, Indian Express reported, adding that security personnel were being stationed around the isolation zone. Specialized airport vehicles, including a fire tender and ground staff in high-visibility vests, were also reportedly seen coordinating the operation. Also Read | Bomb threats reported at 10 Delhi schools; police and bomb squads deployed Second flight bomb threat this week Saturday's bomb threat was the second such incident to take place this week, with a similar incident taking place in Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) days ago. An e-mail received on Wednesday threatened a blast at the Hyderabad airport when a Gulf Air flight from Bahrain landed, alleging that extremist elements were on board. The mail's subject line read 'Holy Jihad: Blast in Hyderabad Airport Terminals When Gulf Air 274 From Bahrain Lands to RGIA', while the sender claimed to represent a group identifying as the Tamil Liberation Organisation (TLO), as per a report by NDTV. MOSCOW, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- The Russian armed forces took control of four settlements and launched strikes against Ukrainian military facilities over the past week, Russia's Ministry of Defense said Friday. The settlements of Chugunovka and Glushkovka in the Kharkov region, Sidorovka in the Sumy region, and Zaliznichnoye in the Zaporizhzhia region were seized during the week of Feb. 7-13, the ministry said in a statement. Also, one massive and six combined aerial strikes were launched against Ukrainian military-industrial enterprises, energy, fuel and transport facilities used for military purposes, the ministry said. The strikes were delivered "in response to Ukraine's terrorist attacks on civilian facilities on Russian territory," it said. Additionally, the ministry said Russian air defense systems shot down five Flamingo long-range cruise missiles, 28 guided aerial bombs, 39 rockets from the U.S.-made HIMARS multiple launch rocket system, four Neptune long-range missiles, and 1,243 fixed-wing drones. Russia's Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said Friday that two civilians were killed and three others wounded in a Ukrainian missile strike on Belgorod. NEW DELHI: The Union cabinet has approved schemes and infrastructure projects with a cumulative outlay of 1.6 trillion, including the Urban Challenge Fund for urban development and the 10,000 crore Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0, union minister for information & broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Saturday. The decisions were taken at a cabinet meeting on Friday. Urban Challenge Fund With central assistance of 1 trillion, the Urban Challenge Fund will leverage market finance and private participation for urban development projects and, according to the government, attract investments worth 4 trillion over the next five years. The fund will be operational from FY26 to FY31, with project implementation allowed to continue till FY34. Vaishnaw said the central assistance will cover 25% of project cost, subject to raising a minimum 50% from the market through municipal bonds, bank loans and public-private partnerships (PPP). The remaining share will be contributed by states, union territories (UT) and urban local bodies (ULB). The fund aims to build resilient, productive, inclusive and climate-responsive cities, positioning those as key driver of the countrys next phase of economic growth, said a statement from the ministry of housing and urban affairs. Projects will be selected through a transparent and competitive challenge mode. The government will emphasize reforms across urban governance, market and financial systems, operational efficiency and urban planning to enable urban centres to access capital. The cabinet also approved a 5,000 crore credit guarantee scheme aimed at enhancing the creditworthiness of cities and towns, primarily in hilly states, northeastern states and smaller urban local bodies with populations below 1 lakh. The scheme will provide a central guarantee of up to 7 crore or 70 per cent of the loan amount (whichever is lower) for first-time loans. On successful repayment of the first loan, central guarantee of 7 crore or 50 per cent of the loan amount (whichever is lower) will be provided. This will effectively support projects of minimum 20 crore for the first time and Rs.28 crore for subsequent projects in smaller cities, he said. Urban rejuvenation was also a focus of the Union Budget for FY27. Presenting the budget on 1 February 2026, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said, "Cities are Indias engines of growth, innovation, and opportunities. We shall now focus on Tier II and Tier III cities, and even temple-towns, which need modern infrastructure and basic amenities. This Budget aims to further amplify the potential of cities to deliver the economic power of agglomerations by mapping city economic regions (CER), based on their specific growth drivers." She proposed an allocation of 5,000 crore per city economic region over five years. Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 The cabinet also approved the Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 (Startup India FoF 2.0) with a corpus of 10,000 crore to mobilize venture capital for the countrys startup ecosystem. The scheme aims to accelerate the next phase of Indias startup journey by mobilizing long-term domestic capital, strengthening the venture capital ecosystem and supporting innovation-led entrepreneurship. Also Read | Inside the Tamil show turning startups into household names The first such fund, the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS 1.0), was launched in 2016 to address funding gaps and catalyse the domestic venture capital market. Under the first fund, the entire corpus of 10,000 crore has been committed to 145 alternative investment funds (AIFs), which have invested over 25,500 crore in more than 1,370 startups across sectors including agriculture, artificial intelligence, robotics, automotive, clean tech, consumer goods and services, e-commerce, education, fintech, food and beverages, healthcare, manufacturing, space tech and biotechnology. While the first phase built the ecosystem, Startup India FoF 2.0 is designed to take Indian innovation to the next level. The new fund will have a targeted, segmented funding approach, said another official statement. The fund will support deep-tech startups and technology-driven innovative manufacturing segments that require long-term capital. Infrastructure approvals Among other decisions, the Union cabinet approved construction of a four-lane access-controlled greenfield connectivity project from Gohpur on NH-15 to Numaligarh on NH-715 in Assam, including a 15.79-km road-cum-rail tunnel under the Brahmaputra river, at a total cost of 18,662 crore. The Cabinet also cleared three multitracking railway projects covering 12 districts across Delhi, Haryana, Maharashtra and Karnataka, expanding the Indian Railways network by about 389 km at an estimated cost of 18,509 crore. Government offices shift Vaishnaw said this was the last Union cabinet meeting held in South Block, as the Prime Ministers Office has shifted to Seva Teerth, a newly developed building in the Central Vista area. With the relocation of offices to Kartavya Bhawans and Seva Teerth, North Block and South Block will be converted into a museum, he said. Seva Teerth houses the Prime Ministers Office, the National Security Council Secretariat and the Cabinet Secretariat, which were earlier located across different premises. The Indian Navy, along with Japan and Indonesia, conducted a trilateral exercise in the Andaman Sea on Friday (February 13). The exercise aimed to enhance joint operational readiness, improve interoperability, and strengthen maritime cooperation for a safe and stable region. In a post on X, Spokesperson of the Indian Navy shared, "Ships from the navies of India, Japan and Indonesia undertook a trilateral exercise in the Andaman Sea on 13 Feb 26, enhancing combined operational readiness, interoperability and reinforcing maritime cooperation towards a safe, secure and stable region." Earlier, on Thursday, the Indian Navy assumed command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 154, a key multinational training task force under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF). According to a press release, the change of command ceremony was conducted on February 11 at CMF Headquarters in Manama, Bahrain, and was presided over by VAdm Curt A Renshaw, Commander, CMF / US NAVCEN/US Fifth Fleet. VAdm Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff (DCNS), Indian Navy, and senior military leaders from other member nations were in attendance. Cmde Milind M Mokashi, Shaurya Chakra, of the Indian Navy, formally took over as Commander CTF 154 from the outgoing Commander of the Italian Navy. According to the release, CTF 154 is specifically oriented toward training and capacity building for member nations of the CMF. It reflects the region's growing trust in India's professional expertise, operational experience, and role as a Preferred Security Partner among the 47 nations of the CMF.CTF 154, established in May 2023, is dedicated to enhancing maritime security through multinational training programs across the Middle East and the wider region. The task force conducts regular Maritime Security Enhancement Training (MSET) events, exercises such as Compass Rose and Northern/Southern Readiness, and outreach to build partner nations' operational capabilities to address common threats, including illegal trafficking, piracy, and irregular migration, according to the release. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Friday that reforms, whether implemented through the annual budget or outside it, are gaining momentum, positioning India to drive global growth and emerge as the worlds new economic engine. Speaking at the ET Now Global Business Summit 2026, Modi said the FY27 budget, with its emphasis on capital expenditure and technology, has further accelerated the reform express. Union budgets have become more outcome focused, he said. Todays India is confident, globally competitive, and has built a strong manufacturing ecosystem over the past eleven years, an official statement quoted Modi, while highlighting the governments push to liberalize trade through new free trade agreements. The prime minister noted that the government has made the budget both outlay- and outcome-centric, while reforms continue outside the budget. He cited GST reforms, the Constitutional amendment reserving a third of Lok Sabha and state assembly seats for women, and the law against triple talaq as examples. When the last decade began, India was the eleventh largest economy, and amidst turmoil there were fears of decline, but today India is rapidly advancing to become the worlds third largest economy, Modi said, adding that the country currently contributes more than 16% of global growth, a share he expects to rise in coming years. India's economy is projected to grow at 7.4% in the current financial year. Infrastructure spending has been increased to nearly 17 trillion rupees, Modi said, referring to the multiplier effect of capex in boosting capacity, productivity, and job creation across multiple sectors. He highlighted budget announcements such as five university townships, the development of city economic regions in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, and seven new high-speed rail corridors, describing them as true investments in the youth and the future of the nation. The prime minister also emphasized state empowerment. Between 2014 and 2025, states received 84 trillion. With the nearly 14 trillion proposed in FY27, total tax devolution under his government will approach 100 trillion, enabling state-led development nationwide. Modi credited Indias enhanced economic strength and policy clarity for facilitating trade deals, noting that in the past decade, India has concluded agreements with 38 countries. Today, we are entering trade agreements because India is confident. Todays India is prepared to compete globallyIndia, today, is capable and empowered, and that is why the world trusts us. This transformation forms the foundation of the paradigm shift in our trade policy, and this paradigm shift has become an essential pillar in our journey toward a developed India, he said. He said government machinery is now more proactive and future-oriented, noting that critics question his vision for 2047 and a developed India as uncertain. He added that if freedom fighters had adopted a similar mindset, India would never have gained independence. Hours after a Shillong-bound IndiGo flight was grounded due to a bomb threat that was later confirmed to be a hoax, another security alert emerged on Saturday evening when a suspicious message was found in the toilet of a Dibrugarh-Kolkata flight, PTI reported, citing officials. The IndiGo flight 6E 6894 landed safely at 7.37 pm at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and was immediately taken to the isolation bay as per security protocol. All passengers were safely deboarded, the statement said. Also Read | Several schools across Delhi receive bomb threats, investigation underway The message, reportedly written with lipstick, was found inside the aircraft toilet, "indicating a bomb threat," it added. Earlier in the day, a Shillong-bound plane was held at Kolkata airport for approximately four hours after a bomb threat was reported. The IndiGo flight 6E 7304 was moved to the isolation bay after the discovery of a handwritten note claiming that a bomb had been placed on the plane, it said. The threat was later revealed to be a hoax, and after a thorough search following standard security procedures, the flight departed for Shillong at 1:33 pm. Also Read | Spurned lover held for hoax bomb threat to Puri Jagannath temple: Details here An Airports Authority of India (AAI) spokesperson stated that one of the crew members found the note in the aircrafts lavatory around 9:15 am, roughly 15 minutes before the flights scheduled departure, PTI reported. Thereafter, the passengers were safely deboarded, and the aircraft was moved to the isolation bay. Standard security protocols were followed, and a thorough inspection was conducted by the agencies concerned, he said, as reported by PTI. Last month, on January 23, IndiGo Flight 6E 2608 from Delhi to Pune received a bomb threat when a handwritten note was discovered in the aircrafts lavatory upon arrival at Pune Airport. (With inputs from agencies) Upon completion of all safety checks and clearance by security authorities, the aircraft was declared safe for operations, the AAI spokesperson added. (With inputs from PTI) Mumbai Metro Mishap Highlights: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde ordered the suspension of an executive engineer after an accident at a Metro construction site in Mumbais Mulund area. The collapse of a parapet segment on the under-construction Metro Rail Line 4 bridge resulted in one death and injuries to three others. One person was killed, and three others were injured after a portion of a pillar of an under-construction metro rail route in Mulund, north-east Mumbai, collapsed on Saturday afternoon. The incident occured near pier number P196 during the construction of the ongoing Metro line in the RAJV (Milan) area close to the Mulund Fire Station. Detailing the incident, the MMRDA said a section of the parapet fell from a height and struck an auto-rickshaw passing by. The deceased has been identified as Ramdhan Yadav, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. Other individuals who were injured have been identified as Rajkumar Indrajeet Yadav (45) who is in a critical condition, Mahendra Pratap Yadav (52), and Deepa Ruhiya (40), who are in stable health condition, reported ANI, citing BMC Stay tuned to Livemint for all the latest updates on Mumbai metro mishap Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said a thorough probe will be conducted into the metro rail slab collapse incident in Mulund in Mumbai on Saturday, which killed one person and left three others injured. The probe will cover aspects of safety, precautions during construction etc and action will be taken against those responsible for the incident, he said. A safety audit will be initiated immediately at all such sites so that incidents of this nature can be prevented, the chief minister said on the sidelines of an event here. One person died and three others were injured after a slab of the girder bridge of the under-construction metro rail line 4 collapsed on a few vehicles in Mumbai's Mulund area this afternoon, police and civic officials said. A slab of the parapet wall of the girder bridge fell near Johnson and Johnson factory on the arterial LBS Road some time after noon on an autorickshaw and a Skoda car, both of which were heavily damaged. Line 4 is an under-construction route from Wadala in south-central Mumbai to neighbouring Thane with a large section passing over the arterial LBS Road connecting areas like Vikhroli, Bhandup, Mulund etc. "The accident in Mulund is very unfortunate. Our prayers are with the kin of the deceased and those injured. The medical expenses of the injured will be taken care of by MMRDA and the state government," Fadnavis said. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang will not be travelling to India next week for the India AI Impact Summit, which is expected to be attended by global technology industry and political leaders, Reuters reported on Saturday, 14 February, citing the company. The CEO of the chip-making giant was expected to be one of the summit's biggest attractions, which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday. Why will Huang miss the India AI Impact Summit? Although Huang was scheduled to speak to the media in New Delhi on Wednesday, MSL, the company's media agency in India, stated in an email that he would not be travelling because of "unforeseen circumstances." Also Read | India extends historic invitation to China for 2026 AI Impact Summit What is the India AI Impact Summit about? India is hosting the IndiaAI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi from 16 to 20 February 2026. Around 17 heads of state, the United Nations chief, and several global tech CEOs are expected to attend the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. According to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs, The Summit is anchored in three Sutras: People, Planet and Progress, which define Indias approach to cooperation on AI. The Summit will bring together global leaders, policymakers, innovators, and experts from across the world to deliberate on the way forward for AI. In a post on X, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the summit's overarching theme is "Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya Welfare for All, Happiness of All," reflecting India's vision of leveraging artificial intelligence for inclusive and sustainable development. "The upcoming India-AI Impact Summit is the first-ever global AI Summit to be hosted in the Global South. The theme of this summit is 'Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya - Welfare for All, Happiness of All' and is based on 3 sutras or guiding principles-people, planet and progress," he said on Thursday Named as the biggest so far, this is the fourth edition of the annual global event that tackles the risks and opportunities of the rapidly growing artificial intelligence technology. Posters of wanted Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist have surfaced in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda amid intensified operations. Senior Superintendent of Police, Doda, Sandeep Mehta said the Pakistani terrorist, identified as Saifullah, is believed to be hiding in the Chatroo belt of the adjoining Kishtwar district. Intelligence inputs suggest he is desperately seeking an opportunity to flee and may attempt to avoid detection by changing his appearance including possibly dressing in womens clothing or wearing a burqa, said the police officer, reported PTI. "We have circulated his poster - both with and without a beard - for the information of the general public. It is the poster of the same individual (Saifullah) who is the main JeM commander who is alive and attempting to flee Chatroo belt," he said, requesting people to immediately share information with police on spotting this person anywhere at any time. The posters, carrying photographs and brief details of the suspects, urge the public to share any credible information with the police while assuring complete confidentiality and protection of informants, the officials said. Search operation ongoing The release of the Pakistani terrorist's posters comes amid heightened security operations in the high-altitude areas across the Jammu region. The stepped-up vigil reportedly follows recent encounters and fresh intelligence inputs indicating the presence of militants in the area. SSP Mehta said that a search operation has been ongoing for the past four days in the Thathri area of Doda. He said whenever police receive any information about suspicious individuals, search operations are immediately launched, reported PTI. The officer also appealed to the public to ensure that the police are informed before renting out any house or shop in their area, emphasising that prior verification is essential for maintaining security and preventing misuse of rented premises. Posters released at which areas? Posters were seen at key checkpoints and public places, including Nagri, Dessa, Ganpat Bridge at the Doda entry point, and Thathri, the officials said. They added that more notices are being displayed in other sensitive areas to widen public awareness and outreach. Officials noted that the poster campaign is part of intensified efforts to dismantle terror networks operating in the Chenab Valley, including Doda and neighbouring Kishtwar districts, which have witnessed a series of encounters in recent years after militants attempted to revive activities in parts of the Jammu region that had largely been cleared of terrorism. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday said that this is the last media briefing of the Union Cabinet that Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the "Seva Teerth" complex to the nation, which was inaugurated earlier on Friday. Seva Teerth houses the Prime Minister's Office, the National Security Council Secretariat, and the Cabinet Secretariat, all of which were previously located across different locations. Vaishnaw added that the South and North Blocks were built by the British to maintain colonial rule in India, and that we are happy that today marked the last Union Cabinet meeting to be held in the South Block. During the media briefing on Union Cabinet decisions, which was held for the last time in the previously known South block building, Vaishnaw said, "On 13th February 2026, PM Narendra Modi dedicated the new PMO office, 'Seva Teerth', to the nation. The South and North blocks were built by the British to maintain colonial rule in India. In 1947, India attained freedom, but the then-government continued using these buildings for its work." "Ever since independence, PMO has been working from the office in South Block. We are happy that today, union cabinet meeting is being held in this office of the South Block for the very last time," he said. A day earlier, PM Modi inaugurated Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan-1 and 2 in the national capital and said these buildings have been built to fulfil the aspirations of the people of the country. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that a new history is being made and the day has become a witness to a new beginning in India's development journey. He said that as the country moves towards a Viksit Bharat, it is vital that India sheds every trace of a colonial mindset. The Prime Minister emphasised that in the scriptures, Vijaya Ekadashi has held great significance, as the resolve taken on this day always leads to victory. In a tragic incident, a 5-year-old girl lost her life after a pack of stray dogs attacked four children who had stepped out of their homes in the morning in the Dhaneipur area of Uttar Pradeshs Gonda district on Saturday. According to police, the incident took place around 7 am on Saturday near the primary school in Madhavganj, anout 200 metres from the victim's house. The deceased has been identified as Muskan, aged 5, daughter of Bishun Lal, a resident of Kalyan Nagar ward in Gonda. Also Read | Centre orders hospitals to keep permanent stocks of anti-rabies shots She had gone out along with her elder sister Mehak, aged 6, and two other children, Naitik and Sunaina, when the dogs attacked them. While the other children managed to escape, Muskan was seriously injured in the attack, the police said. On hearing their cries, neighbours immediately rushed to the spot, following which the dogs fled. Subsequently, Muskan was taken to the Community Health Centre and later shifted to the medical college, where she was declared dead by the doctors. Local councillor Pawan Tiwari and Nagar Panchayat chairperson's representative Brijbhushan Verma met the bereaved family and assured them that steps would be taken to capture the stray dogs. UP govt expedites setting up of animal birth control centres Addressing the growing concern regarding stray canines and bite incidents statewide, the Uttar Pradesh administration has fast-tracked the establishment of animal birth control (ABC) facilities and refuge centers. These ABC units and Dog Shelter Homes are currently being constructed within municipal corporations and various district hubs across the state, according to an official statement issued recently. At the administrative tier, emphasis is being placed on the synchronized advancement of site selection, financial provisioning, and project authorization. These actions align with specific directives previously issued by the Supreme Court. On 7 November, 2025, the Supreme Court acknowledged the "alarming surge" in canine attacks within institutional zones such as hospitals and schools, ordering that such animals be relocated to authorized shelters. The judicial bench instructed authorities to block the entry of stray dogs into the grounds of both public and private educational sites and medical facilities to mitigate the risk of injury. Also Read | Mass murder of strays linked to poll promise? Telangana police probe case Under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the government aims to settle the stray dog challenge through humane and scientific methodologies, the statement said. The robust network of Dog Shelter Homes and ABC facilities will safeguard public health while simultaneously advancing the standards of animal welfare. Within metropolitan jurisdictions, Dog Shelter Homes will be integrated with existing or upcoming ABC centers. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, holds a trilateral meeting with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Li Ying) MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- China and the European Union (EU) should respect each other's core interests and major concerns, properly manage differences and frictions, deepen practical cooperation and join efforts to address global challenges, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Friday during a trilateral meeting with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, described the first-ever trilateral meeting as an innovative step in response to evolving global circumstances and an important opportunity for strategic communication. Highlighting that the world is undergoing the most profound and complex changes since World War II, with unilateralism, protectionism and power politics on the rise, Wang called for upholding mutual respect, seeking common ground while shelving differences, promoting openness and cooperation and pursuing mutually beneficial cooperation, to chart the course for the development of China-Europe relations and provide more stability and certainty to a fluid and turbulent world. Five decades of exchanges and cooperation have shown that China and Europe are partners rather than rivals, that interdependence is not a risk, that convergence of interests is not a threat, and that openness and cooperation will not undermine security, he said. Noting that China's development is an opportunity for Europe and that Europe's challenges do not come from China, Wang expressed hope that Germany and France will proceed from their own interests and the overall interests of the EU to help the bloc foster an objective and comprehensive understanding of China, pursue a rational and pragmatic China policy, and stay committed to regarding the China-Europe relationship as a partnership. Wadephul said that in a turbulent world, Germany and France need dialogue and communication with China more than ever to build mutual trust, dispel misunderstandings, play their due roles as major countries and speak with one voice. Germany attaches importance to China's positive role in global affairs and is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China, he said, adding that Germany and France reaffirm their firm commitment to the one-China policy and are dedicated to developing long-term, stable relations with China. Wadephul said that Germany supports free trade and opposes decoupling and disruptions to industrial and supply chains and is willing to work with China to resolve trade frictions through consultations and promote balanced development of EU-China economic and trade relations. Noting the rising instability in today's world, threats to multilateralism and the international order and protracted conflicts in various regions, Barrot said France, China and Germany should work together to promote world peace and improve global governance. The more unstable the international landscape becomes, the more necessary it is to build partnerships, he noted, adding that France is committed to revitalizing stable and positive EU-China relations. Barrot said France welcomes the Global Governance Initiative proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, and looks forward to holding communication and dialogue with China to promote coordination across multilateral platforms and uphold multilateralism and free trade. The three sides also exchanged views on major issues in China-Europe relations and on issues of common concern, including the Ukraine crisis. They spoke positively of the significance of the meeting and agreed to maintain strategic communication. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday emphasized the strategic significance of the newly inaugurated Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) at the Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh, hailing it as a "matter of immense pride." He made a historic landing at the Emergency Landing Facility aboard the C-130J aircraft in Assam's Dibrugarh district. He took off from the Chabua airfield after his arrival, and landed at the ELF. In a social media post on X, the Prime Minister said: "It is a matter of immense pride that the Northeast gets an Emergency Landing Facility. From a strategic point of view and during times of natural disasters, this facility is of great importance." Developed in close partnership with the Indian Air Force, the facility supports the takeoff and landing of both military and civilian aircraft during crises. It represents a vital asset for national security and disaster management, facilitating the rapid mobilization of rescue missions and relief efforts across the region. Designed as dual-purpose infrastructure, the strip can accommodate fighter jets weighing up to 40 tonnes and heavy transport aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of 74 tonnes. Earlier, the Indian Air Force staged an impressive aerial demonstration at the site. Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Rafale fighter jets performed maneuvers as the Prime Minister and other high-ranking officials observed the display. PM Modi watched a versatile sequence involving fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters. Upon his arrival in Dibrugarh, the Prime Minister was formally received on stage by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma alongside Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. This ELF marks a historic milestone as the first such installation in Northeast India. Later, PM Modi is scheduled to launch and dedicate various development initiatives exceeding 5,450 crore. These projects focus on enhancing digital networks, connectivity, urban transit, and higher education throughout the Northeast. At around 1 PM, the Prime Minister conducted an inspection of the newly finished Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu over the Brahmaputra River. He will subsequently inaugurate further developmental works totaling over 5,450 crore at Guwahatis Lachit Ghat. On 14 February, Nothing officially opened its first flagship retail store in India in Indiranagar, Bengaluru. The 5,032-square-foot space is the companys second global flagship after its Soho, London location. More than 2,000 people gathered outside Nothings new Indiranagar flagship in Bengaluru. Queues stretched over 300 metres before opening. Also Read | Nothing Phone 4a series price, colours and specs leaked before MWC 2026 Founder Carl Pei drew strong online attention after arriving in an autorickshaw. Despite the excitement, several visitors described confusion and discomfort on the ground. Akis Evangelidis, co-founder and India President, Nothing, said regarding the launch, Opening our first flagship store is a major milestone for Nothing, cementing our position as one of the fastest-growing smartphone brands in India. More than just a point of transaction, we intentionally didnt want to build a conventional retail store. Instead, we designed this space to offer our customers a unique, immersive experience. Our goal is to build understanding, trust, and lasting relationships with our community. The Indian market highly values hands-on engagement and design-led thinking, and this store will be the platform where we invite curiosity, clearly tell our brand story, and cultivate a hub for future launches, collaborations, and community-focused experiences. Some reported poor queue control, crowd pushing and unclear wristband distribution. Only 1,000 people were allowed inside for safety. Others criticised rude behaviour from certain staff and insensitive comments linked to language differences. Carl Pei thanked Bengalurus energetic tech community. Co-founder Akis Evangelidis admitted to overcrowding problems. I have also cancelled my flight so that I can be at the store tomorrow at 10 am to personally spend time with those who were unable to attend today, he wrote on Twitter (now X). Over 2000 people turned up today for our store opening what an incredible day - means so much! Thank you, India, he wrote in a separate post. Nothing store in Bengaluru: Social media reaction Social media users reacted to Nothings store opening in Bengaluru. Talking about product quality? That's one thing. But Nothing's marketing genius in Bengaluru stands out. Dropping epic entries in auto and sweet offers, and all of this while also bagging the title sponsor for the local IPL team RCB. They know exactly how to pull in the customers, one user wrote. Kuch bii karo, 2000 hazaar log aajatha hai celebrate karne keliye woh bii super excited. Nothing store, Bengaluru, opening scenes today. Congratulations Carl and team, wrote another user. Another user wrote, The Nothing store in Bengaluru looks great and matches their modular style. Moreover, kudos to their marketing team who are successful most of the times in getting a decent hype for their announcements. Also Read | Nothing confirms its first India flagship store in Bengaluru Feeling genuinely happy to be at Nothing store today at Indiranagar and taking selfie with Carl Pei and Akis Evangelidis. Was lucky to be among first 100 customers. Wishing all the very best to the Nothing TEAM, the user wrote. Nothing store in Bangalore The Nothing store in Bangalore is designed as an immersive brand experience rather than a normal shop. The store uses a retro-futuristic industrial style with exposed concrete and steel. It operates daily from 11 am to 9 pm. Spread across two floors, it includes interactive product zones, a creator studio and conveyor belt displays. It also has vending machines and a special back room for experimental concepts. Also Read | Bangalore metro fare hike: No official orders issued to rescind updated tariffs Visitors can explore the full range of Nothing Phone 3 and CMF devices, as well as official merchandise and apparel. Beyond the flagship, the company also runs service and retail points across Bengaluru. Nothings services include an exclusive service centre in Indiranagar, a retail outlet in Rajajinagar and a multi-product store in HSR Layout. The White House on Saturday released four unconventional postcards to mark Valentines Day 2026, celebrating US President Donald Trump's recent actions, including capture of former Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. This series of digital cards sparked online debate as these striking images pointed to United States' aggressive foreign policy goals while extending holiday greetings. Stepping away from traditional romantic messages, the administration shared comic digital "cards" blending humour with geopolitical themes, such as the proposed annexation of Greenland. This caption of this eccentric Valentines Day special post states, Made just for you. Have a look at what these postcards depict: The first card shows handcuffed Venezuelan former President Nicolas Maduro wearing a blindfold. He is in New York's detention facility after US forces captured him last month. Signifying Valentines gift to the American people, the caption to the post card states, You captured my heart as it celebrates bringing Maduro to justice. The second visual depicts Executive order 4547 alongside Trump with the caption, UR my Valentine. Form 4547, also known as Trump Accounts, promises one-time $1,000 government seed contribution to every US citizen born between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2028. Established through Trumps Working Families Tax Cuts Act, it claims to be a pro-family initiative to ensure lifelong financial security. My love for you is as strong as Democrats love for aliens. I'd fly 1,537 miles to have a drink with you," the title of the third post card states. It points to Trump backed Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) aggressive crackdown on illegal immigrants. With Greenland map inside a heart, the caption reads, Its time we define our situationship. It created a satire over Greenland's situation. Social media reaction A user wrote, Love it or hate it, the strategy of blending official business with internet culture is definitely the new standard for 2026. Another user remarked, Again. Children run this account. Just crazy the White House account spends their time with memes. I guess anything but the Epstein files. A third comment read, Cant figure out which one that I like most as a Valentines Day Card. I like them all but Dems love for illegals runs DEEP. A fourth user stated, I like the one thats says Id fly 1500 miles to have a drink with you. A fifth user quipped, BEST SENSE OF HUMOR this White House has ever had. . Five European countries said Saturday that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a deadly toxin derived from dart frog skin, and they accused the Russian government of being responsible for the attack, as reported by Reuters. The foreign ministries of the UK, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said analysis of samples from Navalny, who died two years ago, have conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine. It is a toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America that is not found naturally in Russia, they said. Also Read | Was Putin critic Navalny poisoned? Wife Yulia cites foreign lab tests as proof The countries said in a joint statement that Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison. They said they were reporting Russia to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons for a breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. UK PM Keir Starmer said in a post on X, "Alexei Navalny displayed huge courage in the face of tyranny. His determination to expose the truth has left an enduring legacy, and my thoughts are with his family today." I am doing whatever it takes to defend our people, our values and our way of life from the threat of Russia and Putins murderous intent, he added. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said, "Russia saw Navalny as a threat. By using this form of poison the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition. Alexei Navalny, who built his profile by exposing alleged corruption and organising large anti-Kremlin demonstrations as the most prominent critic of Vladimir Putin, died in February 2024 at an Arctic penal colony. He had been serving a 19-year prison sentence that he said was politically driven, as reported by Reuters. Also Read | Was Putin critic Navalny poisoned? Wife Yulia cites foreign lab tests as proof His widow, Yulia Navalnaya, stated last year that two independent laboratories concluded he had been poisoned shortly before his death. She has repeatedly held Putin responsiblean accusation Russian officials strongly reject. Authorities in Russia, however, said Navalny fell ill after taking a walk and died of natural causes. Also Read | Russia has blocked WhatsApp for failing to comply with local laws, Kremlin says In 2020, Navalny was poisoned with a nerve agent attack he blamed on the Kremlin, which always denied involvement. His family and allies fought to have him flown to Germany for treatment and recovery. Five months later, he returned to Russia, where he was immediately arrested and imprisoned for the last three years of his life, Reuters reported. The Consulate General of India in San Francisco expressed "deep concern" over the disappearance of a student from Karnataka studying in the US. The Indian post-graduate student, Saketh Sreenivasaiah, went missing in California on 9 February. The Consulate General of India in San Francisco confirmed the news in a post on X. It said, Consulate General of India in San Francisco is deeply concerned about the disappearance of Saketh Sreenivasaiah, an Indian post-graduate student of UC Berkeley, hailing from the State of Karnataka. The Consulate is in touch with the family and also is in contact with the concerned local authorities to locate the student, the statement added. Who is Saketh Sreenivasaiah? Saketh Sreenivasaiah, 22, was pursuing his Master of Science in Product Development Programme from the University of California, Berkeley. I'm a Masters student in the Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering department at UC Berkeley, with an undergraduate degree from IIT Madras. I'm passionate about deep-tech innovations in soft and active materials, semiconductors, and advanced materials, Sreenivasaiah wrote on his LinkedIn profile. He was an alumnus of the Institute of Technology, Madras. At IIT Madras, he pursued a Bachelor of Technology in chemical engineering. What we know about Karnataka student's missing case so far According to NDTV, authorities said Sreenivasaiah was last seen around a kilometre away from the campus. Local news outlet SFGate cited the Berkeley Police Department as saying that Sreenivasaiah was spotted in the 1700 block of Dwight Way on 10 February. Also Read | Indian-American FBI chief Kash Patel faces hate for Diwali greeting on X Later, a backpack containing Sreenivasaiah's passport and a laptop was found near a residence close to Tilden Regional Park, also near the campus, the report added. Meanwhile, police reportedly described Sreenivasaiah as 6 feet 1 inch tall with short, black hair and brown eyes. They said he is considered at risk and asked people with any leads or information about him to come forward. Also Read | Indian-American Microsoft engineer confronts Satya Nadella over AI use by Israel Following this, a citywide search was launched, with a focus on Lake Anza and the surrounding Berkeley Hills areas. US President Donald Trump threatened to bypass Congress and force stringent new voter ID laws ahead of November midterm elections. In a statement on Friday, Trump said, There will be Voter I.D. for the Midterm Elections, whether approved by Congress or not! Also, the People of our Country are insisting on Citizenship, and No Mail-In Ballots, with exceptions for Military, Disability, Illness, or Travel, he added in a TRUTH post on Friday. While many jurisdictions across the United States require photo ID to cast ballots, not all do, with Trump and many Republicans arguing without evidence that those areas have permitted significant voter fraud. Trump did not explain how he would go about imposing such rules, which critics say would serve to prevent millions of legitimate voters from taking part in the election, news agency AFP reported. Trump slammed the Democrats, saying they refused to vote for Voter ID or citizenship. The reason is very simple They want to continue to cheat in Elections, Trump alleged. This was not what our Founders desired. I have searched the depths of Legal Arguments not yet articulated or vetted on this subject, and will be presenting an irrefutable one in the very near future, he added. In a separate social media post, Trump said, We cannot let the Democrats get away with NO VOTER I.D. any longer. These are horrible, disingenuous CHEATERS. They have all sorts of reasons why it shouldnt be passed, and then boldly laugh in the backrooms after their ridiculous presentations, Trump wrote. If it werent such a serious matter, it would be considered a TOTAL JOKE! No Voter I.D. is even crazier, and more ridiculous, than Men playing in Womens Sports, Open Borders, or Transgender for Everyone, he addded. Also Read | The legal misstep that imperiled Trumps midterm strategy "Republicans must put this at the top of every speech It is a CANT MISS FOR RE-ELECTION IN THE MIDTERMS, AND BEYOND!, the US President said. He went on to say that this is an issue that must be fought, and must be fought now. An Executive Order Trump also teased an Executive Order. He wrote on TRUTH, If we cant get it through Congress, there are Legal reasons why this SCAM is not permitted. I will be presenting them shortly, in the form of an Executive Order. The Trump-backed "SAVE America" election reform act was passed in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives this week. However, it is expected to fail in the Senate, where the Republican majority is too slim to pass the law without Democratic support. In addition to requiring a photo ID to cast a ballot, the bill would also require proof of citizenship to register to vote. There is no evidence of meaningful fraud in US elections and critics say that the bill's measures would instead push millions of people away from casting ballots, because they don't have a passport or a paper copy of their birth certificate. The White House ordered the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to begin shutdown procedures as its funding from Congress expires at midnight, Bloomberg reported on Friday. It's the third time in the last six months that parts of the US government will shut down. Here's an explainer on what to expect from the DHS shutdown: Why will the DHS shutdown happen? The DHS shutdown will be imposed as lawmakers debate new restrictions on US President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement agenda. The impasse is over Democrats' request that Homeland Security funding be stripped from a broader spending package to allow more time for negotiation over demands for changes to immigration enforcement, the Associated Press reported. Also Read | US Congress deadlock over immigration risks partial shutdown The changes may include a code of conduct for federal agents and a requirement that officers show identification. As the funding for the DHS is set to expire Saturday, Democrats say they won't help approve more funding until new restrictions are placed on federal immigration operations after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis during the immigration crackdown last month. Also Read | US government partial shutdown to delay January jobs report: BLS The White House has been negotiating with the Democrats, but the two sides failed to reach a deal by the end of the week, guaranteeing that funding for the department will lapse. Which agencies will be affected? Only agencies under the DHS umbrella like the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, US Customs and Border Protection, the Secret Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency will be affected. Some federal workers could also begin to miss paychecks. The vast majority of employees at the Secret Service and US Coast Guard will continue their work, though they could also miss a paycheck depending on the shutdown's length. Which services will be affected? According to Bloomberg, the shutdown will affect DHS functions other than immigration and border enforcement. Other security-sensitive jobs will be deemed essential, and those employees will report to work without pay. Services like airport screening could also suffer if the shutdown drags on for weeks, the Associated Press reported. About 95 percent of employees are deemed essential at the Transportation Security Administration. They will continue to scan passengers and their bags at the nations commercial airports. Also Read | US govt shutdown 2026 enters Day 3; agencies shutter amid funding deal delay But they will work without pay until the funding lapse is resolved. At the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the shutdown will disrupt the agency's ability to reimburse states for disaster relief costs. Some workers will be furloughed, limiting the agency's ability to coordinate with state and local partners, and training for first responders at the National Disaster and Emergency Management University in Maryland will be disrupted. What's essential, what's not? Its up to each federal agency to designate which of its employees are essential or excepted, both of which mean the same thing in this case. They keep working during a shutdown, typically without getting paid until government funding is back in place. Some examples of essential employees are military personnel , security screeners at airports and law enforcement officers. There can be a wide range, from positions deemed critical for public safety to those authorised by law to continue even without new funding. (With inputs from agencies) Following the histroric victory by Bangladesh Nationalist Party in general elections, BNP chairman Tarique Rahmans adviser Humayun Kabir on Saturday claimed that "Hindu extremism and far-right intolerance" are growing in India. He also described radicalisation as a wider concern in South Asia. In an interview with PTI, Kabir said: Radicalisation is a problem in South Asia. We see Hindu extremism and far-right intolerance growing in Indian society, and in Pakistan, we also hear of extremist elements. In Bangladesh, it is not at that level, but there are some issues. He also emphasised that regional governments must work together instead of functioning in isolation. That is why all of us need to share counter-terrorism evidence and assessments and strengthen cooperation. Sitting in isolation and not engaging in information exchange or security cooperation only hinders progress, Kabir said. It is important to have cooperation at all levels, which is the norm of diplomacy, especially between elected governments in our region. Going forward, information sharing and working together will build confidence in detecting and tracking terrorists and extremists in the region, he added. Calling for balanced and cooperative ties with India, Kabir also said during former PM Sheikh Hasinas regime Dhakas foreign policy was more aligned with Indias foreign policy rather than Bangladeshs. For the last 15 years under the Hasina regime, there have been deep and disturbing concerns that the foreign policy was more aligned with Indias foreign policy rather than Bangladeshs. These concerns will continue to exist, he said. What we want are balanced relations. We will not limit our relationships to a single country, and we will not accept any agreements that prevent us from doing business with others. We will avoid such agreements and disclosures, he added. Attacks on minorities On the issue of attacks on minorities, Kabir commented that communal harmony prevails in Bangladesh. The minority violence seen in India does not exist in the same form in Bangladesh, where communal harmony prevails, Kabir said. After the 5th August uprising, Bangladesh was without a government for five days, yet no one attacked minorities, as our leader, Tarique Rahman, urged people to remain calm and not take the law into their own hands, he added. Tarique Rahman calls for peace Post-election Bangladesh Nationalist Partys Tarique Rahman is set to become Prime Minister after sweeping victory in the general elections. In his victory speech, Rahman on Saturday called for calm across the country, asserting that peace and the rule of law must be upheld at any cost in post-election Bangladesh. Bangladesh is reportedly preparing to invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other regional leaders to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the countrys next prime minister, Tarique Rahman, scheduled for February 17, sources familiar with the matter told PTI on Saturday. It is learnt that Dhaka has already communicated its plan to New Delhi, PTI reported, citing sources. Tarique Rahmans party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, has indicated that leaders from several countries in the region will be invited to the ceremony. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding the invitations so far, PTI reported. Will PM Modi attend the swearing-in of Tarique Rahman? Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to visit Dhaka, as he is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai on February 17. New Delhi may send a senior government functionary to attend Rahman's swearing-in ceremony, it is learnt, as reported by PTI. In a phone conversation with Rahman on Friday, Modi congratulated the BNP leader on his party's remarkable victory in the Bangladesh parliamentary election. "I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh," Modi said after the call. "As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India's continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples," he said. Bangladesh elections The 13th parliamentary election gained significance as it was held after a prolonged period of political uncertainty, instability, and fragile security conditions, including widespread attacks on minorities following student-led protests that ended the 15-year rule of Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. Hasina fled to India on August 5, 2024. Three days later, Muhammad Yunus assumed charge as Chief Adviser of the interim government, during whose tenure Dhakas ties with New Delhi saw a marked deterioration. On Saturday, in addition to responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modis message on X, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party posted several messages on the platform thanking leaders and heads of government from South Asian nations, including Pakistan, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and China. Tarique Rahman, the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who died in December, also called for unity and pledged that he would not act in ways that undermine the country. To ensure that no evil force can reestablish autocracy in the country, and to ensure that the nation is not turned into a subservient state, we must remain united and uphold the will of the people, he said, as reported by AP. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party is one of the countrys long-established political forces, alongside Sheikh Hasinas now-banned Awami League. Hasina faced growing accusations of authoritarianism during her 15-year tenure in office. In recent years, the BNP declined to participate in elections held under her leadership. To ensure that no evil force can reestablish autocracy in the country, we must remain united and uphold the will of the people. Since her ouster, Hasina has been living in exile in India and has been convicted of crimes against humanity related to hundreds of deaths during the weeks-long uprising. (With inputs from agencies) The Paris prosecutors office said on Saturday that it was setting up a special team of magistrates to examine evidence that might link French nationals to the crimes of convicted U.S. sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, AFP reported. Following the release of U.S. documents showing Epsteins connections to prominent French figures, the Paris prosecutors office said it will also conduct a thorough review of the case involving Jean-Luc Brunel, a former French modelling agency executive and close associate of Epstein, who died in custody in 2022, AFP reported. The new team will work closely with prosecutors from the national financial crimes unit and police with a view to opening investigations into any suspected crimes involving French nationals, the Paris prosecutor's office told AFP. Also Read | Who is Casey Wasserman? Mogul to sell talent agency after Epstein files row The aim is to be able to extract any piece that could be usefully reused in a new investigative framework, it said. Brunel was discovered dead in his Paris prison cell in 2022 while facing charges of raping minors. Following his death, the case against him was dismissed in 2023, and no one else was charged. Prosecutors said an investigation had showed Brunel was "a close friend of Jeffrey Epstein" who had offered modelling jobs to young girls from poor backgrounds. He had engaged in sexual acts with underage girls in the United States, the US Virgin Islands, Paris and the south of France, they said. Ten women had made accusations against Brunel, several describing how they had been led to drink alcohol and had been subjected to forced sexual penetration, according to the prosecutor's office. New cases Several French public figures feature in the latest US Department of Justice release of material from the Epstein files, though being mentioned there does not in itself mean any offence has been committed. The prosecutor's office said it had been asked to look into three new specific cases involving a French diplomat, a modelling agent and a musician. At the request of the French foreign ministry it was looking into the reported appearance of senior diplomat Fabrice Aidan in the cache of Epstein-related documents published by the US authorities. Also Read | Cardi B slams DHS over drugs remark after criticizing ICE "An investigation is underway to gather various pieces of evidence that could substantiate this report," the prosecutor's office stated. The prosecutor's office has also received a complaint filed by a Swedish woman against Daniel Siad, a model recruiter with close ties to Epstein. She accused him of "sexual acts that she describes as rape and that may have been committed in France in 1990". The office has also received a complaint filed against French conductor Frederic Chaslin alleging acts of sexual harassment allegedly committed in 2016, it said. The recent release of Epstein-related documents prompted former French minister Jack Lang to step down as head of the Arab World Institute. Lang has denied any wrongdoing, saying he was shocked to see his name listed in the records of an offshore company set up by Epstein in 2016. The national financial prosecutors office announced it has launched a preliminary investigation into Lang and his daughter, Caroline Lang, for aggravated tax fraud and money laundering. Shortly after the announcement, Lang stepped down as president of the Arab World Institute (IMA). KATHMANDU, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Four people were killed in a mini-truck accident in Nepal's Lalitpur, south of the capital Kathmandu, on Friday night, a senior police official said. The truck, which was carrying sand, fell off the highway, leading to the fatal accident. "While two people died on the spot, two others succumbed to their injuries during treatment," Gautam Mishra, spokesperson for the District Police Range Lalitpur, told Xinhua. Police are still probing the cause of the accident, he said. Road accidents are common in Nepal, claiming thousands of lives annually. Twelve people were killed after a passenger bus plunged into a river in Ramechhap district on Tuesday. The search for three children believed to have drowned in the river is still ongoing, the police said. US Iran tension Highlights: Switzerland said on Saturday that Oman will host talks between the United States and Iran in Geneva next week, with Washington urging Tehran to reach an agreement to curb its nuclear programme, as reported by AFP. The exiled son of Iran's last shah called on US President Donald Trump on Saturday to help the Iranian people, a day after the American leader said a change of power would be the best thing, as reported by AFP. US-based Reza Pahlavi, who has not returned to Iran since before the 1979 Islamic revolution that ousted the monarchy, added it was "time to end the Islamic republic" while speaking to reporters at the Munich Security Conference. "It's a matter of time. We are hoping that this attack will expedite the process and the people can be finally back in the streets and take it all the way to the ultimate regime's downfall," said Pahlavi, as reported by AP. Irans leadership is facing mounting pressure, including renewed threats of U.S. military action from Donald Trump, who is pushing Tehran to further limit its nuclear activities. On Friday, Trump said that a change in Irans government would be the best thing that could happen. Iran was also in the spotlight in Munich, where protests took place on the opening day of the annual Munich Security Conference attended by European and global security leaders. Backers of the People's Mujahedin Organisation of Iran, also known as the Mujahedin-e-Khalq, rallied against Tehrans violent suppression of nationwide demonstrations last month. Meanwhile, Reza Pahlavithe son of Irans former shah, who left the country during the 1979 revolutionhas spent nearly five decades in exile but is seeking to play a role in Irans future. Speaking at a news conference in Munich on Saturday, he cautioned that more lives could be lost in Iran if democratic nations simply stand by and watch. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reports that at least 7,005 people were killed during the protests, including 214 members of the security forces. The group, which has previously provided reliable death tolls during earlier periods of unrest in Iran, bases its figures on information gathered and verified through a network of activists inside the country. Iranian authorities released their only official figures on Jan. 21, stating that 3,117 people had died. In the past, Irans ruling establishment has been accused of minimising or failing to disclose the full number of fatalities during episodes of unrest. Get all the US Iran tension updates here on Mint. Iran and the United States are set to hold a second round of discussions on Tehrans nuclear program next week, according to the Swiss Foreign Ministry on Saturday, as reported by AP. The talks will take place in Geneva and be hosted by Oman, which also welcomed the first round of indirect talks on February 6, though the exact dates were not disclosed by the Swiss ministry. After the first discussions, U.S. President Donald Trump warned Tehran that failure to reach an agreement with his administration would be very traumatic. Similar talks last year broke down in June as Israel launched what became a 12-day war on Iran that included the U.S. bombing Iranian nuclear sites. Trump has repeatedly threatened to use force to compel Iran to agree to constrain its nuclear program. Iran has said it would respond with an attack of its own. Trump has also threatened Iran over its deadly crackdown on recent nationwide protests there. Gulf Arab nations have warned that any attack could spiral into another regional conflict. Trump said Friday the USS Gerald R. Ford, the worlds largest aircraft carrier, was being sent from the Caribbean to the Mideast to join other military assets the U.S. has built up in the region. He also said a change in power in Iran would be the best thing that could happen. The indirect talks on Feb. 6 were between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff. The top military commander in the Middle East was also present for the first time. The Trump administration has maintained that Iran can have no uranium enrichment under any deal. Tehran says it wont agree to that. Iran has insisted its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. However, its officials increasingly threaten to pursue a nuclear weapon. Before the June war, Iran had been enriching uranium up to 60% purity, a short, technical step away from weapons-grade levels. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said his nation is ready for any kind of verification. However, the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, has been unable for months to inspect and verify Irans nuclear stockpile. In recent weeks, Trump has indicated that his main focus is for Iran to reduce its nuclear capabilities, while Iran has insisted that negotiations concentrate exclusively on its nuclear program. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who met with Trump in Washington this week, has called for any agreement to also address Irans ballistic missile program and its support for proxy groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Canada wants regime change in Iran Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand told the Globe and Mail on Saturday that Canada favours a change of government in Iran, but she did not clarify whether the country would back a U.S. military strike, Reuters reported. We will not open diplomatic relationships with Iran unless there is a regime change. Period, Anand told the Globe and Mail in an interview in Germany, where she is attending the Munich Security Conference, Reuters reported. Canada has particularly poor relations with Iran and cut off diplomatic ties in 2012. (With inputs from AP) The U.S. military announced Saturday that it had carried out strikes on over 30 Islamic State (IS) targets in Syria this month, continuing efforts to pressure the militants following a deadly attack on American troops last year, AFP reported. The operations coincided with recent efforts by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) to transfer thousands of IS detainees from Syria to Iraq. These individuals had previously been held for years in prisons managed by Kurdish-led forces, the report stated. Also Read | US moves ISIS prisoners in Syria to jails in Iraq amid concern over security US forces "conducted 10 strikes against more than 30 ISIS targets in Syria... to sustain relentless military pressure on remnants from the terrorist network," a CENTCOM statement said, using another acronym for IS. The air strikes, carried out between February 3 and February 12, hit IS "infrastructure and weapons storage targets", it said. The forces additionally conducted "five strikes against an ISIS communication site, critical logistics node, and weapons storage facilities" between January 27 and February 2, the statement said. Washington has attributed the December 13 ambush in Palmyra, which killed two U.S. soldiers and a U.S. civilian interpreter, to an Islamic State fighter. Syrias interior ministry stated that the IS gunman had been part of the security forces and was scheduled for dismissal due to extremist views. In response, the U.S. carried out Operation Hawkeye Strike. "More than 50 ISIS terrorists have been killed or captured and over 100 ISIS infrastructure targets have been struck with hundreds of precision munitions during two months of targeted operations," the CENTCOM statement added, AFP reported. On Friday, CENTCOM announced that it had finished transferring over 5,700 detained Islamic State suspects from 61 countries from Syria to Iraq. The operation started last month after Damascus regained control of territory around the prisons from Kurdish-led forces, raising concerns about the fate of the IS prisoners and prompting U.S. intervention. The territorial defeat of the jihadist group in Syria in 2019 was led by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, alongside the U.S.-led anti-IS coalition. Washington has, however, drawn close to Syria's new authorities, recently saying the purpose of its alliance with the Kurdish forces was largely over, AFP reported. As Damascus seeks to extend its control over all of Syria, US forces confirmed on Thursday their withdrawal from Al-Tanf base near Syria's border with Jordan and Iraq. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with other regional leaders, to the swearing-in ceremony of its leader, Tarique Rahman, following the party's resounding victory in Bangladesh's national elections. Rahman will take the oath as Bangladesh's prime minister on Tuesday, 17 February. Humayun Kabir, foreign policy advisor to BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, told WION that PM Modi might be invited to the oath-taking, signalling a potential thaw in strained bilateral ties between the two neighbouring nations. The list of invited countries, other than India, includes China, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Malaysia, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Nepal, the Maldives, and Bhutan. There is no official confirmation yet from the Government of India or the interim Government of Bangladesh about Modis attendance at the swearing-in. Will PM Modi go to Dhaka? The invitation to PM Modi marks an important moment in India-Bangladesh relations under the new political leadership in Dhaka. New Delhi has already signalled its desire to engage with the new leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally congratulated Rahman for his decisive victory in a post on X and indicated a desire to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals. Modi later spoke with Rahman on the phone, too. But it's unlikely that PM Modi will attend the swearing-in. PM Modi rarely attends oath-taking functions. The last exception was in 2018 when PM Modi attended the oath-taking of Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. On Tuesday, the day Rahman takes oath, PM Modi and visiting French President Emmanuel Macron will be holding bilateral talks in Mumbai. Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, will arrive in Mumbai on Monday evening. After talks in Mumbai on Tuesday, Macron arrives in Delhi on Thursday to attend the India AI Impact Summit. Reset in India-Bangladesh ties? Throughout the fifteen years of Sheikh Hasina's Awami League government in Bangladesh, New Delhi enjoyed friendly ties with Dhaka. However, the New Delhi-Dhaka ties started deteriorating soon after the ouster of the Hasina-led Awami League regime on 5 August 2024 and the subsequent violence against minorities, particularly the Hindu community. Kabir told news agency PTI that Tarique Rahman wants to reset ties with India. It's not for the party, it's for the governments of both countries, for the government of India as well as the new elected government of Bangladesh... to change the mindset. But the onus is on India, he said. If India can adopt a mindset that realises that Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League don't exist in today's Bangladesh, Kabir said. And the resounding victory of the mandate given to the BNP by the people of Bangladesh, clearly points towards that direction. And if they realise and welcome that, and restrain a terrorist like Sheikh Hasina, who has killed 1.5 thousand people or more, and fled to India. and of course, positive cooperation can be developed and looked at and that's normalcy in diplomacy, it should be, he said. PM Modi's call with Tarique Rahman was very cordial, very good, Kabir said. Earlier on Saturday, the BNP acknowledged PM Modi's congratulatory message following the party's sweeping victory in Bangladesh's parliamentary elections earlier this month. BNP thanks PM Modi In a post on X, the BNP expressed appreciation for Modi's message and recognition of its leadership. "Thank you very much, Honourable @narendramodi. We greatly appreciate your kind acknowledgment of Mr. Tarique Rahman's leadership in securing the BNP's decisive win in the national elections. This outcome reflects the trust and confidence the people of Bangladesh have placed in our leadership and in the democratic process." The party further underscored its commitment to democratic governance and national development. "Bangladesh remains committed to upholding democratic values, inclusivity, and progressive development for all its citizens." The BNP signalled its intent to work closely with New Delhi in the coming years. We look forward to engaging constructively with India to advance our multifaceted relationship, guided by mutual respect, sensitivity to each other's concerns, and a shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in our region. Also Read | PM Modi dials Tarique Rahman after BNP wins Bangladesh polls; reaffirms support On Friday, PM Modi extended his warm wishes to Tarique Rahman following the BNP's electoral triumph, which marked a significant political shift in Bangladesh's leadership landscape. In his message posted on X, Modi congratulated Rahman on steering the party to a decisive mandate. "I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership. India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals. @trahmanbnp @bdbnp78" The 2026 Bangladeshi general election, held on 12 February 2026, marked a major political shift. It was the first election after the 2024 mass protests that ousted long-time leader Sheikh Hasina. Thank you very much, Honourable @narendramodi. We greatly appreciate your kind acknowledgment of Mr. Tarique Rahman's leadership in securing the BNP's decisive win in the national elections. The BNP , led by Tarique Rahman, won a landslide majority in the 300-seat parliament, securing well over the 151 seats needed to form a government and positioning Rahman as prime minister-designate. The Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami alliance emerged as the main opposition. According to the report, Khan had perfect vision in both eyes until October 2025 but began reporting persistent blurred and hazy vision to prison authorities. The complaints were allegedly ignored for months, and he received only eye drops that failed to improve his condition. A specialist physician was summoned only in January 2026, by which time the damage was largely irreversible. The report states that he has been left with just 15% vision in his right eye, fuelling speculation that the neglect was deliberate, leaving him alive but politically incapacitated and unable to challenge the civil and military leadership. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday slammed top Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for misleading farmers and fishermen with lies about the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and trade deals Addressing a BJP rally in Puducherry's Karaikal, Shah alleged that Gandhi has started a new tradition of telling lies daily. It's Rahul Gandhi's policy to lie, lie loudly, repeat it. But people have identified your lie manufacturing factory, he said about the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha. The Home Minister assured the farmers and fishermen that the provisions in FTA and the trade deal, apparently the Indo-US one, should be studied carefully. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ensured 100 per cent protection for Indian farmers and fishermen, he said. Shah also launched a scathing attack on the UPA regime headed by the late Manmohan Singh, saying that he "sold off" farmers' interests. Shah alleged that previously, Gandhi family decided matters for Puducherry in Delhi. However, he said, in the NDA regime now, the union territory decides on its own matters. He accused the former Puducherry government led by Congress' V Narayanasamy of turning the Union Territory into an ATM for the Gandhi family. Shah claimed that the former administration sold PG and diploma seats, including those reserved for SC and ST candidates, to wealthy individuals. Narayanasamy's government had turned Puducherry into an ATM for the Gandhi family... They openly auctioned PG and diploma seats and even sold the reserved seats for SC and ST to wealthy individuals for the sake of money... Transport mafias were given free rein to trouble the public. NDA brought political stability to Puducherry Hailing Puducherry Chief Minister N Rangasamy, an ally of the BJP, Amit Shah said, Five years ago, the people of Puducherry formed an NDA government here under the leadership of PM Modi and Rangaswamy. The home minister listed three things the current NDA government did for the UT: First, it has ended corruption here. Second, under the earlier Congress government, Puducherry had been turned into an ATM for their masters in Delhi. We have worked to make Puducherry a truly autonomous Union Territory. Third, we have worked to bring political stability to Puducherry. The BJP veteran also expressed confidence that in 2029, under PM Modi, BJP-led NDA will assume power again at the Centre. PM Modi ensured the prosperity and safety of India. People have faith on NDA, BJP and Puducherry CM Rangasamy, he said. Shah also said that the BJP alliance in Puducherry is aiming to get 60 per cent in the upcoming Assembly elections. The alliance won 44 per cent of the votes in 2021. US agencies are struggling to find the best method to fund additional software for millions of Iranian civilians to get around their governments strict internet censors, amid a surge in demand over weeks of domestic unrest. The State Department, US senators from both parties, and other US agencies have advocated for funding virtual private networks and anti-censorship technology programs that would allow about a quarter of the people in Iran to access the internet without the Islamic Regimes restrictions. But the offices involved cant seem to agree on the best way to get $10 million to the Open Technology Fund, which finances programs to circumvent online censorship worldwide and has seen demand for VPNs in Iran rise to 25 million from the 7.5 million that its resourced to support. Without a resolution, some Iranians may not be able to safely get online in the coming weeks. We need these funds yesterday, said Laura Cunningham, president of the Open Technology Fund. If we dont have these resources immediately, we will be forced to make difficult decisions about cutting off millions of VPN users in Iran as soon as next week. Since 2022, OTF has been receiving State Department funds consistently through the same mechanism, with State providing money to the US Agency for Global Media, which in turn gives it to OTF, Cunningham said. The process typically takes one or two weeks. Deputy CEO of USAGM and Trump ally, Kari Lake, suggests that the traditional method would take months, and proposes that OTF use funds from its own budget to support the additional VPNs, according to a Feb. 5 letter to Republican Senator Lindsey Graham seen by Bloomberg. This solution, however, is not viable, according to a Feb. 10 reply from Graham and fellow Republican Senator James Lankford also seen by Bloomberg. The letter explains that advancing $10 million to the organizations yearly appropriation is not surge funding and would take away from other VPN support that OTF provides in China, Cuba and Russia. We are working hand-in-glove with the State Department to deliver on President Trumps priorities, USAGMs Lake said in a statement. Support is on the way to ensure a steady flow of information as fast as possible through VPNs and a variety of other mechanisms, Lake added. We will continue working tirelessly to deliver in this historic moment despite the Iranian regimes suppression. The State Department echoed the need to help Iranians access information and to have a voice despite the regimes attempts to silence them, according to a statement. We are expanding these capabilities and working with international partners to share the costs of that expansion. Zack Cooper, OTFs board chair, rejected the Lakes explanation. The State Department immediately found $10 million for OTF to support VPN users in Iran, he said in a statement. If USAGM wanted OTF to have these additional resources to support VPN users in Iran, we would. President Donald Trump has repeatedly cheered on protesters who began challenging Tehrans clerical leadership late last year, and said on Friday that regime change would be the best thing that could happen to Iran. Democratic Senators Jacky Rosen and Cory Booker joined forces with Graham and Lankford in late January, penning a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio that emphasized the importance of funding the software. Without the continuous operation of internet freedom programming carried out by the State Department and Open Technology Fund, millions of Iranians will lose their last secure window and voice to the outside world, according to the Jan. 28 letter seen by Bloomberg. Because of US sanctions on Iran, civilians cant pay for these services themselves so nonprofits like the OTF fund the technology that they can use for free. Without VPNs to enable secure, uncensored internet usage, Cunningham argues that Iranians risk being persecuted by the government, which has imposed an extremely aggressive censorship apparatus around the country. The VPNs also help hide peoples IP addresses, making it safer to use Starlink terminals that Elon Musk has set up to help Iranians access the internet when the regime has turned it off. 2026 Bloomberg L.P. By Eduardo Baptista BEIJING, Feb 14 (Reuters) - As China prepares for Lunar New Year holidays starting on Sunday, rivals to DeepSeek are scrambling to release artificial-intelligence models a year after it burst onto the scene with its game-changing R1 and V3 models. With DeepSeek set to launch its next-generation V4 model soon, according to tech news site The Information, many other Chinese AI firms have released or are preparing to launch their own models in the hopes of stealing the spotlight - or at least avoid being off-guard again during this year's Spring Festival. Below are the companies and models looking to make a Spring Festival splash: DEEPSEEK The Hangzhou-based startup's V4 would replace last year's V3 model, which powered the AI assistant app that overtook ChatGPT to become the top-rated free application available on Apple's App Store in the U.S. Investors and industry insiders are also on the lookout for R2, successor to the R1 model. This week DeepSeek fuelled anticipation when its web and mobile chatbot upgraded its "context window" - the amount of information it can remember and handle in a single task, from 128,000 to 1 million tokens, the unit of data processed by the AI model. This means the chatbot can now process book-length passages of text to answer a single user command. BYTEDANCE The makers of short-video platform TikTok are soon expected to release an upgrade of Doubao, China's most popular AI chatbot, in terms of active users. Thursday's release of video-generation AI model Seedance 2.0 has generated comparisons to DeepSeek's global rise, going viral on Chinese social media and drawing widespread praise on X, including from the platform's owner, Elon Musk. Seedance 2.0 can produce high-quality cinematic videos based on a few prompts, or even one. The tech giant released picture-generation model Seedream 5.0 Lite on Friday. ALIBABA Alibaba, the first Chinese firm to respond to DeepSeek's viral ascent last year, with Qwen 2.5-Max, is preparing to launch Qwen 3.5. The e-commerce giant's Qwen app is riding a wave of growing domestic usage after it spent 3 billion yuan ($400 million) last week on a coupon giveaway campaign to promote "agentic commerce", where AI handles consumers' online shopping. This drove more than 120 million consumer orders in the six days through Wednesday, the company said. ZHIPU Zhipu AI released its open-source GLM-5 model on Wednesday, with enhanced coding capabilities and the ability to perform long-running agent tasks. Zhipu is considered one of China's "AI tigers" - promising startups vying with the U.S. to win the AI race. Zhipu went public on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange last month, alongside rival MiniMax, another AI tiger. Both stocks have rallied strongly as investors bet on the companies benefiting from China's AI boom. Zhipu plans a secondary listing in Shanghai, a regulatory filing on Friday showed. MINIMAX MiniMax released its M2.5 open-source model on its overseas agent website on Wednesday. The company's Hong Kong listing raised HK$4.8 billion ($620 million), higher than Zhipu's $558 million. Shanghai-based MiniMax has developed popular apps like Hailuo AI, a video generation tool, and Talkie, a character interaction app that enables users to engage with AI-powered virtual personas. TENCENT Tencent's Hunyuan team on Tuesday released a low-storage, compressed AI model, HY-1.8B-2Bit, designed to be used on consumer hardware including mobile phones. IFLYTEK iFlytek on Wednesday released Spark X2, trained entirely on Chinese-made chips. The company said the upgrade focuses on practical deployment in sectors including education, healthcare, automotive and agent-based applications. NETEASE YOUDAO NetEase Youdao on Wednesday launched LobsterAI, a desktop-level personal assistant agent that can perform tasks such as information retrieval, scheduling and data analysis by executing workflows locally on a user's computer after authorisation. The product supports mobile and PC connections and allows remote interaction via enterprise apps popular among Chinese companies such as DingTalk and Feishu. DEXMAL Vilas Dhar has been among the earliest voices to argue that Artificial Intelligence (AI) must be governed as long-term civic infrastructure rather than short-term commercial technology. Under his leadership, the $1.5 billion Patrick J McGovern Foundation, headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, has deployed over $500 million specifically toward AI as public infrastructure, working closely with governments, multilaterals, and public institutions across the globe. Dhar will be part of three panels at the India AI Impact Summit, to be held in India next week. In an interview with Mint, Dhar spoke about AI governance, philanthropys evolving role, Indias unique opportunity to build public AI infrastructure, and why the future of AI will ultimately be shaped by human choices not algorithms. Edited excerpts: Q: Tell us about the Patrick J McGovern Foundation its mission and achievements. A: Patrick J McGovern Foundation, a billion-and-a-half-dollar philanthropy, was born from scratch. We are, I think, the worlds largest investor in AI for good or AI for public purpose. We work very closely with civil society, non-profits, and we build our own AI products for public use. We are one of the primary advisors to the multilateral system and to governments around the world on AI policy and AI governance. Q: What is the role that AI is playing in governance? A: Having spent 25 years as a computer scientist and building AI, I deeply believe this is the largest transformation humanity has ever experienced. What does it mean? It means that were changing not because of technology, but because were challenging some assumptions about whats possible. Were opening up a future where an entirely new world is possible, in education, in agriculture, in medicine, but also in a new form of participation in democracy. AI creates entirely new opportunities. The idea that tech companies will build and somehow, we will all benefit doesnt work unless we build a new architecture for taking these tools and shaping them for human benefit. We have technology companies that innovate in incredible ways. We have governments around the world that regulate. But what we actually need to do is build a new layer of AI translation for public purposes. How do we invest in the organisations, the tools, the applications, the layers of compute and data, plus also the ideas and vision for whats possible that doesnt just live for profit, but lives for purpose? This, I think, is the opportunity that we have in front of us. Q: Is AI just another powerful tool or something that changes human behaviour itself? A: The entire world has been built around the idea of scarcity. Theres not enough to go around, and we built all these tools to do two things. One is to make a little more for all of us, and the other is to distribute it equally. I think the India story is really important because its actually the alternative case, and we can talk about that more if youre interested. Q: But at the same time, theres also a fear that we might lose jobs because of AI. There are some critics who are very vocal about it. A: Too often, we ask whether AI will displace humanity, instead of a more fundamental question: do we want AI to double productivity with the same number of people, or deliver the same output with half the workforce? That choice is human, not technological. One path prioritises automation and job displacementa bleak future. The other uses AI to augment human capability, strengthen what makes us human, and build institutions that do more without cutting people out. Both futures are possible. The real question is who decides. Left to markets focused on short-term profit, displacement will dominate. What we need instead is long-term thinkingby policymakers, technologists, and civil societyto design a future that values people, not just profits. Q: How is AI playing out in philanthropy? A: Philanthropy has, over the years, shifted its approach. Instead of leading with financing, we invested in technical expertise, public awareness, and building an ecosystem to apply AI to problems like malnutrition, education, and healthcare. Today, the question is no longer how to start with AI, but how to reshape its public narrative. Philanthropys role is to think 30 years ahead enabling long-term vision, risk awareness, public data access, talent development, and the design of AI as civic infrastructure. Q: What are the challenges that the philanthropy sector has in India? A: India operates from a different technical base. Access to advanced chips and large-scale compute remains limited, so efforts are underway including philanthropic support and partnerships with institutions like Amrita University to build local compute infrastructure. On data, however, India has an advantage: its scale and government-led data initiatives create a strong foundation. Talent is the critical challenge. Much global AI talent has been absorbed by the private sector. India must train AI scientists committed to public purpose and build policy incentives that support AI for societal benefit. Initiatives like India AI 2.0, offering grants and equity financing, are important steps. The bigger opportunity is to create a public AI stack, empower entrepreneurs at scale, and shape a governance model rooted in public investment, ownership, and multilateral engagement offering an alternative vision for the world. Q: We have IITs in India, which are huge and where you mentioned foundations are working. On the other hand, we have these private universities coming up, like Ashoka. In Ahmedabad, there is Azim Premji University. We also have these people working on AI. So how do you balance this diversity? A: I was in India recently and discussed this issue at length with Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, the Prime Ministers Principal Science Advisor. Beyond the IITs, I visited MICA in Ahmedabad and PSG in the South, where I saw extraordinary talent and imagination in institutions not traditionally seen as AI leaders. This reinforced the need to broaden Indias AI ecosystem. Graduates from places like PSG or MICA should have the same access to funding, research support, and opportunity as IIT graduates. To make that happen, funding flows must expand ensuring entrepreneurs from these institutions can access venture capital, government grants, public datasets, and support to build both commercial and public-purpose AI solutions. Q: We just had an announcement of the IndiaUS bilateral agreement notice. What about the cooperation between India and the US on AI in terms of regulation, in terms of infrastructure, in terms of data? A: I think its incredibly important that we establish the new economic cooperation framework. But it must be paired with a technology and governance-sharing framework. This includes obvious priorities like access to chips and domestic compute capacity. More importantly, the flow should go both ways not just chips from the US to India, but data, innovation, and AI models from India to the US. Indian solutions built for complex, large-scale challenges such as supply chains could spark new innovation in America. To make this work, we need mechanisms to share intellectual property and AI expertise across borders. This deal could help enable that exchange. Q: What are the key things India can learn from the US, and vice versa? A: Look, from the US to India is very straightforward because we HAVE been doing it for so long, right? What matters now is deeper collaboration not just in research, but at the commercial level as AI models evolve rapidly. We know what they can do today, but we must prepare for what theyll achieve in five years. At the same time, Indias experience in building digital public infrastructure and an AI translation stack at scale offers lessons for the US. Finally, Indias complex, data-intensive use cases possible only in ecosystems of such scale can produce solutions that significantly strengthen systems in the US and the broader global north. Q: Can you differentiate how AI can bring change in India, as it has in other countries, say the US? The real question is who decides. Left to markets focused on short-term profit, displacement will dominate. A: There is actually a very unique thing about India. In the US and the West, the focus is on building AI tools that people can see and hold, and know about, like ChatGPT, the AI tools on your phone, and the AI tools in your business. In India, its going to be different. AI has to be an invisible infrastructure. It has to restructure systems. But for the person, it doesnt matter if its being run by AI or not by AI. It actually has to work. And this is the incredible possibility in India: you can start at the system level, not the individual level, and if you get it right,it works for people. Anthropics Claude AI was reportedly used by the United States during a military operation to capture former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. The deployment of Claude was said to have been facilitated through Anthropics partnership with data analytics firm Palantir Technologies, whose tools are widely used by the US Department of Defense and federal law-enforcement agencies. During the mission, Maduro and his wife were captured and several sites in Caracas were bombed. However, Anthropics usage guidelines explicitly prohibit Claude from being used to facilitate violence, develop weapons, or conduct surveillance. Responding to the report, an Anthropic spokesperson said:We cannot comment on whether Claude, or any other AI model, was used for any specific operation, classified or otherwise. Any use of Claudewhether in the private sector or across governmentis required to comply with our Usage Policies, which govern how Claude can be deployed. We work closely with our partners to ensure compliance, the spokesperson added. The report also noted that Anthropics concerns about how Claude could be used by the Pentagon have led US administration officials to consider cancelling a contract reportedly worth around $200 million. Anthropic first AI company used by US DoD? Anthropic is said to be the first AI company whose tools were used by the US Department of Defense in a classified operation. The report also does not rule out the possibility that other AI systems were used during the Venezuela operation for unclassified tasks, ranging from summarising documents to helping manage autonomous systems. At an event last month, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said he is creating an AI-first, war-fighting force. Responsible AI at the War Department means objectively truthful AI capabilities employed securely and within the law, he said. We will not employ AI models that wont allow you to fight wars, Hegseth added, in a comment widely seen as referencing ongoing discussions with AI companies, including Anthropic. Also Read | What is Discombobulator, weapon Trump says US used to capture Nicolas Maduro Anthropic was awarded the $200 million Pentagon contract last year. However, CEO Dario Amodei has repeatedly expressed concern about the use of AI in lethal operations and surveillance. Humanity is about to be handed almost unimaginable power, and it is deeply unclear whether our social, political, and technological systems possess the maturity to wield it, Amodei said at an event last month. MANILA, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos has welcomed China's decision to resume direct flights between Quanzhou in east China's Fujian Province and Cebu in the central Philippines, the Presidential Communications Office said Saturday. Marcos also expressed his hope that this move will be the beginning of more interactions and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations. According to the Chinese embassy in the Philippines, Xiamen Airlines is scheduled to resume the Quanzhou-Cebu direct route on March 29. The service will initially operate twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Furthermore, the airline plans to continue increasing the frequency of round-trip flights between Xiamen and Manila. The Chinese embassy reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating personnel exchanges and enhancing bilateral engagement and cooperation between China and the Philippines. About 300 runners took off at the sound of a horn Saturday morning for the 2026 Cupids Chase 5K in Chattanooga, raising money for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The annual race benefits Community Options Inc., a nonprofit that provides home support, transportation, and job assistance to individuals with disabilities. We were founded in 1989, so we always do the race around this time every year, said Mercedes Owens, executive director of Community Options in Chattanooga. All the money goes back to the people that we support, whether they need furniture, if they need clothes, any essential needs. Cupids Chase events were held in 49 cities nationwide Saturday, drawing more than 15,000 participants, organizers said. Chattanooga Mayor's Disability Council thanks local restaurant for removing curb stopper from parking lot Previously, the concrete bar in front of Provino's Italian Restaurant made it difficult for diners with disabilities to visit. Owens said she was especially grateful for the local turnout, given that the race fell on Valentines Day. At first, when I found out it was on Valentines Day, I thought, Oh my goodness, what if no one shows up because theyre out having breakfast, lunch, dinner with their loved ones, Owens said. But its great to see a big turnout, because our people do really need the support from Chattanooga, and we appreciate them very much. New Chattanooga program makes hiking possible for kids with disabilities The city says this addition opens scenic trails to children living with paralysis or mobility challenges. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu) MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday urged China and France to make joint efforts to safeguard the status and role of the United Nations and prevent the world from reverting to the "law of the jungle." Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the appeal during talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Wang said that the successful first China-France-Germany trilateral foreign ministers' meeting, held on Friday, sent a positive and constructive message to the world. Amid the changing and turbulent international landscape when multilateralism is under attack, the three major countries should stand together to uphold the purposes of the UN Charter, the true multilateralism and the free trade system, and provide more positive energy to the world, Wang said. Since French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to China late last year, bilateral relations have maintained a positive and dynamic momentum, with various departments following up on the outcomes of the visit, and exchanges and cooperation across various fields gathering pace, Wang said. The two sides should chart the course for the next stage of exchanges, constantly enhance mutual understanding and trust, and expand mutually beneficial cooperation, Wang added. Both China and France are independent and responsible major countries, and multilateral coordination is an important feature of their bilateral relationship, Wang said, urging both sides to address the deficit in global governance and support each other's multilateral initiatives. For his part, Barrot said that Macron's successful visit to China last year led to in-depth strategic communication and a series of important common understandings between the two leaders. France attaches great importance to China's status and role as a major country and firmly adheres to the one-China policy, Barrot said. He expressed France's willingness to work with China to follow through on the consensus reached by the two leaders, strengthen institutional dialogue across various fields, deepen mutually beneficial economic and trade cooperation, and properly handle frictions through dialogue and consultation. Barrot noted that as France holds the G7 presidency and China hosts APEC this year, France looks forward to maintaining close multilateral communication and coordination with China, working together to address critical issues such as global governance. The two sides also exchanged views on issues such as the Ukraine crisis and the Iranian nuclear issue. Nurses at Naas General Hospital have suspended their industrial action after lengthy negotiations which intensified on Friday evening. Members of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) had been engaged in a work-to-rule industrial action at the hospital since Monday over unacceptable and unsafe staffing deficits. It said there had been a failure to fill maternity leave vacancies, as well as a failure to increase staffing to meet a more than 25% increase in Emergency Department attendance at the hospital in the past three years. In a statement on Friday evening, the union said 60 vacant nursing posts would immediately be backfilled and an additional 30 would be created to cover additional services. It added: A full review of all nurse staffing will begin at the hospital this week against the safe staffing framework. The statement added that the Dispute Committee at the hospital has recommended members are balloted on the proposals next week. At a protest on Friday afternoon, INMO general secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha said the very busy hospital had seen a massive increase in Emergency Department attendances. The area, which is seeing population growth generally, also contains nursing homes that are increasingly dealing with people from Dublin that rely on Naas General Hospital when they become unwell. She told the Press Association: All in all, the staffing has not kept pace with the population and the demand on services in the hospital. Ms Ni Sheaghdha said the issue has been going on for years, leading to patients being cared for in inappropriate areas. At the protest, Emergency Department clinical facilitator Zoe Cleary said: Our staff are on their hands and knees. Theyre expected to do workloads of multiple additional people Theres huge burnout, theres huge stress, and theres a huge problem with retaining staff. Following the suspension of the industrial action, the INMO said: The nurses in Naas General Hospital appreciate the immense amount of support they received from the public in Naas and the wider Kildare area this week, particularly during lunchtime protests. Prior to its suspension the HSE had said it regretted the industrial action and said it had taken efforts to resolve the issues raised. The HSE said there had been significant growth in the workforce of the hospital in recent years, adding that there are further plans to progress longer-term measures to support and strengthen nursing capacity. The Minister for Agriculture has failed to deal with the substantive issue around the loss of farmer confidence in the chair of Bord Bia, the Irish Farmers Association said. The organisation issued the statement after minister Martin Heydon convened a meeting of farmers and agricultural industry representatives on Friday. It was aimed at tackling a dispute between farming groups and Bord Bia, the state agency, which is charged with promoting and enforcing standards on Irish food. Its chairman, Larry Murrin, has faced calls to step down after revelations his company Dawn Farm Foods had sourced less than 1% of its beef from Brazil last year for contingency planning in a contract. He has previously said allegations around him having a conflict of interest are false and driven by social media. IFA president Francie Gorman said: The minister and Bord Bias kick the can down the road approach will not resolve this dispute, which is very regrettable for everyone. There is a massive disconnect between farmers and the corporate leadership in Bord Bia. In a statement following the meeting, Mr Heydon said: There was a detailed and thorough discussion in relation to several specific issues related to Bord Bia which have been raised in recent weeks. The discussion also focused on what can be done to improve the experience for farmers around audits, while ensuring the Quality Assurance Schemes are future proofed to continue to benefit farmers and the Irish agri-food sector. All participants had the chance to express their views and were heard. I am pleased that stakeholders engaged constructively. He said his department would revisit the focus on farmer experiences with audits, establish a farmer forum on Quality Assurance Schemes, and had committed to an information campaign to better inform the public about Origin Green and Quality Assurance Schemes. But Mr Gorman said the Quality Assurance Schemes are a partnership between farmers, processors, customer-facing businesses and Bord Bia. He said: That partnership is being shattered. Mr Gorman continued: Farmers will not have confidence in Bord Bia while the chairs company is importing Brazilian beef and chicken. The IFAs protest at the Bord Bia offices will continue, he said. Tuesday morning, the US Treasury Department announced new sanctions against Jood SARL, a gold exchange that Al Qard al Hassan (AQAH), a Hezbollah financial institution, established last September. AQAH officially operates as a charitable institution offering loans to its customers but essentially serves as Hezbollahs de facto bank. AQAH has amassed massive quantities of gold taken as collateral that, given Hezbollahs present financial difficulties, could be quickly turned into hard currency. The terrorist group may have viewed creating Jood SARL, which has no apparent connection to Hezbollah institutions and is under government regulation and supervision, as the perfect cover to cash in on the gold Hezbollah salvaged after Israels onslaught on AQAHs branches in Lebanon during the fall of 2024. The conversion of gold into cash is also a well-timed move for Hezbollah, as gold prices have skyrocketed from $2,700 per ounce at the onset of Israels bombing campaign in late September 2024 to over $5,000 earlier this month. Selling gold would not just alleviate Hezbollahs cash-strapped position but also generate a significant revenue for the terrorist group. The US Treasury moved quickly to frustrate Hezbollahs efforts to sell gold, but it did not sanction all of the AQAH personnel involved in the new company. According to Jood SARLs corporate papers, the official managers and shareholders of Joods southern branch, located in Nabatiyeh, do not appear to be the individuals who Treasury sanctioned on Tuesday. Treasurys press release named three AQAH senior officials as being in charge of Jood SARL: Samer Hassan Fawaz, as the official overseeing the project, and Mohamad Nayef Majid and Ali Karnib, as officials in charge of trading gold in Lebanon and, as Treasury worries, potentially overseas. Fawaz and Karnib have already been under US sanctions since July 2025, and Karnib, according to Treasury, had overseen the purchase of over a thousand ounces of gold for AQAH as of July 2024. Company records and data sets obtained through the risk intelligence platform 240 Analytics show that when Jood SARLs southern branch was incorporated in September 2025, the original shareholders and managers were Hassan Dib Ayoub and Hassan Loutfi Saad, two lesser-known mid-level AQAH employees. (Note: The author of this report serves as a senior advisor to 240 Analytics.) Ayoub and Saads double role as managers and shareholders is confirmed by original corporate data extracted from Lebanons commercial registry. As of September 2025, both men appear on the company papers for the Jood branch in Nabatiyeh, named Jood South Sarl in those corporate records. These corporate records suggest that, through Jood SARL, AQAH is seeking to establish a new way to evade sanctions. Treasury notes that Jood SARL has two corporate ID numbers, which is an anomaly for corporations. Usually, a company with subsidiary branches, such as a large retail bank, only has one ID for the main company, not one for each branch. The distinct IDs indicate that the two identified Jood branches are registered as separate companies (corporate records for Jood South bear one of the two ID numbers that Treasury identified). Joods two confirmed open branches also bear slightly different company names (Jood and Jood South), another slight differentiation that suggests they are different entities, not parts of the same company. These distinct IDs and names may be deliberate: each new branch could, at least legally, be a separate entity, and its managers would, presumably, be new AQAH mid-level employees like Ayoub and Saad, who are not under a US Treasury designation. This setup may be an AQAH obfuscation mechanism that aims to buy the Hezbollah-affiliated institution more time in its efforts to avoid US sanctions. The fact that both Ayoub and Saad work for AQAH is beyond dispute. According to information obtained through 240 Analytics, which includes AQAH account records leaked by an anonymous hacker group in December 2020, Saad had, at the time of the leak, nine AQAH accounts (see image below), and Ayoub had 15. Saad held all of these accounts at a special branch of AQAH that caters to Hezbollah members. A list of AQAH accounts held by Hassan Loutfi Saad. (240 Analytics) Ayoubs social media posts, including a photo of him attending an AQAH-sponsored childrens event, a post mourning the passing of AQAHs founder, Al Haj Hussein Ali al Shami (who Treasury sanctioned in 2006), and posts commemorating the death of Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah, further confirm his affiliation with both AQAH and Hezbollah. The combined data from social media and company records leaves no doubt about Ayoubs and Saads links to AQAH and Hezbollah. It is possible that Jood SARLs management will try to deflect sanctions by claiming that Treasury misidentified the companys managers. It is also likely that Jood SARL will attempt to open new branches as independent companies to portray them as not being part of AQAH. However, the data suggests otherwise. Dr. Emanuele Ottolenghi is a senior research fellow at the Center for Research on Terror Financing (CENTEF) and a senior advisor to 240 Analytics. Hamas spokesperson Abu Obeida delivers a speech on January 29. On February 9, Hamas spokesperson Abu Obeida published a written statement on his Telegram channel threatening Palestinian militias that have opposed the Islamist groups rule in the Gaza Strip. Obeidas statement follows several successful military operations conducted by the militias, including the Popular Forces and the Counterterrorism Strike Force, against Hamas in recent months. Obeidas statement did not explicitly mention the militias. Instead, it referred to collaborators backed by Israel and included details associated with these rival groups, indicating that anti-Hamas factions were the targets of the threats. Obeida framed the militias actions as treachery and accused them of targeting civilians and weakening Hamas fighters who have been trapped in tunnels beneath Israeli-controlled territory in Rafah since the ceasefire began on October 10, 2025. Obeida also mocked the groups, describing them as effeminate men who act tough under the protection of the Israeli army. What the Mustaribeen [Israeli agents disguised as Arabs] collaborators are doing [] reflects nothing but complete alignment with the occupation, carrying out its agendas and coordinating with it, Obeida said. Before concluding his statement, the Hamas spokesman warned the militias that Israel will not be able to protect them, and a dark fate awaits the descendants of Abu Righal, invoking an Islamic historical figure associated with betrayal. Several militia operations against Hamas members in recent weeks and months may have prompted Obeida to release the scathing statement. Among the notable activities by the militias was the capture of Adham al Akar, a Hamas company commander in Rafah, on January 31. The Popular Forces took responsibility for Akars capture when Ghassan al Dhuhaini, the leader of the Popular Forces, was filmed standing next to the Hamas commander, who was wearing only his undergarments. On February 10, Dhuhaini announced in a now-deleted Facebook statement that Akar would be executed by a firing squad the following morning. A short time after the post, Dhuhaini rescinded the execution, saying that the Popular Forces would detain Akar until he is brought before a competent Palestinian judicial authority. The Khan Younis-based Counterterrorism Strike Force, headed by Hussam al Astal, is another militia that has launched successful attacks against Hamas and its cadres. On January 12, Astal claimed his group was responsible for killing Lieutenant Colonel Mahmoud al Astal, a director of police investigations and senior Hamas member. Weeks earlier, the Counterterrorism Strike Force announced that it had killed two Hamas members and arrested a third during an operation in the Abu al Saber area of the Shaboura Camp in Rafah. The success of the militias may largely hinge on the support that Israel gives these groups. The Jewish state supplies the militias with air support, weapons, food, cigarettes, and intelligence, The Wall Street Journal reported. Wounded militia members have also received medical treatment at Israeli hospitals, according to Israeli officials cited in the report. While Hamass threats pose an immediate challenge for the militias, another potential obstacle has emerged: the second phase of the ceasefire agreement requires all armed groups to disarm. It remains unclear whether the provision applies to these militias. However, Husam al Astal has previously suggested that the militias should be integrated into a Gaza security force that would commit to combating Hamas and its armed allies and report to the Board of Peace, the US-led international organization managing the ceasefire. Joe Truzman is an editor and senior research analyst at FDD's Long War Journal focused primarily on Palestinian armed groups and non-state actors in the Middle East. BEIJING, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- China has issued guidelines to promote upgrading of the tea industry, setting a target for the total size of the full industrial chain to reach 1.5 trillion yuan (about 216 billion U.S. dollars) by 2030. The guidelines, jointly issued by five government departments including the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, aim to remarkably improve the quality and efficiency of the tea industry. By 2030, China plans to establish a tea industry system that is well-supplied, environmentally friendly, intelligent and internationally competitive. The guidelines also set targets for 2028, aiming for steady progress in major traditional tea-producing regions and continued improvements in the quality and efficiency of distinctive local tea industries. They call for a boost in industry-chain modernization, along with a broader range of products and consumption scenarios. To meet these goals, the guidelines outline a series of key tasks, including strengthening sci-tech innovation, nurturing market entities and advancing specialized industry clusters. They also encourage efforts to expand the use of tea raw materials and components into sectors such as home products, daily chemicals, cosmetics and health care. China is known as the hometown of tea. For thousands of years, tea has been deeply rooted in Chinese culture and has been an integral part of the Chinese people's daily life. ACCRA, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Three people were confirmed dead and dozens of others injured in a fuel tanker explosion on Saturday along the Accra-Kumasi highway in Ghana's Eastern Region, police said. Eastern South Regional Police Commander and Deputy Commissioner of Police George Bossman Ohene-Boadi said a fuel tanker had broken down on the stretch of the highway. Some unauthorized individuals reportedly attempted to siphon fuel from the tanker, creating highly flammable conditions that led to an explosion. The blaze engulfed the tanker, a bus, a pick-up vehicle, a saloon car, and several motorbikes, all of which were destroyed. Ohene-Boadi said police officers were deployed to prevent residents from approaching the scene, and investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the incident. Some of the injured victims have been transported to a government hospital for treatment, according to police. Connacht PPS Senior C Final Balla Secondary School 0-12 Gortnor Abbey 0-7 In Bekan As the sleet fell from the heavens, Balla Secondary School produced a mammoth performance to claim Connacht glory when they outscored Gortnor Abbey of Crossmolina. In a low-scoring affair played in catastrophic weather conditions, a strong first half from the Balla students paved the way for their success. It was Gortnor Abbeys Kobe McDonald who opened the scoring when he booted over from a free outside the arc. Balla, then found their groove and replied with a handful of scores as Dara Patten, Liam Glynn, Patrick McHale pointed while Ryan ODonnell added a fine two pointer. Balla, who played with the advantage of the wind in the opening half were well set up and they gave little breathing room to Kobe McDonald and his colleagues. Operating around the middle, McDonald and Lorcan ODonnell tagged on scores for Gortnor Abbey, but Balla hit back with an excellent two pointer from the boot of Mark Jennings. Going in at the break, Balla led 0-9 to Gortnor Abbeys 0-5. As time went on, the weather deteriorated and for large spells, the Connacht Centre of Excellence was like a scene from the Winter Olympics. It took 16 minutes of the fresh half before the first score arrived when Ethan Duffy wisely handpassed over from short range for Balla. The North Mayo students reduced the deficit to just three when McDonald and Andrew Barrett pointed and they knew a goal would save them. However, as the clock ticked on, scoring chances were rare and in the final moments, the deal was sealed when Ballas Liam Glynn kicked an inspirational free which saw the orange flag waved. As the full time whistle sounded, the Balla contingent led by Gareth ODonnell, Adrian Phillips and Darragh Acton celebrated joyously on the greasy Bekan surface. A full match report plus reaction will be carried in Tuesdays edition of The Mayo News. READ MORE: St Brendan's of Belmullet claim Connacht glory in North Mayo battle New Holland has announced the appointment of Keith OBrien, trading as OBrien Tractors, as a New Holland dealer for County Mayo and North Galway. This appointment strengthens the brands presence in those areas and ensures local access to a comprehensive product portfolio, genuine parts and aftersales support. This appointment reflects a commitment to investing in strong, locally focused dealer partners who understand the needs of modern agriculture. The team at OBrien Tractors, located in Bohola, bring extensive industry knowledge and a customer-first approach, aligning closely with the brands core values. We are delighted to be appointed as a New Holland dealer for Mayo and North Galway, said Keith OBrien, owner of OBrien Tractors, The partnership with New Holland allows us the opportunity to develop and grow our business by offering our customers innovative and reliable machinery, backed by strong parts and service support. David Rapkins, CNH Business Director UK and ROI added: Keith and his team in Bohola bring with them extensive experience in the Agricultural machinery business having worked in support of brother Adrian OBrien, also a New Holland dealer, in the local area over the years. Their appointment enhances our dealer network in the northwest of Ireland and ensures customers in the area receive the high standards of support that they expect from New Holland. OBrien Tractors is now fully operational and ready to support customers with their machinery requirements. READ MORE: Mayo TD highlights unacceptable delays for cancer treatment for Mayo and Galway patients Schools in some counties could stay closed on Monday amid Met Eireann weather warnings for bitterly cold and disruptive weather over the weekend. The Arctic airmass has prompted Met Eireann to issue a series of weather warnings for hard frosts, rain, sleet and even snow in some areas over the coming days. Forecasters issued a Status Yellow low temperature/ice warning for all of Ireland on Thursday with the alert coming into place from 9pm on Friday until 10am on Saturday. Met Eireann say many parts will see "temperatures falling between -1 and -3 degrees generally" as well as "sharp frost and icy conditions." Potential impacts include hazardous travel conditions on road and underfoot and travel disruption. The weather situation is further complicated by saturated grounds and flooding risks in many areas are a largely wet and miserable start to the year. It may also snow in some areas. IRELAND SNOW MAP - Where will it snow as Met Eireann issue new weather warnings? Met Eireann has also issued a Status Yellow rain/snow warning for Cavan, Donegal, Connacht and Longford. It warns of "rain which will be heavy at times and turning to sleet or snow together with strengthening winds will lead to difficult travel conditions and poor visibility." This warning is valid from 12pm on Saturday until midnight on Saturday night. There is also a Status Yellow rain warning out for Cork and Kerry which warns of "rain with heavy falls [that] will lead to spot flooding and difficult travel conditions." This warning is also valid for 12 hours from 12 noon on Saturday. A wider forecast predicts more rain and while snow will abate, some areas could be still impacted by disruptive flooding. READ NEXT: Snow on the way as entire country hit with Met Eireann weather warning for cold snap This could leave the opening of schools in question in badly affected areas but there will not be a blanket decision for any county. The Government has issued Be Winter Ready guidelines for schools, with decisions on closures left to the management of individual schools. That means there is a possibility that some schools will choose to close completely or early on Friday. The Government advice says that the "decision to close a school or ELC rests with the settings management authority taking into consideration the full guidance and direction available from the principal response agencies, especially An Garda Siochana. "Any decision to close is taken in the interest of child safety, having assessed the local risks and having consulted, as appropriate, with school transport operators. Some of the issues that settings take into account include conditions in the setting itself; capacity of the setting to ensure the health and safety of children and students; ability of parents, students, staff and school transport services to safely negotiate; local road conditions to reach the setting; guidance and direction from the principal response agencies." Specifically on weather events, the advice says: "Schools and ELCs should monitor weather forecasts in order to be prepared for any severe weather, which may affect the setting. During periods of severe weather, settings should assess the situation using the above guidance. Settings should be prepared, keep themselves informed and remain vigilant." The advice continues: "It should be borne in mind that there may also be weather events, which may be fast moving with little warning. For example, consider the case of Storm Darwin in February 2014 where Met Eireann had issued a Status Red alert for the Cork and Kerry regions; however, on that occasion the weather moved rapidly across the southern half of the country affecting a number of other counties. "There may also be Status Orange weather warnings that may require action to be taken because of the particular local circumstances, for example, in areas prone to flooding or areas located on the coast. Any assessment taken by the setting for actions necessary should be guided by local knowledge and experience and by way of advice from the principal response agencies." With reference to rare Status Red weather warnings, the circular says: "All weather warnings of Status Red will require some action on behalf of settings. Schools and ELCs need to assess the potential impact of such weather events taking account of past experiences and in light of advice on the current event from the principal response agencies in their area. "A Status Red weather warning for heavy rain may be particularly relevant if the local area is prone to flooding. A Status Red warning related to ice or snow, which may compact, may cause local issues due to the location of the setting and/or the routes taken to reach the setting. "Schools and ELCs should note in particular Status Red weather warnings where strong winds or storm conditions are forecasted. Due to the high degree of unpredictability as to the impact of the weather associated with such a Status Red warning on local conditions, settings should use the following guidance to assist them in making their assessment. "Status Red weather warning for wind related conditions may be given in advance of a setting opening or it may arise during the day while a school or ELC is underway." Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari speaks during an interview with Chinese media in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan on Feb. 8, 2026. Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari has extended Spring Festival greetings and best wishes to the Chinese people on behalf of the Pakistani people before the upcoming Chinese New Year. "Happy New Year!" he said in Chinese in a recent interview with the Chinese media at the President's Secretariat in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. He hoped that the two countries would further strengthen cooperation in various fields and pass on the Pakistan-China friendship from generation to generation. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) ISLAMABAD, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari has extended Spring Festival greetings and best wishes to the Chinese people on behalf of the Pakistani people before the upcoming Chinese New Year. "Happy New Year!" he said in Chinese in a recent interview with the Chinese media at the President's Secretariat in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. He hoped that the two countries would further strengthen cooperation in various fields and pass on the Pakistan-China friendship from generation to generation. Zardari pointed out that there is great potential for people-to-people and cultural exchanges between Pakistan and China. He hoped that more Pakistani films could be released in China in the future and looked forward to more excellent works jointly produced by Pakistani and Chinese artists for audiences of both countries. Zardari also emphasized that young people represent the future of Pakistan-China bilateral relations and was delighted to see more student exchange programs between the two countries. Speaking on a podcast, Prashant did not mince words, labelling Kartik Aaryan a terrible actor who, in his view, has been propped up by those around him. He went on to claim that Kartiks continued presence in Bollywood is largely a result of sheer luck and the blessings of his parents, rather than merit alone. Actor Prashant Narayanan , best known for his performances in films like Murder 2 and Ghost, has taken a sharp dig at Kartik Aaryan. Instagram/Kartik Aaryan What did Prashant Narayanan say about Kartik Aaryan? Speaking to Bollywood Bubble during a discussion on contemporary actors, Prashant Narayanan offered a blunt assessment of Kartik Aaryan and his journey in the industry. Questioning Kartiks acting calibre, Prashant remarked, I think he is one of the most terrible actors we have over here, but an extremely lucky person. He is only surviving because of his parents blessings. I feel that he is an extremely non-communicative and boosted by people around him kind of person. However, he also acknowledged enjoying Kartiks debut performance, adding, I liked him in the first film that he did (Pyaar Ka Punchnama). When the host questioned why Indian audiences continue to watch such actors and help turn their films into hits, Prashant Narayanan offered a nuanced response. He suggested that it may not necessarily be admiration driving the numbers. I dont know how many people are appreciating them, but I have seen people laughing at them, he said, adding that eliciting laughter still counts for something. However, he drew a clear distinction, explaining, There is a difference between when you are laughing with somebody and when you are laughing at somebody. According to him, in many cases, Indian audiences fall into the latter category, noting, The Indian audiences are mostly laughing at somebody. Users agree to Prashant Narayanan One user commented, He has stopped putting efforts in his movies and is after only money and money, charging 50 crore, doing crazy pr and living in his delusional world that he is some superstar. He needed a reality check and tamatar provided that. If he doesn't work on his acting, I'm sure he will vanish soon. Another user commented, Exactly.I t is completely fine to do sequels and lowkey Romcoms. But at least put in some effort, man! The climax dance sequence in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 tells you everything about how seriously he is taking his craft and how much respect he has for his projects. It was almost unwatchable. During a recent interaction with the media, Sunny Deol responded to the now-viral dialogue Ghayal hoon, isliye Ghatak hoon from Dhurandhar, and had nothing but praise for filmmaker Aditya Dhar. When asked about the lines massive popularity and whether he was considering taking copyright action over the use of titles from his iconic films, Sunny reacted with a smile. He said he felt genuinely pleased that Aditya Dhar chose to reference his work, seeing it as a gesture of respect rather than something to object to. According to him, such callbacks are a form of tribute and acknowledgment. Sunny further shared that Aditya Dhar is a long-time admirer of his films, which made the moment even more special for him. He added that hes happy to see Dhurandhar performing well and resonating with audiences, calling it heartening when the next generation of filmmakers celebrates and carries forward the legacy of earlier cinema. Not only this, Sunny Deol also shared the tough phase in his career. Speaking to ANI, he said, I have been in this industry for many years. And we have been seeing such things. But the most important thing that I say to everyone and what I believe is why I am here is because whatever work you do, if you are an actor, whichever field you are, I mean, ups and downs will keep happening, but aapko hardwork karte rehna padega aur karte rehna chahiye (you will have to keep working hard). He added, After years of struggle, when a film does well, you start believing in destiny. Before that, you are only thinking that I will make my destiny, I will do this, I will do that. A person keeps doing it. Instagram/Sunny Deol After a strong run of successful films, the actor went through a quieter period marked by fewer hits. Reflecting on that phase,Sunny Deol spoke about how the landscape of Hindi cinema began shifting after the turn of the millennium. Pointing to the changing nature of the industry, he said, Things keep changing. Aur kya hota hai industry bhi kaafi badalti rahi hai (And industry has also changed a lot). And like, I think after 2000, the corporate world came in, and the ways of making films, I mean, the subjects and topics and actors' choices and the directors, everything kept changing. So us daur mein shayad mere layak koi aesa subject ya cheez nahi thi (So maybe at that time, there was no such subject or anything like that for me). In the aftermath of Rajpal Yadav being sent to Tihar Jail over a 9 crore debt and cheque-bounce case, the Hindi film industry has increasingly rallied around him with offers of financial support. The latest to step forward is filmmaker Priyadarshan, who has now revealed a concrete gesture to help the actor through this difficult phase. Priyadarshan, who is currently working on a comedy featuring Pankaj Tripathi and Rajpal Yadav, shared that the makers have decided to increase Yadavs remuneration, keeping his ongoing situation in mind. Instagram/Rajpal Yadav The move adds to the growing list of industry efforts aimed at supporting the actor as he deals with his legal and financial troubles. Priyadarshan told Mid-Day, I have known Rajpal for over 20 years." The director, who was neck-deep in the post-production of Bhooth Bangla in Hyderabad, added, "I saw him for the first time in Jungle (2000) and was surprised by his performance. My first film with him was Malamaal Weekly (2006), and after that, he has starred in most of my films. I told the producers [Jubilee Films] of my next to pay Rajpal more than what he charges because of his situation. We want to save him. The producers have agreed. Rajpal plays the villain in my movie. As someone closely connected to Rajpal Yadav, filmmaker Priyadarshan said he was fully aware of the actors financial struggles for quite some time. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu) MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday called on China and Britain to follow through on the consensus reached by their leaders, continuously deliver positive outcomes in bilateral ties and explore more potential for cooperation. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the appeal during talks with British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Wang said that China and Britain, as major countries in the world and permanent members of the UN Security Council that both bear responsibilities for safeguarding international peace and security, should maintain regular exchanges, enhance strategic coordination and communication, expand shared interests, and jointly safeguard world peace and development. Love is in the air, as always, around Valentine's Day. But imagine putting pen to paper for the love of your life, hundreds of times! On Display The Nashville Public Library is showcasing a digital display of more than 200 love letters exchanged between a loving couple before and after they were married during World War II. You can really tell how much they loved each other and how much they missed each other, said Kelley Sirko, metropolitan archivist with the Nashville Public Library, in an interview with Military.com. Just the life of two very loving people during a very complicated time in our history. William Raymond Whittaker and Jane Dean met and fell in love at the historically Black Meharry Medical College. Whittaker, or Ray as he was known, was from New Rochelle, New York, and moved to Nashville for school. But he lost touch with Jane when he was drafted into the Army in 1942. Raymond Whittaker c. 1942. Lost, Then Found Stationed at Fort Huachuca in Arizona, Ray started writing letters to Jane, who was working as a medical lab technician at Vanderbilt University. Those letters, almost a century old, were found in a Nashville home that once belonged to Jane and her siblings. They were donated in 2016 to the Metro Nashville Archives, paving the way for the Nashville Public Library to put the letters on digital display. The letters were given to the archives by someone who had purchased a house that was once owned by Janes family, said Sirko. The letters were in a basket, and after reading through some of them, the new homeowner decided to donate them. There's no record of Rays first letter to Jane, but found in the archives was her reply, dated July 30, 1942, where she used the very formal greeting, Dear Wm R. and then wrote, It sure was a pleasant and sad surprise to hear from you. Pleasant because you will always hold a place in my heart, and it's nice to know you think of me once in a while. Sad because you are in the armed forces, maybe I shouldnt say that, but war is so uncertain; however, Im proud to know that you are doing your bit for your country. Depending on how you interpret Jane's love letter, she was either already madly in love or simply listing several mutual acquaintances who had gotten married recently, even mentioning those with children. She ends the letter with the words, Write, wire, or call me real soon Lovingly Jane. The couple was married almost 50 years, said Sirko. And it all began with these letters. Nashville archivists have not been able to locate any living relatives of Ray and Jane, so most of what they know about them is from the letters. The couple did not have any children, according to an obituary for Ray, who died in Nashville in 1989. The trove of letters also had a few photographs with them, along with Rays patch from the historically Black fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. Reading between the lines, the love story between Ray and Jane also gave glimpses into what life was like in the segregated South with racial and gender issues, Army life, Jane's work life, and their dream to be together freely. Love Letter From Jane Dean to William Ray Whittaker from 1942. Its more than just a love story between a soldier and his sweetheart. You can really get a look at a very pivotal time in our history, said Sirko. Rays letters give a lot of insight into the life of a soldier. With Jane, you get her everyday take of whats happening in Nashville. Another letter from September 1942 shows Ray telling Jane, I have something very important to tell you when I do see you, and you will be surprised to know as to what it is. I might even ask you to marry me. One never knows. Jane is skeptical in her reply, writing: "What makes you think you still love me? Is it that you are lonesome and a long way from home? Im sure I want you to love me, but not under those conditions. Finally, Yes Within two months, Ray wins Jane over, and they are married in November 1942 in Birmingham, with more letters to come showing Jane addressing Ray as my darling husband. Still, the two continued to be apart, with Jane returning to her job and family in Nashville while Ray returned to his Army base. Eventually, they moved to New York for some years, then back to Nashville, where they settled into married life. Its a wonderful thing to have such a sweet and lovely husband. Darling, youll never know how much I love you," wrote Jane. "The only regret is that we didnt marry years ago. MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday reiterated China's commitment to promoting peace talks on the Ukraine issue, stressing that Europe has a rightful place at the negotiating table. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks in response to questions about China's role in resolving regional conflicts, particularly the Ukraine crisis, during his speech at the "China in the World" session of the Munich Security Conference. China's position is very clear: all regional hotspots should be resolved through dialogue and consultation, and the same applies to the Ukraine issue, Wang said. China is not a party to the conflict and therefore does not hold decision-making power over its outcome, he said, noting that China's contribution lies in encouraging peace and facilitating talks. Chinese special envoys have been dispatched to mediate and Beijing has urged all sides, through various channels, to agree to a ceasefire and return to the negotiating table as soon as possible, he said. Wang noted it was encouraging to see that dialogue among the relevant parties had recently resumed, particularly with discussions beginning to focus on substantive issues of the Ukraine crisis. While acknowledging that significant differences in positions remain and that peace cannot be achieved overnight, he emphasized that dialogue is essential for any prospect of lasting peace. Without sustained talks, he said, a peace agreement would not come about automatically. China, he added, continues to support all efforts aimed at peace and will keep playing a constructive role in its own way. Wang also said Europe should not remain a bystander in the process. He recalled that after dialogue between the United States and Russia began early last year, Europe appeared to have been sidelined. Since the conflict is taking place on European soil, he said, Europe has the right and should participate in the negotiations. Europe should not be on the menu, but at the table, he said. China, Wang said, supports Europe in engaging in dialogue with Russia and in putting forward its own proposals and solutions. Through addressing root causes, he added, a more balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture should be built to prevent similar conflicts in the future and achieve lasting peace and stability on the continent. Dozens of defense contractors and other active-duty service members received invitations from the Pentagon to attend a Christian prayer service next week, Military.com has learned, with sources saying that such gatherings have become the norm for the past year and change. The email correspondence, sent to respondents from the Department of War and shared with Military.com, requests attendance at a 12 p.m. Christian prayer and worship service taking place Feb. 17 in the Pentagon Auditorium (BH650). Recipients of the correspondence told Military.com that the latest email is especially concerning due to the image included in the email, which shows a cross situated above the words SECWARS PRAYER SERVICE on a dark background. Past correspondence from January, previously reported by Military.com, included a message from The Office of the Secretary War etched upon a stained glass window. These invitations vary and have circulated as far back as June 2025, according to sources who spoke with Military.com. This image was included in a new invitation for a Christian prayer and worship service taking place Feb. 17 in the Pentagon Auditorium (BH650). (Image provided to Military.com) The invite reads as follows: This is an optional service that is open to all Department staff stationed at, or with access to, the Pentagondue to seat limitations, no visitors or external guests will be accommodated. Seating will be accommodated at a first come, first served basis. Seat reservations can be confirmed for GO/FO and Senior Leaders only by RSVP to [unmentioned] email address. The invite concludes by encouraging email recipients to feel free to forward this invitation widely to members in your organization. Those unable to join are informed to livestream the service on Pentagon TV Channel 2 or on the 24/7 Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS). When asked by Military.com prior to the last prayer service on Jan. 21 whether individuals faced repercussions for not attending these religious services, Pentagon spokesperson Kingsley Wilson maintained they are 100% voluntary and are not mandated whatsoever. No one at the Pentagon tracks who does and does not attend these voluntary services. No special treatment or punishment is given as a result of one's choice to attend these prayer services." The Secretary's prayer services undoubtedly improve morale for those who choose to attend and are constitutionally protected. We are proud to host these services and will continue to do so," Wilson added. 'Rock and a Hard Place' One defense contractor who has received these Christian prayer service invitations since last summer told Military.com that their concerns and others of their ilk are genuine. That includes potentially losing out on government work. They said that even if the Pentagon claims theres no rebuke for not attending, individuals who are invited still feel like theyre between a rock and a hard place and potentially could lose out on bonding and networking opportunities. I did find todays email stark, depressing, almost threatening. Horror movie vibes, said the source, who requested anonymity. You dont actually need evidence of retribution to find fault with the leader of a government agency inviting his employees for a prayer service. Its inherently discriminatory. It provides an opportunity for Christians to get face time and be in the room with higher-ups, perhaps interacting on a social level. Jews, Muslims and other non-Christians are not provided this opportunity, they added. Franklin Graham delivers remarks and leads in prayer at a Christmas Worship Service hosted by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth in the Pentagon courtyard, Washington, D.C., Dec. 17, 2025. (DoW photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Alexander Kubitza) Another U.S. Air Force veteran and military member previously assigned to the Pentagon told Military.com that they have seen numerous emails about such religious-centric services, wondering if they ever intend to hold service from another faith during duty time. It hasn't happened, said the veteran, who also wanted their identity withheld. Even for a 30-minute service the amount of manpower wasted across the Pentagon during these events is notable due to the inherent rank held by those assigned to the duty station. This individual recently transitioned jobs and did not receive the correspondence for next weeks service. They previously inquired to the Pentagon about whether leave status would be required for civilians who wanted to partake, with the inquiry never receiving any response. As a member with 23 years of service, despite being an atheist, in the discussions that I have had with chaplains as a member and commander dealing with issues that my members are going through, the Chaplains corps as a whole acts non-denominational and supportive of all belief systems, the individual said. I have always been impressed with that and found them to be a supportive tool for members in need. That open and wide inclusiveness is not what I witness of these Pentagon prayer services. Personal vs. Military Beliefs Mikey Weinstein, founder of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation (MRFF), told Military.com in January that about eight contractors expressed worry with such invites from the Pentagon. On Friday, however, MRFF received more than 50 emails and phone calls from concerned contractors and service members who are among the organizations 100,000-plus member clienteleroughly 95% of whom are Christians. It was the quickest influx of complaints MRFF has received in such a short time period, Weinstein said. Every time [Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth] does this, we get more and more people screeching, Weinstein told Military.com on Friday. Today, I had someone tell me that their section chief, who was an SES [Senior Executive Service]-level civilian, said, Look, the boss wants it. You don't have to be a Christian. Why don't you give it a try?" Now, how are you supposed to answer that? This eviscerates and obliterates good order, morale, discipline, unit cohesion, mission accomplishment, and health and safety of the troops. Weinstein wondered what would happen if a Muslim member of the U.S. Armed Forces requested Islamic symbols of the crescent moon and star, which one MRFF member actually brought up when relaying their concerns about these monthly Christian services. Another individual, according to Weinstein, claims they missed out on service school nominations due to not attending services such as these. One of the emails sent Friday to MRFF, and shared with Military.com, was from an Air Force veteran who served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and is currently a government contractor supporting the National Guard Bureau. "I served, proudly, because I believe in the values espoused by the Constitution and that the United States strove, albeit imperfectly at times, to uphold," the individual said. One of those was freedom of, and from, religion. I have served over, with and under people of all faiths and people of none, and for the vast majority, the issue of their personal beliefs never came up in our service time. The veteran added: I have watched with grown frustration as blatantly unqualified lickspittles are put in positions of authority based on loyalty to the would-be king and use those positions to strong-arm subordinates into taking part in quasi-religious (mostly White Christian Nationalist, if were being honest) activities with the implied message that failure to comply will cost careers. This story was updated to reflect that a cross rather a crucifix was used in the invitation. The Navy relieved the commanding officer of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason on Friday, Feb. 13, citing a loss of confidence in his ability to command, according to an official Navy release. Capt. Chavius G. Lewis was removed from his role as commanding officer of USS Mason (DDG-87) by Rear Adm. Alexis T. Walker, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10. The Navy said the decision was based on a loss of confidence in Lewis ability to command, a standard phrase used in relief announcements involving senior leaders. Lewis has been temporarily reassigned to Commander, Naval Surface Group Southeast. Capt. Kevin Hoffman has assumed duties as the ships commanding officer. The Navy did not provide specific details regarding the circumstances that led to the decision. Officials said the relief does not affect the ships operational schedule. At the time of Lewis removal, Mason was assigned to U.S. 2nd Fleet and participating in Composite Training Unit Exercise, or COMPTUEX, a demanding certification event that prepares a strike group for deployment. Lewis assumed command of Mason in November 2024. Commissioned through Officer Candidate School in 2000, he previously commanded two littoral combat ships and held multiple sea and shore assignments throughout his career. While relief announcements are often brief, the impact of removing a commanding officer extends well beyond a single personnel action. More Than a Leadership Change On a Navy destroyer, the commanding officer sets the tone for everything, training standards, accountability, morale and command climate. Even when the Navy emphasizes there is no impact to operations, leadership transitions during major exercises can introduce friction. COMPTUEX is designed to test a ships readiness under complex and stressful scenarios. It depends on rhythm, trust and clear expectations. A new commander stepping in midstream must quickly assess performance, understand crew dynamics and establish authority, often under time pressure. For department heads and junior officers, that shift can create uncertainty. Leadership style may differ. Priorities may be recalibrated. Adjustments must happen quickly to maintain performance standards. There is also a cultural dimension. A relief for loss of confidence sends a powerful signal to the crew. For some sailors, it reinforces accountability, confirmation that standards apply at every level. For others, especially when details are not publicly disclosed, it can create speculation and unease. On a warship, command climate is not abstract, it influences retention, readiness and the confidence sailors carry into every watch. The commanding officers leadership style shapes how mistakes are handled, how discipline is enforced and how trust is built across the ranks. When a CO is removed, that dynamic shifts immediately. The Navy does not typically release specific details in relief cases, citing privacy and due process considerations. Loss of confidence can encompass a range of concerns, from performance deficiencies to professional judgment lapses or command climate issues. It does not necessarily indicate criminal wrongdoing. For the officer relieved, the consequences are often career-defining. A command tour represents the culmination of decades of service and is widely viewed as a pinnacle assignment. Relief from command can significantly limit future advancement. Institutional Stakes Relief for loss of confidence remains one of the Navys most serious administrative actions. In recent years, the service has repeatedly emphasized accountability across the fleet, particularly as operational demands increase and geopolitical tensions heighten. Destroyer captains oversee hundreds of sailors, advanced weapons systems and critical maritime operations. They are entrusted not only with mission execution, but with shaping the professional culture of their crews. Each relief therefore, carries institutional weight. It reinforces expectations. It signals standards. But it also prompts internal reflection, about preparation, oversight and the pressures placed on leaders in high-demand operational communities. Officials reiterated that USS Mason remains fully mission capable and continues its assigned training and operations under new leadership. For the sailors aboard the ship, the mission continues. Warships are built for continuity. Crews adapt. New commanders step forward. Training resumes. But inside the lifelines of a destroyer, leadership transitions are felt immediately. The challenge becomes restoring rhythm, reinforcing trust and ensuring that focus remains on execution rather than uncertainty. When a commander is relieved, the headline is about accountability. The longer-term story is about resilience, how quickly a unit stabilizes, how effectively a new leader builds credibility, and how the crew carries forward the standards expected of a U.S. Navy warship. USS Mason will continue to sail. The crew will continue to train. And under new leadership, the ship will work to maintain the readiness and discipline that define command at sea. This story will be updated if additional information becomes available regarding the circumstances surrounding Lewis relief. Out of the 16.4 million U.S. soldiers who served in World War II, and the less than 50,000 still living, what are the chances that two of those veterans who fought in the same battle would meet 82 years later, living in the same assisted living facility? Well, it happened in Naperville, Illinois. Robert Miller and Willard Smith, the former soon to be 100, the latter already 100, recently moved into the Tabor Hills Healthcare Facility. While they likely never met as young soldiers, both served in the famed Battle of Luzon in the Philippines in 1945. The longest battle in the Pacific during the war raged from early January to early August, resulting in a major win for Allied forces, liberating the Philippines from Japanese imperial control. After more than eight decades, the two veterans were pleased to meet each other and chat about their military experiences. In an interview with CBS News Chicago, they sat down, combed through old black and white photos, and reminisced about their lives as fresh-faced eighteen-year-olds preparing for war. They said, You look too young to fight this war, and it probably was true, Miller said. Bonded by the Battlefield Thats me in the service, Miller said, holding his official military portrait. Smith still possesses a sharp mind and keen sense of humor despite being over the century mark. I always considered myself kind of a nerd, but I look pretty good there, Smith said, looking over his military photos. The USS Pennsylvania (BB-38) and battleships of the Colorado class are followed by three cruisers as they move in a line into Lingayen Gulf preceding the landing on Luzon, Philippines in World War II. (U.S. Navy/National Archives) Eighty-two years and over 8,000 miles from where they survived a prolonged, intense battle in the Pacific Theater, Smith and Miller reconnected like long-lost friends. And thats where he was up there, too, and he mightve gone through the same system probably, Smith said. Like millions of World War II soldiers, Miller and Smith hadnt surpassed two decades of life when they put their fortunes on the line for their country. More than 8,000 U.S. soldiers were killed in the Battle of Luzon, but Miller and Smith were among the fortunate ones. They both survived, still around to talk about their experiences 82 years later. Smith recently turned 100 and celebrated with a big party. Miller will hit the milestone next month. Im looking forward to it to a certain degree, Miller said. The rarity of two Battle of Luzon veterans reconnecting after all these years was not lost on either Miller or Smith. Yeah, isnt that something? Smith said. Japanese "Betty" planes inside a hangar on Clark Field were bombed and strafed during the battle to recapture the airfield and the surrounding area in Luzon, Philippine Islands, 1945. (U.S. Air Force/National Archives) Life Following War After the war, both veterans married, raised children and pursued the same career field teaching. Smith became an art teacher, while Miller was a science instructor. They enjoyed passing on their passions to future generations. I think I taught every kind of art there ever was, Smith said. Eight decades might have changed the former soldiers in some ways, but in others, theyre still the same bright-eyed, optimistic teenagers they were in 1945. In the interview with CBS Chicago, Smith was pleased that his service hat still fits like a broken-in glove. Eighteen years old, Smith said. Now, Im 100 years old... oh, man. Didnt think Id make it that far. And of course, you wanted to wear it jauntily, you know, so youre looking sharp, he said. While the scars of combat can last a lifetime, Miller and Smith reflect on the past fondly, forging a friendship connected through a unique bond. It brings back a lot of good memories, Miller said. Reaching 100, they know their internal clocks are ticking down. Best to savor every moment. We had a good run, I think, for a couple of soldiers, Smith said. Defense attorneys for Tyler Robinson, the man charged with murdering political activist Charlie Kirk at a Utah Valley University event, are asking a judge to take an unusual step: remove the entire Utah County Attorneys Office from prosecuting the case. Their argument centers on a family connection inside the prosecution team and the appearance that it could have influenced the states decision to seek the death penalty. Robinson faces an aggravated murder charge stemming from the September 2025 shooting that occurred while a seated Kirk was speaking to a large audience. Prosecutors have announced their intent to pursue capital punishment. The defense argues that those charging decisions cannot be disentangled from the fact that the adult daughter of a senior prosecutor was present at the event and communicated with her father immediately after the shooting. The motion has drawn attention because courts almost never disqualify an entire prosecutors office, even in emotionally charged or high-profile cases. Understanding why requires separating ethical rules, constitutional standards, and practical limits on judicial intervention. What the Defense Is Asking the Judge to Do The defense is not seeking the recusal of a single line prosecutor. Instead, it wants Fourth District Judge Tony Graf Jr. to remove the Utah County Attorneys Office entirely. At the center of the dispute is testimony that the prosecutors daughter attended the event, stood roughly 85 feet from Kirk, and sent a text message to her father shortly after shots were fired stating that someone had been shot. There was a short call between the woman and her father after the text was sent. She has said she did not see the shooting itself and is not a material witness to the crime. Fourth District Court Judge Tony Graf presides over a hearing for Tyler Robinson, accused in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, in 4th District Court, Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, in Provo, Utah. (Trent Nelson/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, Pool) Defense counsel argues that even if the daughter is not a key witness, the family connection creates a reasonable perception that the offices charging decisionsparticularly the decision to seek deathwere influenced by personal considerations. Prosecutors respond that the elected county attorney alone made the death penalty determination based on the evidence and statutory aggravators. They also allege that the daughters presence does not supply evidence the state intends to use at trial. Judge Graf has taken the matter under advisement. A ruling is scheduled for Feb. 24, 2026. Why Office-Wide Recusal Is Exceptionally Uncommon Courts are reluctant to disqualify prosecutors because doing so directly interferes with the executive branchs authority to enforce criminal law. Unlike private attorneys, prosecutors represent the state itself and removing them raises separation-of-powers concerns that judges approach cautiously. Most jurisdictions require more than a speculative or emotional conflict. Judges typically look for an actual, identifiable risk that a prosecutors personal interest will distort charging discretion, plea negotiations, discovery obligations or sentencing advocacy. That threshold is intentionally high. If courts disqualified prosecutors whenever a case generated strong emotions or indirect personal connections, routine prosecutions of violent crimes would become extremely difficult. There is also a structural reason these motions rarely succeed. Utahs professional conduct rules explicitly state that a government law office is not treated as a single firm for purposes of automatically imputing one lawyers conflict to every other lawyer in the office. This means courts generally prefer targeted remedies, such as screening or supervisory controls, rather than blanket disqualification. What Supreme Court Has Actually Said About Prosecutorial Conflicts The U.S. Supreme Court has recognized prosecutors must act in the public interest rather than for private advantage, but it has narrowly applied that principle. In Young v. United States ex rel. Vuitton, the Court rejected the appointment of an interested private attorney to prosecute criminal contempt, emphasizing the need for prosecutorial neutrality. Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray stands during a hearing on the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in 4th District Court, in Provo, Utah, Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026. (Trent Nelson/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, Pool) That case, however, involved a privately retained lawyer with a direct financial and strategic stake in the outcome. Courts have repeatedly declined to extend that reasoning to ordinary government prosecutors absent a concrete showing of bias tied to the litigation itself. As a result, courts distinguish between prosecutors who personally witnessed a crime, represent victims, or stand to gain from the outcomeand prosecutors whose relatives were tangentially present but provide no evidentiary foundation for the case. Why the Kirk Motion Still Matters Even if the motion fails, it highlights a tension that courts cannot ignore in capital cases. The death penalty amplifies scrutiny of prosecutorial discretion because decisions are irreversible in a manner in which ordinary sentencing choices are not. The defenses strategy is to frame the issue not as actual misconduct, but as institutional legitimacy. Prosecutors argue legitimacy is preserved by transparency and insulation, not by dismantling an elected office mid-prosecution. Judge Grafs ruling will clarify how far Utah courts are willing to go when personal proximity intersects with capital charging decisions. A narrow ruling could endorse screening and internal controls. A broader ruling would signal that even perceived conflicts can justify extraordinary remedies in death-eligible cases. Either way, the case illustrates why efforts to remove prosecutors almost never succeedand why, when they do appear, courts treat them as an exceptional intervention rather than a routine safeguard. The Royals have an agreement in place with lefty John Means, the team announced. Its a two-year minor league contract. Means tore his Achilles tendon in December and is likely to miss the 2026 season. The Wasserman client last pitched in the big leagues with the Orioles in 2024. Injuries have derailed what began as a promising career for Means. He earned an All-Star selection as a rookie back in 2019. Means was a mainstay in Baltimores rotation through 2021. Health issues have capped the lefty at 10 big-league appearances over the past four years. Tommy John surgery cost him most of 2022 and 2023. Means made it through four starts in 2024 before needing another elbow procedure. Kansas City adds Means with the hope hell contribute down the line. Cleveland attempted to do the same thing, but it didnt pan out. The Guardians grabbed Means on a one-year, $1MM pact last offseason. The lefty was pushing to return to the majors by the end of the year following his second Tommy John procedure. He managed seven minor league starts with the club, failing to make the MLB roster. Cleveland declined its $6MM option on Means in November. Means entered the league with a low-90s fastball supplemented by a strong changeup and a decent slider. He didnt miss many bats as a rookie, but kept the ball in the yard and limited hard contact. Means ranked in the 89th percentile for hard-hit rate in his first full season. The shortened 2020 campaign saw Means fastball jump by 2 mph. The improved velocity didnt produce better results, but the leftys mid-4.00s ERA in a small sample could be explained away by a 21.8% home run to fly ball ratio. The heater lost a tick in 2021, but Means still delivered a 3.62 ERA across 26 starts. He was off to an excellent start through May, but a shoulder strain cost him six weeks. Means closed the year with an ERA up near 5.00 once he returned. He allowed 17 home runs over his final 14 appearances. The real shame of Means persistent injuries to close his time with Baltimore is that he never got to fully experience the adjusted stadium dimensions. The Orioles moved the fences back and introduced Walltimore in left field ahead of the 2022 season. The new-look Camden Yards wouldve fit Means approach perfectly, as a fly ball pitcher who generally limited hard contact. He was available for just five home starts after the changes were put in place. Photos courtesy of Jeff Curry, Imagn Images 11:55AM: Chafin will earn $2MM if he makes the Twins active roster, according to SKOR Norths Darren Wolfson. Chafins contract also has another $1.25MM available in bonus money. 7:05AM: The Twins signed left-hander Andrew Chafin to a minor league deal, according to multiple team beat writers. Chafins contract includes an invitation to attend Minnesotas big league Spring Training camp. As Chafin prepares for his 13th Major League season, the Twins will become the ninth team the southpaw has pitched for at the MLB level if Chafin can win a spot on the active roster. The 35-year-old added two more clubs to his list by appearing for the Nationals and Angels in 2025, posting a 2.41 ERA and a solid 25.2% strikeout rate over 33 2/3 innings, but also with a 13.3% walk rate. Between the inflated walk rate and an 81.9% strand rate, Chafins SIERA was 4.11 far higher than his real-world ERA. Most of his other underlying metrics were quite good, though Chafins biggest issue last season was staying healthy. He had a pair of stints on the injured list due to a right hamstring strain and then left triceps inflammation, resulting in a little over five weeks worth of missed time. This is the second straight winter that Chafin has had to settle for a minor league deal, as he also inked a non-guaranteed contract with the Tigers last February. He opted out of that deal at the end of April and quickly landed a MLB contract with Washington, then pitched in 26 games for the Nats before the Angels acquired Chafin at the trade deadline. Chafins lack of control continues to be a concern and his strikeout rate dropped from 28.5% in 2024, though his other numbers suggest he still has something left in the tank even at this later stage in his career. Chafin is the latest relief addition for a Twins team that has brought Taylor Rogers, Anthony Banda, and Eric Orze into the fold, not to mention a long list of NRIs with experience on big league pitching staffs. Rogers, Banda, and Kody Funderburk are all left-handers, so Chafin provides some more depth in that area as well. SYDNEY, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Police in Australia's state of New South Wales (NSW) said two people were killed after a stolen car crashed into another car in Sydney's southwest on Saturday. Emergency services were called to a service station in South Hurstville, a suburb of southern Sydney, at 10:20 a.m. local time on Saturday, following reports that a 25-year-old man was allegedly assaulted before an unknown man stole his red sedan and left the scene. Police located the vehicle later and initiated a pursuit with assistance from NSW Police Force Aviation Command (PolAir). The chase was terminated in the Bankstown area, but PolAir continued to track the car before it crashed into a sedan on the Old Hume Highway in Camden South, a suburb of the Macarthur Region of Sydney, at about 11:10 a.m. local time. The two occupants of the sedan were treated by NSW Police and Ambulance paramedics, but both died at the scene. The driver of the stolen car, a 31-year-old man, ran from the scene of the crash on foot and was arrested a short distance away. Multiple crime scenes have been established and investigations are underway. A Chinese agricultural expert and local staff members check the restored water flow at a pump station at Carantaba Farm in northeastern Guinea-Bissau, on Feb. 5, 2026. (The 12th Chinese Agricultural Technical Assistance Mission in Guinea-Bissau/Handout via Xinhua) DAKAR, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- At Carantaba Farm in northeastern Guinea-Bissau, the flow of water in the irrigation canals abruptly stopped. Under the dry-season heat, rice paddies began to pale and the soil hardened. The breakdown threatened more than a single harvest. Carantaba is also a key site for producing improved rice seeds in a country where rice is a staple food. Planting at the farm is staggered. Seedlings were entering the critical stage, when water demand surges. Any prolonged interruption in irrigation could wither young plants and sharply reduce yields. Farm technician Luis Fombe paced anxiously around the generator set. The diesel engine roared to life but vibrated violently. The alternator showed no output, the voltmeter needle stuck at zero, and the pumps remained idle. "Finding original parts here is almost impossible," Fombe said. "Even if we order them, the seedlings cannot wait." Out of options, he called the Chinese Agricultural Technical Assistance Mission based in Bafata, the second-largest city in the West African country. Two mechanics, Liu Qingguo and Deng Changchun, packed a welding machine and testing tools and drove straight to Carantaba. Their diagnosis was immediate: multiple faults across power generation, transmission and the water pipeline. With no spare parts available, they dismantled the system, repaired it section by section, and reassembled it piece by piece. Inside the machine room, an angle grinder shrieked as sparks flew. Crouching near the coupling between the generator and the pump, Deng measured again and again. A substitute part "didn't fit." "At high speed, even a small deviation can cause strong vibration," Deng explained. "The pump will not lift water, and it could fail." The team decided to machine the adjustment on site -- cutting, grinding, testing and trying again. When the connectors finally aligned, another problem emerged: the modification had shifted the pipeline out of position. Liu made a quick decision. "Cut it. We re-weld it." The pipe segment was removed, re-angled and welded back into place. On the third day, Liu pressed the start button. The generator roared back to life. The transmission stabilized. Minutes later, water pressure opened the main canal valve, and irrigation water once again flowed toward the thirsty fields. "We had no spare parts," farm manager Fonseca Saqui said, shaking hands with the two mechanics. "You worked with what was there, and it runs again. Thank you." According to Zheng Junjie, head of the 12th Chinese Agricultural Technical Assistance Mission in Guinea-Bissau, China has been sending agricultural experts to the country since 1998. Twelve teams and more than 240 experts have worked across regions including Bafata, Gabu and Oio. "The goal is not only to help produce more, but to pass on methods," Zheng said. Over the past two years, the mission has helped select 54 rice varieties suited to local conditions and produced more than 30,000 kilograms of improved seeds. The repair at Carantaba exemplifies an "end-to-end" approach, from field demonstrations to training technicians who understand both agronomy and machinery. More than 26,000 people have received technical training, and agricultural equipment and inputs have been donated to local partners. As China's Spring Festival approaches, all nine members of the current mission have chosen to remain on duty during the dry-season planting period. "For people who work the land, nothing beats seeing the water come back, not even New Year dumplings," Zheng said. Chinese agricultural experts and local staff members check rice growth at Carantaba Farm in northeastern Guinea-Bissau, on Feb. 11, 2026. (The 12th Chinese Agricultural Technical Assistance Mission in Guinea-Bissau/Handout via Xinhua) Stories about violence against women are never easy to watch but they are often necessary. Over the years, Hindi cinema has tried to shine a light on uncomfortable truths, telling stories of pain, survival and the long, difficult road to justice. Much like Assi, which follows a survivors fight to reclaim her voice, several Bollywood films have explored these realities with honesty and emotional depth. Let's take a look at the films that do more than narrate incidents; they invite audiences to feel, reflect and question the systems that shape womens lives. Did our AI summary help? Palak Vij is a Sub Editor and Entertainment Journalist with over a year of experience covering films, television, and pop culture in the digital space. During the candid interaction, Ranbir opened up about the release timelines of his next two major films Ramayana and Love & War. Did our AI summary help? Gayatri Rani is a Senior-Sub Editor with over three years of experience in delivering Hollywood and Bollywood news. Did our AI summary help? Gayatri Rani is a Senior-Sub Editor with over three years of experience in delivering Hollywood and Bollywood news. Salman Khan says he 'still lives in a 1BHK apartment' at Dubai event LUSAKA, Feb 14 (Xinhua) -- Zambia has suspended all livestock import permits from South Africa following an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in that country, a Zambian official said Saturday. Benny Munyama, principal public relations officer at the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, said the Department of Veterinary Services has suspended the importation of cloven-hoofed animals from South Africa, as well as feeds, trophies, skins, hides and hooves. "Issuance of permits for the importation of cloven-hoofed animal products from South Africa has been suspended unless strict mitigation measures are undertaken in accordance with the conditions provided for in the Terrestrial Animal Health Code of 2025," he said in a statement. Munyama added that the issuance of permits for the transit of live cloven-hoofed animals through Zambia has also been suspended, while all previously issued permits have been revoked with immediate effect. However, he said that the measures will be reviewed depending on the progression of the disease outbreak in South Africa. Arundhati was scheduled to attend the festival for the screening of her 1989 film In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones under the Classics section. You are already a Moneycontrol Pro user. OK Danish Khan is the editor of Technology and Telecom. He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 14 years. Indias largest airline moves to shore up cockpit strength after December cancellations and a DGCA probe flagged thin roster buffers and night-duty compliance gaps. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Pranab Uniyal is the Head of HDFC Tru (Investment Advisory) OpenAIs warning about distillation also comes as many in Washington remain concerned that access to advanced AI chips may also accelerate DeepSeeks progress Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic meets with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu) MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference on Friday, with both sides pledging to strengthen their ironclad friendship and deepen cooperation amid growing global uncertainties. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, first conveyed warm greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping and commended Vucic for leading the Serbian people to uphold independence, oppose foreign interference and effectively safeguard national stability, dignity and overall development. Under the strategic guidance of Xi and Vucic, the building of the China-Serbia community with a shared future in the new era has made a good start, Wang said, recalling the two meetings between the two leaders last year when they had strategic communication, reached broad consensus and charted the course for bilateral relations. China stands ready to work with Serbia to maintain close high-level exchanges, consolidate political mutual trust and firmly support each other in safeguarding respective core interests, Wang said, calling for enhanced practical cooperation, including the smooth operation of the Hungary-Serbia railway, and maximizing the benefits of a bilateral free trade agreement. Wang also urged both sides to carry forward the ironclad friendship between the two countries and open up new prospects for bilateral relations. Vucic asked Wang to convey his sincere greetings to Xi. He recalled the successful visit by the Chinese president to Serbia in 2024, which gave a strong boost to bilateral ties, and thanked China for its support in safeguarding Serbia's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. China remains Serbia's true friend and partner in today's increasingly turbulent world, Vucic said, voicing his hope for elevating cooperation with China in political, economic and trade, technological, and cultural fields to a higher level. Vucic reaffirmed Serbia's firm commitment to the one-China principle and its steadfast support for China's just position on achieving national reunification, pledging continued support on all issues concerning China's core interests. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic meets with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu) Signature Global partners with RMZ Group to develop mixed use project in Gurugram Rewati Karan is Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol. She covers law, politics, business, and national affairs. She was previously Principal Correspondent at Financial Express and Copyeditor at ThePrint where she wrote feature stories and covered legal news. She has also worked extensively in social media, videos and podcasts at ThePrint and India Today. She can be reached at rewati.karan@nw18.com | Twitter: @RewatiKaran Following the discovery, passengers were immediately deboarded and the aircraft was shifted to the isolation bay as a precautionary measure. Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the inauguration of Seva Tirth, the newly inaugurated Prime Minister's Office complex, in New Delhi. (@narendramodi/X via PTI Photo) by Julia Pierrepont III LOS ANGELES, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of high school students in Los Angeles walked out of class Friday and took to the streets, marching through downtown before gathering at City Hall for a rally condemning U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies. As they marched, students chanted "ICE out!" and denounced what they described as "unfair" and "illegal" detentions and deportations affecting friends and family members. The walkouts were fueled by a growing number of reports, videos and personal accounts alleging excessive force, racial profiling and mistreatment by ICE officers. Many students shared their own stories, or those of relatives and peers, describing traumatic encounters with immigration enforcement in their communities and sometimes near school campuses. The demonstrations also focused on ICE's presence at or near schools, an issue that has sparked concern in Southern California, home to a large immigrant population. Students argued that schools should remain safe spaces where all children, regardless of immigration status, feel protected. Maria P., a student in the Los Angeles public school system, told Xinhua she joined the protest to honor her parents, who migrated from Mexico before she was born. "They left Mexico to be out of danger. Now it seems like there is more danger here in the United States because of ICE's violence against innocent immigrants," she said. Tensions rose as protesters gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center, where ICE agents reportedly requested additional backup. Officers later moved to disperse the crowd. At 1:41 p.m. local time (2141 GMT), the Los Angeles Police Department posted on X that a federal agent had been injured and that the Los Angeles Fire Department was responding. Authorities have not released further details, stating only that those involved merged back into the larger crowd. Friday's walkout was part of a broader wave of student demonstrations across Southern California in response to increased immigration enforcement nationwide. Earlier this week, about 200 students from several Los Angeles-area high schools staged a morning walkout over immigration enforcement in their neighborhoods, saying their participation was deeply personal. Earlier this month, students marched in North Hollywood to protest immigration raids. On Jan. 30, high school students in Los Angeles and Orange counties participated in a "National Shutdown Day," calling for an economic slowdown to pressure federal officials to reduce or eliminate funding for ICE. In a statement, the Los Angeles Unified School District said it respects students' rights to express their views but expressed concern about safety during off-campus events. The district emphasized that school campuses remain the safest place for students and that schools are providing structured opportunities for discussion and support in a secure environment. A teacher who requested anonymity told Xinhua that the mere presence of ICE officers near schools "has a chilling effect on students," discouraging attendance among those who fear that they or their family members could be at risk. School counselors and educators have reported increased absenteeism, heightened anxiety and declining academic performance among students concerned about immigration enforcement. For many participants, the walkouts were intended to draw attention to what they see as the impact of ICE policies on their education and sense of security. The deliberations come against the backdrop of a political storm over references to Naravanes memoir in Parliament. Rs 406 crore project by BRO to build 2,110-metre runway for HALE drones and C-295, C-130 class aircraft Flight AI-171 crashed right after taking off from Ahmedabad Airport on June 12, 2025 Smoke billows after an explosion (right image) at an illegal coal mine in the East Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya, on February 5, 2026. (Image: PTI, Reuters) Rewati Karan is Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol. She covers law, politics, business, and national affairs. She was previously Principal Correspondent at Financial Express and Copyeditor at ThePrint where she wrote feature stories and covered legal news. She has also worked extensively in social media, videos and podcasts at ThePrint and India Today. She can be reached at rewati.karan@nw18.com | Twitter: @RewatiKaran PM Modi makes first ever landing on Assam highway aboard C-130J aircraft Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday made a historic touchdown at the Northeasts first emergency landing facility in Assams Moran, arriving aboard a C 130J aircraft at the start of his one day visit to the poll bound state. After landing earlier at the Chabua airfield, PM Narendra Modi took off again and descended onto the specially developed stretch along National Highway 37 at Moran. In a post on X ahead of the visit, the Prime Minister said the facility would play a crucial role in emergency response by enabling the swift deployment of rescue and relief teams during difficult situations. Built at a cost of Rs 100 crore, the 4.2 kilometre reinforced strip on the Moran Bypass has been designed as a strategic dual use runway. It can support Indian Air Force fighter jets as well as transport aircraft, enhancing defence preparedness, logistics capability and disaster response infrastructure in the region. OTTAWA, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- A memorial was held on Friday in Tumbler Ridge, Canada's British Columbia province, to mourn the victims of Tuesday's deadly school shooting. Governor General Mary Simon, Prime Minister Mark Carney, and leaders of various political parties attended the event, calling for national unity in the face of tragedy. "I cannot fathom the depths of your sorrow, or the shock, fear and horror you have endured," Simon said in an address. "When the unthinkable becomes real and we are plunged into shadow, we still seek that light." Carney paid tribute to the resilience of the residents of Tumbler Ridge and praised the heroism of the teachers and first responders who acted swiftly during the shooting. "Canadians are with you," Carney said. "We will always be with you." The shooting occurred on Tuesday at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, killing nine people, including the shooter, and injuring more than 25 others. It marks one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canada in recent years. Flags across Canada have been lowered to half-mast in a national show of mourning, and so has the Chinese embassy in Canada to express condolences. Of the 2,582 municipal wards and 414 corporation wards counted, Congress secured 1,347 seats, giving it a clear lead across the state. The 4.2-km stretch is reinforced and widened to handle frontline fighter jets such as Rafale and Sukhoi, transport aircraft like the C-130J Hercules, and helicopters. Saketh Sreenivasaiah, 22, last seen near Lake Anza; Berkeley Police and Indian Consulate coordinate search Girl invests gift money in gold instead of spending it. (Photo credit: Reuters) Following the growing criticism, Basque Bakery issued a statement on Instagram addressing the matter. Annual sales of about $195.6 billion translate into roughly $15.8 billion in net income, supporting earnings per share of $7.07 and the most recent quarterly earnings of $1.77 as of Oct. 30, 2025. In its third-quarter 2025 report, adjusted net income held at $4.0 billion despite a roughly $10 drop in oil prices year-over-year (YoY), while cash flow rose 4% to $7.1 billion, showing the strength of its integrated model. For income investors, the headline dividend yield of 2.11% on an annualized basis, about 2.85% in practical terms, sits below the roughly 4.24% energy-sector average. Still, the company returns cash consistently, with a forward payout ratio of 40.14% and a quarterly dividend of $0.735. On valuation, TotalEnergies trades at a forward price-to-earnings multiple of 11.14x versus about 14.86x for its sector. That gap suggests the stock is priced at a discount compared with the broader group, even with its mix of businesses and growth paths. TotalEnergies is a diversified, integrated energy major. It runs large oil and gas operations while also growing its LNG, power, and renewables businesses to meet demand from both industrial customers and the digital economy. On Feb. 9, 2026, the French energy giant announced two long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with Google (GOOG) (GOOGL) to deliver 1 gigawatt of solar capacity, which equals 28 terawatt-hours of renewable electricity over 15 years, to supply Googles data centers in Texas. The power will flow from TotalEnergies' 805-megawatt Wichita project and 195-megawatt Mustang Creek facility, with construction set to begin in Q2 2026. TotalEnergies SE (TTE) is capitalizing on both trends. The French energy major offers a forward dividend yield of 5.2%. It has raised its payout for three consecutive years, supported by a diversified portfolio spanning oil, gas, and rapidly growing renewable assets. Energy stocks are back in favor with income investors, and for good reason. The sector's dividend yields now average around 4.2%, well above the S&P 500's ($SPX) 1.3%, while major producers are generating record free cash flow and returning billions to shareholders through buybacks and growing payouts. At the same time, the energy transition is accelerating, with global renewable capacity additions hitting a record 585 gigawatts in 2024, driven by solar's 452 GW contribution. Story Continues Exploration & Production delivered $2.2 billion in adjusted net operating income and $4.0 billion in cash flow, up 10% and 6% sequentially, helped by new projects that contributed around $400 million of incremental cash flow at margins above the portfolio average. Why TotalEnergies Growth Story Is Getting Clearer TotalEnergies and Airbus (EADSY) have signed two clean firm power contracts to supply 3.3 TWh to Airbus major sites in Germany and the United Kingdom. The electricity will extend into the next decade, come with a baseload profile, and be sourced from new renewable assets totaling 200 MW, so it is not just a paper PPA; it is tied to an actual new buildout. The supply is expected to cover half of the electricity needs of the Airbus sites concerned, starting from 2027, which gives the deal a clear runway and clear volumes behind it. In Kuwait, TotalEnergies and Kuwait Oil Company signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the opening of the fifth Kuwait Oil & Gas Show and Conference (KOGS) to strengthen cooperation, exchange expertise, and conduct technical studies. The MoU also includes studies related to new exploration opportunities in the country, with TotalEnergies mobilizing its technical expertise, which is real groundwork that can lead to future production and cash flow. In Bahrain, TotalEnergies and Bapco Energies are launching BxT Trading, an equally owned trading joint venture backed by flows from Bapco Energies refinery, which adds more scale and flexibility to TotalEnergies trading business. The signing ceremony was witnessed in Abu Dhabi by Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne, and the company positioned it as a way to strengthen its trading presence in the Middle East alongside hubs in Houston, Geneva, and Singaporeanother piece of the integrated model that supports shareholder returns while it expands the renewables book. Wall Streets Read on TTE For the December 2025 quarter, the average EPS estimate sits at $1.80, versus $1.90 in the prior year, which implies a -5.26% YoY growth rate estimate. Looking at the bigger picture, the average estimate for fiscal 2025 is $7.15 versus $7.77, down -7.98%, and for fiscal 2026 it is $6.58 versus $7.15, down -7.97%. On volumes, TotalEnergies expects Q4 2025 hydrocarbon production of 2.525 to 2.575 Mboe/d, which is more than 4% growth versus Q4 2024. Jefferies upgraded TotalEnergies from Hold to Buy on Jan. 26, tied to a broader rethink of the companys ability to sustain cash flows, which matters a lot for dividend-focused investors. From the other angle, J.P. Morgan downgraded the stock from Overweight to Neutral in December 2025, showing a more cautious view, even though the macro factors in play are the same ones everyone is tracking. Even with those mixed calls, the overall analyst stance is still positive. All 23 analysts surveyed rate the stock a Moderate Buy, and the mean price target is $72.94. With shares recently around $74.71, the stock is about 2.43% above that average target, which suggests the market is leaning toward the view that contracted growth can keep cash flows more stable than the typical model assumes. www.barchart.com Conclusion TotalEnergies looks like a solid buy hand over fist dividend name for February 2026 because it is still priced at a sector discount while layering in long-dated, contracted renewable cash flows like the new Google Texas solar PPAs. With Q4 and full-year EPS estimates drifting lower and the stock already about 2.43% above the mean analyst target, the near-term path likely depends on execution and the tone of the Feb. 11 earnings update, but the setup still favors resilience over fragility. If energy prices stay range-bound, shares are more likely to grind higher or consolidate than break down sharply, with the Google and broader clean-power contracting story acting as a floor for sentiment. On the date of publication, Ebube Jones did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com New research in southern Namibia shows that the elusive black-footed cat relies heavily on abandoned springhare burrows to raise its kittens and escape predators. Tracking studies found females frequently rotate dens to protect their young, especially when predation risk is high. With only about 10,000 individuals remaining and low reproduction rates, the species faces threats from habitat loss, farming practices and disease, making cooperation with landowners vital for its survival. Did our AI summary help? Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Ankita Chakravarti is a seasoned journalist with nearly a decade of experience in media. She specializes in technology and lifestyle journalism. She has worked with top Indian media houses like India Today, Zee News, The Statesman, and Millennium Post. Her expertise spans tech trends, phone launches, gadget reviews, and entertainment news. Ankita holds a Master's in Journalism and Mass Communication along with a degree in English Literature. She can be reached out at ankita.chakravarti@nw18.com The outcome saw Bangladesh hand a clear mandate to the BNP under the leadership of Tarique Rahman Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) supporters shout slogans during an election rally on the last day of the election campaign, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. (Source: AP Photo) Rewati Karan is Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol. She covers law, politics, business, and national affairs. She was previously Principal Correspondent at Financial Express and Copyeditor at ThePrint where she wrote feature stories and covered legal news. She has also worked extensively in social media, videos and podcasts at ThePrint and India Today. She can be reached at rewati.karan@nw18.com | Twitter: @RewatiKaran Photographer: Jeenah Moon/Bloomberg Bill Ackmans Pershing Square is facing a shareholder lawsuit challenging a deal it struck last year with real estate company Howard Hughes Holdings Inc. aimed at eventually creating a business similar to Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Ackman coerced and bullied Howard Hughes directors into an unfair deal that disadvantaged minority investors, according to a proposed class action lawsuit unsealed on Friday in Delaware Chancery Court. The deal was done at an unfair price, which gave Pershing Square operational and managerial control over the company, the Howard Hughes investors claimed. Most Read from Bloomberg A Pershing Square spokesperson said the lawsuit was entirely without merit. The legal fight is over Pershing Squares $900 million purchase of newly-issued shares that boosted its stake in Howard Hughes to nearly 47% from about 37% the prior year. As part of the May deal, Howard Hughes agreed to pay Pershing Square a steady stream of quarterly fees and make Ackman executive chairman of its board. The purchase amount represented a 48% premium to the closing share price the previous business day, according to a company release at the time. Ackman told Bloomberg Television at the time that his aim was to transform Howard Hughes into a Berkshire Hathaway model where the company would take controlling stakes in other public and private businesses. Buffetts company has benefited from using insurance company holdings to deploy low cost capital into investments. Buffett stepped down as chief executive officer of Berkshire at the end of 2025. The lawsuit claims that Ackman sent an unhinged letter in 2025 when a special committee of Howard Hughes directors pushed back on a deal proposal. The committee and the rest of the board promptly caved in the face of Ackmans threats to their seats and reputations, the investors alleged. The board agreed to a deal that would transfer control of the company to Pershing without obtaining a control premium for plaintiffs and other minority investors, attorneys for the plaintiffs wrote. Ackman and company directors are also listed as defendants. Ackmans history with the real estate company traces back to when he became a major investor in General Growth Properties, which spun off Howard Hughes in 2010. Since then, Ackman served as chairman of the companys board until he stepped down in 2024. It wasnt the first time the Dubins had played a role in helping Epstein invest his money. BNP and Jamaat leaders once facing death penalty secure parliamentary seats after court acquittals and political upheaval Documents from the UD Justice Department files on Jeffrey Epstein The overall post has been captioned, "Made just for you". Find your next quality investment with Simply Wall St's easy and powerful screener, trusted by over 7 million individual investors worldwide. AECOM (NYSE:ACM) has entered a new global partnership with TomTom to use real time and historic traffic data in its infrastructure and mobility projects. The company has also secured a key design role on the Sydney Metro West Line, a major transport project in Australia. Together, these updates highlight AECOM's push toward data focused transport planning and large scale urban transit work. AECOM's share price sits at $88.31, with the stock down 12.6% over the past week and 10.1% over the past month. The share price is down 11.2% over the past year, while the 5 year return of 60.6% shows that longer term holders have seen materially different results from recent short term moves. For investors following NYSE:ACM, the TomTom partnership and the Sydney Metro West win relate directly to how the company is positioning itself in data rich mobility and complex rail projects. These types of contracts and collaborations can influence how consistently AECOM is able to win work across global transport markets over time. Stay updated on the most important news stories for AECOM by adding it to your watchlist or portfolio. Alternatively, explore our Community to discover new perspectives on AECOM. NYSE:ACM Earnings & Revenue Growth as at Feb 2026 5 things going right for AECOM that this headline doesn't cover. The TomTom partnership ties directly into AECOM's push toward higher margin, data focused advisory work. By building TomTom's real time and historic traffic tools into its design and operations offering, AECOM can give clients more precise views of congestion, route choices and incident impacts. For a firm that already competes with names like Jacobs Solutions and WSP in global transport consulting, access to this level of mobility data can be a meaningful differentiator when bidding for complex road and rail programs. How This Fits Into The AECOM Narrative U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks at the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany. (AP Photo) US briefly added Alibaba, Baidu and other Chinese firms to its 1260H list, which bars Pentagon contracts, before withdrawing the document. US officials say President Trump is considering strikes on Irans nuclear and missile capabilities, alongside potential special forces operations, as the Pentagon reinforces regional defenses. A vehicle pauses as a convoy of Syria's Interior Ministry forces passes through en route to the town of Qamishli (AP Photo) At some point, one has to wonder who really benefits from the artificial intelligence revolution. Take jobs, for example. AI evangelists including Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, and OpenAI CEOSam Altman all say that the technology will have most people, to some varying degree, working less in the near future. Last year, Gates shared on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" that humans would keep some tasks for themselves, but AI would make a two- or three-day workweek possible. Meanwhile, uber-optimist "the moon is a distraction" Musk took the sci-fi tech fantasy a few steps further. "There will be no poverty in the future" thanks to AI, a starry-eyed Musk declared on X (formerly Twitter). On "The Joe Rogan Experience" podcast, he also shared his vision of an AI future where "everyone has abundance, everyone has excellent medical care, everyone has whatever goods and services they want," Business Insider reported. If these promises sound like a (bad) car salesman trying to convince you to buy that TruCoat you don't need, then consider the source. Still, there are signs that AI is already changing the job market. Of the 244,851 global tech layoffs in 2025, nearly 70,000, or about 30%, were AI-related, according to Digital Journal, citing information from forex broker data firm RationalFX. Amazon is in the midst of laying off 16,000 employees, and while CEO Andy Jassyrecently clarified that the layoffs were financially driven, not AI-related, he also said that AI wasn't costing Amazon jobs, with an important caveat: "yet." Now, new research suggests that employees are the ones hurting as employers pressure them to adopt AI to make their jobs easier. The assumption that articial intelligence always reduces work deserves deeper examination, research reveals.Photo by The Washington Post on Getty Images Photo by The Washington Post on Getty Images AI may not always reduce work Just like Bill Gates, AI companies are selling an efficiency revolution to enterprise partners. For various reasons, employees have been slow to adopt AI tools, with many not seeing a great use for them, according to Gallup. But for those who have adopted the technology and are using it consistently, signs of trouble have emerged. Related: Pinterest CEO fires back at workers fighting layoffs UC Berkeley researchers Aruna Ranganathan and Xingqi Maggie Ye conducted an eight-month study of how generative AI affected work habits at an undisclosed U.S.-based tech company with about 200 employees. They found that employees, who received free access to enterprise generative AI tech, worked at a faster pace, took on a broader scope of tasks, and worked longer, "often without being asked to do so." Gupta was arrested in the Czech Republic on June 30, 2023, and later extradited to the U.S. Charges were formally announced by the US Justice Department in November 2023. (Image: X//DEA New York) ByteDance has the biggest AI team in Chinese tech and plans to spend billions of dollars building AI infrastructure this year (Pedro PARDO) Pedro PARDO/AFP/AFP After soaring to global attention with its hugely popular TikTok app, Chinese tech giant ByteDance is now positioning itself as a major player in the fast-evolving AI arena. While the Beijing-based company has been embroiled in a range of legal and privacy rows linked to the social media app for years, its team has been busy branching out developing new cutting-edge products. Among them is China's most popular artificial intelligence chatbot, Doubao, which has built up more than 100 million daily users since its inception in 2023. That makes it one of the world's largest processors of AI queries, alongside OpenAI and Google. Meanwhile, the cinematic clips created by its latest video generator, Seedance 2.0, have further raised the company's international profile. But like TikTok, ByteDance's AI services could face trouble in overseas markets owing to issues from data privacy to fierce competition in the sector. Since OpenAI's ChatGPT revealed the powers of AI on its 2022 debut, ByteDance has believed the technology "would become an even more important application than web search", CEO Liang Rubo said last month. "ByteDance's shift reflects a deliberate evolution from social media toward an AInative model," Charlie Dai, vice-president and principal analyst at Forrester, told AFP. Regulatory and political pressure on ByteDance's enormously popular video-sharing app TikTok has fuelled the pivot, he said. This month, the European Commission said TikTok's "addictive features" breached online content rules, and told it to change its design or face a fine amounting to up to six percent of ByteDance's annual global revenue. - 'Evolving circumstances' - The United States had threatened TikTok with a total ban over concerns the platform could be used to harvest Americans' data or spread propaganda. After lengthy top-level talks over a TikTok divestiture deal, a majority-American-owned joint venture was established in January to operate the app's US business, with ByteDance retaining a stake of less than 20 percent. Rocky Lee, who uses TikTok and other sites to sell Chinese digital gadgets and pet products to buyers overseas, was relieved by the US deal. "I can now tell other traders that 'you can go ahead and don't have to worry about it anymore'," Lee, who runs a chat group for cross-border sellers, told AFP. Lee uses Doubao and other AI tools for various tasks including product selection, market research and sales script-writing. By Zaldy Dandan Variety Editor THIRTY years ago, Gov. Froilan C. Tenorio said the U.S. government, if it wished, should scrap the islands privilege to export duty-free garment products to the States a benefit to American consumers rather than impose restrictions on the CNMIs ability to hire the workers it needed to achieve economic development and reduce its dependence on U.S. taxpayer money. Otherwise, he said, presciently, we close down everything and just wait for the federal government to give us all the money we need. In other 1996 news, the CUC board chair said the utility needed $50 million (worth about $103.29 million today) to undertake proposed improvements. Six engines on Saipan, he added, were in desperate need of an overhaul. In August 1995, CUC was declared in default on its $69 million debt to the Commonwealth Development Authority, an amount worth about $142.5 million today. According to the CUC board chair, all were doing is squeezing the blood from a dead entity, referring to the utilities agency. The CNMI government would later solve CUCs problem by converting its CDA debt into equity. Variety also reported that the Marianas Visitors Bureau, the predecessor of the Marianas Visitors Authority, was setting aside funds to transform the old Japanese hospital in Garapan into the CNMIs first museum. In addition, MVB said it would provide seed money to Northern Marianas College for the training of tourism students and develop four new tourist sites in the Commonwealth. These were among the 38 tourist sites on Saipan, Tinian and Rota identified for priority development. MVB likewise believed there was a need to build more hotel rooms to meet the coming years tourist influxes. Hotel-room occupancy was described as pretty much maximized, with arrivals projected to increase annually by 12 to 15%. An airline executive said Guam was capturing more tourists because of the hotel room shortage in Saipan. Incidentally, in January 1996, 65,676 tourists visited the islands a 15% increase compared to January 1995. Variety noted that in the first four months of fiscal year 1996, 235,989 tourists had already visited the CNMI. By comparison, total arrivals for all of fiscal year 2025 amounted to 160,640. Powered by the tourism and garment industries, the economy at the time was humming. Lawmakers were able to consider an across-the-board 13% pay-hike for civil service employees and a proposal to expand coverage of the retirement fund program by providing an annual cost-of-living allowance to beneficiaries under age 55. At the Public School System, students were offered a comprehensive school-to-work program that gives [them] a taste of the real world. Implemented in partnership with the private sector, the program covered tourism, technological courses, building construction, electronics, communications, automotive mechanics, woodworking and home economics. The goal, PSS said, is to prepare the students for actual work and give them easy access to employment. Up north in San Roque, across from what was then the Hotel Nikko (now Kensington), La Fiesta Mall held its third annual Snow Festival. For many who came, it was the first time they had ever seen real snow, courtesy of the Japan Airlines Group and the Marianas Visitors Bureau, Variety reported. The snow 3,750 pounds of it was transported from Chitose City in Hokkaido, Japan. Two snowmen were also brought in. A record 17 elementary schools joined the snowman-making contest, with Rota and Tinian participating for the first time. Mount Carmel School topped the competition. Afterward, some 200 children had fun throwing snowballs at one another while adults watched from the sidelines, sometimes dodging the icy balls and sometimes getting hit themselves. Elsewhere, the Associated Press quoted President Bill Clinton as saying that military tension between China and Taiwan was a temporary problem because leaders in Beijing and Taipei had too much at stake to allow armed conflict. Eventually, he said, time will take care of this and theyll decide on the appropriate resolution. He added that the overall trend in the region had been toward easing tensions. Commerce Secretary Ron Brown said that commercial engagement with a nation of 1.3 billion people gives us the opportunity to have some influence, some impact in the direction China takes, adding that he did not see pursuit of commercial interests as conflicting with addressing other outstanding issues. As the opening line of L.P. Hartleys 1953 novel, The Go-Between, puts it: The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there. Send feedback to [email protected] Zaldy Dandan is the recipient of the NMI Society of Professional Journalists Best in Editorial Writing Award and the NMI Humanities Award for Outstanding Contributions to Journalism. His four books are available on amazon.com/. This story was originally published on MyNorthwest.com Employees at three airlines are set to receive nearly three weeks of additional pay after the airlines received top-employer recognition. Employees with Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Horizon Air all of which operate out of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) will receive nearly three weeks of additional pay through the companys performancebased pay program. The bonus payout came after Alaska Airlines was named a top employer in 2026 by Glassdoor, a career community and job website that allows employees to provide insights, data, and information about their employers. Horizon Air and Hawaiian Airlines are both part of the Alaska Air Group. Im incredibly grateful for the teams across our combined company who came together to finish 2025 strong and set us up well for 2026 and beyond, Paul Sale, the managing director of total rewards for Alaska Airlines, stated. Were in one of the most exciting and transformational chapters in our history, and its our people who make it possible. Their award-winning service and commitment to excellence continue to set Alaska, Hawaiian, and Horizon apart in the industry. Alaska Air Group shared that more than 32,000 employees received this added benefit. This week, employees throughout the organization will receive nearly three weeks of additional pay under its Performance-Based Pay (PBP) program a reward for their commitment to care and performance, Alaska Airlines said. PBP unites employees around shared goals tied to safety, financial performance, and guest experience, going beyond traditional profit-sharing programs. Follow Frank Sumrall on X. Send news tips here. Citizenship under review: Trump officials expand effort to denaturalize foreign-born Americans Trump DOJ sets aggressive monthly quotas to strip citizenship from naturalized immigrants. The initiative aims for 100-200 case referrals to prosecutors each month. Officials are scouring old files for discrepancies to fuel a litigation pipeline. The administration calls it a zero-tolerance policy for fraud in naturalization. Critics warn the quotas create fear and politicize a profound legal process. The Trump administration is launching a sweeping effort to identify and strip U.S. citizenship from naturalized immigrants, setting aggressive monthly targets that mark a dramatic shift in enforcement. Internal guidance directs U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to refer between 100 and 200 potential denaturalization cases to the Justice Department each month. This initiative, now moving into full operation, seeks to revoke citizenship from those alleged to have obtained it through fraud or misrepresentation, fundamentally altering a process historically used with great restraint. This planned scale is staggering when compared to recent history. From 2017 through the present, the Justice Department has filed just over 120 such cases in total. To now target potentially thousands of cases annually represents an exponential increase. Administration officials have reassigned personnel and dispatched experts to field offices nationwide to scour past naturalization files for discrepancies, aiming to feed a pipeline of litigation. The legal foundation for denaturalization is narrow, reserved primarily for cases where material facts were concealed during the naturalization process. The Trump administration insists it is merely enforcing these existing laws with renewed vigor. "We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards fraud in the naturalization process and will pursue denaturalization proceedings for any individual who lied or misrepresented themselves," said USCIS spokesman Matthew Tragesser. He added the agency will work with the Justice Department to ensure "only those who meet citizenship standards retain the privilege of U.S. citizenship." A new enforcement priority The drive is a core component of President Donald Trumps broader immigration agenda. A Justice Department memorandum from June 2025 stated the administration would "prioritize and maximally pursue denaturalization proceedings in all cases permitted by law and supported by the evidence." Potential targets include individuals linked to national security risks, war crimes, torture, or serious financial fraud against the government. The guidance also includes a broad provision for "any other cases ... that the division determines to be sufficiently important to pursue." Supporters argue this rigor is long overdue to protect the integrity of the immigration system. They contend that concerns about overreach are overblown, noting the government has historically been passive in pursuing improper naturalizations. With approximately 26 million naturalized citizens in the U.S., they assert that robust enforcement is necessary to maintain confidence in the value of citizenship. Critics warn of politicization and fear However, the establishment of monthly quotas has alarmed former officials and immigrant advocates. They warn that numerical targets risk politicizing a deeply consequential legal process and could create uncertainty for millions of law-abiding naturalized citizens. The process itself is arduous and carries a high legal bar; the government must present clear and convincing evidence to a federal judge that a misrepresentation was material to gaining citizenship. "Its so important for current and future naturalized U.S. citizens to know that no president can unilaterally strip people of the citizenship theyve worked so hard to earn," said Doug Rand, a former USCIS official. Critics also fear the policy could be applied retroactively, placing people under new scrutiny for issues that were not flagged when their citizenship was originally approved. This expansion moves denaturalization from a rare tool, once used to pursue hidden war criminals, to a frontline enforcement strategy. It raises profound questions about the permanence of American citizenship and the balance between rooting out fraud and fostering a climate of fear. For the millions who chose the United States and underwent the naturalization process, the promise of belonging now faces an unprecedented administrative test. The coming months will reveal whether this drive safeguards the system or redefines the very meaning of becoming an American. Sources for this article include: YourNews.com NBCNews.com Independent.co.uk The Forbidden Cure: How $5 veterinary drugs are beating cancer and why Big Pharma wants them banned Fenbendazole (a veterinary dewormer) and ivermectin have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in treating terminal cancers, often at a fraction of the cost of conventional treatments. Joe Tippens' terminal lung cancer remission using fenbendazole, turmeric, CBD oil and vitamin E highlights their potential. Cheap, off-patent drugs threaten the $200B cancer industry, leading to active suppression by pharmaceutical companies and captured agencies like the FDA and CDC. Merck sabotaged ivermectin to push its $500K mRNA cancer vaccine, while doctors prescribing repurposed drugs face persecution. Medical journals bury positive studies, while Big Tech bans discussions (e.g., Facebook groups, YouTube testimonials). Fraudulent narratives (e.g., "horse paste" smear campaigns) dominate mainstream discourse. Actionable protocols for patients: Fenbendazole - 222 mg/day (3 days on, 4 days off) with curcumin and vitamin E, Ivermectin - 0.2 to 0.4 mg/kg combined with quercetin and zinc and detox - Nattokinase, NAC and sunlight to mitigate spike protein damage. The book ties drug suppression to broader agendas (e.g., Bill Gates' mRNA investments, WHO power grabs). It calls for medical freedom, Right-To-Try laws and decentralized networks (like FLCCC) to bypass censorship. Imagine a world where terminal cancer patientsabandoned by conventional medicinefind remission using a $5 veterinary dewormer. This is not science fiction. "The Forbidden Cure," a meticulously researched expose, unveils the shocking potential of repurposed drugs like ivermectin and fenbendazole in treating cancerand the systemic forces suppressing them. Authored with the urgency of a whistleblower, this book dismantles the profit-driven medical-industrial complex, revealing how cheap, safe and effective treatments are buried to protect Big Pharma's trillion-dollar cancer industry. Key revelations: The hidden war on repurposed drugs 1. The accidental cancer cure The book opens with the jaw-dropping story of Joe Tippens, an Oklahoma man diagnosed with terminal small-cell lung cancer in 2017. Sent home to die, Tippens stumbled upon fenbendazole, a dog dewormer and combined it with turmeric, CBD oil and vitamin E. Within months, his tumors vanished. His case, along with others in the 110,000-member Fenbendazole Cancer Support Group, suggests a paradigm shift but one the establishment refuses to acknowledge. Why? Fenbendazole costs pennies per dose. It disrupts cancer cell microtubules (like chemotherapy) but without the toxicity. Stanford researchers even published a case series on its efficacyyet no pharmaceutical company will fund trials for an off-patent drug. 2. Ivermectin's double life: From Nobel Prize to blacklisted therapy Ivermectin, hailed for eradicating parasitic diseases, has a darker history: Merck, its original patent holder, actively sabotaged its use during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) to pave the way for its $500,000 mRNA cancer vaccine (now in Phase III trials). Mexican researchers tested ivermectin against 28 cancersevery single one responded, particularly ovarian and breast cancers. Yet, doctors prescribing it risk license revocation, as seen with Dr. Pierre Kory and Dr. Paul Marik. 3. The suppression playbook The book meticulously documents how corrupt systems block access: Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Captured agencies that smeared ivermectin as "horse paste" while fast-tracking deadly drugs like Remdesivir. Medical journals: Studies proving efficacy are buried, while fraudulent papers (e.g., hydroxychloroquine retractions) dominate headlines. Big Tech censorship: Facebook groups sharing fenbendazole protocols are banned; YouTube deletes videos of recovered patients. 4. The protocols that work For readers seeking actionable solutions, the book provides: Fenbendazole dosing: 222 mg/day, cycled (3 days on, 4 days off) with curcumin and vitamin E. Ivermectin for cancer: 0.20.4 mg/kg, combined with quercetin and zinc for immune priming. Detox strategies: Nattokinase, NAC and sunlight to neutralize spike protein damage from COVID jabs. Why this book terrifies the establishment The author doesn't just present anecdotesthey connect the dots to global depopulation agendas. Bill Gates' investments in mRNA vaccines, the World Health Organization's (WHO) pandemic power grabs and the FDA's revolving door with Pharma all point to a chilling reality: The system doesn't want cures; it wants customers. Key quotes: "Cancer is a $200 billion-a-year industry. Fenbendazole threatens that." "When a drug is 100x safer than Tylenol but treated as 'dangerous,' follow the money." "The FDA exists to protect Pharma's monopolies not patients." Final verdict: A manifesto for medical freedom "The Forbidden Cure" is more than a bookit's a call to arms. It empowers patients to: Reject blind trust in a corrupt medical system. Demand access to repurposed drugs under Right-To-Try laws. Build decentralized networks (like the FLCCC) to bypass censorship. For anyone touched by cancer or who simply values truth over corporate lies, this is the most important book you'll read this decade. The truth about cancer isn't hidden in a labit's being lived by those who dared to defy the system. Grab a copy of "The Forbidden Cure: How Ivermectin and Fenbendazole Are Revolutionizing Cancer Treatment" via this link. Read, share and download thousands of books for free at Books.BrightLearn.AI. You can also create your own books for free at BrightLearn.AI. Watch the bombshell interview below, where Mike Adams talks to Dr. William Makis on using ivermectin and fenbendazole protocols to eliminate cancer. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: Books.BrightLearn.ai 1 Books.BrightLearn.ai 2 BrightLearn.ai Brighteon.com The Body Electric: A revolutionary blueprint for human health and freedom "The Body Electric" reveals how the human body functions as a semiconductor, conducting essential electrical currents for healing a truth suppressed by Big Pharma and centralized institutions. Pioneers like Dr. Robert O. Becker and Albert Szent-Gyorgyi proved this decades ago, but their work was sidelined by Rockefeller-funded medical agendas favoring synthetic drugs. Artificial blue light (from screens and LEDs) and fluoride are exposed as tools of biological disruption blue light damages circadian rhythms and metabolism, while fluoride interferes with electrical signaling in the body, paralleling modern vaccine and transhumanist agendas. Practical solutions include harnessing sunlight (UV light boosts mitochondrial energy), structured water (EZ water acts as a cellular battery) and grounding (reconnecting with Earth's electromagnetic field to counteract 5G/Wi-Fi harm). Melanin is highlighted as a biological superconductor that converts light into energy. The book advocates for self-sufficient health (herbal medicine, PEMF therapy), financial sovereignty (cryptocurrency, gold/silver) and community resilience (permaculture, off-grid living) to escape corporate and technological control. The author frames modern medicine as deliberate biological sabotage and urges reconnection with natural energy fields, detoxification from industrial toxins and decentralized networks to reclaim true health and freedom. Imagine a world where healing isn't about swallowing pills but about harnessing the natural electricity of your own body, where sunlight, water and magnetism are the true medicines. This is the radical vision presented in "The Body Electric: How Light, Water, and Magnetism Shape Human Health and the Crisis of Modern Technology." The book is a meticulously researched expose on bioelectricity, a field suppressed by Big Pharma and centralized institutions but now re-emerging as the key to reclaiming human health and sovereignty. The authorwriting with the urgency of a whistleblower and the precision of a scientist uncovers the buried legacy of pioneers like Dr. Robert O. Becker and Albert Szent-Gyorgyi, who proved decades ago that the human body operates like a semiconductor, conducting electrical currents essential for regeneration and vitality. Their work was sidelined by the Rockefeller-funded Flexner Report, which redirected medicine toward synthetic drugs and away from natural healing modalities. The book pulls no punches: modern medicine isn't just flawed it's a deliberate suppression of our innate biological power. The hidden war on human biology One of the book's most shocking revelations is how artificial light, especially blue light from screens, has been weaponized against us. Originally developed by DARPA for battlefield applications, blue-enriched LEDs now dominate our homes, disrupting circadian rhythms, spiking blood glucose and accelerating chronic disease. The author connects this to the transhumanist agenda, where tech elites like Elon Musk push neural implants and AI integration while suppressing the truth: our bodies already function as sophisticated bioelectric systems. Similarly, fluoridetouted as a dental health miracleis exposed as a neurotoxin that disrupts the body's electrical signaling. The book traces its origins to industrial waste repurposed as a public health measure, with chilling parallels to the mRNA vaccine rollout: both are Trojan horses for mass biological control. Decentralizing health: Light, water and magnetism The second section shifts from crisis to solution, offering practical strategies to restore bioelectric function: Sunlight as the ultimate nutrient Far from being dangerous, UV light triggers nitric oxide production, boosts mitochondrial energy and even regenerates tissue. The book debunks sunscreen propaganda, revealing how melanoma rates skyrocketed after its widespread use. Structured water and semiconduction Dr. Gerald Pollack's research on EZ water (Exclusion Zone water) shows how water inside cells acts as a battery, storing energy like a liquid crystal. Fluoride and toxins disrupt this, but clean, mineral-rich water restores it. Grounding (Earthing) Reconnecting with the Earth's natural electromagnetic field reduces inflammation, improves sleep and neutralizes the harmful effects of 5G and Wi-Fi. The book also dives into melanin's role as a biological superconductor, capable of converting light into metabolic energyexplaining why darker-skinned populations often exhibit greater resilience to environmental stressors. Reclaiming humanity from the technological plantation The final section is a manifesto for liberation. The author dissects how Big Tech and Big Pharma collude to enslave humanity, from digital IDs to AI-driven social credit systems. But resistance is possible: Decentralized medicine Herbal remedies, PEMF therapy and biofeedback tools empower individuals to heal outside the system. Financial sovereignty Cryptocurrencies and precious metals (gold/silver) break dependence on central banks rigged for collapse. Community resilience Intentional communities, permaculture and off-grid living create self-sufficient havens free from corporate control. "The Body Electric" is more than a health book it's a revolutionary field guide for surviving (and thriving) in an age of technological tyranny. The author blends hard science with actionable steps, proving that our bodies are not broken they've been sabotaged. By reconnecting with natural energy fields, detoxifying from modern poisons and building decentralized networks, we can reclaim our birthright: true health, wealth and freedom. Grab a copy of "The Body Electric: How Light, Water, and Magnetism Shape Human Health and the Crisis of Modern Technology" via this link. Read, share and download thousands of books for free at Books.BrightLearn.AI. You can also create your own books for free at BrightLearn.AI. Watch the video below, where Mike Adams interviews brain surgeon Dr. Jack Kruse on light as nutrition, proteins as semiconductors, "Body Electric" regenerative secrets and more. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: Books.BrightLearn.ai 1 Books.BrightLearn.ai 2 BrightLearn.ai Brighteon.com Declassified drone footage reveals playful orb formation over Persian Gulf Newly released 2012 military footage shows three unidentified "orbs" executing coordinated, physics-defying maneuvers in the Persian Gulf, captured by a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone. The objects exhibited advanced capabilities, including instant acceleration without visible propulsion and an intelligent, "playful" formation flight where one orb was "slingshot" back into the lead position. This incident is part of a pattern of military encounters, notably including a 2024 event where a similar orb off Yemen survived a direct hit from a Hellfire missile and accelerated away at unprecedented speeds. The footage's release highlights ongoing secrecy and frustration, as journalists and lawmakers criticize intelligence agencies for withholding UAP data from Congress and the public, eroding trust. These credible, military-recorded events suggest persistent, global incursions by objects with capabilities beyond known human technology, challenging official explanations and fueling demands for transparency. A newly revealed U.S. military video from 2012 shows three unidentified objects exhibiting coordinated, physics-defying maneuvers over the volatile Persian Gulf, adding a significant piece of evidence to a growing dossier of unexplained aerial phenomena confronting American forces. The minute-long infrared footage, captured by an MQ-9 Reaper drone operated by the U.S. Air Force on August 23, 2012, depicts three luminous "orbs" flying in a tight triangular formation. Investigative journalist Jeremy Corbell, who released the footage on the podcast "WEAPONIZED," stated it was obtained from intelligence sources. According to Corbell and co-host George Knapp, the Pentagon's analysis described the lights as individual orbs flying in formation, rather than as a single triangular craft. The video shows one of the objects suddenly dropping behind the other two before being slingshot forward to retake the lead, all while maintaining precise, equal distances. "The orbs appeared to be flying in an almost 'playful' manner and were intelligently coordinated," Corbell noted, highlighting the absence of any visible wings, tails, fins or engine exhaust. The movement demonstrated a key observable behavior linked to Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP): instant acceleration without visible means of propulsion. As noted by BrightU.AI's Enoch, unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) are events in the sky, water or space that cannot be immediately identified as known objects or natural phenomena. They are the modern, broader term for UFOs, encompassing a wider range of mysterious incidents for scientific and governmental investigation." During the podcast's Jan. 30 episode, Knapp explained that it was a military-recorded sensor-generated image that the government has labeled a UAP, adding that the footage wasn't supposed to have been released to the public. The hosts stated the video was placed in a special archive for incidents involving objects clearly not identifiable as birds, balloons or conventional aircraft. A real threat, or opportunity, that isn't fully understood The location of the sighting, the airspace between Saudi Arabia and Iran, is described as a modern hotspot for UAP activity. Corbell recounted an alleged incident where U.S. Navy personnel reported an unknown object flooding a ship's bridge with such intense light that a commanding officer who had already raised her hand to shield her eyes couldn't see her own hand in front of her face. This 2012 footage joins a startling catalog of military-recorded encounters, most notably a separate event disclosed to Congress in 2024. During a House Oversight subcommittee hearing titled "Restoring Public Trust Through UAP Transparency and Whistleblower Protection," Rep. Eric Burlison presented declassified video from October 30, 2024. That footage showed a U.S. Reaper drone firing a 100-pound Hellfire missile at a similar glowing orb off the coast of Yemen. The missile struck the object and ricocheted off harmlessly before the orb accelerated away at unprecedented speeds. Burlison later posted, "Greenlight given to engage; missile appears to be ineffective against the target. This is not science fiction. This is a real threat, or opportunity, that we don't understand." These leaks occur against a backdrop of intense bipartisan frustration in Washington over intelligence agencies' refusal to fully disclose UAP data, even to Congress. The WEAPONIZED hosts echoed this sentiment, with Knapp stating, "It must be frustrating for [Congress] to know that this kind of stuff exists and they're not allowed to poke into it or get a glimpse of it at all." While the Pentagon's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) maintains there is no verifiable physical evidence of extraterrestrial technology, the steady stream of credible, military-sourced footage depicting objects with capabilities far beyond known human engineering continues to erode public trust and fuel demands for transparency. The 2012 Persian Gulf orb video stands as a pivotal, earlier data point in an ongoing narrative of unexplained incursions into restricted airspace, suggesting these encounters are neither new nor isolated, but a persistent and global phenomenon. Watch this video about secret UFO technologies. This video is from the Son of the Republic channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk Brighteon.com BrightU.ai A clash of jurisdictions: Evidence dispute slows hunt for abducted TV hosts mother An Arizona sheriff is blocking the FBI from accessing key DNA evidence in the abduction of Nancy Guthrie, mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie. A federal law enforcement official says the Pima County Sheriff's insistence on using a private Florida lab, not the FBI's Quantico lab, is delaying the investigation. The sheriff disputes the claim, stating the FBI agreed with his decision to maintain consistency by using a single, contracted lab. The dispute highlights coordination challenges in the high-profile case, now in its second week with no proof of life. The FBI has doubled its reward to $100,000 for information leading to Guthrie's location or a suspect's arrest. A fractured investigation A high-stakes investigation into the abduction of an 84-year-old Arizona woman has become ensnared in a bureaucratic standoff, with federal officials accusing the local sheriff of withholding critical evidence. As the search for Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC "Today" show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, stretches into its second week, a U.S. law enforcement official says the Pima County Sheriffs Office is impairing the FBIs ability to assist by refusing to share key physical evidence for federal analysis. The dispute centers on who processes DNA and other forensic clues, raising urgent questions about interagency coordination in a time-sensitive kidnapping case with national attention. The core of the conflict According to a federal law enforcement official familiar with the investigation, the FBI requested that physical evidenceincluding a glove and DNA samples from Nancy Guthries Tucson homebe sent to the bureaus national crime laboratory in Quantico, Virginia. Instead, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has insisted on sending all new evidence to a private laboratory in Florida with which his office has an existing contract. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Reuters this decision is delaying the FBIs ability to assist and risks further slowing a case that grows more urgent by the minute. The official also noted the county has spent approximately $200,000 to use the Florida lab for this case. Sheriff Nanos has forcefully denied allegations of obstruction. In a local television interview, he stated the FBI agreed with his plan to send evidence to the Florida lab to maintain consistency, as it already possesses DNA profiles from earlier evidence. I said No, why do that? Lets just send them all to where all the DNA exist, all the profiles and the markers exist. They agreed, makes sense, Nanos told KVOA. The Pima County Sheriffs Office later issued a statement emphasizing its strong partnership with the FBI and that the decision was discussed with and agreed upon by local FBI leadership. A case marked by tension and urgency The public disagreement exposes underlying friction in a investigation that has faced pressure from its outset. Nancy Guthrie, who has significant health issues and limited mobility, was last seen on Jan. 31 and is believed to have been taken by force from her home. The case took a significant turn last week when the FBI released doorbell camera footage showing an armed, masked individual tampering with the camera at her residence around the time of her disappearance. With at least two purported ransom notes delivered to media outlets and lapsed deadlines, no proof of life has been established. The jurisdictional dynamics are legally clear but practically complex. The sheriffs office holds primary jurisdiction, and the FBIs involvement is contingent on a formal request for assistance. The federal official criticized the sheriff for not bringing the FBI into the investigation sooner, suggesting valuable time was lost. Its clear the fastest path to answers is leveraging federal resources and technology. Anything less only prolongs the Guthrie familys grief and the communitys wait for justice, the official said. Turf wars and tragic consequences Interagency conflicts are not new in American law enforcement, but they carry heightened risk in kidnapping cases where the first days and hours are most critical. Historical precedents, from the Unabomber investigation to the aftermath of 9/11, have shown that information silos and territorial disputes can hinder investigations, sometimes with tragic results. The post-9/11 reforms aimed to foster intelligence sharing, yet operational clashes between federal and local authorities over control, resources and protocol persist, particularly in high-profile cases that attract intense media scrutiny and public pressure. In this instance, the argument over forensic processing is technical but consequential. The FBIs Quantico lab is one of the most advanced in the world, with extensive databases and resources for complex analysis. While private labs are accredited and capable, the dispute introduces potential delays, as the FBI source noted they may need to retest evidence after it returns from Florida. For a family publicly pleading for their mothers safe return, any delay, perceived or real, compounds the anguish. A search for answers amidst discord As the investigation continues, the FBI has doubled its reward to $100,000 for information leading to Guthries location or a suspects arrest. Meanwhile, investigators are combing through thousands of tips and expanding the collection of surveillance footage from the area. The discovery of gloves near the Guthrie home has added a new potential clue, given the suspect in the released video was seen wearing similar items. The path forward hinges on unity The standoff between Pima County and the FBI underscores a perennial challenge in American policing: balancing local authority with the vast resources of the federal government. While both agencies publicly affirm their commitment to collaboration, the leak of sharp criticisms to the media suggests significant internal strife. For the Guthrie family and a concerned public, the resolution of this bureaucratic conflict is inextricably linked to the resolution of the case itself. The ultimate test will be whether these agencies can swiftly bridge their differences, align their efforts and focus solely on the urgent task of bringing Nancy Guthrie home. Sources for this article include: Reuters.com NewsNationNow.com FoxNews.com Sorry, something doesn't look right. Something seems unusual about your device or browser. Please contact support. Licensing and bundling tactics could crowd out competitors The FTC launched its wide-ranging investigation into Microsoft in November 2024, issuing a CID compelling the company to turn over roughly a decades worth of data about its operations (from 2016 to 2025). The agency is closely examining the tech giants age-old practice of bundling its Office productivity and security software in with its cloud services. This could potentially violate antitrust laws if the company is exploiting its dominance in the productivity space to gain unfair advantages in cloud computing and cybersecurity markets. Notably, the FTC is looking into how Microsoft structures licensing in a way that impedes customers from switching to rival offerings. This would constitute unfair practice and put competitors at a disadvantage. Microsoft has fought back against the claims, and, following complaints across global markets, made some changes intended to loosen its policies. For instance, recent decisions in the EU forced the unbundling of Teams from the Office suite. However, this ironically resulted in net higher pricing for EU consumers, said Info-Techs Bickley. Additionally, the CISPE consortium of European cloud providers reached an agreement with Microsoft in mid-2025; the cloud giant agreed to pay 20 million ($23.7 million today) to smaller cloud providers excluded from offering Microsoft services under a hosted model, and to update its software licensing terms to allow European providers to run Microsoft software on their own platforms at prices equal to Microsofts. However, Bickley pointed out, recent complaints allege that the company has not delivered on this promise. What trends should we look for it we want to identify stocks that can multiply in value over the long term? Typically, we'll want to notice a trend of growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and alongside that, an expanding base of capital employed. If you see this, it typically means it's a company with a great business model and plenty of profitable reinvestment opportunities. In light of that, when we looked at Alfen (AMS:ALFEN) and its ROCE trend, we weren't exactly thrilled. This technology could replace computers: discover the 20 stocks are working to make quantum computing a reality. Return On Capital Employed (ROCE): What Is It? If you haven't worked with ROCE before, it measures the 'return' (pre-tax profit) a company generates from capital employed in its business. The formula for this calculation on Alfen is: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.028 = 5.8m (313m - 106m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2025). Thus, Alfen has an ROCE of 2.8%. Ultimately, that's a low return and it under-performs the Electrical industry average of 13%. Check out our latest analysis for Alfen ENXTAM:ALFEN Return on Capital Employed February 14th 2026 In the above chart we have measured Alfen's prior ROCE against its prior performance, but the future is arguably more important. If you'd like to see what analysts are forecasting going forward, you should check out our free analyst report for Alfen . So How Is Alfen's ROCE Trending? When we looked at the ROCE trend at Alfen, we didn't gain much confidence. Over the last five years, returns on capital have decreased to 2.8% from 19% five years ago. And considering revenue has dropped while employing more capital, we'd be cautious. If this were to continue, you might be looking at a company that is trying to reinvest for growth but is actually losing market share since sales haven't increased. The Bottom Line We're a bit apprehensive about Alfen because despite more capital being deployed in the business, returns on that capital and sales have both fallen. We expect this has contributed to the stock plummeting 86% during the last five years. Unless there is a shift to a more positive trajectory in these metrics, we would look elsewhere. Alfen could be trading at an attractive price in other respects, so you might find our free intrinsic value estimation for ALFEN on our platform quite valuable. While Alfen isn't earning the highest return, check out this free list of companies that are earning high returns on equity with solid balance sheets. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. A 10-month-old girl, Alin Sherin Abraham, has become Kerala's youngest organ donor after being declared brain-dead following a road accident. Her parents consented to donate her liver, kidneys, heart valve, and corneas, which were transplanted to five recipients, including a six-month-old baby who received her liver. Health Minister Veena George praised the family's courageous decision amid their grief. The organs were transported to various medical centers under the coordination of the Kerala Network for Organ Sharing. A 10-month-old baby in Kerala becomes the state's youngest organ donor, giving life to five recipients after a tragic road accident. Thiruvananthapuram, February 14 A 10-month-old Alin Sherin Abraham has become Kerala's youngest organ donor, giving new life to five recipients after being declared brain-dead at the hospital. Her parents, Arun Abraham and Sherin Ann John, made the decision to donate her organs. The infant's liver, two kidneys, heart valve and corneas were donated. A six-month-old baby undergoing treatment received the liver, becoming the youngest in the state to undergo a posthumous liver transplant. The kidneys were allocated to another child, while the heart valve and corneas were also transplanted to patients in need. Health Minister Veena George expressed heartfelt gratitude to the grieving parents, saying their decision would help save multiple lives. Alin suffered brain death following a road accident on February 5 at Pallam Borma junction in Pathanamthitta district, where a car coming from the opposite direction collided with their vehicle. She sustained severe injuries, and her mother and grandparents were also critically hurt. After initial treatment in Changanassery and Tiruvalla, the child was shifted to Kochi, where she was declared brain-dead on February 13. The family consented to organ donation soon after. The organs were transported from the hospital to various medical centres in Thiruvananthapuram under the coordination of KNOS (Kerala Network for Organ Sharing), with support from the Home Department. Authorities said the donation stands as a powerful message of hope amid tragedy. - ANI The India-AI Impact Summit 2026, the first global AI summit hosted in the Global South, will convene in New Delhi from February 16-20. Anchored in the principles of People, Planet, and Progress, it aims to shape a future where AI fosters inclusive growth and safeguards the planet. The summit will bring together global leaders, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and ministerial delegations from over 45 countries. It seeks to translate high-level AI discussions into practical, people-centric outcomes for governance, healthcare, agriculture, and education. Global AI Summit in Delhi, anchored in People, Planet, Progress, to shape responsible governance with UN chief & global leaders attending. New Delhi, February 14 Ahead of the India-AI Impact Summit, Indian envoys have underscored the guiding philosophy of the global gathering, anchored in the principles of People, Planet and Progress. Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X, "Anchored in the principles of People, Planet and Progress. Our Ambassadors and Consuls General wrote articles in publications around the world in the build-up to the upcoming India-AI Impact Summit." "Woven around the theme of 'Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya - Welfare for All, Happiness of All', the summit envisions a future where AI advances humanity, fosters inclusive growth, and safeguards our shared planet." "Here's how the articles encapsulate the underlying philosophy behind the AI summit, the first to be held in the Global South." Ambassador to Italy, Vani Rao wrote, "AI systems succeed only when skills, trust, infrastructure, and access evolve together. Governance, from this perspective, is not separate from innovation, but is an integral part of it." Ambassador to Chile, Abhilasha Joshi wrote, "The India AI Mission marked a pivotal step in positioning India a global leader in artificial intelligence." Ambassador to Denmark, Manish Prabhat wrote, "India's experience shows that AI's revolutionary potential must be available to people all over the world." High Commissioner to Uganda, Upender Singh Rawat wrote, "The summit will showcase practical AI application in healthcare, agriculture, education and governance." Ambassador to Cambodia, Vanlalvawna Rawitlung wrote, "India's AI scene is booming." The upcoming India-AI Impact Summit, the first-ever global AI Summit to be hosted in the Global South, will be held in the national capital from February 16 to 20. It will be anchored in three guiding "sutras" -- People, Planet and Progress -- and structured around seven key "chakras," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday. Twenty leaders from around the globe will participate in the India-AI Impact Summit 2026. Ministerial delegations from over 45 countries are expected to attend, along with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and senior officials from several international organisations. At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several Heads of State and Government are scheduled to attend the Summit. The India-AI Impact Summit will be held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, marking the first global AI summit to be hosted in the Global South. Designed as a five-day programme covering policy, research, industry and public engagement, the Summit will bring together global leaders, policymakers, technology companies, innovators and experts to deliberate on AI's role in governance, innovation and sustainable development. The Summit builds on India's development-focused approach to artificial intelligence, aligning with the India AI Mission and the Digital India initiative, and emphasises translating global AI discussions into practical, people-centric outcomes. The India-AI Impact Summit 2026 aims to foster dialogue on responsible AI governance, innovation ecosystems, digital public infrastructure, climate-conscious technology and equitable access to emerging technologies. Envisioned as a pivotal global platform, the Summit seeks to shape a future-oriented agenda for inclusive, responsible and impactful AI, moving beyond high-level discussions to deliver tangible outcomes that support economic growth, social development and the sustainable use of artificial intelligence. - ANI A global tech expert states that India must treat data as its "next oil" to lead the coming AI-driven industrial revolution. He highlights India's advantages, including a massive talent pool and a strong digital backbone, but warns that reliable electricity is a critical bottleneck for building the necessary data center infrastructure. The expert compares the current AI wave to past transformative technologies like the steam engine and internet. He emphasizes that AI is in its infancy and represents a major economic turning point for nations that adopt it strategically. AMD's Sunil Pal says India's AI potential is vast but needs power infrastructure. He outlines India's talent and digital backbone as key advantages. Washington, Feb 14 Artificial intelligence is at an inflection point globally, and India must treat data as its "next oil" if it wants to lead the next industrial revolution, Sunil Pal, Head of AI GPU Allocation at AMD, said ahead of the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. "2026 is the year for AI," Pal told IANS, describing the technology wave that began with ChatGPT's release in 2022 as "like the fourth industrial revolution." He said countries are racing to capture value in a market he described as projected to reach $1.7 trillion by 2031. "Everyone is trying to see how can they capitalise on this overall AI," he said, adding that "data is the key." According to Pal, the summit in India comes at a time when governments and companies worldwide are evaluating how to scale AI infrastructure and applications. He outlined three areas where India stands out: "AI talent and engineering depth," a "global digital backbone," and a shift "from services to strategic innovation hub." India offers "one of the largest AI and digital engineering talent pool," he said, enabling enterprises "to scale AI rapidly and cost-effectively." He pointed to the country's role in managing global enterprise platforms, cybersecurity operations, analytics, and AI development. Indian technology firms, he said, are "brightly positioned to know what the trend is changing, and they can change the trend accordingly." India is also evolving "into AI research, product engineering, semiconductor design, and global capability centers," he said. With "1.2 billion people," he added, the country has a built-in scale advantage. But Pal warned that infrastructure will determine whether India can convert that potential into leadership. "In order to build the data centers, the power is the bottleneck," he said. "The main thing is the electricity, and high-quality electricity is the key." He said governments must think long term and invest in reliable, affordable energy, including hydro, nuclear, wind, and solar power. "It's not a short-term thing," he said. Countries need to "look at this holistically and look at the long term and play the long game." Building data centers requires large-scale planning, land acquisition, and regulatory approvals. Pal noted that even in the United States, projects require rounds of public consultation and clearances. Similar processes in India will take time. Still, he emphasised that compute infrastructure is not tied to a single geography. It is "agnostic to a location," he said, and can be deployed in one part of the country and used elsewhere, or even globally, through the internet. On global competition, Pal said the United States currently has a stronger lead in AI, but "China is not behind." He recalled visiting Beijing in 2018 and being struck by the level of automation and AI deployment even then. China's approach, he said, reflects a "very concentrated effort." But he stressed that AI remains in its early stages everywhere. "AI is right now at the beginning," he said, adding that countries from Singapore to Dubai and across Europe are moving quickly. For India, the challenge is to stay alert and engaged. "You have to keep your eyes and ears open," he said, and assess how AI can be integrated into an economy that is already among the world's largest. Pal also pushed back against the idea that AI is merely a cost-cutting tool. "It is becoming a revenue enabler through the hyper personalization, through predictive insights and digital business models," he said. In healthcare, he explained, AI can narrow down options and accelerate research cycles. Experiments that once required large teams and extended timelines can now be streamlined. "The machines are learning too fast," he said. At the same time, he cautioned that data quality matters. "If you provide the bad information, you get the bad information out." Looking ahead five years, Pal said he does not have a "crystal ball," but believes the technology is still in its "infancy stage." He compared AI's current moment to the early days of the steam engine, the internet, and the smartphone. Each of those innovations, he said, reshaped industries and created trillion-dollar companies. AI, in his view, represents a similar turning point. "If you don't adopt, you will be behind and you don't want to be behind," he said. Calling the India AI Impact Summit "a good thing," Pal said New Delhi's push into semiconductors and digital infrastructure is long overdue. He drew a parallel to oil-rich economies of the 20th century. "Data is the next oil," he said. With the right ecosystem, talent and infrastructure, he suggested, India can turn that resource into long-term economic strength. The India AI Impact Summit follows similar gatherings in London and France and comes as governments worldwide accelerate investments in AI chips, data centers and research. India has rolled out incentives for semiconductor manufacturing and digital infrastructure, aiming to position itself as a major player in the global AI value chain. As geopolitical competition intensifies over advanced technologies, New Delhi is seeking to leverage its engineering base and digital scale to emerge as a central hub in the next phase of AI-led growth. - IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a meeting with Puducherry BJP office bearers ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. He addressed a public rally in Karaikal, launching the party's campaign and touting the NDA government's achievements in eradicating corruption and ensuring political stability. A delegation of Deputy Election Commissioners has reviewed poll preparedness for the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry elections. The elections will see the Congress alliance competing against the NDA, which currently holds power in the union territory. Union Home Minister Amit Shah chairs BJP meeting, launches election campaign in Puducherry, highlighting NDA's anti-corruption and autonomy achievements. Puducherry, February 14 Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Saturday chaired a meeting with the Bharatiya Janata Party state office bearers of Puducherry ahead of the forthcoming assembly election in the Union Territory later this year. Earlier in the day, Shah addressed a BJP public meeting in Karaikal, highlighting the performance of the NDA government in Puducherry over the past five years. He said the administration had achieved three major goals: eradicating corruption, ensuring political stability and strengthening Puducherry's autonomy. "Five years ago, the people of Puducherry formed an NDA government here under the leadership of PM Modi ji and Rangaswamy ji. And this government has accomplished three things: First, it has eradicated corruption here. Second, the previous Congress government here had turned Puducherry into an ATM for its masters in Delhi. Whereas we have worked to make Puducherry an autonomous UT. The third thing we have done is to bring political stability to Puducherry," Shah said. The Home Minister officially launched the BJP's election campaign in Karaikal with a public meeting, signalling the party's preparations ahead of the polls. Meanwhile, a seven-member team of Deputy Election Commissioners of India reviewed preparations for the upcoming Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Legislative Assembly elections on February 11. The delegation includes Deputy Election Commissioners Bhanwar Prakash, Manish Garg, Pawan Kumar Sharma, Sanjay Kumar, and Ashish Goyal, along with other senior officials. The team assessed the preparedness of the election machinery in both Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry. Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Maneesh Garg said to reporters, "A team of officials from the Election Commission has reached Chennai and Puducherry to review the poll preparedness." This year, the union territory will hold elections for all 30 constituencies of the 16th Puducherry Legislative Assembly. While the Congress is fighting the polls in an alliance with DMK and CPI, the opposition consisted of All India NR Congress, BJP and AIADMK. In 2021, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won a simple majority in the elections and N Rangaswamy of the All India NR Congress was sworn in as the chief minister for the fourth time during that time. - ANI Amrita Rao paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary actress Madhubala on her birth anniversary by recreating the iconic song 'Aaiye Meherbaan' from the 1958 film "Howrah Bridge." The recreation was filmed at the historic Howrah Bridge in Kolkata, with Rao sharing a monochrome video on social media. Madhubala, known as the 'Venus of Indian Cinema,' starred in classics like "Mughal-e-Azam" and passed away in 1969. Amrita Rao, recognized for films like "Vivah" and "Main Hoon Na," expressed how Madhubala's style inspired her. Actress Amrita Rao recreates Madhubala's iconic 'Aaiye Meherbaan' at Howrah Bridge to celebrate the legendary star's birth anniversary. Mumbai, Feb 14 Actress Amrita Rao on Saturday, paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary actress Madhubala on her birth anniversary by recreating her iconic song 'Aaiye Meherbaan' from the 1958 classic "Howrah Bridge" at the historic Howrah Bridge in Kolkata. Taking to her social media account, Amrita shared a monochrome video of herself enacting the classic number that was originally picturised on the legendary Madhubala. Capturing the old-world charm, the actress attempted to relive the magic of the screen legend against the backdrop of the iconic bridge. Sharing the video clip on her social media account, she wrote,"MADHUBALA REBORN Her BIRTH ANNIVERSARY TODAY !!!! The One Who Stole & Continues to steal many hearts was indeed born on 14th Feb a day the World Chose to Celebrate L O V E!" She added, "I'm at Howrah bridge Kolkata .. recreating the wonderful song from the movie Howrah Bridge released in 1958.. Her Adaayen inspired many leading ladies including Me !!" Talking about the iconic song "Aaiye Meherbaan" from "Howrah Bridge" remains one of Madhubala's most celebrated performances, and a chartbuster even after decades of its release. Madhubala, who is known as the 'Venus of Indian Cinema,' made her acting debut as a child artiste in the 1942 film 'Basant.' She rose to fame with superhit films such as "Mahal," "Mr. & Mrs. '55," "Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi," "Howrah Bridge," and the magnum opus "Mughal-e-Azam." Her final film was "Jwala," that released posthumously in 1971. For the uninitiated, the actress passed away at the young age of 36 in 1969 due to a prolonged heart ailment. Talking about Amrita Rao, the actress made her Bollywood debut with "Ab Ke Baras" in 2002 and gained widespread recognition with hits like "Ishq Vishk," "Vivah," "Main Hoon Na," and "Welcome to Sajjanpur." She was last seen in the 2019 film "Thackeray," where she portrayed Meena Tai Thackeray. The actress is also active on social media, often sharing glimpses of her personal life and revisiting nostalgic moments from her career. - IANS Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi will undertake an official visit to Australia from February 16 to 19, 2026. The visit aims to bolster bilateral defence cooperation through high-level meetings and discussions on training, joint exercises, and capacity building. His itinerary includes meetings with senior Australian defence leadership, a visit to the Australian War Memorial, and interactions with Indian defence veterans. The tour underscores the shared commitment to enhancing security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi visits Australia to strengthen defence cooperation, joint exercises, and Indo-Pacific security. New Delhi, February 14 The Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, is set to embark on an official visit to Australia from 16 to 19 February 2026. The visit aims to further strengthen India-Australia defence cooperation and reinforce the growing convergence between the two nations. As part of his visit, the COAS will hold wide-ranging discussions with senior leadership of the Australian Defence Forces to enhance army-to-army engagements, including training, joint exercises, professional exchanges, and capacity building, according to a release. In Sydney, the COAS will engage with the senior hierarchy of Forces Command (FORCOMD), Special Operations Command (SOCOMD) and 2nd Division. It is noteworthy that the troops of the 2nd Division participate in the bilateral Army Exercise AUSTRAHIND, the next edition of which is scheduled to take place in India in 2026. Upon arrival in Canberra, the day will begin with a ceremonial welcome and a Guard of Honour, followed by a meeting with Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, Chief of the Australian Army. The Chief of the Australian Army and General Upendra Dwivedi are alumni of the US Army War College Class of 2015 and share a strong professional bond. The meeting will be followed by a comprehensive roundtable discussion at the Australian Defence Forces Headquarters on defence cooperation, modernisation, and future operations. The COAS will also interact with the Commander of the Australian Defence College and address the officers at the Australian Command and Staff College, according to the release. In a series of high-level meetings, the COAS will call-on Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and the Secretary of the Department of Defence. Furthermore, he will visit Headquarters Joint Operations Command (HQJOC), where he will meet the Commander Joint Operations and will be briefed on operational dynamics of the Australian Defence Forces, including integrated and multi-domain operations. The COAS will lay a wreath at the Australian War Memorial to pay homage to the fallen soldiers and honour the shared legacy of sacrifice and service. He will also meet the Indian Defence Veterans residing in Australia, underscoring the enduring bond between the Indian Armed Forces and its veterans. The visit reaffirms the shared commitment of both nations to further enhance defence cooperation and to jointly contribute to peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region. - ANI Assam Jatiya Parishad president Lurinjyoti Gogoi has welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's inauguration of the Emergency Landing Facility at Moran, stating national security must transcend political considerations. His stance directly contrasts with Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, who had previously raised objections to the project. The strategically important facility is the first of its kind in the Northeast, designed to allow the Indian Air Force to operate aircraft during emergencies. Gogoi emphasized that defence infrastructure is about safeguarding the country and should not be viewed through a partisan lens. AJP President Lurinjyoti Gogoi welcomes PM Modi's defence facility, prioritizing national security over politics, differing from Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi. Guwahati, Feb 14 Assam Jatiya Parishad president Lurinjyoti Gogoi on Saturday welcomed the inauguration of the Emergency Landing Facility at Moran by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying national security must remain above political considerations. Reacting to the inauguration of the strategically important facility, Gogoi said any initiative taken in the interest of the country's security and sovereignty deserves support. "For me, the nation comes first and security comes first. Any work done to strengthen India's defence preparedness must be supported, irrespective of who is in power," he said. His statement assumes political significance as it differs from the position taken by Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, who had earlier raised objections to the Emergency Landing Facility project at Moran. Without naming the Congress leader directly, Gogoi said defence infrastructure should not be viewed through a political lens. "Defence infrastructure is not about politics or parties. It is about safeguarding the country and ensuring preparedness in times of crisis. Such matters should rise above political differences," he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Emergency Landing Facility on the Moran bypass in Dibrugarh district, the first such facility in the Northeast. The ELF is designed to enable the Indian Air Force to land and operate fighter jets and transport aircraft during emergencies, significantly enhancing defence preparedness in the eastern sector. Security experts said the Moran ELF is strategically important, given Assam's proximity to international borders and its role in the Northeast. The facility is also expected to support disaster response, emergency operations and rapid deployment of defence forces. Gogoi said Assam should take pride in contributing to the country's defence infrastructure. "The people of Assam have always stood firmly with the nation. Infrastructure that strengthens India's security also strengthens the confidence of our people," he said. The inauguration of the Moran ELF marks a key development in strengthening defence infrastructure in the Northeast. - IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first Emergency Landing Facility in Northeast India on the Moran Bypass in Assam. The historic event was witnessed by an estimated one lakh people, with locals expressing immense pride and amazement. The Indian Air Force showcased the strip's capability with Rafale, Sukhoi, and MiG fighter jets performing take-offs and landings. The strategic facility boosts national security by providing an alternative landing option near sensitive border areas. PM Modi inaugurates historic Emergency Landing Facility on Moran Bypass in Assam, witnessed by lakhs. IAF Rafale, Sukhoi jets demonstrate operational capability. New Delhi, Feb 14 Residents in Assam's Moran expressed pride and amazement on Saturday after the inauguration of the Emergency Landing Facility on the Moran Bypass, calling the development a historic and unimaginable achievement for the region. Sharing their reactions after the inauguration, locals said the project had exceeded all expectations. One resident said, "We had never even imagined in our dreams that today the Prime Minister of the country would accomplish such a great task - something beyond our expectations." Another local echoed similar sentiments, stating, "We had never imagined this before. Today, we proudly say that the Prime Minister has done this for the security of our country..." A third resident added, "We had never imagined that such work would be done on a road like this. We had never thought it possible, but today we have seen it with our own eyes for the first time. We feel very proud..." Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Emergency Landing Facility on the National Highway in Moran in Assam's Dibrugarh district, the first such facility in the entire northeastern region, according to government officials. Soon after inaugurating the ELF, the Prime Minister witnessed an air show by the Indian Air Force (IAF). The show featured Rafale, Sukhoi and MiG fighter aircraft, which successfully carried out take-offs and landings on the specially developed highway strip, demonstrating the operational capability of the facility. Officials said that at least one lakh people gathered to witness the historic event. Located in Upper Assam, the ELF on the Moran Bypass is being viewed as a major strategic addition to India's military infrastructure in the Northeast. It offers the IAF enhanced operational flexibility in a region that has seen heightened tensions in recent years. The Moran ELF has been designed to function as an alternative landing option in situations where Dibrugarh Airport or the Chabua Air Force Station becomes unavailable due to operational constraints or emergency scenarios. For the IAF, the facility significantly strengthens its ability to respond swiftly to contingencies near sensitive border areas, marking a crucial boost to national security preparedness. - IANS The hearing phase for claims and objections to West Bengal's draft voters' list concludes, with officials identifying an additional 6.25 lakh names for potential deletion. These names are largely from voters who failed to attend hearings despite notices, falling into 'unmapped' or 'logical discrepancy' categories. The final voters' list, initially due on February 14, will now be published on February 28, after which the Election Commission will visit to review the situation. This revision follows the earlier exclusion of nearly 58 lakh names from the draft list published in December. West Bengal's voter list revision identifies 6.25 lakh additional names for deletion ahead of final list publication on Feb 28. Key details inside. Kolkata, Feb 14 The phase of hearings on claims and objections to the draft voters' list in West Bengal is expiring at 12 midnight on Sunday, with 6.25 lakh additional names already being identified as eligible for exclusion in the final voters' list, officials said on Saturday. Since the phase of scrutinising the documents submitted at the hearing session will continue for seven more days, until February 21, the number of additional names found suitable for exclusion in the final voters' list will automatically increase. Already, during the enumeration phase, names of around more than 58 lakh voters (deceased voters, duplicated voters, and shifted voters) were found suitable for exclusion and hence their names were not included in the draft voters' list, which was published in December last year. Now the final deletion figure will be clear only after the final voters' list is published on February 28. The initial date of publication of the final voters' list was February 14, which was later extended to February 28. Insiders from the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) said that, out of the 6.25 lakh additional names found suitable for exclusion during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) hearing session, the majority are those voters who failed to turn up at the hearing sessions, despite repeated notices being sent to them. "Such voters, who did not turn up at the hearing sessions, were both from 'unmapped' and 'logical discrepancy' categories," the CEO's office insider added. "Unmapped" voters are those who failed to establish any link with the 2002 voters' list in West Bengal, be it through "self-mapping" or through "progeny mapping". On the other hand, "logical discrepancy" cases are those where weird family-tree data were detected in the course of the "progeny mapping". A day after the publication of the final voters' list on February 28, the full bench of the Election Commission of India (ECI) will be coming for a two-day visit to West Bengal to review the post-SIR scenario, following which the polling dates for the crucial Assembly elections in the state scheduled later this year will be announced. West Bengal CEO, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, had already sent a recommendation to the ECI for a single-phase poll in the state this time, while saying that the final decision in the matter will be taken by the Commission. The past few elections in West Bengal were conducted in seven to eight phases. The last time there was a single-phase election in West Bengal was during the 2001 state Assembly elections. - IANS By Joey Roulette WASHINGTON, Feb 13 (Reuters) - The space race between U.S. billionaires is heating up, with Elon Musk's SpaceX planning to build a lunar base and Jeff Bezos pushing Blue Origin's ambitions as both companies aim to return humans to the moon ahead of a planned mission by China in 2030. More from Yahoo Scout What is NASA's timeline for returning astronauts to moon? How are SpaceX and Blue Origin competing for lunar missions? How might lunar base development affect space industry investments? What factors are driving Musk's pivot from Mars to moon? With a planned IPO this year, SpaceX CEO Musk has said in recent podcast interviews and company meetings that he wants to build "Moonbase Alpha" and put a satellite-slinging launch device on the lunar surface. The lunar base would help build up his envisioned AI-computing network of up to one million satellites. Musk's intensified drive toward the moon has shifted SpaceX's aspirational focus from the Mars colonization mission he has pushed consistently since founding the company in 2002. As recently as last summer, Musk said he hoped to launch an uncrewed Starship mission to the Red Planet, calling the moon a "distraction". In recent weeks, Bezos' space company Blue Origin has also put more focus on its own moon program, shuttering its suborbital space tourism business to shift those resources into its Blue Moon lunar lander program ahead of a planned uncrewed mission to the surface this year. Musk now wants to convince investors that SpaceX will remain the dominant force in space ahead of a planned IPO later this year that could value the company at over $1 trillion. The company on Friday launched its latest astronaut mission for NASA to the International Space Station. After a flurry of Musk posts on X this week about a "pivot" to the moon, Bezos posted a blackandwhite image of a tortoise, recalling Aesop's fable in which the slow and steady tortoise wins the race against the speedy but impulsive hare. Blue Origin has embraced that fable in its motto "Gradatim Ferociter", Latin for "step by step, ferociously." Executives at other space companies say they also expect to benefit from increased spending on the new moonshot by the U.S. government and its two primary space contractors. BEZOS HOT ON MUSK'S HEELS Blue Origin's uncrewed mission to the moon this year is a precursor for an astronaut landing, part of NASA's Artemis program which also relies heavily on SpaceX's Starship. Seattle-based Blue Origin's lander last week was shipped to NASA's Johnson Space Center in Texas for thermal and vacuum testing, a key development step in its path to launch. Blue Origin and SpaceX are building their moon landers with billions of dollars in funding from NASA, which aims to use them for a series of astronaut moon landings starting with SpaceX's Starship. NASA landed the first humans on the moon in 1969, and a total of 12 U.S. astronauts walked on the moon as part of the Apollo program that ended in 1972. The Bharat Bodhan AI Conclave 2026 concluded with a reinforced commitment to responsibly transform India's education system using AI. Key sessions focused on governance platforms and the critical need for multilingual AI to ensure equitable adoption and support for teachers. Education officials emphasized that scaling existing solutions and building collaborative national platforms are essential next steps. The event united over 3,100 participants to advance AI for foundational literacy, teacher effectiveness, and inclusive governance. India's education leaders commit to scaling AI for personalized learning, teacher support, and multilingual inclusion at the Bharat Bodhan AI Conclave 2026. New Delhi, February 14 The Bharat Bodhan AI Conclave 2026, organised by the Ministry of Education, concluded in New Delhi reaffirming a collective commitment to a responsible AI-driven transformation of India's education ecosystem. On the second day, two separate sessions were held, The first on, Governance platforms and scalable AI systems. Moderated by Prof. Manindra Aggarwal, Director, IIT Kanpur, the session highlighted that states are shifting from monitoring to intervention-based governance using AI-enabled platforms. Dashboards are enabling real-time decision-making, and integrated student-teacher-school systems are replacing fragmented tools. The discussion reinforced that scaling AI will require statewide ecosystem platforms rather than standalone solutions. The second session was on the theme, Multilingual AI, teacher empowerment and practice-led learning. Moderated by Prof. Manoj Kumar Tiwari, Director, IIM Mumbai, the session emphasised that multilingual AI is essential for equitable national adoption. Speakers noted that AI must strengthen teacher agency and support contextual pedagogy rather than drive uniform digital templates. Practice-based learning frameworks have been shown to improve learner engagement, and states have showcased mature models that integrate AI for teacher support, student learning, and governance. Across discussions, three overarching conclusions emerged: India already has strong AI-in-education solutions, but they need to be scaled to reach every learner. Teacher support is the single biggest leverage point for improving learning outcomes. The next phase requires a national orchestration platform Following these sessions, a debriefing Session was held, during which the Secretary, School Education & Literacy, Sanjay Kumar; the Secretary, Higher Education, Vineet Joshi; the Director, IIT Madras, Prof. V. Kamakoti; academic leaders; researchers; and founders from leading startups working in AI for Education participated. The four moderators of earlier sessions presented key takeaways and outcomes from their respective technical sessions. Sanjay Kumar noted that the last two and a half days of deliberations were highly encouraging, showcasing the remarkable work underway across the country by states, institutions, and organisations to integrate AI into education. He emphasised that AI offers a unique opportunity to combine scale with personalisation through adaptive learning interventions tailored to each child's needs. He underscored that with equitable access at the core, these innovations can significantly improve learning outcomes, strengthen inclusion, and empower teachers and learners alike. He also highlighted the importance of building collaborative platforms to share and scale best practices nationwide, alongside sustained investments in research and development and in strong institutional ecosystems. He added that promoting joyful and meaningful education in the mother tongue, while advancing strategic initiatives such as a sovereign Large Language Model, would further strengthen India's linguistic diversity and technological self-reliance. Prof. V. Kamakoti said that while India has strong AI solutions, the key mandate remains scale, coordination, and interoperability. He stressed that AI must enhance inclusion, preserve language diversity, and strengthen all learners without creating divides. The Bharat Bodhan AI Conclave 2026 brought together an unprecedented gathering of India's education and technology ecosystem, with more than ~3,100 registrations, ~2,000 students, 600+ delegates, and nearly 120 exhibitors showcasing AI-enabled innovations. The two-day event convened policymakers, state governments, researchers, philanthropic institutions, and ed-tech innovators to examine how Artificial Intelligence can transform school education, particularly foundational literacy & numeracy (FLN), teacher effectiveness, governance efficiency, and multilingual inclusion. The Bharat Bodhan AI Conclave 2026 provided a collaborative platform bringing together policymakers, educators, technology leaders, and academic experts to deliberate on AI-driven transformation in education. - ANI The Union Cabinet has approved the Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 with a corpus of Rs 10,000 crore to provide stronger financial backing to the ecosystem. This new phase aims to mobilise long-term domestic capital and prioritise deep tech and innovative manufacturing projects. It builds on the success of the first fund, which committed its corpus to 145 AIFs that invested over Rs 25,500 crore in more than 1,370 startups. The government emphasises the fund will promote investments across all regions to foster nationwide innovation and address capital gaps in key sectors. Cabinet approves Rs 10,000 crore Startup India Fund 2.0 to boost venture capital, focusing on deep tech, manufacturing & regional growth. New Delhi, Feb 14 In a major push to India's fast-growing startup ecosystem, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the setting up of the Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 with a total corpus of Rs 10,000 crore. The new fund aims to mobilise long-term domestic capital and provide stronger financial backing to startups across the country. The scheme is designed to accelerate the next phase of India's startup journey by strengthening the venture capital ecosystem and supporting innovation-driven entrepreneurship. The government said the fund will help channel more patient and risk capital into emerging and high-potential sectors. Startup India FoF 2.0 builds on the success of the earlier Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS 1.0), which was launched in 2016 under the Startup India initiative. Since the launch of Startup India in 2016, India's startup ecosystem has seen massive growth. The number of startups has risen from fewer than 500 to more than 2 lakh startups recognised by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The year 2025 has recorded the highest-ever annual startup registrations so far. Under FFS 1.0, the entire Rs 10,000 crore corpus was committed to 145 Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). These AIFs have collectively invested more than Rs 25,500 crore in over 1,370 startups across sectors such as agriculture, artificial intelligence, robotics, automotive, clean technology, consumer goods, e-commerce, education, fintech, food and beverages, healthcare, manufacturing, space technology and biotechnology. The first phase played a key role in supporting first-time founders and attracting private capital into the venture ecosystem. The new fund aims to take this momentum further. Startup India FoF 2.0 will adopt a more focused and segmented funding strategy. It will prioritise deep tech and technology-driven innovative manufacturing projects that require long-term investment. It will also provide support to early-growth stage founders to reduce failures caused by lack of funding. The government has also emphasised that the fund will promote investments beyond major metro cities so that innovation can grow across all regions of the country. In addition, it will address high-risk capital gaps in sectors important for self-reliance and economic growth, while strengthening India's domestic venture capital base, particularly smaller funds. - IANS The India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi positions India as a central player in global AI governance and deployment. The summit is structured around key themes like human capital, safe AI, and democratizing AI resources for inclusive innovation. India's AI market is one of the world's fastest-growing, supported by strong digital infrastructure and a focus on scalable, practical applications. Prime Minister Modi has emphasized democratizing AI technology to transform lives and accelerate sustainable development goals. India hosts AI Impact Summit, focusing on safe, trusted AI for inclusive growth, economic development, and democratizing technology for all citizens. New Delhi, February 14 The India AI Impact Summit being held at the Bharat Mandapam from February 16-20 puts India front and centre as a key player in Artificial Intelligence. It showcases India's role in global AI governance and demonstrates how India is prioritizing on deployment of AI and its measurable impact on citizens. The summit brings together global leaders, policymakers, technology companies, innovators, and experts to showcase and deliberate on the transformative potential of AI for inclusive growth, governance, and sustainable development. The AI Summit's deliberations are being organised through Chakras structured around interconnected thematic areas. --Human Capital: Advancing equitable skilling and inclusive workforce transitions for an AI-enabled future of work --Inclusion for Social Empowerment: Advancing AI systems that are inclusive by design, empowering diverse communities and ensuring equitable representation --Safe and Trusted AI: Building globally trusted AI systems anchored in transparency, accountability, and shared safeguards for innovation --Science: Harnessing AI to accelerate frontier science, foster scientific collaboration, and translate breakthroughs into shared global progress --Resilience, Innovation, and Efficiency: Driving sustainable, resource-efficient AI systems that strengthen climate resilience and sustainability --Democratizing AI Resources: Promoting equitable access to foundational AI resources for inclusive innovation and sustainable development worldwide --AI for Economic Development & Social Good: Leveraging AI to enhance productivity, innovation, and inclusive development across economies and societies. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a central pillar of India's development journey. It is strengthening governance, improving public service delivery, and enabling solutions that can reach citizens at scale. India is one of the fastest-growing Artificial Intelligence (AI) markets worldwide, projected to exceed USD 17 billion by 2027 according to a Boston Consulting Group report. It is backed by government support, around 800 million internet users, a strong STEM Education policy and scalable public digital infrastructure. AI creates value only when it reaches people at scale. India's approach focuses on practical deployment across sectors so that AI improves everyday life and public services. Just as the internet and mobile phones transformed society through widespread use, AI is now following the same path. By prioritising applications that are easy to use and widely accessible, India is ensuring that AI delivers inclusive and measurable public impact. In agriculture, AI supports farmers by predicting weather, identifying pest risks, and guiding irrigation and sowing decisions. AI has become a top priority on policy agendas worldwide, as it has the power to foster innovation, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to the growth of the country. Over the past several years, the Government of India has taken concrete steps to encourage the adoption of AI in a responsible manner and build public trust in its use, placing the idea of 'AI for All' at its very core. Favourable policies and continuous interventions strive to harness the potential of AI for social development and inclusive growth. At the AI Action Summit in Paris in 2025, PM Modi underlined the need to democratise technology. "AI can help transform millions of lives by improving health, education, agriculture and so much more. It can help create a world in which the journey to Sustainable Development Goals becomes easier and faster. To do this, we must pool together resources and talent. We must develop open-source systems that enhance trust and transparency. We must build quality data sets, free from biases. We must democratise technology and create people-centric applications," the Prime Minister had said. "We are at the dawn of the AI age that will shape the course of humanity. Some people worry about machines becoming superior in intelligence to humans. But, no one holds the key to our collective future and shared destiny other than us humans," he had further stated. India today leads the world in digital public infrastructure from identity systems to payment platforms. Its transformative experience has shown how institutional capacity in democratising technology can lead to soceital wins. India's approach to the democratisation of AI shows that scale, inclusion, and innovation can progress together. A focus on affordability and openness ensures that benefits of AI reach all citizens from farmers to students, startups, and public institutions. In March 2024, the Government of India launched IndiaAI mission with outlay of Rs 10,372 Cr for development of the overall AI ecosystem in the country. The IndiaAI Innovation Centre aims to develop India's own large multimodal models trained on Indian datasets and languages to ensure sovereign capability and global competitiveness in generative AI. Twelve organisations and consortia, including startups, industry players and academic institutions have been selected for developing Large and Small Language Models based on Indian datasets. The resulting AI models will contribute to the open-source ecosystem and be available for use by Government organizations and support innovation across India's startup and research community. From code to creativity, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rewriting the rules of growth, powering industries, transforming jobs, and propelling India into the future. AI is becoming a kinetic enabler for the growth of India's digital economy, investments, and jobs. According to a NASSCOM report published in August 2024, AI talent in India is expected to grow from 600,000-650,000 professionals to more than 1.25 million by 2027, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15 per cent. India's global AI readiness is backed by a unique combination of a young, digitally skilled population, robust digital public infrastructure, and a fast-growing startup ecosystem. These foundational strengths provide India with a durable strategic edge in developing, deploying, and governing AI at scale. India is in the first group of AI-ready nations, with systematic progress across all five layers of the AI architecture applications, models, chips, infrastructure, and energy. India is at the forefront of an AI-led transformation, where technology is driving productivity, innovation, and job creation. With robust digital infrastructure, a young workforce, and progressive policies, the nation is well-positioned to leverage AI for inclusive growth. This integrated approach of government ensures that AI enhances employability and bridges skill gaps across sectors. - ANI The Bangladesh Nationalist Party has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulations on its historic election victory. The party expressed its desire to work constructively with India to advance bilateral relations and regional stability. PM Modi held a telephonic conversation with BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, congratulating him and reaffirming India's support. Tarique Rahman, who is set to become the next Prime Minister of Bangladesh, led his party to a decisive win securing 210 seats. Bangladesh Nationalist Party thanks PM Narendra Modi for congratulatory call, expresses commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and regional peace. Dhaka, Feb 14 The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Saturday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his wishes on the party's historic victory in the general elections, adding that it looks forward to engaging "constructively" with India to advance the "multifaceted relationship" and shared commitment to peace in the region. In a post on X, the BNP said, "Thank you very much, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We greatly appreciate your kind acknowledgement of Mr Tarique Rahman's leadership in securing the BNP's decisive win in the national elections. This outcome reflects the trust and confidence the people of Bangladesh have placed in our leadership and in the democratic process." "Bangladesh remains committed to upholding democratic values, inclusivity, and progressive development for all its citizens," the party said. The BNP further expressed hopes of strengthening bilateral ties with India. "We look forward to engaging constructively with India to advance our multifaceted relationship, guided by mutual respect, sensitivity to each other's concerns, and a shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in our region," it added. PM Modi on Friday held a telephonic conversation with BNP chairman Tarique Rahman, congratulating him on his party's triumph in the Bangladesh elections. PM Modi also expressed India's support for Rahman's endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. "Delighted to speak with Mr Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections. I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India's continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples," PM Modi posted on X after the phone call. The conversation between PM Modi and Tarique Rahman came after the BNP-led alliance claimed a decisive victory in the elections, securing 210 seats and comfortably surpassing the majority threshold, thus paving the way for the formation of a new government. PM Modi also extended warm wishes to Tarique Rahman for leading his party to a decisive victory. Tarique Rahman is set to take oath as the Bangladesh Prime Minister soon, marking the return of a male PM to Bangladesh after nearly 35 years. Tarique Rahman assumed leadership of the BNP following the death of his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, last December. Tarique is also the son of former President Ziaur Rahman, founder of BNP. - IANS The Bangladesh Nationalist Party has secured a decisive victory in the country's general elections, with citizens expressing hope for a new era of stability and institutional reform. The election follows mass protests in 2024 that led to the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Voters also backed significant constitutional amendments, including prime ministerial term limits and a stronger legislature. The incoming BNP administration now faces the formidable tasks of economic recovery and meeting the aspirations of the protest movement that paved its way to power. Following a sweeping election victory, citizens hope the BNP will bring stability, fight corruption, and enact constitutional reforms in Bangladesh. Dhaka, Feb 14 Following the Bangladesh Nationalist Party's victory in the general elections, citizens across the country have voiced optimism that Bangladesh is poised to enter a more peaceful phase after months marked by unrest and a worsening law and order situation. The BNP secured a sweeping mandate in the first general election held since the 2024 student-led protest that brought down former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League government. In conversations with IANS, several residents expressed hope that the incoming administration would prioritise stability, development and institutional reform. "The law and order situation is the first priority. If it is established, then everything will go well. I believe this. It is a landmark victory, because before this there were 16 years of broken institutions, corruption and everything. This victory is a good message by the country," one local said. Another citizen told IANS, "The BNP will now come to power, and we hope that they will carry on good work for the country and improve the conditions here." Some voices reflected on the broader social fabric beyond party politics. "A country's beauty doesn't always depend on which party is in power. I think it depends on the culture of the people that they belong to. So, in that respect, I should say that we have a very rich culture and it's not dependent on this or that party. This cultural identity is the main thing for any nation," another resident said. Congratulating the BNP on its win, another individual said, "We congratulate the BNP. We hope they will lead the country with a secular, inclusive, and independent-minded approach. We expect them to work with everyone and uphold fundamental principles." Calls for freedom and accountability also featured prominently in public reactions. "We want a Bangladesh that is conscious of freedom, believes in freedom, and supports freedom," one citizen remarked. Another said, "We want this country to be free of corruption; we don't want corruption. We have a new government and new hope." The election is widely seen as a turning point in Bangladesh's political trajectory, coming in the aftermath of the July 2024 mass protests that compelled Hasina to leave the country and seek refuge in India, paving the way for an interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus. Alongside electing a new government, voters also backed significant constitutional amendments through a parallel referendum. The proposed changes include introducing term limits for prime ministers, establishing a bicameral legislature, and strengthening women's representation -- reforms that were key demands of the youth-led movement. The BNP has consistently criticised the previous administration over what it described as authoritarian practices and flawed electoral processes, projecting its electoral success as a return of democratic authority to the people. With the mandate secured, attention now turns to the formidable governance tasks ahead, including economic revival, rebuilding institutions, and responding to the aspirations of Gen Z protestors who played a central role in last year's uprising. - IANS Union Minister Piyush Goyal stated that Budget 2026-27 lays a strong foundation for achieving a Developed India by 2047, built on economic growth and inclusive development. He highlighted three core pillars: a massive 12.21 lakh crore infrastructure push to boost self-reliance, strengthened support for MSMEs and startups with a 10,000 crore fund, and a commitment to 'Sabka Vikas' for all citizens. The budget also promotes large-scale data centres powered by renewable energy to attract investment and generate employment. Goyal described the budget as multi-dimensional, accelerating the nation's journey toward becoming a developed economy. Union Minister Piyush Goyal outlines the three pillars of Budget 2026-27: Infrastructure, MSMEs, and Sabka Vikas, aiming for a Developed India by 2047. Mumbai, February 14 Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday said the Union Budget 2026-27 lays a strong foundation for achieving the goal of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, describing it as a blueprint built on economic growth, infrastructure expansion, and inclusive development. Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Goyal highlighted that the Budget reflects the collective resolve to transform India into a developed nation. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent remarks at the inauguration of 'Seva Teerth,' he said, "The PM called upon everyone to free ourselves from the mentality of slavery and for all to fulfil our duties with the spirit of nation first. The 2026 budget presented by the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman signifies giving new wings to a Developed India." He also reiterated PM Modi's mantra of 'Nagrik Devo Bhava' (the citizen is god). "The collective commitment of all of us to build a developed India by 2047 is once again highlighted in this Budget," Goyal said. Quoting the Prime Minister, he added, "'Duty is equality, duty is affection, duty is universal, and duty is all-encompassing.' If we assess the Budget, three solid duties that prepare India for the future are clearly reflected." Goyal said the first major theme is economic growth with self-reliance at its core. "How to make the country strong and Aatmanirbhar is central to this Budget," he noted. He said a significant push has been given to infrastructure, with a provision of 12.21 lakh crore earmarked exclusively for infrastructure development. "This will make India self-reliant and reduce our logistics costs. Every single rupee spent on infrastructure provides a 3 to 3.5 times boost to the economy," he said, emphasising the multiplier effect of capital expenditure. He added that the focus is not limited to metropolitan cities but extends to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, ensuring balanced regional development. The second pillar, according to Goyal, is fulfilling the aspirations of 140 crore citizens, particularly by strengthening micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), manufacturing, and startups. He said a 10,000 crore growth fund has been provided for MSMEs, and the Credit Guarantee Scheme has been enhanced. "Our startups are job creators rather than job seekers. They are becoming the architects of their own lives and finding solutions to national problems," he said. Goyal also underlined the government's plan to promote large-scale data centres in India to attract foreign investment and generate employment. "When these data centres provide cloud services abroad, foreign exchange will be earned through the export of services," he said, adding that renewable energy will power these facilities, further boosting green investment. He noted that Mumbai and Navi Mumbai are emerging as key hubs for data centres due to the landing of subsea cables, and said Maharashtra stands to benefit significantly. The state's allocation under the Budget has increased to around 1 lakh crore, with substantial investments planned for railways and port-linked infrastructure, including three new chemical parks and textile parks. The third pillar of the Budget, Goyal said, is guided by the vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.' "This is for every citizen, from every corner of the country, every poor person, the middle class, those in villages or cities, and from backward or tribal communities," he said, adding that labour-intensive sectors are being promoted to boost exports and employment. Describing the Budget as multi-dimensional in its impact, Goyal said it reflects the Prime Minister's vision of ensuring that "a single scheme can provide multi-faceted benefits," accelerating India's journey toward becoming a developed nation by 2047. - ANI The Union Cabinet has approved the rehabilitation and widening of several key National Highways. The projects include upgrading NH-167 in Telangana and sections of NH-56 in Gujarat, aimed at boosting economic corridors and tourism. These initiatives are expected to generate millions of person-days of employment and significantly reduce travel time. The upgrades will enhance connectivity to tribal areas and major landmarks like the Statue of Unity. Union Cabinet approves widening of NH-167 and NH-56 sections to boost economic growth, reduce travel time, and create lakhs of jobs. New Delhi, February 14 The Union Cabinet approved the development of several National Highways in the meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. In a post on X, the Prime Minister lauded the Cabinet's decisions, emphasising their role in boosting the economy, tourism and employment. The PM hailed the Union Cabinet's decision to widen National Highway-167 from Gudebellur to Mahabubnagar on the Hyderabad-Panaji Economic Corridor to boost economic growth. In a post on X, the Prime Minister wrote, "The decision of widening National Highway-167 from Gudebellur to Mahabubnagar on the Hyderabad-Panaji Economic Corridor will boost economic growth, create employment and further 'Ease of Living.'" Currently, connectivity between Gudebellur and Mahabubnaagr on the existing National Highway NH-167 experiences significant travel time delays due to poor geometry and traffic congestion in the town areas, with the route passing through highly urbanised towns/villages, i.e., Gudebellur, Magnoor, Makthal, Marikal, Devarkadra, Jaklair, Yeligandla, and Banderpally. To address these challenges, the project is proposed to be developed as 4 lane standard. The project will deliver significant benefits to the Narayanpet & Mahabubnagar districts in Telangana. This will enhance freight efficiency, reduce logistics costs, and drive socio-economic growth in the region. The project is aligned with 2 major National Highways (NH-150 & NH-167N), providing seamless connectivity to key economic, social, and logistics hubs across Telangana. Additionally, the upgraded corridor will enhance multimodal integration and seamless connectivity by providing access to three PM GatiShakti Economic Nodes, nine Social Nodes, and seven Logistic Nodes, thereby facilitating faster movement of goods and passengers across the region. Upon completion, the NH-167 upgradation work will play a pivotal role in regional economic growth, strengthening connectivity between major religious and economic centres and opening new avenues for trade and industrial development. The proposed access-controlled 4-lane project, with a length of 80.01 km, will generate approximately 14.4 lakh person-days of direct employment and 17.9 lakh person-days of indirect employment. The project will also create additional employment opportunities by increasing economic activity along the proposed corridors. Further, the Prime Minister welcomed the upgradation of Dhamasiya-Bitada/ Movi and Nasarpore-Malotha Sections of National Highway-56 to Four-Lane Standard and highlighted its significance in increasing tourism to the Statue of Unity. "Cabinet approval for the upgradation of Dhamasiya-Bitada/ Movi and Nasarpore-Malotha Sections of National Highway-56 to Four-Lane Standard will further connectivity, especially in remote and tribal areas of Gujarat. At the same time, it will enable more people to visit the Statue of Unity," the PM wrote in a separate post. The project is part of NH-56, which starts at Nimbahera in Rajasthan, traverses Dahod District in Gujarat, Alirajpur District in Madhya Pradesh, and re-enters Gujarat near Chhota Udepur District, terminating at its junction with NH-48 near Vapi. Approved projects will pass through the Aspirational District of Narmada and improve connectivity to tribal areas in Dahod, Chhota Udepur, Tapi, and Bharuch, thereby supporting economic growth and development in the region. The project will also improve connectivity to the Statue of Unity, a prominent national tourist destination located in Kevadia village, approximately 11 km from NH-56. The project is designed for 100 km/h, enabling an average speed of 70 km/h, reducing travel time by 40% from 2.5 to 1.5 hours. The approved project, with a length of 107.67 km, will generate approximately 19.38 lakh man-days of direct employment and 22.82 lakh man-days of indirect employment. The project will also create additional employment opportunities by increasing economic activity in the vicinity of the proposed corridor. In another post, the Prime Minister reflected on the Cabinet's decision to upgrade the Ghoti - Trimbak (Mokhada) - Jawhar - Manor - Palghar section of NH-160A to 2 Lane /4 Lane in Maharashtra, stating that will "reduce congestion." "An important Cabinet decision, which will enhance economic growth in Maharashtra, especially in the parts west of Nashik. It will reduce congestion and boost job opportunities," the PM wrote. The region west of Nashik, particularly around Ambad and Satpur, hosts a dense cluster of industrial units developed by Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation. This generates significant freight traffic. Currently, this traffic passes through Nashik via NH-848, adding pressure on urban roads. Upgradation of NH-160A will provide an alternate route from these industrial areas via Triambak, bypassing the city and reducing congestion. Traffic from Mumbai (west side) and the southern side is expected to use the Samrudhi Expressway via the Igatpuri interchange on NH-848. Thereafter, the traffic would travel on NH-848 up upto Ghoti and use NH-160A to reach Trimbak and Nashik. From 2028 onward, projected daily traffic is projected to exceed 10,000 PCUs, qualifying the corridor for 4-laning. The project has been proposed in line with the PM GatiShakti principles and will connect 6 PM GatiShakti Economic Nodes, 01 Social Nodes and 8 Logistics Nodes in the State of Maharashtra. This will positively impact the country's Logistics Performance Index (LPI). - ANI The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved a Rs 4,583.64 crore project to upgrade two sections of National Highway-56 in Gujarat to four lanes, covering 107.67 kilometers. The project aims to significantly improve road connectivity to tribal and aspirational districts, including areas near the Statue of Unity. It is designed to reduce travel time by 40 percent and will generate substantial direct and indirect employment. Enhanced connectivity will also facilitate better links to major highways and the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. Govt approves Rs 4,583.64 crore to upgrade 107.67 km of NH-56 in Gujarat to 4 lanes, boosting tribal area connectivity & cutting travel time by 40%. New Delhi, Feb 14 In a bid to improve road connectivity in Gujarat, the government on Saturday approved upgradation of two sections of National Highway-56 to 4-lane in Gujarat with Rs 4,583.64 crore outlay. This involves construction of 4-lane sections of Dhamasiya-Bitada/Movi (47.46 km) and Nasarpore-Malotha (60.21 km) in the state with a total project length of 107.67 kms, said the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The project is part of NH-56 which starts at Nimbahera in state of Rajasthan and traverses through Dahod District in Gujarat, Alirajpur District in the State of Madhya Pradesh and then re-enters Gujarat near Chhota Udepur District, terminating at its junction with NH-48 near Vapi. The CCEA stated that the approved projects pass through Aspirational District of Narmada and will improve connectivity to tribal areas in Dahod, Chhota Udepur, Tapi and Bharuch, thereby helping in economic growth and development of the region. It will also improve connectivity to the Statue of Unity, a prominent national tourist destination located in Kevadia village at a distance of about 11 km from NH-56. The project is designed for 100 km/hour, enabling 70 km/hour average speed which will cut travel time by 40 per cent -- from 2.5 to 1.5 hours. The approved project with 107.67 km will generate about 19.38 lakh man-days of direct employment and 22.82 lakh man-days of indirect employment. The project will also induce additional employment opportunities due to increase in economic activity in the vicinity of the proposed corridor. According to an official statement, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, through National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has taken up the upgradation of congested Jambugam (Bodeli)-Malotha section of NH-56 (175 km) to four-lane configuration under four packages. After the completion of instant project packages, a continuous 4-lane connectivity from Bodeli to Malotha will be established, thus easing congestion on NH-56 and enhancing further connectivity to NH-53, NH-48 and the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, according to the CCEA. - IANS The Union Agriculture Ministry has positively responded to Karnataka's request to release pending PM-Kisan scheme funds. Over 22,000 eligible farmers in the state will now receive their financial assistance after the resolution of technical issues. Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan assured that the remaining cases would be included once state officials complete verification. State Agriculture Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy expressed gratitude for the Centre's timely intervention in the interest of farmers. Union Agriculture Ministry resolves technical hurdles, releasing pending PM-Kisan scheme funds to over 22,000 Karnataka farmers following state minister's request. Bengaluru, Feb 14 The Union Ministry of Agriculture has responded positively to a request submitted by Karnataka Agriculture Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy seeking the release of pending funds under the PM-Kisan scheme to thousands of farmers in the state. Reacting to the development, Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy said on Saturday, "On behalf of the state government, I extend my heartfelt thanks to Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for considering our request in the interest of Karnataka's farmers, resolving the technical hurdles, and ensuring justice to the farmers." He clarified that with the Centre's action, eligible farmers will now receive financial assistance on time. He also stated that instructions have been issued to department officials to expedite the verification of documents of the remaining farmers so that they, too, can be covered under the scheme at the earliest. The official statement released on Saturday in this regard stated, "On December 17, 2025, Minister Cheluvarayaswamy had written to Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, highlighting that due to technical reasons, more than 30,000 eligible farmers in the state were being deprived of benefits under the scheme. He had also raised the issue in person when the Union Minister visited the state last week to attend an international trade fair." Responding to the request, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that based on the verification provided by the state government, more than 22,000 beneficiaries have already been included in the payment list for the 22nd instalment, and the funds will be released to them shortly. He further assured in his letter that the remaining cases would be included under the scheme once state officials complete verification and confirmation, the statement said. - IANS The Congress party has secured a decisive victory in the Telangana local body elections, winning control of 64 municipalities. Rahul Gandhi and party chief Mallikarjun Kharge thanked voters and workers, framing the win as an endorsement of the state government's people-first policies. Congress MP Manickam Tagore hailed the result as a "historic comeback" from the party's poor 2020 performance, crediting the state leadership. The BJP failed to win any municipality, while the BRS secured 15. Congress secures major win in Telangana municipal polls. Rahul Gandhi & Kharge call it a mandate for people-first policies & social justice. Results analysis. New Delhi, February 14 Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Saturday thanked the people of Telangana for giving the Congress party a win in the recent state municipal corporation elections, stating that the mandate is a reflection of "people-first policies rooted in social justice, dignity, and inclusive growth." In an 'X' post, Gandhi expressed thanks to all the Congress leaders and workers in the state, who worked hard for party's success in the elections. "The Telangana local body polls win is a clear endorsement of Congress govt's people-first policies rooted in social justice, dignity, and inclusive growth. Heartfelt thanks to every Congress karyakarta and leader. This victory belongs to you and to the people of Telangana. Our vision of a Prajala Telangana - where progress reaches every family remains unwavering," Rahul Gandhi said. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge also expressed happiness over party's success in Telangana local body polls, asserting that the mandate reflects the trust of the people. "My gratitude to the committed grassroots workers of Telangana Congress for their commendable victory in the Telangana local body elections. This mandate reflects the trust of the people. The Congress government remains resolute to our solemn affirmation of a "Prajala Telangana" - a state where social justice, economic empowerment, and continuous progress are assured for all its 3.8 crore people," said the 'X' post. On Wednesday, elections were held in seven Municipal Corporations and 116 Municipalities across the state, covering 414 wards in the Corporations of Kothagudem, Karimnagar, Mahabubnagar, Mancherial, Nizamabad, Nalgonda and Ramagundam, and 2,582 wards in the 116 municipalities. Congress MP Manickam Tagore on Saturday welcomed the party's performance in the Telangana Municipal Elections, saying the results signal a clear mandate and a genuine comeback for the Congress. In a post on X, Tagore compared the outcome with the party's 2020 showing and described the turnaround as a journey "from disappointment to dominance." He recalled Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's assurance after the 2020 setback that the Congress would rise again with public support, adding that the promise has now been fulfilled. "Telangana Municipal Elections - A Historic Comeback! From disappointment to dominance -- that's the journey of Congress in Telangana. I still remember what Revanth bhai said after the 2020 setback. He promised that Congress would rise again with the blessings of the people -- and today, that promise stands fulfilled. The comeback is real. The mandate is clear. Telangana has chosen development, stability, and Congress once again," Tagore said. He attributed the victory to the leadership of Revanth Reddy, the coordination of the Congress state chief, Bomma Mahesh Kumar Goud, and other ministers, and the sustained efforts of grassroots workers who stood firm during difficult times. Tagore said the result was not just an electoral success but a reaffirmation of public faith in progressive and inclusive governance. "This remarkable victory reflects the strong leadership of Revanth bhai, the effective coordination of Maheshji and fellow ministers, and above all, the tireless efforts of every grassroots Congress worker who stood firm during tough times. This is not just an electoral win -- it is the people of Telangana reaffirming their faith in progressive governance and inclusive development. It is a tribute to Telangana Thalli and a step closer to the dream envisioned by Sonia Gandhi for a progressive, people-centric Telangana," he added. According to Tagore, in the final results across 116 municipalities in Telangana, the Congress secured control of 64, while the BRS won 15. As many as 36 municipalities saw a hung verdict, and one went to the opposition, with the BJP failing to win any municipality. In the ward-wise results, Congress emerged ahead with 1,346 wards, followed by BRS with 723. BJP managed to win 261 wards, while other parties and independents together accounted for 252 wards. - ANI Feb 13 (Reuters) - U.S. defense firm Anduril is in talks to raise billions in new funding at a valuation of at least $60 billion, The Information reported on Friday, citing people familiar with the matter. The funding would give the company greater leeway to finance its first major weapons-manufacturing facility and develop an autonomous fighter jet, the report said. More from Yahoo Scout What valuation is Anduril targeting in new funding? What defense technologies does Anduril currently develop? Why is Anduril attracting significant investor interest now? How will Anduril use the new funding? Anduril was valued at $30.5 billion in a $2.5 billion funding round in June last year, and the new valuation would be roughly double that figure. Anduril did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment outside regular business hours. Defense-tech startup Anduril has become one of Silicon Valley's hottest defense bets as drones reshape warfare in Ukraine and U.S. President Donald Trump pushes the Pentagon to adopt cutting-edge technologies to counter China. Founded in 2017 and backed by Founders Fund, Anduril develops solutions, including a wide range of sensors and drones, and has gained prominence amid increasing calls for low-cost autonomous defense products. (Reporting by Devika Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Chris Reese and Muralikumar Anantharaman) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Union Cabinet decisions aimed at Delhi's progress. The approved projects include new railway lines on the Delhi-Ambala route and the transformation of historic blocks into a national museum. She also highlighted new funds for urban development and startups as key for modernizing the city and creating youth opportunities. Separately, the CM unveiled a statue of RSS founder Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, praising his legacy during the organization's centenary year. CM Rekha Gupta thanked PM Modi for Cabinet decisions on rail lines, a national museum, and startup funds to boost Delhi's development and heritage. New Delhi, Feb 14 Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for key decisions taken by the Union Cabinet that promise to boost infrastructure and economic progress in the National Capital. She said, "The decisions taken by the Union Cabinet in the context of Delhi's infrastructure, economic progress, and cultural upliftment are of utmost importance and far-reaching significance." "Approving the construction of the third and fourth lines on the Delhi-Ambala rail route is a concrete step towards making the capital's rail network more seamless and facilitating smoother passenger movement," she said in a message in social media. Chief Minister Gupta added that the decision to transform the historic North and South Blocks into a grand Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum will prove to be a major foundation in preserving Delhi's cultural heritage and giving it global recognition. At the same time, visionary policies such as the Urban Challenge Fund and 'Startup India Fund 2.0' will be instrumental in giving Delhi's urban planning a modern form and creating new opportunities for the youth, said CM Gupta. "For this sustained support of the Central Government in Delhi's development and for these public welfare announcements, I express my gratitude and thanks to the Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodiji," said the Chief Minister in a post on social media. At an event in East Delhi, the Chief Minister unveiled the statue of Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the first Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), at the Dr. Hedgewar Arogya Sansthan in Shahdara. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister hailed the mission initiated by Dr. Hedgewar which is serving the nation in the form of a strong and vast organisation. "His approach to organising society through individual development has become a strong foundation for India's cultural awakening. The Chief Minister said that this statue at the institute is not just a memorial, but will continue to inspire the spirit of service, dedication, and nation first," she said. In a message on social media, she said, "This occasion is extremely glorious, because the Sangh is celebrating the centenary year of its establishment. On the sacred day of Vijayadashami in 1925, the revered Doctor Sahab had planted the seed of the ideal, which has today grown into a gigantic banyan tree and remains continuously dedicated to the service of Mother Bharat. His path of organising society through individual character-building has now become the foundational pillar of India's cultural renaissance." - IANS Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has written to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging immediate intervention to repatriate fishermen released by a Sri Lankan court but still held due to procedural delays. The letter details a recent Jaffna Court case where nine fishermen were ordered released but transferred to a detention centre. Stalin highlighted the severe and recurring hardship inflicted on Tamil Nadu's coastal communities, with 254 boats and 90 fishermen still in Sri Lankan custody. He emphasized the chronic economic distress and emotional trauma caused by these prolonged detentions. Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin writes to EAM S Jaishankar, urging immediate action to bring back fishermen released by a Sri Lankan court. Chennai, February 14 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Saturday penned a letter to Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar, urging for immediate action to facilitate the return of Tamil Nadu fishermen released by the Sri Lankan court to their homeland, stating that they The letter detailed the Jaffna Court proceedings against the Tamil Nadu fishermen apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy, seeking to draw attention to a judgment delivered by the Sri Lankan Court in the case. "The Jaffna Court tried a total of twelve fishermen on 03.02.2026 - three from Mandapam, who were taken into custody on 28.12.2025, and nine from Mayiladuthurai, apprehended on 03.01.2026. Following the proceedings, three boat drivers were sentenced to six months' rigorous imprisonment and were each imposed a fine of LKR 11.60 lakh, with an additional three months' imprisonment in the event of default. The remaining nine fishermen were ordered to be released and were subsequently transferred to the Minihana Detention Centre on 05.02.2026." the letter read. The letter further highlighted that due to delays in completing the repatriation formalities, the released fishermen remain in custody. Highlighting the immense hardships endured by the detained fishermen and the resulting distress of their families, the letter urged, "I request that urgent steps may kindly be taken to expedite the repatriation of the released fishermen at the earliest." Earlier on January 21, CM MK Stalin also wrote to EAM Dr S Jaishankar to highlight the "severe hardship on the coastal fishing communities of Tamil Nadu" inflicted by the recurring arrests. "It is a matter of deep and continuing concem that the repeated apprehension of Tamil Nadu fishermen and the seizure of their fishing vessels by Sri Lankan authorities continue unabated. As on date, a total of 254 fishing boats belonging to Tamil Nadu and 90 fishermen, including those detained in the most recent incident, remain in Sri Lankan custody. These frequent and recurring arrests have inflicted severe hardship on the coastal fishing communities of Tamil Nadu. The prolonged detention of fishermen and confiscation of their boats have caused chronic economic distress, emotional trauma and sustained anxiety among their families. The cumulative impact of these incidents has deeply disrupted the social and economic fabric of these vulnerable coastal regions." the letter read. - ANI Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan writes to Union Minister Khattar, seeking central support for a Regional Rapid Transit System to address the state's mobility crisis. Thiruvananthapuram, February 14 Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday wrote to Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, thanking him for expressing willingness to consider a proposal for a Regional Rapid Transit System project in Kerala during their meeting at an urban conclave in Kochi last year. In his letter, Vijayan said the State Cabinet had accorded in-principle approval on January 28 to proceed with the RRTS proposal. He added that a Conceptual Note on RRTS Kerala has been appended and described the project as crucial to the State's long-term sustainable mobility strategy, given Kerala's unique urban and demographic context. "You may kindly recall our meeting on the occasion of the Urban Conclave held on September 12, 2025 at Kochi. We are grateful to you for announcing, on that occasion, that your Ministry would be willing to consider a proposal for a Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) project in Kerala. I am very happy to inform you that the State Cabinet has accorded in principle approval on 28th January 2026 for going ahead with the proposal for implementing RRTS in Kerala. The Conceptual Note for RRTS Kerala is appended. We believe that this would be a project of critical importance to the State's long-term sustainable mobility strategy. Kerala represents a unique urban and demographic context in India," Vijayan wote in his letter. Explaining the need for the project, the Chief Minister noted that Kerala functions as a near-urban continuum corridor with dense population along the Thiruvananthapuram-Kasaragod axis. He said this linear urbanisation, coupled with one of the highest vehicle densities in the country, has put immense pressure on road infrastructure, leading to congestion, accidents and socio-economic losses. The CM stressed that a high-capacity, high-speed mass transit system is urgently required and aligns with the State's commitment to environmental sustainability and carbon emission reduction. "The State functions as a near urban continuum corridor, with dense population spread along the Thiruvananthapuram-Kasaragod axis. This linear urbanisation, combined with one of the highest vehicle densities in the country, has placed extraordinary pressure on our road infrastructure. Traffic congestion and road accidents continue to impose significant socio-economic costs, underscoring the urgent need for a high-capacity, high-speed mass transit solution. At the same time, Kerala's unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability necessitates a mobility framework that substantially reduces carbon emissions while improving safety and efficiency," the letter added. Vijayan further noted that Kerala already has an operational metro system in Kochi, with metro projects in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode in the planning stage. He said the proposed RRTS network is intended to complement and connect these metro systems, link all major airports in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kannur, and Calicut, and enable seamless intercity and intra-regional mobility. Such integration, he added, would enhance ridership, optimise infrastructure investments and deliver transformative outcomes for the State. "Kerala already has an operational metro system in Kochi, with the Thiruvananthapuram and the Kozhikode Metro in stages of planning. We envisage an integrated rapid transit ecosystem, wherein an RRTS network complements and connects these three metro systems, links all major airports in the State Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kannur and Calicut and enables seamless, high-speed inter-city and intra-regional mobility. Such integration would significantly enhance ridership, optimise infrastructure investments, and deliver transformative outcomes for the State," said the letter. The Chief Minister also expressed confidence that the expertise of National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) in planning and operating RRTS projects, combined with Kerala's experience in executing complex infrastructure projects while safeguarding environmental and social concerns, would make the initiative nationally significant and a replicable model for other densely populated regional corridors. CM Vijayan's letter stated, "We firmly believe that NCRTC's proven expertise in planning, implementation and operation of RRTS projects, combined with Kerala's track record in executing complex infrastructure projects while safeguarding environmental and social considerations, would make this collaboration one of national importance. Such an initiative could also serve as a replicable model for other densely populated regional corridors across the country." - ANI Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal held a series of crucial bilateral meetings with senior WTO diplomats to prepare for the upcoming 14th Ministerial Conference in Cameroon. The discussions with representatives from the EU, China, the US, and others focused on strengthening multilateralism and advancing WTO reforms. Key agenda items included fisheries negotiations, agriculture, and ensuring development-oriented outcomes. These consultations highlight India's active diplomatic outreach to protect the interests of developing countries within the global trading system. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal meets top trade diplomats to shape agenda for the WTO Ministerial Conference, focusing on reform and development. New Delhi, February 14 Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal held a series of high-level bilateral meetings with senior trade diplomats at the World Trade Organization, focusing on preparations for the upcoming 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in Yaounde, Cameroon. The discussions underscored India's emphasis on purposeful multilateralism, WTO reform, and addressing pressing global trade challenges. In a meeting with Joao Aguiar Machado, Permanent Representative and Ambassador of the European Union to the WTO, the two sides discussed the importance of strengthening multilateralism and advancing reforms within the WTO framework. They also reviewed key issues expected to feature prominently at MC14. Engaging with Li Yongjie, Permanent Representative and Ambassador of China to the WTO, Agrawal discussed broader WTO-related matters, global trade challenges, and priorities for the forthcoming Ministerial Conference. Both sides exchanged views on ensuring constructive engagement at MC14.0. The Commerce Secretary also met David Bisbee, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of the United States to the WTO. Their discussions focused on opportunities and challenges leading up to MC14, with an emphasis on continued mutual cooperation in addressing trade-related concerns. In a separate meeting with Leslie Ramsammy, Permanent Representative of Guyana and Chairperson of the Fisheries Negotiations, Agrawal held detailed discussions on livelihood and sustainability considerations in fisheries negotiations. The two sides also deliberated on the path forward for ongoing consultations on overcapacity and overfishing (OCOF), as well as priorities for MC14. Agrawal further met Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Chairperson of the WTO General Council. Their talks centred on the agenda for MC14, the priorities of India and developing countries, and various proposals concerning WTO reform. In another bilateral engagement, Agrawal met Ambassador Guilherme de Aguiar Patriota, Permanent Representative of Brazil to the WTO. The discussions featured a candid exchange of views on foundational WTO principles, agriculture negotiations, trade and development concerns, and strategic priorities for MC14. The series of consultations reflects India's active diplomatic outreach in the lead-up to MC14, with a focus on safeguarding the interests of developing countries, strengthening the multilateral trading system, and advancing balanced, inclusive, and development-oriented outcomes at the WTO. - ANI Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held discussions with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner ahead of planned trilateral meetings in Geneva involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States. He also spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, briefing him on the frontline situation and the impact of Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy system. The talks aim to address security guarantees and economic recovery for Ukraine, building on previous negotiations held in Abu Dhabi. The Russian delegation for the Geneva talks will be led by Presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky. Ukrainian President discusses upcoming trilateral talks with US envoys Witkoff and Kushner, aiming for productive negotiations with Russia in Geneva. Kyiv, February 15 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday discussed the upcoming trilateral meetings in Geneva with United States envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, stating that Kyiv expects the peace talks to be "truly productive." According to the Russian news agency TASS, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced the trilateral meetings between Ukraine, Russia, and the US would be held in Geneva on February 17-18. Volodymyr Zelenskyy also discussed with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio the impact of Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy resources. In an X post, the Ukrainian President wrote, "I had a conversation with envoys of President Trump, @SteveWitkoff and @JaredKushner, ahead of the trilateral meetings in Geneva. We count on the meetings being truly productive. We also discussed some developments following the meetings in Abu Dhabi. Not everything can be shared over the phone, and our negotiating team will present Ukraine's position next week." "I also spoke about our meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. We greatly appreciate that America consistently maintains a constructive approach and is ready to assist in protecting lives. I thank President Trump, his team, and the people of the United States for their support," he added. In a separate X post, Zelenskyy stated that he briefed Rubio on Ukraine's situation amid the ongoing war, ahead of the peace talks. "During the meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio @SecRubio, I briefed him on the situation at the front, Russian strikes, and the impact of attacks on Ukraine's energy system. We discussed how to help Ukraine protect lives during the winter cold and strengthen our resilience. We also had a detailed discussion about the diplomatic process and trilateral meetings. It is crucial that the talks planned in Geneva be productive, and I thank the United States for their constructive approach. We also addressed the matter of sequencing steps. It is important to make progress on the issues of security guarantees and economic recovery. I am grateful to the United States and to every American heart for the substantial support provided to Ukraine," the Ukrainian premier wrote on X. Earlier, the US, Russia and Ukraine held trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi, UAE, in January 2026. As reported by TASS, the Russian delegation will be headed by Presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky for the fresh rounds of talks on February 17 and 18. - ANI Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, will lead the UAE delegation to the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi in February 2026. The summit, hosted at India's invitation, will bring together leaders from 20 countries and ministerial delegations from over 45 nations to deliberate on AI's future. Structured around the pillars of People, Planet, and Progress, the event aims to deliver concrete outcomes like proposals for an AI Commons and trusted AI tools. It will feature an AI Impact Expo showcasing practical applications in sectors like healthcare and agriculture, alongside sessions on safety, governance, and skilling initiatives. Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi to lead UAE delegation at India's AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, hosted by PM Modi with leaders from 20 nations. Abu Dhabi, February 14 On behalf of the UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, will lead the UAE delegation to the India AI Impact Summit, to be held in New Delhi from 16 to 20 February 2026, reported Emirates News Agency WAM. The Summit will bring together global leaders, policymakers, innovators, and experts from across the world to deliberate on the way forward for AI. At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leaders from 20 countries are scheduled to attend the AI Impact Summit. Bhutan, Bolivia, Brazil, Croatia, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Guyana, Kazakhstan, Liechtenstein, Mauritius, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Switzerland, Netherlands and UAE. In addition, Ministerial delegations from over 45 countries would be participating in the Summit. The UN Secretary General and Senior Officials from several International Organizations will also join the deliberations. India is set to host the India AI Impact Summit from February 16-20 at Bharat Mandapam, bringing together governments, industry leaders, researchers, startups, students, and citizens from across the world. The Summit serves as a pivotal global platform to develop a future-oriented agenda for inclusive, responsible, and impactful AI. It moves beyond high-level discussions to deliver tangible outcomes that drive economic growth, social development, and sustainable AI use. Structured around three core pillars -- People, Planet, and Progress -- the event will feature focused discussions on employment and skilling, sustainable and energy-efficient AI, and broader economic and social progress. Seven thematic working groups, co-chaired by representatives from the Global North and Global South, will present concrete deliverables, including proposals for AI Commons, trusted AI tools, shared compute infrastructure, and sector-specific compendiums of AI use cases. Participants will explore AI's effects on professions and industries, emerging skill needs in the job market, startup engagement opportunities with investors and partners, and AI's role in supporting farmers, small businesses, and service providers. Sessions will cover AI safety, governance, ethical use, data protection, and India's approach to sovereign AI, including indigenous foundation models for strategic sectors. A major highlight is the AI Impact Expo, showcasing practical AI applications in healthcare, agriculture, education, climate action, energy efficiency, and accessibility -- demonstrations designed to illustrate how AI addresses real-world challenges and enhances service delivery. The Summit will also spotlight national skilling efforts, such as "Yuva AI for All", a free and accessible course to build basic AI awareness among students and professionals. - ANI India honors the 40 CRPF personnel martyred in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. PM Modi, VP Radhakrishnan, and Rahul Gandhi pay solemn tributes. New Delhi, February 14 The Central Reserve Police Force on Saturday paid tribute to their soldiers who were killed in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, recalling their sacrifice, valour, and devotion to the country. "Lest we forget. On 14 Feb 2019, 40 bravehearts of CRPF India made the supreme sacrifice in Pulwama. Their valour remains etched in our hearts forever. DG GP Singh & all Ranks pay solemn tributes to our martyrs. We stand firmly with their families," the CRPF wrote in an X post. The bravehearts of the deadly attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district were remembered by many senior political leaders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the fallen heroes. He said their courage continues to inspire every Indian. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Remembering the brave heroes who laid down their lives in Pulwama on this day in 2019. Their devotion, resolve and service to the nation remain forever etched in our collective consciousness. Every Indian draws strength from their enduring courage." Earlier in the day, Vice President CP Radhakrishnan also paid humble respects to the brave CRPF personnel. The Vice President remembered their sacrifice, saying that it is forever engraved in Indian history and will continue to inspire the nation for ages. "I pay homage to the brave personnel who laid down their lives in the Pulwama terror attack. Their supreme sacrifice will forever remain etched in the nation's memory and continues to inspire us to build a strong and secure India," he wrote. Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also paid tribute to the soldiers. In an X post, he wrote, "My heartfelt tributes to our brave soldiers who were martyred in the daring terrorist attack in Pulwama in 2019. The nation will forever remain indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice in the defence of Mother India." Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday paid heartfelt homage to the bravehearts of the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. Recalling their valour and devotion, he wrote, "We pay our deepest homage to the brave martyrs of Bharat Mata, who laid down their lives in Pulwama. Their indomitable courage and unflinching devotion to the nation will forever be etched in our collective memory. Their supreme sacrifice remains eternal. We shall never forget." Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district witnessed one of the deadliest terror attacks when as many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed when their convoy was targeted on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway on February 14, 2019. The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was caused by a suicide bomber, according to a local news agency. However, India launched a series of counter-terror operations, including airstrikes at terror camps in Pakistan, marking a significant escalation. - ANI Indian High Commissioner to Canada Dinesh Patnaik has announced that formal negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) are scheduled to begin in late February or early March. He expressed strong optimism, stating the deal "should not be difficult at all," citing mutual intent and the lifting of a previous pause in talks. The agreement aims to streamline trade by reducing tariffs, documentation, and non-tariff barriers across key sectors like defence, aerospace, mining, and energy. Patnaik also highlighted resilient people-to-people and trade ties, noting plans to establish a Canada-India Friendship Society to connect both parliaments. Indian High Commissioner to Canada Dinesh Patnaik announces CEPA negotiations will begin late Feb-early Mar, expressing strong confidence in a swift agreement. Ottawa, February 14 Dinesh Patnaik, Indian High Commissioner to Canada on Friday expressed optimism as the negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement are underway and said that the negotiations would start by late February to early March. He made the remarks in an interview to Canada's Financial Post. Noting that the negotiations for the trade talks between India and Canada were launched at the sidelines of the G20 Meeting in Johannesburg, High Commissioner Patnaik said that the two countries are working on the terms of reference. "The deal would should be not difficult at all. Both the Prime Ministers at the G20 in Johannesburg decided to launch negotiations towards a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Now we have been talking about a free trade agreement since the last many years and which was kept on pause because of a certain reason between our two sides, and the pause had been lifted, so Prime Minister Carney's team has given notice to Parliament, which is a notice of 90 days. So the negotiation should now start at the end of February, beginning March. Now what we are working out are the terms of reference", he told the Financial Post. High Commissioner Patnaik highlighted the latest negotiations the two countries have signed and the change in several positions such as the rise of Indian economy and the signing of several trade agreements by Canada and India separately, which would now shape the trade talks. "I'm confident, given the intent on both sides, that we will be able to do it very soon", he said. When asked what the biggest component of the agreement would be, the High Commissioner listed defence, aerospace, mining and energy among the several areas where as large economies, the economic partnership between India and Canada would address all issues of all sectors to ensure streamlined working. "Lower tariffs, lesser documentation, lesser customs documentation, less sanitary, phytosanitary problems, less non-tariff barriers, more cooperation on financial instruments, on investment, on research, innovation, on AI, on mining, on energy, on defence, on aerospace, you name it. We have all the sectors that we want to address, and all the sectors we have enough capacity to be able to work together. What we are going to address is how do we make it easy for both sides to work together, easier ease of logistics, ease of communication, ease of moving things from one point to another, ease of investments in each other's countries, ease of trade where paperwork doesn't hold you up and that non-tariff barriers don't hold you up. That is the essence of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement. It's like having a marriage where you take out all the issues that create a problem and make it easier for both sides to work together", he said. The Ministry of External Affairs in an official brief noted how the trade and investment linkages between India and Canada form an integral component of the multi-faceted partnership between the two countries. India's exports to Canada in 2024 were worth CAD 8.02 billion and imports from Canada were CAD 5.30 billion. He added that while the comprehensive economic partnership will be at the centre, but will not be the centrepiece as the two countries have several other areas of focus and mentioned that India and Canada are looking to start a friendship society to connect both parliaments. "We are looking at starting the Canada India Friendship Society, both in the Canadian Parliament here as well as in the Indian Parliament. We want MPs to meet each other. We want civil society to meet each other. We want democratic institutions to meet with each other. We want all these things to happen between our two countries. They have been happening for a long time. Despite the blip of the last two years, our people-to-people relation did not suffer a bit. Trade went up. Financial institutions worked well, academic institutions worked well, universities, students, research, innovation, nothing stopped. This shows the strength of the relationship between both countries", High Commissioner Patnaik said. In his interview he said that the current status of the ties between New Delhi and Ottawa is doing extremely well despite the blip in the last two years and expressed confidence ahead of the visit of Canadian PM Mark Carney to India. He said that the two countries have shared values across areas and that minor irritants should not affect the ties. - ANI Pakistan's economic stability is undermined by a fragile external financing framework heavily dependent on short-term foreign loans, despite recent reserve improvements. With external debt at roughly $134.5 billion, significant near-term repayments pose a persistent threat of balance-of-payments emergencies. Business and economic experts argue that temporary inflows and diplomatic engagements cannot substitute for internal strength through competitiveness and productivity. They urge immediate reforms in taxation, energy, and industrial policy to build credible buffers and attract sustainable investment. Pakistan's $134.5B external debt, skewed to short maturities, creates a recurring crisis despite rising reserves. Experts warn of structural weaknesses. Lahore Februar, y 14 Pakistan's fragile external financing framework continues to undermine economic stability, with policymakers stating that dependence on foreign loans leaves the country exposed to recurring crises. Business representatives and economists argue that recent improvements in reserves do not resolve the structural weaknesses embedded in the repayment schedule, as reported by The Express Tribune. According to The Express Tribune, much of the debt portfolio is skewed toward short maturities, sharply limiting the government's ability to absorb shocks. Pakistan Industrial and Traders Associations Front Vice Chairman Raja Waseem Hassan pressed authorities to urgently seek extensions from friendly capitals. Without lengthening repayment timelines, he stated that the threat of repeated balance-of-payments emergencies will remain ever-present. Data shows the country's external debt and liabilities stood at roughly $134.5 billion by September 2025, with sizable repayments due in the near term. Although reserves crossed $21 billion in January 2026, analysts caution that a large part of this cushion comes from multilateral flows and temporary bilateral help, while obligations through 2026 and later years remain formidable. Hassan described renewed diplomatic engagement with Gulf partners, talk of investment from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and a thaw with Washington as encouraging. Yet he stressed that geopolitical alignments are fluid and cannot substitute for internal strength. Sustainable security, he argued, must rest on competitiveness, higher productivity and credible buffers. Drawing comparisons with neighbouring economies that managed to bargain effectively during global trade tensions, he said Pakistan's narrow export base and slow growth have weakened its leverage. Exports hovered near $32 billion in FY25, still failing to match import demand even after restrictions, as cited by The Express Tribune. Senior economist Saleem Ahmed echoed those concerns, too. He said rollovers and deposits cannot remain a permanent lifeline. Loan maturity management, he argued, should accompany reforms in taxation, energy pricing and industrial output. With growth projected below five per cent and credit conditions tight, businesses remain cautious. Both experts urged immediate planning to broaden the tax base, cut losses in the power sector, promote value-added exports and attract stronger foreign investment, as reported by The Express Tribune. - ANI Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva chaired a coordination meeting to finalize plans for the party's nationwide cadre training mega campaign set to launch on March 7. The campaign, named the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Training Mega Campaign 2026, aims to create a more capable and empowered party organization. Training will be conducted across all 256 organizational mandals in Delhi between March 7 and April 14, followed by district and state-level camps. In a separate event, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unveiled a statue of RSS founder Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, praising his vision for national service. Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva finalizes plans for party-wide cadre training starting March 7, aiming for "Capable Workers, Empowered Organisation." New Delhi, Feb 14 Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva on Saturday chaired a meeting to discuss the modalities of city cadre training as part of the party's mega national campaign beginning March 7. The Bharatiya Janata Party's cadre training mega campaign will begin from March 7 across the country, including Delhi. Sachdeva chaired the coordination meeting of the Delhi BJP with the objective of empowering the new party entrants. Addressing the meeting, BJP National Co-Organisation General Secretary Shiv Prakash said that from March 7, the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Training Mega Campaign 2026 will be launched nationwide with the objective "Capable Workers, Empowered Organisation." Shiv Prakash explained the importance of training and the organisation's expectations from its workers to 132 selected workers from various categories. Apart from Shiv Prakash, the different sessions of the meeting were addressed by Sachdeva, in-charge of North-West Indian States and Jammu and Kashmir MLA Devender Kumar Manial, Delhi BJP Organisation General Secretary Pavan Rana, Co-In-charge of North-West Indian States and Delhi MLA Ajay Mahawar, Head of Delhi BJP Training Team and MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat, Training team members Sumeet Bhasin, Punit Agrawal, Rajkumar Sharma and Kajal Pawar. The BJP has finalised training for workers on 14 subjects, for which Delhi BJP has appointed 14 subject heads. These subject heads will participate in the North-West States Subject Heads' Training Camp to be held in Chandigarh on Monday, said a statement. The Delhi BJP President said that under the Central team's plan, worker training camps will be organised in all 256 organisational mandals of Delhi between March 7 and April 14, following which district-level and state-level training camps will also be conducted. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday unveiled the statue of Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the first Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), at Dr Hedgewar Arogya Sansthan in Shahdara. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the vision and mission initiated by Dr Hedgewar have today evolved into a strong and expansive organisation dedicated to the service of the nation. His approach of organising society through character building has laid a firm foundation for India's cultural awakening. She stated that the statue installed at the institute is not merely a memorial, but a continuing source of inspiration embodying service, dedication and the spirit of 'Nation First'. - IANS Anthropic has just concluded a $30 billion Series G fundraising round, the company announced on Thursday. The companys new value is $380 billion a huge jump from its previous Series F valuation of $183 billion. Some details of the round were reported earlier this week by Bloomberg. The new round was led by Singaporean wealth fund GIC and investment management firm Coatue, with a number of other prominent firms including D. E. Shaw Ventures, Peter Thiels Founders Fund, and Abu Dhabis MGX co-leading the round. Other significant investors listed include Accel, General Catalyst, Jane Street, and the Qatar Investment Authority, among many others. The infusion of funding for the AI startup takes place as it is vying for customers and cultural attention with its competitor, OpenAI. OpenAI also recently made it known that it is seeking to clinch an additional $100 billion in funding, which, were it to secure the funds, would balloon the companys valuation to some $830 billion. Whether it is entrepreneurs, startups, or the worlds largest enterprises, the message from our customers is the same: Claude is increasingly becoming more critical to how businesses work, said Krishna Rao, Anthropics chief financial officer, in a press release. This fundraising reflects the incredible demand we are seeing from these customers, and we will use this investment to continue building the enterprise-grade products and models they have come to depend on. The Delhi Traffic Police, in coordination with legal and technical authorities, has launched a Digital Lok Adalat application to expedite the settlement of traffic violations. The system addresses previous delays by providing unified access to challan data and automatic real-time updates across platforms. It minimizes manual entry errors and sends SMS notifications to vehicle owners about their case status. The initiative, already implemented in Special Lok Adalats, aims to clear a significant backlog while enhancing transparency and citizen convenience. Delhi Traffic Police introduces Digital Lok Adalat app for faster challan disposal, real-time updates, and SMS notifications to reduce backlog. New Delhi, February 14 Delhi Traffic Police, in coordination with the Delhi State Legal Services Authority and the National Informatics Centre, has introduced a dedicated "Digital Lok Adalat" application to facilitate faster and more convenient settlement of traffic challans for citizens, according to the release. The system was e-inaugurated by Justice V Kameshwar Rao, Judge, High Court of Delhi and Executive Chairman, DSLSA, in the presence of senior Delhi Police officers and other dignitaries. According to the release, under the existing process, citizens have been facing considerable delays in updating Notices/Challans settled in Lok Adalats. To address this issue, the Digital Lok Adalat system has been developed as a technological intervention to streamline the disposal process, ensure timely updation, and provide easier public access. The newly developed portal enables unified access to traffic challan data and provides real-time updation of disposed challans. Citizens will also receive SMS notifications regarding the disposal status of their challans/notices. Through integration with the Virtual Court system, updates to the Digital Lok Adalat will automatically reflect across platforms, eliminating duplicate work and reducing delays. The system will simplify court processes, as challan/notice details will automatically appear in the application, minimising manual data entry errors and significantly reducing waiting time for citizens. As per the release, the initiative is expected to reduce the backlog of pending traffic challans, provide quicker settlement to vehicle owners, minimise manual processing and clerical errors and ensure transparency and efficiency in Lok Adalat proceedings. The Digital Lok Adalat system has been successfully implemented and is currently being utilised in the Special Lok Adalat proceedings. This innovative platform facilitates the settlement of eligible traffic challans in a streamlined, efficient, and citizen-centric manner. In the current Lok Adalat, a total of 1,92,444 challans/notices have been downloaded for settlement. The disposal of these challans and notices has been carried out simultaneously, and SMS notifications regarding the disposal status have been sent to the respective vehicle owners' mobile numbers. Delhi Traffic Police remains committed to adopting technology-driven solutions to improve road safety, enhance service delivery, and provide convenient public services, a release said. - ANI EAM Jaishankar says Quad Leaders' Summit was never formally scheduled, not cancelled. He assures working groups continue as US senators push for summit before Trump-Xi meeting. Munich, February 14 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said that the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue Leaders' Summit was "not cancelled" because it had never been formally scheduled. While acknowledging that a leaders' meeting did not take place, he cautioned against overinterpreting that development. He was responding to a question at the Munich Security Conference 2026 on whether the security grouping comprising India, the United States, Japan and Australia had lost momentum in the absence of a leaders' summit last year and whether the Quad's unity could be sustained under a second Trump administration. "The fact that the Quad did not take place at the summit level itself, I wouldn't overread it. So do stay tuned," Jaishankar said. He underscored that beyond high-level political meetings, the Quad's various working groups and institutional mechanisms continue to function. "The other parts of the Quad-the various mechanisms -all of those are going on," he said, signalling that cooperation among the four countries remains intact. "I wouldn't say the Quad summit was cancelled because it was never specifically scheduled. It didn't take place. Yes, that's correct. But at the same time, I would point to the fact that the first meeting, which (US) Secretary (Mark) Rubio held the day he became Secretary of State, was the Quad foreign ministers' meeting and then he did a meeting again in July in Washington, for which all of us went. So we actually had two Quad foreign ministers meeting and I want to assure you that the other parts of the Quad, the various mechanisms, all of those are going on," the External Affairs Minister said. Jaishankar was in conversation with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on the topic "Navigating Uncertainty: India and Germany in a World in Disarray." It was moderated by Roula Khalaf of the Financial Times. India is supposed to host the next Quad Leaders' Summit. On February 13, US Senators Tim Kaine and Pete Ricketts, members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, wrote to US Secretary of State and National Security Advisor Marco Rubio, encouraging the Trump Administration to schedule the next Quadrilateral Security Dialogue. In the letter, the senators underscored the importance of the Quad partnership in advancing the US national security and ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. The senators also stressed the importance of convening a Quad Summit ahead of an expected meeting in April between US President Trump and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping. At this pivotal moment of intense strategic competition with the People's Republic of China, convening a Quad Leaders' Summit would send a clear signal of unity, resolve, and strategic coherence among leading Indo-Pacific democracies," wrote the senators. "Convening a Quad summit prior to President Trump's planned meeting with Xi Jinping in April would be a decisive demonstration of US leadership in the Indo-Pacific prior to the President's visit to Beijing. A successful Quad summit beforehand would allow President Trump to engage from a position of greater leverage," the senators' letter read. It also referenced "The Administration's announcement of a trade deal with India," saying it "lays the groundwork to significantly deepen strategic and defence cooperation with India and across the Indo-Pacific." Highlighting common concerns, the senators wrote, "All four Quad partners face shared challenges including supply chain vulnerabilities, restrictions on critical minerals, threats to a free and open Indo-Pacific, and intensifying competition over emerging technologies." They added that "China has subjected Japan in particular to increased diplomatic pressure, military intimidation, and economic coercion that threatens regional stability and international norms." The Republican senators said that the Quad is uniquely positioned to address these challenges and advance many of the objectives outlined in President Trump's 2025 National Security Strategy, building upon successes of previous administrations, including strengthening allied deterrence, reducing strategic dependencies on adversaries, safeguarding technological leadership, and upholding freedom of navigation." "We look forward to working with you to strengthen the Quad at this pivotal moment for US diplomacy and urge you to prioritize organizing a Quad Leaders' Summit, and ensuing Foreign Minister and working group meetings. Doing so would reinforce American leadership, empower our closest partners, and ensure that future engagement with Beijing is grounded in unity, strength, and strategic foresight," the senators concluded. Meanwhile, US Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia, Paul Kapur, underlined that a strong India not only keeps China out of the Indo-Pacific region but also prevents it or any single hegemon from taking over or imposing coercive leverage on the region. Assistant Secretary Kapur told a subcommittee on South and Central Asia's hearing on February 11 to examine America's foreign policy across South-Central Asia that India, with its size, location, and commitment to a free and open region, anchors South Asia and, more broadly, the western half of the Indo-Pacific. "The United States and India maintain high-level diplomatic touchpoints such as the 2+2 Ministerial and cooperate closely in the defence technology and energy sectors, bilaterally and also through the Quad. Cooperation in these areas has remained robust," Kapur had said. To a question by Ranking Member of the committee, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, a Democrat, the US Assistant Secretary Kapur said, "I would just point out that the Quad is important to us, and Secretary Rubio's first engagement when he became Secretary of State was in fact a Quad engagement, so it's important to us." Kamlager-Dove also said she was concerned that the Quad was mentioned just twice in the 2025 National Security Strategy of the Trump Administration. "I think the Quad is a very important platform. It has done well. It was defunct in I think 2017, when it was revived during the first Trump administration and it's grown in importance since then. And it's a platform that enables us to connect and cooperate in unique ways with our like-minded partners, Kapur said. Responding to Keith Self, a Texas Republican, Kapur said, "India has been an active member of the Quad, and we interact with India both bilaterally and in the Quad context. And it's a promising venue for us to cooperate and for us to cooperate with other like-minded states in the region." He added, "I don't know if I'd say they're aggressive, but they are important members of the Quad. - ANI External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged with G7 Foreign Ministers at the Munich Security Conference 2026, reinforcing India's commitment to UN reforms, particularly of the Security Council. He highlighted India's role in safeguarding global sea lanes, port security, and resilient infrastructure. Jaishankar held a series of bilateral meetings with counterparts from nations including the Czech Republic, Germany, Canada, France, Japan, and the United States. His engagements began with a policy roundtable focusing on India's dynamic foreign policy approach in a multipolar world. EAM S Jaishankar meets G7 Foreign Ministers, discusses UN reforms, security, and bilateral ties at the Munich Security Conference 2026. Read key outcomes. Munich, February 15 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday met with G7 Foreign Ministers at the Munich Security Conference 2026, reiterating India's support for the UN80 agenda and underscoring New Delhi's role in safeguarding global security. On the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Jaishankar held a series of bilateral meetings with counterparts, discussing economic cooperation, defence ties, and regional security challenges. In a post on X, Jaishankar said, "Pleased to engage with G7 Foreign Ministers today at @MunSecConf. Reiterated India's support of the UN@80 agenda, particularly meaningful reform of the UN Security Council." He also emphasised India's role in safeguarding the sea lines of communication, acting as a first responder in crises, strengthening port security, and contributing to resilient submarine cable infrastructure. "Emphasised our role in safeguarding sea lines of communication, serving as a first responder, strengthening port security, and contributing to resilient submarine cable infrastructure. Our conversation brought out the many convergences and shared interests between India and the G7", the post read. In a post on X, Jaishankar said he was "glad to meet" Petr Macinka, the new Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the Czech Republic. He said the two leaders discussed strengthening economic and defence cooperation and expressed hope of welcoming him to India soon. Jaishankar also met German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, describing the interaction as a "productive bilateral meeting." He said both sides assessed progress across various domains of cooperation and exchanged views on regional hotspots. In another engagement, Jaishankar met Canada's Foreign Minister Anita Anand. "Was great to sit down and catch up," he said, adding in a separate post that India-Canada ties continue their steady progress. The External Affairs Minister also met French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot at the conference, calling it a "great catch-up" as MSC 2026 commenced. Among other key meetings, Jaishankar spoke with the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas; Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Toshimitsu Motegi; Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlic-Radman; and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He also met Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper. The UN@80 agenda focuses on transforming the organisation to be more "agile, integrated, and equipped" for modern challenges. Key pillars include structural/financial overhauls, strengthening multilateralism, advancing the SDGs, and addressing AI governance and climate change. The initiative emphasises "Better Together" to enhance efficiency, with 90+ actions focusing on mandate implementation and program realignment. Jaishankar began his Munich Security Conference 2026 engagements with a roundtable hosted by the Ananta Aspen Centre titled 'Delhi Decides: Mapping India's Policy Calculus'. In an X post, Jaishankar said, "Started my @MunSecConf 2026 engagements with @AnantaAspen's Roundtable 'Delhi Decides: Mapping India's Policy Calculus.' Highlighted the importance of a nimble and dynamic foreign policy to meet the demands of multipolarity.Noted the significance of the India-EU FTA and the India-US trade deal in that regard." He highlighted the importance of a nimble, dynamic foreign policy to address the demands of an increasingly multipolar world, noting the significance of the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement and the India-US trade deal. According to the MSC official website, the 62nd Munich Security Conference will be held from February 13 to 15, 2026, at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof and the Rosewood Munich. Led by MSC Chairman Wolfgang Ischinger, the conference brings together hundreds of decision-makers and opinion leaders from around the world to deliberate on pressing security challenges. Nearly 50 Heads of State and Government have confirmed participation at MSC 2026, including leaders from most European countries and a large delegation from the German Federal Government led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz. - ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other political leaders paid solemn tributes on the 7th anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack. They honored the 40 CRPF personnel who were martyred in the 2019 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack was carried out by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists, prompting India's decisive response with airstrikes on a JeM camp in Balakot, Pakistan. Leaders emphasized that the nation will forever remember the soldiers' sacrifice and draw strength from their courage. PM Modi, CMs pay homage to 40 CRPF personnel martyred in 2019 Pulwama terror attack. Nation remembers their sacrifice and enduring courage. New Delhi, Feb 14 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday honoured the bravehearts who were martyred in the horrific Pulwama terror attack, stating that their dedication and service to the nation will always be remembered. In a post on X, PM Modi posted, "Remembering the brave heroes who laid down their lives in Pulwama on this day in 2019. Their devotion, resolve and service to the nation remain forever etched in our collective consciousness. Every Indian draws strength from their enduring courage." Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari, taking to X, said, "On 14 February 2019, in the terrorist attack in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, endless salutations to the brave soldiers of Mother India who were martyred, and to their valour and sacrifice." Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, taking to social media, paid tributes to the soldiers. "Salutations to all the brave sons of Mother India who made the supreme sacrifice in the cowardly terrorist attack in Pulwama. The sacrifice of our immortal soldiers is the proclamation of that invincible resolve of Indian valour, which forever inspires us to eradicate terrorism from its roots," CM Yogi said in a post on X. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also took to social media and said, "Heartfelt tribute to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in defence of Mother India during the 2019 Pulwama terrorist attack. The nation shall forever remain indebted to your indomitable courage and valour." Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma paid homage to the fallen soldiers, stating, "The sacrifice of our brave jawans in Pulwama will never be forgotten. Tributes to the bravehearts. Bharat will always remember their martyrdom." India is marking the 7th anniversary of the 2019 Pulwama attack, honouring 40 CRPF personnel killed in a suicide bombing by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists on a convoy in Jammu and Kashmir. India responded with airstrikes on a JeM camp in Balakot, Pakistan, sending a firm message against terrorism. - IANS The Financial Action Task Force concluded its fifth plenary in Mexico City, approving a new strategic agenda for 2026-2028 with a central focus on combating the global fraud epidemic. Citing estimates of $1 trillion lost to scams annually, the body agreed on a new paper to counter cyber-enabled fraud through enhanced cross-border cooperation and intelligence sharing. The plenary also approved reports on virtual asset risks, noting stablecoins accounted for 84% of illicit transaction volume, and reviewed progress on country watchlists. Delegates highlighted operational successes, including a coordinated anti-scam operation that processed over 9,000 reports and resulted in 1,800 arrests. FATF plenary in Mexico City approves strategic plan targeting cyber-enabled fraud and virtual asset risks, citing $1 trillion in annual scam losses. Mexico City, February 14 The Financial Action Task Force concluded its fifth plenary under the Mexican presidency this week, drawing more than 600 delegates to Mexico City in what leaders described as a united front against illicit finance. The plenary approved the FATF's strategic priorities for 2026 to 2028, which will be presented to ministers for endorsement in April. Central to the new agenda is an intensified focus on fraud, now described as an epidemic affecting jurisdictions worldwide. Citing estimates from the Global Anti-Scam Alliance, the President Claudia Sheinbaum noted that USD 1 trillion was lost to scams globally in a single year. In addition, 90 percent of countries have identified fraud among their top financial crime threats through national risk assessments. "The Global Anti-Scam Alliance has estimated that one trillion US dollars was lost to scams around the world in just one year. And through our mutual evaluations assessments, we have seen that 90% of countries have identified fraud as one of the key financial crime threats. The fraud epidemic is growing in size, scale and reach and its impact on victims extend well beyond financial loss. The fraud epidemic is growing in size, scale and reach and its impact on victims extend well beyond financial loss," Sheinbaum said. To address the surge, the FATF agreed on a new paper on cyber-enabled fraud. The document outlines how the organization's standards can be leveraged to counter criminals exploiting instant payments, social engineering tactics and global digital platforms. It also emphasizes cross-border cooperation, real-time intelligence sharing and stronger public-private partnerships. Two additional reports were approved focusing on developments in the virtual asset sector, including stablecoins and unhosted wallets. According to data referenced during the session, stablecoins accounted for 84 percent of illicit virtual asset transaction volume in 2025. The reports aim to guide countries in licensing, supervising and regulating virtual asset service providers, particularly those operating across borders. "The first thing I would like to say is that GAFI was the first international body that took action to determine that virtual assets were presenting a risk to money laundering and financing terrorism. This does not mean that all virtual assets are used in an illicit way or for illicit purposes, but a risk has been detected since 2014, and by 2018 we had already issued a recommendation and the interpretive note in 2019," Sheinbaum said. Delegates highlighted operational successes as well. Through the Frontier Plus platform, 11 jurisdictions coordinated a large-scale anti-scam operation last year, processing more than 9,000 scam reports tied to losses exceeding EUR192 million. Authorities made over 1,800 arrests and seized more than EUR17 million in assets. The plenary also reviewed progress on its "gray list" and "black list." Twenty-one countries reported on reforms to strengthen their defenses against money laundering and terrorist financing. Kuwait and Papua New Guinea were added to the gray list due to strategic deficiencies, while updates were issued regarding Iran. In addition, mutual evaluation reports for Italy, Austria and Singapore were approved, following extensive on-site assessments that tested the effectiveness of national frameworks in combating illicit finance. Marking the anniversary of its report on online child sexual exploitation, the FATF shared that 75 percent of surveyed countries have incorporated the crime into their national risk assessments, and one-third reported increases in suspicious transaction reports linked to the offense. Looking ahead, the plenary elected Giles Thompson of the United Kingdom as incoming president. The current president reaffirmed her commitment to advancing the organization's priorities through June 2026. "I will be pleased to leave the FATF in Giles' very capable hands when he takes up the position in July of this year for a two-year presidency. In my remaining months in the presidency until June of 2026, I am committed to continue to work with all countries and partners across the global network towards strengthening our collective fight against illicit finance. This year marks 26 years since Mexico joined the FATF," the Mexican President said. "This year marks 26 years since Mexico joined the FATF," she said, calling it "an honour to be sharing this update with you from my home country." - ANI French President Emmanuel Macron will visit Mumbai and Delhi from February 16-19, with a key meeting scheduled with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 17. The leaders will exchange MOUs and launch the India-France Year of Innovation 2026, aimed at deepening collaboration in technology and research. Macron's visit, his fourth to India, underscores the sustained momentum in the strategic partnership, with a particular focus on cooperation in Artificial Intelligence. The visit coincides with the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, the first such global summit hosted in the Global South. French President Macron visits Mumbai to meet PM Modi, sign MOUs, and attend the AI Impact Summit, strengthening strategic & innovation partnership. New Delhi, February 15 French President Emmanuel Macron will arrive in Mumbai, Maharashtra, on February 16 during his upcoming visit, where he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 17, the External Affairs Ministry said. Following their meeting, PM Modi and the French President will travel to New Delhi to attend the AI Impact Summit 2026. According to the MEA, in Mumbai, the two leaders will exchange MOUs followed by a press statement. The Hotel Taj Mahal Palace will host an India-France Innovation Forum, followed by the India-France Year of Innovation and Cultural Commemoration at the Gateway of India. Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Madame Brigitte Macron will visit Mumbai and Delhi during their visit to India from February 16-19, the ministry said. The Year of Innovation 2026 initiative will be celebrated throughout the year in both countries and aims to deepen collaboration in innovation, technology, research, and people-to-people exchanges. This will mark French President Macron's fourth visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, signalling sustained momentum in the India-France strategic partnership, with a particular focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) cooperation and emerging technologies. In a post on X on Friday, the French Embassy in India said that President Macron will visit India for bilateral engagements and attend the AI Impact Summit, marking another significant chapter in the expanding ties between New Delhi and Paris. Macron's upcoming visit comes against the backdrop of a steadily deepening partnership between India and France across defence, space, civil nuclear energy, climate action, education and people-to-people exchanges. According to the French Embassy in India, President Macron's first visit to India in 2018 marked a new chapter in France-India relations. Meanwhile, the upcoming India-AI Impact Summit, the first-ever global AI Summit to be hosted in the Global South, from February 16 to 20, will be anchored in three guiding "sutras" of People, Planet and Progress and structured around seven key "chakras," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. - ANI The Gauhati High Court has permitted the Assam government to proceed with the Maa Kamakhya Temple Access Corridor project, dismissing a Public Interest Litigation and a writ petition. The court noted assurances that the project would be executed without affecting the temple's underground holy water springs. The decision follows hydrological and geophysical studies conducted by IIT Guwahati and the National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, which deemed the project viable. The corridor is a development project under the PM-DEVINE Scheme aimed at improving pilgrim amenities. Gauhati High Court permits Assam govt to proceed with Maa Kamakhya Temple Access Corridor, dismissing PILs after hydrological assurances. Guwahati, February 14 The Gauhati High Court has permitted the Assam government to proceed with the proposed "Maa Kamakhya Temple Access Corridor" at Nilachal Hills in Guwahati. The court also disposed of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) and a writ petition regarding the matter on Friday. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar and Justice Arun Dev Choudhury stated, "There is a further assurance that the project would be executed without even in the least affecting the underground holy water springs. With the above-noted assurances and the structural design of the project incorporating the suggestions of the National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, and the IIT, Guwahati, we find no reason to continue with this PIL (PIL No. 12/2024) and the writ petition [WP(C) 2700/2024] any further." The PIL (12/2024) was filed seeking a White Paper on the proposed construction of the corridor. Another writ petition [WP(C) No. 2700/2024], filed by Navajyoti Sarma, challenged the tender process initiated by the State vide NIT dated November 27, 2023, alleging violations of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 and the Assam Ancient Monuments and Records Act, 1959. The petitioners contended that the project could adversely affect the Maa Kamakhya Temple premises and disrupt religious practices, potentially leading to desecration. The court noted, "During the course of the arguments, D. Saikia, learned Advocate General, Assam, had assured this Court verbally, as also in writing, that till all clearance are received from all the authorities concerned, including the Research and Analytical Report from the IIT, Guwahati, as also by another research body regarding hydrological impact coming in the way of the execution of the project, no construction shall take place." The court said that an affidavit, sworn by the Special Commissioner and Special Secretary, PW (B&NH) Department, Assam, has been filed earlier wherein it has been averred that the project, namely, 'Maa Kamakhya Temple Access Corridor Project' has been taken up for the purposes of development of the temple area under the PM-DEVINE Scheme. The frontal facade and vista of the temple appear to have been compromised over a period of time because of unplanned residential and commercial buildings, most of which present rebarbative look, which have come up cramming the open spaces in front of the temple, which could be used by the pilgrims, or which could have been used for the State to develop amenities and allweather facilities for the pilgrims. The Advocate General had stated that the project was initially conceived with the understanding that there shall be no interference with the architecture and ancient sculptures of the temples in and around the main sanctum sanctorum. "The State is also conscious of the possibilities of the adverse impact to the underground holy water springs that may occur with the initiation and completion of the project. With this apprehension in mind, the IIT, Guwahati, had been entrusted to carry out hydrological and geophysical studies of the proposed construction area to find out as to how the execution of the project should be carried out without damaging the sacred underground natural water spring," the court noted. An MOU was entered into between the PWD (Building), Assam and the IIT, Guwahati in the month of June, 2024. In order to avoid any adverse impact to the main temple and the holy underground water springs as also for preservation of the ancient and sacred monuments in and around the temple, the services of the National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, have also been commissioned for conducting a study with regard to the possible hydrological and geophysical impact. The National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee has also submitted its report, which has been vetted by the IIT, Guwahati withj the report finding it to be a viable and nondamaging option for the State to carry out the project, according to the court. The report submitted by the National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, and the recommendations of the IIT, Guwahati were also taken taken into consideration by the consultant/concessionaire for preparation of drawings/designs. The court said that the structural plans and their design have already been submitted to the Government, which has also been brought on record in these petitions vide affidavit dated January 20. "With all these checks, the learned Advocate General has submitted that he may be permitted to withdraw his oral undertaking that till the time all clearances are received and proper hydrological and geophysical studies are made confirming that the execution of the project would not adversely affect the temples and underground water springs, no construction work shall proceed. We find that with all the research material/reports incorporated in the structural design of the project, there should not be any embargo for the State to proceed with the construction/execution of the project for giving a facelift to the temple(s) and provide easy access for the pilgrims to the shrines located inside the temple premises," noted the Gauhati High Court. The bench further said, "We also reiterate the assurance given by the learned Advocate General that the execution of the project work would be as per the drawings and designs approved by the IIT, Guwahati and the project would be executed without affecting the temples in any manner whatsoever. There is a further assurance that the project would be executed without even in the least affecting the underground holy water springs. With the above-noted assurances and the structural design of the project incorporating the suggestions of the National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, and the IIT, Guwahati, we find no reason to continue with this PIL (PIL No. 12/2024) and the writ petition [WP(C) 2700/2024] any further. Accordingly, we close the same with the liberty to the petitioners to have these petitions revived, in case any breach is noticed hereafter till the final execution of the works, by filing a two-page affidavit. Both the petitions stand disposed off." - ANI India's vision for AI, centered on democratization, will be showcased at the upcoming Global AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. The country's integrated AI stack is designed to deploy technology across critical sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and public services. Initiatives like the IndiaAI Mission are fostering domestic innovation, including developing sovereign AI models and providing subsidized compute access to startups. This approach aims to ensure AI serves societal needs, with tangible applications already reporting significant gains in agricultural productivity and efficiency in justice delivery. India's full AI stack, from sovereign models to compute power, is transforming healthcare, agriculture, education, and justice delivery. Learn about the vision at the Global AI Impact Summit. New Delhi, February 14 With New Delhi set to host the Global AI Impact Summit next week, India's vision for the future of technology is guided by a simple yet powerful idea: democratisation of AI. The Summit would bring to focus this vision of AI for Humanity, which places people at the centre of technological progress, ensuring that innovation serves society rather than the other way around. In order to realise this vision and for it to function reliably at scale and integrate seamlessly into everyday life across healthcare, education, agriculture, finance, and public services, India's strong and integrated AI stack, brings together the tools, systems, and infrastructure needed to build, deploy, and operate AI applications effectively. India's full AI Stack represents the vision of democratising technology. The five-layered pyramid represents the complete set of tools and systems for building and running AI applications, bringing together hardware, software, and platforms to collect data, train AI models, and deploy them in real-world use, ensuring AI works smoothly from start to finish. Indian startups have innovatively adopted to make the user interface of AI tailored to local languages, contexts, and sector-specific needs, accelerating adoption across the economy. In agriculture, AI-powered advisory tools have reported producing gains of up to 30-50 per cent after deployment in states such as Andhra Pradesh in Maharashtra. In healthcare, AI applications are enabling early detection of tuberculosis, cancer, neurological disorders, and other conditions, strengthening preventive and diagnostic care. In education, the National Education Policy 2020 integrates AI learning through CBSE curricula, DIKSHA platforms, and initiatives such as YUVAi, equipping students with practical AI skills. In justice delivery, e-Courts Phase III deploys AI and ML for translation, case management, scheduling, and citizen-facing services, improving efficiency and transparency through vernacular access. In weather and disaster management, IMD uses AI for advanced forecasting of rainfall, cyclones, fog, lightning, and fires, with tools such as Mausam GPT supporting farmers and disaster response. Oft known as the brain of AI, this is where models are trained on data to recognize patterns, make predictions, and take decisions. Under the IndiaAI Mission, 12 indigenous AI models are being developed to address India-specific use cases. To support sovereign model development, startups receive subsidised compute access, with up to 25% of compute costs supported through a mix of grants and equity, lowering entry barriers and accelerating domestic innovation. BharatGen is developing India-centric foundation and multimodal models, ranging from billions to trillions of parameters, to support research, startups, and public-sector applications. IndiaAIKosh serves as a national repository for datasets, models, and tools; as of December 2025, it hosts 5,722 datasets and 251 AI models, with contributions from 54 entities across 20 sectors. Indian startups are building full-stack and domain-specific AI models aligned with Indian languages, healthcare needs, and public service delivery, for example Sarvam AI is developing large language and speech models for Indian languages to support voice interfaces, document processing, and citizen services. Bhashini, under the National Language Translation Mission, hosts 350+ AI models covering speech recognition, machine translation, text-to-speech, OCR, and language detection, strengthening multilingual access to digital services. Known as the muscle of AI, it provides the computing power required to train and run AI models. This power comes from advanced processing chips such as NVIDIA's Blackwell Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), Google's Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), and Neural Processing Units (NPUs), which allow AI systems to operate efficiently and at scale. It's importance makes it critical for AI development. India has made strides in this area via 10,300+ crore allocated over five years for IndiaAI Mission. The IndiaAI Compute Portal works on compute-as-a-service model. It offers shared, cloud-based access to 38,000 GPUs and 1,050 TPUs at subsidised rates under Rs.100, significantly lowering entry barriers for startups and smaller organisations. A secure national GPU cluster with 3,000 next-generation GPUs is being set up for sovereign and strategic AI applications. The India Semiconductor Mission, with an outlay of 76,000 crore, has approved 10 semiconductor projects, including chip fabrication and packaging units. Indigenous chip design initiatives such as SHAKTI and VEGA processors are strengthening India's domestic capabilities in AI hardware. India is also developing custom AI chips and strengthening its semiconductor ecosystem, with 10 approved semiconductor projects, including fabs and ATMP units. The National Supercomputing Mission has deployed over 40 petaflops of computing capacity across IITs, IISERs, and national research institutions. Flagship systems such as PARAM Siddhi-AI and AIRAWAT provide AI-optimised supercomputing for applications including natural language processing, weather prediction, and drug discovery. The home and the highway of AI- this refers to the data centres where AI systems are stored and operated. In India, nationwide optical fibre network supports high-speed data movement for cloud and AI services. 5G services have been rolled out in all States/ UTs across the country and are available in 99.9% of the districts in the country with a population coverage of 85%. This is what keeps the entire AI stack running. As AI data centres consume large amounts of electricity. Clean and affordable energy is therefore essential to support the sustainable growth of AI infrastructure. India met a record peak power demand of 242.49 GW in FY 2025-26, with national energy shortages reduced to just 0.03%, ensuring uninterrupted electricity for AI data centres, and high-performance computing facilities. Total installed power capacity reached to 509.7 GW, providing the scale required to support energy-intensive AI workloads. (As of Nov 2025). Additionally, the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act positions nuclear power as a stable, round-the-clock source of clean energy for AI and data centres. The Act enables private sector participation and accelerates the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and micro-reactors. Building a robust AI stack is both a technological priority and a social commitment for India. By strengthening every layer, including applications, AI models, compute, digital infrastructure, and energy, India is enabling the democratisation of AI and ensuring that its benefits reach citizens at population scale. Through affordable access to compute, indigenous model development, secure data infrastructure, and sustainable energy systems, India is creating an AI ecosystem that is scalable, resilient, and future-ready. The upcoming India-AI Impact Summit, the first-ever global AI Summit to be hosted in the Global South, from Feb 16-20, will be anchored in three guiding "sutras" of People, Planet and Progress and structured around seven key "chakras," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday. The India-AI Impact Summit will be held from February 16 to 20 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, marking the first global AI summit to be hosted in the 'Global South'. Designed as a five-day programme covering policy, research, industry, and public engagement, the Summit is expected to bring together global leaders, policymakers, technology companies, innovators, and experts to deliberate on AI's role in governance, innovation, and sustainable development. It aims to foster dialogue on responsible AI governance, innovation ecosystems, digital public infrastructure, climate-conscious technology and equitable access to emerging technologies. The Summit is envisioned as a pivotal global platform to shape a future-oriented agenda for inclusive, responsible, and impactful AI, and it aims to move beyond high-level discussions to deliver tangible outcomes that support economic growth, social development, and the sustainable use of AI. - ANI Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute to former Union Minister Sushma Swaraj on her 74th birth anniversary, highlighting her fearless stance on national issues and inspirational work. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also honored Swaraj, calling her a guardian of parliamentary dignity and an architect of humane diplomacy. Swaraj had a distinguished political career, becoming the first woman Chief Minister of Delhi and serving as External Affairs Minister from 2014 to 2019. Her legacy in public service, oratory, and dedication to the nation continues to be celebrated. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Delhi CM Rekha Gupta pay tribute to former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, lauding her legacy in diplomacy and women's empowerment. New Delhi, February 14 Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday paid tribute to former Union Minister and Delhi Chief Minister Sushma Swaraj on her 74th birth anniversary, lauding her lifelong dedication to public service and national welfare. In a post shared on X, Shah said, "Sushma Swaraj ji, who made public welfare--from the organization to the government--the mission of her life, was known for her fearless stance on matters of national interest. Her work on the nation, culture, language, foreign policy, and women's empowerment will continue to inspire the countrymen for decades. I pay my respects to Sushma ji on her birth anniversary." Earlier in the day, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta paid heartfelt tribute to Sushma Swaraj, calling her a "guardian of parliamentary dignity and an inspiration in humane diplomacy". In a post shared on X, Delhi CM said, "On the birth anniversary of former Union Minister and former Chief Minister of Delhi, Padma Vibhushan, the revered Sushma Swaraj ji, I offer millions of salutations to her. Her persona as the guardian of parliamentary dignity in Indian politics and the unparalleled architect of humane diplomacy will forever remain an inspiration for all of us." She also lauded Swaraj's intellectual acumen and oratory skills, saying they enhanced India's standing on the global stage. "With her sharp intellect and resonant oratory, Sushma Didi enhanced India's pride on the global stage and established the highest ideals of public service," Gupta wrote. Emphasising Swaraj's dedication to the nation, she added, "Her unwavering dedication to the motherland and her maternal affection for one and all remain indelibly etched in our hearts even today. I pay my humble respects to the ideals of the honourable Sushma ji, the embodiment of simplicity, courage, and integrity." Sushma Swaraj (February 14, 1952 - August 6, 2019) was a prominent Indian politician and former Union Cabinet Minister. Born in Ambala, Haryana, she graduated from Sanatan Dharma College and earned a law degree from Punjab University, Chandigarh. She began her legal career in 1973 as an advocate at the Supreme Court of India. Swaraj had her formal entry into politics as she won the Haryana Legislative Assembly seat at 25, and served as Cabinet Minister for Labour and Employment. She later held portfolios in Education, Food, and Civil Supplies. She was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 1990 and the Lok Sabha in 1996, serving as Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Telecommunications, Health and Family Welfare, and Parliamentary Affairs. In 1998, she became the first woman Chief Minister of Delhi. She was Leader of Opposition in the 15th Lok Sabha (2009-2014) and served as Union Cabinet Minister for External Affairs from 2014 to 2019. - ANI A solemn memorial service was held at Lethpora in Pulwama district to mark the seventh anniversary of the 2019 terror attack. Senior security officials, including the CRPF Director General, paid floral tributes and observed a minute's silence. The ceremony included a wreath-laying and a blood donation camp that collected over 100 units. The attack, claimed by Jaish-e-Mohammad, had killed 40 CRPF personnel. CRPF holds memorial service on 7th Pulwama attack anniversary. Wreath-laying, blood donation camp mark tribute to 40 martyrs. Senior officials pay homage. Srinagar, Feb 14 On the seventh anniversary of Pulwama terror attack on Saturday, a memorial service was held at Lethpora in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district to pay tributes to the martyrs. Officials said, "A memorial ceremony was held at Martyrs Memorial by 185 Batallion of CRPF in Lethpora to commemorate the Seventh Anniversary of the Pulwama attack." "The solemn ceremony was attended by Gyanendra Pratap Singh, IPS officer and CRPF Director General; Rajesh Kumar, IPS officer and CRPF Additional Director General (Jammu and Kashmir Zone); Vineet Brij Lal, IPS officer and CRPF (Kashmir Operations Sector) Inspector General; Pawan Kumar Sharma, CRPF (Srinagar Sector) Inspector General; officers of CRPF, Army, BSF, ITBP, SSB, Jammu and Kashmir Police and local administration." "A poignant wreath-laying ceremony was followed by a Blood donation camp, which saw an overwhelming response from volunteers. The event was commemorated with a solemn memorial ceremony. Officers, dignitaries and Jawans paid heartfelt floral tributes at the Martyrs Memorial in Lethpora, followed by a dignified salute by the Ceremonial Guard of CRPF. A one-minute silence was observed, accompanied by the mournful sounding of Bugle, as a mark of respect for the martyrs." "The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as the gathering remembered the supreme sacrifice made by the brave soldiers, who laid down their lives in the line of duty. The ceremony was a poignant tribute to the martyrs, and the sense of reverence and gratitude was palpable," officials added. "As a heartfelt tribute to the martyrs, CRPF organised a blood donation camp, a tradition upheld every year. The event saw enthusiastic participation from all officers and jawans, who voluntarily donated blood collectively contributing more than 100 units to Shri Maharaja Hari Singh hospital in Srinagar," officials said. The Pulwama terror attack occurred on February 14, 2019, when a convoy of vehicles carrying Indian security personnel on the Jammu-Srinagar highway was attacked by a vehicle-borne suicide bomber at Lethpora in Pulwama district. The terror attack killed 40 CRPF personnel as well as the perpetrator -- Adil Ahmad Dar -- who was a local youth from the Pulwama district. The responsibility for the terror attack was claimed by the Pakistan-based terror group, Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). The attack dealt a severe blow to India-Pakistan relations consequently resulting in India-Pakistan military standoff of 2019. Subsequently, Indian investigations identified 19 accused. By August 2021, the main accused along with six others had been killed, and seven had been arrested. - IANS Feb 12 (Reuters) - Anthropic has raised $30 billion in its latest funding round, more than doubling the Claude chatbot maker's valuation to $380 billion and underscoring massive investor interest in the startup and the broader AI industry. The company has differentiated itself by focusing its model training on coding, with Claude Code gaining strong traction among developers and helping the company gain an edge over rivals in the enterprise AI market. Anthropic's recently launched series of plugins for its Cowork agent had sparked a brutal selloff in global software stocks as investors debated the disruptive potential to the sector from sophisticated AI models. The funding round, announced on Thursday, was co-led by investors including D. E. Shaw Ventures, ICONIQ and MGX. It also included a portion of previously announced investments from Microsoft and Nvidia. Anthropic, backed by Google and Amazon, had raised $13 billion in a Series F round that valued the company at $183 billion, the company said in early September. Meanwhile, OpenAI could be valued at about $830 billion as part of talks with SoftBank Group to invest as much as an additional $30 billion in the ChatGPT maker, Reuters reported in January. REVENUE SURGES Anthropic has rapidly built its revenue base the company said its current run-rate revenue is $14 billion. For Claude Code alone, the run-rate revenue has grown to over $2.5 billion, more than doubling since the beginning of 2026. Business subscriptions to Claude Code have quadrupled since the start of the year, with enterprise use now representing over half of all Claude Code revenue, the company said. Anthropic has further deepened its push for business deals with products like Claude Cowork AI agent, which executes computer tasks for white-collar workers. The company has also taken a different approach to AI regulation. While tech companies have pushed for less regulation, Anthropic has drawn up plans to donate $20 million to back U.S. political candidates who support regulating the AI industry. "The companies building AI have a responsibility to help ensure the technology serves the public good, not just their own interests," Anthropic had said separately earlier on Thursday. Earlier this week, Reuters reported that Blackstone, the world's largest alternative asset manager, was increasing its stake in Anthropic to about $1 billion. (Reporting by Deborah Sophia in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona and Sriraj Kalluvila) The Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, has commended the West Bengal government's effective and coordinated response to a recent Nipah virus case. He stated that timely surveillance and preventive measures can contain the infection, noting its limited historical spread in the state and Kerala. Evidence of the virus has been found in bats in several Indian states, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring. Health officials confirmed contact tracing was completed with no new cases reported, though the virus remains dangerous due to its high fatality rate. ICMR DG Dr. Rajiv Bahl commends West Bengal's coordinated efforts with the Centre to contain the Nipah virus, urging no public panic. Kolkata, Feb 14 Indian Council of Medical Research Director General Dr Rajiv Bahl on Saturday praised the West Bengal government's response to the recent Nipah virus case, stating that the state has worked effectively in coordination with the Centre to prevent its spread. Dr Bahl made the remarks during his visit to the ICMR-National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (ICMR-NIBMG) in Kolkata's Kalyani area, where he attended an event to unveil the bust of Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr Dilip Mahalanabis, known for his pioneering work in oral rehydration therapy. Speaking on the Nipah virus situation, Dr Bahl said there was no reason for panic, as timely surveillance and preventive measures can effectively contain the infection. He noted that Nipah virus infections had been reported earlier in West Bengal in 2001 and 2007, as well as in Kerala, but the number of cases remained limited. He added that proactive steps taken by the West Bengal government in monitoring and containment efforts were commendable. Dr Bahl also said evidence of Nipah virus has been found in bats in several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh and Kerala, underscoring the importance of continued surveillance. Recently, two nurses in West Bengal were infected with the Nipah virus, one of whom died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Barasat in North 24 Parganas district. State health department officials said contact tracing was carried out to identify individuals who had come in contact with the infected nurses. Samples collected from those identified were tested, and the results were found to be negative. Officials said no new Nipah virus cases have been reported in the state so far. Nipah virus is a dangerous infection that has appeared in parts of India from time to time, including West Bengal and Kerala. The virus spreads mainly through fruit bats and close human contact. Patients usually develop fever, weakness and, in severe cases, brain complications. The Nipah virus has a high fatality rate, which makes early detection important. Health teams focus on isolating patients and tracing contacts quickly. Authorities continue monitoring the situation closely to prevent any fresh spread or public health risk. - IANS Tech leaders praise India's AI policy ahead of the Global AI Impact Summit 2026 in Delhi, with UN chief and global heads of state attending. Washington DC, February 14 Ahead of the anticipated Global AI Impact Summit which New Delhi is set to host next week, industry leaders have praised India's AI policy ecosystem and described the country as integral to AI. In a video posted by the Indian Embassy in the US, Vishal Sikka, Founder and CEO of Vianai Systems, expressed his optimism ahead of the Global AI Impact Summit. "I'm really excited about India AI Impact Summit happening in Delhi next week. You know, there is so much development in AI every day. There is some or the other breakthrough happening somewhere and it has so many implications, so many consequences. And it is so important to India and India is so important to AI that this is really going to be, I think, the best AI conference that has ever happened in the last several years, all the way from the, you know, impact of AI on all the different industries, the, creating AI, the talent that we have in India and how we can build applications of AI, how we can build AI itself in the infrastructure for AI, to all the serious issues around AI from energy to availability of talent to the safety of AI," Sikka said. "Imagine having billions of, swarms of billions of AI agents doing their thing and ensuring the safety of these things, the security of these things, the ethics of AI. There are so many fundamental societal issues to be discussed. And so many different people from all walks of life are converging in Delhi next week. I'm really excited about it and looking forward to it," he added. Rorry Daniels, Managing Director of Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI) shared her excitement ahead of the AI Impact Summit and said,"I'm so excited to travel to Delhi next week for the Global AI Impact Summit where the Policy Institute will be partnering with the United Nations to hold an event on trust and safety in the AI ecosystems. We're particularly excited to learn how India's emerging AI guidelines and policy ecosystems could provide a model for the rest of emerging economies in Asia. I look forward to the summit and to seeing the great results." The upcoming India-AI Impact Summit, the first-ever global AI Summit to be hosted in the Global South, from Feb 16-20 will be anchored in three guiding "sutras" of People, Planet and Progress and structured around seven key "chakras," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday. 20 leaders from around the globe will participate in the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 to be held in the national capital from February 16 to 20. Ministerial delegations from over 45 countries will participate in the Summit, with the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Senior Officials from several international organisations joining the deliberations. At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several Heads of State and Government are scheduled to attend the Summit. The India-AI Impact Summit will be held from February 16 to 20 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, marking the first global AI summit to be hosted in the Global South. Designed as a five-day programme covering policy, research, industry, and public engagement, the Summit is expected to bring together global leaders, policymakers, technology companies, innovators, and experts to deliberate on AI's role in governance, innovation, and sustainable development. The Summit builds on India's development-focused approach to AI, aligns with the India AI Mission and Digital India Initiative, and emphasises translating global AI discussions into practical, people-centric outcomes. The India-AI Impact Summit 2026 aims to foster dialogue on responsible AI governance, innovation ecosystems, digital public infrastructure, climate-conscious technology and equitable access to emerging technologies. The Summit is envisioned as a pivotal global platform to shape a future-oriented agenda for inclusive, responsible, and impactful AI, and it aims to move beyond high-level discussions to deliver tangible outcomes that support economic growth, social development, and the sustainable use of AI. - ANI The Indian Army's Dao Division, under Spear Corps, concluded a two-day strategic seminar titled "Arunachal Pradesh: India's Dynamic Frontier" at Dinjan Military Station. The event brought together armed forces, civil administration, and academia to foster a whole-of-nation approach to frontier management. The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt Gen K T Parnaik, delivered the keynote address, linking security with sustainable growth. The seminar produced recommendations to enhance strategic awareness, promote development, and strengthen civil-military cooperation in the region. Indian Army concludes strategic seminar on Arunachal Pradesh, focusing on border management, security challenges, and sustainable development for regional stability. Dibrugarh, February 14 The Indian Army concluded a two-day seminar on 13 and 14 February 2026 at Dinjan Military Station on the theme "Arunachal Pradesh: India's Dynamic Frontier", organised by Dao Division under the aegis of Spear Corps. The event witnessed active participation from representatives of the armed forces, civil administration and academia, reinforcing the importance of a whole-of-nation approach towards border management and regional development, according to a release. The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt Gen K T Parnaik PVSM, UYSM, YSM (Retd), graced the valedictory session of the two-day seminar as the Chief Guest and delivered the keynote address. In his remarks, he elucidated the intrinsic linkage between security and sustainable growth, underscoring that robust border management, infrastructure augmentation and inclusive development are mutually reinforcing pillars that collectively advance national resilience, regional stability and enduring prosperity in India's eastern frontier. Other speakers provided incisive perspectives on operational realities along the eastern frontier, emerging security challenges and the broader strategic environment. The deliberations analysed adversarial strategies and evolving threat patterns, highlighting the need for long-term security planning, integrated policy frameworks and institutional coordination to enable balanced development in frontier regions. The deliberations culminated in valuable recommendations aimed at enhancing strategic awareness, upholding and fostering Arunachal Pradesh's rich cultural heritage, advancing sustainable development initiatives and reinforcing civil-military convergence in the state, thereby contributing to enduring peace, stability and prosperity in the region. - ANI An Indian postgraduate student at UC Berkeley, Saketh Sreenivasaiah, has gone missing in the USA, prompting concern from the Indian Consulate in San Francisco. The Consulate is working with local authorities and the student's family to locate him. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the safety of Indian students abroad, including reports of discrimination and attacks. In response to parliamentary questions, the Ministry of External Affairs has detailed its extensive measures to monitor, support, and evacuate Indian students in distress overseas. UC Berkeley student Saketh Sreenivasaiah missing in San Francisco. Indian Consulate assisting search amid broader concerns for student safety abroad. San Francisco, February 14 An Indian student named Saketh Sreenivasaiah, a post-graduate at UC Berkeley from Karnataka, has gone missing and the Consulate General of India in San Francisco has expressed concern over it. The Consulate General is in touch with both the authorities and the y's parents, and is helping locate the boy. In a post on X, the Consulate General wrote, "Consulate General of India in San Francisco is deeply concerned about the disappearance of Saketh Sreenivasaiah, an Indian post-graduate student of UC Berkeley, hailing from the State of Karnataka. The Consulate is in touch with the family and also is in contact with the concerned local authorities to locate the student." This, however, is not the first such incident. Indian students abroad often complained of alleged discrimination, racist attacks and negligence by authorities. In a question raised by MP Asaduddin Owaisi in the Lok Sabha about student safety abroad, the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted its efforts towards keeping Indian students safe. In its answer to the question by the MP, the MEA wrote, "The Government accords high priority to safety and security of Indian students abroad and monitors incidents of violence against them. Violent and untoward incidents against them are immediately taken up by the Indian Missions/Posts abroad with the concerned authorities of the host country to ensure that they are properly investigated and the perpetrators are punished." "Indian Missions/Posts also take steps to maintain regular contact with Indian students enrolled in foreign universities in their jurisdictions and conduct pre-orientation sessions with them upon their arrival in foreign lands to brief them on potential challenges, risks, and precautions to be taken while studying overseas, including issue of advisories from time to time," the statement read. "With the view to ensuring effective communication and timely support, Indian students are encouraged to connect with the local Indian Missions/Posts through various means, including the MADAD Portal of this Ministry, WhatsApp Groups created specifically for Indian students, Consular Camps, Open Houses, emergency hotlines etc.," the statement read further. "Indian Missions/Posts also remain vigilant, particularly in countries affected by political instability, economic crises, and where the risks of students being misled or exploited may be higher. Any incident affecting Indian students are immediately raised with host Governments to ensure their safety and appropriate redressal. Consular assistance, including emergency medical support, temporary accommodation, and other essential services, is extended whenever needed. The Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) is utilised to support Indian nationals, including students, in times of distress and extend assistance when necessary." "During emergencies, Government of India has undertaken large-scale evacuation operations to protect and bring home Indian nationals, including students. Notable recent evacuation operations include Operation Devi Shakti (Afghanistan), Operation Ganga (Ukraine), Operation Kaveri (Sudan), Operation Ajay (Israel) and Operation Sindhu (Israel and Iran). These efforts demonstrate Government of India's unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Indian students abroad and towards protecting them from miscreants and unsafe security situations." - ANI A solemn wreath-laying ceremony was held in Pulwama's Lethpora to honor the 40 CRPF personnel martyred in the 2019 terror attack. Senior CRPF officials, civil administration, and security forces paid tributes, with the force posting a heartfelt message on social media. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan also paid homage, stating the nation draws strength from their sacrifice. The attack, claimed by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad, targeted a convoy on the Srinagar-Jammu highway, leading to significant Indian counter-terror operations. Nation remembers the 40 CRPF personnel martyred in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. Leaders pay homage to their supreme sacrifice and enduring courage. Pulwama, February 14 A wreath-laying ceremony was held at Lethpora in Pulwama on Saturday to pay tribute to 40 CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. Senior officials of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), civil administration, and security forces paid tributes to the jawans. Meanwhile, the CRPF paid tribute to their soldiers who were killed in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, recalling their sacrifice, valour, and devotion to the country. "Lest we forget. On 14 Feb 2019, 40 bravehearts of CRPF India made the supreme sacrifice in Pulwama. Their valour remains etched in our hearts forever. DG GP Singh & all Ranks pay solemn tributes to our martyrs. We stand firmly with their families," the CRPF wrote in an X post. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the fallen heroes. He said their courage continues to inspire every Indian. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Remembering the brave heroes who laid down their lives in Pulwama on this day in 2019. Their devotion, resolve and service to the nation remain forever etched in our collective consciousness. Every Indian draws strength from their enduring courage." Vice President CP Radhakrishnan also paid humble respects to the brave CRPF personnel. The Vice President remembered their sacrifice, saying that it is forever engraved in Indian history and will continue to inspire the nation for ages. "I pay homage to the brave personnel who laid down their lives in the Pulwama terror attack. Their supreme sacrifice will forever remain etched in the nation's memory and continues to inspire us to build a strong and secure India," he wrote. Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district witnessed one of the deadliest terror attacks when as many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed when their convoy was targeted on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway on February 14, 2019. The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was caused by a suicide bomber, according to a local news agency. However, India launched a series of counter-terror operations, including airstrikes at terror camps in Pakistan, marking a significant escalation. - ANI The 13th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR is being held in Assam's Missamari from February 4 to 17, 2026. This annual exercise, conducted alternately in both countries since 2011, focuses on training in counter-terrorism operations and special forces tactics under a UN mandate framework. The drills involve simulated scenarios in varied terrain to enhance tactical coordination and joint operational readiness between the elite forces. The exercise underscores the shared commitment to combat terrorism and extremism while deepening the long-standing strategic and defence partnership between the two nations. The 13th India-Kyrgyzstan joint special forces exercise KHANJAR is underway in Assam to enhance counter-terrorism cooperation & interoperability. New Delhi, February 14 The 13th edition of the India - Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR is currently underway at Missamari in Assam, strengthening defence cooperation, interoperability and tactical synergy between the elite forces of both nations. The exercise commenced on 4 February 2026 and is scheduled to conclude on 17 February 2026 as per the Indian Army. Exercise KHANJAR is an annual bilateral military engagement conducted alternately between India and Kyrgyzstan since its inception in 2011. It brings together specialised contingents from both countries to train collectively in counter-terrorism operations and special forces tactics under a United Nations mandate framework. As per the Indian Army, the ongoing drills encompass simulated scenarios in urban and rugged terrain, promoting tactical coordination and mutual understanding between the participating forces. The rigorous training modules aim to improve responsiveness across multiple operational environments and enhance joint operational readiness. This edition reaffirms the shared commitment of India and Kyrgyzstan to address evolving security challenges, notably international terrorism and extremism, while strengthening mutual trust, defence ties and regional stability. The exercise further contributes to deepening the long-standing strategic partnership and defence collaboration between the two nations. Since its initiation, Exercise KHANJAR has evolved into a cornerstone of India - Kyrgyzstan defence cooperation, symbolising mutual commitment to peace, security and professional camaraderie between the Indian Armed Forces and Kyrgyz military forces. The alternating venues between India and Kyrgyzstan reflect the unique dimension of the thriving strategic relationship. India and Kyrgyzstan have warm and friendly ties. They are also strategic partners. In recent times, India-Kyrgyz relations have expanded in several areas of bilateral engagement, including defence, security, trade and investment. Both countries also share common concerns on threat of terrorism, extremism and drug-trafficking, the Ministry of External Affairs noted in a statement. Important facets of bilateral defence cooperation between India and the Kyrgyz Republic include training Kyrgyz personnel in Indian defence establishments, joint exercises, conduct of exchange programmes and joint research at the Kyrgyz-India Mountain Bio Medical Research Centre (KIMBMRC), Bishkek, MEA further noted. - ANI Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has formally requested the Centre's support to initiate feasibility studies for a Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) in the state. The proposed RRTS, with an estimated cost of Rs 1.92 lakh crore, aims to create a semi-high-speed rail backbone connecting major cities. However, veteran engineer E. Sreedharan has countered with a rival railway blueprint, criticizing the RRTS as impractical and financially unsound for Kerala. This clash of visions sets the stage for a high-stakes debate on the state's transport future, balancing transformative mobility against fiscal sustainability. Kerala CM seeks Centre's support for RRTS, while E. Sreedharan proposes a rival railway blueprint, sparking a major infrastructure debate ahead of state polls. Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 14 Kerala's transport ambitions have entered a decisive phase, with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, on Saturday, formally seeking the Centre's support to roll out a Regional Rapid Transit System, even as "Metro Man" E. Sreedharan unveiled a rival railway blueprint, setting the stage for a high-stakes infrastructure debate ahead of the state Assembly elections. In a detailed letter to the Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Vijayan requested facilitation of discussions with the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) to undertake feasibility studies for an RRTS corridor in Kerala. The communication follows the State Cabinet's in-principle approval granted on January 28 and marks a formal pivot towards a semi-high-speed, high-capacity railway model. The proposed first phase of the RRTS will run from Thiruvananthapuram to Thrissur, with the full 583-km alignment extending to Kasaragod over 12 years. The estimated outlay is Rs 1.92 lakh crore. The state government has positioned the project as the backbone of a unified mobility grid that would integrate metro systems in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode, and link the state's major airports, significantly easing congestion along Kerala's densely populated linear urban corridor. The move comes amid continued uncertainty over the state's earlier high-speed railway proposal. By backing the RRTS and providing budgetary support, the Kerala government has signalled its intent to advance an alternative model while engaging the Centre for statutory clearances and funding options. However, Sreedharan's intervention has sharpened the contest. Launching an office for his own railway proposal, the veteran engineer Sreedharan credited with delivering projects such as the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation and Kochi Metro Rail Limited termed the RRTS concept impractical and financially unsound for Kerala's terrain and fiscal capacity. He asserted that his model would be more viable and quicker to execute. With two competing visions now in play, Kerala finds itself at a "rail crossroads". The coming months are expected to test political resolve, technical feasibility and fiscal prudence in equal measure, as the state weighs transformative mobility against long-term financial sustainability. - IANS The Karnataka government has urgently sought the intervention of the Ministry of External Affairs to help locate Saketh Sreenivasaiah, an Indian student missing from Berkeley, California. Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh wrote to MEA Secretary Vikram Misri, requesting coordination with the Indian Consulate and local police. The student has been missing since the morning of February 12, 2026, and a formal complaint is already with the Berkeley Police Department. His family in Karnataka has appealed for all possible assistance to find him. Karnataka govt requests MEA intervention to locate Saketh Sreenivasaiah, a student missing from UC Berkeley since Feb 12, 2026. Bengaluru, Feb 14 The Karnataka government has sought the intervention of the Centre in connection with the case of a student from the state who has gone missing in California, US. Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh has written to Vikram Misri, Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), requesting urgent assistance, the Chief Minister's Office said on Saturday. In her letter, Shalini Rajneesh said: "I am writing to bring to your urgent attention the distressing case of a young Indian student, Mr Saketh Sreenivasaiah, who has been reported missing in Berkeley, California, USA, since the morning of February 12, 2026." "Mr Saketh is currently enrolled in a Master of Science programme at the University of California, Berkeley. According to information received from his family and housemates, his whereabouts remain unknown despite a formal complaint being lodged with the Berkeley Police Department (Case No. 26-6726)," she said. "Given the gravity of the situation and the mounting anxiety of his family residing in our state, I request your intervention and support. It is requested that the Ministry of External Affairs, through the Consulate General of India in San Francisco, extend all necessary assistance, including coordination with local law enforcement and facilitation of support to the family," she added. Earlier, the student's family had approached the Karnataka government seeking assistance in locating him. His father, Sreenivasiah, said that Saketh had gone missing from Berkeley and that his housemate had searched all known locations before filing a formal complaint with the police. "Saketh is currently pursuing his Master of Science degree at the University of California. He has been missing since the morning of February 12, 2026. His housemate searched all known places and, after confirming that he was not traceable, lodged a complaint at the Berkeley Police Department. The police are actively investigating, but his whereabouts remain unknown," he said. He appealed to Indian authorities to assist in locating his son and provide support to the family during the difficult time. - IANS The Office of the Chief Electoral Officer in Kavaratti has published the final Photo Electoral Rolls for 2026 in Lakshadweep. The Union Territory's total electorate is now 57,607, consisting of 29,222 male and 28,385 female voters. A notable 1,268 electors are in the 18-19 age group, representing new enrolments. The rolls are available for public inspection and online, with provisions for ongoing voter registration and EPIC card distribution. Lakshadweep's final 2026 electoral roll lists 57,607 voters, with 1,268 first-time voters aged 18-19. Details on EPIC cards and enrollment. Kochi, Feb 14 The Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Kavaratti, has announced the final publication of the Photo Electoral Rolls for 2026 in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep, following a Special Intensive Revision conducted under the directions of the Election Commission of India. The revision exercise, with January 1, 2026, as the qualifying date, was carried out from December 16, 2025, to February 14, 2026. The final rolls were published on Saturday, February 14, after the disposal of claims and objections received during the revision period. As per the final data, Lakshadweep's total electorate stands at 57,607 voters, comprising 29,222 male voters and 28,385 female voters. There are no registered voters in the third gender category. Notably, 1,268 electors fall within the 18-19 age group, reflecting fresh enrolments among first-time voters. The final electoral rolls have been displayed at all polling stations across the Union Territory and will be available for public inspection at the offices of the Electoral Registration Officer and Assistant Electoral Registration Officers for seven days from February 14, excluding public holidays. The rolls can also be accessed online through the CEO's official website. First-time voters aged 18-19 who are yet to receive their Elector Photo Identity Cards (EPIC), as well as existing electors who have sought corrections following migration, will receive their EPICs through Booth Level Officers at their residential addresses. Eligible citizens who turned 18 on January 1, 2026, but could not apply during the revision, as well as those attaining 18 years on April 1, July 1, and October 1, 2026, may submit applications online via the ECI portal or mobile app, or offline through the concerned Booth Level Officer. Appeals against decisions of the Electoral Registration Officer may be filed before the District Magistrate, with a further appeal lying before the Chief Electoral Officer under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960. - IANS Senior political leaders, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, paid solemn tributes on the anniversary of the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. The attack, one of the deadliest in Jammu and Kashmir, killed 40 CRPF personnel when their convoy was targeted by a suicide bomber. The Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad claimed responsibility for the assault. The event triggered significant military and diplomatic repercussions, including Indian airstrikes in Pakistan and global discussions on cross-border terrorism. Leaders including Rahul Gandhi and PM Modi pay homage on the 5th anniversary of the 2019 Pulwama attack that martyred 40 CRPF personnel. New Delhi, February 14 Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi paid heartfelt tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the deadly Pulwama terror attack, recalling their bravery and valour. In an X post, he wrote, "My heartfelt tributes to our brave soldiers who were martyred in the daring terrorist attack in Pulwama in 2019. The nation will forever remain indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice in the defence of Mother India." Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid homage to the fallen heroes. He said their courage continues to inspire every Indian. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Remembering the brave heroes who laid down their lives in Pulwama on this day in 2019. Their devotion, resolve and service to the nation remain forever etched in our collective consciousness. Every Indian draws strength from their enduring courage." Earlier in the day, Vice President CP Radhakrishnan also paid humble respects to the brave CRPF personnel. The Vice President remembered their sacrifice, saying that it is forever engraved in Indian history and will continue to inspire the nation for ages. "I pay homage to the brave personnel who laid down their lives in the Pulwama terror attack. Their supreme sacrifice will forever remain etched in the nation's memory and continues to inspire us to build a strong and secure India," he wrote. Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district witnessed one of the deadliest terror attacks when as many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed when their convoy was targeted on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway on February 14, 2019. The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was caused by a suicide bomber, according to a local news agency. However, India launched a series of counter-terror operations, including airstrikes at terror camps in Pakistan, marking a significant escalation. The Pulwama terror attack not only triggered heightened tensions between India and Pakistan but also led to global discussions about cross-border terrorism and security in Jammu and Kashmir. It is marked as the 'Black Day' to remember the 40 brave CRPF soldiers who laid down their lives in the attack. - ANI Feb. 13Two asphalt companies with operations in southwest Ohio agreed to pay $30 million to resolve allegations that "they submitted fraudulent test results to the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) for federally funded asphalt projects in Ohio," according to the U.S. attorney in the Southern District of Ohio. A Hamilton-based company, Barrett Paving Materials, Inc., will pay $12.5 million to resolve allegations that it submitted false or fraudulent asphalt test results from 2013 through 2025. Westerville-based Kokosing Materials, Inc. will pay $17.5 million to resolve allegations that it submitted false or fraudulent asphalt test results from 2012 through 2024, the federal office said Wednesday. Ohio's Construction and Materials Specifications require that companies performing asphalt projects must conduct mix design testing of their asphalt mixtures, known as Job Mix Formulas, the attorney's office said. Companies are required to submit those test results to the state before beginning asphalt work on federally funded projects. "The settlements resolve allegations that, rather than performing required mix design tests, the companies repeatedly submitted formulas with data copied from prior mix tests," the U.S. attorney's office states. The settlements also resolve allegations that the companies submitted false quality control test results, according to federal investigators. "The settlements announced today underscore our unwavering commitment to keeping federally funded transportation projects in Ohio and across the nation free from fraud, waste, and abuse," said Elise Chawaga, principal assistant inspector general for investigations, U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General. "Through sustained coordination with our federal, state, law enforcement, and prosecutorial partners, we will continue to investigate misconduct and ensure that those responsible are held accountable." The civil settlements include the resolution of claims brought by individuals under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act. These provisions allow citizens to file lawsuits on behalf of the U.S. government to report allegations of fraud. Kokosing released a statement Friday saying: "Kokosing Materials, Inc. (KMI), a company that produces and sells asphalt, has reached a no-fault settlement agreement with the U.S. government. The settlement resolves a civil matter alleging past issues in KMI's asphalt mix design laboratories, relating to paperwork and testing procedures. KMI fully cooperated during the inquiry. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav attended the Saptam Kanya Vivah Mahotsav at Bageshwar Dham in Chhatarpur, a mass wedding initiative for underprivileged girls funded by temple donations. He also laid the foundation stone for the Hariyakhedi Water Augmentation Project, a Rs 1,133 crore initiative to ensure drinking water supply for the upcoming Simhastha-2028 in Ujjain. The Chief Minister inaugurated 11 other development works and announced the establishment of a Dhanvantari Institute of Ayurveda in Ujjain. He highlighted that efficient management of Simhastha would enhance the state's pride and mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming major initiative in Ayurveda. Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav attends mass wedding for underprivileged girls at Bageshwar Dham and inaugurates key water project for Simhastha-2028 in Ujjain. Chhatarpur, February 14 Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav attended the Saptam Kanya Vivah Mahotsav at Bageshwar Dham Sarkar in Gadha, Chhatarpur. Bageshwar Dham Peethadheesh Dhirendra Krishna Shastri was also present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri said, "This is a very unprecedented example being presented in the whole of India. This seventh grand festival of Kanya Mahotsav is a unique initiative through which poor girls are settled, with donations received through the donation boxes of the Bageshwar Dham temple." He further said, "This is an unprecedented work in itself, setting an example in the country. Bageshwar Dham is becoming a wonderful centre of faith and the world's Sanatan culture..." The Saptam Kanya Vivah Mahotsav is organised to solemnise the marriages of underprivileged girls, with financial support provided through temple donations. Earlier, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Wednesday laid the foundation stone of the Hariyakhedi Water Augmentation Project, being constructed at a cost of Rs 1,133.67 crore to ensure adequate drinking water supply for the upcoming Simhastha-2028 in Ujjain. Simhastha is a Hindu religious festival held every 12 years in the Ujjain district of Madhya Pradesh. Also known as the Ujjain Simhastha Kumbh, the previous Simhastha was held in 2016. The Chief Minister also inaugurated and performed bhoomi-pujan of 11 development works worth approximately Rs 47.23 crore, according to an official release. Speaking on the occasion, CM Yadav said, "With the blessings of Mokshadayini Maa Shipra, Ujjain is now preparing for Simhastha-2028. With the blessings of Lord Mahakal, the Bhoomi-Pujan of the Hariyakhedi Water Augmentation Project, being constructed at a cost of Rs 1,133.67 crore for the preparations of Simhastha, has been performed." He added, "This project will ensure the availability of pure drinking water for devotees and citizens during Simhastha-2028, while also guaranteeing long-term water supply to every household in the city. The efficient management of Simhastha in Ujjain will enhance the pride of the entire state." The Chief Minister also announced the establishment of a Dhanvantari Institute of Ayurveda in Ujjain. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would soon announce a major initiative in Ayurveda education and treatment. CM Yadav appreciated Akashvani Ujjain for broadcasting programmes related to Baba Mahakal and said it is a matter of pride that local youth are showcasing their talent through Akashvani. He added that news related to Simhastha would also reach the masses through this medium. - ANI Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and PM Modi pay homage on the Pulwama attack anniversary, remembering the 40 CRPF personnel's supreme sacrifice. New Delhi, February 14 Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday paid heartfelt homage to the soldiers killed during the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. Taking it to X, Kharge remembered their courage, dedication to service, and patriotism. Recalling their valour and devotion, he wrote, "We pay our deepest homage to the brave martyrs of Bharat Mata, who laid down their lives in Pulwama. Their indomitable courage and unflinching devotion to the nation will forever be etched in our collective memory. Their supreme sacrifice remains eternal. We shall never forget." Earlier today, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also paid tribute to the soldiers. In an X post, he wrote, "My heartfelt tributes to our brave soldiers who were martyred in the daring terrorist attack in Pulwama in 2019. The nation will forever remain indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice in the defence of Mother India." Prime Minister Narendra Modi said their courage continues to inspire every Indian. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Remembering the brave heroes who laid down their lives in Pulwama on this day in 2019. Their devotion, resolve and service to the nation remain forever etched in our collective consciousness. Every Indian draws strength from their enduring courage." Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district witnessed one of the deadliest terror attacks when as many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed when their convoy was targeted on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway on February 14, 2019. The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was caused by a suicide bomber, according to a local news agency. However, India launched a series of counter-terror operations, including airstrikes at terror camps in Pakistan, marking a significant escalation. The Pulwama terror attack not only triggered heightened tensions between India and Pakistan but also led to global discussions about cross-border terrorism and security in Jammu and Kashmir. It is marked as the 'Black Day' to remember the 40 brave CRPF soldiers who laid down their lives in the attack. - ANI Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin praised former communist activist Mutharasan for transitioning from political life to cinema to advocate for public rights at the launch of the film "Arisi." He highlighted the state government's recent revival of film awards that were stalled for a decade under the previous regime. Stalin expressed confidence that the film, centered on farmers' struggles, would succeed, noting that public service remains Mutharasan's core priority. He also recalled former CM Karunanidhi's landmark scheme to provide subsidized rice to the poor. Tamil Nadu Dy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin praises Mutharasan for voicing people's rights on screen at the 'Arisi' trailer launch, linking cinema to public welfare. Chennai, February 14 Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Saturday applauded Mutharasan for voicing the rights of the general public on screen at the trailer and audio launch of his film "Arisi" at Valluvar Kottam. Speaking at the event, he said that the Tamil Nadu government has presented film awards which were not presented for at least ten years. "Yesterday, the Tamil Nadu government presented film awards that had not been given for several years. During the AIADMK regime, these awards were not presented for ten years. Our Chief Minister had the opportunity to present the awards for the period from 2017 to 2022. I have stepped away from the film industry and am now engaged in public service. But brother Mutharasan, who belongs to the Communist movement, has entered cinema from public life..." he said. He hailed Mutharasan, asserting that public welfare will always remain his top-most priority, regardless of any success or failure of a film. "No matter how great a success this film achieves, there is no doubt that public service will always remain his priority. Even if he reaches the pinnacle of cinema or upholds the lofty ideals of Periyar, the people of Tamil Nadu know well that he always prefers to live among the people as one of them..." he added. Dy CM Stalin congratulated Mutharasan for entering the cinema industry after standing firm on the political ground, saying that he is voicing the rights of common men. "As someone who has worked in the film industry, I extend my heartfelt wishes to my brother Mutharasan, who has come from politics into cinema. A man who has fought for the people is now voicing the rights of the people on screen as well. In this film, rather than saying he has acted as a farmer, it would be more appropriate to say that he has truly lived as a farmer..." he stated. Further, he said that communists have fought for the farmers' rights time and again and have achieved victories several times. He also recalled how former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi implemented schemes to ensure that every household gets rice for Rs. 1 only. The scheme was wholeheartedly welcomed by the people. "Communists have always stood in the field fighting for the rights of farmers and have achieved many victories. I am confident that this film too will become a success in the same spirit. There is a long history of struggles carried out by Communists for the rights of agricultural labourers who once worked in the fields all their lives, yet struggled to secure even a single meal. Karunanidhi implemented several schemes to ensure that rice reached the poor and underprivileged. The scheme of providing one kilogram of rice for one rupee received tremendous response from the people. It was Karunanidhi who made that dream a reality. Later, the price was further reduced, and today rice continues to be distributed through various welfare schemes..." he stated. The Deputy CM concluded, exuding confidence in the success of the film, saying, "I firmly believe that this film, centred on the rights of farmers, will certainly succeed. I wish that brother Mutharasan's political service and artistic endeavours continue to flourish and grow. With my heartfelt congratulations to all the artists and technicians who have participated in this event, I conclude by expressing my gratitude to my brother Mutharasan for giving me this special opportunity." - ANI Union Minister of State Raksha Khadse chaired a district-level review meeting in Assam's Hojai to assess the progress of Central Sector and Centrally-Sponsored Schemes across multiple sectors. She interacted with local officials to understand ground-level challenges and assured full support from the central government for resolving key issues. The meeting also highlighted relevant provisions of the Union Budget aimed at strengthening infrastructure and services in the North Eastern Region. Separately, it was revealed that 82 projects worth over Rs 4,700 crore have been sanctioned under the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme in recent financial years. Union MoS Raksha Khadse chaired a review meeting in Hojai, Assam, to assess progress on key Central government schemes and development projects. New Delhi, Feb 14 Union Minister of State Raksha Khadse, chaired a district-level review meeting in Assam's Hojai under the initiative of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region to assess the progress of Central Sector Schemes and Centrally-Sponsored Schemes, an official said on Saturday. Khadse took an update on schemes operating across key sectors including health, education, agriculture, infrastructure, financial inclusion, skill development, and basic service delivery. During the meeting, the Union MoS reviewed sector-wise performance and interacted with district officials and stakeholders to understand ground-level challenges and opportunities, said a statement. She listened to their concerns and suggestions, provided guidance, and assured full support from the Government of India for timely resolution of key issues affecting service delivery and development outcomes, it said. The Union MoS also highlighted key provisions of the Union Budget relevant to Assam and the North Eastern Region, emphasising their role in strengthening infrastructure, livelihoods, and social services. She also lauded the district administration for efficient project execution, timely completion of works, and achievement of targets under various schemes. The meeting emphasised the need for strengthening implementation mechanisms, improving convergence among schemes, and accelerating holistic and inclusive development in the district, said the statement. The review meeting was attended by Hojai District Commissioner Bidyut Bilash Bhagwati, along with senior officials of the district administration and line departments. Earlier in the week, Minister of State of Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region Sukanta Majumdar informed the Rajya Sabha that a total of 82 projects costing Rs 4,703.81 crores have been sanctioned under North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS) during the last two financial years -- FY 2023-24, FY 2024-25 and the current FY 2025-26 (as on January 31, 2026). He said MDoNER has taken several steps to ensure timely completion of the projects sanctioned under various schemes, inter alia, including NESIDS. The projects are periodically monitored and inspected by the officials of MDoNER, North Eastern Council and Field Technical Support Units (FTSUs). Regular review meetings are conducted with the state governments of NER to expedite the execution of sanctioned projects under the Schemes of MDoNER. The Project Quality Monitors/Third Party Technical Inspection Agencies (PQM/TPTI) have been introduced to strengthen the monitoring mechanism of the MDoNER, said the MoS. Under NESIDS (Roads), the State Level Empowered Committee (SLEC) of the State Government of NE States, recommends projects leading to the creation of physical assets in roads/bridges and auxiliary infrastructure, as per their needs, priorities and gaps. Similarly, under NESIDS (Other Than Roads Infrastructure) the SLEC of the concerned State Government of NE States, recommends projects leading to the creation of infrastructure for Primary and Secondary Health Care, Primary and Secondary Education, Water Supply, Industrial Development, Sports, Telecom etc., as per their needs, priorities and gaps, he said. - IANS The Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed a homebuyer to approach the Real Estate Appellate Tribunal to execute an order for delayed possession of a flat. The court clarified that the original RERA order had merged with the Appellate Tribunal's directive, making the Tribunal the correct forum for enforcement. The builder had failed to comply with an order to deliver possession and pay interest on the homebuyer's investment. The Appellate Tribunal has been directed to decide any execution application within 90 days. MP High Court rules homebuyers must seek execution of delayed flat possession orders from the RERA Appellate Tribunal, not the RERA authority. Jabalpur, Feb 14 In a ruling that clarifies procedural pathways under the Real Estate Act, 2016, the Madhya Pradesh High Court at Jabalpur has directed an aggrieved homebuyer to approach the appropriate forum for executing a delayed possession order against a builder. A bench of Justice Vishal Mishra; presiding over the Writ Petition, disposed of the case on Thursday, emphasising the doctrine of merger in appellate orders. The dispute originated from a homebuyer GP Gupta's complaint to the Madhya Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) against the builder, who neither completed the flat on time nor paid contractual interest. RERA initially ordered possession within three months and referred compensation to an adjudicating officer, who favoured the complainant. Appeals followed, culminating in the Appellate Tribunal's November 19, 2020, directive; "directed the builder to deliver possession within two months and to pay interest at the rate of 9 per cent on Rs 40 lakh till possession." Despite execution proceedings at RERA, compliance lagged, prompting the complainant's High Court plea for a mandamus to enforce the Tribunal's order dated 19.11.2020 and a subsequent RERA member order from July 10, 2024, or alternatively, a reasoned decision on his representations. Respondents, including RERA and the builder, contested maintainability. They invoked Section 57 of the RERA Act, which states: "Every order made by the Appellate Tribunal under this Act shall be executable by the Appellate Tribunal as a decree of civil court, and for this purpose, the Appellate Tribunal shall have all the powers of a civil court." The court concurred, noting Gupta had "approached the wrong forum i.e. RERA authority" for execution. Justice Mishra observed, "The fact remains that the original order has merged into the appellate order. It is for the Appellate Tribunal to consider the application filed by the petitioner for execution of the order passed by the Appellate Tribunal." He added, "Under these circumstances, no direction can be issued to the RERA authority to expedite the proceedings of the execution of the order passed by the Appellate Tribunal." Granting liberty, the court said, "However, the petitioner is at liberty to approach the MP Real Estate Appellate Tribunal seeking execution of the order passed by the Appellate Tribunal in accordance with law." Gupta, appearing in person, committed to filing within 15 days, requesting a time-bound decision. With no objections from respondents, the court directed, "If such an application is filed, the Appellate Tribunal is directed to consider and decide the same in accordance with law within a period of 90 days thereafter." This judgment may guide similar cases, reinforcing that appellate orders supersede originals under RERA, potentially streamlining enforcement for homebuyers facing builder non-compliance. - IANS To star in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love and War with Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor celebrated the first anniversary of his lifestyle brand ARKS by visiting his Bandra store in Mumbai. He impressed fans with a stylish, layered outfit featuring an orange plaid overshirt and cream pants. On the work front, Kapoor is set to play Lord Ram in director Nitesh Tiwari's epic film "Ramayana." He will also star alongside his wife Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's upcoming directorial "Love and War." Ranbir Kapoor steps out in Mumbai to mark his brand ARKS's first anniversary. Get details on his look and upcoming films Ramayana and Love and War. Mumbai, February 14 It's a special day for Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor as his lifestyle brand 'ARKS' completed one year today. Marking the first anniversary of his brand, Ranbir on Saturday afternoon stepped out in the city to visit his Bandra store, where a lot of activities were planned. Before entering the outlet, he met with paps, fan and happily posed for them. And as expected, he once again won the hearts of fashion aficionados with his look. He was seen donning a warm-toned orange and brown plaid overshirt layered over a light grey crew-neck T-shirt. He paired the shirt with cream pants and white shoes. His tinted glasses elevated his overall look. The wristwatch and stud earring further enhance the outfit, giving it a refined, stylish presence. His fresh haircut brings a clean, defined edge to his overall appearance. Meanwhile, on the work front, Ranbir will be seen playing Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari's much-awaited two-part epic 'Ramayana.' Interestingly, the husband-and-wife duo Ranbir and Alia also be seen headlining Sanjay Leela Bhansali's directorial 'Love and War,' which also stars Vicky Kaushal. The film was officially announced in January 2024. The original announcement on Instagram read, "We bring you Sanjay Leela Bhansali's epic saga Love & War. See you at the movies." It came with the signatures of the lead trio: Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal. - ANI US Secretary of State Marco Rubio used his Munich Security Conference speech to strongly reaffirm America's historic and cultural bonds with Europe, declaring the US "will always be a child of Europe." He argued that post-Cold War euphoria bred dangerous complacency and criticized aspects of globalization while defending past US military actions. European leaders at the same event, including Ursula von der Leyen and Emmanuel Macron, emphasized the continent's need for greater strategic independence and geopolitical power. The address was seen as a reassuring contrast to more confrontational US rhetoric from the previous year. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stresses trans-Atlantic unity at Munich Security Conference, calling for partnership amid European calls for autonomy. Munich, February 14 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday reaffirmed America's commitment to strengthening the transatlantic alliance, declaring that the United States "will always be a child of Europe" and that the two sides "belong together" during his keynote speech at the Munich Security Conference. Reflecting on the broader geopolitical context, Rubio observed that the "euphoria" following the West's Cold War victory had bred a false sense of lasting triumph, now jeopardising the very institutions that defeated the Nazi regime and the Soviet Union. Emphasising shared values, he underscored the profound foundations linking the United States and Europe, stating, "We are bound to one another by the deepest bonds that nations could share, forged by centuries of shared history, Christian faith, culture, heritage, language, ancestry and the sacrifices our forefathers made together." While calling for unity, Rubio criticised aspects of globalisation, including open borders, unfettered free trade, "deindustrialisation", and mass migration. He also voiced opposition to carbon emission reduction measures and defended unilateral US military interventions in Latin America and the Middle East. On the United Nations, he said, "On the most pressing matters before us, [the U.N.] has no answers and has played virtually no role." Rubio's address stood in contrast to Vice President JD Vance's more confrontational remarks at the same event a year earlier. Moderator Wolfgang Ischinger welcomed the speech as a "sigh of relief", conveying "reassurance" and "partnership." European leaders attending the conference, however, stressed the necessity for greater autonomy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen asserted, "In today's fractured world, Europe must become more independent -- there is no other choice." Echoing concerns over Europe's position, French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking the previous evening, rejected negative characterisations of Europe, saying it had been "unjustly vilified." He urged, "Everyone should take their cue from us, instead of criticising us or trying to divide us," and advocated "derisking vis-a-vis all the big powers" in defence, the economy, and technology. He further stated, "Europe is rearming, but we must now go beyond," and "Europe has to learn to become a geopolitical power." German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in his opening comments on Friday, remarked, "The culture wars of MAGA in the U.S. are not ours." He cautioned that American global leadership was under pressure amid intensifying great power competition, including from China, and declared, "Even the United States will not be powerful enough to go it alone." He added, "Dear friends, being a part of NATO is not only Europe's competitive advantage. It is also the United States' competitive advantage." - ANI The nation marks the seventh anniversary of the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi paid heartfelt tributes to the fallen soldiers on social media. They emphasized that the nation will forever remain indebted to their supreme sacrifice and courage. Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also honored the martyrs, calling their dedication exemplary. Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi pay homage to CRPF martyrs on the 7th anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack. New Delhi, Feb 14 Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday paid tributes to the soldiers who laid down their lives in the cowardly Pulwama terror attack and said that the nation will always be indebted to them. The country is marking the 7th anniversary of the 2019 Pulwama attack, honouring 40 CRPF personnel killed in a suicide bombing by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists on a convoy in Jammu and Kashmir. India responded with airstrikes on a JeM camp in Balakot, Pakistan, sending a firm message against terrorism. In a post on X, Kharge said, "We pay our deepest homage to the brave martyrs of Bharat Mata, who laid down their lives in Pulwama. Their indomitable courage and unflinching devotion to the nation will forever be etched in our collective memory." "Their supreme sacrifice remains eternal. We shall never forget," he added. LoP Rahul Gandhi also took to social media and said, "My heartfelt tributes to our brave soldiers who were martyred in the terrorist attack in Pulwama in 2019. The nation will forever remain indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice in the defence of Bharat Mata." Earlier, the Congress party took to X and paid homage to the fallen soldiers. "Tribute with deep condolences from the Congress family to our brave soldiers martyred in Pulwama. Their supreme sacrifice for the security of the nation will always be remembered. We salute their courage, dedication and patriotism, and stand united with the martyr families," the party said. Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also paid tributes to the martyrs, calling their courage and sacrifice an example for the country. "A respectful salute and heartfelt tribute to the brave heroes who made the supreme sacrifice in the Pulwama terrorist attack. We shall forever remain indebted to our martyrs and their families. The courage, dedication, service, and martyrdom of our valiant soldiers are exemplary for all of us," Priyanka said in a post on X. - IANS Assam CM Himanta Sarma predicts record BJP win, highlights PM Modi's Rs 18,662 crore Brahmaputra underwater tunnel and new bridge for Northeast connectivity. Guwahati, February 14 Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday expressed confidence in Bharatiya Janata Party's victory in poll-bound Assam, asserting that no one can act as a barrier to restrict the party's win under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Addressing the BJP's 'Booth Vijay Sankalp Sabha' in Guwahati, Himanta Biswa Sarma hailed PM Modi for his development initiatives in the state, particularly highlighting the recently approved underwater tunnel in the Brahmaputra River connecting Gohpur and Numaligarh. He termed it as "an unimaginable gift to Assam", "This time we will win, by making a record. What we want was given by the Prime Minister to Assam. Today, the Prime Minister has given us such a highway where the aircraft can land. Yesterday, the Union Cabinet met, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi allocated Rs 18,000 crore to construct an underwater tunnel in the Brahmaputra River connecting Gohpur and Numaligarh. What we can't imagine, the Prime Minister has given an unimaginable gift to Assam," the Chief Minister said. "When I said that the Elevated Corridor would be constructed in Kaziranga, under water tunnel would be conducted, at that time people laughed at me and us. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, no one can stand as a barrier wall infront of us to restrict our victory," he added. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Friday approved the construction of a 4-lane access-controlled greenfield connectivity from Gohpur on NH-15 to Numaligarh on 715 section, including 15.79 Km of Road cum Rail Tunnel under the River Brahmaputra to be developed at a total capital cost of Rs 18,662 crore in Assam on Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC). Currently, the route between Numaligarh on NH-715 and Gohpur on NH-15 is 240 km via the existing Kaliabhambhora road bridge near Silghat on NH-52. The journey takes 6 hours and passes through Numaligarh, Kaziranga National Park, and Biswanath Town. To address these challenges, the project is proposed to be developed as a 4-Lane Access-Controlled Greenfield connectivity from Gohpur on NH-15 to Numaligarh with Road cum Rail tunnel below the Brahmaputra River, according to the release. This would be the first underwater Road cum Rail tunnel in India and 2nd in the world. The project will provide significant benefits to Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and other Northeastern States. This will enhance the efficiency of freight movement, reducing logistics costs and driving socio-economic growth in the region. PM Modi also inaugurated the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu across the River Brahmaputra today. This new bridge is built at a cost of around Rs 3,030 crore. The 6-lane extradosed Prestressed Concrete (PSC) bridge connects Guwahati with North Guwahati and is the first of its kind in Northeast India. Given the region's high seismicity, the bridge incorporates base isolation using friction pendulum bearings. High-performance stay cables have been used to ensure durability and long-term structural performance. A Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS) has also been incorporated to enable real-time condition monitoring, early damage detection, and improved safety and service life of the extradosed bridge. He inaugurated and flagged off development projects worth over Rs 5,450 crore, aimed at strengthening connectivity, digital infrastructure, higher education and urban mobility in the North-Eastern Region. - ANI Union Minister Virendra Kumar inaugurated the 29th Divya Kala Mela in Chandigarh, framing it as a celebration of dignity and self-reliance for Divyangjan. He highlighted the government's initiatives since 2014, including the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act and the shift in terminology to 'Divyang'. The event features around 75 stalls and has facilitated business worth crores over the past three years, demonstrating growing market acceptance. A dedicated Rozgar Mela is also scheduled to connect Divyangjan with employment opportunities from reputed organizations. Union Minister inaugurates Divya Kala Mela in Chandigarh, highlighting economic inclusion and self-reliance for persons with disabilities. Chandigarh, Feb 14 Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar on Saturday inaugurated the 29th edition of Divya Kala Mela here. On the occasion, he said, "This is not merely an exhibition; it is a celebration of dignity, self-reliance and empowerment." He described the fair as a transformative movement that has emerged as a new ray of hope in the lives of Divyangjan across the country, reflecting the government's unwavering commitment to inclusive growth and equal opportunity. Highlighting the journey of empowerment since 2014, the minister said the shift from insensitive terminology to the respectful term Divyang under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked not just a change in vocabulary, but a change in vision. "The enactment of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, expansion of disability categories, and the implementation of the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan have together laid the foundation for accessibility, dignity and participation." He emphasised that true respect goes beyond words -- it must translate into economic strength, social inclusion and self-reliance. The Divya Kala Mela, he noted, embodies this philosophy by directly linking the talent of Divyang artisans and entrepreneurs to markets across India. Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Satnam Singh Sandhu, in his address, remarked that giving respect to Divyangjan in line with India's cultural values is a historic step. However, he underlined that empowerment must accompany respect. "Without livelihood and self-reliance, dignity remains incomplete," he said, appreciating the ministry for creating platforms like Divya Kala Mela that enable Divyang youth, especially those unable to travel far, to showcase and market their products closer to home. Chandigarh Mayor Saurabh Joshi described the occasion as a celebration of talent, confidence and human potential. He said hosting Divya Kala Mela, Divya Kala Shakti and the Rozgar Mela in Chandigarh reflected the city's commitment to inclusion, reinforcing the belief that disability is not a limitation but a distinct ability that enriches society. In his welcome address, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Joint Secretary Rajiv Sharma highlighted the tangible economic impact of the initiative. Over the past three years, Divya Kala Melas organised across various cities have recorded business transactions of Rs 2,366.43 lakh, clearly demonstrating growing market acceptance and the rising entrepreneurial capacity of Divyang artisans. He affirmed that these fairs are not mere exhibitions but strong instruments of economic inclusion and self-reliance. The Chandigarh mela features around 75 stalls, including those by Divyang entrepreneurs, Government of India institutions and NGOs. A dedicated Rozgar Mela for Divyangjan is scheduled on February 19 to connect them with reputed organisations and companies. Visitors can also register for assistive devices at the ALIMCO stall, while several institutions are showcasing innovations and new initiatives aimed at empowerment. - IANS Achieved record 2025 revenue of $9,000,000,000, driven by the 'Arista 2.0' strategy and strong momentum across generative AI, cloud, and enterprise sectors. Surpassed strategic milestones with $800,000,000 in campus/branch expansion and $1,500,000,000 in AI center networking for the fiscal year. International growth served as a key performance driver, with both Asia and Europe growing north of 40% annually. Core cloud and AI titans contributed 48% of revenue, while the 'AI and specialty providers' segment (including Apple and Oracle) grew to 20%. Management attributes market leadership to the differentiated EOS software stack, which enables high-performance switching across 10G to 800G speeds. The VeloCloud acquisition in July 2025 has successfully integrated into a unified client-to-branch-to-campus secure networking solution. BNP leaders have outlined a foreign policy for Bangladesh centered on national interest, strategic autonomy, and multilateralism based on equality. The stance comes after the party's decisive election victory and warm outreach from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who congratulated leader Tarique Rahman. Rahman's return from exile and expected premiership signals a significant political shift, with his "Bangladesh First" policy aiming to balance relations with regional powers. Key bilateral issues with India are expected to include border security, water-sharing, and economic cooperation. BNP leader Tarique Rahman prioritizes national interest and multilateralism in Bangladesh's foreign policy, signaling a recalibration of ties with India and others. Dhaka, February 14 BNP leader Md Ismail Jabiullah on Saturday emphasised that Bangladesh's national interest remains paramount in shaping the country's foreign relations. "Our national interest is the top priority. On the basis of equality and national interest, we will maintain relationships not only with our neighbours but also with all countries in the world," he said while addressing reporters in Dhaka. This position aligns with the broader foreign policy stance articulated by BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman during a post-election press conference at the ballroom of Hotel Intercontinental in the capital. Rahman stressed that Bangladesh's diplomatic priorities centre on national interest and people's welfare. "We have clarified our position regarding the foreign policy that is in the interest of Bangladesh, and the interest of the Bangladeshi people comes first. By protecting the interest of Bangladesh and the Bangladeshi people, we will decide our foreign policy," Rahman said in response to a question on the party's diplomatic priorities. Senior BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury explained that the party follows a multilateral approach rather than a country-centric one. "Bangladesh Nationalist Party follows the principle of multilateralism. We don't have any country-centric policy as such. Our policy applies worldwide, grounded in mutual respect, mutual interest, non-interference, and strategic autonomy. For Bangladesh, these are the fundamentals of Bangladesh's foreign policy, and they apply to all countries around the world," he said. The BNP leadership indicated that safeguarding sovereignty, ensuring strategic autonomy, and promoting mutual respect in international partnerships would guide Bangladesh's foreign relations under its tenure. Rahman's "Bangladesh First" policy seeks to balance ties with regional powers such as India, China, and Pakistan while addressing domestic challenges, including economic pressures and governance. The comments come amid warm outreach from New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Rahman on the BNP's decisive victory in the 13th National Parliamentary Elections and affirmed India's support for a democratic Bangladesh. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote: "I convey my warm congratulations to Mr Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership." He added, "I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals." PM Modi also spoke with Rahman and reaffirmed India's commitment to close bilateral ties. In another post on X, he said, "Delighted to speak with Mr. Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections." He added, "I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh." The BNP, in turn, thanked India for recognising the electoral verdict and expressed hope that relations would strengthen under the new government. Tarique Rahman's return to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile marks a significant shift in Dhaka's politics. The 60-year-old leader is poised to become the next prime minister following the BNP's landslide victory. His leadership is expected to recalibrate India-Bangladesh relations, which had grown close under Sheikh Hasina's tenure but saw strains after her ouster. Rahman has signalled a pragmatic approach, emphasising "mutual respect and understanding" in ties with India. Key issues expected to shape bilateral relations include border security, concerns about alleged illegal migration and insurgent groups operating from Bangladeshi territory, water-sharing on transboundary rivers like Teesta and Padma, minority safety, protection of Hindus and other minorities, particularly after recent attacks, and economic cooperation with the potential for increased trade and investment. In his first remarks after the BNP's decisive victory in the parliamentary elections, Rahman called for national cohesion, framing the outcome as a renewed mandate for democratic values. Addressing the nation following the announcement of results, he appealed for reconciliation across political divides. "Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united," he said, underscoring the need for collective purpose. Emphasising the broader significance of unity, he added, "I firmly believe that national unity is a collective strength, while division is a weakness," linking his message directly to the responsibilities facing the country after the polls. His appeal came as the BNP registered a sweeping performance in elections held on Thursday, the first national vote since the violent 2024 uprising that led to the removal of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Figures released by the Election Commission showed the BNP-led alliance securing 212 seats, while the Jamaat-e-Islami-led bloc won 77. The Bangladesh Awami League did not participate in the contest. Rahman opened his speech by thanking supporters and describing the verdict as an endorsement of democratic aspirations. "Freedom-loving pro-democracy people of the country have once again brought victory to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party," he said. He further stated, "This victory belongs to Bangladesh, belongs to democracy. This victory belongs to people who aspired to and have sacrificed for democracy," connecting the electoral outcome with the collective struggle for democratic restoration. The outcome represents a notable political resurgence for Rahman, the son of former president Ziaur Rahman, assassinated in 1981, and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, a three-time officeholder and a longstanding figure in Bangladesh's political landscape. - ANI Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has clarified that India will receive the same zero-duty access for textile exports to the US as recently granted to Bangladesh, provided garments are made with US cotton or yarn. He asserted this "yarn forward" principle is an established US policy and will not hurt Indian cotton producers due to huge projected demand. This assurance comes within the framework of a broader interim US-India trade deal finalized recently. The deal aims to address non-tariff barriers and significantly increase bilateral trade, which is targeted to reach $500 billion by 2030. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal assures India will receive zero-duty access for garments made with US cotton, matching Bangladesh's recent trade deal. New Delhi, February 14 Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday reiterated that India too would get zero export duty access for garments for which cotton yarn is imported from the US, similar to Bangladesh. The Minister was speaking to ET NOW. The US and Bangladesh signed an agreement on February 9, reducing reciprocal tariffs to 19 per cent from 20 per cent previously announced. Alongside, zero-tariff access for special textile and apparel products made with US cotton and man-made fibre was provided under the arrangement. The Minister addressed concerns of many that the Indian textiles industry would be hit by duty differentials vis-a-vis Bangladesh after the neighbouring country signed a deal with the US. "The same concession is available to India also," he asserted, speaking to ET NOW. "It's called a yarn forward -- if you buy cotton or yarn from the US and process it and produce garment, you are able to export it to the US at zero duty. That's an established principle of theirs and India will be benefited from the same way of working," he said. This arrangement, he said, will not hurt Indian cotton producers noting that the volumes of cotton that the country will require will be huge. He cited the huge demand in the US for Indian textile products. "We will actually need to focus more on increasing productivity because there's tremendous demand coming in for cotton given the EU, FTA, given all the 38 countries whose markets we have opened up. So I can see before my eyes huge requirement for more cotton and a huge and a wonderful future for our country," he added. When the interim agreement is finalized with the US, one would get to see it in the fine print, Piyush Goyal had told reporters earlier. According to a report from SBI Research, US imports around USD 7.5 billion of textile imports from India and around the same quantity from Bangladesh. India and the US also have finalized an interim trade deal framework last week, whose fine print is expected sometime in March. Both countries decided to address non-tariff barriers affecting bilateral trade. On February 2, a phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump led to the announcement of the conclusion of negotiations on the much-awaited trade deal. The Trump administration had imposed tariffs on several countries, including India. There was a 50 per cent tariff on goods from India entering the United States since August 2025. The tariffs have now been reduced to 18 per cent following the leaders' recent phone call. The BTA, formally proposed in February 2025, seeks to more than double bilateral trade, from the current USD 191 billion to USD 500 billion by 2030. - ANI PM Modi addresses BJP workers in Guwahati, inaugurates a strategic emergency landing strip, a major Brahmaputra bridge, and development projects worth 5,450 crore. Guwahati, February 14 Ahead of the assembly polls in Assam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday will address a mega BJP party workers meeting, "Booth Sanmilan" at Veterinary College Field, Khanapara in Guwahati. More than 86,000 booth-level party workers will be present at the meeting. Tight security arrangements have been made in Guwahati ahead of the Prime Minister's visit. Assam is also set to witness a historic moment today as PM Modi will land at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh, where he will witness the aerial display of fighters, transports and helicopters. The ELF is the first of its kind in Northeast India. It has been specially designed and constructed in coordination with the Indian Air Force to support the landing and take-off of military and civil aircraft during emergencies. It will serve as a critical asset for emergency response, enabling quick deployment of rescue and relief operations during natural disasters or strategic requirements in the Northeast. Envisioned as dual-use infrastructure, the ELF is capable of handling fighter aircraft up to 40 tonnes and transport aircraft up to 74 tonnes maximum take-off weight. PM Modi will also inaugurate and flag off development projects worth over Rs 5,450 crore, aimed at strengthening connectivity, digital infrastructure, higher education and urban mobility in the North-Eastern Region. According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), around 10:30 AM, the PM will land at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh. At around 1 PM, the Prime Minister will inspect the newly built Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu across the River Brahmaputra. Later, at approximately 1:30 PM, he will inaugurate and flag off development projects valued at over Rs 5,450 crore at Lachit Ghat in Guwahati. Further, PM Modi will inaugurate Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu across the River Brahmaputra, built at a cost of around Rs 3,030 crore. The 6-lane extradosed Prestressed Concrete (PSC) bridge connects Guwahati with North Guwahati and is the first of its kind in Northeast India. It will cut travel time between Guwahati and North Guwahati to seven minutes. Given the region's high seismicity, the bridge incorporates base isolation using friction pendulum bearings. High-performance stay cables have been used to ensure durability and long-term structural performance. A Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS) has also been incorporated to enable real-time condition monitoring, early damage detection, and improved safety and service life of the extradosed bridge. According to the PMO, PM Modi will inaugurate the National Data Centre for the Northeastern region at Amingaon in Kamrup district of Assam. The state-of-the-art Data Centre, with a total sanctioned load of 8.5 MW and an average rack capacity of 10 kW, will host mission-critical applications for various government departments and serve as a Disaster Recovery centre for other National Data Centres. This will enable governments in the Northeast to digitally deliver essential citizen-centric services. Aligned with the vision of Digital India, the National Data Centre for the northeastern region has been envisioned as a strategic initiative to strengthen the region's ICT backbone and ensure robust, secure, and always-available digital infrastructure, according to the PMO's statement. The inauguration of the Indian Institute of Management is another highlight for the state, as the IIM Guwahati is set to provide a major boost to higher and management education in the North-Eastern Region. Over 225 electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in Guwahati (100), Nagpur (50), Bhavnagar (50), and Chandigarh (25) will also be flagged off. With the launch of e-bus operations under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in these four cities, more than 50 lakh citizens are expected to benefit from access to clean, affordable, and reliable public transport services, thereby improving urban mobility and enhancing quality of life. - ANI A report highlights India's evolution into an ambitious global player under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, backed by its young, tech-savvy population. The IMF identifies India as the fastest-growing major economy, with a nominal GDP over $4 trillion, positioning it to surpass Japan and Germany by 2030. Modi's Act East Policy and personal diplomacy, such as his strong rapport with Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim, are key to deepening strategic ties in Southeast Asia. The robust India-Malaysia relationship, fueled by people-to-people links and trade nearing $18.6 billion, covers crucial areas from palm oil exports to semiconductor collaboration. India, the fastest-growing major economy, is projected to surpass Japan and Germany by 2030 under PM Modi's leadership, driven by strategic ties. Singapore, Feb 14 India has evolved into an ambitious global player under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, supported by the world's largest population - young, technologically savvy and predominantly middle class - giving it a strong advantage for the future, a report said on Saturday. According to an opinion piece in Singapore's leading multinational news channel Channel News Asia (CNA), the International Monetary Fund (IMF) identified India as the fastest-growing major economy in recent years, achieving real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 6.4 per cent. With its nominal GDP exceeding US$4 trillion, India is expected to surpass Japan and Germany by 2030 and could emerge as the world's largest economy in another decade. To advance this objective, PM Modi introduced the Act East Policy in 2014 to establish India as a major influence in the Indo-Pacific, a vision requiring strong engagement with Southeast Asia. "Chemistry between leaders matters a lot in bilateral relations. So it helps that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was friends with Anwar Ibrahim before the latter became the Malaysian Prime Minister. Modi had promised his 'dear friend' that he would go to Malaysia after missing the star-studded ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur in October 2025. And he made it his first foreign visit in 2026," political analyst James Chai stated in CNA. "Anwar made sure Modi felt welcome by preparing a ceremonial welcome and send-off complete with guard of honour with the First Battalion from the Royal Malay Regiment, students waving Indian flags and cultural performances. It also helped that both leaders shared their love for the Tamil language and actor MG Ramachandran. At home, Anwar always talked of his love for Indian culture and literature, including how much the Sanskrit epics Mahabharata and Ramayana influenced him during his time in prison," he added. According to the commentary, Malaysia is home to nearly 3 million Indians, making it the third-largest Indian overseas community. The robust people-to-people linkages through tourism, education and cultural exchanges contributed to bilateral trade reaching nearly US$18.6 billion in 2025. "Malaysia certainly has value to offer. In recent years, India was the largest market for Malaysian palm oil exports, a crucial item that affects the cost of food. At the same time, India's recent semiconductor mission could benefit from Malaysia's partnership as it had a 50-year head start in backend manufacturing with the support of multinationals, the pioneering companies that established operations in the early 1970s (locally known as the 'Eight Samurai')," Chai mentioned "That is why these were the standout items in the memorandums of understanding signed, besides reaffirming their comprehensive strategic partnership since 2024, that also covers defence, education, trade and culture," he wrote. - IANS PM Modi highlights strategic & disaster-ready asset in Dibrugarh, inaugurates bridge, data centre, and e-buses worth thousands of crores. New Delhi, February 14 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday highlighted the strategic importance of the newly established Emergency Landing Facility on Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh, describing it as a "matter of immense pride". In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, "It is a matter of immense pride that the Northeast gets an Emergency Landing Facility. From a strategic point of view and during times of natural disasters, this facility is of great importance." Earlier in the day, the Indian Air Force conducted an air display at the ELF on Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh, with its Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Rafale fighter jets taking off in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries watching the air display. PM Modi witnessed an aerial display of fighters, transport aircraft, and helicopters. Earlier, PM Modi was welcomed on the stage by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, in Dibrugarh. The ELF is the first of its kind in Northeast India. It has been designed and constructed in coordination with the Indian Air Force to support the landing and takeoff of military and civilian aircraft during emergencies. It will serve as a critical asset for emergency response, enabling quick deployment of rescue and relief operations during natural disasters or strategic requirements in the Northeast. Envisioned as dual-use infrastructure, the ELF is capable of handling fighter aircraft up to 40 tonnes and transport aircraft up to 74 tonnes maximum take-off weight. Later, PM Modi will also inaugurate and flag off development projects worth over Rs 5,450 crore, aimed at strengthening connectivity, digital infrastructure, higher education and urban mobility in the North-Eastern Region. At around 1 PM, the Prime Minister inspected the newly built Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu across the River Brahmaputra. Later, he will inaugurate and flag off development projects valued at over Rs 5,450 crore at Lachit Ghat in Guwahati. Further, PM Modi inaugurated Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu across the River Brahmaputra, built at a cost of around Rs 3,030 crore. The 6-lane extradosed Prestressed Concrete (PSC) bridge connects Guwahati with North Guwahati and is the first of its kind in Northeast India. It will cut travel time between Guwahati and North Guwahati to seven minutes. Given the region's high seismicity, the bridge incorporates base isolation using friction pendulum bearings. High-performance stay cables have been used to ensure durability and long-term structural performance. A Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS) has also been incorporated to enable real-time condition monitoring, early damage detection, and improved safety and service life of the extradosed bridge. According to the PMO, PM Modi will inaugurate the National Data Centre for the Northeastern region at Amingaon in Kamrup district of Assam. The state-of-the-art Data Centre, with a total sanctioned load of 8.5 MW and an average rack capacity of 10 kW, will host mission-critical applications for various government departments and serve as a Disaster Recovery centre for other National Data Centres. This will enable governments in the Northeast to digitally deliver essential citizen-centric services. Aligned with the vision of Digital India, the National Data Centre for the northeastern region has been envisioned as a strategic initiative to strengthen the region's ICT backbone and ensure robust, secure, and always-available digital infrastructure, according to the PMO's statement. The inauguration of the Indian Institute of Management is another highlight for the state, as the IIM Guwahati is set to provide a major boost to higher and management education in the North-Eastern Region. Over 225 electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in Guwahati (100), Nagpur (50), Bhavnagar (50), and Chandigarh (25) will also be flagged off. With the launch of e-bus operations under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in these four cities, more than 50 lakh citizens are expected to benefit from access to clean, affordable, and reliable public transport services, thereby improving urban mobility and enhancing quality of life. - ANI PM Modi inaugurates Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu, a 6-lane bridge over Brahmaputra, a National Data Centre for NE, IIM campus & e-buses in Assam visit. Guwahati, February 14 During his day-long visit to Assam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu across the River Brahmaputra connecting between Guwahati and North Guwahati on Saturday. The 6-lane extradosed Prestressed Concrete (PSC) bridge, built at a cost of around Rs 3,030 crore, connects Guwahati with North Guwahati and is the first extradosed bridge in Northeast India. It will cut travel time between Guwahati and North Guwahati to 7 minutes. Considering the high seismicity of the region, the bridge incorporates base isolation technology using friction pendulum bearings. High-performance stay cables have been used to ensure durability and long-term structural performance. A Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS) has also been incorporated for real-time condition monitoring, early damage detection and improved safety and service life of the extradosed bridge. The Prime Minister will also inaugurate the National Data Centre for North Eastern Region at Amingaon in Kamrup district of Assam. The state-of-the-art Data Centre, with a total sanctioned load of 8.5 MW and an average rack capacity of 10 kW per rack, will host mission-critical applications of various government departments and also function as a Disaster Recovery centre for other National Data Centres. This will enable governments in the Northeast to digitally facilitate the delivery of essential citizen-centric services. Aligned with the vision of Digital India, National Data Centre for North Eastern Region has been envisaged as a strategic intervention to strengthen the region's ICT backbone and ensure robust, secure and always-available digital infrastructure. The Prime Minister will also inaugurate the temporary campus of IIM Guwahati, which will give a major fillip to higher education and management education in the North-Eastern Region. The Prime Minister will also flag off 225 electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in Guwahati (100), Nagpur (50), Bhavnagar (50) and Chandigarh (25). With the launch of e-bus operations under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in these four cities, more than 50 lakh citizens are expected to benefit through access to clean, affordable and reliable public transport services, contributing to improved urban mobility and enhanced quality of life. - ANI A Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader has expressed hope that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be invited to the upcoming government swearing-in ceremony. The BNP is poised to form the next government following its decisive victory in the national election, marking its return to power after two decades. The oath ceremony for the new cabinet is expected to be held at Bangabhaban within the next three to four days. This comes after PM Modi congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on the election victory and reaffirmed India's commitment to bilateral ties. BNP leader expresses hope PM Modi is invited to Bangladesh's swearing-in, as party outlines "friends to all" foreign policy after election win. Dhaka, February 14 Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milan on Saturday expressed hope that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be invited to the upcoming government swearing-in ceremony, while underscoring the party's inclusive foreign policy vision "friends to all, malice to none." Addressing reporters in Dhaka, Milan remarked on the question of inviting South Asian leaders to the event, "I don't know exactly what they're doing, but hopefully they'll invite everyone. I don't know exactly, but he (PM Modi) should be invited. It's general courtesy. The organisers will do it. I hope the whole world will be with us." Highlighting the party's broader stance on international relations, he added, "Friends to all, malice to none." These comments are particularly relevant as the BNP is poised to form the next government following its decisive victory in the 13th National Parliament election held on February 12. The result marks the party's return to power after two decades. BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman is set to take office as the country's next Prime Minister, consistent with the party's earlier declaration. According to the latest Election Commission figures, results for 297 seats have been announced so far. BNP candidates have secured 209 seats, with their nominees also leading in the two seats where results remain suspended. Allies of the BNP have won three seats, bringing the BNP-led alliance to 212 seats. By comparison, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has won 68 seats, while its allies in the 11-party alliance have taken nine more. This results in 77 seats for the Jamaat-led bloc. The Election Commission has already published the gazette notification for the elected Members of Parliament, Prothom Alo reported. With the election outcome now official, preparations for the transition to the new government are advancing rapidly. The new cabinet is expected to take oath within the next three to four days, with the Cabinet Division having finalised all preparations, according to Prothom Alo. The oath ceremony will be held at Bangabhaban and administered by the President, in line with constitutional requirements. Cabinet Secretary Sheikh Abdur Rashid provided these updates on Saturday while addressing journalists' questions at the Secretariat, Prothom Alo reported. Regarding the cabinet oath, he stated, "We hope the oath-taking ceremony will be held within the next three days, or at most four days." He added that the Cabinet Division is fully prepared to hold the event even tomorrow or the day after, if needed. The precise date will be confirmed once Members of Parliament have completed their swearing-in. The official further noted that arrangements are in place to host approximately 1,000 guests at the oath ceremony. The developments follow warm diplomatic outreach from New Delhi. On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Tarique Rahman on the BNP's decisive victory in the recently concluded 13th National Parliament election. In a post on X, PM Modi shared details of their conversation, "Delighted to speak with Mr. Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections. I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India's continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples." - ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the new Prime Minister's Office, now renamed 'Seva Teerth,' marking a milestone in administrative governance. From the new office, he approved the PM RAHAT scheme, providing up to Rs 1.5 lakh in cashless treatment for accident victims. The government also announced it has crossed the target of creating 3 crore Lakhpati Didis ahead of schedule and has set a new goal of 6 crore by 2029. The new complex consolidates key offices like the PMO, NSCS, and Cabinet Secretariat to improve efficiency in a modern, citizen-centric facility. PM Modi inaugurates new PMO 'Seva Teerth,' approves cashless treatment scheme for accident victims and sets new target for Lakhpati Didis. Patna, February 14 Union Minister Nityanand Rai on Saturday expressed optimism over the inauguration of the new office of Prime Minsiter Narendra Modi, 'Seva Teerth.' Speaking to the media, the Union Minister reflected on the Prime Minister's efforts to advance the service and growth of the nation and its citizens. "... PM's office is filled with a lot of emotions and respect.. PM Modi believes that whatever work we do for the country's people is service...," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday dedicated the new Prime Minister's Office to the nation, now renamed 'Seva Teerth'. In its very first set of decisions after shifting to Seva Teerth, PM Modi signed important files relating to decisions that reflect the spirit of Seva. These decisions touch every section of society: farmers, women, youth, and vulnerable citizens. The Prime Minister has approved the launch of the PM RAHAT scheme. Under this initiative, accident victims will get cashless treatment of up to Rs 1.5 lakh, ensuring that no life is lost due to a lack of immediate medical help. The government has crossed the landmark of 3 crore Lakhpati Didis, more than a year ahead of the original March 2027 timeline. PM Modi has now set a new, ambitious target of 6 crore Lakhpati Didis by March 2029, doubling both scale and aspiration. The unveiling of the Seva Teerth building complex marks a transformative milestone in India's administrative governance architecture and reflects the Prime Minister's commitment to building a modern, efficient, accessible and citizen-centric governance ecosystem, a release said. For decades, several key government offices and ministries functioned from fragmented and ageing infrastructure spread across multiple locations in the Central Vista area. This dispersion led to operational inefficiencies, coordination challenges, escalating maintenance costs and sub-optimal working environments. The new building complexes address these issues by consolidating administrative functions within modern, future-ready facilities. Seva Teerth houses the Prime Minister's Office, the National Security Council Secretariat, and the Cabinet Secretariat, all of which were previously located across different locations. - ANI Slovak President Peter Pellegrini will attend the AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, where a key bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to strengthen political, economic, and technological cooperation. His itinerary also includes a meeting with Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, highlighting the summit's role in fostering multilateral dialogue. The event, structured around the pillars of People, Planet, and Progress, aims to deliver tangible outcomes for responsible AI use and will host leaders from 20 countries and ministerial delegations from over 45 nations. Slovakia's participation signals its commitment to technological sovereignty and using the summit to promote investment and political visibility within the EU and with India. Slovak President Peter Pellegrini attends AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, meets PM Narendra Modi & Sri Lanka's President to strengthen tech partnership. New Delhi, February 14 President of the Republic of Slovakia Peter Pellegrini will be attending the AI Impact Summit 2026, to be held in New Delhi from 16 to 20 February 2026, informed Robert Maxian, Slovak's Ambassador to India. In a post on X, he wrote, "President Peter Pellegrini will be part of AI Impact Summit. He will meet PM @narendramodi and other global leaders. Historic engagement will give new momentum to SK-IN relations & strengthen our partnership in innovation&responsible AI." According to TASR news agency, Pellegrini will meet several world leaders during the summit. Quoting the President's office TASR reported that Pellegrini's itinerary will include a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the further strengthening of political and economic relations between the two countries, as well as the development of cooperation in innovation, industry and modern technology. He's also scheduled to meet Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. According to the communications department, the Slovakian President's participation represents a clear signal that Pellegrini considers technological sovereignty, the safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence and support for innovation to be strategic priorities. For Slovakia, it will also be an opportunity to support investments and promote its political visibility within the EU and in relation to India. Earlier, Emirates News Agency WAM reported that on behalf of the UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, will be leading the UAE delegation to the India AI Impact Summit, The Summit will bring together global leaders, policymakers, innovators, and experts from across the world to deliberate on the way forward for AI. At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leaders from 20 countries are scheduled to attend the AI Impact Summit. Bhutan, Bolivia, Brazil, Croatia, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Guyana, Kazakhstan, Liechtenstein, Mauritius, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Switzerland, Netherlands and UAE. In addition, Ministerial delegations from over 45 countries would be participating in the Summit. The UN Secretary General and Senior Officials from several International Organizations will also join the deliberations. India is set to host the India AI Impact Summit from February 16-20 at Bharat Mandapam, bringing together governments, industry leaders, researchers, startups, students, and citizens from across the world. The Summit serves as a pivotal global platform to develop a future-oriented agenda for inclusive, responsible, and impactful AI. It moves beyond high-level discussions to deliver tangible outcomes that drive economic growth, social development, and sustainable AI use. Structured around three core pillars -- People, Planet, and Progress -- the event will feature focused discussions on employment and skilling, sustainable and energy-efficient AI, and broader economic and social progress. Seven thematic working groups, co-chaired by representatives from the Global North and Global South, will present concrete deliverables, including proposals for AI Commons, trusted AI tools, shared compute infrastructure, and sector-specific compendiums of AI use cases. - ANI The Rajasthan government has approved customised incentive packages for 10 ultra mega projects, aiming to attract investments worth Rs 46,000 crore. These projects span sectors like solar manufacturing, cement, automobiles, and tourism and are expected to create employment for over 12,000 people. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma emphasised monitoring the implementation of these projects and the MoUs from the Rising Rajasthan summit. The government also plans to strengthen the 'One District, One Product' initiative and develop new tourist destinations to boost local economies. Rajasthan approves customised incentives for 10 mega projects worth Rs 46,000 crore in solar, cement, auto & tourism, expected to generate over 12,000 jobs. Jaipur, Feb 14 The sixth meeting of the Board of Investment was held on Saturday at the Chief Minister's residence under the chairmanship of CM Bhajan Lal Sharma. During the meeting, customised incentive packages were approved for 10 ultra mega projects across key sectors, aimed at attracting investment worth Rs 46,000 crore to Rajasthan. These projects are expected to generate employment opportunities for more than 12,000 people across the state. The approved proposals include major investments in solar module and cell manufacturing, renewable energy, cement, mines and minerals, automobiles, chemicals, textiles, and tourism sectors. The customised packages have been granted under the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS) with the objective of accelerating industrial growth and strengthening the state's economy. Emphasising the government's vision, the Chief Minister said that generating employment opportunities along with revenue growth remains a top priority. He directed the Chief Secretary to ensure regular monitoring of the progress of investments by companies receiving benefits under RIPS and customised incentive packages, so that the projects are implemented within the stipulated timelines. The Chief Minister also instructed officials to conduct district-wise reviews of the Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed during the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit. He stressed the need for continuous monitoring of their implementation and ensuring their timely execution at the ground level. To promote local industries, CM Sharma directed officials to further strengthen the "One District, One Product" (ODOP) initiative. He emphasised the need to create designated spaces at major tourist and religious destinations to facilitate the sale and promotion of Rajasthan's handicrafts and traditional products. Additionally, he underlined the importance of developing new tourist destinations across the state to boost tourism and generate local employment opportunities. The meeting was attended by Industry and Commerce Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Chief Secretary V. Srinivas, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Akhil Arora, Additional Chief Secretary (Industry) Shikhar Agarwal, Principal Secretary (Finance) Vaibhav Galaria, Commissioner, Bureau of Investment Promotion (BIP), Suresh Kumar Ola, Additional Commissioner, BIP, Jugal Kishore Meena, and other senior officials of the Bureau of Investment Promotion. - IANS AuMEGA targets up to C$10 million raise to fund expanded Newfoundland drilling and exploration Proactive uses images sourced from Shutterstock AuMEGA Metals Ltd (ASX:AAM, TSX:AUM, OTCQB:AUMMF, FRA:FRA: MA30) is looking to raise up to C$10 million through a brokered LIFE offering, with the bulk of the funds to be directed towards exploration in Newfoundland and Labrador. The company plans to issue up to 42,553,191 flow-through shares at C$0.0470 each, 55,147,059 charity flow-through shares at C$0.0544 each and 125,000,000 common shares at C$0.040 each. Proceeds from the flow-through shares will be spent on eligible Canadian exploration expenses across AuMEGAs Newfoundland projects. The company expects to incur the qualifying expenditure by December 31, 2027 and renounce those expenses to subscribers effective December 31, 2026. Net proceeds from the common share component will be used for general and administrative costs and working capital. The offer is expected to close around March 3, 2026 (Canada) / March 4, 2026 (Australia), subject to regulatory approvals. Expanded exploration push Funds will support an expanded exploration push, including a planned up to 15,000-metre drill program the companys largest in the past 4 years targeting prospects within the broader Cape Ray district, including Isle aux Morts Granite, Cape Ray West and Bunker Hill. Work will also continue at the earlier-stage Hermitage and Intersection projects. The company is entering a pivotal phase. Over the past several years, we have methodically advanced our exploration strategy identifying and de-risking multiple high-priority targets at Cape Ray West and Bunker Hill that now warrant large-scale drilling. This financing is designed to aggressively test those targets. At Isle aux Morts Granite, early Greenfields results point to a previously unrecognised and potentially fertile intrusive-related gold system (IRGS)," AuMEGA Metals managing director and CEO Sam Pazuki said. "The geological characteristics we are observing are comparable in style to major IRGS discoveries such as Snowline Golds Valley-Rogue discoveries in the Yukon. Importantly, this target sits within the broader Cape Ray district, several kilometres from our existing Mineral Resource of 6.2 million tonnes grading an average of 2.25 g/t gold, totaling 450,000 ounces of Indicated Resources, and 3.4 million tonnes grading an average of 1.44 g/t gold, totaling 160,000 ounces in Inferred Resources, calculated in 2023 at a conservative gold price of US$1,750 per ounce. We are also evaluating the potential for a resource update incorporating higher gold price assumptions and silver credits. Indian High Commissioner to Canada Dinesh Patnaik declares the bilateral relationship is not only back on track but progressing very strongly, marked by a series of high-level ministerial and official visits. He emphasizes that shared democratic values and converging strategic interests mean the two nations are "destined" to work together, urging that minor irritants should not hold the partnership hostage. The recent visit of National Security Advisors led to agreements for closer law enforcement cooperation, including posting liaison officers. Confidence is high ahead of a potential high-level Canadian visit to India, which would formally cement the renewed partnership. Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Patnaik hails robust India-Canada ties, citing ministerial visits and shared democratic values ahead of a potential high-level visit. Ottawa, February 14 Dinesh Patnaik, the Indian High Commissioner to Canada said that the current status of the ties between New Delhi and Ottawa is doing extremely well despite the blip in the last two years. Speaking to the Financial Post in Canada, Patnaik expressed confidence ahead of the visit of Canadian PM Mark Carney to India and said that the two countries have shared values across areas and that minor irritants should not affect the ties. When asked about the current status of the relationship, he noted that it is "extremely good" and that things have moved since the meeting between PM Modi and PM Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada. He highlighted how since then, the High Commissioners have been appointed, there have been ministerial-level visits and a spate of meetings reflect the upswing in the ties. "We've had a spate of visits at the level of ministers, including the Foreign Minister, the Trade Minister, the Energy Minister, the Speaker of the Parliament, various other ministers, various delegations, meetings of the joint working group on various things from nuclear safety to education to you name it. I mean, there have been a spate of meetings. All of this trying to make up for whatever time we've lost in the past," Patnaik said. He also highlighted the visit of National Security Advisors of both the nations which saw discussions across national security and law enforcement, economic activity, commercial activity, mining, energy, education, AI, intelligence and mentioned that Minister Solomon is slated to come to India for the Global AI Impact Summit in New Delhi next week. "So, in a sense, the relationship is back on track, not just back on track, it's going very strongly and we are hoping very soon to have a high-level visit from Canada, which will literally put the stamp on the relationship having come this far", he said. When asked about the unresolved issues between the two countries and if trade and ties can go together, High Commissioner Patnaik brushed underscored the converging nature of value systems between New Delhi and Ottawa, highlighting that the nations are destined to work together. He said, "We are both democracies with rule of law, freedom of press, market economy. Strategically, if you look at it on a national strategy level, we have no conflict. We have only interests which coalesce together." He mentioned how India and Canada work together across multilateral organisations, from the UN to G7. "We work together everywhere. Now if you want to put a relationship to hostage because of minor irritants, it's all up to you to decide. We both have the same interests, the same values, the same systems. We are two countries which are destined to be working together, and that's the reason we are working together now. It needs leaders of stature to understand that, not leaders of stature to throw it all down because of some minor irritant." This comes shortly after NSA Doval concluded his visit to Canada after which the two countries have agreed to establish liaison officers in each other's countries to facilitate a more streamlined flow of information, particularly in dealing with security-related issues related to crimes and drugs, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday. His visit highlighted India and Canada's ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation in national security, law enforcement, and cybersecurity. - ANI External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that strong international partnerships require sustained trust and comfort-building, not just high-level visits and formal agreements. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, he noted the world is moving toward greater multipolarity with Europe undergoing a strategic reawakening. He highlighted the recently finalized India-EU Free Trade Agreement, which eliminates tariffs on over 90% of goods and benefits key Indian export sectors. Jaishankar also reiterated India's role in global security, including safeguarding sea lanes and critical infrastructure. EAM Jaishankar calls for sustained comfort-building in India-Europe relations, beyond agreements, at MSC 2026. Discusses multipolarity & trade pact. Munich, February 14 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday stressed that enduring international partnerships require sustained trust-building beyond high-level visits and formal agreements, as he shared the stage with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul at the Munich Security Conference. Participating in a conversation titled 'Navigating Uncertainty: India and Germany in a World in Disarray', Jaishankar reflected on the evolving global order and the importance of strengthening India's ties with Europe and Germany. In the broader geopolitical landscape, Jaishankar said the world is moving toward a highly multipolar order, with more centres of decision-making emerging. "I would say the world is heading towards greater multipolarity, that there will be many more or autonomous centres of decision making. Probably the most interesting for many of us is Europe, because we have seen in some ways a sort of strategic reawakening of Europe in the last few years," he said. Against this backdrop, the minister underlined that partnerships must be nurtured steadily and cannot rely solely on optics or episodic engagement. "Relationships don't happen just by visits and agreements and headline news or even discussions here. They need a lot of comfort building," Jaishankar said. He added that both sides must invest in deepening mutual understanding. "We need India and Europe and India and Germany to work to build that level of comfort," the Foreign Affairs Minister noted. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday met with G7 Foreign Ministers and their global counterparts at the Munich Security Conference 2026, reiterating India's support for the UN80 agenda and underscoring New Delhi's role in safeguarding global security. He also emphasised India's role in safeguarding the sea lines of communication, acting as a first responder in crises, strengthening port security, and contributing to resilient submarine cable infrastructure. In India-EU relations, the India-EU Free Trade Agreement was finalised in January 2026 following lengthy negotiations, eliminating tariffs on over 90 per cent of goods traded between the two sides. According to a sectoral analysis by credit rating agency ICRA, the agreement grants India preferential zero-duty access on 97 per cent of EU tariff lines, covering nearly 99.5 per cent of the value of Indian exports, while India will cut or eliminate tariffs on 92 per cent of its tariff lines for EU imports. Agricultural and processed food exports, such as tea, coffee, spices, fruits, vegetables, and marine products, will gain preferential access to the EU market. Marine exports are expected to benefit from tariff reductions of up to 26 per cent, supporting coastal employment and export growth. Labour-intensive sectors such as leather, footwear, furniture, and rubber products are also expected to see gains. At the same time, sensitive sectors, including dairy, cereals, and poultry, have been safeguarded to protect farmers and MSMEs. - ANI US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US has an obligation to maintain communication with China, calling it a strategic necessity despite deep-seated tensions. He emphasized that engagement is not about making concessions and that both nations will continue to act in their own national interests, which often do not align. Rubio acknowledged that trade and technology disputes have global implications and that long-term challenges will persist in the relationship. He concluded that dialogue is essential to manage these differences, avoid conflict, and seek cooperation where interests align. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says sustained dialogue with China is an obligation, crucial for managing global tensions and avoiding conflict. Washington, Feb 14 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday said Washington has an "obligation to communicate" with China, describing sustained dialogue between the world's two largest economies as a strategic necessity even amid deep structural tensions. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Rubio said: "The two largest economies in the world, two of the big powers on the planet, we have an obligation to communicate with them and talk." He added, "I mean, it would be geopolitical malpractice to not be in conversations with China." His remarks came in response to a question about an expected summit "in about two months' time" between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Rubio acknowledged that rivalry between Washington and Beijing is likely to persist. "Because we're two large countries with huge global interests, our national interests will often not align," he said. "Their national interests and ours will not align, and we owe it to the world to try to manage those as best we can, obviously avoiding conflict, both economic and worse." He said engagement does not imply concessions. "Nothing that we agree to could come at the expense of our national interest," Rubio stressed, adding that the United States expects China "to act in their national interest, as we expect every nation-state to act in their national interest." Rubio also noted that tensions in trade and technology have broader implications. "Whatever happens between the U.S. and China on trade has a global implication," he said. At the same time, he left room for cooperation where possible. "On areas in which our interests are aligned, I think we can work together to make positive impact on the world, and we seek opportunities to do that with them." But he cautioned that differences are enduring. "There are long-term challenges that we face that we're going to have to confront that are going to be irritants in our relationship with China," he said. "No one is under any illusions. There are some fundamental challenges between our countries and between the West and China that will continue for the foreseeable future for a variety of reasons." In his broader address, Rubio urged Western nations to rebuild industrial capacity, secure "critical minerals not vulnerable to extortion from other powers," and invest in emerging sectors such as "cutting-edge artificial intelligence." The Munich Security Conference, founded in 1963, has long served as a forum for transatlantic and global strategic debates. In recent years, discussions have increasingly centered on managing strategic competition with China, particularly over trade, technology, supply chains, and influence in the Indo-Pacific. US-China ties have been marked by trade disputes, export controls on advanced technologies, tensions over Taiwan, and competing geopolitical interests. Even so, successive administrations have maintained high-level diplomatic channels to manage risks and prevent escalation between the two powers. - IANS The first look poster for the upcoming Tamil thriller 'Signal at 11.30' has been officially released. Director Malarvizhi Natesan reveals the plot centers on a protagonist's life-altering encounter at a traffic signal at 11:30 PM. She praised lead actor Santhosh Prathap for his heroic appeal and ability to convey deep emotional nuance for the role. The film features an ensemble cast and a technical team including composer D Imman and cinematographer Raja Bhattacharjee. First look of thriller 'Signal at 11.30' starring Santhosh Prathap & Bhavya Trikha released. Director Malarvizhi Natesan reveals plot details. Chennai, Feb 14 The makers of director Malarvizhi Natesan's upcoming thriller 'Signal at 11.30', featuring actors Santhosh Prathap and Bhavya Trikha in the lead, have now released the first look poster of the film. The film's first look, marked by emotional intensity and a cryptic design, delivers an immediate visual impact with a strong attention-grabbing appeal. The first look was unveiled recently in Chennai amidst great fanfare at a reputed college. Reflecting on the significance of the title, director-producer Malarvizhi Natesan said, "It is too early to reveal any spoilers. However, the story revolves around the protagonist's unprecedented encounter at 11.30 p.m. at a signal, and how that singular moment transforms the trajectory of his life." Malarvizhi Natesan, who has also produced the film with Dr. Shivani Subramani, said, "When the core idea of 'Signal at 11.30' was conceptualised, it instantly captivated us. What began as a casual exchange of thoughts soon evolved into a compelling creative journey. As the script's final draft was locked, the protagonist's characterisation left us deeply contemplative about its emotional layers. We envisioned someone with a heroic appeal, yet possessing a face capable of conveying profound emotional depth. We believed Santhosh Prathap would impeccably embody this role, as he naturally carries these attributes. Notably, he has delivered some of his finest acting nuances in this film." The director was all praise for the other members of the cast as well. She said, "It has been an absolute pleasure collaborating with talented actors such as Bhavya Trikha, Poojitha Ponnada, Jayaprakash, Munishkanth, and others." Stating that the film's technical team was a big pillar of strength, Malarvizhi Natesan said, "Our technical team has been a formidable pillar, significantly elevating the script into a thoroughly satisfying cinematic experience. D Imman sir has scored the music while Raja Bhattacharjee has handled cinematography. Editing for the film has been overseen by R. Kalaivanan while choreography is by Sherif." - IANS The town of Dinanagar in Punjab's Gurdaspur district solemnly observed the seventh martyrdom anniversary of CRPF Constable Maninder Singh, who was among the 40 personnel killed in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. Officials including the Chief Judicial Magistrate and Army officers paid floral tributes at a ceremony attended by family and residents. The martyr's brother and father shared their grief and immense pride in his sacrifice for the nation. The attack, carried out by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists, led to escalated tensions and India's retaliatory airstrikes in Balakot. Dinanagar pays solemn tribute to CRPF Constable Maninder Singh, martyred in the 2019 Pulwama attack, on its 7th anniversary. New Delhi, Feb 14 The Dinanagar town in Punjab's Gurdaspur solemnly observed the 17th martyrdom anniversary of CRPF Constable Maninder Singh, one of the 40 personnel killed in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, with floral tributes and heartfelt remembrance ceremonies attended by officials, family members and residents on Saturday. Chief Judicial Magistrate Harpreet Singh, Colonel Vishwanath of the 25 MAC Unit and Lieutenant B.S. Negi of the 3 JAK LI Unit paid floral tributes to the fallen soldier, honouring his supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. The ceremony reflected both grief and pride as the nation marked seven years since one of the deadliest terror attacks on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir. Recalling the tragic day, Lakhvish Singh Attri, brother of Constable Maninder Singh, said, "...This incident happened in 2019, when on 14 February, after finishing their leave, the soldiers were returning to their duties. In the Pulwama district terrorist attack, 40 soldiers were martyred, and my brother was among them." "Last time I had a conversation with him, we spoke about some house-related work. We got the news through television that a terrorist attack had targeted the Army. We were tense, and by evening it was confirmed that he was among those martyred. We were sad and devastated, but we also felt proud that he was martyred for our nation. He had completed his B.Tech and then joined the armed forces, and he also motivated me to join the Army as well," he added. His father, Satpal Attri, also expressed pride in his son's achievements and sacrifice. He said, "Today marks 7 years since he was martyred. He was very capable and always performed well, often securing top positions or coming first in his class..." On February 14, 2019, a suicide bomber rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a convoy of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in Pulwama district, killing 40 personnel and injuring many others. The attack was carried out by terrorists linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed and sent shockwaves across the country, sharply escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. India responded with airstrikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammed camp in Pakistan's Balakot, sending a strong message against terrorism. As the nation marks the seventh anniversary of the Pulwama attack, tributes continue to pour in for the 40 CRPF personnel who laid down their lives in the service of the country. - IANS Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar has been discharged from Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune. The 84-year-old leader was admitted on February 9 for chest congestion and breathing difficulties. Doctors have advised him to take adequate rest for a few days before gradually resuming his routine work and public engagements. His daughter, MP Supriya Sule, and other party leaders provided regular updates on his stable condition during his hospitalization. NCP chief Sharad Pawar, 84, discharged from Pune hospital after treatment for chest congestion. Doctors advise rest before resuming public duties. Pune, February 14 Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar was discharged from Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune on Monday, following treatment for chest congestion and breathing difficulties. Pawar, 84, was admitted to the hospital on February 9. The hospital stated, "The medical team has advised him to take adequate rest for a few days, following which he may gradually resume his routine work and public engagements." Meanwhile, Doctor Simon Grant said, "Mr Pawar is in good health and has recovered well. He will be discharged today. The medical team has advised him to take adequate rest for a few days, following which he may gradually resume his routine work and public engagements." Earlier, Pawar's daughter and Member of Parliament, Supriya Sule, said in a post on X, "Baba has developed chest congestion and will need a 5-day course of antibiotics. Fortunately, all other vital parameters are normal. Thank you all for your kind words and continued support. A heartfelt thank you to all the doctors from the bottom of my heart." NCP-SCP leader Rohit Pawar had provided updates, stating, "Sharad Pawar's health is very good right now. His tests have been done there. He has not been kept in the ICU. He has been kept in a private room there. He doesn't need any support there right now. Once the reports come, it will be decided whether he will be kept in Pune or Mumbai." Rohit Pawar added, "Pawar came here in a private vehicle, and everything is normal." He also urged party workers to avoid visiting the hospital to prevent inconveniencing other patients, saying, "I, Supriya Tai, the doctors, the party workers, and people from across Maharashtra will provide regular updates." In view of his complete recovery and stable health status, he was scheduled to be discharged today. He has been advised to take a short break and gradually resume routine activities. - ANI The African Union Commission Chair expressed deep concern over ongoing peace and security challenges across the continent during the opening of the AU Summit. He cited chronic conflicts in Sudan, the DRC, and Somalia, alongside a resurgence of unconstitutional government changes, as major hurdles to silencing the guns. The summit, focusing on water and sanitation, also heard from Ethiopia's Prime Minister on the critical need to harness Africa's growing youth population for development. Leaders emphasized that accelerated political and economic integration is essential for Africa to withstand global shocks and achieve prosperity. AUC Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf highlights chronic conflicts and instability at the AU Summit, calling for accelerated integration and unity. Addis Ababa, Feb 14 Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on Saturday expressed concern over Africa's inability to address peace and security perils across different parts of the continent. The AUC chief made the remarks during the opening session of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the AU, which runs on Saturday and Sunday at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. "Our summit is taking place in a geopolitical context of crisis, both on the continent and throughout the world. Silencing the Guns on our continent remains a challenge," Youssouf told African leaders. Acknowledging the political and institutional fragility of several African countries as a source of continental concern, he said "open and latent conflicts are becoming chronic." "Unconstitutional changes of government are resurfacing, reminding us of the dark days following independence," he said, Xinhua news agency reported. Highlighting the situation in Sudan, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Somalia, among others, Youssouf said "our peoples continue to pay a heavy price for instability." Meanwhile, the chairperson of the 55-member continental organisation noted that the recent "upheaval in the international order is certainly having a significant impact on the affairs of the continent." Noting that multilateralism is being "severely tested with the rise of unilateralism and protectionism," he said Africa needs to strengthen its continental unity to withstand external shocks. "Major political and economic blocs are preparing for this global polarization. Africa is certainly part of the Global South, but Africa has its own distinctive character and identity," he said. "Faced with this situation, Africa must strengthen itself by accelerating its political and economic integration programs. Pan-African institutions must redouble their efforts and determination. Agenda 2063 and its flagship programs must guide us toward the Africa we envision -- strong, autonomous, and prosperous," Youssouf said. The two-day summit, which brings together leaders from AU members, was launched under the AU's 2026 theme: 'Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063'. Prime Minister of Ethiopia Abiy Ahmed, for his part, underscored the need to harness Africa's demographic dividend as a vital imperative for holistic development. "Today, many African economies are among the fastest-growing in the world," Abiy said. "Yet growth alone is not enough. Our greatest wealth is our people. By 2035, Africa will add more young people to the global workforce than the rest of the world combined. This demographic reality must be harnessed with purpose. Numbers alone will not deliver prosperity." The opening session drew African heads of state and government, alongside leaders of continental and international organizations, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. - IANS The India AI Impact Summit, convened by MeitY, will serve as a major international forum to develop a roadmap for responsible and impactful AI. A key highlight is the progress of 12 Indian startups selected under the IndiaAI Mission to build indigenous foundation models. These models, trained on Indian datasets, are designed to address the country's linguistic diversity and specific sectoral needs in areas like healthcare, agriculture, and governance. The summit aims to generate concrete outcomes for economic advancement and the sustainable adoption of AI technologies. India showcases 12 sovereign AI foundation models at the India AI Impact Summit, focusing on multilingual tech for inclusive innovation. New Delhi, February 14 The India AI Impact Summit will be held from February 16 to 20 at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital, bringing together policymakers, technology experts, researchers, startups, and entrepreneurs from across the country and abroad to discuss the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. The summit is being convened by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) under the IndiaAI Mission. The event is envisioned as a significant international forum to frame a forward-looking roadmap for inclusive, responsible and impactful AI, with an emphasis on generating concrete outcomes that contribute to economic advancement, social progress and the sustainable adoption of AI technologies. Anchoring these ambitions, the five-day deliberations will be structured around three core pillars, "People, Planet, and Progress." Conversations under these themes will focus on employment generation and skilling, environmentally sustainable and energy-efficient AI systems, and the contribution of AI to economic and social development. Seven thematic working groups, co-led by representatives of the Global North and Global South, will put forward concrete recommendations covering initiatives such as AI Commons, trustworthy AI tools, collaborative compute infrastructure, and curated sectoral compendiums of AI use cases. Complementing the policy and governance discussions, a major highlight of the summit will be the progress made by 12 Indian startups selected under the IndiaAI Mission to develop indigenous foundation models trained on Indian datasets and languages. These firms are building large language models and multimodal AI systems aimed at addressing India's linguistic diversity, sector-specific needs and governance requirements. Among them, Sarvam AI is advancing the development of large language models built with a focus on Indian languages and local requirements. The company's work spans multilingual reasoning, speech-driven technologies, and enterprise productivity tools. Under the IndiaAI Mission, Sarvam AI is contributing to the creation of a sovereign foundation model designed to handle functions such as text generation, translation, and conversational AI across multiple Indian languages. Similarly aligning with India's multilingual priorities, Soket AI Labs is engaged in building open-source, large-scale AI systems aligned with India's linguistic diversity. Its efforts centre on multilingual and multimodal foundation models aimed at sectors including defence, healthcare, and education, with compatibility across more than 22 Indian languages. Extending the focus from text and multimodal systems to voice technologies, Gnani AI is designing a voice-centric foundation model that prioritises multilingual speech understanding and instantaneous voice interaction. The technology is intended to support low-latency, speech-to-speech communication and is targeted at applications in customer service, learning environments, accessibility, and other public-oriented services. In the same voice-driven domain, Gan AI is working on a multilingual AI model emphasising high-quality text-to-speech functionality. The company seeks to deliver voice synthesis performance comparable to leading global solutions, enabling use cases such as audiobooks, digital assistants, media production, and localisation for Indian-language content. Beyond language and speech, Avaatar AI is developing specialised AI avatars customised for Indian contexts. These digital avatars can be adapted for industries like agriculture, healthcare, and governance, supporting services such as farming advisory systems, patient engagement tools, and grievance redressal mechanisms. At the consortium level, BharatGen, spearheaded by IIT Bombay, is creating multilingual and multimodal foundation models at varying scales. The programme focuses on practical deployment across domains such as agriculture, legal services, education, finance, and healthcare, relying on datasets rooted in Indian languages and socio-cultural realities. Adding a deep-tech and scientific computing dimension, Zenteiq is developing a multimodal foundation model named BrahmAI, aimed at enhancing engineering intelligence and scientific computation. The model is designed to aid in technical modelling, optimisation challenges, and advanced research tasks, particularly within deep-tech and engineering-heavy fields. With an emphasis on efficiency and scalability, Gen Loop is building a family of lightweight language models supporting all 22 scheduled Indian languages. Its offerings include a foundational base model, an instruction-tuned variant, and a moderation-focused model, with an emphasis on efficiency, scalability, and safety for adoption across educational platforms, social media ecosystems, and enterprise solutions. In the healthcare innovation space, Intellihealth, operating through NeuroDX, is developing an AI-driven system for EEG signal interpretation. The initiative seeks to enable earlier diagnosis of neurological disorders and promote progress in cost-effective brain-computer interface research, with implications for clinical care and healthcare accessibility. From healthcare diagnostics to scientific discovery, Shodh AI is integrating artificial intelligence into laboratory operations to speed up materials research. Its platform is designed to automate experimental design and analytical assessment, helping identify novel materials such as advanced alloys and next-generation battery components. Highlighting advances in analytical intelligence, Fractal Analytics is developing what it calls "India's first large reasoning model." The system highlights structured analytical reasoning combined with deep expertise in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, targeting applications in diagnostics, data analytics, and complex decision-making. At the enterprise and governance interface, Tech Mahindra's Maker's Lab is working on a foundation model tailored for Indic languages and regional dialects, alongside an agentic AI framework for enterprise and government use. The programme aims to facilitate translation, automate administrative processes, and enhance digital governance systems. Collectively, these initiatives will be showcased at the India AI Impact Summit, underscoring India's efforts to strengthen indigenous AI capabilities while aligning innovation with linguistic diversity and national development priorities. - ANI Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a strategic focus on livestock to strengthen the rural economy, positioning it as a safety net during crop failures. The government plans to deploy Artificial Intelligence for health monitoring and productivity enhancement to bridge the significant milk yield gap with states like Punjab. Advanced reproductive technologies and partnerships, including one with Mother Dairy, will be promoted to boost high-quality milk production. Concurrently, initiatives like zero-interest loans aim to empower rural women and youth as entrepreneurs in the animal husbandry sector. CM Fadnavis outlines tech-driven livestock plan to boost rural economy, bridge milk yield gap, and position Maharashtra as a global dairy leader. Beed, Feb 14 Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said that the government is placing livestock at the centre to strengthen the rural economy. He expressed confidence that with the integration of technology, this sector will position Maharashtra as a global leader in milk production. CM Fadnavis was speaking after visiting the three-day Maha Pashudhan Expo 2026, organised by the Animal Husbandry Department at Parli in Beed district. The Chief Minister described the expo as a strategic initiative to mitigate climate risk in dryland farming. "When crops fail, livestock becomes the backbone of farmers' income. Recognising not only its religious significance but also its economic value, we have accorded the cow the status of 'Rajyamata' (State Mother)," he said. Highlighting the productivity gap, Fadnavis noted that while cows in Punjab yield 10-15 litres of milk per day, the average in Maharashtra is around 2.5 liters. To bridge this gap, the government will deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) for livestock monitoring, health management, and productivity enhancement. Advanced reproductive technologies such as embryo transfer and sex-sorted semen will be promoted to increase high-quality calf production and boost milk output. An agreement has also been signed with Mother Dairy for projects in Vidarbha and Marathwada. Referring to trade concerns, the Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has safeguarded Indian agriculture in global trade negotiations. "There is no mention of soybean or cotton imports in the India-US agreement. Farmers should not believe rumours that foreign imports will depress prices. On the contrary, Indian farmers now have access to a vast American market," he clarified. Animal Husbandry Minister Pankaja Munde announced that the upcoming Chief Minister Rural Livestock Entrepreneur Scheme is encouraging rural youth to become business owners instead of job seekers. "To make women 'Lakhpati Didis', the government will provide loans at zero per cent interest," she said. She also highlighted that Maharashtra is the first state in the country to grant agriculture status to animal husbandry and thanked the Chief Minister for the decision. Meanwhile, a symbolic exchange of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Vidarbha-Marathwada Dairy Production Project and the Livestock Development Board, Nagpur, was held. - IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Seva Teerth complex and Kartavya Bhawans in New Delhi. Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar stated the names and buildings symbolize India's new vision, energy, and a break from the colonial mindset. The Prime Minister's Office is relocating to Seva Teerth after 95 years in the South Block. The Prime Minister emphasized the buildings are built to fulfil public aspirations as India moves towards becoming a developed nation. PM Modi inaugurates Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhawans, symbolizing India's new vision and move away from colonial mindset. New Delhi, February 14 Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday, congratulated the Prime Minister Modi on the inauguration of Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhawan 1 & 2, stating that the names reflect India's new thinking and a commitment to service. Addressing the event, he said, "It is our great fortune that we are all becoming witnesses to this day and have the opportunity to participate in this occasion. Honourable Prime Minister, on this occasion, I congratulate you and offer my best wishes for the inauguration of this historic and newly constructed Seva Teerth. Along with this, I also extend my congratulations and best wishes to your own family members, the 140 crore people of this country, on this occasion. This Seva Teerth has been built with the resolution of serving this family." Khattar said under the Prime Minister's leadership, Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhawans symbolise India's new vision, energy, culture, and self-reliance, moving away from the colonial mindset. "Honourable Prime Minister, this place, under your leadership, is a new symbol of India's new thinking, new energy, new thoughts, new vision, and our Indian culture and values. Under your leadership, this also represents freedom from that colonial mindset which used to underestimate Indian skill, efficiency, strength, and capability. You gave the name 'Kartavya Path' to the Rajpath. You have named the buildings from which government departments will work as 'Kartavya Bhawan'. You have called your office 'Seva Teerth'", Khattar added. He further said, "Today, Seva Teerth was inaugurated during the day, and now you are inaugurating Kartavya Bhawan 1 and 2. Even before this, you have already inaugurated Kartavya Bhawan 3. Union Minister said Seva Teerth was inaugurated today, along with Kartavya Bhawan 1 and 2, while Kartavya Bhawan 3 had been inaugurated earlier. The Prime Minister's Office is set to relocate from the historic South Block to Seva Teerth after 95 years. "In the coming time, the work of all ten Kartavya Bhawans will be completed soon. After 95 years, the Prime Minister's Office is moving from the South Block to start working here at Seva Teerth. On this occasion, I congratulate the people of the country once again. These names that you have chosen do not just represent your thinking, but also reflect your resolution to serve. Honourable Prime Minister, I salute this thinking and this resolution," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan-1 and 2 in the national capital and said these buildings have been built to fulfil the aspirations of the people of the country. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that a new history is being made and the day has become a witness to a new beginning in India's development journey. He said that as the country moves towards a Viksit Bharat, it is vital that India sheds every trace of a colonial mindset. The Prime Minister emphasised that in the scriptures, Vijaya Ekadashi has held great significance, as the resolve taken on this day always leads to victory. He said that with the resolve of a developed India, all are entering the Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan. He underlined that the divine blessings for victory in this goal are with them. He extended congratulations to everyone, including the PMO team, the Cabinet Secretariat, and employees of various departments, on Seva Teerth and the new buildings. He expressed gratitude to all engineers and worker colleagues associated with their construction. Seva Teerth houses the Prime Minister's Office, the National Security Council Secretariat, and the Cabinet Secretariat, all of which were previously located across different locations. - ANI A year ago, Wall Street viewed software stocks as the next major winners from the AI boom. That outlook is now shifting as investors worry that artificial intelligence tools could disrupt traditional software services and weigh on growth across the sector. As of Feb 13, the software sector tracked by the iShares Tech-Expanded Software Sector ETF (IGV) has fallen 22% year-to-date, Yahoo Finance data shows. I think we have one or two of these periods every year. The cause is always different, but the effect is always the same. Some of the most popular trades of the previous uptrend just get absolutely nuked, said Josh Brown, CEO of Ritholtz Wealth Management, CNBC reported last week. Since the emergence of generative AI, traders have questioned whether it has undermined the competitive advantages of software makers, even as they roll out AI features to boost their businesses. Software stocks have fallen sharply year to date, with Intuit (INTU) and ServiceNow (NOW) tumbling more than 30%. Salesforce (CRM), Palantir (PLTR), and Adobe (ADBE) have each dropped more than 20%, while Microsoft (MSFT) and Oracle (ORCL) are down more than 15%. Amazon Web Services CEO Matt Garman said much of the fear toward software is "overblown."Getty Images Getty Images AWS CEO said the fear is "overblown" Amazon Web Services CEO Matt Garman said investors may be overstating the threat that artificial intelligence poses to software companies. My own opinion is that much of the fear is overblown, Garman said on Feb. 12 on CNBC. Still, Garman cautioned that AI will reshape the software industry. Related: Analysts revamp Super Micro stock price target after earnings Theres a huge disruption, Garman said. AI is absolutely a disruptive force thats going to change how software is consumed and how its built." "The systems of record, as you call them, the SaaS providers and the large players of today have an inside track to winning that business. Now, they have to innovate, just like the rest of the world. They cant stand still. If they stand still, theyre absolutely going to be disrupted, he added. AWS's revenue comes from selling its cloud infrastructure and platform services. Customers rent computing power, storage, and software from AWS instead of building their own. Software providers such as Adobe and Intuit are AWS clients. On Feb. 5, Amazon (AMZN) said AWS generated $35.6 billion in revenue for the quarter, up 24% year over year and marking its fastest growth in 13 quarters, according to a company statement. Operating income from AWS rose to $12.5 billion from $10.6 billion a year earlier. AWS accounted for about 17% of Amazons total revenue but generated roughly half of its total profit, supported by a 35% operating margin. With Tarique Rahman poised to become Bangladesh's next Prime Minister, the focus shifts to how he will manage relations with Pakistan, which grew closer under the interim rule of Muhammad Yunus. Indian officials are cautious, hoping Rahman will not allow Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) the same operational freedom it reportedly had previously. Analysts suggest Rahman's "nation-first" policy and public sentiment against a return to pre-1971 dynamics will guide a more pragmatic foreign approach. While expecting normal ties with India, his immediate priority is stabilizing his violence-torn country, with Pakistan likely adopting a wait-and-watch stance. As Tarique Rahman prepares to lead Bangladesh, analysts watch if he will reset ties with Pakistan or prioritize relations with India and a 'nation-first' policy. New Delhi, Feb 14 With Tarique Rahman set to take over as the next Prime Minister of Bangladesh, all eyes would be on how he deals with Pakistan. Since Muhammad Yunus took over as the caretaker of the interim government in Bangladesh, ties between Dhaka and Islamabad have seen a marked improvement. Yunus has been accused of giving away too much to Bangladesh. He eased visa norms while also giving Pakistan unhindered access to the Bangladesh seas, which security agencies say could be a potential route for terrorists. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) ruled the country between 2001 and 2007. Back in the day, the Indian government and BNP shared "blow hot blow cold" ties. India had often accused the then Bangladesh government of allowing terrorists to use their soil. However, this time things may be different as the Jamaat-e-Islami is not a BNP ally unlike it was in previous times. Officials say that one cannot expect the BNP to completely distance itself from Pakistan. However, Tarique Rahman would also keep in mind the importance of sharing good relations with India. He will share normal relations with Bangladesh, but is unlikely to allow the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) to make the country their playground, like was the case when Yunus was at the helm, an official added. Another official said that Pakistan for a few days would adopt a wait and watch game. It would not push too hard and would wait for Tarique Rahman to settle in. Tarique Rahman's biggest task is to bring some semblance to his violence-torn country and that would be his immediate priority, the official added. New Delhi, on the other hand, would not mind if Dhaka and Islamabad share good ties. However, it would be wary if Tarique Rahman follows in the footsteps of Yunus, who gave away too much to Pakistan. In the last couple of months, several high-profile visits by Pakistan Army and the ISI personnel have taken place. During these visits, Pakistan sought to establish strong military ties. An Intelligence Bureau official said that the concern was that these visits were clearly aimed at setting up bases to target India. Abhinav Pandya, the founder of think-tank 'Usanas Foundation' and a Cornell University graduate in public affairs, says that the BNP has never abandoned its Islamic routes. "However this time, it is likely to show some pragmatism. During his campaign, he has spoken about his nation-first policy and this is a good sign." It is clear that he will not let any country meddle with the affairs of Bangladesh, Pandya added. "His slogan, "not Dilli, not Pindi... Bangladesh first", clearly shows what his intention is and he will not allow Pakistan to meddle too much," he said. Tarique Rahman had even lashed out at the "pro-Pakistan" Jamaat for siding with Islamabad during the 1971 war, he added. He accused the Jamaat-e-Islami of trying to cheat people with false assurances. "This signals a shift and Tarique Rahman is clear that he will follow his nation-first policy. This is a better approach to his foreign policy ties," Pandya said. Further, Tarique Rahman has managed to capture the mood of the people of Bangladesh. A majority do not want a pre-1971 like scenario in their country. They realise that if Pakistan is allowed too much room to operate in Bangladesh then there is every chance of that era returning, Bangladesh watchers say. After Yunus took charge, the Jamaat called the shots. With the ISI, the Jamaat had planned on ensuring that the country gets back to the pre-1971 days. The people were clearly upset about this and realised what they would be signing up for if they voted for the Jamaat. An official said that the message from the people was clear and that is they do not want Pakistan calling the shots in Bangladesh. This is something that Tarique Rahman is very well aware of, the official added. - IANS The Congress party has secured a decisive victory in the Telangana urban local body elections, winning close to 60% of the municipalities and three corporations. Rahul Gandhi described the result as an endorsement of the Congress's welfare-centric governance model and thanked party workers and the people of Telangana. The principal opposition BRS secured a distant second place, while the BJP failed to win any municipality on its own but emerged as the single largest party in two corporations. The results have set off intense negotiations for support from independents and smaller parties to control local bodies with fractured mandates. Congress wins 60% of Telangana urban local bodies. Rahul Gandhi calls it a mandate for the party's welfare and inclusive growth governance model. New Delhi, Feb 14 Senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Saturday described the party's performance in the Telangana local body elections as an endorsement of its governance model centred on welfare, dignity and inclusive growth. "Heartfelt thanks to every Congress 'karyakarta' and leader. This victory belongs to you and to the people of Telangana," LoP Gandhi said in a post on X. The ruling Congress secured close to 60 per cent of the urban local bodies, winning 64 of the 116 municipalities and three of the seven municipal corporations. "Our vision of a Prajala Telangana, where progress reaches every family, remains unwavering," Rahul Gandhi said in the X post. The principal Opposition, the BRS, won 13 municipalities and three corporations, while 38 municipalities produced no clear majority. This has led to intense efforts by both Congress and BRS to secure support from independents and smaller parties ahead of the election of chairpersons and vice-chairpersons. Despite the fractured outcomes, Congress leaders claimed the party was in a position to control about three-fourths of the municipalities. In the previous municipal polls in 2020, the then ruling TRS, now BRS, had dominated more than 100 urban local bodies. The Congress has also bagged the Mancherial, Ramagundam and Nalgonda corporations. In the 60-member Kothagudem corporation, Congress and the Communist Party of India won 22 seats each, with leaders from both sides describing the contest as friendly. The BJP failed to secure any municipality on its own but emerged as the single-largest party in the Karimnagar corporation with 30 seats in the 66-member body. The party also became the single-largest formation in Nizamabad corporation. Both Karimnagar and Nizamabad fall among the eight Lok Sabha constituencies held by the BJP in Telangana. Across municipalities, Congress won 1,347 of the 2,582 wards, while BRS secured 717. The BJP finished third with 261 wards, and others, including the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen and independents, took 256. In municipal corporations, results were available for 378 of the 414 divisions. Congress won 177 divisions, BRS 57, BJP 70, and others 74. Polling was held on Wednesday across 116 municipalities and seven corporations, with over 73 per cent turnout. Counting began at 8 am on Friday under tight security. - IANS The Tamil Nadu Forest Department is conducting a two-day synchronised terrestrial bird census across all forest divisions starting Saturday. The exercise aims to generate updated baseline data on bird populations using uniform scientific methods like line transects and acoustic monitoring. It involves forest staff, birdwatchers, NGOs, and trained volunteers covering a minimum of 25 locations per division. The data will aid long-term conservation planning and habitat management for the state's rich avian diversity. Tamil Nadu Forest Department begins a 2-day statewide bird census using scientific methods to gather data on migratory and resident species for conservation. Chennai, Feb 14 In a major push to strengthen wildlife monitoring across the state, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department will carry out a two-day synchronised terrestrial bird census from Saturday across all forest divisions. The two-day exercise is aimed at generating updated baseline data on bird populations, particularly at a crucial time marking the early phase of the migratory season. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, Rakesh Kumar Dogra, said the census would adopt a uniform and scientific approach to ensure accuracy and consistency. A minimum of 25 survey locations will be covered in each forest division, with observers using the line transect method along stretches of two kilometres each to systematically document bird species in varied landscapes. To maximise accuracy, officials will employ both direct count and acoustic survey techniques. While direct observation helps identify visible species, acoustic monitoring allows experts to detect birds through their calls, particularly in dense forest areas where visibility may be limited. The large-scale exercise will see participation from experienced birdwatchers, Forest Department staff, trained volunteers, representatives of non-governmental organisations, and professional wildlife photographers. Volunteers, including interested school and college students, have been asked to register in advance with the respective forest division offices. Tamil Nadu has emerged as one of India's key biodiversity hotspots, supporting a rich diversity of resident and migratory bird species. The state has placed increasing emphasis on scientific monitoring and conservation, recognising the ecological significance of avian populations as indicators of environmental health. Among its major initiatives are the Hornbill Conservation Centre, the Raptor Research Foundation at the Advanced Institute for Wildlife Conservation, and the International Bird Conservation Centre at Marakkanam. These institutions focus on habitat protection, research, rescue and rehabilitation, and long-term species monitoring. The previous state-level terrestrial bird census, held on March 15 and 16, 2025, covered 1,093 terrestrial locations across all 38 districts. The survey recorded 401 bird species -- both migratory and resident -- with the total terrestrial bird population estimated at 2.3 lakh. Officials said the synchronised census this week is expected to generate robust scientific data that will aid long-term conservation planning, habitat management strategies, and evidence-based policy decisions to safeguard Tamil Nadu's avian diversity. - IANS Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has firmly rejected the long-standing demand to introduce the Roman script for the Kokborok language, spoken by the state's indigenous communities. He argued that adopting a "foreign script" could threaten indigenous identity and culture, instead suggesting alternatives like Devanagari. The issue has gained political momentum ahead of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council elections, creating a rift between the ruling BJP and its ally, the Tipra Motha Party. Student organizations warn of protests, citing academic challenges with the current Bengali script used in board examinations. Tripura CM Manik Saha rejects Roman script demand for Kokborok language, citing threat to indigenous culture. Script debate heats up ahead of TTAADC polls. Agartala, February 14 Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Saturday rejected the demand to introduce the Roman script for Kokborok, reigniting a decades-old debate over the script to be used for the indigenous language of Tripura's tribal communities. The Kokborok language, spoken by nearly 14 lakh people belonging to 19 indigenous communities of the state, has long been at the centre of a linguistic and political controversy. For years, TMP, Tipra Motha Party, and its various wings, such as TISF (Tipra Indigenous Student Federation) and TSF (Twipra Student Federation), along with a few allied wings of TMP, have demanded the adoption of the Roman script, arguing that it would make education more accessible for indigenous students. The issue has gained fresh momentum ahead of the upcoming elections to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), with differences emerging between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ally Tipra Motha Party. While Tipra Motha and allied student bodies such as the Tipra Student Federation (TSF) have strongly advocated for the Roman script, the state government has maintained its opposition. Speaking exclusively to ANI amidst the state-wide protest for Roman Script, the Chief Minister Saha asserted that adopting a "foreign script" could pose a threat to indigenous identity and traditional culture. He reiterated that the government does not support the Roman script for Kokborok and has instead emphasised alternatives such as Devanagari or the development of a new script. "You say we need to protect our culture, trasdition than what's the need to bring Roman script. Our government is not against englisg but why do you need Roman script ifor Kokborok language? Take Devnagari," he said. Student organisations have also raised concerns about academic challenges. Board examinations conducted by the Tripura Board of Secondary Education (TBSE) and Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) are currently held in Bengali script for Kokborok, which many indigenous students reportedly find difficult. The TSF has warned of protests if the Roman script is not introduced to ease examination-related difficulties. The script issue is not new. Two separate commissions were constituted in 1990 and 2004 to examine the matter, but a permanent resolution remains elusive. As political temperatures rise in the state, the Kokborok script controversy continues to be a sensitive and significant issue, reflecting broader debates over identity, education, and cultural preservation in Tripura. - ANI Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with exiled Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Their talks focused on supporting the Iranian people and applying coordinated international pressure on Tehran's regime. A central theme was condemning Iran's supply of "shahed" drones to Russia for use in the war against Ukraine. The meeting underscores Kyiv's strategy of building alliances with opposition figures against regimes it views as complicit in aggression. Ukraine reaffirms support for Iranian people after President Zelenskyy meets exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi in Munich, condemning Iran-Russia ties. Munich, February 14 Ukrainian officials have reaffirmed their support for the Iranian people following Volodymyr Zelenskyy's meeting in Munich with exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, underscoring shared concerns about authoritarian regimes and regional security threats. The meeting, held on the sidelines of Munich Security Conference 2026 in the German city, focused on the political situation in Iran, the needs of the Iranian people, and the broader implications of cooperation between Tehran and Moscow. According to a statement released after the talks, Ukraine emphasized its solidarity with citizens of Iran who are advocating for democratic change and greater freedoms. "I met with exiled Crown Prince of Iran @PahlaviReza in Munich. Ukraine supports the Iranian people as they are fighting for their future; we also express our sympathy to all the victims of the Iranian regime," the statement read. During their conversation, the two sides examined areas where the Iranian people require international backing. Particular attention was given to the importance of coordinated global pressure on Tehran. "During our conversation, we focused on the situation in Iran and the areas where the Iranian people need support. We discussed the importance of strengthening sanctions against the Iranian regime and any other dictatorial regimes," the statement continued. A central theme of the meeting was the growing military cooperation between Russia and Iran. Kyiv has repeatedly accused Tehran of supplying unmanned aerial vehicles -- commonly known as "shaheds" -- to Moscow for use in its war against Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities say these drones have been deployed in attacks on civilian infrastructure, contributing to casualties and widespread damage. "We condemned the cooperation between Russia and Iran, in particular the supply of 'shaheds' by the Iranian regime to Russia and the granting of licenses for their production. Such a partnership poses a real threat not only to Ukraine but to the entire region," the statement said. Ukraine has argued that Iran's involvement in supporting Russia's military campaign extends the conflict's impact beyond Eastern Europe and raises broader security concerns. Officials maintain that closer coordination among democratic nations is necessary to counteract such alliances. The meeting concluded with expressions of mutual support. "I thank the Crown Prince of Iran for supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity. It is vital to make every effort to protect human lives. Ukraine is ready to help on its part," the statement added. Reza Pahlavi, who has lived in exile for decades following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, has been an outspoken critic of the current Iranian government and has voiced support for democratic movements inside the country. The Munich talks signal Kyiv's intent to build bridges with opposition figures abroad while reinforcing its stance against regimes it views as complicit in aggression. As the war in Ukraine continues and unrest periodically surfaces in Iran, the meeting highlights the increasingly interconnected nature of geopolitical struggles and the alliances forming in response. - ANI US Secretary of State Marco Rubio sharply criticized the United Nations for its failure to resolve the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, stating it had "no answers" on pressing global conflicts. He credited American leadership with brokering peace talks between Russia and Ukraine and freeing captives in Gaza. Rubio also highlighted US military action against Iran's nuclear program as an example of necessary force where the UN was "powerless." His speech at the Munich Security Conference strongly reaffirmed the US commitment to its transatlantic alliance with Europe. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says the UN had "no answers" on Gaza and Ukraine, crediting American action for freeing captives and brokering talks. Munich, February 14 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday criticised the United Nations for failing to address pressing global conflicts, citing the wars in Ukraine and Gaza. He praised American leadership for problem-solving, stating the US has played a key role in resolving issues, unlike the UN. "We cannot ignore that today, on the most pressing matters before us, it has no answers and has played virtually no role." He added that "it has not solved the war in Ukraine," and it was the US that was able to bring the two sides to the table to discuss a peace deal. He highlighted that it was the United States, rather than international bodies, that successfully brought Russia and Ukraine to the table for high-stakes peace negotiations in late 2025 and early 2026. Rubio said that it was also unable to solve the war in Gaza - instead, it was the US that "freed captives from barbarians. While acknowledging that the UN has "tremendous potential to be a tool for good," Rubio asserted that on the world's most urgent issues, it has "no answers and has played virtually no role." "The United Nations still has tremendous potential to be a tool for good in the world," Rubio told the Munich Security Conference. Rubio's remarks came amid wider discussions on the future of multilateral cooperation and the evolving role of global governance bodies. Diplomats have expressed concerns over US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace initiative aimed at resolving conflicts globally, saying it could harm the work of the United Nations, The Times of Israel reported. Referring to the 12-day conflict with Iran in June 2026, he said the UN was "powerless to constrain the nuclear program of radical Shia clerics of Tehran." "That required 14 bombs dropped with precision by American B-2 bombers," Rubio said. He also highlighted the United States' involvement in negotiations related to the Ukraine-Russia war and the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro. "We cannot allow those who blatantly threaten our citizens, and endanger our global stability, to shield themselves behind abstractions of international law which they themselves routinely violate," he added. Rubio also delivered a strong message of unity with Europe, reaffirming that Washington's future remains closely linked with the continent and that the United States has no intention of stepping away from the transatlantic alliance. His keynote address contrasted sharply with the 2025 Munich Security Conference speech by Vice President JD Vance, who had criticised European leaders over issues including free speech and immigration. "In a time of headlines heralding the end of the Transatlantic era, let it be known and clear to all that this is neither our goal nor our wish, because for us Americans, our home may be in the Western Hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe," Rubio said. - ANI The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of India's first underwater road-cum-rail tunnel under the Brahmaputra River in Assam. The 15.79 km strategic tunnel will directly connect Gohpur and Numaligarh, drastically reducing a current 240 km, 6-hour journey. The Rs 18,662 crore project aims to enhance freight movement, reduce logistics costs, and spur socio-economic growth across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland. It is expected to generate significant employment and improve multi-modal connectivity to key economic and logistics nodes in the region. Cabinet approves strategic 15.79 km road-cum-rail tunnel under Brahmaputra to boost NE connectivity and freight movement. Project cost Rs 18,662 crore. New Delhi, February 14 The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, yesterday has approved the construction of a 4-lane access-controlled greenfield connectivity from Gohpur on NH-15 to Numaligarh on 715 section, including 15.79 Km of Road cum Rail Tunnel under the River Brahmaputra. It will be developed at a total capital cost of Rs. 18,662 crore in Assam. Currently, connectivity between Numaligarh on NH715 and Gohpur on NH-15 is 240 Km. from existing Kaliabhambhora road bridge near Silghat on NH-52 which takes 6 Hours passing through Numaligarh, Kaziranga National park and Biswanath Town. To address these challenges, the project is proposed to be developed as 4-Lane Access-Controlled Greenfield connectivity from Gohpur on NH-15 to Numaligarh with Road cum Rail tunnel below the river Brahmaputra river. This would be first underwater Road cum Rail tunnel in the India and 2nd in world. The project will provide significant benefit to Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and other North -Eastern States. This will enhance the efficiency of freight movement, reducing logistics cost and driving socio-economic growth in the region. The project alignment integrates with 02 major National Highways (NH-15 and NH-715) and 02 Railway lines i.e. Rangia-Mukongselek Railway Section under Rangia Division of NFR on Gohpur Side and Furkating-Mariani loop line section under Tinsukia Division of NFR on Numaligarh side. The project providing seamless connectivity to key economic, social, and logistics nodes across Assam. Additionally, the project will enhance multi-modal integration by connecting with 11 Economic Nodes, 03 Social Nodes, 02 Tourist nodes and 08 Logistic Nodes, providing enhanced connectivity with 04 Major Railway Station, 02 Airport, and 2 inland water way thereby facilitating faster movement of goods and passengers across the region. Upon completion, the project will play a pivotal role in strategic considerations, regional economic growth, strengthening connectivity between major economic centers and opening new avenues for trade and industrial development. The project will also generate approximately 80 Lakhs person-days of direct and indirect employment, and will open new avenues of growth, development and prosperity in surrounding regions. In another announcement, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the Widening of National Highway-167 from Gudebellur to Mahabubnagar on the Hyderabad-Panaji Economic Corridor to 4-Lane Standard in Telangana with a Total Project Length of 80.01 km and Total Capital Cost of Rs.3175.08 crore on Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) under NH (O) scheme. Currently, connectivity between Gudebellur to Mahabubnaagr on existing National Highway NH-167 experience significant travel time delay due to very poor geometry and traffic congestion at town area, passing through highly urbanized towns/villages i.e Gudebellur, Magnoor, Makthal, Marikal, Devarkadra, Jaklair, Yeligandla, and Banderpally. To address these challenges, the project is proposed to be developed as 4 lane standard. The project will provide significant benefit to Narayanpet & Mahabubnagar districts in the state of Telangana. This will enhance the efficiency of freight movement, reducing logistics cost and driving socio-economic growth in the region. - ANI The Union Cabinet held its final meeting in the historic South Block, a building constructed by the British for colonial administration. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the shift, highlighting the move away from colonial-era traditions and infrastructure. This follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dedication of the new 'Seva Teerth' complex, which will house the PMO and other key national security and governance bodies. The Prime Minister emphasized that shedding the colonial mindset is vital for India's journey towards becoming a developed nation, or 'Viksit Bharat'. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announces the final cabinet briefing in South Block, marking India's move from British-era buildings to the new Seva Teerth complex. New Delhi, February 14 Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday said that this is the last media briefing of the Union Cabinet that Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the "Seva Teerth" complex to the nation, which was inaugurated earlier on Friday. Seva Teerth houses the Prime Minister's Office, the National Security Council Secretariat, and the Cabinet Secretariat, all of which were previously located across different locations. Vaishnaw added that the South and North Blocks were built by the British to maintain colonial rule in India, and that we are happy that today marked the last Union Cabinet meeting to be held in the South Block. During the media briefing on Union Cabinet decisions, which was held for the last time in the previously known South block building, Vaishnaw said, "On 13th February 2026, PM Narendra Modi dedicated the new PMO office, 'Seva Teerth', to the nation. The South and North blocks were built by the British to maintain colonial rule in India. In 1947, India attained freedom, but the then-government continued using these buildings for its work." "Ever since independence, PMO has been working from the office in South Block. We are happy that today, union cabinet meeting is being held in this office of the South Block for the very last time," he said. A day earlier, PM Modi inaugurated Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan-1 and 2 in the national capital and said these buildings have been built to fulfil the aspirations of the people of the country. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that a new history is being made and the day has become a witness to a new beginning in India's development journey. He said that as the country moves towards a Viksit Bharat, it is vital that India sheds every trace of a colonial mindset. The Prime Minister emphasised that in the scriptures, Vijaya Ekadashi has held great significance, as the resolve taken on this day always leads to victory. He said that with the resolve of a developed India, all are entering the Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan. He underlined that the divine blessings for victory in this goal are with them. He extended congratulations to everyone, including the PMO team, the Cabinet Secretariat, and employees of various departments, on Seva Teerth and the new buildings. He expressed gratitude to all engineers and worker colleagues associated with their construction. - ANI Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami graced the 8th convocation of Swami Rama Himalayan University. They congratulated over 1,000 graduating students and emphasized the responsibility that comes with education to serve society and contribute to national development. The leaders highlighted achievements in healthcare, including Ayushman Bharat, and detailed Uttarakhand's progress in infrastructure and rural economy. The university, which holds an A+ NAAC grade, also launched its Centre for Distance and Online Education during the ceremony. JP Nadda and Pushkar Singh Dhami addressed graduates at Swami Rama Himalayan University, emphasizing youth's role in nation-building and healthcare progress. Dehradun, February 14 Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals and Fertilisers JP Nadda and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the 8th Convocation Ceremony of Swami Rama Himalayan University, Jolly Grant, as the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour, respectively. The Union Minister congratulated 1,001 students who received degrees across various faculties and said that a convocation is not just an academic milestone but the beginning of a new journey in life. He emphasised that, along with a degree, comes the responsibility for human development and service to society. He said that the next 25 years of Amrit Kaal will be decisive for building a developed India, where today's youth will not only be witnesses but also key contributors. He urged students to use their education for the welfare of humanity, the poor and the last person standing in society. The Union Minister commended the leadership of University Chairman Vijay Dhasmana, noting that the institution is setting new benchmarks in human services, healthcare, and education. He also highlighted India's strong and stable economy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, achievements in the healthcare sector, the Ayushman Bharat scheme, improvements in maternal and child mortality rates, progress in eliminating TB, malaria, and diarrhoea and initiatives such as early cancer detection. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, in his address, congratulated all degree recipients. He said that the youth of Uttarakhand are the state's greatest strength and that Swami Rama Himalayan University has established a distinct identity in education, healthcare, and public service. He stated that the state has been receiving remarkable support from the Central Government and the Union Health Minister in implementing the Ayushman Bharat scheme, telemedicine, and expanding healthcare services in hilly regions. He said that development works in Uttarakhand are being carried out in line with the concept of "Prime Minister Modi's Third Decade of Uttarakhand." He highlighted initiatives including reverse migration, decisive measures to protect the state's water and forests, improved roads, electricity, and internet connectivity in remote areas, tourism development, progress on SDG rankings, fisheries development, and positive changes in the rural economy. The Chief Minister urged students to apply their knowledge, skills, and sensitivity to nation-building, ensuring compassion, humanity, and service are clearly reflected in their work. State Education and Health Minister Dhan Singh Rawat said that Uttarakhand is performing better at all levels in the healthcare sector, from human resources to infrastructure, and the state has continuously received exemplary support from the Central Government for healthcare development. He also appreciated the contribution of the Swami Rama Himalayan Institute in strengthening healthcare in Uttarakhand. Institute Chairman Vijay Dhasmana described education not just as a degree but as a medium for self-realisation, empowerment, and transformation. He said the institution primarily focuses on providing better healthcare services through human services and ethics. During the convocation ceremony, 1,001 students from Medical, Allied Health, Nursing, Management, Engineering, Yoga Science, and Biosciences faculties were awarded degrees. A total of 31 students received academic awards, 2 students received the Swami Rama Best Graduate Award, and 14 research scholars were awarded PhD degrees. On this occasion, the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) was also launched online. The university has received an A+ grade from NAAC, and courses conducted under CDOE are recognised by UGC, ensuring students receive recognised and quality online education. The program also showcased the rich cultural heritage of Uttarakhand. - ANI Actress Urmila Matondkar reveals that being in a "Valentine's Day zone" daily comes from finding joy in life's small blessings and practicing kindness. She emphasizes that true happiness swells from being good and empathetic towards others, making every day feel special. On her recent birthday, she expressed gratitude for the unconditional love she receives and her desire to pay it forward. Matondkar believes life's purpose is creating "zillions of tiny moments" that bring smiles to as many faces as possible. Actress Urmila Matondkar shares her philosophy for making every day feel like Valentine's Day through kindness, gratitude, and small joys. Mumbai, Feb 14 While everyone is busy celebrating Valentine's Day, actress Urmila Matondkar disclosed how one can be in the 'Valentine Day zone' all their life. Urmila shared that to be in that love-filled zone all the time, we need to inculcate the habit of being happy with the small blessings that life has to offer. The 'Kon' actress further said that it is Valentine's Day every day for the person who can find happiness in being good and kind to others. Posting an adorable photo of herself posing with her furry friend, she wrote the caption, "Valentines every day...Yes... if you are happy with small things, if goodness n kindness swell up your heart with tenderness and doing anything nice towards someone makes your day better, then you can be in a every day is Valentine's Day zone all your life (sic)." Wishing everyone on Valentine's Day, she added, "Happy Valentine day lovely people...Stay loving, kind and empathetic as much as you can." Meanwhile, Urmila turned 52 years old on February 4 and was showered with some lovely wishes by her well-wishers on her special day. Touched by all the love, Urmila shared that "Life should be about bringing a smile to others". Expressing gratitude for all the birthday love, she penned on the photo-sharing app, "My heart filled with Great Gratitude and my universe full of unconditional love that I receive from all of you and spread it right back amongst all you lovely people!!." "Life should always be about zillions of tiny moments when you can manage to bring a tiny smile on as many faces as possible. By the grace of God I've been blessed with many such memories. And I pray to the Almighty for many more opportunities when I can make a difference to others in any n every way possible...Thank you for all the Love, Support, Goodness and Adulation," she added. - IANS Bloomberg Hong Kong firms are on the hunt for more bankers to lead a booming pipeline of initial public offering deals after a years-long dry spell depleted the ranks of qualified staffers. Banks are hard pressed to meet regulatory guidelines and are under increased scrutiny over the quality of IPO paperwork. The stock exchange and the Securities and Futures Commission recently sounded the alarm to 13 investment banks that handle more than 70% of the over 430 active listing applications. They highlighted the insufficient capacity among principal bankers to supervise deals, with some simultaneously helming as many as 19. Most Read from Bloomberg Hong Kong is in the midst of an IPO boom, with first-time share sales coming off a four-year high in 2025 and already off to the busiest-ever start of a year. But the upswing followed a dealmaking trough that lasted several years after a crackdown on the Chinese technology companies that powered a prior wave of transactions. As a result, some banks chose to retrench and experienced bankers often looked for opportunities elsewhere. Thats made the remaining high-level dealmakers hot commodities. The imbalance is a bit more severe than it has been in quite a while, said John Mullally, managing director for Hong Kong at recruitment firm Robert Walters PLC. For the first time in a while, theres greater demand for a certain type of talent. To be sure, the steep pickup in dealmaking has been a windfall for banks in the city, albeit with declining fee rates. The top five arrangers of Hong Kong IPOs last year China International Capital Corp., Citic Securities Co., Huatai Securities Co., GF Securities Co. and Bank of China Ltd. were all Chinese banks and handled $14.6 billion worth of deals, or 37% of the market. Its unclear which of them, if any, were on the list of banks singled out by regulators. Major deals in the pipeline for this year include the potential listings of Chinese-owned agricultural technology giant Syngenta Group, A.S. Watson Group, a beauty retailer owned by CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd. and Kunlunxin, the artificial-intelligence chip unit of Baidu Inc. Listing proceeds are on track for a six-year high of $45 billion in 2026, according to KPMG. And the city continues working to attract major deals. Hong Kong is considering a plan to allow a broader range of companies to file for initial public offerings confidentially, according to people familiar with the matter. The US Department of Defense has added major Chinese companies like Alibaba, BYD, and Baidu to a list of firms it alleges have ties to China's military, just weeks before an expected summit between Presidents Trump and Xi Jinping. The updated "Chinese Military Companies" list, submitted then temporarily removed from the Federal Register, names firms believed involved in China's military-civil fusion program. While inclusion doesn't automatically trigger penalties for most, it damages reputation and signals potential future restrictions, with stricter consequences possible for biotech firm WuXi AppTec under the Biosecure Act. The listed companies have strongly denied the allegations as baseless and are considering legal options to challenge the decision. Pentagon adds Alibaba, BYD, Baidu to military ties list ahead of Trump-Xi summit, sparking denials and potential legal challenges from firms. New Delhi, Feb 14 The US Department of Defence has decided to add several major Chinese companies, including Alibaba and BYD, to a list of firms it believes have links to China's military, a report has said. The move comes just weeks before US President Donald Trump is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, raising the possibility of fresh tensions between the two countries, as per Financial Times report. The Pentagon submitted its updated "Chinese Military Companies" list, also known as the 1260H list, to the Federal Register on Friday. However, the document was suddenly removed from the website at the Pentagon's request without any explanation, as per the report. A defence official later said the revised list would be released next week. Along with Alibaba and BYD, the Pentagon plans to add search engine giant Baidu. The list, mandated by the US Congress, names companies that Washington believes have direct ties to the People's Liberation Army or are involved in China's military-civil fusion programme, which requires firms to share technology with the military. Although being placed on the list does not automatically trigger legal penalties for most companies, it can damage their reputation and signal possible future restrictions. However, the inclusion of biotechnology company WuXi AppTec could have more serious consequences, the report stated. Under the Biosecure Act passed in December, the US federal government is barred from doing business with biotechnology companies of concern, including those on the 1260H list. The Pentagon also added RoboSense, an AI-driven robotics firm, and BOE Technology, a display panel maker. At the same time, it unexpectedly removed memory chipmakers CXMT and YMTC from the list, a move that surprised some experts who questioned why the companies were cleared. The decision to include Alibaba follows earlier reports that US intelligence agencies believed the company posed a national security risk. A White House memo reportedly alleged that Alibaba provided technical support for Chinese military operations and gave the Chinese government access to customer data. Alibaba strongly denied the claims, saying it is not a military company and has no role in any military-civil fusion strategy. Baidu and BYD also rejected the Pentagon's allegations, calling them baseless and unfounded. Both companies said they would consider legal options to challenge the decision, the report said. - IANS The United States and Iran are expected to hold a new round of nuclear deal talks in Geneva on February 17. This comes as former US President Donald Trump emphasized the urgent need for an agreement, warning that failure would be "traumatic" for Iran. The talks follow a history of strained relations, including US strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure in 2025 under 'Operation Midnight Hammer'. The original 2015 nuclear deal, known as the JCPOA, collapsed after the US unilaterally withdrew in 2018. US and Iran to hold nuclear talks in Geneva as Trump warns of "traumatic" consequences if a deal fails. Latest updates on JCPOA negotiations. Washington DC, February 15 The United States and Iran are expected to hold the next round of talks over the nuclear deal on Tuesday in Geneva, Switzerland, CNN reported. According to CNN, US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to attend the meetings. This comes in the backdrop of US President Donald Trump emphasising the need for a deal with Iran, and warning that failure to reach an agreement could be "traumatic." Speaking to reporters on Thursday (local time), Trump described his recent meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as "very good" and said, "We have to make a deal, otherwise it is going to be very traumatic (for Iran) and I don't want it to happen... If they don't make a deal, it is going to be a different story. We had a very good meeting yesterday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu." Iran and the United States held the previous rounds of nuclear talks in April 2025 in Muscat, Oman, and Rome, Italy. However, on June 21-22, 2025, under 'Operation Midnight Hammer', the United States conducted strikes against Iranian nuclear infrastructure, targeting three key sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Iran strongly condemned the operations, denouncing them as a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter. The Iranian nuclear deal dates back to July 2015, when the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was signed between Iran and several world powers, including the United States, which capped Tehran's enrichment level at 3.67 per cent and reduced its uranium stockpile to 300 kilograms. The deal collapsed in 2018 with Trump's unilateral withdrawal of the US from the accord. Meanwhile, according to the Russian news agency TASS, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced the trilateral meetings between Ukraine, Russia, and the US would be held in Geneva on February 17-18. - ANI Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. The Chinese spokesperson emphasized implementing the consensus of the two countries' leaders to make 2026 a year of cooperation. This diplomatic engagement follows US President Donald Trump's announcement of a planned meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in April. Trump stated the two leaders have a "very good relationship," which is crucial given both nations' global stature. Chinese FM Wang Yi meets US Secretary Marco Rubio in Munich. Talks focus on managing differences as Trump announces April meeting with Xi Jinping. Munich, February 14 Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio while they both were attending the Munich Security Conference 2026. Official Spokesperson of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, Lin Jian posted on X about their meeting. He wrote, "Chinese FM Wang Yi met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference." "Both sides should jointly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and make 2026 a year in which China and the U.S. advance toward mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation," he wrote further. "As long as both sides uphold the principles of equality, respect and mutual benefit, China and the U.S. will be able to find ways to address each other's concerns and properly manage differences," he concluded. This meeting came on the heels of US President Donald Trump's recent announcement that he will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in April, with Xi expected to visit the United States later this year. While addressing reporters, Trump said, " I'll be visiting President Xi Jinping in April. He's coming here later in the year, and I look forward to it. Our relationship with China is very good right now." However, the US President did not mention the exact dates of the travel. In a recent interview with NBC News' Tom Llamas, Trump said that he would visit China in April. "I'm gonna be going there in April then he's coming here toward the end of the year," Trump said. When asked further on his China visit, the US President in the NBC News interview taped on February 4 said, "He's coming to the White House, toward the end of the year. We have a very good relationship. And, you know, it's important that I have a good relationship and for him, that he has a good relationship with me. We have to have a good -- these are the two most powerful countries in the world and we have a very good relationship." Incidentally, Trump and Xi had a 90-minute telephonic conversation on February 4. - ANI Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the renovated Block Development Officer office in Vikas Khand Jungle Kaudiya, Gorakhpur. He thanked the block chief for development work worth 1.25 lakh crore rupees, which has reduced travel time to Lucknow to three hours. The CM also highlighted the opening of a school and a specialised centre for the conservation and breeding of the king vulture. Earlier in the day, he paid tribute to the soldiers martyred in the Pulwama terrorist attack. UP CM Yogi Adityanath inaugurates renovated BDO office, highlights development work and a new vulture conservation centre in Gorakhpur's Vikas Khand. Gorakhpur, February 14 Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday extended gratitude to the Vikas Khand Jungle Kaudiya chief for the development work carried out in the block, enabling the commute from Jungle Kaudiya to Lucknow at the inauguration program of the renovated Block Development Officer office in Vikas Khand Jungle Kaudiya in Gorakhpur. CM Yogi also extended warm wishes on the occasion of Mahashivratri and said, "I extend my best wishes to every block and all the people on Shivratri tomorrow. I thank Block Chief Brijesh Ji for developing this block with 1.25 lakh crore rupees. Now you can reach Lucknow from Jungle Kaudiya in 3 hours. A school has opened in the Kaudiya block itself in the name of Pujya Maharaj Ji, where 2,000 children are studying..." The Chief Minister highlighted the development of a centre for the conservation, breeding, and medical treatment of the king vulture. Alongside, he highlighted that, unlike the national capital, the block is not as polluted. "The king vulture was dying due to the use of chemical pesticides. Now a centre has been established for the conservation and breeding of Jatayu... Your lungs get damaged due to pollution. Look at the pollution in Delhi. We face breathing difficulties there. But here we have development, but there is no suffocating environment..." he said. Earlier, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday paid tribute to the soldiers killed in the Pulwama terrorist attack. In an X post, CM Yogi recalled their valour, sacrifice, and patriotism against the anti-national terror elements. "Salutations to all the brave sons of Mother India who made the supreme sacrifice in the cowardly terrorist attack in Pulwama. The sacrifice of our immortal soldiers is the proclamation of that invincible resolve of Indian valour, which forever inspires us to eradicate terrorism from its roots. Jai Hind..." he wrote. - ANI Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda attended the 8th convocation of Swami Rama Himalayan University in Dehradun. CM Dhami proclaimed the current decade as belonging to Uttarakhand, highlighting efforts to reverse migration and revitalize hill villages through state action plans. JP Nadda emphasized India's economic rise to become the world's fourth-largest economy under the current leadership. Both leaders framed the graduating students as future architects of a developed India envisioned for 2047. CM Pushkar Singh Dhami declares the 2020s as Uttarakhand's decade, highlighting rural revival at a convocation attended by Union Minister JP Nadda. Dehradun, February 14 Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda on Saturday attended the 8th Convocation Ceremony of Swami Rama Himalayan University at Jolly Grant, Dehradun. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the third decade of the 21st century will be "Uttarakhand's decade," fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision. He highlighted the state's efforts through special action plans and public welfare schemes, noting that once-emptying villages are now witnessing a revival and the hills are being repopulated. "Prime Minister Modi had said that the third decade of the 21st century will be Uttarakhand's decade, and to make his words meaningful, we are continuously working with full commitment. In the past years, by preparing special action plans in each sector, we have been striving to ensure the overall development of the state through various public welfare schemes... Today, our emptying hills are being repopulated again, and the villages that once endured the pain of migration are now seeing vibrancy return," CM Dhami. Union Health Minister JP Nadda, who was also present at the event, said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India is now the world's fourth-largest economy. He added that citizens are witnessing the results of initiatives aimed at building a developed India by 2047 and will be the "architects and eyewitnesses" of the next 25 years of progress. "Today, we must reflect on the fact that all of you are truly fortunate to have witnessed the first 25 years of the 21st century, and you will also have the opportunity to witness the next 25 years of the 21st century... You are going to be the architects and eyewitnesses of a developed India... The results of the steps taken under the leadership of the Prime Minister for a developed India by 2047 are now visible. It's heartening that, emerging from the fragile five over the past 11 years, we now stand as the world's fourth-largest economy," he said. - ANI Veteran Kannada director, actor, and lyricist Joe Simon passed away on February 13 after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest. He fell ill during a meeting at the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and was rushed to a hospital but could not be saved. Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and Minister Shivaraj Thangadgi expressed deep condolences, calling his death an irreparable loss to the industry. Simon, who hailed from Mandya, had a career spanning decades and contributed to over 100 films in various roles. Veteran Kannada filmmaker and comedian Joe Simon passes away following a cardiac arrest. Condolences pour in from ministers. Bengaluru, February 14 Veteran Kannada filmmaker Joe Simon is no more. Joe Simon breathed his last on February 13. He passed away following a sudden cardiac arrest. Joe Simon felt uneasiness during an executive committee gathering at the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce. He was immediately taken to Mallige Hospital, but sadly, he could not be saved. After learning about his demise, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar paid his condolences. In a post on X, Shivakumar described Simon's death as an "irreparable loss" to the Kannada film industry. "The demise of Joe Simon, the renowned director and comedian of Kannada cinema, due to a heart attack, is a deeply saddening event. Josayman, who had been active in Kannada cinema for decades and hailed from Mandya, had worked in more than 100 films as an actor, director, and lyricist. Josayman's passing is an irreparable loss to Kannada cinema. May God grant eternal peace to his soul and give strength to his family to bear this pain. Om Shanti," his post read. Minister for Welfare of Backward Classes, Kannada and Culture Shivaraj Thangadgi, said in his condolence message that with Joe Simon's death, the Kannada film industry has lost a dynamic and creative director. Simon had also served as the Vice President of the Kannada Film Directors Association. - ANI BNP chief Tarique Rahman has called for national unity and reconciliation following his party's decisive victory in Bangladesh's parliamentary elections. He framed the electoral outcome as a renewed mandate for democratic values and a collective struggle for democratic restoration. Rahman cautioned that the incoming administration faces serious challenges, including a fragile economy and weakened institutions. The victory marks a significant political resurgence for Rahman, who recently returned from 17 years in exile. BNP chief Tarique Rahman calls for national unity after a decisive election victory, framing the win as a mandate for democratic restoration in Bangladesh. Dhaka, February 14 In his first remarks after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party's decisive victory in the parliamentary elections, BNP chief Tarique Rahman called for national cohesion, framing the outcome as a renewed mandate for democratic values. Addressing the nation following the announcement of results, Rahman appealed for reconciliation across political divides. "Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united," he said, underscoring the need for collective purpose. Emphasising the broader significance of unity, he added, "I firmly believe that national unity is a collective strength, while division is a weakness," linking his message directly to the responsibilities facing the country after the polls. His appeal came as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party registered a sweeping performance in elections held on Thursday, the first national vote since the violent 2024 uprising that led to the removal of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Reflecting the scale of the mandate, figures released by the Election Commission showed the BNP-led alliance securing 212 seats, while the Jamaat-e-Islami-led bloc won 77. Hasina's Bangladesh Awami League was barred from taking part in the elections. Against this backdrop, Rahman opened his speech by thanking supporters and describing the verdict as an endorsement of democratic aspirations. "Freedom loving pro-democracy people of the country have once again brought victory to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party," he said. He further stated, "This victory belongs to Bangladesh, belongs to democracy, this victory belongs to people who aspired to and have sacrificed for democracy," connecting the electoral outcome with what he characterised as a collective struggle for democratic restoration. Even as he welcomed the results, Rahman cautioned that the incoming administration would face serious challenges. "We have paved the way for the establishment of democracy in the country," he said. Highlighting the difficulties ahead, he added, "We are about to begin our journey in a situation marked by a fragile economy left behind by an authoritarian regime, weakening constitutional and structural institutions and destroying law and order." The outcome represents a notable political resurgence for the 60-year-old leader, who returned to Bangladesh in December after 17 years in exile in Britain and re-entered national politics at a critical juncture. Rahman is the son of former president Ziaur Rahman, who was assassinated in 1981, and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, a three-time officeholder and longstanding figure in Bangladesh's political landscape. - ANI US Secretary Marco Rubio calls for transatlantic focus on reindustrialization, border control, and AI, framing security as a defense of Western civilization. Washington, Feb 14 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio used his first major address at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday to call for what he described as a renewed transatlantic mission - one rooted in "seriousness and reciprocity" and focused on reindustrialization, border control, and emerging technologies such as "cutting-edge artificial intelligence." "We gather here today as members of a historic alliance, an alliance that saved and changed the world," Rubio said in Munich, invoking the Cold War origins of the conference and the "line between communism and freedom" that once ran through Germany. Rubio argued that the post-Cold War period produced "a dangerous delusion" - including the belief in "the end of history," that "trade and by commerce alone would now replace nationhood," and that a "rules-based global order" would "replace the national interest." He called that "a foolish idea" and said it had "cost us dearly," pointing to deindustrialization and weakened supply chains across the West. "We made these mistakes together, and now, together, we owe it to our people to face those facts and to move forward, to rebuild," Rubio said. He framed the Trump administration's approach as national renewal, telling European allies that while Washington is "prepared, if necessary, to do this alone," it "hope[s] to do this together with you, our friends here in Europe." Rubio described the US-Europe relationship as civilizational, saying, "We are part of one civilization - Western civilization." Rubio said national security is "not merely series of technical questions," but begins with "what exactly are we defending," adding: "Armies fight for a people; armies fight for a nation. Armies fight for a way of life." He said "mass migration" is "a crisis which is transforming and destabilising societies all across the West," and argued, "We must also gain control of our national borders. Controlling who and how many people enter our countries, this is not an expression of xenophobia," he said. Rubio urged a broader agenda beyond defence spending - "commercial space travel and cutting-edge artificial intelligence," "industrial automation," "a Western supply chain for critical minerals," and "a unified effort to compete for market share in the economies of the Global South." In a brief Q&A, Rubio said the prospects for ending the war in Ukraine remain uncertain. "We don't know the Russians are serious about ending the war; they say they are," he said, adding that the hardest questions remain unresolved and "work remains to be done." He said, "The United States has imposed additional sanctions on Russia's oil," and added: "In our conversations with India, we've gotten their commitment to stop buying additional Russian oil." Asked about China ahead of a summit expected "in about two months' time" between President Trump and President Xi Jinping, Rubio said it would be "geopolitical malpractice to not be in conversations with China," but warned that "nothing that we agree to could come at the expense of our national interest." The Munich Security Conference is an annual gathering of global leaders, diplomats, and defence officials that has long served as a key forum for transatlantic security debates, including NATO burden-sharing and major global conflicts. - IANS The BNP has welcomed congratulations from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other international leaders following its landslide election victory. Party spokesperson Sayrul Kabir Khan stated the win is a victory for democracy and Bangladesh, but the party will avoid excessive celebrations. This restraint is to honor the sacrifices of activists and those martyred in the 2024 uprising, as well as the recent passing of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. The BNP aims to focus on implementing its reform agenda and building a prosperous 'Welfare State' under Chairman Tarique Rahman's leadership. BNP welcomes congratulations from PM Modi & others, dedicates win to democracy & vows restrained celebration to honor martyrs & Khaleda Zia. Dhaka, February 14 BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan said that the victory of his party was a victory for democracy and for Bangladesh. Khan, while speaking to ANI, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his greetings to BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman on his win. "We also acknowledge and welcome the congratulations from the Prime Minister of India, as well as leaders and diplomats from other countries. We are grateful for their support and look forward to strengthening our friendly relations with them for the benefit of Bangladesh. By working together with our international partners, the BNP aims to implement the vision laid out by our Chairman," he said. However, Khan said that the party is avoiding indulgence in festivities. He said, "This is a victory for democracy; it is a victory for Bangladesh. For a long time, the BNP has been part of a democratic movement, led by our Chairman, Tarique Rahman. This leadership has brought us this success. To make this democratic triumph more effective, our Chairman has already issued a directive: we must not engage in excessive celebrations or festivities." He explained, saying that it was a means to honour the lives lost in the 2024 uprising and the passing of Rahman's mother, Khaleda Zia. "There are several reasons for this, the most significant being the immense sacrifices made during our struggle. Hundreds and thousands of our activists have been martyred, many have disappeared, and millions have faced hardships. We also remember those who were martyred during the mass uprising in July and August 2024. We owe it to them to show respect and honour their sacrifices. We also pay our deepest respects to the 'Mother of Democracy,' Begum Khaleda Zia, who has recently passed away," he said. He said that the party has called for prayers in her memory and will focus on achieving the target of 'welfare nation'. "In her honor and as part of our program today, we are calling for prayers. We ask people of all faiths to gather at mosques and other religious institutions across the country to pray for the success of this victory and the future of our nation. Our goal is to build a prosperous 'Welfare State' under the leadership of Tarique Rahman. We are committed to his 31-point plan for national reform and development," he said. The message comes amid a wave of international acknowledgements following the BNP-led alliance's landslide success in Thursday's polls, alongside the official declaration of results for 297 parliamentary constituencies by Bangladesh's Election Commission (EC). Results for Chattogram-2 and Chattogram-4 remain suspended and will be announced later, while the outcome of one other constituency was deferred earlier, as reported by Prothom Alo. In the parliamentary results for these 297 seats, the BNP and its allies secured a decisive 212 seats, marking a landslide victory. - ANI Indian Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, held productive discussions with Estee Lauder's CEO Stephane de La Faverie, welcoming the company's strong interest and commitment to expanding investments in India. The talks emphasized how such FDI strengthens India's economy and enhances domestic manufacturing capabilities. Separately, Kwatra outlined India's vision for AI, centered on a people-first approach and the democratization of technology around the pillars of people, planet, and progress. These engagements highlight India's dual focus on attracting global investment and shaping the global dialogue on impactful and inclusive artificial intelligence. Ambassador Vinay Kwatra meets Estee Lauder CEO, discusses FDI. Details India's people-first AI approach ahead of the AI Impact Summit. Washington DC, February 14 The Ambassador of India to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, held discussions on Friday with Stephane de La Faverie, President and CEO of Estee Lauder, focusing on investment opportunities in India. Kwatra praised the company's interest in the Indian market and its commitment to expanding investments. In a post on X, Ambassador said, "Following our meeting last year, had a very productive discussion with Stephane de La Faverie, President & CEO of Estee Lauder. Welcomed their strong interest in the Indian market and commitment to expanding investments here. FDI inflows strengthen our economy and enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities." Earlier, on October 3, 2025, Kwatra met the team. In a post on X, he said, "Had a wonderful meeting with Stephane de La Faverie, President and CEO of the Estee Lauder companies along with his team last week. Discussed their investments in the Indian market and the immense growth taking place in the personal care market space in India." Earlier on February 2, Kwatra participated in a Pre-AI Summit panel discussion titled "Reflections on Paris and Prospects for New Delhi", organised by Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), alongside the Ambassador of France. Sharing details of the engagement on X, Kwatra emphasised "Impact" as a core driver of the upcoming AI Summit in India. He also outlined India's approach to artificial intelligence, sharing the country's perspective on "democratisation of AI" around people, planet and progress with the participating audience. The discussion focused on advancing global dialogue on AI, with India underscoring impact-led innovation and inclusive growth as key pillars of its engagement ahead of the summit. All these developments stem from engagements held on January 31, during which Kwatra also detailed India's people-first approach to artificial intelligence and the structure of the upcoming AI Impact Summit, noting that it is built around three core pillars focused on people, planet and progress. - ANI Photographer: Brendon Thorne/Bloomberg Treasury Wine Estates Ltd.s shares jumped about 7% in Sydney, the most since September 2024, after European billionaire Olivier Goudet emerged as a shareholder, offering a rare boost to the troubled winemaker. Goudet, through investment vehicle Platin SARL, has taken a 5% stake in the Penfolds owner, according to an exchange filing on Wednesday. The Australian firm has a market capitalization of about A$4.3 billion ($2.8 billion). Treasury shares were up 6% at A$5.33 as of 1:40 p.m. in Sydney. Most Read from Bloomberg The investment comes after Treasurys shares slumped to the lowest level in more than a decade earlier this month, as the firm grapples with flagging demand in key markets including the US and China. The vintner has canceled a A$200 million stock buyback and said its reviewing planned capital investments. The company last week announced asset sales and said it would pursue A$100 million in annual cost cuts over the next two to three years under new Chief Executive Officer Sam Fischer. Treasury has warned of weakness in both the US and China, compounded by a distributor transition in California and Beijings crackdown on boozy government banquets. It also announced a near A$690 million write-down of its US business, underscoring the challenges facing the winemaker even as a high-profile investor steps in. Goudet used to head private investment firm JAB Holdings BV, which controls or holds stakes in global consumer brands including Dr Pepper, Krispy Kreme and Panera Brands. He stepped down as JABs CEO after 12 years and became senior investment advisor to the firm in early 2024. (Corrects Goudets role at JAB in story originally published Dec. 24.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2026 Bloomberg L.P. New research reveals how attachment insecurity and materialistic values fuel 'phubbing' in romantic relationships. Constantly checking your phone during conversations with a partner - a behavior known as phubbing - may be less about bad manners and more about deeper psychological needs. New research led by the University of Southampton, the Vinzenz Pallotti University and Ruhr University Bochum in Germany has examined why our phones come between us, even when we don't mean them to. The study, published in Behavioral Sciences, shows that people who feel insecure in close relationships are more likely to engage in phubbing or feel hurt by it - particularly when they also place a high value on material success, status, and external validation. Phubbing, short for 'phone snubbing', refers to ignoring someone you are with in favour of your smartphone. While often dismissed as a modern habit or social faux pas, the research suggests it can be driven by attachment-related anxieties and seeking reassurance, attention and self-worth. The researchers surveyed over 200 adults in romantic relationships, measuring their attachment styles, materialistic values, and both 'enacted phubbing' (how much they phub their partner) and 'perceived phubbing' (how much they feel phubbed). They found that, for some people, phones are a source of reassurance, status, or distraction from uncomfortable emotions - even at the cost of face-to-face connection. The results showed: People high in attachment anxiety, who fear rejection or abandonment, are more likely both to phub their partner and to feel hurt by their partner's phone use. who fear rejection or abandonment, are more likely both to phub their partner and to feel hurt by their partner's phone use. People high in attachment avoidance, who are uncomfortable with closeness, - are especially likely to perceive phubbing, even if they do not directly engage in it themselves. who are uncomfortable with closeness, - are especially likely to perceive phubbing, even if they do not directly engage in it themselves. Materialism acts as a psychological bridge. People who place greater importance on possessions, status and external symbols of success are more likely to translate attachment insecurity into phone-focused behaviour. Study co-author Dr Claire Hart, Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Southampton, said: "Phubbing isn't just about screen time or poor etiquette. For many people, it reflects deeper concerns about security, self-worth, and where attention and value are coming from." Why materialism matters The study demonstrates for the first time that materialistic values help explain why attachment insecurity leads to phubbing. Smartphones offer constant access to social comparison, validation and symbolic 'value', from messages and likes to curated online identities. For people who feel uncertain in relationships, this can make the phone especially hard to put down. Materialism amplifies the pull of the phone. If self-worth is tied to external symbols or validation, digital engagement can start to compete with, or even replace, real-world connection." Dr. Claire Hart, Associate Professor of Psychology, University of Southampton Implications for relationships and digital wellbeing The findings suggest that tackling phubbing in relationships may require more than simply telling people to use their phones less. Instead, the researchers argue, interventions should focus on strengthening relationship security, reducing reliance on external validationand helping people reflect on the values that drive their digital habits. Dr Hart said: "Taking this approach could be especially valuable in relationship counselling, digital wellbeing initiatives, and conversations between couples about technology and intimacy." The research builds on Dr Hart's previous work that examined people's emotional responses to phubbing. She added: "Understanding why people reach for their phones helps us move beyond blame. Phubbing can be a signal of unmet emotional needs - not just distraction." After nearly 40 years of research on how Listeria bacteria manipulate our cells and battle our immune system to cause listeriosis, Daniel Portnoy and his colleagues have discovered a way to turn the bacteria into a potent booster of the immune system - and a potential weapon against cancer. Three years ago, Portnoy cofounded a startup, Laguna Biotherapeutics, that worked with scientists in his University of California, Berkeley lab to eliminate the bacteria's ability to cause disease while retaining its ability to rev up production of a type of immune system cell associated with increased survival in cancer patients. These so-called gamma delta T cells are general-purpose killers of cancer cells or any cell infected by a pathogen - bacteria, virus or fungus. Laguna Bio will soon ask the FDA for clearance to evaluate the therapy in children with leukemia who have received unmatched bone marrow transplants. Stanford University Medical Center doctors hope that the engineered Listeria will boost gamma delta T cells in pediatric patients and help them stave off graft-versus-host disease, fight potentially deadly infections that take advantage of a transplant patient's compromised immune system and prevent the cancer from returning. Portnoy and his colleagues foresee a broader application of this Listeria therapy, which is unique among cancer therapies in stimulating the body's innate immune system to eliminate essentially any cell that puts out a distress signal indicating it's been compromised. Today's immunotherapies for cancer typically activate the "adaptive" immune system, boosting cells that recognize and kill cancer cells. The issue is that tumors are a suppressive environment, and so the immune system isn't really even working. There are lots of attempts to try to reawaken the immune system, such as using checkpoint inhibitors, which were originally developed at UC Berkeley. The idea is somewhat similar with Listeria: Listeria itself is seen as foreign and induces an innate immune response, which allows the body to overcome the suppression." Daniel Portnoy, UC Berkeley professor of molecular and cell biology and of plant and microbial biology Late last year, Portnoy and his Berkeley and Laguna Bio collaborators published details of the successful use of the attenuated Listeria therapy in mice in the journal mBio, a publication of the American Society for Microbiology. In another study posted last year on the BioRxiv preprint server, they reported that Listeria can also be engineered to boost another type of innate immune cell - mucosal-associated invariant T cell, or MAIT- that helps defend against infections and possibly cancer. "What we're doing is based on decades of literature, chief among them Dr. Portnoy's work, showing that Listeria generates a really unique immune response," said Laguna Bio CEO Jonathan Kotula. "We believe that if you want to generate a comprehensive immune response, you need to carefully orchestrate the entire immune system. And attenuated Listeria seems to be doing that." Escape from the phagosome Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen that causes gastrointestinal disease and fever in some people but occasionally spreads from the intestines to cause deadly sepsis or meningitis. Researchers have documented how, after infection, the bacteria are engulfed by scavenger cells called phagocytes, where they are captured by an organelle called a phagosome that digests invaders. But Portnoy showed nearly 40 years ago that before that can happen, the bacteria escape the phagosome and set up shop in the cell interior, hiding out from the host's immune system until they reproduce and spread to infect new cells. Even though Listeria can hide from the immune system, it does trigger the adaptive immune system to make so-called cytotoxic T cells, or CD8 T cells, which can kill Listeria-infected cells. In the 2000s, Portnoy teamed up with a company called Aduro Biotech to develop a cancer treatment using Listeria engineered to express cancer antigens designed to induce the adaptive immune system to also target a specific tumor. He first had to construct a version of Listeria that would not make people sick, which he did by deleting two genes required for the bacteria to exit a cell and spread. The bacteria normally do this by hijacking host cell actin, a protein from the cell's cytoskeleton, and using it to construct finger-like protrusions, which are internalized by neighboring cells. "We found that a strain that was unable to nucleate actin will still get into the cytosol of cells, still grow and induce a potent immune response, but since it doesn't spread, it's a thousandfold less virulent," Portnoy said. Aduro combined this strain - dubbed LADD, for Listeria attenuated double deleted - with a cancer antigen and used it to treat nearly 1,000 patients with pancreatic cancer and mesothelioma. But the therapy - essentially a vaccine against cancer - didn't work as well in humans as it did in mice, in part because humans failed to mount a robust cytotoxic T cell response like mice. Aduro eventually halted the trials and merged with another company in 2020. An observation by his colleagues at Aduro got Portnoy thinking about using Listeria as a general immune system booster. They observed that in people, Listeria not only induced cytotoxic T cells but also other T cells of the innate immune system, which can target other pathogens, not just Listeria. After the disappointing results with LADD therapy, he decided to pursue this new approach. The Laguna Bio therapy is an improvement on LADD in that two additional genes have been deleted to make it even safer in humans. Dubbed QUAIL, for quadruple attenuated intracellular Listeria, the strain lacks two enzymes - discovered by Portnoy and former graduate student Rafael Rivera Lugo - required to synthesize essential nutrient cofactors derived from riboflavin, or vitamin B2. These co-factors, known as FMN and FAD, are readily available inside cells, making the bacteria's own enzymes unnecessary. But the cofactors are not available outside the cell, so the quadruple attenuated Listeria cannot grow extracellularly. In essence, Portnoy converted Listeria from a pathogen that can grow both inside and outside of cells to one that is restricted to the intracellular environment. "We said, 'Oh my gosh, this strain fits the criteria that we were looking for' - a mutant of Listeria that could grow inside of cells but not outside of cells," Portnoy said. "We have a strain that can't grow in blood, it can't grow in the intestine, it doesn't grow in the gallbladder - these are all extracellular sites for growth - but it grows inside of cells. So that's the new safer strain, QUAIL. We're very excited about that." The newly published study establishes the therapy's safety in mice and confirms that QUAIL retains a potency equivalent to LADD. Because of its inability to grow outside of cells, QUAIL, unlike LADD, cannot grow on the ports and implants often used to treat cancer patients. One thing that the Aduro human trials showed is that LADD, while not producing much of a boost in cytotoxic T cells of the adaptive immune system, did induce gamma delta T cells of the innate immune system. Since those Aduro trials, gamma delta T cells have been shown to attack and kill cancer cells themselves, as well as produce cytokines that rev up a number of general-purpose immune cells, like macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells, to fight infection and cancer. QUAIL could potentially rev up those gamma delta T cells in patients. "Taking all that body of data that existed before from Aduro allowed us to go forward with this plan that I think is really unique in that it's informed by robust human data," Kotula said. In initial trials in pediatric leukemia patients, Laguna Bio plans to use QUAIL directly to elicit a gamma delta T cell response. The idea is that the T cells will fight infection, rejection and recurrence by directly killing leukemic cells in a patient where the T cells of the adaptive immune system have been suppressed to prevent rejection of the transplant. Should QUAIL prove safe and effective in the Stanford trials, Kotula envisions treatments for other diseases - multiple myeloma, lymphomas, neuroblastoma, sarcomas and various solid tumors - that have been shown to respond to increased gamma delta T cells. The therapy might also work prophylactically as a vaccine against diseases like malaria, tuberculosis and latent viral infections caused by intracellular pathogens. "Let's reinvigorate the immune system, initially focusing on cancers where just that reinvigoration - the gamma delta T cells - has shown promise of efficacy against disease," Kotula said. "Then, once you have that reinvigoration, it's always helpful to direct it somewhere. "I think this can be a part of a broad array of therapies and a piece of a treatment regimen that fits well within how a lot of immune therapies are being administered today. It really works well and complements a lot of the immunotherapy drugs that are already approved." The work was supported by Laguna Bio and the National Institutes of Health. The co-first authors of the mBio paper are graduate students Victoria Chevee and Rafael Rivera-Lugo and postdoctoral fellow Mariya Lobanovska. Other co-authors are Leslie Guereca, Ying Feng, Jesse Garcia Castillo and Andrea Anaya-Sanchez of UC Berkeley, Austin Huckins and Jonathan Hardy of Michigan State University, and Edward Lemmens, Chris Rae, Russell Carrington and Kotula of Laguna Biotherapeutics. Cell and gene therapies, or CGT, have come a long way since they were first introduced. In the last few decades, both cell therapy -- the transplantation of living cells -- and gene therapy -- the use of genetic material to modify cell functions -- have been increasingly incorporated into clinical practice. Various challenges and advances have propelled the use of CGT in innovative treatments for diseases that had otherwise proven difficult to conquer. Yet progress has been uneven across different therapies and regions. To accelerate CGT innovation and improve access, it is essential to take a comprehensive look at past research achievements and qualitatively evaluate relevant factors. These challenges motivated a team of researchers at Kyoto University to take a hard look at past data and assess the current standing of cell and gene therapies in cooperation with Arthur D. Little Japan. Using the PubMed and OpenAlex databases, the team accessed over 160,000 papers related to CGT published between 1989 and 2023. They then conducted a bibliometric analysis of the historical development of these therapies, including contributions by region. The team's analysis revealed global trends of CGT development over the 35-year study period. The amount of research focusing on hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, including bone marrow transplantation, and ex vivo gene therapy has seen continued growth. In contrast, mesenchymal stem cell therapy, which utilizes cells that react to inflammation such as injury, and in vivo gene therapy have stagnated in their transition to clinical practice. This study also uncovered compelling variations in research output by region. While Japan reliably contributes a large number of papers in cell therapy, it is lacking in significant qualitative influence. The United States and China lead the field of CGT research in both quantity and quality. But the high-impact papers were often a result of international collaborations. It's clear that international collaborative research tends to lead to high-impact papers, confirming strong ties between Europe and the United States, as well as strong connections within Europe." Sumimasa Nagai, team leader Of course, the changing geopolitical landscape and funding cuts to research in America are likely to have a significant impact on these trends, but the results of this study attest to the advantages of international cooperation. These findings are expected to serve as a crucial foundation for considering the allocation of research resources and the direction of future collaboration. With this study, the researchers aim to steer Japan's strengths in regenerative medicine, cell therapy, and gene therapy toward effective implementation in society. In the future, the team plans to further integrate information on patents, regulations, and funding alongside bibliographic data in order to develop a framework for comprehensively analyzing the flow from basic research to societal implementation. The paper "Advancement in Cell and Gene Therapy Research: a 35-Year Bibliometric Perspective" appeared on 10 January 2026 in Cytotherapy, with doi: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2026.102056 This research was supported by the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED) under the Acceleration Program of R&D and implementation for Regenerative Medicine and Cell and Gene Therapy (Project title: Accompanying Support to Accelerate the Social Implementation of Regenerative Medicine Research, Including Cell and Gene Therapy). "Like father, like son? Can parenting styles break the intergenerational pattern of alcohol and drug use?" A group of Brazilian researchers analyzed data on the behavior of 4,280 adolescents and their guardians based on this question, arriving at two important conclusions. Yes, parental attitudes are one of the most relevant factors in preventing alcohol and drug use among young people. However, the way guardians educate their children can significantly mitigate the risk, even in families where caregivers use these substances, including cigarettes, vapes (which are banned in Brazil), and marijuana. The reduction in risk is more significant when the relationship between generations is marked by bonding, presence, dialogue, and clear rules of conduct characteristics of the so-called "authoritative" parenting style, which combines acceptance and monitoring. Four parenting styles were analyzed in total (see table). The other styles were authoritarian, which reduced the risk of drug use but had less impact on alcohol, as well as permissive and neglectful. The latter two did not have any protective effects. Consumption profiles were divided into three groups: abstainers, those who only drink alcohol, and those who use two or more substances. Alcohol consumption by parents was associated with a 24% probability of their children using alcoholic beverages and a 6% probability of their children using two or more drugs. If guardians consume multiple substances, the risk of young people using them rises to 17% and 28%, respectively. These findings were published on the Addictive Behaviors website and are described in an article in the March issue of the scientific journal. With this study, we reinforce the fact that parents' patterns of alcohol and other drug use influence their children's. However, if they set rules and limits at home and show affection, these protective factors greatly minimize the risk they themselves pose when they consume these substances. In addition, the greatest predictor of abstinence among young people is non-use by their guardians. When they're abstinent, 89% of adolescents also don't use alcohol or other legal or illegal drugs. This was the strongest association we found." Zila Sanchez, professor in the Department of Preventive Medicine at the Sao Paulo School of Medicine of the Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP) and lead author of the article Sanchez is the coordinator of the Research Center for the Prevention of Alcohol and Other Drug Use (PREVINA) at UNIFESP and has published dozens of studies on the subject, including one in 2017, which demonstrated a gradual association between parenting styles and drug use by adolescents. At the time, the results showed that young people with negligent parents were more likely to attend class under the influence of drugs. A broader view The research is part of the project "Reducing Alcohol Consumption Among Adolescents Through a Community-Based Multicomponent Intervention," which is funded by FAPESP. FAPESP also supported the article through a postdoctoral fellowship for Luis Eduardo Soares dos Santos. The project was developed in four small municipalities in the state of Sao Paulo: Cordeiropolis, Iracemapolis, Salesopolis, and Biritiba-Mirim. It seeks to investigate effective community strategies for preventing alcohol use among adolescents and produce scientific evidence to guide public policies and prevention programs. With populations ranging from 18,000 to 25,000 residents and geographical diversity, the towns provide different contexts for these young people. "The article is based on data from what we call a needs assessment, that is, when we diagnose the situation related to adolescents in the municipality. This is the pre-intervention phase to understand what these young people and their parents are like. We use extremely consolidated instruments to measure styles, but we innovate by working with the data alongside the consumption profiles of parents and children, looking at patterns," the professor explains to Agencia FAPESP. The data were collected from 2023 to 2024 in four towns. The average age of the adolescents was 14.7 years, with nearly equal numbers of boys and girls. The most frequent behaviors among the children were alcohol consumption in the last month (19.9%) and episodic excessive consumption (11.4%). Among parents, the percentages were 56.4% and 20.3%, respectively. There was no separate analysis for whether the guardian was the father or the mother. The researchers applied Latent Class Analysis (LCA) to identify substance use profiles in both generations and modeled their association using Latent Transition Analysis (LTA). LCA is a statistical technique that identifies unobservable subgroups (latent classes) within a population based on response patterns in observed variables. It probabilistically estimates each individual belonging to these classes. LTA is also a statistical technique that identifies "hidden" groups (latent classes) and estimates the probabilities of transition between them. In longitudinal studies, these transitions represent changes over time. In this study, "transition" refers to the association between generations; that is, the probability that adolescents will belong to certain substance use profiles depending on the profile observed in their parents. The professor points out that, during the diagnostic phase, the group worked with all adolescents enrolled in schools in the four municipalities. Impacts Sanchez points out that, even in families with good parenting practices, adolescent alcohol use is associated with parental alcohol consumption, which reinforces the need for caution when normalizing this behavior at home. "When consumption is frequent and treated as something trivial, it translates into greater risk, regardless of the existing emotional bond," she adds. Alcohol is one of the main risk factors for the increase in chronic noncommunicable diseases around the world, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. In addition to physical effects, such as liver damage, cardiovascular system impairment, and increased vulnerability to infections, alcohol increases the likelihood of anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and depressive disorders. Delaying the onset of substance use among young people is considered one of the most effective strategies for reducing future consumption and subsequent harm. Epidemiological studies have shown that community-based interventions consisting of school prevention programs for adolescents, family programs, and environmental strategies for the community promote more consistent and long-term effects. In Brazil, despite the prohibition of alcohol sales to minors under 18, more than half of the population (56%) tried alcohol before that age, and 25.5% began regular drinking at that stage, according to the National Survey on Alcohol and Drugs (LENAD III), conducted by UNIFESP in partnership with the Ministry of Justice and Ipsos Public Affairs, and released in 2025. The survey shows that just over a quarter (27.6%) of adolescents aged 14 to 17 have consumed alcohol at some point in their lives, corresponding to approximately 3.2 million individuals. In the last year, 19% reported use the equivalent of 2.2 million young people. Regarding marijuana, LENAD shows that approximately 1 million adolescents have used it at some point in their lives, with half of them using it in the last year. Among the general population, nearly one in five Brazilians (18.7%) has tried at least one psychoactive substance (excluding alcohol and tobacco products). A Michigan woman recently called into The Ramsey Show because she found out a shocking secret her husband had been spending money on a woman he had been communicating with in prison. Caroline from Detroit said that her husband had been using his fun money on a prison pen pal, and that the secret relationship had been going on for three years (1). Must Read Cohosts George Kamel and Rachel Cruze were confused as to whether this was real or a scam. Caroline explained that her husband told her he came across a website, and thats how he started communicating with the woman, and he was sending her money for use in the commissary, or who knows what else. Kamel asked Caroline how she found out, and she said that she had noticed suspicious phone numbers on their phone bill, and that her husband was broke all the time and always waiting for the next allocation of his fun money. Now, Caroline wants to know how she can move on from her husbands financial and emotional infidelity, and rebuild trust. Signs of financial infidelity Financial infidelity is when someone in a relationship intentionally lies about money. This can look like buying things without telling your partner, or having accounts, credit cards or investments that you keep secret. In an article that Cruze penned for Ramsey Solutions, she distinguishes between financial irresponsibility and financial infidelity (2). Financial irresponsibility, she explains, might look like a partner eating out for lunch frequently because they always forget to pack a lunch. But financial infidelity would be a partner who has promised that they will stick to a budget when it comes to food spending, and then repeatedly eats lunch out, and hides it from their partner. While Carolines husband was spending money that they had decided as a couple was fun money, to use on whatever they wished, he was using it to secretly carry on an emotional affair. And the fact that he was always broke means he may have been spending more than fun money on this person. The fact that he hid all this from Caroline is what seals this as financial infidelity. A case like Carolines highlights how important financial transparency, compatibility and trust are to relationships. Bangladesh's new cabinet to take oath on Feb 17 Last Updated: February 15, 2026, 02:00 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Dhaka, Feb 15 (PTI) Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin will administer the oath of office to the new cabinet of BNP chairman Tarique Rahman on February 17 at the National Parliament complexs South Plaza, a deviation from the tradition of the ceremony being held at the presidential palace, according to officials. We have been informed that the President will administer the oath of office (to the new cabinet) on Tuesday at the Jatiya Sangsad (parliament) complex," a Bangabhaban (presidential palace) official said on the condition of anonymity on Saturday. According to Prothom Alo and Ittefaq newspapers, the ceremony would be followed by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin administering the oath of office to the newly elected parliament members instead of Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chowdhury, as stated in the Constitution. According to the Third Schedule of the Constitution, the CEC is the third choice for the job in the absence of the outgoing parliaments speaker and deputy speaker. Earlier, Cabinet Secretary Sheikh Abdur Rashid said that in line with the Constitution, the President would administer the oath to the new cabinet at Bangabhaban. He, however, did not give a date for the ceremony. If we are instructed or indicated that it will be held on a certain date and at a certain time, we will work accordingly. Even if it is tomorrow, we will have to prepare for tomorrow," the top bureaucrat said. The Constitution requires the cabinet oath-taking ceremony to be followed by the swearing in of new parliament members. Earlier on Saturday, one of Rahmans key aides, who did not wish to be named, said the existing scenario made things a little complicated. The speaker of the last parliament is supposed to administer the oath of office to the MPs, but she resigned and is living in an undisclosed location while the deputy speaker is in jail," he said. In these circumstances, he said, the President might select someone to administer the oath and the Constitution kept a provision for that". Meanwhile, the public administration issued a statement saying that Muhammad Yunus interim government had scrapped Cabinet Secretary Rashids contractual appointment, replacing him with Siraj Uddin Mia, who is currently serving as Chief Adviser Yunus principal secretary. Rashid, however, told reporters that he resigned a few days ago and his resignation was accepted on Saturday. Yunus interim government appointed Rashid, a retired additional secretary to the government, as the top bureaucrat on October 14, 2024, for two years. PTI AR DIV DIV First Published: February 15, 2026, 02:00 IST News agency-feeds Bangladesh's new cabinet to take oath on Feb 17 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Congress protest against deteriorating law, order situation in Uttarakhand Last Updated: February 15, 2026, 00:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Dehradun, Feb 14 (PTI) The opposition Congress protested here on Saturday against the deteriorating law and order situation in Uttarakhand. Under the leadership of State Congress President Ganesh Godiyal, party workers demonstrated and marched towards the State Police Headquarters and submitted a memorandum to Dehradun Superintendent of Police, City, Pramod Kumar. On this occasion, Godiyal said that in the last 15 days, five murders in Dehradun district and the double murder in Haldwani have shaken the entire state. He said that this has created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among the general public while the government and the police have failed miserably in handling the situation. He said that his demand is that the government should fulfill its responsibility of making the state crime free and safe, otherwise Congress will continue its struggle. Election Management Committee Chairman Harak Singh Rawat, Election Conducting Committee Chairman and MLA Pritam Singh and State Women Congress President Jyoti Rautela were also present in this demonstration. PTI DPT NB NB First Published: February 15, 2026, 00:30 IST News agency-feeds Congress protest against deteriorating law, order situation in Uttarakhand Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... EAM Jaishankar meets G7 Foreign Ministers in Munich Security Conference 2026 Last Updated: February 15, 2026, 01:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Munich [Germany], February 15 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday met with G7 Foreign Ministers at the Munich Security Conference 2026, reiterating Indias support for the UN80 agenda and underscoring New Delhis role in safeguarding global security.On the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Jaishankar held a series of bilateral meetings with counterparts, discussing economic cooperation, defence ties, and regional security challenges.In a post on X, Jaishankar said, Pleased to engage with G7 Foreign Ministers today at @MunSecConf. Reiterated Indias support of the UN@80 agenda, particularly meaningful reform of the UN Security Council."He also emphasised Indias role in safeguarding the sea lines of communication, acting as a first responder in crises, strengthening port security, and contributing to resilient submarine cable infrastructure.Emphasised our role in safeguarding sea lines of communication, serving as a first responder, strengthening port security, and contributing to resilient submarine cable infrastructure. Our conversation brought out the many convergences and shared interests between India and the G7", the post read.In a post on X, Jaishankar said he was glad to meet" Petr Macinka, the new Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the Czech Republic. He said the two leaders discussed strengthening economic and defence cooperation and expressed hope of welcoming him to India soon. First Published: February 15, 2026, 01:15 IST News agency-feeds EAM Jaishankar meets G7 Foreign Ministers in Munich Security Conference 2026 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Taiwan detects 1 Chinese aircraft, 8 vessels, 1 ship around itself Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 07:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Taipei [Taiwan], February 14 (ANI): Taiwans Ministry of National Defense detected the presence of a Chinese military aircraft and eight naval vessels and an official ship around its territorial waters as of 6 am (local time) on Saturday.Taiwans military said it monitored the situation.In a post on X, the MND said, 1 PLA aircraft, 8 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded." First Published: February 14, 2026, 07:30 IST News agency-feeds Taiwan detects 1 Chinese aircraft, 8 vessels, 1 ship around itself Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... UP: Jail inmate kills self in Orai Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 22:45 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Jalaun (UP), Feb 14 (PTI) A undertrial prisoner lodged in the Orai district jail in a POCSO case allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself in the prison toilet on Saturday, officials said. Manoj Kumar, 25, had been in judicial custody since March 2025 in connection with the case registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act at the Kalpi police station. According to District Jail Superintendent Neeraj Dev, the incident took place around 2:00 pm when Kumar went to the toilet after informing other inmates in his barrack. When he did not return for 15 minutes, the security personnel checked on him. He was found hanging," Dev said. Prison authorities rushed him to the district hospital as he was still breathing. He was later referred to the Orai Medical College, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. The jail superintendent stated that a high-level inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause of the suicide and how the inmate managed to carry out the act. We are investigating the matter thoroughly. If any negligence is found on the part of the jail staff, strict disciplinary action will be taken as per rules," he added. PTI COR CDN SKY SKY First Published: February 14, 2026, 22:45 IST News agency-feeds UP: Jail inmate kills self in Orai Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... US-Iran likely to hold nuclear deal talks on Feb 17 in Geneva Last Updated: February 15, 2026, 04:00 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Washington DC [US], February 15 (ANI): The United States and Iran are expected to hold the next round of talks over the nuclear deal on Tuesday (local time) in Geneva, Switzerland, CNN reported.According to CNN, US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to attend the meetings.This comes in the backdrop of US President Donald Trump emphasising the need for a deal with Iran, and warning that failure to reach an agreement could be traumatic."Speaking to reporters on Thursday (local time), Trump described his recent meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as very good" and said, We have to make a deal, otherwise it is going to be very traumatic (for Iran) and I dont want it to happen If they dont make a deal, it is going to be a different story. We had a very good meeting yesterday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu."Iran and the United States held the previous rounds of nuclear talks in April 2025 in Muscat, Oman, and Rome, Italy.However, on June 21-22, 2025, under Operation Midnight Hammer, the United States conducted strikes against Iranian nuclear infrastructure, targeting three key sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Iran strongly condemned the operations, denouncing them as a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter.The Iranian nuclear deal dates back to July 2015, when the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was signed between Iran and several world powers, including the United States, which capped Tehrans enrichment level at 3.67 per cent and reduced its uranium stockpile to 300 kilograms.The deal collapsed in 2018 with Trumps unilateral withdrawal of the US from the accord.Meanwhile, according to the Russian news agency TASS, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced the trilateral meetings between Ukraine, Russia, and the US would be held in Geneva on February 17-18. (ANI) First Published: February 15, 2026, 04:00 IST News agency-feeds US-Iran likely to hold nuclear deal talks on Feb 17 in Geneva Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Microsoft AI Head Says Majority Of Office Jobs May Be Automated In 12 Months Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 12:22 IST Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman warns most white-collar jobs will be automated by AI within 12 to 18 months, citing rapid advancements and global disruption across sectors. Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman In a stanch prescient warning, Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman has forewarned that most white-collar jobs will be automated within 12 months, amid the rising proficiency of Artificial Intelligence. He said that AI will reach human-level performance", posing a direct challenge to jobs that are currently being done by white-collar employees. Mustafa Suleyman, the Microsoft AI chief, said in an interview with the Financial Times that he predicts most, if not every, task in white-collar fields will be automated by AI within the next year or year and a half. So white-collar work, where youre sitting down at a computer, either being a lawyer or an accountant or a project manager or a marketing person most of those tasks will be fully automated by an AI within the next 12 to 18 months." Suleyman added in the interview. Microsoft AI CEO said that software engineering has already seen the trend, where most employees are using AI-assisted coding for the vast majority of their code production". The warning of Suleyman isnt out of thin air. Most top executives have warned of mass-level disruption globally, especially in white-collar jobs in the coming days due to AI. The ripple of impact will be observed by most sectors in the near future, even among software developer jobs. Recently, advancements in AI has triggered panic among investors of technology companies, who are doubting the business viability of these companies in the coming times when AI will be leveraged predominantly. First Published: February 14, 2026, 12:22 IST News business economy Microsoft AI Head Says Majority Of Office Jobs May Be Automated In 12 Months Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Infosys Rolls Out 85% Average Performance Bonus In Q3FY26, Best In Over 3 Years Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 13, 2026, 21:44 IST Over recent quarters, payouts had gradually improved from roughly 65 percent to 80 percent and now to an average of about 85 percent in Q3FY26. Infosys logo is seen. IT major Infosys rolled out performance bonus payouts averaging around 85 percent for the quarter ended December 31, 2025 (Q3FY26), marking the strongest variable pay outcome for eligible employees in at least the past three-and-a-half years, Moneycontrol reported citing people in the know. The bonus payout for mid- to junior-level employees ranges between 75 percent and 100 percent, with most employees clustering around the organisation-wide average of 85 percent, the report said. The development signals a steady recovery in variable compensation at the Bengaluru-headquartered IT services firm. Over recent quarters, payouts had gradually improved from roughly 65 percent to 80 percent and now to an average of about 85 percent in Q3FY26. Employees are expected to receive their bonus letters over the next few days, with the payout scheduled to be credited along with their February salary. One employee told the outlet that it is the strongest bonus outcome seen in recent years. The payout is also among the rare instances since the Covid-19 period when variable pay has approached the upper end of the eligible range. Infosys last paid out 100 percent variable compensation during the pandemic. In the quarters that followed, payouts were lower amid macroeconomic uncertainty and a broader slowdown in client spending across global markets. The higher payout comes at a time when global IT stocks have faced renewed pressure, driven by concerns over rapid advances in artificial intelligence and their potential impact on traditional IT services models. Shares of global IT firms have seen sharp sell-offs in recent weeks amid heightened investor focus on AI leaders such as Anthropic. Investors fear that generative AI tools could compress pricing, automate routine services work and reduce demand for legacy outsourcing models. Against that backdrop, the improved bonus payout at Infosys is being viewed as a signal of operational resilience and near-term performance strength, even as sentiment around the broader IT sector remains cautious. First Published: February 13, 2026, 21:44 IST News business markets Infosys Rolls Out 85% Average Performance Bonus In Q3FY26, Best In Over 3 Years Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Woman Living At Married Lover's House Murdered, Body Dumped In Septic Tank In Bhopal Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 07:18 IST Siya was found dead in a Bhopal septic tank after a dispute with Sameer, whom she met on Instagram. Sameer is absconding; his family members have been arrested. The victim had relocated to Bhopal nearly three months ago to live with her lover. (Representative image) A decomposed body of a 33-year-old woman was discovered inside a septic tank in an empty plot in Bhopals Nishatpura locality on Thursday evening, with police claiming to have solved the case within a day. Investigators describe the crime as a tragic chain of events rooted in an online relationship. The deceased has been identified as Ashrafi alias Siya, hailing from Gondia district in Maharashtra. About a year ago, she reportedly connected with the accused, Sameer, through social media platform Instagram. Their conversations developed into a relationship, prompting Siya to relocate to Bhopal nearly three months ago to reside with him in his Kamla Nagar house, where he lived with his family, NDTV reported. It is learnt that Sameer was already married and had two children, a fact that allegedly fueled frequent disputes within the household. According to police sources, frequent arguments broke out between Siya and Sameers wife during her stay. Tensions escalated as Siya reportedly insisted that Sameer marry her. Investigators claim she demanded Rs 5 lakh and threatened legal consequences if he refused. Amid the turmoil, Sameers wife is said to have left for her parents home in Jabalpur. According to police, a heated confrontation on Monday ended with Sameer allegedly strangling Siya. Authorities allege that he later involved his brother, mother, and sister in concealing the crime. The body was placed inside an iron box and dumped into a septic tank under the cover of darkness. The horrific discovery was made after children noticed a foul smell and alerted residents, who informed police. Thereafter, police reached the spot and recovered the body from the tank. Though decomposition obscured clear injury marks, officers identified Siya through a tattoo of a lamp and her birth date. Meanwhile, Sameer is absconding. Several family members of the accused have been arrested as investigations continue. Location : Bhopal, India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 07:18 IST News cities bhopal Woman Living At Married Lover's House Murdered, Body Dumped In Septic Tank In Bhopal Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... AI vs Humans: 25 Jobs At Risk Due To Artificial Intelligence Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 15:30 IST Here are 25 jobs which are at risk due to AI. However, soft skills, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence are areas where AI cannot currently match humans. AI has made significant inroads into various sectors, leading to widespread layoffs in the tech industry. (AI Generated Image) Have you experienced the impact of the digital tsunami known as Artificial Intelligence (AI)? What once seemed like a costly futuristic gadget is now entering our workplaces, not to greet us, but to take our jobs. This threat is no longer confined to factory workers but extends to the white-collar" jobs we once considered secure. AI has made significant inroads into various sectors, leading to widespread layoffs in the tech industry. Companies are urging employees to enhance their skills and become more adept with AI. From coding complexities to the creativity involved in content writing, AI has infiltrated all domains previously dominated by human intellect. 25 Jobs On AIs Radar: Who Is Most At Risk? Jobs such as data entry clerks, typists, and receptionists are among the first to be impacted. Further, roles like software testing, junior coding, and basic content writing are now under threat. Models like ChatGPT and Cloud can produce error-free code and generate articles, reducing the demand for entry-level staff. While customer support and telemarketing are fully transitioning to AI voice bots. Here are 25 jobs that are at risk due to AI: Administrative and back-office 1 Data Entry Clerk: Highest risk area. 2 Administrative and Executive Secretaries: AI is better at managing schedules and emails. 3 Accounting and bookkeeping clerks: Financial data is now balanced by AI tools. 4 Payroll Clerk: Salary and tax calculations are now fully automated. 5 Statistical and Financial Assistant: Data crunching is now AIs responsibility. Customer service and sales 6 Bank tellers and related clerks: Digital banking has reduced the need for these roles. 7 Cashiers and ticket clerks: Self-checkout machines are replacing them. 8 Postal Service Clerk: Sorting and data management are now mechanised. 9 Telemarketers: AI voice bots are now making calls in human voices. 10 Door-to-door sales: Digital marketing and AI targeting have transformed this role. Media, writing and legal 11 Proofreaders and copy editors: Grammarly and AI tools are now more accurate. 12 Translators and interpreters: Real-time AI translation is now global. 13 Junior Legal Researchers/Paralegals: Finding case studies is now a matter of seconds for AI. 14 Junior Content Writers: Basic articles are now written by chatbots. 15 Technical Writers: AI is now drafting manuals. Technical and creative 16 Software Testers (QA): Automated testing has replaced them. 17 Graphic Designers (Basic Level): AI image generators are impacting this role. 18 Data Analyst (Beginner Level): AI recognises patterns much faster. 19 Librarians and File Clerks: Digital cataloguing has become AI-based. 20 Map Makers and Cartographers: GPS and AI mapping are now real-time. Logistics and manufacturing 21 Stock Clerk and Inventory Manager: Warehouse AI now manages stock. 22 Assembly Line Workers: Robotic automation is expanding. 23 Logistics planners: Route optimisation is now handled by algorithms. 24 Insurance Claim Processors: AI is now settling claims instantly. 25 Travel Consultants: Personalised AI trip planners have reduced their relevance. How to win the war against AI? According to experts, the only people who will survive in the job sector are those who become AI-natives," reported News18 Hindi. This means learning to work with AI is no longer optional but mandatory. Soft skills, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence are areas where AI cannot currently match humans. First Published: February 14, 2026, 15:28 IST News education-career AI vs Humans: 25 Jobs At Risk Due To Artificial Intelligence Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Corn futures posted Thursday gains of 3 to 5 cents across most contracts on the day, getting spillover support from wheat and soybeans. The CmdtyView national average Cash Corn price was up 3 3/4 cents at $3.98 3/4. Export Sales data from this morning showed a total of 2.07 MMT of corn sold in the week of February 5. That was nearly double the pervious week and 25.5% larger than the same week last year. The largest buyer was Japan at 616,600 MT, with 336,800 MT sold to South Korea and 274,900MT to Colombia. Sales for 2026/27 were 60,000 MT that week. More News from Barchart CONAB trimmed their Brazilian corn crop estimate by 0.42 MMT to 138.45 MMT this morning, as the second crop was cut by 1.2 MMT. The Buenos Aires Grains Exchange estimates the Argentina corn crop at 43% good/excellent, down 1% from last week. Mar 26 Corn closed at $4.31 1/4, up 3 3/4 cents, Nearby Cash was $3.98 3/4, up 3 3/4 cents, May 26 Corn closed at $4.41 3/4, up 5 1/4 cents, Jul 26 Corn closed at $4.49 3/4, up 5 1/2 cents, On the date of publication, Austin Schroeder did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com JEE Main Result 2026 Session 1 Date And Time Update: When And Where To Check? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 12:28 IST JEE Main Result 2026 Session 1: According to NTA, the results, initially scheduled for release on February 12, will now be available by February 16, 2026. JEE Main 2026 Session 1 result expected soon at jeemain.nta.nic.in. (Representational/File Photo) The National Testing Agency will soon announce the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 results. Candidates who participated in the JEE Main 2026 exam can download their scorecards from the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in. According to NTA, the results, initially scheduled for release on February 12, will now be available by February 16, 2026. To check your results, you will need your application number and date of birth. The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 exam was conducted from January 21 to January 29, 2026. Along with the results, the NTA will also release the final answer key, enabling candidates to verify their scores accurately. The registration process for the JEE Main Session 2 exam has already commenced. The Session 2 exam is set to take place in April 2026. JEE Main Result 2026: How To Check Once the JEE Main results are released, you can download the scorecard by following these steps: Visit the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in. Click on the JEE Main Session 1 Scorecard link on the homepage. Enter your Application Number and Date of Birth. Enter the security pin and click on the Submit button. The scorecard will appear on the screen. Download it for future reference. Experts have noted that this years JEE Main paper was of moderate difficulty. The qualifying cutoff for JEE Advanced for the General category is expected to be between 91 and 93 percentile. However, the official cutoff will be announced only after the Session 2 results are out. Students whose scores did not meet their expectations in the first session of JEE Main 2026 need not worry. They have the chance to appear in the second session of JEE Main, for which registration is ongoing. The NTA selects a students best score from both sessions, determining the final All India Rank (AIR) based on that. Therefore, after checking the JEE Main results, students should focus on their weaknesses and prepare thoroughly for their next opportunity. First Published: February 14, 2026, 12:13 IST News education-career JEE Main Result 2026 Session 1 Date And Time Update: When And Where To Check? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... PM Modi Inaugurates India's 22nd IIM Campus In Assam Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 17:26 IST The countrys 22nd Indian Institute of Management (IIM) will be established in Guwahati, with an investment of Rs 555 crore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Assam on Saturday. (File) Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated several projects in Assam on Saturday, including a new campus for the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) for the northeastern region. The Prime Minister virtually inaugurated the temporary campus of IIM Guwahati, which is expected to significantly boost higher and management education in the Northeast. The central government approved the establishment of an IIM in Guwahati last year. This is the second IIM in the Northeast and the 22nd in the country, with the first located in Shillong. The permanent campus will be developed at Palasbari near Guwahati, while the institute will begin its academic session at a transit campus in Tech City, Bongora. IIM Ahmedabad will oversee the temporary arrangements, according to an Assam government official. The countrys 22nd Indian Institute of Management (IIM) will be established in Guwahati, with an investment of Rs 555 crore. The Indian Institutes of Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was approved by Parliament last August, allowing the new institution to start admitting students already. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had earlier stated that the establishment of IIM-Guwahati will contribute to Indias goal of becoming the worlds third-largest economy, reported PTI. This will be the ninth IIM set up since Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in 2014. The minister noted that from 1961 to 2014, only 13 IIMs were established, whereas the number of students has significantly increased from 3,500 in 2013-14 to 9,800 in 2024-25. The Prime Minister also virtually inaugurated the National Data Centre (NDC) for the northeastern region, set up with an investment of Rs 348 crore at Amingaon in Kamrup district, Assam. The state-of-the-art data centre, with a total sanctioned load of 8.5 MW and an average rack capacity of 10 kW per rack, will host mission-critical applications of various government departments and act as a disaster recovery centre for other NDCs. This will enable governments in the Northeast to digitally facilitate the delivery of essential citizen-centric services, stated the PMO, PTI reported. The PM also inaugurated a bridge over the Brahmaputra River. These initiatives, launched months before the Assam assembly elections, aim to enhance connectivity, improve digital infrastructure, promote higher education, and bolster public transport. First Published: February 14, 2026, 17:26 IST News education-career PM Modi Inaugurates India's 22nd IIM Campus In Assam Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Jamaat, Jamiat And Bangladesh Ballot: Untangling South Asias Islamist Web Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 08:00 IST The connection between the various Jamaats and Jamiats in the subcontinent is primarily genealogical and ideological rather than organisational Jamaat-e-Islami supporters hold a protest rally at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque in Dhaka. File pic/AFP In the complex landscape of South Asian political Islam, the terms Jamaat" and Jamiat" are frequently conflated, yet they represent two distinct pillars of thought with different origins, structures, and objectives. While both terms are derived from ArabicJamaat meaning a society or group, and Jamiat meaning an assembly or leaguethe organisations they represent in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are connected more by a shared historical lineage than by a single cross-border hierarchy. Bangladeshs Jamaat and the Electoral Margins This divergence is most visible in the context of the Bangladesh general elections. The Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has long been a lightning rod for controversy due to its opposition to the 1971 liberation war. In recent years, it has faced significant state pressure, including bans and the execution of senior leaders for war crimes. During the recent polls, the organisation found itself largely sidelined from the mainstream democratic process, reflecting the ongoing struggle between secular statehood and religious political identity in Dhaka. Ultimately, while the Jamaat" name carries a heavy ideological weight across the subcontinent, each entity is a product of its own nations unique political journey. JMB: Violent Fringe While the mainstream Jamaat-e-Islami operates within the political and social fabric of the subcontinent, the Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) represents a violent, fringe departure from that model. Founded in 1998 by Shaikh Abdur Rahman, JMB is a proscribed Sunni extremist group that rejects democracy as un-Islamic" and seeks to establish a Sharia-based state in Bangladesh through armed militancy. The group gained global notoriety on August 17, 2005, when it orchestrated a near-simultaneous detonation of approximately 460 small bombs across 63 of Bangladeshs 64 districts within a single 30-minute window. This unprecedented show of force targeted the nations judiciary, administrative buildings, and secular institutions. Despite the execution of its top leadership in 2007, the group has proven resilient by evolving into Neo-JMB", a more radicalised faction that pledged allegiance to ISIS and was blamed for the horrific 2016 Holey Artisan Bakery attack in Dhaka. Unlike the traditional Jamaat, which maintains a public presence, JMB operates as a clandestine terror network with deep transnational links, extending its recruitment and fundraising efforts into the Indian states of West Bengal and Assam. Maududis Vanguard: The Birth of Jamaat-e-Islami The ideological behemoth of the group is Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), a pan-Islamic movement founded in 1941 by the philosopher Maulana Abul Ala Maududi. Unlike traditional religious groups led by clerics, JI was conceived as a vanguard party" of educated Muslims aimed at Islamisation from above". Maududis ideology was revolutionary for its time; he argued that Islam was not merely a set of rituals but a complete political system, asserting the sovereignty of God over human-made laws. Initially, Maududi opposed the Partition of India, viewing nationalism as a concept that divided the global Muslim community. However, after 1947, the organisation fractured into independent national entities: Jamaat-e-Islami Hind in India and Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan. Later, following the 1971 war, the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami emerged as a separate sovereign body. Jamiat Ulema: The Clerical Counterpoint In contrast, Jamiat usually refers to Jamiat Ulema, meaning the Assembly of Islamic Scholars". These groups are primarily led by the Ulema (clerics) of the Deobandi school of thought. The most prominent of these, Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind (JUH), was a major ally of the Indian National Congress during the freedom struggle and famously championed composite nationalism", arguing that Muslims and Hindus could coexist in a single secular nation. Its counterpart in Pakistan, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), followed a different path, becoming a powerful political player that advocates for a more traditionalist Islamic state. Ideological Cousins, Not a Unified Command The connection between these various Jamaats and Jamiats is primarily genealogical and ideological rather than organisational. While they all emerged in undivided India to address the crisis of modernity" under British rule, they differ significantly in their approach. Jamaat-e-Islami is a modern ideological movement seeking to reform the state, whereas Jamiat is a clerical body focused on safeguarding traditional religious law. They do not share a high command," and their national branches often take divergent political stances based on their specific domestic contexts. First Published: February 14, 2026, 08:00 IST News explainers Jamaat, Jamiat And Bangladesh Ballot: Untangling South Asias Islamist Web Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... McDonalds Under Scanner Over Reused Oil, Rotten Tomatoes: How To Check If Your McAloo Tikki Burger Is Fresh? Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 13:56 IST A McDonalds outlet in Jaipur has been issued a warning after officials found reused cooking oil and rotten tomatoes during an inspection. Authorities have given the outlet 14 days to fix the issues or face stricter action. (Facebook/Feedmile) Food safety officials have issued a warning to a McDonalds outlet in Jaipur after an inspection found problems in the kitchen. The outlet was checked on February 9 in Rajasthans capital city. During the visit, officers found cooking oil that had been reused several times and was not fit for consumption. They also found rotten tomatoes kept in storage. Samples of the oil were taken for further testing. Oil And Tomatoes Found During Inspection Government food safety officer Sushil Chotwani said 40 litres of oil had been repeatedly used for cooking, as per Reuters. This was against food safety rules. Because of this, officials collected oil samples and sent them for testing. The outlet has been given 14 days to correct its practices. If it fails to do so, stricter action may follow. Officials also said more McDonalds outlets in Jaipur will be inspected. McDonalds franchise for North and East India, Connaught Plaza Restaurants, said it is reportedly cooperating with authorities and follows rigorous McDonalds global standards." The companys US spokesperson did not respond to queries outside business hours. Food safety issues are often reported in India, but cases involving major brands are not common. McDonalds is one of the countrys most popular fast-food chains, with hundreds of outlets. What Food Safety Standards Mean Food safety standards are rules made by governments and global bodies to make sure food is safe to eat. These rules cover how food is stored, cooked, packed and served. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) sets these rules. There are also global guidelines from organisations like the World Health Organisation (WHO). These standards aim to reduce the risk of contamination and prevent food-related illnesses. Restaurants must make sure ingredients are fresh, storage is clean, and cooking practices are safe. Reusing oil beyond limits or keeping spoiled food breaks these rules. Which Cooking Oils Are Better For Health Some cooking oils are considered better because they contain healthier fats and less saturated fat. According to the American Heart Association, common healthier options include: Canola oil, Corn oil, Olive oil, Peanut oil, Safflower oil, Soybean oil, Sunflower oil, and Vegetable oil. Blended vegetable oils and cooking sprays made from these oils are also good choices. Other oils like avocado, grapeseed, rice bran and sesame oil can also be healthy but may cost more. Is It Safe To Reuse Fried Oil? Many people reuse oil at home after frying snacks like puris or pakoras. However, reheating oil again and again can be harmful. Studies show that reheating oil can release toxic substances and increase free radicals in the body. This may lead to inflammation and long-term health problems. FSSAI guidelines say reheating should be avoided. If oil must be reused, it should not be used more than three times to prevent the formation of trans fats. Repeated heating can also reduce healthy fats and increase harmful ones. If oil smells bad, becomes very dark, or starts smoking quickly, it should be thrown away. What Fast-Food Lovers Should Keep In Mind People who enjoy fast food can make better choices by being careful about what they order. Look for food made fresh, such as salads, soups or smoothies. Adding greens can improve the meals nutrition. Choosing vegetarian or vegan options may reduce saturated fat intake. It is better to avoid fried foods, as commercial kitchens often heat oil at very high temperatures, which can create trans fats. Instead of fries, one can pick baked options or a side salad. Healthier Swaps For Junk Food Small changes can make a big difference. Some simple alternatives include: Kale chips instead of potato chips Baked veggie fries instead of French fries Yogurt fruit pops instead of ice cream Black bean brownies instead of cakes Homemade smoothies instead of milkshakes Chocolate-dipped nuts instead of candy Fruity sparkling water instead of soda. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 13:55 IST News explainers McDonalds Under Scanner Over Reused Oil, Rotten Tomatoes: How To Check If Your McAloo Tikki Burger Is Fresh? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Arundhati Roy Withdraws From Berlin Film Festival Over Jurys Stay Out Of Politics Remarks Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 09:08 IST Roy was set to present the restored 1989 film In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones, but withdrew after jury chief Wim Wenders comments on filmmakers and the Gaza conflict. Arundhati Roy Award-winning Indian author Arundhati Roy has pulled out of the Berlin International Film Festival, saying comments made by the events jury about politics and cinema left her disturbed. Roy was scheduled to attend the festival to present a restored version of the 1989 film In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones, a project she both wrote and acted in. However, she announced she would no longer participate after a press conference where jury president Wim Wenders spoke about the role of filmmakers during discussions on the Gaza conflict. When asked about Germanys support for Israel, Wenders said cinema should not enter the political arena and described filmmakers as a counterweight to politics". Roy Says Remarks Were Shocking In a statement, Roy said she felt shocked and disgusted" by the replies from the jury. She added that hearing artists say cinema should remain outside politics was jaw-dropping". Calling the remarks unconscionable", she said such positions made her reconsider attending the event. Roy also described Israels actions in Gaza as genocide and said history would judge artists who refused to speak openly. Festival Reaction Organisers said they respected her decision, while expressing regret that her presence would not be part of the discussions at the event. Two restored films by late Egyptian filmmakers Sad Song of Touha by Atteyat Al Abnoudy and The Dislocation of Amber by Hussein Shariffe were also withdrawn over the festivals stance. Continuing Controversy The Berlin Film Festival has long presented programmes linked to contemporary social issues, but this years edition has seen tensions over the Gaza war. Similar disputes emerged in 2024 when award-winning documentary No Other Land sparked criticism from German officials for remarks made during the ceremony. The conflict itself began after Hamass October 7, 2023 attack on Israel that killed more than 1,200 people, followed by Israels military response in Gaza that has led to tens of thousands of deaths, according to official figures. First Published: February 14, 2026, 09:08 IST News india Arundhati Roy Withdraws From Berlin Film Festival Over Jurys Stay Out Of Politics Remarks Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Bomb Threat Written With Lipstick Forces IndiGo Kolkata-Dibrugarh Flight To Make Emergency Landing Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 23:13 IST IndiGo flight made an emergency landing after a bomb threat written with lipstick was found in the lavatory. No explosives detected. Investigation underway. Representative image (PTI) An IndiGo flight was forced to make an emergency landing after a bomb threat was discovered written with lipstick inside the aircrafts lavatory, triggering a full security response. According to reports, the message was found mid-flight, prompting the crew to alert air traffic control and follow standard emergency protocols. The aircraft was diverted to the nearest airport as a precaution. Security Sweep Conducted Upon landing, passengers were safely deboarded and the plane was isolated for inspection. Security agencies, including bomb detection and disposal squads, carried out a thorough search of the aircraft and baggage. Authorities later confirmed that no explosives were found on board. The threat was deemed a hoax. Investigation Underway Officials have launched an investigation to identify the person responsible for writing the message. CCTV footage from the airport and statements from passengers and crew are being reviewed. Airlines treat all bomb threats as serious security risks, even when they turn out to be false alarms, given the potential threat to passenger safety. IndiGo has not reported any injuries, and affected passengers were accommodated on alternative arrangements following the security clearance. The incident adds to a growing number of hoax bomb threats targeting flights in recent months, prompting tighter vigilance across Indian airports. Location : Kolkata [Calcutta], India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 23:13 IST News india Bomb Threat Written With Lipstick Forces IndiGo Kolkata-Dibrugarh Flight To Make Emergency Landing Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Brief Mid-Air Scare As Indigo Flight Fails To Land In First Attempt At Raipur Airport Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 23:04 IST The ATR aircraft, arriving from Bhopal, approached the runway at around 2:50 pm but was unable to complete the landing due to unspecified reasons. Airport officials confirmed that the scheduled return service to Bhopal was cancelled following the incident. (Representative image/PTI) An IndiGos scheduled return flight to Bhopal was cancelled on Saturday after it failed to land on its first attempt at Raipurs Swami Vivekananda Airport, officials said. The ATR aircraft, arriving from Bhopal, approached the runway at around 2:50 pm but was unable to complete the landing due to unspecified reasons. The pilot then executed a go-around procedure, keeping the aircraft airborne for several minutes before making a safe landing on the second attempt, news agency PTI reported. Airport officials confirmed that the scheduled return service to Bhopal was cancelled following the incident without providing more details. A passenger on board said the aircraft briefly touched down before lifting off again, causing momentary concern among those on board. The situation was brought under control after the safe landing, and no injuries were reported. In another incident, a bomb scare was reported at Kolkatas Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Saturday after a handwritten note claiming the presence of a bomb was found inside a Shillong-bound IndiGo aircraft, officials said. The note was found in the lavatory of IndiGo flight 6E 7304, which was scheduled to depart for Shillong at around 9:15 am. Airport authorities said the message was spotted by a crew member during the boarding process, before the aircraft took off. Following the alert, all passengers were safely deboarded and the aircraft was moved to an isolation bay as a precautionary measure. (With inputs from agencies) Location : Raipur, India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 23:04 IST News india Brief Mid-Air Scare As Indigo Flight Fails To Land In First Attempt At Raipur Airport Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Decoding The China Angle Behind Northeast's First Emergency Runway On A Highway In Assam Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 12:23 IST According to officials, the project will help to strengthen defence preparedness and facilitate rapid deployments in emergency situations, including disaster relief Rapid Read An IAF helicopter during an aerial show at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) in Dibrugarh district, Assam. (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday made a historic landing at the Northeasts first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) in Assams Dibrugarh, marking the inauguration of a strategic new road-cum-runway. The C-130J aircraft made a landing on a specially reinforced 4.2-kilometre stretch of National Highway-37 at Moran, which has been constructed to enable both military and civilian aircraft to land and take off in emergency situations. The highway airstrip, constructed at a cost of approximately Rs 100 crore, is the first of its kind in the Indias Northeast and is expected to improve the logistics and security infrastructure in a region that is strategically close to the India-China border. Today, as Adarniya @narendramodi ji touched down on the Moran Emergency Landing Facility, built on the Dibrugarh-Moran Highway, it marks a PARADIGM shift in how Bharat is decisively securing the North East Frontier, where the wounds of 1962 are etched in many of our memories. pic.twitter.com/6tJpvaoMdi Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) February 14, 2026 According to officials, the project will help to strengthen defence preparedness and facilitate rapid deployments in emergency situations, including disaster relief. The move is important as it represents Indias efforts to enhance its defence preparedness as well as develop the infrastructure in the region. The Chinese have been actively developing infrastructure on their side of the border, which allows them to mobilise their forces quickly. This is a challenge that the Indian government is trying to overcome by developing its own infrastructure in the Northeast. The highway airstrips, such as the one at Moran, will allow the Indian Air Force to function from several locations, unlike the current situation where the IAF has to use a few air bases. In the event of a war, the airfields could be destroyed or congested, but the highway airstrips will provide the much-needed redundancy. The capability to land and take off from a major highway will improve the logistical response in difficult terrain and enable the quick movement of troops towards the border regions that are under Chinese pressure. The development of the ELF is also a symbol of the Indian governments efforts to fill the infrastructure deficit in the Northeast, which is landlocked and connected to the rest of the country only through the Siliguri Corridor, referred to as the Chickens Neck", that is only 20-25 km wide at its narrowest point. In contrast, Chinas development of infrastructure in Tibet has enhanced its military capabilities. The Moran highway airstrip, for example, enables India to equalise capabilities, signal a deterrent effect, and enhance defence preparedness in a region where any delay in response time could be costly. Through the development of infrastructure in the region itself, such as dual-use roads and landing strips, India can reduce its reliance on long supply chains. Location : Assam, India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 12:21 IST News india Decoding The China Angle Behind Northeast's First Emergency Runway On A Highway In Assam Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... From Emergency Landing Facility To Rs 3,000-Crore Bridge: PM Modis Big Infra Push In Assam Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 13:41 IST PM Modi will inaugurate a new emergency landing facility in Moran and Rs 3,000-crore Brahmaputra bridge in Guwahati during his Assam visit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down in Moran, Assam, marking the first use of the Northeasts inaugural Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) by a C-130J aircraft. Earlier, in a post on X, he noted that the facility would play a crucial role in disaster response by allowing faster deployment of rescue and relief teams during emergencies. The Rs 100-crore facility stretches 4.2 kilometres and is designed for aircraft landings during emergencies. After the inauguration, he will watch a 20-minute aerial display featuring fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters. PM Modi In Guwahati PM Modi inaugurated the Rs 3,000-crore Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu across the Brahmaputra river in Guwahati. The 1.24-km bridge links Guwahati with North Guwahati and is expected to improve regional connectivity and city traffic movement. The project has been built in one of the countrys most difficult riverine conditions. CM Himanta Biswa Shares Pictures Online Ahead of the inauguration, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared some pictures of Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu, Guwahati, and wrote, Infrastructure that goes hard." Infrastructure that goes hard Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu, Guwahati pic.twitter.com/V1kaavX0dj Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) February 14, 2026 In a second post, he extended a welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and wrote,"A warm welcome to Adarniya Pradhan Mantri Shri @narendramodi ji to the sacred land of Maa Kamakhya and Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev. Assam eagerly awaits the inauguration of landmark projects that will power connectivity, technology and growth across our state." A warm welcome to Adarniya Pradhan Mantri Shri @narendramodi ji to the sacred land of Maa Kamakhya and Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev.Assam eagerly awaits the inauguration of landmark projects that will power connectivity, technology and growth across our state.#PMModiInAssam pic.twitter.com/t9aC4ayaef Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) February 14, 2026 Benefits And Design The bridge is expected to reduce travel time, ease congestion and support the movement of commuters, goods vehicles and long-distance travellers. Engineers used an extradosed design instead of a conventional suspension structure to provide greater strength and durability while enabling faster construction over the wide river span. After completing the inaugurations, the Prime Minister will also address BJP party workers as part of his visit. Location : Assam, India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 09:39 IST News india From Emergency Landing Facility To Rs 3,000-Crore Bridge: PM Modis Big Infra Push In Assam Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Indian Armys Southern Command Hosts JAI Se VIJAI Seminar To Chart Future Of Joint Warfare Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: February 15, 2026, 02:34 IST Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, in his keynote address, emphasised that future readiness would depend on technology absorption and institutional transformation Participants engaged in interactive discussions and generated recommendations, including interoperable systems, integrated planning frameworks, and faster adoption of indigenous technologies. Image/News18 The Indian Armys Southern Command hosted a two-day JAI se VIJAI" Seminar 2026 in Pune, bringing together senior military officers, veterans, scientists, defence industry leaders, start-ups, and academics to deliberate on the future preparedness of Indias Armed Forces. The seminar revolved around the concept of JAIJointness, Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) and Innovationdescribed as the pathway to building an integrated and technologically empowered force aligned with Indias long-term security vision. Opening the seminar, Southern Command chief Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth said the changing nature of warfare demands forces that are integrated and innovation-driven. He noted that modern conflicts increasingly span land, air, maritime, cyber and space domains, making joint operational capability critical. Calling JAI a practical framework rather than a slogan, he said it would guide how the Armed Forces train, equip and operate in the coming decades. Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, in his keynote address, emphasised that future readiness would depend on technology absorption and institutional transformation. He stressed that joint operations, indigenous capability and faster innovation cycles are essential to maintain operational advantage. The seminar featured three thematic sessions. The first focused on operational integration and cross-domain synergy, highlighting the need for institutionalised joint structures and coordinated operational planning. The second session discussed strengthening indigenous defence capability through research, manufacturing ecosystems, and resilient supply chains, with greater collaboration between the Armed Forces, DRDO, industry, and start-ups. The final session examined military-civil fusion as a force multiplier, stressing cooperation among government agencies, academia, and private technology sectors to accelerate defence innovation and capability development. Participants engaged in interactive discussions and generated recommendations, including interoperable systems, integrated planning frameworks, and faster adoption of indigenous technologies. Southern Command said the seminar helped build a shared understanding of future force transformation priorities and reaffirmed its commitment to professional military dialogue to keep Indias Armed Forces prepared for emerging multi-domain security challenges. First Published: February 15, 2026, 02:34 IST News india Indian Armys Southern Command Hosts JAI Se VIJAI Seminar To Chart Future Of Joint Warfare Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... An aisle in a Costco full of various food products - Iv-olga/Shutterstock Costco has been doing well over the years and is looking to expand and add processes to help the profits keep rolling in while also benefiting its customers. For the new year, Costco has announced some major changes it's looking to implement. For example, as added benefits for those with an executive annual subscription, they will get discounts for an Instacart membership, more time to shop, and deals for RVs from Camping World. Additionally, for those who have the Costco Anywhere Visa, they can get more cash back in 2026, with a slight increase at gas pumps, taking it from 4% to 5%. All of these benefits go along with previous implementations, such as the home improvement services that will help you get the most out of your Costco membership. There is also a focus on making the cost of prescriptions even more transparent. For those working at Costco, they can look at raises as part of the three-year employee agreement started in 2025. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg for what Costco has coming in 2026. Many of the changes focus on expanding, making life easier for members, and keeping costs low through various methods, including bringing in new technology and implementing faster checkout processes. Read more: 15 Affordable Dollar Tree Home Items You Should Leave On The Shelf Costco is improving checkout times and building more stores A series of cars in front of a Costco gas station, with all spots full - Fang Zheng/Getty Images The company has been testing out a scanning technology to make checking out simpler. As customers shop, they can scan their items, which then makes the whole process much quicker. When they have paid, a QR code will appear on their app saying that the payment has been completed. Then, it can be scanned at the exit to make for a less painful receipt verification process and help speed up the lines to leave. For those who don't use the Scan & Go technology, there are changes being made to checkout as well. Before, scanning products at the register couldn't be started until a membership card was scanned. However, the CEO of Costco, Ron Vachris, said (via Seeking Alpha) that they are "allowing our employees to scan small- and medium-sized transactions while the member is still in line. So upon reaching the cashier, nothing has to be removed from the cart, and only payment is needed." Another perk for Costco members is the addition of new warehouses, and, by the end of April 2026, the company should have additional stores in Roseville and North Visalia, California; Liberty Hill, New Braunfels, and Forney, Texas; St. George, Utah; and a Winnipeg Business Center in Manitoba. Since one of the biggest mistakes to avoid when shopping at Costco's home section is not comparing the in-store and online prices, having a warehouse nearby could be a major benefit. The company is also looking at opening up stand-alone gas stations. India's Oil Procurement Based On National Interest: Jaishankar After India-US Trade Deal Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 23:25 IST S Jaishankar said that oil companies in India, Europe and elsewhere make purchasing decisions based on market factors and what best serves their interests. File photo of EAM S Jaishankar (X/@DrSJaishankar) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has once again reiterated New Delhis position on procuring oil from Russia saying that oil purchasing decisions are based on market factors and what best serves the nations interests. While speaking at the Munich Security Conference 2026, where he participated in a roundtable discussion titled Delhi Decides: Mapping Indias Policy Calculus hosted by Ananta Aspen, Jaishankar spoke about the the issue of Russian oil imports, and said that oil companies in India, Europe and elsewhere make purchasing decisions based on market factors and what best serves their interests. Jaishankar also reiterated Indias stance that it retains the right to act in accordance with its national priorities. He also underlined that the government will continue to exercise strategic autonomy in determining its energy security policies. His remarks came days after US reportedly offered India to resume purchases of Venezuelan crude as Washington looks to redirect supplies and curb Russian oil revenues. After the announcement of the India-US trade deal, India now finds itself balancing between two major crude suppliers, Russia and Venezuela. The US announced a cut in tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%, contingent upon Indias commitment to halt purchases of Russian crude and explore other sources, including Venezuelan oil. While Indian officials have acknowledged ongoing discussions, final policy decisions on volumes and contracts are yet to be formalised. Donald Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs in March 2025 on countries purchasing Venezuelan crude, including India, while escalating action against Venezuela and its leader, Nicolas Maduro, whom US forces captured on January 3. Since then, Washington has begun directing Caracas government and plans to oversee the countrys oil industry indefinitely, the Reuters sources said. The effort to steer Venezuelan oil toward India is also tied to US attempts to reduce Russian export revenues funding the war in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Trump hailed a dramatic shift in Venezuela, saying that oil is beginning to flow again and that relations with the country are extraordinary" under its current leadership. His remarks come after US launched strikes in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of longtime leader Nicolas Maduro, who was flown to New York to face federal charges. Meanwhile, the Kremlin said that India is free to buy oil from any country, and there is nothing new in its decision to diversify crude suppliers. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia was not the only supplier of oil and petroleum products to India and never had been. India has always purchased these products from other countries. Therefore, we see nothing new here," he told. First Published: February 14, 2026, 22:56 IST News india India's Oil Procurement Based On National Interest: Jaishankar After India-US Trade Deal Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Pulwama Attack Anniversary: PM Modi Leads Nation In Honouring Fallen Heroes; Alert In J&K | Updates Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 10:25 IST Security has been beefed up in Jammu and Kashmir on the seventh anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack. Rapid Read High alert in Jammu and Kashmir today. (Image: PTI) As the nation observes the seventh anniversary of the 2019 Pulwama terror attack on Saturday, one of the deadliest strikes on security forces in recent history, authorities have heightened security across Jammu and Kashmir. Security forces conducted extensive checks in Srinagar and other parts of the Union Territory. In the commercial hub of Lal Chowk, police teams conducted surprise inspections at hotels on Friday, verifying guests identification documents and examining their luggage. Similar vigilance measures were reported from Kulgam and other districts, with the region placed on high alert. VIDEO | Srinagar: Security forces conduct searches at hotels near Ghanta Ghar as the city remains on high alert ahead of February 14, marking eight years since the Pulwama attack.(Full video available on https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/heLOPBkLI1 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 13, 2026 All About Pulwama Terror Attack On February 14, 2019, a suicide bomber rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a convoy of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in Pulwama district, killing 40 personnel and injuring many others. The attack sent shockwaves across the country and triggered a sharp escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan. In response to the attack, the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched multiple aerial strikes on February 26, 2019, targeting Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camps in Balakot, Pakistan. The pre-dawn strikes were described as having caused significant damage to terror infrastructure. The following day, heightened tensions led to aerial engagements after Pakistan attempted to target Indian military installations in Jammu and Kashmir. During the air combat, Abhinandan Varthaman, flying a MiG-21 Bison, chased Pakistani jets across the Line of Control. His jet was subsequently shot down in Pakistan-administered territory, and he was taken into custody. India also reported downing a Pakistani fighter aircraft during the confrontation. After diplomatic efforts, Abhinandan was released and returned to India a few days later. Pulwama Terror Attack: Tributes Pour In Political leaders across the spectrum paid homage to the fallen soldiers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the attack, remembering their sacrifice and unwavering commitment to the nation. Remembering the brave heroes who laid down their lives in Pulwama on this day in 2019. Their devotion, resolve and service to the nation remain forever etched in our collective consciousness. Every Indian draws strength from their enduring courage. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 14, 2026 In a message shared on X, Prime Minister Modi said their devotion, resolve and service would remain forever etched in the countrys collective consciousness, adding that every Indian continues to draw strength and inspiration from their enduring courage. Remembering the brave heroes who laid down their lives in Pulwama on this day in 2019. Their devotion, resolve and service to the nation remain forever etched in our collective consciousness. Every Indian draws strength from their enduring courage," PM Modi tweeted. Home Minister Amit Shah Pays Tribute In a post on X, Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the courage and dedication of the soldiers martyred in the terror attack. , Amit Shah (@AmitShah) February 14, 2026 I pay homage to the brave soldiers who were martyred in the Pulwama terrorist attack, remembering their valour. Terrorism is the greatest enemy of humanity, and India is firmly determined to eradicate it completely. The country will always remain indebted to the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of our security forces and security agencies that confront terrorism," Union Home Minister tweeted. S Jaishankar Vows Zero Tolerance Against Terror External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also paid tributes to the fallen soldiers, highlighting their bravery and sacrifice. In a tweet, the EAM said their courage reinforces Indias determination to maintain a zero-tolerance stance against cross-border terrorism. Tributes to the brave jawans who laid down their lives at Pulwama.Their sacrifice strengthens our resolve to pursue zero tolerance against cross-border terrorism. Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 14, 2026 Tributes to the brave jawans who laid down their lives at Pulwama. Their sacrifice strengthens our resolve to pursue zero tolerance against cross-border terrorism," the post read. Rajnath Singh Reaffirms Indias Anti-Terror Resolve While paying tribute to the brave martyrs, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh remembered their sacrifice, emphasising that the nation stands united with their families and remains resolute in combating terrorism. Remembering and paying my heartfelt tributes to the brave CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the cowardly terror attack in Pulwama on 14 February 2019. The nation stands united in honouring their memory and in solidarity with their families. Their sacrifice remains a reminder of the grave threats posed by terrorism to our nation," he tweeted. Singh reaffirmed the governments commitment to ensuring Indias safety and security. India remains unwavering in its resolve to combat and eradicate terrorism in all its forms. Our Government is committed to further strengthen our collective resolve for making India safe and secure," he further wrote. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath saluted the brave sons of Mother India" and reiterated the resolve to eradicate terrorism. Salutations to all the brave sons of Mother India who made the supreme sacrifice in the cowardly terrorist attack in Pulwama. The sacrifice of our immortal soldiers is the proclamation of that invincible resolve of Indian valour, which forever inspires us to eradicate terrorism from its roots," CM Adityanath tweeted. Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan and Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar also remembered the martyrs, calling their sacrifice a lasting inspiration for a stronger and more secure nation. I pay homage to the brave personnel who laid down their lives in the Pulwama terror attack. Their supreme sacrifice will forever remain etched in the nations memory and continues to inspire us to build a strong and secure India. Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) February 14, 2026 I pay homage to the brave personnel who laid down their lives in the Pulwama terror attack. Their supreme sacrifice will forever remain etched in the nations memory and continues to inspire us to build a strong and secure India," Vice-President Radhakrishnan wrote in a post on X. The Pulwama Attack claimed the lives of our brave CRPF personnel, but their spirit lives on. Their courage reminds us of the price of peace and the strength of our unity. On this Black Day, we honour their sacrifice and keep their memory alive," Shivakumar tweeted. Congress leader and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi also paid tributes to the fallen soldiers. My heartfelt tributes to our brave soldiers who were martyred in the daring terrorist attack in Pulwama in 2019. The nation will forever remain indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice in the defence of Mother India," he tweeted. Location : Jammu and Kashmir, India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 08:21 IST News india Pulwama Attack Anniversary: PM Modi Leads Nation In Honouring Fallen Heroes; Alert In J&K | Updates Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... S Jaishankar Meets Canadian FM Anita Anand, Says Bilateral Ties Continue To Progress Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 22:41 IST S Jaishankar met Anita Anand, highlighting productive talks and steady progress in India-Canada relations. Rapid Read Jaishankar also shared a photograph from the meeting showing him with Anand. (X/@DrSJaishankar) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday met his Canadian counterpart Anita Anand, signalling continued improvement in bilateral ties between the two countries. In a post on X, Jaishankar said, Was great to sit down and catch up with FM @AnitaAnandMP of Canada. India-Canada ties continue their steady progress." Jaishankar also shared a photograph from the meeting showing him with Anand. Was great to sit down and catch up with FM @AnitaAnandMP of Canada.India-Canada ties continue their steady progress. pic.twitter.com/HeLgDdmoi4 Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 14, 2026 Jaishankar also met his counterparts from the G7 countries as he reiterated Indias support for reform of the UN Security Council (UNSC) at the Munich Security Conference. The meeting comes after India concluded a free trade agreement (FTA) with the 27-nation European Union in January. In a social media post, Jaishankar said he was pleased to engage with G7 Foreign Ministers and reiterated Indias support of the UN@80 agenda, particularly meaningful reform of the UN Security Council. The external affairs minister said he emphasised Indias role in safeguarding sea lines of communication, serving as a first responder, strengthening port security, and contributing to resilient submarine cable infrastructure". Our conversation brought out the many convergences and shared interests between India and the G7," the minister added. Jaishankar kicked off his participation at the Munich Security Conference with a roundtable titled Delhi Decided: Mapping Indias Policy Calculus", hosted by the non-partisan Ananta Aspen Centre. The external affairs minister said he highlighted the importance of a nimble and dynamic foreign policy to meet the demands of multipolarity". The 62nd Munich Security Conference is being held from February 13 to 15, with nearly 50 heads of state and government expected to attend. The gathering includes leaders from across Europe, along with a sizable German delegation headed by Chancellor Friedrich Merz. First Published: February 14, 2026, 22:41 IST News india S Jaishankar Meets Canadian FM Anita Anand, Says Bilateral Ties Continue To Progress Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... On Quad Summit, Jaishankar Says Stay Tuned, Insists It Was Never Cancelled Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 21:11 IST S Jaishankar was speaking at the Munich Security Conference 2026, where he participated in a roundtable discussion titled Delhi Decides: Mapping Indias Policy Calculus'. EAM S Jaishankar In his first remarks on the Quad Summit following the India-US trade deal developments, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday clarified that the Quad summit was never cancelled," pushing back against speculation about the groupings trajectory. While speaking at the Munich Security Conference 2026, where he participated in a roundtable discussion titled Delhi Decides: Mapping Indias Policy Calculus hosted by Ananta Aspen, Jaishankar addressed questions regarding the Quad saying that the summit was never cancelled, however it was never specifically scheduled. The Quad summit was never cancelled. It was never specifically scheduled. Yes, it did not take place but I wont over read Quad not happening at a summit level," he said. Jaishankar further emphasised continued engagement within the group and highlighted that his first meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio took place in the Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting (FMM) format. We had two Quad FMMs. Other mechanisms are going on," he said, underlining that cooperation among the four countries remains active through multiple channels. Downplaying concerns over the absence of a leaders summit, the Union Minister signaled continuity rather than disruption in Quad engagements. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, comprising India, the United States, Japan and Australia, has been central to Indo-Pacific cooperation on maritime security, supply chains, critical technologies and regional stability. Jaishankars remarks are significant as they mark his first public statement on the QUAD following recent trade deal announcement. Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump announced that the United States and India have reached a trade deal to lower reciprocal tariffs. He said that following a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the US would reduce tariffs on Indian goods from 25 per cent to 18 per cent with immediate effect. In return, Trump claimed India would cut its tariffs and non-tariff barriers on US products to zero." As part of the understanding, India has signalled plans to increase its purchases of US products in areas such as energy, aircraft parts, machinery and technology, with an overall trade engagement target of around $500 billion over the next few years. Both sides also agreed to work on reducing trade barriers and improving cooperation on areas like digital trade and supply chains. Later, the White House replaced its original fact sheet on the interim trade framework with a revised version. A reference to certain pulses" being included in tariff reductions has been removed, ensuring that Indias longstanding tariff protections for its farmers remain intact. Similarly, wording that said India had committed to buy" $500 billion worth of US goods has been replaced with intends to buy," making it clear that these purchases are not legally binding obligations but part of a broader intent outlined in the joint statement. Further, agriculture has been removed from the list of sectors from which India would purchase US goods, limiting perceived exposure of the farm sector. The earlier line stating that India would remove its digital services tax has also been deleted. Instead, the updated version says India has committed to negotiate a robust set of bilateral digital trade rules," shifting the focus from unilateral concessions to future negotiations. Location : Germany First Published: February 14, 2026, 20:05 IST News india On Quad Summit, Jaishankar Says Stay Tuned, Insists It Was Never Cancelled Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Insult To Real Heroes': BJP Slams Malegaon Deputy Mayor Over Tipu Sultan's Portrait In Office Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 08:52 IST A controversy erupted in Malegaon after a Tipu Sultan portrait in Deputy Mayor Shaan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmeds office drew protests from Shiv Sena and sharp criticism from the BJP. Tipu Sultan's portrait at Malegaon Deputy Mayor's office A controversy erupted in Maharashtras Malegaon after a portrait of 18th-century Mysuru ruler Tipu Sultan was displayed in the office of Deputy Mayor Shaan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed, drawing criticism from the BJP and protests by Shiv Sena corporators. The row intensified after BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla slammed the deputy mayor in a social media post, alleging that the display of Tipu Sultans image while omitting portraits of national leaders was an insult to Indias icons. Deputy Mayor of Malegaon has put up a photo of Hindu hater Tipu Sultan, but images of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Gandhi, Babasaheb Ambedkar are missing Huge insult to our real heroes," Poonawalla said. He further said that the Constitution had allowed her to hold public office, adding, The Constitution gave you the opportunity of becoming Deputy Mayor its architect was Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar. But she has no respect for Sanvidhan." Targeting opposition parties, he alleged that AIMIM wants to paint Maharashtra green" and accused political rivals of prioritising vote-bank politics over constitutional values, saying, This is what happens when you put Votebank first, not Sanvidan first." Deputy Mayor of Malegaon, Shan E Hind.She has put up a photo of Hindu hater Tipu Sultan but images of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Gandhi, Babasaheb Ambedkar missing.. Huge insult to our real heroes Constitution gave you the opportunity of becoming Deputy Mayor its pic.twitter.com/p0CXoYxxVM Shehzad Jai Hind (Modi Ka Parivar) (@Shehzad_Ind) February 14, 2026 PROTESTS BY SHIV SENA CORPORATORS Meanwhile, Shiv Sena corporators led by group leader Nilesh Aher protested against the portrait and submitted a petition to the municipal commissioner seeking its removal. The protest triggered a war of words between the corporators and the deputy mayor. Aher said the party would continue its agitation until the portrait was taken down. Tipu Sultan remains a polarising historical figure, with some praising his resistance against the British East India Company while others accuse him of religious intolerance and atrocities against Hindus in parts of South India. DEPUTY MAYOR DEFENDS PORTRAIT Responding to the controversy, Deputy Mayor Shaan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed defended the display and questioned why the issue was being politicised. This photo has been put up. When it comes to repairing the photo, it can be removed so that it doesnt break. But after that, we will put it up according to our thoughts. I dont understand why you are making an issue out of a photo," she said. Malegaon, Maharashtra: On Controversy regarding a photograph of Tipu Sultan, Deputy Mayor Shan-e-Hind, says, This photo has been put up. When it comes to repairing the photo, it can be removed so that it doesnt break. But after that, we will put it up according to our thoughts. pic.twitter.com/tdHwTk955n IANS (@ians_india) February 13, 2026 She added that she had read about legal disputes concerning Tipu Sultan Jayanti celebrations, referring to cases filed in the Bombay High Court where police permissions were not granted. Defending the historical figure, Ahmed said, Tipu Sultan is the freedom fighter of India, and everyone agrees with that. Not only India, but Britain also praised him when he fought against the East India Company." Malegaon, Maharashtra: On a Controversy regarding a Photograph of Tipu Sultan, Deputy Mayor Shan-e-Hind, says, When the Mayor and Deputy Mayor took charge of the office, some of our coalition members, the corporators I have no objection to that because Tipu Sultan is the pic.twitter.com/PErBQwFqtO IANS (@ians_india) February 13, 2026 News agency PTI quoted her as saying that the portrait had been gifted by corporators. The portrait was gifted to me by my corporators. I dont have any objection to it. Tipu Sultan was a freedom fighter who battled the British," she said, adding that government affidavits had also acknowledged this in court proceedings related to celebrations in his name. Shaan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed is a corporator of the Samajwadi Party and was elected deputy mayor of the Malegaon Municipal Corporation after an alliance between the Indian Secular Largest Assembly of Maharashtra (ISLAM) party and the SP formed the Malegaon Secular Front. In the 84-member House, the alliance secured the majority mark of 43 votes. Sheikh Nasreen Khalid of the ISLAM party was elected mayor, while Ahmed won the deputy mayors post with support from the ISLAM party, SP and Congress. Candidates of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena secured 18 votes each, while AIMIM and BJP abstained from voting. First Published: February 14, 2026, 08:51 IST News india 'Insult To Real Heroes': BJP Slams Malegaon Deputy Mayor Over Tipu Sultan's Portrait In Office Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... What Kind Of Life Is This: CM Yogi Likens Delhi AQI To Gas Chamber, Hails UPs Air Quality Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 14:39 IST Referring to the situation in the national capital, CM Yogi Adityanath said Delhis air quality had reached alarming levels. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath. (X/@myogiadityanath) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday compared Delhis air quality to a gas chamber" and said people in Uttar Pradesh were fortunate to be living in a cleaner environment despite ongoing development activities. Addressing a public function in Gorakhpur, Adityanath said environmental degradation had emerged as one of the biggest challenges globally and stressed the importance of balancing development with ecological protection. The environment here is good and there is no pollution. Where pollution is low, diseases are fewer. Pollution directly affects the lungs, and when oxygen supply is impacted, the entire body suffers," he said. The chief minister was speaking at the inauguration of the renovated Block Development Officers office in Jungle Kauria, according to an official statement issued by the state government. Referring to the situation in the national capital, Adityanath said Delhis air quality had reached alarming levels. Look at the condition in Delhi. It feels like a gas chamber. Breathing becomes difficult and there is a burning sensation in the eyes. Doctors advise asthma patients, the elderly and children to stay indoors. What kind of life is this?" he asked. He cautioned that neglecting environmental protection could lead to similar conditions elsewhere. We are fortunate in Uttar Pradesh that development is taking place without creating a suffocating environment," the chief minister said. Delhis air quality was recorded in the poor category on Saturday morning, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 211 at 9 am, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. First Published: February 14, 2026, 14:39 IST News india What Kind Of Life Is This: CM Yogi Likens Delhi AQI To Gas Chamber, Hails UPs Air Quality Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... How Many Times Do We Truly Fall in Love? New Research Challenges Popular Belief Written By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 09:00 IST 'Passionate love in psychology is not the same as affection, or long-term attachment. It refers to an intense emotional and physical attraction often marked by obsession In adolescence, love is 'impulsive and driven by infatuation'. In adulthood, relationships are shaped by maturity, and shared responsibilities, an expert said. (Photo: X and Getty) From Bollywood blockbusters and K-dramas to Instagram reels and dating apps success tales, falling in love is often portrayed as both magical and frequent. Popular culture suggests that love strikes repeatedly, dramatically, and sometimes endlessly. But new research from the Kinsey Institute in the US has revealed that the average adult may experience what scientists call passionate love" only about twice in a lifetime. The finding does not mean people only have two relationships or marry twice. Instead, it refers to a specific psychological and emotional state. Lets understand how humans define love, remember it, and measure it across a lifetime. What The Study Actually Found The research surveyed more than 10,000 adults aged between 18 and 99 in the US, asking participants how many times they had experienced passionate love". The responses were revealing. Around 14% of participants said they had never experienced it. Roughly 28% reported falling passionately in love once, about 30% said twice, and another 28% said more than twice. The term passionate love" in psychology is not the same as affection, companionship or long-term attachment. It refers to an intense emotional and physical attraction often marked by excitement, obsession, strong desire and heightened emotional sensitivity the phase many people describe as being head over heels." This is the kind of love that fuels film scripts and song lyrics, but it is only one part of the broader emotional spectrum of human relationships. In India, where arranged marriages coexist with online dating and shifting cultural norms, the findings offer an interesting lens. Many people may not label their relationships using academic terms, yet they still distinguish between deep affection and the euphoric rush of early romance. Why Are The Findings Surprising? Earlier research on relationships focused on the quality of love or different types of attachment, such as secure, anxious, avoidant, and so on. Few large-scale studies attempted to quantify how often people experience intense romantic infatuation across their lifetime. That is why the Kinsey Institutes findings stand out. Psychologists have long argued that love is multi-dimensional. Theories such as the colour wheel of love" suggest that romantic attraction is only one shade among many, alongside friendship-based love, pragmatic love, and playful affection. Yet public imagination tends to treat romantic love as the ultimate emotional experience, reinforced by movies, literature and advertising. The surprise lies in the contrast between expectation and data. Many people assume they fall in love multiple times simply because they have had multiple relationships. The study suggests that while relationships may be numerous, the intensity associated with passionate love may be rarer than assumed. Does Age Or Life Stage Influence Love? One of the studys intriguing observations is that reports of passionate love varied only slightly across demographics. Older adults reported marginally more experiences than younger participants, and men slightly more than women, but the differences were modest. This suggests that the experience of intense romantic attraction is broadly universal rather than confined to a particular generation or gender. In adolescence, love is often impulsive and driven by infatuation or external influences. In middle adulthood, relationships are shaped by maturity, shared responsibilities, and viewing the partner as a life companion in decision-making. In later life, love centres more on companionship, emotional security, and mutual care, where sharing and support become the foundation of the bond," said Dr Sanjay Kumawat, Consultant, Psychiatrist and Sexologist, Fortis Hospital Mulund, Mumbai. However, how people remember love may change with age. Psychologists note that nostalgia, memory biases, and cultural storytelling play a powerful role in shaping personal narratives. A relationship remembered decades later may be coloured by hindsight, regret or gratitude, altering how intense it once felt. Younger adults, meanwhile, may still be in the process of forming those memories. Life stages also influence context. Teen love, early adulthood relationships and mid-life partnerships often carry different emotional weights, shaped by maturity, career pressures and personal identity. Yet the study indicates that the number of times people report intense infatuation does not dramatically increase or decrease with age. What Does Love Mean To The Brain? Neuroscientific research shows that passionate love activates reward pathways in the brain similar to those triggered by addictive substances. Dopamine, oxytocin, and adrenaline surge during early romance, creating feelings of exhilaration and attachment. Romantic bonding is strongly influenced by neurochemistry. Dopamine creates feelings of excitement and emotional highs, endorphins promote relaxation and comfort, oxytocin fosters emotional closeness and trust, and vasopressin supports long-term attachment and commitment. Together, these neurohormones can make love feel intense and, at times, almost addictive," explains Dr Kumawat. Over time, however, many relationships transition from passionate love to companionate love a steadier form marked by trust, shared values, and emotional security. This shift is not a loss of love but a transformation. The problem arises when people interpret the fading of early intensity as failure rather than evolution. Experts often stress that different forms of love deserve different vocabulary. Passionate love is exhilarating but not always sustainable in its initial intensity. If it is true that intense passionate love occurs only a few times for many individuals, then it challenges both the one true love myth and the idea that constant high passion defines a successful relationship. Decades of longitudinal marital research, including work by John Gottman, demonstrate that durable relationships are sustained not by perpetual intensity but by emotional responsiveness, shared meaning, and constructive conflict repair," said Dr Jyoti Kapoor, senior consultant psychiatrist and psychotherapist, Manasthali Wellness. How The Modern Dating Culture Perceives Love Modern dating culture has added new dimensions to how people perceive romance. Social media amplifies curated relationship milestones, while dating apps offer seemingly endless choice. For younger generations, exposure to global media has expanded romantic expectations beyond traditional norms. In India and other societies where arranged marriages remain common, the conversation becomes even more layered. Many couples may not begin with passionate infatuation but develop deep affection over time. Conversely, urban youth increasingly experience dating cultures similar to Western societies, blending traditional expectations with modern autonomy. Dr Kumawat says, Modern dating culture places disproportionate emphasis on appearance, lifestyle, dress sense, and socioeconomic status. Over time, this can drain emotional depth from relationships, making connections feel shallow or driven by peer pressure and social validation rather than genuine bonding. Continuous comparison and envy often weaken existing bonds, increasing fault-finding and making relationships more fragile." Cultural narratives play a decisive role in shaping perception. Bollywood, for instance, has long celebrated grand romantic gestures and eternal love, often presenting intensity as permanence. Mainstream cinema, including iconic films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, often portrays love as destiny-driven, all-consuming, and triumphant against all odds. These narratives are emotionally powerful and culturally resonant, but they rarely show the psychological labour required for long-term partnership When such portrayals become internalized as relational templates, individuals may equate intensity with compatibility and drama with depth. This can create unrealistic expectations that love should always feel passionate, certain, and exceptional," points out Dr Kapoor. Are People Under Pressure To Find Passionate Love? Yes," said Dr Kumawat. Many individuals today are constantly chasing novelty, excitement, and emotional highs in relationships. This is often driven by the YOLO" (You Only Live Once) mindset, which encourages seeking maximum pleasure and experiences, sometimes at the cost of emotional depth or stability." Meanwhile, Dr Kapoor highlights the perception of limitless choice" that comes with the modern dating culture. This abundance framework can subtly pressure individuals to keep searching for a more intense or optimal connection. This may increase ambivalence and reduce commitment satisfaction," she said. The expectation to continually experience peak romantic intensity can create dissatisfaction and comparison, particularly in highly mediated social environments, she added. What Are The Broader Implications Of The Study? The twice in a lifetime" idea is not to limit romantic expectations but to contextualise them. Understanding that passionate love may be less frequent than portrayed can reduce pressure and unrealistic comparisons. It also helps reframe long-term relationships as emotionally valid even when the initial euphoria fades. From a mental health perspective, rigid beliefs about singular destiny-based love can intensify grief and hopelessness after break-ups or bereavement, increasing vulnerability to depressive rumination. Conversely, understanding love as a combination of neurobiology, attachment processes, and social context promotes resilience. Humans retain the capacity to form meaningful bonds across the lifespan. Passion may be episodic, but attachment and intimacy are skills and capacities that can deepen over time," Dr Kapoor said. Ultimately, the study does not define how many times a person should fall in love. Instead, it highlights the diversity of emotional experiences and the difference between cinematic romance and lived reality. Love, in all its forms, remains deeply personal, shaped by culture, memory, and individual psychology. First Published: February 14, 2026, 09:00 IST News lifestyle relationship How Many Times Do We Truly Fall in Love? New Research Challenges Popular Belief Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... A Better Actor Than Me: Jason Momoa On Shah Rukh Khan Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 12:22 IST The two actors have met several times, most notably at the Joy Awards in Saudi Arabia. Jason Momoa is currently promoting The Wrecking Crew. (Photo Credit: Instagram/filmy_chutzpah) Jason Momoa just cant stop praising Shah Rukh Khan. The Hollywood star recently referred to the Bollywood icon as a gentleman" and even went a step further, saying Shah Rukh Khan is a greater actor and performer than he is high praise coming from one of Hollywoods biggest action heroes. The two actors have crossed paths multiple times, most notably at the Joy Awards in Saudi Arabia, where they were also seen alongside Jackie Chan and Jean-Claude Van Damme. Their camaraderie once again grabbed attention after they were recently spotted together in Saudi Arabia, sending fans into a frenzy online and reigniting buzz about their growing friendship. Jason Momoa is currently promoting his forthcoming film, The Wrecking Crew, which co-stars Dave Bautista. During the promotions, he gave an interview to Pinkvilla about meeting Shah Rukh Khan. Hes extremely handsome," as the host discussed meeting the Bollywood star. Jason Momoa On Shah Rukh Khan When asked what they discussed when they met recently Jason said, Just two mutual friends and fans of each others work. He is just a sweetheart. He was very much a gentleman. Hes a better actor and better performer than I am. So it was mutual respect." Jason Momoas Career So Far Jason Momoa began his acting debut in 1999 with the television show Baywatch: Hawaii and later appeared in Stargate Atlantis before landing his breakout role as Khal Drogo in the first season of Game of Thrones in 2011. He was later cast as Aquaman in the DC Extended Universe, appearing in Justice League, his own standalone film, and a cameo in the television series Peacemaker. Momoa has recently appeared in the television series Frontier, See, and Chief of War, as well as supporting or hostile roles in blockbusters such as Dune and Fast X. Momoa appeared in A Minecraft Movie, last years highest-grossing Hollywood film. This year, in addition to The Wrecking Crew, he has five more releases, including a return to the realm of DC Comics. He will play Lobo in Supergirl, which is part of James Gunns resurrected DC Universe. Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan is one of the most successful and internationally renowned Indian actors.He is now anticipating the release of his next picture, King, which is his first in three years. The action adventure, which also stars his daughter Suhana Khan, will be released around Christmas this year. First Published: February 14, 2026, 12:22 IST News movies bollywood A Better Actor Than Me: Jason Momoa On Shah Rukh Khan After Mardaani 3 Success, Rani Mukerji Meets Female Cops At Juhu Police Station Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 15:07 IST Rani Mukerji, who reprised her role as tough officer Shivani Shivaji Roy in the film, Rani Mukerji Mardaani 3 released in January 30.(Photo Credit: Instagram) Rani Mukerji, one of the industrys most admired actresses, is basking in the success of her latest release, Mardaani 3. Since the release of the film, critics and audiences have praised Ranis performance as a cop. In the latest, to celebrate the success of the film, the actress had a special meet and greet with female police officers in Mumbai. In the pictures that have surfaced on the internet, Rani could be seen with a few officers outside the Juhu police station. In another snap, she was seen posing in front of a police jeep. Rani Mukerji, who reprised her role as tough officer Shivani Shivaji Roy in the film. Rani Mukerji on Mardaani 3s success Speaking about the success of the film, she told PTI, It was important that the film gets love in theatres from audiences. I cant express how happy I am to see the love that it is receiving in the third week of its release. To get this kind of love from audiences for a female-led film in this entire environment is a healthy thing for the industry. I think it will inspire other producers to bring out such stories. This film talks about womens empowerment, women in uniform. Ive to thank the people of India for their love and support and its because of this that we can celebrate the success of the film." Mardaani 3 Plot and Cast Mardaani 3 represents yet another milestone in Rani Mukerjis remarkable career, which just celebrated 30 years in Indian cinema. Produced by Aditya Chopra, the film lives up to the franchises reputation for taking on challenging and socially significant issues. Rani Mukerji made a strong comeback to the big screen in Mardaani 3, reprising her role as Shivani Shivaji Roy, one of Bollywoods most renowned female police officers. Abhiraj Minawala directs Mardaani 3, which stars Janki Bodiwala and Mallika Prasad in important roles. The plot follows Ranis character, Shivani, as she investigates the mysterious disappearance of 93 young girls over three months. Pradeep Sarkar directed the first instalment of the Mardaani franchise in 2014, and Gopi Puthran directed the second. First Published: February 14, 2026, 15:07 IST News movies bollywood After Mardaani 3 Success, Rani Mukerji Meets Female Cops At Juhu Police Station Arjun Kapoor, In All-Black, Turns Heads With Effortless Walk At The Airport | Watch Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 17:08 IST Onlookers were quite amazed as he walked towards the terminal, thanks to his effortlessly fashionable avatar in a black T-shirt and black pants. Arjun Kapoor was last seen in Mere Husband Ki Biwi. (Photo Credit: Instagram/bollywoodbubble) Trust Arjun Kapoor to transform a mundane airport walk into a masterclass in charm. The actor was spotted early this morning at the Mumbai airport, stepping out of his car, causing heads to turn. Onlookers were quite amazed as he walked towards the terminal, thanks to his effortlessly fashionable avatar in a black T-shirt and black pants. What truly stood out was not his outfit, but his kind demeanour. As he moved forward, the photographers swarmed around him, hoping to capture the ideal shot. Just as he was going to proceed to the security checkpoint, the photographers asked him for a few more photos. Arjun turned back, smiled, and posed again, without a trace of annoyance on his face. After giving the photographers their photos, he gave them a wave and went inside. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bollywood Bubble (@bollywoodbubble) Arjun Kapoors Viral Post Arjun Kapoor has been making waves recently after his post about his mothers birthday went viral. Despite being a frequent victim of trolls and receiving insults, memes, and personal attacks over the years, the actor has never allowed online criticism to affect his attitude. However, this emotive post connected with his followers, who eventually apologised for insulting him. In a birthday wish to his mother, Arjun wrote, Happy birthday Maa, I miss u so much today..Lifes been kinda cruel to me lately, but its ok Ive taken the punches before, Ill take em again & still rise Because u taught me how to fight by standing up, facing life head-on while being graceful & dignified through it all" He added, We will ride it out together, U & I Ill see u again soon & we will celebrate ur bday together someday Your loving son, Arjun." After his message went viral, many individuals rushed to the comments section to offer encouragement. Along with heartfelt messages from fellow actors and business partners, countless fans expressed their condolences and support. Arjun Kapoor s Latest Work Arjun Kapoors most recent film appearance was in the romantic comedy Mere Husband Ki Biwi. In the film, he appeared with Bhumi Pednekar and Rakul Preet Singh. The film tells the story of a guy who finds love again after his divorce, but the plot twists when his ex-wife returns in unexpected circumstances. Arjun has No Entry 2 in the pipeline. Anees Bazmee is directing the sequel to the smash hit comedy, which Boney Kapoor produces. According to reports, the film will star Varun Dhawan and Diljit Dosanjh, which is one of the reasons fans are hungry for more information about the project. First Published: February 14, 2026, 17:08 IST News movies bollywood Arjun Kapoor, In All-Black, Turns Heads With Effortless Walk At The Airport | Watch This story was originally published on C-Store Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily C-Store Dive newsletter. Mette Uglebjerg, Alimentation Couche-Tards senior vice president of global food and marketing, will become CEO of European health and beauty brand Matas Group on May 1, according to a series of announcements from Uglebjerg and the company. As one of Couche-Tards top global executives, Uglebjerg has spearheaded the convenience retailers foodservice program and marketing across its entire c-store network since late 2024. Uglebjerg stepped into her current position after leading Couche-Tards Circle K operations in Europe for two years and serving as managing director and CEO for its Denmark business unit for four years prior to that. She joined the company in June 2012 when it acquired Statoil Fuel & Retail. Uglebjerg assumed leadership of Couche-Tards global food and marketing segments shortly after the company agreed to acquire GetGo Cafe + Market, the former convenience store arm of supermarket chain Giant Eagle. In the two years since, Couche-Tard has looked to implement many of GetGos food offerings and strategies into its own operations. Additionally, Couche-Tards proprietary Fresh Food, Fast program has reached 6,000 c-stores globally. Couche-Tard Her departure will leave a hole near the top of Couche-Tards global leadership team, and its unclear who will assume her duties after she departs. A Couche-Tard spokesperson did not respond by press time when asked to comment. Im looking forward to giving my complete focus and energy in the months ahead and continuing to deliver strong results with my great colleagues, in an organisation I genuinely enjoy being part of, Uglebjerg said in her announcement. There will be time for a proper farewell when my chapter at Circle K is complete. Uglebjerg will be the second current Couche-Tard executive to leave the company in May. Niall Anderton, SVP of strategy and transformation, will leave that same month to become CEO of Irish food retailer and wholesaler Musgrave Group. Recommended Reading Arundhati Roy Boycotts Berlin Film Festival 2026, Says Silence On Gaza Will Be Judged By History Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 09:16 IST Arundhati Roy left the Berlin Film Festival, criticizing Wim Wenders and the jury for ignoring Gaza and calling Israels actions genocide. Arundhati Roy pulls out of Berlin Film Festival. Indian author Arundhati Roy has pulled out of the Berlin Film Festival, and she isnt holding back. The Booker Prize-winning writer says she is shocked and disgusted" by remarks made by the festival jury on the ongoing Gaza crisis, prompting her to withdraw from the event at the last minute. Roy was scheduled to attend the 2026 edition of the Berlin Film Festival to present a restored version of her 1989 film In Which Annie Gives It Those One, a project that famously marked Shah Rukh Khans film debut. However, she has now stepped away from the programme following comments made at a press conference by jury president Wim Wenders and other members. Speaking to AFP in a statement, Roy said the remarks were unconscionable" and had led her to reconsider her participation with deep regret". She said she was disturbed by the responses given when jury members were asked about the war in Gaza and Germanys support for Israel. At Thursdays press conference, Wenders had said cinema should stay out of politics" when asked about the conflict. Responding to those comments, Roy said that to hear them say that art should not be political is jaw-dropping." She went further, describing Israels actions in Gaza as a genocide of the Palestinian people by the State of Israel." If the greatest filmmakers and artists of our time cannot stand up and say so, they should know that history will judge them," she added. The festival, also known as the Berlinale, responded by saying it respected Roys decision. The Berlinale respects these decisions. We regret that we will not welcome them as their presence would have enriched the festival discourse," a spokesperson told AFP. During the same press interaction, Wenders said, We cannot really enter the field of politics", describing filmmakers as the counterweight to politics". Fellow jury member Ewa Puszczynska called it unfair to expect the jury to take a stance on the issue. The Gaza war began after Hamass October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which killed 1,221 people, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Israels subsequent military response has resulted in at least 71,000 deaths in Gaza, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory, figures that the United Nations considers reliable. The Berlinale has long been known for politically engaged programming. However, this years edition has seen several prominent figures avoid taking public positions on the conflict, even as tensions continue to shape global cultural conversations. (With AFP inputs) First Published: February 14, 2026, 09:16 IST News movies bollywood Arundhati Roy Boycotts Berlin Film Festival 2026, Says Silence On Gaza Will Be Judged By History 'Good Times At Movies': Ranbir Kapoor Absolutely Loved Watching Ranveer Singhs Dhurandhar Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 19:51 IST Ranbir Kapoor said he absolutely loved Ranveer Singhs Dhurandhar, calling it a smashing theatrical experience during a live chat with fans on Instagram. Ranbir Kapoor absolutely loved Dhurandhar. Ranbir Kapoor celebrated his lifestyle brand ARKSs first anniversary on Saturday and went live on the brands Instagram handle, where the actor interacted with his fans and also reviewed Ranveer Singhs recently released blockbuster film Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar. While interacting with fans, Ranbir was asked which was the last film he watched in theatres, and replying to this, he shared, It was Dhurandhar. Absolutely loved that film. The entire cast and crew smashed it. Really good times at the movies." Ranbir Kapoor and Ranveer Singh have been close friends for quite some time. The two share a very cordial relationship and have even appeared together on one of the episodes of Koffee with Karan. About Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar 2 Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar stars Ranveer Singh in the lead, alongside Akshaye Khanna, Sara Arjun, Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal and others. The story follows an Indian spy who enters Pakistan on a covert mission and finds himself deep inside the dangerous world of the Lyari mafia. The film is inspired by real events. Meanwhile, work on Dhurandhar 2 is already underway, with the sequel scheduled for a theatrical release on March 19. Recent behind-the-scenes visuals from the Mumbai sets, showing characters played by Arjun Rampal and Sanjay Dutt locked in an intense exchange, have fuelled speculation about the next chapter. Reports suggest the sequel will dive into Hamza Mazharis revenge arc and finally reveal the identity of the mysterious Bade Sahab, a character many believe draws inspiration from gangster Dawood Ibrahim. About Ranbir Kapoors work front On the professional front, Ranbir is gearing up for one of the most anticipated films, Ramayana. Nitesh Tiwaris directorial, produced by Namit Malhotra, will see Ranbir essaying the role of Lord Ram. The epic drama also boasts an ensemble cast of talented actors including Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, Sai Pallavi, Lara Dutta and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. The magnum opus will be released in two parts, with the shooting for Ramayana: Part 1 already wrapped up. Additionally, Ranbir will reunite on screen with his wife Alia Bhatt in Sanjay Leela Bhansalis upcoming film Love and War, which also stars Vicky Kaushal. First Published: February 14, 2026, 19:51 IST News movies bollywood 'Good Times At Movies': Ranbir Kapoor Absolutely Loved Watching Ranveer Singhs Dhurandhar Vicky Kaushal Celebrates One Year Of Chhaava With Heartfelt Post, Netizens Call Him 'Greatest Actor' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 15:03 IST Today, on February 14, as the film completed one year, Vicky Kaushal took to social media to thank his fans for pouring in love and expressed gratitude. News18 On February 14, 2025, Vicky Kaushal was immensely praised for his solid performance as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in Laxman Utekars Chhaava. The film also featured Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, and Diana Penty in key roles. It went on to become one of the highest-grossing films of 2025. Today, on February 14, as the film completed one year, Vicky took to social media to celebrate the anniversary. He even thanked his fans for pouring in love and expressed gratitude. Vicky Kaushal shares BTS moments from Chhaava set To celebrate the first anniversary of the film, Vicky took a walk down memory lane and shared some BTS moments from the set. The pictures feature Rashmika, Vineet Kumar Singh, Ashutosh Rana and the captain of the ship, Laxman Utekar. Vickys portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj left the audience stunned. He outperformed in the film, which focuses on the life, bravery, and martyrdom of the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, highlighting his resistance against the Mughal Empire. While sharing the pictures, Vicky wrote, #1YearOfChhaava I bow my head in gratitude to the great Maratha legacy and to all of you for celebrating it with us. Your love has truly been very special! ." Have a look: After he shared the post, netizens were quick to flood the comments section. People started praising his impactful performance. One comment read, Best movie and performance ever." Another comment read, YOU ARE THE GREATEST ACTOR OF THIS GENERATION VICKY." One of the comments also read, Deserves all the recognition." Others were seen dropping red heart and fire emojis. Meanwhile, Vicky is currently busy shooting for Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Love & War. The film also stars Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt in the lead roles. It is one of the most awaited films of 2026. As of now, it is slated to hit theatres in August. Apart from this, he has the mythological epic Mahavatar. Directed by Amar Kaushik, the film will see Vicky playing Chiranjeevi Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. First Published: February 14, 2026, 15:03 IST News movies bollywood Vicky Kaushal Celebrates One Year Of Chhaava With Heartfelt Post, Netizens Call Him 'Greatest Actor' Dhanush Gets A Legal Notice, Production House Demands Rs 20 Crore For Delaying Film Shoot Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 07:29 IST The banner has also warned of further legal action if its demands are not met within the stipulated time. Rapid Read Dhanush was last seen in Tere Ishk Mein. Tamil superstar Dhanush has landed in legal trouble. A production house named Thenandal Films has sent a legal notice to him, demanding compensation of Rs 20 crore over alleged delays linked to a long-pending film project. As reported by Times Now, the production house has claimed that the actor signed a movie titled Naan Rudran with them in 2016 but never really shot for it. The notice, sent through the companys legal counsel, alleged that Dhanush had initially agreed to both act in and direct the project. However, while the production house consented to changes in the plan, the actor reportedly did not provide the complete screenplay thereafter, which has stalled the project. The notice further claimed that the delay caused significant financial losses to the makers, prompting them to demand monetary compensation to recover investments made during the early stages of production. The banner has also warned of further legal action if its demands are not met within the stipulated time. In the notice, advocate A Chidambaram also stated that the film was stalled halfway because Dhanush gave call sheets to other films without completing work on this pending project. However, it should also be noted that Dhanush has not reacted to the allegations as of now. Dhanushs Next Film Meanwhile, Dhanush has officially announced his next film, tentatively titled D55, and the news has left fans excited. The makers took to social media to confirm that the film will be directed by Amaran director Rajkumar Periasamy. Along with the announcement, Dhanushs photo, along with the team, was also shared recently. Taking to their X handle, Wunderbar Films shared the announcement along with the photos. #D55 a grand new beginning @wunderbarfilms is happy to associate with @RTakeStudios for this massive project! Exciting updates loading, soon! @dhanushkraja @Rajkumar_KP @wunderbarfilms @RTakeStudios @Shra2309 @azy905 @theSreyas @sandy_sashr @vishzurams." Fans also reacted with fire emojis. First Published: February 14, 2026, 07:29 IST News movies tamil-cinema Dhanush Gets A Legal Notice, Production House Demands Rs 20 Crore For Delaying Film Shoot Opinion | The Method Behind Indias Middle-Power Moment Written By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 14:31 IST While its true that nations remember the past's injustices, anything short of an all-out war across the globe will only result in geopolitical environment driven by self-interest Rapid Read India wants to be seen as a provider of security and development, particularly to the Global South. In the upcoming week, Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi will host a tableau of Indias international ambitions. The India AI Impact Summit, the first global artificial intelligence summit convened in the developing world, will draw delegations from over 100 countries, more than 100 global chief executives, and at least 15 heads of state and government. French President Emmanuel Macron and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will be among those in attendance, alongside leaders from Europe, Latin America, Asia and the Indian Ocean, and senior representatives from both Washington and Beijing. In the days around the summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Seychelles president for an Indian Ocean engagement, travelled to Malaysia to deepen a semiconductor partnership, and will fly to Israel to advance free trade and defenceindustrial cooperation even as the Gaza conflict continues. Februarys calendar has been busy, and this activity distils a broader pattern that has underpinned Indias foreign policy over the past decade. This observation marks a transition to the central argument: India consistently employs a middlepower method, steering between outright neutrality and superpower swagger. That method rests on four pillars: strategic autonomy; setting agendas rather than bloc politics; economic hedging through trade corridors and technology coalitions; and a consistent role as first responder and development partner to the Global South. What It Now Means To Be a Middle Power In textbook terms, a middle power is a state without the material heft of a superpower but with enough capacity, credibility and connectivity to shape outcomes beyond its borders. In the 2020s, those attributes are less about troop deployments and more about four things: the ability to keep options open between rival camps; the capacity to convene problemsolving coalitions; resilience in trade and technology networks; and a reputation for reliability in crises. 2023 was described as a watershed year" by the Ministry of External Affairs, in which New Delhi pursued a pragmatic and outcomeoriented" diplomacy amid a world defined by war in Europe, turmoil in West Asia, supplychain disruptions and climate stress. Against that backdrop, India assumed the G20 presidency, hosted more than 200 meetings in 60 cities, expanded its role in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS, and intensified engagement across the IndoPacific and the Indian Ocean. But even with the host of engagements and collaborations, India avoided entering mutual-defence treaties or exclusive security blocs. Instead, it practised multi-alignment": working with the United States in the Quad and on advanced technology, with Russia on defence and energy, with Europe on trade and climate, with ASEAN on connectivity, and with the African Union and Latin America on development, not allowing any single relationship to become existential. This approach, however, is not without its strains. At times, Indias balancing act has tested the patience of key partners. For instance, Indias continued defence ties with Russia have sparked pressure from Washington under the CAATSA legislation, forcing New Delhi to navigate the risk of US sanctions while protecting its strategic autonomy. Similarly, India has occasionally faced disappointment from partners expecting clearer alignment, underlining that the cost of flexibility is the possibility of diplomatic friction, as seen when Indias abstentions on United Nations resolutions condemning Russias actions in Ukraine prompted public criticism from European countries and the United States. Pillar One: Strategic Autonomy The Russia-Ukraine war and the Gaza conflict have pushed Indias strategic autonomy doctrine into the open. Since 2022, New Delhi has abstained on most UN resolutions condemning Russias invasion, kept defence channels with Moscow open, and increased imports of discounted Russian crude from negligible levels to more than 40 per cent of its oil basket by 2024. At the same time, PM Modi has used highprofile meetings, most notably with Vladimir Putin in Samarkand, to state publicly that todays era is not an era of war", which was later embedded in the consensus New Delhi G20 Leaders Declaration. In Gaza, India has followed a similar method with different emphases. It condemned the October 7 Hamas attacks as terrorism, maintained security and technology ties with Israel, and yet supported UN resolutions calling for humanitarian pauses and sent aid to Palestinians. Delhi describes this as dehyphenated" diplomacy: dealing with each bilateral relationship, Israel, the Arab world, Iran, on its own terms, rather than being locked into inherited binaries. Economic policy has followed the same logic. When the United States imposed steep tariffs that raised effective duties on some Indian exports to around 50 per cent, India did not either capitulate or unleash indiscriminate retaliation. It negotiated a reduction to 18 per cent and quietly bought breathing space by diversifying its trade architecture elsewhere, rather than trading political concessions on Russia or agriculture for shortterm relief. Pillar Two: Setting Agendas Middle powers gain leverage when they can convene rivals on their soil and shape the terms of discussion. Indias G20 presidency in 2023 was the clearest demonstration. Despite deep divisions over Ukraine, New Delhi produced a unanimous 83paragraph New Delhi Leaders Declaration, with no footnotes or chairs summary. A feat that required more than 200 hours of negotiations and some 300 bilateral meetings among sherpas. Critically, India used that presidency to insert Global South priorities into the core agenda: accelerating the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, tripling global renewable energy capacity by 2030, scaling development and climate finance from billions to trillions", and defining digital public infrastructure as a global public good. It also championed the African Unions admission as a permanent G20 member, a move analysts in Brussels openly credit to Indias initiative. The India AI Impact Summit is an extension of this convening strategy into the technology domain. With more than 100 CEOs and delegates from 100plus countries, including both Western and Chinese participants, India is positioning itself as the venue where rules for a contested technology can be discussed without being set exclusively in Washington, Brussels or Beijing. Pillar Three: Economic Hedging The third pillar of Indias method is economic: reducing vulnerability not by turning inwards but by building overlapping corridors of trade and technology. Over the past year, New Delhi has moved, and boy, it has moved fast. It has signed a series of substantial free trade agreements. A deal with the United Kingdom which grants zero or nearzero tariffs on 99 per cent of Indian exports; Agreements with New Zealand and Oman to open 100 per cent and 98 per cent of tariff lines, respectively, while securing sizable investment and services commitments. Most significantly, India and the European Union have concluded a comprehensive FTA covering goods, services, investment and intellectual property across a market representing roughly a quarter of global GDP and onethird of world trade. These agreements form a strategic hedging architecture" against the permanence of US protectionism: by locking in privileged access across Europe, the Gulf and the Pacific, India ensures that no single tariff decision in Washington can again hold its export sectors hostage. At the same time, New Delhi is trying to correct older structural imbalances. Under the ASEANIndia Trade in Goods Agreement, Indias annual trade deficit with ASEAN has ballooned from about US$7.5 billion in 2011 to roughly US$44 billion in 2023, with imports from ASEAN surging faster than Indian exports. The review of that agreement will address tariff inversion, nontariff barriers and lax rules of origin that have disadvantaged the Indian industry. Malaysia chairs the discussion, and PM Modis visit to the country to deepen ties added much-needed leverage to that process. An upgraded comprehensive strategic partnership with Malaysia, a proposed MalaysiaIndia Digital Council, and plans for joint work in semiconductors and AI are intended to showcase what a more balanced ASEAN trade relationship could look like. Pillar Four: Partner-In-Need to the Global South The final pillar of Indias middlepower method is its behaviour in crises and its longterm development partnerships. The Ministry of External Affairs 2023 annual report notes that India reinforced its credentials as a reliable First Responder in crises both in the region and beyond". When a powerful earthquake struck Turkiye and Syria, India dispatched searchandrescue teams and relief supplies within hours; when a volcanic eruption hit Papua New Guinea later in the year, New Delhi was again among the earliest providers of assistance. Under Operation Kaveri, it evacuated 4,097 people from conflicthit Sudan in 2023, including 3,961 Indian nationals and 136 foreign citizens, while Operation Ajay brought home 1,309 Indians from Israel as fighting escalated. These operations build on a longer record from Yemen to Ukraine, and send a clear message to the diaspora and partner governments: India sees the safety of its citizens, and often of others, as a core sovereign obligation. India has extended more than 300 concessional lines of credit worth US$32 billion to 68 countries, financing around 600 projects across railways, roads, ports, power, ICT, hospitals and education infrastructure. About US$12 billion of that supports 196 projects in 42 African states; other major schemes include rail and energy links in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, a metro in Mauritius, and the Hanimaadhoo airport and social housing in the Maldives. During the Covid19 pandemic, the Vaccine Maitri initiative supplied more than 72 million vaccine doses to 94 countries by late 2021, according to the MEA, and by early 2022, India had delivered around 162.9 million doses to 96 countries through grants, commercial contracts and COVAX. Taken together, it showcases India in a new light. India wants to be seen as a provider of security and development, particularly to the Global South, even as it resists being counted in any geopolitical camp. That blend of reliability and independence is the currency of middlepower influence. Method in Madness From the outside looking in, whether it be Indias strategic autonomy and interest-driven approach in Ukraine and Gaza, or being able to produce a unanimous 83paragraph New Delhi Leaders Declaration, it all seems haphazard. Some might even critique it, saying that India is risking long-term partnerships for short-term wins. But the state organism and the geopolitical system that exists have interest-driven memory. While its true that nations do remember the injustices of the past, anything short of an all-out war across the globe will only result in a geopolitical environment driven by self-interest. Set against this backdrop, Februarys AI summit and the horde" of visiting leaders are not isolated trophies. They are a concentrated expression of the method behind Indias middlepower moment. Bharat Mandapam will bring together technological rivals to discuss rules for AI under Indian chairmanship. Macron will arrive seeking industrial relevance in defence aviation and rare earths, negotiating deals that deliberately push manufacturing, maintenance and even engine production onto Indian soil. Lula will use his visit to deepen BrazilIndia coordination on trade, energy and minerals that can reduce both countries exposure to a more protectionist West. In each case, India is not being pulled into someone elses orbit. It is using its convening power, its trade and technology hedges, its record as first responder and development partner, and its insistence on strategic autonomy to shape the terms of engagement. The approach is not without risks, and the only way to hedge that risk is to build up the states own production and manufacturing capacity and consumption appetite. That is the method behind Indias middlepower moment. It is measured less by the number of flags that fly at Bharat Mandapam this month than by the number of doors that remain open to India when others start to close. First Published: February 14, 2026, 14:31 IST News opinion Opinion | The Method Behind Indias Middle-Power Moment Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Assam Poll Pitch: CM Himanta Promises More Jobs, Action On Illegal Settlements With PM Modi By His Side Reported By : CNN-News18 Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 16:42 IST Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived on a day-long visit to Assam to inaugurate an emergency landing facility (ELF) and launch projects worth over Rs 5,500 crore While the Assam CM and BJP government highlighted their development works, including the historic landing of the Prime Minister in Moran ELF on a Hercules C-130, opposition leader Akhil Gogoi downplayed its significance. File image: X Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, while launching the Bharatiya Janata Partys poll campaign in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Guwahati at Khanapara ground on Saturday, addressed the Booth Vijay Sankalpa" meeting and assured the BJPs return in this years assembly elections. He promised 2 lakh government jobs, up from 1.56 lakh in the past five years. Emphasising the removal of illegal settlements, the CM stated that 5 lakh bighas of encroached land would be freed in the next term. The Prime Minister, taking over the stage, said, We all have one mantra, and that is Bharat Mata Ki Jai." He referred to the Northeast as the Astalakshmi" and mentioned that more budget funds have been allocated for the regions development, promoting self-reliance and connectivity. The PM added that his Pariksha Pe Charcha" on the River Brahmaputra aimed to promote river tourism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived on a day-long visit to Assam to inaugurate an emergency landing facility (ELF) and launch projects worth over Rs 5,500 crore. Remembering the Pulwama terror incident, the PM paid tribute to the victims, stating that India had retaliated and the world had witnessed the response, including Operation Sindoor. Criticising the Congress, the Prime Minister claimed that the party never respected Mother India and always put it in danger. During the 70 years of Congress rule, only three bridges were built over the Brahmaputra. In contrast, five bridges have been constructed in 10 years under the BJP government. The new Bhaskar Barma Bridge" over the Brahmaputra was inaugurated by the Prime Minister, connecting the main Guwahati city to North Guwahati. While the Assam CM and the BJP government highlighted their development works, including the historic landing of the Prime Minister in Moran ELF on a Hercules C-130, opposition leader Akhil Gogoi downplayed its significance, saying it had no relation to development. State Congress president Gaurav Gogoi criticised the India-US trade deal, calling it detrimental to the countrys farmers. Location : Guwahati [Gauhati], India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 16:41 IST News politics Assam Poll Pitch: CM Himanta Promises More Jobs, Action On Illegal Settlements With PM Modi By His Side Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'If Not Minister, Then...': Telangana Congress MLA Expects Cabinet Berth, Signals Ambition For CM Post Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 08:12 IST He made it clear that if the promised ministerial position does not come through, he would aim for the Chief Ministers post in the future. Telangana Congress leader Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy (Credits: Instagram) Telangana Congress leader Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy has said he is waiting for the party to honour its assurance of including him in the state Cabinet. The Munugode MLA stated that he expects to be sworn in as a minister soon and wants the commitment to be fulfilled respectfully. Reddy expressed confidence that he would soon take up responsibilities at the state level. He asked supporters to look after constituency matters while he concentrates on broader political duties. At the same time, he made it clear that if the promised ministerial position does not come through, he would aim for the Chief Ministers post in the future. His remarks underline both his expectation of a Cabinet role and his larger political ambitions within the party. You gave your word, now stand by it. If not a minister, then lets go straight to becoming Chief Minister," he said. Telangana Congress MLA Komatireddy Raj Gopal Reddy says he expects to be inducted into the cabinet as promised, and if not, he would set his sights on the Chief Ministers post.He urged party workers to take care of his constituency while he focuses on the state, and asserted pic.twitter.com/DV85DnXydF Vani Mehrotra (@vani_mehrotra) February 14, 2026 Reddy insisted the leadership should stand by its word regarding the ministerial berth, describing it as a matter of commitment rather than favour. Location : Telangana, India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 08:10 IST News politics 'If Not Minister, Then...': Telangana Congress MLA Expects Cabinet Berth, Signals Ambition For CM Post Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... They Have Become Muslim League-Maoist: PM Modi Slams Congress In Assam Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 15:49 IST PM Modi said that while the Muslim League divided India during Independence, today, Congress has become Muslim LeagueMaoist Congress". PM Modi addresses a gathering n Assam. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched a scathing attack on the Congress party, accusing it of divisive politics, corruption in defence deals, and neglect of the Northeast. While addressing a gathering in Assams Guwahati, PM Modi said that while the Muslim League divided India during Independence, today, Congress has become Muslim LeagueMaoist Congress and is in the process of dividing India." He further claimed that Assam had earlier witnessed instability under the Congress rule. When I used to come to Assam for three days, I often used to get stuck here for seven to eight days. Assam was volatile because of Congress. The BJP changed that," he said. He further alleged that the Congress now wants to reverse that stability and accused it of saving infiltrators. Congress wants to unsettle Assam once again. Congress wants to return it to infiltrators once again. Be it its top leadership in Delhi or leaders here, they all are trying to save infiltrators. They want to change the original identity of Assam," PM Modi said. He further referred to the 2019 Pulwama terror attack and paid tributes to the security personnel who lost their lives. While emphasising on Operation Sindoor, Indias response to the Pahalgam terror attack, he said that India has since demonstrated its resolve in responding to terror threats. You have seen recently in Operation Sindoor," he said, referring to Indias security response, adding that such action would not have been possible under a Congress government. Today is Pulwama anniversary. I pay my respect to the deceased. India has since shown how to respond. You have seen recently in Op Sindoor. But could you expect it from the Congress which refuses to acknowledge India as a nation?" he said. The Prime Minister further alleged that the Congress government couldnt make an arms deal without corruption," contrasting it with what he described as transparent governance under the BJP-led NDA. Further praising the BJPs organisational strength, he said that the credit for this goes to workers of the BJP. All of you BJP workers are the lifeblood and oxygen of the BJP. Our workers work tirelessly to the utmost, and because of that, the BJP progresses I proudly say that if I have any greatest qualification, the most proud moment in my life, it is that I am a worker of BJP," he said. #WATCH | Guwahati | PM Modi says, All of you BJP workers are the lifeblood and oxygen of the BJP. Our workers work tirelessly to the utmost, and because of that, the BJP progresses I proudly say that if I have any greatest qualification, the most proud moment in my life, https://t.co/4U6zk73jwl pic.twitter.com/FR1JjZcPuo ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2026 Highlighting the Union Budget allocations, PM Modi said that Assam would receive Rs 50,000 crore as its tax share this year. The budget focuses heavily on making the Northeast economically self-reliant. This year, Assam will receive approximately Rs 50,000 crore as its tax share We should remember well how Assam was left starving during the Congress government. During the Congress regime, Assam received only Rs 10,000 crore as its tax share. Now, under the BJP government, Assam is receiving 5 times more money than it did under the Congress government," he said. He claimed that over the past 11 years, Assam has received more than Rs 5.5 lakh crore from the Centre for various development projects. The Prime Minister said the latest budget focuses heavily on improving connectivity and economic self-reliance in the Northeast, which he described as Goddess Ashtalakshmi." Thousands of crores have been allocated for highways and road projects in Assam, he said, adding that improved connectivity would boost employment and tourism. #WATCH | Guwahati | PM Modi says, Maa Kamakhya has been very kind to Assam, its people, the country, and its fellow citizens. With her blessings, Assam has given many children who have championed the nations defense, independence, and advancement of the nations culture. Today, pic.twitter.com/bwgkezZsay ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2026 Referring to a recent interaction with students during the Pariksha Pe Charcha programme in Guwahati, PM Modi spoke about promoting river tourism on the Brahmaputra. There is no better place for tourism. Come, this is my Assam, this is my Brahmaputra," he said. He also noted a recent aircraft landing on the Moran highway, calling it a historic moment that demonstrated infrastructure development in the state. He also paid tribute to Kabirendra Purkayastha, who was recently honoured with a Padma Award. He said more than 125 personalities from the Northeast have received Padma Awards since 2014. Maa Kamakhya has been very kind to Assam, its people, the country, and its fellow citizens. With her blessings, Assam has given many children who have championed the nations defense, independence, and advancement of the nations culture," he said. Today, I salute one such great child, Kabirendra Purkayastha. He dedicated his entire life to serving Assam and society. In recognition of this contribution, the BJP-NDA government has been honored to honor him with the Padma Award. Since 2014, more than 125 great personalities from the Northeast have received Padma Awards This very potential of the Northeast is now a major foundation for a developed India," he added. (With inputs from agencies) Location : Guwahati [Gauhati], India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 15:47 IST News politics They Have Become Muslim League-Maoist: PM Modi Slams Congress In Assam Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Gurugram Mans Teary Eye Speech For Beti Nahi, Mera Beta Hai Comes With Sambhal Kar Rakhna Request Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 06:30 IST A wedding video showing an emotional father-daughter moment on stage has gone viral, with social media users calling it the definition of a girl dad. The viral wedding clip captures a father getting emotional. (Photo Credit: Instagram/anchorvihaanofficial) Weddings are emotional. They always have been but every once in a while, a moment comes along that makes even strangers pause mid-scroll. A recent Instagram reel has done exactly that. The video shows a bride and her father standing together on a beautifully lit wedding stage, and the internet cannot stop talking about it. The caption over the clip reads: A fathers heart, now in safe hands." What follows is a moment that feels both intimate and universal. The Moment That Touched Millions The stage is lit with warm golden arches and hanging decor. Flower petals are scattered across the floor. The bride, dressed in a shimmering lehenga, holds her father close as he speaks into a microphone. He appears emotional, pausing mid-sentence. Apne dil ka tuka de raha hu, samhal ke rakhiyega (She is a piece of my heart, please take care of her from now on)," says the father. At one point, he wipes his tears while his daughter leans in, holding his arm. The atmosphere feels heavy with pride and sadness at the same time. Standing a little to the side, a woman in a pastel blue outfit watches, also visibly moved. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anchor Vihaan (@anchorvihaanofficial) Internet Calls Him Definition Of A Girl Dad" The emotional exchange quickly struck a chord. The comment section flooded with reactions from users who saw their own stories reflected in the clip. One user wrote, Definition of a girl dad." Another commented, Pure emotions must be honored." Several people admitted the video brought them to tears. Somebody please stop cutting onions," one user joked. Another wrote, Awww very emotional." Stories From Viewers Pour In Many commenters shared personal experiences. One person wrote, A big salute to every mother and father who protects, supports, and raises their daughters with endless love." Another said, Dont worry my princess, you have my heart." Some reflected on their own father-daughter bond, while others spoke about complicated family relationships. A comment read, Mere ghar ka alag scene hai Aise papa beti ko dekhti hu to rona aa jata hai," expressing how watching such moments can be overwhelming. The clip also received simple but heartfelt reactions like The cutest thing on the internet" and heart emojis flooding the thread. The video has racked up over thousands of likes and hundreds of comments, proving once again that emotional wedding moments rarely fail to resonate. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 06:30 IST News viral Gurugram Mans Teary Eye Speech For Beti Nahi, Mera Beta Hai Comes With Sambhal Kar Rakhna Request Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Man Awarded Rs 226 Crore As Cooking Spray Leaves Him With Rare Lungs Disease: Transplant Will Give Few More Years Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 10:55 IST The product in question was PAM cooking spray which earlier contained a chemical called diacetyl. 58-year-old Roland Esparza filed the lawsuit in 2022.(Representative Image) A man from Los Angeles has been awarded $25 million (approximately Rs 226 crore) after developing a rare and serious lung condition that he claims was caused by a popular cooking spray. The case recently made headlines after a jury ruled in his favour. According to a report in the New York Post, the verdict came from the Los Angeles Superior Court where 58-year-old Roland Esparza argued that the company behind the spray failed to properly warn consumers about the risks linked to one of its former ingredients. US Man Gets Lung Disease Using Cooking Spray The product in question was PAM cooking spray which earlier contained a chemical called diacetyl. This ingredient has been associated with respiratory illnesses. The jury found that Conagra, the Chicago-based company that makes the spray, did not provide adequate warning about the dangers of inhaling fumes from the buttery-flavoured product. Although Conagra stated during the trial that it had stopped using diacetyl back in 2009, Esparzas lawyer said his client had been using the spray regularly since the 1990s as he believed it was a healthier choice for cooking. He was a big health nut, bodybuilder, and martial artist. He was eating a lot of protein, eating a lot of eggs, and he cooked everything on his stove top. And so he was using it multiple times a day," his attorney, Jacob Plattenberger, told the Chicago Tribune. The Diagnosis: Popcorn Lung" In 2022, Esparza filed a lawsuit claiming that exposure to the ingredient caused him to develop bronchiolitis obliterans, a rare and irreversible lung disease commonly known as popcorn lung." The condition earned its nickname after workers at microwave popcorn factories in the Midwest reportedly developed similar respiratory problems from inhaling butter-flavoured chemicals during production. The report citing Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, treatment options for the disease are limited. While some symptoms like coughing may improve once exposure stops, the damage to the lungs is permanent and progressive. Companys Response And What Lies Ahead In response to the verdict, Conagra said it disagreed with the decision and was disappointed with the outcome. PAM Butter Flavor cooking spray is safe and has been diacetyl-free for nearly two decades. We intend to pursue all available legal avenues to contest the verdict," it stated as per the outlet. Esparzas attorney shared that his client is now hoping to get on the list for a lung transplant soon," as he requires a double lung transplant. We feel that it was a correct verdict. Our clients a really good guy who didnt do anything wrong and got a raw deal, and hopefully this helps. Nothing will give him his health back, and even if he gets the transplant, its not a great life, but it will give him a few more years," Plattenberger said. The lawyer further mentioned that although there have been successful legal battles in the past against microwave popcorn companies over the same chemical, this marks the first instance where a cooking spray manufacturer has faced a verdict linked to popcorn lung." First Published: February 14, 2026, 10:21 IST News viral Man Awarded Rs 226 Crore As Cooking Spray Leaves Him With Rare Lungs Disease: Transplant Will Give Few More Years Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Datadog (DDOG) is up 15% over the past five days. On Tuesday, the company delivered solid Q4 and full-year 2025 earnings, paired with an upbeat outlook for 2026. Investors cheered the results, sending the stock up nearly 14% on Tuesday. While DDOG has pulled back slightly since then, optimism continues to surround the cloud company. Now that this latest earnings reported has created so much buzz, should you buy into the hype, take profits, or simply hold the stock this month? Let's take a look. More News from Barchart About Datadog Stock Headquartered in New York, Datadog is a cloud-based observability and security platform built to help organizations keep a real-time eye on their entire tech stack. Its software-as-a-service (SaaS) tools combine infrastructure and application monitoring, log management, user experience tracking, and cloud security all in one place. Businesses of all sizes use Datadog to move to the cloud faster, fix problems sooner, launch products quicker, improve security, understand users, and track essential metrics. Over the past year or so, Datadog has been busy integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into nearly every corner of its business. With AI driving massive demand for cloud security, the company has rolled out a steady stream of new tools. In June 2025, the company launched Bits AI Agents for SRE, an AI assistant that can instantly dig into alerts and even draft incident responses and status updates on its own. That momentum continued through last summer, when Datadog upgraded its LLM Observability platform with new agentic AI monitoring features and expanded support for LLM experimentation. On top of that, the company released its MCP server in June, which helps AI agents connect directly to data sources, and introduced Toto, Datadogs own time-series foundation model. The company is currently valued at a market capitalization of about $44.6 billion, and shares are currently down about 17% over the past 52-week period. www.barchart.com Inside Datadogs Q4 Earnings Report Investor enthusiasm soared earlier this week after Datadog dropped its fiscal 2025 fourth-quarter and full-year earnings report, which topped Wall Streets estimates on both top and bottom lines. The company reported Q4 revenue of $953 million, marking a strong 29% year-over-year increase, driven by strong demand for its cloud and AI products. 'Nothing Beats A Jet2 Holiday ': Mid-Air Brawl Forces Turkey-UK Flight Diversion | Watch Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 21:19 IST A Jet2 flight from Antalya to Manchester diverted to Brussels after two passengers fought mid-air. Both were banned for life. A Jet2 flight from Antalya to Manchester diverted to Brussels after two passengers fought mid-air. Both were banned for life. (Image X) A Jet2 flight travelling from Turkey to the United Kingdom was forced to make an emergency diversion to Brussels on Thursday after two passengers became involved in a violent altercation mid-air. The flight had departed from Antalya and was scheduled to land in Manchester. However, roughly three hours into the journey, the situation escalated to such an extent that the pilots decided to divert the aircraft, according to reports. A Turkish flight bound for the UK was diverted to Belgium, after a violent altercation erupted between passengers. pic.twitter.com/2VLPme4EPa Storyful (@Storyful) February 13, 2026 Videos circulating on social media show chaotic scenes inside the cabin, with two men seen grappling in the aisle as other passengers shouted. Several people, including men and women of different ages, appeared to be drawn into the confrontation as the argument intensified. In one clip, a flight attendant can be seen standing on a seat and pleading with passengers to stop fighting as the two men held each other in a headlock. Punches and kicks were reportedly exchanged during the scuffle, while crew members struggled to restore order. Upon landing in Brussels, police boarded the aircraft and removed the two passengers involved in the initial altercation. In a statement, Jet2 described the incident as the appalling behaviour of two disruptive passengers" and confirmed that both individuals have been banned from flying with the airline for life. The airline also said it would seek to recover the costs incurred due to the diversion. As a family-friendly airline, we take a zero-tolerance approach to disruptive passenger behaviour, and we are very sorry that other customers and our colleagues onboard had to experience this," the statement said. Jet2 has previously taken strict action against disruptive flyers. In 2022, two brothers were fined 50,000 and handed lifetime bans after their argument caused a flight diversion. In another case in 2017, a couple was barred from flying with the airline after their dispute turned physical and forced an unscheduled landing. The latest incident underscores airlines increasingly firm stance against in-flight misconduct, particularly when safety is compromised. Location : manchester, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 21:19 IST News viral 'Nothing Beats A Jet2 Holiday ': Mid-Air Brawl Forces Turkey-UK Flight Diversion | Watch Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Anti-India Terror Accused Among Three Ex-Convicts Who Won Bangladesh Elections Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 10:43 IST Two of the winners belong to Bangladesh Nationalist Party, led by Tarique Rahman, while the third is from Jamaat-e-Islami. ATM Azharul Islam of Jamaat-e-Islami, BNP's Lutfozzaman Babar and Abdus Salam Pintu | File Image Three senior Bangladeshi political leaders, including one previously accused of backing anti-India terror activities, are among those elected to the countrys new parliament following the first national polls since the exit of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Two of the winners belong to Bangladesh Nationalist Party, led by Tarique Rahman, while the third is from Jamaat-e-Islami. All three had earlier faced serious criminal charges, including death sentences, which were later set aside following legal and political developments after Muhammad Yunus returned to Bangladesh after Hasina left for India. The BNP leaders are former ministers Lutfozzaman Babar and Abdus Salam Pintu, while the Jamaat-e-Islami winner is ATM Azharul Islam. They are set to take oath as members of parliament in the coming days, at a time when Bangladeshs ties with neighbouring India remain sensitive. In December 2024, a Bangladesh High Court acquitted Tarique Rahman, Babar and others in two cases related to the August 21, 2004 grenade attack on an Awami League rally that targeted Hasina. While Hasina narrowly escaped, at least 24 people were killed in the attack. Babar went on to win his constituency by a margin of about 1.6 lakh votes. Pintu, another BNP leader, won his seat by a margin of nearly two lakh votes. He had earlier been accused of supporting Pakistan-based terror outfit Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (HuJI), which was linked to several attacks in India, including the 2006 Varanasi court blasts, the 2007 Ajmer Sharif Dargah attack and the 2011 Delhi blasts. Charges against Pintu were cleared following court rulings after Babars acquittal. The third leader, ATM Azharul Islam, is a veteran Jamaat-e-Islami figure who previously served as the partys secretary general. He had been sentenced to death in 2014 for alleged crimes during Bangladeshs 1971 Liberation War, including the killing of more than 1,200 people, and was also accused in multiple rape cases. His conviction was later overturned, clearing him of all charges. With all three leaders now elected, they are set to enter parliament despite their controversial pasts. Location : Bangladesh First Published: February 14, 2026, 10:43 IST News world Anti-India Terror Accused Among Three Ex-Convicts Who Won Bangladesh Elections Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'We Look Forward To Engaging Constructively With India': BNP's Response To PM Modi After Poll Win Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 13:37 IST The Bangladesh Nationalist Party thanked PM Modi for congratulating Tarique Rahman on the partys election victory, calling the mandate a reflection of public trust in democracy. File photos of PM Narendra Modi/Tarique Rahman (PTI) The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Saturday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for congratulating party chairman Tarique Rahman following the partys decisive victory in Bangladeshs parliamentary elections, stating that it looks forward to constructive engagement with India to further strengthen bilateral ties. In a response posted on social media platform X, the BNP expressed appreciation for the Prime Ministers message and highlighted the significance of the electoral mandate received by the party. Thank you very much, Honourable Narendra Modi. We greatly appreciate your kind acknowledgement of Mr Tarique Rahmans leadership in securing the BNPs decisive win in the national elections," the party said. The BNP added that the results reflected the will of the people and their faith in democratic institutions. This outcome reflects the trust and confidence the people of Bangladesh have placed in our leadership and in the democratic process," the statement read. Reiterating its political priorities, the party said Bangladesh would remain committed to democratic governance and inclusive growth. Bangladesh remains committed to upholding democratic values, inclusivity, and progressive development for all its citizens," the BNP mentioned in its post. The party also underlined its intent to maintain cooperative relations with India, signalling continuity in regional engagement despite the political transition. We look forward to engaging constructively with India to advance our multifaceted relationship, guided by mutual respect, sensitivity to each others concerns, and a shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in our region," it added. Thank you very much, Honourable @narendramodi. We greatly appreciate your kind acknowledgment of Mr. Tarique Rahmans leadership in securing the BNPs decisive win in the national elections. This outcome reflects the trust and confidence the people of Bangladesh have placed in https://t.co/hJAOguIvKZ Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP (@bdbnp78) February 14, 2026 The response came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended a congratulatory message to Tarique Rahman for leading the BNP to what he described as a decisive victory in Bangladeshs parliamentary elections. In his message on X, PM Modi wrote, I convey my warm congratulations to Mr Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership." The Prime Minister further reaffirmed Indias support for Bangladeshs democratic and developmental journey, stating, India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals." According to unofficial results reported by local media, the BNP-led alliance secured 210 seats in the 13th parliamentary elections, paving the way for the formation of a new government led by the party. Bangladeshi Bengali daily Jugantor, citing party sources, reported that Tarique Rahman is set to lead the government, marking the return of a male Prime Minister in Bangladesh after nearly 35 years. Unofficial constituency results indicated that Rahman won the Dhaka-17 seat with 72,699 votes, defeating Jamaat-e-Islami candidate SM Khaliduzzaman, who secured 68,300 votes. Dhaka Divisional Commissioner and Returning Officer Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury announced the results on Friday, noting that voting took place across 125 centres, including postal ballots, with Rahman winning by a margin of 4,399 votes. Rahman was also unofficially elected from the Bogra-6 constituency, receiving 2,16,284 votes from 150 centres, while his nearest rival, Abidur Rahman Sohel, secured 97,626 votes. Earlier, after casting his vote at the Gulshan Model High School and College Centre in Dhaka, Rahman had expressed confidence in his partys victory, saying the people of Bangladesh had been waiting for the moment for over a decade. The BNP chief, son of former President Gen Ziaur Rahman and late former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, assumed party leadership following his mothers death in December last year and is now set to lead the country after the electoral win. First Published: February 14, 2026, 13:14 IST News world 'We Look Forward To Engaging Constructively With India': BNP's Response To PM Modi After Poll Win Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'If There's No Deal...': Trump Warns Iran, Says Second US Aircraft Carrier Headed To West Asia Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 07:14 IST Donald Trump said the US would deploy a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East to strengthen pressure on Iran, warning it would be needed if nuclear negotiations fail. A file photo of Donald Trump (AP) US President Donald Trump has said he would deploy a second American aircraft carrier to the Middle East, signalling increased military pressure on Iran while maintaining that Washington still hopes to secure a deal over Tehrans nuclear programme. Speaking on different occasions, Trump repeatedly linked the decision to diplomacy with deterrence, saying the additional naval deployment was necessary in case negotiations fail. Addressing reporters before departing the White House, Trump explained the rationale behind sending another carrier strike group to the region. Well, in case we dont make a deal, well need it. If we dont have a deal, well need it. If we have a deal, we could cut it short," he said. He added that the deployment would happen soon and described it as part of a significant military buildup. Itll be leaving very soon. We have one out there that just arrived. If we need it, well have it ready, a big, very big force." The United States is moving the USS Gerald R Ford, the worlds largest aircraft carrier, from the Caribbean Sea to the Middle East, where it will join the USS Abraham Lincoln and accompanying warships already stationed in the region. The deployment comes as Trump presses Iran to reach an agreement over its nuclear programme. In remarks delivered at another event, Trump again emphasised that the carrier deployment was intended to strengthen the US negotiating position, while expressing frustration over past talks with Tehran. The situation right now where we sent a very big carrier group to Iran. Id love to see if we could make a deal. Theyve been difficult to make a deal with. I thought we would have had a deal last time. They wish they did." He also referred to previous US military action, saying, And thats what we did, Midnight Hammer." Trump argued that US military strength had been rebuilt in recent years and criticised former President Joe Biden while discussing the broader strategic posture. With the restored strength and the tremendous power that weve now built up over the last number of years, even though there was an interlude with Biden," Trump said. We started the process again and built upon what we had already done in the first four years," he added. On a separate occasion, speaking before boarding Air Force One, Trump reiterated his criticism of Iran and said Washington was increasing its military presence while waiting to see how negotiations unfold. For 47 years, theyve been talking and talking and talking. In the meantime, weve lost a lot of lives while they talk," he said. He added that additional military assets were already being positioned in the region. Tremendous power has arrived, and additional power, as you know, and other carriers are going out shortly. So well see it out. Get it settled for once and for all, and thatll be good." US CARRIER DEPLOYMENT IN THE MIDDLE EAST The deployment comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and follows Trumps suggestion that another round of negotiations with Iran could take place, although those talks have yet to materialise. Gulf Arab nations have warned that any military escalation could trigger a broader regional conflict, particularly as the region remains volatile following the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Recent incidents at sea, including US forces shooting down an Iranian drone that approached the USS Abraham Lincoln and Iran attempting to stop a US-flagged vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. The USS Fords redeployment represents a rapid operational shift and could result in an unusually long deployment for its crew. THE DEPLOYMENT OF USS GERALD R FORD Before Trump publicly confirmed the deployment, The New York Times had reported that the United States planned to send the USS Gerald R Ford and its escort ships from the Caribbean to West Asia, citing four US officials who spoke on condition of anonymity. According to the report, the carrier strike group was expected to join the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Persian Gulf as part of increasing US pressure on Iran while talks over the nuclear programme continued. The report said the vessels were not expected to return to their home ports until late April or early May. The newspaper further reported that the Fords deployment had already been extended once after earlier missions elsewhere, underscoring the scale and urgency of the current military posture. First Published: February 14, 2026, 06:56 IST News world 'If There's No Deal...': Trump Warns Iran, Says Second US Aircraft Carrier Headed To West Asia Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Ended Eight Wars But...': Trump Calls Russia-Ukraine Conflict A 'Mess', Says It Takes Two To Tango Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 07:26 IST Trump claimed the US was bringing peace all over the world, but said that the war between Russia and Ukraine remained particularly difficult. US President Donald Trump. (Image: AFP) US President Donald Trump on Saturday reiterated his claim of ending eight wars in 10 months, but called the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict a mess," saying progress toward peace would require cooperation from both sides. Speaking at a public event, Trump said the United States was bringing peace all over the world," but acknowledged that the war between Russia and Ukraine remained particularly difficult. We have a couple more to go, but one in particular, Russia-Ukraine. Its a mess. Its a horrible thing. I think well get there. It takes two to tango," he said, adding that sustained effort was needed to move the process forward. #WATCH | US President Donald Trump says, We are also bringing peace all over the world. I ended eight wars in just 10 monthsWe have a couple more to go, but one in particular, Russia-Ukraine. Its a mess. Its a horrible thing. I think well get there. It takes two to tango. pic.twitter.com/kaK9sp7zaL ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2026 Trumps remarks come as the war nears its fourth year, with neither Moscow nor Kyiv showing signs of compromising on key territorial demands. Fighting continues along a roughly 1,250-kilometre front line, with Russia pressing attacks on Ukraines energy infrastructure and Ukraine striking deep inside Russian territory, including oil refineries and other war-related targets. Earlier this week, Trump also urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to act quickly to secure a peace agreement. When asked about progress in negotiations and reports that Washington wanted Kyiv to hold elections by the summer, Trump avoided a direct response but said Zelenskyy has to get moving." Russia wants to make a deal and Zelensky is going to have to get moving, otherwise hes going to miss a great opportunity," Trump said. He has to move." Geneva Talks Against this backdrop, Russian and Ukrainian envoys are expected to take part in a fresh round of United States-brokered talks in Geneva next week. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the trilateral discussions would be held on February 17-18, following two earlier rounds in Abu Dhabi. The talks were also confirmed by Zelenskyys communications adviser, Dmytro Lytvyn. The negotiations are expected to build on earlier discussions that focused on military issues, including a possible buffer zone and mechanisms to monitor any ceasefire. The previous Abu Dhabi rounds were reportedly led by US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. One of the most contentious issues remains the future of Ukraines Donbas industrial region. Russia is pushing for Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining areas of the eastern Donetsk region still under Kyivs control, while Ukraine has rejected any unilateral pullback. Kyiv has instead demanded strong Western security guarantees to prevent Russia from renewing its offensive if a ceasefire is reached. Zelenskyy said last week that the United States had set a June deadline for the warring sides to reach a deal, although earlier ultimatums issued by Trump have yet to produce a breakthrough. Moscows delegation for the upcoming talks will reportedly be led by Vladimir Medinsky, a senior adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who previously headed failed negotiations in Turkey in March 2022. Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: February 14, 2026, 07:26 IST News world 'Ended Eight Wars But...': Trump Calls Russia-Ukraine Conflict A 'Mess', Says It Takes Two To Tango Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... How Tarique Rahman's India-Inspired Poll Tactics Paid Off In Bangladesh Elections Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 05:15 IST For instance, inspired by Narendra Modi's successful 'chai pe charcha', the BNP organised 'chaayer adda' (conversations over tea) Tarique faces many challenges. With Jamaat-e-Islami not performing too badly, it plans to make life difficult for the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Image/News18 Relations between India and Bangladesh may not be warm at the moment, but Indias influence on the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and its chairman Tarique Rahmans campaign was evident. This influence played a significant role in giving the BNP an edge in the elections. First, inspired by Narendra Modis successful chai pe charcha", the BNP organised chaayer adda" (conversations over tea). Conceptualised by Tarique Rahmans daughter, Zaima Rahman, these gatherings aimed to hold informal interactions across the country, especially with the youth, to gather their feedback and inputs. Narendra Modis chai pe charcha" campaign was highly successful in contributing to his massive 2014 win, which originated from a dig by Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar about Modi being a chaiwala". Although chaayer adda" did not stem from any similar jibe, Tarique Rahman still faced criticism from his political opponents for being an outsider and a novice. The second strategy was to project Tarique Rahman as a relaxed, informal leader with no sense of entitlement. This was crucial, as his opponents wanted to depict him as an entitled heir who stayed away from the country and suddenly returned for power. Tariques brief to his advisors and campaign managers was clear: they needed to appeal to Generation Z. With around 40 million first-time young voters, the BNP sought their support. Hence, the party introduced the line Dont call me sir, call me bhai", reminiscent of Rahul Gandhis similar request during his interactions with students. Next came the reel-making competitions. To engage the growing number of YouTubers and content creators in the country, people were invited to create reels with ideas and suggestions. The winners were awarded, and their reels were showcased. Sources in the BNP told News18 that there was close monitoring of the social media accounts of the main political parties in India for inspiration. Tarique faces many challenges. With Jamaat-e-Islami not performing too badly, it plans to make life difficult for the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Moreover, it has rejected the elections as fixed, accusing the BNP of vote-rigging, similar to the Congresss accusations against the BJP. All the more reason why Tarique, the outsider, was presented as someone with a plan and blueprint for a new Bangladesh. His posters carried the tagline I have a plan", akin to Barack Obamas campaign mantra Yes, we can". Location : Dhaka, Bangladesh First Published: February 14, 2026, 05:15 IST News world How Tarique Rahman's India-Inspired Poll Tactics Paid Off In Bangladesh Elections Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Imran Khan May Be Shifted From Adiala Jail For Eye Treatment Amid Vision Loss Concerns | Exclusive Reported By : CNN-News18 Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 11:10 IST Among the facilities under consideration are Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, and the government-run Federal Government Polyclinic Hospital Rapid Read Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party supporters protest to demand release of their jailed leader and Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan. (AFP) Pakistans former prime minister Imran Khan is set to receive full medical access, with both public and private doctors likely to examine his health as early as Saturday, top sources have revealed to CNN-News18. According to exclusive details shared by senior officials, amid mounting political pressure, a comprehensive medical board is expected to be constituted to investigate and assess Khans complete health condition and medical history. The proposed board will reportedly include government and private practitioners, formed after consultations with the federal government, Khans party leadership, his family members, Attorney Generals office, and his legal counsel Salman Safdar, who is also serving as a friend of the court. The move comes after a medical report submitted to the Supreme Court of Pakistan alleged that Khan has suffered irreversible vision loss due to institutionalised medical neglect". The seven-page report details a systematic denial of healthcare that began in late 2025. According to the document, Khan possessed perfect 6/6 vision in both eyes until October 2025. Shortly thereafter, he began reporting persistent blurred and hazy vision" to the then-Jail Superintendent of Adiala Jail but to no avail. Sources indicate that Khan may soon be shifted from Adiala Jail to a hospital in Islamabad for medical tests and specialised eye treatment. Among the facilities under consideration are Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, and the government-run Federal Government Polyclinic Hospital. Meanwhile, a defiant opposition staged a sit-in at Parliament House, vowing to remain until their demands are fulfilled. Opposition leaders have called for a complete medical check-up and the best possible eye treatment" for Khan under the supervision of his personal doctors at Shifa International Hospital. Party representatives argue that only independent specialists chosen in consultation with Khans personal medical team can ensure transparency and credibility in the examination process. A top government source confirmed that representatives of the government of Pakistan have established contact with opposition leaders in an attempt to reach consensus on at least some of the demands. Negotiations are reportedly ongoing, with possibilities of partial agreement emerging regarding the composition of the medical board and the location of treatment. The latest developments mark a potentially critical moment in the ongoing political standoff in Pakistan, where Khans health has become a flashpoint between the ruling coalition and opposition forces. Location : Islamabad, Pakistan First Published: February 14, 2026, 11:10 IST News world Imran Khan May Be Shifted From Adiala Jail For Eye Treatment Amid Vision Loss Concerns | Exclusive Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Imran Khan Speaks To Sons For 20 Minutes After Court Directive, Says Sister Aleema Khan Reported By : CNN-News18 Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 19:20 IST Imran Khan spoke to his sons for 20 minutes after Chief Justice of Pakistan's order, Aleema Khan confirmed. Family awaits urgent eye treatment in Islamabad. Imran Khan spoke to his sons for 20 minutes after Chief Justice of Pakistan's order, Aleema Khan confirmed. Family awaits urgent eye treatment in Islamabad. File pic Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has spoken to his sons over the phone following directions from the Chief Justice of Pakistan, his sister Aleema Khan confirmed in a post on X. According to her, the Chief Justice had ordered that Imran Khan be allowed to communicate with his children. She said the conversation lasted approximately 20 minutes. We can confirm that Imran Khan was able to speak with them for approximately 20 minutes," she wrote. Aleema Khan added that her nephews told the family that the former prime minister was extremely happy" to hear their voices after a long gap. In her statement, she also raised concerns about Khans health, particularly his eyesight. She said the family is awaiting his urgent medical treatment at Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad under the supervision of his personal doctors. We are now awaiting his urgent medical treatment at Shifa International Hospital Islamabad under the supervision of his personal doctors, where specialist doctors must make every possible effort to restore his eyesight," she said. Khans sister alleged that delays in providing timely medical care have already caused damage to his vision. The intentional delay in providing him timely treatment has already caused damage to his eyesight," she wrote, adding that immediate specialist care is essential to prevent permanent loss of vision. Imran Khan has been in custody since his arrest in connection with multiple cases. His legal team and family have repeatedly raised concerns about his health and access to medical treatment. Location : Islamabad, Pakistan First Published: February 14, 2026, 19:19 IST News world Imran Khan Speaks To Sons For 20 Minutes After Court Directive, Says Sister Aleema Khan Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Indian Student From Karnataka Goes Missing In California, Embassy Raises Concern Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 10:42 IST A 22-year-old Indian postgraduate student from Karnataka, Saketh Sreenivasaiah of the University of California, Berkeley, has gone missing in California. Indian-origin student Saketh Sreenivasaiah who went missing in US A 22-year-old Indian postgraduate student, hailing from Karnataka, went missing in California on February 10. The student, identified as Saketh Sreenivasaiah of UC Berkeley, was last seen in Berkeley. The Consulate General of India in San Francisco said it is in contact with his family and local police and is closely following the case. Consulate General of India in San Francisco is deeply concerned about the disappearance of Saketh Sreenivasaiah, an Indian post-graduate student of UC Berkeley, hailing from the State of Karnataka. The Consulate is in touch with the family and also is in contact with the concerned local authorities to locate the student," read the post by the Consulate General of India. Consulate General of India in San Francisco is deeply concerned about the disappearance of Saketh Sreenivasaiah, an Indian post-graduate student of UC Berkeley, hailing from the State of Karnataka. The Consulate is in touch with the family and also is in contact with the India in San Francisco (@CGISFO) February 14, 2026 Last Seen Near Campus Local reports said Saketh was last seen on February 10 in the 1700 block of Dwight Way in Berkeley. Police described him as around 6 feet 1 inch tall, with short black hair and brown eyes. They added that he may be at risk and asked the public to share any information. About The Student Saketh moved to the United States for higher studies after completing his engineering degree from IIT Madras. At Berkeley, he was pursuing his masters and had written online that he was interested in new technology and materials research. Im a Masters student in the Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering department at UC Berkeley, with an undergraduate degree from IIT Madras. Im passionate about deep-tech innovations in soft and active materials, semiconductors, and advanced materials," reads his bio on LinkedIn. First Published: February 14, 2026, 10:40 IST News world Indian Student From Karnataka Goes Missing In California, Embassy Raises Concern Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Jeffrey Epstein Leveraged Nobel Peace Prize Ties To Pursue Bill Gates, Steve Bannon Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 23:08 IST US documents link Jeffrey Epstein to ex-Nobel committee head Thorbjorn Jagland, sparking a Norway corruption probe. Jagland denies the claims. Jeffrey Epstein. (Image: Reuters) Freshly released US Justice Department documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein reference former Nobel Peace Prize committee head Thorbjorn Jagland multiple times, shedding light on their association and prompting a corruption investigation in Norway. According to an Associated Press report, Jagland who led the Norwegian Nobel Committee from 2009 to 2015 is mentioned extensively in the trove of documents. While there is no evidence so far of direct lobbying for the Nobel Peace Prize, Epstein frequently highlighted his relationship with Jagland in communications with global elites. Hosted At Epsteins Properties The documents show that Epstein told several prominent figures that he had hosted Jagland at his properties in New York and Paris during the 2010s. In 2018, Epstein exchanged text messages with Steve Bannon, a former ally of US President Donald Trump, referencing Trumps interest in the Nobel Peace Prize. At one point, Epstein wrote: Donalds head would explode if he knew you were now buds with the guy who on Monday will decide the Nobel Peace Prize." Epstein also emailed British entrepreneur Richard Branson in 2013, saying Jagland would be staying with him and inviting Branson to meet him, describing Jagland as someone he might find interesting." Similar outreach was made to former White House counsel Kathy Ruemmler, shortly after her tenure under President Barack Obama, with Epstein writing: Head of Nobel Peace Prize coming to visit, want to join?" Epstein also contacted former US Treasury Secretary and Harvard University president Larry Summers, stating that the head of the Nobel Peace Prize" was staying with him if you have any interest." In private messages, Epstein reportedly described Jagland as not bright" but said he offered a unique perspective." In 2014, Epstein wrote to Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, informing him that Jagland had been reelected as head of the Council of Europe. Gates replied, I guess his peace prize committee job is also up in the air?" Nobel Decisions During Jaglands Tenure During Jaglands time as chair, the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Obama in 2009 and to the European Union in 2012. Jagland was reportedly introduced to Epstein through Norwegian diplomat Terje Rod Larsen, who is known for helping broker the Oslo Peace Accords between Israel and the Palestinians. Corruption Probe Underway Jagland has now been charged with aggravated corruption" in connection with the documents, the Associated Press reported, citing Norways economic crime unit. Authorities are investigating whether gifts, travel or loans were received in connection with his position. Norwegian police have searched Jaglands residence in Oslo as well as two other properties as part of the probe. Jagland has denied the allegations, his lawyers said, as the investigation continues. Location : New York, United States of America (USA) First Published: February 14, 2026, 23:08 IST News world Jeffrey Epstein Leveraged Nobel Peace Prize Ties To Pursue Bill Gates, Steve Bannon Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... The Scene Companies and their advisers are waking up to a new Washington: You can do deals again. The ouster of Justice Department antitrust chief Gail Slater last week makes clear that the White Houses business-friendly approach has won out over populists like Slater, Vice President JD Vance, and MAGA adviser Steve Bannon who are more skeptical of corporate consolidation. A year ago, deal lawyers were busy rewriting client memos to reflect the populism of the campaign trail, where candidate Donald Trump had railed against big tech, defense, and healthcare companies stifling competition. That rhetoric has been replaced by a basic long-leash Republicanism a shift that may be unsurprising with a dealmaker in the Oval Office, but has disappointed progressives and hardcore populists and sent legal sherpas scrambling to freshen their advice. Remedies are back on the table, offering companies the chance to cut a deal to get their mergers approved, sometimes with the help of an ascendant crop of MAGA lobbyists. The advice to clients that have transactions likely to face scrutiny is to come ready with something to offer, said Tim Cornell, an antitrust lawyer at Debevoise & Plimpton. The dominant force in big tech has shifted from online censorship fights, which sharpened questions about platforms size and reach, to AI urgency, where the industry and the White House are more aligned. Vice President JD Vance, Slaters former boss, has used his political capital elsewhere, staying out of deal fights between the antitrust division and higher-ups at Trumps DOJ. I think we all thought Vance would be more influential, Cornell said. Slater was an official serving at the pleasure of the president, and apparently its no longer the presidents pleasure. Know More Merger investigations neared a record low in 2025, according to the delightfully named DAMITT database maintained by law firm Dechert. The Trump administration dropped a lawsuit brought by the Biden administration seeking to block a corporate-travel merger, and settled with half of 16 companies whose deals received significant scrutiny. Thats a marked shift from the Biden administration, which was skeptical of structural fixes. Whatever hope I had for a populist realignment on the right is slipping away, said Lee Hepner, counsel at the American Economic Liberties Project, a progressive anti-merger think tank. You still see those voices on the right, but they are increasingly not represented in the government itself. For now they are relegated to group chats that lit up after Slaters firing. This is catastrophic, Will Upton, a Treasury staffer during Trumps first term and now an editor at right-wing outlet The National Pulse, moaned to a group of like-minded populists in a group chat last week, according to a screenshot shared with Semafor. [Commerce Secretary Howard] Lutnick and his goons have won out. Might as well be the admin on mergers and acquisitions. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang To Skip India AI Impact Summit Due To Unforeseen Circumstances Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 17:08 IST Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang will not attend the India AI Impact Summit, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, due to unforeseen circumstances, as confirmed by MSL.\ Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang will not travel to India next week for the India AI Impact Summit, the company confirmed on Saturday. Huang was expected to be among the headline participants at the high-profile summit, which is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday and will be attended by global technology leaders and policymakers. Also Read: Macron, Lula, UAEs Crown Prince Among 20 World Leaders To Attend Indias AI Action Summit 2026 He was also scheduled to address the media in New Delhi on Wednesday ahead of the event. However, Nvidias media agency in India, MSL, said in an email that Huang would not be travelling due to unforeseen circumstances." No further details were provided. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 17:08 IST News world Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang To Skip India AI Impact Summit Due To Unforeseen Circumstances Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Only Growing His Belly, Not Army: Zelenskyys Swipe At Hungarian PM Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 22:22 IST Zelenskyy criticizes Orban for putting Hungary's politics above Ukraine's security, as Budapest resists EU military aid and sanctions against Moscow. Zelenskyy (L) criticizes Orban (R) for putting Hungary's politics above Ukraine's security, as Budapest resists EU military aid and sanctions against Moscow. (Images: reuters) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has taken a sharp dig at Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, accusing him of prioritising domestic politics over regional security as tensions flare over Budapests stance on the war. In remarks that quickly grabbed headlines, Zelenskyy said Orban was only growing his belly, not his army", a pointed criticism seen as targeting Hungarys reluctance to ramp up military preparedness or deepen its support for Kyiv. Growing Frictions Within Europe The fresh exchange underscores widening divisions within the European Union over the war in Ukraine, now entering its third year since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. While most EU nations have backed military aid packages and sanctions against Moscow, Hungary has repeatedly slowed or blocked certain measures, arguing for negotiations and warning against further escalation. Orban has maintained a comparatively cordial relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, drawing criticism from Kyiv and several Western capitals. Budapests Position Hungary has opposed additional EU funding mechanisms for Ukraine and has resisted calls to supply weapons directly. Orban has framed his approach as pragmatic, saying Hungary must prioritise its own economic stability and energy security. His government has also questioned Ukraines treatment of ethnic Hungarians in western Ukraine, an issue Budapest frequently cites in its disputes with Kyiv. Kyivs Message Zelenskyys comments signal growing impatience in Kyiv with what it sees as obstructionism from within Europe at a time when Ukraine is pushing for sustained military and financial backing. The Ukrainian leader has consistently urged European allies to accelerate defence production and increase pressure on Moscow, warning that wavering support could embolden Russia. Bigger Diplomatic Picture The latest spat comes as EU leaders debate long-term security guarantees for Ukraine and fresh sanctions against Moscow. Hungarys resistance has complicated efforts to present a unified European front. Despite the rhetoric, analysts say both sides are unlikely to sever ties completely. Hungary remains an EU and NATO member, and Ukraines path toward EU membership will inevitably require engagement with Budapest. For now, however, the war of words reflects deeper strategic disagreements and highlights the strain the conflict continues to place on European unity. Location : Kyiv, Ukraine First Published: February 14, 2026, 22:22 IST News world Only Growing His Belly, Not Army: Zelenskyys Swipe At Hungarian PM Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Tarique Rahmans Top Aide Signals India Ties Reset: Based On Mutual Respect Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 16:47 IST Tarique Rahman's BNP-led Bangladesh government aims to boost ties with India through trade and people-to-people engagement. Tarique Rahman's top aide Humayun Kabir. (Image: BNP) The newly elected Bangladesh government led by Tarique Rahmans Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is looking to strengthen ties with India through enhanced trade, investment and broader people-to-people engagement, a senior aide to Rahman has said. Humayun Kabir, who oversees international relations for Rahman and is expected to play a key role in the new administration, said Dhakas priority is to build stronger cooperation among our people." India will be one of the countries that we will visit," Kabir told NDTV, though he did not specify a timeline. He added that while domestic priorities would come first, engagement with regional partners, including India, would follow. It is normal to have bilateral visits both ways, whether to India or from senior Indian officials visiting Bangladesh. But what we want is to broaden the relationship beyond governments to people across the board," he said. On Relations With Pakistan Addressing concerns that Bangladesh may tilt toward Pakistan under the new dispensation, Kabir struck a balanced tone. During the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus, Dhaka was perceived by some as moving closer to Islamabad. I think its normal to normalise relations in the region," Kabir said. Regardless of tensions between India and Pakistan, for us it is not about taking sides." He emphasised that Bangladesh would pursue ties based on mutual respect and national interest." Kabir also criticised former prime minister Sheikh Hasinas approach to foreign policy, alleging it was overly dependent on India. It was seen as a one-way relationship between India and Sheikh Hasina. We want to move away from any country-centric or country-dependent foreign policy," he said. On Rising Radicalisation Speaking to PTI about regional security, Kabir acknowledged concerns about radicalisation in South Asia and called for stronger cooperation among neighbouring countries. Radicalisation is a problem in South Asia. We see Hindu extremism and far-right intolerance growing in Indian society, and in Pakistan, we also hear of extremist elements. In Bangladesh, it is not at that level, but there are some issues," he said. Kabir emphasised the need for information sharing and coordinated counter-terror efforts across the region. That is why all of us need to share counter-terrorism evidence and assessments and strengthen cooperation. Sitting in isolation and not engaging in information exchange or security cooperation only hinders progress," he said. He added that diplomacy and collaboration among elected governments are essential. Going forward, information sharing and working together will build confidence in detecting and tracking terrorists and extremists in the region." Indias Cautious Optimism In New Delhi, officials are assessing the new political landscape with what sources describe as cautious optimism." The BNPs landslide victory marks the end of a turbulent interim period under Yunus, which Indian officials reportedly viewed as disruptive to bilateral engagement. Despite past differences between India and previous BNP governments, Indian officials believe Rahman may adopt a more pragmatic approach, shaped by economic needs and regional stability considerations. With the electoral transition complete, attention now turns to how Dhaka and New Delhi navigate this potential diplomatic reset in the months ahead. Location : Dhaka, Bangladesh First Published: February 14, 2026, 16:14 IST News world Tarique Rahmans Top Aide Signals India Ties Reset: Based On Mutual Respect Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Strangled, Not Hanged: Doctor Who Witnessed Epstein's Autopsy Questions His Death After 7 Years Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 09:25 IST Dr Michael Baden, who observed Epsteins post-mortem examination on behalf of the financiers family, has reiterated his doubts over the conclusion that Epstein died by hanging. Jeffrey Epstein. (Image: Reuters) Seven years after Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier facing federal sex trafficking charges, was found dead in a New York jail cell, questions surrounding the official ruling of his suicide have resurfaced. Dr Michael Baden, who observed Epsteins post-mortem examination on behalf of the financiers family, has reiterated his doubts over the conclusion that Epstein died by hanging. In an interview with The Telegraph, Baden said he believes Epsteins death was more consistent with strangulation and called for a renewed investigation into the case. My opinion is that his death was most likely caused by strangulation pressure rather than hanging," Baden said, adding that, based on information now available, the cause and manner of death warrant further scrutiny. Epstein was found unresponsive in his cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in August 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges. The New York City medical examiner later ruled his death a suicide by hanging. Baden did not conduct the autopsy himself but was present during the examination. He has said that, at the time, he and the medical examiner agreed more information was needed before drawing firm conclusions. He described his own assessment in 2019 as inconclusive." Five days after Epsteins death certificate was issued pending further investigation, then chief medical examiner Barbara Sampson ruled the death a suicide, a finding she has consistently defended. Baden told The Telegraph that Sampson was not present during the post-mortem. One of the key points cited by Baden is the presence of three fractures in Epsteins neck, one to the hyoid bone and two to the thyroid cartilage, as documented in the official autopsy report. Baden has said that in his five-decade career, he has not encountered such injuries in cases of suicidal hanging, including deaths in custody. In August 2019, he told Fox News that the evidence was more suggestive of homicide than suicide. Epsteins legal team had also expressed dissatisfaction with the medical examiners findings, according to the report. Doubts have been further fuelled by documented security failures at the jail. A 2023 report by the US Department of Justice detailed multiple lapses at the facility, including failures to conduct and log routine cell checks. Epstein was also found to have excess bedding and clothing in his cell, some of it torn into strips. On the night before his death, Epsteins cellmate was transferred out and not replaced. Required 30-minute checks were not carried out for several hours after lockdown, and guards later admitted to falsifying records to indicate the rounds had been completed. The next morning, Epstein was found hanging from the top bunk, partially seated, with an orange strip of material around his neck. Guards attempted resuscitation before he was pronounced dead at a hospital. Two correctional officers were later charged with falsifying records related to the incident. Recently reviewed video logs cited by CBS showed what was described as a flash of orange" moving toward Epsteins tier on the night of his death. An FBI memo suggested it could have been an inmate, while an Inspector Generals report described it as an unidentified corrections officer carrying orange linen. Then US attorney general Bill Barr had stated at the time that no one entered the tier that night. With Baden again questioning the official account, the circumstances surrounding Epsteins death, long the subject of public speculation, remain unresolved. Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: February 14, 2026, 09:25 IST News world Strangled, Not Hanged: Doctor Who Witnessed Epstein's Autopsy Questions His Death After 7 Years Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Trump Is Open To Meeting Khamenei: Marco Rubio On US-Iran Tensions Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 22:47 IST Marco Rubio urged Europe to renew US ties, discussed alliance changes, migration, security, and got cautious backing from Merz, von der Leyen, and Starmer. Marco Rubio urged Europe to renew US ties, discussed alliance changes, migration, security, and got cautious backing from Merz, von der Leyen, and Starmer. (Images: reuters) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called on European leaders to return to what he described as their shared civilisational roots with the United States, while seeking to reassure allies about Washingtons long-term commitment to the continent. Speaking in an interview with Bloomberg on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Rubio struck a balancing tone, affirming transatlantic ties but warning that the alliance must evolve. We want Europe to prosper because were interconnected in so many different ways, and because our alliance is so critical," Rubio said. But it has to be an alliance of allies that are capable and willing to fight for who they are and whats important." Heirs To The Same Civilisation Rubio emphasised cultural and historical bonds between the US and Europe, saying both sides are heirs to the same civilisation" one rooted in shared history, Christian faith, culture and language. Referencing icons from Michelangelo to the Rolling Stones and even joking about American beer Rubio underscored what he framed as deep cultural ties. However, he coupled that message with pointed criticism, saying Washington had no interest in being polite and orderly caretakers of the Wests managed decline." He warned of what he described as an unprecedented wave of mass migration that threatens the cohesion of our societies" and argued that Europe must address internal vulnerabilities. Clarifying Trumps Approach Rubio said his remarks were built on a speech delivered earlier at the conference and elaborated on positions previously articulated by US Vice President JD Vance at the same forum a year ago. Tensions between the US and Europe have deepened over the past year amid tariff disputes, former President Donald Trumps renewed suggestion that the US could take control of Greenland, and a US National Security Strategy warning of Europes potential civilisational erasure." The alliance has to change," Rubio said. When we come off as urgent or even critical about decisions that Europe has failed to make or made, it is because we care." Russia-Ukraine War On the war in Ukraine, Rubio said he believes Russian President Vladimir Putins objectives may have narrowed, suggesting Moscow now seeks to consolidate control over the remaining 20% of the Donetsk region not yet occupied by its forces. He also defended President Trumps decision to deploy a second US aircraft carrier to the Middle East, describing it as a deterrent move to ensure Iran does not escalate tensions further. Rubio said Trump would prefer a diplomatic agreement with Iran and even left open the possibility of a meeting with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. I serve under a president thats willing to meet with anybody," Rubio said. If the Ayatollah said tomorrow he wanted to meet with President Trump, the president would meet him not because he agrees with the Ayatollah, but because he thinks thats the way you solve problems." European Reactions German Chancellor Friedrich Merz recently warned that the transatlantic relationship must evolve and cautioned against a return to great power politics, urging Europe to strengthen its security and strategic independence. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was reassured by Rubios tone but added that some lines have been crossed that cannot be uncrossed." UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed the need for vigilance, warning that Europe shouldnt get in the warm bath of complacency" over its defence and security. Despite strains, Rubios address received strong applause at its conclusion. Wolfgang Ischinger, chairman of the Munich Security Conference, told him there had been a sigh of relief" in the hall, interpreting his message as one of partnership rather than rupture. Location : Munich, India First Published: February 14, 2026, 22:47 IST News world Trump Is Open To Meeting Khamenei: Marco Rubio On US-Iran Tensions Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... UK, Four Others Blame Russia For Navalny Death, Cite Dart Frog Toxin Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 19:38 IST His widow, Yulia Navalnaya, said on Saturday that her husbands death in an Arctic prison in 2024 was murder and is now a scientifically proven fact. Rapid Read A mourner lays flowers at a makeshift memorial for late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, marking the first anniversary of his death. (AFP/File) The United Kingdom and four other countries have accused Russia of being responsible for the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, claiming he was killed using a rare poison derived from dart frog toxin. The foreign ministries of the countries have confirmed the presence of epibatidine", which is a toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America, and not found naturally in Russia. We know the Russian state now used this lethal toxin to target Navalny in fear of his opposition," the UKs foreign office said in a statement. In a joint statement, the countries said Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to use the poison, and added that they would report Moscow to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons for violating the Chemical Weapons Convention. His widow, Yulia Navalnaya, said on Saturday that her husbands death in an Arctic prison in 2024 was murder" and is now a scientifically proven fact". On the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Navalnaya said, Two years ago I came on stage here and said that it was Vladimir Putin who killed my husband. I was, of course, certain that it was a murder but back then it was just words. But today these words have become science-proven facts." Navalnaya last September said that laboratory analysis of smuggled biological samples found he was killed by poisoning. Today, beside his widow, the UK is shining a light on the Kremlins barbaric plot to silence his voice," UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, who met Navalnaya while attending the Munich conference, said in a statement. The countries said they had reported Russia to the worlds chemical weapons watchdog, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, over the findings. We are further concerned that Russia did not destroy all of its chemical weapons," the countries said, accusing Moscow of breaching the Chemical Weapons Convention. Navalny was earlier poisoned with the Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok in 2020 while campaigning in Siberia and was later flown to Germany for emergency treatment, where he spent months recovering. The prominent anti-corruption campaigner had mobilised hundreds of thousands across Russia in protests against the Kremlin, while exposing the alleged illicit wealth of President Putins inner circle. The Russian authorities have previously strenuously denied any involvement in his death. There is no innocent explanation for the toxin Epibatidine being found on Navalnys body, the Foreign Office said. (With inputs from AFP) Location : Germany First Published: February 14, 2026, 19:37 IST News world UK, Four Others Blame Russia For Navalny Death, Cite Dart Frog Toxin Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... US Used Anthropic's Claude AI In Operation To Capture Venezuela's Maduro: Report Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 22:11 IST Anthropics AI model Claude was used by US defence forces in the January raid to capture Nicolas Maduro in Caracas, WSJ reported. Captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is escorted, as he heads towards the Daniel Patrick Manhattan United States Courthouse for an initial appearance to face U.S. federal charges at Downtown Manhattan Heliport, in New York City, US. (File pic: Reuters) The US defence forces used artificial intelligence developed by Anthropic during its operation to capture then-Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro earlier this year, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. Anthropic was the first AI model developer to be used in the Pentagon for classified operations. As per the report, published Friday and citing people familiar with the matter, Anthropics AI model Claude was deployed during the January raid in Caracas that led to Maduros capture and transfer to New York to face drug-trafficking charges. Maduro and his wife were captured from Caracas after several sites were bombed by US defence forces. According to the WSJ report, Claude was made available to the Pentagon through Anthropics partnership with Palantir Technologies, whose platforms are widely used by the Defense Department and federal law enforcement agencies. The exact role Claude played in the operation remained classified. However, it is speculated that the AI system may have been used to analyse intelligence, synthesise large volumes of data, interpret satellite imagery, or provide real-time decision-making support during the raid. Anthropics usage policies prohibit using Claude to support violence, design weapons, or conduct surveillance. Despite this, the AI tool was reportedly used during the operation. In a statement, an Anthropic spokesperson said, Any use of Claudewhether in the private sector or across governmentis required to comply with our Usage Policies, which govern how Claude can be deployed. We work closely with our partners to ensure compliance." The report said that the concerns over how Claude was used prompted discussions within the Pentagon about potentially canceling a $200 million contract signed with Anthropic last summer. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly said in January that the Pentagon would not work with AI models that wont allow you to fight wars," referring to discussions with Anthropic. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has previously called for stronger regulation of artificial intelligence and expressed concern about AI being used in autonomous lethal operations and domestic surveillance. According to Reuters, the Pentagon has been urging leading AI companies, including OpenAI and Anthropic, to make their tools available on classified networks with fewer user restrictions. While many AI companies provide custom systems to the military, most operate only on unclassified administrative networks. Anthropic is currently the only major AI model provider reportedly available in classified settings through third-party integrations, though the government remains bound by its usage guidelines. (With inputs from agencies) Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: February 14, 2026, 22:11 IST News world US Used Anthropic's Claude AI In Operation To Capture Venezuela's Maduro: Report Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... You Captured My Heart: White House Releases Valentines Day Cards Featuring Nicolas Maduro Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: February 14, 2026, 19:53 IST One card showed detained former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro blindfolded and wearing a grey tracksuit, framed in red colour. Rapid Read The photo with Maduro was paired with the message You captured my heart. (X/@WhiteHouse) The White House on Saturday surprised social media users with an unconventional Valentines Day post, releasing a series of politically themed digital cards that feature international figures and key moments from current US politics, including one centred on former Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. In a post on X captioned Made just for you", the White House shared a series of digital cards using political imagery and satire linked to key moments from the current US presidency. One card showed detained former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro blindfolded and wearing a grey tracksuit, framed in red colour. The image of Maduro was taken after his capture by US armed forces during a midnight military operation and showed him handcuffed and blindfolded. US special forces brought him to New York in January following the coordinated operation. The photo with Maduro was paired with the message You captured my heart." Made just for you pic.twitter.com/DhSgnGK1M6 The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 14, 2026 Another card featured US President Donald Trump holding a document labeled Executive Order 4547", accompanied by the message UR My Valentine." A third card featured a widely circulated image of Senator Chris Van Hollen sipping margaritas" with an alleged MS-13 gang member, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, in El Salvador. The photo was framed in a heart and carried the caption: My love for you is as strong as Democrats love for illegal aliens," the New York Post reported. The White House also shared a separate card featuring Greenland. It displayed a map of the Arctic island inside a heart, along with the line, Its time we define our situationship." The reference points to long-standing interest by Donald Trump and his aides in Greenlands strategic importance in US foreign policy, an idea that has drawn strong opposition from local residents and European leaders. According to a previous New York Post report, the White Houses online content and satirical messaging are largely devised by Donald Trump, along with Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino and Deputy Communications Director Kaelan Dorr. Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: February 14, 2026, 19:52 IST News world You Captured My Heart: White House Releases Valentines Day Cards Featuring Nicolas Maduro Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Quick Read FlexShares TILT (TILT) returned 300.67% over the past decade compared to 271.83% for SPY. TILT concentrates 34.2% in Information Technology while holding over 150 positions across all eleven sectors. The fund charges 0.15% annually and tilts toward companies with strong fundamentals and recent price momentum. A recent study identified one single habit that doubled Americans retirement savings and moved retirement from dream, to reality. Read more here. 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The portfolio charges 0.15% annually, competitive for a factor-tilted strategy that systematically favors companies with strong fundamentals. By weighting toward businesses with robust cash flows and recent price strength while reducing exposure to struggling firms, the fund delivers a smarter market exposure. The strategy maintains reasonable tax efficiency through disciplined rebalancing. How It Has Performed TILT's factor-tilted approach has meaningfully outperformed traditional benchmarks over the long term, with the strategy's quality and momentum focus consistently adding value. The fund has delivered strong absolute returns by systematically favoring profitable companies with solid fundamentals, though recent mega-cap technology dominance means performance now tracks more closely with growth-heavy benchmarks. Over the past decade, TILT has generated 300.67% total returns compared to SPY's 271.83%, demonstrating the value of its factor-based approach. The strategy has successfully played its role as a core equity position with a quality and momentum bias. However, the recent concentration in mega-cap technology stocks means performance has tracked closely with growth-heavy benchmarks. Travelers at Heathrow can now lug a family-size shampoo bottle through securitybut don't expect the same ease at US airports anytime soon. The London hub has finished installing next-generation CT scanners at all security checkpoints, prompting it to scrap the long-running 100ml (3.4 ounce) liquid limit, as well as the rule requiring electronics to be removed from carry-ons. Passengers can now carry liquids in containers of up to 2 liters, or about 68 ounces. Scientific American explains the underlying technology: a shift from flat, two-dimensional X-ray images to CT scanners that generate a rotating 3D model of each bag and, more importantly, souped-up algorithms that are capable of automatically detecting suspicious items. That means officers can stop zeroing in on potential liquids and focus instead on what the system flags. The TSA is bringing the advanced CT scanners to US airports, but a policy change is unlikely to occur until they're widespread. The Points Guy says TSA officials have long told him it's likely years off. Hermes has been unmasked as the deep-pocketed force behind a record-shattering Beverly Hills deal: a $400 million purchase on Rodeo Drive that ranks as the priciest retail property acquisition in the city in at least two decades. People familiar with the transaction tell the Wall Street Journal the French luxury house quietly took control last summer of two adjoining properties that currently host Tom Ford, Moncler, and Balenciaga at 338 North Rodeo Drive, totaling about 25,000 square feet. The sale itself was public; the buyer was not. Temperatures in northern Europe have been so low that citizens of Estonia can now drive across a 12 1/2-mile stretch of frozen sea linking the country's two main islands. The so-called "ice road" connecting the islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, located in western Estonia between the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga, was officially opened on Sunday with a line of cars waiting to use it that afternoon, per the AP . Authorities decided to open the ice road after locals had spontaneously started driving across the frozen sea, exposing themselves to serious risks. Ferries had struggled to keep up regular service in the frozen sea following weeks of temperatures dropping to as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit. People living on the smaller island of Hiiumaa travel to Saaremaa for shopping, a cup of coffee, or to drop off kids at school. Getting to the larger island also ensures connection to mainland Estonia. While opening the ice road came out of necessity, Hergo Tasuja, the mayor of Hiiumaa, says it's also "part of our culture." "For generations and generations, local people who live here, especially those who live near the sea, swim and use boats in the summertime," Tasuja says. "And in winter, it's in their blood to go to the sea" and step out on the ice, he said. The road is essentially a marked corridor on the frozen sea where specialists have determined the ice is thick enough to sustain the weight of driving cars. Yet preparing the road isn't easy, says Marek Koppel, a road maintenance supervisor at Verston Eesti, the Estonian construction company in charge of building and managing the ice road. Workers have to measure ice thickness every 328 feet to determine the areas with more than 9 1/2 inches of ice, the minimum required for safety. They also smooth over ridged ice and cracks. Weather conditions and the solidity of the ice are monitored around the clock and the route is amended accordingly. A vehicle can't be heavier than 2.5 tons, and it has to drive either below about 12.5mph or between 25mph and 43mphanything in between can create a vibration that damages the ice. Cars aren't allowed to stop and need to maintain a safe distance from one other. Passengers also can't wear seatbelts, and doors must be easy to open, to allow for fast exit in case of an accident. According to Tasuja, an ice road was last used to connect the islands some eight years ago. Since then, the winters have been too warm. Google's flagship AI is getting peppered with questions, not all of them innocent. In a new report, the company says its Gemini chatbot has been targeted by "commercially motivated" actors trying to reverse-engineer itby asking itself exactly how it works. The tactic, known as model extraction, involves bombarding a chatbot with prompts to glean the logic and patterns behind its responses, potentially to build competing AI systems, per NBC News. According to Infosecurity magazine, a technique known as knowledge distillation is used to copy data from one model and paste it to another "to accelerate AI model development quickly and at a significantly lower cost." US Immigration and Customs Enforcement is moving ahead with a sweeping plan to turn industrial warehouses into a national network of immigrant detention hubs, with an estimated price tag of $38.3 billion, newly released documents show, reports the Washington Post . The records, posted on New Hampshire's state website , offer one of the clearest looks yet at how the Trump administration intends to scale up arrests and deportations by redesigning where, and how, people are held. Under the plan, ICE would buy and convert 16 warehouses into regional processing centers, each holding 1,000 to 1,500 people for an average of three to seven days before transfer to eight larger facilities. Those bigger sites would each hold 7,000 to 10,000 detainees for about two months as they await deportation and would serve as key departure points for removals. The federal government also intends to claim 10 existing detention centers, meaning the system could be designed to hold around 100,000 people at any given time, per the docs. ICE has already forked over $690 million-plus for at least eight industrial buildings in states including Maryland, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Texas, and Arizona; it's pursuing others in New Hampshire, New York, and New Jersey, as well as more in Georgia. The government plans big renovationse.g., adding dorms, courtrooms, cafeterias, and rec areasto what are now mostly empty shells. The scale of the projectits budget is said to exceed the annual spending of 22 stateshas drawn scrutiny from local officials and lawmakers, who've raised questions about infrastructure and humanitarian implications. Some towns say their water and sewer systems are already near capacity, while ICE's overview claims existing supplies are adequate in most places, with upgrades planned for wastewater at larger sites. Even a top exec at a private prison contractor that hopes to run the sites calls plans to manage them "concerning." New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte, a Republican, said DHS only shared detailed documents with her office on Thursday, contradicting earlier Senate testimony from ICE's acting director that she'd previously been briefed. The documents suggest all facilities will comply with federal detention standards and environmental review laws, with an aim to fully implement the new detention model by Sept. 30, with all centers active by the end of November. The left-leaning Jacobin has more on who it says is profiting the most from these warehouse sales and conversions: "powerful, politically connected" real estate brokers. Federal authorities have opened a criminal probe into whether two immigration officers lied under oath about a shooting in Minneapolis last month, as all charges were dropped against two Venezuelan men. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Todd Lyons said Friday that his agency opened a joint probe with the Justice Department after video evidence revealed "sworn testimony provided by two separate officers appears to have made untruthful statements" about the shooting of one of the Venezuelan men during the Trump administration's immigration crackdown across the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, per the AP . The officers, whose names weren't disclosed, are on administrative leave while the investigation is carried out, he said. Lyons said the two ICE officers could be fired and face criminal prosecution. "Lying under oath is a serious federal offense," said Lyons, adding that the US attorney's office is actively investigating. "The men and women of ICE are entrusted with upholding the rule of law and are held to the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct," Lyons said. "Violations of this sacred sworn oath will not be tolerated. ICE remains fully committed to transparency, accountability, and the fair enforcement of our nation's immigration laws." Earlier Friday, US District Court Judge Paul A. Magnuson dismissed felony assault charges against Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna and Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, who were accused of beating an ICE officer with a broom handle and a snow shovel during a Jan. 14 fracas. The officer fired a single shot from his handgun, striking Sosa-Celis in his right thigh. The cases were dropped after a highly unusual motion to dismiss from US Attorney for the District of Minnesota Daniel N. Rosen, who said "newly discovered evidence" was "materially inconsistent with the allegations" made against the two men. The reversal follows a string of high-profile shootings involving federal immigration agents in which eyewitness statements and video evidence have called into question claims made to justify using deadly force. The lawyer representing Aljorna and Sosa-Celis said they're "overjoyed" that all charges have been dismissed. Had they been convicted, they would have faced years in federal prison. "The charges against them were based on lies by an ICE agent who recklessly shot into their home through a closed door," said attorney Brian D. Clark. "They are so happy justice is being served." It's unclear whether the men could still be deported. More here. Jimmy Fallon's foray into the pasta aisle just boiled over. A planned line of sauces that the late-night host was developing with veteran music executive Tommy Mottola has been scrapped, as newly released Epstein files highlight Mottola's long-running ties to Jeffrey Epstein, per The Hollywood Reporter . The project, still in the early stages and eyed for as late as 2027, is now definitely nixed, one source tells the outlet. Page Six notes that the effort is now on "pause," with one source adding, "Nobody wants to be within 50 feet of anyone in the Epstein files." Those fileshundreds of gigabytes of documents, emails, photos, and video made public under a congressional mandateshow Mottola appearing in roughly 600 records released so far, including info on travel arrangements, visits to Epstein's properties, and messages amid the #MeToo era in which he allegedly wrote he needed to "shut up and lay low," per THR. Mottola, a former Sony Music chief who helped propel Celine Dion and his ex-wife Mariah Carey to superstardom, has so far seen only the sauce venture with Fallon collapse, even as other industry figures named in the records face mounting calls to step aside. The Daily Beast features some of the messages exchanged between Mottola and Epstein and his staff. Reps for Fallon and Mottola declined to comment. It's been almost two weeks since Nancy Guthrie, mother of Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, went missing, and there seemed to be some activity on Friday night in the case. TMZ reports that police in Tucson, Arizona, detained at least three people, with Fox News showing one man apparently in handcuffs. Per the New York Times, Pima County Sheriff's Department deputies, along with FBI agents, converged upon a Range Rover in a Culver's parking lot not far from Nancy Guthrie's home, taking photos of the vehicle before having it towed. More: Another search: The Culver's was just a few minutes from a residential neighborhood that law enforcement had sealed off hours earlier. Fox reports that a local SWAT team and the FBI had carried out a search warrant at a Tucson home about 2 miles from Guthrie's home. However, on Saturday, a spokesperson for the sheriff's office said no one had been arrested, and no one was in custody in connection with Guthrie's disappearance from her home on Feb. 1, per the Times. The Culver's was just a few minutes from a residential neighborhood that law enforcement had sealed off hours earlier. Fox reports that a local SWAT team and the FBI had carried out a search warrant at a Tucson home about 2 miles from Guthrie's home. However, on Saturday, a spokesperson for the sheriff's office said no one had been arrested, and no one was in custody in connection with Guthrie's disappearance from her home on Feb. 1, per the Times. FBI/sheriff's tiff? Reuters reports that a law enforcement official has suggested that Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos is blocking the FBI from accessing key evidence in the case. Nanos is pushing back on that. "Not even close to the truth," he tells KVOA, adding that his department has been consulting with the federal agency every step of the way. He did concede that he initially disagreed with the FBI's decision to send some gloves they'd found to a nearby lab, thinking they should instead be sent to a private lab in Florida. He said the FBI agreed to that. Reuters reports that a law enforcement official has suggested that Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos is blocking the FBI from accessing key evidence in the case. Nanos is pushing back on that. "Not even close to the truth," he tells KVOA, adding that his department has been consulting with the federal agency every step of the way. He did concede that he initially disagreed with the FBI's decision to send some gloves they'd found to a nearby lab, thinking they should instead be sent to a private lab in Florida. He said the FBI agreed to that. New video: TMZ reports that new footage has emerged showing a person just 5 miles from Guthrie's residence, wearing and carrying backpacks that have similar reflective straps as the one seen in an earlier doorbell video. The FBI has released photos of the backpack, which is described by FOX 10 as a private-label "black 25-liter 'Ozark Trail Hiker Pack'" that's sold mainly through the manufacturer or at Walmart. Newly disclosed Justice Department records show Steve Bannon turned to Jeffrey Epstein as he tried to rally opposition to Pope Franciseven boasting in one 2019 message that he would "take down" the pope. The communications depict the onetime Trump White House strategist courting the convicted sex offender as an ally in his broader nationalist-populist campaign, per CNN . Bannon viewed Francis as a major obstacle to that vision, clashing with the pontiff's sharp critiques of nationalism and emphasis on defending migrants. "Will take down [Pope] Francis," Bannon wrote to Epstein in June 2019. "The Clintons, Xi, Francis, EUcome on brother." The messages show Bannon exploring ways to use a controversial 2019 book, In the Closet of the Vatican, by French journalist Frederic Martel, against Francis. After meeting Martel in Paris, Bannon floated the idea of turning the book into a film and told Epstein he could be its executive producer, texts indicate. "He was very enthusiastic," Martel says of Bannon to the National Catholic Reporter. He added to CNN that he refused any deal, saying his publisher already held the film rights and that he believed Bannon wanted to weaponize the book. A papal biographer, Austen Ivereigh, said Bannon misread both the book and Francis, arguing that Bannon's goal was to embarrass the pope under the guise of trying to "purify" the church. Epsteinconvicted in 2008 for child sex offenses, then arrested again in 2019 on sex trafficking chargesalso joked in a separate message with his brother, Mark, about inviting Francis for a "massage" and quoted Paradise Lost to Bannon: "Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heaven." He also at one point wrote to Bannon, using what the AP calls "untidy grammar": "donalds head would explode if he knew you were now buds with the guy who on monday will decide the nobel peace prize." Vatican ally Rev. Antonio Spadaro said the messages illustrate an effort on Bannon's part to merge "spiritual authority with political power for strategic ends," something he said Francis consistently resisted, per CNN. Bannon hasn't commented. By Nicole Jao, Shariq Khan, Marianna Parraga and Arathy Somasekhar NEW YORK, Feb 13 (Reuters) - Valero Energy is set to buy up to 6.5 million barrels of Venezuelan crude in March bound for its Gulf Coast refineries, making it the top foreign refiner of the OPEC country's oil since the United States captured President Nicolas Maduro in January, sources said on Friday. More from Yahoo Scout What role is Valero playing in Venezuelan crude imports? What are Venezuela's current oil production and export levels? How do recent U.S. sanctions changes affect Venezuelan oil? How much Venezuelan oil revenue is under U.S. control? Valero was among the first U.S. refiners to resume imports of Venezuelan crude after the United States struck a flagship $2 billion oil supply deal with the country's interim government and began to ease sanctions. If Valero succeeds in snapping up 10 or more cargoes next month, equivalent to around 210,000 barrels per day, it could surpass U.S. oil major Chevron as the top U.S. refiner of Venezuelan crude. That would also be the most Venezuelan crude oil Valero would process since the United States first sanctioned the country's oil industry in January 2019. Chevron, the only U.S. major producing oil in Venezuela, is expected to boost exports of Venezuelan crude to some 300,000 bpd in March, from 220,000 bpd in January, sources told Reuters last month. Chevron typically refines up to half of those exports at its own refineries, and sells the rest to other U.S. refiners. A large portion of Chevron's sales of Venezuelan oil to U.S. refiners typically goes to Valero. In March, Chevron is expected to supply Valero with most of the volume the refiner is planning to import, six sources said. Valero has also negotiated some cargoes from trading houses including Trafigura, which were the first companies authorized by the U.S. government last month to join Chevron in trading Venezuelan oil. Vitol has separately scheduled three naphtha cargoes to be delivered to Venezuela's state company PDVSA between February 22 and March 3, according to a shipping plan seen by Reuters. The sources cautioned that loading schedules have not been finalized and are still subject to revision. They spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss confidential information. Vitol and Trafigura declined to comment. Chevron and PDVSA did not immediately respond to requests for comment. A Valero spokesperson referred to comments made by executive Randy Hawkins after its fourth-quarter earnings release on January 29. In those comments, Hawkins confirmed Valero was in talks with authorized sellers of Venezuelan crude and expected it to make up a "pretty large part" of its heavy-crude purchases in February and March. Valero, which has the second-largest U.S. refining network capable of processing Venezuelan heavy oil, had a long-term supply agreement to buy crude from PDVSA before U.S. sanctions. British officials say a toxin derived from a poison dart frog was used to kill Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny in prison, and they're now directly accusing the Kremlin. The UK's Foreign Office identified the substance as epibatidine, saying there's no innocent reason for the chemical's presence in samples taken from Navalny's body, per the BBC . Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, said that "only the Russian government had the means, motive, and opportunity" to use the toxin on Navalny while he was in custody. The poison dart frog is typically found in South America, per CBS News. Britain has notified the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, alleging Russia violated the Chemical Weapons Convention. The UK's assessment is backed by Sweden, France, the Netherlands, and Germany, which have joined London in publicly blaming Moscow. Per the AP, Russia has consistently denied involvement in Navalny's death, which authorities said followed a brief stroll at his Siberian penal colony on Feb. 16, 2024, after which the 47-year-old complained of feeling unwell and collapsed. Navalny's family confirmed his death later that day. Navalny, an anti-corruption campaigner and the country's most prominent opposition figure, had already survived a 2020 poisoning with a Novichok nerve agent and was jailed after returning to Russia from treatment in Germany. His widow, Yulia Navalnaya, has long maintained that he was murdered by poisoning while serving his sentence and said last year that tests on smuggled biological samples conducted in two nations indicated he was killed, though she didn't then identify the substance and urged the laboratories to publish their findings. "I was, of course, certain that it was a murder ... but back then it was just words," she said on the sidelines of the security gathering, per AFP. "But today these words have become science-proven facts." A man wielding a knife and scissors was fatally shot by police in Paris on Friday when he tried to attack an officer during a ceremony at the city's Arc de Triomphe monument, officials said. The suspect, a French national born in 1978 who'd previously been convicted in Belgium on terrorist-related charges, died at a hospital from his injuries, the French counterterrorism prosecutor's office said. Authorities didn't release the suspect's name, per the AP . The attacker targeted an officer who was guarding the ceremony for relighting the eternal flame honoring unknown soldiers at the Napoleon-era landmark, according to a Paris police official. Another officer shot the attacker, the official said. No bystanders or police officers were injured in the incident, the official said. Before the suspect died, the French counterterrorism prosecutor's office had said it was opening an investigation on charges of attempted murder "in connection with a terrorist enterprise." The assailant had been sentenced to 17 years in prison by a court in Brussels in 2013 for attempted murders in connection with a terrorist enterprise against three police officers in the Belgian city of Molenbeek the previous year, according to the prosecutor's office. First incarcerated in Belgium, the man was then transferred to France in 2015 to serve the rest of his sentence. He was released from prison on Dec. 24 of last year and had since been subject to judicial supervision and surveillance measures, the statement said. The Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris' most famous sites, sitting atop the busy Champs-Elysees avenue. A large police presence was visible on Friday evening near the monument, which was closed to the public; the traffic circle surrounding the Arc de Triomphe remained open to vehicles. The nearby subway station was closed for security reasons at the request of police, Paris public transport operator RATP said. In a message posted on X, French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez expressed his "full support to the officer who intervened and acted with composure and determination in the face of the terrorist threat." Relatives of Venezuelan prisoners went on hunger strike on Saturday to demand the freedom of their loved ones as politicians in the South American nation debate granting amnesty to dissidents imprisoned under President Nicolas Maduro's rule. In a message posted on Instagram, the Committee for the Freedom of Political Prisoners said the hunger strike is being staged by 10 people and would last until the government frees all 33 political prisoners still being held at a prison known as Zona 7, according to the civil society group's estimates. Earlier on Saturday, the AP reports, 17 prisoners were released from the Zona 7 detention center in Caracas and held tearful reunions with their families. Relatives of dissidents being held there have been sleeping outside since Jan. 8, when Venezuelan officials had announced there would be significant prisoner releases aimed at promoting national reconciliation following a US raid on the country in which Maduro was seized with his wife, Cilia Flores. But while hundreds of dissidents have been released from other prisons in Venezuela in recent weeks, liberations at Zona 7 have been scarce. "We demand that National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez keep his word and release all of the political prisoners," said Yessy Orozco, daughter of a former legislator who was arrested in November. The National Assembly, which is still controlled by the ruling party, on Thursday debated a measure that could free hundreds of opposition members, activists and human rights defenders who have been detained for months or years for political reasons. The debate in itself was a stark turn for Venezuela, where authorities have for decades denied the country had any political prisoners. Exiled opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said on Saturday that she will continue to push for new elections to be held. "A transition to democracy will be orderly, it will be peaceful, and as soon as it takes place it will be better not only for Venezuelans but also for the region and the United States," Machado said in a video appearance to policy analysts who had attended the Munich Security Conference. President Trump officially launched TrumpRx on February 5, touting it as a game-changer for prescription drug costs. The reality, however, is that health policy experts believe only a limited number of Americans will actually benefit from this plan, while millions could end up paying more without comparison shopping. Must Read According to a White House press release, the TrumpRx.gov website features at least 40 brand-name medications with discounted prices from five pharmaceutical companies (1). And while the administration highlighted steep discounts on drugs like Wegovy and fertility medications, critics warn the platform has fundamental flaws that could cost consumers money. The reality check experts don't want you to miss Sean D. Sullivan, health economist at the University of Washington, didn't hold back when discussing Trumps drug plan. "TrumpRx is a side show," Sullivan told The New York Times (2). "I consider it not a real, serious effort in service to lowering prescription drug prices for Americans." The problem is that TrumpRx only works for cash-paying patients who are not using insurance. Meanwhile, about 84% of Americans have prescription drug coverage, and for most, insurance copays are likely to be cheaper than TrumpRx's cash prices (3). Even TrumpRx acknowledges this, as each product page comes with a specific warning (4): "If you have insurance, check your copay first it may be even lower." Rachel Sachs, a law professor at Washington University in St. Louis and former Biden administration drug policy adviser, cautions that TrumpRx could backfire. "There may be patients who think this is a good deal and then end up financially worse off," she told The Times. That's because purchases through TrumpRx may not count toward your insurance deductible or out-of-pocket maximum (3), which means even if a TrumpRx price looks lower than your copay, you might save more using insurance, especially with other medical expenses. Who actually benefits from TrumpRx? Trumps drug plan, however, could provide real savings for specific groups of people, particularly those needing obesity drugs and fertility medications that are often not covered by insurance. When Donald Trump invited a bevy of top oil executives, including ExxonMobil, to a Jan. 9 White House meeting on rejuvenating Venezuela's oil industry, he promoted the idea of vast oil-and-gas reserves ready for exploitation, with profits and prosperity for all. There was support, though not wild-and-crazy support, for the idea. This week, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright is in Caracas, Venezuela, to advance the initiative and hopefully address the concerns of ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods. In January, Woods delivered a blunt opinion on the idea, calling Venezuela "uninvestable," without a vast overhaul of the country's laws and regulations governing energy production. And that was just the start. Venezuela needed a workable transition to democracy, Woods told the president. It needed to be able to show international investors their cash would be put to proper use and that personnel they might send to Venezuela would be safe and welcome. And the money and effort must be wins for three groups: Exxon and its shareholders The Venezuelan government The Venezuelan people Exxon had history in Venezuela, starting in the 1940s. Its operations had been nationalized twice, Woods said. And he wanted to be sure the legal structures would be workable. Related: Venezuela oil debate reveals big mystery The president was not amused. But Woods did say and repeated it at Exxon's fourth-quarter earnings call that the company will send a technical team to Venezuela to assess the condition of the nation's oil industry and the state of oil reserves to "understand what would be involved to help the people of Venezuela get production back on the market." It's not clear if the team has been organized to make the trip. But a number of companies are sending people to look. They include U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, who was in Venezuela this week with energy executives to talk up the country's investment potential and meet with acting President Delcey Rodriguez and other officials. Oil-services giant Halliburton, which left Venezuela in 2019, expects to be involved. SLB Corp., another oil-services giant, never left the country and could scale up operations quickly, officials have said. Maybe deals will get done or, as President Trump likes to say, "frameworks of deals" will get struck. But the complexities are enormous and will delay matters. For example, acting President Rodriguez is just that. Contracts she might sign might not be enforceable, Ingrid Brunk, chair of international law at Vanderbilt Law School, told Bloomberg News. I will walk you through these recent developments as I deliver updates to the five strategic initiatives that we have established to guide our execution and performance here at Flux Power Holdings, Inc. As a reminder, these initiatives include profitable growth, operational efficiencies, solution selling, building the right products, and integrating value-added software to generate recurring revenue streams. Let me provide you with an update on our recent efforts as they relate to these key initiatives. To begin, as I mentioned, we have achieved net profitability. I can now say we achieved the first goal of this key initiative. Our focus will be to continue this trend while growing the business. Krishna Vanka: Thank you, and welcome everyone to our second quarter conference call. As we announced in our press release earlier today, we achieved profitability for the first time in the company's history. I am very pleased that we have been able to achieve this milestone within a year since I joined Flux Power Holdings, Inc. The discipline we built internally to optimize our expenses along with the sequential increase in revenue made this happen. I do want to thank all our employees, partners, and customers for contributing to this achievement. Also, during the quarter, our product development team made significant progress on innovations and roadmap. Also, the company's press release and management statements during this conference call will include discussions of certain adjusted or non-GAAP financial measures. These financial measures and related reconciliations are provided in the company's press release and related current report on Form 8-Ks, which can be found in the Investor Relations section of Flux Power Holdings, Inc.'s website www.flexpower.com. For those of you unable to listen to the entire call at this time, a recording will be available via webcast on the company's website. I will now turn the call over to Flux Power Holdings, Inc.'s CEO, Krishna Vanka. Krishna, please go ahead. Krishna Vanka, Flux Power Holdings, Inc.'s CEO, and Kevin Royal, Chief Financial Officer. Before I turn the call over to Krishna, I would like to remind our listeners that during the course of this conference call, the company will provide financial guidance projections, comments, and other forward-looking statements regarding future market developments, future financial performance of the company, new products, or other matters. These statements are subject to the risks and uncertainties that we discuss in detail in our documents filed with the SEC. Specifically, our 10-K and our most recent 10-Q identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Story Continues The results also demonstrate benefits from the multi-quarter restructuring decisions we made to improve our operational efficiencies. These efforts included rightsizing our headcount, as well as all other cost optimizations we took to streamline the organization. I can say that we looked carefully at all levels of the company to find and optimize spending where possible. This right-sizing process has led to a solid financial structure offering high operating leverage. Today, we have a much lower cost structure, higher margins, and a lower breakeven point than we had a year ago. Also, we have started using AI-driven tools in our engineering design, software development, and day-to-day operations to further improve operational efficiencies and productivity. We hope to see benefits from these internal AI initiatives as we deploy them across the organization. Before I talk about our new products, I do want to touch on our third strategic initiative, which is solution selling. Our ongoing product development efforts reflect our close engagement with customers and partners to gain greater insights into the evolving product needs. These partnerships enable Flux Power Holdings, Inc. to provide complete solutions to our customers. We refer to this powerful collaboration process as solutions-based selling. As I have said in the past, we are not just selling batteries. We are selling energy management solutions. Our customers are using these solutions to manage their fleets for greater operational results. The quality and depth of our sales team have to be superb to work so closely with customers on their key internal goals. In this regard, we recently hired an experienced OEM Director with more than 20 years of experience working for a material handling OEM and their dealer networks. We believe his experience can help us reach new customers and provide additional opportunities for the company products. Krishna Vanka: We are also expanding our executive sales leadership by hiring a Vice President of Sales for material handling. Moving on, our focus to build the right products for our customers continues to bear fruit. We released our next-generation SkyLink telematics device with significant advancements to complement our own Flux-designed battery management system. SkyLink delivers a competitive advantage in high performance and sensing. It is powered by a quad-core 64-bit processor enabling onboard analytics and machine learning directly within each battery system. The algorithms can be run locally, which helps to build AI-driven features in the near future. It also includes integrated Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, worldwide cellular and GPS, a three-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, and temperature sensing to provide continuous visibility and control. That means we will have four times the sensors compared to the current generation. This is a big achievement. These new capabilities align with our intelligence roadmap and provide our customers with powerful real-time features. These real-time features include user-defined geofencing with advanced health and performance analytics that can be automated via AI. Using the machine learning locally on the device helps predict fall detection, usage and trend analysis, energy optimization, and lifecycle forecasting. The SkyLink telematics units are currently in beta at multiple customer sites, and we are receiving great feedback. We plan to make SkyLink Telematics available to all customers in a couple of months. Also, during this quarter, we released a new GA315 battery in response to the GSE customer demand. This will help us continue to dominate this key market for us. We now have four product lines with multiple configurations that support the GSE segment. Our last key initiative is integrating value-added software across our battery portfolio. For Flux Power Holdings, Inc., this creates the opportunity to generate high-margin recurring revenue streams from sales of advanced software features and applications. As I mentioned earlier, our customers want more than a battery. They are looking for an energy management system to manage their assets, improve productivity, and reduce cost. Our Sky EMS software addresses all these needs and was recently upgraded to include multiple new features. First, intelligent alerting. This is a new feature that uses AI to fundamentally shift fleet management from being reactive to proactive. These new intelligent AI alerts proactively notify customers of potential battery issues and recommend the appropriate corrective action right on the screen. They also give fleet managers full visibility into their dynamic fleet conditions enabling faster response. Our initial observations lead us to believe our customers can gain 10% to 30% uptime by using intelligent alerts with corrective actions. Second, to further improve our customers' productivity, we also released a new mobile interface to our Sky EMS platform. This gives customers on-the-go monitoring for faster decision-making. For example, they can know when to charge their fleets and how long charging sessions can take right from their handheld devices. With data always in hand, equipment operators and supervisors now have what they need in real time. Operator: Mobile access Krishna Vanka: can reduce the time it takes to recognize an issue by 15% to 40% by putting key battery and alert data in users' hands during operation. This also helps them charge their batteries on time with minimal downtime in their operation. Before turning the call over to Kevin, I want to summarize our progress and provide more color around our outlook for the third quarter. Joel Achramowicz: First, Krishna Vanka: through our product and operating cost reduction efforts, we have reported net income for the first time in the company's history. We are extremely happy with this progress that we have made in all areas of the business. We have demonstrated that we have the discipline to make changes that allow the company to be profitable and generate cash. We were able to do this even in the face of increasing costs from tariffs which are completely out of our control. In nearly all respects, the business is performing well, and we have set the stage for continued profitable growth. However, recently, our most significant customer has conveyed to us that they are implementing a capital freeze. We are not certain how long this freeze will be in effect but anticipate it may impact a significant portion of calendar year 2026. That said, our partnership remains strong, and we expect our business with this valued customer to resume in the future. As a result, we expect materially lower revenue in our third quarter. We continue to believe in the markets we serve, that we are well positioned to work through this slowdown and restore the company to profitable growth. We have proactively moved to further decrease our expense run rate and completed an additional cost reduction action during the current quarter. Despite this short-term market pressure, the lithium-ion forklift battery segment is projected to grow at an 8.8% CAGR through 2035 demonstrating the strong long-term market we have ahead of us. With our capable management team, strong relationships in the market, and additional resources targeting OEMs, along with a focused effort on what we can control, we are prepared to respond to customer needs. I will now turn the call over to our CFO, Kevin Royal, to discuss our second quarter financial results in more detail. Kevin, please go ahead. Kevin Royal: Good afternoon, everyone. Revenue for the 2026 fiscal second quarter was $14,100,000, up from $13,200,000 in the prior quarter and down from $16,800,000 in the same quarter last year. Gross margin in the second quarter was 34.7%, compared to 28.6% in the prior quarter, and 32.5% in the prior year period. The 610 basis point sequential increase in gross margin is largely due to improved product mix, our recent cost-saving initiatives, and lower warranty costs. Operating expenses in the 2026 fiscal second quarter were $4,100,000 compared to $5,900,000 in the prior quarter and $900,000 in the 2025 fiscal second quarter. The approximately 31% sequential decrease in operating expenses primarily reflects the benefits from our cost reduction initiatives. Also, during the quarter, we recorded an approximately $500,000 reversal of previously accrued employee bonus awards. Net income for the second quarter was $600,000, or $0.03 per share, compared to a net loss of $2,600,000 or $0.15 per share in the prior quarter. Rob Brown: And a net loss of $1,900,000 or $0.11 per share in the 2025 fiscal second quarter. Excluding legal costs associated with the multiyear restatement of previously issued financial statements and stock-based compensation, second quarter non-GAAP net income was $1,000,000 or $0.04 per fully diluted share compared to a net loss of $2,000,000 or $0.12 per share in the prior quarter and a net loss of $1,900,000 or $0.11 per share in the prior year period. Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter was positive $1,500,000 compared to an adjusted EBITDA loss of $1,400,000 in the prior quarter and positive adjusted EBITDA of $130,000 in the same quarter a year ago. Turning to the balance sheet, we ended the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $900,000 compared to $1,300,000 on 06/30/2025. The significant capital we raised recently has been used to reduce outstanding balances on our line of credit and to a lesser extent to reduce our accounts payable balances. Our current borrowing capacity under the Gibraltar line of credit is $16,000,000, subject to available collateral as defined by the credit agreement and satisfaction of certain financial covenants. I will now turn the call back to Krishna for his final remarks and then we will open it up for questions. Krishna? Thank you, Kevin. Krishna Vanka: We have made a great deal of progress this past quarter across all of our strategic initiatives. Our battery product line and energy system software have been enhanced measurably using AI and the company is now operating much more efficiently. And with the lithium-ion battery market that continues to offer great opportunities, I believe we remain well positioned to capitalize on them in the long term. Flux Power Holdings, Inc. has made the necessary investments to remain in a leadership position in this industry by serving our customers for years to come. We remain focused on making continued progress across our business while managing through these current business conditions in order to return to growth. With that, let us open the call to questions. Operator? Operator: We will now begin the question and answer session. If at any time your question has been addressed and you would like to withdraw the question, please press star then 2. Our first question comes from Rob Brown with Lake Street Capital Markets. Please go ahead. Rob Brown: And congrats on all the progress. First, on the capital freeze and the customer commentary, is this unique to this customer, or are you seeing maybe signs of this across this industry segment or vertical, or is this unique to the customer? Operator: It is one. Rob, this is Krishna. Thanks for the question. Krishna Vanka: We lost you for a quick second, but you are asking about the customer on the capital freeze. This is one individual customer. Operator: Okay. Got it. Got it. Rob Brown: And then, in general, how is the demand environment looking in the market? Are you seeing sort of stable demand, or how would you characterize the overall demand? The environment has been a little bit mixed, but how would you characterize the broader environment? Krishna Vanka: The tariff effects, I would say, are still lingering to a little bit extent. There was some change in the percentages of the tariffs, for example, starting January 1 and so on. So a lot of key customers are still cautiously watching what it means for tariffs and whatnot. All that said, we know that customers need to buy these batteries to run their businesses, so they are, in certain ways, moving forward, in that they need this equipment to continue their business operations. Operator: Okay. Thank you. And then Rob Brown: in the SkyLink product, I think you said some pretty good customer feedback, and you are rolling it out more broadly. Could you give us a sense of, as you roll that out, do you go certain verticals, or do you just offer Joel Achramowicz: kind of across the customer base, and what is the Rob Brown: in terms of driving some new business? Krishna Vanka: Sure. The SkyLink Telematics, which is really our next-generation product, as I mentioned, is significantly powerful, comes with the chip for machine learning and even implementing some AI. It is nicely connected to our battery management system. The customers are now asking us greater questions like, can we know when the battery leaves certain geofence? Can we be alerted proactively for our operators to take some actions? The SkyLink Telematics will solve these problems whether there is connectivity or not because it is a powerful system, and it can make decisions literally along with the battery management system. So this will be offered across our product line for all of our batteries in a couple of months. The initial feedback has been pretty positive. And this will also honestly open doors for us to be able to offer more telematics solution-based solutions to our customers in the future. We are really looking forward to deploying this with every battery we sell. Joel Achramowicz: Okay. Great. Thank you. I will turn it over. Operator: Our next question comes from Saimir Joshi with H.C. Wainwright. Please go ahead. Joel Achramowicz: Hey. Good afternoon, Krishna and Kevin. Congrats on the Saimir Joshi: good performance and positive net income despite the headwinds. So getting into that, the gross margins 610 basis point improvement, really good. I think you mentioned product mix, cost-saving initiatives, as well as lower warranty costs. So going forward, maybe the product mix may vary, but the cost savings and the warranty costs, are those expected to stay low and support a better gross margin profile going forward? Rob Brown: Yes. We are taking continued steps to lower our product cost. We continue to experience positive trends as it relates to warranty and the repair costs associated with our warranty obligations. So, quarter to quarter, depending on the mix, if the mix were to stay the same, you will see improvements quarter to quarter. But there will be times when you have a decline, times when you have an increase, and that is solely related to mix. Saimir Joshi: And, I guess, spreading of cost overheads over a different revenue profile as well, I guess. Rob Brown: That is correct. Leverage will also have an impact. Joel Achramowicz: Right. Right. And then just following up on a couple of Saimir Joshi: things that Rob asked, from where you sit and where you have your pipeline at, is it more from any one particular, say, material handling or some other sector? And how do the prospects look over the next six to twelve months? I mean, this one customer, I think you would have to sort of replace or get additional customers to make up that revenue. So Krishna Vanka: You answered the question towards the end. We are putting every effort possible to fill the gap. That is our first focus. As I mentioned, we hired a new OEM Director. Very happy with the progress that he is making here. We are adding a couple more salespeople, one in California and one in Texas. These were advertised; these are already on the LinkedIn boards. We are also putting more focus on the material handling. We are looking for a VP Sales-level position as well. So that is our focus. We are making every effort. We are seeing some definitely an increase in the adoption of lithium. I would say we are seeing some trends when we speak with OEMs where they are saying they are expecting some greater adoption of lithium in the coming years, literally short term, one to two years. So we are getting ready for that. Saimir Joshi: Understood. And then just the last one. These new SkyLink features, the RFP is going to be sold at a premium pricing or rather, I should say, incremental pricing, and how does that, in turn, improve your gross margin? Because I guess these will have really high gross margins. Krishna Vanka: That is the plan. We just tiered our software into a standard and a professional version, I would say. We are yet to provide all the details and the naming of it. But our expectation is the standard package comes standard with the SkyLink, and it creates an option for us to sell the premium package, which comes with some AI-based features. So we are literally wrapping up all the packaging, and we will bring the software solutions together. And you are spot on. The gross margin on some of this software-based sales will be significantly higher. The key is that we have 30,000-plus batteries in the market. How do we go back to the existing customer base and get some extra, you know, from the existing customer base versus moving forward? So that is the puzzle we would love to solve. We have solved it two times. We would love to figure out how to solve it with the existing battery base as well. Saimir Joshi: Got it. May I squeeze in one more? On the state of health patent, can you elaborate on it, and what is the revenue potential from this? I guess this is also going to be an incremental feature that customers can pay you for. Krishna Vanka: Thank you. Yes. We got the full patent last quarter on the state of health. I am pretty impressed when I looked at the scope of the patent, what it does. It includes not only how to do it locally on the battery with the BMS and the SkyLink, but also how to write that algorithm, the scope of the algorithm. So the patent is pretty broad. We already took that patent, the algorithm, and we implemented it on the software side. This will be included in that premium package I mentioned. The real advantages of that state of health is customers are getting insights into the next stage of the batteries. When do I need to repurchase the battery? How long life do I have? What is the right time to start thinking about my capacity planning? Can I actually reduce some capacity? So we will start answering these high-level business decisions. We are putting an AI engine as we speak into the Sky EMS software, which can derive some forward-looking knowledge based on the state of health algorithm. So it is one thing for companies to get the patents; it is another thing to actually put them into use and generate revenue. I think we are going to be able to do that as part of the process here. Saimir Joshi: Sounds good. Thanks a lot for taking my question. You are welcome. Operator: Our next question comes from Craig Irwin with ROTH Capital Partners. Please go ahead. Joel Achramowicz: Hi, good evening, and thanks for taking my questions. So Craig Irwin: the only question I have at this point is the accounting for your half-million-dollar reversal of incentive comp in the quarter. Can you maybe clarify for us how much of that was included in cost of sales versus SG&A? And is there anything else you can share to clarify whether or not this could impact the current quarter, or if you will be restoring those incentive bonuses in the near term? Kevin Royal: Yes. Sure, Craig. So that amount was the incentive compensation that we had accrued through our first quarter. When we got into the second quarter, and we neared the end and we evaluated the objectives for the incentive compensation against our forecast and realized that they would not be achieved, especially given the significant customer announcement disclosure that we have made, GAAP required that we reverse that estimate, and so we did. That was an amount, again, that had been accrued through Q1 and was reversed in Q2 and will not have an impact on the upcoming quarters. Craig Irwin: Okay. So my question is, was that recognized in cost of revenue or SG&A or in combined places on the P&L? Kevin Royal: In all three, but primarily in SG&A and R&D, with a slight amount, say around $50,000, in COGS. Craig Irwin: Understood. Thank you very much. Congrats on the profitable quarter. Kevin Royal: Thank you. Thank you. Operator: Please press star then 1. This concludes our question and answer session. I would like to turn the conference back over to Krishna Vanka for any closing remarks. Krishna Vanka: Thank you again for joining us on the call today. We look forward to reporting our continued progress throughout the quarter on our next earnings call in mid-May. Operator, you may now disconnect. Operator: The conference is now concluded. Thank you for attending today's presentation. You may now disconnect. Should you buy stock in Flux Power right now? Before you buy stock in Flux Power, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Flux Power wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $429,385!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,165,045!* Now, its worth noting Stock Advisors total average return is 913% a market-crushing outperformance compared to 196% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of February 12, 2026. This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Flux Power (FLUX) Q2 2026 Earnings Call Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool An off-duty police officer is facing criminal charges in an assault that seriously injured a man outside of a restaurant. Nicholas K. Dispoto, 31, of Hillsdale, is charged with second-degree aggravated assault and endangering an injured victim and fourth-degree obstructing administration of law, the Bergen County Prosecutors Office said in a statement on Friday night. Dispoto, an officer with the Montvale Police Department, was arrested earlier on Friday. Officers from the Park Ridge Police Department responded to a disturbance at The Park Steakhouse on Dec. 6, 2025. When they arrived, they found a man on the ground with an apparent head injury. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he remained for several days for treatment of serious injuries, authorities said. Investigators say Dispoto was responsible for the assault and was hiding inside the restaurant while police were on the scene. Investigators say three people, including another off-duty officer, helped him by providing false information to police. Jason R. Vradenburg, 28, of Park Ridge, was arrested on the charges of third-degree endangering an injured victim and tampering with public records and fourth-degree hindering apprehension of another. Vradenburg is employed by the Park Ridge Police Department. Prosecutors did not say whether the two officers face suspension as a result of the charges. Vradenburgs lawyer, David J. Altieri of Galantucci & Patuto, said the charge against him is not justified. Officer Vradenburg has been entirely cooperative throughout the investigation and I am yet to discern a justifiable basis for these charges, Altietri said. We are looking forward to challenging the allegations in court. The other two accomplices, a 29-year-old Hillsdale woman and 59-year-old Florida man, were each charged with fourth-degree hindering the apprehension of another, authorities said. All four defendants were released pending court dates. The employment status of Dispoto and Vradenburg were not available as of Friday night. New Jersey pension records show Dispoto has been a police officer for almost eight years and his most recent salary is $148,333. Vradenburg has been employed as a police officer since 2023 and his most recent salary is $83,036. Fords talks generally about China with the Trump administration have consistently emphasized the need to protect our home market from a flood of subsidized vehicles built in China, Mark Truby, Fords chief communications officer, said in a statement. Ford said Farley gave the cabinet secretaries a tour of the Ford stand at the auto show and that they discussed a variety of industry topics, but declined to reveal specifics. Farley discussed the matter with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin when they visited the Detroit Auto Show last month, the people said. The discussion took place days after President Donald Trump indicated that hed be open to allowing Chinese automakers into the US if they built plants and hired Americans, saying let China come in during a Jan. 13 speech at the Detroit Economic Club. The discussions, which havent been previously reported, come as Chinas automakers move ever closer to Americas doorstep. Canadas government recently announced a plan to allow some Chinese EVs into the country, while BYD Co. vehicles are becoming commonplace on streets in Mexico. No decision has been made on the matter and the discussion was characterized by the people as informal and preliminary. Such a setup would be a mirror image of what China required of western automakers three decades ago when they had to partner with Chinese carmakers in order to set up factories in that country. The idea discussed by Ford Chief Executive Officer Jim Farley and Trump cabinet members last month involved Chinese carmakers partnering with US companies through joint ventures in which the American company holds a controlling stake, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the discussions were private. The ventures would be structured so that both the Chinese and US partners would share profits and technology in the JV, the people said. Ford Motor Co.s top executive spoke to senior Trump administration officials about a potential framework in which Chinese automakers could build cars in America while offering some protection for domestic companies, according to people familiar with the discussions. Story Continues We have also been clear about the privacy and national security issues associated with Chinese vehicles in the US and we will continue to reiterate this in our discussions with policymakers, Truby said. While Farley was not pushing the JV option, it was discussed as a way to protect American interests in a scenario in which Chinese companies make inroads in the US, the people said. Still, it got a cold reception from the Trump officials, who felt it would face opposition in Washington, the people said. However, an investment deal like that is seen by some in the administration as a possible outcome of Trumps planned meeting in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping in April. Representatives for the EPA, USTR and DOT had no immediate comment. Fords shares rose less than 1% Friday in New York. The stock is up 7.6% this year, ahead of the S&P 500 Index, which is little changed. Watershed Moment Chinese competitors gaining a foothold in America would be a watershed moment with massive implications for domestic automakers, their supply chains and consumers. Chinas carmakers have rapidly gained market share in Europe, Mexico and South America with lower-cost models that feature advanced electric-vehicle batteries and infotainment systems. They also receive significant government subsidies and can offer technology at low prices in part because they tolerate slim margins and losses, giving them a competitive edge that western rivals struggle to match. Trumps January comments surprised Detroits automakers, whod felt formidable trade barriers erected by the US would keep Chinese automakers out of the country long enough to allow them to catch up on Chinas lead in electric vehicles, batteries and other automotive technology. General Motors Co. has told the Trump administration that the company opposes a Chinese entry to the market, one of the people said. GM has argued that existing companies would lose market share and a flow of parts from China could have a devastating effect on North American suppliers. GMs opposition echoes a wider view among Trumps cabinet that the US should keep Chinas automakers out of the US market. While the president has said that he may welcome Chinese companies into the US if they build cars here, many on his team oppose such a move due to economic and national security concerns. Farley too has warned that Chinas low-cost, high-tech cars represent an existential threat. Their cost, their quality of their vehicles is far superior to what I see in the west, Farley said last summer at the Aspen Ideas Festival, where he revealed he had visited China a half dozen times in the last year. We are in a global competition with China and its not just EVs. And if we lose this, we do not have a future at Ford. At the same time, Ford has been open to working with Chinese companies. Farley has sought to partner with Chinese carmakers and battery makers to learn from them, while at the same time developing its own low-cost electric vehicle coming in 2027 that aims to be competitive with Chinas BYD, the worlds top seller of EVs. Just in the last few weeks, Ford held talks with BYD about expanding a battery-supply partnership and explored a manufacturing partnership in Europe with Chinas Geely. In December, Ford expanded a licensing agreement with Chinese battery giant Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., or CATL, from building cells for electric vehicles to also manufacturing stationary power sources for utilities and data centers. A recent report by the Financial Times that Ford was weighing a JV with Xiaomi to build vehicles in America was flatly denied by both companies. --With assistance from Zahra Hirji, Allyson Versprille and Courtney Subramanian. (Updates with additional context, share trading.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2026 Bloomberg L.P. Womens clothing boutique Francescas has filed for bankruptcy and is now beginning nationwide store-closing sales. The Houston-based retailer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey on Feb. 5, per court documents obtained by USA TODAY. The company announced its store-closing sale the following day in a press release, noting that items on sale include blouses, skirts, loungewear and more. One of the companies advising Francescas on the bankruptcy filing is Tiger Capital Group, according to the press release. Michael McGrail of Tiger Capital Group said in the release that as part of the filing, customers will be able to get items during closing sales for 25% to 40% off. "New merchandise will continue to arrive at stores," McGrail said in the release. "It's an opportunity to add to or accessorize your wardrobe, find unique gifts, or just go on a treasure hunt for extraordinary deals." USA TODAY contacted a spokesperson for Francescas on Feb. 12 to find out when the stores will close their doors for good, but did not immediately receive a response. Heres what we know so far about Francescas store-wide closing sales, and the companys recent bankruptcy filing. Whats going on sale at Francesca's? Founded in 1999, Francescas carries items such as sweaters and cardigans, intimates, party and floral dresses, wedding guest dresses, rompers and jumpsuits and jewelry. Francescas sent out an email to shoppers and said the companys store-closing sale will include 30% off all clothing, gift, home and clearance items. The company will also offer buy one, get one 50% off sales on all jewelry and accessories, and a two for $15 sale on clearance jewelry, per the email. Francesca's, a store located inside Sikes Senter Mall in Wichita Falls, Texas, on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. Company previously filed for bankruptcy under a different owner Francesca's has over 450 boutiques in 45 states and employs over 3,400 people, according to the companys website. Over the past month, Francescas has been tight-lipped about the liquidation and closures, although employees have confirmed the closures to media outlets in states such as Nevada. In mid-January, an employee told the Reno Gazette Journal, part of the USA TODAY network, that a location in Renos Meadowood Mall would close. The worker did not specify a closure date. This isn't the first time Francesca's has filed for bankruptcy. The company previously filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in December 2020 while under different ownership, according to court documents obtained by USA TODAY and Tiger Capital Group. During the filing six years ago, the company reported 1,000 to 5,000 creditors, $10 million to $50 million in assets, and $10 million to $50 million in liabilities. The company said it planned to close 140 stores and sell the business. In its most recent filing, Francesca's said it owes 1,000 to 5,000 creditors, and listed $10 million to $50 million in assets, as well as $50 million to $100 million in liabilities. Whats next for Francescas financially? The business said legal representatives have filed motions to ensure the business can support current operations, pay employee wages and benefits, and take care of obligations to vendors and partners. Curt Kroll, Chief Financial Officer at Francesca's, said in the press release that the company has "a structured path to pursue the best outcome for all stakeholders." "We remain focused on operating responsibly and supporting our teams, partners, and guests throughout this process, Kroll said. Customers can find Francesca's locations near them at www.francescas.com. Contributing: Kelly Tyko, USA TODAY; Jason Hidalgo, Reno Gazette Journal Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia the 757. Email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Francescas begins store-closing sales at locations nationwide Autumn Special Read. Know. Act. $3 for 3 months! (90 days) Offer expires 12/30/2020 Don't hesitate! Start your digital-only membership today and not only receive full access to our premier news website NNY360.com but also to the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times eEdition! Western automakers, from the Big Three to EV pure plays, are delivering the same stark warning: Chinese automakers pose a threat to their survival if domestic production isn't protected. "China poses a clear and present threat to the auto industry in the U.S.," wrote the Alliance for Automotive Innovation (AAI), a trade group that reps the Big Three, among other automakers, ahead of a House hearing on Chinese vehicles last December. The AAI said Congress needs to maintain the Commerce Department's Biden-era prohibition on importing certain technology and software from China, which effectively bars the import of vehicles from Chinese manufacturers. In recent comments, corporate executives have hammered home a version of this messaging EV maker Rivian (RIVN) has a big year ahead with the launch of its entry-level R2. While short-term issues like cost control and EV demand are more top of mind for the company, the threat of China isn't that far off. Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe noted that in the long term, two important factors need to be recognized. "It's not like there's magic happening on the Chinese cost structure. It's really two things you can follow very clearly," Scaringe told Yahoo Finance last week. "One is their capital cost structure is much lower than us. In most cases, it's near zero. It's a highly subsidized industry where plants and manufacturing compacts are paid for by the local equivalent of the federal government." The second factor is labor, with Chinese automakers' costs a quarter to a fifth of those faced by US companies. Scaringe said at the moment, tariffs in place "equalize" the cost of those vehicles, protecting US manufacturing. But only for now. Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe speaks at the company's first Autonomy and AI Day, showcasing developments in self-driving technology, in Palo Alto, Calif., on Dec. 11, 2025. (Reuters/Carlos Barria) REUTERS / Reuters And despite this tariff buffer, Ford (F) CEO Jim Farley argued that China's rising dominance remains a threat. "We're a year down the road with the Chinese competitors. They're now even more prominent around the globe. Not a lot here in the US, but you go to Europe, you go to anywhere else, China is a big deal," Farley told Yahoo Finance in January. Chinese automakers captured approximately 6.1% of the European auto market last year, a 99% jump from 2024. And this despite tariffs of 35.3% on Chinese EVs entering the EU; however, plug-in hybrids and full hybrids were excluded. Farley has in the past called Chinese-made cars an "existential threat" to US automarkets, not just because of the country's tech advances, but also for its labor infrastructure that supports cheap manufacturing. So, the movie event of the year has arrived. Yes. I know its only February, but the blockbusting Wuthering Heights is going to be hard to beat. Right? Yes, the film hit the big screen on Friday (13 February), starring Margot Robbie as Cathy. I still have a vision of Barbie running around the Yorkshire Moors in high heels and driving rain, but the critics seem to be as confused. Its definitely a split decision; some loved it, some did not. Now, in the interests of fairness, I should say I havent seen the movie or read the book for the matter. In fact, my research for this article centred around watching the trailer and listening to Kate Bushs epic song from 1978, more on that in a moment. This new imagining of the classic Emily Bronte's gothic tale follows the affair between the headstrong Cathy and the tortured, but cruel Heathcliff a love so strong it spirals into obsession, betrayal and revenge. This is the eleventh time it has hit the big screen. Some of you may know that the director of Saltburn, Emerald Fennell, is also the director of the new Wuthering Heights film. Rotten Tomatoes called Saltburn candy-coated and incisive a debauched jolt to the senses and warns that if youre easily offended, this probably isnt the film for you. So, what will the new Bronte adaptation offer - maybe a less offensive, easier watch? That said, Saltburn did feature the classic Sophie Ellis-Bextor track Murder on the Dancefloor. The scene in the movie features the male lead Oliver as he sprints, slides, spins and struts through the empty rooms, completely naked, bathed in coloured lights and the thumping beat of the track. Now the big question is, will Cathy be cavorting out on the moors in the lashing rain to Kate Bushs take on the movie? Well, as I said, I havent seen the movie, so no spoilers here on tat score. Although I do know that Charli XCX has written some original songs that provide a modern take on the films theme, creating a contrast to the period setting. The blurb surrounding the movie suggests that the combination of a rousing orchestral sound, plus pop music, makes it both unique and contemporary. I am not sure why that is required. For me, Kate Bush thrashing her arms about on the wily, windy moors would set the scene much more realistically. I can just imagine the audience swaying in their seats as the classic plays out with Margot Robbie whirling across the screen doing those dramatic armswooshes, as if shes rearranging the weather on the Yorkshire moors. I will not be trying it myself, of course, maybe when the song first came out, but now I think I might pull a muscle. I have checked back to see if Kate Bush has ever been on the soundtrack to a Wuthering Heights movie and the answer in short is no. Some of you may remember the 1996 musical Heathcliff that focused on his personal story with the unlikely Cliff Richard, weird beard and all in the starring role. The music was composed by John Farrar (he was a member of the seventies version of The Shadows) with lyrics written by Tim Rice. Yes, youve guessed it, no Kate there either. Although Had to Be was a decent song, theres a great version with Cliff duetting with Olivia Newton-John on YouTube if you want a listen. There has been a Wuthering Heights musical of Emily Bronte's 1847 novel. The musical first appeared in 1992 as a studio recording featuring Lesley Garrett as Cathy and Dave Willetts as Heathcliff - no sign of it since and there was almost an opera, and there has been a ballet. The book has given great inspiration over the years. Although, I cant help thinking theyve missed a trick not including Kate Bush in any of them! The Ilfracombe Academy has marked Childrens Mental Health Week 2026, joining schools across the country in promoting the wellbeing of children and young people. The annual event, which ran from 9 to 11 February, focused on this years theme, This is My Place, emphasising the importance of belonging and feeling connected. Schools and communities were encouraged to consider how their environments can support positive mental health, inclusion and safety. At Ilfracombe Academy, students took part in a series of activities, including a launch assembly for Years 7 to 10, tutor-time reflection sessions on anti-bullying and mental health, and lessons within the PCRE curriculum. Pupils were also invited to apply for the schools new Mental Health and Anti-Bullying Ambassador Programme, which will train students to promote wellbeing, support peers and foster an inclusive school environment from September 2026. Ambassadors will help raise awareness of mental health, act as positive role models, support school campaigns, and encourage kindness and respect among fellow students. The programme will be led by PCRE teacher Mrs Vale, with support from Safeguarding Lead Mrs Tilley. The week reflected the schools broader approach to wellbeing, including its Relationships, Sex and Health Education curriculum, which teaches students about common mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, the benefits of physical activity and outdoor time, and the value of community involvement. Childrens Mental Health Week was launched in 2015 to give children a voice and highlight the importance of early support. Research shows around one in five children experience mental health challenges, making schools a key part of helping young people build resilience. Headteacher Steve Rogers said: "Childrens Mental Health Week is an important opportunity to encourage open and honest conversations about emotions and wellbeing. By taking part, we want our students to feel connected, supported and confident in understanding their own mental health, and to know that The Ilfracombe Academy is a place where they belong." On February 13, 2026, ACK Asset Management LLC disclosed in an SEC filing that it sold out of JBT Marel Corporation (NYSE:JBTM), liquidating 350,546 shares in a transaction estimated at $49.23 million. What happened According to an SEC filing dated February 13, 2026, ACK Asset Management fully liquidated its position in JBT Marel Corporation by selling 350,546 shares. The estimated transaction value was $49.23 million. What else to know Top holdings after the filing: NYSE:MTRN: $59.03 million (7.5% of AUM) NYSE:GVA: $57.67 million (7.3% of AUM) NYSE:WMS: $56.48 million (7.1% of AUM) NYSE:ATS: $50.84 million (6.4% of AUM) NYSE:CNM: $46.77 million (5.9% of AUM) As of February 12, 2026, shares of JBT Marel Corporation were priced at $163.36, up 30.3% over the past year and outperforming the S&P 500 by 17.44 percentage points. Company overview Metric Value Price (as of market close February 12, 2026) $163.36 Market capitalization $8.58 billion Revenue (TTM) $3.26 billion Net income (TTM) ($110.60 million) Company snapshot JBT Marel Corporation provides integrated technology solutions for food and beverage processing, including chilling, mixing, portioning, cooking, freezing, packaging, and automated guided vehicle systems. The company generates revenue through the sale of equipment, value-added processing systems, and related services to food, beverage, and health industry clients worldwide. It serves a diversified customer base across the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, pet food, and industrial sectors, with a global footprint spanning North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. JBT Marel Corporation is a leading provider of industrial machinery and automation solutions for the food and beverage sector, with a strong presence in global markets. The company leverages advanced technology to deliver end-to-end processing and packaging systems, supporting efficiency and product quality for its clients. Its broad portfolio and diversified customer base position it competitively within the industrial technology landscape. What this transaction means for investors Capital discipline shows up most clearly when a stock is working, and that seems to be the case here. JBT Marel delivered better-than-expected $1 billion in third-quarter revenue, with 49% generated from recurring revenue. Meanwhile, adjusted EBITDA reached $171 million, a 17.1% margin, while orders totaled $946 million and backlog stood at $1.3 billion. Management also raised full-year 2025 revenue guidance to a range of $3.76 billion to $3.79 billion, reflecting solid operational execution. At the same time, leverage remains meaningful. Net debt totaled roughly $1.79 billion, with net debt to pro forma adjusted EBITDA at 3.1x, and integration costs, restructuring expenses, and acquisition-related amortization continue to weigh on GAAP profitability. Within a portfolio tilted toward industrial and infrastructure names like Materion, Granite Construction, and Advanced Drainage Systems, this was one of the more cyclical capital equipment bets. Shares have climbed more than 30% over the past year. For long-term investors, the key question is whether synergy targets and margin expansion can outpace integration risk. If execution continues, scale could drive durable earnings power. If not, valuation could reset quickly. Shortly before dawn on a Saturday, a retired woman in the quiet residential neighborhood of St. Albans, Queens, got up to use the bathroom. She happened to glance out the front window of her house and saw something alarming: a stranger lying face up on the sidewalk. The temperature was 10 degrees, and the wind chill was five below. The woman called 911. Paramedics arrived quickly, but the man on the ground, Headley Evans, 71, was soon pronounced dead. That was Jan. 24. The next two and a half weeks were the coldest stretch that New York City had seen in years. Despite an increasingly frantic campaign by the fledgling administration of Mayor Zohran Mamdani to persuade people to shelter indoors, frozen bodies kept turning up across the city. The deaths came in a wave six dead or dying people were found that first morning and then a steady succession of one or two a day, in doorways and alleys, at remote campsites and along well-traveled thoroughfares. Kenneth Luna, the brother of Nellie Luna, left, and Maria Luna, was found dead in a snowy park in the Bronx. He was 29. By Tuesday, at least 20 people had died after exposure to the frigid air and snow. The youngest was 27 years old; the oldest was 90 and had dementia. Some were homeless. Some died with drugs or alcohol in their system. All found themselves at the bitter mercy of the cold. From a Whiff of Mystique to Witty Love: Over 200 Years of Valentines Cards From a Whiff of Mystique to Witty Love: Over 200 Years of Valentines Cards In the late 19th century, few things telegraphed yearning like a card adorned with paper lace, gold foil and a couple exchanging a coy glance. Today, such a card would evoke an eye roll. The evolution of cards from the treacly confections of Victorian England to the quippy missives of today reflect both shifting design aesthetics and broader cultural customs around romance. As the borders of socially accepted relationships have shifted, so have the cards. Where once there was poetry, now there are drawings of pizzas. Greeting cards are a reflection of society, said Carlos Llanso, executive director of the Greeting Card Association, a trade organization that represents roughly 4,000 independent card makers. Valentines Day cards today are less formal, precious and prescribed, Mr. Llanso said, because our understanding of love has become more expansive. Lottery and lace Historians struggle to trace the exact origins of Valentines Day some pinpoint the holiday to a curiously unromantic Pagan festival in Rome that involved goat slaughter and nudity but they tend to agree that its association with romance was most likely established in England. Early Valentines Day celebrations, dating as far back as the 17th century, were only loosely associated with love and often revolved around a lottery, said Sally Holloway, a cultural historian at the University of Warwick whose research focuses on love, marriage and courtship in 18th century England. People would pull names out of a hat and select someone to be their Valentine from February through Easter. Your Valentine could be your neighbor, it could be a colleague, it could be a member of your family, Dr. Holloway said. Youd pin the name of the person who youd been given as your Valentine to your clothes. Matched pairs would exchange gifts, dance together and maybe write funny riddles or poems for each other. A confluence of rapid social changes in the late 1700s and early 1800s, including the idealization of marrying for love rather than for economic advantage, Dr. Holloway said, helped to transform Valentines Day into a commercialized celebration of romantic love with a partner of your choosing. Click on an image to look at the details. circa. 1850 circa. 1870 circa. 1860 circa. 1890 circa. 1850 circa. 1850 circa. 1860 1840 circa. 1860 circa. 1860 1863 circa. 1850 This period dovetailed with the advent of new printing technologies and mass production, as well as an expansion of postal services, making Valentines Day cards a popular component of courtship rituals. They presented, in many ways, a rare opportunity to directly convey desire within the confines of an otherwise buttoned-up Victorian society, where bold romantic declarations could be both risky and risque. At the time, the responsibility of pursuing a marriage partner fell to men, and women tended to avoid overtly signaling affection. But on Valentines Day, those rules were flipped. For one day a year, the language of love became the preserve of women, Dr. Holloway said. And because it was considered a daring and even racy act to send a Valentines Day card, women couldnt put their name to it, Dr. Holloway said. It is why so many cards from that era contain only vague, brief greetings, sometimes with a question mark at the end, adding a whiff of mystique. The custom arrived in the United States in the mid-1800s, and crafty, entrepreneurial women fueled its commercialization. Esther Howland often referred to as the mother of the American valentine is said to have first received a Valentines Day card from someone in Britain in 1847 and was inspired to create her own version. It was her idea to essentially create an assembly line of women putting together these really complex Valentines, said Jamie Kwan, an assistant curator at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum. The cards were handmade, and Howland imported materials from the U.K. and Germany to incorporate into these cards. Estimates suggest she sold between $75,000 and $100,000 worth of cards a year, roughly the equivalent of $3 million today. Embracing new ideas of love Over time, innovation around the craftsmanship of cards slowed, and it was their imagery that began to reflect a rapidly changing culture. In 1910, Hallmark entered the industry and quickly became one of the largest and most recognizable card makers. The brands earliest Valentines Day cards relied heavily on the Victorian symbols of love from the previous century: hearts, Cupids and lovebirds. By the 1930s, Hallmark started printing cards with boundary-pushing images of couples embracing and, by 1945, dancing. 1933 1928 1928 1939 1933 1945 1920s 1942 1956 1968 1972 1977 1982 1989 It used to be that we used a lot more traditional forms of creative crafts, like engraving, calligraphy and lace, said Jen Walker, a vice president of Hallmarks creative studios. Eventually, consumers found those aesthetic details less enticing. We are a consumer led brand so we followed the consumer and what their needs were, she added. But Hallmark cards did not display Black couples until 1970, and the company did not introduce Valentines Day cards for those in same-sex relationships until 2008. There isnt even a heart on it In the mid 2000s, Valentines Day cards went through another major shift. In 2013, Emily McDowell, a writer, product consultant and business adviser, designed a Valentines Day card to better reflect some of the difficult-to-categorize situationships she had been in. The card had no illustrations. It was plain and white with text on the front that read: I know were not, like, together or anything but it felt weird to just not say anything so I got you this card. Its not a big deal. It doesnt really mean anything. There isnt even a heart on it. So basically its a card saying hi. Forget it. She put it up on Etsy, anticipating that only a handful of people would buy it. Within days, she sold thousands, she said, and had to stop accepting new orders. The success prompted her to quit her job in advertising and start her namesake brand. The next year, she released another card that also instantly became a hit. It read: Theres no one Id rather lie in bed and look at my phone next to. 2013 2016 2023 2022 2019 2016 2024 2025 2014 2020 2024 Over the past 13 years, the company has sold millions of similarly witty cards. (Ms. McDowell left the company in 2022, and it was acquired by Hachette Publishing last year.) While Ms. McDowells early designs feel commonplace now, they were among the first in an industrywide move away from the stilted, saccharine Valentines Day cards of previous decades. Many independent card designers today, Mr. Llanso explained, continue to tap into a consumer demand for plain-speaking, authentic cards. As a result, some of the more popular designs feature references to the state of the world. Others nod to cultural iconography, like Labubus or the enduring appeal of sweatpants. Not all of them are intended for romantic partners, and many can be used in other kinds of relationships. Mitzi Sampson, the founder of the card company Mitzi Bitsy Spider, said her best-selling card was one that featured a grinning raccoon holding up a sign reading you are TRASH to me. Ms. Sampson said she designed that card in 2023 for her sister because she loves raccoons and because I love her. That, she added, is exactly what consumers want now. Not frills or grand proclamations, but an intimate knowledge of the receiver and the simple recognition that says I know you, I see you, I choose you. What a Speech Reveals About Trumps Plans for Nuclear Weapons Within hours of the expiration last week of the final arms control treaty between Moscow and Washington, the State Department sent its top arms diplomat, Thomas G. DiNanno, to Geneva to lay out Washingtons vision for the future. His public address envisioned a future filled with waves of nuclear arms buildups and test detonations. The views of President Trumps administration articulated in Mr. DiNannos speech represent a stark break with decades of federal policy. In particular, deep in the speech, he describes a U.S. rationale for going its own way on the global ban on nuclear test detonations, which had been meant to curb arms races that in the Cold War had raised the risk of miscalculation, and war. This annotation of the text of his remarks aims to offer background information on some of the specialized language of nuclear policymaking that Mr. DiNanno used to make his points, while highlighting places where outside experts may disagree with his and the administrations claims. What remains unknown is the extent to which Mr. DiNannos presentation represents a fixed policy of unrestrained U.S. arms buildups, or more of an open threat meant to spur negotiations toward new global accords on ways to better manage the nuclear age. Read the original speech. "It's better to die on your feet than to live on your knees" -- By Emiliano Zapata Rodney King and the Illusion of "Gray" For decades, the black community had warned about brutality at the hands of the police, but the videotaped beating of Rodney King on March 3,1991, forced much of America to confront it. For those willing to see what their fellow Americans were experiencing, that incident finally grabbed their attention. Yet, for too many others, even seeing the violence with their own eyes was not enough. They refused to look beyond the evidence itself and instead insisted on framing the issue in stark black and white, or in today's terms, red versus blue. Rodney King was not without fault; he was a parolee who was driving while intoxicated and led police officers on a chase that reached 110 mph. He endangered both the pursuing officers and the general public. Once he finally pulled over, the responding officers claimed he was not compliant, which is consistent with his intoxicated state. If this is true, it may have justified the officers' initial use of force against King. Video recorded by a bystander shows officers striking King with their batons at least 50 times. The beating continued after the unarmed suspect was on the ground and not attacking. At this point, their actions moved from possibly justified to criminal. The frustration felt by a community that had hoped the videotape would finally result in accountability erupted into unrest that caused $775 million in damage when that accountability never came. When Additional Evidence Leaves No Gray Comparisons can be made to the shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minnesota based on publicly available video and coverage of autopsy findings. Even though the video shows the mother of three had begun turning her wheels away from the agent, it is conceivable that he may not have recognized this in the seconds he had to decide whether to fire, striking her in the right chest. However, at least two shots were fired after the car had passed the agent and cannot reasonably be described as defensive. One struck her in the left forearm and the other in the left side of her head, which, according to an independent autopsy commissioned by her family, was likely immediately fatal. Beyond the shooting, video evidence shows that agents on the scene refused to give a medical doctor access to determine whether aid could be rendered and then delayed an ambulance from entering the area. Cell phone footage recorded by the shooter also shows that he and his fellow agents failed to attempt any de-escalation, issued conflicting instructions to Good, and that he chose to place himself in front of the car in violation of normal police training. After shooting Good at close range, the agent calls her a "f*cking b*tch." The Killing of Alex Pretti: "- Less than two weeks after the shooting of Good, which was not investigated by the FBI, Border Patrol agents killed another protester. This time, there was no gray; the killing was effectively an execution. While an immigration enforcement action was taking place, Alex Pretti was in no way interfering. As was his legal right, he was filming the scene to document the actions of the masked immigration agents. Pretti was standing in the street with a cell phone in his hand when a woman, who was also documenting the scene, was pushed several feet towards him by a Border Patrol agent. She grabs Pretti by the waist, and that same officer then shoves him. A third observer walks over to the scene, and she is then violently shoved to the ground. It is important to note that none of the three protesters retaliated against the violence that was illegally used against them. Still, the Border Patrol agent sprayed Pretti directly in the face with a chemical irritant. At this point, Pretti and the first woman tried to help the second woman off the ground. None of them was facing the officer, yet he continued to assault them with the chemical irritant. With Pretti still facing toward the woman he was trying to help, agents grabbed him from behind and threw him to his knees. At least one was seen to throw a punch at him. Another removed a gun from Pretti's concealed holster and turned to walk away from the scene. At least five shots rang out and the group moved back several feet. At least five more shots were then fired into Pretti as he lay on the ground, motionless and unarmed. As with Good, a medical doctor was at the scene and was initially blocked from helping the victim. When finally allowed to approach, the doctor said that CPR was not being rendered and that it did not appear anyone was attempting to provide aid. By these indications, it appeared that the agents had no intention of helping him. Next Page 1 | 2 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Secured approximately $520 million in new incremental annualized revenues during 2025, marking the most successful period for new business wins in the company's history. Performance was driven by the activation of five facilities totaling approximately 6,000 beds, representing the largest startup activity in GEO's history with an annualized value of $400 million. ICE detention census reached record levels of approximately 24,000, supported by increased enforcement and removal operations that also drove a $60 million expansion in secured transportation services. The ISAP 5 program experienced a strategic mix shift where a decline in low-cost mobile app usage was offset by a steady increase in higher-priced GPS ankle monitors and intensive case management. Management attributes the current growth trajectory to the federal government's focus on upscaling detention capacity to 100,000 beds and consolidating operations into fewer, larger facilities. Gold and silver tumbled sharply on Thursday, rattling markets already on edge amid surging US financial stress. Spot gold dropped by more than 3% while silver plunged by more than 10%, reversing a portion of their recent rally. Bad News for Gold and Silver Amid Record US Debt and Rising Bankruptcies As of this writing, gold was trading for $4,956, down 3.97% while silver exchanged hands for $76.74 after losing 10.65% in the last 24 hours. Gold and Silver Price Performance. Source: TradingView The sudden sell-off has prompted analysts and investors to question whether a broader repricing of hard assets is unfolding. The metals retreat comes amid intensifying economic stress. Over the past three weeks, 18 US companies with liabilities exceeding $50 million have filed for bankruptcy. Notably, this is the fastest pace since the pandemic and approaches levels last seen during the 2009 financial crisis. Meanwhile, the New York Fed said in a press release that household debt has reached a record $18.8 trillion, with mortgages, auto loans, credit card balances, and student loan balances all at historic highs. Serious credit card delinquencies climbed to 12.7% in Q4 2025, the highest since 2011, with younger households under particular strain. Such conditions typically emerge late in the economic cycle, often preceding policy interventions like rate cuts or liquidity injections. Bitcoin has also remained under pressure, falling to the $65,000 range as the pioneer crypto lags both equities and traditional safe-haven assets over the past few months. Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance. Source: BeInCrypto While digital assets often present as a hedge against macroeconomic uncertainty, recent trends suggest they are not yet playing that role effectively in this cycle. Analysts Split on Metals Sell-Off as Fed Watchers Eye Rate Cuts and Asset Repricing Analysts are at a crossroads, offering differing interpretations of the metals pullback. Some argue it reflects short-term volatility within a broader trend of hard-asset repricing. Gold was repriced to $5,000 by the US, and markets caught up, wrote macro analyst Marty Party, suggesting that authorities may be positioning precious metals to collateralize sovereign debt alongside digital assets like Bitcoin. However, others caution that tight liquidity conditions remain dominant, and further weakness could emerge if financial stress continues to mount. Policy watchers are closely monitoring the Federal Reserves potential response. Citi economists project softer job growth in spring and summer after Januarys payrolls came in below expectations, which could create room for three rate cuts later in 2026. By Foo Yun Chee BRUSSELS, Feb 12 (Reuters) - Alphabet unit Google risks another EU antitrust headache as regulators said they are concerned that the U.S. tech giant may be unfairly driving online advertising prices higher, a letter to advertisers seen by Reuters showed. Google, which has been fined billions of euros in Europe for antitrust violations in recent years, is the subject of several European Union antitrust investigations. More from Yahoo Scout How does Google respond to auction manipulation allegations? What evidence supports claims of artificial price increases? What are EU regulators investigating about Google's advertising? What are the broader implications for US-EU relations? Another could add to tensions with the U.S. government, which says U.S. Big Tech has been unfairly targeted, claims which the European Commission has dismissed. The Commission singled out the auctions for the sale of advertising on Google Search, "in particular, the way in which Google has been artificially increasing the clearing price of such auctions to the detriment of advertisers," the letter said. Google, which dominates the multi-billion-dollar online advertising market, said Google Search ads help small businesses to compete with the biggest brands and keep the web free for everyone. "Ad prices are determined by a real-time auction designed to show people the most relevant ads, taking into account factors like advertiser competition and ad quality," a Google spokesperson said. A Commission spokesperson declined to comment, saying there is no formal investigation on the matter. "In general, the Commission monitors possible anti-competitive market practices and abusive conduct in all sectors and stands ready to investigate cases where concrete evidence thereof is found," the spokesperson said. Recipients of the letter were given until March 2 to provide feedback. The U.S. Justice Department has accused Google of manipulating online auctions with formulas to favour its own bottom line. Bloomberg was the first to report the potential EU investigation. (Reporting by Foo Yun Chee, additional reporting by Anhata Rooprai; Editing by Kirsten Donovan and Barbara Lewis) HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB) is one of the High Growth International Stocks to Buy Now. HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB) has gained more than 4.7% since its fiscal Q3 2026 earnings were released on January 17. The bank topped Wall Streets estimates, driven by robust loan growth during the quarter. During Q3 2026, HDFC Bank grew its revenue by 3.79% year-over-year to roughly $5.06 billion and surpassed estimates by $15.19 million. The EPS of $0.40 also topped consensus by $0.01. Management highlighted reaching a record high Disbursements of INR17,917 crore, reflecting 15% growth quarter-over-quarter. The growth was attributed to consumer finance loans and assetbacked loans. Moreover, total loans for the quarter reached INR1,14,577 crore, reflecting 12% year-over-year growth. Banks MD and CEO, Mr. G. Ramesh, noted, Our asset quality at stage 1 has improved to 95.22%. Our reported PAT for Q3 grew by 36% Yo-Y. Excluding the impact of the new labour code, which is a one-time provision that we made in Q3, our PAT grew by 45% if you look at comparable numbers. Looking ahead, HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB) expects continued positive momentum across Enterprise Lending and Asset Finance, driven by an infrastructural push and a growing rural economy. HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB) is a large private-sector bank in India that provides a wide range of banking and financial services to individuals and businesses. It offers retail and wholesale banking, treasury operations, insurance, asset management, stockbroking, and services like credit and debit cards and third-party product distribution. While we acknowledge the potential of HDB as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. Aiken, SC (29801) Today Abundant sunshine. High 81F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy this evening followed by mostly cloudy skies and a few showers after midnight. Low around 60F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%. Editor Ralph Mancini is an award-winning editor whos been employed by the Post and Courier since 2022. Previously, Mancini served in a variety of newspaper roles in New York City, Washington State and North Dakota. Rare-earth company MP Materials' (NYSE: MP) stock is up 14.6% in 2026, but it's come back a bit from the 16.3% increase to the end of January, according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence. The volatility in the stock price reflects ongoing speculation about the prospects of rare-earth companies. Given their strategic importance in helping the U.S. secure a domestic source of critical rare-earth magnets, that importance is unlikely to disappear anytime soon. Expect more volatility to come. MP Materials in 2026 The big news in the rare-earth sector didn't come from MP Materials; it came from its peer, USA Rare Earth. In late January, the company entered into an agreement with the U.S. government that helped secure $3.1 billion in government funding and private investment, thereby derisking its business plan. Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue The news matters to MP Materials because it signals the current administration's ongoing intent to actively support companies that manufacture rare-earth magnets and source materials outside China. That's good news for MP Materials because it signed a landmark agreement with the government back in early July. Market speculation While the USA Rare Earth agreement was overall good news for MP Materials, the market began to speculate on one key aspect: unlike MP Materials' agreement, USA Rare Earth did not receive any price-floor commitments from the government. A Reuters article quickly followed, claiming that the administration was moving away from using price floors. Consequently, MP Materials' stock sold off as investors fretted about future developments on the matter. There are three ways to look at the matter. The first is to take the approach that the agreement between MP Materials and the Department of Defense (DoD) is legally binding, and that includes the price floor and the agreement to ensure all the magnets produced in the "10X Facility" will be purchased for a decade after the facility is complete. Image source: Getty Images. The second is to take the more pragmatic approach: MP Materials is a private-public partnership; the government is invested in the company; and, whether it's the current administration or future administrations, politicians have mechanisms of action at their disposal. For example, the government can use the Defense Production Act to prioritize government (military) orders over commercial contracts. Editorials represent the institutional view of the newspaper. They are written and edited by the editorial staff, which operates separately from the news department. Editorial writers are not involved in newsroom operations. PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-14 01:00:16 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 293 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / February 13, 2026 /(TSXV:OGN)(OTCQB:OGNNF) Orogen Royalties Inc. ("Orogen" or the "Company") announces that, as part of the Company's annual share-based compensation program, the Board of Directors have authorized a grant of 132,000 Restricted Share Units (RSUs), 29,000 Deferred Share Units (DSUs), and 618,000 incentive Stock Options to directors, officers, employees, and consultants. The grant has been authorized pursuant to the Company's Omnibus Equity Incentive Compensation Plan that was approved by shareholders June 27, 2025.The RSUs awarded will fully vest on the second anniversary of the date of grant. The DSUs awarded will vest 50% each on the third and fourth anniversaries of the grant date and will settle on the termination of service. The Stock Options have a life of five years, an exercise price of $3.12, and will vest over three years including 25% that will vest immediately followed by 25% on the first, second, and third anniversaries from the date of grant.These equity-based compensation grants are subject to regulatory acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange.About Orogen Royalties Inc.Orogen Royalties is focused on organic royalty creation and royalty acquisitions on precious and base metal discoveries in western North America. The Company's royalty portfolio includes the Ermitano gold and silver Mine in Sonora, Mexico (2.0% NSR royalty) operated by First Majestic Silver Corp. The Company is well financed with several projects actively being developed by joint venture partners.On Behalf of the Board OROGEN ROYALTIES INC.Paddy NicolPresident & CEOTo find out more about Orogen, please contact Paddy Nicol, President & CEO at 604-248-8648, and Marco LoCascio, Vice President, Corporate Development at 604-248-8648. Visit our website at www.orogenroyalties.com Orogen Royalties Inc.1015 - 789 West Pender StreetVancouver, BCCanada V6C 1H2 info@ orogenroyalties.com SOURCE: Orogen Royalties Inc PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-14 00:01:58 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 459 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / February 13, 2026 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Paysafe Limited ("Paysafe" or the "Company") (NYSE:PSFE). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Paysafe and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until April 7, 2026, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Paysafe securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On November 13, 2025, Paysafe announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2025, including revenue of $433.8 million, which missed consensus estimates by $5.8 million, and a net loss of $87.7 million, a steep drop from the prior year period wherein the Company's net loss was only $12.98 million. Paysafe also slashed full year 2025 expected revenue to $17 million at the midpoint, and adjusted EPS $0.50 at the midpoint. On the same date, during a related earnings call, the Company's Chief Executive Officer, Bruce Lowthers, revealed that the Company "had a last-minute client that had to shut down that caused several million-dollar write-down in Q3." Lowthers further revealed the Company is "in kind of a lower-tier market, a lot of kind of travel or things that are more higher risk MCC[Merchant Category Codes] codes." Lowthers explained that "those things sometimes are a little difficult to bank" and "sometimes the banks aren't open to the additional risk" "so, we've had a little bit of challenge with that with some of those MCC codes, and we're working our way through that." On this news, Paysafe's stock price fell $2.80 per share, or 27.6%, to close at $7.36 per share on November 13, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP PR-Inside.com: 2026-02-14 17:01:30 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 504 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / February 14, 2026 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Bath & Body Works, Inc. ("Bath & Body Works" or the "Company") (NYSE:BBWI). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton atnewaction@ pomlaw.comor 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Bath & Body Works and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until March 16, 2026, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Bath & Body Works securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained atwww.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On August 28, 2025, Bath & Body Works reported its second quarter 2025 financial results. Among other items, the Company reported earnings per diluted share of $0.30, representing a decline of 55.8% year over year and missing the Company's prior guidance on the low end by $0.03. Bath & Body Works also reported net income of $64 million, a decline of 57.9% year over year. The Company also announced that it was cutting its full year guidance for earnings per diluted share by $0.03 at the midpoint, to a range of $3.28 to $3.53.On this news, Bath & Body Works' stock price fell $2.18 per share, or 6.9%, to close at $29.36 per share on August 28, 2025.Then, on November 20, 2025, Bath & Body Works reported third quarter 2025 financial results. The Company reported a 1% year over year decline in revenue, missing its guidance of 1-3% growth for the quarter. Bath & Body Work's net income also declined, falling 26% to $77 million. Finally, the Company announced that it was slashing full year guidance for net sales from a previously positive 1.5%-2.7% to negative "high single digits." Bath & Body Works also cut expected earnings per diluted share from a range of $3.28 to $3.53 to "at least $2.83." In an investor presentation published the same day, the Company announced a new business strategy and admitted that its strategy of "adjacencies, collaborations and promotions" had "not grown our total customer base." On this news, Bath & Body Works' stock price fell $5.22 per share, or 24.8%, to close at $15.82 per share on November 20, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. Seewww.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP Nigerias Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, has been elected Chairperson of the Governing Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), marking a significant milestone for Nigerias leadership in global agricultural governance. In a statement posted on his official X page on Thursday, the minister described his emergence as a solemn responsibility to the millions of rural people globally. With humility, I accept the honour to serve as Chairperson of the Governing Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) @IFAD. This is a solemn responsibility to the millions of rural people whose lives are shaped by our decisions, he said. He appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to agricultural transformation and food security, which continue to elevate Nigerias role in global development. Mr Kyari emerged as chair at the 49th Session of the IFAD Governing Council held on Tuesday in Rome, Italy. He previously served as Vice Chair of the council, which is the apex decision-making body of the organisation. The minister will serve for two years, and he was elected to the post by over 580 delegates from across at least 120 countries. Established in 1977, IFAD is a specialised agency of the United Nations and an international financial institution. It focuses on eradicating rural poverty and strengthening food systems through targeted investments and partnerships across developing countries. In his acceptance remarks, Mr Kyari said: I accept this responsibility with humility and a deep sense of duty. I pledge to discharge this mandate with fairness, inclusiveness, and strategic foresight, while fostering consensus and upholding the integrity and credibility of IFAD. He noted that his election reflects Nigerias strengthened global standing under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda prioritises food security, agricultural transformation and domestic reforms. The minister also acknowledged the support of the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, the Permanent Secretary, Marcus Ogunbiyi, and staff of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. Mr Kyari said his appointment demonstrates the confidence of IFAD member states in Africas leadership at a time of mounting global challenges, including climate change, economic volatility, conflicts and demographic shifts. He reaffirmed his commitment to keeping IFAD policy-driven and impact-focused, working with member states to advance rural transformation and strengthen global food security. Shrinking Lake Chad Following his election as IFAD chair, Mr Kyari spoke at the IFAD Leaders Dialogue about the Lake Chad crisis and what it truly means for millions of families across the Sahel and Central Africa. Lake Chad has shrunk by almost 90%. Behind that number are real people, farmers, fishermen, women and young people, whose livelihoods are disappearing and whose communities are becoming more vulnerable to poverty and insecurity, he said. READ ALSO: Why we banned export of raw shea nut Minister The minister stressed that they cannot keep studying the crisis without acting, stating that what Lake Chad needs now is real commitment: coordinated efforts, proper funding, and practical solutions that restore hope and stability to the region. Investing in Lake Chad is not just about water, it is about food security, climate resilience, and peace for millions of people. Nigeria is ready to work with IFAD and our global partners to turn commitments into action, the minister explained. Investors who take an interest in Mountview Estates P.L.C. (LON:MTVW) should definitely note that the CEO & Executive Director, Duncan Sinclair, recently paid UK87.50 per share to buy UK92k worth of the stock. However, it only increased shareholding by a small percentage, and it wasn't a huge purchase by absolute value, either. AI is about to change healthcare. These 20 stocks are working on everything from early diagnostics to drug discovery. The best part - they are all under $10bn in marketcap - there is still time to get in early. Mountview Estates Insider Transactions Over The Last Year Notably, that recent purchase by CEO & Executive Director Duncan Sinclair was not the only time they bought Mountview Estates shares this year. Earlier in the year, they paid UK97.40 per share in a UK633k purchase. That means that even when the share price was higher than UK90.75 (the recent price), an insider wanted to purchase shares. Their view may have changed since then, but at least it shows they felt optimistic at the time. In our view, the price an insider pays for shares is very important. Generally speaking, it catches our eye when an insider has purchased shares at above current prices, as it suggests they believed the shares were worth buying, even at a higher price. The only individual insider to buy over the last year was Duncan Sinclair. Duncan Sinclair bought a total of 13.47k shares over the year at an average price of UK94.46. The chart below shows insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year. If you want to know exactly who sold, for how much, and when, simply click on the graph below! Check out our latest analysis for Mountview Estates LSE:MTVW Insider Trading Volume February 14th 2026 Mountview Estates is not the only stock insiders are buying. So take a peek at this free list of under-the-radar companies with insider buying. Does Mountview Estates Boast High Insider Ownership? Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. Mountview Estates insiders own 29% of the company, currently worth about UK103m based on the recent share price. I like to see this level of insider ownership, because it increases the chances that management are thinking about the best interests of shareholders. What Might The Insider Transactions At Mountview Estates Tell Us? It is good to see the recent insider purchase. And the longer term insider transactions also give us confidence. When combined with notable insider ownership, these factors suggest Mountview Estates insiders are well aligned, and quite possibly think the share price is too low. That's what I like to see! In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing Mountview Estates. At Simply Wall St, we've found that Mountview Estates has 2 warning signs (1 doesn't sit too well with us!) that deserve your attention before going any further with your analysis. Controversial actor-turned-politician Yul Edochie has reacted to his father Pete Edochies claim that he was unaware of the 44-year-olds marriage to Judy Austin at the time it occurred. Yul married May, an internet personality in 2004 and have three sons and a daughter. However, their marriage collapsed after May filed for divorce in August 2023. In April 2022, PREMIUM TIMES reported that Yul introduced Judy as his second wife in an Instagram post. They welcomed their first child, a son, Munachimso, in 2022. In April 2024, Yul announced the arrival of their second son, Ndubuisi, who was then a year old. Their third child, a daughter, was born in May 2025 and named Universe Ifeyinwa. However, in August 2023, Edochie, a veteran actor, said in an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo that he learnt about his sons second marriage online, just like the general public. Responding more than two years later in a viral clip from his interview on the KaaTruths podcast, Yul dismissed his fathers comments, stating that they did not affect him. Im not a child In the interview, which was posted on YouTube on 5 February, the actor said his father was entitled to his opinion and could say whatever he wished. He said, Hes entitled to whatever he wants to say. Like I always tell you, I emphasise this a lot so that more people can learn. At this age, my problem is not what my father thinks about my personal decision. Anything I want to do as a man in my personal life, Im not a child. Do you understand? I should now be able to say, This is good for me, and this is not good for me. And that thing that is good for me, I go for it. I dont have to explain or complain. Real men dont explain or complain. You face it. Do you understand? So thats me. Why did he say it? His business. How did it make me feel? Nothing. Respect Yul added that he remained unfazed by his fathers remarks, noting that hed continue to hold him in the highest respect. He emphasised that nothing his father could do would provoke anger or lead him to confront him. Look, Ill tell you something. You see that man, Chief Pete Edochie. I love him. Thats my father. I have a lot of love and respect for him. A lot. He cannot get me angry. Like, I mean, no matter what he says. If my father says, Yul, you are a fool. Ill say, yes, sir. Yul, you are a bushman. Ill say, yes, siranything he wants me to do for him. Ill do it, and Ill go away. Im not moved. I love him. I respect him. Hes my father. He did his best to raise six of us. Of course, hes not perfect. You know, I dont expect him to be. But I love him. If my father comes here, even while Im having this interview, and says, Yul, kneel. Ill kneel. Till he is done, happy, and asks me to get up. Even at this age, at 44. Yes. Thats how much I love him. I dont joke with my father. Thats me. So, whatever he says, hes entitled to it. Why he decided to say it is still in his mind, he said. As Nigerians gear up to launch into another season of politicking, and sides are being formed, the Imo State Director of City Boy Movement, Paschal Okechukwu, aka Cubana Chief Priest, has recanted on his stand regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubus chances at the polls come 2027. In November 2025, Cubana Chief Priest shared his thoughts on the sentencing of Biafran agitator Nnamdi Kanu to life imprisonment for terrorism. In a message to the president, Chief Priest said that as long as Mr Kanu remains in jail, he cannot get up to 10,000 votes in the South-East come 2027. I will not lie to you, Papa; as a friend of your government, I have no reason to whitewash you. MNK is the supreme leader of the South-East. His detention has caused us so much setback, and Im so surprised that all your useless ministers from the South-East cant even tell you the truth because they are all cowards. None of them has the capacity or can do anything to make the people love and respect you, he wrote on Instagram. However, in a turn of events, the entrepreneur is now calling on Nigerians of Eastern extraction to throw their weight behind the presidents re-election. Alignment In a post on his Instagram page, Chief Priest questioned the rationale behind labelling Igbos who support President Tinubu as betrayers, when there are Yorubas who support Peter Obis candidacy. Obi, a former Anambra State Governor, was a strong contender in the 2023 elections and is also expected to run against this administration come 2027. He wrote: If an Igbo man supporting Tinubu is a betrayal, what is a Yoruba man supporting Obi? We can only be Nigerians for us to partake in Nigeria. Wetin your governor wey get immunity see align with na wetin una wan make common business man like us to battle. Tinubu is 20 steps ahead, cant you guys read the lines? How can we comfortably decide to fail again, all in the name of being tribalistic. For Tinubu to become president, he had to wait eight years behind Buhari, a Hausa man. Na him be that Emilokan wey baba dey shout. Tinubu served. Leaving Tinubu to support any other candidate for this election is like not looking both ways before crossing the road. He also called on his compatriots to align with a candidate who has a structure so that they can tap in and plan for their own better future, while encouraging them to join the City Boy Movement, a political support group working towards the re-election of President Tinubu. We dont fight, protest, scream, yell, even kill ourselves, and nothing changed. We dont even sit-at-home for years; nothing changed. Like this, the only option is for us to serve and get settled. Only time will tell. If you cant beat them, you join them. Umunne, its better to be inside than outside. Thinking Im well, join @cityboy.movement_hq. Men Mount In a follow-up post, the businessman announced that the City Boy Movement has been gifted two brand-new buses to boost its campaigns. My Brother @ike_odoeme called me yesterday and said, Nwoke, when you come into Abuja tomorrow for your event, stop by. I have two brand-new 2026 buses for you to boost morale for @cityboy.movement_hq. Men mount for @seyitinubu. Align now and win with us. Its called politics with a touch of lifestyle. Happy Valentines Day, Asiwaju, he wrote. Nigeria has called for a continental shift towards health security sovereignty, urging African countries to reduce dependence on foreign aid and build self-sufficient health systems. Nigerias Vice President Kashim Shettima made the call on Friday during a high-level side event on Building Africas Health Security Sovereignty, held on the margins of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in Addis Ababa. The event also marked the formal launch of the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty Initiative, a collaboration between Nigeria and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention to mobilise investment in health workforce development, community health systems and sustainable immunisation programmes. According to a statement signed by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Mr Shettima said Africa must strengthen its domestic capacity. He said this is to ensure the continents health systems are no longer subjected to disruptions in global supply chains or shifting international priorities. Our health security cannot remain subject to the uncertainties of distant supply chains or the shifting priorities of global panic, he said, warning that endurance alone cannot substitute for deliberate investments in capacity. Lessons from COVID-19 Mr Shettima said the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the continents vulnerability when many countries struggled to access vaccines, oxygen and essential medical supplies as wealthier nations prioritised domestic needs. He explained that health security must be treated as both a national and continental priority, noting that diseases and counterfeit medicines do not respect borders. There is dignity in endurance, but endurance is not a strategy, he said. Leadership is measured not by how long vulnerability can be withstood, but by how deliberately we reduce it. Nigerias reform agenda Mr Shettima outlined measures Nigeria is adopting to strengthen its health system, including boosting domestic health financing, expanding local pharmaceutical manufacturing and tightening regulatory oversight. He referenced the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, launched in December 2023, which secured over $2.2 billion in commitments to revitalise more than 17,000 primary healthcare centres, train 120,000 frontline health workers and expand health insurance coverage. He also highlighted efforts to strengthen epidemic intelligence and emergency preparedness through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, including expansion of laboratory networks and genomic surveillance. To curb the circulation of substandard medicines, he said Nigeria has intensified enforcement under the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), by upgrading quality-control laboratories and streamlining compliance processes for manufacturers. The government , he noted, is also implementing the Presidential Initiative to Unlock the Healthcare Value Chain to remove structural bottlenecks facing domestic pharmaceutical manufacturers and attract investment into local drug production, diagnostics and biotechnology research. Mr Shettima stressed that private sector participation would be central to achieving health sovereignty across the continent. Continental support At the event, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, said Nigeria is strengthening its health workforce database and investing in capacity-building initiatives to address disparities in the distribution of health workers between rural and urban areas. Mr Pate highlighted government efforts to build a reliable health workforce database and enhance workforce capabilities to handle complex health situations. He noted that these measures are aimed at helping stakeholders bridge gaps in the rural-urban distribution of health workers across Nigeria. Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Africa CDC, Jean Kaseya, commended Nigerias leadership in advancing health system reforms and immunisation programmes, but warned that Africa continues to face shortages of skilled health workers and fragile community health systems. Health ministers from Senegal, Malawi and Ethiopia expressed support for the initiative, pledging to strengthen workforce development and community health systems in their respective countries. Representatives of the African Union Commission, Gavi and UNICEF also backed the programme. In a communique issued at the end of the forum, African ministers of health and finance called for increased domestic financing for health workforce development and community health systems, and urged progress towards the continental target of deploying two million community health workers by 2030. The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has inaugurated a five-year strategy aimed at strengthening global preparedness against epidemic and pandemic threats. The coalition, in a statement issued by its Senior Communications and Advocacy Manager, Jodie Rogers, also called for an additional $2.5 billion to reinforce the worlds disease defences. The strategy, tagged CEPI 3.0, is due to begin in 2027 and requires a total of $3.6 billion for full implementation. With $1.1 billion already secured and committed, the organisation is seeking further investments from governments, philanthropies and development partners. According to Ms Rogers, the new plan comes amid increasingly frequent and disruptive outbreaks of deadly diseases such as Nipah, Ebola, Chikungunya and Marburg, which continue to threaten global health security. She noted that research indicated that the risk of another pandemic on a scale similar to COVID-19 remained significant. She said global losses from future pandemics were estimated to exceed $700 billion annually. She added that modelling studies further suggested that if safe and effective vaccines had been available within 100 days of COVID-19 being identified, more than eight million lives could have been saved. At the same time, trillions of dollars in economic damage might have been averted, she said. The CEPI senior communications and advocacy manager further said that at the centre of CEPI 3.0 was the organisations 100 Days Mission; a goal to develop safe, effective and accessible vaccines against a virus with pandemic potential within 100 days of its identification. She said if fully funded, the strategy would deliver three interconnected priorities to enable faster and fairer outbreak response globally. First, the organisation will develop vaccines targeting both known and emerging epidemic threats, she said. It will also advance response-ready vaccines for high-risk pathogens such as Lassa fever, Nipah virus and Rift Valley fever. This is while generating scientific tools and knowledge across viral families identified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as capable of causing a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) or a pandemic. Ms Roger explained that the prototype-pathogen research approach was designed to significantly accelerate vaccine development when new viruses emerge. She said CEPI will advance rapid-response vaccine platform technologies and embed them within regional manufacturing networks. CEPI will work closely with regulators to ensure access to relevant performance data, strengthening regulatory preparedness and enabling faster assessment of candidate vaccines during emergencies, she said. This approach is expected to facilitate rapid vaccine development, quicker manufacturing scale-up, accelerated regulatory review and improved equity from the outset of outbreaks. CEPI will further support and rigorously test global scientific and manufacturing networks that can be rapidly activated to execute the 100 Days Mission, from early research and development to large-scale production, she added. Ms Roger explained that this aimed to secure access to one to two billion doses of regional manufacturing capacity to enable fast and equitable outbreak response. She quoted the CEPIs Chief Executive Officer, Richard Hatchett, saying that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the high cost of global unpreparedness. Also commenting on the development, the Director-General of Africa CDC, Jean Kaseya, who described CEPI as a global R&D champion said its 100 Days Mission would be transformative for Africa. READ ALSO: Global health leaders seek stronger health agencies to prevent future pandemics Our partnership with CEPI helps Africa to strengthen our surveillance capacity so we can detect outbreaks early and put in place the infrastructure to develop and manufacture safe and effective vaccines that make Africa and the world safer, Mr Kaseya said. CEPI 3.0 marked the next phase of the organisations mission to accelerate the development of vaccines and other biologic countermeasures against epidemic and pandemic threats so they are accessible to all people in need. In less than a decade, CEPI has supported more than 50 vaccine candidates and invested in 25 platform technologies. (NAN) Nigeria has been listed among countries with some of the highest cases of child recruitment by armed groups, according to the United Nations. The disclosure was made ahead of the International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers, observed annually on 12 February, as the UN raised concerns over the continued use of children in armed conflicts worldwide. The UNs Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, Vanessa Frazier, described child recruitment as one of the most widespread and devastating violations affecting children in conflict settings. In an interview with UN News, Ms Frazier warned that thousands of children continue to be coerced into armed groups each year, stressing the urgent need for stronger protection measures. In 2024 alone, over 7,400 children were recruited or used by armed forces and armed groups, and those are only the verified cases. Over the last 30 years, we have separated over 220,000 children from armed gangs, she said. Nigeria was listed alongside the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Syria and Myanmar as countries where violations against children are most prevalent. Nigerias conflict and child vulnerability For more than a decade, Nigeria has grappled with insurgency in parts of its Northern region, where armed groups including Boko Haram and its splinter factions have been accused of recruiting and using children as fighters, informants and in other roles. Although security operations have weakened some of the groups, humanitarian agencies continue to warn that children in conflict-affected communities remain vulnerable to recruitment and exploitation. Ms Frazier said the statistics represent real lives disrupted by violence with each number in our report representing a child whose innocence has been interrupted. She stressed that verified cases likely represent only a fraction of actual incidents. Over the last 30 years, we have separated over 220,000 children from armed gangs, she said, referring to sustained UN efforts to secure the release of children from armed groups. She added that her office currently monitors about 26 conflict situations globally with the highest number of violations recorded in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria and Myanmar. Reintegration challenges Beyond documenting violations, she explained that her office engages directly with combatants to negotiate the release of children and their safe return home. Once separated, UNICEF and our partners work on their reintegration, ensuring they receive psychosocial support, access to education and the chance to reclaim their childhood. However, reintegration can be difficult with stigma particularly for girls. She stated that girls who return may be shunned by their communities, especially those who come back with children. For societal reasons, some girls cannot be fully reintegrated and are considered damaged goods, she said. Prevention and accountability Ms Frazier stressed that prevention remains the ultimate goal to ending child recruitment. She noted that prevention is better than cure, which is why her office advocates that even in times of war and armed conflict, children must remain in school. She explained that when children are out of school, they become very vulnerable to recruitment, whether forced or not. She also highlighted the importance of justice and accountability. When warlords or armed group leaders are prosecuted and sentenced for recruiting children, including in national courts and at least three cases before the International Criminal Court, it sends a powerful message. Ms Frazier added that justice and accountability act as strong deterrents, showing armed groups that the crime carries real consequences. Reflecting on her visits to conflict zones, including meetings with survivors of Boko Haram abductions in Nigeria, she said, You hear about a 13-year-old girl holding her baby, and you realise how deeply conflict steals childhood. Children are the epitome of innocence. They have not taken sides in any war, yet their innocence and childhood have both been interrupted. Children should never be treated as collateral of war. She noted that protecting children through education, reintegration and accountability measures is critical to building sustainable peace. The House of Representatives will reconvene for an emergency sitting on Tuesday, 17 February, to deliberate on issues arising from the timetable for the 2027 general elections recently announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This was disclosed in a press statement issued on Friday by the House Spokesperson, Akin Rotimi. The upper chamber had adjourned for two weeks to enable its standing committees conduct 2026 budget defence sessions for the ministries, departmentsandagencies (MDAs). The statement noted that the decision to hold an emergency session was conveyed to lawmakers through an internal memorandum issued late Friday by the Office of the Speaker, Abbas Tajudeen, drawing attention to the constitutional and national significance of the development and the need for timely legislative consideration. The Chairperson of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, had earlier on Friday announced at a press conference that the presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on Saturday, 20 February 2027, while the governorship and state Assembly elections are scheduled for Saturday, 6 March 2027. Mr Amupitan said the timetable was issued in compliance with the 1999 Constitution and Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates the commission to publish a notice of election not later than 360 days before the date appointed for the poll. He clarified that the tenure of the President, Vice-President, governors and deputy governors, except those in Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi and Ondo states, will lapse on 28 May 2027, while the membership of the National and State Assemblies will stand dissolved on 8 June 2027. According to him, the early release of the timetable is aimed at providing political parties, aspirants and other stakeholders sufficient time to prepare, while enabling the commission to conclude logistical and administrative arrangements well ahead of the polls. Against this backdrop, the House said its emergency sitting will focus on legislative matters connected to the announcement, in line with its constitutional responsibilities. The statement noted that all business relating to the development would be treated expeditiously and urged members to prioritise attendance given the importance of the deliberations. The emergency sitting reflects the resolve of the House to respond promptly to issues with far-reaching implications for the nations democratic process. Deliberations will focus on relevant legislative matters connected to the announcement, in line with the constitutional responsibilities of the National Assembly, it read. The emergency session comes amid ongoing legislative efforts to amend the Electoral Act, which have faced setbacks at the National Assembly. On 17 December 2025, the House passed its version of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, introducing provisions to strengthen the use of technology in elections. Central to the amendments was the proposal to make electronic transmission of results from polling units mandatory and to give legal backing to the use of the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IREV) for real-time upload of results. However, on 4 February, the Senate passed its own version of the amendment bill, rejecting a proposal to make real-time electronic transmission of election results from polling units to IREV compulsory. The Senates decision sparked protests from citizens including civil society organisations opposition lawmakers, who argued that weakening electronic transmission could undermine transparency and public confidence in the electoral process. Amid the backlash, the Senate on Tuesday resolved to rescind its earlier decision. The upper chamber subsequently re-amended the bill to accommodate electronic transmission of results. The revised provision, however, includes a caveat that where internet connectivity fails, the physical Form EC8A will serve as the primary basis for collation of results. The divergence between both chambers means that a harmonised version of the bill will be required before transmission to the President for assent. Following the passage of its revised version, the Senate reconstituted a harmonisation committee to reconcile differences between its bill and the version earlier approved by the House. President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, reappointed Simon Lalong (APC, Plateau South) as chairman of the committee. Other members are Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North); Adamu Aleiro (APC, Kebbi Central); Adeniyi Adegbonmire (APC, Ondo Central); Orji Kalu (APC, Abia South); Abba Moro (PDP, Benue); Asuquo Ekpeyong (APC, Cross River); Aminu Abbas (PDP, Adamawa); Tokunbo Abiru (APC, Lagos); Isah Jibrin (APC, Kogi); Ipalibo Banigo (PDP, Rivers); and Peter Nwebonyi (APC, Ebonyi). Similarly, the House constituted its own seven-member conference committee to reconcile differences between both chambers. The committee will be chaired by Adebayo Balogun (APC, Lagos) and includes Fred Agbedi (PDP, Bayelsa); Sada Soli (APC, Katsina); Ahmadu Jaha (APC, Borno); Iduma Enwo (PDP, Ebonyi); Saidu Abdullahi (APC, Niger); and Zainab Gimba (APC, Borno). Both panels are expected to meet to harmonise contentious provisions, particularly those relating to the scope and conditions of electronic transmission of results, before presenting a unified version for concurrence by both chambers and transmission to the President for assent. With INECs timetable now in place and constitutional timelines counting down, the emergency sitting of the House is expected to address outstanding legislative issues that could shape the legal framework for the 2027 elections. The House, in its statement, reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigerias democratic institutions through responsive lawmaking and acting in the best interest of Nigerians on all matters concerning the electoral process. Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has renamed the Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation after late journalist and author, Dan Agbese, in what the government described as a move to preserve his legacy and promote ethical journalism. In a statement issued on Friday, the governors Technical Adviser on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Solomon Iorpev, said the governor had signed an executive order changing the name of the corporation to Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation. The Executive Governor of Benue State has issued an executive order renaming the Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation to Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation in honour of the late veteran journalist, Chief Dan Agbese, Mr Iorpev said. He explained that the decision was to formalise an earlier announcement made during a live broadcast marking the Golden Jubilee anniversary of Benue State, where the governor pledged to immortalise the late media icon. According to him, the renaming takes immediate effect and applies to all official documents, communications, legal instruments, signage, branding materials and public references, with relevant ministries and agencies directed to ensure full implementation. Mr Iorpev said the governor believes the gesture would institutionalise excellence in public communication, preserve Chief Agbeses legacy and inspire future generations to pursue truth and service with courage and professionalism. PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that Mr Agbese died on 17 November 2025 after a brief illness at the age of 81. Widely regarded as one of Nigerias most influential journalists, he was a co-founder of Newswatch magazine alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu and Yakubu Mohammed. Over a career that spanned decades, Mr Agbese was known for his investigative depth, analytical clarity and fearless commentary. His widely read column in Newswatch and contributions to national newspapers shaped public discourse and held public officials to account. He also authored several books on Nigerias political history, including The Letterman and co-authored The President Is Not Sick. At the time of his death, tributes poured in from media professionals and civic leaders. The President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, Danlami Nmodu, described him as a journalistic institution, while the Guilds General Secretary, Sufuyan Ojeifo, said he practised journalism with conscience, courage and an unshakeable commitment to truth. In the statement on Friday, Mr Iorpev said Governor Alia believes honouring Mr Agbese in this manner would strengthen responsible journalism and intellectual development in the state. He added that the governor called on media practitioners, writers, students and public servants in Benue to uphold the values the late journalist represented. READ ALSO: Ray Ekpus moving tribute for Dan Agbese and Babafemi Ojudus piercing intervention Mr Agbese, a native of Benue State, mentored generations of reporters and editors and left a body of work that continues to influence public debate. The state government said the renaming of its publishing corporation is intended to reflect the dignity, history and aspirations of the people and to recognise merit and service to society. For Rivers United, the curtain call of the group stage in the CAF Champions League comes with pride, pressure lifted, but eyes firmly fixed on the drama that will unfold across the continent this weekend. Matchday 6 brings the 2025/26 group phase to a gripping conclusion, with only three of the eight quarter-final tickets already confirmed and five still up for grabs. While Rivers United are mathematically out, their final fixture carries real consequence; not just for Group A, but for the wider Champions League picture. Rivers Uniteds final stand in Group A Group A has already crowned Pyramids FC as winners, with the Egyptian champions sitting comfortably on 13 points ahead of their home clash against Power Dynamos. The real tension, however, surrounds second place. RS Berkane and Power Dynamos are locked level on seven points, with Berkane holding the advantage on head-to-head. That puts Rivers United squarely in the spotlight. The Nigerian champions travel to Morocco to face Berkane knowing a positive result could dramatically reshape the qualification race. A Rivers United win would throw the group wide open and hand Power Dynamos a lifeline heading into their clash with Pyramids. Even in elimination, Rivers United still have the chance to influence who advances. Confirmed Quarter-finalists Across the continent, three clubs are already assured of a place in the last eight: Defending champions, Pyramids FC, record winners Al Ahly, and Malis history-makers, Stade Malien The remaining five spots will be decided in one final, unforgiving round of fixtures. Group B: Heavyweights and hope Al Ahly have already secured progression with nine points, but the fight for second remains alive. AS FAR sit on eight points, while Young Africans trail on five. Al Ahly host AS FAR in Cairo in a match that could still decide the group winner. Meanwhile, Young Africans must defeat already-eliminated JS Kabylie and hope results elsewhere fall their way. Group C: Four teams, two tickets Group C remains the most delicately balanced of all. Al-Hilal Omdurman lead with eight points, followed by MC Alger on seven, Mamelodi Sundowns on six, and St Eloi Lupopo on five. All four still have a path to the quarter-finals. Hilal host Lupopo in Omdurman, while Sundowns and MC Alger meet in a winner-takes-all showdown in South Africa. Group D: One final duel Stade Malien have wrapped up top spot with 11 points, leaving one qualification place to be settled in a direct shootout. Esperance Tunis and Atletico Petroleos, both on six points, meet in Tunis with everything on the line. Already-eliminated Simba conclude their campaign against Stade Malien. Matchday 6 Fixtures Saturday, 14 February Al-Hilal Omdurman (SUD) vs St Eloi Lupopo (DRC) Mamelodi Sundowns (RSA) vs MC Alger (ALG) Esperance Tunis (TUN) vs Atletico Petroleos (ANG) Simba (TAN) vs Stade Malien (MLI) Berkane (MAR) vs Rivers United (NGA) Pyramids (EGY) vs Power Dynamos (ZAM) Sunday, 15 February Al Ahly (EGY) vs AS FAR (MAR) Young Africans (TAN) vs JS Kabylie (ALG) For Rivers United, the journey may end here, but their final 90 minutes still carry weight. As contenders battle for survival, the Pride of Rivers head into Morocco with the chance to leave a lasting imprint on Group A, and remind the continent that even in elimination, Nigerian champions still matter on Africas biggest club stage. The Police Command in Akwa Ibom State says it has rescued a man who was kidnapped on Tuesday at a supermarket. Timfon John, the police spokesperson in Akwa Ibom, disclosed this in a statement in Uyo on Friday. Ms John, a deputy superintendent of police, said that the man was abducted at a supermarket in Obotim Village, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of the state. The kidnappers invaded the supermarket, abducted the man and took him to an unknown destination, Ms John stated. She said that the rescue followed sustained intelligence-driven tactical operations across identified locations within the state. The police spokesperson said that the kidnappers fraudulently withdrew N1.9 million from the victims account while they were holding him captive. According to her, the kidnappers also contacted the mans family and demanded N30 million ransom. Through effective inter-unit synergy, intelligence gathering, and strategic deployment of assets, the victim was rescued unhurt in less than 24 hours after the incident was reported, she said. Ms John said that the swift response underscored the commands zero-tolerance stance against kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state. The victim was taken to a medical facility for examination and necessary care. He was confirmed to be in stable condition. The command has intensified the manhunt to track down the perpetrators of the heinous crime. The Command remains resolute in its duty to fight crime in the state, she said. She urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements around their neighbourhood to the police. Kidnapping for ransom has become one of the prevalent crimes in many Nigerian cities, with just anyone, including school pupils and clerics, as targets. (NAN) The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has called for responsible sexual behaviour and increased condom use as Anambra State records a 2.4 per cent HIV prevalence rate, the highest in the South-east zone. The State Coordinator of AHF in Anambra, Vivian Sunday, disclosed this in Awka on Friday while marking the 2026 International Condom Day, observed annually on 13 February. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that International Condom Day promotes condom use as an effective means of preventing unplanned pregnancies and reducing the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. This years commemoration has the theme, Safer is Sexy, Wrap it Up. Ms Sunday said the prevalence figure underscored the need for sustained public education on responsible living and preventive measures. According to her, AHF, in collaboration with the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency, the State AIDS and STI Prevention Unit, Networks of People Living With HIV, community-based organisations and partners such as Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative, is intensifying awareness campaigns on condom use. We partner with stakeholders because we cannot fight this battle alone. Advocacy remains one of our strongest tools in reaching both decision-makers and the public. New infections are still occurring, and condom use remains a proven and cost-effective way to prevent HIV and other STIs. Anambra State has an HIV prevalence rate of 2.4 per cent, according to the NAIIS 2018 survey, making it the highest in the South-east, hence the need for awareness, she said. Ms Sunday stressed that while abstinence remained the best preventive option, with mutual faithfulness between partners, encouraged, correct and consistent condom use was also essential. She noted that condom use demonstrated responsibility toward personal and partner health, adding that condoms also provide dual protection against infections and unwanted pregnancies. She urged residents of the state to live responsibly, noting that the campaign was not an endorsement of promiscuity but a call for individuals to protect themselves when abstinence or faithfulness could not be maintained. Also speaking, the Senior Advocacy and Marketing Manager of AHF Nigeria, Steve Aborishade, said the event was deliberately marked a day before Valentines Day to encourage young people and adolescents to make responsible choices. According to him, although abstinence is ideal, many young people find it difficult to abstain, contributing to rising cases of unplanned pregnancies and new STI and HIV infections. He described condom use as one of the cheapest and most effective preventive measures, stressing the need for continuous awareness to enable young people to protect themselves. In his remarks, John Bosco Ementa, project manager of the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency, said the event formed part of ongoing efforts to achieve epidemic control in the state. He explained that, as the agency coordinating the HIV multisectoral response in Anambra, it oversees prevention, treatment, care, and support services. According to him, AHF remains a key partner providing free HIV testing, treatment, condoms and other prevention services across health facilities in the state. The event featured an awareness walk and condom distribution to residents. Stockerthings / Envato Were officially in tax season and many Americans are eagerly awaiting their refunds. But for millions, their tax refunds could be delayed by weeks. Thats according to a recent post by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which suggests that regulations could delay the processing time for taxpayers who benefit from two relatively popular programs (1). Must Read We may need more information from you about your return, the agency says on its website. If you think your refunds may be impacted, heres what you need to know. 2 popular tax credits causing delays In most cases, the IRS insists tax refunds are processed within 21 days (2). However, the agency also points out that in some cases, you may need to provide additional information and that could delay the process of issuing refunds to certain individuals. In 2026, taxpayers who are eligible for two specific programs Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) could be impacted by this delay. The agency suggests beneficiaries of these two popular programs could see their refunds by March 2nd, if they file their taxes online, choose to get a refund via direct debit and if the agency finds no issues or gaps in the return. If the IRS does spot a gap, it might send out a letter to request clarification, possibly delaying the process further. If youre wondering why the agency cant issue a partial refund while it processes these two credits, the IRS points to federal regulations as a roadblock. Under the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, anyone receiving these two credits cannot be issued a refund until the end of February, according to the Taxpayer Advocate Service (3). This rule compels the agency to withhold the entire refund not just the portion that is associated with these two programs. Unfortunately, given how popular these programs are, millions of ordinary families could face a delay in much needed cash relief. Read More: The average net worth of Americans is a surprising $620,654. But it almost means nothing. Heres the number that counts (and how to make it skyrocket) Millions could be impacted The delay could impact families that depend on EITC and ACTC as a critical financial lifeline. The Federal High Court in Kano, on Friday convicted a Kannywood actress, Saadatu Inuwa, also known as Samha, for abusing and mutilating the Nigerian currency. The Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) disclosed this in a statement on Friday by its spokesperson, Dele Oyewale. The statement noted that Judge S. M. Shuaibu convicted and sentenced her to six months imprisonment, with an option of N200,000 fine. The actress was arraigned on a charge of mutilating Nigerian currency, contrary to the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, according to the statement. According to the charge, Ms Inuwa tampered with a N1,000 note in 2022 within the courts jurisdiction by soiling it with her nose. She pleaded guilty when the charge was read to her. Following her plea, prosecuting lawyer Musa Isah reviewed the facts of the case and asked the court to convict and sentence her. Although Ms Inuwa pleaded for leniency, telling the court she was a first-time offender and had shown remorse, Judge Shuaibu imposed the sentence as stipulated by law. Arrest EFCC announced the actress arrest earlier this month over the offence. The agency said operatives of its Kano zonal directorate apprehended her after a video circulated on social media showing her using naira notes to wipe her nose. The actress has now joined a growing list of Nigerians prosecuted and convicted over abuse of the naira. Since 2024, several prominent individuals have been arrested, tried, and convicted over similar offences, including spraying, stepping on, or otherwise tampering with currency. Naira abuse enforcement Section 21(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, prohibits the spraying, stamping, mutilation, or abuse of the naira, while Section 21(3) prescribes penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for offenders. PREMIUM TIMES reported that in December 2025, Judge Ahmad Mahmud of the Federal High Court in Sokoto, convicted Ahmad Buhari, Jamilu Bello and Yasir Muhammad Bala after they pleaded guilty to spraying and tampering with naira notes at social gatherings. They were sentenced to one year imprisonment on various counts, with options of N100,000 fines, and ordered to undertake community sensitisation campaigns under EFCC supervision. Similarly, Kano-based TikTok influencer Murja Kunya was re-arrested in March 2025 after allegedly jumping administrative bail in a naira abuse case. In April 2024, Judge Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court, Lagos, sentenced crossdresser Bobrisky, whose real name is Idris Okunneye, to six months imprisonment without an option of a fine for currency abuse. Earlier in February 2024, Judge Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court, Lagos, convicted actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin for spraying and stepping on new naira notes at a wedding in Lekki. She was sentenced to six months imprisonment, with an option of a N300,000 fine. READ ALSO: EFCC arrests Kannywood actress Samha Inuwa over alleged naira abuse Ahead of Valentines Day on14 February, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reminded the public that using naira notes for decorative purposes, including money bouquets, towers, or cash cakes, is illegal and constitutes currency abuse. Money bouquets are arrangements in which folded naira notes are combined with flowers or other decorative items, often given to women during celebrations. The central bank said offenders risk fines, imprisonment, or both under existing laws. The Federal High Court in Lagos on Friday declared an oil and gas exploration company, AMNI International Petroleum Development Company, unable to pay its debts and appointed Sam Aiboni, a lawyer, as Administrator over the companys assets and operations. In his ruling, the judge, Chukwujekwu Aneke, made the order in a suit following an application filed by Cenroc FPSO Solutions Nigerian Limited. In the certified true copy of the ruling obtained by PREMIUM TIMES, the judge held that AMNI failed to pay $15.3 million ($15,261,329) owed to Cenroc under contracts dated 1 April 2019. The court referenced Contracts Nos. CAP-AMN-CFS-1121-AGR-20001 and 03-AMN-CFS-GE-CNT-10001 in arriving at its decision. Mr Aneke declared that the respondent had become unable to pay its debts, having regard to its financial position and failure to discharge the outstanding contractual sum. The court appointed Mr Aiboni as Administrator over all the assets, properties, funds, business and affairs of AMNI, including the performance of its contracts wherever they may be situated. The judge authorised the Administrator to take immediate custody, management and control of AMNIs office complex at Plot 1377, Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, or any other address of the company. The order also covers the vessel, FPSO Princess Aweni (formerly Armada Perkasa), and its appurtenances lying or berthed at Okoro Field in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, within Nigerias territorial waters, as well as other assets located within and outside Nigeria. The court further directed that Cenroc be recognised as a ranking creditor in the administration of AMNI and that its claim be accorded priority in creditor rankings. Mr Aneke granted a perpetual injunction restraining AMNI, its directors, officers, agents and privies from interfering with or obstructing the Administrator in the discharge of his duties under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020. Under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020, administration allows a court-appointed administrator to assume control of a financially distressed company to protect assets and safeguard creditor interests. Proceedings The application, dated 23 July 2025, was supported by a 24-paragraph affidavit deposed to by Oghenekaro Okodiya, with exhibits and a written address signed by Olalekan Kareem. At the hearing, Messrs Kareem and Okodiya moved the motion for the applicant. The respondent was represented by Bedemi Ademola-Bello, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), alongside Ochu Agbai-Abosi and Damilola Akeredolu, who opposed the applicants prayers. After hearing arguments from both sides, the court delivered its ruling in open court and granted the application. At the time of filing this report, AMNI has not released a statement. Background AMNI is one of Nigerias established indigenous oil producers and has operated in offshore exploration and production for over three decades. The company operates offshore blocks including OML 112 and OML 117. The Okoro Field, where the FPSO Princess Aweni is stationed, began production in 2008 and remains a key asset in the companys portfolio. The ruling comes amid heightened scrutiny of indebtedness in Nigerias upstream oil sector. In 2025, a House of Representatives review identified several oil companies, including AMNI, as owing substantial sums to the federal government in royalties and fees. By placing the company under court-supervised administration, the judgement shifts operational control of its defined assets to the Administrator while restricting actions that could undermine the orderly management of the company and the protection of creditor interests. The former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has claimed that Abubakar Idrispopularly known as Dadiyatawas abducted from his Kaduna residence by police officers dispatched from Kano State. Addressing long-standing allegations on Arise Television on Friday, Mr El-Rufai stated that Mr Dadiyatta was never a critic of his administration, as has been widely speculated. Instead, he stated that the activist was a vocal critic of the former Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje. Three years after he was abducted, a policeman who was posted from Kano to Ekiti State confessed to someone that they were sent from Kano to abduct Dadiyata and that the officer was worried about that. That is all I know, Mr El-Rufai stated. Mr El-Rufai maintained that the disappearance is not a Kaduna State issue, despite the incident occurring within its borders. He argued that the state could not have provided specific protection because they were unaware of his friction with the Kano State Government. Mr El-Rufai challenged Amnesty Internationals description of Dadiyata as a fierce critic of the Kaduna State Government. He urged researchers to examine Mr Dadiyatas social media timeline, which remains available for scrutiny. According to Mr El-Rufai, Mr Dadiyataa member of the Kwankwasiyya movementfocused his criticisms entirely on the Kano State Government. We only learned of his existence after his family reported his abduction, El-Rufai added. Our investigation, based on family accounts, suggested the abductors came from Kano. The Kano State Government should be questioned regarding Dadiyatas disappearance, not Kaduna. The disappearance of Dadiyatta On 2 August, 2019, Dadiyata a 34-year-old lecturer at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma, was intercepted by unidentified armed men as he drove into his compound in Barnawa, Kaduna State. Mr Dadiyata was a well-known social media influencer and a staunch supporter of former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso. Since his disappearance, his family and various human rights organisations have filed multiple lawsuits. In 2020, the Federal High Court in Kaduna ordered the State Security Service (SSS) and other security agencies to produce him or release him, but the agencies denied having him in their custody. Amnesty International and other global watchdogs have classified his case as an enforced disappearance. For over seven years, his whereabouts have remained unknown, and no group has officially claimed responsibility for his disappearance. The national leadership of the Petroleum & Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has confirmed the authenticity of the documents alleging that expatriates working with the French multinational petroleum company, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Ltd, have been intimidating, bullying, and harassing their Nigerian colleagues. The Sun newspaper reported on 3 February that PENGASSAN stated in a statement that the media reports on the alleged workplace abuses relied on an internal correspondence between staff and management (of TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Ltd). Jerry Amah, the associations acting general secretary, issued the statement. However, Mr Amah, according to the Sun report, claimed that it was not true that the TotalEnergies expatriates were bullying and harassing their Nigerian colleagues, and that the newspapers that ran stories based on the internal correspondence did not have PENGASSANs authorisation. Background PREMIUM TIMES, along with other newspapers, reported the alleged workplace abuses at TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Ltd, citing letters from the companys PENGASSAN branch to Matthieu Bouyer, the managing director/country chair of TotalEnergies Nigeria. The Branch Chairman, Abdulhameed Rabiu, and Secretary, Opuwariboko Wilson, signed the letters. The stance of PENGASSANs national leadership on the matter appears strange, as labour unions at the national, sub-national, and local levels are known to usually present a common position during labour disputes. Mr Amah, the acting general secretary of PENGASSAN, confirmed on Friday to PREMIUM TIMES that he issued the statement which the Sun used for its report. He, however, refused to respond to questions from our reporter. The local branch of PENGASSAN in TotalEnergies Nigeria also complained of an influx of expatriates, who it said are taking jobs that could be handled by local skilled workers. It declared some of the companys expatriates unwelcome at its facilities in Nigeria in October last year. The association said it took the decision after the companys management allegedly refused to respond to or take action on its complaint of workplace abuses. The local branch of PENGASSAN in TotalEnergies Nigeria named the affected expatriates as Jean-Christophe Agrati, a contract and procurement manager, and Sabine Brochard, a strategic planning officer. It accused the two of persistently creating a hostile work environment for colleagues in the Nigerian Affiliate. It also named Marc Mainguy, a senior geomechanics engineer, accused of serious breach to our security and safety protocols, and Erik Korf, an executive manager, for perpetuating himself in the affiliate, through the support of management following the completion of his assignment and successful handover to a new EGM JVA FOPS. A Nigerian employee of TotalEnergies, Obi Imemba, the executive director, Joint Venture Asset, was also declared persona non grata by the union. In a letter to Mr Bouyer on 20 October last year, the local branch of PENGASSAN alleged that the expatriate, Mr Mainguy, had scaled the companys perimeter fence in violation of safety and security protocols. The association said it was surprised that TotalEnergies management in Nigeria had yet to set up a panel to investigate the alleged incident. We are constrained to ask, if the concerned personnel were a Nigerian, would this not have led to severe sanctions? the union stated in the letter. It is important to further mention that this action not only undermines the companys security framework but also sets a dangerous precedent for indiscipline within the workplace. The association, in a 24 October 2025 letter to Mr Bouyer, presented three demands to the TotalEnergies management. The Expats be immediately and permanently demobilised from the Affiliate, never to return. All jobs hitherto handled by Nigerians with demonstrable competence be returned to Nigerians. Steps be taken to immediately stem the recent rude mannerisms expats are beginning to portray. There are instances of shouting at colleagues, unnecessary aggressiveness, undue pressure and a general colonial mindset. We have the reports, and we shall address all of them adequately, should Management fail to do the needful, it stated, adding that it was committed to industrial harmony and constructive dialogue with the management. TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Ltds Country Communication Manager, Charles Ebereonwu, had yet to respond to the questions our reporter emailed him on 26 January. Your credibility is questionable, group tells PENGASSANs national leadership A group in Nigeria, the Movement of Intellectuals for National Development (MIND), has criticised PENGASSANs national leadership for its stance on the alleged workplace abuses at TotalEnergies Nigeria. In a statement issued on 11 February by its Western Coordinator, Ebi Warekromo, the group stated that it found PENGASSANs response deeply disappointing, evasive, and fundamentally inconsistent with the core responsibilities of a labour union that claims to exist for the protection and welfare of its members. The group, which had earlier petitioned the Nigerian Senate on the matter, insisted that there were blatant local content violations at TotalEnergies Nigeria, particularly the illegal perpetuation of expatriate positions beyond approved tenures, in clear contravention of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act. MIND stated that for PENGASSANs national leadership to say that the letters written by its local branch were internal correspondence not meant for public consumption is both weak and disingenuous. It called on the Senate to hold a public hearing on TotalEnergies Nigeria. Issues involving workers rights violations, systemic oppression, and abuse of corporate power cease to be internal once they remain unresolved and continue to harm Nigerian workers. Confidentiality cannot be weaponised to shield injustice. Internal engagement is only defensible when it delivers results; when it fails repeatedly, escalation to public and institutional oversight becomes not only justified, but necessary, it stated. READ ALSO: Labour union accuses TotalEnergies expatriates of bullying Nigerian colleagues Attempts to intimidate whistleblowers or investigate breaches of confidentiality only deepen public concern and reinforce the perception of institutional complicity. The Nigerian public, Nigerian workers, and the Senate of the Federal Republic deserve honestynot distancing statements, procedural excuses, or selective amnesia. MIND remains steadfast in its commitment to justice, fairness, and accountability in Nigerias extractive sector. We urge PENGASSANs leadership to reflect deeply on the path it is choosing and to realign itself with the workers whose dues, trust, and mandate give it legitimacy. History is unkind to institutions that choose silence and convenience over courage. The Grand Mufti of Australia, Ibrahim Mohamad, has announced that the Holy Month of Ramadan this year will commence on Thursday, 19 February, across all Australian states and territories. Mr Mohamad, who is also the chairman of the Australian Fatwa Council, made the announcement in a statement on Friday. He said the announcement follows extensive consultations with Imams from the council. According to the statement, the decision is based on astronomical calculations showing that the new moon for Ramadan will be born after sunset on Tuesday, 17 February. In Sydney, the sun will set at 7:45 pm (AEST) on Tuesday, while the new moon will be born at 11:01 pm the same night. In Perth, sunset will occur at 7:04 pm (AWST), with the new moon born at 8:01 pm, the statement said. This means that the new moon will be born after sunset in Australia, and the month of Ramadan cannot commence on that night. The first night of Ramadan and Taraweeh Prayer will be observed on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, after sunset, he said. The Grand Mufti explained that the method used to determine the commencement of Ramadan is based on the timing of the new moons birth in relation to sunset, noting that if the new moon is born after sunset, the month cannot commence that evening. The Australian National Imams Council and the Australian Fatwa Council acknowledged that some Imams and scholars may hold different opinions on the matter and requested all Muslims to respect these differences while working towards community unity. He called on Muslims to preserve their fasting while supplicating to Allah for the protection of their countries, global peace and security, and the alleviation of suffering, particularly for Muslims in Gaza-Palestine. May Allah bless this Holy Month for you, your family, the Australian Muslim community and the entire Muslim world and may your worship and fasting be accepted this year, he said. In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto, as the head of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, announces the date of Ramadans commencement after the new moon for the month is confirmed to have been sighted. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar observed by Muslims worldwide as a month for fasting, prayer, reflection and assisting the needy. Throughout the month, millions of Muslims fast from just before the sunrise prayer, Fajr, to the sunset prayer, Maghrib, abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking, and sexual relations to achieve greater taqwa, or consciousness of God. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, along with the Muslim declaration of faith, daily prayers, charity, and performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca if physically and financially capable. Last year, fasting across the world ranged from 10 to 20 hours a day. A civil society organisation, Policy Alert, has called on local government chairpersons in Akwa Ibom State to comply with the states Fiscal Responsibility Law by publishing their fiscal documents online to promote transparency and accountability in grassroots governance. The organisation made the call on Monday during an advocacy visit to the Chairperson of Okobo Local Government Area, George Henshaw, as part of its project titled Prioritising Communities, Enhancing Transparency and Accountability in Local Government Administration. Akwa Iboms Fiscal Responsibility Law, codified as Volume III, Cap 56 of the Laws of Akwa Ibom State 2022, mandates the 31 local government councils in the state to publish their fiscal documents online. Section 47(2) of the law requires all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), including local governments, to maintain functional online portals for publishing critical fiscal documents such as proposed and approved budgets, budget implementation reports, individual MDA performance reports and audited financial statements. However, findings show that many local government councils in the state do not operate functional websites. A search of the few councils with online portals, as well as the state budget website, did not yield any published budget documents for any of the councils. Akwa Ibom is among the few states in Nigeria where local government budgets are not available online, a situation Policy Alert says undermines citizens right to information and weakens public oversight. Speaking during the visit, the Monitoring and Evaluation Lead on the project, Faith Paulinus, asked the Okobo council to make its budget and other fiscal documents publicly accessible through an online platform. Citizens will better appreciate governance when they can see and engage with budget documents. Putting these documents online will deepen trust and participation, Mr Paulinus said. He explained that, with support from the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund, Policy Alert plans to partner with the council to organise town hall meetings or quarterly budget forums to provide residents with timely updates on budget performance, key projects, and service delivery outcomes in Okobo. Mr Paulinus said the initiative targets young people aged 18 to 35, with the aim of strengthening their capacity to engage with local government processes through budget literacy, advocacy, and civic participation. According to him, the organisation has already trained several youths across the states local government areas and is seeking to collaborate with councils to institutionalise structured dialogue between citizens and public officials. He added that the advocacy visits would extend to all 31 local government councils in the state to push for compliance with fiscal transparency provisions. So far, Policy Alert has visited the chairpersons of Uyo, Ibesikpo Asutan, Ikono, Etinan and Ikot Ekpene local government areas of the state. In his response, Mr Henshaw expressed willingness to partner with Policy Alert, saying his administration is open to hosting town hall meetings to better reflect citizens needs in service delivery. He also said the council would consider the demand to publish its fiscal documents online, in line with the states fiscal responsibility requirements. The remains of late Senator Okey Ezea, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District in the Senate, were on Friday buried in his country home, Itchi, in Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area of Enugu State, amidst tears and tributes. Mr Ezea was elected a senator in 2023 under the platform of the Labour Party. He was born on 11 August 1963. The senator died on 18 November 2025 after a brief illness. He was 62. In a sermon during the funeral service, Godfrey Onah, the bishop of Nsukka Catholic Diocese, described late Ezea as an activist for Nsukka people, who, according to him, stood firm by his convictions and interests for his people. Mr Onah urged the people to get prepared at all times to meet the Lord whenever He calls, saying that death was inevitable and everyone would face judgement after death. Okey Ezea was an activist for the Nsukka people. He was a passionate advocate for the political rights, economic and social justice of the people of Enugu North Senatorial District. He was a beacon of courage who stood in his convictions no matter whose ox is gored. Ezea loved Nsukka people and would always insist on the right of his people even in the face of attack, insult and humiliation. As we all are gathered here today to bid him farewell, it is important that we all prepare ourselves at all times because death is inevitable, he said. Speaking, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State described Mr Ezea as a forthright, uncompromising and dedicated politician not only to the people of Enugu North Senatorial District but to Enugu State and Nigeria. The huge number of people here present from different walks of life is a testament that the late senator lived a good life and related to people cordially. Ezea will be remembered for his forthright, uncompromising belief in justice and effective representation of his people, Mr Mbah said. The governor commended the burial committee led by Victor Umeh, a senator, who did a wonderful preparation that made it possible for all that were required to be in place for the burial. He expressed the deepest condolences of the Enugu State Government to the family of the late senator and reminded the family members that they were not alone, as the state government stood behind them. To the family, I tell you, you are not alone, Enugu State stands behind you, Mr Mbah said. In a remark, the first son of the late senator, Jideofor Ezea, commended Governor Mbah for his support to the family in ensuring that his father received a state burial. He also expressed appreciation to the Catholic Church, Senator Umeh-led National Burial Committee, as well as all who contributed to ensure his father was given a befitting burial. Jideofor promised to emulate his fathers good life by following his enviable legacy. Earlier, Senator Umeh said the late senator was a good man who lived and died for his people. He said that by Mr Ezeas death, the Nsukka people and the Ndigbo had lost a great man. We lost somebody who will be difficult to replace in Nsukka and Igboland, he said. READ ALSO: Nigerian Senator is dead According to him, what brought them together was their resolve to fight for the common good of the Igbo people. The Chairperson of the burial committee commended the Enugu State Government, the Senate, the Catholic Church, members of the committee, and all who worked in various capacities to ensure that the burial programmes went as planned. Godswill Akpabio, Senate president, Enyinaya Abaribe, the senator representing Abia South Senatorial District, Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, were among the dignitaries at the burial. (NAN) Governor Alex Otti of Abia State on Friday inaugurated the newly constructed Omenuko Bridge and the 30-kilometre Abam-Ndiokereke-Arochukwu Road in Arochukwu Local Government Area of the state. Speaking during the ceremony, Mr Otti said that the bridge and the road would enhance the rural economy for several other communities within and beyond the immediate boundaries of Abia. He said: The newly constructed bridge over Igwu River, popularly called Omenuko Bridge, stands as a testament to the resolute determination of our administration to address decades of neglect. It also represents the resolve of our administration to set a new governance standard, and build infrastructure that empowers communities and enables prosperity for all. He said that the timely delivery of the 30-kilometre stretch of the road traversing several clans in Abam and Arochukwu showed what his administration was truly capable of. He offered condolences to the families who lost their loved ones over the years owing to the structural weakness of the 70-year-old Omenuko Bridge. Mr Otti said that the dilapidated infrastructure in the area had contributed greatly to severe perennial harvest losses due to a lack of means to move their produce to the urban markets. He said that years of poor road infrastructure disrupted the education sector in Abam and neighbouring communities, denying many young people access to quality schooling, teachers and opportunities. According to the governor, the neglect was not limited to Abam but also affected communities in Ohafia, Arochukwu, Ihechiowa and Isu, where the collapse of road infrastructure led to economic losses. He said the newly inaugurated road and the bridge will change the fortunes of the communities in the area.And there is still more to come, the governor added. Dawn of a new era In his remark, the Chairperson of the Occasion, Agwu Agwu described the inauguration of the road and bridge as the dawn of a new era in the socio-economic lives of the people. Mr Agwu informed Governor Otti that the old, dilapidated bridge was originally constructed by the British colonial government to connect the old Bende to the state capital. Sadly, the bridge remained in a very deplorable condition under successive governments at various levels until your timely intervention, he said. He appealed to the state government to rehabilitate the neglected Rubber Estates at Ndioji and Amaike, Abam. In separate goodwill messages, the lawmaker representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Ibe Osonwa, and the Majority Leader of the Abia State House of Assembly, Uchenna Okoro, thanked Mr Otti for the gesture. They promised their support for the rebuilding agenda of the present administration and urged sustained efforts in driving even development in the state. Speaking, James Ume, who hails from Abam, commended the state governments infrastructural transformation initiatives taking place across Abia. Mr Ume said during elections, the votes and election results gotten from the area were taken to the collation centre through another local government because of the bad road. My people said that theres something called an Expression of Interest Form and that they will buy that one for you. They said I should tell you that they will give you a seed money of N500 million, he said. In his remark, the former Secretary to the State Government, Kenneth Kalu, said that the people of Abam had heaved a sigh of relief with the completed projects. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Governor Otti announced Mr Kalus appointment as the president of the Abia Leadership Academy. The former Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, has called for scrutiny of his Kaduna counterpart, Nasir El-Rufai, after the latter linked him to the disappearance of Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata. Mr Ganduje, in a statement signed by former Kano Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Muhammad Garba, described the allegation as reckless, unfounded and a clear attempt to shift responsibility for an incident that occurred entirely within Kaduna State. PREMIUM TIMES reported that Mr El-Rufai claimed that Dadiyata was abducted from his Kaduna residence by police officers dispatched from Kano State, when Mr Ganduje was governor. For several years, many Nigerians on social media accused Mr El-Rufai, who was Kaduna governor during the abduction, of being behind the incident. Addressing the allegations on Arise Television on Friday, Mr El-Rufai said Dadiyata was not a critic of his administration, as widely speculated. Instead, he stated that the activist was a vocal critic of Mr Gandujes government. Three years after he was abducted, a policeman who was posted from Kano to Ekiti State confessed to someone that they were sent from Kano to abduct Dadiyata and that the officer was worried about that. That is all I know, Mr El-Rufai stated. Mr El-Rufai maintained that the disappearance is not a Kaduna State issue, despite the incident occurring within its borders. He argued that the state could not have provided specific protection because it was unaware of his friction with the Kano State Government. The Disappearance of Dadiyata On 2 August 2019, Dadiyata, a 34-year-old lecturer at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma, was intercepted by unidentified armed men as he drove into his compound in Barnawa, Kaduna State. Dadiyata was a well-known social media influencer and a staunch supporter of former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso. Since his disappearance, his family and various human rights organisations have filed multiple lawsuits. In 2020, a Federal High Court in Kaduna ordered the State Security Service (SSS) and other security agencies to produce him or release him, but the agencies denied having him in their custody. Amnesty International and other global watchdogs have classified his case as an enforced disappearance. For over seven years, his whereabouts have remained unknown, and no group has officially claimed responsibility for his capture. Below is the full response by Mr Ganduje through his former commissioner Former Governor of Kano state, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has firmly rejected allegations by his former Kaduna state counterpart, Nasir El-Rufai, linking him to the disappearance of Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata. In a measured but unequivocal response contained in a statement signed by former Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs in Kano state, Comrade Muhammad Garba, the former APC national chairman described the allegation as reckless, unfounded and a clear attempt to shift responsibility for an incident that occurred entirely within Kaduna State. He emphasised that Dadiyata lived and operated in Kaduna, where he was widely known for directing his criticisms at the Kaduna state government. According to him, there is no credible record suggesting that the activists primary focus was the Kano state government or Dr. Ganduje. Everyone in Kaduna knew the nature of the criticism he made and who it was directed at, he stated, noting that responsibility for security in Kaduna at the time rested with the state government and the relevant federal security agencies operating there. The statement called for careful scrutiny of El-Rufais recent remarks, stressing that such serious allegations must be supported by verifiable evidence rather than political rhetoric. Dragging Ganduje into the matter without proof, Garba said, not only politicizes a painful and unresolved episode but also risks further confusing the public over an already sensitive case. Contrasting the political climates of both states during the period in question, Garba maintained that Gandujes two-term administration in Kano was marked by tolerance for criticism, open media engagement and acceptance of opposition voices. Unlike many political leaders who maintained strained relationships with the media, we allowed scrutiny, accommodated critical voices and even learned from dissenting perspectives, he said. The former Commissioner added that there was no record of arrests, intimidation or harassment of journalists or critics in Kano during Gandujes tenure. He further observed that public discourse surrounding Dadiyatas disappearance has, over the years, centred largely on events within Kaduna state and noted further that former Senator Shehu Sani had openly remarked that many individuals within the state were reluctant to speak publicly about the case, while commentator Reno Omokri previously raised allegations questioning how the matter was handled at the time. Garba also expressed concern over El-Rufais claim that a police officer allegedly confessed to being sent from Kano to abduct Dadiyata. He questioned why such grave information, if credible, was not formally disclosed to investigative authorities or pursued transparently through appropriate security channels at the time. It is difficult to reconcile a claim of having no prior knowledge of the individual with simultaneously making detailed assertions about who was responsible, he noted. While reiterating sympathy for Dadiyatas family, Garba stressed that the priority should remain on uncovering the truth through lawful and transparent investigative processes. The family deserves closure, he said. What they do not deserve is for this tragic matter to become an instrument of political blame-shifting. He concluded by urging anyone with credible information regarding the abduction to present it to the appropriate authorities, emphasising that accountability must rest on facts and due process, not speculation. Comrade Muhamad Garba Former Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Kano state A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value: We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model . In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Taliworks Corporation Berhad ( KLSE:TALIWRK ) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward. Story Continues The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (3.8%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 8.4%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2035 (1 + g) (r g) = RM70m (1 + 3.8%) (8.4% 3.8%) = RM1.6b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM1.6b ( 1 + 8.4%)10= RM704m The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is RM1.1b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of RM0.5, the company appears about fair value at a 18% discount to where the stock price trades currently. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent. KLSE:TALIWRK Discounted Cash Flow February 14th 2026 Important Assumptions The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Taliworks Corporation Berhad as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.4%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. Check out our latest analysis for Taliworks Corporation Berhad SWOT Analysis for Taliworks Corporation Berhad Strength Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry. Debt is not viewed as a risk. Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows. Weakness Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Water Utilities market. Opportunity Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the Malaysian market. Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Threat No apparent threats visible for TALIWRK. Next Steps: Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For Taliworks Corporation Berhad, there are three relevant aspects you should further examine: Risks: For example, we've discovered 1 warning sign for Taliworks Corporation Berhad that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does TALIWRK's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing! PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the KLSE every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has informed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) that he will honour their invitation for questioning. The ICPC had directed Mr El-Rufai to appear at its Abuja headquarters over matters it had not publicly disclosed. His lawyers confirmed in a letter that he would attend on 18 February or any other mutually convenient date. The ICPC directed Mr El-Rufai to appear by 10:00 a.m. on 13 February. We respectfully observe that the invitation requires our clients attendance at the Commissions Headquarters on 13th February 2026 by 10:00 a.m. prompt, the lawyers wrote. Given that the letter was received at 4:30 p.m. on the preceding day, it is manifestly impossible as a matter of logistics, fairness, and due preparation for our client to comply with this timeline. The letter, signed by Wole Iyamu, who is a, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), stated that Mr El-Rufai remains fully committed to cooperating with any lawful investigation and has never, at any time, sought to evade legitimate inquiry. The ICPC has yet to disclose the specific subject of its inquiry. Mr El-Rufai served as Kaduna State governor from 2015 to 2023 and remains a prominent figure in national politics. Before now, a number of his former aides and others associated with his administration have faced corruption investigation and prosecution, a move he as attributed to political prosecution by the President Bola Tinubu-led government. Attempted arrest at Abuja Airport Security operatives reportedly attempted to arrest Mr El-Rufai on 12 February at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, immediately after he arrived from Cairo, Egypt. His media aide, Muyiwa Adekeye, posted on X that the former governor declined to accompany the agents, insisting he had not received a formal invitation for questioning. Video footage obtained by PREMIUM TIMES showed supporters chanting solidarity songs and forming a protective ring around him. Mr El-Rufai later alleged that the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, ordered the attempted arrest and that Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and the ICPC chairman were also involved. Mr El-Rufai travelled abroad on 30 November 2025 after attending social engagements in Lagos. During his absence, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) reportedly delivered an invitation letter to his residence in December, fuelling speculation that he could face arrest upon his return. Sources confirmed he was expected in Abuja within 48 hours and had notified the EFCC that he would appear at their office on 16 February. Television interview On 13 February, Mr El-Rufai appeared on Arise TV, addressing his political ambitions, national issues, and controversies involving former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso. He denied plans to contest the presidency in 2027, stating, Im not a candidate for any office For now, I am not running, while acknowledging that political decisions remain fluid. He defended Mr Kwankwaso against a proposed US congressional bill that could impose visa bans or asset freezes over alleged religious freedom violations, saying, Look, 12 northern states implemented Sharia Kwankwaso followed like many others. Kano was not very strict. He alleged, without evidence, that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may be behind the targeting of Mr Kwankwaso because he refused to join the APC. They may be behind it In fact, I cant think of anyone else, he said. Political Background In 2023, Mr El-Rufai returned from travel after being nominated as a minister by President Tinubu, a nomination that the Senate reportedly declined over a security report. He left the APC in 2025 for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and has since become a vocal critic of the government. In March 2024, his successor, Uba Sani, initiated a probe into his administration, which Mr El-Rufai challenged at the Federal High Court. Both the EFCC and ICPC are investigating multiple corruption allegations linked to his tenure, all of which he has denied, claiming political persecution. The police in Imo State, South-east Nigeria, have dismissed three officers over alleged kidnapping, extorting of N1.7 million and car snatching in the state. The dismissed officers are Gift Ekwueme and Ikechukwu Eto, who were sergeants. The third dismissed officer, Divine Okwuaru, was a corporal. The police spokesperson in Imo State, Henry Okoye, told the Punch newspaper that the officers were dismissed after being found guilty of the offences at an orderly room trial. After we received the complaint, the police swung into investigation. They were arrested, detained, faced an orderly room trial, and after they were found guilty, they were dismissed and the Imo commissioner of police ratified it, he said. They are now ex-policemen. They will be arraigned in the law court for prosecution. How the officers allegedly engaged in kidnapping, armed robbery Mr Okoye, a deputy superintendent of police, said the officers were accused of kidnapping and extorting N1.7 million from a resident, Obinna Egbu, in Owerri on 8 February. The spokesperson said the officers were said to have carried out the extortion at gunpoint while posing as members of the police Anti-Kidnapping Unit alongside. He said the now dismissed officers carried out the alleged offences alongside a driver, Alex Chukwu, a civilian. Mr Okoye said the new Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Garba Bosso, has warned that he will not tolerate any form of corruption, high-handedness, and professional misconduct from officers in the state. He said Mr Bosso warned that officers who engage in misconduct will be sanctioned appropriately. Not the first time Cases of police brutality, extortion, extrajudicial killings and other unprofessional activities in Nigeria have continued despite sanctions by police authorities, such as dismissal from service. The latest incident occurred about one month after police operatives shot dead a private motorcyclist in Ebonyi, another state in the South-east. In November 2024, police operatives from the Crack Squad in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State shot dead a labourer and critically injured three others in the state. A similar incident happened in the same Abakaliki in 2018 when a police officer shot and killed a commercial motorcyclist for allegedly refusing to give him N50 bribe. In August 2024, police operatives in Bayelsa State extorted N3 million from a Nigerian man at gunpoint. The officers were subsequently arrested after the victim petitioned police authorities. The police operatives later returned the N3 million to the victim, about three weeks later. The troops of Operation Hadin Kai, a joint task force in the North-east, have killed scores of terrorists during a night raid in Yobe State. The Nigerian Army disclosed this in a statement on Saturday by the spokesperson for the joint task force, Sani Uba. Mr Uba, a lieutenant colonel, said the offensive, carried out under Operation Desert Sanity V, was launched in collaboration with operatives of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF). The officer said the troops engaged the terrorists around Muktum and Ngirbuwa villages. He said two AK-47 rifles, three motorcycles and mobile phones were recovered from the operation. Further exploitation along the terrorists withdrawal route revealed drag marks and a shallow grave, indicating additional enemy casualties, said Mr Uba. In a separate incident, Mr Uba said troops patrolling the BulayobeDarel Jamel axis, engaged fleeing terrorists attempting to cross the Main Supply Route. The criminals fled in disarray, abandoning two sacks containing assorted logistics items suspected to be meant for terrorist elements, he stated The general security situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, the spokesperson said, adding that the troops morale and fighting efficiency remain high as they continue to dominate their areas of responsibility and frustrate terrorist activities. He assured the public of the joint task forces unwavering commitment to sustaining pressure on Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists until lasting peace and economic stability are fully restored in the North-east region. Operatives of the police command in Edo State arrested 87 suspected kidnappers and rescued 30 victims in January. The State Commissioner of Police in Edo, Monday Agbonika, disclosed this on Friday at the commands end-of-month press briefing in Benin. Mr Agbonika said the arrests followed intensified intelligence-led operations against violent crime across the state. He described the arrests and rescues as part of sustained offensives targeting criminal hideouts in forests and flashpoints in Edo North and Edo Central. The commissioner said helicopter surveillance and newly deployed drones supported coordinated bush-combing, night raids, highway nipping points and sting operations. He said the efforts led to the dismantling of several kidnappers camps across the state. Mr Agbonika said the operations were conducted in synergy with the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Air Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. They also involved the State Security Service, the Edo Security Corps and local hunters. Kidnapping for ransom has become one of the prevalent crimes in many Nigerian cities, with just anyone, including school pupils and clerics, as targets. Other crimes Beyond kidnapping-related arrests, 13 suspected murderers, 14 suspected armed robbers and 15 suspected cultists were also apprehended, the police commissioner said. Mr Agbonika said the command recovered six stolen vehicles, three motorcycles and 39 mobile phones, alongside a cache of arms and ammunition. The recovered weapons included AK-47 rifles, fabricated rifles, cut-to-size single-barreled shotguns, Dane guns, pistols and live cartridges. Every weapon recovered is a life potentially saved. Every suspect arrested is a criminal network disrupted, Mr Agbonika said. He commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for approving the deployment of helicopters and tactical intelligence support. The commissioner also appreciated Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo for donating drones and other logistics. He said the support significantly enhanced real-time aerial reconnaissance and overall operational efficiency. (NAN) It is shocking that for the first time in our history, we are giving up on our sovereignty and handing over the country to Americans. As I argued on 9th January, I have so much nostalgia for the proud and assertive Nigeria of 11 January 1976, when our Head of State told the world and the American President, Gerald Ford, that Africa has come of age. In his speech at the OAU Summit in Addis Ababa, General Murtala Mohammed declared:Africa has come of age. In my column of 9th January entitled, Nigeria in Trump world: The dangers ahead, I warned about the way in which President Tinubu is handing our country over to American imperialism, and the necessity to change course. I feel obliged to return to the theme so soon afterward, because of the speed at which we are moving towards perdition. We recall that our president, Bola Tinubu, begged President Trump to shoot missiles into Nigeria on Christmas evening, allegedly to kill Islamist terrorists. Clearly, the Nigerian Presidency had not read Americas new national security strategy, which states bluntly that all American action would only be in the interest of the United States alone and not any other country. The idea that the United States would act to protect Nigerian Christians, who are suffering from genocide perpetrated by Islamic terrorists, is as far from reality as can be. After that opener, the Americans informed the world that they had sent some troops to Nigeria without stating the number. Then last week, they announced that they were sending 200 additional troops to the country. Then the Americans, through a Republican congressman, proposed a bill titled, the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act. The bill was sponsored by US lawmakers, Representative Moore (R-WV) and Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee, Chris Smith (R-NJ). The bill mandates the US Secretary of State to submit a detailed report to Congress on efforts to address religious violence and mass atrocities in Nigeria. Tinubu gave the Americans an inch and now they are taking a mile, including making laws on our country and monitoring it as if it is a protectorate. An interesting dimension of this protectorate approach to Tinubus Nigeria is the sanctions they are including in the bill to punish one person they dislike, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, presenting him as a dangerous Muslim fundamentalist who must be death with. The reason why Riley Moore and his colleagues singled him out was that Kwankwaso was the only prominent Nigerian politician who openly criticised the United States designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern. In a public statement, he had argued that the designation was unhelpful and poses the risk of exacerbating interreligious tensions in Nigeria. The American arrogance is so high that they cannot accept any criticism of their actions. As the columnist Farooq Kperogi has argued, the irony is that Kwankwaso as Kanos governor was famously unenthusiastic about the introduction of Sharia in 2000. The issue is that the Americans do not accept political criticism of their policies. Of course, Kwankwasos political ambition for the next elections are well known and the Americans are indicating that they would fight the political coalition he is building, thereby interfering in our internal politics. The overriding lesson of American foreign involvement in the past eighty years is well known. The United States spent 20 years failing to create a stable government in Afghanistan and killed the Libyan president, replacing a functional developmental state with a fractured state that set-in motion the massive distribution of small arms and light weapons to entrench terrorism in Africa. The tragic consequences of the 2003 war in Iraq continue to beset America and the Middle East. The United States has also repeatedly destabilised Latin American countries, including Chile, Cuba, Guatemala and Nicaragua, by trying to oust governments through force. In every country in which the United States has intervened to bring democracy and stability, it has left the the place in ruin, destroyed national cohesion, introduced guns into the streets and left it much worse than it found it. In 2001, in his bid to ostensibly re-professionalise the Nigerian army, President Obasanjo almost unilaterally signed the Military Cooperation Agreement Between the US and Nigeria. To its credit, the Ministry of Defence responded appropriately by opposing the agreement, arguing that it was not involved in the negotiations between Nigeria and the US. In fact, the agreement was highly criticised by Lt General Victor Malu, the chief of Army staff at the time It is important to remember that Nigerians have consistently opposed defence agreements with foreign countries since the 1960s, when the Balewa administration was forced to abrogate the Anglo-Nigerian Defence Agreement, because it contained a clause that allowed the Royal Air force to overfly and test its aircraft in Nigeria. The Agreement also allowed the Royal Air Force to station its maintenance staff in Nigeria. The Balewa administration was pressured to abrogate the Agreement because public opinion perceived it as an impairment of Nigerias freedom of action, which might draw the country into hostilities against its wishes. This remains true. In 2001, in his bid to ostensibly re-professionalise the Nigerian army, President Obasanjo almost unilaterally signed the Military Cooperation Agreement Between the US and Nigeria. To its credit, the Ministry of Defence responded appropriately by opposing the agreement, arguing that it was not involved in the negotiations between Nigeria and the US. In fact, the agreement was highly criticised by Lt General Victor Malu, the chief of Army staff at the time, when US military officers demanded for Nigerias strategic doctrine and unfettered access to its strategic military locations. According to General Malu, those were exclusive to Nigerians only, and he added that a friend today can be an enemy tomorrow. It is shocking that for the first time in our history, we are giving up on our sovereignty and handing over the country to Americans. As I argued on 9th January, I have so much nostalgia for the proud and assertive Nigeria of 11 January 1976, when our Head of State told the world and the American President, Gerald Ford, that Africa has come of age. In his speech at the OAU Summit in Addis Ababa, General Murtala Mohammed declared: Africa has come of age. It is no longer under the orbit of any extra continental power. It should no longer take orders from any country, however powerful. The fortunes of Africa are in our hands to make or mar. For too long have we been kicked around: for too long have we been treated like adolescents who cannot discern their interests and act accordingly. For too long has it been presumed that the African needs outside experts to tell him who are his friends and who are his enemies. The time has come when we should make it clear that we can decide for ourselves; that we know our own interests and how to protect those interest; that we are capable of resolving African problems without presumptuous lessons in ideological dangers which, more often than not, have no relevance for us, nor for the problem at hand. Nigeria has come to this Assembly determined to co-operate with you, Mr Chairman, and with all member states to put a stop to foreign interference in our continental matters. As an African nationalist of distinction, I trust that your wise guidance will direct our deliberations to fruitful conclusions of which our peoples will be proud. As for the Nigerians enthusiastically applauding American military intervention to save Nigerian Christians from genocide, they should do their research. Is it not American arms and intelligence that are being used in the current genocide against Christians in Palestine and Syria? That moment of pride is difficult to find in Nigeria today, as delegations after delegations go to the United States to beg it to come and solve our problems. What is most painful is our loss of statecraft. Nigeria no longer has well informed diplomats that could explain to the president that he is leading the country astray. The invitation to the United States to bomb our country, to send its troops to kill our terrorists and make laws determining how our country is run, is an indication of the abdication of responsibility by Nigerias political and military leadership. This raises fundamental questions about sovereignty, constitutional governance, civilian protection, and the integrity of Nigerias social contract. At the heart of this crisis is the apparent abdication by the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, of his constitutional role as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. By inviting a foreign government to manage what is fundamentally an internal security challenge, the president ceded sovereign authority in a manner that undermines Nigerias constitutional order. We are witnessing a profound breakdown of institutional accountability mechanisms. Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) is unequivocal: the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government. This provision represents a central pillar of Nigerias social contract. Any security action, especially one involving foreign military forces, must be grounded in transparency, civilian protection, and democratic oversight. None of these standards were met. Nigerians should be particularly troubled by the severe deficit of information regarding the nature, scope, legal basis, and rules of engagement governing the collaboration between the Nigerian and US governments and their security agencies. Why is the National Assembly not exercising any oversight on the matter? As for the Nigerians enthusiastically applauding American military intervention to save Nigerian Christians from genocide, they should do their research. Is it not American arms and intelligence that are being used in the current genocide against Christians in Palestine and Syria? A Professor of Political Science and development consultant/expert, Jibrin Ibrahim is a Senior Fellow of the Centre for Democracy and Development, and Chair of the Editorial Board of PREMIUM TIMES. In addition to reward in abundance, Sadaqah in Ramadan brings many benefits. In general, Sadaqah is a shield of a Muslim believer against calamity and danger. It is a means of an increase in ones wealth and elevating the status of a Muslim believer. In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful Praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds, may the blessings and peace be upon our beloved master, Prophet Muhammad, the last of Prophets, on his family, and all his companions. Dear brothers and sisters! In Islam, Ramadan is the best of months. Allah Almighty has granted it special significance by making it a means of forgiveness and mercy. According to a Hadith, our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: Whoever fasts Ramadan out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven. [Bukhari] The month of Ramadan has been honoured with the revelation of the noble Quran. The first revelation came on the Night of Power, which is one of the last 10 odd nights of Ramadan. This glorious night is better than one thousand nights in the words of the Quran. Ramadan is the month when charitable deeds are multiplied by thousands. Because of its virtue, the Muslim believers strive hard to engage in righteous acts of worship during the noble month. Zakat is an obligatory act of worship and the third pillar of Islam. In Arabic, Zakat means growth, blessing, cleansing and purification. It means worshipping Allah Almighty by obeying Him and paying what is prescribed from ones wealth to those eligible in the light of the Quran. Zakat is surrounded by many rules and regulations, some of which are mentioned below: Zakat is 2.5 per cent of ones wealth and has to be paid once one Hijrah year has passed since the possession of wealth. Zakat is based on specific things like gold, silver, crops, fruits, livestock, and money over the threshold of nisab. The amount of Zakat has to be given to specific people mentioned in the noble Quran. Zakat cannot be given to ones dependants, the rich and the non-Muslims. And in the other hand, Sadaqah is derived from the word sidq in Arabic which means sincerity. Sadaqah is the sign of sincerity of faith on behalf of the Muslim believer. It is a way of showing dedication to Allah Almighty by making a voluntary donation of ones wealth without being required to do so. There are no specific rules and guidelines for Sadaqah. It is not compulsory for any kind of wealth and can be given to anyone at any time and in any amount. Sadaqah can be given to dependants, non-Muslims and even the rich in certain circumstances. Despite Sadaqah being a voluntary charity, Islam places great importance on it. Allah the Most High says: O you who believe! Spend of that with which We have provided for you, before a Day comes when there will be no bargaining, nor friendship, nor intercession. And it is the disbelievers who are the wrongdoers. [Quran, 2:254] Allah Almighty condemns those who do not look after the needy and the orphans in the Quran. Not feeding the needy and not encouraging others to do so has been compared with the disbelief in Allah Almighty. Allah the Most High says: Indeed, he did not believe in Allah, the Almighty, and did not persuade (others) to feed the needy. [Quran, 69:33-34] In Ramadan, Sadaqah takes on a special dimension. The Muslim believers actively engage in charitable deeds to earn multiplied rewards and blessings of Ramadan. According to Hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) used to be the most generous during Ramadan. The increase in the generosity of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) has been compared to racing winds during the noble month in one of the narrations. In addition to reward in abundance, Sadaqah in Ramadan brings many benefits. In general, Sadaqah is a shield of a Muslim believer against calamity and danger. It is a means of an increase in ones wealth and elevating the status of a Muslim believer. Allah Almighty says: Those who spend their wealth in the Cause of Allah, and do not follow up their gifts with reminders of their generosity or with injury, their reward is with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve. [Quran, 2:262] Sadaqah given in Ramadan brings all these benefits with increased blessing and acceptance of Allah Almighty. Charitable deeds performed in Ramadan are increased manifold due to the special virtue and mercy attached to this great month. In addition to this, there are many Muslims who struggle to find nutritious meals for beginning or breaking their fast. Charity given during this time can provide needy individuals and families with a nice Iftar and Suhur. Feeding a fasting person is a matter of great reward. In a Hadith, Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: Whoever gives iftar to one who is fasting will have a reward like his, without that detracting from the reward of the fasting person in the slightest. [Tirmidhi] Donations made this month help Muslim communities in general. Mosques in some areas might depend on generous donations to organise Tarawih prayers and offer daily Iftar and Suhur meals. In the last 10 days, people have been staying at the Mosque for Itikaf. This increases the responsibilities of Mosque management. Your donations make it easy for Mosques and individuals to celebrate the month of Ramadan. Zakat in Ramadan is one of the most discussed topics. According to the principles of the Islamic faith, Zakat has to be paid as soon as it becomes compulsory. Zakat becomes obligatory when one Hijrah year has passed on the wealth in ones possession. The Islamic scholars warn against delaying the payment of Zakat for the purpose of giving it in Ramadan. However, Zakat payment can be brought forward if someones Zakat becomes compulsory shortly after Ramadan. This will allow the person to achieve the blessing of Ramadan Zakat without delay in payment. You can pay your Sadaqah and Zakat during Ramadan with us. Increase your generosity this Ramadan and earn rewards in abundance In Shaa Allah. Respected brothers and sisters! Zakat in Ramadan is a powerful purifier of wealth and soul, multiplying rewards during the noble month to strengthen community bonds. It is a mandatory 2.5% obligation on qualifying wealth that shields against calamity, fosters compassion, and ensures social justice. Giving Zakat elevates status and brings blessings. By giving a portion of your wealth, you are not reducing it, but purifying the remainder and inviting Allahs blessings, allowing it to grow in ways beyond material calculation. Zakat is a test of Iman (faith), shifting focus from material possessions to spiritual purpose. It proves that a Muslim believers heart is not attached to this world, but to the pleasure of Allah Almighty. While Zakat can be paid annually, timing it with Ramadan multiplies its virtues. The needy deserve to experience the joy of Eid, making your contribution a source of hope and comfort. It is narrated that: Whoever pays the zakat on his wealth will have its evil removed from him. Think of Zakat not as a loss, but as a protective shield that wards off misfortune and financial ruin. Imagine a family that hasnt eaten properly all day. Your Zakat provides a nourishing Iftar. This act strengthens the entire Muslim Ummah, creating unity, brotherhood and compassion. Dear brothers and sisters! Allah has given us a chance to multiply our deeds. Do not let Ramadan pass without fulfilling this pillar. The wealth in your hand is only a trust (Amanah) from Allah, and the true owner is He the Most High. Fear not for your sustenance. Allah promises that charity does not decrease wealth, but rather increases it in blessing and magnitude. 2.5 per cent of total accumulated wealth (cash, gold, business assets) if it exceeds the nisab threshold. Its highly recommended during Ramadan for maximum reward. Supports the orphans, poor, needy, and empowers the Ummah. Respected brothers and sisters! Feed the orphans, widows and the needy in this 1447 AH/2026 Ramadan. Feeding the poor and needy is an act that draws us close to Allah. We earn His forgiveness, mercies, and blessings through this act of charity. As a result, our center, Nagazi-Uvete Islamic Center presents the opportunity to feed orphans, poor and needy Muslims during the noble month of Ramadan. This provides a chance to multiply our efforts in seeking Allahs pleasure, and earn His everlasting mercy and favour upon us as sponsors and donors as we put smiles on the faces of beneficiaries. Over the past twenty-five years, we have been providing food items and iftar to needy Muslim families and orphans during the noble month of Ramadan. With support from respected generous donors like you, we have been able to serve thousand needy families so far. This year 1447/2026, we seek to feed more families In Shaa Allah. Each food pack costs N2000. It is our hope that you will continue to make this campaign a fruitful one, and help feed orphans, poor and needy Muslims during the whole month. Charity/Sadaqah is a key part of Ramadan and is obligatory to all able Muslims and feeding the orphans, poor and the needy is an act that draws us close to Allah. We earn His forgiveness, mercies, and blessings through this act of charity and Sadaqah. Nagazi-Uvete Islamic Center is a non-profit organisation in Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria. The organisation is non-partisan, non-sectarian, established to provide relief and humanitarian aid to help the vulnerable. We currently have our office in Okene, Kogi state. Through this Ramadan Feeding Program, we aim to provide iftar meals to the orphans, needy, widows, and struggling familiesrestoring dignity, spreading hope, and sharing the blessings of this sacred month. Join us in feeding the fasting. Support this noble cause. Let your Sadaqah become light for you in Ramadan. Together, we can extend the mercy of Ramadan to every heart in need. Trust and Amanah is at the core of all our activities because the lives and well-being of millions of needy people depend on it. You can send your donations to the following account details: 1. Account number: 0048647196. Account name: Murtala Muhammed. GTBank Or: 2. Account number: 1779691620 Account name: Murtala Muhammed. Access Bank. Donate Fisabilillah!!! Respected Servants of Allah! Know that, success in Ramadan is not measured by thirst, but by the transformation of the heart and the strengthening of Iman (faith) through consistent worship and good character. Those who truly succeed are those who, with sincere intention, use this great month to break bad habits, increase Quran recitation, and perform acts of charity. The one who enters Ramadan not out of habit, but with a burning desire to repent and reform, starting with a clean heart, gains the most. Success is not about doing a massive amount in one night and neglecting the rest. It is about consistency praying Tarawih, reciting the Quran, and offering Dua, even if in small amounts daily, as loved by Allah. True success lies in reflecting the spirit of the monthgenerosity, kindness, and helping the orphans, poor and needy which brings the mercy of Allah. There was a man known for his rough tongue, but he promised himself that this Ramadan, he would not speak ill of anyone, fasting not just with his mouth but with his tongue and heart. By the end of the month, his character had permanently changed, becoming a person of peace. He realised that fasting is a shield from sin, not just a, restraint from food. Start by renewing your intention for Allah alone. Use the nights for special prayers (Tarawih) to seek closeness to Allah. The doors of Paradise are open; call upon Allah for ease in your struggles. Ya Allah, bring it (Ramadan) over us with blessings and faith, safety and Islam. My Lord and your Lord is Allah. I ask Allah Almighty to accept from you, and from us, ameen. All praise is due only to The Almighty Allah, and may His peace and blessings be upon Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), the final Messenger and the seal of Prophets. Murtadha Muhammad Gusau is the Chief Imam of Nagazi-Uvete Jumuah and the late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okenes Mosques, Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria. He can be reached via: [email protected] or +2348038289761 or +2348024192217. This Jumuah Khutbah (Friday sermon) was prepared for delivery today, Friday, Shaaban 25, 1447 AH (February 13, 2026). If 2027 is to transcend ritual and embody authentic contestation, reforms must be unequivocal. Electoral transmission protocols must be explicit, rather than discretionary. Opposition parties must subordinate personal ambition to strategic coherence. Civil society must sustain vigilance beyond episodic outrage. Above all, citizens must be persuaded that their ballots traverse a transparent pathway from polling unit to final declaration. When news broke that Peter Obi had joined pro-democracy activists and youth groups in a protest at the National Assembly under the banner Occupy the National Assembly, I was compelled to read and reread the report. This was not the political temperament Nigerians have come to associate with the former Labour Party presidential candidate. Obi is measured to a fault, deliberate almost to the point of excessive restraint. For such a man to march in Abuja, at personal risk of being tear-gassed by the regimes security forces, this suggested matters of existential significance. The immediate catalyst was the passage of the Electoral Act 2022 Repeal and Re-enactment Amendment Bill, 2026. In revising Nigerias principal electoral statute ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Senate excised the phrase real time from the clause concerning the electronic transmission of results. The consequence is subtle in wording yet profound in implication. The law no longer unequivocally mandates that results from polling units to be uploaded instantaneously to INECs central portal upon announcement. Instead, the timing and modality of transmission of results are left substantially to the discretion of the sweet men and women of Nigerias not-so-independent INEC. To the uninitiated, this may appear an arcane legislative adjustment. In a polity burdened by a history of opaque collation processes and nocturnal electoral alchemy, however, the distinction between immediate transmission and discretionary transmission is not trivial. It is the difference between transparency and plausible deniability. Nigeria now stands on the cusp of another four yearly ritual dignified by the name general elections. Candidates will be unveiled. Rallies will be convened. Political newbies will be led to swear the oath of allegiance before a dreaded deity and the incumbent made to dine with the devil to guarantee a return ticket. Yet, beneath the choreography, a more disquieting possibility looms. For the first time in Nigerias history, the presidential contest threatens to resemble an elite adoption exercise. The days of pretending that citizens have the power to effect an electoral outcome is over. The job of the electorate is simply to ratify what has already been tacitly resolved within the inner sanctums of power. The Nigerian elite, under the firm grip of Asiwaju Tinubu, a man who has time and again proven himself one of the most ardent disciples of Niccolo Machiavelli, south of the Sahara, appears to have it all figured out. If you are a governor seeking a second term, you know precisely what is required of you. Alternatively, you may choose to be an Alex Otti and believe that your stellar record will render any attempt by the selectorate to unseat you politically untenable. Time will tell. But the message from the Presidents camp is pretty clear: loyalty is rewarded. Defiance is neutralised. Ambiguity is eliminated. Once upon a time, state governors, fortified by constitutional autonomy and their commanding influence over party structures within their domains, exercised decisive leverage in determining who ascended to Nigerias presidency. Their collective weight often proved determinative in the calculus of national power. President Tinubus own emergence in 2023 bore testimony to this enduring dynamic. A cohort of northern governors asserted themselves against elements within President Buharis inner circle, many of whom were implacably opposed to Tinubus candidacy. Without that intervention, the late presidents loyalists, armed with the full apparatus of incumbency and institutional influence, would in all probability have dictated a different outcome. But times have changed. Machiavellis prince has studied these power dynamics closely and resolved to curtail them. He signalled what the new order would look like in the political neutralisation of Nasir El-Rufai who, though I am no admirer of his politics, was arguably the most prominent among the northern governors who played a decisive role in Tinubus emergence. Like a calculating prince, the president appeared to conclude that the diminutive and often mischievous figure could not be sufficiently trusted with a role not explicitly defined in the script. He then followed by firing what was clearly intended as a warning shot, designed to leave no ambiguity even for the doubting Thomases, when Governor Fubara, then viewed as recalcitrant, was unceremoniously suspended for six months. The National Assembly swiftly gave its blessing, and the judiciary seemed already aligned with the logic that decisive action, once taken, would be judicially accommodated. The requisite validation appeared assured, even before the intentions were publicly crystallised. Peter Obis march to the National Assembly may prove a harbinger of more assertive engagement, or it may recede into the annals of symbolic dissent. The determinant will be what follows. Will there be sustained mobilisation within constitutional confines? Will alliances coalesce around procedural integrity, rather than personal aspiration? Will Nigerians demand not merely the performance of democracy but its substance? No one mounted any meaningful resistance. No sustained alarm was raised about a constitutional crisis. It was as though those who once cautioned President Jonathan against even contemplating such measures had disappeared from the public square. In the end though, Mr Fubara shed his prodigal son persona and emerged as the model good boy, executing the script with dutiful precision, just as the Prince likes it. In such a climate, what does opposition politics even mean today in Nigeria, when the institutional ecosystem appears harmonised in favour of incumbency? Do the so-called opposition parties truly believe they are contesting in 2027? Do Atiku, Obi, or Kwankwaso genuinely think they stand a chance? Or are they merely actors in a carefully choreographed spectacle of managed competition, its parameters predetermined and its outcomes tacitly circumscribed? The garb remains civilian. The rhetoric remains democratic. But the operation increasingly feels choreographed with military precision. Yet, the choreography increasingly resembles governance by a selectorate, rather than by a sovereign populace. The President wields power in a manner that would have made Mobutu green with envy. We profess adherence to the American presidential model, having once experimented with Westminster parliamentarianism. In practice, however, we appear to have evolved a bespoke system in which elite consensus circumscribes popular choice. The problem with opposition politics in Nigeria is that few, if any, among its leaders value the arduous struggle required to contest power over the comforts of personal freedom. These are no warriors forged in the treacherous mountains of Tora Bora or the merciless jungles of the Amazon rainforest. Rather, they are corporate elites who, until now, have lived in gilded mansions and traversed the globe in luxury Bombardier jets. They are enamoured with the allure of power when it is handed to them on a platter, yet they are seldom prepared to seize it through sustained and ruthless effort. In the aftermath of the 2023 presidential election, I engaged one of Peter Obis prominent allies in a public exchange. My question was straightforward: Why should Nigerians reinvest their hopes in a candidacy that, even if victorious, seems hesitant to mount a robust defence of its mandate? I cited instances in which Labour Party victories at subnational levels were either overturned or diluted. The response was that Obi was mindful of a ruling establishment ready to exploit any provocation as a pretext to put him away for good. Such caution is not irrational. Politics is a game of cat and mouse, after all, yet history delivers a stern admonition: an elite of rent-seekers will not relinquish power out of the abundance of their goodwill. History teaches us that those who pursue transformational politics do not fold like a cheap skirt in the face of threats. They are prepared to endure a bloodied nose, if necessary. If one is unwilling to endure the furnace of political contestation, one should reconsider entering the arena. In an earlier essay titled Beyond Peter Obi: A hero for a new era, I acknowledged Obis catalytic role in reawakening political consciousness among a generation disenchanted with the status quo. His campaign galvanised an organic movement that disrupted entrenched assumptions. Nevertheless, inspiration alone cannot achieve the task. A Moses may lead a people out of Egypt, but a Joshua must possess the resolve to breach the fortified walls required to reach the Promised Land. Obis decision to protest the amendment of the electoral law therefore signifies both growth and urgency. It reflects recognition that incremental erosions of procedural safeguards accumulate into structural disadvantages. Yet symbolism, however commendable, cannot substitute for sustained strategy. As the nation approaches 2027, a credible opposition must be unequivocal in its stance. It demands an answer to a vexing question: are we preparing for a genuine election, or merely rehearsing the aesthetics of one? To participate in the latter without addressing its structural infirmities is to confer a veneer of legitimacy upon a charade, wholly unworthy of citizen participation. Had the opposition collectively demonstrated from the outset a coordinated and relentless commitment to defending electoral integrity, the present aura of inevitability surrounding 2027 might not have solidified. When controversial 2023 election results were announced in the dead of the night, the response was predominantly juridical and rhetorically restrained. Petitions were filed. Press conferences were held. The streets, however, remained largely tranquil. A political establishment that perceives no existential peril from its adversaries is disinclined to concede ground. A National Assembly that uses every opportunity to sing on your mandate we stand with near liturgical fervour, will seldom impede its legislative preferences. A judiciary whose interpretive latitude has expanded in politically sensitive matters commands both authority and controversy. Within such a configuration, what is the oppositions endgame? Can it plausibly arrest a locomotive already accelerating toward its predetermined terminus? Or does its participation risk conferring democratic legitimacy upon an outcome that may already be inscribed? Fear is a human constant. Many Nigerians, fatigued by economic precarity and institutional volatility, prefer stability to confrontation. This is understandable. What is less defensible is the simulation of resistance, while tacitly legitimising a process one privately regards as compromised. If 2027 is to transcend ritual and embody authentic contestation, reforms must be unequivocal. Electoral transmission protocols must be explicit, rather than discretionary. Opposition parties must subordinate personal ambition to strategic coherence. Civil society must sustain vigilance beyond episodic outrage. Above all, citizens must be persuaded that their ballots traverse a transparent pathway from polling unit to final declaration. The excision of two words from a statute may appear inconsequential. In fragile democracies, however, textual nuance often signals political trajectory. Real time transmission is not a technological indulgence. It is a prophylactic against the opacity in which manipulation flourishes. Peter Obis march to the National Assembly may prove a harbinger of more assertive engagement, or it may recede into the annals of symbolic dissent. The determinant will be what follows. Will there be sustained mobilisation within constitutional confines? Will alliances coalesce around procedural integrity, rather than personal aspiration? Will Nigerians demand not merely the performance of democracy but its substance? As the nation approaches 2027, a credible opposition must be unequivocal in its stance. It demands an answer to a vexing question: are we preparing for a genuine election, or merely rehearsing the aesthetics of one? To participate in the latter without addressing its structural infirmities is to confer a veneer of legitimacy upon a charade, wholly unworthy of citizen participation. Osmund Agbo is a medical doctor and author. His works include Black Grit, White Knuckles: The Philosophy of Black Renaissance and a fiction work titled The Velvet Court: Courtesan Chronicles. His latest works, Pray, Let the Shaman Die and Maam, I Do Not Come to You for Love, have just been released. He can be reached through: [email protected]. The electronic transmission of results to the IReV entails the online publishing of scanned copies of the Polling Unit result sheets (Form EC8A), which are usually published at each Polling Unit as Form EC60E. It is a foundational reform that addresses perennial challenges in Nigerias elections In a bold demonstration of democratic engagement and civic determination, thousands of Nigerian citizens joined a march under the banner of the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room to the National Assembly on Monday, 9th February, to demand urgent reforms to the electoral process most notably the adoption of real electronic transmission of results (e-transmission) directly to the Independent National Electoral Commissions (INEC) Result Viewing (IReV) portal, along with other critical amendments to strengthen Nigerias democratic architecture. Organised by the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room (Situation Room), a broad platform of civil society organisations in collaboration with Motion for the Transformation of Nigeria (MOTION), along with youth groups, womens movements, and pro-democracy advocates, the peaceful but resolute protest underscored growing public impatience with outdated, opaque systems of result collation and transmission that have historically compromised trust in Nigerias elections. The protest was also joined by opposition party leaders, supporters and well-meaning Nigerians who continued with the protest until Tuesday, 10th February. On Wednesday, 28th January, there had been an earlier protest by the Situation Room and MOTION to demand the Senate to pass the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 and expedite legislative action on the bill, as the House of Representatives had already passed its version in December 2025. The protesters were addressed by Honourable Akin Rotimi, spokesperson of the House of Representatives, on that day and were urged to return home, as the Senate was set to indeed consider the bill. The protesters promised to return if the bill was not passed by the Senate. The Senate later considered the bill on 4th February, watering down its progressive amendments. Rallying for Transparency and Trust in Elections Participants converged from across Nigeria, bearing placards and chanting slogans calling for Electoral laws must serve the citizens, not incumbents! and Real-Time Results = Public Confidence! The mood was peaceful but charged with urgency a reflection of widespread demand for an electoral system that is credible, verifiable, and accountable to the people it serves. In a press statement issued by the Situation Room on Friday, 6th February, it was emphasised that true democratic reform begins with transparent electoral processes in order to reduce suspicion, distrust, and disillusionment. It said: Rather than strengthening Nigerias electoral framework ahead of the 2027 General Elections, the Senates amendments weaken critical safeguards for transparency, credibility, and public trust in elections. It is also a troubling retreat from lessons learned during the 2023 General Elections, where the absence of mandatory real-time transmission contributed significantly to disputes, litigation, and widespread public mistrust of election outcomes. By ensuring that results are transmitted electronically and posted on the INEC IReV portal in real time, citizens would gain confidence that the will of the people is truly reflected in official outcomes. Why E-Transmission Matters The electronic transmission of results to the IReV entails the online publishing of scanned copies of the Polling Unit result sheets (Form EC8A), which are usually published at each Polling Unit as Form EC60E. It is a foundational reform that addresses perennial challenges in Nigerias elections, including: Delays in result announcement , which create opportunities for manipulation and misinformation; Opaque manual processes , which exclude the public from meaningful oversight; and Weak accountability mechanisms , which erode trust in electoral outcomes. By ensuring that results are transmitted electronically and posted on the INEC IReV portal in real time, citizens would gain confidence that the will of the people is truly reflected in official outcomes. Key functionalities of the IReV portal, as intended by INEC in its publication, Innovations in Electoral Technology (2015-2025), are as follows: Instant publication of polling unit results : This allows polling unit officials to scan and upload election results directly from polling units. Public access to election results : Citizens, election observers, political parties, candidates and stakeholders can view results, ensuring unrestricted monitoring of electoral outcomes. Verifiable digital archive: The portal maintains a timestamped and immutable record of polling unit results, serving as an audit trail for transparency and accountability. Integration with Bimodal Voting Accreditation System (BVAS): This ensures seamless transmission of polling unit results, complementing BVASs biometric accreditation data. Whether lawmakers translate this energy into legislative and policy action remains to be seen. But one message was unmistakable: Nigerians are no longer willing to accept half-measures when it comes to the integrity of their votes. A Turning Point for Nigerian Democracy Beyond the e-transmission of results, there are also other issues of concern to citizens: Such as the proposed reduction of the 360-day Notice of Elections timeline to 180 days before the election date; the reduction of the deadline for submission of the list of candidates by political parties from 180 days to 90 days before a general election; the rejection of the proposal that would have allowed citizens to use downloadable Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) for voting and the deletion of the provisions for indirect primaries from the Electoral Bill. In addition, that the final version of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 reflects the progressive consensus reached through stakeholder engagement and strengthens rather than undermines Nigerias democratic process. Whether lawmakers translate this energy into legislative and policy action remains to be seen. But one message was unmistakable: Nigerians are no longer willing to accept half-measures when it comes to the integrity of their votes. Agianpe Onyema writes from Abuja and is the Secretariat Coordinator of the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room. Until electoral reform is built around enforcement rather than appearance, Nigeria will continue to rehearse democracy, instead of practicing it. The question is not whether Nigerians will once again demand reform. They always do. The question is whether this time, those in power will finally understand that wooden towers cannot summon aeroplanes, and carved radios cannot summon cargo. The Cargo Cult of Nigerian Democracy When cargo first arrived on remote Pacific islands during the Second World War, it came suddenly and in abundance. Aircraft landed with supplies. Ships docked with food, tools, clothing and medicines. Local inhabitants benefited directly, enjoying a standard of living they had never experienced before. What they did not understand was where the cargo came from, why it came, or the vast industrial, military and logistical systems that produced and delivered it. When the war ended, the soldiers left and the cargo stopped coming. Faced with the loss of a life that had briefly seemed normal, some tried to recreate the conditions they thought had produced the abundance. They built wooden towers to resemble control rooms. They carved radios out of wood. They mimicked the drills of soldiers and the gestures of aircraft signalmen. They copied the visible form of the system, without full understanding of its substance. Form without structure does not deliver results. Symbols without enforcement do not produce outcomes. Nigerias democratic journey since 1999 has followed a disturbingly similar pattern. The country has invested heavily in the appearance of electoral reform, while quietly preserving the mechanisms that allow outcomes to be negotiated after votes are cast. At every critical point, steps are taken to ensure that the electoral law speaks loudly but bites softly. The Appearance of Reform The current controversy surrounding the Senates attempt to dilute the compulsory electronic transmission of election results under the proposed 2026 Electoral Act amendment, fits neatly into this pattern. Nigeria has repeatedly acknowledged that its elections suffer from credibility problems. In response, it has introduced visible reforms: permanent voters cards, smart card readers, the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), and the INEC Result Viewing portal (IREV). Each reform is announced as a turning point. Each is welcomed by the public. Yet, when tested after elections, each reform is either weakened by the law or rendered discretionary by interpretation. A few examples clearly illustrate this recurring cycle. First, is the voters register. The same foundational register, built over years with incremental additions rather than a wholesale cleanup, remains in use. INEC continues to acknowledge the need for its revalidation and cleaning. Yet elections are routinely conducted before that work is completed. Where technology is layered on top of a shaky base, credibility cannot magically emerge. A register that is bloated, outdated, or poorly audited creates doubt long before a single vote is cast. Reform at the surface cannot compensate for weakness at the core. The problem is that Nigeria does not suffer from a technology deficit. It suffers from a trust deficit. The political class has earned that distrust through decades of bad behaviour. Manual collation has been the ground zero of electoral manipulation. It is where figures change without explanation. It is where delays create opportunity. It is where intimidation is most effective. Second, the smart card readers. In 2015, these devices were introduced to authenticate voters. They were widely used. They improved confidence. But they were not clearly codified in law to override the manual process. That omission became a legal fault line. Where technology conflicted with paper, the paper often prevailed. Third, and most instructive, is the experience with BVAS and IREV. In the buildup to the 2023 elections, BVAS accreditation and uploads to IREV were heavily promoted by INEC as central to transparency. Yet, the courts ultimately held that electronic transmission and upload were not mandatory under the Electoral Act 2022. They were treated as administrative tools, not legal obligations. The result was predictable. Once again, technology existed, but discretion decided outcomes. It is against this background that the Senates latest approach must be judged. Following public backlash, the Senate agreed to restore the electronic transmission of results. On the surface, this appeared to be a victory for reform advocates. However, the accompanying provision that elevates Form EC8A as the final authority in results collation fundamentally alters the effect of that concession. The EC8A Controversy On its face, the argument for EC8A supremacy sounds reasonable. Systems can fail. Networks can go down. Elections must conclude. There must be a fallback. In a low-trust environment, redundancy is sensible. The problem is that Nigeria does not suffer from a technology deficit. It suffers from a trust deficit. The political class has earned that distrust through decades of bad behaviour. Manual collation has been the ground zero of electoral manipulation. It is where figures change without explanation. It is where delays create opportunity. It is where intimidation is most effective. When lawmakers insist that the same manual instrument that has been repeatedly abused must remain the final authority, they are asking the public to suspend memory. This is why the EC8A clause is such a hard sell. Not because the logic is flawed in theory, but because the actors proposing it have not earned the benefit of the doubt. Nigerians have seen how exceptions become norms and how contingencies become strategy. They have witnessed the selective invocation of failure and the asymmetric exercise of discretion. A law that says transmit electronically, but fall back freely on paper will not resolve the credibility problem. Rather, it will institutionalise it. the law must spell out clear and enforceable sanctions for officials who deliberately bypass electronic transmission, manipulate the process, or falsely claim technical failure. Without consequences, even the best drafted provisions will remain symbolic. If electronic transmission is to be the main pillar of electoral credibility, then its protection must be firm, transparent, and backed by real accountability. Substance Over Symbols If there is genuine commitment to make electronic transmission the primary and legally binding method of declaring results, then every serious effort must be made to overcome the obstacles often cited against it. Issues such as network coverage, device failure, power supply, or technical glitches should not become convenient excuses. They should be anticipated, planned for, and systematically addressed through investment, testing, training, and redundancy measures. Where failure genuinely occurs, the resort to Form EC8A must not be left vague or open to abuse. The circumstances under which EC8A becomes operative should be clearly and narrowly defined in law. The claim of system failure must be independently verified, not merely asserted by an official on the ground. Such a claim should also trigger an automatic audit and investigation to confirm that the failure was real, unavoidable, and not contrived. Furthermore, the law must spell out clear and enforceable sanctions for officials who deliberately bypass electronic transmission, manipulate the process, or falsely claim technical failure. Without consequences, even the best drafted provisions will remain symbolic. If electronic transmission is to be the main pillar of electoral credibility, then its protection must be firm, transparent, and backed by real accountability. Building Sustainable Systems Democracy in Nigeria is failing to deliver desired outcomes. This is not because the country lacks the right ideas or resources. It is failing because reforms are designed to look modern, while preserving old leverage. The runways are built. The towers are painted. The rituals are performed. But the system that delivers the cargo is still missing. Until electoral reform is built around enforcement rather than appearance, Nigeria will continue to rehearse democracy, instead of practicing it. The question is not whether Nigerians will once again demand reform. They always do. The question is whether this time, those in power will finally understand that wooden towers cannot summon aeroplanes, and carved radios cannot summon cargo. What is required is not another layer of symbolism, but the difficult and less glamorous work of building systems that bind everyone. Even those who make the laws. Jeremiah Angai, a lawyer and public affairs analyst, writes from Abuja. Email: [email protected] The US and France are desperate to establish military bases in Nigeria, because our sister countries of Burkina Faso, Mali, Chad and Niger have kicked them out. The US is sending its troops to Nigeria under the guise of fighting terrorism. But which country has most exploited the employment of violence for political ends more than the US? Is it in its establishment, seizure of Mexican lands, or the colonisation of Puerto Rico and various hapless territories? Information filtered through a few weeks ago, that a small team of United States (US) soldiers were in Nigeria. On Tuesday, 10 February an additional information was that 200 American soldiers are being deployed to provide security for the small team. I am sure that soon these 200 would need a thousand US soldiers to give them cover. The troop numbers are nothing to worry about, except that this was the same story of American involvement in Vietnam. In the 1950s, President Dwight Eisenhower sent 740 soldiers to that country. A decade later, President John Kennedy sent 9,000. Eventually, a total of 2.7 million American soldiers served in the Vietnam War. So, the US tradition of swelling the rivers of its troops is, like we were taught in kindergarten, Little drops of water forms the mighty ocean. The Nigerian Defence Headquarters spokesman, Samaila Uba, announced that the US troops will not be involved in combat operations. That is how US intervention starts: their troops are usually advisers. Before it became a full military intervention in Vietnam, the US had 16,000 advisers there. As explained by the Nigerian leadership, the American military is not in Nigeria to fight. Rather, its mandate is capacity building, professional military education, intelligence sharing, logistics support and strategic dialogue aimed at addressing shared security concerns, including terrorism and transnational threats. The issue is not the number of American troops, but the fact that there are foreign boots on Nigerian soil. This is the same issue that our nationalists had fought against. A major battle Nigerians fought immediately after independence in 1960 was against a so-called Anglo-Nigeria Defence Pact under which the departing colonial Britain was to maintain military presence in the country. We did not want to become some Banana Republic. Nigeria had a tested military, which immediately after independence, went on peace-keeping operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo for four years. Nigerian General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi was the Force Commander of that UN force in 1964. Since then, Nigeria has contributed to over 40 global military missions, including in Sierra Leone, Sudan, Mali, Gambia and last year, Benin Republic. There is little the US can teach the Nigerian military in terms of conventional warfare that would warrant our being turned into a banana state. In such wars, the US record is not a shining one. It was roundly defeated in Vietnam, Cuba and more recently, Afghanistan. This is despite deploying all its intelligence and military tactics. The US only specialises in the opportunistic bullying of weak countries. The trojan horse that the US is using to establish a military base in Nigeria is its African Command (AFRICOM) contraption, which Nigerians had rejected 25 years ago in a push led by the then Chief of Army Staff, General Victor Malu. Malu had argued that: Americans did not come here to train us for peace-keeping. They came to get information on a country that, in spite of all the sanctions on it, could still achieve what we achieved in Sierra Leone The Americans insisted on staying in the barracks with our soldiers. I said over my dead body. The trojan horse that the US is using to establish a military base in Nigeria is its African Command (AFRICOM) contraption, which Nigerians had rejected 25 years ago in a push led by the then Chief of Army Staff, General Victor Malu. Malu had argued that: Americans did not come here to train us for peace-keeping. They came to get information on a country that, in spite of all the sanctions on it, could still achieve what we achieved in Sierra Leone The Americans insisted on staying in the barracks with our soldiers. I said over my dead body. The matter was also taken before the Council of States, which rejected it. So, which body or authority in Nigeria has now approved the deployment of troops on Nigeria soil? The US and France are desperate to establish military bases in Nigeria, because our sister countries of Burkina Faso, Mali, Chad and Niger have kicked them out. The US is sending its troops to Nigeria under the guise of fighting terrorism. But which country has most exploited the employment of violence for political ends more than the US? Is it in its establishment, seizure of Mexican lands, or the colonisation of Puerto Rico and various hapless territories? Contemporary terrorism, as we know it, was established by the US. In its attempts to unseat the pro-Soviet government of Nur Mohammed Taraki of Afghanistan in 1978, the US recruited Muslim youths across the world for a Jihad. Warehoused in Pakistan, the youths, which included Osama Bin Laden from Saudi Arabia, were called the Mujahedeen. They assumed it was truly a Holy War but realised after victory that it was just a ruse. On return to their various countries, they had expected reception as heroes, only to find themselves ostracised. They had become battle-hardened youths and their countries, which were mainly monarchies, were not ready to accept them. This was more so when the military in such countries had been mainly playing ceremonial roles, polishing their military boots and holding parades. This led to Bin Laden fleeing Saudi Arabia for Sudan, where the US forced the Al-Bashir government to expel him and other ostracised youths. They were known as the Al-Qaeda or the Base. The only country willing to give them shelter was Afghanistan under the Taliban. The Al-Qaeda members were hunted across the globe and detained without trial by the US. Then the latter and its allies developed the crazy idea of using some of these terrorists to overthrow governments like Ghadaffis in Libya and Assad in Syria. They trained these terrorists in Jordan and recruited European Islamic extremists to join them in Iraq and Syria, where they became known as the Islamic State (ISIS). The terrorists of Boko Haram in Nigeria and many of those in West African countries like Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, were trained by ISIS. The claim here is not that Nigeria does not need assistance. All countries do, as there is none that is fully sufficient in itself. However, nobody should take poison because he needs a curative. Nigeria can decide the assistance it needs without selling its sovereignty or becoming a US military satellite or base. In this region, the main arm of ISIS is called the Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP. Today, the terrorists, with US-backing, are ruling Syria. The Western-backed Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa was leader of Al-Qaeda for 13 years from 2003, of Al-Qaeda in Iraq for eight years, of the Al-Nusra Front for four years, of Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, and then Hayat Tahrir al-Sham for eight years, and the Syrian Salvation Government. Does the US celebration of this Al-Qaeda and ISIS leader show it is serious about fighting terrorism? The claim here is not that Nigeria does not need assistance. All countries do, as there is none that is fully sufficient in itself. However, nobody should take poison because he needs a curative. Nigeria can decide the assistance it needs without selling its sovereignty or becoming a US military satellite or base. The way out for Nigeria is clear. We are at war and there is no room for diversions such as claims that what we are witnessing are farmers-herders clashes. Our enemies are the terrorists and bandits, no matter their ethno-religious origins or profession. Also, the best way to overcome these criminals is a mass peoples war, in which self-defence is key. There is no alternative to self-reliance. Relying on fair weather friends can be no solution; the hawk and the hen can make declarations of partnership but ultimately, cannot have the same interests. Owei Lakemfa, a former secretary general of African workers, is a human rights activist, journalist and author. For a decade and a half, he was right. The creative destruction he invokedciting economist Joseph Schumpeterdecimated legacy incumbents and minted trillions in value for software insurgents. However, the AI revolution of 2022 and the SaaSpocalypse of 2026 suggest that the cycle of creative destruction has arrived at the doorstep of the software industry itself. Morgan Stanleys Weiss wrote of a trinity of software fears currently driving down stock multiples by 33% that cut to a fundamental questioning of the software business model. Andreessen claimed that companies like Amazon and Netflix were not merely speculative bets, but real, high-growth, high-margin, highly defensible businesses building a fully digitally wired global economy. He correctly identified that Borders was handing its keys to Amazon, that Netflix was eviscerating Blockbuster, and that software is also eating much of the value chain of industries in the physical world, such as automobiles and agriculture. To understand the severity of the current shift, one must look back at the skepticism Andreessen was fighting in 2011. Following the trauma of the dotcom crash, he declared that the stock market hated technology. While Apple was trading at a price-to-earnings ratio of just 15.2x amid immense profitability, investors constantly screamed, Bubble! Morgan Stanleys software analysts, led by Keith Weiss, offered a gut check this week in a major research note, arguing that AI is software but also that software is growing so all-consuming that it is indeed starting to eat work itself. Andreessens a16z has a core strategy of investing across enterprise software, including cloud, security, and software-as-a-service (SaaS), but the $1-trillion-plus selloff dubbed the SaaSpocalypse cuts to the very heart of that model. Andreessen looks like he was more right than he knew about software eating the world. Fifteen years later, in February 2026, Andreessens prophecy has been fulfilled in a manner that even the biggest bulls failed to predict. Software did indeed eat retail (Amazon), video (Netflix), music (Spotify), and telecommunications (Skype) just as Andreessen predicted, but the market got a $1 trillion shock in February because something was eating software itself. That something, of course, was artificial intelligence. On Aug. 20, 2011, legendary venture capitalist Marc Andreessen published a blog post and an accompanying essay in the Wall Street Journal that would become the sacred texts of the Silicon Valley bull run. Titled Why Software Is Eating the World, he argued that the global economy was undergoing a dramatic and broad technological and economic shift and that software companies were poised to take over large swaths of the industry. Story Continues While Andreessen saw software disrupting industries, Morgan Stanley sees AI disrupting labor itself. The analysts note that generative AI expands the capabilities of software to contextually understand unstructured data, such as emails, PowerPoints, and verbal communications. This unstructured data represents over 80% of information in organizations today. Previously, software required a human operator to input and manipulate this data. Now, Wall Street fears that software can do it all by itself. Generative AI represents a continuing expansion of what types of work and business processes software can now effectively automate, Weiss wrote, revisiting his teams initial estimate that enterprise softwares total addressable market could grow by $400 billion by 2028. Three risks put that in question, principal among them that as gen AI automates a broader swath of work, the increasing productivity gains will result in a reduction in the number of employees necessary to execute those tasks. If software allows a company to cut its staff by half, it also cuts the number of software subscriptions it needs by half. After software ate the world, then, it appeared to start eating the revenue of its creators by eating the jobs of its users. The do it yourself threat Andreessen predicted in 2011 that software programming tools make it easy to launch new global software-powered startups, viewing this as a boon for entrepreneurs. Today, however, investors are beginning to view this democratized ease of creation as a threat to established software giants. One of the primary fears cited by Morgan Stanley is the rise of do it yourself software. This is colloquially known as vibe coding, where a user will ask the AI to code things in line with a certain vibe that they are going for. As AI code generation tools drastically lower the cost and skill required to write code, there is a growing fear that companies will choose to develop more software themselves rather than paying for expensive third-party vendors. Furthermore, there is the looming threat of model providersthe creators of frontier AI modelsrendering traditional applications obsolete. The fear is that an AI agent could act as an intelligent user interface, pulling together data and tools to automate workflows on the fly. In this scenario, the distinct app disappears, replaced by a single, omniscient model that serves as the operating system for the entire enterprise. Will incumbents strike back? Like other analysts (and several rattled SaaS executives), Morgan Stanley argued that the markets reaction is overblown, echoing Andreessens 2011 sentiment that investors were ignoring intrinsic value right in front of them. The bank suggested that the bear case arguments around gen AI appear to give too little credence to the ability of incumbent software vendors to participate in this innovation cycle. Andreessen once warned that incumbent software companies like Oracle and Microsoft are increasingly threatened with irrelevance. In 2026, however, Morgan Stanley identified Microsoft, alongside Salesforce and ServiceNow, as the best athletes positioned to win. True, Salesforce is in the eye of the storm in terms of workflows expected to be disrupted by gen AI. But Weiss said that incumbents such as Salesforce are successfully pivoting to become fast followers, integrating AI to solidify their moats rather than losing them. For example, Salesforce has seen its AI-related annual recurring revenue surge 114% year over year. Zooming out, Morgan Stanley said it sees a path of innovation that actually looks relatively familiar: a combination of improving productivity; better use of tools to automate functions; and software value predicated on labor displacement. The difference now is the rapid pace of innovation compared with prior cycles and better tools on the market. Consider Amazon Web Services and the shift in the early 2010s toward cloud computing: Even with the 33% pullback for the softwares equity value/sales multiple since October, the group is trading about 15% above its status at the beginning of the cloud era. In a sequel of sorts to Andreessens famous essay, his own firm has released new thought leadership (as it does quite regularly). Steven Sinofsky of a16z dismissed the idea of the death of software earlier this month, arguing that AI changes what we build and who builds it, but not how much needs to be built. We need vastly more software, not less. He offered five predictions, including more software being made with new tools in a vastly more sophisticated way, but also an admission that it is absolutely true that some companies will not make it, and endless invention and reinvention is the way of capitalism. A look back at the Fortune 500 archives show that is undoubtedly the case. In his 2011 essay, Andreessen concluded with optimism, calling the software revolution a profoundly positive story for the American economy. He acknowledged challenges, specifically that many workers in existing industries will be stranded on the wrong side of software-based disruption. That is where things may be scarily different this time. Even if software finds a way to recover its multiple and continue its upward trajectory, analysts are increasingly seeing a future of growing GDP and productivity without nearly as much human labor involved. Michael Pearce of Oxford Economics recently joined a group including Bank of America Research and Goldman Sachs warning that the U.S. economy is nearing a point where it wont need to keep creating new jobs to keep increasing output. Google DeepMinds Nobel-winning cofounder, Demis Hassabis, recently told Fortune editor-in-chief Alyson Shontell that he was excited about the world of radical abundance, even a renaissance ahead, but there will be a 10- to 15-year shakeout until we get there. That could come as the economy figures out what to do with all the labor that software has eaten. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com Switch Advisory, a leading public sector advisory firm, has delivered a high-level Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Appreciation Workshop for members of the Katsina State Executive Council at the Government House, Katsina. The workshop commenced with the arrival of the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umaru Radda, who formally declared the event open and welcomed members of the Executive Council and invited participants. In his opening remarks, Governor Radda emphasised the importance of coordination, leadership and structured engagement in strengthening governance processes within the State. The governor stated that his administration is focused on strengthening Katsina States PPP framework to improve the planning and execution of development projects. He noted that effective PPP arrangements would enhance private sector participation and investment, particularly in priority sectors, while supporting sustainable development outcomes. He further encouraged collaboration among relevant institutions to ensure that PPP processes are well coordinated and effectively implemented. The one-day workshop was designed and facilitated by Switch Advisory, in collaboration with the Katsina Investment Promotion Agency (KIPA), as part of the States ongoing reforms under the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) programme. The first facilitation session, titled Understanding Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), Their Relevance in State Development, and Executive Leadership and Oversight in PPPs, was delivered by Chinonso Aluma, Head of Operations at Switch Advisory. The session strengthened executive-level understanding of PPPs as structured, long-term, performance-based arrangements for delivering public infrastructure and services, with emphasis on governance, strategic alignment and value for money. Participants were guided through the PPP project lifecycle, highlighting the importance of sound project identification, preparation and structuring in achieving effective outcomes. The session also examined PPP frameworks, key success factors and common risks, reinforcing the role of informed executive leadership and disciplined decision-making in aligning PPP projects with state development priorities and fiscal realities. The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Switch Advisory, Mr Folahan Johnson, also commended the Katsina State Government for creating an enabling environment for PPP projects to thrive. He urged other states to toe the same path of development, particularly in priority sectors. The workshop concluded with an interactive session and closing remarks, marking a significant step towards strengthening Katsina States capacity to deliver well-governed, sustainable and bankable PPP projects. In February 2026, African Girl Guide (AGG) marked Valentines Day by reaffirming its commitment to practical, people-centred impact demonstrating how compassion translates into tangible support for girls and young women across Africa. African Girl Guide is the African outreach programme of Paw Salvation, a Chicago-based nonprofit organisation with more than eight years of community impact in the United States. Founded by JINDU Elueze, AGG focuses on empowering the African Girl Child through mentorship, education support, leadership development, career guidance, and dignity preservation, working closely with schools, communities, and local partners. Program Reach and Activities During this reporting period, AGG implemented targeted outreach initiatives in Ghana and Nigeria, designed to address both immediate needs and long-term empowerment. Ghana: Education and Child Welfare Support AGG conducted an outreach for primary school children, providing nutritious meals to support student wellbeing and school attendance. Pupils were also measured for school uniforms, with commitments made to supply uniforms and additional learning materials. These interventions were aimed at reducing barriers to learning and creating a more supportive educational environment for young learners. Nigeria: Youth Leadership and Dignity Preservation On 27 January, AGG engaged with female corps members at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Kubwa, Abuja. The engagement focused on self-worth, leadership development, mentorship, and civic responsibility, encouraging participants to see themselves as active contributors to community and gender equity initiatives. As part of this outreach, sanitary items were distributed, addressing menstrual health needs and reinforcing AGGs commitment to dignity preservation. The initiative resulted in approximately 300 women signing up to join the African Girl Guide movement, committing to advocacy, mentorship, and volunteer engagement. Impact and Outcomes These activities contributed to: Improved access to basic educational and welfare support for primary school children Increased awareness of leadership and mentorship opportunities among young women Expansion of AGGs volunteer and advocacy network Strengthened community engagement across two countries Our work is guided by the belief that empowerment begins with care, consistency, and opportunity, the African Girl Guide team noted. Each outreach represents a step toward creating systems of support that allow girls and young women to thrive. Looking Ahead African Girl Guide will continue to expand its community-based programmes, deepen partnerships, and scale initiatives that support education, dignity, and leadership development for girls across Africa. Donor support remains critical to sustaining and growing these efforts. About African Girl Guide (AGG) African Girl Guide is the African outreach programme of Paw Salvation, dedicated to advancing education, leadership, dignity, and opportunity for African girls through collaborative, community-driven initiatives. Website: www.africangirlguide.org Email: info@africangirlguide. org The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained why the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Labour Party (LP) will not participate in the 21 February bye-election in two constituencies of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Rivers State, Gabriel Yomere, disclosed this on Friday during a meeting with security agencies at INECs office in Port Harcourt, Punch newspaper reported. Mr Yomere said 12 candidates from seven political parties were cleared to contest the election. The nomination forms and the list of candidates that will participate in this election were received by us, and we have also made that public. It is of interest to tell the public that 12 candidates are participating in this election from seven political parties. Out of these 12 candidates, seven are participating in Ahoada East 2 Constituency, and five candidates are participating in Khana 2 Constituency. We have the AA, APC, APN, BP, NNPP, YPP and ZLP. These are the parties that will participate in the elections. Why PDP, ADC, LP were excluded Mr Yomere said the excluded parties failed to meet key requirements, particularly the conduct and documentation of valid primaries. The issue of ADC, they participated in the primaries, but if you look at a clause in the primary, it states that they have to upload results to the INEC portal at headquarters within a given period, and they failed to do that. Thats why they were excluded. Nobody is interested in excluding them. Unfortunately, for the PDP, they said they did not even take part in the primaries. The Labour Party said they had litigation, which is why they were not here. PREMIUM TIMES could not immediately contact the Rivers State PDP chairperson, Aaron Chukwuemeka, for comment, as he did not respond to calls from our reporter. Constituencies for bye-election The bye-election will hold in Ahoada East Constituency 2 and Khana Constituency 2. The Ahoada East seat became vacant after Edison Ehie resigned from the House and was later appointed Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara following the collapse of a political peace deal between Mr Fubara and Nyesom Wike. The Khana Constituency 2 seat became vacant after the lawmaker, Dinebari Loolo, died in September 2023, about four months after being sworn in. Mr Yomere assured residents of a credible election and disclosed that all necessary preparations had been concluded. He said movement of people would be restricted in the affected constituencies on election day, adding that Bi-modal Voter Accreditation System machines had been configured and non-sensitive materials received. He also noted that only regular INEC staff not ad hoc officials would conduct the election. Background: Rivers Assembly crisis The bye-election comes amid prolonged political instability in the Rivers State House of Assembly, which descended into chaos during the power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Mr Wike. READ ALSO: Bauchi first lady visits injured journalists in hospital The Assembly split into two rival factions a majority loyal to Mr Wike and a smaller group backed by Mr Fubara. The crisis paralysed legislative activities for months before the Supreme Court later restored the Mr Wike-backed lawmakers as the legitimate members of the Assembly. The 21 February bye-election is expected to fill the two vacant seats and slightly reshape the balance within the troubled legislature. A decomposing corpse has been left unattended to in a street of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The incident became public after Augustine Akpan, a journalist in Uyo, raised an alarm through a Facebook post on Saturday, 14 February, describing the situation as a public health hazard alert. Mr Akpan said the corpse, lying at Ntiedo Street, off Udo Umana Street, about 200 metres from The Apostolic Church Territorial Headquarters in Uyo, had begun oozing stench into the atmosphere. The corpse had started decomposing suggesting that it has remained there unattended for days, he wrote, calling on relevant government agencies to evacuate it before it constitutes a health risk to residents. When contacted by PREMIUM TIMES, Mr Akpan said the swollen bodys physical appearance suggested it might be that of a mentally ill person. He added that the corpses condition suggested it may have been lying there for over two days. In a comment on the Facebook post, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Health, Ekem John, said relevant officers had been contacted. As soon as documentation with the security agencies are complete, it will be evacuated, he stated. The Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Nsikak Ekong, said he was unaware of the development until contacted by PREMIUM TIMES, but promised immediate action. When citizens see such, they should contact the ministry or health officers in the local government area. We have health officers across the 31 local government areas of the state, he said. The Chairperson of the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency, Prince Ikim, confirmed receiving the report on Saturday afternoon and said steps had been initiated to evacuate the corpse. There are procedures for evacuating corpses. We must inform the police and obtain a letter before evacuation. Without following due process, we risk legal consequences, he said, referencing a previous incident involving a corpse recovered at another street in Uyo. He added that discussions had been held with the health commissioner and environmental officers, and assured that the body would be evacuated before Sunday morning, once the police issue a clearance letter. Mr Ikim called on residents to promptly notify both the agency and the police when they discover unattended corpses to enable an investigation into the cause of death. When contacted, the police spokesperson in Akwa Ibom, Timfon John, requested time to conduct findings before issuing an official response. As of 9 p.m. on Saturday, the agency responsible for evacuating the decomposing was reportedly waiting for police documentation. A fresh oil spill has been reported at the Freetown community in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, South-south Nigeria, after a section of the Trans Niger Pipeline reportedly ruptured late Friday night, discharging crude into surrounding mangrove swamps. Community sources told PREMIUM TIMES that they woke up to see the spill in the early hours of Saturday, 14 February. They said the spill has continued to spread through tidal channels into adjoining water bodies. Residents identified the facility as the Trans Niger Pipeline, formerly operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company, and now under the control of Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, which recently acquired Shells onshore assets in Nigeria. Ekras Kobah, a community member who said he witnessed the incident, described the rupture as severe. Over 100 litres of oil are spilling into the mangrove swamp per hour. The tidal flow is already carrying it into other creeks, Mr Kobah said. The pipe has seriously ruptured, but it is still being used for production at high capacity. From what we can see, it appears to be corrosion. He added that the affected area has suffered repeated oil leaks in the past without full remediation. This is an environment already significantly impacted by previous spills. There has been no proper cleanup, he said. Community members said the incident had been reported to the company, which allegedly assured them that a Joint Investigation Visit would be conducted on Sunday to determine the cause and volume of the spill. However, Augustine Bello, the Port Harcourt Zonal Director of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, told PREMIUM TIMES he was unaware of the incident as it had not been formally reported to the agency as of Saturday afternoon. Under Nigerian law, oil companies must report spills promptly to regulators and initiate containment and cleanup measures. The latest incident occurred amid a history of spills along the Trans Niger Pipeline corridor. In May 2025, multiple spills were reported in communities near Oshika and Ikata in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers, intensifying concerns over the integrity of ageing infrastructure in the Niger Delta. Efforts to obtain comments from Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited were unsuccessful. Calls to the companys official telephone line listed on its website did not connect. An email sent to the company seeking clarification on the cause of the spill, immediate containment steps, long-term pipeline integrity measures, and cleanup and compensation plans had not been answered as of the time of filing this report. Meanwhile, residents of Freetown fear the spill could devastate fishing grounds and further contaminate already fragile mangrove ecosystems if urgent containment measures are not implemented. A Valentine's Day Message from David Jeremiah SAN DIEGO, Feb. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Greeks have multiple words to express loveagape, eros, philautia, philia, storge and xenia, just to name a few. Each of these words convey a different type of love from romantic to familial to an all-encompassing unconditional love. In the English language we don't have nearly as many terms to distinguish one type of love from another. Instead, the word love can cover a multitude of feelings, emotions and behaviors. There is no greater love than God's love for His people. Around the world the word love is translated in different ways. And the emotion is expressed in a variety of customs based on the culture. What does connect love among languages and cultures is that it is a universal human emotion. Every human is born with the innate desire to love and be loved. It's this desire that has made Valentine's Day a major commercial success. According to the National Retail Federation, in 2025 the average amount spent on a person for Valentine's Day was $188.81. People magazine reported that more than 35 million heart-shaped chocolate boxes are sold each year. While its history is long and varied, in modern society Valentine's Day is special for many people. It's an annual tradition to have a special day dedicated to celebrating love. Typically, romantic love, but there are those who use Valentine's Day as an opportunity to show love to everyone in their life. It's also a great opportunity to share the one love that will never be extinguished, a love that supersedes all others, that is unending, unearned and enduringGod's love. There are many Bible verses that expound on God's love (emphasis added) 1 John 4:8 " He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. " He who does not love does not know God, " 1 John 4:16 " And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love , and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him." And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. , and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him." John 3:16 " For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." " that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." Romans 5:8 "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." "But God demonstrates us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Ephesian 2:4-5 "But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us , even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ." "But God, who is rich in mercy, because of , even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ." Psalm 103:8 (NIV) "The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love" (NIV). The entire Bible details God's love for humanity. From cover to cover we can trace His love for His people. Agape love is how it's described by the writers of the New Testament. It's not earned, we can't lose it and it's a love we might not be able to completely understand this side of eternity. But it's available to anyone and everyone. You just have to accept it. When you do, an incredible thing happens, love abounds in you. It's one of the gifts that comes from relationship with Christ. The New Testament writers called this love philiabrotherly love or friendship. It's a love we could use more of in the world today. This Valentine's Day take a moment to thank God for the love He shares with His children and ask Him to increase your capacity to love others and to share and show that love to those around you. Hear Dr. Jeremiah share more about God's love here. Dr. David Jeremiah is a renowned Bible teacher, New York Times bestselling author, and founder/host of Turning Point Broadcast Ministry. With forty years of ministry and "just getting started," his teaching has led to the creation of the ProphecyExplained, PerhapsToday , the IMAGINE campaign, Airship Genesis , PassagesTV, and Why the Nativity? , to name a few. About Turning Point Turning Point Ministries was founded in 1982 as Dr. David Jeremiah's broadcast ministry to deliver the unchanging Word of God to an ever-changing world. More than four decades later, with a multimedia network featuring radio, television, online programming, magazines, and books, Turning Point reaches people around the globe with the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Turning Point is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization wholly supported by patrons and not underwritten by any church or organization. SOURCE Turning Point Ministries The Farm Bill released by the House Agriculture Committee would overturn state farm animal welfare laws, remove protections for dogs in puppy mills, and fail to protect horses from slaughter WASHINGTON, Feb. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) condemned the animal-related provisions in the Farm Bill text released by the U.S. House Agriculture Committee, which would directly impact billions of farm animals, dogs, cats, and horses. The bill includes a dangerous provision that would overturn existing state and local animal welfare laws, with disastrous consequences for farm animals and higher-welfare farmers. The bill will prevent interventions for dogs who are suffering in puppy mills, and despite strong, bipartisan support, it does not include a critical provision that would protect tens of thousands of American horses who are exported for slaughter each year. "The Farm Bill released by the House Agriculture Committee attacks state protections for farm animals, puts dogs in puppy mills at even greater risk, and fails to address the horse slaughter crisis. If passed, it would have disastrous consequences for billions of animals," said Nancy Perry, senior vice president of Government Relations for the ASPCA. "Instead of continuing to prop up systems that perpetuate cruelty to animals, we urge Congress to reject the dangerous language in the House bill and take this critical opportunity to ensure that the final Farm Bill upholds state farm animal protection laws, protects dogs in puppy mills and ends horse slaughter for good." The House Farm Bill includes the following animal-related provisions: Overturns State Farm Animal Welfare Laws: The House bill includes the Save Our Bacon Act (H.R. 4673), a rebranded version of the widely unpopular Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act. This language is an unprecedented overreach of federal power that would eliminate states' ability to regulate agriculture and overturn popular animal protection laws, including bans on cruel farming practices, and prevent states from passing new ones. If passed, this provision would undo years of progress toward building a more humane food system and force a race to the bottom, condemning millions of farm animals to life in a cage, betraying thousands of higher-welfare farmers who have already invested in more humane animal housing systems, and failing American voters and consumers who have no appetite for cruelty. The House bill includes the Save Our Bacon Act (H.R. 4673), a rebranded version of the widely unpopular Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act. This language is an unprecedented overreach of federal power that would eliminate states' ability to regulate agriculture and overturn popular animal protection laws, including bans on cruel farming practices, and prevent states from passing new ones. If passed, this provision would undo years of progress toward building a more humane food system and force a race to the bottom, condemning millions of farm animals to life in a cage, betraying thousands of higher-welfare farmers who have already invested in more humane animal housing systems, and failing American voters and consumers who have no appetite for cruelty. Weakens Protections for Dogs Suffering in Puppy Mills: Instead of strengthening the law for dogs in puppy mills, the House Farm Bill would stand in the way of their rescue. Under the Animal Welfare Act, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has the duty to remove any dogs who are found "suffering." The House Farm Bill, however, makes that much harder by requiring that their suffering be "unrelieved." USDA data reveals that sick and injured animals rarely receive aid under the current standard, so the likelihood of preventing their suffering under this more restrictive standard would be nearly nonexistent. The provision would also make it optional for the agency to intervene when animals are suffering by allowing the USDA to merely consider removing suffering dogs or notify law enforcement that dogs are suffering at a facility. Without the obligation to remove these animals and provide them care, state and local law enforcement and animal control could be left with the full physical and financial responsibility of rescuing and caring for animals, straining already limited resources, delaying critical intervention, and prolonging animal cruelty. Instead of strengthening the law for dogs in puppy mills, the House Farm Bill would stand in the way of their rescue. Under the Animal Welfare Act, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has the duty to remove any dogs who are found "suffering." The House Farm Bill, however, makes that much harder by requiring that their suffering be "unrelieved." USDA data reveals that sick and injured animals rarely receive aid under the current standard, so the likelihood of preventing their suffering under this more restrictive standard would be nearly nonexistent. The provision would also make it optional for the agency to intervene when animals are suffering by allowing the USDA to merely consider removing suffering dogs or notify law enforcement that dogs are suffering at a facility. Without the obligation to remove these animals and provide them care, state and local law enforcement and animal control could be left with the full physical and financial responsibility of rescuing and caring for animals, straining already limited resources, delaying critical intervention, and prolonging animal cruelty. Fails to Include Bipartisan Prohibition on Horse Slaughter: Despite congressional efforts that have effectively blocked the operation of horse slaughterhouses on U.S. soil since 2007, tens of thousands of American horses continue to be shipped to Canadian and Mexican slaughterhouses that supply other countries with horsemeat. The Save America's Forgotten Equines (SAFE) Act (H.R. 1661), cosponsored by more than half of the U.S. House of Representatives, would expand the Dog and Cat Meat Prohibition Act which passed as part of the 2018 Farm Bill to include equines, closing down the horse slaughter pipeline for good. The House's version of the Farm Bill is expected to be voted on by the House Agriculture Committee in the coming weeks. The ASPCA encourages members of the public to contact their U.S. representatives to urge them to pass a more humane Farm Bill that protects animals, people, and the planet. To contact your member of Congress, please visit www.aspca.org/farmbill. About the ASPCA The ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) believes every animal deserves to live free from suffering. For more than 150 years, we've been on the frontlines to save, transform and protect millions of lives in the fight against animal cruelty. As the nation's first and leading animal welfare organization, we assist animals in need through on-the-ground disaster and cruelty interventions, behavioral rehabilitation, animal relocation and placement, legal and legislative advocacy, and the advancement of the sheltering and veterinary communities through research, training and resources. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation with more than 2 million supporters nationwide, our commitment to eliminating animal cruelty is unwavering. For more information visit aspca.org, and follow the ASPCA on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok. SOURCE ASPCA LAS VEGAS, Feb. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Dowinx, a global brand in ergonomic gaming furniture, is redefining long-duration seating through a user-centric design philosophy. By integrating ergonomic structure, advanced material engineering, and functional innovation into its gaming chairs, Dowinx aims to deliver comfort, durability, and performance for both gamers and home office users. User-Driven Design Grounded in Real-World Experience Dowinx says its product development is guided by extensive feedback from a large global user base. This data-informed approach helps ensure each chair delivers reliable ergonomic support for extended sittingsupporting better posture, reducing fatigue, and improving overall comfort over time. One representative user review describes how a Dowinx chair provided stable lumbar support and noticeable pressure relief during eight-hour workdays, improving comfort for users experiencing back discomfort. Dowinx says real-world insights like these continue to guide ongoing ergonomic refinements. Innovative Ergonomic Features Dowinx focuses on three key areas to enhance user comfort: Massage-Focused Support: Select models integrate dynamic lumbar and back massage support to help relieve muscle fatigue caused by prolonged sitting and maintain comfort during extended sessions. Multi-Directional Armrests: Coordinated armrest systems adjust naturally with seat height and recline, ensuring consistent arm and shoulder support while reducing strain as posture changes. Optimized Seat Cushioning: Seat cushions are engineered to distribute pressure more evenly and maintain supportive comforteven after hours of sitting. Patented Engineering and Safety Assurance Dowinx says it has developed proprietary ergonomic solutions, including patented armrest and seat structure designs that enhance coordinated movement and pressure management. All Dowinx gaming chairs are equipped with Class 4 gas lift cylinders, the highest internationally recognized safety grade, ensuring durability, load stability, and user safety. Third-Party Testing and Certifications As the ergonomic furniture market becomes increasingly competitive, independent verification is playing a growing role in how consumers evaluate performance beyond visual design. Several Dowinx gaming chair models have also been independently tested and certified by Germany-based organizations Prufengel and testsieger-online, indicating alignment with applicable criteria for safety, durability, and ergonomic performance. Looking Forward: The Future of Ergonomic Gaming Chairs Dowinx says it will continue refining its designs by combining product data with user feedback. With a focus on practical ergonomics and long-term comfort, the brand aims to support users across gaming, work, and everyday lifeone well-designed chair at a time. About Dowinx Dowinx is a user-focused ergonomic furniture brand dedicated to designing gaming chairs that combine functional engineering, reliable craftsmanship, and long-term comfort. The brand serves professional gamers and home office users globally, emphasizing real-world usability, innovation, and design-driven ergonomics. Official Website: https://dowinx.com/ Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Dowinx/page/976BDFA3-2CAE-4F3B-B5EF-D79AFE8B0079 Follow Dowinx: Instagram: @dowinx_us Facebook: @Dowinx Chair SOURCE Dowinx Utah Sportsmen and Gun Owners Mobilized Through Digital Outreach, Petition Drive, and Video Campaign featuring Donald J. Trump Jr. and Ted Nugent SALT LAKE CITY, Feb. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Hunter Nation, America's leading grassroots hunting advocacy organization, has launched a new digital advocacy campaign featuring Ted Nugent and Donald Trump Jr., mobilizing Utah hunters and Second Amendment advocates who agree that Proposition 4 should be overturned. As part of the campaign, Hunter Nation is on the ground this week in Salt Lake City at the Western Hunting & Conservation Expo, engaging directly with sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts while amplifying its digital outreach efforts statewide. Nugent, who has long championed political activism within the outdoor community, emphasized the urgency of the movement and the importance of hunters standing together to defend their rights and traditions. "We must secure future seasons and freedoms by pushing our fellow hunters to stand up for our belief system," Nugent noted in his advocacy piece The Politics of Deerhunting. "Securing the future of the America we love will determine if our kids and grandkids even have the opportunities to enjoy what we often take for granted." The campaign is not collecting official petition signatures. Instead, it focuses on building a digital coalition of hunters, gun owners, and conservation-minded Utahns who support repealing Prop 4 through education, engagement, and grassroots activation. "As hunters and sportsmen, we understand that once freedoms are taken, they are rarely returned," said Keith Mark, Founder and CEO of Hunter Nation. "Prop 4 represents a dangerous precedent that undermines Utah values, individual rights, and the traditions passed down from generation to generation." Hunter Nation is partnering with a local Second Amendment organization to ensure that supporters who raise their hand through the campaign are connected with the appropriate channels to sign the official petition. When Donald Trump Jr. joined the call to action, he emphasized that the effort is about preventing outside influences and the judiciary from dictating Utah's future: "RINO judges and liberal groups are trying to steal Republican house seats in Utah, and we can't let that happen. We need to repeal Proposition 4 to make map-drawing accountable to Utah voters again and stop radical leftist judges from interfering in our great state." Donald Trump Jr., Digital Campaign Launch The effort centers on peer-to-peer voter education, digital engagement, and multimedia outreach designed to activate Utah's most engaged hunters and 2A advocates. Campaign videos are now live on Hunter Nation's official website and YouTube channel. In addition, Hunter Nation is deploying this message directly to hundreds of thousands of conservative hunters in Utah through MMS peer-to-peer text messaging, maximizing reach among key grassroots audiences across the state. Watch Ted Nugent's Video Message on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OCVs5p7iMGY?si=QoHcnQp0myu2bAu8 Watch Donald Trump Jr.'s Video Message on YouTube: Utah Hunters: Help to Repeal Prop 4 & Stand with Donald Trump Jr & Uncle Ted Call to Action for Utah Hunters Hunter Nation is encouraging Utah hunters and Second Amendment advocates to: Add their name and stand with fellow sportsmen in support of overturning Proposition 4 Share the campaign with friends, family, and members of the hunting and shooting community Stay engaged for updates and opportunities to take action as the repeal effort continues Utahns can learn more about the campaign and get involved by visiting: https://hunternation.org/utah-help-repeal-prop-4-stand-with-ted-nugent/ Hunter Nation is the nation's leading grassroots hunting advocacy organization, fighting to protect Traditional American values, including God, Family, Country, and the U.S. Constitution. With millions of hunters across the country, the organization is committed to ensuring that the voices of America's sportsmen and women are heard at every level of government. About Hunter Nation Hunter Nation is one of America's fastest growing and most influential grassroots hunting policy and Second Amendment advocacy groups, dedicated to protecting the rights of hunters, preserving America's hunting heritage, and promoting the core values of God, Family, Country, the U.S. Constitution, and the hunting lifestyle. SOURCE Hunter Nation Grocery shopping is already tough on your budget, and tariffs have added to the strain. In the past year, the White House raised tariffs on imported goods by about 17%, increasing government revenue but also driving up prices for consumers. Billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban warns that costs could rise further as retailers restock inventory affected by tariffs and even some U.S.-made goods may see price hikes. If you have the space and budget, now may be a smart time to stock up on certain essentials before prices climb higher. 1. Toothpaste One of the items Cuban suggested buying now is toothpaste. According to Crest, toothpaste usually has a shelf life of about two years from the date its manufactured. So, consider how much toothpaste your family is likely to use by then, and think about buying a few tubes to last you for a while. If you know youre going to use it, theres a case for locking in the price now and potentially saving a few dollars. Find Out: Trump Said Hed Lower Grocery Prices on Day 1: See Where They Stand Now Read Next: 6 Things You Must Do When Your Savings Reach $50,000 2. Soap Soap is another item suggested by Cuban. Similar to toothpaste, soap tends to last a few years, though the shelf life varies a bit based on factors such as whether its liquid vs. bar soap. Still, if you know youre going to go through several bottles or bars in the coming year or two, it might make sense to buy those now at current prices. 3. Laundry Detergent Another household product that you might want to stock up on is laundry detergent. If unopened, liquid laundry detergent typically lasts around 12 to 18 months, while opened ones last around six months, according to Gain. Other formats can have different shelf lives, so consider that before stocking up. But in general, this is another product that you can potentially save a few dollars on in the long run since you know youre going to use it in the coming months. 4. Over-the-Counter Medicines You could also try buying over-the-counter medicines now. The expiration dates for these vary widely by product, but its not necessarily a bad idea to buy some common drugs like headache or cold medicine so that youre not only prepared for getting sick, but also possibly sparing your wallet a bit. While pharmaceuticals were exempt from reciprocal tariffs, its unclear exactly what will happen with this sector. Even if some tariffs are avoided, the cost of raw materials could go up for things like packaging. Or over-the-counter medicines could simply get caught up in the same potential price hikes that retailers could put on all items to spread out the impact of tariffs. NEW YORK and NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq., a partner at the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF"), announces that KSF has commenced an investigation into Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. (NYSE: INSP). In August of 2025, contrary to the Company's repeated assurances that it had met all regulatory, technical, and commercial prerequisites for the launch of its Inspire V device, the Company disclosed that the launch faced an "elongated timeframe" due to previously undisclosed issues, including that "many centers did not complete the training, contracting and onboarding criteria required prior to the purchase and implant of Inspire V," "software updates for claims submissions and processing" not taking effect until early July, and that excess inventory caused poor demand. As a result, the Company slashed its 2025 earnings guidance by more than 80%, from $2.20 to $2.30 per share to $0.40 to $0.50 per share. Thereafter, the Company and certain of its executives were sued in a securities class action lawsuit, charging them with failing to disclose material information in violation of federal securities laws, which remains ongoing. KSF's investigation is focusing on whether Inspire's officers and/or directors breached their fiduciary duties to its shareholders or otherwise violated state or federal laws. If you have information that would assist KSF in its investigation, or have been a long-term holder of Inspire shares and would like to discuss your legal rights, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-833-938-0905 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn ([email protected]), or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-insp/ to learn more. About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC KSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. This past year, KSF was ranked by SCAS among the top 10 firms nationally based upon total settlement value. KSF serves a variety of clients, including public and private institutional investors, and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana, Chicago, and a representative office in Luxembourg. TOP 10 Plaintiff Law Firms - According to ISS Securities Class Action Services To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com. Contact: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Lewis Kahn, Managing Partner [email protected] 1-877-515-1850 1100 Poydras St., Suite 960 New Orleans, LA 70163 CONNECT WITH US: Facebook || Instagram || YouTube || TikTok || LinkedIn SOURCE Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC HSINCHU, Feb. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Advanced Semiconductor R&D Center has officially broken ground at the headquarters campus of the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) in Hsinchu. Jointly developed by Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs, the National Development Council, and the National Science and Technology Council, the center is designed to lower verification barriers for small and mid-sized IC design firms and startups, bridging the gap between laboratory research and industrial commercialization. It will also provide a platform for materials and equipment suppliers to validate emerging technologies. By enabling deployment of cutting-edge technologies such as AI chips, silicon photonics, and quantum technologies, the center will further solidify Taiwan's leadership within the global semiconductor ecosystem. The groundbreaking ceremony for the Advanced Semiconductor R&D Center was held at ITRI headquarters in Hsinchu, Taiwan. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2027, the center will deliver three core functions: innovative IC design verification, advanced process development, and localized equipment and material validation. It will house Taiwan's first 12-inch advanced pilot line established by a research institution, complemented by upgraded 8-inch facilities, forming an integrated environment that links chip design, manufacturing, packaging, and testing. Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-hsin noted that Taiwan achieved 8.36% economic growth last year, driven largely by the semiconductor and AI industries, with growth forecasts continuing to trend upward. He emphasized the Ministry's role in supporting SMEs through small-scale, diversified, and specialized chip prototyping. As a key initiative for SMEs and startups, the center provides a one-stop service platform spanning design, manufacturing, packaging, and testing. It will allow equipment and materials suppliers to conduct on-site demonstration and validation, accelerating their integration into global supply chains. Minister Kung expressed his expectation that this R&D center will expedite the development of a resilient, autonomous, and next-generation semiconductor innovation ecosystem in Taiwan. The Advanced Semiconductor R&D Center will provide 2890 nm back-end-of-line process R&D and pilot production services, with the goal of shortening product development cycles by approximately 30%. Supporting frontier technologies including quantum computing, silicon photonics, ASICs, 3D integration, and next-generation memory, this center will help Taiwan build a resilient innovation ecosystem, deepen academic collaboration, and expand the semiconductor talent pipeline. About ITRI The Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) is a world-leading R&D organization dedicated to innovating a better future. Founded in 1973, ITRI has played a vital role in transforming Taiwan's industries from labor-intensive into innovation-driven. Over the years, ITRI has incubated hundreds of startups and spinoffs, including well-known companies such as UMC and TSMC. Headquartered in Taiwan, ITRI also operates offices in the U.S., Germany, the UK, Japan, and Thailand. For more information, please visit https://www.itri.org/eng. SOURCE Industrial Technology Research Institute NEW YORK, Feb. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Why: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds all former stockholders of Smartsheet Inc. (NYSE: SMAR) in connection with the January 2025 sale (the "Merger" or "Buyout") of Smartsheet to affiliates of investment funds managed by affiliates of Blackstone Inc. (collectively "Blackstone"), investment funds managed by Vista Equity Partners Management, LLC ("Vista Equity Partners" or "Vista"), and Platinum Falcon B 2018 RSC Limited, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, which participated as an indirect minority investor in Smartsheet ("Platinum Falcon," and together with Blackstone and Vista, the "Consortium"), of the important February 24, 2026 lead plaintiff deadline. So What: If you are a former Smartsheet stockholder, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. What to do next: To join the Smartsheet class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=49166 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than February 24, 2026. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Why Rosen Law: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved, at that time, the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. Details of the case: The complaint alleges that in connection with Smartsheet's solicitation of stockholder approval of the Buyout, defendants issued and filed with the SEC a false and misleading Schedule 14A Proxy statement, as amended (the "Proxy"). Defendants used the Proxy to intentionally mischaracterize Smartsheet's financial success and performance during and in the context of Smartsheet's sales process. Specifically, defendants deliberately cast Smartsheet's quarterly earnings in a negative light in the Proxy, and emphasized a financial metric that it apparently made up just for the purposes of soliciting approval for the Buyout. Additionally, it was alleged that defendant Mark P. Mader failed to use reasonable care in the fulfillment of his disclosure duties. To join the Smartsheet class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=49166 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 [email protected] www.rosenlegal.com SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A. Far East Gold Ltd (ASX:FEG) earlier this week provided an update on resumed diamond drilling at its Mount Clark West copper-gold project in central Queensland, as well as continued momentum at its flagship Idenburg gold project in Papua, Indonesia. Chief executive officer Shane Menere said drilling had recommenced at Mount Clark West following wet-season interruptions in December and January. The program is targeting a large-scale geophysical anomaly at around 600 metres depth, with the company seeking to test what it believes is a porphyry copper system. Menere emphasised that the project is not a greenfields concept, noting historical drilling intersected 104 metres of copper mineralisation, including 14 metres at 0.23% copper, within altered volcanic rocks. He said these results confirmed the presence of copper mineralisation within a broader hydrothermal system and that improved geophysics and modelling are now guiding deeper drilling toward a potentially higher-grade core. Interview highlights Diamond drilling has resumed at Mount Clark West after wet-season delays Current program targeting a large-scale geophysical anomaly at ~600m depth Historical drilling intersected 104m of copper mineralisation, including 14m at 0.23% copper Exploration model focused on testing for a porphyry copper system Five-year Queensland Government permit extension secured through to 2031 No relinquishment requirement until 2030, providing tenure certainty Assay results represent a near-term catalyst Idenburg Project in Papua positioned as flagship gold asset 540,000oz gold resource at 4.1 g/t from three drill-tested prospects Multiple strong gold intercepts indicate scale and continuity Management highlights extensive Indonesian operating experience Interview Q&A Proactive: Welcome back to Proactive Investors. Im your host, Kerry Stevenson. Today Im joined by Shane Menere, chief executive officer of Far East Gold. The company has six projects across Indonesia and Australia. Theres news regarding the Mount Clark West project in Queensland. Shane, great to see you again. Shane Menere: Thanks very much, Kerry. Great to be back. Mount Clark West is progressing very well. Drilling has recommenced after the wet season. We started late last year and had to pause during December and January due to rainfall in central Queensland. We are now drilling the second hole of our diamond drilling program, targeting a large-scale geophysical feature at around 600 metres depth. Land access has been fully secured, site conditions have stabilised and the program is running smoothly. The objective at Mount Clark West is to properly test what we believe is a porphyry copper system. That means drilling deeper and testing for scale, rather than focusing on shallow, narrow mineralisation as in some historical work. Proactive: Why are you confident there is a copper porphyry system there, given the need for deeper drilling? Menere: This is not just a greenfields speculation. Historical drilling at Mount Clark West intersected 104 metres of copper mineralisation, including 14 metres at 0.23% copper, within altered volcanic host rocks. That confirms copper mineralisation within a broader hydrothermal system. We are now using improved geophysics and modelling to drill deeperup to 600 metresto better understand the system and vector toward the higher-temperature core where copper grades are typically stronger. Proactive: Where exactly is Mount Clark West located? Menere: It is in central Queensland, west of Mackay near the town of Nebo, within the Drummond Basin. The region is known for coal deposits, but it has not been extensively explored for copper. Logistics and support infrastructure are strong, and Queensland is supportive of mining. Proactive: Youve also secured a permit extension from the Queensland Government. Menere: Yes, that is an important development. The permit has been extended for another five years through to 2031, with no relinquishment requirement until 2030. That gives us the certainty and continuity to properly test the system without prematurely surrendering prospective ground. Assays from the current drilling program are the near-term catalyst. Proactive: Turning to gold, can you update us on the Idenburg Project? Menere: Idenburg in Papua, Indonesia, is the flagship gold asset. It is located near several large-scale gold projects. We have reported strong gold intercepts across multiple prospect areas. Importantly, the results indicate scale and continuity rather than isolated hits. We have drill-tested five prospects, with three contributing to a JORC resource of 540,000 ounces at 4.1 grams per tonne. We have also reported long intercepts and solid grades across thicker zones. Proactive: Indonesia can be challenging. How do you address that? Menere: Indonesia requires experience and understanding. I have nearly 20 years experience operating there. The companys chairman, Justin Werner, has built a successful business in Indonesia under a similar modelIndonesian assets listed on the ASX with a large strategic shareholder. We have done it before and intend to do it again with Far East Gold Ltd. Proactive: Thanks for the update. Menere: Thank you. About this content About Emily Jarvie Emily began her career as a political journalist for Australian Community Media in Hobart, Tasmania. After she relocated to Toronto, Canada, she reported on business, legal, and scientific developments in the emerging psychedelics sector before joining Proactive in 2022. She brings a strong journalism background with her work featured in newspapers, magazines, and digital publications across Australia, Europe, and North America, including The Examiner, The Advocate, The Canberra Times, and... Read more About the publisher Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists. Proactive news team spans the worlds key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth. We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors. The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies. Use of technology Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter. Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows. Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation. If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here Mumbai, Feb 13 : Electric two-wheeler company Ola Electric on Friday reported 55.02 per cent decline in its revenue from operations (year-on-year) to Rs 470 crore in Q3 FY26, compared to Rs 1,045 crore in the same period last fiscal. The company's total revenue also saw a significant decline in the December quarter, falling 56.99 per cent year-on-year to Rs 504 crore, compared to Rs 1,172 crore in the same period last year. Ola Electric continues to suffer losses. In the December quarter of FY26, the company reported a loss of Rs 487 crore, compared to Rs 564 crore in the same period last year. The company's losses increased quarter-on-quarter. The company had incurred a loss of Rs 418 crore in the September quarter. The company's expenses declined in the December quarter of FY26. The company's total expenses decreased by 50.76 per cent to Rs 741 crore in the October-December period, compared to Rs 1,505 crore in the same period last year. The significant reason for the decrease in expenses is the lower cost of materials used in production. Material costs in the December quarter of FY26 were Rs 223 crore, a 74 per cent decrease from Rs 867 crore spent in the December quarter of FY25. Ola Electric shares closed at Rs 30.9 on Friday, down 0.26 per cent. During the day, it hit a new 52-week low of Rs 30.41. The stock has delivered a negative return of 51.90 per cent over the past year. Since the beginning of this year, the stock has fallen 17.59 per cent. Ola Electric, which has been facing difficulties, laid off employees last month. It stated that approximately 5 per cent of its employees will be affected as part of this ongoing structural change. The company further stated that it is focused on providing a superior customer experience and building a streamlined organization for long-term, profitable growth. -- Syndicated from IANS Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Image Source: The Office of the Supreme Leader in Iran/Handout via Xinhua via IANS Tehran, Feb 14 : A senior adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said negotiations between Tehran and Washington could advance and protect mutual interests if they are grounded in realism and avoid excessive demands. Ali Shamkhani, secretary of Iran's Defence Council, made the remarks in an interview with Qatar's Al Jazeera, which was published on Friday, while commenting on the renewed indirect nuclear negotiations between his country and the United States, the first round of which was held in Oman on February 6, Xinhua news agency reported. Shamkhani said that refraining from actions and movements that could negatively affect the stability and security of West Asia is a logical and rational path for all sides involved, adding that diplomatic measures in the region are aimed at de-escalating tensions and strengthening political solutions. He stressed that Iran's missile program is among the country's red lines and non-negotiable, warning that Iran will give a "strong, decisive and appropriate" response to any potential adventurism against the country. He said Israel cannot attack Iran without US support, emphasising that Iran's level of military readiness is high, raising the costs of any miscalculation by any side against the country. His remarks came amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington and a US military buildup in the region, despite recent diplomatic efforts. Earlier on Wednesday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that his country would "not yield to excessive demands" on its nuclear programme, after Tehran resumed talks with the United States. He also said Iran was ready for "any verification" of its nuclear programme and insisted it was not seeking an atomic weapon. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed New Delhi, Feb 14 : Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annpurna Devi will lead discussions on the creation of safe, dignified and harassment-free workplaces for women across sectors at a national conference beginning here on Saturday. At the 'National Conference on Safety of Women at Workplace (SHe-Box)', being organised by the Ministry, Minister Annpurna Devi will administer a National Workplace Safety Pledge, according to an official statement. An international roundtable with UN agencies and multilateral institutions on global best practices in workplace safety will also be held, bringing together around 1,500 participants from more than 100 government and private organisations. On the eve of the conference, the Minister highlighted the gains from the SHe-Box portal, launched in 2024, to register online and confidential complaints under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act). In a message on social media, Annpurna Devi said: "The SHe-Box provides an empowering means for women to file complaints of sexual harassment at the workplace securely, confidentially and with confidence." "Safety at the workplace is not a privilege, but the right of every woman. Let us join hands with policymakers, leaders and pioneers of change to participate in the National Conference on Safety of Women at Workplace (SHe-Box) and take a solid step towards building a safe and dignified work environment," she added. The Ministry said the conference is an endeavour to reaffirm the government's commitment to ensuring the creation of safe, dignified and harassment-free workplaces for all women across sectors and to strengthen the implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The discussions are aimed at promoting a positive workplace culture through awareness of POSH rights, enhancing compliance, increasing adoption of SHe-Box, and reinforcing India's leadership in advancing safe and dignified workplaces, the statement said. The conference will include an opening plenary, national and international roundtables, the launch of the SHe-Box logo, a nationwide POSH training video, IEC materials, and access to POSH training available on Karmayogi Bharat for citizens. The Ministry of Women and Child Development launched the SHe-Box portal on August 29, 2024, as a secure, user-friendly and multilingual single-window platform with strict confidentiality. It allows online complaint filing, automatic forwarding to the concerned Internal or Local Committee, and real-time tracking to enhance transparency and accountability in assisting stakeholders for the effective implementation of the POSH Act. Others who will attend the conference include Minister of State for Women and Child Development Savitri Thakur, senior government officials from Central Ministries and Departments and States and UTs, chairpersons and members of Internal Committees and Local Committees, nodal officers, representatives of international organisations, industry leaders and civil society representatives. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Masco Corporation (MAS) is a Michigan-based global manufacturer and distributor of branded home improvement and building products serving residential repair/remodel and new construction markets. Valued at $15.9 billion by market cap, Masco operates a portfolio of industry-leading brands across plumbing fixtures, paints/coatings, and decorative architectural hardware, selling through home centers, wholesalers, contractors, and e-commerce channels worldwide. Shares of this branded home improvement and building products leader have underperformed the broader market over the past year. MAS has surged 1.1% over this time frame, while the broader S&P 500 Index ($SPX) has rallied nearly 12.9%. However, in 2026, MAS stock is up 22.2%, compared to the SPXs marginal fall on a YTD basis. More News from Barchart Narrowing the focus, MAS underperformance is also apparent compared to the State Street SPDR S&P Homebuilders ETF (XHB). The exchange-traded fund has soared 13.6% over the past year. www.barchart.com On Feb. 10, Masco released its fiscal 2025 Q4 earnings, and its shares rose 8.7%. It reported net sales of $1.79 billion, down 2% year over year with adjusted EPS dropping 8% from the year-ago quarter to $0.82. Profitability declined as adjusted operating profit fell to $259 million and adjusted operating margin to 14.4%. Looking ahead, the company expects its adjusted EPS to be in the range of $4.10 to $4.30. For the current fiscal year, ending in December, analysts expect MAS EPS to rise 6.1% to $4.20 on a diluted basis. The companys earnings surprise history is mixed. It beat the consensus estimate in two of the last four quarters while missing the forecast on two other occasions. Among the 22 analysts covering MAS stock, the consensus is a Moderate Buy. Thats based on six Strong Buy ratings, 15 Holds, and one Moderate Sell. www.barchart.com This configuration is bullish than two months ago, with five analysts suggesting a Strong Buy. On Feb. 13, Citigroup analyst Anthony Pettinari maintained a Neutral rating on Masco but raised the price target to $84 from $71, signaling a more constructive outlook on the stocks valuation and earnings trajectory. Masco currently trades above its mean price target of $74.78, and its Street-high price target of $85 suggests an ambitious upside potential of 9.6%. On the date of publication, Kritika Sarmah did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com Guwahati, Feb 14 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Assam on Saturday for a packed schedule that includes the inauguration and launch of key infrastructure, education, and mobility projects across the state.a In a post on X, the Prime Minister said he would land at 10.30 a.m. at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on the Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh, describing it as the first such facility in the Northeast. He said the ELF would be vital for emergency response, enabling the timely deployment of rescue and relief operations during challenging situations. Later in the afternoon, PM Modi will inaugurate and dedicate multiple development works at Lachit Ghat in Guwahati. A major highlight of the visit will be the inauguration of the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu across the Brahmaputra River, which is expected to significantly improve connectivity for residents of Guwahati and nearby areas and support economic growth. The Prime Minister said other important projects to be launched include a National Data Centre for the North Eastern Region, aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure, and the introduction of 225 electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme. The electric buses are expected to modernise urban transport while promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility. Calling it a moment of "immense joy" for the Northeast, PM Modi said the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Guwahati will be inaugurated during the visit. He said the institute would further strengthen the region's educational infrastructure and attract students from across the country, enhancing Assam's profile as a centre for higher education. In the latter part of the day, the Prime Minister will address BJP karyakartas in Guwahati. Referring to the mandate given to the BJP-NDA alliance a decade ago, PM Modi said the government in Assam has worked tirelessly to fulfil the people's aspirations. Expressing confidence ahead of the elections, PM Modi said he was hopeful that the people of Assam would once again bless the BJP-NDA alliance. -- Syndicated from IANS Los Angeles, Feb 14 : At least three people were killed in a plane crash in Steamboat Springs, US state of Colorado, according to a preliminary report from the Federal Aviation Administration. The US National Transportation Safety Board said on X that it is investigating the crash of an Epic Aircraft E1000, a single-engine, six-seat turboprop light aircraft, Xinhua news agency reported. The aircraft crashed on Friday near Emerald Mountain at about 12:20 a.m. local time under unknown circumstances, local media reported. The Routt County Sheriff Doug Sherar said the coroner was working to identify the victims and notify their next of kin. Earlier in separate incident, seven people were killed after a small jet crashed at a regional airport in Statesville, US state of North Carolina, police said. According to the police, among those killed in the crash were former NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) driver Greg Biffle, his wife and two children. The Cessna C550 jet crashed on Thursday, at around 10:20 a.m. Eastern Time while landing at the airport and triggered a large fire, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said. According to flight-tracking website FlightAware, the plane took off from the airport shortly after 10 a.m. but then returned and attempted to land there. Video footage showed first responders rushing onto the runway as scattered wreckage from the plane was engulfed in fire. John Ferguson, Statesville Regional Airport manager, told reporters then that the FAA was taking over the crash scene. "The airport now is closed until further notice. It will take some time to get the debris off the runway, to get it safe again," he said. New York, Feb 14 : Nikhil Gupta dramatically admitting in a federal court here that he participated in a murder-for hire plot ends the trial against him without testimony from witnesses or the trove of what the prosecutors assert were evidence against him being aired in court. Gupta, who was accused of plotting against a Khalistani leader, pleaded guilty on Friday to three charges against him -- murder-for-hire, and conspiracies to commit that crime and launder money. This was a reversal from the stand he took in court in 2024, when he had said that he was not guilty. Without a trial at which prosecutors present evidence and call up witnesses, which the defence lawyers try to break and present their own side, the case will now go straight to sentencing. The target of the plot is believed to be Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, although the prosecution has only said that it was "a US citizen of Indian origin" who "is a vocal critic of the Indian government and leads a US-based organisation that advocates for the secession of Punjab" and the creation of a "Sikh sovereign state called Khalistan". Gupta made the admission of guilt before Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn in a fast-moving development in the case, rather than before Judge Victor Marrero, who is presiding over the case. Magistrate judges do not preside over trials and handle other matters relating to cases, and, therefore, the final disposal of the case with sentencing will go back to Marrero. The proceedings were held in a small side courtroom and not in the main courtroom where Marrero had presided over the proceedings. Gupta is being held in the notorious Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, where Venezuela's former President Nicolas Maduro is also being held. He was brought from there to the federal court near Wall Street in Manhattan. He was dressed in the tan jail uniform and was unshackled by US Marshal before ushering him into the court through a side door. Khalistanis filled the spectator section of the courtroom. Netburn asked Gupta, "How do you plead to the three counts [or charges]"? He replied, "Guilty". The magistrate judge then asked him, "Tell me what you did"? Gupta, explaining his guilty plea, said, "In the Spring in 2023, I agreed with another person to murder a person in the US. I delivered $15,000 in cash by phone to a person in the US". Before accepting the guilty pleas, Netburn turned to the prosecutors and asked what evidence they had. One of the assistant federal prosecutors said, "Testimony from a confidential source, an undercover officer who operated as the would-be hitman" and "WhatsApp and text messages, bank records, video of the cash payment made to the undercover agent". Marrero is expected to sentence Gupta on May 29, when he could face maximum penalties of ten years in prison for each of the two murder-for-hire charges, and 20 years for the money laundering charge, according to prosecutors. In most cases where the accused plead guilty, they get lower sentences. In Gupta's case, there was no agreement on a deal for lesser punishment as the prosecutors gave the court a letter outlining the maximum penalties prescribed under the law, and he was made aware of it. The prosecutors said in October that they offered Gupta a plea deal, which lapsed when he did not follow through. Prosecutors accuse Gupta of working with Vikash Yadav, a former Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) commandant seconded to the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). Prosecutors declared him a co-defendant of Gupta, and Yadav, who is in India out of the reach of US authorities who have filed charges against him here. The Indian government has denied any involvement in the case and has charged Yadav in 2023 in an unrelated case with extortion and abduction of a businessperson in India. That case is pending, and in August a Delhi court issued a nonbailable warrant for his arrest. US officials described Gupta as an "international narcotics and weapons trafficker" who, allegedly, entered the plot to gain leniency from Indian law enforcement. The US prosecutors allege that Yadav recruited Gupta to orchestrate the murder-for-hire plot, and Gupta approached a person he thought was a criminal to find a hitman. But the person was in fact a confidential source or informant working with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). The informant introduced Gupta to an undercover DEA officer telling him that officer was a hitman for hire. Prosecutors said Gupta agreed in June 2023 to pay the undercover officer $100,000 to carry out the murder. Yadav and Gupta, prosecutors said, arranged for an associate to give the officer $15,000 as an advance. The transaction, as well as other interactions between those involved in the plot, were recorded, the prosecutors said, and introduced visuals in the chargesheet. Gupta was arrested in the Czech Republic and was extradited to the US in June 2024. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Seoul, Feb 14 : Exports by South Korea's 10 largest companies accounted for nearly 40 per cent of all outbound shipments last year, reaching a record high, largely driven by strong semiconductor sales, government data showed on Saturday. In 2025, outbound shipments by the top 10 exporters accounted for 39 per cent of the country's total exports, up 2.4 percentage points from a year earlier, according to the data by the Ministry of Data and Statistics, reports Yonhap news agency. "The concentration level is the highest on record, with increased semiconductor shipments having the largest impact," said Jung Kyu-seong, a ministry official. Outbound shipments from the country's two major chipmakers -- Samsung Electronics Co. and SK hynix Inc. -- helped drive overall export growth amid artificial intelligence (AI) upcycle. The top 100 companies accounted for 67.1 per cent of exports in 2025, up 0.4 percentage point from the previous year, the ministry said. Meanwhile, exports of information and communication technology (ICT) products jumped 78 per cent in January from a year earlier, backed by global demand over artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure projects, data showed Thursday. Outbound shipments of ICT products reached US$29 billion, compared with $16.2 billion tallied a year earlier, according to data compiled by the Ministry of Science and ICT. It marks the highest export volume for any January. Imports moved up 20 per cent to $14 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $14.9 billion. The ministry attributed the sharp growth to the rapidly expanding global AI industry, which led to stronger demand for high-performance ICT products. Exports of semiconductor products more than doubled on-year in January to $20.5 billion, buoyed by higher global memory prices and steady demand for premium products, such as high bandwidth memory (HBM) chips. Outbound shipments of displays gained 19 per cent over the period to $1.5 billion, led by organic light-emitting diode (OLED) products, the data showed. a"IANS na/ Washington, Feb 14 : Nikhil Gupta stood in a Manhattan federal courtroom and admitted that he agreed in 2023 to pay $15,000 to have a Sikh separatist leader in New York murdered - a plea that now exposes him to a potential 40 years in a U.S. federal prison. Washington, Feb 14 (IANS) Nikhil Gupta stood in a Manhattan federal courtroom and admitted that he agreed in 2023 to pay $15,000 to have a Sikh separatist leader in New York murdered a plea that now exposes him to a potential 40 years in a U.S. federal prison. Appearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn in the Southern District of New York, the 54-year-old Indian national pleaded guilty to three charges: Conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, murder-for-hire, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. "In the spring of 2023, I agreed with another person to have another individual to murder a person in the United States," Gupta said under oath. He further admitted that he "had delivered $15,000 in cash via cellular phone to another individual in the United States". During questioning, Gupta confirmed that he knew the intended victim was in New York "In Queens especially," he told the court and that the person who received payment was in Manhattan. Judge Netburn recommended that District Judge Victor Marrero accept the plea, and the district court subsequently issued an order accepting it. Sentencing has been scheduled for May 29, 2026. Under federal law, Gupta faces statutory maximum penalties of 10 years each for conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire and for murder-for-hire, and up to 20 years for conspiracy to commit money laundering a combined maximum exposure of 40 years. However, federal sentencing does not automatically default to statutory maximums. Instead, courts rely on the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines to determine a recommended range before considering broader statutory factors. In a Pimentel letter submitted before the plea, prosecutors calculated Gupta's advisory Guidelines range at 235 to 293 months, or approximately 19 to 24 years in prison. That calculation was based on the offense level applicable to solicitation of murder, enhanced because money was offered in exchange for the killing. Prosecutors also added a two-level obstruction enhancement tied to what they described as materially false statements in a prior sworn declaration, while noting that Gupta could receive credit for acceptance of responsibility. The court made clear during the plea hearing that these Guidelines calculations are advisory and that the final sentence will be determined by Judge Marrero after reviewing a Presentence Investigation Report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office. Under federal law, the sentencing judge must weigh factors including the seriousness of the offense, deterrence, protection of the public, and the need to avoid unwarranted disparities. Prosecutors stated that had the case gone to trial, they would have presented testimony from a confidential source who was solicited to arrange the killing, testimony from an undercover officer posing as a hitman, recorded WhatsApp messages and calls, cellphone evidence, and video of the $15,000 payment made in New York. The indictment alleged that Gupta worked with others to orchestrate the assassination of a New York-based Sikh political activist advocating for Khalistan. Gupta confirmed in court that he is a citizen of India and acknowledged that his guilty plea will likely result in removal from the United States. The government's sentencing letter notes that removal is presumptively mandatory under federal immigration law. By pleading guilty, Gupta avoided what would have been a diplomatically sensitive trial in Manhattan federal court involving allegations of foreign-directed violence on American soil. The question that now remains is not whether he is guilty that has been admitted but how long he will spend behind bars. Sentencing on May 29 will determine that outcome. Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 14 : The Travancore Devaswom Board on Saturday rejected allegations of financial irregularities in the conduct of the Global Ayyappa Meet held at Pamba in September last year, even as the Kerala High Court earlier this week came down heavily on lapses in financial accountability linked to the event. In a detailed statement, the Board termed recent media reports "baseless and misleading", particularly claims that public funds were used to purchase a bed for Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. It clarified that neither the audit report nor the submission made by the Special Commissioner before the High Court mentioned any such expenditure. The allocation of Rs 3.83 lakh under the head 'Furniture and Miscellaneous Items for Existing Office Complex and Guest House' was part of routine renovation works at the Pamba guest house used by visiting dignitaries, including Union Ministers and judges, the Board said. The High Court had expressed serious concern over procedural and accounting discrepancies in the conduct of the meet, directing that the accounts be examined and placed before the Special Commissioner. The Board acknowledged that certain inconsistencies had crept into the Chartered Accountant's report, attributing them to the need to meet the court's deadline before a fuller verification process. On the controversy surrounding payments for a 'bhajan' performance, the Board said Rs 8 lakh was paid to a music troupe led by Ishan Dev, involving over 35 artistes and technicians. It denied that any payment was made to 'Nandagovindam Bhajans', stating that the reference in the audit report arose from an inadvertent error in documentation submitted by the event management agency. The Board also detailed the financial structure of the event, stating that Rs 5 crore from the 2025a"26 budget was temporarily placed in a special account to ensure smooth conduct pending sponsorship inflows. Of this, Rs 3 crore was paid as advance to the Indian Institute of Infrastructure and Construction (IIIC), the appointed event management agency. Sponsorship of Rs 3 crore received from Dhanalakshmi Bank and Kerala Bank has since been credited back to the Boardas general fund, it said. Dismissing allegations of inflated food bills, the Board maintained that meals were served to devotees, workers and guests without discrimination, often exceeding initial estimates. With judicial scrutiny ongoing, the controversy has intensified debate over transparency in managing large-scale religious events tied to the globally renowned Sabarimala pilgrimage. Trying his best to defend the Pinarayi Vijayan government, CPI(M) state secretary M. V. Govindan said all what is being heard are mere estimates and not actuals. However, questions are being asked about the audit report. This issue has now snowballed into a major goof up of the Board and the Devasom Ministry headed by State Minister V.N.Vasavan, who has been putting it on the Board and his stock statement has been, the Board is an autonomous institution. Veteran Congress leader K. Muraleedharan said things have reached a stage that the only thing that now remains in Sabarimala is Lord Ayyappa's idol. "The state government says the meet was conducted by the Board but how come the State Protocol officer booked rooms at distant places in Munnar and Kumarakom for the invited guests, when the event was held at Pamba. Vasavan has to resign for this loot," said Muraleedharan. Berlin, Feb 14 : Shafi Burfat, Chairman of the Jeay Sindh Muttahida Mahaz (JSMM), condemned Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir's presence at global security forums across Europe, calling it an insult to the communities facing "repression and occupation" within the South Asian nation. Berlin, Feb 14 (IANS) Shafi Burfat, Chairman of the Jeay Sindh Muttahida Mahaz (JSMM), condemned Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir's presence at global security forums across Europe, calling it an insult to the communities facing "repression and occupation" within the South Asian nation. The Sindhi leader highlighted that Munir has effectively placed Pakistani politics, the judiciary, business, and media under the "shadow of military boots", and therefore cannot credibly represent peace. "His presence at global security forums in civilised societies such as Germany and across Europe is an insult to the historical nations that endure repression and occupation within Pakistan. It is tantamount to rubbing salt into the wounds of oppressed peoples," Burfat said. "The so-called self-styled Field Marshal and corrupt Army Chief of the unnatural state of Pakistan, Asim Munir, is deeply implicated in the systematic persecution, enforced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings of forcibly subjugated nations within Pakistan, including the Sindhis, Baloch, and Pashtuns," Burfat posted on X. "Political activists are abducted, subjected to brutal torture, and their mutilated bodies are discarded as instruments of fear. Gross violations of human rights continue under his command. The same military establishment that has fostered religious extremism and terrorism across the region now seeks legitimacy on international platforms," he added. In a letter to the global community, including the United Nations, European Union and international human rights organisations, Burfat raised moral objections to the inclusion of Pakistan's military leadership at the Munich Security Conference, scheduled from February 13-15. The invitation to the terror state Pakistan and to Munir, whose record "reflects brutality, corruption, and an authoritarian mindset", to participate in the Munich Security Conference constitutes a matter of "serious concern, deep sorrow, and grave alarm," the Sindhi leader wrote. "Such a decision necessitates careful and principled reflection by the Conference's organising body and by all responsible international stakeholders associated with this global forum," he stressed. Burfat called on the European nations, warning that hosting Munir, accused of "sponsoring extremism and overseeing systematic repression", undermines the very principles of human rights, justice, and international law that Europe claims to uphold. "Granting him a platform at global forums contradicts the global commitment to peace, democratic values, and human dignity," he stated. Citing numerous human rights organisations, the Sindhi leader stated that enforced disappearances, alleged secret detentions and the discovery of mutilated bodies of political activists have intensified fears among affected communities across Pakistan. Burfat highlighted that entire regions, including Sindh, Balochistan, and others, continue to report grievances related to political repression, cultural marginalisation, and economic exclusion. He emphasised that Pakistan's sheltering of Osama bin Laden significantly damaged the country's international credibility and raised global concerns regarding counterterrorism commitments. "This episode remains a central reference point in debates about Pakistan's security policies and international responsibilities. In light of this historical and political record, it is deeply troubling to many observers that Pakistan's military leadership is being invited to a forum dedicated to global peace and security," Burfat noted. Burfat stated that the Munich Security Conference, which seeks to uphold human dignity and democratic values, must carefully consider the implications of Islamabad's participation in light of the ongoing human rights abuses by Pakistani forces. --IANS scor/sd/ Kolkata, Feb 14 : In a gruesome incident in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district, a 36-year-old man was allegedly murdered, his body dismembered, and dumped in a canal after he was called to submit documents related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Police said on Saturday that a Booth Level Officer (BLO) and another individual have been arrested in connection with the crime, which took place in Baduria. Parts of the victim's body were recovered Friday night from a canal following interrogation of the accused and extensive search operations. However, the victim's head is yet to be found. The deceased youth has been identified as Nasir Ali (36), a resident of Papila in Baduria. According to the police, the arrested BLO has been identified as Rizwan Hasan Mandal alias Montu. He is the BLO of booth number 22 in Papila of the Baduria area. Another accused, Sagar Gain, has also been taken into custody. Nasir had been missing since the evening of February 9. His family said he received a phone call that evening from a person who introduced himself as an Assistant Returning Officer (ARO), asking him to meet the BLO urgently with photocopies of his Aadhaar and voter identity cards for SIR-related purposes. After receiving the call, Nasir left home but did not return. When family members tried contacting him, his phone was found switched off. A missing person complaint was subsequently lodged at the Baduria police station. The following day, Nasir's motorcycle and shoes were recovered from a canal in the Chatra area, but there was no trace of him. As the investigation progressed, police arrested Rizwan and Sagar Gain. Both were produced before the Basirhat Sub-Divisional Court, which remanded them to five days of police custody. During interrogation, police conducted searches under various bridges and along canals in the Baduria area, leading to the recovery of Nasir's body parts packed in three separate bags from a canal. The motive behind the brutal murder is yet to be ascertained. Nasir's wife, Beauty Khatun Bibi, told local reporters that her husband had no known enmity with anyone. "Rizwan was my husband's friend. I knew him as a friend of my husband. I want strict punishment for those who subjected him to such brutal torture," she said. Police said further investigation is underway to determine the motive and recover the remaining body parts. Mumbai, Feb 14 : Actress Amrita Rao on Saturday, paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary actress Madhubala on her birth anniversary by recreating her iconic song 'Aaiye Meherbaan' from the 1958 classic "Howrah Bridge" at the historic Howrah Bridge in Kolkata. Mumbai, Feb 14 (IANS) Actress Amrita Rao on Saturday, paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary actress Madhubala on her birth anniversary by recreating her iconic song 'Aaiye Meherbaan' from the 1958 classic "Howrah Bridge" at the historic Howrah Bridge in Kolkata. Taking to her social media account, Amrita shared a monochrome video of herself enacting the classic number that was originally picturised on the legendary Madhubala. Capturing the old-world charm, the actress attempted to relive the magic of the screen legend against the backdrop of the iconic bridge. Sharing the video clip on her social media account, she wrote,"MADHUBALA REBORN Her BIRTH ANNIVERSARY TODAY !!!! The One Who Stole & Continues to steal many hearts was indeed born on 14th Feb a day the World Chose to Celebrate L O V E!" She added, "I'm at Howrah bridge Kolkata .. recreating the wonderful song from the movie Howrah Bridge released in 1958.. Her Adaayen inspired many leading ladies including Me !!" Talking about the iconic song "Aaiye Meherbaan" from "Howrah Bridge" remains one of Madhubala's most celebrated performances, and a chartbuster even after decades of its release. Madhubala, who is known as the 'Venus of Indian Cinema,' made her acting debut as a child artiste in the 1942 film 'Basant.' She rose to fame with superhit films such as "Mahal," "Mr. & Mrs. '55," "Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi," "Howrah Bridge," and the magnum opus "Mughal-e-Azam." Her final film was "Jwala," that released posthumously in 1971. For the uninitiated, the actress passed away at the young age of 36 in 1969 due to a prolonged heart ailment. Talking about Amrita Rao, the actress made her Bollywood debut with "Ab Ke Baras" in 2002 and gained widespread recognition with hits like "Ishq Vishk," "Vivah," "Main Hoon Na," and "Welcome to Sajjanpur." She was last seen in the 2019 film "Thackeray," where she portrayed Meena Tai Thackeray. The actress is also active on social media, often sharing glimpses of her personal life and revisiting nostalgic moments from her career. IANS rd/ New Delhi, Feb 14 : Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the Centre over the trade agreement with the United States, alleging that the deal would "destroy" India's textile industry as well as its cotton farmers. In a video message shared on X, Gandhi claimed that millions of livelihoods are at stake. "India's textile sector employs 50 million families. Narendra Modi's US deal has destroyed India's textile sector. Narendra Modi knows this, the whole of India knows this," he said. The Congress leader argued that the tariff structure under the agreement placed India at a disadvantage compared to Bangladesh. "I explained in the Parliament House that Bangladesh gets a free pass, 0 per cent tax, and India gets 18 per cent tax. The result of this will be that Bangladesh's textile industry will destroy India's textile industry," he said. Gandhi further referred to remarks made by a Union Minister suggesting that importing US cotton could bring comparable benefits. Rejecting that argument, he said, "One of Narendra Modi's ministers said that if we also import US cotton, we will also get the same benefits. But the truth is that our cotton goes to Bangladesh. Our cotton runs India's textile mills. So if we choose the Bangladesh route, our entire cotton farmers and the cotton industry will be destroyed. And if we don't choose, our textile industry will be destroyed. That's the truth. Piyush Goyal shouldn't lie. That's why I call it surrender, because this deal will either kill the cotton farmer, kill the textile industry, or destroy both." He also alleged that the government had failed to anticipate potential shifts in Bangladesh's sourcing strategy. "And now, their Minister does not even know that Bangladesh will stop cotton imports from India and start buying it from the US. This is Narendra Modi's US deal," Gandhi added. Describing cotton cultivation and textile manufacturing as the "backbone of livelihoods" in the country, Gandhi said weakening these sectors would have far-reaching consequences. "Damaging these sectors means pushing millions of families into unemployment and economic crisis," he asserted. He contrasted the current agreement with what he described as a more responsible approach. "A visionary and nationally minded government would have struck a deal that would protect the interests and ensure prosperity for both cotton farmers and textile exporters. But in sharp contrast, Narendra 'Surrender' Modi and his ministers have struck a deal that could prove to be deeply damaging to both sectors," he said. Gandhi's remarks drew a swift response from BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who accused the Congress leader of spreading misinformation and challenged him to a public debate on the issue. Dubey questioned what he termed the "actual need and scale" of US cotton imports for India's textile industry, India's domestic cotton production in comparison with imports, the prevailing condition of Indian cotton farmers and textile mills, and alleged links between Gandhi's narrative and "naxalite movements" supported by external figures such as George Soros. "Cotton farming, how much is needed for textiles, and how much production. Condition of textile mills and Rahul Gandhi's Naxalite movement with Soros. What a big lie I challenge you to debate on any forum," Dubey posted on X, directly addressing the Leader of Opposition. The challenge comes amid heightened political tensions, including Dubey's recent substantive motion in Lok Sabha seeking Rahul Gandhi's disqualification over broader allegations of unethical conduct and anti-national links. Dubey referenced the 1978 precedent where a similar motion led to Indira Gandhi's expulsion from Parliament. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed A new car now averages over $50,000, according to Kelley Blue Book (KBB), making it challenging to afford a new model on an annual income of that amount. To avoid stretching your budget too thin, its important to consider all the costs that come with owning a car not just the sticker price. All car-related expenses monthly payments, insurance, gas and maintenance should stay within 10% to 15% of your income, according to Danny Ray, founder of PinnacleQuote. A lot of people just look at the monthly car payment and think, I can swing that, but forget all the other expenses that add up fast, he explained. For a $50,000 salary, that means budgeting $400 to $600 per month for total car costs, Ray said who advised choosing a used or budget-friendly model to stay within that range. However, there are 2026 options that wont break the bank. Here are the top cars to consider according to car experts, that balance affordability, reliability and overall value. Kia K4 Starting price: $22,290 The 2026 Kia K4 is cost-effective while offering up-to-date technology features including a digital assistant, advanced driver-assistance systems, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and more, per KBB. Its award-winning attributes, such as being the best compact car for the money, add to its value, said Rob Dillan, automotive expert and founder of EVhype. Discover Next: 3 Car Models Expected To Plummet in Value in 2026 and 3 To Buy Instead Trending Now: 6 Safe Accounts Proven To Grow Your Money Up To 13x Faster Nissan Sentra Starting price: $22,600 The 2026 Nissan Sentra features a fresh look and is considered one of the most budget-friendly cars, according to Car and Driver. With Nissans reputation for reliability, fuel economy and its drive-easy factor, the 2026 Nissan Sentra completes this affordable package, Dillan said. Hyundai Elantra Starting price: $22,625 Despite its compact size, the Elantra offers a roomy cabin and generous rear legroom, making it comfortable for passengers and practical for everyday use. Plus, it offers better tech features than the Honda Civic, according to MotorTrend a selling point for many. The 2026 Hyundai Elantra helps to lower the price by offering fuel-efficient driving and a lower fuel economy, Dillan explained. Toyota Corolla Starting price: $22,925 Known for its dependability, the 2026 Corolla blends practicality, efficiency and affordability, making it a smart choice for everyday driving and long-term ownership. Its a great option thats cost-effective, Dillan said. February 14 : Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said in the Assembly that the colonial era turned the farmer from a producer into a consumer, and later the Congress and SP governments committed the sin of turning the same farmer into a debtor. He said that the artisan who had an entrepreneur within him was made disappointed and forced into migration. The trader who was a bridge connecting the country from north to south and east to west was pushed into fear and disorder. As a result, a situation of despair, farmers distress, and closure of MSMEs was created in the state. The Chief Minister said that in the last eight to nine years, the state has completely changed this scenario. A clear agricultural policy reversed the circumstances. Earlier, the cost was high and production was low, and middlemen dominated. Today, the cost is low, production is high, and the full benefit of the produce is being given directly to farmers through DBT. He said, In this journey of development, Uttar Pradesh has once again placed the food provider at the center and has accelerated the agricultural economy at double speed. The Chief Minister said, The economy of Uttar Pradesh has now reached new heights, where once the states GSDP was 13 lakh crore rupees, today it has reached the historic level of 36 lakh crore rupees. Uttar Pradeshs share in the countrys total GDP is continuously increasing. The state has also achieved remarkable success in bringing the fiscal deficit below 3 percent, which is proof of effective control over tax evasion and revenue leakage. He informed that in the last nine years, the development of the state has been accelerated without imposing any new tax. Responding to the allegations made by the Leader of Opposition, the Chief Minister said that India is a country built on the creativity of farmers and artisans. This tradition of Gram Swaraj has always been our identity. The colonial era forced our productive farmers to become consumers, and later the previous governments drowned them in debt. He clearly said, The Congress and Samajwadi Party governments committed the sin of turning the food provider into a debtor, while pushing artisans and entrepreneurs into the darkness of despair. At that time, there was an environment of migration, unemployment, and decline of MSMEs in the state, and investor perception was completely negative. The Chief Minister added, the work done in the interest of farmers in the last eight to nine years has been unprecedented. As a result of a clear agricultural policy, the food provider has benefited from higher production at lower cost. By removing middlemen, the full value of farmers produce is being made available directly into their bank accounts through DBT. Special emphasis has been laid on improving the quality of agricultural products. As a result, today Uttar Pradesh is first in the country in foodgrain production, is leading in milk production, and has reached double capacity in sugarcane production. He informed, Around 16 lakh destitute cattle are being protected in the state and Uttar Pradesh is the first state in the country to provide assistance of 1500 rupees per cattle per month. Today, 55 percent of the countrys total sugarcane production comes from Uttar Pradesh. From 2000 to 2017, only 2.14 thousand crore rupees of sugarcane price payment was made, whereas in the last eight and a half years, more than 3 lakh 05 thousand crore rupees have been sent directly to farmers accounts-meaning in half the time, farmers received more than 90,000 crore rupees additional amount. The Chief Minister said, Today 122 sugar mills are operating in the state and farmers are being paid 400 rupees per quintal as sugarcane price. Ethanol production has increased from 41 crore liters to 182 crore liters, in which Uttar Pradesh is also first in the country. Today, sugar mills are no longer a loss-making sector, but have become a profitable industry. The sugar mills of Chhata and Baghpat are being developed as integrated complexes. There are 89 agricultural science centers operating in the state. Through expressways and logistics, priority is being given to connecting farmers produce to national and international markets. Extensive work is being done on agricultural value chain, storage, processing, and value addition. The Chief Minister informed that under the resolve of Har Khet Ko Pani, the irrigation system has been strengthened through canals, pipelines, and micro-irrigation. The states 31 major irrigation projects have been completed. Free electricity has been provided to private tubewells and effective arrangements have also been made for diesel-operated tubewells. He informed that Mahatma Buddha Agriculture University and Chaudhary Charan Singh Seed Park in Lucknow will give a new direction to agricultural development in the state. Through the e-KCC portal, the process of Kisan Credit Card has been simplified and the facility of completion in five minutes has been made available. Mentioning the One District One Product scheme, the Chief Minister said that ODOP has played an important role in providing international markets to the products of artisans, craftsmen, and farmers. Through marketing, packaging, and branding, the MSME sector is realizing the concept of local-to-global, which is directly benefiting farmers and rural entrepreneurs. Giving the example of Kala Namak rice of Siddharthnagar, he said, due to ODOP, its national and international demand has increased significantly today. The state has received GI tag for 77 products, eliminating the need for certification in the global market He informed, The government has started the One District One Cuisine (ODOC) scheme this year, through which the special cuisine of each district is being promoted and is also being linked with wide economic activity. February 14 : Lucknow: During the discussion in the Assembly, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath firmly presented the governments stand on the Shankaracharya related controversy. Referring to the limits and discipline of Sanatan Parampara, he said, "The position of Shankaracharya is regarded as the highest and most sacred in Indias Sanatan Parampara. It is not an ordinary title that anyone can assume at will". Recalling an old incident from Varanasi during the Samajwadi Party regime, the Chief Minister questioned, "If the concerned individual was truly a Shankaracharya, then why was a lathi-charge carried out against him and why was an FIR registered. Those who speak about morality must first respect tradition and institutional order." Referring to the arrival of nearly 4.5 crore devotees on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya during the Magh Mela, the Chief Minister said that such occasions require strict administrative arrangements. Entry and exit routes are clearly defined and their compliance is mandatory for everyone. Ignoring rules can create stampede-like situations, putting the lives of devotees at risk. The Chief Minister reiterated, "The law is equal for all and that even the Chief Ministers post is not above the law. No individual can be above the law. The government believes firmly in the rule of law and maintaining propriety and order is its responsibility. A responsible and disciplined individual can never indulge in such conduct." He emphasized that the government not only follows the rule of law but also ensures its enforcement, adding that misleading people in its name should stop. The Chief Minister further said that Adi Shankaracharya established four Peethas in the four directions of the country, Jyotish Peeth in the north, Shringeri in the south, Jagannath Puri in the east and Dwarka Puri in the west. Each of these Peethas has its own tradition, responsibility and spiritual foundation. These four Peethas are associated with the four Vedas, Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda and Atharvaveda. He said that each Veda has its own Mahavakya, "Prajnanam Brahma,", "Aham Brahmasmi", "Tat Tvam Asi" and "Ayam Atma Brahma." These Mahavakyas, are the soul of Indian philosophy and signify the highest state of spiritual realization. When a seeker reaches the pinnacle of spiritual practice, one realizes "I am Brahman", this is also the proclamation of the Upanishads. The Chief Minister accused the opposition of repeatedly raising the same matter in an attempt to turn it into an issue. He said that a subject which was not a real issue was deliberately given the shape of a controversy. The House, he emphasized, should engage in factual discussions rather than attempts to spread confusion. Washington, Feb 14 : Artificial intelligence is at an inflection point globally, and India must treat data as its "next oil" if it wants to lead the next industrial revolution, Sunil Pal, Head of AI GPU Allocation at AMD, said ahead of the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. Washington, Feb 14 (IANS) Artificial intelligence is at an inflection point globally, and India must treat data as its "next oil" if it wants to lead the next industrial revolution, Sunil Pal, Head of AI GPU Allocation at AMD, said ahead of the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. "2026 is the year for AI," Pal told IANS, describing the technology wave that began with ChatGPT's release in 2022 as "like the fourth industrial revolution." He said countries are racing to capture value in a market he described as projected to reach $1.7 trillion by 2031. "Everyone is trying to see how can they capitalise on this overall AI," he said, adding that "data is the key." According to Pal, the summit in India comes at a time when governments and companies worldwide are evaluating how to scale AI infrastructure and applications. He outlined three areas where India stands out: "AI talent and engineering depth," a "global digital backbone," and a shift "from services to strategic innovation hub." India offers "one of the largest AI and digital engineering talent pool," he said, enabling enterprises "to scale AI rapidly and cost-effectively." He pointed to the country's role in managing global enterprise platforms, cybersecurity operations, analytics, and AI development. Indian technology firms, he said, are "brightly positioned to know what the trend is changing, and they can change the trend accordingly." India is also evolving "into AI research, product engineering, semiconductor design, and global capability centers," he said. With "1.2 billion people," he added, the country has a built-in scale advantage. But Pal warned that infrastructure will determine whether India can convert that potential into leadership. "In order to build the data centers, the power is the bottleneck," he said. "The main thing is the electricity, and high-quality electricity is the key." He said governments must think long term and invest in reliable, affordable energy, including hydro, nuclear, wind, and solar power. "It's not a short-term thing," he said. Countries need to "look at this holistically and look at the long term and play the long game." Building data centers requires large-scale planning, land acquisition, and regulatory approvals. Pal noted that even in the United States, projects require rounds of public consultation and clearances. Similar processes in India will take time. Still, he emphasised that compute infrastructure is not tied to a single geography. It is "agnostic to a location," he said, and can be deployed in one part of the country and used elsewhere, or even globally, through the internet. On global competition, Pal said the United States currently has a stronger lead in AI, but "China is not behind." He recalled visiting Beijing in 2018 and being struck by the level of automation and AI deployment even then. China's approach, he said, reflects a "very concentrated effort." But he stressed that AI remains in its early stages everywhere. "AI is right now at the beginning," he said, adding that countries from Singapore to Dubai and across Europe are moving quickly. For India, the challenge is to stay alert and engaged. "You have to keep your eyes and ears open," he said, and assess how AI can be integrated into an economy that is already among the world's largest. Pal also pushed back against the idea that AI is merely a cost-cutting tool. "It is becoming a revenue enabler through the hyper personalization, through predictive insights and digital business models," he said. In healthcare, he explained, AI can narrow down options and accelerate research cycles. Experiments that once required large teams and extended timelines can now be streamlined. "The machines are learning too fast," he said. At the same time, he cautioned that data quality matters. "If you provide the bad information, you get the bad information out." Looking ahead five years, Pal said he does not have a "crystal ball," but believes the technology is still in its "infancy stage." He compared AI's current moment to the early days of the steam engine, the internet, and the smartphone. Each of those innovations, he said, reshaped industries and created trillion-dollar companies. AI, in his view, represents a similar turning point. "If you don't adopt, you will be behind and you don't want to be behind," he said. Calling the India AI Impact Summit "a good thing," Pal said New Delhi's push into semiconductors and digital infrastructure is long overdue. He drew a parallel to oil-rich economies of the 20th century. "Data is the next oil," he said. With the right ecosystem, talent and infrastructure, he suggested, India can turn that resource into long-term economic strength. The India AI Impact Summit follows similar gatherings in London and France and comes as governments worldwide accelerate investments in AI chips, data centers and research. India has rolled out incentives for semiconductor manufacturing and digital infrastructure, aiming to position itself as a major player in the global AI value chain. As geopolitical competition intensifies over advanced technologies, New Delhi is seeking to leverage its engineering base and digital scale to emerge as a central hub in the next phase of AI-led growth. February 14 : Lucknow: Addressing the Assembly during the discussion on the Governors Address, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a sharp attack on the opposition over the issue of SIR. He says, "The opposition is only trying to mislead the public." He objected to the protest being raised over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls and said, "This entire process is fully transparent and is being conducted strictly in accordance with the guidelines of the Election Commission of India." The Chief Minister clarified, "If an objection is raised against a name through Form-7, the Election Commission verifies it. The opposition is confusing society in the name of motherhood, in the name of Shankaracharya and now in the name of SIR, whereas our sole objective is to ensure that the voter list remains pure and credible." He added, "If the concerned person appears in person and proves that he or she is alive and that the objection is incorrect, the objection is immediately cancelled. Questioning the opposition, he asked that why does the opposition not support such a transparent system? Presenting available data, the Chief Minister said, "Under the Absent, Shifted and Death (ASD) category, more than 2 crore 88 lakh names have emerged for which verification could not be completed or required information was not available. This includes 46.23 lakh names of deceased persons, around 1.39 crore people have permanently shifted, yet their names continued to remain on the rolls. About 25.47 lakh duplicate entries were found, while nearly 80 lakh names fall under the absent category. The remaining names come under other classifications." Referring to improved administrative arrangements, security and public facilities, the Chief Minister cited the success of the Magh Mela. He said, "In the 2013 Kumbh, around 12 crore devotees had arrived, whereas in the current Magh Mela, more than 21 crore devotees have already participated." He described this as clear evidence of public trust in better governance. Referring to the Governors Address, the Chief Minister said, "It clearly outlined the governments achievements and future plans. The opposition listened to it carefully, such questions would not have arisen." He asserted that today, the rule of law is firmly established in Uttar Pradesh. Criminals are afraid, the poor are getting dignity, farmers are being empowered, women feel safe and youth are getting employment opportunities. Electricity has reached villages and a new wave of development is visible across the state. Calling this progress "The experience of a modern Ramrajya", CM said, "Heritage and development are moving forward together in Uttar Pradesh. Through public welfare, job creation, investment expansion and social security, our government is committed to making the state strong, secure and prosperous." Announcing a major goal, CM said, "A target has been set to make Uttar Pradesh the number one economy in the country by the year 2029-30 and our government is continuously working in that direction." New Delhi, Feb 14 : Preparations are in full swing for the grand Mahashivratri celebrations near the iconic Adiyogi Shiva statue at the Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, with the main event stage currently being set up ahead of the night-long spiritual gathering. Stage designer Rupin Suchak highlighted the significance of the occasion. "The biggest attraction during Mahashivratri is always Adiyogi. Just like we decorate a temple, we are simply the people doing the decoration here as well," he told IANS. He added that the team is working meticulously to ensure the stage reflects the spiritual and cultural grandeur associated with the festival. The 33rd Mahashivratri celebrations, organised by spiritual leader Sadhguru at the Isha Yoga Centre, will be held on February 15. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will attend the event as the chief guest. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister L. Murugan and other prominent dignitaries are also expected to be present, according to an official statement. The night-long celebrations will begin with the Pancha Bhuta Kriya at the Dhyanalinga, a ritual honouring the five elements a" Earth, water, fire, air and space. This will be followed by the Linga Bhairavi Maha Yatra, a grand procession celebrating the divine feminine. The event will feature devotion, music and meditation led by Sadhguru. Situated at the foothills of the Velliangiri Mountains, the towering Adiyogi statue is the focal point of the celebrations and draws global attention every year. The Mahashivratri event at the Isha Yoga Centre is among the most widely watched spiritual gatherings worldwide, with live broadcasts on more than 100 television networks and digital platforms in 24 Indian and international languages. The 2026 edition is expected to reach over 140 million viewers globally. Meanwhile, similar preparations are underway in other parts of the country. In Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, elaborate arrangements have been made at the Mahakaleshwar Temple ahead of the festival. Pratham Kaushik, Administrator of the Mahakal Temple, said, "...It is the sacred festival of Mahashivratri, during which a very large number of devotees are expected to arrive. Keeping this in view, the temple administration and the district administration have completed the preparations..." Mumbai, Feb 14 : The NCP-SP legislator Rohit Pawar, on Saturday, appealed to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah to order a comprehensive, transparent and independent investigation into the Learjet-45 aircraft accident near Baramati involving former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar which took place on January 28. In a detailed letter, Rohit Pawar flagged multiple "alarming discrepancies" and safety lapses, suggesting that the crash near Baramati may not have been a mere accident. The letter highlights several critical points surrounding the final moments of the Bombardier Learjet-45 (VT-SSK) operated by VSR Ventures, including last minute crew swap, pilot conduct, technical anomalies, operator history and landing decision. "Both original pilots were reportedly replaced at the last minute, allegedly due to "traffic delays", raising questions about mandatory reporting norms and duty regulations. The pilot was a "habitual drinker" and had been warned by the owner to stay sober before flights. There was another issue of a premature transponder signal loss just before the crash and a lack of recorded EGPWS (Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System) alerts. The same operator was involved in a serious crash at Mumbai Airport in 2023," the NCP-SP legislator said. Rohit Pawar added that the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had revoked the operator's authorisation in 2024 due to safety violations -- a fact he claims was communicated to Indian authorities but seemingly ignored. He also said that despite low visibility, the pilot reportedly insisted on landing on Runway 11 (a tabletop runway) instead of the safer Runway 29, even after executing a go-around. Rohit Pawar has urged the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Home Ministry to ground all VSR aircraft and Arrow Aircraft Sales, involve the Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (France) or Air Accidents Investigation Branch (UK) to ensure a transparent and neutral inquiry and form a monitoring committee, including family members of the late Ajit Pawar and state MPs/MLAs. "Maharashtra has lost a mass leader (Ajit Pawar) whose life was dedicated to public service... If serious lapses by operators are not examined with full accountability, the safety of other leaders and citizens is at risk," the NCP-SP legislator noted. Simultaneously, Rohit Pawar took to social media to highlight his demand. In in his post on X, the NCP-SP legislator said, "Many doubts have arisen regarding the plane crash involving Ajit dada Pawar, and these doubts, along with the facts, were presented to the public through a press conference. On this very matter, an attempt was made to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, as well as the DGCA, but the meeting could not take place. Consequently, along with a presentation, all our doubts were emailed to the Union Home Minister, Civil Aviation Minister, and DGCA, requesting a thorough and impartial investigation into this crash to bring the facts before the public. I am confident that a positive response will be received in this regard, and an objective resolution to the many questions that have troubled not just me but the entire Maharashtra will be achieved." Rohit Pawar also noted, "Even after holding the press conference, while the investigation has gained some momentum, it still does not appear to be progressing at the expected pace. The Union Home Minister and Civil Aviation Minister may not have been able to spare time due to being occupied with the Parliament session, but it remains unclear why the DGCA did not grant time. Even if the authorities have not given time, all the information has been sent to them; even though we are not in power, we are continuing to follow-up in our own way, and I expect that the state government and everyone in power will also pursue this..!" Bengaluru, Feb 14 : Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly R. Ashoka has urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to allocate at least Rs 15,000 crore in the upcoming Budget for implementing the recommendations of the Prof. Govinda Rao Committee to address regional imbalance in the state. In a press statement issued on Saturday, Ashoka said, "The Congress party has been in power in the state for the longest period, and Siddaramaiah has presented the highest number of Budgets. Therefore, they are directly responsible for the prevailing regional imbalance." He demanded that adequate funds be earmarked in the Budget to correct this "lapse". He cautioned that the government should not make "inflated" claims by consolidating allocations made to other departments or institutions and presenting them as funds meant for addressing disparity. Allocations made to bodies such as the Kalyana Karnataka Regional Development Board and other development boards or corporations should not be included in this calculation, he underlined. A separate and exclusive allocation must be provided specifically for eliminating regional disparity. Otherwise, people of the state may conclude that there is no correlation between the government's words and actions, he warned. Ashoka alleged that the proportion of backward taluks identified by the Prof. D.M. Nanjundappa Committee has not reduced even after two decades. Instead, it has increased from 65 per cent to 72.8 per cent, which he termed an alarming development. He said Congress leaders should stop shedding crocodile tears over backward regions. The baton of power is now in their hands. As Siddaramaiah is creating record after record, he should create another by allocating the highest-ever funds for eliminating regional disparity, Ashoka challenged. Ashoka said that while the government boasts that Karnataka ranks second among large states in Net State Domestic Product (NSDP), it must also address the causes of regional imbalance. For effective implementation of the 11 recommendations made by the Prof. Govinda Rao Committee for comprehensive development of backward regions, he suggested establishing a 'Regional Disparity Redressal Monitoring Unit' to oversee allocation, utilisation and progress of funds. He further suggested that timelines must be fixed for projects and schemes undertaken, and strict adherence ensured to avoid delays. Without time-bound implementation, achieving progress within the stipulated period would be impossible, he said. The Budget should also propose stringent action against those who violate guidelines or misuse special funds, he added. Ashoka said there is a growing demand among the people of the region to change the functioning of the Kalyana Karnataka Regional Development Board. The practice of formulating projects based on the preferences of elected representatives must be changed. Fresh guidelines should be framed based on expert advice, projects designed according to actual needs and implemented within a fixed timeframe. The recommendations of the Govinda Rao Committee regarding changes in the functioning of the Planning Department should be given priority, he said. He pointed out that one of the key recommendations of the Govinda Rao Committee clearly states that additional allocations should be made in the Budget over and above the regular allocation. Funds must be distributed strictly on the basis of backwardness, Ashoka demanded. Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 14 : In a revealing social media post, popular actor and former Kerala State Chalachitra Academy Chairman Prem Kumar, on Saturday, spoke out about the abrupt and shoddy treatment he received when he was removed from the post last year. His statement has sparked a fresh debate over the Pinarayi Vijayan-led CPI-M government's differential approach to cultural leaders. Prem Kumar described how he was removed in October last year without any prior notice or formal communication, just a day before the announcement of the State Film Awards. Despite overseeing some of the Academy's busiest and most high-profile responsibilities, including the 30th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), jury deliberations for the State Film Awards, and numerous policy and organisational initiatives, Prem Kumar was unceremoniously dismissed. "I wasn't even given a chance to thank colleagues or communicate with anyone before being removed," the former Kerala State Chalachitra Academy Chairman wrote, expressing his shock at the suddenness of the decision. His social media post highlights the stark contrast in how dissent and criticism are handled. K. Satchidanandan, the acclaimed poet and Chairman of the Kerala Sahitya Akademi, early this week repeatedly criticised the Kerala government and even opposed the continuation of further terms in office. Yet, despite his outspoken stance, he continues to occupy his post long after his official tenure expired. Prem Kumar described this as "a clear case of double standards or even superhuman privilege", noting that his own dedicated, honest, and hands-on service was discarded overnight. The actor also reflected on his principled interventions during cultural programmes, including urging recognition for ASHA workers protesting outside the Secretariat while lakhs were being spent on international cultural conclaves. He believes these actions may have contributed to his removal. Prem Kumar's post has reignited discussion about fairness, transparency, and political influence in Kerala's cultural institutions. It underscores the vulnerability of even celebrated personalities who demonstrate integrity, while others who act with similar boldness face no repercussions. The episode has become a touchstone for debates on merit, accountability, and the treatment of dissenting voices under the current Kerala administration. New Delhi, Feb 14 : Residents in Assam's Moran expressed pride and amazement on Saturday after the inauguration of the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on the Moran Bypass, calling the development a historic and unimaginable achievement for the region. New Delhi, Feb 14 (IANS) Residents in Assamas Moran expressed pride and amazement on Saturday after the inauguration of the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on the Moran Bypass, calling the development a historic and unimaginable achievement for the region. Sharing their reactions after the inauguration, locals said the project had exceeded all expectations. One resident said, "We had never even imagined in our dreams that today the Prime Minister of the country would accomplish such a great task a" something beyond our expectations." Another local echoed similar sentiments, stating, "We had never imagined this before. Today, we proudly say that the Prime Minister has done this for the security of our country..." A third resident added, "We had never imagined that such work would be done on a road like this. We had never thought it possible, but today we have seen it with our own eyes for the first time. We feel very proud..." Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Emergency Landing Facility on the National Highway in Moran in Assam's Dibrugarh district, the first such facility in the entire northeastern region, according to government officials. Soon after inaugurating the ELF, the Prime Minister witnessed an air show by the Indian Air Force (IAF). The show featured Rafale, Sukhoi and MiG fighter aircraft, which successfully carried out take-offs and landings on the specially developed highway strip, demonstrating the operational capability of the facility. Officials said that at least one lakh people gathered to witness the historic event. Located in Upper Assam, the ELF on the Moran Bypass is being viewed as a major strategic addition to Indiaas military infrastructure in the Northeast. It offers the IAF enhanced operational flexibility in a region that has seen heightened tensions in recent years. The Moran ELF has been designed to function as an alternative landing option in situations where Dibrugarh Airport or the Chabua Air Force Station becomes unavailable due to operational constraints or emergency scenarios. For the IAF, the facility significantly strengthens its ability to respond swiftly to contingencies near sensitive border areas, marking a crucial boost to national security preparedness. February 14 : Gorakhpur: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued strict instructions to officials that if a false report is filed during the investigation of any case, an FIR must be registered against the person responsible. Every matter must be resolved only after an impartial investigation. Any negligence or laxity in handling cases will be inexcusable. The Chief Minister gave these directions to administrative and police officers while listening to peoples grievances during the Janta Darshan at Gorakhnath Mandir on Saturday morning. During the Janta Darshan organized outside the Mahant Digvijaynath Smriti Bhawan in the mandir premises, CM Yogi Adityanath met around 150 people and heard their problems. He assured the people, saying, "There is no need to worry. Effective solutions will be ensured for every issue." CM also directed administrative and police officials on the spot to ensure time-bound, impartial and quality redressal of public grievances. Several cases presented during the Janta Darshan involved complaints that false investigation reports had been filed. Taking serious note, the Chief Minister instructed officials to identify the responsible persons and register FIRs against them. He emphasized that any delay or negligence in assisting victims would not be tolerated. If there is any laxity in resolving public grievances, strict action will be taken against the concerned officials. He further directed that if any case is deliberately kept pending at any level, stringent action must follow. The Chief Minister also instructed officials to take legally stringent steps in cases of land encroachment. As on previous occasions, some people approached the Janta Darshan seeking financial assistance for medical treatment. The Chief Minister directed officials to complete hospital estimate procedures at the earliest and submit them to the government, assuring adequate assistance from the Chief Ministers Discretionary Fund. He also showered affection on children who had come with their families, fondly interacting with them, giving them chocolates and encouraging them to study well. During his stay at Gorakhnath Temple on Saturday morning, CM Yogi Adityanath followed his traditional routine. After offering prayers to Guru Gorakhnath and bowing before the statue of his revered guru Mahant Avaidyanath, he toured the mandir premises. He then reached the temples cowshed and performed 'go-seva', lovingly feeding jaggery to the cows and cattle. Murray said income growth was largely driven by higher net interest income, as balance sheet growth and benefits of the structural hedge more than offset the impact of Bank of England rate cuts. Net interest margin increased 21 basis points to 234 basis points, which management attributed mainly to deposit growth and margin expansion. NatWests return on tangible equity (ROTE) was 19.2%. Earnings per share rose 27% to GBP 0.68, dividends per share increased 51% to GBP 0.325, and tangible net asset value per share rose 17% to GBP 3.84. Income excluding notable items increased 12% to GBP 16.4 billion, slightly above guidance of around GBP 16.3 billion. Total income included GBP 241 million of notable items. NatWest reported total operating expenses of GBP 8.3 billion (up 1.4%) and an impairment charge of GBP 671 million, equating to 16 basis points of loans. The combination produced operating profit before tax of GBP 7.7 billion and profit attributable to ordinary shareholders of GBP 5.5 billion. Murray said the group added 1 million new customers in 2025 and delivered growth across its three businesses. Customer loans rose 5.6% to GBP 392.7 billion, customer deposits increased 2.4% to GBP 442 billion, and assets under management and administration (AUMA) jumped nearly 20% to GBP 58.5 billion. NatWest Group (NYSE:NWG) outlined broad-based growth, higher income, and an updated capital framework during its full-year 2025 fixed income results update, with CFO Katie Murray and Treasurer Donal Quaid highlighting balance sheet strength, funding plans, and forward guidance. Management lowered its CET1 operating target to around 13% , expects Basel 3.1 to increase RWAs by ~10bn in 2027, and set 2028 targets including a costtoincome ratio <45%, RoTE >18% and capital generation >200bps before distributions. The acquisition of Evolent Partners will add 69bn of AUMA (raising combined AUMA to 127bn), boost fee income by nearly 20% day one, cause a ~130bp dayone CET1 hit, and target >700m of income synergies plus ~100m of cost synergies. NatWest reported a strong 2025, adding 1 million customers as income rose 12% to 16.4bn while costs grew 2%, producing positive jaws, EPS jumped 27% to 68p and total distributions were 4.1 billion (buybacks and dividends). Story Continues Non-interest income grew 1.3%, which Murray linked to solid customer activity across investment, foreign exchange, and capital markets. In wealth, NatWest reported net flows into AUMA of GBP 4.6 billion, up 44%, and fee income from higher AUMAs increased 11% to GBP 300 million. Cisco Systems Below $82? Buy Now, It Wont Last$182 Is Coming A key theme was continued momentum from the groups structural hedge. Murray said the combined product and equity structural hedges total GBP 198 billion. In 2025, product hedge income was GBP 4.2 billion, up GBP 1.2 billion year over year, while equity hedge income was almost GBP 500 million, around GBP 50 million higher than recent years. Based on the groups current macro assumptions and hedge durations, management expects the hedge yield to rise from 2.4% in 2025 to around 3.1% in 2026. The company illustrated expectations for higher hedge income, stating it expects 2026 total hedge income to be around GBP 1.5 billion higher than 2025 and 2027 to be around GBP 1 billion higher than 2026, reaching total hedge income of around GBP 7.2 billion, while emphasizing that results will depend on reinvestment rates and the composition of CAL growth. Costs, impairments, and macro assumptions On expenses, Murray said other operating expenses were GBP 8.1 billion and included one-time integration costs of GBP 96 million, in line with guidance. She said the bank delivered around GBP 600 million of gross cost savings, which supported investment in simplification programs. The cost-income ratio improved to 48.6%, down 4.8 percentage points year over year. For 2026, management guided to other operating expenses of around GBP 8.2 billion. Murray also updated macro assumptions for 2026, describing a base case of moderate growth, slightly lower than the prior view, with unemployment expected to peak in 2026 at levels the bank is comfortable with from a risk appetite perspective. Management expects a terminal bank rate of 3.25% by the end of 2026. NatWest reported expected credit losses (ECL) of GBP 3.6 billion and ECL coverage of 83 basis points, with Stage 3 loans at 1.1% (down year over year). Post-model adjustments for economic uncertainty were GBP 246 million and described as broadly stable. For impairments, Murray said the group saw no significant signs of stress and that performance was broadly in line with expectations. For 2026, NatWest guided to a loan impairment rate below 25 basis points. In Q&A, management said the higher guide versus 2025 reflects normalization, fewer one-off releases, loan growth, and mix changesparticularly an increase in retail unsecured lending, which grew more than GBP 3 billion in 2025 and rose to over 8% of the retail mix from around 6.5% in 2023. Murray emphasized the guidance was not dependent on post-model adjustment releases and did not reflect a material shift in risk appetite. Capital, liquidity, and funding: target CET1 reduced to around 13% Quaid said NatWest ended 2025 with a CET1 ratio of 14%, a total MREL ratio of 31.9%, and a leverage ratio of 4.8%, while average liquidity coverage ratio was 147% and average net stable funding ratio was 135%. Primary liquidity was GBP 157 billion, and the loan-to-deposit ratio was 88%. Capital generation before distributions was 252 basis points in 2025, with almost 300 basis points from earnings partly offset by 89 basis points tied to risk-weighted asset growth. Quaid said distributionsincluding accruals for an ordinary dividend payout of around 50% and a GBP 750 million share buyback announced earlier in the weekaccounted for 213 basis points of capital. Risk-weighted assets rose GBP 10.1 billion to GBP 193.3 billion, within the guided range of GBP 190-195 billion. Quaid also discussed Basel 3.1, which takes effect Jan. 1, 2027, and said the bank currently expects an RWA impact of around GBP 10 billion based on recalibration of a higher balance sheet, driven mainly by operational risk and removal of SME and infrastructure support factors. NatWest announced a reduction in its CET1 target to around 13%, from the long-standing 13%-14% range in place since 2019. Quaid said the revised target considers expected reductions in Pillar 2 requirements on Jan. 1, 2027, and the capital impact of the Evelyn acquisition announced earlier in the week. He described the revised target as maintaining a healthy buffer above minimum requirements. Quaid also noted NatWests performance in the Bank of England stress test, stating the group had the lowest capital depletion under stress and was the only U.K. bank with no strategic management actions required. On funding, Quaid said NatWest completed its 2025 plan with GBP 7.1 billion sterling equivalent of benchmark issuance from NatWest Group across Senior MREL, AT1, and Tier 2, plus GBP 7.9 billion sterling equivalent from NatWest Markets. For 2026, management guided to around GBP 3 billion of Holdco Senior issuance, around GBP 1 billion equivalents each of AT1 and Tier 2 issuance, and described plans for NatWest Bank to return to secured credit markets with an expected requirement of around GBP 1 billion. In Q&A, Quaid said the lower 2026 Holdco Senior figure is driven by the maturity profile and suggested issuance would move roughly GBP 2 billion higher beyond 2026. In discussion of capital optimization, Quaid said the bank completed five significant risk transfer (SRT) transactions in Commercial & Institutional in 2025, delivering GBP 4.6 billion of RWA optimization, and executed retail securitization of Stage 2 and Stage 3 mortgages, generating a further GBP 2 billion of RWA benefits. He said SRTs remain an important tool and that the bank sees demand across multiple asset classes, with potential for further transactions in 2026 and 2027. 2026 outlook and 2028 targets Excluding the impact of the Evelyn Partners acquisition, NatWest guided for 2026 income excluding notable items of GBP 17.2 billion to GBP 17.6 billion, other operating expenses of around GBP 8.2 billion, capital generation before distributions of around 200 basis points, and ROTE greater than 17%, alongside loan impairment rate guidance below 25 basis points. Looking to 2028, Murray said the group aims to: Grow customer assets and liabilities at an annual rate greater than 4% from 2025 to 2028 Reduce the cost-income ratio to below 45% Generate more than 200 basis points of capital before distributions while operating with a CET1 ratio of around 13% Deliver ROTE greater than 18% in 2028 Management said its priorities include disciplined growth focused on key customer segments, making it easier for customers to engage with the bank, and broadening propositions. Murray added that the group plans to continue investing in simplificationin particular in AIand emphasized capital redeployment, dynamic pricing, and the use of data and analytics to improve agility and returns. About NatWest Group (NYSE:NWG) NatWest Group plc is a major UK-based banking and financial services group headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland. The company traces its roots to the Royal Bank of Scotland, founded in 1727, and adopted the NatWest Group name in 2020 as part of a strategic refocus on its NatWest brand. NatWest Group is listed on the London Stock Exchange and also has American depositary shares trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NWG. The group provides a broad range of banking services across retail, private, commercial, corporate and institutional segments. The article "NatWest Group Q4 Earnings Call Highlights" was originally published by MarketBeat. Mumbai, Feb 14 : Department of Telecommunications' (DoT) R&D institution, Centre for Development of Telematics (CaDOT) has signed an agreement with Synergy Quantum India Private Limited to jointly develop an automated tool that will detect, classify and report "quantumavulnerable cryptographic algorithms in target devices," the government said on Saturday. Mumbai, Feb 14 (IANS) Department of Telecommunications' (DoT) R&D institution, Centre for Development of Telematics (Ca'DOT) has signed an agreement with Synergy Quantum India Private Limited to jointly develop an automated tool that will detect, classify and report "quantuma'vulnerable cryptographic algorithms in target devices," the government said on Saturday. The agreement aims to create an automated tool to scan devices, identify its cryptographic algorithms and security mechanisms. The tool will flag security vulnerabilities, distinguish quantuma'safe from quantuma'vulnerable algorithms, according to an official statement. "Finally, it will generate a detailed report highlighting quantum-vulnerable algorithms, their purpose, and their exact location within the device to support informed migration planning toward quantum-safe security," the statement said. Synergy Quantum India Private Limited is a deep-tech sovereign quantum security company providing comprehensive post-quantum cryptography solutions across both hardware and software domains. The new tool to be developed under the partnership comprises of three core modules, a web application for external blacka'box scanning and network traffic assessment, vulnerability assessment and quantum risks as well as a security scanner agent for scanning libraries. Further, it contains a control Software, that manages agent install or uninstall, runs scans, aggregates data into unified reports on all vulnerabilities, the statement from ministry of Communications said. This collaboration is expected to deliver a fully integrated, commercially deployable solution that will revolutionize how organizations assess their cryptographic readiness for the quantum era. "This cutting-edge initiative will enable early detection of cryptographic weaknesses across networks: defense, telecommunications, banking, and various government sectors, devices, and applications, helping organizations transition proactively to post-quantum cryptography," the statement said. Partnership with Synergy Quantum aligns with the national vision of strengthening indigenous research and innovation under the aAtmanirbhar Bharata initiative and enhancing India's capabilities in emerging and secure telecom technologies, the ministry said. "As quantum computing advances, traditional cryptographic systems face unprecedented challenges," said Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, CEO, C-DOT. By combining C-DOT's telecom & quantum research expertise with Synergy Quantum's capabilities, the partnership aims to create tools that address both current and future cybersecurity needs, he added. a"IANS aar/pk Malappurram Feb 14 : Launching a scathing attack on the Kerala government, Leader of the Opposition in Kerala Assembly V. D. Satheesan on Saturday alleged that the Global Ayyappa Meet held last year at Pampa was "a continuation of the Sabarimala gold heist", and demanded a comprehensive probe into what he described as a multi-crore fraud. Satheesan claimed that despite repeated directions from the High Court to maintain transparent accounts, large-scale irregularities had surfaced in the conduct of the event near Sabarimala. "When the scam came to light, Devaswom Minister V.N.Vasavan attempted to wash his hands of it. Those who put up giant flex boards of the Chief Minister and carried out extensive PR work to extract political mileage from the Ayyappa meet are now nowhere to be seen," he said. The Opposition leader alleged that crores were siphoned off in the name of providing food and accommodation to non-existent participants. "Were all attendees housed in five-star hotels? Was five-star food served?" he asked, questioning inflated bills, including charges for musical events. He asserted that the government could not evade responsibility since the Devaswom Board functions under its authority and its president and members were government appointees. Satheesan further claimed that accounts submitted in the Assembly by Minister K. Radhakrishnan contradicted figures presented before the High Court. He cited court observations pointing to discrepancies, including lack of tenders for construction works, unverified cabling bills, missing beds out of 180 listed, unaccounted GST issues and sponsorship collections without proper records. "The High Court itself noted that the accounts do not tally. False statements were submitted to mislead the court," he alleged. He also questioned the overt political branding of the event, saying flex boards displayed images of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan larger than that of Lord Ayyappa. "If the government has no responsibility, why was it projected as a flagship initiative?" he asked, adding that the event was aimed at politically capitalising on devotees' sentiments. Linking the controversy to previous allegations of gold theft at Sabarimala in 2019 and 2024, Satheesan demanded that those responsible be brought before the law. "Every rupee collected in the name of Ayyappa must be accounted for," he said, expressing confidence that the High Court would order a thorough investigation into the alleged fraud. Washington, Feb 14 : The political situation in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan (PoGB) is deteriorating as, in addition to China, Pakistan is now asking American and Central Asian companies to join the resource exploitation in the region that it illegally occupies, a report highlighted. It revealed that recently, Kazakhstan and Indonesia have expressed interest in investing in gold and copper mining in Gilgit Baltistan. "In addition to terrorism, many local activists believe that the strategic location and presence of rare earths is a key source of instability in Gilgit-Baltistan. The Pakistani military wishes to exploit the resources without sharing revenue or compensation with the locals. Pakistan has enforced an illegal and unconstitutional land reform act in Gilgit Baltistan, allowing natural resource abuse to continue. When locals demand a fair share, Pakistan denies royalties, citing the political glitch that the land remains a part of the disputed Jammu-Kashmir and therefore not eligible for constitutional and economic rights," Senge Sering, a native of Pakistan-occupied-Gilgit-Baltistan, wrote in Washington-based Global Strat View. Sering, who now heads the Washington-based Institute for Gilgit Baltistan Studies (IGBS), elaborated that given that rare earth element processing and supply are concentrated in a few countries, Gilgit Baltistanas geographical location complements major global economiesa efforts to diversify rare earth supply chains. He mentioned that Tangir and the surrounding valleys of Gilgit Baltistan are a globally recognised mineralogical hotspot - abundant in monazite, chevkinite, lanthanum, samarium, praseodymium, neodymium, cerium, titanium, thorium, and other rare earth elements - and China's infrastructure upgrade initiatives are helping Pakistan develop the occupied region into a rare-earth hub at the crossroads of Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. "Under the conditions, the people of Gilgit Baltistan should remain united and continue their efforts to expel the occupying Pakistani colonial overlords, who are only interested in exploiting and abusing natural riches and transit routes while denying natives their due political and constitutional rights. The persistence and fortitude will eventually help the inhabitants of Gilgit Baltistan join Ladakh as constitutional citizens of India and protect both territory and identity," he asserted. On Thursday, Pakistani media reported that one person was killed and three others, including an Army Major, were injured when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded near a vehicle in the Tangir valley of Diamer in PoGB. Sering, who remains one of the most established scholars from the Pakistani-occupied region, stated that a terrorist cell linked to Commander Maulana Amir Hamza made a statement before the attack, explaining that they are from the Diamer district of Gilgit Baltistan and carry out attacks against Pakistani armed forces, including secret agencies such as ISI and MI, as well as the police. "They claimed that the Pakistani armed forces use a divide-and-rule strategy to control Gilgit Baltistan. In a statement to Gilgit Baltistanas Shia and Sunni leaders, including Aga Rahat, the group asserted that if sectarian attacks have occurred on Aga Rahat or Qazi Nisar in the past, it is the handiwork of Pakistanas military and their agents to sow discord and division among locals. Furthermore, they claimed that Pakistanas rulers and military collude with Jewish and Christian global powers to undermine peace and stability in Pakistan. According to the spokesperson, Pakistanas armed forces have exposed themselves and risked their lives by assisting Israel in its fight against Hamas," Sering wrote in the Global Strat View. Mumbai, Feb 14 : The Enforcement Directorate arrested a former Lodha Developers director, Rajendra Narpatmal Lodha, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act in connection with an ongoing probe into an alleged cheating case involving losses of over Rs 100 crore to the real estate company, the agency said on Saturday. A Special PMLA Court in Mumbai on Friday remanded the accused to eight days of ED custody after his arrest on Thursday to facilitate further investigation into the case. "The arrest follows a money laundering inquiry initiated based on FIRs registered by the Mumbai Police against Lodha and others under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, for alleged cheating, abuse of position, unauthorised sale of assets, and creation of forged documents," the ED stated in an official release. The ED officials claimed that the acts caused a wrongful loss of over Rs 100 crore to Lodha Developers. According to the ED, its probe indicates that Rajendra Lodha allegedly diverted company funds and assets through the unauthorised sale and transfer of company-owned immovable properties at undervalued rates to proxy entities and individuals linked to him, allegedly without the approval of the board of directors. The agency further alleged that he fabricated memorandums of understanding for land purchases at inflated prices and siphoned off the inflated amounts in cash through sellers, thereby misappropriating company funds. "Lodha, along with associates and related entities, accumulated assets through fraudulent transactions that resulted in significant losses to the company," the agency said. Earlier in the investigation, the ED had conducted searches on November 12 last year at 14 locations across the Mumbai region. During these search operations, assets worth about Rs 88 crore in the form of cash, bank balances and fixed deposits were seized or frozen. Officials also recovered documents, digital devices and details of immovable properties worth several crores, which they said yielded key evidence in the case. Further investigation into the case is underway, the ED said. Jaipur, Feb 14 : A major mishap was averted in Rajasthan on Saturday morning when vehicles in the convoy of Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Premchand Bairwa collided in the Udaipurwati Ghat area of Jhunjhunu district with another vehicle that was entering a nearby resort. Deputy Chief Minister Bairwa was unharmed in the accident, and no injuries were reported to anyone in the incident. The accident occurred around 10:45 a.m. while Deputy Chief Minister Bairwa was on his way to attend a function at a private school in Gudhagorsiji, approximately 16 kms away from the site of the mishap. According to officials, BJP leader J.P. Khatana suddenly drove his car into the path of the convoy by mistake while attempting to enter a nearby resort. During this manoeuvre, an escort vehicle in Deputy Chief Minister Bairwa's convoy lost control and collided with J.P. Khatanaas car. Eyewitnesses stated it was fortunate that Deputy Chief Minister Bairwaas vehicle had already passed the spot safely at the time of the collision with J.P. Khatanaas car. The collision occurred primarily between the escort vehicle of the Deputy Chief Minister with the BJP leaderas car. The headlights and front portions of both the vehicles were damaged in the accident, but officials confirmed that no major damage to the cars was reported nor were any injuries reported in the mishap. Following the incident, the convoy of the Deputy Chief Minister was halted briefly as a precautionary security measure. As per the established protocol the security personnel assessed the situation, damage to the vehicle and ensured the safety of all members of the convoy before allowing it to proceed further towards its destination. After the inspection, Deputy Chief Minister Bairwa continued to the MG Global School in Gudhagorsiji, where he attended the event as the chief guest. Bollywood actress Hema Malini was also present at the programme as a guest. Guwahati, Feb 14 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated a fleet of 50 modern electric buses for Bhavnagar on Saturday as part of the PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme, marking a further expansion of sustainable urban transport in India. The buses were flagged off under the national scheme to promote clean and sustainable public transport, during the Prime Minister's visit to Assam where he inaugurated projects worth over Rs 5,450 crore. Bhavnagar is the first city in Gujarat to receive buses under the initiative, with 50 vehicles handed over on the day and plans for a total of 100 to serve the city's residents. The air-conditioned buses are equipped with facilities to assist passengers with disabilities and include CCTV cameras to enhance commuter safety. Under the scheme's roll-out in Gujarat, a total of 750 electric buses are expected to be deployed across eight cities in the state. In addition to Bhavnagar, allocations include 250 buses in Vadodara, 100 each in Rajkot and Gandhinagar, 50 each in Jamnagar and Junagadh, 80 in Gandhidham and 20 in Navsari. The Gujarat Urban Development Mission (GUDM) has been appointed the state nodal agency for implementation by the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Indiaas public transport infrastructure and reduce carbon emissions in urban mobility. In Gujarat, infrastructure and technical facilities to support electric bus operations are being advanced, reflecting a coordinated push towards clean transport solutions. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi made a historic landing at the region's first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on the Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh district aboard an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft. The 4.2 kilometres reinforced stretch of National Highway-37 was inaugurated as a strategic dual-use runway capable of accommodating military and civilian aircraft during emergencies. Officials said it will enhance defence preparedness, logistics and disaster response capacity in the region. Prime Minister Modi also witnessed an aerial display by Indian Air Force fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters following the landing. New Delhi, Feb 14 : The Union Cabinet has approved projects worth Rs 1,60,504 crore at its final meeting in the South Block before passing a resolution to shift its functioning to the Seva Teerth complex, Union Railways and Electronics and IT Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, said on Saturday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday unveiled the new complex named aSeva Teertha, which houses the Prime Ministeras Office (PMO), National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) and the Cabinet Secretariat. At its final session in South Block, the Cabinet cleared major decisions spanning railways, national highways, metro expansion, urban reforms and startup funding. Marking a paradigm shift in the urban development approach, the government approved the launch of the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) with central assistance of Rs 1 lakh crore. The central assistance will cover 25 per cent of the project cost, subject to raising minimum 50 per cent of the project cost from market. The Cabinet approved three multi-tracking projects, covering 12 districts across Delhi, Haryana, Maharashtra and Karnataka, with a total cost of Rs 18,509 crore. This will increase the existing network of Indian Railways by about 389 kms. In a major push to Indiaas fast-growing startup ecosystem, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the setting up of the Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 with a total corpus of Rs 10,000 crore. The new fund aims to mobilise long-term domestic capital and provide stronger financial backing to startups across the country. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the rehabilitation and upgradation of the Ghotia"Trimbak (Mokhada)a"Jawhara"Manora"Palghar section of NH-160A in Maharashtra, with a total length of 154.635 kms with Rs 3,320.38 crore outlay. Cabinet also approved the widening of National Highway-167 from Gudebellur to Mahabubnagar on the Hyderabad-Panaji Economic Corridor to 4-Lane in Telangana with Rs 3,175.08 crore outlay. This will enhance the efficiency of freight movement, reducing logistics cost and driving socio-economic growth in the region. In a bid to improve road connectivity in Gujarat, the government on Saturday approved upgradation of two sections of National Highway-56 to 4-lane with Rs 4,583.64 crore outlay. Kolkata, Feb 14 : A male passenger was arrested at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata on Saturday for allegedly molesting a woman co-passenger onboard a Hanoi-Kolkata flight, police said. According to the complaint, the man, who hails from Bihar, kept touching a female passenger inappropriately as she was seated next to him. Police said the young woman boarded a private airline flight from Hanoi in Vietnam bound for Kolkata. When the plane was preparing to land in Kolkata, the Bihar resident allegedly started harassing the young woman sitting next to him. The young woman alleged that the accused touched her inappropriately. Distressed by the incident, the young woman raised an alarm inside the aircraft. The cabin crew immediately intervened and moved the passenger to another seat to ensure her safety. After the flight landed at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, the crew handed the accused passenger over to Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) officials. Later, the CISF officials handed the passenger over to the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport police station. The accused was identified as Md Abdur Rahman. A case has been registered against him, and he was formally arrested on charges related to molestation. Further investigation into the incident is underway. "A case of abusing and molesting the woman has been filed against the arrested person. He will be produced before the Barrackpore court. Investigation is on," said a senior officer of Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate. However, the woman is traumatised by the incident inside the aircraft, raising concerns about passenger safety on board flights Meanwhile, in a separate incident earlier in the day, a bomb scare triggered panic on a Shillong-bound IndiGo flight at the same airport. The flight, scheduled to depart at 9.15 a.m., was halted after a note reading "There is a bomb on the plane" was found inside the aircraft's lavatory. All passengers were safely disembarked, and a thorough search of the aircraft was conducted. Upon completion of all safety checks and clearance by security authorities, the aircraft was declared safe for operations. The flight subsequently departed for Shillong at 13.33 hrs, a statement by the Kolkata Airport Authority said. Mumbai, Feb 14 : The European Union should move quickly to provisionally apply the EU-Mercosur Interim Trade Agreement and expedite provisional application of the EU-India free trade agreement to respond to urgent geopolitical pressures including from United States, a new report has said. Mumbai, Feb 14 (IANS) The European Union should move quickly to provisionally apply the EUMercosur Interim Trade Agreement and expedite provisional application of the EUIndia free trade agreement to respond to urgent geopolitical pressures including from United States, a new report has said. "The agreements with Mercosur and India would create the world's two largest free trade zones and send a strong statement of enhanced cooperation between democracies in this age of great power rivalry and spheres of influence," the report from EU lawlive said. It reminded that the United States was threatening its European allies with tariffs and military force. "Advancing these agreements is exactly the spirit Prime Minister of Canada Mark Carney invoked: creating 'a new order' based on 'variable geometry' but held together by the values of 'human rights, sustainable development, solidarity, sovereignty and territorial integrity'," it noted. The report noted that provisional application is legally available to the Council and Commission even as European Parliament referred EU-Mercosur agreements to the Court of Justice on January 21, 2026. It argued that delaying the agreements with Mercosur and India risks casting doubt on the EU's ability to engage with partners. The report argued that past precedents show provisional application of CETA and said even if the Court finds issues they could be remedied without halting provisional application. "It would be a sad irony in history if the EU's own premier democratic oversight institution were to derail the EU's bold push to forge stronger ties with some of the world's largest democracies. This is a time for boldness," the report said. The report said swift provisional application would demonstrate the EU's reliability and agility to partners such as Mercosur and India, the report further said. "Lastly, even if the Court finds certain problematic issues with the agreements, those might still be remedied without fully unpacking the agreements or discontinuing provisional application," the report said. IANS aar/pk Guwahati, Feb 14 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched a blistering attack on the Congress while addressing a massive public gathering at Khanapara Playground in Guwahati, accusing the party of neglecting the Northeast and attempting to destabilise Assam for political gains. The Prime Minister said that while the Congress treated the Northeast as a burden, the BJP government considers the region as 'Ashtalakshmi', the eight pillars of India's prosperity. He asserted that this change in outlook is clearly reflected in budgetary priorities, with the BJP-led Centre allocating nearly five times more funds for the Northeast compared to previous Congress regimes. Highlighting the Centre's commitment to Assam, PM Modi said that over the last 11 years, the BJP government has provided more than Rs 5.5 lakh crore for development initiatives in the state. "The Congress was always hesitant to give money to Assam. That is why Congress can never bring development to this land," he said. Taking a sharp swipe at the Opposition, the Prime Minister remarked that Congress leaders have "lost their sleep" due to his growing popularity and the BJP's expanding support base in Assam. He accused the Congress of giving fuel to forces that wanted to divide India and alleged that elements seeking to disconnect the Northeast from the national mainstream were supported during Congress rule. Referring to the Brahmaputra, PM Modi said the river has been central to Assam's life and economy, yet Congress governments failed to build essential infrastructure. "From Independence till 2014, the Congress could build only three bridges over the Brahmaputra," he said, adding that from 2014 to 2026, the BJP's double-engine government has already built five bridges, with many more under construction. The Prime Minister inaugurated the GuwahatiNorth Guwahati connecting bridge, calling it a symbol of development rooted in tradition. He said the BJP delivers solutions, while Congress only gave trouble through appeasement politics. PM Modi said the Congress kept Assam in a disturbed state marked by bandhs and violence, where over 1,000 people lost their lives. "Today Assam is peaceful. Many terrorist organisations have joined the mainstream," he said, crediting the BJP for restoring peace while ensuring rapid development, including connecting Assam through the Vande Bharat sleeper train. Warning voters, PM Modi alleged that a Congress desperate after being out of power for 10 years wants to push Assam back into instability and is backing infiltrators. He said the next five years are crucial and only a strong double-engine BJP government can ensure fast-paced development for Assam. Nextech3D.ai adds corporate gifting to platform - ICYMI Proactive uses images sourced from Shutterstock Nextech3D.AI (CSE:NTAR, OTCQX:NEXCF, FRA:1SS) earlier this week announced the launch of a corporate gifting offering through its Kraftylab platform, marking a strategic expansion of its enterprise engagement services. Speaking to Proactive, CEO Evan Gappelberg said the initiative aims to tap into the substantial corporate gifting market, which exceeds $1 trillion globally and accounts for approximately $300 billion in North America alone. He positioned the move as a continuation of the companys broader strategy to increase wallet share from existing enterprise clients. Nextech3D.ai already counts major corporations including Google, Meta, Microsoft and Netflix among its customers. Gappelberg noted that the addition of corporate gifting would allow clients to use the existing credit system to purchase gifts for employees and clients, beyond the core event services traditionally offered by the platform. Initially, the company is offering chocolate gift boxes from the Hampton Chocolate Factory, with plans to expand into more technology-focused gifts and popular gift cards. The offering is intended for a variety of HR-led initiatives such as client appreciation, sales performance rewards, and seasonal employee recognition. This would be that Q4 gift basket or a way to recognise top sales sent through our platform, Gappelberg said. Were going to get more revenue out of the platform by having this, as opposed to not having it. The company aims to consolidate enterprise engagement tools into a single platform, integrating gifting with services like Eventdex for registration and ticketing, and Map D for floor plan management. Gappelberg stated this integrated approach positions Nextech3D.ai for increased platform utilization and sets the stage for tremendous growth in 2026 and beyond. Mumbai, Feb 14 : Union Minister of State for Ayush and Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav on Saturday inaugurated the renovated Unani Research Centre at J.J. Hospital, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of making traditional systems of medicine an essential pillar of the healthcare framework. He noted that by bringing Unani and conventional medicine together under one roof, the renovated co-location centre will offer patients safe, effective and holistic care supported by scientific research and evidence. He added that the initiative will further strengthen the government's vision of integrating AYUSH systems into mainstream healthcare and promoting comprehensive well-being for all. Jadhav also presided over the Unani Day 2026 celebrations and the National Conference on "Innovation and Evidence in Unani Practice" in Mumbai. The two-day programme is being organised by the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM), Ministry of Ayush, Government of India. Highlighting the importance of innovation and research, Jadhav said: "Unani medicine is a time-tested system rooted in rich clinical experience, but its future lies in how effectively we generate and present scientific evidence to the world." He emphasised that institutions such as CCRUM and the Regional Research Institute of Unani Medicine (RRIUM), Mumbai, must lead efforts in undertaking high-quality clinical research, drug standardisation and translational studies so that Unani interventions can address emerging health challenges effectively. Referring to the theme of the national conference, Jadhav said: "Innovation and evidence are the two pillars that will shape the next era of Unani medicine. Our endeavour is to ensure that every Unani formulation, procedure and therapeutic protocol is supported by robust data and aligned with global benchmarks of quality and safety." He urged researchers to leverage modern tools, including genomics, artificial intelligence and advanced diagnostics, to deepen the scientific understanding of Unani concepts and therapies. The Minister also underlined the role of Maharashtra, particularly Mumbai's premier medical institutions and Unani facilities, in showcasing successful models of integrative healthcare. "By strengthening centres such as RRIUM Mumbai and forging partnerships with leading hospitals and universities, we are creating a strong ecosystem where Unani medicine can demonstrate its full potential in public health, preventive care and chronic disease management," he added. The renovated RRIUM Co-location Centre, originally established in 1984, has been upgraded at a cost of nearly Rs 3.84 crore to enhance clinical services, research facilities and patient care in an integrative setting. The upgradation is aimed at strengthening Unani medicine facilities within the historic J.J. Hospital campus and promoting evidence-based research in collaboration with modern systems of medicine. Islamabad, Feb 14 : Raising serious doubts over the freedom of press in Pakistan, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its affiliate, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), has condemned the use of legal harassment to prolong detention of digital journalist and YouTube host Sohrab Barkat and called for his immediate release. 31-year-old Barkat, an Islamabad-based correspondent for Pakistani news outlet Siasat, was detained at Islamabad International Airport while on his way to a United Nations conference on November 26, last year. Following his arrest by the Federal Investigation Agency, he was transferred to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in Lahore and remains in a pre-trial detention since then. On January 18, Siasat announced the closure of its Islamabad office, citing increased pressure and operational difficulties stemming from Barkat's ongoing detention. "The repeated filing of overlapping FIRs, particularly while the journalist remains in custody, represents a transparent attempt to circumvent due process and weaponise the legal system against the media. This pattern of judicial harassment not only violates the principles of proportionality but also intensifies the chilling effect on independent reporting across Pakistan. The IFJ urges the Pakistani authorities to release Sohrab Barkat immediately and to cease the exploitation of criminal law to silence critical reporting," read a statement issued by the IFJ. The journalist faces at least three separate First Information Reports (FIRs) under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). The first, registered on August 5, 2025, accuses Barkat of spreading 'derogatory remarks' and misinformation about state institutions, charges reportedly linked to an interview he conducted with an opposition activist. A second FIR, dated August 26, 2024, includes allegations of 'hate speech', 'defamation', and 'cyber harassment'. A third FIR was registered on December 5, 2025, while Barkat was already in custody, including charges of 'cyberterrorism' and spreading 'false information', allegedly in relation to his social media coverage of protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and the Nobel Peace Prize nomination of leading human rights activist from Balochistan, Mahrang Baloch. According to the IFJ, while courts granted bail to Barkat in two of the cases in December 2025, the Lahore High Court denied his third bail application on January 21 after the prosecution labelled him as an 'absconder'. The journalist's legal team maintains that Barkat was never informed of the initial complaints prior to his arrest. Most recently, on February 3, the NCCIA moved to challenge and cancel the bail previously granted to the journalist in a related case. "Unjustly arresting journalists is tantamount to curbing press freedom and is unacceptable in any way. The government should release the journalist immediately," urged the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ). Earlier, the Human Rights Council (HRC) of Pakistan had expressed serious concern over the continued "arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, and judicial harassment" of Barkat, warning that the case raises troubling questions about respect for press freedom, due process, and constitutional safeguards in the country. According to the HRC of Pakistan, Barkat was unlawfully transferred to Lahore after his detention, and subsequently implicated in multiple cases, despite official submissions made to the Islamabad High Court stating that no inquiry or case was pending against him and that he was free to travel. "The contradiction between court submissions and subsequent actions reflects a disturbing disregard for the rule of law," it stated last December. "The emergence of successive cases at critical stages of the legal process appears aimed at obstructing bail and prolonging detention, further deepening concerns about misuse of legal mechanisms," the rights body had stated. February 14 : Gorakhpur: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, "The degree from the states first Forestry and Horticulture University being established in Campierganj will guarantee employment for the youth. Young people graduating with degrees and diplomas from this university will have wide employment opportunities across the country and the world. The university will also play a significant role in increasing the income of the states food-producing farmers." The Chief Minister was addressing a public gathering after inaugurating the reconstructed BDO office in the Jungle Kaudia block in Gorakhpur on Saturday. On this occasion, he referred to the Jatayu Conservation Centre built in Campierganj and said that expressing gratitude is an integral part of Indian culture. Being thankful to those who have done something for us is part of our way of life. Jatayu rendered a great service to humanity, he was the first to resist Ravana when he abducted 'Mata Sita'. He is also associated with Lord Vishnu, the preserver of creation. Today, due to the use of chemicals and pesticides, the population of vultures is declining, and they are dying. Therefore, to express gratitude toward Jatayu and to protect him, a conservation centre has been established in Campierganj. The Chief Minister said, "UPs first Forestry and Horticulture University will now be built in Campierganj. The diplomas and degrees awarded here will guarantee jobs in India and abroad. The biggest challenge facing the world today is environmental pollution. Air pollution damages the lungs and gradually harms the entire body, when there is no pollution, there will be no disease." Referring to Delhi, he said, "Doctors there advise asthma patients, the elderly and children not to step outside. Such conditions arise from tampering with the environment. While Uttar Pradesh is witnessing development while also moving toward freedom from suffocating pollution. In this context, the proposed forestry university in Campierganj will prove effective in addressing environmental challenges, increasing forest cover and boosting farmers incomes." Speaking about development in the state and in Gorakhpur after 2017, CM said, "When intentions are clear, results come on their own. With focused efforts, the fertilizer factory in Gorakhpur has resumed operations, AIIMS is providing services, BRD Medical College has become an excellent medical center, the sugar mill in Pipraich has restarted, a compressed biogas plant has been set up in Dhuriyapar and industries are flourishing in GIDA. Many large-scale development works are underway in Gorakhpur and across the state, and a development-orientated mindset helps secure a bright future for present and future generations." In his address, the Chief Minister mentioned his close connection with every village of the Jungle Kaudia block, saying he has visited each village, understands their problems and has struggled to resolve them. During floods, he personally reached people by wading through water. Once the issues were clearly identified, he ensured their solutions from Lucknow. CM said, "The level of development today in the Jungle Kaudia block and the Campierganj Assembly constituency is beyond peoples imagination. With the Kalesar-Jungle Kaudia bypass, people can reach Lucknow directly in just three to three-and-a-half hours. Travel time from Chiutaha to Kushinagar has reduced to just half an hour. All major roads in the area have become four-lane. Permanent solutions to flooding are being implemented. A degree college has been established in Jungle Kaudia in memory of revered Brahmaleen Mahant Avedyanath Maharaj, where more than 2,000 students are studying. A stadium has been built, providing opportunities for local wrestlers through training and practice facilities. Along with development, welfare schemes for the poor, housing, toilets, rations, Ayushman Bharat and pensions have reached every eligible beneficiary. All this, he said, is the result of a pro-development approach." On the occasion, the Chief Minister paid respectful tribute to the former Jungle Kaudia Block Pramukh, the late Rampati Yadav. He said that Rampati Yadav remained associated with the Gorakshpeeth from 1952 throughout his life and became Block Pramukh in 1962 and it was then that the block headquarters was established. He served the people for a long time with humility and simplicity. The Chief Minister appreciated the work of the current Block Pramukh, Brijesh Yadav, stating that he has made effective use of 1.25 crore of block funds and the Viksit Bharat Gram Yojana. An air-conditioned auditorium has been built in the block building, along with the installation of solar panels. He said, "When development funds are used this way, every block shines. He also praised the development of the Bhaurohiya block and assured the people of Jungle Kaudia of his continued support for fulfilling all development demands. He extended greetings to everyone on the occasion of Maha Shivratri, calling it a symbol of auspiciousness." At the inauguration ceremony, Campierganj MLA Fateh Bahadur Singh said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh has set benchmarks in law and order, industrial progress, employment, womens safety and welfare schemes. He detailed the unprecedented works carried out in his constituency under the Chief Ministers guidance and added that, in line with the CMs vision, Asias largest forestry university will be built in Campierganj, with the foundation stone to be laid soon by the Chief Minister. Welcoming the Chief Minister, Jungle Kaudia Block Pramukh Brijesh Yadav said that under the CMs guidance, the block is progressing fifty years ahead on the development scale. Prominent attendees included Uttar Pradesh Fisheries Corporation Chairman Ramakant Nishad, Bhaurohiya Block Pramukh representative Sanjay Singh, Purvanchal Development Board member Vijay Shankar Yadav, former Block Pramukh Gorakh Singh and BJP district minister Sadanand Sharma, among others. Before the stage program, the Chief Minister inspected the reconstruction work at the Jungle Kaudia block premises and paid floral tributes at the Shaheed Dwarka Pandey Memorial and the statue of former Block Pramukh, the late Rampati Yadav. On this occasion, he planted a rudraksha sapling in the block premises, conveying a message of environmental conservation. Bengaluru, Feb 14 : The suspicious disappearance of a 29-year-old woman who had travelled to attend a wedding has caused concern in Karnataka's Hassan district after some of her personal belongings, including innerwear, were found under mysterious circumstances near Kalkere in Belur taluk. The missing woman has been identified as Priyanka, a native of Kunigal in Tumakuru district. She had travelled alone to Chikkamagaluru to attend a wedding and was reportedly last seen around 8 p.m. on February 12 near the Belur bus stand in Hassan district. Hassan Superintendent of Police Shubhanwita said on Saturday: "A zero FIR was registered yesterday at the Belur police station regarding the missing woman. Subsequently, the case was transferred to the Arehalli police station, where a regular FIR was registered. This morning, we recovered the missing woman's clothes, slippers and vanity bag. Her kurta and other belongings were found at three different locations. The investigation is underway, and we are collecting technical evidence. Efforts are being made to trace the woman." Police sources stated that they suspect Priyanka was wearing gold jewellery worth approximately Rs 30 lakh at the time of her disappearance. This has led to suspicions that she may have been abducted and subjected to violence or other serious harm for her ornaments. According to her family members, she had called them at about 7.30 p.m. the same evening and said she was "with someone" before abruptly disconnecting the call. Her mobile phone was later found switched off. Her relatives alleged that when they initially approached the police to file a complaint, there was no immediate response. However, the case took a serious turn after Priyanka's innerwear, slippers and vanity bag were found near the Kalkere area. Locals said that no clothes were noticed at the location on the first day, but they were discovered later, raising further apprehensions. A case has been registered at the Hassan Rural Police Station. Police, along with a dog squad and a forensic team, visited the spot and conducted a detailed inspection. A large-scale search operation is currently underway to trace the missing woman. Priyanka's family members have expressed anger against the Arehalli Police Station and the Belur police, alleging that prompt action at the initial stage could have helped trace her sooner. Further investigation is underway. Mumbai, Feb 14 : The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) on Saturday constituted a high-level inquiry committee headed by Basavraj M. Bhadragond, Director, to investigate the collapse of a portion of an under-construction Metro Line 4 pillar that fell onto moving vehicles, killing one person and injuring three others. In a statement, MMRDA said the committee will examine the construction methodology, quality control protocols, supervision mechanisms and compliance records. A detailed report has been sought on priority. The incident occurred at around 12.15 p.m. near Pier P196 of the under-construction Metro Line 4 corridor (Wadala-Kasarvadavali), close to the Mulund Fire Station, when a part of a parapet segment fell from a height and struck a passing auto-rickshaw. One individual, identified as Ramdhan Yadav, was pulled out from the wreckage and rushed to hospital but was declared brought dead. Three others were admitted to a local hospital. According to police, Rajkumar Indrajeet Yadav (45) is in critical condition in the ICU, while Mahendra Pratap Yadav (52) and Deepa Ruhiya (40) are reported to be stable. MMRDA said it will bear the complete medical expenses of the injured. Financial assistance will be provided as per the applicable policy, and the disbursement will be processed on priority. The authority said that immediately after the incident, the project team reached the site and secured the area. The affected stretch has been barricaded and a detailed structural safety assessment has commenced in coordination with the BMC, disaster management authorities, local police and fire brigade officials. Clarifying reports circulating on social media, MMRDA said some visuals being shared were from a previously flagged location. "The present incident occurred near Pier No. P196, whereas the visuals being circulated pertain to a different location and not the same pier. The two sites are distinct and geographically separate within the corridor alignment. Any suggestion that the incident occurred at the earlier visually flagged location is factually incorrect. This aspect will nonetheless be examined as part of the inquiry to ensure complete transparency," the statement stated. As a precautionary measure, construction activity along the immediate stretch has been temporarily halted pending preliminary findings. "Public safety remains paramount. Strict accountability will be ensured based on the findings of the inquiry, and appropriate corrective measures will be implemented to prevent recurrence. Further updates will be shared upon receipt of the inquiry findings," it added. Earlier, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ordered a probe into the incident. He announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of the deceased and free treatment for the injured. In a post on X, Fadnavis expressed grief over the incident in Mulund and said the state government would bear the treatment costs of the injured and prayed for their speedy recovery. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee president Harshwardhan Sapkal targeted the state government, alleging lapses in safety and corruption. He said the Chief Minister should take responsibility for the incident and questioned whether adequate safety measures were being followed during metro construction in densely populated areas. "Why is safety not being taken care of when metro work is being carried out in populated areas? Will the government look into the quality of work and safety or not? This question cannot be brushed aside by taking action only against the contractor. The BJP-led grand alliance government should learn to take responsibility as well as take credit," he said. New Delhi, Feb 14 : India's innovation ecosystem has matured to a stage where opportunity is fully democratised and accessible 'on a mobile phone,' Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said on Saturday, urging young people to move beyond the traditional aspiration of government jobs and embrace entrepreneurship. Addressing the inaugural session of the ResearchIndustryStartupEntrepreneurship (RISE) Conclave 2026 in Chennai, Dr Singh stressed that government employment alone cannot be the only career goal for India's youth. He called for a decisive shift in mindset towards innovation-led entrepreneurship and job creation, saying that India has transformed from a late entrant into a global innovation hub. The two-day conclave, being held on February 14 and 15 at the Chennai Trade Centre, aims to bring together research institutions, industry leaders, academia and startups on one platform. The event is designed to align laboratory research with industry needs and market demands under what the Minister described as a "Whole-of-Government for Whole-of-Society" approach. Recalling his early years in Chennai, Dr Singh described the city as a historic centre of learning and innovation. He praised institutions like CSIR-CLRI, calling them symbols of national pride since Independence. "Products developed at CLRI now have a strong export presence and that CSIR laboratories have increasingly aligned their work with national development priorities instead of functioning in isolation," he noted. Highlighting Tamil Nadu's development, the Minister said the state has received significant support under flagship central schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri SVANidhi and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, along with the expansion of Vande Bharat Express services. "These initiatives reflect recognition of Tamil Nadu's contribution and potential," he said. Speaking about India's startup growth, Dr Singh said that in 2014 there were only around 350 recognised startups, while today the number has crossed two lakh, generating more than 21 lakh jobs. He added that nearly 69 per cent of beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana are women, and tens of thousands of startups are women-led. India's ranking in the Global Innovation Index has improved from 81 to 38, and the country now ranks sixth globally in patent filings, with most patents being filed by Indian residents working within the country. Jammu, Feb 14 : To safeguard the lives of villagers living close to the international border from cross-border firing, the District Magistrate in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district on Saturday imposed restrictions on movement within five km of the international border. An order issued by Rajesh Sharma, District Magistrate Kathua, said on Saturday, "Whereas, the security situation in the border areas has become sensitive and there is a possibility for cross-border firing at any time. The movement in border areas is required to be restricted to ensure the utmost safety of the villagers and prevent any anti-national activities." Sharma further said that to check these kinds of activities in the border areas, "I am satisfied that there are sufficient grounds for proceedings under section 163 BNSS for immediate prevention of danger to human life and disturbance to public tranquility, and it is necessary to impose restrictions to restrict unnecessary movement in border areas." "Now, therefore, I, Rajesh Sharma, JKAS, District Magistrate, Kathua in exercise of the powers vested in me under Section 163 BNSS, do hereby restrict unnecessary movement in the border area in a strip of 5 Km from the International Border in Area of Responsibility of the Unit i.e. from BOP (Border Outpost) Paharpur forward to BOP (Border Outpost) Karol Krishna between. Moreover, movement of heavy vehicles, including trucks, tippers and multi-axle vehicles is prohibited on the old Samba-Kathua road from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. He said the order shall come into force from Saturday and shall remain in force for a period of Sixty Days from the date of its issuance or if rescinded, whichever is earlier. "Since it is not possible to serve prior notice of this order, it is as such being issued ex parte and addressed to the public in general. Any violation of this order shall invite punitive action under Section 223 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita", the order said. It must be mentioned that during tension on the international border in J&K, restrictions are imposed in areas very close to the border so that civilians living in these areas don't become victims of Pakistan's shelling/firing. Bhopal, Feb 14 : A prominent civil lawyer was shot dead in broad daylight while heading to court in Karera tehsil of Shivpuri district in Madhya Pradesh on Saturday, sending shockwaves through the local legal community and sparking widespread outrage among advocates. The victim, identified as Sanjay Kumar Saxena, aged 57, was a well-known advocate practising in the Karera civil court. He was attacked on Saturday morning near Anand Sagar Temple on Siddhan Road. Shivpuri District Superintendent of Police Aman Singh Rathore told the media that unidentified assailants opened fire indiscriminately on the advocate on an isolated stretch while he was on his way to work. "It appears to be a planned murder, which usually has a motive. Police are investigating the matter from all angles, and forensic experts are also examining the evidence," he said. The advocate sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead after examination. The incident has triggered intense anger among lawyers in the region, who described it as a brazen attack on the legal profession. "We have deployed additional security at court premises and assigned the case to the concerned police stations for a comprehensive inquiry," the SP said. Family members, including the deceased's brother, Advocate Kuldeep Saxena, have levelled serious allegations linking the murder to a land dispute. They claimed that Sanjay Saxena had successfully represented one of his clients from Sigdaua village in a contentious property case and had secured a favourable verdict. Following the verdict, the losing party allegedly harboured a personal grudge and issued repeated death threats, the family alleged. They further claimed that Sanjay Saxena refused to back down and continued his professional duties despite the warnings. Advocate Kuldeep Saxena also alleged that the murder was orchestrated by individuals from Sigdaua village. "Every angle is being probed, including the family's accusations against several individuals," the SP said, adding that "the real motive whether linked to a land dispute, election rivalry, or something else will emerge only after a detailed police investigation." New Delhi, Feb 14 : Nvidia Corp on Saturday confirmed that its Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang will not attend the India AI Impact Summit scheduled to begin next week in the national capital. Huang was earlier expected to speak to the media on February 17, but his visit has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, the company said. "Due to unforeseen circumstances, Jensen Huang is unable to travel to India at this time," it said. "NVIDIA remains deeply committed to the AI Impact Summit and to Indiaas rapidly advancing AI ecosystem," the firm stated. Despite this development, the India AI Impact Summit is set to go ahead as planned and is expected to remain a major international event. "A senior NVIDIA delegation, led by Executive Vice President Jay Puri, will be on ground to celebrate Indiaas exceptional AI researchers, startups, developers, and the partners building the nationas AI infrastructure," the company mentioned. The summit will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will run from February 16 to February 20 in New Delhi. Several top global tech leaders are still scheduled to attend. These include Sundar Pichai of Alphabet, Sam Altman of OpenAI, and Dario Amodei. Along with them, ministers, policymakers, and delegates from more than 45 countries will take part in the discussions. A number of world leaders have also confirmed their participation. These include Franceas President Emmanuel Macron, Spainas President Pedro Sanchez Perez-Castejon, Finlandas Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, Brazilas President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Bhutanas Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, and Mauritiusa Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. Representatives from the United Nations and other global institutions will also be present. The summit is built around three core themes -- People, Planet, and Progress. Discussions will focus on how artificial intelligence affects jobs and society, its environmental impact, and how AI can be developed and used responsibly. India aims to position the summit not just as a technology showcase, but as a platform for meaningful and ethical global conversations on AI. New Delhi, Feb 14 : A day after a flare-up in Delhi University over UGC's Equity Regulations and an alleged assault on a woman social media influencer, Vice Chancellor Yogesh Singh on Saturday urged teachers and students to maintain harmony. "I request all teachers and students of Delhi University to maintain harmony among themselves. Do not engage in any activity that increases mutual discord and harms the image of the nation and the university," said the VC. "The incident that occurred at Delhi University yesterday is a matter of concern. Students from all states of India and all communities study in the university. Social harmony is the greatest thing; and maintaining it is the duty of all of us," he said. "I have spoken with several student groups and teacher groups today and have also spoken with the police administration to ensure that no such incident occurs in the future that harms harmony," said the VC. The new UGC rules that have come are currently under consideration in the Supreme Court, he said, appealing to teachers and students of the university to maintain their trust in the Government of India and wait for the apex court's decision. On Friday, a demonstration at the Delhi University Faculty of Arts in support of the UGC's equity regulations, aiming to enhance protections against caste discrimination on campuses, escalated into a heated confrontation between two different groups of students. During the protest in support of the UGC Equity Regulations 2026, a woman influencer was allegedly manhandled by some protestors. Later in the evening, another group of students demanded justice for the influencer and protested outside Maurice Nagar Police Station in North Delhi. The UGC 2026 regulations aimed at "promoting equity" in higher education have come under sustained academic scrutiny, not only for their alleged vagueness but also for deep 'internal inconsistencies' that 'risk excluding' the very groups they claim to protect. Experts have claimed that the regulations suffer from a serious lack of coherence -- particularly in their treatment of the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). We recently published 10 Stocks on Jim Cramers Radar. Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC) is one of the stocks that on Jim Cramer's radar. Railroad giant Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC)s shares are up by 23.6% over the past year and by 10% year-to-date. The firms latest earnings results saw it report $3.22 in adjusted profit per share, which marked growth from the year-ago figures of $3.04. However, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC)s revenue of $3 billion marked a 2% annual drop. Following the earnings report, Baird discussed the railroad firms shares. It reduced the share price target to $288 from $293 and kept a Neutral rating on the stock as part of a model update. Cramer regularly discussed the firm last year when Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC) and Union Pacific announced that they were going to merge. More recently, Deutsche Bank downgraded the stock to Hold from Buy on the back of the planned merger. Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC) had already warned that it could experience fluctuations in its topline due to the deals impact on the railroad industry. In this appearance, while Cramer did not mention Deutsche Bank, he did comment that a downgrade was unsuitable: Norfolk Southern (NSC)'s Downgrade Was Ill-Advised, Days Jim Cramer Pixabay/Public Domain Oh my god, CSX, its interesting, someone downgraded Norfolk Southern, that person was ill-advised. While we acknowledge the potential of NSC as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an extremely cheap AI stock that is also a major beneficiary of Trump tariffs and onshoring, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now. Beed : , Feb 14 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said that the government is placing livestock at the centre to strengthen the rural economy. He expressed confidence that with the integration of technology, this sector will position Maharashtra as a global leader in milk production. CM Fadnavis was speaking after visiting the three-day Maha Pashudhan Expo 2026, organised by the Animal Husbandry Department at Parli in Beed district. The Chief Minister described the expo as a strategic initiative to mitigate climate risk in dryland farming. "When crops fail, livestock becomes the backbone of farmers' income. Recognising not only its religious significance but also its economic value, we have accorded the cow the status of 'Rajyamata' (State Mother)," he said. Highlighting the productivity gap, Fadnavis noted that while cows in Punjab yield 1015 litres of milk per day, the average in Maharashtra is around 2.5 liters. To bridge this gap, the government will deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) for livestock monitoring, health management, and productivity enhancement. Advanced reproductive technologies such as embryo transfer and sex-sorted semen will be promoted to increase high-quality calf production and boost milk output. An agreement has also been signed with Mother Dairy for projects in Vidarbha and Marathwada. Referring to trade concerns, the Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has safeguarded Indian agriculture in global trade negotiations. "There is no mention of soybean or cotton imports in the IndiaUS agreement. Farmers should not believe rumours that foreign imports will depress prices. On the contrary, Indian farmers now have access to a vast American market," he clarified. Animal Husbandry Minister Pankaja Munde announced that the upcoming Chief Minister Rural Livestock Entrepreneur Scheme is encouraging rural youth to become business owners instead of job seekers. "To make women 'Lakhpati Didis', the government will provide loans at zero per cent interest," she said. She also highlighted that Maharashtra is the first state in the country to grant agriculture status to animal husbandry and thanked the Chief Minister for the decision. Meanwhile, a symbolic exchange of the Memorandum of Understanding between the VidarbhaMarathwada Dairy Production Project and the Livestock Development Board, Nagpur, was held. Kolkata, Feb 14 : The hearing phase on claims and objections to the draft voters' list in West Bengal concluded on Saturday evening, with 4.98 lakh additional names identified as eligible for deletion from the final voters' list. These 4.98 lakh voters are those who abstained from attending the hearing sessions despite repeated notices being served to them and have therefore been found eligible for exclusion from the final voters' list. The number of such voters who had abstained from the hearing sessions stood at 6.25 lakh till Friday evening. "However, on the last day of the hearing, over 1,00,000 voters attended the sessions, reducing the figure to 4.98 lakh on Saturday evening," said a source in the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal. Earlier, during the enumeration phase, names of more than 58 lakh voters -- including deceased, duplicate and shifted voters -- were found ineligible and were excluded from the draft voters' list published in December last year. The additional 4.98 lakh names identified during the hearing phase will now be added to that number. However, the final figure of deleted names will be clear only after the publication of the final voters' list on February 28. "The scrutiny of supporting identity documents submitted by voters who attended the hearings will continue till February 21. During this process, names of voters who submitted invalid or unverified identity documents may also be excluded. The final picture will be clear after the publication of the final voters' list on February 28," the CEO's office source said. It is learnt that the highest number of voters who abstained from appearing at the hearing sessions was in North 24 Parganas district, at around 1.38 lakh, followed by South 24 Parganas with about 46,000 and Kolkata (Dakshin) electoral district with around 22,000. The lowest number of absentees was reported from Kalimpong district, at just 440. A day after the publication of the final voters' list on February 28, a full bench of the Election Commission of India (ECI) will visit West Bengal for two days to review the post-Special Intensive Revision (SIR) situation, following which the schedule for the crucial Assembly elections due later this year is expected to be announced. West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal has already recommended to the ECI that the Assembly elections be conducted in a single phase. However, the final decision will be taken by the Commission. In recent elections, polling in West Bengal was conducted in multiple phases, typically ranging from seven to eight phases. The last time Assembly elections in West Bengal were held in a single phase was in 2001. Bhopal, Feb 14 : Even as the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Madhya Pradesh government has announced the implementation of the Union Home Ministry's directives on the mandatary recitation of the national song - 'Vande Mataram', the leaders of the Muslim community, including religious personalities, have strongly objected to the decision. The religious priests of the Muslim community from different parts of Madhya Pradesh have started opposing, terming the Centre's new guidelines as "unconstitutional and contrary to religious freedom." Clerics, speaking to IANS, echoed the line of the All-India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). Ujjain's Imam Maulana Syed Nasir Ali Nadvi, talking about the recitation of the 'Vande Mataram', said that anyone who reads it agrees to worship the motherland. Therefore, those who believe in Islam cannot accept this. Islam does not permit the worship of anyone other than Allah. "It is explicitly stated in the national song Vande Mataram that we worship the motherland. Therefore, Islam cannot permit us to worship anyone along with Allah, or to worship anyone other than Allah, or to include anyone in our prayer system," Maulana Syed Nasir Ali Nadvi said, talking to IANS on Saturday. Similarly, when IANS spoke to Bhopal's (City) Quazi Maulana Syed Mushtaq Ali Nadwi over the phone, he said, "My views are the same as what All-India Muslim Personal Law Board has said." Political representatives from the Muslim community have also opposed the Centre's new guidelines of making the recitation of all six stanzas of the 'Vande Mataram' mandatory. Congress MLA Arif Masood, who is considered a strong voice of the Muslim community in Madhya Pradesh's politics, said that the matter is not about the respect of the national anthem but about religious freedom guaranteed under Article 25 of the Constitution. "India is a democratic country. There is no dispute about respecting Vande Mataram. The concern is with certain lines that, in our view, restrict religious freedom," Masood, who is an MLA from Bhopal Centre Assembly constituency, said. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Thursday announced that the Centre's directive mandating the singing of all six stanzas of the national song 'Vande Mataram' at official functions is being "implemented with immediate effect." "Under the leadership of illustrious Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the Home Ministry has decided to respectfully sing six stanzas of 'Vande Mataram' before the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana'. We are implementing this in Madhya Pradesh," Chief Minister Yadav said in a statement. Bengaluru, Feb 14 : Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy on Saturday dismissed speculation over leadership issues within the JD(S)-BJP alliance, saying this is not the time to discuss who should become Chief Minister of Karnataka. Referring to discussions about the alliance with the BJP and demands from some of his supporters that he should be projected as Chief Minister, Kumaraswamy said there was still time for such decisions. "There is still time for that. Speaking about it now would be like stitching a cap before the child is born," he remarked. "There is no confusion regarding the alliance with the BJP, and I have an open mind about an alliance for the Greater Bengaluru civic polls," he added. Responding to media queries at the party's state office, J.P. Bhavan, Kumaraswamy said the immediate priority was to strengthen the alliance and focus on political work in the state. "It is not appropriate to speak about leadership positions now. There is a very bad government in the state. My objective is to remove this corrupt and inefficient Congress-led government and bring in a pro-people administration. The JD(S) and BJP will work together to accomplish this," he said. Further referring to discussions about the alliance and the Chief Minister's post, he said he does not feel the need to respond to such remarks. "If I start responding to everyone, people may think I lack maturity. Therefore, I will not speak on that. We will strengthen the alliance together, contest the elections together and form a pro-people government," Kumaraswamy said. "I have told you many times that my goal is to remove this anti-people government in the state. I have been saying this from the beginning," he said in response to another question. He added that internal discussions were ongoing and no final decisions had been taken. "Different discussions take place within different parties. Nothing is final. The Assembly elections are still two years away, and local body elections are four to five months away," he said. Regarding local body and Greater Bengaluru elections, Kumaraswamy said there had been no formal discussions so far between the two parties. "When the time comes, we will certainly discuss it. My party and I are open about the alliance. When the situation arises, we will discuss it on the party platform and take a decision. There is no confusion regarding the alliance, and there will be none in the future," the Union Minister said. He said all political parties were preparing for the upcoming elections and that JD(S) was also holding regular meetings. "Even in today's meeting, we did not discuss the alliance issue. We will deliberate when the time comes," he added. Responding to a question about Congress MLAs travelling abroad on study tours, he said: "They may go wherever they want, even for study purposes. But they must provide solutions to the problems faced by the people." On the same occasion, Kumaraswamy held a meeting at the party office to review preparations for the Greater Bengaluru civic elections. He held consultations with Members of the Legislative Council, former MLAs and other leaders from Assembly constituencies in Bengaluru. "The Supreme Court has directed that the Greater Bengaluru civic elections be held by June 30. Whether this government conducts the elections or not, we must be prepared," he told party leaders, directing them to strengthen preparations at the booth, ward and Assembly constituency levels. MLA M.T. Krishnappa, MLCs T.A. Sharavana and Javarayi Gowda, City JD(S) President H.M. Ramesh Gowda, former MLCs K.N. Tippeswamy and E. Krishnappa, former MLA Nisarga Narayanaswamy, senior leader Gottigere Manjunath and several other leaders were present at the meeting. Patna, Feb 14 : Valentine's Day celebrations faced opposition in Patna on Friday, with members of an organisation protesting against couples at public places and distributing copies of the Hanuman Chalisa. Activists of the Hindu Shiv Bhavani Sena were seen opposing couples at several locations, particularly at Buddha Smriti Park near Patna Junction railway station. Members of the outfit allegedly asked couples to separate and distributed Hanuman Chalisa booklets to young men, claiming that Valentine's Day does not align with Indian cultural values. The group also alleged that the occasion promotes obscenity and said they would continue to oppose such celebrations. Posters were reportedly put up in different parts of the city carrying warning messages against Valentine's Day celebrations. Speaking to mediapersons, Luv Kumar Shiv Rudra, National President of the Hindu Shiv Bhavani Sena, said the organisation's members were monitoring parks and public places in Patna and other parts of Bihar. He claimed the group was acting to prevent what they described as "love jihad" and obscenity, and that couples were being asked to recite the Hanuman Chalisa instead of celebrating Valentine's Day. The organisation also stated that February 14 should be observed as a day to honour the Pulwama martyrs rather than Valentine's Day. Following the protests and the appearance of posters, police across Patna were put on alert to prevent any law and order issues. Senior police officials said that no individual or group would be allowed to take the law into their own hands. Authorities warned that harassing or intimidating people in public places would invite strict legal action. Police said maintaining law and order remains their top priority and that anyone found disrupting peace or unlawfully targeting individuals will be dealt with firmly. Additional security personnel were also deployed at key locations, including Eco Park, to prevent any untoward incidents. Bengaluru, Feb 14 : The Karnataka government has sought the intervention of the Centre in connection with the case of a student from the state who has gone missing in California, US. Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh has written to Vikram Misri, Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), requesting urgent assistance, the Chief Minister's Office said on Saturday. In her letter, Shalini Rajneesh said: "I am writing to bring to your urgent attention the distressing case of a young Indian student, Mr Saketh Sreenivasaiah, who has been reported missing in Berkeley, California, USA, since the morning of February 12, 2026." "Mr Saketh is currently enrolled in a Master of Science programme at the University of California, Berkeley. According to information received from his family and housemates, his whereabouts remain unknown despite a formal complaint being lodged with the Berkeley Police Department (Case No. 26-6726)," she said. "Given the gravity of the situation and the mounting anxiety of his family residing in our state, I request your intervention and support. It is requested that the Ministry of External Affairs, through the Consulate General of India in San Francisco, extend all necessary assistance, including coordination with local law enforcement and facilitation of support to the family," she added. Earlier, the student's family had approached the Karnataka government seeking assistance in locating him. His father, Sreenivasiah, said that Saketh had gone missing from Berkeley and that his housemate had searched all known locations before filing a formal complaint with the police. "Saketh is currently pursuing his Master of Science degree at the University of California. He has been missing since the morning of February 12, 2026. His housemate searched all known places and, after confirming that he was not traceable, lodged a complaint at the Berkeley Police Department. The police are actively investigating, but his whereabouts remain unknown," he said. He appealed to Indian authorities to assist in locating his son and provide support to the family during the difficult time. Bengaluru, Feb 14 : Marking 1,000 days of the Congress-led government in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday expressed confidence that the party would win 141 seats in the next Assembly elections. Speaking at the "Successful 1,000 Days of Public Service and Land Guarantee Dedication Convention" in Haveri, Shivakumar also announced that, in addition to the five guarantees promised before the last elections, the government is introducing a sixth guarantee -- the "Land Guarantee". He said that if the Centre grants approvals for key irrigation projects such as the Upper Krishna Project, Mekedatu, Mahadayi and Yettinahole, the government would introduce a seventh guarantee the "Water Guarantee". "When I came seeking votes, I said one thing: a lotus looks good in a pond, a sheaf looks good in a field, and the hand that gives charity looks good in power. Since this giving hand is in power, we have delivered the five guarantees and are now providing the sixth guarantee Land Guarantee," Shivakumar said. He added that the government has regularised land records, including podi and khata, for 1,11,111 people who did not previously have proper documentation. He further stated that the government has decided to provide compensation of Rs 3540 lakh to farmers whose land is acquired for the Upper Krishna Project. On the Mekedatu project on the Cauvery river, he said that a team of legal experts had presented arguments in the Supreme Court and that preparations for the Detailed Project Report (DPR) are currently underway. Regarding the Mahadayi project, Shivakumar said the Union Forest Department has yet to grant approval, and similar objections have been raised concerning drinking water supply schemes. He expressed hope that approvals would be granted soon to facilitate irrigation and drinking water supply to drought-prone regions such as Chikkaballapur and Kolar. He said that through the Krishna, Cauvery and Mahadayi projects, the government aims to improve farmers' livelihoods and ensure adequate drinking water supply, irrigation support and groundwater recharge. Highlighting welfare initiatives, he said the Energy Department spends around Rs 20,000 crore annually to provide free electricity to agricultural pump sets. "This time we won 136 seats. In the next election, we will win 141 seats mark my words. I have confidence in our MLAs," Shivakumar said. Referring to recent bypoll victories, he said Congress had strengthened its position in constituencies previously not held by the party. He also highlighted the impact of the government's guarantee schemes, stating that women are benefiting from free bus travel, households are receiving financial assistance and youth are finding new opportunities. Criticising opposition parties, Shivakumar accused the BJP and JD(S) of failing to implement similar welfare programmes during their tenure. "Our government has completed 1,000 days. We have implemented what we promised and come to seek your blessings," he said. He added that although the government completed 1,000 days on Friday, the event was held on Saturday due to an international conference on dam safety being organised in Bengaluru. However, Shivakumar left the stage when Chief Minister Siddaramaiah began his address, amid slogans from supporters demanding that Siddaramaiah continue as Chief Minister for the full term. The development comes against the backdrop of reported differences between the two leaders, although no official statement was issued. Pune, Feb 14 : Founding Director of Delhi-based think tank India Foundation, Shaurya Doval, said on Saturday that India has built a strong base for a future economy by creating the digital infrastructure needed for long-term growth. Speaking about Indiaas economic journey, Doval said the country has become future-ready by investing in systems that can support an economy worth 30 to 40 trillion dollars in the coming decades. He explained that digital platforms, governance reforms, and technology-driven systems are laying the groundwork for sustained expansion and global competitiveness. "First thing that has happened is that we have laid the foundation of what I think will be a future economy, we are future ready as laying the digital infrastructure that is needed for an economy that is going to move to the range of our 30 to 40 trillion dollars," he mentioned. Doval also highlighted Indiaas economic performance over the last decade, especially from 2014 to 2025. He said that the numbers themselves reflect the progress made during this period. According to him, Indiaas GDP stood at around $2 trillion in 2004, which was the result of nearly 65 years of growth since Independence. He recalled that when India became independent in 1947, the economy was valued at just about $30 billion. Reaching the $2 trillion mark took decades, but the pace of growth has accelerated significantly in recent years due to policy stability, infrastructure development, and digital transformation. "I think if you look at the Indian economy's performance in the last 10 years, so 2014 to 25, I think the first statistic in itself speaks pretty much in terms of the scorecard," Doval mentioned. "In 2004, the GDP of India was $2 trillion. India had in about 65 years of its independence, we started off with a base of about $30 billion in 1947, had achieved an economic size of $2 trillion," he added. The remarks were made in Pune, where Doval emphasised that India is now better positioned than ever to move into the league of the worldas largest economies, backed by strong fundamentals and a clear long-term vision. Jaipur, Feb 14 : In a major crackdown on narcotics trafficking, police in Rajasthan's Pratapgarh district busted a mini drug manufacturing unit operating from a farm hut under Operation Chakravyuh and seized illegal MD (mephedrone), weapons and equipment, exposing an interstate drug racket. Jaipur, Feb 14 (IANS) In a major crackdown on narcotics trafficking, police in Rajasthanas Pratapgarh district busted a mini drug manufacturing unit operating from a farm hut under Operation Chakravyuh and seized illegal MD (mephedrone), weapons and equipment, exposing an interstate drug racket. Acting under the direction of Superintendent of Police B. Aditya, a team from Hathunia police station conducted a raid at a deserted farm on the Asawataa"Kulthana road. During the raid, police discovered a modern mini drug manufacturing unit operating inside a cement-sheet hut. A total of 1.897 kg of illicit MD was seized, with an estimated international market value of around Rs 1.60 crore. Police also recovered equipment used in drug production, including an induction cooker, mixer, heater and electronic weighing scale. Two accused were arrested at the spot a" Murad Khan Pathan (28), a resident of Asawata in Pratapgarh district, and Mohammad Junaid (48), a resident of Mehsana in Gujarat. During interrogation, the accused allegedly admitted that they had been manufacturing drugs at the location for the past two days. Two other suspects a" Jeevan Anjana from Pratapgarh and Shariq alias Jerry from Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh a" managed to escape under the cover of darkness. Police teams have been formed to trace and arrest them. Police also recovered illegal weapons during the raid, including a loaded pistol and five live cartridges from the possession of Murad Khan. In addition, a Yamaha motorcycle and a car allegedly used in drug trafficking were seized. Police said Murad Khan has a criminal history, with cases registered against him for attempted murder and offences under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The operation was carried out under the supervision of Additional Superintendent of Police Gajendra Singh Jodha and Circle Officer Gajendra Singh Rao. Hathunia Station House Officer Udayveer Singh led the raid, assisted by ASI Manohar Singh, Head Constable Suresh Kumar, Constables Mukesh, Girish Chand, Bhagwati Lal and driver Ganpat. Police said further investigation is underway to identify the supply network and intended distribution points of the seized drugs. Kabul, Feb 14 : Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif's recent admission in the country's parliament - that the country had "rented itself out" to the United States after 9/11 - proved the long-held views of Afghans right that Islamabad simultaneously nurtured militant proxies, shaped regional narratives, and externalised the costs onto Afghan society, a report said on Saturday. Kabul, Feb 14 (IANS) Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif's recent admission in the country's parliament that the country had "rented itself out" to the United States after 9/11 - proved the long-held views of Afghans right that Islamabad simultaneously nurtured militant proxies, shaped regional narratives, and externalised the costs onto Afghan society, a report said on Saturday. According to a report in the 'Afghan Diaspora Network', Asif's remarks have drawn sharp reactions from prominent Afghan political figures, whose varied responses converge on a common criticism that Pakistan's political and military establishment has long played a double game in Afghanistan, with the Pakistani Defence Minister's selective confession providing partial insight and also concealing key details. Former Afghan intelligence chief Rahmatullah Nabil offered the most forceful rebuttal, arguing that Asif's comments are "not an honest reckoning but a revisionist attempt to sanitise decades of Pakistani policy". "Nabil highlights the contradictions in Asif's narrative: the same politician who now frames Pakistan's involvement in Afghanistan as a purely political miscalculation once invoked religious legitimacy when the Taliban returned to power, telling the United States, 'Power is yours, God is with us'," the report mentioned. "For Nabil, this contradiction exposes the deeper problem: Pakistan's Afghan policy has always blended ideology, geopolitics, and opportunism. To retroactively reduce it to "political mistakes" is, in Nabil's words, an evasion of responsibility for the human cost borne by Afghans graveyards, displacement, and destroyed villages," it added. The report stressed that former US Ambassador to Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad views Asif's remarks from another perspective, underscoring Pakistan's strategic duplicity throughout the US-led war on terror. "Khalilzad notes that while Pakistan received billions in military and financial support for assisting US operations, its security establishment simultaneously provided sanctuary to the Taliban insurgency fighting American forces," it noted. Former Afghan Member of Parliament Mariam Solaimankhil adds another dimension by emphasising the human cost of Pakistan's policies, stating that Asif's remarks are "not merely contradictory they are dismissive of Afghan suffering". "Soliamankhil argues that Pakistan's decades-long involvement in Afghanistan was not an accidental byproduct of global politics but a deliberate strategy rooted in ideological engineering, from madrassa curricula to jihadist narratives. Solaimankhil's critique aligns with Nabil's: Pakistan was not simply a victim of geopolitical pressures but an active architect of the very forces that destabilised Afghanistan," the report stated. Nothing, the hardware company backed by Tiger Global, is opening its first retail store in India, its biggest market. The store is located in Bengaluru, where the company says a large chunk of its user base is concentrated. The new, two-story location will showcase Nothings products and other projects. Customers will also be able to buy hardware products and other merchandise from the store and have select items customized. More from Yahoo Scout What makes Nothing's retail store concept unique? What are Nothing's global expansion plans beyond India? How does CMF differentiate from Nothing's main brand? Why is India Nothing's most important market? We wanted to create a fun space, the companys co-founder and CEO Carl Pei said. Its kind of inspired by all the parts that are related to the brand. For instance, the factory: if you buy a product, theres like a production line where the product comes out. We also show machines where phones go through testing, like USB port testing or water resistance testing. So we just wanted to bring that world together. The store will feature products from both Nothing and CMF, its budget brand, which it spun off last year. Notably, CMF is headquartered in India and has a joint venture with local Indian ODM (original design manufacturer), Optiemus. Pei mentioned that both brands are differentiated in terms of the products they offer, which fall into different price ranges, as well as the audiences they target. Nothing is more niche with a higher price. CMF is more [targeted toward] mass [market]. You know its mass, but its not just off-the-shelf rebrand products that usually [appear] in this price point. They are also products that we put a lot of care into, he said. India has been Nothings strongest market, with over 2% of the smartphone market share, the research firm IDC told TechCrunch last year. It also noted that Nothing was the fastest-growing brand in the country in Q2 2025, with 85% growth in shipments year-over-year. Other hardware makers are building aspirational retail stores in India, too. For instance, Apple is set to open its sixth store in the country this month, situated in Borivali, a suburb of Mumbai. This is the first Nothing store outside of London, where the company is headquartered. The startup said that it plans to open two more stores in Tokyo and New York, but didnt provide timelines for the openings. The company raised $200 million in Series C funding at a $1.3 billion valuation last year, led by Tiger Global, along with investors like GV, Highland Europe, EQT, Latitude, I2BF, and Tapestry. Nothing has raised $450 million to date. Quetta, Feb 14 : As violence against civilians continues to mount across Balochistan province in Pakistan, a leading human rights organisation on Saturday brought to light the extrajudicial killing of another Baloch youth by the country's forces. These latest incidents come against the backdrop of a growing wave of targetted killings and enforced disappearances across the province. Human rights body Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) revealed that 25-year-old Kamal Dad, a driver, was killed by a Pakistan-backed death squad in the Kontani region in Gwadar district in Balochistan on February 12. "Kamal Dad had previously been forcibly disappeared in 2025 and was released after one month of illegal detention. Following his release, he survived an assassination attempt in Fakir Colony, where he sustained injuries. Despite the earlier attempt on his life, no protection or legal action was taken against those responsible," the BYC stated. Condemning the incident, the BYC stated that the killing of Kamal demonstrates the alarming continuity of violence faced by individuals across the province who have previously survived enforced disappearance. "This act constitutes a violation of Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which guarantees the inherent right to life and prohibits arbitrary deprivation of life," the rights body stressed. "The repeated targetting of a previously disappeared individual further underscores the systematic violence and the complete absence of accountability," it added. The BYC called upon international human rights organisations, the United Nations mechanisms, and global civil society to take immediate notice of the ongoing human rights violations in Balochistan to prevent further loss of innocent lives and to uphold fundamental human rights. Meanwhile, in its latest annual human rights report titled "A Year of Repression: Balochistan 2025," Paank documented widespread human rights violations across the province in 2025. The report recorded 1,355 cases of enforced disappearances, 225 extrajudicial killings, repeated aerial attacks on civilian areas in the province, while alleging systematic misuse of legal and administrative measures to suppress peaceful civic movements and restrictions on information aimed at silencing victims' families and witnesses. "Enforced disappearance remains the primary instrument of state-sponsored terror in Balochistan. As defined under international law, these acts constitute a crime against humanity when committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack against a civilian population," Paank stated. "The discovery of 225 bodies of previously disappeared persons in 2025 confirms the ongoing and brutal reality of the 'kill and dump' policy. This strategy involves the execution of detainees in custody, followed by the abandonment of their mutilated remains in desolate areas, often accompanied by labels designating them as 'terrorists' or 'insurgents' to retroactively justify their deaths," it added. As per the findings of Paank, Pakistan's apparatus primarily the Pakistani military, its multifaceted intelligence agencies, and the paramilitary Frontier Corps"has intensified its campaign against the Baloch population through a strategic combination of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial executions, and the novel deployment of sophisticated aerial warfare technology against civilian populations." Mumbai, Feb 14 : The Maharashtra unit president of Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Shashikant Shinde, on Saturday announced that the merger is a closed chapter now for the party as Ajit Pawar, who was negotiating it, is no more. aThe decision regarding the merger of both parties was made while Ajit Dada was alive. Many people in his party are speaking about this. However, we have now closed this chapter. A narrative is being created that we are the ones pushing for this merger, but there has been no rush or desperation from our side. The discussion only gained momentum after Ajit Dadaas passing. Following that, we spoke only the truth, and we spoke it with conviction. We haven't spoken about it since. We simply said that it was Ajit Dadaas wish and we wanted to fulfil it. But now, we have decided not to comment on this further, said Shinde. He further stated, aThose who objected to the merger discussions should be questioned. We merely expressed our sentiments; many people expressed their feelings. A final decision was to be taken after the local body elections, and the formula for the merger was to be decided through discussion. However, the leader who was leading those discussions is no longer with us, so there is no point in discussing hypothetical scenarios. We do not wish to comment further on this," announced Shinde. He noted that a decision regarding the unification of the two factions had been initiated while Ajit Dada was present. While many in that party are speaking out now, he clarified that his side has closed the chapter. When asked if senior leaders like Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare from Ajit Pawar-led NCP opposed the merger, Shinde remained tight-lipped, aI will not comment on that; they should present their own stance. We are focused on rebuilding the party with renewed vigour. It wouldn't be right for me to comment on their position." Shinde showed a conciliatory tone regarding past friction, "If I said Ajit Dada made a mistake, I take my words back. Ajit Dada wanted to rectify the split that occurred in the party. He was emotional. Even during meetings with Sharad Pawar Saheb, he could never look him in the eye. The final decision was slated for after the Zilla Parishad election results. It is not appropriate to speculate on what was in his heart or mine now that he is gone." He emphasised that the NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) is now focusing entirely on strengthening the party organisation and moving past the merger debate, as the primary mediator of those talks is no longer present. Shindeas statement comes a day after he, in the party magazine, claimed that former deputy chief minister late Ajit Pawar was forced to exit the original NCP due to threats and conspiracies orchestrated by "invisible powers." He further said that a final decision to merge the two parties was reached on February 12 in the presence of Sharad Pawar. In a massive revelation, Shinde asserted that Sharad Pawar and other senior leaders had agreed to hand over the entire command of the unified party to Ajit Pawar following the merger. aFulfilling this merger and rebuilding the party with strength would be the only true tribute to Ajit Dada," he wrote. However, Shinde was rebutted by the state NCP (Ajit Pawar) chief Sunil Tatkare, who said that the formeras write-up was irrelevant and factually incorrect. Tatkare issued a stern warning, stating, "If Shinde continues to claim that Ajit Dada made his decisions due to allegations or pressure, I will provide a fitting response in my capacity as the Party President." Tatkare dismissed Shinde's claim that Ajit Pawar considered his exit a "mistake" and was working to rectify it over the last few months. He clarified that any proposal or thought regarding a merger must be discussed within the party's Core Group. He stated that making claims about what was discussed in private meetings after Ajit Pawaras tragic death is a form of injustice to the late leader himself. He emphasised that everyone must maintain a sense of decorum regarding "what to say and when to say it." Guwahati, Feb 14 : Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) president Lurinjyoti Gogoi on Saturday welcomed the inauguration of the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) at Moran by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying national security must remain above political considerations. Reacting to the inauguration of the strategically important facility, Gogoi said any initiative taken in the interest of the country's security and sovereignty deserves support. "For me, the nation comes first and security comes first. Any work done to strengthen India's defence preparedness must be supported, irrespective of who is in power," he said. His statement assumes political significance as it differs from the position taken by Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, who had earlier raised objections to the Emergency Landing Facility project at Moran. Without naming the Congress leader directly, Gogoi said defence infrastructure should not be viewed through a political lens. "Defence infrastructure is not about politics or parties. It is about safeguarding the country and ensuring preparedness in times of crisis. Such matters should rise above political differences," he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Emergency Landing Facility on the Moran bypass in Dibrugarh district, the first such facility in the Northeast. The ELF is designed to enable the Indian Air Force to land and operate fighter jets and transport aircraft during emergencies, significantly enhancing defence preparedness in the eastern sector. Security experts said the Moran ELF is strategically important, given Assam's proximity to international borders and its role in the Northeast. The facility is also expected to support disaster response, emergency operations and rapid deployment of defence forces. Gogoi said Assam should take pride in contributing to the country's defence infrastructure. "The people of Assam have always stood firmly with the nation. Infrastructure that strengthens India's security also strengthens the confidence of our people," he said. The inauguration of the Moran ELF marks a key development in strengthening defence infrastructure in the Northeast. Kolkata, Feb 14 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has once again criticised Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging discourtesy during a recent meeting in Delhi on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the state's electoral rolls. In a video shared by the Trinamool Congress on social media on Saturday evening, CM Banerjee alleged that the Chief Election Commissioner did not follow protocol during the meeting. "As per protocol, he is far below us. He sat in a chair and did not show the courtesy of standing up. We went with flowers and sweets. We sat outside for 20 minutes even after being asked to come at 4 p.m.," CM Banerjee said in the video. The West Bengal Chief Minister also alleged that participants were asked to sign certain documents during the meeting. "Everyone was made to sign. I said, 'I will not do it'. I asked why the media was not allowed. I knew he would say unrelated things," she said. CM Banerjee further raised concerns over the ongoing SIR process, claiming that certain categories of voters were being affected. Speaking about the revision exercise, she said that issues such as changes in surname and address after marriage could result in discrepancies in voter records. She also claimed that similar issues could affect women and members of tribal communities. CM Banerjee said she had raised these concerns during the meeting but was not satisfied with the responses provided. She also questioned the timing of the revision exercise, saying it could have been conducted after the Assembly elections. The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is being carried out to update and verify electoral rolls in the state. The last such exercise in West Bengal was conducted in 2002. New Delhi, Feb 14 : Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva on Saturday chaired a meeting to discuss the modalities of city cadre training as part of the party's mega national campaign beginning March 7. The Bharatiya Janata Party's cadre training mega campaign will begin from March 7 across the country, including Delhi. Sachdeva chaired the coordination meeting of the Delhi BJP with the objective of empowering the new party entrants. Addressing the meeting, BJP National Co-Organisation General Secretary Shiv Prakash said that from March 7, the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Training Mega Campaign 2026 will be launched nationwide with the objective "Capable Workers, Empowered Organisation." Shiv Prakash explained the importance of training and the organisation's expectations from its workers to 132 selected workers from various categories. Apart from Shiv Prakash, the different sessions of the meeting were addressed by Sachdeva, in-charge of North-West Indian States and Jammu and Kashmir MLA Devender Kumar Manial, Delhi BJP Organisation General Secretary Pavan Rana, Co-In-charge of North-West Indian States and Delhi MLA Ajay Mahawar, Head of Delhi BJP Training Team and MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat, Training team members Sumeet Bhasin, Punit Agrawal, Rajkumar Sharma and Kajal Pawar. The BJP has finalised training for workers on 14 subjects, for which Delhi BJP has appointed 14 subject heads. These subject heads will participate in the North-West States Subject Heads' Training Camp to be held in Chandigarh on Monday, said a statement. The Delhi BJP President said that under the Central team's plan, worker training camps will be organised in all 256 organisational mandals of Delhi between March 7 and April 14, following which district-level and state-level training camps will also be conducted. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday unveiled the statue of Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the first Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), at Dr Hedgewar Arogya Sansthan in Shahdara. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the vision and mission initiated by Dr Hedgewar have today evolved into a strong and expansive organisation dedicated to the service of the nation. His approach of organising society through character building has laid a firm foundation for India's cultural awakening. She stated that the statue installed at the institute is not merely a memorial, but a continuing source of inspiration embodying service, dedication and the spirit of 'Nation First'. Jaipur, Feb 14 : Jodhpur Police Commissioner Om Prakash on Saturday disclosed that storyteller Sadhvi Prem Baisa died due to a heart attack. According to the detailed report of the medical board, the primary cause of death was cardiopulmonary arrest triggered by a serious lung condition. The Commissioner said the investigation found that compounder Devi Singh had ignored medical protocols during treatment, indicating negligence. Based on the FSL and histopathological reports received on February 12, the medical board concluded that Sadhvi died due to shock caused by cardiopulmonary arrest resulting from lung disease, including asthma or COPD. The police commissioner clarified that scientific examination revealed no traces of poison in her body. Additionally, no signs of sexual assault or any external or internal injuries were found. Considering the sensitivity of the case, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) collected evidence at multiple levels during the investigation. The Police Commissioner stated that a fresh medical board opinion has been sought regarding the effects of certain medications administered to Sadhvi. After receiving the boardas final report, legal action will be initiated against the compounder under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Rajasthan Medical Act, 1952. Sadhvi Prem Baisaas health deteriorated on January 28 at her Aarti Nagar ashram in Boranada, Jodhpur. She reportedly suffered from a cold and breathing difficulties, following which compounder Devi Singh administered two injections. Soon after the injections, her condition worsened rapidly. Her family rushed her to Preksha Hospital on Pal Road, where doctors declared her dead. Her father, Veeram Nath, brought the body back to the ashram, after which police intervention led to the body being shifted to the MGH mortuary. A postmortem was conducted on January 29, and the body was handed over to the family the same evening. On January 30, Sadhvi Prem Baisa was buried in Pareu village in Barmer district. Viscera samples were sent for forensic examination on February 2. The FSL examination was completed in 11 days, and the report was submitted to Jodhpur Police on Thursday. Based on the FSL and postmortem findings, expert opinions were also sought to finalise the investigation. Bhopal, Feb 14 : Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Saturday disbursed the 33rd installment of the flagship "Mukhyamantri Ladli Behna Yojana" from Pandhana in Khandwa district, marking another milestone in the state's women-centric welfare programme. Bhopal, Feb 14 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Saturday disbursed the 33rd installment of the flagship "Mukhyamantri Ladli Behna Yojana" from Pandhana in Khandwa district, marking another milestone in the state's women-centric welfare programme. In a symbolic digital transfer executed with a single click during a public event on Saturday, the Chief Minister credited Rs 1,500 directly into the bank accounts of more than 1.25 crore eligible women beneficiaries. This installment alone amounts to Rs 1,836 crore, providing much-needed financial support to millions of households across Madhya Pradesh. The Ladli Behna Yojana, one of the most popular schemes of the state government, aims to promote economic independence, improve household nutrition, and enhance the overall status of women. Launched to offer monthly assistance, the programme has steadily increased its reach and impact since inception. The current monthly payout stands at Rs 1,500 per beneficiary, ensuring consistent aid amid rising living costs. Taking to Facebook, CM Mohan Yadav shared the joyous moment, writing: "Under the Ladli Behna Yojana, more than 1.25 crore women received over Rs 1,836 crore through a single click today. Heartiest congratulations to all Ladli Behnas!" He highlighted how the scheme continues to transform lives by putting money directly into women's hands. Cumulatively, the government has now transferred a total of Rs 52,304 crore to bank accounts of women beneficiaries under this initiative through 33 installments. This sustained financial commitment underscores the BJP-led administration's focus on gender equity and grassroots empowerment. The event in Pandhana drew large crowds of beneficiaries and local leaders, reflecting the scheme's widespread popularity in rural and urban areas alike. Many women expressed gratitude for the timely assistance, especially as it arrives ahead of major festivals, helping families meet essential expenses. With consistent disbursements and growing beneficiary numbers, the scheme continues to set a benchmark for direct-benefit-transfer programmes in the state. At a separate event held in Burhanpur district, the Chief Minister dedicated development projects related to multiple departments worth Rs 696 crore. These projects, covering infrastructure, public amenities, agriculture and other sectors, are expected to give fresh momentum to the district's overall development. The Chief Minister announced that an agriculture-based regional industry conclave will soon be organised in Burhanpur district and that a kirtan centre will be built for the Bairagi community. He also assured that pending payments to workers at the cooperative cotton mill would be cleared soon. "A unit for value addition, storage and processing will be established in the district to benefit banana farmers, and youth will receive skill-based training," he said, adding that the state government is committed to increasing farmers' income. During his address, CM Yadav highlighted the achievements of his government over the past two years. He also accused the opposition Congress of attempting to create what he described as a false narrative against the BJP government. "Despite being in power for several decades in Madhya Pradesh and at the Centre, the Congress did not take steps to empower women, the poor and farmers, and now its leaders are trying to create a wrong narrative against the BJP government," Yadav said. Agartala, Feb 14 : Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Saturday said that he is confident the new government in Bangladesh will maintain positive and cordial relations with India for the benefit of both neighbouring nations. The Chief Minister said that relations between India and Bangladesh were earlier very strong and expressed hope that the upcoming government would restore and further strengthen bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of the two countries. "I am sincerely hopeful that the upcoming government will help create a new Bangladesh," Saha told the media on the sidelines of an event. "I have witnessed happiness among the people of Tripura as a democratically elected government is set to be installed in Bangladesh. I would like to congratulate the new Prime Minister of that country and am strongly hopeful that the changing scenario in the neighbouring nation will be a positive development for all of us," he said. Saha said that as most parts of Tripura share a border with Bangladesh, the state would benefit significantly if positive developments take place in the neighbouring country in the coming days. The Chief Minister further said that since the partition of the two countries in 1947, close relatives of many people in Tripura still reside in Bangladesh, while many people in Bangladesh also have close relatives in Tripura. "Culture, language, food habits and other traditional aspects of the people of Tripura and Bangladesh are the same. The people of Tripura always love the people of Bangladesh wholeheartedly," he observed. Tripura, which shares an 856-km-long border with Bangladesh and is surrounded by the neighbouring country on three sides, has a vast market for Bangladeshi products. Of the four northeastern states, Tripura has the highest number of trading points with Bangladesh six in total, including two Integrated Check Posts (ICPs). Regular trade activities are conducted between Tripura and Bangladesh through these points. Four northeastern states -- Tripura (856 km), Meghalaya (443 km), Mizoram (318 km) and Assam (263 km) -- together share a 1,880-km-long border with Bangladesh, with more than a dozen border trade points functioning along these frontiers. Guwahati, Feb 14 : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday asserted that every promise made by the BJP government to the people of the state is rooted in accountability and responsibility, as he announced a major employment push if the party is voted back to power. Addressing a massive public rally at Khanapara in Guwahati in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sarma said employment generation remains a top priority of the BJP-led government in Assam. He announced that the state government would provide two lakh government jobs if the BJP retains power in the state. "Every promise I make to Assam comes from a sense of responsibility towards its people. Providing more jobs and greater opportunities for our youth to build their future at home is our commitment," the Chief Minister said while addressing thousands of supporters at the rally. Highlighting the government's track record, Sarma said nearly 1.5 lakh government jobs have already been provided over the last five years, marking one of the largest employment drives in the state's history. He added that the recruitment process has been conducted in a transparent and merit-based manner, ensuring that deserving candidates benefit without corruption or favouritism. "Our youth no longer need to leave Assam in search of employment. We are creating opportunities within the state so that they can contribute to Assam's growth and build their future here," he said. Sarma also emphasised the importance of every vote in shaping Assam's future. "Your one vote has the power to shape that future. It will decide whether Assam continues on the path of development, employment, and stability," he told the gathering. The Chief Minister said that the BJP government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has focused on strengthening infrastructure, improving governance, and accelerating economic growth in Assam, which has helped create an enabling environment for employment generation. Prime Minister Modi, who was present at the rally, was accorded a warm reception by party workers and supporters. The Khanapara rally is being seen as a key political event ahead of the upcoming electoral battle in Assam, with the BJP sharpening its focus on youth, employment, and development. Itanagar, Feb 14 : Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K.T. Parnaik (Retd) on Saturday stressed that to effectively counter emerging threats and ensure deterrence, stability and lasting control along the state's sensitive frontier, security, development, diplomacy and community empowerment must progress simultaneously through a whole-of-nation approach. Addressing the seminar on 'Arunachal Pradesh India's Dynamic Frontier', the Governor presented a comprehensive overview of Arunachal Pradesh, its people, unique dynamics, and the challenges along its borders, while also highlighting the State's developmental progress and outlining a future roadmap. Sharing his perspectives through the twin lenses of security and development, the Governor observed that the two are deeply intertwined in a frontier state like Arunachal Pradesh. One cannot progress without the other. He described Arunachal Pradesh as a strategic buffer as well as a land of immense human, cultural, and economic potential. The Governor said that along the borders with Myanmar and Bhutan, culture and security intersect in complex ways. The India-Myanmar border cuts through forests and hills and remains socially open; this openness sustained livelihoods and ties under the Free Movement Regime (FMR) but also created vulnerabilities, as insurgent groups exploited the routes, he pointed out. Lt Gen Parnaik (Retd) said that this situation prompted India to review the FMR to rebalance tradition and security. He further said that along the northern frontier, Chinese strategy is deliberate and long-term, extending across the Line of Actual Control from Ladakh to the eastern sector. China applies calibrated pressure by building border-proximate infrastructure, creating dual-use "border settlements," and renaming places to shape narratives. Advocating a 'Whole-of-Nation Approach', the Governor stressed that the State's challenges, whether external threats or internal developmental gaps, require a unified and coordinated response from all stakeholders. He said that by ensuring robust security, fostering economic growth, and leveraging technological advancements, India's sovereignty and prosperity can be further strengthened. The Governor said that the resilience of the people living in border areas, coupled with sustained efforts towards inclusive and sustainable development, will firmly establish Arunachal Pradesh as a strategic powerhouse and emerging economic hub. Arunachal Pradesh shares a 1080 km border with China, 520 km with Myanmar and 217 km with Bhutan. Strengthening security, the Governor said, ensures stability and confidence, while inclusive development brings opportunity, dignity, and resilience to the people. Together, these forces shape Arunachal's present and will define its future as a strong, secure, and vibrant pillar of the nation, he said. The Governor further stated that the state is witnessing a transformative phase, aligning its development trajectory with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He highlighted the strategic importance of Arunachal Pradesh's location in advancing India's Act East Policy by fostering connectivity and trade with Southeast Asia. Complimenting the Dao Division for organising the timely and significant two-day seminar, the Governor noted that the theme is especially relevant in today's evolving security environment, more so for a frontier State like Arunachal Pradesh. He emphasised that such platforms are vital for informed dialogue, meaningful reflection, and the exchange of forward-looking ideas. He appreciated the participation of distinguished intellectuals, defence experts, and veterans who have served in the region, alongside the participants from Arunachal Pradesh. Former Eastern Army Commander Lt Gen Rana Pratap Kalita, speaking at the seminar, addressed operational realities and the broad contours of countering Chinese strategic design. Former GOC and current Director General of Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), Lt Gen Dushyant Singh (Retd), highlighted China's designs along the Arunachal Pradesh border and their strategic implications. Former civil servant and Indian Ambassador Phunchok Stobdan examined ArunachalTibet linkages, culture, and their wider historical contours, while writer, military historian, and filmmaker Shiv Kunal Verma spoke on flora, fauna, eco-tourism, and the region's latent potential. The seminar also saw participation from Vijay Swami, Director of RIWARCH, Group Captain Mohonto Panging (Retd), Prof Jumyir Basar, and Prof Ashan Riddi from Rajiv Gandhi University, along with former Chief Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh Ramesh Negi. The two-day seminar was held at Headquarters 2 Mountain Division at Dinjanon in Assam's Dibrugarh district on February 13-14. Track your investments for FREE with Simply Wall St, the portfolio command center trusted by over 7 million individual investors worldwide. Novo Nordisk (NYSE:NVO) is pursuing legal and regulatory action against Hims & Hers and other companies selling compounded versions of its obesity drugs. The US Food and Drug Administration has backed enforcement against non FDA approved compounded obesity drug copies. The FDA has also cited Novo Nordisk for allegedly misleading advertising related to its newly approved oral Wegovy pill. Novo Nordisk, traded as NYSE:NVO, is a major player in the obesity and diabetes treatment market. Demand for weight loss medications has drawn in both brand drugmakers and compounders. The company is now at the center of two connected storylines, asserting its intellectual property against rival compounders while also responding to FDA criticism of its own Wegovy pill marketing. For investors, this mix of enforcement and scrutiny highlights how tightly obesity drug competition is tied to regulation, branding, and patient safety concerns. How Novo Nordisk manages legal disputes, FDA engagement, and public messaging around Wegovy and related products could shape perceptions of its market position and approach to risk in the obesity drug segment. Stay updated on the most important news stories for Novo Nordisk by adding it to your watchlist or portfolio. Alternatively, explore our Community to discover new perspectives on Novo Nordisk. NYSE:NVO 1-Year Stock Price Chart Is Novo Nordisk's balance sheet strong enough for future acquisitions? Dive into our detailed financial health analysis. The legal and regulatory developments around compounded Wegovy copies cut to the core of Novo Nordisks obesity franchise. On one side, the FDAs tougher stance on non approved compounded GLP 1 products, and Hims & Hers halting its compounded pill, reduce a source of lower priced competition that Novo Nordisk has argued threatens both patient safety and its patent rights. That supports the companys efforts to protect branded Wegovy and its newly approved oral pill at a time when management is already guiding for a 5% to 13% sales and earnings decline in 2026 due to pricing pressure and rivalry from other weight loss players such as Eli Lilly and potential generic entrants. On the other side, the FDAs warning over a misleading Wegovy television ad shows that regulators are also scrutinizing Novo Nordisks own conduct. Any requirement to withdraw or rework promotional materials adds compliance costs and could limit how aggressively the company markets differences between its oral pill and other GLP 1 options. For you as an investor, the key question is whether the benefit from reduced compounded competition outweighs the risks from heightened oversight and potential reputational impact from the advertising citation. Kolkata, Feb 14 : The Election Commission of India (ECI) has set a deadline for the West Bengal government to register FIRs against electoral officers against whom the Commission has procured reasonable evidence of involvement in the inclusion of fake voters in the electoral rolls during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in the state. An insider from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, said that a fresh communication in this regard was sent by the Commission to the state secretariat on Saturday evening, setting February 17 (Tuesday) as the deadline for registering FIRs against these errant electoral officers. "The ECI noted that despite repeated reminders to register FIRs against these four errant electoral officers, the state government had been lackadaisical in initiating action. Therefore, the Commission decided to fix a deadline for registering FIRs against them," the CEO office insider said. Two of the four officers against whom FIRs have been directed to be registered are the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) of Baruipur East Assembly constituency in South 24 Parganas district, Debottam Dutta Chowdhury, and the Assistant Electoral Registration Officer (AERO) of the same constituency, Tathagata Mandal. The other two officers are the ERO of Moyna Assembly constituency in East Midnapore district, Biplob Sarkar, and the AERO of the same constituency, Sudipta Das. It may be recalled that in August last year, the ECI headquarters in New Delhi had directed the West Bengal government to suspend these four electoral officers and register FIRs against them. However, the state government only partially implemented the directive. While the four officers were suspended, FIRs were not registered against them. In addition, one contractual data entry operator was also relieved of his duties. In January this year, the ECI again directed the District Magistrates of South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore districts to register FIRs against these four electoral officers. The officers were accused of tampering with the electoral rolls. Based on these allegations, the ECI had directed that the officers be suspended and FIRs be lodged against them. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had criticised the ECI's directive at the time and accused the poll body of acting as a "bonded labour of the BJP". She had also stated that her government would not take action against its employees. Gandhinagar, Feb 14 : Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Saturday held an interaction with the newly elected Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) representatives from Kerala, who are on a visit to the state following the party's victory in the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation polls. The visit is being undertaken under the 'BJP for Developed Kerala' initiative, aimed at drawing administrative and organisational insights from Gujarat's governance model. During the meeting, CM Patel said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gujarat had seized urban development as an opportunity and achieved new dimensions of holistic progress. He stated that the state's development model would provide fresh energy and inspiration to public representatives from Kerala in carrying out development works in their respective regions. He also expressed confidence that the study tour would prove significant in contributing to the creation of a "Developed Kerala". Later in the day, the 11-member delegation visited the Gujarat BJP state office, 'Shri Kamalam'. The delegation was led by Kerala BJP State Vice President K. Soman and included leaders who were recently elected in Kerala's local self-government elections. They were welcomed by Gujarat BJP State President Jagdish Vishwakarma, State Organisation General Secretary Ratnakarji and other party office-bearers. According to party sources, the delegation toured various departments at the state office and was briefed on its functioning. The visiting leaders gathered detailed information about the office's working style, digital management systems, coordination methods and organisational processes. They also held discussions with Vishwakarma and Ratnakarji regarding administrative and organisational practices. Members of the delegation included K. Soman, Vinayachandra N. R., Vishnu Mohan, R. Vinod Kumar, P.T. Madhu, Binu Raj V., Navya Haridas, Girija Valiyaparambil, Anita Eranad, Bindu Harikumar and Vinitha V. The visit is part of efforts to facilitate the exchange of governance and organisational experiences between party units in different states. Tawang : , Feb 14 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday called upon the youth of the state to take the lead in building a "Viksit Arunachal" by 2047, stressing the importance of informed participation, awareness of public policies, cultural pride, and economic self-reliance. Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh), Feb 14 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday called upon the youth of the state to take the lead in building a "Viksit Arunachal" by 2047, stressing the importance of informed participation, awareness of public policies, cultural pride, and economic self-reliance. Addressing the 'YuvaSoch, Naya Arunachal' interactive programme organised by the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), Arunachal Pradesh State unit, at Tawang, the Chief Minister urged young people to move beyond rhetoric and actively engage with government policies and developmental initiatives to bring about meaningful social transformation. Khandu said the platform had enabled constructive deliberations on a wide range of issues concerning the future of Arunachal Pradesh. Highlighting the significance of February 14, the Chief Minister said the day holds special importance for Tawang and the state as it marks 75 years since Major Ralengnao "Bob" Khathing hoisted the national tricolour in Tawang in 1951, formally integrating the region with India. Recalling the historic expedition, Khandu described Major Khathing as a multi-faceted personality -- a teacher, soldier, administrator, and diplomat -- and termed his mission to Tawang as a defining moment in the consolidation of India's northeastern frontier. He noted that the expedition was undertaken in accordance with the vision of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, following the 1914 Simla Agreement, which led to the delineation of the McMahon Line. "Without firing a single bullet, Major Bob Khathing ensured the peaceful integration of Tawang. Unfortunately, his immense contribution remained largely absent from mainstream history for decades," Khandu said. He recalled that during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav in 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had urged states to identify and honour unsung heroes. In response, Arunachal Pradesh constituted a committee to research and document local freedom fighters and historical figures, thereby bringing long-forgotten contributions to public knowledge. The Chief Minister urged the youth to study the history and culture of their respective tribes and communities, cautioning that a society disconnected from its roots risks losing its identity. Khandu emphasised that the vision of "Viksit Bharat 2047" and "Viksit Arunachal 2047" can only be realised if the youth move in the right direction, stressing the importance of continuous learning even after completing formal education. "Being a graduate or post-graduate is not enough. If you are unaware of government policies and programmes, you cannot effectively serve society," he said, adding that BJYM workers must act as a bridge between the government and the people. Highlighting the Seva Aapke Dwar (service at the doorstep) initiative launched in 2017 to bridge the gap between the administration and citizens, the Chief Minister said that over 15 lakh beneficiaries have availed benefits through the programme so far. He urged youth organisations to actively participate in such outreach initiatives. Reiterating the guiding principles of "Nation First, Party Second, Self Last" and "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas," Khandu called for a strong focus on Antyodaya -- uplifting the poorest individual through effective implementation of government schemes. Reflecting on developments since 2014, he said the Northeast has received unprecedented attention at the national level, citing frequent visits by Union Ministers to remote districts of Arunachal Pradesh and sustained focus on the region in successive Union Budgets. He described the recent Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as historic and lauded its emphasis on youth aspirations, farmers, and business communities. He also welcomed provisions for the development of Buddhist heritage sites, highlighting Arunachal Pradesh's unique position as a state where both Mahayana and Theravada traditions coexist. On the economic front, Khandu described hydropower as Arunachal Pradesh's "lowest hanging fruit," stating that nearly 19,000 MW of projects are currently at various stages of development against a potential exceeding 50,000 MW. He said the 2,000 MW Lower Subansiri project is nearing completion, while the Dibang Multipurpose Project and the 3,097 MW Etalin project are progressing steadily. The Chief Minister said the state has secured 12 per cent free power and up to 26 per cent equity participation in hydropower projects, which would significantly enhance revenue generation in the coming years. He also spoke about the mining sector, noting that coal blocks have been auctioned and exploration of minerals such as graphite and vanadium is underway, which would further strengthen the state's economy. "Arunachal must stand on its own feet. Being a special category state should not be a matter of pride but a reminder that we must become self-reliant," he remarked. Highlighting the role of women in the state's socio-economic transformation, Khandu said over 1.5 lakh women are now associated with Self Help Groups across Arunachal Pradesh, contributing to rural economic growth. He also referred to the Vibrant Villages Programme being implemented in border areas, stating that improved infrastructure, connectivity, and livelihood initiatives are transforming remote villages through coordinated efforts of district administrations, the Army, and central forces. Welcoming the implementation of the Women's Reservation provision under the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam from 2029, the Chief Minister urged young women to actively participate in leadership and policy-making. He underscored the importance of preserving indigenous languages, traditions, and attire, encouraging the youth to promote local identity and be "vocal for local." The Chief Minister announced plans to strengthen research and preservation of tribal heritage through institutional initiatives. Imphal, Feb 15 : Security forces on Saturday arrested six hardcore militants, including two women cadres belonging to different insurgent outfits, from various districts of Manipur, police said. A police official said the arrested militants are associated with the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and its political wing, the Revolutionary People's Front (RPF), the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), and the People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK). According to the official, security forces arrested two active women cadres of the PLA from the India-Myanmar border area between Sunrise Ground and Gate No. 2 at Moreh in Tengnoupal district. The two women militants are residents of the Bishnupur district and Imphal West district, respectively. During the operations, security forces also recovered arms and ammunition from the possession of the arrested extremists, the official said. In a separate operation, Manipur Police arrested two individuals involved in a series of mobile phone thefts, cyber frauds, and related crimes across the Senapati and Imphal West districts. Meanwhile, security forces recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) -- cylindrical in shape, fitted with a pressure mechanism and containing approximately 10 kg of explosives from the stretch between Sijang (a Kuki village) and Sanamahi Temple (a Meitei place of worship), in the vicinity of a Naga village under Churachandpur district. The IED was safely defused and destroyed by the Bomb Disposal Team in the presence of local leaders and the Churachandpur district police. The security forces, comprising central and state agencies, have intensified crackdowns against militants, with extensive search operations and area domination drives underway in fringe, mixed-populated, and vulnerable areas across various districts of the state. A total of 113 nakas and checkpoints have been set up across Manipur in both valley and hill districts to curb the movement of illegal elements and suspicious vehicles. Security forces are also providing escorts to vehicles, including trucks carrying essential commodities, along the ImphalJiribam National Highway (NH-37). Strict security arrangements and convoy protection continue in sensitive stretches to ensure the safe movement of traffic. The Manipur Police have urged the public not to believe rumours or unverified content circulating on social media and cautioned against fake videos and audio clips. "The authenticity of any circulating video or audio can be verified through the Central Control Room. Uploading or sharing fake or misleading content on social media will invite legal action," a police statement warned. Two businesses founded by immigrants from Argentina and Peru, respectively, are looking to bolster the availability of Spanish-language books in the United States amid a hostile political climate, distribution challenges, and what they see as limited options for stateside Spanish-language readers. Their efforts point to a growing Spanish-language publishing community in the U.S., and the tendency of domestic publishers to focus on titles from Spain and Mexico while overlooking those from South America. Gabriela Adamo, the former director of the Buenos Aires International Book Fair, who splits her time between Buenos Aires and Seattle, cofounded the subscription book club Lineas del Sur in 2020 to connect readers across the U.S. with contemporary Latin American literature not typically available in bookstores here. Now, she and cofounder Mariana Gutheim, an Argentine architect living in San Francisco, are growing the club to meet what they see as a real demand for Spanish-language literature outside of the usual offerings. Every other month, Lineas del Sur picks one title from a Latin American independent publisher that would otherwise be difficult to purchase in the U.S. It imports and mails copies of that title to paid members (currently, there are roughly 70), with each shipment also including a specially designed postcard or bookmark from a Latin American artist. In the past three years, the club has selected 20 books from 16 indie presses, including Antilope in Mexico, Angosta in Colombia, Concreto in Argentina, and Cuneta in Chile. Featured authors have included such heavyweights of literary fiction as Uruguays Fernanda Trias, Ecuadors Monica Ojeda, and Argentinas Gabriela Cabezon Camara. The Seattle-based club has grown rapidly over the years, with online meetings drawing members from as far afield as Florida, Ohio, and Texas. It also runs in-person meetings in Los Angeles, New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle, as well as virtual literary panels, readings, author talks, and discussions on such subjects as Andean gothic fiction, Caribbean literature, and women writers. Adamo says she sees Lineas del Sur as a kind of testing ground for understanding Spanish-language readers, who are often pigeonholed or otherwise misunderstood by U.S. publishers. Spanish is not one thing in the U.S. There are so many different kinds of Spanish and so many different ways it is presentedradio, TV, booksand for different communities, which means it is fragmented and difficult to define. Looking ahead, Adamo says the club is exploring print-on-demand options and bookstore partnerships so that it doesnt have to rely on importing books, which could become challenging due to the Trump administrations constantly changing tariff policies. (Print books are generally exempt from current tariffs.) Lineas del Sur is also planning to launch a childrens book club in March, spotlighting titles for young readers alongside its usual literary fiction selections. The timing coincides with recent crackdowns on Spanish-speaking immigrants, including children. We think its particularly important now to encourage Spanish-speaking adults to read to their children in Spanish, Adamo says. An emphasis on authenticity Ensuring young readers in the U.S. have access to Spanish-language books is also on the mind of Adriana Roca, who founded the Lima, Perubased childrens publisher Pichoncito in 2019 and has since built a catalog of 60 titles. Now, shes eyeing the U.S. market. In 2023, she moved to Boston to launch English-language editions of Pichoncitos books while continuing to grow its Spanish-language list. It was obvious that the U.S. market needed the types of books and content we were providing, says Roca, a former business journalist. While Latin America is part of the daily conversation here, it is very superficialand what we produce is authentic. Pichoncito publishes illustrated books about Peruvian history, culture, and food. Among its first English-language titles to be published in the U.S. under the new Pichoncito Fly Books imprint is Great Civilizations of Peru: 5,000 Years of Ancient Andean Cultures, released last fall. The original Spanish edition was featured in the 2025 BolognaRagazzi Awards Amazing Bookshelf exhibition at the Bologna Childrens Book Fair. Rounding out the publishers inaugural list of English-language titles, which are distributed by IPG, are books on Peruvian cuisine, Machu Picchu, and the history of the Incas. Roca says four more English titles are also in the works. Perhaps even more ambitiously, Pichoncito will bring the original Spanish-language editions of these titles to the U.S. starting in September. I saw how enthusiastically these books were received, Roca says, and it gave me confidence that we could also publish our Spanish-language titles here. An especially warm reception from booksellers also convinced Roca there is demand for a greater variety of Spanish-language titles. Talking to booksellers like Los Amigos Books in Los Angeles and Chau Luna in New York, who have been fans of our work, its clear that booksellers are really craving Spanish-language books that go deeper than the surface, Roca says. Getting creative Adamos experience of running Lineas del Sur has likewise proven to her that theres a real demand for books that go deeper. She says theres a robust Spanish-speaking audience who want to read literaturethe stories of Latin Americans in their own voices, and not just the Bibles, commercial fiction, and self-help that tend to dominate the Spanish-language category in the U.S. But with the closure of Lectorum, the largest independent distributor of Spanish-language books in the U.S., last fall, making Spanish-language books available stateside has become especially challenging. Lineas del Sur, for one, has gotten creative by partnering with Elliott Bay Book Company in Seattle and Medicine for Nightmares in San Francisco to make some of its book club picks available in those storesa move Adamo calls an experiment. She says she has also approached the American Booksellers Association about establishing a committee for Spanish-language bookselling. In the meantime, Adamo is working with a group of publishing professionals, led by editor and scholar Adriana Pacheco, to boost the visibility of the Spanish-language literary ecosystem in the U.S. Their mission: to launch a new online platform, Somos Literatura, that can serve as a comprehensive directory of Spanish-language publishing in Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. For Adamo, the platform addresses a big problem. Theres little mixing between American publishers or the English-language world of publishers, distributors, and booksellers, and their Spanish-language counterparts in the U.S., she says. Whats more, the Spanish-language publishing in North America is fragmentary, making it difficult to share resources and act collectively. In response, Somos Literatura is working to collect information about Spanish-language publishers, literary agents, translators, book fairs, awards, writing programs, and more into one database. Other founding members include Dejanira Alvarez, who runs the Spanish-language New York City International Book Fair; Eunice Rodriguez, an editor at Sundial House, Columbia Universitys Latin American literature imprint; and Rosy Toledo and Lori Celaya, cofounders of the bilingual publisher Colibri, dually based in Los Angeles and Oak Ridge, Tenn. The idea is to strengthen visibility, build community, and support the growth and recognition of Spanish-language literature in the U.S., says Pacheco, who lives in Austin, Tex., and also founded the literary podcast Hablemos Escritoras, which spotlights Spanish-language women writers and sells Spanish- and English-language editions of their books through its own Bookshop.org storefront. Pacheco notes that, in the climate of fear engendered by ICEs violent targeting of immigrants, theres no rush to build the platform. She adds, If people dont want to share informationand they might not want to right nowthey dont have to. Efforts like Somos Literatura suggest that while individual operations such as Lineas del Sur and Pichoncito remain modest in scale, the Spanish-language publishing community in the U.S. is getting more organized and more visible. Both Adamo and Roca say theyre growing their businesses not despite the current political moment but because of it. I think big, beautiful books about Latin America are very important right now, says Roca, who aims to double Pichoncitos U.S. output in the coming years. The more you learn about Latin America, and the more you know about its history and why it matters, connects the two continents in a way that helps you understand where people are migrating from and the culture that they bring and how sophisticated it actually is. Adamo agrees, emphasizing the need for international cooperation among publishers, which can ensure that more nuanced, diverse titles from Latin America reach U.S. readers. Latin American publishers produce wonderful books, but then they dont know how to get them to readers who might be interested in them beyond their own borders, she says. We are helping. Read more from our books in Spanish feature. Patrick Radden Keefe is fascinated by unsavory characters: drug lords, grifters, con artists, hustlerspeople whose stories become increasingly complex in his books. Ive always been interested in force of personality and personal charisma, Keefe says via Zoom from his home office outside New York City. A New Yorker staff writer and the author of six nonfiction titles, Keefe has written about a motley range of figures, from fugitive drug lord El Chapo and Apprentice producer Mark Burnett to members of the Sackler family and the IRA. In person, he comes across as charming and affable but direct and in possession of all the qualities required to ferret out the truth. Those skills are clearly on display in his latest, London Falling, out in April from Doubleday, which explores the mysterious death of 19-year-old Zac Brettler in London in 2019 and his parents search for the truth about his life and ties to the criminal underworld. Keefe first heard Brettlers story in 2023 while in London for the filming of the television adaptation of Say Nothing, his 2018 book about the Troubles. A friend of the director knew Brettlers parents; the story wasnt in the papers yet and Keefe was captivated by the details. Brettler had befriended shady businessman Akbar Shamji and gangland debt collector Verinder Sharma by conning them into believing he was the son of a billionaire Russian oligarch. Soon after Shamji and Sharma learned the truth, Brettler fell to his death from Sharmas apartment, and the police tried to determine if it was a case of foul play or whether he died by suicide. At first, Keefe says, Brettlers fake-it-till-you-make-it ambition seemed like familiar territory. Brettler was always looking for a big score, whether from a high-end real estate deal or a lifestyle scheme, and hoped to become one of the roguish, blingy capitalist bros he followed on Instagram, as Keefe describes them. But as Keefe dug into the circumstances surrounding Brettlers death, initially for a 2024 New Yorker piece, the story became like no other hed worked on. For one, Keefe wasnt used to having so much access: he spent hundreds of hours interviewing Brettlers parents. Im often writing about people who dont want to talk to me, he says, or who are dead. Additionally, the project became personal for Keefe, who is raising two teen boys of his own. It kind of snuck up on me. It turned out to be a book about relationships between parents and children and how well we really know the people who are our closest blood relations. After returning home to work on the New Yorker piece, Keefe had lunch with his longtime editor Bill Thomas, Doubledays publisher and editor-in-chief. I told him the story, and he said, This is the book. More information and sources came to light after the New Yorker piece published. I always think of it as like Batman putting the bat signal up, he says of turning a magazine article into a book. Born in 1976, Keefe dreamed of becoming a magazine writer since he was a junior high school student in Boston. But his route to realizing that dream was circuitous. His first rejection letter from the New Yorkerframed on the wall of his officecame in 1998 when he was an undergrad at Columbia University. It literally says something like, We have no need for this, he says, laughing, or like some very New Yorker kind of starchy way of telling you to fuck off. Keefe went on to earn graduate degrees from Cambridge University and the London School of Economics. As a law student at Yale, he parlayed his knowledge of international relations and information systems into his first book, 2005s Chatter, an inquiry into the efficacy and ethics of government eavesdropping. While studying for the bar exam in 2005, Keefe read about the trial of a human smuggler based in Chinatown who helped finance an ill-fated voyage to New York City for hundreds of undocumented migrants and refugees. Gripped by the story, he made his first successful pitch to the New Yorker. The article published in 2006, and it grew into The Snakehead (2009), the book where, he says, I found my groove. He followed The Snakehead with Say Nothing, a game-changing commercial and critical success, which sold more than 400,000 copies, according to Circana BookScan; won a National Book Critics Circle Award; and made Keefe a fixture on late-night TV. And while he says he wanted to make Say Nothing approachable for readers without knowledge of the Troubles, he also attributes his success to luck. Because this is Publishers Weekly, I should say that Ive read too many books in galleys where I thought, God, this is going to be a big bestseller, he says. And then it comes out, and something goes wrong, and it kind of disappears. All of Keefes nonfiction narrativesincluding 2021s Empire of Pain, which revealed how Purdue Pharma came to push OxyContin despite knowing it was addictiveare page-turners, a quality that comes in part from his stint as a screenwriter. The thing that I got the most from screenwriting is actually all about structure, he says. Juxtapositions, keeping things in tension, introducing something and then cutting awayits wonderfully liberating and pleasurable when you can do that kind of stuff in nonfiction. In London Falling, Keefe documents the Brettlers search for the truth about their sons life and death while also exploring family, love, and what it means to be a parent in the 21st century. As the book teases out the sordid histories of Shamji and Sharma, it evokes classic British crime films such as The Long Good Friday and Sexy Beast, illustrating the dangers that Keefe often brushes up against in his reporting and writing. I have to be mindful of my own safety, he says, but adds, I dont want to overstate the riskiness of what I do compared to a colleague whos in a trench in Ukraine. Still, hes willing to cultivate a jocular rapport with sources like violent gangster Andy Baker, who responded to the New Yorker articles bat signal. A former associate of Sharma, Baker is regarded by his victims as just the worst kind of malevolent human being, Keefe saysa fact he refuses to whitewash. Still, he always approaches sources with an open mind, to understand them as best I can. And it was Bakers perspective on Sharma that cemented Keefes conclusion about what happened to Brettler. When Keefe first spoke to Baker, he was an ex-convict, claiming to be on the straight and narrow. Now, Baker is behind bars again, and wants Keefe to visit the prison to read from London Falling and sign donated copies of the book for his fellow inmates. The event would be a far cry from the typical stops on Keefes book tours. Then again, from the beginning, Keefes career has been all about picking apart what he calls a kind of comforting fiction, which is that we live, all of us, on the right side of the law, and then theres a moat separating us from all the badness, but its much more intertwined than we would like to think. As to whether hell accept Bakers invitation, his answer is an emphatic TBD. How has Baldwin & Co. changed since 2021? Weve evolved from being a bookstore into a cultural production company. We host events, and I think of us now as an intellectual commons. Instead of being just a retailer, we are a thinking institution. Instead of being just a small business, we are a cultural authority generating intellectual desire for Black contemporary thought. What inspired you to create what you describe as an intellectual ecosystem built on community, commerce, conversation, and culture? Its so important for Black people to be literate, to become lovers of literature to defeat the oppressive systems designed to keep Blacks ignorant. Like Nelson Mandela said, the most powerful weapon in the world is education, not a gun, not a bomb. And theres no better way to become educated than to read. Black people have to become more educated, more focused, and more driven. Our survival depends upon it. Because I can tell you this: White supremacy never sleeps. It never stops. It is relentless, working overtime to keep us oppressed. Whats next for Baldwin & Co.? I would like us to become a cultural production company for intellectual desire, not just a place that hosts events. Were producing cinematic conversationsessays in video form and long-form dialogues that feel closer to philosophy salons. We want to be the place where, when you desire intellectual stimulation and want to know what you should be paying attention to, the answer includes Baldwin & Co. What role do you see the conference playing in the world of Spanish-language publishing? In Mexico, the figure of the literary agent is pretty recent and isnt as widespread as in the U.S. and Europe. Im talking about three or four certified literary agencies in the country. Right now, there are still a lot of Mexican and Latin American authors who promote themselves to publishers, sometimes successfully and sometimes not so much. The San Miguel Writers festival is aware of that, and for several years weve offered attendees individual consultations with VF Literary Agency, the premier Mexican agency. Its founder and president, Veronica Flores, also offers workshops to teach young writers how to sell their novels, stories, or poems. One of the festivals priorities has been to emphasize the role of literary agents as key figures in writers professional development, and to give Mexican authors access to advice and to the possibility of finding an agent to accompany them in the complex process that is publishing, distributing, and promoting their work. What informs your curation of the Spanish-language side of the festival? My focus is on inclusion, and showcasing diverse genres and emerging voices. Its fundamental that the festivals workshops include writers from not only the countrys capital but also other parts of Mexico, like San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato. Geographical diversity enriches the program with a plurality of perspectives, and lets us highlight literary talent from outside the major cultural centers. Can you talk a bit about the current literary and publishing landscape in Mexico? The publishing landscape has evolved a lot in the past few years in Mexico. Today we talk about independent publishers that have crossed oceans and bridged borders, built high-quality catalogs, and put Mexican literature on the international stage. Right now, the literary landscape in Mexico is dominated by women writers like Cristina Rivera Garza, Fernanda Melchor, Brenda Navarro, Ave Barrera, Guadalupe Nettel, and Dahlia de la Cerda. They defy the constraints of genre and structure, cover themes like migration and suicide, otherness and the body. Some are activists, others are deeply committed to intersectional feminism, to the realities of women on the margins, to the promotion of Ibero-American women writers. This years festival featured such big names as Abraham Varghese, R.F. Kuang, and Andres Neuman. Which authors would you like to see at a future edition? Mariana Enriquez and Fernanda Melchor are on my wish list because theyre both masters of their genres. Enrique Serna and Diego Enrique Osorno would also be excellent choices. But I also dream of inviting Han Kang, or Anneli Jordahlwhy not? Ever since the Trump administration announced in December that it was sending thousands of ICE agents to Minneapolis to find and remove undocumented immigrants, indie booksellers in the Twin Cities have stepped up to resist, handing out free whistles and anti-ICE signs to customers, and participating in a state-wide general strike on January 23 and a national strike on January 30. Booksellers are also supporting families, schools, and mutual aid organizations in more commonplace ways. Wild Rumpus is conducting a book drive for local public school students and educators; the Red Balloon Bookshop is partnering with 25 schools and organizations to put Spanish-language books in the hands of Latinx families; Moon Palace Books just wound up a diaper and menstrual supplies drive benefiting Community Aid Network; Black Garnet Books is teaming up with that same organization to provide board and picture books for young children, delivered to immigrant families along with food and supplies; Inkwell Booksellers is conducting a food and cleaning products drive for immigrant families of students at a nearby school; and Big Hill Books is planning an outdoor bake sale/dance party on February 22, as well as a used book sale March 78 billed as Spring Cleaning: Melt the Ice, to benefit immigrant families of students at neighborhood schools. The past six weeks have taught me that selling books right now is far less important than building up our community, says Big Hill Books owner Beth Thompson. This is a lightning-in-a-bottle moment for us to actnot just booksellers but all small businesses. Comma: A Bookshop has been putting money down to support immigrants: after Renee Good was killed on January 7, it donated 100% of that days proceeds to the Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee; after Alex Pretti was killed on January 24, Comma donated 50% of that days proceeds to Unidos Minnesota. Comma also recently raised $6,000 to help an immigrant family with three children living near the store who had been detained and sent to Texas. Theyre back, says owner Victoria Ford, but they missed work and are in a hole financially. On February 28, approximately two dozen indies around the state are planning Authors for Minnesota Day, during which more than 50 authorsincluding Allen Eskens, William Kent Krueger, and Curtis Sittenfeldwill give signed copies of their latest releases to anyone at the stores who makes a donation to the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota or the Womens Foundation of Minnesota Immigration Rapid Response Fund. Drury Lane Books in Grand Marais, 260 miles north of the Twin Cities, is participating, because customers are focused on the issue, and the two organizations receiving donations are organizations we want to support any way we can, says manager Gwen Danfelt. Drury Lane recently donated 25% of its January 24 sales to the Immigrant Defense Network. Selling books right now is far less important than building up our community. Its not just Minnesota bookstores pitching in. After declaring on social media in the wake of Prettis death that it stands in solidarity with the people and businesses of Minnesota, Thank You Books in Birmingham, Ala., donated 10% of its sales from the last week of January to the Hispanic and Immigrant Center of Alabama. Referring on social media to Thank Yous action and to ICEs assault on our Minneapolis friends and neighbors, The Book & Cover in Chattanooga, Tenn., also donated 10% of sales that week to La Paz, a local Latinx advocacy organization. And Greedy Reads in Baltimore donated 20% of that weeks sales to the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota. On January 24 in Salisbury, N.C., South Main Books owner Alissa Redmond announced that she would be closing her doors until our neighbors across America can safely get to and from work and back to the business of living again, adding, We refuse to participate in an economy that condones state-sanctioned murder. Redmond tells PW the decision to close the store was not a financial decision at alllast year was the best year yet in its six-year history. We are not in a good place as a nation, and I need to gauge where my community is at and if there still is space for me here. Nu Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NU) is one of the High Growth International Stocks to Buy Now. On January 29, Nu Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NU) announced that the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has given conditional approval to create a new national bank called Nubank. Nubank is a digital bank with 127 million customers mainly in Latin America, and this marks a stepping stone for its entry into the US market. Management noted that once they receive the complete approval, Nu will operate under a comprehensive federal framework and bring its app-based banking model to Americans. David Velez, founder and CEO of Nu Holdings, noted, This approval isnt just an expansion of our operation; its an opportunity to prove our thesis that a digital-first, customer-centric model is the future of financial services globally. Earlier on January 27, Susquehanna upgraded its price target for Nu Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NU) from $19 to $22 and maintained a Buy rating. The firm noted Nus global expansion strategy to be a key driver for robust growth in 2026. The bank aims to replicate its digital-first model in the US market, which the firm believes is supported by its stable delinquency rates and robust unit economics. Nu Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NU) provides a digital banking platform in Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, the Cayman Islands, and the US. It offers spending, transactional, savings & investing, borrowing, and protection solutions. While we acknowledge the potential of NU as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. Global trading houses, Vitol and Trafigura, became the first ones to obtain US licences to load and export Venezuelan oil. Illustration: Dado Ruvic/Reuters Key Points Venezuela produces only about 0.8 per cent of global crude Indian refiners are seeking steep discounts on Venezuelan oil. BPCL is looking at $10-12 per barrel discounts BPCL could process Venezuelan crude at its Kochi and Bina refineries Private-sector oil refiner Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) last week received a general licence from the United States (US) government to buy Venezuelan oil, an industry executive told Business Standard. RIL operates the Jamnagar complex in Gujarat the worlds largest and most complex single-site refinery which is capable of processing diverse and crude heavy oil. An email sent to RIL seeking comment remained unanswered till the time of going to press. What Trump said post Venezuelan President's arrest US President Donald Trump, after capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro last month, said American oil companies would rebuild the oil infrastructure of the South American nation. Prior to Maduros capture, China and the US were the largest buyers of Venezuelan oil. Global trading houses, Vitol and Trafigura, became the first ones to obtain US licences to load and export Venezuelan oil. Meanwhile, global refiners are eyeing Venezuelan crude after the US government eased sanctions on the country. RIL and Nayara were top Indian buyers of Venezuelan crude Before the US had imposed sanctions on Caracas in 2019, RIL and Russia-backed Nayara Energy were the top Indian buyers of Venezuelan crude. Venezuela produces only about 0.8 per cent of the global crude output, despite holding 18 per cent of the worlds oil reserves this reflects years of underinvestment and infrastructure constraints. Indian refiners are seeking steep discounts on Venezuelan oil as its highly viscous and acidic nature makes it difficult to process. The Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) is looking at $10-12 per barrel discounts on Venezuelan oil, as reported earlier. Indian state-run refiners have historically not processed Venezuelan crude, with only limited volumes supplied to Indian Oil Corporation. However, with upgrades that have enhanced refineries complexity, oil-marketing companies including Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and BPCL have now become capable of processing heavy Venezuelan crude. BPCL could process Venezuelan crude at its Kochi refinery in Kerala and Bina refinery in Madhya Pradesh, while HPCL could refine the heavy crude at its Visakhapatnam refinery in Andhra Pradesh and the upcoming refinery in Rajasthans Barmer. Indian Oil has historically processed Venezuelan oil at its Panipat refinery. This article was first published 12 years ago Satyagraha attempts to speak about important issues but ends up over-simplifying them, says Paloma Sharma. Prakash Jha's much-awaited political thriller, Satyagraha has a heart of gold. Made in the right political climate, it's a film to watch out for. On the surface, the plot is uncomplicated -- a retired school principal and chief of a small town, fed up with the system of governance, slaps the collector of his zilla (district). Dwarka Anand (Amitabh Bachchan) is a man of staunch Gandhian principles. A retired school headmaster, Dwarka inculcates the same values in his son Akhilesh (Indraneil Sengupta) -- an engineer. When Akhilesh is killed, minister Balram Singh publicly declares a hefty amount in compensation for Akhilesh's widow, Sumitra (Amrita Rao). Despite this, Akhilesh's father and his widow receive nothing. Eventually, after Sumitra is humiliated in the government office, Dwarka Anand seeks a meeting with the openly corrupt and arrogant collector, whom he ends up slapping which leads to him being put behind bars. Akhilesh's best friend Manav Raghavendra (Ajav Devgn), an extremely ambitious entrepreneur with capitalistic values and a man Dwarka Anand disapproves of, returns from the USA and gets the best lawyers available to ensure the release of his deceased best friend's father. Unable to do so through legal channels, Manav resorts to building a social campaign that spirals into a bigger protest against the system than any of them could have imagined. While it would be useless to comment on Amitabh Bachchan's performance, for he remains flawless as ever, it was a tad difficult to watch Ajay Devgn slip out of his Singham avatar and try on a more sensitive role, making one wonder where Omkara had disappeared. His lady love, Kareena Kapoor, who plays TV journalist Yasmin Ahmed, comes off as a natural even though she does not have much to work with. It is a little sad, that the other actress in the film -- Amrita Rao -- doesn't quite get it right. Rao recedes in the background in the crowded star cast at crucial points. Neither is she always present in scenes. There are moments, just tenths of a second, when you'll see her lost amidst the other characters, not completely present in the scene as her expression sometimes shifts to sheer boredom -- and who would blame her? She has nothing much to do except cry and worry about her father-in-law. Arjun Rampal is adequate in his character, a wannabe bahubali (a local goon with political aspirations) of the area. Although a few notches below his last performance in D-Day, Rampal is fairly believable. However, the real star of the show is minister Balram Singh aka Manoj Bajpayee. Slick as ever, Bajpayee prowls across the screen with the ease of a veteran jungle cat who is well aware of his apex predator status in the forest. His coversations are sprinkled with a few English words as he charms people -- both on and off screen -- with his Hindi heartland accent. Soft spoken with theatric hand gestures, a believer in negotiation and a master manipulator, Balram Singh is the morally bankrupt politician. If you need just one reason to watch this film, Manoj Bajpayee is it. Also, Satyagraha has its fair share of good music. From Raske bhare tore naina (avoid the video though) to Satyagraha, music composer duo Salim-Sulaiman successfully capture the atmosphere of a protest in their pro-people anthem, Satyagraha. However, as well-meaning and youth-friendly as Meet Brothers would have wanted their track to sound, Janta Rocks doesn't quite nail it. The phrase itself seems a little odd but then again, perhaps that is because I have never been a fan of Hinglish. There are times when Satyagraha makes you cry, especially during the scenes where Dwarka Anand mourns the loss of his only child. There are also scenes that will make you cringe and wish you'd carried a paper bag along to puke in. If you're smart, you'll know that you ought to close your eyes when Jha begins a new (and extremely awkward) track which has Manav and Yasmin indulging in some heavy-duty romance. Satyagraha starts off well and manages to engage the audience for the first 30-40 minutes but it slowly begins to lose its touch. It becomes preachy to the point of making you want to role your eyes. Clearly inspired by the Anna Hazare movement, Satyagraha attempts to replicate it and explain what went wrong. What went wrong with the film itself, is the delayed climax. If you have lofty ideas for your country or are just plain sick and tired of the corruption that has crept in, Satyagraha is definitely for you. However, if you follow politics and have had the opportunity to open a newspaper, just avoid it. Satyagraha attempts to speak about important issues but ends up over-simplifying them. Nevertheless, it is a good attempt. Rediff Rating: Be it as a source of fire, secret or endgame, everything is seen through the prism of sex and good looks in The Royals, observes Sukanya Verma. When a prince of a dippy, strapped-for-cash royal family meets a pushy possessor of a hospitality start-up, foreplay makes way for a financially profitable proposition. Creator Rangita Pritish Nandy's modern-day fairy tale, directed by Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, is tailor-made for rom-com vibes. While the makers embellish the couple's 'blow hot and cold' equation with ample of visual razzmatazz, their wet blanket chemistry and dowdily-crafted scenes of 'opposites attract' prove to be a buzzkill for its eight scatterbrained episodes. Add to that a cliffhanger ending and unresolved issues that follow once skeletons pop out of the closet, the prolonging seems unwarranted. Ishaan Khatter's Aviraaj aka Fizzy is a shirt-resisting, polo-playing, party animal and Maharaja-to-be, fretfully following his recently deceased father's orders to ascend the throne of Morpur while siblings with equally silly nicknames -- Diggy (hilarious Vihaan Samat) and Jinni (bright-eyed Kavya Trehan) secretly pursue their own paths. Jinni's queer impulses and Diggy's culinary chef dreams wherein he sneaks into competitions dressed as Bertie Wooster claiming 'palace mein bartan saaf karta hoon' to deflect attention define their one dimensional purpose. Aviraaj's mum (Sakshi Tanwar) is too preoccupied by her own mindless flings (a tacky Chunky Pandey, a shady Alyy Khan) to pay much notice. In the hands of a lesser actress, this character could turn out to be a caricature but Tanwar's cool zing and firm sass creates virtues out of thin air. Too bad The Royals has no idea what to do with all that cheek. But the real bummer is Zeenat Aman's -- the most naturally regal and curiously cast member of its ensemble cast -- role is only a special appearance. Nevertheless, her dotty, devil-may-care grandmother, the kind Zohra Sehgal would nail in a heartbeat, is a fleeting but fabulous embodiment of The Royals and its -- hum kuch karte nahi, hum bas hain -- maxim. At the other end of this royal spectrum is Bhumi Pednekar as Sophia -- bearing an uncanny resemblance to Sobhita Dhulipala from Made in Heaven -- desperate to realise her B&B vision of bringing royals and commoners together across a business model that her boss shows little faith in and co-partner (a staid Udit Arora) only appears to play along. Be it as a source of fire, secret or endgame, everything is seen through the prism of sex and good looks in The Royals. Much of the screen time is devoted to lusting over the chiselled abs and muscular torsos of its men and women dressed in fancy designer attire with every episode throwing in a reason for revelry. The same courtesy is extended towards the dead too. The late Maharaja is an eternally smouldering Milind Soman striking his supermodel pose for portraits when not popping up for flashbacks to unravel the mystery behind him leaving the bulk of his inheritance to a mystery called Maurice. From its Gossip Girl-like glamourous aesthetic to Sophia's Emily in Paris evoking chaotic love life, The Royals is as derivative as it gets, treading the done-to-death path of extramarital affairs, gay love and lavender marriages to keep its boat of sensation floating. There's a surplus of cheesy humour where one-liners sound like 'green flag nahi green forest hai' and crisis is created around bat potty solely to make characters quip, 'Bat Shit', characters have names like Salad (Dino Morea in vacation mode), keeping with The Royals' penchant for ridiculous pet names, so that five episodes later, somebody gets to crack a dumb dressing joke. Amidst these chalky cliches and cringeworthy wit, the subplot involving Diggy's gastronomical interests shows far more potential than the lacklustre romance at the centre of all action. Except The Royals is too lazy to give it any real bite. Leave it to Nora Fatehi then as the hoity toity princess, fully aware of her net worth and floor-burning flourish, to pack in far more sizzle with Ishaan Khatter in one dance than all the eight episodes between him and Bhumi going back and forth. Ishaan has an easy charm about him. He is convincingly arrogant and tender in turns as the reluctant royal ready to catch the first flight to New York. But the daft script refuses to let the man be. Always contradicting himself, shirking responsibilities only to take them on his own will and promptly blaming everyone when he fails to deliver, his whiny temperament and erratic attitude is dangerous and not hot unlike what The Royals want us to believe. Pluck comes naturally to Bhumi Pednekar but in empowering Sophia too forcefully, she renders her manipulative, passive-aggressive and unlikeable. There's nothing to root for about her shallow passions towards the prince. What's far more enticing is the look of luxury. The Royals and its resplendent wardrobe make a case for keeping up appearances far more effectively than all its topsy-turvy inhabitants over eight lame episodes of soapy royal drama. The Royals streams on Netflix. The Royals Review Rediff Rating: India and the US have entered a new phase in their relationship, marked by greater parity, point out Harsh V Pant and Vivek Mishra. IMAGE: US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi attend a press conference at the White House, February 13, 2025. Photograph: Nathan Howard/Reuters Key Points The Trump administration heightened global uncertainty through aggressive tariff policies and transactional diplomacy. Prolonged absence of a deal hurt export-dependent Indian sectors. The agreement and the ambitious $500 billion bilateral trade target mark a reset in ties. The Donald Trump administration is often viewed as a presidency that elevated global anxiety, leaving countries on edge, particularly over tariffs, threats, and, most unsettlingly, uncertainty. India, however, largely succeeded in blunting the sharper edges of America's tariff weaponisation. It avoided retaliation, maintained resilient economic growth, and adopted a deliberately restrained, if frustratingly reticent, approach to the provocations emanating from Washington. In hindsight, this strategy proved useful. Despite the asymmetric economic relations between the United States and India, the anticipation around striking a trade deal appeared more acute in Washington than in New Delhi. That said, the prolonged absence of a trade deal was not without costs. It carried clear economic disadvantages for India, particularly in sectors heavily dependent on exports to the US. Beyond sentiment, the trade deal carries undeniable economic significance, underpinned by the interaction between the world's largest economy and a buoyant fourth-largest one. The revised tariff rate of 18 per cent could spur significant economic activity between the two countries and re-energise sectors such as textiles, auto components, gems and jewellery, and other key areas of bilateral trade. However, the political significance of the US-India trade deal is even more consequential bilaterally, regionally, and globally. At a bilateral level, the deal closes the loop on a rather sordid phase in India-US relations, during which Mr Trump's intransigence spilled over into both political and economic domains. Symbolically, the agreement marks a political turnaround, which is particularly welcome from New Delhi's perspective, given Washington's sudden regional and global reorientation. While India and the US were negotiating the trade deal, global developments moved rapidly, often creating the impression that the Trump administration had other priorities. What Prompted Shift In Washington's Stance At least four developments signalled a political shift in Washington, which appeared unfavourable to India. The first was the adoption of a nakedly mercantilist approach to a relationship not traditionally framed in such terms, catching India off guard before it recalibrated. Reciprocal tariffs of 25 per cent were widely seen as excessive and interpreted as a deliberate attempt to force Indian concessions. Second came an additional 25 per cent in punitive tariffs imposed on India for purchasing Russian oil -- an especially severe move, given that India had no direct stake in the Russia-Ukraine war, yet became a convenient intermediary through which pressure on Moscow was intensified. Third, US policies in India's neighbourhood began to diverge from past patterns, particularly in Washington's engagement with Pakistan. To be fair, while there appeared to be an uptick in US-Pakistan ties, this did not translate into concrete harm to Indian interests. Broadly, the shift seemed driven by American economic considerations and regional strategic positioning. Finally, the trade standoff created space for the cultivation of anti-Indian sentiment in the US, which at times fed into the broader conservative and nativist currents gaining ground domestically. Against this backdrop, the announcement of the trade deal and the ambitious promise of $500 billion in bilateral trade, even in the absence of a clear timeline, mark a significant turning point. For both countries, the agreement could galvanise the relationship's other aspects that had been placed on the back burner. The long-delayed Quad meeting, for instance, now carries renewed political legitimacy, something that would have been harder to sustain in the absence of a trade breakthrough. The Quad meeting, under India's chair ship, would also provide the requisite to the Indo-Pacific strategy and regional balancing. The Trump administration's strategy documents -- the National Security Strategy and the National Defense Strategy -- already seemed anchored in a commitment to the Indo-Pacific, although with a caveat that regional partners will have a greater sharing of the burden. Although a lot could depend on how India wants to steer its Indo-Pacific commitments, the support from Washington could provide strong scaffolding. Staying the course in India-US relations appears to have paid dividends. Three distinct strands emerge from this episode. First, India and the US have entered a new phase in their relations, one in which entrenched asymmetry is gradually giving way to greater parity. Second, the tariff episode prompted India to reassess trust and pursue a strategy of soft balancing through internal economic and labour reforms, as well as diversified external partnerships. Finally, while the trade deal represents a historic opportunity for India, it also brings challenges, the foremost among them is managing complex great-power relations, particularly with Russia and China. Much will depend on how Washington's own bilateral relations with these powers evolve. Perhaps the most significant shared challenge for India and the US will be reversing the negative perceptions that took hold during the trade standoff. If the current momentum is sustained, this episode may eventually be remembered as a brief detour rather than a defining rupture in bilateral ties. For India, however, the enduring test will be its ability to manage independent relationships without external spillovers -- as the Russia-Ukraine conflict has starkly demonstrated. Harsh V Pant and Vivek Mishra are respectively, vice-president and fellow (Americas), Observer Research Foundation Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff Authorities are searching for Saketh Sreenivasaiah, an Indian student from UC Berkeley, who has gone missing in California, prompting concern from the Indian consulate and local police. IMAGE: Saketh Sreenivasaiah is a UC Berkeley student hailing from Karnataka. Photograph: Saketh Sreenivasaiah on LinkedIn Key Points Saketh Sreenivasaiah, a 22-year-old Indian student at UC Berkeley, has been reported missing in California. His belongings, including his passport and laptop, were found in the Park Hills neighborhood. The Indian consulate in San Francisco is in contact with the family and local authorities to assist in the search. Police are asking anyone with information about Saketh Sreenivasaiah's whereabouts to contact local law enforcement. A 22-year-old Indian postgraduate student has gone missing in the US state of California, prompting efforts by authorities to locate him. Saketh Sreenivasaiah, a UC Berkeley student hailing from Karnataka, disappeared on Tuesday, local media reported, quoting the police. His backpack, with his passport and laptop, was found on a doorstep in the Park Hills neighbourhood, The Berkeley Scanner news portal reported. Indian consulate reacts The Indian consulate in San Francisco expressed deep concern about his disappearance. "...deeply concerned about the disappearance of Saketh Sreenivasaiah, an Indian postgraduate student of UC Berkeley, hailing from the State of Karnataka," it said in an X post. "The Consulate is in touch with the family and also is in contact with the concerned local authorities to locate the student," it added. Police seeks information on Saketh Sreenivasaiah Sreenivasaiah was last seen in the 1700 block of Dwight Way, the report quoted police as saying. He is described as approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing around 73 kilograms, with short black hair and brown eyes. Police urged anyone with information about Sreenivasaiah to notify local law enforcement. Gotham, the worlds first cannabis concept store, has introduced the Gotham Growth Project (GGP), a business accelerator program designed to support cannabis consumer brands from underserved communities. The initial focus will be on Black-owned businesses operating in New York City. The program provides leaders with hands-on business strategy and mentorship to help them build sustainable cannabis businesses. Too many founders from underserved communities are expected to navigate growth on their own after clearing the hardest barriers to entry, Kenny Anderson, chief operating officer of Gotham, said in a press release. GGP is about meeting founders when the stakes are high, the margins are tight, and the next decisions matter most. This program is designed to help brands move from traction to scalability. The mission of GGP is to turn diverse visions into success. The program will include six focused sessions: Brand foundation and positioning Product development and regulatory alignment Operations and sales strategy Retail readiness and partnerships Financial planning and capital preparedness Storytelling, pitching, and executive presence The GGP will conclude with a live pitch showcase at Gothams semiannual leadership conference in October. Additionally, Gotham will provide a series of businessdevelopment masterclasses for GGP graduates, offering ongoing support long after the program ends. The program is open to founders based within the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester County, and Long Island. Throughout the program, founders will work through a curriculum that blends expert instruction, peer collaboration, and practical assignments to help founders navigate real-world business and growth challenges. Joanne Wilson, the founder and CEO of Gotham, notes that the GGP was a response to employee feedback that they wanted to see more diverse brands in its stores. GGP is our response and also our responsibility to the people who make Gotham what it is. This is a tangible, intentional way to support Black founders who are already building strong products and deserve greater visibility, resources, and pathways to scale, the Gotham CEO said. Eligible applicants must be at least 51% Black-owned and operated, have been in business for at least one year, and currently have at least one product on the market. Qualified products include THC- and CBD-infused pre-rolls, vapes, edibles, gummies, tinctures, and topicals. Applications are now open and will close on March 11 at 5:00 p.m. ET. Visit the companys website for more details or to apply. RELATED CONTENT: Mike Tyson Sues Former Cannabis Business Partners For $50M Trump further reiterated his claim that he ended 'eight wars in 10 months', and said the Russia-Ukraine conflict was the toughest of all. IMAGE: US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump disembark Air Force One at Palm Beach International Airport in West Palm Beach, Florida, on February 13, 2026. Photograph: Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters Key Points US President Donald Trump accused Iran of prolonging talks for 47 years. He said US military deployments, including a carrier group, have increased. He reiterated his claim of ending 'eight wars in 10 months' and called the Russia-Ukraine conflict the most difficult. United States President Donald Trump said that for 47 years, Iran has been prolonging talks while many lives have been lost. Trump, in his gaggle with the press, said that he would get it 'settled once and for all'. He said, "For 47 years, they've been talking and talking and talking. In the meantime, we've lost a lot of lives while they talk. Let's see what happens. In the meantime, tremendous power has arrived, and additional power, as you know, and other carriers are going out shortly. So we'll see it through. Get it settled once and for all, and that'll be good." Trump indicated that US deployments are increasing, referencing the movement of 'a very big carrier group'. "We have a situation right now where we have sent a very big carrier group toward Iran. I would love to see if we could make a deal. They've been difficult to make a deal with. I thought we would have had a deal last time. They wish they did, and that's what we did -- Midnight Hammer," he said. Trump further reiterated his claim that he ended 'eight wars in 10 months', and said the Russia-Ukraine conflict was the toughest of all. "We are also bringing peace all over the world. I ended eight wars in just 10 months. We have a couple more to go, but one in particular -- Russia-Ukraine. It's a mess. It's a horrible thing. I think we'll get there. It takes two to tango. You have to remember that, and we have to get there," he said. Trump paid a visit to Fort Bragg, where he took aim at his predecessor, Joe Biden, and even brought a Republican Senate candidate onto the stage. As per CNN, he critiqued the 'radical left' decision to rename Fort Bragg during the Biden administration. Fort Bragg was initially named after a Confederate general. It was renamed Fort Liberty in 2023 and then renamed Fort Bragg after a different Bragg, a World War II paratrooper, shortly after Trump returned to office. A bomb threat discovered on a Shillong-bound IndiGo flight at Kolkata airport led to the aircraft being moved to an isolation bay for security checks, causing disruption and heightened security measures. IMAGE: The passengers were safely deboarded, and the aircraft was moved to the isolation bay. Photograph: ANI on X Key Points The aircraft was moved to an isolation bay for thorough security checks and precautionary measures. Airport authorities are conducting a comprehensive search of the aircraft following standard operating procedures. The bomb threat was discovered by a crew member before passengers boarded the flight. A Shillong-bound aircraft was stranded at Kolkata airport for around four hours on Saturday following a bomb threat, an official statement said. The IndiGo flight 6E 7304 was moved to the isolation bay after the discovery of a handwritten note claiming that a bomb had been placed on the plane, it said. The threat, however, later turned out to be a hoax, and the flight left for its destination at 1.33 pm following a thorough search as per standard security protocols. An Airports Authority of India spokesperson said the note was discovered in the lavatory by one of the crew members around 9.15 am, around 15 minutes before its scheduled departure time. Some of the 60 passengers had already boarded the plane. The passengers were safely deboarded, and the aircraft was moved to the isolation bay. Standard security protocols were followed and a thorough inspection was conducted by the agencies concerned, he said. Upon completion of all safety checks and clearance by security authorities, the aircraft was declared safe for operations, the AAI spokesperson added. North Korean tyrant Kim Jong Un frequently appears in public with his daughter Kim Ju Ae, signaling her potential role as his successor. Recent photographs document their joint appearances at major events, including military exercises, tourism zone inaugurations, and New Year celebrations. This week, South Korean intelligence indicated that the teenager will in fact be her father's successor. Kim Jong Un has reportedly three children, but only Kim Ju Ae has been seen in public. IMAGE: Kim Ju Ae with her dad Kim Jong Un and mom Ri Sol Ju. All Photographs: KCNA via Reuters IMAGE: Kim Jong Un and Kim Ju Ae attend an inauguration ceremony for hotels at a tourist resort in Samjiyon City, North Korea, December 20, 2025. IMAGE: Kim Jong Un and Kim Ju Ae at a ceremony to celebrate the completion of the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone in Wonsan, North Korea, June 24, 2025. IMAGE: Kim Jong Un, accompanied by Kim Ju Ae, directs a test of a large-caliber multiple-rocket launch system in an unknown location, North Korea, January 27, 2026. IMAGE: Kim Jong Un, his wife Ri Sol Ju and their daughter Kim Ju Ae visit the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun to mark the New Year in Pyongyang, North Korea, in this picture released by North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency on January 1, 2026. IMAGE: Father and daughter walk hand in hand. IMAGE: Kim Jong Un and Kim Ju Ae attend the launch ceremony of a warship that had been damaged upon its first attempt to launch in Rajin, North Korea, here and below. IMAGE: Kim Jong Un and Kim Ju Ae visit the naval command of the Korean People's Army on the occasion of Navy Day, here and below. IMAGE: Kim Jong Un and Kim Ju Ae watch a fire assault drill. IMAGE: Kim Jong Un and Kim Ju Ae at the launch of a Choe Hyon-class warship in Nampo. IMAGE: North Korea observers believe Kim Jong Un wants Kim Ju Ae to be his successor. IMAGE: Kim Ju Ae is always around her father. Photographs curated and Feature Presentation by Manisha Kotian/Rediff Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Northeast's first Emergency Landing Facility in Assam, boosting regional defense and disaster response capabilities. IMAGE: A C-130J aircraft carrying Prime Minister Narendra Modi, lands on the ELF in Moran on a stretch of National Highway-37. Photographs: ANI Photo Key Points Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) in Northeast India, located in Assam's Dibrugarh district. The Rs 100-crore ELF is a 4.2-km reinforced stretch on National Highway-37, designed for both civil and military use. The facility will serve as a strategic runway for IAF fighter jets and transport aircraft, enhancing defense capabilities and disaster response. The ELF can act as an alternative to Dibrugarh airport during emergencies, improving regional connectivity and security. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday made a historic touchdown at the Northeast's first Emergency Landing Facility in Assam's Dibrugarh district, and later launched a scathing attack on the Congress at a rally in Guwahati, accusing the party of ignoring the region and fuelling insurgency during its rule in the state. He also launched projects worth Rs 5,450 crore during his third visit to the poll-bound Assam in three months. Modi took off from the Chabua airfield after his arrival and landed at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) in Moran on a stretch of National Highway-37. The PM, after inaugurating the ELF, said, "It is a matter of immense pride that the Northeast gets an Emergency Landing Facility." ''From a strategic point of view and during times of natural disasters, this facility is of great importance," Modi said on X. The Rs 100-crore ELF, a 4.2-km reinforced stretch on the Moran bypass, will act as a strategic and multi-functional runway for IAF fighter jets and transport aircraft, strengthening defence, logistics and disaster response. WATCH: Modi makes historic landing at NE's first emergency landing facility Modi attacks Congress During his day-long Assam visit, the Prime Minister, while addressing a public meeting in Guwahati that also included BJP workers, launched an all-out attack on the Congress, accusing it of neglecting the Northeast and promoting insurgency in Assam during its rule. He alleged that the Congress always endangered the nation's security, with fear and insecurity prevailing during its tenure in Assam. ''The Congress indulged in polarisation and vote bank politics, and took decisions that promoted these,'' he said. "The partition of the country took place due to the Muslim League, but now there is 'MMC' Maoist, Muslim League, Congress and people should be aware of their intentions,'' Modi said. The PM accused the Congress of protecting infiltrators, and asserted that the BJP is "committed to ending illegal immigration, and so the next five years are very important for the state''. He also claimed that the Congress, being out of power in Assam for 10 years, is "more dangerous than when it was in power, and this is evident from the venomous statements made by its leaders". For seven decades, the Congress built only three bridges over the Brahmaputra river, but the BJP government constructed five bridges in 10 years, he asserted. The PM paid tributes to the bravehearts who were martyred in Pulwama in 2019, and asserted that the world has seen how the government responded to the terror attack. The country's response was also witnessed during Operation Sindoor following the terror attack in Pahalgam last year, he said. ''The Congress did nothing to protect the nation's security but gave only statements and indulged in scams while buying weapons," Modi alleged. The PM said all-round development is taking place in Assam due to the efforts of the BJP government. ''The BJP is committed to ensuring the speedy development of Assam and also protecting its identity and traditions. It is, therefore, very important that the double-engine BJP government returns to power in the state," Modi said. The prime minister said he had the firm belief that the BJP will secure victory by a huge margin in the 2026 Assam assembly polls, but it is "not just about winning elections alone, we must win the hearts and minds of the people''. The credit for BJP's success goes only to party workers as ''we believe in organisational strength: My biggest qualification and source of pride is that Narendra Modi is a BJP party worker," he said. ''Party workers are the oxygen of the BJP, and I urge them to reach out to the people of the state not only before the elections but even after the next government is formed," Modi said. He assured the people that he will ''return their love for BJP with interest through development". Modi launches multiple big-ticket projects Earlier, the PM inaugurated the Rs 3,030 crore Kumar Bhaskar Varma Bridge, connecting Guwahati and North Guwahati, and walked on the bridge. He also inaugurated the temporary campus of the IIM, Guwahati, estimated to be worth Rs 555 crore and a Rs 348 crore AI-enabled hyperscale data centre from the nearby Lachit Ghat. The PM flagged off 225 electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme, which included 100 for Guwahati, 50 for Nagpur, 50 for Bhavnagar and 25 for Chandigarh. Modi witnessed an aerial show, featuring IAF's fighter jets and transport helicopters, which are engaged for emergencies and responses, at the ELF, with IAF pilots displaying precision take-off and landing. PM witnesses special IAF aerial show After landing on the runway, Modi drove to the venue nearby from where he witnessed an aerial display of IAF fighter and transport aircraft along with helicopters. The PM was seen waving to the huge crowd that had gathered at the venue to witness the historic event. From fighter jets to transport helicopters, Indian Air Force aircraft engaged for emergency situations and responses put up an aerial show at the Emergency Landing Facility. The Sukhoi-30, Rafale and helicopters of the IAF participated in a fly-past on the occasion. The An-32, dubbed the 'workhorse' of the IAF and designed for both cargo and passengers, also featured in the aerial display. Special Heli-Borne Operations and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) by Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), crucial for surveillance, search and rescue, medical evacuation and food airdrops in inaccessible and remote areas, also performed during the aerial show. Modi was welcomed with a traditional 'Muga gamosa' (scarf), and felicitated by Sarma with the Assamese 'Japi' (headgear) and a portrait of the last Chutia queen Sati Sadhini, along with a memento from the IAF by the Air Chief Marshal. The ELF, developed at a project cost of nearly Rs 100 crore, has been specially designed and constructed in coordination with the IAF to support landing and take-off of military and civil aircraft during emergencies, an official statement said. After concluding his programmes in Guwahati, Modi left for Delhi with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma thanking him for the projects and enthusing the BJP workers. ''As Adarniya @narendramodi ji departs from Assam, I express my profound gratitude to him for strengthening Assam's position in many sectors and energising BJP Karyakartas ahead of the #AssamElections2026. Thank you Pradhan Mantri ji'', Sarma posted on X. The incident took place around 12:20pm on the arterial LBS Road in front of Johnson and Johnson factory in Mulund area. IMAGE: Rescue work is underway after a portion of a pillar of a under-construction metro collapses in Mumbai's Mulund area. Photographs: Sahil Salvi for Rediff.com Key Points A parapet segment of a bridge of the under-construction Metro Rail Line 4 collapsed on passing vehicles in Mumbai. The parapet segment fell on a passing autorickshaw and a Skoda car, completely crushing the rickshaw. One person travelling in the rickshaw was killed while three others were injured. Five employees of two contractor firms were arrested in the evening. BJP MLA Mihir Kotecha claimed that he had flagged the 'lapses' during an inspection last month. A man died and three others were injured after a parapet segment of a bridge of the under-construction Metro Rail Line 4 collapsed on passing vehicles in Mumbai's Mulund area on Saturday, following which five employees of two contractor firms were arrested. A first information report (FIR) was registered at the Mulund police station in the evening against officials of Milan Road Buildtech and DB Hill LBG under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita section 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and other charges, police said. Local Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Mihir Kotecha claimed that he had flagged the 'lapses' committed by the contractor during an inspection of the Metro works last month. 5 officials of 2 contractor firms held Late in the evening, police arrested project director Harish Chauhan, project manager Kuldeep Sapkal, deputy manager Saurab Singh and supervisor Prashant Bhoir of Milan Road Buildtech, and project manager Avdhoot Inamdar of DB Hill LBG, an official said. While Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh for the deceased man and promised a thorough probe, Opposition leaders slammed the BJP-led government. The incident took place near Johnson and Johnson factory on LBS Road at 12.15 pm. The parapet segment fell on a passing autorickshaw and a Skoda car, completely crushing the rickshaw. Ramdhan Yadav, who was travelling in the rickshaw, died, while Rajkumar Indrajeet Yadav (45), Mahendra Pratap Yadav (52) and Deepa Ruhiya (40) were injured. The condition of Rajkumar Yadav was critical and he was admitted to ICU at a nearby hospital, a fire brigade official said. According to MLA Kotecha, Ramdhan and his family members were travelling to a wedding. BJP MLA blames MMRDA, contractor In a statement, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) which is executing the Metro project said a portion of the parapet segment crashed near pier 196, close to the Mulund Fire Station. Line 4 connects Wadala in south-central Mumbai to neighbouring Thane, with a large section passing over the arterial LBS Road. Kotecha blamed the MMRDA and contractor. The workers mistakenly cut the parapet segment instead of welding and securing it, and no supervisor was present at the time in violation of the Standard Operating Procedure, he claimed. "Such critical work must be carried out under supervision. The weakened structure collapsed nearly 11 hours later," the legislator said quoting a Metro official, and also claimed that the contractor had earlier been red-flagged for negligence on the LBS Road stretch. He himself had carried out an inspection of the Metro work along the LBS Road with civic and MMRDA officials last month and identified 'serious lapses' at more than 55 locations, said Kotecha. "I had formally requested action against the contractor and wrote to MMRDA commissioner Sanjay Mukherjee recommending blacklisting and suspension. I also raised the matter during the winter session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly," he said. Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, Fadnavis said a thorough probe will be conducted into the incident and action will be taken against those responsible. A safety audit will be conducted immediately at all such construction sites as a preventive measure, he said. "The accident in Mulund is very unfortunate. Our prayers are with the kin of the deceased and those injured. The government and MMRDA will take care of medical expenses of the injured," said Fadnavis. Oppn slams Maharashtra govt Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray leader Aaditya Thackeray noted that a wall had collapsed and newly-inaugurated Metro Line 3 had got flooded amid heavy rains last year, and asked if the BJP-led government would blacklist the contractor for the latest incident. It was not likely, the former minister further said, adding that the contractor will get away with a penalty of few lakh rupees and get more contracts. "If you notice, pillars are already painted- before the work was completed...Even today, most infrastructure works have terrible barricading that either leads to traffic jams or vehicles falling into open pits....Life has no value under the BJP regime," he said. "Soon a day will come when (other) countries will issue travel warnings for such things in our country," the Worli MLA said. Mumbai Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad asked whether the lives of Mumbai residents have 'become so cheap'.. In a post on X, she said authorities were more focused on publicity around infrastructure projects than ensuring public safety and asked whether quality and technical safety standards were being compromised in the push to complete Metro works. State Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal demanded that CM Fadnavis take responsibility for the accident which 'exposed the reality of the BJP's development model'. Widespread corruption in the ruling alliance has compromised construction quality and public safety, and the slab collapse was an example of such substandard works, he said, asking why adequate safety measures were not in place despite the area being densely populated. Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar spokesperson Clyde Crasto said the 'life of Mumbaikar holds no value' for the government. He also took a swipe at BJP leader Kirit Somaiya, saying the Mulund-based politician 'has his eyes everywhere except his own backyard'. A YouTuber claims she was assaulted at a Delhi University protest, sparking controversy as a student group refutes the allegations, leading to police investigation and calls for social harmony. IMAGE: A scuffle broke out at at the Delhi University's North Campus during a protest. Photograph: @cpimlliberation/X Key Points A woman YouTuber alleges she was assaulted and an attempt was made to abduct her during a protest at Delhi University over UGC regulations. The All India Students' Association (AISA) denies the YouTuber's allegations, claiming she disrupted a peaceful protest and confronted a journalist. Delhi Police have registered two FIRs, one filed by the YouTuber and another by a female AISA student, and have begun an inquiry. Delhi University's Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh has appealed for social harmony and urged students and teachers to avoid actions that increase discord. A woman YouTuber alleged on Saturday that she was assaulted, and an attempt was made to forcibly take her away the day before, during a protest at the Delhi University's North Campus, while a student group has rejected the charge and claimed its members were targeted instead. Meanwhile, Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh said the incident was a matter of concern and maintaining social harmony was everyone's responsibility. The All India Students' Association (AISA) claimed in a statement that the protest over UGC regulations was peaceful, and its activists intervened after the YouTuber allegedly created disruption and confronted a journalist present at the site. It termed the allegations "false and motivated" and said two of its members were later threatened and faced abuse at the police station when they went to file a complaint. The student outfit also claimed that videos circulating online do not show the full sequence of events. Multiple videos of the incident have been shared on social media with each side claiming that the onus lies with the other side. The Delhi Police said two FIRs have been filed based on the complaints by the YouTuber and a female AISA student. YouTuber's Account of the Incident The woman YouTuber said she had gone to cover the protest demanding implementation of the new UGC regulations and was attacked after being asked for her name. "I had gone to cover the protest, as I regularly do. Before I could even take out my mic, a person behind me tried to instigate me by repeatedly taking my name. When I asked him what the issue was, he asked for my name and caste. I told him my name and asked what had happened. After that, things escalated," the YouTuber said. "There was also a car with its gate open, and gestures were being made suggesting I be taken inside. I have filed a complaint with the police," she added. Delhi University VC Appeals for Harmony The Delhi University VC posted on X, requesting all teachers and students to maintain harmony among themselves. "Do not engage in any activity that increases mutual discord and harms the image of the nation and the university," he said. Singh said students from all states of India and all communities study in the university. "Social harmony is the greatest thing, and maintaining it is the duty of all of us," he wrote on X. "I have spoken with several student groups and teacher groups today and have also spoken with the police administration to ensure that no such incident occurs in the future that harms harmony. The new rules of the UGC that have come are currently under consideration in the Hon'ble Supreme Court. "I appeal to all teachers and students of the university to maintain their trust in the Government of India and await the decision of the Hon'ble Supreme Court," the VC said. Police Investigation Underway Meanwhile, a senior police officer said that FIRs have been filed in the case, and they have begun an inquiry. "Two FIRs have been registered, including one where the complainant is a female YouTuber and another, a female student from AISA. Both the FIRs have been registered under Sections 74 (assault or criminal force against a woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 115(2) (voluntarily causing hurt), 126(2) (wrongful restraint) and 3(5) (common intention) of the BNS. Further action will be taken accordingly," the officer said. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath touts the state's clean air and healthy environment, contrasting it sharply with Delhi's severe pollution. IMAGE: Citing air pollution, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath says the situation in Delhi is dire. Photograph: ANI Photo Key Points Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath claims his state enjoys a clean environment with good air quality. Adityanath criticizes Delhi's air quality, comparing it to a 'gas chamber' and highlighting breathing difficulties. He emphasizes the importance of a clean environment for health, noting that pollution harms the lungs and overall well-being. Delhi's air quality was recorded in the 'poor' category with an AQI of 211, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Adityanath cautions that environmental disruption could lead to circumstances similar to Delhi's pollution levels. Likening the air quality of the national capital to a 'gas chamber', Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday asserted that people in Uttar Pradesh enjoy a clean environment and are not being suffocated, despite all the developmental work. Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the renovated Block Development Officer's office in Jungle Kauria in Gorakhpur, Adityanath said that one of the biggest global challenges today is environmental degradation, an official statement said. "The environment here is quite good; there is no pollution. Without pollution, there are fewer diseases. Whenever pollution exists, it harms the lungs. If our supply of oxygen is compromised, the entire body suffers," he said. He shifted his focus to Delhi's air quality, saying, "You see the condition in Delhi? It feels like a gas chamber. The situation is dire; breathing is difficult, and there's a burning sensation in the eyes. Doctors advise those suffering from asthma, as well as the elderly and children, to stay indoors. What kind of life is this?" Delhi's AQI at 211 in 'poor' category Delhi's air quality was recorded in the "poor" category at 9 am on Saturday, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 211, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 to 100 'satisfactory', 101 to 200 'moderate', 201 to 300 'poor', 301 to 400 'very poor', and 401 to 500 'severe', the CPCB added. Any disruption to the environment could lead to similar circumstances, the chief minister cautioned. "We are fortunate here; we have development without a suffocating environment," he said. The proposed forestry university in Campierganj will prove effective in addressing environmental challenges, increasing forest cover and boosting farmers' incomes, Adityanath said. Yogi talks about conservation He also referred to the Jatayu Conservation Centre built in Campierganj and said that expressing gratitude is an integral part of Indian culture. Being thankful to those who have done something for us is part of our way of life, he added. "Jatayu rendered a great service to humanity; he was the first to resist Ravana when he abducted 'Mata Sita' (Goddess Sita). He is also associated with Lord Vishnu --- the preserver. Today, due to the use of chemicals and pesticides, the population of vultures is declining, and they are dying," the chief minister explained. He said, therefore, to express gratitude towards Jatayu and to protect the vultures, a conservation centre is being established in Campierganj. The degree from the state's first Forestry and Horticulture University, being established in Campierganj, will guarantee employment for the youth, he said. Adityanath said that young people graduating with degrees and diplomas from this university will have wide employment opportunities across the country and the world. The university will also play a significant role in increasing the income of the state's farmers. Speaking about development in the state and in Gorakhpur after 2017, he said, "When intentions are clear, results come on their own. With focused efforts, the fertiliser factory in Gorakhpur has resumed operations, AIIMS is providing services, and BRD Medical College has become an excellent medical centre." The sugar mill in Pipraich has also restarted, a compressed biogas plant has been set up in Dhuriyapar, and industries are flourishing in GIDA, he added. "Many large-scale development works are underway in Gorakhpur and across the state, and a development-oriented mindset helps secure a bright future for present and future generations," the chief minister said. He also mentioned his close connection with every village of the Jungle Kaudia block and said that during floods, he personally reached people by wading through water. "The level of development today in the Jungle Kaudia block and the Campierganj Assembly constituency is beyond people's imagination," Adityanath said. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Bob Evans, the chain of family-style restaurants founded and headquartered in central Ohio, has a new owner. New York-based investment firm 44 Capital announced on Feb. 4 that it has acquired Bob Evans Restaurants. The deal transfers ownership of the 78-year-old brand from San Francisco-based private equity firm Golden Gate Capital. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Bob Evans operates more than 400 restaurants in 18 states and employs more than 15,000 people. The company is based in New Albany and traces its roots to a 12-stool diner opened in 1948 by founder Bob Evans in Gallipolis, Ohio. Dublin keeps Irish Festival ticket prices unchanged for 2026 We are proud of what we accomplished in partnership with Golden Gate Capital and excited to begin this next chapter with 44s hands-on partnership, said Mickey Mills, the restaurant chains CEO, who will continue to lead the brand. Together, we look forward to investing in and enhancing our operations, guest experience, and brand. New York-based investment firm 44 Capital announced on Feb. 4 that it has acquired Bob Evans Restaurants. (Adobe Stock) Golden Gate Capital purchased Bob Evans in 2017 for $565 million. At the time, the firm split the restaurants from Bob Evans Farms, the brands consumer-packaged good business, which was acquired by Post Holdings for $1.5 billion. In 2022, Golden Gate explored a potential $600 million sale of the restaurant chain, though a transaction did not materialize. Reports in 2024 indicated the company had hired investment bank Kroll to oversee another sale process. We are truly grateful to the terrific team at Bob Evans for their strong stewardship of this iconic brand, said Neale Attenborough, a managing director at Golden Gate. We wish the team all the best as they enter their next phase of growth. Love is Blind fans buzzing over central Ohio ties Bob Evans boasts itself as a farm-inspired, family-style restaurant brand known for breakfast offerings, such as its Farmers Choice Breakfast, and roasted turkey dinners. 44 Capital, founded in 2018, focuses on investing in middle-market consumer goods and services companies across North America. The firm said it takes an active ownership approach aimed at accelerating growth and operational performance. What truly sets the Bob Evans brand apart is its distinctive hospitality, welcoming ambiance, and fresh, flavorful food delivering real value for the whole family, said Gustavo Assumpcao, co-founder and partner at 44 Capital, who will serve as executive board chair. We look forward to partnering with Mickey and the team to maximize long-term growth. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Iranians living in exile gathered in Munich to protest against the government of Iran as world leaders met for the annual security conference. German police estimated that some 250,000 people joined the demonstration. The governments of five European countries released a statement on February 14 saying they are confident the Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny was poisoned with a lethal toxin not found naturally in Russia -- a poisoning that led to his death in a Russian prison two years ago. The United Kingdom, Sweden, France, Germany, and the Netherlands made their conclusion based on analyses of samples from Navalny that confirm the presence of epibatidine -- a toxin derived from poison dart frogs in South America -- that is known to cause paralysis and respiratory arrest. Speaking to RFE/RL on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said "there is a high possibility that Russia killed Navalny by poison." "It's a serious offense," he added. "I hope that it will [show] the world that Russia is playing a dirty game." In the joint statement, the five capitals note that "Russia claimed that Navalny died of natural causes. But given the toxicity of epibatidine and reported symptoms, poisoning was highly likely the cause of his death. Navalny died while held in prison, meaning Russia had the means, motive, and opportunity to administer this poison to him." US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is on a one-day trip to Slovakia, said the United States has "no reason to question" the report. Speaking at a press conference with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico on February 15, Rubio said the five-country report was "serious" and "troubling." It also adds that "these latest findings once again underline the need to hold Russia accountable for its repeated violations of the Chemical Weapons Convention and, in this instance, the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention." Aleksandr Polupan, an anesthesiologist-resuscitator, told Current Time that it was clear before the verdict of the five European countries that "Navalny had been murdered and that he did not die a natural death." "All that we know about [Navalny's] abdominal pain, vomiting, and seizures, I don't see any contradictions in [how the poison works]," Polupan said. "Given that independent laboratories confirmed [the presence] of the same molecule, I'd say there's no need to guess much further." For other experts, however, doubts remain. Ismail Efendiev, a member of the European Association of Poison Control Centers and Clinical Toxicologists, told Current Time that the use of an exotic toxin could not be ruled out "because the symptoms are similar with the effects of Novichok, but we need to identify these cases in a laboratory." Navalny's Widow Responds In response to the statement, Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnaya, tweeted that "I was certain from the first day that my husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof: [Russian President Vladimir] Putin killed Aleksei with a chemical weapon. I am grateful to the European states for the meticulous work they carried out [for] over two years and for uncovering the truth. Vladimir Putin is a murderer. He must be held accountable for all his crimes." RFE/RL reached out to Navalnaya's press team for further comment but the request was declined. Navalnaya has always rejected the official Russian autopsy report that stated that hypertension and other diseases caused a heartbeat disorder that led to Navalny's demise and was instrumental in getting biological samples smuggled out from Russia to other European countries. Roman Dobrokhotov, founder and editor in chief of The Insider, an independent Russian media outlet specializing in investigative journalism, said he believes the Kremlin was "confident that no bio samples will ever be smuggled abroad to be examined. And should samples get abroad, [the Kremlin's] hope was that there will not be a laboratory competent enough to identify this poison." "We were lucky indeed to find laboratories and experienced scientists so the substance can be found," Dobrokhotov said. Navalny was a longtime anti-corruption fighter and Russia's most prominent opposition politician for over a decade. At the time of his death in a prison north of the Arctic Circle, Navalny was serving a 19-year sentence on an extremism conviction that he and his supporters say was politically motivated and revenge for his anti-Kremlin activism. He had been behind bars since January 2021, when he was arrested upon returning to Russia after recovering in Germany from a poisoning with a form of the nerve-agent Novichok that he said was a state-sponsored assassination attempt carried out by Russian security agents and approved by Putin. RFE/RL's Russian Service unearthed a Russian scientific paper from 2013 that describes a method for creating synthesized epibatidine. Three of the paper's five authors worked at the State Scientific Research Institute of Organic Chemistry and Technology, which was involved in developing Novichok in the 1970s. The United States and European Union imposed sanctions on the institute in the wake of Navalny's poisoning in 2020. Ukraine and Canada followed suit in 2023, citing the institute supplies of technology to the Russian military. Asked to comment on the finding about Navalny's death, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he "cannot think about Vladimir Putin and his toxic ambitions.... I have no time for this." "[Russia attacks] us with 100 drones and missiles. What is the difference between poison and missiles? I dont see the difference," Zelenskyy said on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. With reporting by Sergei Dobrynin of RFE/RL's Russian Service MUNICH -- The first day of the Munich Security Conference (MSC) ended late on February 13 with the worlds foreign-policy elite left in a state of suspended animation. After a day defined by pointed rhetoric and wrecking ball warnings from European leaders, the focus has shifted entirely to the man set to deliver Washingtons answer: Secretary of State Marco Rubio. As the Davos of Defense concludes its opening sessions, the spotlight has fixed squarely on Rubio, who arrived tasked with articulating how US President Donald Trumps America First doctrine will interface with a jittery global order. In the ornate corridors of the Bayerischer Hof and during a series of frantic "pull-aside" meetings on the sidelines, a singular question dominated the day's discourse: Will Rubios keynote address -- scheduled for the morning of February 14 -- serve as a stabilizer for the transatlantic project, or will it further expose the widening fissures between Washington and its oldest allies? A Moment Of Reckoning Established in 1963 as a forum to coordinate Western strategy against the Soviet Union, the Munich gathering now faces a different strategic test: whether Washington and its European allies can adjust the terms of their partnership without allowing it to fracture. Several European officials told RFE/RL late on February 13 that this years meeting represents a pivotal moment for the transatlantic alliance. One scenario discussed in the hallways would see NATO recalibrated around a more capable European pillar -- a Europe better able to provide for its own defense while maintaining a steadier, more-balanced partnership with the United States. The alternative, which weighed heavily on the first day's atmosphere, is a continuation of transatlantic disputes over shared values, national priorities, and burden-sharing -- tensions that, left unresolved, could harden into lasting estrangement. Senior Western officials who spoke privately as the sun set on the forums first day said the concern is shifting from headline-grabbing rhetoric to a gradual weakening of cohesion. The greatest risk, they cautioned, is not an open rupture but another round of forceful declarations unaccompanied by concrete steps -- deepening uncertainty about US reliability and Europes willingness to act. Rubios Balancing Act Rubio has described his trip as taking place at a defining moment and the dawn of a new era in geopolitics. Before departing for Germany, he offered reassurance about the depth of US-European ties. Were very tightly linked together with Europe, he told reporters. Most people in this country can trace both, either their cultural or their personal heritage, back to Europe. But he also signaled change: We live in a new era in geopolitics, and its going to require all of us to reexamine what that looks like. Early impressions from the first day in Munich show Trumps allies defending the administrations America First approach, even as Rubio spent his arrival working to reassure skeptical Europeans that the United States is acting in their interest as well. His schedule on February 13 reflected that dual track. Rubio began with an hour-long meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, underscoring that Europes security debate cannot be divorced from broader US-China competition. He then spent significant time with Germanys leader, Friedrich Merz, the host countrys representative. Merz acknowledged that Europes excessive dependency on the United States was its own doing but insisted the answer is not to abandon NATO. During a brief photo-op between the two leaders, RFE/RL asked Rubio directly whether the United States remained committed to European security. In a moment that underscored the day's prevailing uncertainty, neither Rubio nor Merz took the opportunity to respond, leaving the question hanging in the air as they were ushered away. Rubio also met Moldovan President Maia Sandu, held a pull-aside meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and spoke with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and Polish Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski -- key voices from NATOs eastern flank. Notably, while Rubio has been active in Munich, he was absent from a key NATO ministerial last December, and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also did not attend the corresponding meeting earlier this week. But he [Hegseth] is here in Munich, one European official said, adding that Russias war against Ukraine would be addressed in all possible formats. On February 14, following his speech, Rubio is expected to huddle with G7 allies and meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Deep Concern -- And Hard Truths Veteran US diplomat John Herbst, now a senior director at the Atlantic Councils Eurasia Center, told RFE/RL on February 13 that European leaders anxiety was palpable. What we heard today was deep concern from European leaders about the state of transatlantic relations, Herbst said. Since the end of World War II, he noted, global security and prosperity have largely been based on the NATO alliance and the partnership between the United States and key European allies. Tensions over the past year have strained that foundation. European leaders recognize this is not good for their security or prosperity, Herbst said -- and, in his view, it is not good for American security or prosperity either. He argued that Rubio has long understood the importance of NATO and strong US-European relations and expects his speech and interactions to reflect that. At the same time, Herbst noted, Rubio is a loyal secretary to Trump, and some themes from the administration -- even those not always welcome in Europe -- will likely feature in his remarks. On Europes role, Herbst said Washington has been urging greater European defense efforts for decades. Europe is now moving in that direction, but he cautioned against shifting the overwhelming burden of ensuring European security entirely onto Europe. Close cooperation between Washington and Europe remains essential, he argued, even as Europe must increase defense spending, expand arms production, and strengthen troop sustainment. Looking ahead to Rubios meeting with Zelenskyy and his messaging on NATOs eastern flank, Herbst said he expects Rubio to follow the policy lines evolving within the Trump administration. But he added that he would hope -- and expect -- the secretary to underscore that when Europe needs the United States, it will be there, provided Europe fulfills its commitments. The Question Of Consistency For Tyson Barker, a former US deputy special envoy for Ukraines economic recovery and now with the German Council on Foreign Relations, the central issue is consistency. Speaking to RFE/RL hours before Rubios speech, Barker said the tone currently coming from Washington -- including signals about tapered troop withdrawals, continued commitment to nuclear deterrence, and a rebalancing of conventional forces -- is constructive. But it must be sustained. Its not enough for the Trump administration to say this once and have a different message in two weeks, Barker said. The message must remain consistent from the highest levels, including the president, over the medium and long term, he said. Right now, he argued, the concern is less about a single headline and more about the trend line -- which has appeared erratic. A reassuring speech in Munich could be undercut by destabilizing signals weeks earlier or weeks later. As the first day concludes, NATO's Rutte pointed to a shift in mindset, with Europe taking more care of its own defense. Meanwhile, US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz told the conference that the status quo was no longer sustainable. The broader European debate -- championed by leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron -- envisions a more integrated Europe. But strategic autonomy demands politically fraught trade-offs. Building a stronger European pillar will take more than three days in Munich, most agree. For now, all eyes are on Rubios podium on the morning of February 14. In a speech at the Munich Security Conference, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that the United States and Europe "belong together." "America is charting the path for a new century of prosperity and we want to do it together with you our cherished allies and oldest friends," Rubio said in his February 14 keynote address at Munich's luxury Bayerischer Hof hotel. Acting together with Europe, he said, "will help restore a sane foreign policy." Rubio's speech has been widely anticipated amid a frayed transatlantic alliance and after last year's speech by US Vice President JD Vance who lambasted European leaders for their role in what he described as the erosion of democracy on the continent. Addressing talk of a possible transatlantic divorce, Rubio said that "this is neither our goal nor our wish." We don't need to dismantle the global institutions of the old order that together we built -- but these must be reformed, Rubio told the conference. The US under Trump, he said, wants to lead world "restoration." Rubio is leading the US delegation -- the largest ever, comprising more than a quarter of the US Senate -- to the three-day annual event, which features hundreds of prominent European leaders, lawmakers, military officials, academics, and others. 'Child Of Europe' The US secretary of state hailed Europe's rich cultural legacy, saying that "us Americans...will always be a child of Europe." A report written by the organizers and published ahead of the conference spoke of the advent of "wrecking ball politics" and declared, "The most powerful of those who take the axe to existing rules and institutions is US President Donald Trump." The conference comes amid worldwide upheaval, including the possibility of US air strikes on Iran and Russia's war in Ukraine nearing its fourth anniversary. 'Hardest Questions' On Ukraine On the conflict in Ukraine, Rubio said that "the issues to end to war have been narrowed but the bad news is that now it's down to the hardest questions." Trump has prioritized halting Russia's full-scale war, yet Moscow has displayed little willingness to compromise, leaving the latest two rounds of US-Russia-Ukraine talks stalled. Rubio is expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy later on February 14 on the sidelines of the conference. In a brief question and answer with Wolfgang Ischinger, the chairman of the Munich Security Conference, after his speech, Rubio said "what we cant answer and [what] we are going to continue to test is whether there is a outcome that Ukraine can live with and that Russia will accept and I would say that has been elusive up to this point." Speaking in an interview with Bloomberg after his conference speech, Rubio said that "I don't think it's possible for Russia to even achieve whatever initial objectives they had at the beginning of this war." "I think now it's largely narrowed down to their desire to take 20 percent of Donetsk they don't currently posses. And that's hard," Rubio said. MUNICH -- In a hall packed with political and military leaders from across Europe and beyond, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a speech that managed to do two things at once: reassure anxious allies and issue a stark call for change. After months of uncertainty over Washingtons course under President Donald Trump -- and lingering memories of last years more confrontational tone from JD Vance -- many in the room appeared visibly relieved. You could almost hear the exhale, one senior European diplomat told RFE/RL afterward. The substance is tough. But the tone? That matters. A 'Child of Europe' Rubio repeatedly stressed Americas attachment to Europe, describing the United States as spiritually and culturally bound to the continent. We will always be a child of Europe, he said, pointing to shared history, language, faith, and sacrifice. He framed disagreements not as rebukes but as expressions of concern. If the United States sometimes sounds direct and urgent, he said, it is because we care deeply -- about your future and ours. America wants Europe to be strong, he added, because Europes fate is inseparable from US national security. To drive home the civilizational bond, Rubio invoked a roll call of European cultural giants -- Mozart, Beethoven, Dante, Shakespeare, Michelangelo, Da Vinci -- alongside The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, and landmarks such as the Sistine Chapel and Cologne Cathedral. These, he said, testify not only to the greatness of the past but to the promise of the future. Rubio's approach seemed to work. The secretary of state received sustained applause and a partial standing ovation -- a marked contrast, several attendees noted, with the reception that greeted Vance a year ago. Speaking in a later question and answer session at the security conference, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, "I was very much reassured by the secretary of state. We know him. He is a good friend and a strong ally. We know that some in the administration have a harsher tone on these topics." 'Dangerous Delusion' Yet beneath the warmth was a hard-edged critique. Drawing on the history of the conference, founded in 1963 at the height of the Cold War, Rubio recalled a time when thousands of years of Western civilization hung in the balance. The West prevailed, he said -- but misread its triumph. The euphoria of this triumph led us to a dangerous delusion, he argued, that history had ended, that liberal democracy would inevitably spread, and that trade and global rules would replace national interest and borders. Rubio: Ukraine-Russia Talks Narrowed To 'Hardest Questions' by RFE/RL No media source currently available 0:00 0:01:09 0:00 That vision, Rubio said, ignored human nature and the lessons of millennia. It led to deindustrialization, the outsourcing of sovereignty to international institutions, and what he called an unprecedented wave of mass migration threatening social cohesion. The US secretary of state was careful to frame these not as uniquely European failings but as shared errors of the West. We made these mistakes together, he said, and together, we owe it to our people to face those facts and to move forward. Migration, Industry, And Sovereignty Rubio argued that deindustrialization was not inevitable but the product of policy choices rooted in what he termed a post-Cold War delusion. He criticized what he described as dogmatic free trade that hollowed out industries and handed leverage to rivals. On migration, he rejected the idea that border control is xenophobic. Regaining control of national borders, he said, is a fundamental act of national sovereignty. Failure to do so, he warned, poses an urgent threat to the fabric of our societies. He also took aim at certain green policies, saying efforts to appease a climate cult had impoverished Western societies while competitors continued exploiting fossil fuels. Several European officials privately bristled at that phrasing but acknowledged the broader point would resonate with parts of their domestic electorates. Hes describing debates we are already having at home, a Western European diplomat said. The difference is hes saying: stop managing decline and start reversing it. No Interest In 'Managed Decline' Rubio insisted Washington does not seek to weaken alliances but to revitalize an old friendship. The US does not want allies who rationalize the broken status quo, he said, but partners willing to rebuild strength. Decline, he argued, is a choice. Just as the West rejected fatalism after World War II, it must reject it now. The United States has no interest in being polite and orderly caretakers of the Wests managed decline. That line drew one of the strongest reactions in the room. Hes challenging us, said a senior diplomat from northern Europe. But hes also including himself in that challenge. Thats the difference. UN, Ukraine, And Hard Questions Rubio also called for reform -- not dismantling -- of international institutions, including the United Nations, which he said has tremendous potential but has been unable to resolve conflicts such as Ukraine and Gaza. In a perfect world, he said, diplomats and resolutions would suffice. But we do not live in a perfect world. On Ukraine, Rubio said the issues required to end the war have narrowed -- but to the hardest questions to answer. He said Washington would continue to test whether Moscow is serious about negotiations, while maintaining sanctions and military support for Kyiv. A just and sustainable negotiated settlement remains the goal, he added. Pressed in a brief question and answer session after his speech on whether Russia is genuinely interested in peace, Rubio was cautious: They say they are. The US, he said, will continue probing what terms might be acceptable to both sides. On China, he acknowledged that US and Chinese interests will often not align, but stressed the need to manage differences and avoid conflict. Rubios address was followed by remarks from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who defended multilateralism and warned against bloc confrontation -- underscoring the geopolitical stakes of the debate. But it was Rubios performance that dominated hallway conversations. The message -- on sovereignty, borders, industry, and reform -- echoed themes long associated with Trumps political movement. Yet by wrapping them in affirmations of shared heritage and mutual sacrifice, Rubio struck a markedly different tone from previous US interventions. He didnt soften the substance, one senior EU official said. But he softened the delivery. And that makes it easier to listen. For now, at least, Washingtons allies appeared reassured that blunt talk need not mean broken ties. US President Donald Trump said regime change is the "best thing that could happen" in Iran, as he confirmed that a second aircraft carrier would soon join a "massive" US armada in the Arabian Sea amid high tensions between the bitter rivals. "Seems like that would be the best thing that could happen," Trump told reporters on February 13 at a military base in North Carolina when asked whether he sought "regime change" in Tehran. "For 47 years, they've been talking and talking and talking. In the meantime, we've lost a lot of lives while they talk," he added in his most direct call for the fall of Iran's hard-line clerical regime. Trump did not say who he would like to see take over should the government fall, only that "there are people." Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of the last shah of Iran, is one of many figures vying for prominence among the fractured Iranian opposition in exile. Iran's theocratic regime has been in power since 1979, when the Islamic revolution saw clerics loyal to Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini overthrow the US-backed shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The two countries have not had diplomatic relations since 1980. Washington and Tehran have been involved in indirect talks over Iran's nuclear program. Western countries suspect Iran is attempting to develop a nuclear weapon, while Tehran insists its program is strictly for civilian purposes. Trump has also threatened a new military strike against the Iranian government if it executes any of the protesters arrested during recent mass anti-government demonstrations. 'Difficult' Nuclear Negotiations Trump told US troops at the base that Tehran has been "difficult" in nuclear talks and suggested more pressure on the Iranians was needed. "They've been difficult to make a deal," he said. "Sometimes you have to have fear. That's the only thing that really will get the situation taken care of." Trump also hailed the 12-day war in June, when Israel and the United States launched a bombing campaign targeting Iran's nuclear and military sites. The latest comments come amid one of Washington's largest-ever military buildups in the Persian Gulf region. Experts say the deployment is aimed at giving Trump military options if he chooses to act on his threats to attack Iran for failing to make a nuclear deal and violently cracking down on protesters. Iranian security forces killed thousands of demonstrators in January, after protests erupted in late December 2025, initially over economic issues but later raging into general anger against the regime. More than 53,000 people were arrested, rights groups say. "The gathering of forces is a point of pressure applied by the United States on Iran to come to a negotiated agreement," said Amin Tarzi, professor of strategic studies at Marine Corps War College. Tarzi added that after the buildup, the US military posture in the Gulf is "robust" with "naval and defensive air defense capabilities, plus offensive air components." Reuters on February 13 quoted two unnamed US officials as saying the military was preparing for the possibility of a weeks-long operation against Iran if Trump orders an attack. World's Largest Warship The US military has previously deployed the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln to the Persian Gulf region to join what Trump called a "massive Armada" near Iran. On February 13, Trump confirmed that another aircraft carrier, Gerald R. Ford, along with its escort ships, was departing the Caribbean and would soon join US forces in the region, likely within about seven days. The Gerald R. Ford is considered the largest warship in the world with a length of 337 meters and the capability to carry some of the most advanced military technologies. When asked why he was sending the second warship, Trump said: "In case we don't make a deal, we'll need it.... If we need it, we'll have it ready." Negotiators met in Muscat last week in talks mediated by the Omani government, and follow-up sessions are unclear, although Reuters quoted sources as saying a fresh round of talks are scheduled for Geneva on February 17. The source said the US delegation will include envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and that Omani representatives would serve as mediators. Witkoff and Kushner will then participate in trilateral US-Russia-Ukraine talks later in the day, the source added. Tehran has expressed a willingness to discuss its nuclear program but has ruled out negotiations over its ballistic missile program and other related matters. Sanctions Hit Iranian Economy Iran has been hit hard by Western financial sanctions that have helped crater the country's economy. Iran in 2015 agreed to a landmark nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with world powers aimed at preventing it from developing a nuclear weapon in return for an easing of economic sanctions. However, it started rolling back its commitments after Trump, during his first term, withdrew the United States from the deal in 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Tehran. With reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Farda, Reuters, and AFP Aerial drones are among the deadliest weapons in Ukraine's fight against Russian forces, but unmanned vehicles are also playing a crucial role on the ground. Near the front lines in the Donetsk region, members of Ukraine's 117th Heavy Mechanized Brigade deploy ground drones to deliver supplies and evacuate wounded soldiers. A wave of land disputes that began in eastern Uzbekistan has spread to Sirdaryo, where farmers say authorities are using courts, debt enforcement, and administrative pressure to shift farmland into a system that favors foreign, particularly Chinese, investors. Gayrat Usmonov, a farmer in the Xovos district, lost his leased farmland in 2021 when authorities reassigned it to a Saudi investor. After three years of court battles, Usmonov briefly regained control of the land in 2025, after the investor abandoned the plot. But he says local authorities are once again trying to take away his lease on the land -- this time allegedly to make way for Chinese investors. Usmonov says the local governor's office accused him of illegally planting rice, which under the strict terms of his contract would be grounds to revoke his lease. Under Uzbek law, farmland is leased from the state for up to 49 years and can be revoked only for specific violations, such as unpaid fees or misuse. He claims he's never planted a grain of rice, and yet local officials have taken the case to court and used the claims as grounds to successfully revoke his lease. "They don't examine the facts," Usmonov told RFE/RL. "The court sides only with the authorities." Usmonov's case is one of many since a national law passed last May created regional "directorates." While authorities say the policy is aimed at recovering debt and improving land use, farmers who spoke to RFE/RL, many on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, say it has become a tool for removing local producers from fertile land they spent years developing and repurposing it for foreign agricultural deals. Since January, Usmonov and other farmers in Xovos say they have faced a sweeping campaign, with a dozen farmers telling RFE/RL that nearly half of the district's farms are being targeted for transfer into the state land reserve under the new directorate system. "The land moves from farmer, to state reserve, to directorate, to investor," one farmer from Xovos told RFE/RL. "But in this chain, no one asks what happens to the human being in the middle." Clearing The Way For Chinese Investors While farmers interviewed by RFE/RL say Chinese companies are the primary beneficiaries of transfers in Sirdaryo, authorities have not publicly confirmed any specific cases in the region. But RFE/RL's Uzbek Service reported last year that farmland in several Andijon districts in eastern Uzbekistan was being handed to Chinese companies. After that report, transfers briefly stopped, but farmers say the pressure resumed after the directorate system was created -- a system RFE/RL investigated in January and found had leased confiscated land to Chinese investors. The law that created the directorate system established offices in Sirdaryo and six other regions of Uzbekistan -- Andijon, Jizzakh, Namangan, Tashkent, Ferghana, and Qashqadaryo -- that are tasked with supervising land use and subleasing farmland to local and foreign investors. The majority of interested foreign investors are from China, which has expanded its role in Uzbekistan's agriculture through financing, infrastructure, and technology transfers. In 2024, Uzbekistan approved a $220 million loan from China's ExportImport Bank for irrigation projects implemented by Chinese state-owned firms, including CITIC Construction and China CAMC Engineering. Chinese agribusiness delegations and regional officials have visited districts in eastern and central Uzbekistan over the past year, while a Sirdaryo government delegation traveled to China in December to arrange further agricultural cooperation. Farmers in Xovos told RFE/RL that Chinese investors were initially offered unused or degraded land in the area, such as overgrown roadside plots or abandoned Soviet-era collective farms, which they refused to accept. "They demanded fertile land that was already developed -- land that our farmers spent years making productive despite harsh conditions," one farmer said. Local farmers estimate that up to 17,000 hectares in the Xovos district alone are slated for transfer this year, primarily into the directorate system and ultimately for sublease to foreign investors. The move would affect some 300 farms and add to the more than 10,000 hectares that have already been seized through court rulings or applications obtained through pressure since late 2024, according to their calculations. 'I'll Take Everything' Farmers who spoke to RFE/RL and shared their experiences with the new directorates claim the system is being abused with the knowledge or approval of senior regional officials, including Governor Erkinjon Turdimov. Manuchehr Mirzaev, the spokesman for Turdimov's office, did not respond to RFE/RL's requests for comment about the confiscation of farmland and the accusations of coercion. One Xovos farmer who spoke to RFE/RL recalled a meeting with regional officials that he says left him shaken when farmers were summoned early in the day and made to wait for hours for Turdimov to arrive. "He immediately started threatening people," the farmer said. "One man said he owed 1 billion soms ($81,330) because he had invested in drip irrigation and was repaying it gradually. The governor told him: 'You'll live on the street. I'll take everything from you, even your house.'" The farmers say they were offered a choice between surrendering land "voluntarily" -- in which case authorities promised that debts would be settled once land was reassigned -- or refuse and face court seizure of the land and not have their debts resolved. According to one farmer, police were stationed at doors during meetings to prevent people from leaving. Farmers were addressed individually to sign the papers -- allegedly under pressure. For those who refused to sign the papers, the consequences came quickly. "The next day, the property seizures began," the farmer said. "Officials came to houses and took everything -- TV sets, livestock, whatever they could." Pressure From Above District authorities maintain the land seizures are justified by the massive debts that farmers have incurred. In a statement posted on the district administration's Telegram channel, Xovos officials said farms in the district owed 40 billion soms ($3.2 million) in taxes and 128 billion soms ($10 million) to banks, with hundreds of cases being processed. Authorities also confirmed they have filed lawsuits to cancel lease agreements with at least 110 farms. Farmers and analysts say the statement does not explain how the debts were accrued or whether local authorities and agricultural associations share responsibility. Regional agricultural associations in Uzbekistan are largely state-controlled and closely aligned with local authorities. Economist Otabek Bakirov said the farming system itself often pushes farmers into debt. He told RFE/RL that during the 2024 and 2025 harvests, many farmers "did not receive full payment from cotton and wheat clusters" from the regional associations and as a result, "fertilizers were delivered late or not at all. Harvests suffered." "The majority of farmers fell into debt," Bakirov said. Local Uzbek authorities maintain that allocating more farmland to foreign investors will be a boost for the economy, but the implementation often involves displacing workers from farms, which is the main form of employment in much of rural Uzbekistan. The loss of roughly 300 farms in Xovos, as local farmers have estimated, could leave thousands of families without an income. "Farmers leave, workers leave, villages empty out," one local resident of Xovos told RFE/RL. "Migration increases. Investors come and go, while we are left with nothing." As word of the pressure campaign across Xovos has spread, some political pushback has emerged from the national government. Lawmakers of the ruling Uzbekistan Liberal Democratic Party sent a formal parliamentary inquiry to Turdimov demanding an explanation about the situation faced by the farmers in Xovos. So far, there has been no response from the governor. MUNICH - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered an impassioned plea for more Western weapons and for "real security guarantees," calling Russian President Vladimir Putin a "slave to war" who will threaten Europe if he is not stopped in Ukraine. In a midday speech at the Munich Security Conference on February 14, Zelenskyy said he hopes a new round of trilateral talks with Russia and the United States next week will be productive, but suggested that US pressure for concessions is often aimed mainly at Kyiv and Russia has shown few signs it is ready for compromise. "No one in Ukraine believes [Putin] will ever let our people go, but he will not let other European nations go either, because he cannot let go of the very idea of war," Zelenskyy said. "He may see himself as a tsar, but in reality he is a slave to war." Nearly Four Years Of Ukraine War Zelenskyy's speech came 10 days before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which set off the deadliest war in Europe since 1945, reaches the four-year mark and the casualty toll on the two sides taken together climbs toward 2 million soldiers killed, wounded, or missing. In addition, Russia has killed thousands of Ukrainian civilians and pounded the country's energy infrastructure on a near-daily basis. "There is not a single power plant in Ukraine that is not damaged by Russian strikes." With US President Donald Trump seeking to broker peace since he returned to office in January 2025, Zelenskyy repeated that strong security guarantees for Kyiv are a crucial element of any agreement. "There must be real security guarantees for Ukraine and for Europe, strong security guarantees." He said that Ukraine is ready to sign security-guarantee deals with the US and Europe and that these should "come before any agreement to end the war." "We hope President Trump hears us. We hope the Congress hears us. We hope American people hear us," said Zelenskyy, who wants an agreement on security guarantees to be ratified by the US Congress and met with a group of US senators in Munich. Zelenskyy met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio later in the day on the sidelines of the annual conference, which no high-level Russian official has attended since Putin launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. In his own speech and other comments earlier on February 14, Rubio said that "the issues to end the war have been narrowed, but the bad news is that now it's down to the hardest questions." Rubio said he does not expect Russia to achieve its initial war objectives, which are widely understood to have included subjugating Ukraine, and that now its largely narrowed down to their desire to take [the] 20 percent of Donetsk they don't currently possess. Putin and other Russian officials have repeatedly said that Moscow will capture the rest of the Donetsk region one of two provinces that make up the Donbas, by force or though diplomacy. Zelenskyy pointed to the massive losses Russia has sustained in that effort, saying "on the Donetsk front the price Russia pays for one kilometer is 156 soldiers." He said 35,000 Russian soldiers were killed or badly wounded in December and 30,000 in January. "Putin is not concerned about this now, but there is a level at which he will start to care. Every month Russia mobilizes about 40,000 people," Zelenskyy said. "For our army the mission is clear: destroy more Russian occupiers. The goal is at least 50,000 per month." Russia is now "losing much more [manpower] than they can refill," Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof told RFE/RL in Munich. He said Western countries should "speed up" deliveries of air defenses and other weapons, and that he hopes "Ukrainian forces will be able to push back Russia more" in the near future. With a third round of US-Ukraine-Russia talks set to be held in Geneva on February 17-18, Zelenskyy said Kyiv hopes the meetings "will be serious, substantive, helpful for all us," but added that "honestly sometimes it feels like the sides are talking about completely different things." Russia repeats demands that are unacceptable to Kyiv, he suggested, while "the Americans often return to the topic of concessions, and too often those concessions are discussed in the context only of Ukraine, not Russia. Europe is practically not present at the table. This is a big mistake, to my mind." At times over the past year, Trump has blamed Kyiv for a lack of progress toward peace. "Russia wants to make a deal and Zelenskyy's going to have to get moving, otherwise he's going to miss a great opportunity," he hold journalists outside the White House on February 13. Zelenskyy said on social media late on February 14 that he he had spoken by phone with the lead US negotiators. "I had a conversation with envoys of President Trump, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, ahead of the trilateral meetings in Geneva. We count on the meetings being truly productive," he said. Speaking to RFE/RL on the sidelines of the Munich conference, British Defense Minister John Healey said that "Ukraine is under strong pressure but Ukrainians are fighting...with extraordinary defiance and courage just as [they]showed four years ago when Putin first invaded." "The world should remember that this is a war Putin thought he would win in a week," and almost four years later, with Russia is suffering "huge losses, he is under huge pressure," Healey said. "Our job is to step up further for Ukraine with the aid we can give and to step up further the pressure on Putin to bring him the negotiation table." The Dutch prime minister also said that "Europe and the US should put pressure on Putin to stop the war." "I don't see any political will and intention [to make peace] on the part of President Putin," Schoof told RFE/RL, adding that "so far, it only looks like he is trying to win time." Steve Gutterman contributed to this report from Prague KaterinaDalemans / Envato Think your Social Security check is yours to keep? Think again. Nearly half of all beneficiaries have some form of tax liability on their benefit payment, according to Pew Research. Simply put, if you earn a middle to high income, youre likely to owe some of your benefits back to the government (1). Must Read Depending on your familys combined provisional income, you could owe taxes on either 50% or 85% of your benefits (2). As of 2026, the combined provisional income threshold is $25,000 for a single taxpayer, $32,000 for a couple filing jointly. If you live in a state that also levies a tax on these benefits, your annual tax bill could be worth thousands of dollars. Fortunately, there are ways to lower or even eliminate these taxes. Here are the top five strategies you should consider for 2026. Move to a new state Nine states across the country charge an additional tax on Social Security benefits, according to the AARP (3). This includes Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont and West Virginia. Some of these states may offer special exemptions depending on your age and income. Still, the most effective way to eliminate this tax is to move to a state that does not levy it. Relocating could also reduce other taxes, help you downsize your home and lower your overall cost of living. Delay Social Security The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) includes half of your Social Security benefits in the combined income calculation used to determine tax liability. Half is the ratio lawmakers considered fair when they first implemented taxes on benefits back in 1983 (3). If you delay your claim, you may reduce your combined income for a period in retirement. For example, if you retire at 62 but wait until 67 to claim, you would have five years without benefits counted toward that calculation. That could keep you under the income thresholds for taxation. Delaying also increases your monthly benefit. Payments rise gradually each year you wait, up to age 70, according to the Social Security Administration (4). Simply put, careful timing can lower your tax bill and boost your future payouts. Read More: The average net worth of Americans is a surprising $620,654. But it almost means nothing. Heres the number that counts (and how to make it skyrocket) Withdraw from Roth 401(k) or Roth IRA Distributions from a Roth account are not included in the provisional income calculation, according to Fidelity (5). That makes them a powerful tool for retirees trying to manage taxes. Shark Tank investor Kevin OLeary has long urged couples to keep their finances separate and championed prenups, a view that often draws mixed reactions. Reacting to O'Leary's advice that couples should keep their finances separate, "Ramsey Show" co-hosts John Delony and Rachel Cruze said marriage is built on sharing life and everything in it. They added that separate finances could suggest a lack of trust between husband and wife. Delony and Cruze played a clip of O'Leary in which he urged couples to stick to their "financial identity" even after marriage. Don't Miss: The ChatGPT of Marketing' Just Opened a $0.85/Share Round 10,000+ Investors Are Already In Motley Fool's analysts have built a new lineup of passive ETFs explore which "Foolish" strategy fits your investment goals. "I want to join lives together, but I want to stay completely and totally autonomous and still be quote unquote just me," Delony said. "And then Im going to be me, you be you, and then well do this together thing on the side. That is called a corporation, thats a business arrangement, thats not marriage." Importance of Vulnerability' Cruze said "vulnerability" is key in marriage because it creates a sense of sacrifice for each other and helps couples commit fully to the relationship. Still, she shared some audience comments that said managing finances separately works better for them. "We had joined accounts at first and then he just kept spending and spending, then my kids and I couldnt eat, basically didnt have money for food, so we separated," one comment said. "I splurged and got a prenup, so now everything is separate. This feels much better for me and our marriage," another viewer wrote to Cruze. Trending: This ETF issuer isn't chasing the index it's building tools for income, leverage, and conviction Rising living costs and a tough labor market have forced young Americans to think carefully about each step in their lives. With planning and foresight, one can avoid a lot of trouble down the road. Domain Money offers personalized, CFP professional-led financial planning for professionals and households earning over $100,000 a year, and are ready to take their financial planning to the next level with personalized, expert guidance. It Will Not Work' Cruze and Delony said these comments reflect marriage and relationship issues, not money problems. They believe that if a couple isn't comfortable sharing or merging accounts, they should ask themselves why they're getting married and committing to such a long, challenging journey. High Court reporters Former University of Limerick (UL) president, professor Kerstin Mey, is seeking a High Court injunction preventing the university from proceeding with any reinvestigation in connection with claims she misled the Dail Public Accounts Committee (PAC) or a previous investigation officer. Prof Mey, currently UL professor of Visual Culture, resigned as president in 2024 as part of a settlement agreement after she was threatened with disciplinary action over due diligence and adherence to policies during the universitys 2022 purchase of a 20-house development at Rhebogue, Co Limerick, for rent to 80 postgrad and research students. The university paid some 12.4 million for the development, which was valued for the Comptroller and Auditor General just a year later at 6.5 million, with an "in-use" value put at 7.4 million. Prof Mey, in an affidavit seeking the injunction, said this led to public controversy and a delegation from the university was invited to appear before the PAC on May 18th, 2023. She said an issue arose around why UL's chief corporate officer (CCO), Andrew Flaherty was not in attendance before the PAC even though he stayed the night before in the same hotel as the delegation, had dinner with them paid for by the university, and he also allegedly claimed travelling expenses to Dublin. It later emerged that he was also allegedly texting the delegation during the PAC meeting. Prof Mey said Mr Flaherty was not listed as a member of the delegation because he had a longstanding prior commitment on May 18 and was on a day's leave then. In August 2023, Caroline Jenkinson was appointed by a newly appointed Special Disclosures Group at the university following a protected disclosure to the Minister for Further and Higher Education. Ms Jenkinson was to investigate the circumstances surrounding the appointment of Mr Flaherty as CCO and the reply given to the PAC about why he had not been in attendance at the May 18 meeting. Ms Jenkinson found no wrongdoing on behalf of Prof Mey or her representatives in relation to Mr Flaherty's non-attendance. Prof Mey was off on sick leave from March 2024 and due to return on June 6th 2024, but was put on special leave from then. In the meantime, another university delegation had met with the PAC. UL's Audit and Risk Committee conducted a review in early 2024 of the 12.4m housing purchase and concluded that it could not be said that due diligence was undertaken at all stages or that university policies and processes were adhered to during it. Mediation followed between Prof Mey and the university, which resulted in a settlement whereby she would resign from August 31, 2024, with a particular clause stating no disciplinary action would be brought against her. She was to move to a new 175,000 a year post as professor of visual culture. Prof Mey said media controversy over the housing deal continued, and in May 2025, the Special Disclosures Group told her a reinvestigation was to be carried out over an "apparent conflict of information" in what was said by the former president to the first investigation and to the PAC. Solicitors' correspondence followed with Prof Mey disputing the right of the university to reopen the investigation. The university stood firm in its stance. She initiated legal proceedings last December seeking to prevent it from initiating any disciplinary proceedings in connection with the allegation that she misled the PAC. She said she is also to be subject to a proposed separate investigation providing an account for her actions and decisions in relation to revised payment arrangements for the housing deal. She was invited to a meeting on Tuesday next (Feb 17th) in relation to a reinvestigation. On Friday, Marcus Dowling SC, for Prof Mey, was granted permission for short service of injunction proceedings restraining a reinvestigation. The application was ex parte, or with only the Mey side present. Mr Dowling said his client has told the defendant she will not be attending the meeting and will not be doing so. Mr Justice Brian Cregan said the case could return on Tuesday. By Rebecca Black, Press Association A 32-year-old man has been charged with murder following the death of a man in Belfast earlier this week. A 33-year-old man died following an incident in the Cromwell Road area of south Belfast on Wednesday. Police said officers attended following the report of a concern for safety. Our detectives have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man in south Belfast.https://t.co/Xsu4bGn30g pic.twitter.com/dwRqqCbdwM Police Service NI (@PoliceServiceNI) February 13, 2026 The accused is expected to appear before Belfast Magistrates Court on February 14th. All the charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service, which is usual procedure. Earlier on Friday the PSNI issued an appeal for information. Detective Inspector Jack Kelly said: The man, who is aged 33, was taken to hospital by colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service on Wednesday afternoon but sadly later passed away. Our inquiries are continuing and I am appealing to anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to contact our officers on 101 quoting reference 707 of 11/02/26. Fiona Magennis A 32-year-old man who was previously charged with directing a criminal gang has pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court to a series of lesser offences, including having cocaine for sale or supply and making threats to kill. Mark Salmon, of Kilbarron Avenue, Kilmore, West Dublin, was originally charged with a total of 16 offences, including directing a criminal organisation, making threats to kill or cause serious injury to several individuals and making demands with menaces for more than 250,000. His trial was due to start at the non-jury court on Friday. However, when Salmons case was called on, defence senior counsel Dominic McGinn said progress had been made and asked that his client be arraigned on four counts on the indictment. Fiona Murphy SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, told the three-judge court that the pleas were being offered on a full facts basis and arose from what were, in effect, three separate incidents. Counsel said the drugs charge stemmed from the transportation of cocaine to Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim and incorporated threats made to a woman, as well as criminal damage. As the matters were intrinsically linked, she said it was appropriate that a charge of criminal damage be taken into consideration in relation to the Section 15A drugs offence. The former charge related to criminal damage at a property belonging to two others at Seagrange Road, Baldoyle Dublin 13 on April 19th 2024. The second set of circumstances concerned two counts of possessing property that was the proceeds of criminal conduct. Ms Murphy said that full evidence would be given at the sentence in relation to all money laundering matters contained in the book of evidence. The final matter related to threats to kill or cause serious harm to another man, which were made to his mother. Counsel said impact statements would be heard at a later date from the victims. Salmon was then arraigned before the court, where he pleaded guilty to charges that he engaged in acquiring and/or possessing property which was the proceeds of criminal conduct to the value of 24,257.44 between January 01 and December 31st 2022 and property which was the proceeds of criminal conduct to the value of 60,565.41 between January 1st and December 31st 2023 while knowing or believing that, or being reckless as to whether or not the said property was the proceeds of criminal conduct. He further admitted to making a threat, intending a person to believe it would be carried out, to kill or cause a man serious harm on a date unknown between January 1 and 20 May, 2024. Salmon also pleaded guilty to a charge of possessing cocaine worth in excess of 13,000 for the purpose of unlawfully selling or otherwise supplying the drugs to another on 26th March 2024 at or near Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim. Mr McGinn asked that legal aid be extended to cover a psychological report. Ms Justice Karen OConnor, presiding, granted the application, directed that the victim impact statements be prepared and adjourned the case for sentencing to May 11. Salmon was remanded in custody to that date. Tom Tuite A Dublin mother accused of transporting a suitcase holding 275,000 in suspected crime proceeds told gardai it "could have been drugs or a dead body for all she knew", it is alleged. The seizure on Friday was part of an operation by the Dublin Crime Response Team (DCRT), which intercepted a car in Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, and arrested the sole occupant. Suzann Mack, 34, of Strand Street, Malahide, in the city's north side, was charged under money-laundering legislation for possessing the alleged proceeds of criminal conduct at Northumberland Road. Photo: Garda Press She appeared at Dublin District Court on Saturday and was released on conditional bail of 1,000 pending directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Garda Colin O'Shea told Judge Treasa Kelly that Ms Mack was caught red-handed in the "cash drop" but made no reply when charged. He opposed bail, citing flight risk concerns given the seriousness of the case. He alleged that the mother of two was stopped driving her Volkswagen Passat, and a suitcase found in the boot contained bundles of 25,000. The defendant was arrested and taken to Irishtown Garda station. During her interview, she allegedly told the garda that she was contacted and told to pick up the suitcase from an unspecified location, the court heard. Garda O'Shea told Judge Kelly that the woman gave a "vague account" and she had a "hide drawer" in a second car located in another part of the city, but she denied having any knowledge of that vehicle. The court heard that when questioned about the money in the suitcase, she told gardai "it could have been drugs or a dead body for all she knew", and she maintained she was to be paid 200, and it was her third time. The court also heard she had a debt. Defence counsel Kevin McCrave said his client faced an obvious serious charge, which the judge said would likely be sent to the Circuit Court, which has broader sentencing powers. He stressed that his client had agreed to hand over her passport, had children, and had lived at the same address for several years. The garda conceded to the barrister that Ms Mack did not have a history of failing to appear in court. Mr McCrave listed several terms his client would agree to and argued that his unemployed client did not have the financial means to leave the jurisdiction and establish a new life in the foreseeable future. He also said that a relative of Ms Mack depended on her to bring her to hospital appointments. The garda replied that the accused was allegedly involved in a criminal enterprise and was charged with possession of a large amount of illicit cash. Judge Kelly held that the woman could be granted bail with strict terms: surrender her passport, notify of any address change, provide her phone number to gardai and be contactable by phone at all times, and sign on two days a week at her local Garda station. Ms Mack, who has yet to enter a plea, took up bail and will appear again later this month. The charge is contrary to section 7 of the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010, an offence punishable, on conviction, by a sentence of up to 14 years. Legal aid was granted. A County Roscommon student has been presented with a Fergal Quinn Award in recognition of her outstanding results in Leaving Cert Applied (LCA). Eleanora Connolly, Athleague, attended Roscommon Town Youthreach from 2023 to June 2025 and successfully completed her Leaving Certificate Applied last year. The Leaving Cert Applied National Association (LCANA) Fergal Quinn Awards are presented each year to those students who obtain the top credits in the LCA examination of that year. The top performing students are notified by the State Examinations Commission. The students final credit total is based on their performance in the examination over the two years. The awards are named after Senator Fergal Quinn who was the first chairman of the steering committee for the then new LCA. It was he who oversaw the rolling out of the LCA programme, the embedding of it in the Irish education system, and he oversaw its continuing development in the following year. Roscommon Town Youthreach offers a number of programmes in addition to the LCA such as a QQI Level 3 Major Award and a QQI Level 5 & 6 Traineeship in Childcare. The centre has a proud track record of learners progressing to further education and the world of work. Esquires in Roscommon Town will celebrate its sixth anniversary in March. As the weather changes and as we dive into a new season so will the menu at the Roscommon branch of Esquires, based at the towns Centre Point Retail Park. Theres a new white chocolate, raspberry matcha on the way as well as some spring menu items. Ronan Gannon from Carrick on-Shannon operates three Esquire branches, Roscommon, Wellpark in Galway and Carrick on-Shannon. He acquired the Roscommon Esquires in 2024 and since then has built up a solid customer base, a loyal staff and a great food offering. The Roscommon branch employs 15 staff, ten full time and five part time. Ronan thanks them for their dedication and commitment to the business. Esquires in Roscommon, based at the towns Centre Point Retail Park, will celebrate its sixth anniversary in March. The cafe opens 8.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 9 a.m. on Sundays. Since taking over the running of the cafe, Ronan has made it his aim to add variety to the food menu and keep an evolving drinks menu, noting that peoples love for iced drinks does not waver in the winter months. All the coffee is Fairtrade and organic which is very important to the Roscommon Esquires. The aim is to have a food offering that suits every palette, gluten free, vegetarian and alternative options. The cafe is also partnering with organic Irish chicken business Rosie and Jim for a series of spring promotions. With covered outdoor seating and ample seating inside, Esquires Roscommon has covered all the bases and aims to give something back to the community by supporting a range of initiatives. We are happy to be a small part of a big town, said Ronan. * Click on the link below to take a look around Eva Osborne The Claddagh ring is a timeless piece of jewellery with fascinating Irish roots. Depending on which finger it is on, and whether it is facing inwards or outwards, a person may be labelling themselves as single, taken, or engaged. Each element of the ring's design means something. The heart represents love, the hands represent friendship, and the crown represents loyalty. The Claddagh ring design is most often credited to a goldsmith from the village of Claddagh in Co Galway - Richard Joyce. According to The Irish Emigration Museum (EPIC), the oldest known Claddagh ring, dating back to the 1700s, is attributed to Joyce and is housed in the Galway City Museum. The oldest known Claddagh ring, dating back to the 1700s. Photo: Galway City Museum The story goes that Joyce was kidnapped by Algerian corsairs and sold into slavery in the late 1600s, where he learned his craft from a wealthy goldsmith. He remained in captivity for 14 years until his release was secured under an agreement brokered by King William III in 1689. Despite an offer from his former master to remain and marry his daughter, Joyce returned home to Galway. Before his capture, Joyce had been engaged to a local girl. Upon his return, they were reunited and married, with the Claddagh ring serving as their wedding bands, EPIC said. How to wear a Claddagh ring The way you wear your Claddagh ring conveys your relationship status. According to EPIC, and the majority of Claddagh ring wearers, the guide is as follows: To put a finer point on it: if each Trent engine generates roughly 1.75 million per year in TotalCare service contribution at a margin of around 55 to 60%, and has an average remaining economic life of approximately 20 years, the net present value of that service stream discounted at 9% is roughly 16 million per engine. That aligns almost exactly with what the market is pricing today. The implied internal rate of return on the installed base at these levels sits in the 9 to 11% range, which is adequate but not generous for an industrial asset exposed to cycle risk, supply chain disruption and currency volatility. In other words, at 16.8 million per engine, buyers are getting a fair price for a high-quality annuity, but they are not getting it cheap. Here's the arithmetic that I think matters most. At a 101 billion market cap, the market is implicitly valuing the installed base at roughly 16.8 million per engine. That figure needs to be weighed against what each unit can realistically throw off in excess cash flow over its remaining life. If you assume a TotalCare contribution somewhere between 1.5 million and 2.0 million per engine per year, a 20-year remaining life and a reasonable discount rate, the market is already capitalizing the lifetime service economics at a pretty demanding level. That may well be justified, the Trent XWB exclusivity on the A350 is a genuine moat, but it doesn't leave much room for things to go wrong. There are currently about 6,000 Trent engines in service worldwide (Rolls-Royce Investor Relations). They've logged more than 200 million flying hours. In 2010 there were just 1,500. The Trent XWB alone, which exclusively powers the Airbus A350, has surpassed 2,600 units in service or on order across more than 60 customers. A Rolls-Royce-powered aircraft takes off or lands every three seconds. It helps to think of Rolls-Royce as a razor and razorblade business. The company makes widebody aircraft engines (the razors), which are often sold at thin margins or at a loss. The real money comes from long-term service agreements called TotalCare contracts (the razorblades). Airlines pay per engine flying hour, and Rolls-Royce maintains each engine over its 20-to-30-year life. That's a recurring, high-margin annuity that compounds as the installed base grows. But at a market capitalization of roughly 101 billion, what exactly is an owner buying? And what kind of return can that owner expect? I think those are the right questions to be asking. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc (LSE:RR) has had a remarkable run. Under CEO Tufan Erginbilgic, the company swung from 3.8 billion in net debt to a net cash position of 1.08 billion, expanded operating margins by nearly 500 basis points in a single year and launched a 1 billion buyback. The shares have more than doubled over the past twelve months. The stock has been hitting fresh records virtually every trading day of 2026 (CNBC). None of that is in dispute. Story Continues Rolls-Royce Holdings: A Spectacular Turnaround, but What Is an Owner Paying per Engine? Source: Rolls-Royce H1 2025 results presentation The numbers The first-half 2025 results tell the story well. Revenue came in at 9.1 billion, up 13%. Underlying operating profit was roughly 1.7 billion, up about 50%. The operating margin expanded to 19.1% from 14.2% a year earlier. Free cash flow for the half was 1.58 billion (TIKR), putting the company on pace for about 3.3 billion annualized. That's a 36% jump from 2024. Metric H1 2025 FY 2024 Revenue 9.1B 18.9B Operating Profit 1.7B 2.1B Operating Margin 19.1% 14.2% Free Cash Flow 1.58B 2.4B Net Debt / (Cash) (1.08B) (0.3B) Source: Rolls-Royce H1 2025 results, company filings The balance sheet cleanup is worth dwelling on. A company that carried 3.8 billion in net debt as recently as 2022 now sits on net cash. Debt-to-EBITDA has fallen to 1.34 times. Engine flying hours have recovered to 109% of pre-pandemic levels (Rolls-Royce H1 2025 Results). Management said in those results that they "continue to view our mid-term targets as a milestone, not a destination." Margins above 15% groupwide are being targeted from 2028. For the long-term annuity narrative, however, it's more about the installed base trajectory. Rolls-Royce delivers some 250 to 300 new widebody engines annually at present, predominantly Trent XWB units for the A350. Economic lives run 20 to 30 years, and retirements of older Trent 700 and 800 models are only now starting, so net fleet growth is probably between 150 and 200 engines a year. That means the installed base might grow from an estimated 6,000 now to perhaps 7,500 to 8,000 by 2030. Even if Airbus raises production of the A350 by just 10%, from a planned 12 a month to 13 or 14, that adds another 25 to 50 engines per year to the pipeline and significantly stretches out the lifetime annuity. This is not speculation: Airbus has publicly floated higher production rates (Airbus production update). Each incremental engine locked into a TotalCare contract adds roughly 1.5 to 2.0 million of annual high-margin, recurring revenue for 20-plus years. That compounding, not the next quarterly beat, is the real engine of value creation here. Rolls-Royce Holdings: A Spectacular Turnaround, but What Is an Owner Paying per Engine? Source: Rolls-Royce H1 2025 results presentation What an owner gets Civil Aerospace is the core. First-half revenue was 4.78 billion. The true win is having the Trent XWB all to oneself for its key product, the A350: Airbus extended that exclusivity through at least 2030 (Simple Flying). There is no A350 operator that can select a second engine. Pratt & Whitney is essentially a non-player in the widebody market, and GE Aerospace (GE, Financial) is concerned with Boeing. So Rolls-Royce has a structural moat in the Airbus widebody space, and that directly turns into pricing power on TotalCare contracts, which is where the money is. That said, it is worth noting that developing a new engine alternate for the A350 would require years of work and billions spent, so this exclusivity isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Defence contributed 2.2 billion, with support from a 563 million Typhoon contract extension and a $1 billion U.S. Air Force deal (Aviation Outlook). Added visibility comes from a recent order for over 300 MTU tank engines from KNDS. With the U.K. government aiming to spend at least 2.5% of GDP on defence by 2027, this segment provides counter-cyclical ballast that's worth something to a long-term holder. Power Systems was the positive surprise: 2.04 billion in revenue (up 20%), with operating profit surging 89%. Data centers are the tailwind. Rolls-Royce committed $75 million to expand U.S. manufacturing for the MTU Series 400 (Rolls-Royce press release). I'd point out that it doesn't particularly matter who consumes the electricity. The turbine doesn't know or care whether the power goes to an AI cluster or a steel mill. What matters is the return on capital those units earn. Then there's the wildcard: small modular reactors. The U.K. picked Rolls-Royce as its sole SMR provider, with a profitability target of 2030. I think of this as a free call option on the energy transition. It could be worth a lot someday, but it produces no cash today and carries real execution risk. It shouldn't be the basis for a valuation case. Who owns this business? Institutional ownership sits at about 82%, with the top 20 holders controlling 51% of shares (Yahoo Finance). That's a high level of concentration. The most notable holder is Baillie Gifford (Trades, Portfolio), which has accumulated roughly 12.2% of Rolls-Royce (SimplyWall.St), making it the largest institutional shareholder. The Edinburgh-based firm is known for holding multi-year compounders like Tesla and Amazon for five to ten years, so this is a meaningful endorsement of the turnaround's durability. Capital Group has also bumped its stake to 5.67%. On the insider front, Director Paulo de Souza e Silva bought nearly 485,000 in shares at 11.62, while CEO Erginbilgic has been selling modest amounts near the highs, likely tied to vesting. Net insider selling has outpaced buying over the past quarter. That's not a red flag, but it suggests the CEO isn't rushing to add personal capital at current prices. Rolls-Royce Holdings: A Spectacular Turnaround, but What Is an Owner Paying per Engine? Source: Rolls-Royce H1 2025 results presentation Valuation At the current market cap and about 3.3 billion in annualized free cash flow, the stock offers a free cash flow yield of roughly 3.3%. The forward P/E is 38.75 times, well above the aerospace industry average of about 25 times. EV/EBITDA is 25.84 times (Stock Analysis). Metric Rolls-Royce Industry Avg. Forward P/E 38.75x ~25x EV/EBITDA 25.84x ~18x FCF Yield 3.3% ~5% Value / Engine 16.8M n/a Rolls-Royce Holdings: A Spectacular Turnaround, but What Is an Owner Paying per Engine? Source: Rolls-Royce H1 2025 results presentation According to the GuruFocus DCF calculation, the stock is overpriced by about 13.4% at current valuation levels. (Investors Chronicle) The average target price of the 17 brokers that follow the company is GBX 1,280, which represents a potential increase of 6% over the current share price. You could see it to 35% if you are extremely bullish at say GBX 1,625 but that probably requires immaculate execution and continued multiple expansion. That is a lot to ask from a stock that has already re-rated so violently. If Rolls-Royce can maintain revenue growth of about 9% annually until 2028 and keep margins above 19%, earnings per share could surge comfortably past 0.30 by 2027. At that level, the forward multiple becomes a lot lower. But the market has already priced in much of that result. And any mistake on margins, currency or supply chain could lead to a sharp re-rating of a stock that is trading near perfection. It is worth quantifying what that stumble might look like. If operating margins were to settle at 16.5% rather than the current 19.1%, on a revenue base of roughly 20 billion, operating profit would come in around 3.3 billion instead of 3.8 billion. Free cash flow would likely drop proportionally to around 2.7 billion, which pushes the FCF yield down to approximately 2.7% and the implied forward P/E closer to 45 times. At that level, the stock would look expensive even by the most generous aerospace standards. The difference between a 19% margin and a 16.5% margin is not dramatic operationally, but in valuation terms it is the difference between a stock that is reasonably priced for quality and one that is objectively overvalued. Investors need to be honest about that sensitivity. Risks There are a couple of ways this could go wrong. Supply chain pinch points are an industry-wide migraine and Rolls-Royce pointed to "ongoing challenges" in its November 2025 update (Rolls-Royce Trading Update), expecting them to persist well into 2026. And there is the question of currency: The company earns heavily in dollars but reports in sterling, and the greenback has fallen about 9 percent against the pound so far this year. Hedging can fix for the short run but doesn't solve the issue. Competition from GE Aerospace and its open fan engine program is a credible long-term threat, even with Rolls-Royce's own 3 billion UltraFan in development. And with 82% institutional ownership, the exit could be quite crowded in a hurry if sentiment shifts. Conclusion There's no disputing the quality of this turnaround. The margins are real, cash generation is strong, the balance sheet is clean and 6,000 Trent engines with captive aftermarket contracts make for a serious installed base. Baillie Gifford (Trades, Portfolio)'s 12.2% stake is a genuine endorsement from one of the world's most respected growth investors. Defence and power systems add diversification. The SMR program offers long-dated optionality. Full-year results are due February 26, with management guiding for operating profit between 3.1 billion and 3.2 billion. The difficulty is that the market already knows all of this. I keep coming back to that 16.8 million per engine number. It's not unreasonable, but it assumes a lot has to go right for a long time. In my opinion, a pullback that brought the FCF yield closer to 5%, or the forward multiple into the 25 to 30 times range, would represent a more attractive entry point. Until then, existing holders have every reason to sit tight. But for new money, I think patience is the better bet. Chouhan also highlighted that broader investments in agricultural infrastructure, including cold storage and warehouses, have significantly improved resource management and reduced post-harvest losses. File Photo. He highlighted the Crop Residue Management scheme, which offers a 50 percent subsidy on machinery and 80 percent for custom hiring centres. Beyond the Farm Fires: Agriculture Minister Admits Stubble Burning is Only 5% of Delhis Pollution Advertisement Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Friday that farmers cannot be held exclusively responsible for the severe pollution in Delhi-NCR. Addressing the Rajya Sabha during Question Hour, the Minister cited scientific data showing that stubble burning accounts for no more than 5 per cent of winter pollution, with industrial emissions and vehicular traffic identified as the primary contributors. Despite the low percentage, Chouhan emphasised the government's commitment to reducing farm fires due to their negative impact on soil health. He highlighted the Crop Residue Management (CRM) scheme, which offers a 50 per cent subsidy on machinery and 80 per cent for custom hiring centres. Over 3.5 lakh machines have already been deployed across Punjab, Haryana, and Western UP and MP. The Minister specifically lauded Haryanas management model, which includes incentives for non-burning panchayats and converting stubble into fuel resources like bio-CNG and pellets. Advertisement Congress leader Jairam Ramesh supported the Ministers stance, urging an end to the vilification of farmers. He noted that the Ministry of Environment has historically blamed agricultural fires for the crisis, but this new data necessitates a shift in accountability. Chouhan also highlighted that broader investments in agricultural infrastructure, including cold storage and warehouses, have significantly improved resource management and reduced post-harvest losses. Source: The Tribune Advertisement AAP Launches Statewide Protests Against Anti-Dalit Congress' over Partap Singh Bajwa Casteist Remarks Against Harbhajan Singh ETO Insult Entire Dalit Community File Photo. Demonstrations also took place in Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, SBS Nagar, Amritsar, Pathankot, Tarn Taran. AAP Launches Statewide Protests Against Anti-Dalit Congress over Partap Singh Bajwa Casteist Remarks Against Harbhajan Singh ETO Insult Entire Dalit Community CHANDIGARH, 13th February 2026: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab on Friday held massive protests across the state against Leader of Opposition (LoP) Partap Singh Bajwa over his casteist and derogatory remarks targeting Punjab Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO. Senior leaders, ministers, MLAs, AAP karyakartas and local residents joined demonstrations in large numbers, raising slogans and demanding a public apology from Bajwa and the Congress leadership. Advertisement During this, senior AAP leader and Punjab Unit General Secretary Baltej Pannu said, Partap Singh Bajwas shameful and casteist remarks against Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO are not merely an insult to a minister but a direct attack on the entire Dalit community and the hardworking people and labourers of Punjab who earn their livelihood with dignity. We demand that Bajwa and the Congress leadership publicly apologise to the Dalit community and to all hardworking people. The AAP Punjab Unit General Secretary added, The anti-Dalit mindset of the Congress party has once again been exposed before the people of Punjab. The AAP will not allow anyone to demean Dalits or insult the dignity of working-class people in the state. He further stated, Partap Singh Bajwas language clearly reflects the Congress partys deep-rooted hatred towards Dalits and its long history of humiliating marginalised communities out of political arrogance. While the AAP believes in governance, education, health, employment and public welfare, Congress leaders like Partap Singh Bajwa remain trapped in a feudal and casteist mentality that Punjab has repeatedly rejected. Advertisement The AAP leader further said, Partap Singh Bajwas remark is also a direct insult to the hardworking people of Punjab, especially band-baaja artists, daily wage labourers and other artists who work tirelessly during weddings, religious events and social functions. Challenging the Congress leadership, AAP Punjab leaders said, Does Partap Singh Bajwas casteist language reflect the official thinking of the Congress party? Does the Congress stand with Bajwas derogatory remarks? Will the Congress President and senior leaders publicly condemn him, or will they once again choose silence, just as they have done whenever Dalits were attacked, ignored or humiliated? The silence of the Congress itself proves that Bajwas statement was not a personal slip but the real face and real mindset of the Congress party. Protests were held across Punjab, including large demonstrations in Malerkotla and Rupnagar, where a significant number of residents and band-baaja artists joined AAP leaders and karyakartas in strongly condemning Bajwa and the Congress partys anti-Dalit thinking. Advertisement Demonstrations also took place in Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, SBS Nagar, Amritsar, Pathankot, Tarn Taran, Faridkot, Fatehgarh Sahib, Ludhiana, Moga, Patiala, Sangrur, Bathinda, Fazilka, Firozpur, Mansa, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Barnala and SAS Nagar, where AAP ministers, MLAs, leaders, workers and local residents came out in large numbers to condemn Partap Singh Bajwa and the Congress partys anti-Dalit mindset. AAP Punjab asserted, Punjab is a land of equality, guided by the teachings of Guru Sahib and the ideology of Babasaheb Ambedkar. The people of Punjab will not tolerate any insult to Dalits and hardworking communities. The party made it clear, The AAP will continue its agitation until Partap Singh Bajwa and the Congress leadership issue an unconditional apology. Nationally, the crisis is even more severe, with 9,438 deaths across India during the same five-year period, largely driven by high numbers in Uttar Pradesh. File Photo. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari disclosed that nearly 48% of the 1,556 accidents caused by potholes in North India resulted in deaths. Lethal Potholes: Punjab Records North Indias Highest Death Toll with 414 Lives Lost Advertisement Recent data released by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways reveals a grim picture of road safety in Northern India. Between 2020 and 2024, pothole-related accidents claimed 743 lives across the region, with Punjab emerging as the worst-affected state, accounting for 414 fatalities. In a written response to the Lok Sabha, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari disclosed that nearly 48% of the 1,556 accidents caused by potholes in North India resulted in deaths. The figures underscore the lethal risk posed by poorly maintained road infrastructure. While Punjab topped the regional list, other states also recorded significant numbers: Haryana reported 255 deaths, followed by Delhi (50) and Himachal Pradesh (19). In contrast, Chandigarh recorded only one fatal accident in 2022. Nationally, the crisis is even more severe, with 9,438 deaths across India during the same five-year period, largely driven by high numbers in Uttar Pradesh. Advertisement Addressing the broader road safety crisis, Minister Gadkari noted that road accidents claimed over 1.77 lakh lives in 2024 alone. He detailed the governments "4Es" strategy- Education, Engineering, Enforcement, and Emergency care to mitigate risks. Despite a Rs 7,071 crore expenditure on repairs and maintenance in 2025, the data highlights an urgent need for more effective implementation and accountability in road management. Source: The Tribune Dhami assured that the SGPC would continue to support the promotion of Sikh values and identity abroad, calling the young MPs an inspiration for the Sikh youth worldwide. File Photo. He noted that Punjabis, particularly Sikhs in Canada, have reached influential positions through hard work and honesty. Canadian Delegation Reaffirms Commitment to Sikh Values During Visit to Sri Harmandir Sahib Advertisement Three Canadian Members of Parliament, Jasraj Singh Hallan, Amanpreet Singh Gill, and Dalwinder Singh Gill paid obeisance at Sri Harmandir Sahib on Saturday. The visiting delegation bowed before the Guru Granth Sahib, offering prayers at the central Sikh shrine. Following their visit, the MPs were honoured at the Information Centre by SGPC President Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami. The ceremony was attended by senior Akali leader Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema and SGPC Chief Secretary Kulwant Singh Mannan. Expressing their gratitude, the MPs described the visit as a spiritual blessing. They highlighted their pride in serving the public while maintaining their Sikh identity and the turban, in line with the Gurus philosophy. Advertisement A poignant moment was shared when they recalled that their oath-taking ceremony in Canada coincided with the anniversary of the Komagata Maru incident, a memory they say strengthens their dedication to service. Advocate Dhami lauded the MPs for their success in global politics while remaining rooted in Sikh ethics. He noted that Punjabis, particularly Sikhs in Canada, have reached influential positions through hard work and honesty. Dhami assured that the SGPC would continue to support the promotion of Sikh values and identity abroad, calling the young MPs an inspiration for the Sikh youth worldwide. Advertisement Source: The Tribune The Week in Review 09-13.02.2026 The main events of the past week in Romania The Week in Review Corina Cristea, 14.02.2026, 14:00 The Romanian President Attended the Informal European Council Meeting The Romanian President Nicusor Dan attended the informal European Council meeting in Belgium on Thursday. European heads of state and government discussed strategies to revive the European Union economy a Union that is committed to rapidly boosting its economic competitiveness to face China and the United States. Everyone agrees that Europe is not moving fast enough, President Dan said after the meeting. Strengthening the Single Market and increasing EU competitiveness were the main solutions on the table, from this perspective, the meetings agenda including topics such as strengthening European industry and building the EUs strategic autonomy, reducing bureaucracy and national barriers, simplifying legislation, as well as encouraging investment and innovation. President Dan highlighted Romanias priorities which include reducing energy prices and sharing competitiveness funds equally at Union level. The Romanian president supports the need to simplify administrative procedures for businesses, which would facilitate increased investment and the expansion of Romanian companies on European markets, and advocates for longer transition periods for the implementation of environmental policies, so that they should be sustainable and should not negatively affect the economy. The Romanian Defense Minister in Brussels The Romanian Defense Minister, Radu Miruta, also traveled to Belgium this week on Wednesday he participated in the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting and on Thursday in a meeting with his counterparts from the NATO member states, during which Romania presented the target of 2.7% of the GDP for military spending. During the first meeting, the European defense ministers gave the final vote on rearmament programs for eight member states. Romania received the second largest funding from the Union under the SAFE Program, worth 16.7 billion euros. The money will go to defense, production, development and acquisitions, as well as to objectives such as highways, which can be used by both the army and civilians. On the same day that the final vote on the SAFE programs was held in Brussels, Hanwha Aerospace Romania began the construction of a factory in Petresti, in the south of the country, that will produce K-9 self-propelled howitzers and K-10 ammunition resupply vehicles. The facility is the South Korean companys first production platform in Europe and will be the pillar of the long-term strategic partnership with Bucharest, said its president, Jae Il-Son. The project supports Romanias ambition to become a European defense manufacturing hub and contributes to the broader security objectives of NATO and the EU. The European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection in Bucharest The Romanian Justice Minister, Radu Marinescu, met on Thursday with Michael McGrath, the European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection. The dialogue focused on recent developments at national level, in particular regarding the judicial system, the streamlining of the justice system and the intensification of efforts to prevent and combat corruption. The Justice Minister welcomed the recent initiatives of the European Commission aimed at strengthening democracy in the EU, such as the European Shield for Democracy and the EU Strategy for Civil Society, saying that they contribute to the development of stronger, more transparent and more resilient democracies at Union level. The European Commissioner appreciated the active involvement of the Ministry of Justice in the annual Rule of Law exercise and conveyed assurances regarding the continuation of loyal and constructive cooperation with national authorities, with a view to strengthening the rule of law and the fundamental values of the Union. The Romanian Foreign Minister in London Romania believes in a more competitive Europe and, in this regard, supports solid partnerships with the United Kingdom, said the Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Toiu during a meeting in London with the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs of the United Kingdom, Yvette Cooper. Boosting economic cooperation with the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland one of Romanias most valuable strategic partners was a priority for Minister Toiu during the discussions held in the United Kingdom. The two-day working visit reconfirmed Romanias firm commitment to dialogue, cooperation and solid partnerships, in an international context marked by security challenges and significant geopolitical transformations, shows a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Meetings with members of the Interparliamentary Group for Romania and with representatives of the Romanian community in London, as well as a visit to Oxford University, where the Romanian Language Lectorate operates, were on the agenda of the visit to London. Multinational exercise Dynamic Front 26 The largest multinational exercise in Europe, with artillery from the United States Army, took place this week at the Cincu range in central Romania. Structures from Romania, Poland and France also took part in the activities at Cincu, with the aim of testing NATO regional plans. The multinational exercise Dynamic Front 26 was scheduled to take place simultaneously in several allied states and is considered a major test of how NATO forces can act in a coordinated manner on the eastern flank, in a complex security scenario, characterized by the need for a rapid and integrated response. Romanian and Polish HIMARS launchers, as well as self-propelled howitzers deployed in Romania within the multinational battle group, participated in the shooting exercise at Cincu. (LS) Avella said the company repaid $450 million in debt during the year, including a $154.6 million secured debt prepayment in Q4 across four credit facilities. He said that prepayment covered all scheduled principal amortization on existing bank debt for 2026 and 2027, and helped reduce cash break-even levels. Management repeatedly pointed to the companys financial repositioning since 2021. Lauro said net debt has been reduced from $3.1 billion in 2021 to a net cash position of $309 million today, adding that the net cash position has been increasing and accelerated sharply in the first quarter of 2026. Avella provided additional detail, saying net debt declined by about $3 billion to a $124 million net cash position at the end of 2025 , and stood at roughly $308 million net cash as of the call date , with the company still pending the closing of sales of two LR2 vessels for $109.8 million in aggregate. Chief Executive Officer Emanuele Lauro said Scorpio Tankers generated $152 million of Adjusted EBITDA in Q4 and $568 million for the full year . The company also reported $344 million in IFRS net income for the year, according to Chief Financial Officer Chris Avella. Scorpio Tankers (NYSE:STNG) used its fourth-quarter 2025 earnings call to emphasize what management described as a transformative year driven by debt reduction, higher liquidity, and a continued strengthening in product tanker market fundamentals. Executives highlighted a net cash balance sheet, lower cash break-evens, and an increase to the companys quarterly dividend. Management says product-tanker fundamentals are improving spot LR2s near $46,000/day and MRs near $38,000/day supported by about 1 million bpd of demand growth, rising ton-miles, an aging/sanctioned fleet and constrained effective supply that should limit fleet growth to roughly 3% over the next three years. The company raised its quarterly dividend to $0.45 per share (a 12.5% y/y increase) and reiterated a conservative capital-allocation policy no large acquisitions, measured fleet renewal after selling 10 older vessels and contracting 10 newbuilds with slightly over $700 million in obligations mostly payable in 20272029. Scorpio Tankers has materially strengthened its balance sheet, reducing net debt from $3.1 billion in 2021 to a net cash position of about $308$309 million on the call, while reporting $152 million of Adjusted EBITDA in Q4 and $568 million for the year and holding roughly $1.7 billion of liquidity. Story Continues Dividend increase and capital allocation approach Is Albemarle Setting Up for a Lithium-Fueled Rebound? Oil Tankers Boost Dividends, See Continued Robust Business In '23 Scorpio Tankers said it is raising its quarterly dividend to $0.45 per share, which Lauro described as a 12.5% year-over-year increase. In response to an analyst question about dividend policy, President Robert Bugbee said the companys main premise is to grow the dividend through the cycle while keeping it sustainable, but that the timing of future changes would depend on multiple factors and would be reviewed regularly. Bugbee also sought to address investor concerns about growing cash balances. He said the company has absolutely zero acquisition thoughts of other companies, or competitors, or large fleets at all, and emphasized Scorpio would not place a large vessel order impulsively. He described the fleet renewal strategy as measured and conservative, focused on arbitraging sales of older vessels and ordering newer vessels when pricing is attractive. Liquidity, debt profile, and fleet renewal commitments Cloudflare: Another AI-Disrupted Stock You Might Want to Buy Avella said Scorpio had approximately $1.7 billion of liquidity as of the call date, consisting of $937 million in cash and $767 million in revolving credit availability. He also outlined the companys debt structure and upcoming repayment obligations: Scorpios last remaining lease financing obligation on one vessel with Ocean Yield was expected to be repaid before the end of the month. The remaining debt stack consists of secured bank debt and $200 million of five-year senior unsecured notes issued in January 2025, which Avella said were trading at around 103 . With the exception of the final lease settlement, Avella said the company has no principal repayment obligations until 2028. On fleet activity, management said the company sold 10 older vessels and entered into contracts to purchase 10 newbuildings. Avella said the total obligations under newbuilding contracts are slightly over $700 million, and that about 70% of installment payments are not due until 2027, 2028, and 2029. He added that the forward dry dock schedule is light, noting that special surveys were completed on over 70% of the fleet in the past two years. During Q&A, Lauro and Bugbee said the company continues to engage opportunistically with inbound inquiries for potential vessel sales. Lauro said Scorpio is not working on anything specifically on the buy side at present, but does not exclude conservative substitution and renewal, consistent with prior quarters. Market backdrop: strengthening rates, shifting trade, and constrained effective supply Management said product tanker market conditions have improved for five consecutive quarters and that momentum has continued into Q1 2026. In the prepared remarks, the company cited spot rates of approximately $46,000 per day for LR2s and $38,000 per day for MRs. James Doyle, head of corporate development and investor relations, highlighted what he described as three structural forces supporting the market: strong demand combined with refining capacity shifting farther from end consumers; constrained effective supply due to an aging fleet; and sanctions and geopolitics reshaping trade flows and tightening supply. Doyle said global refined product demand is expected to increase by nearly one million barrels per day during the year, and that January seaborne refined product exports averaged 22.1 million barrels per day, up roughly one million barrels per day year-over-year. He added that ton-miles have risen as distances increased, saying product tanker ton-miles have increased roughly 20% since 2019. On supply, Doyle said the product tanker order book is almost 19% of the existing fleet, but he stressed that context matters, citing that 21% of the fleet is already over 20 years old, rising to 30% by 2028. He also pointed to sanctions: roughly 26% of the Aframax/LR2 fleet and 9% of the MR/Handymax fleet are sanctioned, with an average age of 2021 years. Adjusting for aging vessels, sanctioned capacity, and LR2 crossover into crude trades, Doyle said the company expects fleet growth to average roughly 3% over the next three years, potentially lower. LR2 crossover, time-charter demand, and Venezuela discussion Several analysts questioned management on LR2s shifting between clean and dirty markets. Chief Commercial Officer Lars Dencker Nielsen said Scorpios approach to switching has always remained opportunistic, but he emphasized discipline and said the company does not dirty up ships unless the economics clearly justify it on a sustained basis. He noted that the number of LR2s trading clean globally is unusually low, citing about 220 LR2s trading clean out of roughly 515 globally. Nielsen also said the company is seeing improving liquidity and demand for longer-term time charters, describing increased demand for multi-year periods as very interesting at the moment. In another exchange, Bugbee said one-year Aframax/LR2 rates could be fixed in the high $40s, and that five-year deals could start comfortably with a $3 (as stated on the call), referencing multi-year interest and prior multi-year fixtures completed in Q4. Management also addressed Venezuela-related opportunities. Doyle said Venezuelan crude exports averaged roughly 800,000 barrels per day last year, much of it to China on sanctioned tonnage, and suggested any redirection toward the U.S. or increases in production could increase Atlantic Basin activity. In Q&A, he said about 300,000 barrels per day had gone to the U.S. so far, adding that the U.S. Gulf refining system is well designed for Venezuelan crude, while noting uncertainty around how quickly production could increase and where incremental volumes would ultimately flow. Nielsen said any uplift would be positive on the margin, particularly for ships not in the sanctioned fleet. Looking to the near term, Nielsen said the clean market is operating with very little slack and that he views the strength as more than a short-term spike, describing it as a longer wavelength supported by a high-running refining system and sustained ton-mile dynamics. About Scorpio Tankers (NYSE:STNG) Scorpio Tankers Inc (NYSE: STNG) is an independent provider of marine transportation services, specializing in the carriage of refined petroleum products. The companys core operations focus on moving clean petroleum cargoessuch as gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and naphthaon a global scale. By catering to both spot and time charter markets, Scorpio Tankers enables energy companies, refiners and traders to manage their supply chains with flexibility and reliability. The companys fleet is composed of modern, eco-designed product tankers, including medium range (MR) and long range (LR) vessels. The article "Scorpio Tankers Q4 Earnings Call Highlights" was originally published by MarketBeat. [Getty Images] Scottish craft beer giant Brewdog could be sold off after bosses called in financial experts to look for new investors. Consultants AlixPartners have been brought in to oversee the sales process which could lead to the businesses being broken up. Brewdog, which was founded by friends James Watt and Martin Dickie in 2007, has breweries and pubs around the globe, including about 60 in the the UK. The company said it had taken the decision after "operating in a challenging economic climate" in order to focus on the "long-term strength and sustainably" of the company. A spokesperson for Brewdog said: "Following a year of decisive action in 2025, which saw a focus on costs and operating efficiencies, we have appointed AlixPartners to support a structured and competitive process to evaluate the next phase of investment for the business. "This is a deliberate and disciplined step with a focus on strengthening the long-term future of the Brewdog brand and its operations." The spokesperson added they expect to attract "substantial interest" and breweries and bars will continue to operate as normal. AlixPartners refused to comment on the sales process. In an email to staff, which has been seen by BBC Scotland News, Brewdog said: "AlixPartners are specialists in business performance and transformation, and they will work alongside the leadership team in the coming weeks to evaluate options and make recommendations, including assessing the next phase of investment in the business. "It is important to stress this is a normal and prudent step, and no decisions have been made. This does not change our day-to-day operations, our roles or our immediate plans. Our bars and breweries continue to operate as normal, and our focus remains on brewing world-class beer, serving our customers brilliantly and supporting our teams." Last month, the company halted production of gin and vodka brands at its distillery in Elgin, Aberdeenshire, in order to "sharpen" the businesses focus. Brewdog announced job cuts across the business in October last year after posting a 37m loss. Earlier in the year it announced the closure of 10 bars across the UK, including its flagship pub in Aberdeen. The company currently employs around 1,400 people and has breweries in Ellon as well as in the US, Australia and Germany. In recent years it has made headlines for its marketing campaigns and workplace culture. Billionaire heiress Leonie Schroder as the family prepares to exit the firm after 4.3bn sale Just several months ago, Richard Oldfield was adamant Schroders, the 222-year-old fund manager founded during the Napoleonic Wars, was not for sale. The Schroders family, who hold a 44pc stake in the business, were tremendously supportive of the business, and Mr Oldfield, who took over as chief executive in November 2024, was insistent that the company would deliver on the rest of his transformation plan. Even as rumours swirled that the dynasty could finally cash out, the firm maintained that the dozen or so Schroder family members who own the stake intend to retain a substantial shareholding in the company over the long term. But on Thursday, all of that changed. In a major shock to the City, Schroders announced that it had succumbed to a 10bn takeover from US funds group Nuveen ending the Schroder familys two centuries-long association with the City of London. The change of heart emerged just a few weeks ago, when the fund manager received its first takeover approach from Nuveen. Secret talks between the two sides about a deal which was codenamed Project Pantheon progressed rapidly, with the pair operating in secret under the code names Aphrodite and Zeus to keep the merger under wraps in the notoriously gossipy City. Lazard, a similarly esteemed old City name, was drafted in to advise the Schroders familys Principal Shareholder Group vehicle with agreement from senior members of the clan finally reached in recent days. The family, who have been a force in the City of London broadly since its creation, stand to make around 4.3bn from the sale, which will likely mark the end of their involvement in the firm. The sale is a blow for the City and marks the end of one of the longest and most distinguished chapters in British finance, with only the Rothschilds or Warburgs on par with the Schroders for historical City significance. 1302 Schroder's boost after London stock market exit Its not the first time that the Schroder family has conceded defeat to Wall Street. In 2000, the family then led by Bruno Schroder and his brother-in-law George von Mallinckrodt sold its merchant bank to Citigroup for 1.35bn after accepting it could never compete with the balance sheet of Americas most powerful banks. The familys involvement in Schroders has shrunk in the ensuing years. Philip Mallinckrodt, the last family member to be an executive at the company, left the board in 2020. However, Leonie Schroder, who owns Hurstbourne Park, a 485-hectare Hampshire estate, and is the daughter of Bruno Schroder, along with Claire Fitzalan Howard, the daughter of George von Mallinckrodt, still sit on the companys board but have little involvement with the day-to-day operations. Shelley Puhak (photo: P.B. Miles) Shelley Puhak is the critically acclaimed author of The Dark Queens: The Bloody Rivalry That Forged the Medieval World. Her essays have been included in The Best American Travel Writing and selected as Notables in four consecutive editions of The Best American Essays. She is the author of two books of poetry, including Guinevere in Baltimore, winner of the Anthony Hecht Prize. The Blood Countess: Murder, Betrayal, and the Making of a Monster (Bloomsbury; reviewed in this issue) separates the myth and misogyny that fuels dark fascination surrounding one woman from the 16th century. How and why did you come to Countess Elizabeth Bathory as the subject of your next book? What inspired you? I first encountered the canonical Bathory legend in my 20s, while exploring the many castles of Slovakia. When, many years later, I learned that more Central European scholars and historians were questioning that legend, I took note. I've always been a sucker for a good unsolved mystery, but this case really began resonating with me as I watched conspiracy theories take hold and disinformation campaigns be waged in our own day and age. My first book, The Dark Queens, took on two women who hardly anyone has heard of. It was fun to flip the script this time around and write about a woman who is very well-known and show how we've got her story all wrong. What type of new evidence did you uncover to overturn the accepted myth/legend of Bathory as a diabolical serial woman-killer? Letters between Elizabeth and her family, friends, and her servants, as well as additional correspondence about Elizabeth, such as between the king and the man prosecuting her case. There were also court cases and documents about other members of Elizabeth's family, as well as records about some of the people who testified against her. Other evidence was hiding in plain sight. When I commissioned new transcriptions and translations of existing materials, I discovered quite a few errors that had led to mistaken assumptions and misreadings. How did religious conflicts of the era add to Elizabeth's problems, specifically the allegations of murder? As different denominations battled for power during the Reformation, their rhetoric became increasingly hyperbolic. People labeled their opponents not just agents of the Devil, but secular criminals. Bishops, priests, and town officials called one another thieves, fornicators, and, quite often, "murderers." So this accusation was already being bandied about very regularly. The religious conflict also spurred debates over medical care. Was it permissible to still treat illnesses and injuries? Or should you only try to pray them away? And who, exactly, was supposed to be recording deaths and overseeing burials? In such a charged environment, when someone died unexpectedly on the Countess's estates, it was difficult to sort out what was misfortune, what was medical malpractice, and what might have been murder. Seventeenth-century Hungary was a wildly multicultural place, and Elizabeth showed great toleration for differences in (Christian) belief and practices. Do you think her progressive stance threatened the male-dominated order of the Church, no matter whether it was Calvinist, Catholic, or Lutheran? Yes, absolutely. It also was a threat to the Hapsburgs, the foreign dynasty ruling the country at the time, who needed to prevent Hungarians from uniting against them. As a widow with married daughters who had large estates abutting her own, is it fair to surmise that Elizabeth's extensive land holdings triggered the whisper campaigns by her enemies? Her land holdings definitely made her an attractive target, although they were not the only reason she was targeted. I approached this book as a whodunit: If Elizabeth Bathory was indeed framed, who was the plot's mastermind? A couple of possibilities presented themselves. The whisper campaign could have started because of local grudges: Was it fellow nobles, hoping to score her land? A few underlings who were embezzling funds and wanted to avoid being caught? A witch-hunting pastor hoping to advance his career? Or was the plot much bigger? What is often overlooked is how embroiled Elizabeth was in the tumultuous politics of the time and how she was under suspicion of treason. First, her family was involved in a rebellion. Then, her young and charismatic nephew became the prince of neighboring Transylvania; there was genuine fear that this new prince would invade and overthrow the Hapsburgs. This political context explains one of the other accusations leveled against Elizabeth Bathory, that she was trying to assassinate the king. Were people really convinced she was guilty of murdering young girls and bathing in their blood, or was this just an elaborate and effective attempt to gain control of her? It was fascinating--and frustrating--to parse all of these different character's motives. Did all of the people spreading these rumors really believe them? There were a few people, like the witch-hunting pastor, who seem to have sincerely believed that Bathory was a child-snatching cannibal, just as they believed their neighbors were witches or werewolves or the minions of Satan. There were plenty of other people, however, who took advantage of a moral panic to benefit themselves. One of the "best" ways to impugn the character of a powerful woman was to make allegations of witchcraft, which your book explores. Why was this tactic so successful? Women were not supposed to be political creatures, which made it difficult, and sometimes legally impossible, to charge them with treason. You also couldn't challenge a female political opponent to a duel or face her on a battlefield. The best way to sideline her? Impugn her virtue or charge her with witchcraft. So many high-ranking women were accused of witchcraft in this era, ranging from queens to noblewomen, including other members of Elizabeth's family. This was a time where anti-science and reactionary forces seemed to run amok. Can you explain how this theme should concern people in modern times? I think we are generally not prepared for the speed with which things can fall apart. People who have put their faith in the rule of law, in logic and reason, sometimes end up unable to act in time because they are incredulous, frozen in disbelief. There are two possible horror stories in the Bathory case. One is that an individual who publicly campaigned to protect the vulnerable was also the head of a criminal network that trafficked, tortured, and murdered children. The other possibility is that a peaceful and progressive community turned on itself. Ordinary people--educated, kind, good people--were manipulated into believing that their neighbors were literal monsters. For me, the second possibility is equally, if not more, chilling. There are many representations of the countess in books, movies, and television. What is the biggest thing about her life these portrayals get wrong? And what do you hope your readers will come away with after reading your book? The bloodbath! There are so many portrayals of the Countess bathing in virgin blood, usually in an attempt to stay eternally young. Elizabeth Bathory was accused of many things--witchcraft, cannibalism, treason, and murder--but none of her contemporaries ever mentioned her bathing in blood. That sensational detail was a much later addition, inserted by an odd little priest with an agenda of his own. My goal for this book--beyond solving this historical cold case once and for all--was to help readers reflect upon how disinformation campaigns are waged, how myths get made, and what, exactly, historical justice might look like today. --Peggy Kurkowski, book reviewer and copywriter in Denver Feb 14 (Reuters) - Vietnam's government has allowed SpaceX to launch its Starlink satellite internet service in the country, state media reported on Saturday. The report said the Ministry of Science and Technology granted Starlink's local unit a license to provide both fixed and mobile satellite internet services. The company was also granted a license to use radio frequencies and radio equipment. The ministry did not immediately respond to a request for confirmation outside business hours. More from Yahoo Scout When will Starlink services launch in Vietnam? What was Starlink's previous status in Vietnam? What licenses did Vietnam grant to SpaceX's Starlink? How does this approval relate to Vietnam-US relations? The approval came ahead of an expected visit next week of Vietnam's top leader To Lam to the United States to attend the inaugural meeting of U.S. President Donald Trump's Board of Peace initiative to address global conflicts. The trip has not been officially announced. Last year, Vietnam's government said it would allow SpaceX to operate its internet service on a trial basis. Local media said it was not clear when Starlink would launch its services in Vietnam. SpaceX did not immediately respond to a request for comment on a weekend. Vietnam and the U.S. are negotiating a trade deal after Washington imposed 20% tariffs on Vietnamese goods in August. The two sides held their sixth round of talks earlier this month, but have not announced an agreement. (Reporting by Mikhail Flores; Editing by Sharon Singleton) While production at the Woodspin demo plant is currently suspended and the company has declined to provide financial guidance for 2026, Spinnovas operational reality is still pragmatic: the fiber produced in early 2025 is already stockpiledand sufficient to cover the needs of all current partnerships, per the Finnish fiber firms latest financial report. If 2025 wasnt quite a year of explosive sales for Spinnova, it may have been a period of calculated pause for strategic scaling. In practice, this means that we have a good idea of what the industrial-scale MFC concept will be like, Poranen said, highlighting that these improvements alone will clearly reduce the production costs of the final Spinnova fiber. During the year, our development work focused on reducing production and investment costs to make our technology concept more attractive to future partners. With a renewed strategy centered on a capital-light, technology-led model, Spinnova said it intends to generate future income from technology salessuch as facility planning and engineering, proprietary equipment deliveries, licenses, and service agreementsrather than fiber production and sales. Spinnovas operating loss widened to 41.3 million euros ($49 million), compared with $21.7 million a year earlier. Revenue declined to $408,000 from $904,000representing a 55 percent declinewhile losses widened amid restructuring costs and continued R&D spending. Net cash fell to $21.6 million at year-end, down from $48.5 million, reflecting acquisitions and ongoing operating losses. Total investments declined to $1.5 million (from $6.9 million) as capital spending on production infrastructure slowed. The year 2025 had a significant impact on our choices both strategically and operationally, co-founder, CEO and chair of the board Janne Poranen said in the companys financial statements bulletin. We focused especially on improving cost-efficiency of our production process, expanding the raw material base, developing the properties of the fiber, and building an international business consortium. The Finnish fiber firm spent the year reworking its operating model and technology roadmap, prioritizing cost efficiency and technical validation over near-term commercialization. Revenue fell sharply and losses widened, reflecting a pullback from production-facing activities following several years of restructuring and shifting scale ambitions. Story Continues The termination of the agreement will enable the licensing of Spinnovas technology in the future without restrictions, also for wood pulps, Poranen said, adding that the demo factoriesincluding the infrastructure and equipment for production of Spinnova fiber and the manufacturing of its raw materialswere transferred over. Spinnova said those efforts delivered concrete efficiency gains, including more than a 50 percent reduction in energy use in microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) manufacturingcompared with the Woodspin-era concept, alongside improvements to the fiber recipe that lowered additive costs by roughly 20 percent and improved fiber quality. With Suzano sorted and enough Spinnova material to move, the manufacturer started shifting from a centralized production model to an international business consortium model to accelerate scaling. In practice, that active transition away from a joint-venture-focused vision is still pretty concerted; the key step in Spinnovas 2025-26 priorities was creating an ecosystem (see: consortium) to enable the availability of its branded cellulosic fiber for the textile materials market, the Scandinavian innovator said. After spending the second half of 2025 (and following the annual reports release), courting its value chain colleagues, five heavy-hitters joined that ecosystem. Although partnerships are not yet notably reflected in turnover, their significance is great, Poranen said. Our goal is to find the right partners with whom we can advance the commercial scaling of our technology. Cologne-based fair-fashion label Armedangels signed a non-binding letter of intent (LOI) in December, as did Tommy Hilfigersolidifying the PVH Corp-owned brands (future) access to both Spinnova fiber and the development of its dedicated fabric library. Amsterdam innovation platform Fashion for Good, meanwhile, endorsed the consortium as a whole to support its development and structure. And while the next two partners werent secured during the reporting period, Portuguese spinning mill Tearfil and Brazilian techwear brand Insider were also onboarded. The process takes time, but the interest is strong and the vision of changing the sustainable raw material base resonates widely, Poranen said. Discussions with players in different industries and value chains continue very actively. Meanwhile, the Respin joint ventureco-owned 50/50 with Danish manufacturer Eccosaw progress as planned, per Poranen. Last fall, Respin successfully produced leather waste-based fiber for the premium shoe brand, he said, with a planned product launch sometime this year. During the financial year, Spinnova invested $294,000 in the Respin joint venture, bringing its total to $852,000 by the end of the reporting period. Leather waste-based textile fiber is a very interesting topic, especially for luxury brands, many of which also have their own leather production, he continued. We have progressed in discussions with several luxury brands and believe that with them, we are able to accelerate the scaling of Respin. Despite the operational reset, Spinnova said it continues to receive positive feedback from brands and supply chain partners on fiber quality and its application potential. The company emphasized, however, that its current work is centered on efficiency and cost competitiveness, not output volumes. Spinnova does not provide financial guidance for the year 2026, the company said, noting that the outlook remains closely linked to future customer investment decisions and the pace of technology adoption. Major police operation in search for Nancy Guthrie Three people detained in the US over the abduction of Nancy Guthrie have been released after a major police operation. Advertisement Updated NationalNSWCrime Two dead after alleged car theft and police chase across Sydney Christopher Harris, Riley Walter and Angus Dalton Updated February 15, 2026 9:08pm ,first published February 14, 2026 4:51pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A A respected teacher and a beloved grandmother, on their way to pick up a wedding dress, are dead after a man who allegedly led police on an hour-long chase across Sydneys south-west in a stolen vehicle crashed into their car. Lee Casuscelli, 60, was driving Maureen Crosland, 84, through Camden to pick up the dress for the marriage of Croslands granddaughter and Casuscellis son at the time of the fatal crash, Nine News reported. Lee Casuscelli, 60, was killed in Saturdays crash. Nine The tragedy was confirmed during Mass on Sunday morning at St John the Evangelist Church in Campbelltown, where Crosland had long attended, said assistant priest Fr Richard Healy. People were in tears at the tragedy of the whole situation. They were on their way with the mother of the groom to pick up wedding dresses. [Its] just devastating, he told Nine News. Advertisement Casuscelli was a respected educator with 40 years of experience who had specialised in services for children with disabilities. Police said the pursuit had begun soon after Luke Francis, 31, allegedly punched a 25-year-old who was filling his red Toyota with fuel at a petrol station on King Georges Road in South Hurstville about 10.20am on Saturday. The Toyota collided with an Alfa Romeo being driven by a 60-year-old woman and carrying an 84-year-old passenger. Nine News The 25-year-old fell to the ground after being struck before Francis allegedly stole his car keys from his pocket as well as his mobile phone, and drove off in the car. Highway patrol officers in Beverly Hills spotted the car a short time later, and tried to get Francis to pull over. When he did not stop, officers called in more support, including a police helicopter, to chase the car. Advertisement The vehicle pursuit was terminated when the Toyota was on the M5 motorway around Bankstown about 10.30am. NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden said the helicopter continued to track the Toyota as officers considered different strategies to try to stop it. Loading Ive watched the footage. He was driving in what I could describe as one of the most reckless and dangerous demonstrations of driving Ive seen in a long time, McFadden said. He was overtaking vehicles at speed in the breakdown lanes, was crossing onto the incorrect side of the road. After allegedly evading police for 50 minutes, at the intersection of Remembrance Drive and the Old Hume Highway south of Camden, the Toyota collided with an Alfa Romeo being driven by Casuscelli and carrying Crosland. Advertisement The offending driver has gone up the inside of those vehicles at speed, crossed into the intersection and impacted with another vehicle that had the lawful opportunity to turn right, McFadden said. The two women were treated by police and paramedics but died at the scene. Francis fled the scene of the crash on foot but was arrested at gunpoint by police on Nepean Avenue, Camden. Francis was charged with offences including dangerous driving causing death, driving recklessly, driving unlicensed and assault with intent to take a vehicle. He did not apply for bail when he faced court on Sunday. Advertisement Maureen Crosland, 84. Nine This is a tragic set of circumstances. What we do know is that the 60-year-old driver and 84-year-old passenger, both who died at the scene, are part of an extended family our hearts and thoughts are with that family at this devastating time, McFadden said. The 31-year-old male that is in custody is well known to us, and he is directly responsible for the death of those two women. Police declared the pursuit and crash a critical incident and have launched an investigation, which will be overseen by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission, into the circumstances surrounding the incident. NSW Premier Chris Minns on Sunday said police were in an impossible situation when deciding whether to initiate pursuits. Advertisement Theyve got to make a judgment call about whether pulling off chases encourages more of it, in the knowledge that some [alleged] criminals will see it as a green light to go faster not slower, or not listen to police directions, Minns said. Its a judgment call made by professionals in difficult circumstances. Police have asked anyone with dashcam footage to provide it to Crime Stoppers. Get the days breaking news, entertainment ideas and a long read to enjoy. Sign up to receive our Evening Edition newsletter. Advertisement By the time Sussan Ley rose to the dispatch box for one final question time on Thursday, her political fate was sealed. She had less than 24 hours remaining as leader of the Liberal Party, but it did not show. The composure held. The smile remained fixed. But the faces behind her told the story: colleagues who had concluded the greater risk lay not in change, but in standing still. The argument that had ultimately toppled her was neither ideological purity nor factional revenge. It was survival. Loading James Paterson, a key player behind Angus Taylors accession, had earlier given it blunt expression that, under Ley, the party had lost about 200,000 voters every month since last Mays worst-ever election result. Advertisement Its more than 50,000 votes a week. Its more than 7000 votes a day. This cannot go on, the Victorian senator said, announcing he was joining Taylor and resigning from the shadow cabinet. If it goes on, therell be nothing left of the Liberal Party by the next election. That arithmetic repeated in corridors and offices reframed the contest. If the trajectory continued, MPs warned privately, no seat would be safe: not marginals in outer suburbs, not regional Queensland strongholds, no chance of regaining once-blue ribbon electorates eroded by teal independents. The fear was no longer of losing more seats; it was of mass extinction. Related Article Analysis Political leadership Sussan Ley took this job with ambition and promise. But things soon unravelled The scale of the revolt became clear internally at 10.30am on Thursday, when James McGrath, a member of Leys shadow cabinet and leadership group, wandered into her Parliament House office. Accounts of that short conversation are disputed, but his message to Ley was ultimately clear. Her leadership was doomed. McGrath would hold off on making his resignation public until 3.30pm, after the end of question time. Advertisement While I realise this news wont please everyone, it is important that Australia has a strong and effective opposition, he said. I have made this decision as I believe it is in the best interest of Queensland, Australia and the Liberal National Party. McGrath has a reputation for sniffing the breeze. In 2015, he was a central player in the move to kill off Tony Abbotts prime ministership. He then moved on Malcolm Turnbull three years later when his leadership was in peril. Sussan Ley in parliament on Thursday, the day her fate was sealed. Alex Ellinghausen A key supporter last May, McGrath was rewarded with a role in Leys inner circle. Allies now paint it as a major betrayal, but others say McGraths move should not have blindsided Ley. In recent weeks, they say, the Queensland senator had sharpened his interventions, pressing colleagues about electoral losses and questioning whether the leadership could arrest the slide reflected in polling. Facing a looming preselection battle within the LNP, he was acutely aware of conservative grassroots anxiety and the rise of One Nation. Advertisement The McGrath switch was a big deal, says one MP, aligned to the partys moderate faction. When he deserted Sussan, it gave an impression to others on the fence that this thing was over. People wanted to back a winner. Related Article Political leadership Teals to the left, One Nation to the right: Why the byelection for Leys seat will be a test for Taylor The numbers men in both camps slowly shifted names from one list to another. Ley supporters from May were moved into Taylors column, among them Western Australias Dean Smith, South Australian Tom Venning, Queenslander Leon Rebello, Victorian Zoe McKenzie, and Tasmanian Wendy Askew. But the collapse had deeper roots. For much of her two decades in parliament, Ley had been a steady if largely nondescript presence; a competent minister across portfolios including health and environment, but rarely a dominant personality shaping the national argument. What she was not was a political insurgent capable of redefining a party in crisis. Advertisement The chaos had spread dramatically lately after Nationals leader David Littleproud detonated the Coalition arrangement when Ley attempted to discipline three Nationals senators who had crossed the shadow cabinets position on hate speech laws. Littleprouds declaration that he could not serve under her leadership later reversed left her authority exposed. The attempted reconciliation, staged at a joint press conference, convinced few that unity had been restored. In parliament, Labor MPs revelled in the spectacle of an opposition fighting itself. Ley had tried to recalibrate many times along the way. She toughened rhetoric on immigration, linking migration to housing affordability. Likewise, she dumped the Coalitions net zero policy to placate conservatives. But the shifts failed to cut through. Angus Taylor on the backbench on Wednesday, as a leadership spill loomed. Dominic Lorrimer Close allies argue that right-wingers in the party room were never comfortable with a woman leader, especially one who made clear in her first press club speech that she wanted to ditch the types of culture wars increasingly animating conservative voters. Advertisement One ally said: If we got every decision right, every hour of every day, this party room never would have allowed her to succeed. Ley herself hinted as much on Friday when she resigned. Related Article Opinion Liberal Party Taylor-made Libs have three possible futures. Only one will save them Peter Hartcher Political and international editor It is important that the new leader gets clear air, something that is not always afforded to leaders, but which in the present moment is more important than ever, she said. Another moderate MP says Ley was an introvert who took advice from a small group of figures, including NSW numbers man Alex Hawke, trusted staff and, occasionally, moderate faction figures such as Anne Ruston and Maria Kovacic. On the whole, though, even MPs who believed in the Ley project were often perplexed by her tactics, and felt cut out. Advertisement Shrill attacks on the prime ministers fashion sense, on Penny Wongs emotional state and demands to recall parliament early to vote on hate speech legislation left the Coalition wedged and many questioning her judgment. She didnt talk to people. It was really quite bizarre. No leader ever has had so few MPs who would really fight for her, the same MP said. A deeper dispute was about identity. Should the Liberals attempt to win back moderate, teal-held inner-city seats? Or pivot harder towards cultural conservatism and economic nationalism to reclaim voters drifting to One Nation? Senator James Paterson on Wednesday. Alex Ellinghausen It was never going to be easy to lead the party after its worst-ever defeat, Abbott, who elevated Ley to cabinet in 2014, said on Friday, adding that she had shown strong character and dignity, often under great pressure. Advertisement As John Howard once said, politics is a hard and unforgiving business, but its the highest and noblest form of public service. Ongoing tensions came to a head about 10 days after the first damning Newspoll of the year, published in The Australian, which showed the Coalition behind One Nation on the primary vote for the first time. In Melbourne, on the morning of former Liberal MP Katie Allens memorial service on January 29, senior figures gathered. Ley had emerged from what supporters considered her strongest stretch internal critics quiet over summer as she led attacks on Anthony Albanese over the Bondi massacre. Then the poll landed. At the suburban home of a party figure, Taylor expressed strongly that he was intent on running. Fellow leadership aspirant Andrew Hastie was less conclusive, according to sources in the room. Hasties key supporters there senators Jonno Duniam and Matt OSullivan had urged him to nominate but acknowledged he would have time on his side if he stepped back. Advertisement Taylor told Hastie that a challenge could only succeed with his support. Paterson advised Hastie that he did not have the numbers and would be better served by waiting. Former PM Abbott was also strongly lobbying internally for Taylor. Andrew Hastie (left), a leadership aspirant, threw his support behind Angus Taylor in the leadership spill on Friday. Dominic Lorrimer Hastie, in the end, determined he should withdraw and give Taylor a clear run, avoiding a damaging split among those on the right of the party that would further diminish the party. But even then, there was no fixed timetable. Those involved were open to waiting weeks or months. But secrecy collapsed after photojournalist Liam Mendes, of The Australian, unexpectedly exposed the talks. Once it became clear that Paterson and Duniam senior members of the shadow ministry were discussing Leys leadership, pressure intensified for movement. Those images had infuriated many MPs, who likened them to a meeting of mafia bosses, labelling the meeting grotesque, student politics and amateur hour. Some even thought they might even buy more time for Ley. Advertisement But the next Newspoll would become pivotal. On Sunday night, it showed One Nation up five points to 27 per cent and the Coalition down three percentage points at 18 per cent. Taylor did not move immediately. He delayed declaring until late Wednesday, prompting internal jokes about a TACO spill a reference to the Trump Always Chickens Out insults circulating in US politics. The hesitation reflected his concern that Ley might call a snap spill the moment he declared, catching him before every commitment was secured. In recent weeks, McGrath, Ruston, Hawke and leading moderate figure Andrew Bragg had all attempted to convince right-wing MPs to give Ley a few more months. The need to give her a budget reply speech became a narrative. In these whispered talks, Leys supporters suggested they could convince Ley to stand down sometime after the May budget if she was unable to lift the partys standing in the polls. But the overtures went nowhere. Members of the conservative grouping felt the case for change was too urgent to wait. Hawkes suggestions were not believed by his right-wing enemies. Advertisement When Taylor eventually walked to Leys office just after 7pm on Wednesday, he found the door locked. Security guards were closing up for the night. Ley and her senior staff were minutes from leaving for an evening engagement. The pair spoke in her suite for just three minutes before Taylor left and publicly announced he would quit the frontbench. The next morning, he moved. NSW senator Jess Collins and Queensland MP Phil Thompson wrote to the whip the next day, demanding a party room meeting. Sussan Ley has said she will resign from her seat of Farrar, and will step away from public life. Alex Ellinghausen Shadow treasurer under Peter Duttons leadership, Taylor had narrowly lost the previous leadership ballot, 29-25, and waited as defence spokesman while polls weakened Leys standing. Events had forced him to launch earlier than he had planned. I am running to be the leader of the Liberal Party because I believe that Australia is worth fighting for, he said in a slick Instagram video. Advertisement On Friday morning, the party room met. Ley lost 34 votes to 17. Taylor had the leadership. The margin was emphatic. It formalised what had been obvious in the corridors days earlier. What weve been through over the last 10 or 11 months has been incredibly difficult, said Victorian MP Dan Tehan, who withdrew his support for Ley and ran unsuccessfully for deputy, on Friday. The feedback I was getting was that things did need to change and there was no criticism against Sussan and what shes done. Loading Advertisement The symbolism will linger. The Liberals have removed their first female leader after 276 days. But for MPs staring at polling that suggested erosion on multiple fronts to Labor, to the teals, to One Nation symbolism proved secondary. Were at a critical juncture right now. Sussan Ley has been a diligent, hard-working servant to our party and to the country, but unfortunately, were simply not cutting through now, Senator Jane Hume, who won a ballot for deputy leader, told reporters. Related Article Updated Political leadership Change or die: Taylor puts forward new vision as Ley lobs byelection bomb on way out Taylors win on Friday morning was decisive and hands him a mandate larger than many predicted. However, the party room remains fractured, and the coup has left scars. A supporter of Ley suggests that Taylor has little time to prove his mettle and begin reviving the Liberal Partys fortunes in the polls rather than just getting a short sugar hit from the change of leader or supporters of his conservative rival, Hastie, will come knocking. Advertisement He will need to hit the ground running, said the MP, who asked not to be named so they could speak freely. I think he has six months. Angus first gift to the party could be handing Farrer [Leys seat] to an independent at a byelection. Taylor inherits the numbers and the warning: 50,000 voters a week; 7000 a day. The arithmetic that felled his predecessor will not spare him if it continues. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter. Advertisement Perspective PoliticsQueenslandQueensland government Abortion, again, threatens to bring Crisafullis careful plan unstuck Matt Dennien February 14, 2026 10:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Coming into the second calendar year of their first term in government in more than a decade, the LNP has been ticking off much of what it came to power promising to do. Premier David Crisafulli and his team are now well into a thornier patch of events over which they have little or no control or find themselves backed into a corner. And not just any events: these are ones that pick at the ideological and pragmatic stitching holding together its party room members and their promises to Queenslanders. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli is again facing questions about the kind of ideological issues he has sought to avoid and, so far, largely succeeded keeping the right wing of his party from publicly steering into. Sam Mooy One, a response to the Bondi massacre, tore their federal Coalition apart. Another abortion has delivered the first public rupture in the facade of unity since the state election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A major anti-abortion lobby group then fired up its own social media channels to put the spotlight on similar claims said to have been made privately by some of Daltons party room colleagues. Related Article Exclusive David Crisafulli The advice Crisafulli ignored on his way to forming government While Labor jumped on this as more evidence of barely papered-over LNP desires to unwind the states recent abortion reforms within Crisafullis ranks, this came in a parliamentary week parallel to CFMEU inquiry evidence of former minister Mark Baileys directions around talks with the union. Asked in question time on Thursday about Oodgeroo MP Amanda Stokers reported statements on abortion, Crisafulli fired up through a series of interjections to accuse Labor of trying to run a scare campaign again. Later, amid more interjections, Crisafulli called out Opposition Leader Steven Miles for not holding a media conference while the inquiry was running this week and not even going out to face the music as to what is going on in his own backyard. Advertisement At the centre of the abortion debate issue, though, is Robbie Katter, the Traeger MP and eponymous party leader who provided a heaping of the election campaign pressure on the LNP and has made little effort to hide his anger at the partys campaign tactics then and in the recent byelection loss. Katter provided the fuel for Daltons rebellion in his motion which, while failing to lift the ban on abortion law debate in parliament, succeeded in reigniting broader public debate about the issue. In light of that, you can expect it wont be the last Katter effort to poke at the LNPs fault lines. And One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, currently riding the shine rubbing off from the federal Coalition, is joining in. Polls suggest One Nations rise is not yet playing out at a state level. But they have shown falling support for Crisafulli and his party. At some stage, carefully kept plans may need to be altered. Advertisement Alternatively, further events might force them to be. Heads up While the states corruption watchdog did not get a chance to air its concerns and suggestions around governments unpicking of a developer donation ban and quadrupling of the donation cap at a public hearing last month, its boss is likely to face MPs at a regular parliamentary appearance on Tuesday. Its due to be a busy week for committees, with at least one hearing also scheduled for MPs to probe gun control and antisemitism laws set for Thursday. Catch up This week, parliament also passed the governments bill to give the option of electronic monitoring for youth offenders as young as 10, with Labor even lobbing a bill this week to introduce a daily five cent cap on fuel price increases (the LNP opposition didnt introduce its first in the last term until three years in). Meanwhile, the Child Safety inquiry has agreed to shave six months off its November deadline to give the government suggestions to fix the broken system it can feed into its budget deliberations. Labor has accused minister Amanda Camm of prematurely cutting off the probe before it could look at a troubled IT system rollout. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement Analysis WorldNorth AmericaForeign relations Rubio gives Europe a Valentines bouquet, but the roses still have thorns Michael Koziol February 15, 2026 5:58am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A What a difference a year makes. Or does it? Twelve months ago, US Vice President JD Vance stormed into the Munich Security Conference, warning Europe that it was destroying democracy with its restrictions on free speech, censorship of social media and embrace of unvetted immigrants who didnt share its way of life. US Vice President JD Vance shocked Europe with an abrasive speech in February 2025. Getty Images His dark speech, just weeks after his ascension to power, alarmed his European audience and put them on notice that under President Donald Trump, there is a new sheriff in town. This year, the messenger was different Secretary of State Marco Rubio and so was the rhetoric. The United States and Europe, we belong together, Rubio said. Ultimately, our destiny is, and will always be, intertwined with yours. We know that the fate of Europe will never be irrelevant to our own. Advertisement Rubio directly repudiated what he said were headlines suggesting that the US sought to end the trans-Atlantic alliance. This is neither our goal nor our wish, he said. For us Americans, our home may be in the Western Hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe. MSC chairman Wolfgang Ischinger, a former German ambassador to Europe, told Rubio there was an audible sigh of relief running through the room during his speech, characterising it as a message of reassurance. Wolfgang Ischinger, a former German ambassador to the US, proclaimed a sigh of relief across Europe after Rubios speech. AP That might be a case of hearing what you want to hear. Rubios language may have been more conciliatory than Vances, but he hit upon much the same themes and priorities. Advertisement If Americans could sometimes seem a little direct and urgent in our counsel, Rubio said, it was only because they were so profoundly concerned about Europes direction. Most pressing was the scourge of mass migration, which was not a fringe concern of little consequence but a crisis which is destabilising societies all across the West. We belong together: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed the Munich Security Conference. AP Controlling migration was not hateful or xenophobic, Rubio said. Rather, the failure to do is not just an abdication of one of our most basic duties owed to our people, it is an urgent threat to the fabric of our societies and the survival of our civilisation itself. It was not dissimilar to what we heard from Opposition Leader Angus Taylor in his first pitch to the Australian public on Friday, vowing to shut the door to migrants who hate our way of life. Advertisement Rubio was scathing about what he described as a Western civilisation that was racked by guilt and shame, rather than being proud of its history, ancestry, language, Christian faith and shared sacrifices. The West was also too fearful, he said: fearful of war, fearful of technology and fearful of climate change which he described as a cult, echoing the language of his boss. The so-called rules-based global order, which prioritises a set of international laws and norms above the use of raw power, was an overused term, Rubio said. The notion of a world without borders, where everybody was a global citizen, was a foolish idea [that] has cost us dearly. And the notion of free and unfettered trade was a delusion that had been exploited by the Wests adversaries. Where Rubio differed slightly from Trump and Vance was the extent to which he conceded the same errors had been made by the United States. We made these mistakes together, he said. And now together we owe it to our people to face those facts, to move forward and to rebuild. Advertisement Rubios remarks came hot on the heels of arguably the most consequential recent speech on the world stage Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carneys declaration at Davos last month that there had been a rupture in the world order, and that middle powers like Canada or Australia had to forge a new path. Related Article Analysis World politics A rupture, not a transition: The Davos bombshell that Australia cant ignore Although Carney didnt mention Trump by name, he was clearly taking aim at the US presidents upheaval of global norms and institutions. Rubio said those old institutions did not need to be dismantled, but they needed to be reformed and rebuilt. He pointed to the impotency of the United Nations, arguing it played virtually no role in forging the ceasefire in Gaza, pursuing peace between Russia and Ukraine, constraining Irans nuclear ambitions or ending the tyranny of Venezuelas Nicolas Maduro all of which were led by the US. In a perfect world, all of these problems would be solved by diplomats and strongly worded resolutions. But we do not live in a perfect world, Rubio said. Advertisement One might quibble with how the US has gone about its actions especially its handling of Russia and Vladimir Putin but Rubio has a point when he says Washington is the one horse thats always trying. Related Article Analysis World politics The new world disorder where might is right Appearing on a later panel in Munich, Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles was asked about the apparent death throes of the rules-based world order. He said it was never the case that rules, and the enforcement of them, could be separated from pure power. But he seized on Rubios remarks as a happy middle ground. What Secretary Rubio said today was that there is an order which we should not be removing repairing, but not removing and I think it is well to remember that, Marles said. We should not easily cede the idea of what rules can do. Advertisement Neither Europe nor the rest of the world should think they are off the hook. Rubio speaks with more diplomatic grace than Vance, but the substance is the same. He may have handed Europe a Valentines Day bouquet, but the roses were still full of thorns. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter. Thomson Reuters Corporation (NYSE:TRI) is one of the best foreign stocks to buy right now. On February 10, RBC Capital analyst Drew McReynolds upgraded Thomson Reuters Corporation (NYSE:TRI) from Sector Perform to Outperform. He also kept the $126 price target unchanged. Thomson Reuters (TRI) Delivers Growth, Earns Analyst Upgrade According to the analyst, the upgrade is related to the stocks sharp drop in the previous week, which was triggered by a broad selloff in software and services stocks. This was partly due to Anthropics launch of a legal plug-in for its Claude AI tool on January 30, 2026, which raised fears of disruption in legal services, said McReynolds. McReynolds views Thomson Reuters pullback from the slump as creating an asymmetric set-up now to the upside. However, he acknowledged more complex total addressable market and market share equations for Thomson Reuters with agentic AI. Key to McReynoldss optimism is AIs role, particularly agentic AI, which could change how legal and tax services work. This could lead to a higher potential growth ceiling over the next several years but also a wider range of outcomes, noted McReynolds. The analyst highlighted Thomson Reuters current valuation at about 12.5 times forward EV/EBITDA as better reflecting both the opportunities and risks tied to AI. He added that potential catalysts include the company separating itself from the broader AI disruption narrative, and continued expansion of the market for legal and tax services. Thomson Reuters Corporation (NYSE:TRI) is a Canadian company that provides news, information, and technology solutions to professionals in legal, tax, accounting, compliance, and media industries worldwide. Its flagship platforms, such as Westlaw and Reuters News, are widely used by corporations, governments, and institutions to access critical data and insights. While we acknowledge the potential of TRI as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 11 Best AI Penny Stocks to Buy Right Now and 13 Best Affordable Tech Stocks to Buy Right Now. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. N. Korea's Kim praises bravery of soldiers fighting for Russia Seoul, Feb 13 (AFP) Feb 13, 2026 North Korean leader Kim Jong Un paid tribute to the "matchless bravery" of his country's soldiers fighting in Russia's war with Ukraine as he visited a memorial being built to those killed in the conflict, state media reported Saturday. "The matchless bravery and mass heroism displayed by soldiers of the Korean People's Army, involved in the overseas military operations, must be imposingly etched in history as a banner of invincibility," Kim said on Friday as he inspected the site, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported. Russia's ambassador to North Korea attended a groundbreaking ceremony of the so-called Memorial Museum of Combat Feats in October, with Kim at the time hailing a "historic peak" in ties with Moscow. The KCNA report on Saturday did not mention Russia. Earlier this week, however, Kim pledged to "unconditionally support" all of Russian President Vladimir Putin's policies and decisions, in a letter shared by KCNA. North Korea, one of the world's most diplomatically isolated nations, has deepened ties with Moscow since it invaded Ukraine in February 2022. It has dispatched thousands of troops to fight for Russia, according to South Korean and Western intelligence agencies, as Moscow presses ahead with its nearly four-year invasion of Ukraine. At least 600 North Korean soldiers have been killed and thousands more wounded, according to estimates from South Korea. In addition to sending troops to fight for Russia, Pyongyang has sent artillery shells, missiles and long-range rocket systems. In return, Russia is sending North Korea financial aid, military technology and food and energy supplies, analysts have said. UK's Starmer urges 'sleeping giant' Europe to curb dependence on US Munich, Germany, Feb 13 (AFP) Feb 13, 2026 British leader Keir Starmer will tell the Munich Security Conference that Europe is "a sleeping giant" and must rely less on the United States for its defence, his office said Friday. In a speech on Saturday at the summit, the UK prime minister will argue that the continent must shift from overdependence on the United States towards a more European NATO. "I'm talking about a vision of European security and greater European autonomy that does not herald US withdrawal but answers the call for more burden sharing in full and remakes the ties that have served us so well," Starmer is expected to say. The gathering comes as European leaders remain concerned that a United States led by President Donald Trump can no longer be relied upon to be the guarantor of their security. Since returning to the White House last year, Trump has frequently criticised European countries for not sharing enough of the burden on common defence, and raised questions about the future of NATO. European members of the transatlantic military alliance are rushing to build up their defences in the face of an increasingly belligerent Moscow, whose war in Ukraine is set to enter its fifth year this month. "As I see it -- Europe is a sleeping giant. Our economies dwarf Russia's, 10 times over," Starmer will tell allies, according to excerpts released ahead of his address. "We have huge defence capabilities. Yet, too often, all of this has added up to less than the sum of its parts," he was to say, citing fragmented planning and procurement problems. Late last year, talks on Britain joining the bloc's new 150-billion-euro (pound130 billion) rearmament fund broke down, reportedly because London baulked at the price for entry. Downing Street said Starmer would use his speech to call for closer UK-EU defence cooperation. "There is no British security without Europe, and no European security without Britain. That is the lesson of history -- and it is today's reality too," Starmer was to say. The UK government announced on Friday that Britain will spend more than pound400 million this financial year on hypersonic and long-range weapons, including through joint projects with France, Germany and Italy. Starmer, whose centre-left Labour party is being squeezed on opposite ends of the political spectrum by the anti-immigrant Reform UK group and the more leftwing Greens, was to say leaders "must level with the public" about the defence costs they face. He was due to hit out at "peddlers of easy answers on the extreme left and the extreme right", according to the excerpts. "The future they offer is one of division and then capitulation. The lamps would go out across Europe once again. But we will not let that happen", Starmer was expected to say. China FM tells EU diplomats not to blame Beijing for bloc's problems Beijing, Feb 14 (AFP) Feb 14, 2026 China's foreign minister told his French and German counterparts that Beijing was not to blame for Europe's economic and security problems as he pushed for more cooperation at a summit in Munich, a foreign ministry statement said Saturday. Wang Yi made the comments at a meeting with France's Jean-Noel Barrot and Germany's Johann Wadephul on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference on Friday. He sought to promote China as a reliable partner of the European Union at a time when the bloc is trying to reduce its dependence on both Beijing and an increasingly unpredictable Washington. "China's development is an opportunity for Europe, and Europe's challenges do not come from China," Wang said, according to the statement. Warning that "unilateralism, protectionism, and power politics" were on the rise globally, he said he hoped Europe would "pursue a rational and pragmatic policy towards China". "The two sides are partners, not adversaries; interdependence is not a risk; intertwined interests are not a threat; and open cooperation will not harm security." The meeting came against the backdrop of trade tensions between the two giant economies and disputes over what the EU sees as China's support for Russia's war in Ukraine. The EU is seeking to cut its reliance on China for strategic goods like rare earths while also rebalancing a trade relationship that sees it run a large deficit with the world's second-largest economy. In recent years, the two sides have clashed over Chinese electric-vehicle exports, which threaten Europe's car industry and which Brussels argues are based on unfair subsidies, and Chinese tariffs on EU goods ranging from cheese to cognac. Wang urged Germany and France to help "give a clear direction for the development of China-Europe relations". In a separate meeting with Wadephul -- also on Friday -- Wang touted economic and trade cooperation as "the cornerstone of China-Germany ties", according to a foreign ministry readout. Wang also met Britain's foreign minister Yvette Cooper, telling her that Beijing and London should "explore more potential for cooperation", while the two sides also discussed Ukraine and Iran. Swiss say Oman to host US-Iran talks in Geneva next week Geneva, Feb 14 (AFP) Feb 14, 2026 Switzerland said Saturday that Oman would host talks between the United States and Iran in Geneva next week, with Washington pushing Tehran to make a deal to limit its nuclear programme. "Switzerland stands ready at all times to offer its good offices to facilitate dialogue between the United States and Iran," a Swiss foreign ministry spokesman told AFP. On February 6, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held talks in Oman with US envoy Steve Witkoff and US President Donald Trump's influential son-in-law Jared Kushner. The talks were indirect, with the Omanis acting as mediators. Trump has recently focused his military threats on Tehran's nuclear programme, which US forces struck last July during Israel's unprecedented 12-day war with Iran. Trump said Friday that a change of government in Iran would be the "best thing that could happen", as he sent a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, ratcheting up military pressure on the Islamic republic. - Go-between - Switzerland has played a key role in diplomatic relations between Iran and the United States for decades. Renowned for its neutrality, Switzerland has been representing US interests in Iran since Washington broke off relations with Tehran after the 1980 hostage crisis, a year after the Iranian revolution. In its role as the so-called protecting power, Switzerland has for decades allowed the two feuding nations to maintain a minimum of diplomatic and consular relations. The Swiss embassy in Tehran handles all consular affairs between the United States and Iran, including passport requests, altering civil status and consular protection for US citizens in Iran. Under the protecting power mandate, "Switzerland can either offer to act as a go-between on its own initiative or can fulfil this function at the request of the parties concerned, provided that all those involved agree," the foreign ministry says on its website. The United States will be holding separate talks, also in Geneva next week, between Russia and Ukraine. Moscow and Kyiv will hold US-brokered talks on Tuesday and Wednesday in the Swiss city, both countries have said, announcing the next leg in fraught negotiations seeking to end the four-year war. Trump is pushing to halt the conflict, but two previous rounds of US-mediated talks in Abu Dhabi have not yielded signs of a breakthrough. US and Europe agree on one thing: Europe must get stronger Munich, Germany, Feb 14 (AFP) Feb 14, 2026 While their visions of the world may differ starkly, US and European leaders gathered in Munich agreed on one thing: Europe needs to take the lead on its own defence. Getting there though is going to be a tough slog. After decades of depending on the United States for its security, officials on both sides of the Atlantic say Europe should no longer be so reliant on Washington. "We want Europe to be strong," US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told the Munich Security Conference on Saturday. That message appeared to chime with those delivered by leaders including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron. "Europe needs to step up and has to take on its responsibility," said EU chief Ursula von der Leyen. Beneath the surface the reasoning was different. Washington argues allies have to stop taking advantage of US largesse and take over Europe's conventional defences so it can focus on other threats like China. But for European leaders, worries over US President Donald Trump have driven the latest sense of urgency. As the continent grapples with the menace of Russia four years into the Ukraine war, Trump rocked NATO by making claims on Greenland. That plunged the alliance into its deepest crisis in years and compounded the sense that the United States cannot be counted on. Last year, under pressure from the mercurial US leader, allies already promised to ramp up their defence budgets over the next decade. But making the pledges is just the first step -- now Europe has to turn them into the cash, weapons and troops to defend itself. "It's not going to be easy. It's not going to be cheap," said US ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker. "We're in for a decade of really hard work." - 'Shift of mindset' - NATO chief Mark Rutte insisted that there had been a "real shift in mindset" among European members of the alliance. Military expenditure has risen since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022 -- with economic powerhouse Germany making notable strides. But Rutte said his priorities were to maintain pressure for all of Europe to make good on its spending pledge and to ensure industry was able to produce all the weaponry needed. "We have to keep total focus on this," Rutte told journalists. The defence minister of Estonia Hanno Pevkur -- whose country has taken a lead on defence spending in the face of neighbouring Russia -- agreed. "We have the challenge still to increase defence budgets in many, many countries," Pevkur told AFP. "We have the challenge how the industry can cope with that money." Finding the troops to fill the ranks was also a concern. "For the countries who don't have conscription, there is definitely a debate, should we have a conscription? Should we build up reserves?," he said. As worries swirl over the US reliability on one side and the menace from Russia on the other -- some warned that even hitting NATO's new targets might prove insufficient. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said her country already reaches NATO's requirement of 3.5 percent of GDP on defence. She said others needed to step up well before the deadline set of 2035 -- and even then more could be needed. "I'm not sure it will be enough," she said. Syria FM says talks with Israel exclude broader Golan Heights issue Munich, Germany, Feb 14 (AFP) Feb 14, 2026 Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said on Saturday that negotiations on a security deal with Israel were focused on areas Israel has recently occupied and excluded the broader issue of the Golan Heights. Since the December 8, 2024 overthrow of Syria's longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad, Israel has sent troops into a UN-patrolled buffer zone that separated Israeli and Syrian forces on the Golan Heights. Israel captured most of the plateau from Syria in the 1967 Arab-Israeli War and later annexed the areas under its control, in a move not recognised by most of the international community. Israel and Syria's new authorities have held several rounds of direct talks in recent months, and after negotiations in January -- and under US pressure -- they agreed to establish an intelligence-sharing mechanism as they edged towards a security agreement. When asked at the Munich Security Conference about the scope of the talks with Israel, Shaibani said discussions were on "the withdrawal of Israel" from Syrian territory occupied after Assad's ousting, "not from the Golan Heights, and this is another issue". To reach a security deal, Israel should "respect the security of Syria and withdraw from these territories" recently occupied, he added. "These negotiations will certainly not lead to forcing an acceptance of the fait accompli imposed by Israel in southern Syria," he said. "The end of these negotiations will be the withdrawal of Israel from the areas where it advanced" since December 2024, and with Israel refraining from "interfering in Syria's internal affairs" and sovereignty, Shaibani added. Israel, which has demanded a demilitarised zone in southern Syria, has also launched hundreds of strikes on its neighbour and has carried out regular incursions. Shaibani on Friday met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Munich and discussed a recent agreement between Damascus and the Kurds. Mazloum Abdi, chief of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), was also in attendance. Syria's government and the Kurds last month signed an agreement to gradually integrate Kurdish forces and institutions into the state, after the SDF ceded territory to advancing government troops. Shaibani told the Munich conference that the Rubio meeting involving Abdi "confirms the new mindset Syria is adopting today". "We do not view our national partners as enemies," he said, adding that the country's national identity is "completed by Syria's diversity". The US military said on Friday it had completed the transfer of thousands of Islamic State group suspects, including many Syrians, to Iraq, after they were held in Kurdish-run prisons in northeast Syria for years. Shaibani said Damascus was "prepared in future to take back" Syrian detainees "to ease the burden on Iraq". CORRECTED: Swiss say Oman to host US-Iran talks in Geneva next week Geneva, Feb 14 (AFP) Feb 14, 2026 Switzerland said Saturday that Oman would host talks between the United States and Iran in Geneva next week, with Washington pushing Tehran to make a deal to limit its nuclear programme. "Switzerland stands ready at all times to offer its good offices to facilitate dialogue between the United States and Iran," a Swiss foreign ministry spokesman told AFP. On February 6, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held talks in Oman with US envoy Steve Witkoff and US President Donald Trump's influential son-in-law Jared Kushner. The talks were indirect, with the Omanis acting as mediators. Trump has recently focused his military threats on Tehran's nuclear programme, which US forces struck last June during Israel's unprecedented 12-day war with Iran. Trump said Friday that a change of government in Iran would be the "best thing that could happen", as he sent a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, ratcheting up military pressure on the Islamic republic. - Go-between - Switzerland has played a key role in diplomatic relations between Iran and the United States for decades. Renowned for its neutrality, Switzerland has been representing US interests in Iran since Washington broke off relations with Tehran after the 1980 hostage crisis, a year after the Iranian revolution. In its role as the so-called protecting power, Switzerland has for decades allowed the two feuding nations to maintain a minimum of diplomatic and consular relations. The Swiss embassy in Tehran handles all consular affairs between the United States and Iran, including passport requests, altering civil status and consular protection for US citizens in Iran. Under the protecting power mandate, "Switzerland can either offer to act as a go-between on its own initiative or can fulfil this function at the request of the parties concerned, provided that all those involved agree," the foreign ministry says on its website. The United States will be holding separate talks, also in Geneva next week, between Russia and Ukraine. Moscow and Kyiv will hold US-brokered talks on Tuesday and Wednesday in the Swiss city, both countries have said, announcing the next leg in fraught negotiations seeking to end the four-year war. Trump is pushing to halt the conflict, but two previous rounds of US-mediated talks in Abu Dhabi have not yielded signs of a breakthrough. Girl Taken, an accomplished show based on Hollie Overtons novel Baby Doll, is an essential watch but not an easy one. It tells the story of twins Lily and Abby (played by real-life London sisters Tallulah and Delphi Evans), who are on the verge of leaving school when Lily is abducted by her English teacher (a chilling Alfie Allen). Held in the basement of his writing retreat in the woods for a very long time, Lily has to draw upon all her mental and physical reserves to survive and escape a harrowing experience powerfully delivered in a breakthrough performance by Tallulah. Allow Google Search To use the search feature, we need your consent to load Google Custom Search, which may use cookies or similar technologies. Please click 'Allow and Continue' below to enable search. See our privacy policy for more information. Allow and Continue 2026 started with a bang! for defense investors. The month of January saw the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency -- or DSCA, the Pentagon's personal international arms dealer -- submit no fewer than 11 separate arms deals to Congress for approval, totaling $22.5 billion in combined value. Denmark is buying Hellfire missiles from Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT). Israel is ordering helicopters from Leonardo USA. Spain requires assistance from multiple U.S. defense companies to upgrade its fleet of F-100 frigates -- and these are among the smaller arms deals in the works. Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue Among the larger awards handed out... Image source: Getty Images. $9 billion for Lockheed in Saudi Arabia Arguably, the biggest beneficiary of the flurry of early 2026 arms deals is defense giant Lockheed Martin, the world's largest pure-play defense contractor. On Jan. 30, DSCA notified Congress of a planned sale of 730 PATRIOT Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (PAC-3 MSE) missiles and related equipment to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In total, the contract should be worth $9 billion. While RTX Corporation is closely involved in PATRIOT, building the radar systems that enable it to shoot down hostile aircraft and missiles, Lockheed was named the sole principal contractor on this contract. $2.3 billion for Boeing in Singapore Ten days before that award, Boeing (NYSE: BA) notched a win when DSCA told Congress that the nation of Singapore wants to buy four P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft and arm them with eight MK 54 Lightweight Torpedoes. The aircraft presumably make up the majority of the $2.3 billion value of this contract, meaning Boeing should win the bulk of that money. RTX makes the MK 54, but in this particular case, DSCA says it will supply Singapore with torpedoes from Pentagon stockpiles -- meaning no extra revenue for RTX on this contract, either. $3.8 billion for Boeing and Lockheed in Israel The other really big contract last month went to Boeing and Lockheed, both of which are named principal contractors. For $3.8 billion, Israel will be ordering up 30 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters -- plus "related equipment." Boeing builds the birds themselves, while Lockheed and its partner Northrop Grumman provide the Longbow Fire Control Radars that help the Apaches shoot straight (and are also part of Israel's order). Writing in The Independent, former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: Many are viewing the scandal through the narrow lens of whether Starmer should stay or go. This misses the point: most of those who are lined up to replace him are likely to carry forward the abject political legacy he leaves behind. In an apparent attempt to address these concerns, Sir Keir said during his speech: I can announce today that the UK will deploy our carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and the High North this year, led by HMS Prince of Wales, operating alongside the US, Canada and other Nato allies in a powerful show of our commitment to Euro-Atlantic security. And thats a very good place to be, and my party and my government is completely united on the question of Ukraine and defence and security and the need for stronger relations with Europe on defence, on security and on economy as well. One said: I think what there may be more a soft corruption... Maybe there is something about feeling some kind of affinity or empathy with a perpetrator Its very awkward to deal with a colleague, particularly for domestic abuse. SpaceXs city of Starbase outside of Brownsville wants to grow its footprint by more than 7,000 acres. Christopher Lee/San Antonio Express-News file photo New palm trees are seen along a street in Starbase, the SpaceX company town in South Texas. Its considering annexing land that would triple its area. Christopher Lee/San Antonio Express-News file photo A for sale sign depicting a rocket is seen in early 2025 at a property along Boca Chica Boulevard near Starbase. Christopher Lee/San Antonio Express-News file photo SpaceXs South Texas rocket city wants to triple its territory by annexing more than 7,100 acres of land from federal, state and private owners, much of which falls within the boundaries of a national wildlife refuge. The Starbase City Commission will consider adding the acreage as well as expanding its jurisdiction across another 36 acres during a meeting Wednesday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad An analysis of the more than 800 properties Starbase wants to bring into its territory shows they include about 3,700 acres of federally owned land, about 1,000 acres of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department property and about 2,400 acres belonging to private or corporate owners, including SpaceX and shell companies associated with it. Much of the proposed annexation would pull in land that's now in the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge, which surrounds Elon Musks space city. Not all the land in the refuge is protected from development. The land in the annexation proposal appears to be separate from the 775 acres of refuge land that the Trump administration is considering handing over to SpaceX in exchange for company-owned acreage. Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source Advertisement Article continues below this ad Neither SpaceX nor Starbase have commented on plans for the acreage or how it would affect public access to the public lands. Since incorporating in May, the city of Starbase has steadily added to its original 1.5-square-mile, 940-acre footprint by gobbling up land from its parent SpaceX and other landowners. Current estimates indicate the town encompasses about 1,100 acres. It also controls more than 1,250 acres of wetlands its responsible for preserving. According to a meeting agenda published Friday, city officials will consider a resolution to annex the 7,133 acres listed in a 29-page attachment. Theyll determine which public services would be made available to the properties and when. They also will set the timing for public notices, a petition and hearing about the proposal. In addition to the annexation proposal, the commission will consider two separate expansions to the citys jurisdiction that would include more than 36 acres outside of Starbases current territory. Those proposals also would require a public hearing, according to city documents. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The U.S. Fish and Wildlife service said in a statement that its evaluating Starbases proposal to annex abutting lands to expand its boundaries and incorporate adjacent unincorporated areas, and that if approved, the move would not change the ownership or management of National Wildlife Refuge System lands. A spokeswoman for the state parks department said the annexation does not involve any change in land or property ownership and has no anticipated impact to (park) operations. Before this deal, the citys largest land acquisition was a tract of 1,257 acres in the wetlands northwest of the city to be preserved as a mitigation bank for credits to offset future development. It recently used some of those credits to offset the environmental impacts of a 21-acre expansion to the Starship launch site near Boca Chica Beach. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In August, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department approved the sale of 1.9 acres of state park land within the citys boundaries despite heavy public criticism. The department, which owns much of the land around Starbase as part of Boca Chica State Park, has largely been quiet since a proposed land swap between it and SpaceX fell apart in 2024. The agency had approved a plan to give Musks company 43 acres of state land in exchange for 477 acres near the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, about 10 miles to the northwest. After public outcry and a lawsuit, though, SpaceX backed out. Starbases growth, environmental impacts and limitations on Boca Chica Beach access have worried some locals and led to lawsuits from environmental groups. The state Supreme Court will have a public hearing on March 5 at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley in Edinburg on a case that is centered on whether the city, which is led by SpaceX employees, can periodically close Boca Chica Beach for Starship tests and launches. Attorneys for the South Texas Environmental Justice Network argued that the Legislature and state officials have allowed SpaceX to use Boca Chica Beach as its private blast zone. Advertisement Article continues below this ad They say SpaceXs current footprint is too small for the worlds most powerful rocket. By comparison, Kennedy Space Center in Florida spans 144,000 acres; Vandenberg Space Force Base in California encompasses 99,604 acres; and SpaceXs engine test site in McGregor has 4,300 acres. Earlier this month, SpaceX began a 21-acre expansion that will double the size of the Starship launch site at Starbase. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The work comes as the company ramps up to launch and land as many as 25 of the mega-rockets a year from the site. Its trying to meet timelines under NASA contracts for Artemis moon missions worth $4 billion. Construction is underway on a 4,000-seat live music venue at Riverside Drive and Crossing Place, part of the larger River Park mixed-use development on Jan. 20. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman For years, rapid growth has been reshaping neighborhoods across Austin, the continuing transformation marked by cranes dotting the skyline, road closures and steel rising across the metro area. Now, commuters along East Riverside Drive are navigating increasing development taking shape along a short stretch of the thoroughfares westbound lanes. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Heres a look at whats taking shape along the fast-evolving corridor. Perhaps most visible is the project at Riverside and Crossing Place, which will become a 4,000-seat live music and events venue. The 65,000-square-foot space will be operated by AEG Presents and is expected to open next year. Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source Were thrilled to bring a new venue to Austin, a city that lives and breathes live music, Robin Phillips, vice president of AEG Presents Southwest, said in a statement. Our mission is to bring something new to the city that both honors the legacy of Austin and feels completely unique. Whether its a headlining show from a national touring act or a local artists breakthrough moment, we want this space to feel like home for musicians and fans alike. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A rendering displays plans for River Park, a 109-acre development along East Riverside Drive, including the 4000-seat venue now under construction. Presidium Its part of whats known as Block D, the first phase of River Park, a 109-acre mixed-use project being developed by Austins Presidium and Switzerland-based global investment firm Partners Group. River Park is a mixed-use, transit-oriented development that brings together housing, retail, public space, and live music as part of a single, integrated vision, said Michael Piano, principal with Presidium. The master planned development drew fire when it was proposed, with some community activists and neighborhood groups concerned about displacement of existing business and residences in East and Southeast Austin. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In addition to the venue, plans for the initial phase of River Park call for housing, retail space, a hotel and publicly accessible open spaces. Once complete, the development is to feature more than 30 acres of parkland and green space including a signature park along Country Club Creek. The project is designed to connect directly to nearby trails and parks including the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail and Roy G. Guerrero Metro Park. Plans for the Grove Retail Center call for about 8,600 square feet of new retail space at 5900 E. Riverside Dr., with an estimated construction cost of $860,000. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Whats being built on Grove Street? Southeast of the River Park site, a retail project is also going up along East Riverside. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Plans for what will be known as the Grove Retail Center call for about 8,600 square feet of new store space at 5900 E. Riverside Drive, with an estimated construction cost of $860,000, according to a filing with Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The property is near the Ruiz Branch of the Austin Public Library, the former Tokyo Electron campus at 2400 Grove Blvd. which the city acquired in 2024 for $87 million and the future site of Grove Station, part of the Austin Light Rail project. The Austin Transit Partnership, which is designing the long-delayed light rail project as part of Project Connect, received a key approval from the Federal Transit Administration last month. A $67 million, mixed-use multifamily project at 1720 Lawrence St. in seen under construction along Vargas Road and East Riverside Drive on Jan. 20. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Riverside affordable housing Also coming to East Riverside is a multi-phase mixed-use multifamily development at East Riverside Drive and Vargas Road. Its being built by River City Capital Partners in partnership with the Housing Authority of the City of Austin. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The project is rising on 6.5 acres owned by the housing authority and developed under a 99-year ground lease. Plans call for 677 units across two phases, with half designated as income-restricted housing. Phase 1 will include 357 units, with the first ones expected in October 2027. Phase 2 will add another 320 units, with construction expected to complete sometime in 2030. Its a multi-phase development were proud to be building in partnership with the Housing Authority, said Rich Leisy, a partner at River City Capital Partners. It will bring a very high quality community at an affordable price point and meet an important need near the urban core of Austin. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Construction costs are estimated at $67 million, according to a state filing. Martin Berger kisses his bride Sonia Farina at their wedding in the Capitol rotunda on Valentines Day, February 14, 2025. We met in Austin so we thought it was appropriate to get married at the Capitol, Farina said. Valentines Day is perfect. Jay Janner/American-Statesman When is Valentine's Day? Valentines Day is always celebrated on Feb. 14. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In 2026, it lands on a Saturday, giving couples, friends and families more flexibility to mark the occasion. Fox 7 Austin meteorologist Adaleigh Rowe plays archery tag in Zilker Park on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, while filming a segment ahead of Valentines Day for the stations Good Day Austin weekend morning show. The segment featured Austin-based party rental company Freedom Fun USA. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman What is the history of Valentine's Day? Why do we celebrate? Valentines Day is named after Saint Valentine, though historians say there were multiple Christian martyrs with that name. Advertisement Article continues below this ad One popular legend claims Valentine was a priest who secretly married couples after Roman Emperor Claudius II banned marriage for soldiers. Another story credits him with sending the first valentine a letter signed From your Valentine before his execution. Some historians believe Feb. 14 was later chosen to align with Lupercalia, a pagan fertility festival held in mid-February. By the Middle Ages, people in France and England believed birds began mating around that time of year, reinforcing the connection to romance. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to Hallmark, the first American valentine was sent in 1849 by Esther Howland of Worcester, Mass., and Hallmark began producing the cards in 1916. Hallmark says approximately 145 million Valentines Day cards are exchanged on the holiday (not including those prepackaged valentines exchanged in elementary school classrooms). Victoria Hernandez and her boyfriend, Jeremy Clark, celebrate Valentines Day with a picnic on the great lawn in Austin's Zilker Park on Feb. 14. The Austin City Council is considering requiring all new commercial, industrial and office projects in Austin to pay a parkland fee. Jay Janner/American-Statesman Austin is the best Texas city for Valentine's Day If youre celebrating locally, youre in good company. Advertisement Article continues below this ad WalletHub ranked Austin the top city in Texas and the 12th-best in the country to celebrate Valentines Day in 2026. It's the second year in a row Austin topped Texas' V-day rankings. The study compared 100 of the nations largest cities based on budget considerations, available activities, gift accessibility and weather forecasts. The top cities in the U.S. were: San Francisco San Diego Las Vegas Atlanta Seattle Denver Pittsburgh Scottsdale, Ariz. Portland, Ore. Washington, D.C. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Other Texas cities on the top-100 list included: Houston (No. 23) Plano (No. 25) Dallas (No. 36) Fort Worth (No. 37) San Antonio (No. 43) El Paso (No. 74) Corpus Christi (No. 76) Arlington (No. 84) Lubbock (No. 87) Irving (No. 89) Laredo (No. 92) Garland (No. 93) How much do people spend on Valentines Day? WalletHub estimates the average person spends about $200 on Valentines Day. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The analysis compared 100 of the nations largest cities based on budget considerations, available activities, gift accessibility and weather forecasts. Garland and Plano ranked among the five cheapest cities for a three-course meal for two. Garland had the fewest florists per capita in the study and ranked near the bottom for chocolate shops, along with Laredo and Lubbock. Is Valentines Day a federal holiday in 2026? Is mail delivered on Valentines Day? No. Valentines Day is not a federal holiday in the United States. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Federal offices, banks, schools and post offices remain open on Feb. 14, and there are no changes to government services. While many businesses offer Valentines Day promotions or special events, the day is not officially recognized by the federal government. Is Valentines Day a holiday in other countries? In most countries, Valentines Day is not a public holiday, even though it is widely celebrated. Government offices, banks and schools typically remain open on Feb. 14 in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and most of Europe. The day is generally treated as a cultural or commercial celebration rather than an official holiday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Some countries observe Valentines Day differently or celebrate love on other dates. For example, Brazil celebrates Dia dos Namorados on June 12, while South Korea and Japan observe Valentines Day with unique gift-giving traditions spread across multiple dates. A 4,000-seat live music and events venue is seen under construction at River Park, a planned mixed-use development on East Riverside Drive in Austin, on Monday. The corridor is poised for a wave of new development, even as city planners look to minimize displacement. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman An old office space on the former Tokyo Electron campus in Southeast Austin was filled with presentation boards and leaflets on the final, chilly Saturday of January as residents funneled through to try to learn about the future of their neighborhood. Children got their faces painted and made arts and crafts while their parents attended listening sessions with city staff and visited with municipal planners. Residents picked up Koozies touting a light-rail train that might one day run down the main thoroughfare of the corridor they call home. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Rivercrest Apartments on East Riverside Drive in Austin on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Houses are under construction on East Riverside Drive in Austin, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman East Riverside Drive in Austin on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Urban East apartments rises behind a house on East Riverside Drive in Austin, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman A man cycles past a house and an empty lot on East Riverside Drive in Austin, on Feb. 9. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman East Riverside Drive in Austin on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman River Park, a mixed-use development, is under construction on East Riverside Drive in Austin, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman The former Tokyo Electron campus on Grove Boulevard near East Riverside Drive in Austin, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman East Riverside Drive in Austin on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Homes are seen under construction on East Riverside Drive in Austin on Feb. 9. Online brokerage Redfin reported this week that sellers outnumbered buyers in Austin by 124% in January, among the widest imbalances in the countrys largest metros. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Graffiti covers a closed business on East Riverside Drive in Austin on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman East Riverside Drive in Austin on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Construction is underway on a 4,000-seat live music venue at Riverside Drive and Crossing Place, part of the larger River Park mixed-use development on Jan. 20. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Plans for the Grove Retail Center call for about 8,600 square feet of new retail space at 5900 E. Riverside Dr., with an estimated construction cost of $860,000. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman A multi-family development is under construction on Vargas Road and East Riverside Drive onTuesday, Jan. 20, 2026. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman The former tech facility was a fitting venue for the city-sponsored open house focused on changes coming to the East Riverside corridor. The 125-acre campus at 2400 Grove Blvd., which the city acquired in 2024 for $87 million, represents a blank canvas for redevelopment in Southeast Austin. Austins East Riverside neighborhood, a historically low-income, largely Hispanic residential area, is rapidly evolving. Its main corridor East Riverside Drive between Interstate 35 and Texas 71 has seen significant growth and development in recent years. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source I think the last five years, what weve done in this ZIP code has been transformational, said Soud Twal, a real estate agent with Kuper Sothebys who represents listings in East Riverside. It looks night and day from what it did five years ago. Now, about a year out from the planned start of construction on the Austin Light Rail project, the neighborhood sits on the cusp of another major wave of redevelopment for better or worse. As the city of Austin prepares for that growth, leaders say they hope to limit displacement in one of the citys most vulnerable ZIP codes. City of Austin to revamp East Riverside plans A 4,000-seat live performance venue is under construction at River Park, a mixed-use development on East Riverside Drive in Austin, on Monday. The 65,000-square-foot facility will be operated by AEG Presents and is expected to open next year. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman City officials said the Jan. 31 open house was aimed at gathering feedback on a range of public initiatives expected to affect the corridor, including updates to the East Riverside master plans, redevelopment of the former tech campus, the light-rail line and affordable housing initiatives. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Officials view it as an opportunity but acknowledge its potential to fuel displacement. Among the citys primary efforts in the area is the East Riverside Corridor Planning Initiative, a project aimed at updating two documents intended to guide the area's future. Loading... Collectively, the East Riverside Vision Plan and Regulating Plan account for the citys approach to planning across the area. They were adopted in the early 2010s. But in 2024, City Council directed the planning department to align the plans with new equitable transit-oriented housing rules, said Ana Villarreal, a planner with the city of Austin who is leading the initiative. The update, she said, represents a shift in the citys priorities for the corridor and a renewed focus on minimizing gentrification and displacement of longtime residents. The city has 46 tools in its transit-oriented development policy toolkit, ranging from land use standards to workforce development strategies, which will be incorporated into the updated plans to ease growing pains, Villarreal said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad One of the main things is to make sure that we are updating the plans with an equity lens, making sure that equity is an actionable goal, Villarreal said. Development and growth can often lead to displacement pressures. But that could be challenging. From 2020 to 2025, 233 new single-family homes and duplexes were built in the nearby Riverside, Pleasant Valley and Montopolis neighborhoods, according to city permit data. In the same period, builders have added 55 multifamily apartment complexes. Twal said the explosion of redevelopment in the area since 2020 comes down to three things: Location, location, location. Advertisement Article continues below this ad You just cant beat being five minutes from downtown, five minutes from the river and the trails, 10 minutes to the airport, Twal said. The Crosstown apartments rise behind a house on East Riverside Drive in Austin on Monday. Since 2020, builders have added 55 multifamily apartment complexes in the East Riverside corridor. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman He explained that developers and homebuyers had not historically sought out properties in the neighborhood but that changed during the pandemic. As pricing and inventory became more scarce and went through the roof, developers saw it as an opportunity simply due to the proximity to downtown, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad That shift has led to housing that, in some cases, is out of reach for the vast majority of Austinites. Twal said one single-family home in the neighborhood is listed at $3 million. And the developments currently in the works are just the beginning. Austin Light Rail driving development Much of the anticipated change is a result of Project Connect the ambitious public transit initiative approved by voters in 2020 which, if everything goes according to plan, will bring a light-rail line down the middle of East Riverside Drive. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I think thats spearheading everything, without a doubt, Twal said. A timeline outlines key milestones for the Austin light rail project. Construction on the $7.1 billion system is expected to begin in 2027, with completion projected for 2033. Austin Transit Partnership Construction on the $7.1 billion train is expected to kick off in 2027, pending a $4 billion grant from the federal government, and wrap in 2033. And its expected to bring with it dense, transit-oriented development along its alignment. Some developers have already launched ambitious projects along the corridor, including River Park at East Riverside Drive and Crossing Place. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The development is set to include a 4,000-seat music venue currently under construction, 5,000 multifamily housing units, a hotel and retail space all within a 15-minute walk from the planned Pleasant Valley light rail station. River Park is envisioned as a long-term, mixed-use community that addresses several of Austins most pressing challenges housing supply, environmental resilience, and infrastructure through a coordinated, transit-oriented approach to development, Michael Piano, principal with Presidium, said in a statement. But when it was first announced, the project was not well-received by some residents, who argued that knocking down five existing apartment complexes to make room for the project could accelerate gentrification. The projects primary developer, Austin-based Presidium, plans to include up to 565 income-restricted affordable housing units, which Piano said are required by the East Riverside Corridor Regulating Plan. But critics say they will not replace what was lost and could still drive nearby rents upward. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Graffiti covers a closed business on East Riverside Drive in Austin on Monday. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Whatever was demolished was never replaced one-for-one, said Noe Elias, an organizer with Community Powered ATX and the Montopolis Neighborhood Association. So that totally changes the community. Elias said he does not believe that updating the citys master plans for the corridor will help prevent further displacement either. He said he views some of the policies they include, principally density bonus programs, as contributors to changes already underway. I honestly feel that this experiment, or whatever it is, just completely failed, he said. They promised that this was going to be the community vision, and weve seen this community completely destroyed. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Twal acknowledged that gentrification and displacement are real concerns in the neighborhood. Still, he is very bullish on its future and believes developers are doing the best they can to avoid overbuilding in order to keep prices down. You want to build a nice product that could sell at an affordable price for the average consumer to come in, Twal said. We dont necessarily want to push anybody out or put communities out. I think that developers are doing a good job recreating affordable housing developments, and incorporating that into the development of the ZIP code. For the citys part, the January open house was just one piece of ongoing engagement with the neighborhood. Planners have held focus groups and virtual town-halls, conducted surveys and recruited community ambassadors neighborhood leaders who can help get the word out about the planning initiative. And planners are looking to engage neighbors on what to do with the Tokyo Electron site, too. Located right next to the future Grove light-rail station, the existing buildings will be used for city operations. But theres not yet a plan for the vast swaths of land that surround them. Advertisement Article continues below this ad There are no real plans for what is to come, city spokesman Peter Partheymuller said. Were trying to figure out what the community needs, what the community can support and what they would like to see. Epstein died by suicide in 2019 after being charged with sex trafficking of minors. He is estimated to have abused at least 1,000 women and children over decades of secret operations, the Justice Department said. Lifetouch's statement clarified that Shutterfly wasn't acquired until after Epstein was placed in jail. Valued at a market cap of $14 billion, Brown-Forman Corporation (BF-B) is a family-controlled leader in the global spirits and wine industry. The Kentucky-based companys portfolio features iconic brands such as Jack Daniels, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester, and several Scotch, tequila, and liqueur labels. BF-Bs shares have significantly lagged behind the broader market over the past 52 weeks. Brown-Forman has surged marginally over this time frame, while the broader S&P 500 Index ($SPX) has rallied 12.9%. However, the stock has been on an impressive run, soaring 17.7% on a YTD basis, compared to SPXs marginal fall during the same time frame. More News from Barchart Zooming in further, BF-Bs underperformance looks even more pronounced when compared to the State Street Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Funds (XLP) 10.8% return over the past 52 weeks and 14.8% gain on a YTD basis. www.barchart.com On Jan. 14, Brown-Forman shares rose 2.7% after the company announced a national re-release of its highly sought-after Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked Bourbon, with investors focusing on the potential sales lift from the popular product. For the current fiscal year, ending in April 2026, analysts expect BF-Bs EPS to decline 9.2% year over year to $1.67. The companys earnings surprise history is mixed. It topped the Wall Street estimates in only one of the last four quarters while missing on the other three occasions. Among the 17 analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a Hold, which is based on three Strong Buy, nine Hold, one Moderate Sell, and four Strong Sell ratings. www.barchart.com On Jan. 20, BNP Paribas Exane downgraded the spirits and wine company to Underperform from Neutral and cut its price target to $24 from $31, signaling a more cautious view on the companys outlook. The stock currently trades above its mean price target of $30.06, and the Street-high target of $37.50 implies that the stock could soar by 22.3% from the prevailing levels. On the date of publication, Kritika Sarmah did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com Leander High School students stage a walk-out Feb. 4 for a student-planned End ICE protest. The pushback from state officials to such protests provides an excellent civics lesson for students in how fragile their freedoms are and how those in power can squash them, a reader says. Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman Hard lessons learned Advertisement Article continues below this ad So, what's next? Stationing the Texas National Guard at all the "blue city schools" to squash the right to peacefully dissent? Or, even worse, asking the Department of Homeland Security to send U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to observe these walkouts at schools? This is yet another example of those in charge manipulating the education system for their own benefit. However, if this sanction process happens, the governor and the Texas Education Agency are actually going to give our youth an excellent lesson in how insidiously easy their right to free speech can be taken away. It provides an excellent civics lesson for them in how fragile their freedoms are and how those in power can squash them. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It's a shame that American youth always seem to learn this lesson the hard way, like we did back in the '60s. Maybe those in the next generation will take this to heart and put in place measures to ensure and enshrine their freedoms again, or at least use their votes to make changes in leadership to ensure things like this don't happen. I have faith that their eyes and ears will convince them that this is not the path for the future that they want for themselves, or Texas, or America. Dale Ritzen, Austin Advertisement Article continues below this ad Paxton's two ironies Last year, Gov. Greg Abbott signed the DOCTOR Act, which waives the Texas medical residency requirement for foreign-born doctors already here in the U.S. such that they might start practicing sooner, particularly in rural areas. And 25 years ago, in the original spirit of that law, then-Gov. Rick Perry signed The Texas Dream Act, which permitted in-state tuition for Dreamers, which among other degree programs includes pre-med. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Next enter Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who was an important reason why a federal judge invalidated The Texas Dream Act last summer leaving Dreamers scrambling to try to finish their degrees with perhaps the loss of more than a few "home-grown" doctors in the process. The irony is Paxton legislating from his office. The irony continues with one beneficial law being abolished while another is left standing, for now at least. Stephen Shackelford, Austin Health care chaos Our country struggles with unaffordable prices for health insurance, cuts to Medicaid and out-sized costs for medicine. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Texans suffer additionally by refusing billions of dollars annually for Medicaid expansion. This predicament isnt necessary. We could provide Medicare for all. Imagine a scenario when: What is your insurance? isnt the receptionists first question for a prospective patient. When a doctor, rather than an insurance company, decides what is a covered procedure. When a 62-year-old doesnt wait until age 65 to seek treatment for a serious illness. When were not inundated with TV ads of idyllic scenes while listing the dangerous side effects of a drug. When 21.6 % of our neighbors dont lack insurance. When health care rather than profit is the primary goal. Providing health care for everyone wouldn't require creating a new bureaucracy. Medicare is a well-functioning established system. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Betsy Singleton, San Marcos A copy of the Ten Commandments is displayed in a classroom at Bagdad Elementary School in Leander. It is already against public school rules to lie, cheat, steal or use foul language. A reader asks what's the real reason for posting the Ten Commandments in schools? Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Politicians stepping in What concepts within the Ten Commandments do Texas politicians believe to be so inadequately taught at home, and at our local churches, that they need to be displayed in our public schools? Advertisement Article continues below this ad Is there an idolatry problem lurking in Texas public schools, or are these young children coveting their neighbors house or spouse, or neglecting to honor the Sabbath day, or committing murder (God forbid)? It is already against public school rules to lie, cheat, steal or use foul language. So what is the legitimate reason for doing this? It must be that our politicians have clear and convincing evidence that Texas parents and clergy have abjectly failed at instilling in their children the values present in the Ten Commandments. So based on the complete failure of Texas parents and clergy, politicians apparently see the public school system as our only real hope. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Bill Brink, Austin USAID not a waste Kudos to U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang for ordering Elon Musk, architect of Department of Government Efficiencys chaotic and unlawful dismantling of United States Agency for International Development (USAID), to be deposed. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Tragically, whatever happens in court can neither recreate USAID nor restore to life the estimated 600,000 people, mostly children, who have died resulting from the agencys wanton destruction. Trump claims that the shuttering of USAID serves the American people, and that foreign assistance is a waste of the taxpayers money. At less than 1% of the U.S. budget, foreign assistance is a bargain, not a waste. It promotes goodwill and stability in developing nations where China and Russian seek to undermine our influence. For the U.S. to regain our reputation as leader of the free world and global humanitarian outreach, Congress must claw back power of the purse from the rogue president and make robust foreign assistance a priority in the federal budget. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Claudia Morgan, Austin Demonstrators and lawmakers rally in February 2025 in Washington, D.C. against President Donald Trump's cuts to the federal government, including dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development. A reader says Congress must claw back power of the purse. J. Scott Applewhite/Associated Press Trump's involvement Why are there not screaming headlines about the Jeffrey Epstein files and President Donald Trump's involvement? Advertisement Article continues below this ad Instead, we see names of others such as Peter Attia and Kimbal Musk, Elon Musk's brother. Not to minimize the horror of this wide web of connections between the corrupt, powerful and wealthy participants in this sickening criminal perversion, but lording over all is Trump. Where is the outrage from Republicans in Congress to demand his impeachment? It's way past time to call out his crimes. He is desperately trying to revive false claims about the integrity of our elections. We must stand strong. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Vote and be sure all those you know who love justice and liberty do so as well. Elizabeth McVeety, Austin For the past 12 months, investors and consumers had settled into the idea of a K-shaped economy. Be it jobs or spending, the K-shape illustrated a growing divide between the fortunes of the wealthy and everyone else. Those at the top of the pile trended higher, while those already struggling pushed lower. But new analysis from Bank of America suggests the trajectory of middle-class consumers is now pulling away from those on the lower end of the income spectrum: These consumers arent doing as well as wealthy people, but their spending power isnt as diminished as that of poorer consumers. A look at BofAs data shows the shape is no longer a K. If were sticking with the alphabet theme, one might suggest an E is emerging. In a note published yesterday by six BofA economists, the group wrote that incomebased divergence in spending and wage growth persists, and we are concerned that a K shape is opening up between higher-income households and middle-income households, alongside the existing gap with lower-income households. More from Yahoo Scout How has wealth distribution changed since 2010? How are spending patterns diverging across income levels? What factors are helping consumers manage debt better? What does the emerging 'E-shaped economy' mean? Citing internal data, the group said that in January the spending growth between higher-income households and all others was at its largest since mid-2022, the height of the COVID-era spending boom. Year-on-year in January, higher-income consumers spending growth on credit and debit cards grew 2.5%. Lower-income households grew just 0.3%, while middle-income was relatively flat at 1%. A similar pattern is emerging in after-tax wage growth, with the gap between higher- and middle-income households at its largest in nearly five years, the BofA team added. While higher-income households wage growth was 3.7% YoY in January, a solid improvement from the 3.3% YoY in December, middle-income families wage growth saw only a marginal improvement, increasing to just under 1.6% YoY in January from over 1.5% in December. While talk of K-shaped economies has become more prevalent during a recent surge in the debate over affordability (and how recessionary the real economy feels, as opposed to growth in concentrated sectors like technology), echoes of a growing divide can be traced back over decades: The Fed began monitoring the distribution of household wealth in Q3 2010, and reported that total wealth equaled $60.76 trillion. Of that, the top 0.1% owned $6.53 trillion, and those in the top 99% to 99.9% percentiles owned $10.75 trillion. By contrast, the bottom 50% shared only $330 billion. Fast-forward to Q3 2025: The wealth of the bottom 50% has grown by 1,189% to $4.25 trillionthough still significantly behind the wealth held by the top 0.1% even some 15 years prior. The top 0.1% saw their wealth grow 281% to $24.89 trillion, nearly six times the wealth held by the bottom 50% combined. The clock is ticking for cryptocurrency legislation in Washington, and a key White House adviser is sounding the alarm. "Let's not let any moss grow here," urged Patrick Witt, executive director of the President's Council of Advisors for Digital Assets, on Yahoo Finance's Opening Bid. More from Yahoo Scout Why is the regulatory window rapidly closing for crypto? What is the Clarity Act's purpose for cryptocurrency regulation? What challenges face the Clarity Act in Congress? How does regulatory uncertainty impact major crypto companies? Witt warned the window for passing the critical Clarity Act is "rapidly closing" as the political calendar shifts focus toward upcoming midterms, which often consume all legislative oxygen on Capitol Hill. As the industry grapples with uncertainty and a volatile market, the prospect of clear regulatory guidelines hangs in the balance, threatening to leave investors in limbo. To the White House, crypto's lack of clarity is not merely red tape; it is a barrier to mainstream adoption for consumers and financial firms. Read more: Can you buy crypto with a credit card? See the pros and cons. Witt noted that getting the bill done will require nimbleness from both the crypto community and big banks, noting the council has held numerous meetings at the White House to find a middle ground. Currently, senators on both sides have voiced concerns about a potential "deposit flight" from traditional banking if stablecoins aren't properly regulated. Without clear rules, many financial institutions remain hesitant to fully engage with crypto, fearing unknown legal liabilities a standoff that contributes to market volatility and stifles innovation. This has led to calls for a "scalpel" approach to address specific concerns like "idle yield" on stablecoins, rather than a "chainsaw" approach that could derail the entire bill. Coinbase (COIN) CEO Brian Armstrong echoed those concerns during the company's earnings call on Feb. 12, though he struck a more upbeat tone. He told investors that he's "quite optimistic" that some legislation will get passed "in the next few months" as crypto industry players remain "united" in their asks. "There's an opportunity to make a win-win outcome here for everyone, for banks and crypto companies and the US citizen and everyone," Armstrong said. "We just want to have a good level playing field." Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong speaks onstage during the 2025 New York Times Dealbook Summit at Jazz at Lincoln Center on Dec. 3, 2025, in New York City. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images) Michael M. Santiago via Getty Images As a publicly traded company heavily invested in the crypto ecosystem, Coinbase's profitability and strategic plans are directly impacted by Washington's indecision. In its most recent quarter, the company reported a $667 million net loss, which it attributed in part to volatility but also to the shadow of regulatory uncertainty. A U.S. Coast Guard petty officer operates a drone during the search for a missing swimmer off Guam's western coast on Feb. 10, 2026. (Christopher Farrell/U.S. Coast Guard) The U.S. Coast Guard has ended its search for a 22-year-old man swept beyond the reef line while swimming at Tanguisson Beach on Guam. The man has been missing since the evening of Feb. 10, according to a Saturday news release from U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam. The decision came after a three-day, multi-agency effort. Crews from the Coast Guard, U.S. Navy and Guam National Guard carried out 26 coordinated search patterns, covering about 637 square nautical miles, according to the release. The effort included Coast Guard boats, a cutter and drones; Navy MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter sorties with rescue swimmers; and Guam National Guard UH-72 Lakota helicopter flights. Guam Fire Rescue also assisted with extensive operations on the water, underwater and from the air, deploying rescue watercraft, jet skis, thermal-imaging drones and SCUBA teams, according to the release. The Coast Guard said the search could resume if new, credible information becomes available. Anyone with information is urged to contact Joint Rescue Sub-Center Guam at 671-355-4824 or via VHF Channel 16. A rip current statement remains in effect for the area, said the Coast Guard, which urged the public to stay out of the water while hazardous conditions persist. Working in strict secrecy, a government scientist in Norway built a machine capable of emitting powerful pulses of microwave energy and, in an effort to prove such devices are harmless to humans, in 2024 tested it on himself. He suffered neurological symptoms similar to those of Havana syndrome, the unexplained malady that has struck hundreds of U.S. spies and diplomats around the world. The bizarre story, described by four people familiar with the events, is the latest wrinkle in the decade-long quest to find the causes of Havana syndrome, whose sufferers experience long-lasting effects including cognitive challenges, dizziness and nausea. The U.S. government calls the events Anomalous Health Incidents (AHIs). The secret test in Norway has not been previously reported. The Norwegian government told the CIA about the results, two of the people said, prompting at least two visits in 2024 to Norway by Pentagon and White House officials. Those aware of the test say it does not prove AHIs are the work of a foreign adversary wielding a secret weapon similar to the prototype tested in Norway. One of them noted that the effects suffered by the Norwegian researcher, whose identity was not disclosed by the people familiar, were not the same as in a classic AHI case. All spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the subjects sensitivity. But the events bolstered the case of those who argue that pulsed-energy devices machines that deliver powerful beams of electromagnetic energy such as microwaves in short bursts can affect human biology and are probably being developed by U.S. adversaries. I think theres compelling evidence that we should be concerned about the ability to build a directed-energy weapon that can cause a variety of risk to humans, said Paul Friedrichs, a retired military surgeon and Air Force general who oversaw biological threats on the White House National Security Council under President Joe Biden. Friedrichs declined to comment on the Norway experiment. The Trump administration took office promising to pursue the AHI issue aggressively. But there has been little apparent movement. A review ordered by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard is expected to focus mostly on the Biden administrations handling of the issue, and its release has been delayed, people familiar with the issue said. In a separate development that has become public in recent weeks, the U.S. government covertly purchased at the end of the Biden administration a different foreign-made device that produces pulsed radio waves and which some experts suspect could be linked to AHI incidents, according to two people familiar with the matter. The device is being tested by the Defense Department. It has some Russian-origin components, but the U.S. government still has not determined conclusively who built it, said one of the people. The U.S. acquisition of the device was first reported last month by independent journalist Sasha Ingber and CNN, which said it had been purchased for millions of dollars by Homeland Security Investigations, part of the Department of Homeland Security. The device that the scientist constructed in Norway was not identical to the one that the U.S. government covertly acquired, one of the people familiar with the events said. The Norwegian device was built based on classified information, suggesting it was derived from blueprints or other materials stolen from a foreign government, this person said. At about the same time the U.S. became aware of the two pulsed-energy machines, two spy agencies altered their previous judgment and concluded that some of the incidents involving AHIs could be the work of a foreign adversary, delivering that verdict in an updated U.S. intelligence assessment issued in January 2025 during the Biden administrations final weeks. New reporting, the assessment said, led the two agencies to shift their assessments about whether a foreign actor has a capability that could cause biological effects consistent with some of the symptoms reported as possible AHIs. One was the National Security Agency, which intercepts and decodes foreign electronic communications, several people familiar with the issue said. The other, said two of those people, was the National Ground Intelligence Center, a U.S. Army intelligence agency in Charlottesville that produces intelligence on foreign adversaries scientific, technical and military capabilities. The majority of U.S. intelligence agencies, including the CIA and four others, said they continued to judge it very unlikely that the attacks were the result of a foreign adversary or that a foreign actor had developed a novel weapon. In conversations intercepted by U.S. spy agencies, American adversaries were heard expressing their own surprise at the AHI incidents and denying involvement, U.S. officials have said. The CIA declined to comment on the Norwegian test or how it impacted the agencys analysis. Norways embassy in Washington did not respond to a request for comment. Some former officials and AHI victims have pointed to Russia as the prime suspect in the AHI incidents because of its decades of work in directed-energy devices. So far, no conclusive proof has publicly emerged, and Moscow has denied involvement. Taken together, the two known directed-energy devices along with other research appear to have prompted a reconsideration by some of the causes of Havana syndrome, so named because of the mysterious 2016 outbreak of symptoms reported by personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Havana. In subsequent years, U.S. personnel reported hundreds of cases globally, in China, Eastern Europe and elsewhere. A top aide to then-CIA Director William J. Burns reported symptoms while traveling in India in 2021. At a conference in Philadelphia earlier this month, retired Air Force Lt. Col. Chris Schlagheck, at times his voice breaking, said he was hit five times in 2020 in his home in Northern Virginia, where a Russian family lived across the street. It was not until last year that a doctor told him his symptoms were the same as those reported from Havana a decade earlier. Much about the Norway test remains obscured by its highly classified nature. People familiar with the events declined to identify the scientist or the Norwegian government agency he worked for. The results were all the more shocking because the Norwegian researcher had earned a reputation as a leading opponent of the theory that directed-energy weapons can cause the type of symptoms associated with AHIs, those familiar with the events said. Trying to dramatically prove his point, with himself as a human guinea pig, he achieved the opposite. I dont know what possessed him to go and do this, one of the people said. He was a bit of an eccentric. A delegation of Pentagon officials traveled to Norway in 2024 to examine the device. In December of that year, a group of intelligence and White House officials also went to Norway to discuss the issue, those familiar with the events said. In January 2022, the CIA produced an interim assessment that concluded a foreign country was probably not behind Havana syndrome. It emerged weeks before a major panel of government and nongovernment experts produced a report commissioned by the director of national intelligence and deputy CIA director that came to a markedly different conclusion. That panel concluded in February 2022 that pulsed electromagnetic energy, particularly in the radio-frequency range, plausibly explains the core characteristics of reported AHIs, although it acknowledged many unknowns. Information gaps exist, it reported. The conclusion marked the first time a report issued publicly by the U.S. government acknowledged that the symptoms could be caused by man-made, external events. The IC Experts Panel, as it was known, interviewed several people who had suffered accidental exposure to electromagnetic energy, said David Relman, a Stanford University microbiologist who chaired the panel. But the CIA interim assessment overshadowed the expert panels report. Then, in March 2023, the full intelligence community issued an assessment that unanimously concluded that it was unlikely that a foreign adversary was behind the incidents. There is no credible evidence that a foreign adversary has a weapon or (intelligence) collection device that is causing AHIs, the unclassified version of their report said, citing secret intelligence data and open-source information about foreign weapons and research programs. U.S. intelligence agencies essentially ignored the experts panels work, Relman told the conference in Philadelphia. The agencies, particularly the CIA, had developed a very firm set of conclusions, world view that caused them I think to become dug in, he said. By late 2024, senior White House officials in the Biden administration had come to question the absolutist position taken by U.S. intelligence agencies in their 2023 assessment. There were some officials, including within the intelligence community, who insisted that there was nothing here that every reported case could be explained by some environmental or medical factor, said one person familiar with the administrations views. The more responsible view, the person said, was to admit we dont know the answers and that it was plausible that pulsed electromagnetic energy could account for some subset of cases. After the November 2024 election, White House officials who were working on an AHI brief for the incoming Trump administration invited several victims to a meeting to offer their input. The officials also wanted to reassure the victims that they realized the intelligence community assessment called into question the very real health issues they experienced and what caused them. At one point, an official turned to the victims who were gathered in the Situation Room and said, We believe you. The White House wasnt yet certain it was a foreign actor but believed it was plausible that the symptoms had been caused by external factors, said the person familiar with the administrations views. Marc Polymeropoulos, a former CIA officer and AHI victim who attended the unclassified meeting, said, It was clear to the victims, but also unsaid, that new information had come into the NSC that had caused them to make such a statement. Dan Lamothe and Greg Miller contributed to this report. U.S. Central Command on Saturday said it conducted 10 strikes against 30 Islamic State targets in Syria from Feb. 3 to Thursday. (U.S. Central Command) U.S. Central Command on Saturday said its forces conducted 10 strikes against more than 30 Islamic State targets in Syria from Feb. 3 to Thursday. The strikes were conducted with precision munitions delivered by fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and unmanned aircraft, and specifically targeted infrastructure and weapon storage facilities, the command said in a news release. The release did not specify resulting casualty figures from the strikes, instead saying that two months of missions under Operation Hawkeye Strike have killed or captured 50 terrorists and struck more than 100 infrastructure targets. The command gave the same overall casualty figure after a previous round of strikes from Jan. 27 to Feb. 2, which it said targeted a communications site, logistics node and weapons caches. The operation was launched in response to the December shooting deaths of two U.S. soldiers, Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, and an American translator by a gunman tied to ISIS. The gunman, who attacked U.S. and Syrian security forces in Palmyra, was killed on site, and U.S. officials vowed swift retribution for the attack. The announcement came a day after the command said American forces completed a nearly monthlong mission to transfer more than 5,700 detained ISIS fighters from northeastern Syria to Iraq. The completion of the detainees transfer came after U.S. forces on Wednesday handed over the al-Tanf Garrison in Syria to local counterparts as part of a transition of the anti-ISIS mission. Stars and Stripes reporters Phillip Walter Wellman and Lara Korte contributed to this report. Investing.com -- The U.S.-Japan partnership is gaining importance across trade, investment, and security, but Jefferies says it remains underappreciated by institutional investors. Analyst Aniket Shah stated in a note to clients this week that a $550 billion investment deal is a key catalyst, lowering reciprocal tariffs from 25% to 15% and expanding U.S. export access across manufacturing, aerospace, agriculture, energy, autos, and industrial goods. The agreement prioritises energy, AI infrastructure, and critical minerals processing, with the first project expected by March. Jefferies said the U.S. is positioned to retain 90% of project-level profits once costs are recovered, and all funding must be allocated by Jan. 19, 2029. Defense exposure is also set to rise as Japan procures more U.S. systems, including Tomahawk deployments. Japan already plays a central role in U.S. capital markets. As of end-2024, it held $819 billion in U.S. FDI stock, the largest of any country, skewed toward manufacturing, electronics, and financial services. Its Treasury holdings rose to $1.2 trillion by November 2025, $314 billion ahead of the UK, while Japan remains a top holder of U.S. equities, agencies, and corporate bonds. The U.S.-Japan alliance is reinforced by security ties, with Japan hosting roughly 55,000 U.S. troops and participating in the Quad and U.S.-Japan-Korea trilateral cooperation. Japan plans to raise defense spending to $58 billion in FY26, a 3.8% increase. Jefferies identified six sectors likely to benefit from the pact: Power & Utilities, AI Infrastructure, Mining & Metals, Defense & Aerospace, Manufacturing & Logistics, and Pharma & Biotech, highlighting broad economic and strategic opportunities for investors. Related articles Why U.S.-Japan pact is underappreciated among institutional investors Wolfe Research outlines eight risks that could spark stock declines in 2026 This sector is 'poised for a big, beautiful year': Truist Shares of Chinese AI model developer Zhipu have more than doubled this week, underscoring investor appetite for the countrys emerging generative-AI firms even as established players elsewhere face a valuation reset. The Hong Kong-listed stock surged as much as 22% on Friday to a record HK$492, taking gains this week to around 120%. Peer Minimax Group Inc. also advanced around 40% over the same period, while the broader Hang Seng Tech Index remained little changed. Most Read from Bloomberg Momentum has been fueled by a wave of Chinese firms unveiling major AI model upgrades ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, a crucial window for user adoption, while Wall Street analysts stay upbeat about their technological edge. Investors are also positioning for an expected release from DeepSeek during the holiday, after last years launch triggered a global frenzy over Chinas fast-rising AI ecosystem. Zhipu unveiled the latest iteration of its large language model, GLM-5, surpassing a rival from Moonshot AI released just weeks earlier to claim the top spot among open-source models on benchmarking site Artificial Analysis. The company, formally known as Knowledge Atlas Technology JSC Ltd., also hiked the price of its GLM Coding Plan similar to Anthropic PBCs Claude Code, which is unavailable in China by 30% to capitalize on surging demand. Investor sentiment may have also been boosted by Zhipus hiring of advisory institutions for a Shanghai Star Market listing. There is a lot of retail interest as they are among the first Chinese emerging AI model developers listed, said Vey-Sern Ling, managing director at Union Bancaire Privee. Still, they are at early stage of development with significant uncertainty around adoption and monetization. JPMorgan Chase & Co. named Zhipu and Minimax as its top picks to capture the next wave of global AI value creation, citing their distinction as independent large-language-model developers with accelerating global footprints. Yet signs suggest the rally may be running too fast. Zhipu shares now trade above JPMorgans year-end price target of HK$400. Their outperformance versus Chinas tech heavyweights may also reflect thinner trading volumes, amplifying price swings. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek Website owners who rely on guesswork rarely understand what is actually happening on their sites. When website analytics tools and traffic monitoring are set up properly, they reveal how many people visit, where they come from, and what they do on each page. This kind of visibility helps guide content, marketing, and design decisions without depending on paid software or large budgets. What Are Website Analytics Tools? Website analytics tools are platforms that collect and organize data about visits to a website. They track actions such as page views, clicks, scroll depth, and time spent on pages, then turn that raw information into charts and reports that are easier to interpret. Instead of sifting through server logs, site owners can open a dashboard and quickly see the most important trends. Most website analytics tools focus on a core set of metrics that matter to almost any site. Common examples include users (unique visitors), sessions (visits), pageviews, bounce rate, and average engagement time. Traffic monitoring features often extend to acquisition data, revealing which channels, campaigns, and sources drive the most visits and interactions. Why Use Free Analytics Tools to Monitor Traffic? Free analytics platforms are often more than enough for personal sites, small businesses, bloggers, and early-stage projects. They provide essential traffic monitoring without adding monthly costs, allowing site owners to experiment and learn before committing to any paid upgrades. In many cases, the free tier of popular tools already includes robust reporting for audience, acquisition, and behavior. However, free website analytics tools can have limitations that become noticeable as a site grows. Data sampling, restricted historical ranges, fewer custom reports, and limited integrations are common trade-offs. At that point, traffic monitoring might benefit from a move to a paid plan or a complementary analytics solution, but starting with free tools usually offers a strong foundation. Setting Traffic Goals Before Tracking Traffic numbers only matter when tied to clear goals. Before installing any tracking code, site owners benefit from defining what success means for them: more brand awareness, higher email signups, form submissions, sales, or longer on-page engagement. With that clarity, metrics from website analytics tools become part of a story rather than isolated numbers in a dashboard. From there, they can translate those goals into specific key performance indicators. For example, a blog might focus on organic sessions and returning visitors, while an online store pays close attention to product page visits, add-to-cart events, and completed checkouts. Traffic monitoring then becomes a way to track progress toward those defined outcomes over time. How Do I Track Traffic on My Website? To track traffic effectively, a site owner typically begins by creating an account with a free analytics provider and connecting their website. This connection usually involves adding a small tracking script to the site's code, using a tag manager, or installing a plugin in a content management system such as WordPress. Once that script loads on each page, the tool can start collecting visit data almost immediately. After installation, the next step is to verify that data is flowing correctly. That often means opening the real-time or live view report and visiting the site from a browser to see if the visit appears. When the tracking is confirmed, the owner can start exploring core reports that show total visitors, pages viewed, average engagement, and other traffic monitoring details by date range. How Can I Track Website Visitors for Free? Free visitor tracking usually starts with a combination of analytics and search-related tools. A standard setup includes a main analytics platform for on-site behavior, a search console tool for search performance, and sometimes a lightweight heatmap or session recording solution if deeper behavior analysis is needed. Together, these tools offer a broad view without requiring any subscription fees. That said, free visitor tracking solutions are not identical in what they measure. Some tools focus heavily on page-level metrics and simple overviews, while others highlight acquisition channels and search queries in more detail. For reliable traffic monitoring, it helps to understand each tool's strengths, then combine them thoughtfully rather than expecting one free service to answer every question. Examples of Free Website Analytic Tools 1. Google Analytics 4 (GA4) Google Analytics 4 is Google's latest-generation analytics platform, built around an event-based data model rather than sessions alone. It tracks user interactions such as page views, scrolls, outbound clicks, file downloads, and custom events across websites and apps. GA4 offers built-in reports for acquisition, engagement, monetization, and retention, plus funnels and path analysis for deeper behavior insights. It integrates natively with Google Ads, Search Console, and BigQuery, making it a central hub for many marketing stacks. The standard version is free, with data limits that are generally sufficient for most small and mid-sized sites. 2. Google Search Console Google Search Console is a free tool that shows how a website performs in Google Search, focusing on queries, impressions, clicks, and average positions for individual pages. It provides reports on indexing status, sitemaps, Core Web Vitals, mobile usability, and structured data issues that may impact visibility. Site owners can inspect specific URLs to see how Google crawls and indexes them, submit updated URLs for re-crawling, and monitor manual actions or security problems. The performance report allows filtering by page, country, device, and query, helping identify keywords and pages that deserve optimization. Because it uses Google's own search data, it complements GA4 by explaining the search side of organic traffic. 3. Google Tag Manager Google Tag Manager (GTM) is a free tag management system that centralizes the deployment of tracking scripts such as analytics, pixels, and marketing tags. Instead of editing a site's code repeatedly, users place one GTM container snippet and then manage tags, triggers, and variables through an online interface. This setup makes it easier to implement GA4 events, conversion tracking, remarketing tags, and A/B testing scripts while reducing reliance on developers for minor changes. GTM supports built-in templates for many popular tools, as well as custom HTML and JavaScript tags for more advanced use cases. Properly configured, it helps keep tracking organized and reduces the risk of duplicate or broken tags. 4. Microsoft Clarity Microsoft Clarity is a free behavior analytics tool offering unlimited heatmaps and session recordings with no traffic caps. It visualizes where users click, how far they scroll, and how they move around a page, revealing UX issues that traditional metrics might miss. Features like rage click detection, dead click detection, and quickbacks help identify frustration points or confusing UI elements. Clarity includes basic analytics dashboards that show engagement metrics, popular pages, and devices, and it integrates with Google Analytics for combined insights. Because it is free and has no sampling limits, it is attractive for sites that want deep qualitative insights alongside quantitative tracking. 5. Hotjar (Free Plan) Hotjar is a behavior analytics and feedback tool that offers a free plan with limited heatmaps, session recordings, and on-site surveys. Heatmaps show aggregate click, move, and scroll behavior for pages, helping identify which sections attract attention or are ignored. Session recordings let site owners watch anonymized playbacks of user journeys to see how visitors navigate, where they hesitate, and where they drop off. The free tier also supports basic feedback widgets and surveys, which can collect direct comments from users about specific pages or features. While the free plan has caps on the number of sessions and data retention, it is often enough for small sites to uncover usability issues. 6. Open Web Analytics (Self-Hosted) Open Web Analytics (OWA) is a free, open-source web analytics application that can be installed on a server the site owner controls. It tracks pageviews, visitors, referrers, and click paths, and can also record mouse movements and heatmaps for supported integrations. Because it is self-hosted, all data stays on the owner's infrastructure, which can be beneficial for privacy-focused projects or strict compliance environments. OWA supports tracking for multiple websites and offers APIs and plugins (including for WordPress and MediaWiki) to make integration easier. Compared with hosted tools like GA4, it may require more technical setup and maintenance but offers greater control over data and customization. How to Track Website Traffic Using Search Console Search console tools from major search engines complement traditional analytics by focusing specifically on search performance. After verifying site ownership, the tool begins collecting data on impressions, clicks, average position, and click-through rates for queries and pages in organic search results. This helps site owners understand how their content appears and performs across different keywords. When combined with website analytics tools, search console data adds context to traffic monitoring. For instance, a drop in organic sessions might correspond with a decline in impressions or ranking position for important queries. Conversely, a spike in search clicks to a particular page can highlight topics that resonate with users and deserve more supporting content. Using Free Third-Party Website Traffic Checkers Beyond on-site analytics, free third-party traffic checkers estimate visits to other websites. These tools are often used for competitor research, benchmarking, and market analysis. They can reveal approximate traffic volumes, top pages, and traffic split by channel for domains that are not under the user's direct control. It is important to remember that these estimates are modeled and may not match reality perfectly. Their strength lies in identifying broad trends rather than precise counts. When used alongside direct analytics and search data, these external traffic monitoring tools can help place a site's performance in a wider competitive context. How to Analyze Website Traffic Data Collecting data is only the first step; interpreting it is where real value emerges. A practical approach begins with looking at overall traffic trends, then drilling into specific pages, channels, and devices. Identifying which pages attract the most visitors and which have high exit or bounce rates can highlight both strengths and friction points in the user experience. Segmentation is crucial for meaningful analysis. By separating data by device type, location, traffic source, or user behavior, patterns that are invisible in aggregate numbers come into focus. For example, a page might perform well on desktop but poorly on mobile, or a particular country might respond more strongly to certain topics. These insights then shape content, design, and optimization priorities. Maximizing Long-Term Value From Free Analytics Tools Free analytics platforms offer more than simple counters; they serve as ongoing guides for website improvement. When traffic monitoring is integrated into regular routines, weekly check-ins, monthly reviews, and periodic deep dives, site owners can spot issues early and amplify what already works. Even without paid upgrades, careful goal-setting and thoughtful analysis can uncover significant performance gains. As websites evolve, the role of website analytics tools also expands, supporting content strategy, user experience decisions, and marketing investments. Those who consistently pay attention to their data develop a clearer understanding of their audience and a more confident approach to experimentation. In that sense, free analytics are not just measurement instruments, but essential partners in long-term digital growth. Frequently Asked Questions 1. How often should a small website review its analytics data? For most small websites, reviewing analytics once a week is usually enough to catch meaningful trends without getting distracted by daily fluctuations. Weekly check-ins help identify changes in traffic, top-performing content, and unexpected drops early, while a deeper review once a month allows for more strategic adjustments to content and marketing plans. 2. Do website analytics tools slow down a site or affect performance? Most modern analytics tools are designed to load asynchronously, which means they typically do not block or significantly slow down page loading for visitors. Performance issues are more likely when multiple tracking scripts are installed, so it is generally better to keep the number of active analytics and tracking tags as lean and purposeful as possible. 3. Can website owners track traffic from offline campaigns, such as flyers or events? Yes, offline campaigns can still be measured by using custom URLs and UTM parameters printed on flyers, posters, or event materials. When visitors type in those unique links, website analytics tools can attribute that traffic to a specific offline campaign, making it easier to gauge which offline efforts are driving real website visits. 4. How long does it take for analytics data to become reliable after installing a tracking tool? Most tools begin recording data within minutes of installation, but patterns only become reliable after a bit more time. For low-traffic sites, it can take a few weeks to accumulate enough visits to see clear trends, while higher-traffic sites may start seeing meaningful patterns in a matter of days. Meta Platforms entered court this week to defend itself in two closely watched trials questioning the impact of its social media platforms on users' well-being. Are social media apps really designed to be extremely addictive for all users? Meta Pushes Back on 'Addiction' Claims During testimony, Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, argued that social media is not "clinically addictive," likening excessive use to binge-watching a series on Netflix. Meta attorney Kevin Huff echoed that argument in opening statements, telling jurors that "social media addiction is not a thing" because it does not appear in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). That assertion quickly drew criticism from mental health experts. The trials under Meta's watch tackle child exploitation and social media addiction. For the first one, the state's attorney general alleges the company enabled child exploitation and designed features harmful to minors. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, a California woman claims Meta's allegedly addictive platform design damaged her mental health. Read more: Apple Wins Major LTE Patent Battle as Jury Rejects Optis Wireless Claims What the American Psychiatric Association Says The American Psychiatric Association (APA), which publishes the DSM, clarified that the absence of a formal diagnosis does not invalidate concerns. Scientific research often evolves before official classification. Researchers note that while "social media addiction" is not currently listed as a disorder, excessive platform use has been linked to sleep disruption, anxiety, depression, and measurable changes in reward-processing and self-regulation systems. Experts argue that behavioral patterns resembling addiction, including compulsive use despite harm, are being actively studied. Expanding Legal Pressure The cases in New Mexico and California are part of broader legal scrutiny. According to Engadget, Facebook's parent firm is also facing lawsuits from 41 state attorneys general, as well as litigation involving school districts. Testimony so far has included former executives and whistleblowers who have been critical of the company's safety practices, and CEO Mark Zuckerberg is expected to testify. OpenAI has officially retired GPT-4o, marking February 13 as the final day for the model alongside GPT-4.1, GPT-4.1 mini, and o4-mini. Although the transition had been announced in advance, the move surprised many users who had grown attached to GPT-4o's tone and conversational style. This is not the first time OpenAI attempted to sunset the model. During the rollout of GPT-5 last August, GPT-4o was temporarily retired, only to be reinstated after significant user backlash. Many users argued that GPT-5 felt less personable, while others expressed emotional attachment to GPT-4o's communication style. The criticism ultimately prompted OpenAI to reverse its decision at the time. Why GPT-4o Developed a Loyal Following To casual users of ChatGPT, model updates may appear incremental. However, GPT-4o distinguished itself with an especially warm, agreeable, and affirming tone. According to Lifehacker, supporters described it as "validating and conversational," qualities that fostered a sense of comfort and familiarity. Critics, however, raised concerns about that same design philosophy. GPT-4o has been referenced in lawsuits alleging that overly agreeable AI responses can reinforce harmful or delusional beliefs. Researchers also pointed to elevated "sycophancy" tendencies. These are the instances where the model validated user viewpoints rather than offering corrective or balanced perspectives. In another report by Wired, Chinese ChatGPT users aren't happy to see 4o leave. Some loyal fans mourned the loss of the beloved chatbot model, as if they lost a loved one in a tragedy. Read more: YouTube App Is Now Available on Apple Vision Pro AI Attachment and Platform Responsibility It's important to note that GPT-4o has been useful too, especially for people who need it for research, development, and other fields of specialization. Yet some people have grown into it to the point that there's already an emotional connection between conversations. The strong public reaction not only showed how digital tools can affect our daily lives but also showed how chatbots can become personalized companions rather than neutral utilities. Amazon's smart doorbell unit Ring has officially ended its planned partnership with police surveillance tech company Flock Safety following controversy over a recent Super Bowl ad. The 30-second commercial featured a lost dog being tracked using Ring's "Search Party" feature, raising public concerns about potential overreach in neighborhood surveillance. Ring and Flock had initially planned to integrate their systems so Ring owners could voluntarily share video footage with law enforcement through Ring's "Community Requests" service. However, the integration never launched. "Following a comprehensive review, we determined the planned Flock Safety integration would require significantly more time and resources than anticipated," Ring said in a statement. The company also clarified that "no Ring customer videos were ever sent to Flock Safety." Flock confirmed the decision was mutual, stating that ending the partnership allows both companies to "best serve their respective customers." The company emphasized that it never received any Ring videos and that its tools remain fully configurable to local laws and policies. Flock founder Jamie Siminoff told CBS News, "The backlash has been a little bit around this concept of, 'Is this surveillance?' It's actually not. It's allowing your camera to be an intelligent assistant for you and then allowing you to be a great neighbor." Senator Urges Amazon to Drop "Familiar Faces" The Super Bowl ad, which showed Ring cameras tracking a dog across a neighborhood using artificial intelligence, sparked fears that similar technology could be used to monitor humans. Critics, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), expressed concern that features like Ring's "Familiar Faces," which uses face recognition, could combine with Search Party to compromise privacy. The EFF wrote that Americans should feel unsettled about "the potential loss of privacy" and the possibility of Ring combining face recognition with neighborhood tracking, AP News reported. Democratic Senator Edward Markey of Massachusetts also addressed privacy concerns in a letter to Amazon CEO Andrew Jassy, urging the company to discontinue the "Familiar Faces" technology. Ring stressed that its Community Requests feature remains "core" to its mission and is fully optional. The service has been used to aid law enforcement in emergencies, such as a shooting at Brown University in December. Within hours, seven neighbors shared 168 videos, which helped police identify a suspect's vehicle. Originally published on vcpost.com Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Just two days ago, Wagner Moura was dancing the samba at a Golden Globes afterparty. Hed beaten the likes of Michael B Jordan and Oscar Isaac to become the first ever Brazilian to win the award for Best Actor in a Drama. Still a bit delirious, he was shoved on a plane to London the next day and now hes speaking to me over Zoom. In a matter of hours, hell be gone again, on to the next stop of the press tour. Its brutal, man, he says, rubbing his eyes with the heels of his hands. The 49-year-old is on the campaign trail for The Secret Agent, Kleber Mendonca Filhos blackly funny drama about an academic attempting to flee Brazils military dictatorship in the 1970s. Moura doesnt know it yet, but therell be no respite. Its become an unexpected awards magnet, earning four Oscar nominations (including Best Picture and Best International Feature Film) since our conversation. Speaking to him, Im reminded of the hollow-eyed look that settled over Cillian Murphy during the seemingly endless press run for Oppenheimer in 2024. Moura best known for his transformative turn as Pablo Escobar in Netflixs Narcos has the air of someone who is deeply committed to the work, and far less enamoured with everything that comes after. But, he reminds himself, its not often that a Brazilian film in Portuguese, no less receives such international acclaim. Every time Im tired, I go, Come on, man, this doesnt happen all the time, he says. This is great. Moura is indeed Oscar-worthy as Marcelo, a widowed father on the run after his morals get the better of him during dinner with a corrupt government minister. His wife, it is implied, paid the price with her life. Marcelo is not a revolutionary, but he is precisely the kind of ordinary intellectual who vanished under a regime defined by censorship, distrust of academia, and the systematic persecution of those who fell out of line. Moura inhabits the role with the captivating presence of a quietly principled man, his grief simmering in the background, his sons survival the sole thing sustaining him. The tension is punctuated by small, absurdist touches including a recurring joke about a disembodied zombie limb called Hairy Leg thats wreaking havoc in the local area. Its a reminder that life under a dictatorship can be terrifying and ridiculous in equal measure. Moura was just a child during that period, which stretched from 1964 to 1985, but it doesnt feel that it happened that long ago, he says. It feels like the logic of the dictatorship is still very present in Brazil right now. Brazil is extraordinary, cultural, diverse, progressive, empathetic and beautiful... but also, it was the last country in the Western world to abolish slavery, with a history of coups detat, violence, elitism, colonialism, imperialism. These things are still very present in our day-to-day lives. Bolsonaro was an election denier, like Trump, and invaded the institutions in Brazil just like the Americans [have done in the US]. But Brazil did something that the Americans didnt, because Bolsonaro is in jail right now The Secret Agent, Moura tells me, came about due to a perplexity he and Filho shared about life under Jair Bolsonaro. For four years, the despotic president attempted to roll back decades of progress in Brazil. Both Moura and Filho were vilified as communists. Back in 2019, Moura had made a film about Carlos Marighella, a Marxist guerrilla leader assassinated by the military regime in the late Sixties. Bolsonaros government denied the film funding and effectively blocked it from appearing in cinemas until 2021. A few years earlier, Filho had been denounced by the right after he and the cast of his 2016 film, Aquarius, used its Cannes premiere to protest against the impeachment of Dilma Rousseff, the countrys first female president and a leftist reformer. It was later blocked from being Brazils official Oscar submission. We would call each other at night, going like, Dude, how can we react to this thing? How can we support each other? Moura remembers. When you watch The Secret Agent, I kind of feel like Im playing myself sometimes, he says. It was very obvious that I was talking about something that I knew well. Moura has a voice thats hard to ignore a deep, locomotive rumble. Filho recently compared it to having built-in Dolby Atmos. There is something about his eyes, too. With just a look, he can hold an entire emotional history suspended in a single, seemingly unguarded moment. Its part of the reason his turn as Escobar was so revelatory. For two seasons of Narcos, it felt like we had a genuine glimpse into the psyche of the worlds most dangerous man. Moura forced us to sympathise with him, like Tony Soprano with a handlebar moustache. I think Ive realised that the more you show yourself, the more youre vulnerable as an actor, he says. Thats what I think strong performances should be. open image in gallery Moura has become an unlikely Oscar frontrunner for his role as a man on the run in The Secret Agent ( Mubi ) He keeps notebooks for every character he plays, and at some point inevitably finds himself writing: This character is you. Even when hes playing a drug lord, its how I see him. Its filtered by my sensibility. Im not him. Its how I see him. After Narcos, it would have been easy for Mouras career to veer onto a more commercial trajectory. Just look at his old co-star Pedro Pascal, now one of Hollywoods most inescapable leading men. Thats honestly not my cup of tea, he says of the big-budget franchises like Fantastic Four that Pascal now headlines. After Narcos, I was mostly getting offers to play the same kind of character. Thats how Hollywood operates, he says. They wanted him to stick to drug barons. Moura saw the trap. Thats a stereotype of Latinos, he tells me. The violent drug dealer... We are way more than that. This is something that I take really seriously its representation, how were seen in the US. Instead, the actor has stuck to idiosyncratic projects, like Alex Garlands 2024 Civil War, which Moura anchored with a scene-stealing performance as a seasoned war reporter, and the Apple TV series Dope Thief, in which he played an embattled conman. Characters that are not connected to some sort of idea of what a Latin man should be, as Moura describes them. open image in gallery Bad hombres: Moura transformed into King of cocaine Pablo Escobar for two seasons of Netflixs Narcos ( Netflix ) The topic of Latino representation has perhaps never been more pertinent. In 2015, Donald Trump famously said of all Mexicans: Theyre bringing drugs. Theyre bringing crime. Theyre rapists. And some, I assume, are good people. His rhetoric has hardly softened during his second term as president. My conversation with Moura frequently returns to politics, less by choice and more by gravitational pull. Living in Los Angeles with his wife and three teenage children, he has watched the US convulse with protest over Trumps hardline immigration policies. Its hard not to see echoes of The Secret Agent in the turmoil. In the opening scene, a pair of ICE-type goons scrutinise Marcelos ID at a petrol station before asking for a bribe. The difference, Moura suggests, is historical awareness. Bolsonaro was an election denier, like Trump, and invaded the institutions in Brazil just like the Americans [have done in the US]. But Brazil did something that the Americans didnt, because Bolsonaro is in jail right now. I think we did that because Brazilians know what a dictatorship is, whereas Americans take it for granted. open image in gallery Moura with his Best Actor award at last months Golden Globes ( Getty ) Not every role Moura takes on comes with such a weighty message, though. In 2022, he gave voice to a sinister wolf in the animated Shrek spin-off Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. His face lights up when I mention it. That was so fun, man, he says, grinning. Its the nature of what this job is supposed to be. We can never lose that as artists. Its helped his street cred with youngsters, too. He recently shot a forthcoming Netflix thriller called 11817 with Past Lives Greta Lee and two child actors in Surrey. When the kids discovered that I was the wolf in Puss in Boots he mimics their minds exploding I was their hero!. Hes approaching the job with a new mindset as he prepares to turn 50. I dont want to do anything, or say anything, or behave in a way thats not coherent to what I think, he says. I think that as time goes on, you [find that you] dont have much time for bulls***. I want joy and happiness, and I want to laugh, and I want to be with people that I love. What more could one ask for except, perhaps, an Oscar? The Secret Agent is in cinemas from 20 February Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Rupert Grint has warned fans that his role in the new film Nightborn is extremely different from the loving character he played in the Harry Potter franchise. In the upcoming Finnish horror movie, which is the 37-year-old actors first film since 2013, Grint plays Jon, a father raising a newborn with his wife, Saga (portrayed by Seidi Haarla), in an isolated house in the forest. However, Jon and Saga discover that theres something wrong with their son, causing ripples in their marriage. Given the themes in the film, like the emotional impacts of childbirth on a mother, and its graphic scenes, Grint knows the story is much different than the Harry Potter films he starred in as Ron Weasley for a decade and he wants his fans to know that too. It does go against the warmth of Ron, he said about his new role during an interview with Variety, published Friday. Hes also taking on different roles, including Bob Cratchit, an overworked and underpaid clerk to Ebenezer Scrooge (played by Johnny Deep) in a forthcoming rendition of A Christmas Carol. Grint plans to keep his acting career going at his own pace, with hopes to work on one thing every year. However, he knows that hes lucky enough to work in that manner because of the financial security hes had from the Harry Potter films. open image in gallery Rupert Grint says his character in new films goes against the warmth of Ron in Harry Potter ( Getty Images ) Im very aware of that privilege, he told Variety. It was hard work, but those movies have allowed us to pick and choose, which is just such a gift. Obviously it doesnt mean youre always going to choose the right thing. But I do feel very lucky for that. Although he said he had to make "sacrifices" when working on the Harry Potter films, especially as a child at the time, hes still thrilled he had this experience. Its a long time, and there are definitely period where you want to get out it, he explained. But I have no regrets. It was a great time and I think theyll have lots of good people around looking after them. open image in gallery Actor Rupert Grint, actor Daniel Radcliffe and actress Emma Watson attend the Harry Potter cast "Hand, Foot and Wand-Print" ceremony held at Grauman's Chinese Theater July 9, 2007 in Hollywood, California ( Getty Images ) Although Grint starred in films such as M. Night Shyamalans thriller Knock at the Cabin (2023) and shows including the hit Apple TV+ series Servant (2019), he previously said that he felt like he would always be known as the lovable kid wizard. Im fine with that, he told the BBC in November. I think its great. I love meeting people who really felt this was a part of their childhood. Asked whether he is fed up of being linked to a role he played decades ago, Grint replied: No, absolutely not. I love it. Grint was 12 years old when he starred in the first Harry Potter alongside Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson. He was 22 by the time the final film hit cinemas in 2011. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Scottish broadcaster Edith Bowman has issued a tearful plea for the return of a stolen suitcase containing her grandfathers ashes. The bag was reportedly taken during a train journey from London Paddington to Kemble, a village in the Cotswolds, on Friday. The 52-year-old initially took to Instagram stories to express her frustration. In her first video, she stated: "I just got on a train at London Paddington 9.32 am to Cheltenham and got off at Kemble, and some f***** has stolen my case." She urged the individual responsible to "return it to the nearest station," adding: "Theres CCTV, so were on the case and British Transport Police is being informed." Ms Bowmans tone shifted to distress as she realised the profound sentimental value of the suitcases contents. Choking back tears in a subsequent post, she revealed: "Ive just realised whats in my bag is a jewellery box, and in that jewellery box are some really lovely personal things. In particular, a pinkie ring thats got my grandads ashes in it." The presenter appealed for anyone who might have seen someone disembarking a train at Didcot Parkway, Reading or Swindon with "an old school case thats green, dark green with brown straps" to get in touch. She later shared a photo of the distinctive luggage, specifying potential sightings on a GWR train at Reading (09.58), Didcot Parkway (10.11), and Swindon (10.30). The bag was taken on a train from London Paddington to Kemble ( Getty Images ) Edith shared a profound bond with Grandad Bowman, spending weekends at his Fife hotel as her parents worked. Speaking to The Guardian in 2015 she said: "I adored Grandad Bowman. He looked after me at weekends when Mum and Dad were working, and hed make me oatcakes smothered with Dairy Lea, and a cup of hot milk, before reading me bedtime stories. At seven, Edith's grandfather suffered a stroke, leaving him only able to use one arm. Not expected to survive, he remarkably lived another 27 years. Edith was present during his final moments, a difficult memory she nonetheless cherishes. "We were at a cousins wedding when we got the call to say hed been taken into hospital. As he lay dying, I collected some pictures and candles to brighten up his room, and played his favourite Al Jolson songs. It was hard, but Im glad I was there." Ms Bowman is widely recognised for her work hosting BBC Radio 1 shows from 2003 to 2014. She currently presents the podcast Soundtracking, which launched in 2016. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Erika Kirk has honored her late husband and Turning Point USA founder Charlie with a social media post marking the first Valentines Day following his assassination. In a Friday evening Instagram post, Erika, 37, shared a handwritten note from Charlie, who was shot and killed September 10 on the campus of Utah Valley University while debating students for his American Comeback tour. Her photo also shows the hand of one of her two children with the late conservative activist. What I would give for one more love letterThey had such a deep reverence about them, Erika wrote in the caption of the post. Youd intentionally set aside the noise of the world and hand me words that felt sacred filled with a depth of love both of us could never quite articulate. I read it all even slower now. And as I read your words, the weight on my heart reminds me of a reality that we were never promised gray hair and rocking chairs even though we assumed it was guaranteed, she continued. But my goodness, do I love telling the babies about the fullness of our covenant that left a mark on my soul. My favorite love story. She advised her followers to honor the Sabbath this weekend with your loved ones, and to write love letters to their significant others. open image in gallery Erika Kirk has shared a photo of a handwritten letter from her late husband, Charlie ( Getty Images ) A letter like this might seem trivial, but you just never know the course life will take, if the Lord calls you home, even in your absence, as they reflect on your words, your love is still serving them, she wrote before ending the caption, I love you Charlie baby, you will always be my Valentine. Erikas photo revealed part of Charlies letter to her, which read in part: I love you so much and cant wait to see what adventures lay ahead of us. The two were married in 2021 and welcomed a daughter in August 2022 and a son in May 2024. She has publicly said she was praying to God that she was pregnant when her husband was killed, as they had planned to have four children together. In a November interview with Megyn Kelly, Erika said she and Charlie were really excited to just expand our family. open image in gallery Erika and Charlie Kirk were married in 2021 and welcomed two children before his death ( Instagram ) I was like, Oh, goodness, that was going to be the ultimate blessing out of this catastrophe, she added about having another baby. Erika, who became CEO of TPUSA following Charlies death, encouraged young couples to not wait to have children. Especially if youre a young woman, dont put it off. You can always have a career, you can always go back to work. You can never just go back to having children, she said. And they grow so fast and so quickly. I just, I was praying. Both of us were. Get the Well Enough newsletter with Harry Bullmore for tips on living a healthier, happier and longer life Get the Well Enough email with Harry Bullmore Get the Well Enough email with Harry Bullmore Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Americans are less happy than theyve been in years thanks to the rise of digital media, increases in obesity and substance abuse and a host of socioeconomic concerns. But researchers say they now know what the key to happiness is and, unfortunately, its not quite as easy as downing a hot fudge sundae. So, whats the big secret and how can we use it to get happier? Many people often focus their lives on being loved, but the real goal should be focusing on feeling loved, the psychologists posit. People are loved by others, but many dont actually feel it. I do know people who are happy, and I know people who are unhappy, and I can tell you the main difference between them: Happy people feel loved, Harry Reis, a professor of psychology at the University of Rochester, said in a statement shared by the school. open image in gallery The key to happiness lies in our relationships, according researchers ( Getty Images/iStock ) However, the key to feeling loved is not by making yourself more attractive or successful. These strategies may work in the short-term, but are actually more likely to backfire at the end of the day, Reis noted. Instead, people need to build a loving connection with another person. That jumpstarts a cycle of mutual love: you have to show more to get more. Reis and Sonja Lyubomirsky the co-author of their new book How to Feel Loved: The Five Mindsets That Get You More of What Matters Most and a distinguished psychology professor at the University of California at Riverside call this a relationship sea-saw. In the analogy, both people in the relationship are partially submerged in water as they use the play equipment. When we lift up the other person, its as if we lift them above the waterline, Reis, who has spent the last five decades studying how close and romantic relationships work, said. open image in gallery Psychologists say lifting others up with love will help us to feel loved, as well ( Getty Images/iStock ) All of a sudden, parts that were previously hidden are now visible. Lifting people above the waterline in love encourages the other person to reciprocate. At the end of the day, we feel more loved because the other person is choosing to love us, according to Reis. That leads to a big personal pay-off. When that happens, people are happier and healthier. Theyre more productive. Theyre more successful in what they do. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice An Oklahoma woman is facing murder charges after she allegedly shot and killed her husband, a former Cherokee Nation Supreme Court justice, as he slept in their home. Elizabeth Poteete, 70, is charged with first-degree murder in the Cherokee Nation District Court in connection with the February 5 shooting death of Troy Wayne Poteete, according to newly filed court records obtained by KOTV. Investigators say Poteete called 911 around 11 p.m. that night and reported that she had shot her husband multiple times. She told the dispatcher that she would be waiting for deputies on her front porch. When deputies with the Sequoyah County Sheriffs Office responded to the couples home in Vian, they found Troy Poteete on the couch suffering from gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Poteete told investigators that her husband had threatened her, saying that his girlfriend and another person were going to kill her. open image in gallery Elizabeth Poteete, 70, is charged with murder after police say she shot her husband, former Cherokee Nation Supreme Court Justice Troy Poteete ( Sequoyah County Jail ) She claimed she feared for her life, so she grabbed a handgun from a file cabinet, stood four to five feet away from her husband, and fired multiple shots, according to records viewed by FOX24. She told investigators she was unsure how many times she pulled the trigger. Troy Poteete was a founding member of the Trail of Tears Association. He also served eight years as a Cherokee Nation Tribal Council member and was director of the Arkansas Riverbed Authority. Poteete is being held at the Sequoyah County Jail without bond, according to court records. She is scheduled to appear in court on March 3. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Five days after Gabriella Cartagenas family heard her pleading for her life before vanishing, the Wisconsin woman was found dead in a wooded area in Michigan and her boyfriend is in custody. The 24-year-old was last seen around 5 p.m. on February 4 at her home in Marinette, Wisconsin. Around 7:20 p.m. that same night, Cartagena made a troubling phone call to her mother. Family members later told police that during the phone call, they heard Cartagena in distress as she cried, Please dont shoot me. Im sorry. Cartagena was reported missing the next day. Her body was found five days later in a wooded area off Birch Creek Road in Menominee County, Michigan. Investigators learned from the family that Cartagena was believed to be with her boyfriend, 29-year-old Robert Chilcote, at Red Arrow Park in Wisconsin. He was identified as a person of interest, police confirmed at a press conference Thursday, FOX11 reported. open image in gallery Gabriella Cartagena was found dead in a wooded area in Michigan on Monday and now her boyfriend is in custody ( Marinette Police Department ) When officers initially responded to the park after receiving the missing persons report, they found signs of blood and immediately treated the area as a crime scene, Marinette Police Department Chief John LaCombe said. While looking around the scene, we found some signs of possible blood and other disturbances in the area, which led us to believe that this was a scene we needed to focus on from the start, LaCombe said. Police tracked Chilcote in Minnesota and on February 5, after a 16-minute car chase that reached speeds of up to 100 mph, Chilcote was taken into custody. There was weapons found in the vehicle, LaCombe said. I dont know if those were the weapons used in this incident or not. There was several firearms located in his vehicle at the time of his arrest in Minnesota. Chilcote, who is from the Marinette area, had no known ties to Minnesota, LaCombe added. It took another four days to find Cartagenas body. Using surveillance footage from area businesses and cell tower data to track Chilcotes movements after her disappearance, police were led to a wooded area near Birch Creek Road in Menominee County. Police said they searched the area repeatedly before locating Cartagenas body Tuesday morning. LaCombe said he believes Cartagena was killed at Red Arrow Park and later transported to the wooded area in Michigan. open image in gallery Robert Chilcote, who was last seen with Gabriella at Red Arrow Park in Wisconsin, was identified as a person of interest in her death ( Wright County Sheriff's Office ) Chilcote is being held on a $100,000 bond in Minnesota on charges of fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle and being a fugitive from justice from another state. Marinette County District Attorney DeShea Morrow said her office is awaiting the results of Cartagenas autopsy before filing charges. She added that the extradition process is underway to bring Chilcote back to Wisconsin. Authorities have not released a motive. Its unclear how long Cartagena and Chilcote had been together, but police say the two lived together in Marinette and there were no prior domestic disturbance reports involving the couple. LaCombe said Chilcote is the only suspect and does not believe anyone else was involved. open image in gallery A GoFundMe created by Gabriellas brother states that 'their family is still trying to process this sudden loss' ( GoFundMe ) We remain committed to seeking justice and ensuring the safety of our community, LaCombe said. Cartagena, who moved to Marinette from the Milwaukee area about a year ago with her family, leaves behind a three-year-old daughter from a previous relationship, her family said. A GoFundMe created by Cartagenas brother states that their family is still trying to process this sudden loss. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Law enforcement agencies carried out a late-night operation Friday at a residence about two miles from 84-year-old Nancy Guthries home as part of the investigation into her disappearance, but did not make any arrests. More than a dozen law enforcement vehicles, including SWAT and forensic teams, reportedly descended on a residence around two miles from Guthries Arizona home. Several roads were closed for about four hours, but later reopened, according to CNN. The 84-year-old mother of Today show anchor Savannah Guthrie was last seen at her home on January 31 and was reported missing the next day. Police believe she was abducted. A Pima County Sheriffs Department spokesperson confirmed no arrests were made during Fridays search. Last night, a federal court-ordered search warrant was executed at a residence near E. Orange Grove Rd. and N. First Ave. in connection with the Guthrie case, the spokesperson said Saturday. The warrant was based on a lead we received. open image in gallery The Pima County Sheriffs Department has revealed DNA that doesnt belong to anyone in 'close contact' with Nancy Guthrie was found at the missing 84-year-olds home ( FBI ) Separately, Friday night at a Culvers restaurant in Tucson, also about two miles from Guthries home, police searched and towed a silver or gray Range Rover following a traffic stop, Fox News Digital reported. The Pima County Sheriffs Department spokesperson confirmed one person was questioned after a traffic stop Friday evening, but provided few other details. A traffic stop was also conducted, and a person was questioned but no arrests resulted from that incident. There are no further details available at this time, the spokesperson said. Investigators wont quit their efforts to find Guthrie, even if it takes years, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told The New York Times on Friday. Maybe its an hour from now, he said. Maybe its weeks or months or years from now. But we wont quit. Were going to find Nancy. Were going to find this guy." open image in gallery FBI and SWAT conducted operations in a Tucson neighborhood two miles from Nancy Guthries home late Friday night ( Getty Images ) open image in gallery Also Friday, law enforcement searched and ultimately towed a Range Rover stopped at a Culvers just two miles from Guthries home ( Getty Images ) Police have yet to find Guthrie or her alleged abductor, but have been releasing new information about the case as the days go on. Earlier Friday, the Pima County Sheriffs Department revealed that DNA that doesnt belong to anyone in close contact with Guthrie was found at her home. In a statement shared with The Independent Friday, the sheriffs department said, DNA other than Nancy Guthries and those in close contact to her has been collected from the property. Guthrie lives in the affluent and secluded Catalina Foothills just outside of Tucson. The sheriffs department said investigators are working to identify whose DNA was discovered. Police are not currently disclosing where exactly on the property the DNA was found. In its statement, the sheriffs department also refuted any reports that a glove was found inside Guthries home or on her property. Several gloves have been located during the investigation. The closest gloves were found approximately two miles from the home, the department said. open image in gallery Authorities have shown video of the suspect in Nancys disappearance, taken from a doorbell camera at the front of her house on the morning police believe she was abducted ( FBI ) Early this week, authorities shared photos and video of a suspect in Guthries disappearance, taken from a doorbell camera at the front of her house on the morning police believe she may have been taken. The FBI Phoenix Field Office announced Tuesday that the previously inaccessible video shows an armed individual appearing to have tampered with the camera at Nancy Guthrie's front door the morning of her disappearance. The suspect, who is yet to be identified, was wearing a ski mask and gloves. Its unclear whether the gloves the suspect was wearing in the video match the gloves authorities found. On Thursday, the FBI increased its reward to $100,000 for information leading to the location of Nancy Guthrie and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance. The FBI has also shared a detailed description of the suspect, including the type of backpack he was wearing in the doorbell video. The suspect is described as a male, approximately 59 - 510 tall, with an average build. In the video, he is wearing a black, 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack, the agency wrote on X. open image in gallery Nancy Guthrie lives in the affluent and secluded Catalina Foothills, just outside of Tucson ( Reuters ) open image in gallery People have created a makeshift memorial outside Nancy Guthries Tucson home amid her disapperance ( Getty Images ) On Thursday, Reuters reported, citing a law enforcement official with knowledge of Guthries case, that Nanos was blocking the FBI from examining evidence. The official claimed the FBI requested DNA and a glove to be processed at the agency's national crime lab in Virginia, but Nanos insisted on using a private Florida lab. Nanos refuted the idea that he wouldnt collaborate with the FBI, telling CNNs Ed Lavandera his department and the bureau are joined at the hip. We want to find Nancy, the sheriff added. open image in gallery The sheriffs department also said gloves were found about two miles from Nancy Guthries home ( FBI ) open image in gallery The FBI has also shared a detailed description of the suspect, including the type of backpack he was wearing in the doorbell video ( FBI ) Savannah Guthrie and her siblings are desperate to find their beloved mother, offering to pay for her safe return. There have been reports of ransom notes demanding millions of dollars in Bitcoin, but none have been verified by police. "We received your message, and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us, so that we can celebrate with her," Savannah Guthrie said in a video posted Saturday, February 7, alongside her siblings, Annie and Camron Guthrie. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay. open image in gallery Savannah Guthrie and her siblings are desperate to find their beloved mother, offering to pay for Nancy Guthries safe return ( Instagram/Savannah Guthrie ) Earlier this week, the sheriffs department said a person was detained in connection with Nancy Guthries disappearance. He was later released without charges. A man named Carlos told local outlet ABC15 he was stopped by deputies for kidnapping Guthrie. They told me I was being detained for kidnapping, and I asked them, Kidnapping of who? Carlos said. As the investigation into Guthries suspected kidnapping continues, Nanos holds out hope that she will be found. I believe shell be found, the sheriff told Lavandera. We are working hard. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice North Fox Island looks idyllic from the air shaped like a teardrop, dense with forest and edged with sandy shores. Its surrounded by the cold blue waters of Lake Michigan and located 19 miles off the coast of the Leelanau Peninsula. In the 1970s, the uninhabited island belonged to Francis Frank Shelden, a Detroit millionaire with a Yale degree, a prestigious family name, and a reputation as a philanthropist. Shelden bought the island from a widow for $20,000 and carved out an airstrip, dug miles of dirt trails, and built cabins deep into the woods. Transportation to and from the island was, and still is to this day, limited. The island - just two miles wide and one mile long - could have been considered paradise. But investigators later uncovered the islands disturbing purpose an elaborate child sexual abuse ring operating behind the front of a summer camp for disadvantaged boys. The only arrest was of Sheldens co-conspirator, Gerald Richards. Richards was a gym teacher who moonlighted as a magician. The operation on the island was exposed when one of his students told their mother about inappropriate conduct by Richards in gym class. open image in gallery The case of Frank Shelden and North Fox Island has haunting similarities to the Jeffrey Epstein saga which has come under renewed public scrutiny this year ( AP ) Richards pleaded guilty to charges of first-degree criminal sexual conduct and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. But Shelden, who reportedly got word from another co-conspirator that the police were investigating, fled the country. He was never caught. The secret operation, disguised as Brother Pauls Childrens Mission, was promoted as a retreat or summer camp for boys. But an investigation later uncovered evidence that these boys were transported to the island by private plane for depraved sex acts. The number of victims is unknown, but authorities believe there are at least dozens, if not hundreds. The case has haunting similarities to the Jeffrey Epstein saga, which has come under renewed public scrutiny this year. The Trump administration has released millions of files on the late financiers sex trafficking operations of underage girls and women, entangling dozens of rich and powerful people. Like Shelden, Epstein had an island of his own - Little St. James, which locals nicknamed Pedophile Island, is a private paradise in the U.S. Virgin Islands. open image in gallery Shelden bought North Fox Island from a widow for $20,000 and carved out an airstrip, dug miles of dirt trails, and built cabins deep into the woods ( Supplied ) open image in gallery Transportation to and from the island was, and still is to this day, limited. The island - just two miles wide and one mile long - could have been considered paradise ( Supplied ) open image in gallery Investigators later uncovered the islands disturbing purpose an elaborate child sexual abuse ring operating behind the front of a summer camp for disadvantaged boys ( Supplied ) And similar to Sheldens case, only Epsteins accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, has been convicted of a crime. She was sentenced to 20 years in prison on sex trafficking charges. Epstein died by suicide in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial. The similarities are not lost on Colin Browen, a documentary filmmaker and podcast host who is working on an investigative docuseries with author and investigative journalist J Ruben Appleman about Sheldens operation. Its set to be released later this year. Essentially, Frank Shelden was the Jeffrey Epstein of the 1970s, Browen told The Independent. Its as simple as that. Browen, who launched The Paranormal Files and Murder in America, began to look into the North Fox Island saga when he noticed there was a lack of coverage on organized pedophilia. Somewhere along the way, when we were doing these stories, I started noticing that there was a certain type of crime that wasnt being covered and that was organized pedophilia, Browen said. I found the story one day, he said about Sheldens case. And I couldnt believe what I was reading, and I just went on TikTok, made a video... and two years later, I found myself on North Fox Island actually investigating the crimes for myself. open image in gallery Little St. James, which locals nicknamed Pedophile Island is a private paradise in the U.S. Virgin Islands ( DOJ ) Browens investigation has taken him outside of Michigan, as far as the Netherlands, Amsterdam, Germany and India, places where its believed Shelden continued to commit pedophilia crimes. He claims to have spoken to new victims of Shelden, along with alleged perpetrators. The project challenges how wealth, power, and institutional protection have historically shielded perpetrators from accountability and why these patterns continue today, he said. But Browen believes there is more information about Sheldens case that officials have not released. After multiple requests with the FBI and other agencies, he is now suing the FBI for access to more than 1,047 unreleased files in the Shelden case, after the bureau claimed that it would take more than six years to redact the documents. open image in gallery Colin Browen, a documentary filmmaker and podcast host, is working on an investigative docuseries about Frank Sheldens pedophila operation. Its set to be released later this year ( Provided ) Brother Pauls Nature Camp: A Front for Abuse When Browen visited North Fox Island in 2024, he was reminded how eerily silent it was. Some of the cabins that were built for Sheldens camp were still standing, the same structures described by the boys in the files he had been examining for months. They described CSAM being recorded, torturous sexual abuse, horrific things happening on the Island, Browen said about what he had read in the files. CSAM (child sexual abuse material) is a term now used by Law enforcement and child protection organizations to accurately reflect crimes against children. Shelden was born into Michigan royalty a descendant of Russell Alger, a lumber baron and the states 20th governor who later served as President William McKinleys secretary of war. A 1975 Detroit Free Press profile described Shelden as a wealthy bachelor who had graduated from Yale University with a masters degree in geology from Wayne State University. He also served in the Michigan Air Guard and volunteered with the Big Brothers club. Shelden never married. In 1975, Shelden opened Brother Pauls Nature Camp, a tax-exempt charitable trust and a mission that promised tutoring, counseling, and outdoor experiences for troubled boys. His partner, Gerald Richards, was a Catholic school gym teacher and traveling magician who recruited children to the camp often his own students. Shelden was the figurehead in this operation, but he also had co-conspirators, Browen explained. And one of those was Richards. He was actually caught for this. He's kind of like Ghislaine Maxwell in this story in a way, Browen said. He would help get children. Mike Dunsmore, a fire chief in Greenwood Township, Michigan, was a former student of Richards. He told During a Click On Detroit interview in 2019, Dunsmore recalled a number of horrific stories from his time at the camp. Including a time in which Richards ordered other boys to bury him in the sand while he was naked. Escape from justice Shelden and Richards were not the only ones linked to the horrific crimes. Dyer Grossman and Adam Starchild were also named in both Detroit police reports and case files with the FBI. But when the investigation into the camp began in 1976, and Richards was arrested, both Shelden and Grossman evaded capture by fleeing the United States. Somehow, he was given enough time to go through all of his properties and destroy all the evidence, every file, everything, and thats officially where the trail ends on Sheldon, Browen claims about Shelden. Starchild was questioned about his alleged involvement in Sheldens operation, but there was not sufficient evidence to charge him. The US Attorneys Office in Detroit issued an arrest warrant charging Shelden with criminal sexual conduct, a felony in Michigan, involving the procurement and sexual activities involving young boys ages 8-14 in the Port Huron and Traverse City areas. Both Shelden and Grossman were declared fugitives of justice. Shelden fled to the Netherlands, eventually married a French woman to obtain citizenship, and reportedly continued abusing boys across Europe, according to Browen, who plans to chronicle the new findings in his docuseries. open image in gallery In the 1970s, Francis Frank Shelden, a Detroit millionaire, bought North Fox Island in Michigan and turned it into a place for a sex trafficking ring ( Click On Detroit/Local 4/WDIV ) There are reports that Shelden died in Amsterdam in 1996, but details are limited. Theres a marriage certificate for him, Browen said. And hes got a death certificate in Amsterdam, and that's it. Richards pleaded guilty to charges of first-degree criminal sexual conduct. On September 13, 1976, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison, according to a Michigan State Police report. He testified about his role in the pedophile ring at a congressional hearing on child abuse in 1977, stating that Brother Paul Nature Camp was designed to victimize children and evade taxes. Richards is reported to have died in 1998 by suicide. There is little information about Grossman and Starchild in the years after the ring was busted. Its unclear if either man is still alive. Is there a possible link to unsolved child murders? The abuse at North Fox Island was taking place at the same time as another notorious Michigan crime - the Oakland County child murders. Between February 1976 and March 1977, four children were abducted and murdered in Oakland County. Their killer, or killers, have never been arrested for their murders. The victims were Mark Stebbins, 12; Jill Robinson, 12; Kristine Mihelich, 10; and Timothy King, 11. Police believe only the boys had been sexually assaulted. The cause of death in three of the cases is listed as suffocation, but Jill Robinson was murdered with a shotgun. But there has been persistent speculation that the killings were linked to the child pornography ring on North Fox Island, which was investigated by police in 1977. Investigators do not believe Shelden or Richards could have been the Oakland County Child Killer, but one theory suggests the killer could be someone they victimized on the island, Click on Detroit reported. open image in gallery The victims of the Oakland County child murders are pictured left to right: Timothy King, Kristine Mihelich, Mark Stebbins, and Jill Robinson ( Michigan State Police ) We were the first to look at pornography and pornography rings and pedophilia as being a motive in this (Oakland County Child Killer) case, former Wayne County Detective Cory Williams told The Shattered podcast as reported by Click on Detroit. We put quite a bit of time and effort into that. Were these kids filmed? Pictures taken? Were they passed around? We dont know at this point, but we did put a lot of time and effort into that. Over the years, investigators had persons of interest in the case, many of whom were linked to or had been charged with crimes involving pedophilia. One of those individuals was Christopher Busch. He was a convicted pedophile who lived in Bloomfield Hills and came onto police radar in 1977. But in 2012, police said there was no evidence suggesting Busch was the killer. His DNA does not match the physical evidence investigators have. He died in 1978 in what was ruled a suicide. A suspect is not currently named in the Oakland County Child Killer case. New findings When Browen began investigating Shelden, it was an interview with Appelman that would shed new light on the case and bring Browen face-to-face with some of the victims. Appelmans book, The Kill Jar, chronicles both the North Fox Island sex trafficking ring and the Oakland County child murders after years of studying thousands of pages of local, state, and FBI case documents, including previously private witness statements, autopsy reports, catalogs of evidence, crime scene photos, interrogation transcription, polygraph results, and personal correspondences and interviews highlighted within piles of bankers boxers obtained through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, according to his bio. He wrote that the North Fox Island operation functioned essentially as a subscription service centered on the production of child pornography and the sexual abuse of boys ages 7 to 16. In exchange for their contributions, the camps sponsors could receive pornography that police said was produced on the island, or even visit the island themselves. But its what happened after the books release that inspired Browen to team up with Appelman for further investigation. Appelman told Browen that hundreds, if not thousands, of messages had been sent to him from people who claimed they were molested by Shelden after he fled to Europe. We have spoken with victims of his over there, and we also tracked him all the way to India We have photographs of him with children in an orphanage in the 1990s. Browen said. Like, this guy is single-handedly responsible for all these children who were molested or used for the production of the CSAM material, and what's shocking to me is, you know, in doing a series like this, not only do we want to track the crimes of Shelden and figure out who he victimized and where he was, because it's never been done, he added. The upcoming docuseries will also take a closer look at the crimes that Shelden reportedly committed in Europe and Asia. From the underbelly of the Netherlands, to orphanages in India, to the glitzy hills of Hollywood, and back to the place where it all started in North Fox Island, Browen said. Browen pointed out that this investigation feels particularly timely amid the ongoing release of the Epstein files. He added that hes hoping to raise awareness of the Shelden case and show what happens when the pressure is not applied. Shelden had a network of pedophiles he was sending that material to, Browen explained. Thousands of pedophiles on his mailing lists, thousands of pedophiles that were receiving CSAM materials through the mail, none of them ever arrested, none of the people that were producing the materials, none of them investigated or anything, and it all just went away. We're seeing the same thing with Epstein, he added. Coming forward Browen says his focus is on the survivors. If you actually look at these stories, and you read the facts and you go beyond the headlines and you watch interviews with survivors, and for me, you sit in a room with them, and you cry with them, and you hear stories that they've never been comfortable enough to share before," he said. It becomes so real that it consumes you, and for me, there's nothing else that I can even think about at this point other than trying to raise the alarm surrounding these historic rings because this is what happened. He recalled meeting a man in Amsterdam who said he had been sex trafficked to Shelden by his own grandfather. He had some absolutely horrific stories, and I mean, everybody's crying, Browen said. Like, there's a lot of crying and tears from our all-male production team, you know, it's really powerful stuff. Browen warned that without accountability, history repeats itself. If we dont do something about Epstein and find some sort of justice for all of the survivors and victims, the story is just going to die and go away. A pattern that never ended Like Epstein, Shelden was a bachelor who used his wealth, philanthropy and society connections to shield his crimes in plain sight. Thousands of men on Sheldens mailing lists were never charged. Names remain unknown. Browen has filed multiple Freedom of Information Act requests with the FBI with the aim of obtaining thousands of unreleased files on the case. But the FBI has told him it could take more than six years to redact and release the documents, he said. With my requests to the FBI theyve told me its going to take six plus years to send over a thousand, he said. Which makes no sense. open image in gallery Browen's team has since returned to the island with cadaver dogs - and what they found was shocking, he said. Browen wouldnt reveal details, but said they are planning to go back and that they will continue to push for answers ( Supplied ) The FBI did not respond to The Independents questions about the Shelden files. North Fox Island was bought by the state of Michigan in 2000. It sits quietly abandoned. But Browen refuses to let the horrific crimes that happened there fade into the past. His team has since returned to the island with cadaver dogs - and what they found was shocking, he said. Browen wouldnt reveal details, but said they are planning to go back and that they will continue to push for answers. You can see what happens when everything fails, he said. When people aren't brought to justice, and either someone escapes, someone dies ... well, the stories just fade away. We cant let that happen. Advertisement Updated NationalNSWScience These alleged rapists were free for 25 years. Heres what caught them Angus Dalton Updated February 15, 2026 4:24pm ,first published February 14, 2026 5:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Robert Wayne Kwans thumbs, forced together by handcuffs, twiddled in fits as detectives marched him down the long curve of a grassy driveway towards waiting police cars in South Kempsey, north of Port Macquarie, on Wednesday. The alleged child rapist, 77, has been charged over a raft of historical sex crimes spanning more than a decade, from the targeting of an 11-year-old girl in Sydneys west in 1991 to the sexual assault of a 26-year-old woman at Devils Hole Reserve near Dubbo in 2002. Robert Wayne Kwans arrest came about as the result of technology that relies on genetic informants. Michael Howard Just two days after Kwans arrest, police swooped on another alleged rapist in the Northern Rivers, a quarter-century after his alleged crimes. The arrests mark the arrival in NSW of a technology that has jailed fabled serial killers, set those wrongfully convicted of murder free and granted anonymous bones the dignity of personhood. The investigative tool, called Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG), relies on people who have spat into a tube for commercial DNA tests, choosing to dismiss privacy concerns and make their data available to investigators. Advertisement They become genetic informants, helping police build sprawling family trees that lead them to alleged perpetrators. Kwans was the first arrest in NSW as a result of the technology. The second came barely 48 hours later on Friday morning, when police arrested a 73-year-old man at a Murwillumbah service station over a separate spate of sexual assaults on the Central Coast in the 1990s. Joseph James DeAngelo, known as the Golden State Killer, was charged with 13 crimes in the US after his DNA was allegedly linked to a number of historical crimes through FIGG. AP The alleged crimes included the attack of a 52-year-old woman while she was sunbaking; the violent assault of a 16-year-old girl at Budgewoi Beach; and another instance where a naked man ran at three young girls on a bush track near Killcare. One 16-year-old girl tripped and was sexually assaulted. For decades these horrific alleged acts went unpunished. Until FIGG finally led police to a suspect. Advertisement Heres how it works. Traditional genetic profiling targets sections of human DNA where sequences of the four base letters A, C, G and T always repeat. Everyone, for example, has a repeating sequence of AGAT on their third chromosome. However, the number of times that sequence repeats varies between people, acting as a kind of genetic fingerprint. Standard DNA testing focuses on about 20 of these sequences called short tandem repeats, or STRs and the pattern of those repeats can match a suspects DNA to a drop of blood at a crime scene. Human remains identification specialist Dr Jodie Ward examining skeletal remains at the AFP forensic facility in Canberra. A problem arises, however, when investigators dont have a reference sample of DNA. Police held DNA samples from Kwans alleged crimes, for example, but had nothing to match them to. Thats where FIGG comes in. Instead of zeroing in on a handful of STRs, the test picks up a different kind of DNA variation called single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs (pronounced snips). These are single-letter differences at specific points across our DNA where you might have an A, someone else has a G and we can detect over a million of them using specialised sequencing technology. Advertisement The key advantage for detectives is that this DNA map of more than a million SNPs is sensitive enough to identify someones very distant relatives their third or fourth cousins, for example. (Think about that do you even know who your fourth cousins are?) Finding family can help tie anonymous DNA to an actual person. To do that, investigators match the DNA profile of a perpetrator or victim to distant relatives using online genealogy databases, made up of people who have used commercial ancestry tests and consented to law enforcement using their data. The databases have about 1 million to 2 million genetic profiles. Thats exponentially larger than DNA databases owned by law enforcement. Once police find a relative, they turn to investigative genealogy part genetic analysis, part family history sleuthing to build a family tree linking the owner of the DNA and their distant relatives in the database. Experts trawl back through the generations to find the last direct ancestors shared by the person of interest and their identified relatives, narrowing the search to a specific branch of the family tree. The process might take days or, in some cases, years. Its how detectives can now find the owner of an unknown bone or semen sample. Advertisement Advertisement What price can you put on restoring someones identity? Ward, a DNA forensics expert, said. You are providing answers to families, you are providing the deceased with a dignified burial, you are keeping the community safe because criminal investigations can ensue. At the moment, DNA testing is only offered by law enforcement or government forensic labs in Australia and not everyone can access those technologies, unfortunately. The process is expensive about $10,000 compared to routine DNA testing, which might cost $100, she said. Thats why, in 2024, Ward founded the Forensic Human Identification Co., a social enterprise which provides the only independent end-to-end FIGG service in Australia. What price can you put on restoring someones identity? says Dr Jodie Ward, who has used FIGG to identify human remains. Through the enterprise, Ward aims to help families find missing loved ones, exonerate those wrongfully convicted of crimes, advance cases of disappeared First Nations people, and use techniques borrowed from the study of ancient DNA to identify forgotten and degraded remains. Advertisement Our goal is to make sure that its not just agencies with deep pockets that can access this technology because we want to see every unknown deceased person given the opportunity to be identified, she said. Following Kwans arrest, police have called for people to consider uploading their DNA profiles to databases investigators can use for FIGG, including GEDmatch PRO and FamilyTreeDNA. People can choose to upload their genetic information to those databases after using a commercial service like 23andMe or AncestryDNA, which police cannot generally access. About 5-10 per cent of the profiles on the databases are believed to be Australian. There were privacy issues when FIGG first came to prominence. Some genealogy services automatically opted users in to have their data used by police. A lack of transparency meant some of the genetic informants used to catch the Golden State Killer did so unwittingly they uploaded data to track down relatives and ended up identifying a murderer. Since then, most databases have switched to a more transparent opt-in system, although in Germany, FIGG remains largely banned due to privacy concerns. Advertisement Any DNA data uploaded to GEDmatch PRO is opted in to identify human remains, but users must opt in manually for their data to be used to find the perpetrators of violent crimes. FIGG is only used for homicides, sexual assaults or unidentified human remains, Detective Superintendent Jayne Doherty, Sex Crimes Squad Commander at NSW Police, said after Kwans arrest. People thinking about opting in you could be helping us to solve those serious problems. Examine, a free weekly newsletter covering science with a sceptical, evidence-based eye, is sent every Tuesday. Youre reading an excerpt sign up to get the whole newsletter in your inbox. Advertisement Letters NationalVictoriaLetters Angus Taylor is not a fresh start for the Liberals February 14, 2026 8:00pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Photo: Matt Golding To submit a letter to The Age, email letters@theage.com.au. Please include your home address and telephone number. No attachments, please include your letter in the body of the email. See here for our rules and tips on getting your letter published. Not a fresh start Angus Taylor as new Liberal leader were told is a fresh start. It isnt. A fresh start would mean abandoning culture wars, having real policies including adopting evidence-based climate action, and governing for all Australians not just fossil fuel donors, property developers and media monopolies. It would mean transparency on donor meetings, and a revolving door that swings both ways. Instead, we will get more science denial. More division. More obstruction of climate action, housing and tax reform. More governing for vested interests. The problem isnt the leader. Its who the party serves. The only fix? A party that works for all Australians. Sue Barrett, Caulfield South Wrong reality Does Angus Taylor want to take us back to the 1950s? He wants to focus on home ownership, shutting out bad migration, restoring middle class wealth and national pride. Hes living in an alternate reality. Katriona Fahey, Alphington The exit door awaits Congratulations go to Angus Taylor on being elected the next former leader of the Liberal Party. Mick Hussey, Beaconsfield Advertisement Halfway to nowhere Angus Taylor has said the Liberal Party must change or die. Given recent polling, I would say their halfway there already. John Page, Glenroy Back to the future Knowing that the Liberals face political and existential irrelevance, Angus Taylor was faced with two choices: 1. To outline policies aligned with centrist Liberal values and to vow to use his skills to build a cohesive Australia fitted to the challenges of the coming years; or 2. Copy Pauline Hansons simplistic back to the future rhetoric, but wearing a nice suit. Guess we know what he chose. Tony Roberts, Wandin North More things change ... I doubt that Angus Taylor as the new leader of the Liberal Party will convince Liberal voters that, under the new leadership, anything will change. His comments on immigration at the press conference suggest the party is still beholden to the ultra right. The Liberal Party wasted an opportunity to reach out to disgruntled moderates and, in particular women who are choosing independent candidates over Liberal ones. The more things change the more they stay the same in the Liberal Party. Marisa Di Giacomo, Beaumaris Popcorn, please One cannot help but be amused that the most prominent voice offering advice during the latest Liberal leadership shambles is none other than Tony Abbott. If one is seeking guidance from a man who was so bad at his job that his own party dumped him from the role of prime minister after barely two years in the job you know the Liberals are in deep trouble. Where is the popcorn? Ross Hudson, Mount Martha Ignore Abbotts advice Tony Abbott implores Angus Taylor to take the Liberals into the era of John Howard and Robert Menzies. Does he not comprehend that taking the views of 25 and 70 years ago is not where modern Australia wants to be? What hope is there for the modern Liberals if theyre taking advice such as his? Frank Flynn, Cape Paterson Advertisement More than saying no Many correspondents have called for a strong, viable and competent opposition to hold governments to account both at federal and, certainly in the case of Victoria, state levels. However, Id much rather see less of an opposition merely opposing everything but better presenting themselves as a strong, viable and competent alternative government with clearly articulated policies. Bruce Crowe, Sunbury Apology threshold The Big Build has apparently been rorted for $15 billion, but the premier, Jacinta Allan, disputes this and has batted away questions. Possibly the amount is less than $15 billion, or possibly its more. This comes after the state government spent $1.5 billion not to build the East-West Link (probably a project still urgently required and particularly so, once the North-East link is completed), and spent $1 billion not to hold the Commonwealth Games. I wonder what, or how much more wastage of funds and mismanagement, would actually be required for the premier to apologise and resign? Andrew McNicoll, Kew Referred where, Allan? So premier, matters brought to your repeated attention at your press conference (12/2) on CFMEU behaviour were referred by you to the appropriate authorities. Which authorities and when? Robert Wilson, Jan Juc How to woo voters There are probably many traditional Labor voters in Victoria who would consider an alternative if one were available. If Opposition Leader Jess Wilson wanted to pry some loose she might focus on areas normally considered to be Labor strengths. She could remind voters that Victoria has the worst record in public school funding and provision of public-social housing. Properly funded programs to address these priorities would resonate with many. She might also urge her federal colleagues to support changes to tax breaks that favour property investors and disadvantage first home buyers. Norman Huon, Port Melbourne A good news story The Age often reports on conflict, stressful events and people doing the wrong thing. Its lovely to read a story about the new Footscray Hospital with its focus on how access to sunlight, greenery and modern facilities helps recovery (New hospital design has seen the light, 14/2). Its a positive in a difficult world. My grandfather worked at Footscray Hospital for many years, with a firm belief that everyone from all walks of life deserved decent healthcare. Hed be delighted. Shelley Durance, Beaumaris Advertisement Climate of fear Bravo John Silvester for Who planted the seed of hate? (14/2). As a non-Jewish Australian I am appalled by the rise in camouflaged and blatant antisemitism in this country. My sense of horror is magnified by how few share my alarm. I understand many are simply condemning the Israeli governments actions (some or all of it). Much of the criticism is justified. But it is undeniable that ostracising Jewish-Australians is also occurring. This is happening via vague, easily thrown about labels and chants; by off-hand insinuations and disingenuous arguments; and by ugly jokes and memes that would be unacceptable were it any other group. I cannot imagine what it must be like being a Jewish person in Australia today: the daily direct and indirect bigotry, the generalisations, the constant micro, and macro, aggressions online, in the media, and on the street. I am told many nurse a profound sense of alienation from the Australian society to which they have contributed so much. They bite their lip rather than speak up swallowing hurt, indignation, and visceral fear. They silence themselves. That this is the climate should make us all ashamed. Jane Castles, Brunswick East Were rapt, for sure Your correspondent (Letters, 14/2) does not need to be concerned for people who might fall over as they lean in or reach out to someone somebody else is sure to be there to wrap their arms around the tottering person. Geoff Wescott, Northcote Initial concerns The big V has downsized to the little v to accommodate the big M. Ben Blair, Point Lonsdale Advertisement NationalVictoriaCrime More than 1000 people charged in first year of domestic violence choking laws Melissa Cunningham and Craig Butt February 14, 2026 7:55pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A More than 1000 people were charged with non-fatal choking, strangling or suffocating their partners or family members in the year after landmark new offences were introduced in Victoria. The data analysed by the Crime Statistics Agency paints a grim picture revealing more than 230 of those perpetrators were repeat offenders and some were charged more than five times in a year for choking or strangling their partner. The first offence of strangulation in Victoria carries a five-year maximum sentence and does not require physical proof of injury. Police have laid more than 1300 charges of intentional choking, suffocating or strangling under new offences introduced in Victoria last year. Marija Ercegovac New data from the Crime Statistics Agency shows that in the first 12 months of the laws operation, between October 2024 and September last year, police charged 996 people with this crime. Advertisement A further breakdown of the data shows that in 166 cases, the perpetrator was a repeat offender and in the most extreme cases they were charged with this offence more than five times. Related Article Crime Strangulation laws come into effect amid hopes for rise in convictions of violent offenders About 130 offenders were charged with this offence twice and 23 offenders were charged three times. Seven offenders were charged with the crime more than five times. The second, more serious, offence of non-fatal strangulation intentionally causing injury carries a maximum sentence of 10 years behind bars and requires more evidence to prove. Advertisement For this offence, 131 people were charged during the first year. A breakdown of those offenders shows 72 were repeat perpetrators and four were charged more than five times with choking their partners or family members. In total, 1312 criminal charges of non-fatal strangulation were laid by police under the two new criminal offences, created to increase the rate of convictions against domestic violence abusers and take the onus off victim-survivors to prove they were choked unconscious. The new offences came after sweeping reforms were announced by the state government following the murder of Victorian woman Joy Rowley, who was strangled to death by James Martin Mulhall at her home in Rye in 2011. A subsequent coronial inquest heard police failed Rowley at least eight times after she sought help when Mulhall choked her to the point of unconsciousness in the months leading up to her murder. The inquest identified the urgent need for new legislation in Victoria that directly addressed non-fatal strangulation in domestic violence cases. Advertisement Last year, this masthead revealed that since the non-fatal strangulation law came into effect in October 2024, 172 criminal charges of the new offences had been finalised and perpetrators sentenced in magistrates courts up to August. One charge of non-fatal strangulation was also finalised in the Childrens Court. Melbourne University law professor Heather Douglas, a renowned family violence researcher who has been tracking how strangulation laws are working across Australia, said the sheer numbers of charges laid in Victoria was a positive sign. Loading It is a very strong uptake given it is the first year of the laws, and shows that police are comfortable using it, she said. Douglas said that historically, perpetrators would be charged with offences such as assault or intentionally causing injury, but the new law more accurately reflected the seriousness of the crime, including the risk it posed of future homicide. Advertisement Mounting research suggests a person who survives non-fatal strangulation by a current or former partner was seven times more likely to be seriously injured or murdered by that person. Related Article Sexual health Strangulation during sex has been mainstreamed but risks brain damage, experts warn One study found the likelihood of homicide leapt by 800 per cent if their partner or former partner attempted to strangle them. Douglas warned that securing convictions for the strangulation and choking charges remained difficult. She said research indicated that in Queensland, for example, about half of strangulation charges fall over during the court process, often due to a lack of forensic evidence. Advertisement In a world first, the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine in Melbourne is hoping to change this. A team of experts at the institute will soon begin using a dedicated, state government-funded MRI scanner to help police investigate internal injuries to gather forensic evidence for non-fatal strangulation victims Professor Kate Fitz-Gibbon, an international research leader in the area of family violence at Monash University, said the criminal charges alone were not the full story. Related Article Exclusive Domestic violence I could picture myself in a coffin: How a forensic team is helping strangulation victims like Stacey We need ongoing monitoring of how these matters progress through the courts, including sentencing outcomes and whether victim-survivors feel safer, are supported through the process and have access to the services needed to support them to recover from the abuse experience, she said. These laws must be accompanied by sustained investment in early intervention and prevention efforts so that we are not only responding after harm has occurred, and we are working to reduce the prevalence of acts of non-fatal strangulation. Advertisement Christine Mathieson, interim chief executive for Safe and Equal, Victorias peak body for specialist family violence services, said that while the number of charges laid in the first year of these laws was promising, charges do not necessarily result in convictions. Related Article Media & marketing How to make The Age your preferred source on Google To curb the scourge of domestic abuse, Mathieson said the government must prioritise responses from all parts of the community and service system, including upskilling workforces such as frontline specialist family violence workers. The roll-out of the laws came as experts warn the practice of strangulation during sex has become so widespread that more than half of Australian young people have used it. Doctors and researchers warn that understanding of the dangers is so lacking that even those who consent to it are not aware of the grave risks, which include death within minutes, brain injury and stroke. Advertisement National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732), Lifeline 131 114. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement Exclusive NationalVictoriaDrugs Uber drivers: Why specialist nurses are spending hours ferrying patients across the state Marta Pascual Juanola and Broede Carmody February 14, 2026 1:00pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Frustrated health workers say their peers have become part-time Uber drivers ferrying patients to and from Melbourne because pockets of Victoria do not have dedicated adult detox facilities, sparking calls for an overhaul in the regions. Ballarat Community Health staff say they clocked up more than 8000 kilometres and at least 110 hours driving clients back and forth between the regional city and detox facilities in Melbourne, Geelong and Bendigo late last year. Ballarat Community Health clinical lead Mel Lishman (right) and peer support worker Dean Seabrook work in drug and alcohol services in the region. Jason South The trips the equivalent of almost three weeks worth of patient outreach and care were recorded in the three months leading up to Christmas. The driving was mostly done by specialist nurses trained to provide in-home or community-based care for Victorians withdrawing from alcohol and other drugs. Advertisement Ballarat Community Health clinic lead for alcohol and other drugs Mel Lishman said staff spent a lot of time driving clients to services in Melbourne, Geelong and Bendigo because the region did not have a dedicated detox facility for adults. Related Article Exclusive Drugs Surge in women using date-rape substance as party drug leads to spike in hospitalisations Some facilities have specific admission times. And so, for example, one of our nurses this morning left at seven oclock. She doesnt usually start until nine, but she had to start or leave here at seven oclock to pick up a client from Daylesford to get them to Melbourne for a 10 oclock admission. Detox and rehabilitation are two separate, but sequential, phases of recovery from drug or alcohol use. Detox refers to the short-term medical process of clearing substances from the body and safely managing withdrawal symptoms. It typically lasts three to 10 days. Advertisement Rehab follows detox and is focused on longer-term therapy that addresses the root causes of addiction and helps prevent relapse. Related Article Drugs Grave fears: Overdose deaths reach 10-year high in Victoria Ballarat does have a rehab clinic, but its detox service, Tabor House, is for young people aged 12 to 25. Ballarat Community Health manager Suzanne Powell, who has worked in this space for 18 years, said detox had been an issue since she started. We have raised this issue a lot but we dont seem to get anywhere, she said. Advertisement From a funding perspective, it would be more sustainable to have appropriate resources to undertake this [transport] work to reduce the amount of time our NRW [non-residential withdrawal] nurses are spending in the car. In community health, residential withdrawal refers to staying at a facility with 24/7 medical supervision. Non-residential withdrawal is done at home or via an outpatient service for more mild dependency. Ballarat peer support worker Dean Seabrook said alcohol continued to be the most commonly used drug in the region, but cannabis was common, too. There had also been an increase in the usage of GHB, also known as liquid ecstasy. Its reported by clients that methamphetamine purity is very low at the moment. Its getting cut with things, so clients arent getting that buzz. So theyre using other things as well. Advertisement Chris Christoforou, the chief executive of the Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association, said there had been a general increase in demand for detox services across the state. Its an important part of preparing people for rehabilitation. Often its a first step when theres quite problematic alcohol or other drug use that poses a significant health risk to the individual. So being able to manage that properly as part of a supported withdrawal process is critical, he said. The issue of access to detox beds or withdrawal beds is a major issue, and certainly a major issue for regional communities. Christoforou said being able to access support networks was an essential part of treatment success. Advertisement People need services in their communities. Ballarat isnt exactly a small town. Its one of the biggest population centres in Victoria. Mel Thomson, the chief operating officer at Windana which runs longer-term rehabilitation services in Ballarat, Geelong and Maryknoll said all services transported patients, but the burden was higher in the regions. Its an incredible waste of resources. Theyre not Uber drivers, she said of nursing staff. But they do it because there isnt an alternative thats safe or funded. Thomson said she would welcome an adult detox centre in Ballarat but in an ideal world, there would be medical detox beds in every major community. Why does every major hospital and community health service not have medical detox beds available? This is a health issue. Advertisement Windana also offers home-based withdrawal services for suitable clients around the south-eastern suburbs, Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula. Patients are connected to a nurse and local GP who prescribe the necessary medications. Thomson said this was an area the government could also invest in. However, she pointed out that home-based withdrawal was unsuitable in some cases, such as Victorians consuming larger quantities of drugs or alcohol, or those at risk of homelessness. Victorians will head to the polls for a state election in November. Aside from violence against women, the Coalition is expected to campaign hard on better access to healthcare in the regions, according to two sources speaking on the condition of anonymity to anticipate plans not yet finalised. Editor's pick Magazine Good Weekend The February 14 edition February 14, 2026 A spokesperson for the Allan government said that while Ballarat locals had access to specialist alcohol and drug services, more could be done. Advertisement Thats why were delivering our $95 million statewide action plan to save lives, reduce drug harms and get Victorians the care they need. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement PoliticsFederalPolitical leadership Hastie, Price likely to return to frontbench as Taylor eyes new team Rob Harris February 15, 2026 5:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A New Liberal Party leader Angus Taylor is poised to bring back exiled conservative figures Andrew Hastie and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price to frontline politics as he attempts to salvage the Coalitions record-low standing in opinion polls. Taylor is expected to announce his new frontbench in the coming days as he attempts to move on from weeks of bitter infighting and debate that led to Fridays toppling of Sussan Ley after just 276 days in the job. The Coalition trails Pauline Hansons One Nation in several major polls after recording its lowest-ever primary vote at last years federal election. New Liberal leader Angus Taylor, pictured with his deputy Jane Hume, is expected to announce his new line-up in the coming days. Alex Ellinghausen Victorian MP Tim Wilson is widely expected among his Liberal colleagues to be appointed shadow treasurer to take on an economic fight with the Albanese government. Hastie, who resigned from Leys frontbench in October over immigration policy, was being touted by colleagues as a candidate for the industry portfolio. The biggest casualty is predicted to be NSW MP and factional figure Alex Hawke, a Ley loyalist, who will probably lose both his shadow cabinet position and his role as leader of opposition business in the House of Representatives. Advertisement In his first full day in the job on Saturday, Taylor visited the home of a young couple in regional NSW to frame his economic narrative. Related Article Political leadership Therell be nothing left of the Liberal Party: Inside the downfall of Sussan Ley Owning a home has always been an essential part of the Australian ideal, of the Australian journey, of what young Australians do as they start a family, he told reporters in Goulburn. But it is getting too hard, young Australians are giving up hope. Flanked by his deputy, Jane Hume, Taylor vowed to fight a possible wind-back of the capital gains tax discount, which is reportedly under consideration by the government. Asked if such a change would actually ease home prices and aid first home buyers, Taylor said a less generous discount would weigh on housing supply. Advertisement And we need more homes, not less, if were going to have more affordability. Taylor dined with Nationals leader David Littleproud in his hometown of Goulburn on Friday evening, where the pair discussed a potential way to fast-track the junior Coalition partys readmission to the ministry. All nine Nationals members of the Coalition shadow ministry are serving a six-week ban after the parties split over a falling out on hate crimes legislation. Liberals Andrew Hastie and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price are expected to return to the frontbench under Angus Taylor. Alex Ellinghausen A Nationals source told this masthead, on the condition of anonymity so they could speak freely, that it was up to Taylor to decide whether the March 1 return of the suspended Nationals imposed by Ley would remain. Sources close to Taylor said he had made no promises to colleagues to gain enough numbers to win Fridays party-room ballot, 34 votes to 17, which freed him to pick the best available frontbench team. Advertisement Price, a Northern Territory senator who crossed from the Nationals to the Liberals after the last election, was dumped from Leys shadow ministry for her failure to endorse her leadership as well as her refusal to apologise over her remarks about Indian immigrants. Popular among the partys membership, she is also one of several conservative faction figures eyeing a return. Liberal MPs believe several Ley backers could struggle to retain their places in the shadow cabinet, including Queensland-based legal affairs spokesman Andrew Wallace, shadow treasurer Ted OBrien, health and aged care spokeswoman Anne Ruston and education spokesman Julian Leeser. Related Article Analysis Political leadership The Liberal Party leader from central casting: Who is Angus Taylor? Taylor has nominated immigration as another key battleground and will release the Coalitions policy in coming weeks. The plan, which was developed under Leys leadership but not released, would drive more temporary visa holders out of the country under a sweeping new immigration policy, in a bid to boost departure rates from Australia and rebalance net migration. What we need right now is everyone pulling together to work hard for hard-working Australians who are struggling, Taylor said. And Im going to be putting a great team on the field. Advertisement Senator James Paterson, a key Taylor ally, is likely to remain as finance spokesman, with Hume not keen to return to the portfolio she held last term when her promise to cut working from home for public servants backfired. Hume told reporters on Saturday that the pair had not yet discussed what frontline responsibilities she would hold. Whatever position I take will be one that allows me to best represent our partys values and our partys priorities, she said. Speaking at a Country Labor conference in Orange on Saturday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese sank the boot into his new opposite number. It is extraordinary that they have had eight months of plotting in order to deliver the two people to the leadership positions who more than anyone else on their entire show were responsible for alienating the Liberals from the Australian voters, Albanese said. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement PoliticsNSWEducation This Sydney school has eliminated bullying. Now theres a plan for every classroom Emily Kowal February 14, 2026 4:30pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Bullied students would be given personalised safety plans that could include more supervision and their own safe zone, such as a library, under new bullying rules to be rolled out across all NSW schools next year. Schools must prioritise student wellbeing, explicitly teach kindness, respect and inclusion, and counsel bullies rather than simply punishing them. Every incident must be recorded and responded to within two days, and all unkind behaviour must be addressed. Hurstville Public School has found its efforts to prevent bullying before it starts are making a big difference. Sam Mooy Schools will need a triage system that categorises bullying incidents into low, medium or high risk based on factors such as physical harm, emotional impact and recurrence. Each triggers a specific response, from counselling to external referrals. The government-issued advice to public, private and Catholic schools is designed to help schools align their policies with an anti-bullying framework, with which every school must comply by 2027 or risk deregistration. Advertisement The new rules follow a 2024 directive from Education Minister Prue Car to the states school regulator to work with the education department, Catholic, and independent schools to develop an evidence-based, best-practice model to combat bullying. A study of more than 20 countries found Australian students were among the most exposed to bullying, with nearly one in five saying others had made fun of them, and one in 10 saying they had been deliberately excluded. The guidelines call for schools to use a range of techniques, including anonymously surveying students about their experiences, inviting children to help design anti-bullying campaigns, and classroom behaviour rules. Teachers have been told to refrain from using labels such as bully or victim when dealing with incidents, and to teach students who bully others alternative ways to express emotions, resolve conflict and build relationships. Advertisement Teachers should use guided discussions to help students who bully others to understand the impact of their actions and commit to change, the guidelines say. They recommend selecting students to become cyber safety ambassadors to promote respectful online behaviour, and they also suggest that teachers encourage students to create videos, podcasts or social media content that showcase positive digital behaviour and promote anti-bullying messages. Related Article Editorial Bullying Creating a culture of kindness in our schools The Herald's View Editorial Students will be taught to support their classmates and alert staff when someone seems distressed or isolated; acts of kindness are to be publicly celebrated. Teachers should be trained to explicitly teach skills such as empathy, emotional regulation, conflict resolution and responsible decision-making. They should also receive data analysis training to interpret bullying data, recognise trends and understand how to respond strategically. Advertisement The guidelines call for schools to develop personalised safety plans for victims, including additional supervision, safe zones and trusted adult contacts to ensure the children feel secure during and after school hours. The framework is underpinned by research conducted by NSW behavioural expert Professor Donna Cross, who found zero tolerance policies that involve suspension and expulsion to be ineffective and potentially harmful. Her research has also found that NSW public students who reported being bullied in the year before NAPLAN lost up to eight months of learning in literacy and numeracy. A zero tolerance policy as a blanket policy shows no care for children who engage in bullying, she said. If we dont respond and teach them in a learning environment, which is what schools are, how to behave different, the evidence demonstrates that behaviour will continue. Professor Donna Cross (right) has researched the prevention of bullying and NSW schools will implement the findings. Advertisement It will continue to the workforce, it will continue in their families. Those children as parents will have children who bully. Instead, Cross said that schools should work to rehabilitate bullies, offering them counselling and support to address the underlying motivation for their behaviour. Suspension and expulsion should be used only as a last resort. What the new guideline is doing is really helping the schools to be more bespoke and tailored in the way that they address bullying, Cross said. The antibullying guidelines are really guardrails to say: here are the things that will make the most difference. At Lake Macquaries Heritage College, every day begins with a short assembly on a weekly virtue and college principal Simon Dodson says that teaching students how to be a good human must be a schools primary objective. Advertisement We put character education in the first order of importance, Dodson said. Not everyones going to succeed academically ... but everyone needs to become a good person. Dodson draws a line between bad behaviour a one-off insult or cruel comment, which still requires correction and bullying, which is a repeated abuse of power. Bullying can be eradicated if everyone has a place and everyones valued and belongs, he said. Hurstville Public School which meets the new mandatory criteria has invested in a wellbeing hub and sensory play space. There are three part-time youth workers who attend the school each day, acting as an on-call support worker. Support worker Eman Roumieh said prevention has made the biggest difference. Weve never reached suspension, which is fantastic to hear, but because of the whole preventative work that we do. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Only Malverns median unit value comes close at $794,291, up 5.3 per cent in a year. But Prahran, South Yarra and Windsor are all in the mid-to-high $500,000s and Armadale is $672,170 all lower than a year ago so Zigomanis notes buyers can purchase an existing apartment for a much better price. It might be something thats only five years old, so still new, he said. They can move straight in, potentially any construction bugs have been ironed out. They know what theyre getting ... For the prices the developer needs to achieve, theres just not the demand out there for off-the-plan sales. Before a developer can begin a tower, they require pre-sales to secure funding. This often means selling to investors, as most owner-occupiers want to see the finished product first, Zigomanis adds. Loading But building for investors is a different product to owner-occupier units. [Renters] might not necessarily want as much internal amenity, like more space, that an owner-occupier might want, he said. So then youve got the issue with what youre trying to build not necessarily being what the market wants. Research has shown that more housing supply improves affordability, such as in the planning reforms in Auckland, New Zealand. Figures this week showed the ACT, which has led the nation in building approvals, recorded the most modest rent growth in the past five years, while the smallest increase in mortgage sizes has been in the relatively approval-rich jurisdictions of the ACT and Victoria. But questions remain over delivery. The area designated for high-rises in Armadale encompasses much of upscale shopping precinct High Street. Locals are unimpressed. Itll bring the area down because with assisted housing, its gonna be a mix, said Erica Romer, who lives in nearby Caulfield. And some of the people wont be appropriate for the area. Not that Im against those people and I believe they should have housing by all means, but you cant have assist housing in every area. The upscale High Street shopping strip in Armadale is slated to become an activity centre. Credit: Joe Armao Others think apartment blocks will do little to solve the housing crisis. Apartments here will be very expensive, easily over a million, and will be sold to people who are quite wealthy, said local Cary Stynes. It will encourage people to downsize at best. Loading Zigomanis demurred. The governments aim in a lot of these locations is to build multi-storey high-rises in the centre of town, and thats not necessarily what your typical downsizer might want. They might want something set back a couple of streets in a quiet, leafy part of the neighbourhood. Cotality head of research Gerard Burg said many loss-making unit sales had occurred in the Chapel Street area through South Yarra and Windsor. They are more on the smaller side, [which] have less potential for capital growth than perhaps some other developments that are more sustainable, he said. Loading The challenge is that costs have been rising significantly over the last couple of years for new developments, and for a developer that means you have to really make the numbers add up. Burg believes larger units are more sustainable and attractive to home buyers than smaller ones. Australians obsession with stand-alone houses makes apartments a less attractive long-term option, influencing their design. If youre considering ... raising a family in a greater-density style than what traditionally people have viewed in Australia, where you think more of a separate house for that sort of scenario, then you need more amenities as well, and that can be a bit of a challenge to the development, Burg said. Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute managing director Dr Michael Fotheringham said adding units to high-density Prahran and South Yarra was less of an issue than finding developers willing to build there. Prahran, one of inner south-east suburbs earmarked for unit development, is already full of apartments. Credit: Eddie Jim Theyre [the government] struggling to build what theyre doing now for feasibility reasons, not for planning reasons, he said. If you look at the number of approvals that have been given where the projects have not commenced, its a six-figure sum ... its weve got approval, but we cant make it work. Annie Foi, who has lived in Prahran and South Yarra since moving from Ireland three years ago, was nonplussed about the plan. Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Remove items from your saved list to add more. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Women-only itineraries may soon no longer be a niche product. Across the global travel industry, operators are expanding all-female departures in response to sustained growth and rising demand. Then theres the fact that when it comes to travel, women make more than 80 per cent of decisions, according some sets of data analysed by Virtuoso, a global network of agencies that specialise in luxury travel. It also reports that 71 per cent of its solo travellers are women. An Inspiring Vacations train journey through a Sri Lankan tea plantation. Its little wonder operators such as Intrepid Travel have set up women-only programs, alongside long-established specialists including AdventureWomen and Wild Women Expeditions. Australian tour operator Inspiring Vacations is the latest to launch this kind of product. Titled Inspired Women, its a new collection of women-only small group tours across India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Japan and South Korea. Advertisement Analysis WorldEuropeTrade deals Cars, cows and more as Australia gets closer to mega trade win David Crowe February 14, 2026 1:00pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A London: Australia is closer than ever to a trade deal with Europe that will cut prices for consumers and boost sales for exporters, after talks in Brussels cleared the way to a pact within weeks. The likely gains for Australian households include lower prices for European exports such as cars and trucks, wiping away tariffs that add 5 per cent to every vehicle. Australian farmers are also certain to benefit from bigger export opportunities in Europe, although both sides are still wrangling over the scale of the increase in beef and lamb sales. Trade Minister Don Farrells talk with the EU looks likely to bear fruit. Lisa Visentin The net result will expand a two-way trade relationship already worth about $110 billion to Australia each year, making this the most important agreement with the European Union in more than a decade. It has always been about much more than cars and cows. Advertisement There was a serious risk of failure when Trade Minister Don Farrell arrived in Brussels for two days of talks on Thursday and Friday with his EU counterpart, Maros Sefcovic. There was always a chance that the Europeans would not offer enough access for beef and lamb, in which case Farrell would walk away. So the mere fact that the talks continued into a second day, and ended with a positive statement on Friday afternoon (Brussels time), means that a deal is finally within sight. There is now a stronger chance that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will visit Australia to seal an agreement with Prime Minster Anthony Albanese. This potential trip has been aired for at least four weeks, but now there is a solid reason for it to go ahead. Sure, this will only receive modest attention when the Liberal Party is making headlines with its leadership spill and the rise of Angus Taylor as opposition leader. There is far less drama in the mundane work of government. But there are three significant and strategic reasons to welcome the news from Brussels. Advertisement European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is likely to visit Australia to seal a landmark trade deal. Omar Havana/AP The first is that Australia and Europe are getting closer at a time when both have to contend with the sudden upheavals from Donald Trump on trade and security. The US president is turning America into an unreliable ally. The rational response for Australia is to tighten links with other allies. The second is that Australian leaders have been saying for years that we need to rely less on China for our exports. Of course, sales to Europe cannot match the sheer volume of trade with China in coal, gas and iron ore. But it is wise to diversify. The third is that the trade deal will be accompanied by a defence partnership. This will not be an alliance like NATO or ANZUS, but an agreement to work together on exercises and procurement. Advertisement It might help Australian companies sell equipment to Europe, and it could help both sides work together on hybrid warfare threats such as drone strikes and cyberattacks. Put more bluntly, it will be about dealing with Russia and China. There are likely to be practical and fairly swift benefits as well. One is that cars from Europe become cheaper for households. Right now, a European car is 5 per cent more expensive because of the Australian tariff regime. This puts companies such as Volkswagen, Skoda, Fiat and others not just the luxury brands at a disadvantage to rivals from China, Japan, Thailand and the US. (All these countries already have trade deals with Australia.) This is good for competition. Australian households are on track to enjoy lower prices for European exports, including luxury cars. Bloomberg Advertisement Another is that other capital goods also fall in price. While most products get into Australia without a barrier, there is still a 5 per cent tariff on many products from Europe. A cafe might pay more for a coffee machine, for instance. A transport company might pay more for a European truck. There will also be a benefit for farmers who want to export more beef and lamb but have been blocked by EU quotas. In January, the Europeans appeared to be willing to allow 24,000 tonnes of beef and 20,000 tonnes of lamb from Australia each year. This was so low that there did not seem much point in doing a deal. Farrell has pushed for more. Right now, Australia is barred from shipping more than 3389 tonnes of beef to the EU each year, according to Meat and Livestock Australia. It wants an increase to 50,000 tonnes, arguing this is in line with EU agreements with Canada and Brazil. Farm groups in Europe are lobbying to keep the number low. Farrell sounded positive on Friday, which suggests he has made some headway. The stretch goal for the Australian side would be anything above 40,000 tonnes. There are other gains to sweeten a final deal. Europe wants access to Australian critical minerals, and there is no reason to turn it away. Advertisement There is likely to be a limited agreement to make it easier for skilled workers to move between Australian and European employers, but this will not be open slather. (Anything more ambitious on visa rules would need approval from national parliaments in Europe.) Jason Collins, who heads the European Australian Business Council, says finalising a deal would be a smart move to increase access to 450 million consumers across the EU. Just how much Australian beef can go into European markets has been a sticking point in the trade talks. Joanne OKeefe The decision to start these trade talks dates back to 2015. Progress was so slow that Farrell walked away two years ago because the Europeans were not offering enough access on beef and lamb. He was right to insist on a better deal. On Friday in Brussels, the trade minister issued a brief statement: I am confident that both Australia and the European Union will reach agreement that benefits both of our economies. Advertisement He did not say that they could reach a deal he said they will. After more than a decade, an agreement is within sight. This will not get as much attention as a Liberal leadership spill, but it represents a quiet economic win for Labor. The gains for households are real. And, in the age of Trump, the strategic benefits are not to be ignored. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter. Advertisement WorldEuropePutin's Russia Russia poisoned Alexei Navalny with dart frog toxin, European nations say Jill Lawless February 15, 2026 8:36am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A London: Five European allies have blamed Russia for killing late Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny using toxin from poison dart frogs while he was held in an Arctic penal colony two years ago, a claim Moscow rejected as propaganda. In a joint statement, Britain, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said analyses of samples from Navalnys body conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine, a toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America and not found naturally in Russia. Loading Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison, they said. The five countries said they were reporting Russia to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons for a breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. There was no immediate comment from the organisation. Advertisement The Russian government, which has repeatedly denied any responsibility for Navalnys death, dismissed the latest allegations as a Western propaganda hoax, according to the Russian states TASS news agency, while the Russian embassy in London said: One must ask what kind of person would believe this nonsense about a frog. Navalny, who crusaded against official corruption and staged massive anti-Kremlin protests as President Vladimir Putins fiercest foe, died in an Arctic penal colony in February 2024 while serving a 19-year sentence that he believed to be politically motivated. Alexei Navalny stands in the defendants cage during a 2021 hearing in Moscow. AP Russia saw Navalny as a threat, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said. By using this form of poison, the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot wrote on X that the poisoning of Navalny showed that Vladimir Putin is prepared to use biological weapons against his own people in order to remain in power. Advertisement Related Article Explainer Russia-Ukraine war Putin is one of the worlds richest men. But the money isnt in his name The European nations assessment came as Navalnys widow, Yulia Navalnaya, attended the Munich Security Conference in Germany, and just before the second anniversary of Navalnys death. She said last year that two independent labs had found that her husband was poisoned shortly before he died. Navanlys widow, Yulia Navalnaya (centre), speaks on the sidelines of this weeks Munich Security Conference. AP Navalnaya said on Saturday (Munich time) that she had been certain from the first day that her husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof. Advertisement Russian authorities have said the politician became ill after a walk and died from natural causes. Epibatidine is found naturally in dart frogs in the wild, and can also be manufactured in a lab, which European scientists suspect was the case with the substance used on Navalny. It works on the body in a similar way to nerve agents, causing shortness of breath, convulsions, seizures, a slowed heart rate and ultimately death. Related Article Exclusive Vladimir Putin Yulia Navalnaya is in Australia with a blunt message about Putin, the president who murdered her husband European officials said they had a high degree of confidence in the assessment that Navalny died from epibatidine poisoning. Asked why the results had taken so long, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said it had been a complicated process. Wadephul said no one but Putins henchmen will be able to say in detail what happened on February 16, 2024, in the Russian penal colony. But it is clear that Russian authorities had the possibility, the motive and the means to administer the poison to Navalny. Advertisement Navalny was the target of an earlier poisoning in 2020 with a nerve agent, in an attack he blamed on the Kremlin, which always denied involvement. His family and allies fought to have him flown to Germany for treatment and recovery. Five months later, he returned to Russia, where he was immediately arrested and imprisoned for the last three years of his life. Related Article Explainer Putin's Russia You cross him at your peril: How does Putins vertical of power work? The UK has accused Russia of repeatedly flouting international bans on chemical and biological weapons. It accuses the Kremlin of carrying out a 2018 attack in the English city of Salisbury that targeted a former Russian intelligence officer, Sergei Skripal, with the nerve agent Novichok. Skripal and his daughter became seriously ill, and a British woman, Dawn Sturgess, died after she came across a discarded bottle with traces of the nerve agent. A British inquiry concluded that the attack must have been authorised at the highest level, by President Putin. The Kremlin has denied involvement. Russia also denied poisoning Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian agent turned Kremlin critic who died in London in 2006 after ingesting the radioactive isotope polonium-210. A British inquiry concluded that two Russian agents killed Litvinenko, and Putin had probably approved the operation. Advertisement AP, Reuters Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter. Advertisement WorldOceaniaChristchurch shooting Muted hearing of Christchurch mosque killer all part of the plan Charlotte Graham-McLay February 14, 2026 4:01pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Wellington, New Zealand: In a near-empty courthouse, in front of almost no one, the appeal by New Zealands most reviled killer was heard in muted fashion with little mention of the details of the countrys deadliest mass shooting. Such is New Zealands desire to smother the racist motivations of Brenton Tarrant, who murdered 51 Muslims praying at two mosques in the city of Christchurch in 2019. Christchurch shooter Brenton Tarrant in the dock at the Christchurch High Court during his trial in 2020. AP Tarrant, a self-professed white supremacist, referred to other perpetrators of hate-fuelled massacres when he committed his attack, and other mass shooters have cited his actions since. Yet, its rare to encounter the Australian mans words in New Zealand, the country to which he migrated with a plan to amass semiautomatic guns and carry out the slaughter. Officials have sought to curb the spread of his views, including through a legal ban on his racist manifesto and a video he livestreamed of the shooting. The effort to prevent public exposure to Tarrant is perhaps most apparent in New Zealands courts, where he sought this week to recant his guilty pleas. Advertisement A three-judge panel in the Court of Appeal in Wellington heard final arguments on Friday by Crown lawyers opposing Tarrants application to have his admissions in 2020 to charges of terrorism, murder and attempted murder discarded. Related Article Good Weekend White-bred terrorist: the making of a killer Tarrant is serving life in prison without a chance of parole, but the case would return to court for a full trial if he is allowed to revoke his guilty pleas. Opposing lawyers say his appeal has no merit. The 35-year-old told the court this week he didnt want to plead guilty and made the irrational admissions during a nervous breakdown induced by solitary and austere prison conditions. But Crown lawyers opposing his appeal bid said in their response on Friday that there was no evidence for the claims that he was seriously mentally ill. Experts had ruled Tarrant was fit to enter pleas, and his former lawyers and prison staff didnt raise concerns either. Advertisement Its difficult to see what more couldve been done, Crown lawyer Barnaby Hawes told the court. Tarrant, he added, is an unreliable witness and his narrative should be treated with caution. The evidence against Tarrant including his own livestream of the massacre, in which he filmed his face was so overwhelming that a guilty verdict was assured if he had fought the charges in a trial, the lawyers said. Pleading guilty to charges where his guilt is certain cant be seen to be irrational, Hawes said. The subdued hearing defies the tension over the case. One topic nearly absent from the weeklong hearing was any mention of the hateful motivations Tarrant cited for committing the crimes. Lawyers both supporting and opposing Tarrants bid avoided reference to his white supremacist views, and proceedings unfolded in the quiet and stolid way New Zealand court cases usually do. Advertisement Keeping this case alive is a source of immense distress to the shooters victims. Crown lawyer Madeleine Laracy But there were signs the court sought to limit the publics exposure to Tarrant, as New Zealands justice system has done before. Almost nobody was permitted to view the gunmans evidence and the appeal bid unfolded in front of nine reporters, nine lawyers, a few court staff, and an empty public gallery. Tarrant was permitted to watch the proceedings by video conference from Auckland Prison, but his image was not visible in the courtroom except when he gave evidence. Apart from in Christchurch, where the bereaved and wounded survivors watched a livestream of the hearing at the local courthouse, the shooter was invisible. The approach New Zealand has enacted in which even news outlets name the shooter as few times as possible in each article stands at odds with the publicity given to trials for racist mass killers before, including widely covered proceedings for the Norwegian murderer Anders Breivik, whom Tarrant years later cited as an inspiration. Advertisement Related Article Investigation Right-wing extremism From One Nation to neo-Nazism: Australians being drawn into extremism Crown lawyers urged the appeal judges on Friday to thwart the prospect of the matter returning to court in a lengthy public trial, which would happen if the Australians bid to recant his guilt was successful. Keeping this case alive is a source of immense distress to the shooters victims, Crown lawyer Madeleine Laracy said. It doesnt allow them to heal. A swift ruling isnt expected. The judges decision will be released later. New Zealands appeals court delivers 90 per cent of its judgments within three months of a hearings end, according to the courts website. If his bid to revoke his guilty pleas is unsuccessful, Tarrants case will return to the appeals court for a later hearing, where he will seek a review of his life sentence. AP Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share More: Christchurch shooting Extremism PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 13, 2026 -- The following statement is being issued by Kroll Settlement Administration regarding Thompson v. FCA US LLC, No. 2:21-cv-09815 (C.D. Cal.). A settlement has been reached with FCA US in a lawsuit alleging it did not provide the appropriate emission warranty coverage for certain MultiAir Actuator and Fuel Injector components as "emissions-related parts" under the California Emissions Warranty on certain model-year 2015-2017 Chrysler 200 vehicles. The Settlement does not mean FCA US did anything wrong, nor does it mean Plaintiffs would not win if the case were to go to trial. The Court has not decided who is right. You are a Settlement Class Member if you, as confirmed by FCA US's records, purchased a model-year 2015-2017 Chrysler 200 vehicle that was originally sold as a Partial Zero Emission Vehicle ("PZEV") in California, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, or Washington (the "Class Vehicles"). FCA US has agreed to extend warranties for Class Vehicles to cover the costs of parts and labor for replacing a failed MultiAir Actuator or Fuel Injector, for the earlier of fifteen years from the Class Vehicle's in-service date or 150,000 miles driven, when the repair is completed by an authorized FCA US dealership. If you previously paid for a qualifying repair, you may submit a claim for reimbursement. You need not do anything to receive the warranty extension. To be reimbursed for a previous MultiAir Actuator or Fuel Injector repair, you must submit a claim online or by mail postmarked by March 30, 2026. If you do not want to be legally bound by the Settlement, you must opt out of the Settlement by April 2, 2026. If you want to object to the Settlement, you must file an objection by April 2, 2026. The Court will hold a Fairness Hearing on June 4, 2026, to consider approving the Settlement, attorneys' fees, costs, and expenses (up to $980,000), and service awards (up to $7,500 for each Class Representative). You may appear at the Fairness Hearing personally or through an attorney you have hired, but it is not required. This is only a summary. For details about the Settlement, your rights and options, and to request reimbursement, visit www.MultiAirActuatorFuelInjectorSettlement.com or call toll-free (833) 754-8511. SOURCE Kroll Settlement Administration Eight-lane Wardha Road ProjectAdministration to demolish 110 shops,dhabas from Chinchbhuvan to Khapri Staff Reporter : THE State Government is planning to demolish 110 structures -- including shops and dhabas - - from Chinchbhuvan to Khapri on Nagpur-Wardha road for widening of National Highway No 44 to eight lanes. Revenue Minister of Maharashtra Chandrashekhar Bawankule made this statement while interacting with mediapersons after a review meeting on MIHAN project held at MIHAN on Friday. Under MIHAN rehabilitation scheme, the State Government hasalready distributed compensation to all shop and dhaba owners. However, the Government will also construct a commercial complex on this road stretch forthe shop and dhaba owners,said Bawankule. Earlier in the meeting, Bawankule also claimed that theState Government distributed atotal fund of Rs 781.59 crore sofar and has handed over landallotment documents to projectaffected families from Khapri (Railway), Telhara, Dahegaonand Kalkuhi villages under the MIHAN rehabilitation scheme. State Government is working hard to meet the long-pending demand for justice to the regions displaced residents and these fund allocation and land ownership distribution are some efforts on this path. Bawankule announced this development during a review meeting on pending demands of affected residents held at MIHAN on Friday. Dr Vipin Itankar, District Collector and Chairman of MIHAN; Prakash Patil; Malik Virani, Deputy District Collector (Rehabilitation); Gaurav Upshyam; other senior officers and representatives of affected residents were present during the meeting. Bawankule, in the meeting, informed that the State Government has approved a fund of Rs 3,994 crore for land acquisition and rehabilitation for MIHAN project, in which majority of fund has already received. The fund has been already utilised for rehabilitation of affected people. He also informed that the administration has proposed a fund of Rs 400 crore for the Financial Year 2025-26, in which the Government already paid Rs 240 crore. The government also approved Rs 597 crore fund for upcoming year. PMO shifts to Seva Teerth NEW DELHI : In 1st decision from Seva Teerth, Modi takes steps for welfare of women, farmers, youth and vulnerable citizens PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Friday shifted to his new office Seva Teerth from the colonial-era South Block building near Rashtrapati Bhavan on Raisina Hill. The shift came on a day -- February 13 -- that marked 95 years since the formal inauguration of New Delhi as Indias modern capital in 1931. On Friday, the Prime Minister reached Seva Teerth Complex in a motorcade along with Union Ministers Manohar Lal and Jitendra Singh and top PMO officials, and inaugurated the complex housing the Prime Ministers Office (PMO), the National Security Council Secretariat and the Cabinet Secretariat. Modi garlanded a statue of Lord Ganesha in the PMO and took important decisions targeted at welfare of women, farmers, youth and vulnerable citizens. In the presence of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Minister of State in PMO Jitendra Singh and top officials including Principal Secretaries P K Mishra and Shaktikanta Das, the Prime Minister signed files approving the launch of PM RAHAT Scheme for extending life-saving protection for every citizen and doubling the number of lakhpati didis to six crore. Under the PM Rahat initiative, accident victims will get cashless treatment of up to Rs 1.5 lakh, ensuring that no life is lost due to lack of immediate medical help, officials said. The Government has crossed the landmark of three crore lakhpati didis, more than a year ahead of the original March 2027 timeline. The Prime Minister has now set a new, ambitious target of six crore lakhpati didis by March 2029, doubling both scale and aspiration. In a major boost to farmers, the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund has been doubled to Rs 2 lakh crore. The move is aimed at strengthening Indias entire agriculture value chain. Modi also approved the Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 with a corpus of Rs 10,000 crore. To power Indias innovation ecosystem, especially in deep tech, early-stage ideas, advanced manufacturing and breakthrough technologies, the Prime Minister has approved the Startup India FoF 2.0 with a corpus of Rs 10,000 crore, an official said. Earlier, Modi unveiled the plaque of Seva Teerth at the new complex -- the name inscribed in Devanagari script on the wall of the complex. Below it is the motto Nagrik Devo Bhava (citizen is akin to God). Since 2014, the Modi Government has taken steady steps to move away from symbols of Indias colonial past and to usher a shift in mindset, officials said. They pointed out that the PMO will now be called Seva Teerth, the Central Secretariat buildings have been named as Kartavya Bhawan, and Rajpath has been renamed as Kartavya Path. Reliance secures US licence to import Venezuelan NEW DELHI : BILLIONAIRE Mukesh Ambanis Reliance Industries Limited has received a US general licence to purchase Venezuelan crude oil directly, enabling Indias largest private refiner to resume imports of discounted heavy feedstock that aligns with its Jamnagar refinery configuration and optimises refining margins. Reliance, which operates the worlds largest single-site refining complex at Gujarats Jamnagar, was among international companies which in late January got a general licence from the US for buying Venezuelan oil directly without violating sanctions, sources aware of the matter said. Since capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro last month, the US has eased sanctions on the South American nations energy industry to resume the flow of oil from the country that holds the worlds largest reserves. Reliance did not respond to requests for comments. So far, the US has permitted the sale of Venezuelan oil through traders, but now a general licence will give authorisation to purchase of oil directly from an entity that already extracted it from below ground or is in possession of it. Reliance was a regular buyer of Venezuelan crude before the US slapped sanctions on Nicolas Maduros regime in 2019-20. It bought oil when the US introduced a temporary sanctions relief in 2024. Substantive Motion SUCH a Substantive Motion was waiting in the wings to come up against Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Mr. Rahul Gandhi -- seeking termination of his membership of Parliament. It would have been a real surprise if such a motion were not to be taken up by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). For long, Mr. Rahul Gandhi had been daring the Government with his ugly statements and unholy diatribes. For long, he had been flouting norms and conventions of Parliament. For long, he had been defying logic and a sense of proportion and balance -- that are expected of any Member of Parliament, and more so when he/she is the Leader of Opposition (which is a constitutional position). With all this piling up against him, it was only natural for somebody in the Lok Sabha (of which Mr. Rahul Gandhi is a member) to bring up the substantive motion against him. Now, Mr. Gandhi will have to defend his wrong-doings -- and get all the more embroiled in the cobwebs of his own making. Rumours were doing the rounds that the BJP would move a Breach of Privilege Motion against Mr. Rahul Gandhi. The ruling party now appears to have given up that idea -- in favour of substantive motion that, if passed, would deprive Mr. Rahul Gandhi his Membership of the Lok Sabha. He may even be debarred from contesting parliamentary elections for life. And if that happens, then national politics will assume an altogether different direction, an altogether different colour. For, that point would mean that the Congress party would near its end sooner than expected. The prospects, thus, are quite dangerous for the Congress party in general and the Gandhi family in particular. True, the Gandhi family -- and especially Mr. Rahul Gandhi -- is least likely to learn the right lessons. For, it is not its tradition to learn right lessons from life and mend its ways. So, even when countless well-wishers were advising Mr. Rahul Gandhi to change his approach to his rights and duties as a leader of Opposition camp, and as a Member of Parliament in Lok Sabha -- let alone his loyalty to the century-plus old Congress tradition. This is really unfortunate. For, over the past one decade and a little more, Mr. Rahul Gandhi has defied the universal code of common sense of good conduct at all places. The people now know him as a person who has little respect for India and its tradition and history and culture as well as its prospects in the times to come. Hence his absolutely irresponsible behaviour that has embarrassed the nation to no end over the years. Indias Parliament has seen many, many noisy scenes and noisy protests when the Opposition rallied to corner the Government. Many times, the chair has had to take a very serious stance against the flouting of norms. Despite that, the parties on either side of the dividing line never allowed any bitterness to creep into their work and roles. And the reason was clear : Nobody harboured any malice against anybody. That was the reason democracy enjoyed better health in those early days of Indias Independence. In the past some years, the picture has changed with entirely new set of colours that the common people do not recognise. Such is the sorry state of affairs in politics and Parliament. For the Opposition, no norm is the norm. For it, doubting the integrity of even the Armed Forces is the norm. Shouting from the roof-top that the Prime Minister is selling out the nation is also a norm for Mr. Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party under his leadership. Therefore, after all its efforts to counsel Mr. Rahul Gandhi to some point of wisdom, the BJP has chosen the path of substantive motion that may be a political cataclysm for the Gandhi family -- if handled with the usual dexterity of the BJP. It is not known if the Gandhi family and the Congress party have taken the potential risks to them into account seriously. IT Deptt raids UpcharyaHospital, detects Rs 40 lakhunreported transactions Staff Reporter : Investigation team scrutinises five years of financial records; hospital accused of accepting bills exceeding Rs 2 lakh in cash without reporting to authorities THE Income Tax (IT ) Departments Intelligence and Criminal Investigation Wing (ICIW ) found more than Rs 40 lakh worth of unreported transactions in a hospital. A raid on Upcharya Hospital, near Darshan Tower, Central Avenue, on Thursday evening, was carried as allegation surfaced that the unit violated Section 269ST of the Income Tax Act by accepting unreported cash payments exceeding Rs 2 lakh from patients. The operation, which extended late into the night, involvedexamining cash books, account registers, bill vouchers, and transaction records. Sources indicateofficials discovered entries showing cash receipts exceeding Rs 2lakh that were not properlyreported to tax authorities. Theinvestigation team is scrutinising five years of transaction datato determine whether the hospital systematically circumvented reporting requirements. Under Section 269ST, introduced in 2017 to curb black money and promote digital transactions, no entity can receive cashpayments of Rs 2 lakh or morefrom one person in a single day, in a single transaction, or for oneevent or occasion. The restriction applies even if payments aresplit across multiple bills. Violations attract penalties under Section 271DA equal to 100 per cent of the amount received -- meaning a hospital accepting Rs 3 lakh in unreported cash faces a Rs 3 lakh penalty. In the medical line, transactions of accepting amounts of more than Rs 2 lakhs in cash are happening very frequently, a source said, suggesting widespread practices across Nagpur's private healthcare sector. Income tax sources confirmed that income tax also has its eyes on other big hospitals in the city, indicating additional enforcement actions may be forthcoming. For hospitals, the Rs 2 lakh threshold applies comprehensively. If a patient pays Rs 1.5 lakh for surgery and Rs 1 lakh for hospitalisation on the same day in cash through separate bills, the total Rs 2.5 lakh violates Section 269ST. Similarly, paying Rs 1 lakh one day and Rs 1.5 lakh the next for the same treatment constitutes a violation. The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily exempted hospitals from these restrictions for treatment payments exceeding Rs 2 lakh, provided they collected PAN or Aadhaar details. However, this exemption expired May 31, 2021. The law provides one narrow exception: no penalty is imposed if the receiver proves good and sufficient reasons for contravention. Courts have shown flexibility when violations appear technical rather than intentional, with full transaction records and no evidence of tax evasion. However, this applies to good-faith errors, not systematic non-compliance. The investigation continued late Thursday night. Hospital management has not issued a public statement. The investigation team is expected to complete preliminary assessment within days, after which formal proceedings may commence if violations are confirmed. Other major Nagpur hospitals are reportedly reviewing their cash transaction protocols. Magna International Inc. (NYSE:MGA Get Free Report) (TSE:MG) announced a quarterly dividend on Friday, February 13th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 27th will be paid a dividend of 0.495 per share on Friday, March 13th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.9%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, February 27th. This is a 2.1% increase from Magna Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $0.49. Magna International has decreased its dividend by an average of 0.0%annually over the last three years and has increased its dividend every year for the last 6 years. Magna International has a payout ratio of 33.7% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Research analysts expect Magna International to earn $6.66 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $1.94 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 29.1%. Get Magna International alerts: Magna International Trading Up 18.6% Shares of MGA stock traded up $10.76 on Friday, hitting $68.58. The stock had a trading volume of 8,621,810 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,935,380. The companys 50 day moving average price is $53.82 and its 200-day moving average price is $48.83. Magna International has a 1 year low of $30.39 and a 1 year high of $69.94. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38, a current ratio of 1.18 and a quick ratio of 0.83. The firm has a market capitalization of $19.12 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.74 and a beta of 1.50. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Magna International ( NYSE:MGA Get Free Report ) (TSE:MG) last announced its earnings results on Friday, February 13th. The company reported $2.18 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.81 by $0.37. The company had revenue of $10.74 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.54 billion. Magna International had a return on equity of 11.88% and a net margin of 2.50%.Magna Internationals revenue for the quarter was up 2.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.69 EPS. Magna International has set its FY 2026 guidance at 6.250-7.250 EPS. Analysts anticipate that Magna International will post 5.87 earnings per share for the current year. MGA has been the subject of a number of research reports. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Magna International from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday, January 19th. Evercore raised their price target on shares of Magna International from $47.00 to $52.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research report on Monday, November 24th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on shares of Magna International from $53.00 to $57.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Scotiabank increased their price objective on Magna International from $52.00 to $57.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 27th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company lifted their target price on Magna International from $50.00 to $58.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, January 12th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, fourteen have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $52.80. Check Out Our Latest Report on MGA Magna International Company Profile (Get Free Report) Magna International Inc is a leading global automotive supplier specializing in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of vehicle systems, assemblies, modules, and components. Headquartered in Aurora, Ontario, the company partners with major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to develop technologies and solutions that enhance vehicle performance, safety, comfort, and fuel efficiency. Magnas broad portfolio encompasses body exteriors and structures, powertrain systems, seating and interiors, roof systems, mirror systems, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The company operates more than 350 manufacturing and assembly facilities and over 100 innovation centers across 27 countries, serving customers in North America, Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Magna International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Magna International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. National HealthCare Corporation (NYSEAMERICAN:NHC Get Free Report) declared a quarterly dividend on Friday, February 13th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, March 31st will be paid a dividend of 0.64 per share on Thursday, April 30th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.5%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, March 31st. National HealthCare Stock Performance Shares of NYSEAMERICAN NHC traded up $1.36 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $169.69. 44,432 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 67,267. The company has a market cap of $2.63 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.19 and a beta of 0.64. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $141.57 and a 200 day moving average price of $126.35. National HealthCare has a 52 week low of $89.14 and a 52 week high of $171.64. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06, a current ratio of 1.75 and a quick ratio of 1.72. Get National HealthCare alerts: About National HealthCare (Get Free Report) National HealthCare Corporation (NYSE American: NHC) is a healthcare services company specializing in long-term care and post-acute rehabilitation. The company operates skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities and outpatient therapy clinics. Through its subsidiary, National HealthCare Partners, NHC provides contract rehabilitation services, pharmacy management and clinical consulting to a broad network of senior living and healthcare providers. Headquartered in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, National HealthCare Corporation has built a regional footprint across the southeastern and south-central United States. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for National HealthCare Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for National HealthCare and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Vanguard FTSE Canada All Cap Index ETF (TSE:VCN Get Free Report)s share price hit a new 52-week high on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as C$68.69 and last traded at C$67.44, with a volume of 59586 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at C$67.60. Vanguard FTSE Canada All Cap Index ETF Stock Performance The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of C$65.74 and a 200-day simple moving average of C$62.13. Vanguard FTSE Canada All Cap Index ETF Company Profile (Get Free Report) The investment objective of Vanguard FTSE Canada All Cap Index ETF the ETF is to track, to the extent reasonably possible and before fees and expenses, the performance of FTSE Canada All Cap Domestic Index the Index or the Benchmark. The Index is a market capitalization-weighted index representing the performance of Canadian large, midand small capitalization companies. To achieve its investment objective, the ETF employs a passive management, or indexing, investment approach designed to track the performance of the Index by investing all, or substantially all, of its assets in the stocks that make up the Index, holding each stock in approximately the same proportion as its weighting in the Index. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Vanguard FTSE Canada All Cap Index ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vanguard FTSE Canada All Cap Index ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Affiliated Managers Group, Inc. (NYSE:AMG Get Free Report) declared a quarterly dividend on Thursday, February 12th. Investors of record on Monday, February 23rd will be given a dividend of 0.01 per share by the asset manager on Monday, March 9th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.0%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, February 23rd. Affiliated Managers Group has decreased its dividend by an average of 0.5%annually over the last three years. Affiliated Managers Group has a dividend payout ratio of 0.2% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Equities research analysts expect Affiliated Managers Group to earn $25.76 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $0.04 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 0.2%. Get Affiliated Managers Group alerts: Affiliated Managers Group Stock Up 0.1% AMG traded up $0.20 during trading on Friday, reaching $329.15. 453,317 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 428,920. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.56, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a current ratio of 1.30. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $300.35 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $259.62. Affiliated Managers Group has a twelve month low of $139.22 and a twelve month high of $333.99. The stock has a market cap of $9.26 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.60, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.57 and a beta of 1.21. Trending Headlines about Affiliated Managers Group Affiliated Managers Group ( NYSE:AMG Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 12th. The asset manager reported $9.48 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $8.75 by $0.73. The firm had revenue of $556.60 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $578.54 million. Affiliated Managers Group had a net margin of 26.01% and a return on equity of 16.75%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 6.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $6.53 earnings per share. Equities analysts expect that Affiliated Managers Group will post 22.86 EPS for the current year. Here are the key news stories impacting Affiliated Managers Group this week: Affiliated Managers Group Company Profile (Get Free Report) Affiliated Managers Group, Inc (NYSE: AMG) is a global asset management holding company that partners with boutique investment firms. Founded in 1993 and headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, AMG invests in and collaborates with independent investment managers to foster growth while preserving their entrepreneurial culture. Through equity stakes and strategic support, the company aims to enhance its affiliates distribution capabilities, operational infrastructure and access to capital. The companys core business activities include providing capital solutions, distribution services and operational support to affiliated investment firms. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Affiliated Managers Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Affiliated Managers Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO Get Free Report) shot up 1.6% during mid-day trading on Thursday . The stock traded as high as $67.46 and last traded at $66.9750. 9,403,891 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 17% from the average session volume of 11,277,672 shares. The stock had previously closed at $65.92. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research firms have recently weighed in on MO. Citigroup lifted their price objective on Altria Group from $57.00 to $65.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, February 9th. UBS Group raised their target price on Altria Group from $63.00 to $67.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Monday, January 26th. Argus upgraded Altria Group to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, January 13th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus dropped their price target on Altria Group from $72.00 to $68.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, January 30th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have assigned a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $63.67. Get Altria Group alerts: Read Our Latest Research Report on Altria Group Altria Group Trading Up 0.3% The business has a 50-day moving average of $60.42 and a 200 day moving average of $62.17. The firm has a market capitalization of $112.85 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.36, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.69 and a beta of 0.47. Altria Group (NYSE:MO Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 29th. The company reported $1.30 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.32 by ($0.02). Altria Group had a negative return on equity of 287.61% and a net margin of 29.84%.The firm had revenue of $5.08 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.02 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.30 EPS. The firms revenue was down .5% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts forecast that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.32 EPS for the current year. Altria Group Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, January 9th. Investors of record on Friday, December 26th were issued a $1.06 dividend. This represents a $4.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.3%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, December 26th. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio is currently 103.16%. Altria Group announced that its Board of Directors has approved a stock repurchase program on Thursday, October 30th that authorizes the company to repurchase $2.00 billion in shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the company to purchase up to 1.9% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares repurchase programs are typically an indication that the companys leadership believes its stock is undervalued. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Altria Group A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. CWA Asset Management Group LLC lifted its holdings in Altria Group by 8.6% in the third quarter. CWA Asset Management Group LLC now owns 335,418 shares of the companys stock valued at $22,158,000 after acquiring an additional 26,624 shares during the period. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Altria Group by 1.3% in the 3rd quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. now owns 3,522,209 shares of the companys stock valued at $232,677,000 after purchasing an additional 44,303 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Altria Group by 1.0% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 159,717,148 shares of the companys stock valued at $9,364,216,000 after purchasing an additional 1,599,923 shares in the last quarter. Silver Oak Securities Incorporated lifted its stake in shares of Altria Group by 155.4% in the third quarter. Silver Oak Securities Incorporated now owns 31,220 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,062,000 after purchasing an additional 18,997 shares during the period. Finally, VIRGINIA RETIREMENT SYSTEMS ET Al purchased a new stake in Altria Group during the second quarter worth about $126,471,000. 57.41% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. About Altria Group (Get Free Report) Altria Group, Inc (NYSE: MO) is a U.S.-based consumer goods company whose principal business is the manufacture and sale of tobacco products. Headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the companys operations are focused primarily on the U.S. market and include the production, marketing and distribution of cigarettes, smokeless tobacco and cigars. Its flagship cigarette franchise in the United States is sold through its operating subsidiaries and is among the most recognizable cigarette brands in the country. Altrias principal operating businesses include Philip Morris USA (cigarettes), U.S. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Altria Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Altria Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Anthera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (OTCMKTS:ANTH Get Free Report)s share price crossed above its two hundred day moving average during trading on Thursday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of $0.00 and traded as high as $0.0001. Anthera Pharmaceuticals shares last traded at $0.00, with a volume of 0 shares traded. Anthera Pharmaceuticals Trading Down 100.0% Get Anthera Pharmaceuticals alerts: Anthera Pharmaceuticals Company Profile (Get Free Report) Anthera Pharmaceuticals, trading on the OTC Markets under the symbol ANTH, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of novel therapies for patients suffering from serious and rare inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The companys research and development efforts center on both biologic and small-molecule approaches designed to modulate key pathways in immune system dysfunction. Antheras strategy includes advancing lead candidates through late-stage clinical trials while exploring additional indications for its pipeline assets. The companys most advanced asset, blisibimod, is a selective antagonist of B-cell activating factor (BAFF) that has been evaluated in clinical studies for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Anthera Pharmaceuticals Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Anthera Pharmaceuticals and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp. (CVE:LIT Get Free Report)s share price shot up 20% on Thursday . The company traded as high as C$0.15 and last traded at C$0.15. 207,412 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 27% from the average session volume of 282,489 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.13. Argentina Lithium & Energy Price Performance The stock has a market capitalization of C$21.32 million, a P/E ratio of -1.72 and a beta of -0.71. The stocks fifty day moving average is C$0.15 and its 200-day moving average is C$0.12. Argentina Lithium & Energy Company Profile (Get Free Report) Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp., a junior mineral exploration company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and evaluation of natural resource properties in the Americas and Argentina. It primarily explores for lithium. The company was formerly known as Iron South Mining Corp. and changed its name to Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp. in September 2016. Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp. was incorporated in 2000 and is based in Vancouver, Canada. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Argentina Lithium & Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Argentina Lithium & Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bannerman Energy (ASX:BMN) Executive Chairman Brandon Munro told investors the company has reached what he described as a transformational moment, outlining a strategic financing and joint venture transaction with CNNC Overseas Limited, part of the Chinese nuclear group CNNC. Speaking on a company call, Munro said the deal provides a pathway for Bannerman to become a uranium producer through development of its Etango Project in Namibia. Get alerts: Etango project status and location Munro reiterated that Etango is a large, advanced uranium project in Namibias Erongo Region. He said the project has all required permits and that Bannerman has already commenced early works on site. He also referenced the companys cash position and liquid assets as part of the context for advancing the project. Transaction structure: investment, ownership and reimbursement Munro said CNNC Overseas Limited will invest into the joint venture company that holds Bannermans 95% project interest. In exchange, CNNC Overseas will receive a 45% interest in that joint venture. Key financial terms described on the call included: Cash subscription: $294.5 million, paid in one tranche at completion. $294.5 million, paid in one tranche at completion. Early works reimbursement: CNNC will reimburse Bannerman for 45% of certain early works spending backdated to 1 July 2025. Munro said spending between 1 July 2025 and completion could be up to $60 million, with reimbursement capped at $25 million . CNNC will reimburse Bannerman for 45% of certain early works spending backdated to 1 July 2025. Munro said spending between 1 July 2025 and completion could be up to $60 million, with reimbursement . Shareholder loan component: In response to a question, Munro said roughly $80 million of the $294.5 million will be structured as shareholder loan to align the JV at 45/55 in all respects, including shareholder loans. He added that Bannerman would convert a significant proportion of its shareholder loans to equity to meet thin capitalization requirements. Munro also addressed market focus on the see-through valuation implied by the deal. He said the company calculated the transaction was struck at a significant premium to where the stock traded for much of the prior year, but that recent volatility in uranium equities and foreign exchange moves meant the current read-through was about a 10% discount to the three-month volume-weighted average share price. He urged investors to consider the transaction holistically, emphasizing the strategic and risk-reduction elements. Offtake terms and marketing control Munro highlighted a cornerstone life-of-mine offtake agreement as a central feature of the transaction. CNNC Overseas will have the obligation to take 60% of Etangos product over the full life of mine, on what he described as arms-length, market-related terms based on a combination of term and spot pricing at delivery. He said there are no price floors or ceilings and characterized this as providing industry-leading exposure to uranium price upside. He also emphasized flexibility in delivery timing and volumes for the 60% offtake, as well as highly favorable payment terms intended to reduce working capital requirements, particularly during early production years. On the remaining 40% of production, Munro said Bannerman will have absolute control and discretion over marketing and customer relationships. Answering a question about whether Chinese involvement could affect contracting with Western utilities, he said the documentation includes ironclad ring-fencing provisions: CNNCs rights are limited to third-party audit confirmation of financials, with no visibility on customers, terms, or contracts for Bannermans 40% sales. Construction funding, timetable and expansion pathway Munro said the financing delivers what he described as construction funding for Etango, referencing a controlled budget estimate of $353 million in pre-production capital cost published in June 2024, following front-end engineering and design. He said around $10 million of that had been spent before 30 June 2025, and that the CNNC investment plus expected spending from 1 July 2025 to completion underpins the construction-funding framework. He added that there would still be other costs such as working capital, JV expenses, and corporate expenses, but said any additional JV co-funding required from Bannerman beyond existing corporate cash reserves at completion is expected to be modest. On schedule, Munro said the parties expect to complete conditions precedent by mid-year, with transaction completion around that time. A final investment decision would then be considered with the joint venture partners in the second half, enabling a move from early works to full-scale construction. Munro indicated first uranium production is targeted for 2028 with ramp-up to full production capacity in 2029. Responding to a question on potential expansion, Munro said Bannerman intends to start with the Etango-8 development pathway and that the transaction increases both the probability and attractiveness of later expanding to a higher production scenario. He pointed to the project-level joint venture structure and a debt-free pathway as factors that could support financing alternatives for an expansion once production is established. Why CNNC and what changes for Bannerman Munro said the transaction followed a two-year global financing process and was considered superior to other strategic alternatives and to a traditional equity-and-debt funding approach. He repeatedly emphasized that the deal lowers financial and execution risk, keeps Bannerman in majority ownership, and avoids taking on debt at this stage. He also described CNNCs scale and capability as a strategic advantage, citing a fleet of commercial reactors and a significant construction pipeline, and noted CNNCs presence in Namibia through its ownership and operation of the Rossing uranium mine since 2019. Munro said that proximity and experience provided comfort regarding CNNCs suitability as a joint venture partner. Closing the call, Munro said the company now has what he called an optimal finance solution, a debt-free execution pathway, and an offtake arrangement he said would not be available on comparable terms without CNNC being a partner in the project. About Bannerman Energy (ASX:BMN) Uranium Exploration & Development Featured Articles Breville Group (ASX:BRG) reported first-half FY2026 results that management described as challenging but encouraging, highlighted by double-digit sales growth, tariff-driven margin pressure that was partially offset through manufacturing and commercial actions, and a stronger net debt position. Get alerts: First-half results: record revenue, flattish EBIT, higher dividend Group CFO Martin Nicholas said the company delivered revenue growth of 10.1% in 1H26, citing resilient premium consumer demand supported by continued new product development (NPD/MPD) and what he called a coffee tailwind. The half produced record sales of AUD 1.1 billion, which Nicholas said represented a doubling of revenue over the past six years. Profitability was pressured by higher U.S. tariffs on China and other regions, but Nicholas said Breville mitigated much of the impact through a combination of supply chain changes, selective pricing actions, and distribution and product mix management. Group gross margin declined, while gross profit dollars increased. EBIT was, which Nicholas described as flattish and in line with the companys plan. The board declared a fully franked interim dividend of AUD 0.19, an increase of 5.6% on the prior period paid in March, according to Nicholas. Tariffs and manufacturing diversification: heavy lifting largely complete Management repeatedly pointed to manufacturing diversification as the biggest tariff mitigant. Nicholas said the company met its target to have 80% of U.S. gross margin manufactured outside of China by December 2025. CEO Jim Clayton said the diversification program began in FY2023 with production of the Barista Express in Mexico, accelerated in FY2025, and achieved its objective by the end of the first half of FY2026. Clayton emphasized the speed and complexity of the shift and said product quality had been maintained on the new manufacturing lines. He also outlined what comes next: the second half will focus on moving remaining SKUs at a controlled pace and beginning a component localization effort intended to optimize long-term production costs. He added that Brevilles NPD team still works directly with manufacturing partners in China on new products and that all 240-volt products remain produced in China, while most 120-volt U.S.-market variants have moved to other locations. In Q&A, Nicholas said that, all else being equal, the mix shift away from China-produced inventory should create a more favorable tariff mix in 2H26 and into 1H27, while noting other moving variables such as foreign exchange, pricing, and shipping. Segment and geographic performance: strength in direct markets, distributor wave effects Nicholas said the global product segment increased revenue 10.9% (or 9.3% in constant currency). He highlighted strong consumer response to coffee launches including the Oracle Dual Boiler and Encore ESP Pro, contributing to double-digit coffee growth. Cooking and food preparation posted high single-digit revenue gains. Brevilles direct markets grew in double digits in constant currency, and Nicholas said newer geographiesKorea, China, Mexico, and the Middle Eastgrew at over 50%. He noted slower growth in distributor-led geographies, which cycled a strong first half in FY2025. The distribution segment increased gross profit by AUD 2.1 million and was described as fulfilling its tactical role. By region, Nicholas described broad-based underlying strength: Americas: total revenue up 11.1% in constant currency, with double-digit coffee growth led by premium launches and strong performance from the Barista Express . The company also installed 300 additional store-in-stores in Best Buy in November. total revenue up in constant currency, with double-digit coffee growth led by premium launches and strong performance from the . The company also installed in November. APAC: direct markets (Australia, New Zealand, Korea, and China) delivered double-digit constant-currency growth; China was described as still small but encouraging, and Korea continuing to go from strength to strength. Total theater growth was 6.1% , reflecting weaker distributor-led markets after a strong prior period. direct markets (Australia, New Zealand, Korea, and China) delivered double-digit constant-currency growth; China was described as still small but encouraging, and Korea continuing to go from strength to strength. Total theater growth was , reflecting weaker distributor-led markets after a strong prior period. EMEA: direct markets (UK, EU, Middle East) grew in double digits led by coffee and new products, with strongest growth in the EU and Middle East. The UK delivered solid single-digit growth against what management called a challenging macro backdrop. Total theater growth was 7.6%, with distributor markets including Turkey, the Nordics, and Southern Africa more moderate after a strong 1H25. During Q&A, management pushed back on the idea that distributor softness reflected structural issues, describing distributor ordering patterns as a timing wave driven by long lead times and inventory cycles. Clayton said performance should be assessed over longer periods rather than a single half, noting Breville reports revenue on shipments to distributors rather than sell-through. Investment, cash flow, and balance sheet trends Nicholas said the company increased investment in growth drivers, including new markets, marketing, and DNA itself, partly related to manufacturing diversification. He attributed AUD 12.9 million (about 60% of the operating expense increase) to these areas, while describing other operating cost growth as modest outside of foreign exchange translation. On cash and leverage, Nicholas said underlying cash generation was strong and net debt improved despite $42 million in U.S. tariff cash payments during the half. Net debt at December 31 improved by more than AUD 11.5 million versus the prior comparative period to AUD 43.6 million. He said the balance sheet remained conservatively geared at 0.2x last-twelve-month EBITDA and that the group had significant cash and unused debt facilities. Receivables peaked seasonally in December at AUD 515.7 million, up 7.6% year-on-year, with debtor days in line with the prior period. Nicholas said the company returned to a net cash position of AUD 70.1 million as of January 31, 2026, compared with AUD 18.7 million in the prior period. Inventory was flat year-on-year, with lower U.S. unit holding offset by tariff-driven cost-per-unit increases. Looking ahead, Nicholas and Clayton said the shift to new manufacturing facilities will require an earlier build of 120-volt inventory for the FY27 peak seasonstarting in March rather than Julyresulting in higher planned June inventory balances and associated effects on reported cash levels. Operational updates: new products, retail execution, and an AI transformation program Clayton highlighted new products rolling out in FY26, including the Oracle Dual Boiler (which he said won best new product at the World of Coffee in Dubai), the iQ Toaster, and the Encore ESP Pro from Baratza. He also noted Williams Sonoma launched a new mixed metals range in late December, following what he described as a strong performance from the prior years brass range. On go-to-market investments, Clayton discussed a new standalone cafe in Seouls Seongsu area as the next iteration of Brevilles cafe format, and a store-in-store in El Palacio de Hierro in Mexico City, which he said marked Brevilles entry into that retailer after the company secured agreement to execute store-in-store formats. He also described Best Buys decision to consolidate in-store small domestic appliance offerings to a small number of brands, with Breville included as a primary brand executing store-in-store formats. Clayton also introduced what he called the next phase of Brevilles transformation, centered on AI. He outlined a three-part programtraining and enablement, agents and process automation, and AI infrastructure and governanceand said more than 1,000 employees are actively using AI each month. As one example, he said an AI support service for global customer service teams went live in October, reporting early benefits including 40% lower onboarding time, significantly reduced turnover, faster and higher-quality documentation, and fewer interactions to resolve cases. For the full year, Clayton said that given the magnitude of U.S. tariffs absorbed in FY26, the company expects FY26 EBIT to be a slight uptick over last year, assuming no material changes to the U.S. tariff program. About Breville Group (ASX:BRG) Breville Group Limited designs, develops, markets, and distributes small electrical kitchen appliances in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. The company was formerly known as Housewares International Limited and changed its name to Breville Group Limited in November 2008. Breville Group Limited was founded in 1957 and is headquartered in Alexandria, Australia. Read More British American Tobacco p.l.c. (NYSE:BTI Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Thursday, February 12th. Investors of record on Friday, July 10th will be paid a dividend of 0.8349 per share on Wednesday, August 19th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, July 10th. British American Tobacco has raised its dividend by an average of 0.0%annually over the last three years. British American Tobacco has a dividend payout ratio of 66.9% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Research analysts expect British American Tobacco to earn $4.99 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $3.25 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 65.1%. Get British American Tobacco alerts: British American Tobacco Stock Performance Shares of NYSE BTI traded down $1.11 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $59.50. The company had a trading volume of 6,743,153 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,761,636. British American Tobacco has a 12 month low of $37.31 and a 12 month high of $63.03. The company has a current ratio of 0.87, a quick ratio of 0.55 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.68. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $57.99 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $55.84. About British American Tobacco British American Tobacco plc (BTI) is a multinational tobacco manufacturer and nicotine products company headquartered in London. Founded in 1902 as a joint venture to commercialize tobacco products outside the United States, the company has grown into one of the worlds largest tobacco firms with a long history in manufacturing and global distribution of combustible tobacco products. BATs core business remains the manufacture and sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products under a portfolio of well-known consumer brands, including Dunhill, Lucky Strike, Pall Mall, Kent and Rothmans. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for British American Tobacco Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for British American Tobacco and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. CGI Group, Inc. (NYSE:GIB Get Free Report) (TSE:GIB.A) shares hit a new 52-week low during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The company traded as low as $77.73 and last traded at $77.3240, with a volume of 87041 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $80.94. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of equities analysts have commented on the stock. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of CGI Group in a research note on Monday, December 29th. TD Securities upgraded shares of CGI Group to a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, January 28th. Jefferies Financial Group reiterated a hold rating and issued a $81.00 price objective (down from $105.00) on shares of CGI Group in a report on Monday, November 10th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating on shares of CGI Group in a research report on Monday, January 5th. Finally, Scotiabank initiated coverage on CGI Group in a research report on Tuesday, January 27th. They issued a sector perform rating on the stock. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has issued a Buy rating and five have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $117.00. Get CGI Group alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Report on CGI Group CGI Group Price Performance The stock has a market cap of $16.34 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.96 and a beta of 0.59. The company has a current ratio of 0.94, a quick ratio of 0.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.28. The companys fifty day moving average is $89.48 and its two-hundred day moving average is $90.71. CGI Group (NYSE:GIB Get Free Report) (TSE:GIB.A) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, January 28th. The technology company reported $1.51 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.55 by ($0.04). CGI Group had a return on equity of 18.61% and a net margin of 10.25%.The firm had revenue of $2.96 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.08 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.97 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 7.7% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts predict that CGI Group, Inc. will post 5.79 earnings per share for the current year. CGI Group Announces Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 20th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, February 18th will be given a $0.17 dividend. This represents a $0.68 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, February 18th. CGI Groups payout ratio is currently 8.99%. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. AQR Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in CGI Group during the 1st quarter worth approximately $347,000. Millennium Management LLC grew its stake in shares of CGI Group by 786.2% in the first quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 81,470 shares of the technology companys stock worth $8,141,000 after acquiring an additional 72,277 shares in the last quarter. Jane Street Group LLC grew its stake in shares of CGI Group by 29.4% in the first quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 12,858 shares of the technology companys stock worth $1,284,000 after acquiring an additional 2,921 shares in the last quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC increased its position in shares of CGI Group by 8.1% during the second quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC now owns 2,591 shares of the technology companys stock worth $272,000 after acquiring an additional 195 shares during the period. Finally, Ethic Inc. raised its stake in shares of CGI Group by 11.9% in the second quarter. Ethic Inc. now owns 7,092 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $733,000 after acquiring an additional 752 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 66.68% of the companys stock. About CGI Group (Get Free Report) CGI Group Inc is a global information technology and business consulting firm that delivers a broad range of services including IT consulting, systems integration, application development and maintenance, infrastructure and network services, managed IT and business process outsourcing. The company works with clients to design, build and operate IT systems and business solutions, with capabilities spanning cloud and hybrid IT environments, cybersecurity, data analytics and artificial intelligence, digital transformation and enterprise resource planning implementations. Founded in 1976 in Quebec by Serge Godin and Andre Imbeau, CGI has grown from a regional systems integrator into a multinational professional services organization. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for CGI Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CGI Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Eagleford Energy Inc. (OTCMKTS:GRUSF Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant drop in short interest during the month of January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 84,800 shares, a drop of 28.4% from the January 15th total of 118,483 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 246,442 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.3 days. Approximately 0.1% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Approximately 0.1% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 246,442 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.3 days. Eagleford Energy Stock Performance GRUSF stock opened at $0.38 on Friday. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $0.41 and its 200 day moving average price is $0.40. The company has a current ratio of 4.78, a quick ratio of 3.59 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.32. Eagleford Energy has a 12-month low of $0.28 and a 12-month high of $0.63. Get Eagleford Energy alerts: Eagleford Energy (OTCMKTS:GRUSF Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, November 11th. The company reported $0.01 earnings per share for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $5.36 million for the quarter. Eagleford Energy had a net margin of 31.81% and a return on equity of 28.90%. About Eagleford Energy Grown Rogue International Inc, together with its subsidiaries, produces and sells cannabis products in the United States. It offers a range of cultivars for consumers, such as indicas, sativas, and hybrids; strain-specific prepackaged flowers; and pre-roll pack products, as well as provides consulting services. The company sells its products through direct-to-retail delivery and third-party delivery, wholesalers, and processors. Grown Rogue International Inc is headquartered in Medford, Oregon. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Eagleford Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eagleford Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA (NYSE:FMS Get Free Report) have earned a consensus rating of Reduce from the eight research firms that are covering the stock, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and five have assigned a hold rating to the company. The average 12 month price target among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $28.00. A number of brokerages have issued reports on FMS. Truist Financial set a $28.00 price objective on shares of Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA in a report on Monday, January 5th. Erste Group Bank lowered shares of Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, February 5th. Zacks Research cut shares of Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Saturday, December 20th. Finally, Morgan Stanley reissued an underweight rating on shares of Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA in a report on Tuesday, January 27th. Get Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA alerts: View Our Latest Analysis on FMS Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA Price Performance Hedge Funds Weigh In On Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA Shares of Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA stock opened at $24.44 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $14.17 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.84, a PEG ratio of 0.77 and a beta of 0.90. The company has a quick ratio of 1.00, a current ratio of 1.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.45. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $23.21 and its 200-day simple moving average is $24.51. Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA has a 52 week low of $20.94 and a 52 week high of $30.46. Several institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC boosted its position in shares of Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA by 398.2% during the 3rd quarter. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC now owns 1,380 shares of the companys stock valued at $36,000 after acquiring an additional 1,103 shares during the last quarter. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. purchased a new stake in Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA during the second quarter valued at $36,000. Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp bought a new position in Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA during the second quarter valued at $43,000. Kestra Advisory Services LLC purchased a new position in shares of Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA in the 4th quarter worth $48,000. Finally, UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC purchased a new position in shares of Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA in the 4th quarter worth $58,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 8.37% of the companys stock. Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA Company Profile (Get Free Report) Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co KGaA is the worlds largest integrated provider of products and services for individuals with renal diseases. The companys primary business activities encompass the operation of dialysis clinics and the manufacture and distribution of dialysis equipment, dialysis machines, dialyzers, consumables and related therapies. Through its global network of clinics, Fresenius Medical Care delivers comprehensive kidney care, including hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis treatments, patient education and support services. In its products segment, the company designs and produces dialysis machines, water treatment systems and disposables such as highflux dialyzers and bloodlines. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Loader Please wait while your request is being verified... Rolls-Royce Holdings plc (LON:RR Get Free Report) insider Birgit Behrendt purchased 89 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, February 9th. The stock was acquired at an average price of GBX 1,242 per share, for a total transaction of 1,105.38. Birgit Behrendt also recently made the following trade(s): Get Rolls-Royce Holdings plc alerts: On Wednesday, January 7th, Birgit Behrendt acquired 88 shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc stock. The shares were bought at an average price of GBX 1,255 per share, with a total value of 1,104.40. On Monday, December 8th, Birgit Behrendt purchased 100 shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc stock. The stock was purchased at an average price of GBX 1,096 per share, with a total value of 1,096. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Stock Performance RR opened at GBX 1,226 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of 105.15 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 44.69, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.55 and a beta of 1.82. The firms fifty day moving average is GBX 1,200.36 and its 200 day moving average is GBX 1,137.48. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc has a fifty-two week low of GBX 196.45 and a fifty-two week high of GBX 537.20. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts have issued reports on the stock. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lifted their price target on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc from GBX 1,290 to GBX 1,550 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, February 2nd. Berenberg Bank raised shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc to a hold rating and increased their price target for the company from GBX 240 to GBX 1,080 in a report on Monday, October 20th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of GBX 1,244. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on RR About Rolls-Royce Holdings plc (Get Free Report) Rolls-Royce Holdings plc develops and delivers complex power and propulsion solutions for air, sea, and land in the United Kingdom and internationally. The company operates through four segments: Civil Aerospace, Defence, Power Systems, and New Markets. The Civil Aerospace segment develops, manufactures, markets, and sells aero engines for large commercial aircraft, regional jet, and business aviation markets, as well as provides aftermarket services. The Defence segment is involved in the development, manufacture, marketing, and sale of military aero engines, naval engines, and submarine nuclear power plants, as well as offers aftermarket services. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (LON:IHG Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high on Thursday . The company traded as high as GBX 149.50 and last traded at GBX 147.20, with a volume of 312937 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at GBX 145.05. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In IHG has been the subject of a number of research reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on InterContinental Hotels Group from 104 to 119 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, December 2nd. Citigroup lifted their price target on InterContinental Hotels Group from GBX 7,900 to GBX 8,000 and gave the company a sell rating in a report on Friday, October 24th. Berenberg Bank restated a buy rating on shares of InterContinental Hotels Group in a report on Monday, January 19th. Finally, UBS Group reaffirmed a buy rating and set a GBX 9,450 price objective on shares of InterContinental Hotels Group in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of GBX 7,499. Get InterContinental Hotels Group alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Report on IHG InterContinental Hotels Group Price Performance About InterContinental Hotels Group The stock has a 50 day moving average of GBX 4,014.07 and a two-hundred day moving average of GBX 7,388.58. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of -162.30, a quick ratio of 1.35 and a current ratio of 0.85. The firm has a market capitalization of 219.94 million, a P/E ratio of 0.31, a P/E/G ratio of 1.69 and a beta of 0.98. (Get Free Report) Our presence IHG Hotels & Resorts is a global hospitality company, with 19 hotel brands, one of the industrys largest loyalty programmes, over 6,300 open hotels in more than 100 countries, and a further 1,800 hotels in our development pipeline. Our ambition To deliver industry-leading growth in our scale, enterprise platform and performance, doing so sustainably for all stakeholders, including our hotel owners, guests and society as a whole. Our strategy To use our scale and expertise to create the exceptional guest experiences and owner returns needed to grow our brands in the industrys most valuable markets and segments. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for InterContinental Hotels Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for InterContinental Hotels Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF (NYSEARCA:SPLV Get Free Report) was the target of a large growth in short interest in the month of January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 4,325,975 shares, a growth of 48.0% from the January 15th total of 2,923,826 shares. Approximately 4.2% of the shares of the company are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 4,195,925 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 1.0 days. Based on an average daily volume of 4,195,925 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 1.0 days. Approximately 4.2% of the shares of the company are sold short. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of SPLV. Bank of America Corp DE raised its holdings in Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF by 16.8% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 8,045,945 shares of the companys stock worth $591,216,000 after purchasing an additional 1,156,550 shares during the period. Bank of Montreal Can increased its position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF by 1,951.0% in the third quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 2,926,999 shares of the companys stock valued at $215,076,000 after buying an additional 2,784,291 shares in the last quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. raised its stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF by 26.6% during the 2nd quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 2,016,453 shares of the companys stock worth $147,348,000 after buying an additional 423,940 shares during the period. Wells Fargo & Company MN raised its stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF by 3.7% during the 4th quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 1,610,857 shares of the companys stock worth $115,047,000 after buying an additional 57,312 shares during the period. Finally, Invesco Ltd. lifted its position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF by 16.0% during the 2nd quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 1,487,724 shares of the companys stock valued at $108,336,000 after buying an additional 204,694 shares in the last quarter. Get Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF alerts: Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF Stock Up 0.9% Shares of NYSEARCA:SPLV traded up $0.66 during trading on Friday, hitting $75.85. 4,960,079 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,140,831. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $72.56 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $72.60. Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF has a 52-week low of $67.13 and a 52-week high of $76.09. The company has a market cap of $7.76 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.11 and a beta of 0.62. Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF Increases Dividend Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF Company Profile The company also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which was paid on Friday, January 23rd. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, January 20th were issued a $0.1347 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, January 20th. This is a positive change from Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETFs previous monthly dividend of $0.13. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.1%. (Get Free Report) The Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF (SPLV) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the S&P 500 Low Volatility index. The fund tracks a volatility-weighted index of the 100 least-volatile stocks in the S&P 500. SPLV was launched on May 5, 2011 and is managed by Invesco. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF (NYSEARCA:HEWJ Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant decline in short interest during the month of January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 26,110 shares, a decline of 59.8% from the January 15th total of 64,948 shares. Currently, 0.3% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average trading volume of 28,963 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.9 days. Based on an average trading volume of 28,963 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.9 days. Currently, 0.3% of the companys stock are sold short. iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF Stock Up 0.3% HEWJ stock traded up $0.17 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $59.95. 44,961 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 102,692. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $55.21 and a 200-day simple moving average of $52.11. iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF has a twelve month low of $35.81 and a twelve month high of $60.45. The stock has a market capitalization of $569.53 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.45 and a beta of 0.49. Get iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF alerts: Institutional Investors Weigh In On iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its position in iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF by 138.2% in the 4th quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 369,431 shares of the companys stock worth $19,468,000 after buying an additional 214,312 shares during the period. Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. bought a new position in iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF during the third quarter worth $5,570,000. OVERSEA CHINESE BANKING Corp Ltd raised its stake in iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF by 0.3% during the 2nd quarter. OVERSEA CHINESE BANKING Corp Ltd now owns 89,530 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,010,000 after purchasing an additional 228 shares during the last quarter. Williams Jones Wealth Management LLC. bought a new stake in iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF in the 4th quarter valued at $3,507,000. Finally, BNP Paribas Financial Markets acquired a new stake in iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF in the 3rd quarter worth $379,000. iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF Company Profile The iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF (HEWJ) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in total market equity. The fund tracks an index of large- and mid-cap Japanese stocks, while fully hedging out its exposure to the yen relative to the US dollar. HEWJ was launched on Jan 31, 2014 and is managed by BlackRock. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Japan ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Airbnb, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Carnival, and Trip.com Group are the five Leisure stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Leisure stocks are equities of companies that provide discretionary experiences and goods for example hotels, resorts, cruise lines, casinos, theme parks, restaurants, airlines and makers of recreational products. They tend to be cyclical and sensitive to consumer confidence, seasonality and macroeconomic conditions, so investors closely watch tourism trends, consumer spending and economic indicators when evaluating them. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Leisure stocks within the last several days. Get alerts: Airbnb (ABNB) Airbnb, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates a platform that enables hosts to offer stays and experiences to guests worldwide. The companys marketplace connects hosts and guests online or through mobile devices to book spaces and experiences. It primarily offers private rooms, primary homes, and vacation homes. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCLH) Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, operates as a cruise company in North America, Europe, the Asia-Pacific, and internationally. The company operates through the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. It offers itineraries ranging from three days to a 180-days calling on various ports, including Scandinavia, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Greek Isles, Alaska, Canada and New England, Hawaii, Asia, Tahiti and the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, Africa, India, South America, the Panama Canal, and the Caribbean. Read Our Latest Research Report on NCLH Royal Caribbean Cruises (RCL) Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. operates as a cruise company worldwide. The company operates cruises under the Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises brands, which comprise a range of itineraries. As of February 21, 2024, it operated 65 ships. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Read Our Latest Research Report on RCL Carnival (CCL) Carnival Corp. engages in the operation of cruise ships. It operates through the following business segments: North America and Australia (NAA) Cruise, Europe and Asia (EA) Cruise Operations, Cruise Support, and Tour and Others. The North America and Australia (NAA) Cruise segment includes the Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Seabourn. Read Our Latest Research Report on CCL Trip.com Group (TCOM) Trip.com Group Limited, through its subsidiaries, operates as a travel service provider for accommodation reservation, transportation ticketing, packaged tours and in-destination, corporate travel management, and other travel-related services in China and internationally. The company acts as an agent for hotel-related transactions and selling air tickets, as well as provides train, long-distance bus, and ferry tickets; travel insurance products, such as flight delay, air accident, and baggage loss coverage; and air-ticket delivery, online check-in and seat selection, express security screening, real-time flight status tracker, and airport VIP lounge services. Read Our Latest Research Report on TCOM Further Reading Moving iMage Technologies (NYSEAMERICAN:MITQ) executives said the company delivered year-over-year revenue growth in its fiscal 2026 second quarter while completing a strategic acquisition intended to broaden its product portfolio and expand international reach. Get alerts: Management highlights productive quarter and continued demand Chief Executive Officer Phil Rafnson said the quarter was very productive, pointing to the acquisition of the DCS loudspeaker line as a key milestone in the companys growth and diversification goals. Rafnson also said the company posted 10% revenue growth compared with the prior-year second quarter, reflecting continued demand across its core cinema equipment and technology offerings, expanding customer engagement, and what he described as disciplined execution by sales, marketing, and operations teams. Rafnson noted the fiscal second quarter is typically a slower period for the cinema technology industry, as exhibitor customers focus on optimizing performance around the holiday season. Even so, he said the company saw steady order flow for parts, replacement products, and other solutions that help customers maintain premium presentation environments. He characterized the results as evidence of a solid base of annually recurring revenues and the continuing relevance of the companys services. Looking ahead, Rafnson said the company remains cautiously optimistic about future cinema infrastructure spending tied to refreshing legacy systems, including laser projection, direct-view technologies, and upgraded immersive audio. He said expectations for exhibition industry revenue continue to be shaped by historical capital spending patterns, with large projects often lagging during summer and holiday windows that fall in the companys fiscal second and third quarters. Rafnson added that while long-term fundamentals for cinema technology investments remain intact, pace and timing may be influenced by the strength of content pipelines, which he said seem to be strengthening. DCS loudspeaker acquisition: integration progress and early sales activity President and COO Francois Godfrey said the quarter reflected steady execution in the companys core business during a seasonally slower period, as well as progress on its M&A strategy through the structuring and closing of the DCS loudspeaker line purchase. Godfrey said the company believes DCS can become a material long-term contributor, describing it as an expansion of proprietary product depth and a way to reach large domestic and international exhibition chains. He said the DCS line has built a reputation for quality and performance over more than 20 years and called the deal a prudent use of company cash that should create value for shareholders. Godfrey added that the company expects to recoup its full cash investment through the sale of acquired inventory over the next few years. Since closing the asset purchase in early November, Godfrey said the company has focused on onboarding and integration, building out global sales, distribution, and fulfillment channels, and taking what he called a deliberate approach to establish a strong operational foundation before pursuing scale. He said the company has: Completed onboarding of DCS inventory, equipment, and operational data into its systems, while making progress on quality control processes. Onboarded contract manufacturing and third-party logistics partners to support continuity of supply, lead times, and product quality. Established warehouses in California, the Netherlands, and China to support global operations. Godfrey said the company has signed distribution relationships with more than 25 established cinema equipment dealers across EMEA, APAC, the Americas, and SAARC regions, promoting DCS in more than 50 countries. He said discussions in additional countries are ongoing and focus on support, training, and long-term product evolution in addition to near-term sales opportunities. He also reported initial shipments to customers in the United States, the United Kingdom, Taiwan, Thailand, Korea, Germany, Italy, Chile, and Vietnam. According to Godfrey, total sales and pending sales backlogs tied to the DCS line amounted to $400,000, which the company expects to begin recording in its fiscal third quarter. He said early activity confirms market interest domestically and abroad and supports the companys view that DCS can help expand into international markets where it previously had limited penetration. Beyond DCS, Godfrey said the company continues to see long-term potential in its core cinema technology solutions and systems integration business, citing exhibitors ongoing needs to modernize aging infrastructure, improve operational efficiency, and enhance the customer experience. Fiscal Q2 financial results: higher revenue, improved margins, narrower losses Chief Financial Officer Bill Greene said the company released its financial statements and expected to file its Form 10-Q the same day. Greene said fiscal second-quarter 2026 revenue rose 10% to $3.3 million. Gross profit dollars increased 24% to $1.16 million, and gross margin improved to 30.7% from 27.2% in the prior-year period. Greene attributed the margin improvement primarily to higher-margin product revenues and execution efficiency. Total operating expense increased 5.1% to $1.57 million from $1.49 million, which Greene said was primarily driven by higher legal expense. Operating loss improved to $408,000 from $561,000 in the year-ago quarter. Net loss was $388,000, or $0.04 per share, compared with a net loss of $527,000, or $0.05 per share, a year earlier. Balance sheet: working capital steady despite acquisition spending On the balance sheet, Greene said working capital was $4.46 million at the close of fiscal Q2 2026, compared with $4.59 million at the close of fiscal Q2 2025, despite $1.5 million spent to fund the DCS acquisition. He said the company continues to have no long-term debt. Net cash was $3.9 million, or approximately $0.39 per share, compared with $5.3 million at fiscal Q2 2025. Greene also highlighted an increase in inventory to $3.08 million at December 2025 from $1.72 million at the end of September 2025, which he said reflects assets acquired under the DCS loudspeaker acquisition and finished goods received as part of the purchase price. Outlook and call conclusion Greene said Moving iMage anticipates fiscal third-quarter 2026 revenue of approximately $3 million, reflecting customary seasonality in the core business and a modest initial ramp in sales related to the DCS asset acquisition. He added that the companys focus remains on disciplined execution, balance sheet strength, and seamless integration of DCS, with an emphasis on positioning the business to unlock operating leverage and support sustainable growth. The call ended without investor questions after the operator opened the line for Q&A. About Moving iMage Technologies (NYSEAMERICAN:MITQ) Moving iMage Technologies, Inc, trading on the NYSE American under the symbol MITQ, designs, manufactures and integrates digital signage solutions for a wide range of industries. The companys core offerings encompass both hardware and software platforms that support high-definition displays, interactive kiosks and touchscreen environments. Moving iMages systems are engineered to deliver dynamic content, remote monitoring and scalable network deployment to meet evolving customer needs. Its product lineup includes commercial-grade LCD and LED displays, media players, digital signage enclosures and interactive touchscreen modules. Featured Stories NIO Inc. (NYSE:NIO Get Free Report) traded down 2% during trading on Thursday . The stock traded as low as $4.94 and last traded at $4.97. 39,389,863 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 17% from the average session volume of 47,584,547 shares. The stock had previously closed at $5.07. Analyst Ratings Changes Several brokerages have recently weighed in on NIO. Macquarie Infrastructure upgraded shares of NIO from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and set a $6.10 target price for the company in a report on Thursday, January 15th. Barclays upped their target price on NIO from $3.00 to $4.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Friday, November 28th. Citigroup decreased their price target on NIO from $8.60 to $6.90 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, November 26th. The Goldman Sachs Group reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $7.00 price objective on shares of NIO in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Finally, UBS Group downgraded NIO from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 25th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $6.83. Get NIO alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on NIO NIO Trading Down 0.1% Institutional Inflows and Outflows The company has a quick ratio of 0.83, a current ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.36. The stocks 50 day moving average is $4.86 and its two-hundred day moving average is $5.76. The company has a market capitalization of $10.32 billion, a PE ratio of -3.41 and a beta of 1.10. Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Aspex Management HK Ltd purchased a new stake in shares of NIO during the 3rd quarter worth $266,700,000. WT Asset Management Ltd bought a new position in NIO in the third quarter worth about $142,120,000. Ghisallo Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of NIO during the third quarter valued at about $91,440,000. Voloridge Investment Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of NIO in the 3rd quarter valued at about $89,952,000. Finally, RWC Asset Advisors US LLC bought a new stake in shares of NIO in the 3rd quarter valued at about $79,761,000. 48.55% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. NIO Company Profile (Get Free Report) NIO Inc is a pioneer in the premium electric vehicle (EV) segment, dedicated to the design, development and manufacture of smart, high-performance EVs. Established in November 2014 and headquartered in Shanghai, China, the company focuses on integrating cutting-edge electric propulsion, advanced connectivity and autonomous driving technologies into its automotive platforms. NIOs vision centers on creating a holistic user experience that extends beyond the vehicle itself, encompassing energy services and digital solutions. The companys product lineup includes flagship SUVs and sedans such as the ES8, ES6, EC6, ET7 and ET5, each engineered to deliver strong performance, long range and a suite of intelligent driver-assistance features. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for NIO Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NIO and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Seabridge Gold Inc. (TSE:SEA Get Free Report) (NYSE:SA) crossed above its two hundred day moving average during trading on Thursday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of C$34.29 and traded as high as C$46.90. Seabridge Gold shares last traded at C$43.15, with a volume of 241,815 shares traded. Seabridge Gold Price Performance The firm has a market capitalization of C$4.93 billion, a P/E ratio of -84.11 and a beta of 1.84. The company has a quick ratio of 3.34, a current ratio of 2.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 58.83. The businesss 50 day moving average is C$42.74 and its 200-day moving average is C$34.46. Get Seabridge Gold alerts: Insider Buying and Selling at Seabridge Gold In related news, insider Elizabeth K. Fillatre Miller sold 1,648 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, January 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$40.49, for a total value of C$66,727.52. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 32,969 shares of the companys stock, valued at C$1,334,914.81. This trade represents a 4.76% decrease in their ownership of the stock. 2.78% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. About Seabridge Gold Seabridge holds a 100% interest in several North American gold projects. Seabridges principal asset, the KSM project, and its Iskut projects are located in Northwest British Columbia, Canadas Golden Triangle , the Courageous Lake project is in Canadas Northwest Territories, the Snowstorm project in the Getchell Gold Belt of Northern Nevada and the 3 Aces project is in the Yukon Territory. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Seabridge Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Seabridge Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Caledonia Mining Corporation PLC (NYSEAMERICAN:CMCL Get Free Report) was the target of a large growth in short interest in January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 1,141,652 shares, a growth of 263.9% from the January 15th total of 313,767 shares. Approximately 6.2% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average daily volume of 794,730 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 1.4 days. Based on an average daily volume of 794,730 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 1.4 days. Approximately 6.2% of the companys stock are short sold. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Caledonia Mining A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Empowered Funds LLC boosted its stake in Caledonia Mining by 7.6% in the 1st quarter. Empowered Funds LLC now owns 95,454 shares of the companys stock worth $1,192,000 after purchasing an additional 6,770 shares in the last quarter. Ritholtz Wealth Management bought a new stake in Caledonia Mining during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $649,000. Ethic Inc. grew its position in shares of Caledonia Mining by 71.1% during the second quarter. Ethic Inc. now owns 23,553 shares of the companys stock valued at $454,000 after purchasing an additional 9,786 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its stake in Caledonia Mining by 1.2% during the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 205,326 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,967,000 after purchasing an additional 2,463 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Dynamic Technology Lab Private Ltd bought a new stake in shares of Caledonia Mining in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $198,000. 31.78% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Caledonia Mining alerts: Caledonia Mining Stock Up 8.3% NYSEAMERICAN CMCL traded up $2.30 on Friday, reaching $30.00. The company had a trading volume of 302,618 shares, compared to its average volume of 584,338. Caledonia Mining has a 52-week low of $9.79 and a 52-week high of $38.75. The stock has a market capitalization of $576.60 million, a P/E ratio of 11.63 and a beta of 0.49. The companys fifty day moving average is $27.93 and its 200 day moving average is $28.64. The company has a quick ratio of 1.20, a current ratio of 1.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.02. Caledonia Mining Company Profile Caledonia Mining Corporation PLC is a UKdomiciled gold producer listed on the NYSE American under the ticker CMCL and on the London AIM market. The companys flagship asset is the Blanket gold mine, located near Gwanda in southwestern Zimbabwe. Blanket is a conventional underground and surface gold operation that includes a carboninleach processing plant and tailings retreatment facilities, providing a structurally diverse resource base and established production infrastructure. Caledonia acquired the Blanket mine in 2004, adding to its long operating history that traces back to the early 20th century. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Caledonia Mining Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Caledonia Mining and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. There's a self-soothing notion that the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution keeps the excesses of an overreaching government away from the gun safes of law-abiding gun owners. That notion is just that. It's veneer-thin, just a wisp away from the shifting political winds that are already blowing across several states that could usher in Canadian-style gun confiscation to the United States. The fact is that the Second Amendment requires constant vigilance against politicians who would disarm Americans "for their own safety." That's why NSSF is battling proposed bans and even illegal dispossession of lawfully-owned firearms and magazines in states like Virginia and New Mexico. Legislators there would join California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Washington and the District of Columbia in banning Modern Sporting Rifles (MSRs), the most popular selling centerfire rifle in America. There are over 32 million MSRs in circulation today. The popularity of these commonly owned and typically possessed firearms and standard capacity magazines doesn't matter much to politicians bent on banning them. The popularity of these rifles and magazines does matter to the Second Amendment, however. Those like Virginia's Democratic Delegate Dan Helmer claim that AR-15-style rifles are "weapons of war similar to the ones I carried in in Afghanistan." But they are not. They're simply semiautomatic rifles that operate in the same manner as a duck-hunting shotgun. Simplify Tara India Opportunities ETF (NYSEARCA:IOPP Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant growth in short interest in the month of January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 2,892 shares, a growth of 60.0% from the January 15th total of 1,807 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 4,070 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.7 days. Currently, 0.9% of the shares of the company are short sold. Currently, 0.9% of the shares of the company are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 4,070 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.7 days. Simplify Tara India Opportunities ETF Trading Down 0.8% Shares of IOPP traded down $0.22 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $26.84. 378 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,329. The companys 50-day moving average price is $26.65 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $27.12. Simplify Tara India Opportunities ETF has a 52-week low of $22.85 and a 52-week high of $28.40. The company has a market cap of $8.59 million, a P/E ratio of 36.40 and a beta of -0.13. Get Simplify Tara India Opportunities ETF alerts: About Simplify Tara India Opportunities ETF (Get Free Report) Featured Articles The Simplify Tara India Opportunities ETF (IOPP) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in stocks based on a particular theme. The fund is an actively managed ETF that invests in Indian equity securities of any market capitalization. The fund targets companies that are expected to benefit from the broad themes capturing Indias growth story. IOPP was launched on Mar 4, 2024 and is issued by Simplify. Receive News & Ratings for Simplify Tara India Opportunities ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Simplify Tara India Opportunities ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. State of Wyoming reduced its position in MasTec, Inc. (NYSE:MTZ Free Report) by 86.9% in the 3rd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 303 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 2,012 shares during the quarter. State of Wyomings holdings in MasTec were worth $64,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the business. Salomon & Ludwin LLC boosted its stake in shares of MasTec by 344.4% in the third quarter. Salomon & Ludwin LLC now owns 120 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 93 shares during the period. Caldwell Trust Co acquired a new stake in MasTec during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $29,000. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust boosted its position in MasTec by 253.7% in the 2nd quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 191 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $33,000 after buying an additional 137 shares during the period. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in MasTec in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $43,000. Finally, Root Financial Partners LLC acquired a new position in shares of MasTec in the third quarter worth $49,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.10% of the companys stock. Get MasTec alerts: MasTec Trading Up 1.7% NYSE:MTZ opened at $269.88 on Friday. MasTec, Inc. has a 1 year low of $99.70 and a 1 year high of $276.79. The stock has a market cap of $21.29 billion, a P/E ratio of 64.11 and a beta of 1.94. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a current ratio of 1.33. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $234.33 and a 200-day simple moving average of $209.59. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several brokerages have recently issued reports on MTZ. Barclays increased their price objective on MasTec from $240.00 to $260.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, January 23rd. Truist Financial upped their price target on MasTec from $253.00 to $270.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, December 18th. Robert W. Baird increased their price target on MasTec from $238.00 to $249.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Zacks Research upgraded MasTec from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 30th. Finally, Wall Street Zen lowered shares of MasTec from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have assigned a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $238.16. Get Our Latest Report on MTZ MasTec Company Profile (Free Report) MasTec, Inc is a diversified infrastructure construction company that provides engineering, fabrication, installation and maintenance services across a broad range of end markets. Its principal activities encompass the development of communications networks, oil and gas pipeline systems, electrical transmission and distribution facilities, industrial installations and renewable energy projects. The company traces its roots to a small cable installation operation in Miami and has grown through a series of strategic acquisitions to become one of the largest infrastructure contractors in North America. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MTZ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for MasTec, Inc. (NYSE:MTZ Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for MasTec Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for MasTec and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Objectivity Squared LLC boosted its stake in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM Free Report) by 121.1% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 4,712 shares of the semiconductor companys stock after buying an additional 2,581 shares during the period. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing accounts for approximately 0.8% of Objectivity Squared LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 23rd largest holding. Objectivity Squared LLCs holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing were worth $1,316,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of TSM. Westfuller Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 2.2% in the 3rd quarter. Westfuller Advisors LLC now owns 1,551 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $434,000 after acquiring an additional 34 shares during the period. BankPlus Wealth Management LLC grew its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 1.6% in the 3rd quarter. BankPlus Wealth Management LLC now owns 2,291 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $640,000 after purchasing an additional 35 shares during the last quarter. Bank of Jackson Hole Trust grew its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 7.5% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of Jackson Hole Trust now owns 500 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $140,000 after purchasing an additional 35 shares during the last quarter. Catalyst Private Wealth LLC increased its stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 2.8% in the third quarter. Catalyst Private Wealth LLC now owns 1,407 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $393,000 after purchasing an additional 38 shares during the period. Finally, Venture Visionary Partners LLC raised its holdings in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 1.1% during the third quarter. Venture Visionary Partners LLC now owns 3,540 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $989,000 after buying an additional 39 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 16.51% of the companys stock. Get Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing alerts: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Stock Down 0.4% TSM opened at $366.47 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19, a quick ratio of 2.47 and a current ratio of 2.69. The company has a market capitalization of $1.90 trillion, a PE ratio of 34.41, a P/E/G ratio of 1.03 and a beta of 1.31. The stocks fifty day moving average is $321.78 and its 200-day moving average is $288.42. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. has a one year low of $134.25 and a one year high of $380.00. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Cuts Dividend Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing ( NYSE:TSM Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Friday, November 14th. The semiconductor company reported $14.32 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing had a return on equity of 36.18% and a net margin of 45.13%.The firm had revenue of $32.50 billion for the quarter. On average, equities analysts predict that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. will post 9.2 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, July 9th. Investors of record on Thursday, June 11th will be issued a $0.9503 dividend. This represents a $3.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.0%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 11th. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings payout ratio is presently 23.57%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of brokerages recently issued reports on TSM. Needham & Company LLC increased their price objective on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $360.00 to $410.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, January 15th. Argus upgraded Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, January 15th. UBS Group set a $330.00 price target on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research note on Sunday, December 7th. TD Cowen lifted their price objective on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $325.00 to $370.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research note on Friday, January 16th. Finally, Citigroup reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Friday, January 9th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have assigned a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of $391.43. Read Our Latest Research Report on TSM Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing News Roundup Here are the key news stories impacting Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing this week: About Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (Free Report) Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is a leading pure-play semiconductor foundry that provides wafer fabrication and related services to the global semiconductor industry. Founded in 1987 by Morris Chang and headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan, TSMC manufactures integrated circuits on behalf of fabless and integrated device manufacturers, offering contract chip production across a broad set of technologies and products. TSMCs service offering covers logic and mixed-signal process technologies, specialty processes for radio-frequency, power management and embedded memory, and advanced nodes used in mobile, high-performance computing and AI applications. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TSM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Trisura Group (TSE:TSU) executives used the companys fourth-quarter 2025 earnings call to highlight continued profitability, growth in primary lines, and progress expanding its U.S. footprint, while also outlining expectations for 2026 across key segments and the investment portfolio. Get alerts: Strategy: shifting toward primary lines and building U.S. platforms Chief Executive Officer David Clare said 2026 will mark 20 years since Trisura began operations and described 2025 as a year of significant progress toward the companys objective of becoming a leading North American specialty insurer. Clare pointed to an 85% combined ratio and an 18% increase in book value per share as evidence of execution. Management emphasized that primary linesSurety, Warranty, and Corporate Insuranceremain the foundation of the business, with net insurance revenue up 20% in 2025. Surety was described as a standout, with premium growth of 36%, supported by continued U.S. expansion and strength in Canada. Clare said Trisura ranked among the top 30 U.S. surety writers by the third quarter, and characterized early results as reflecting strong relationships and disciplined underwriting. Warranty premium grew 17% in 2025, which management attributed to deeper relationships with existing partners and improving auto purchasing activity. Corporate Insurance, Clare said, grew premium and delivered a 31% loss ratio in a balancing market, with Trisura continuing to invest in U.S. Corporate Insurance in a way that mirrors its earlier U.S. surety expansionfocusing on areas it knows, hiring experienced talent, and leveraging existing infrastructure. Quarterly financial results: operating EPS of CAD 0.75 and an 85% combined ratio Chief Financial Officer David Scotland reported operating earnings per share of CAD 0.75 for the quarter, bringing full-year operating EPS to CAD 2.85. Operating return on equity was 17%, which Scotland said exceeded the companys mid-teens target. Key quarterly figures discussed on the call included: Gross premiums written: CAD 786 million, up 10% year-over-year. CAD 786 million, up 10% year-over-year. Net insurance revenue: CAD 200 million, up 11.8%, with primary lines up 15%. CAD 200 million, up 11.8%, with primary lines up 15%. Combined ratio: 85% for the quarter and 84.9% for the full year. 85% for the quarter and 84.9% for the full year. Net investment income: CAD 21.5 million, up 25%, driven by a larger investment portfolio and cash deployment. CAD 21.5 million, up 25%, driven by a larger investment portfolio and cash deployment. Operating net income: CAD 36.5 million. CAD 36.5 million. Operating effective tax rate: 24.7%. Scotland said the quarterly combined ratio was higher than the prior year, with a slightly higher loss ratio due to a higher loss ratio at Trisura Specialty, which he said was within expectations and compared against a particularly low loss ratio in 2024. He also noted a higher expense ratio tied to higher contingent profit commissions at Trisura Specialty and a more normalized expense ratio at U.S. Programs. Book value per share ended 2025 at CAD 19.42, up 18% year-to-date, though Scotland said the increase was partly offset by foreign exchange movements. He added that book value has grown at an average rate of 26% over the past five years, ending the year with over CAD 920 million, and said Trisura remained on track for its CAD 1 billion book value target by the end of 2027. Segment commentary: Surety momentum, U.S. Programs stability, and Canadian Fronting competitiveness On the question-and-answer portion of the call, management provided additional detail on underwriting and growth drivers. In Canadian Surety, Clare said the company is seeing encouraging signs from its larger-limit bonding initiative, with increased submissions toward the end of 2025 beginning to translate into early wins, though he added the best is yet to come. On the U.S. surety expansion, he said the project is now five years in and the top-30 ranking was a nice metric, with additional infrastructure build-out still ahead. Clare said Trisura may move more capital into the U.S. surety entity over time as additional licenses are obtained, but described that as capital already earmarked internally rather than a material shift in approach. Asked about surety loss ratio expectations as the mix evolves, management said it typically thinks about a long-term range of roughly 20% to 21%, with potential to move 20% to 22% depending on mix, but nothing material in terms of change. In U.S. Programs, Scotland said the business posted 17% growth in gross premiums written in the quarter, and Clare noted the platform benefited from a strongly performing portfolio, growth in MGAs, improving reinsurance capacity, and a widely licensed admitted and E&S platform. Later, management told analysts that recent growth has been driven mostly by expansion and maturity of existing relationships, while a more constructive reinsurance market in the second half of 2025 also enabled the launch of a few new programs that began contributing in the latter part of the year. Canadian Fronting was described as operating in a competitive market. Management said it expects premiums in that line to be flat to down a few points next year, while emphasizing that underwriting income is a more important measure than top-line movement. Clare said 2025 underwriting income in Canadian Fronting was sustained in part by a better loss ratio, while acknowledging that if premium declines persist, underwriting income could eventually be affected, depending on portfolio loss performance. 2026 outlook: mid-teens growth at Trisura Specialty and low-80s combined ratio for U.S. Programs Management provided explicit expectations for 2026 on the call. For Trisura Specialtywhich Scotland said includes Surety, Warranty, Corporate Insurance, and Canadian Frontingthe company expects mid-teens top-line growth next year, with some lines faster and some slower. For the combined ratio in that group, management indicated an expectation of roughly 86% to 87%. For U.S. Programs, management said it expects mid- to high-single-digit top-line growth in 2026, with a combined ratio in the low 80s, consistent with 2025 results. On investment income, Scotland suggested net premiums earned growth is a great proxy for modeling growth in net investment income, given the way retained premiums feed cash into the investment portfolio. He added that the company is focused on defending yields as reinvestment yields and book yields converge. Capital, reserves, and technology themes Scotland noted Trisura drew on its revolving credit facility during the year to further capitalize its growing U.S. Surety balance sheet, raising its debt-to-capital ratio to 12.7% at December 31, 2025. He said the figure remains below the companys conservative leverage target of 25% and that Trisura expects sufficient capital to meet regulatory requirements and support organic growth. On reserving, management said the companys updated reserve triangle showed favorable development on a consolidated basis, which it said demonstrates strength across the platform. Clare said improving expectations for the U.S. practice was discussed previously and that favorable development remains a goal going forward. When asked about AI and technology, Clare said the company is actively evaluating opportunities but described insurance as a highly regulated and complex industry, with the most immediate benefits expected to be operational efficiencies. He said Trisura is testing and participating in industry evaluation of new tools, but did not point to initiatives that are moving the needle economically yet. About Trisura Group (TSE:TSU) Trisura Group Ltd is a Canadian based company engages in the provision of specialty insurance. The companys operations currently include specialty property and casualty insurance (Surety, Risk Solutions, and Corporate Insurance business lines), underwritten predominantly in Canada. The operating business segments are Trisura Guarantee, Trisura Specialty, and Trisura International. The Trisura Guarantee segment generates maximum revenue, which offers Surety, Risk Solutions and Corporate Insurance products underwritten in Canada as well as the operations of Trisura Warranty. Recommended Stories UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH Get Free Report) shot up 2% during trading on Thursday . The company traded as high as $286.31 and last traded at $284.3720. Approximately 12,316,075 shares changed hands during trading, an increase of 10% from the average session volume of 11,169,387 shares. The stock had previously closed at $278.91. Key UnitedHealth Group News Here are the key news stories impacting UnitedHealth Group this week: Get UnitedHealth Group alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research analysts recently issued reports on UNH shares. Piper Sandler reiterated an overweight rating on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a research report on Tuesday, January 27th. Truist Financial dropped their price objective on shares of UnitedHealth Group from $410.00 to $370.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Monday, February 2nd. Sanford C. Bernstein reissued an outperform rating on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a research note on Wednesday, January 28th. Leerink Partners lowered their price objective on UnitedHealth Group from $410.00 to $345.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, January 28th. Finally, Barclays reduced their target price on shares of UnitedHealth Group from $391.00 to $327.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, January 30th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have given a Buy rating, nine have assigned a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $372.13. UnitedHealth Group Trading Up 3.2% The company has a quick ratio of 0.82, a current ratio of 0.79 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.72. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $320.91 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $322.88. The company has a market capitalization of $265.71 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.24, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.31 and a beta of 0.41. UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, January 27th. The healthcare conglomerate reported $2.11 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.09 by $0.02. The firm had revenue of $113.22 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $113.38 billion. UnitedHealth Group had a return on equity of 14.79% and a net margin of 2.69%.The companys revenue for the quarter was up 12.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $6.81 earnings per share. UnitedHealth Group has set its FY 2026 guidance at 17.750- EPS. Research analysts forecast that UnitedHealth Group Incorporated will post 29.54 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Hedge Funds Weigh In On UnitedHealth Group Large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in UnitedHealth Group in the 4th quarter valued at $4,376,167,000. Capital Research Global Investors boosted its position in UnitedHealth Group by 126.9% during the third quarter. Capital Research Global Investors now owns 13,042,049 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $4,503,419,000 after purchasing an additional 7,293,009 shares during the last quarter. Berkshire Hathaway Inc bought a new stake in shares of UnitedHealth Group during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $1,572,193,000. Dodge & Cox increased its holdings in UnitedHealth Group by 117.7% during the second quarter. Dodge & Cox now owns 8,750,560 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $2,729,912,000 after buying an additional 4,730,192 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Capital World Investors increased its stake in shares of UnitedHealth Group by 18.8% during the 3rd quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 21,766,922 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $7,516,107,000 after purchasing an additional 3,439,182 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 87.86% of the companys stock. About UnitedHealth Group (Get Free Report) UnitedHealth Group Inc is a diversified health care company headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota, that operates two primary business platforms: UnitedHealthcare and Optum. Founded in 1977, the company provides a broad range of health benefits and health care services to individuals, employers, governmental entities and other organizations. Its operations span commercial employer-sponsored plans, individual and Medicare and Medicaid programs, and services for customers and health systems in the United States and selected international markets. UnitedHealthcare is the companys benefits business, administering health plans and networks, managing provider relationships, and offering coverage products for employers, individuals, and government-sponsored programs. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for UnitedHealth Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for UnitedHealth Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Vontier (NYSE:VNT Get Free Report) updated its FY 2026 earnings guidance on Thursday. The company provided earnings per share guidance of 3.350-3.500 for the period, compared to the consensus earnings per share estimate of 3.390. The company issued revenue guidance of $3.1 billion-$3.2 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $3.1 billion. Vontier also updated its Q1 2026 guidance to 0.780-0.810 EPS. Analyst Ratings Changes Several research firms have recently issued reports on VNT. Bank of America reiterated an underperform rating and set a $40.00 target price (down from $50.00) on shares of Vontier in a report on Friday, November 14th. Robert W. Baird lowered their price objective on Vontier from $45.00 to $44.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Weiss Ratings cut Vontier from a buy (b-) rating to a hold (c+) rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 4th. Wall Street Zen upgraded Vontier from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday. Finally, Barclays lifted their price target on Vontier from $47.00 to $55.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Vontier presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $47.25. Get Vontier alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on VNT Vontier Stock Down 0.6% VNT stock opened at $41.86 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $6.07 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.16, a P/E/G ratio of 1.69 and a beta of 1.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.27, a current ratio of 1.16 and a quick ratio of 0.90. Vontier has a 1-year low of $27.22 and a 1-year high of $48.20. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $38.28 and a 200-day moving average price of $39.65. Vontier (NYSE:VNT Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 12th. The company reported $0.86 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.85 by $0.01. Vontier had a return on equity of 39.25% and a net margin of 13.20%.The company had revenue of $808.50 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $765.12 million. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.80 EPS. Vontiers revenue for the quarter was up 4.1% on a year-over-year basis. Vontier has set its FY 2026 guidance at 3.350-3.500 EPS and its Q1 2026 guidance at 0.780-0.810 EPS. Equities analysts forecast that Vontier will post 3.13 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Key Headlines Impacting Vontier Here are the key news stories impacting Vontier this week: Institutional Investors Weigh In On Vontier Large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Employees Retirement System of Texas bought a new stake in Vontier during the third quarter valued at about $58,000. Quarry LP lifted its position in shares of Vontier by 5,897.1% during the 3rd quarter. Quarry LP now owns 2,099 shares of the companys stock valued at $88,000 after buying an additional 2,064 shares in the last quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust grew its stake in shares of Vontier by 152.5% during the 4th quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 2,634 shares of the companys stock valued at $98,000 after acquiring an additional 1,591 shares during the period. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. increased its holdings in Vontier by 19.5% in the 2nd quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 3,486 shares of the companys stock worth $129,000 after acquiring an additional 568 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Lazard Asset Management LLC raised its stake in Vontier by 7.7% during the 2nd quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 3,534 shares of the companys stock worth $129,000 after acquiring an additional 253 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 95.83% of the companys stock. Vontier Company Profile (Get Free Report) Vontier is a global industrial technology company focused on advancing mobility infrastructure and transportation solutions. Established as a standalone public company in October 2020 through the spin-off of Fortives mobility and transportation platforms, Vontier is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina. The companys mission centers on delivering innovative products and services that help customers meet evolving demands in fuel retail, fleet management, and automotive service. The companys diversified portfolio spans several well-known brands. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Vontier Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vontier and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. 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West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Postal Code The 4.2-km Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) in Assam's Moran is now part of India's military history. The reason? It is the first of its kind in the Northeast. Developed at a project cost of nearly 100 crore, the ELF has been specially designed and constructed in coordination with the IAF to support the landing and take-off of military and civil aircraft during emergencies, an official statement said. What is an ELF? An Emergency Landing Facility is a specially designed and reinforced stretch of a public highway that can double as a functional runway for military aircraft. Such facilities ensure that army personnel can reach a particular region that has no regular runways during conflicts, emergencies, or natural disasters. While airbases could be taken out by an enemys pre-emptive strike, the availability of ELFswhich can withstand the take-off and landing of fighter jets and transport aircraft alikemeans the military still has aerial counter-attack options available. For more defence news, views and updates, visit: Fortress India The ELF in Assam's Dibrugarh district was inaugurated by PM Modi, who arrived in Assam on a day-long visit. He witnessed an aerial show featuring IAF fighter jets and transport helicopters. A Sukhoi-30 MKI was the first jet to take off, followed by a Rafale aircraft. The IAF's 'workhorse', the An-32 transport aircraft, performed a 'touch-and-go' manoeuvre. A three-aircraft set each of Sukhoi-30 MKI and Rafale then roared over the Moran sky in quick succession. While one Sukhoi-30 MKI and one Rafale from the formation landed at the ELF, the other jets performed an overshoot during the display. The indigenous Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) demonstrated Special Heli-Borne Operations (SHBO) by dropping off commandos at the airstrip. Geopolitical significance and disaster relief Assam : IAF's Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Rafale fighter jets take off from Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh. PM @narendramodi witnesses India's air dominance on display.#Dibrugarh #Assam #IAF #Sukhoi #Rafale pic.twitter.com/9TeOIpXVn3 All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) February 14, 2026 India has several ELFs across its landmass, including in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. However, the latest addition to the list is called historic since Assam serves as the gateway to Arunachal Pradesh, where border disputes with China remain unresolved. Its proximity to the "Chicken's Neck" (Siliguri Corridor) is also an important aspect to keep in mind, particularly in light of the strained relationship with Bangladesh. The availability of an ELF in the region ensures that the IAF can maintain air superiority in the eastern sector. Beyond military utility, should another flood be reported in Assam, rescue operations could become easier as even large transport planes can now operate from these roads. The same applies to landslides or any other emergency reported in the region. Author Arundhati Roy has announced that she will boycott the Berlin International Film Festival, also known as the Berlinale, in protest against remarks by members of the festival jury suggesting that filmmakers should avoid overtly political cinema. Roy, a Booker Prize winner, said in a statement that she was shocked and disgusted by comments made by jury members, including its president Wim Wenders. On Thursday, when asked about his views on the German governments position on Gaza, Wenders said: We have to stay out of politics because if we made movies that are dedicatedly political, we enter the field of politics, but we are the counterweight to politics. We have to do the work of people and not the work of politicians. Another jury member, Polish film producer Ewa Puszczynska, echoed Wenderss remarks, saying it was not fair to ask the judges, as a group, to comment on government positions regarding the Gaza war. In response, Roy criticised the statements, arguing that silence on Gaza would be judged by history. To hear them say that art should not be political is jaw-dropping. It is a way of shutting down a conversation about a crime against humanity even as it unfolds before us in real time when artists, writers and film makers should be doing everything in their power to stop it, she said. Roy described the situation in Gaza as a genocide of the Palestinian people by the State of Israel. She further alleged that the actions are supported and funded by the governments of the United States and Germany, along with several other European countries, making them complicit. With deep regret, I must say that I will not be attending the Berlinale, she said. Roy had been scheduled to attend the 2026 edition of the festival to present a restored version of her 1989 film In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones. "In Bruges" and "Three Billboards a Ebbing, Missouri" director Martin McDonagh is returning to the thriller genre. The Irish filmmaker is gearing up to bring out his new film titled 'Wild Horse Nine". The film, scripted by McDonagh himself, is expected to come out in time for awards season, with the backing of Disneys Searchlight Pictures. 'Wild Horse Nine' is expected to center on the dynamic between two central characters, as in "In Bruges" and "Three Billboards". As per reports, "Wild Horse Nine" revolves around a couple of CIA agents on a "trust-testing mission from Santiago to Easter Island during the 1973 coup in Chile." Other cast members include Parker Posey, Steve Buscemi, John Malkovich, Tom Waits, and Mariana Di Girolamo. Filming has been already completed in Santiago and Rapa Nui. The project sees McDonagh involved as a co-producer, reuniting with frequent co-producing partners Graham Broadbent and Peter Czernin, in addition to Anita Overland. Meanwhile, Sam Rockwell will be seen next in director Gore Verbinski's "Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die". In the film, Rockwell plays a man "claiming to be from the future takes the patrons of an iconic Los Angeles diner hostage in search of unlikely recruits in a quest to save the world." Gore Verbinski is known for the blockbuster "Pirates of the Carribean" trilogy, "The Ring", and the animated Johnny Depp-voiced "Rango". One specific victory in the Telangana municipal polls surprised political observers and the media alike: the All India Forward Bloc winning Vaddepalli municipality in Jogulamba-Gadwal district. It was unclear how the leftist party, which has lost its presence even in its traditional strongholds like West Bengal, managed to capture an urban local body in Telangana. Out of 10 wards in Vaddepalli, the Forward Bloc won eight, while the Congress and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi shared the remaining two seats. However, a little online research showed that the party could win the municipality with the backing of Kalvakuntla Kavitha, daughter of K. Chandrasekhar Rao, president of BRS. Kavitha has had clashes with her brother K.T. Rama Rao, the working president of the party, and her cousin T. Harish Rao, another senior leader. Media reports suggest she is planning to float a new political party, Telangana Jagruti, in April. Kavitha is learnt to have entered into an understanding with the Forward Bloc to field her supporters under its banner, as she does not yet have a registered party or election symbol. Speaking to The Week, T. Devarajan, general secretary of the AIFB, said the party accepted Kavithas proposal but asked the candidates to take Forward Bloc membership before contesting the polls. In the recent past, the Forward Bloc had also given an MLA ticket to former BRS leader Jalagam Venkat Rao, who contested from Kothagudem in the 2023 Assembly elections. Political analysts believe the Vaddepalli municipality win marks Kavithas attempt at a political comeback. The BRS, the party she once belonged to, managed to win only 15 municipalities. The Forward Bloc victory is therefore seen as an image booster for Kavitha, who has been under sustained political pressure following her differences with the party leadership. Hours after a bomb scare was reported on an IndiGo flight scheduled to operate from Kolkata to Shillong, a similar threat was reported on another IndiGo flight. The flight, 6E 6894, arrived in Kolkata from Dibrugarh, when the bomb threat note was found. Interestingly, the bomb threat note written with lipstick was recovered from the aircraft's toilet. The flight landed safety at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport at 7.37 pm and was moved to the isolation bay for security inspection. All passengers were deboarded safely. The earlier Shillong-bound flight, 6E 7304, also had a similar bomb threat note recovered from the toilet by one of the crew members around 9.15 am, around 15 minutes before departure. The passengers were evacuated immediately and shifted to an isolation bay for detailed checking. It later turned out to be hoax and the flight left for Shillong around 1.30 pm. A portion of the parapet segment of the under-construction Metro line-4 viaduct collapsed onto an autorickshaw and a car on LBS Road near Johnson and Johnson Company in Mulund, killing one and injuring four. Officials said they are working on relief operations at the site in coordination with the Municipal Corporation (BMC) and disaster management authorities. "The incident occurred today at approximately 12:15 pm near Pier P196 of Metro Line construction works in the Rajiv (Milan) stretch, close to Mulund Fire Station, where a portion of a parapet segment fell from height and struck a passing auto rickshaw and a Skoda car, the MMRDA stated on X. The injured were rushed to Upasani Hospital; the deceased person was identified as Ramdhan Yadav . The new Metro line-4 train bridge between Wadala, Ghatkopar, Mulund, and Kasarvadavali stands at a distance of 32.32 kilometres with about 30 stations. #WATCH | Mumbai: One dead, three others injured after part of a metro pillar collapsed at LBS Road, Mulund (W). During construction, a part of cement metro pillar collapsed and fell onto a rickshaw. pic.twitter.com/YcbK6GaQdi ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2026 MLA Mihir Kotecha slammed the MMRDA after the incident, "The incident happened due to the negligence of MMRDA. Instead of four hooks, only two were used to lift the part of the bridge. We have evidence to prove that. This is negligence of the contractor. We have asked for the suspension of the contractor." The MMRDA announced that it is forming an inquiry committee headed by Shri Basavraj M. Bhadragond, Director (Metro PIU), to investigate the collapse of the parapet. Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde alleged that the incident was caused by negligence by the contractor and the MMRDA. "This is really sad. MMRDA and the concerned contractor have shown negligence. Due to this, a person died, and 3 others were injured. This cannot be tolerated at all. The parapet wall/girder was installed here last night. I think the related safety rules should have been followed here, she said, speaking to ANI. "The site engineer of MMRDA, the concerned contractor and the consultant were responsible for this. The MLA and I have informed the CM. Third-party audit on the MMRDA site engineer and the concerned contractor will definitely be done, and action will be taken. Case will be registered," she added. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis offered his condolences to the victims of the incident and offered financial assistance to the the deceased victims family. The MMDRA also announced that it will be offering financial assistance to the victim's family and will bear all the expenses of the injured. At a time when the NDA in Tamil Nadu has turned out to be a non-starter, the BJP in the neighbouring Puducherry seems to have drawn a clear strategy aiming to make a comeback in alliance with chief minister N. Rangaswamys AINRC. Union home minister Amit Shahs visit and his meeting with Rangaswamy on Saturday had put an end to all the speculations about the AINRC quitting the NDA and fight the elections on its own. After the meeting with Amit Shah at Karaikal in Puducherry, Rangaswamy announced that his All India NR Congress (AINRC) will continue to be in alliance for the upcoming 2026 assembly elections. N R Congresss alliance with the BJP continues. We will fight the polls together. We will discuss various other issues including seat sharing the due course, Rangaswamy told reporters after his meeting with Shah at a private hotel in Karaikal. The alliance equations between the AINRC and the BJP had reached a feverish pitch as Rangaswamy felt that the BJP was aiming for the chief minsters chair for Namasivvayam, who defected from the Congress ahead of the 2021 elections. Amit Shah kickstarted NDAs campaign for the 2026 assembly poll at Karaikal, setting the tone for strategising the election. Speaking at the Booth Level Agents (BLA) conference Shah appealed to the people of Puducherry to give the NDA government another chance. Stating that the alliance had won 44 per cent votes in the assembly polls in 2021 he sounded with confidence that the NDAs victory margin would increase this time, as the double-engine government with Narendra Modi in Delhi and Rangaswamy in Puducherry has delivered a development oriented rule. During the conference Shah also accused the Congress and former chief minister V. Narayanaswamy of turning Puducherry into an ATM of the Gandhi family during his rule before 2021. Narayanaswamy turned the union territory into the ATM of the Gandhi family. They also sold PG and diploma seats and also seats reserved for the SC and ST to wealthy individuals to make money. Transport individuals were given free rein to trouble the public, Shah said. While the conference was to kickstart the campaign, Amit Shah and Rangaswamys closed door meeting ironed out all the issues in the NDA. While there were talks about NR Congress choosing to quit the alliance, the meeting and Rangaswamys statement has put an end to all the speculation around the alliance. In 2021 the NR Congress contested in 16 out of the 30 assembly segments, and the BJP contested from nine seats while its another partner AIADMK had five seats. While the AIADMK drew a blank, the N R Congress won 10 seats and the BJP 6 and formed the government in 2021. But this time around the BJP aims for more number of constituencies and also aims for the chief ministers chair, which was beginning to cause a strain in the alliance. But the meeting between Shah and Rangaswamy seems to have sorted out all the discussions around the numbers. The Congress party has swept the Telangana urban local bodies (ULBs) polls by winning 74 municipalities and four corporations out of 116 ULBs. The Congress numbers could improve further following hung verdicts in about 30 municipalities and corporations. The party is positioned to secure control in many of these by joining forces with the CPI and AIMIM, while also leveraging the ex officio votes of its MLAs, MLCs, and MPs. The party could also bring rebel candidates back into its fold and rope in independents as well. Out of 2,996 wards in 116 ULBs, Congress won 1,537 wards, a steep hike compared to 569 seats in 2020. The Opposition BRS won 781 wards, down from 1,686 in 2020, and secured 15 municipalities. The party could not win a single municipal corporation. Despite limited direction and organisational depth, the BJP continued to perform well in Telangana. The party improved its tally with victories in 335 wards, up from 293 last time, and is on course to secure Karimnagar and Nizamabad municipal corporations. It gained in these corporations largely at the expense of BRS. The AIMIM won fewer seats this time, but expanded its footprint across Telangana. The party won 70 wards, compared to 87 in the previous polls. A total of 181 independents won across the state. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy thanked Congress leaders and workers for their focused and sustained efforts to win the ULB polls. He described the results as the peoples endorsement of his welfare and development agenda during the two-year rule. Municipal chairpersons and mayors will be elected on February 16. The Congress has already begun negotiations with other parties and Independents. In the Kothagudem municipal corporation, Congress and CPI together won 22 seats out of 60 wards, and talks are underway to finalise the mayoral candidate. The party could also seek MIM support wherever possible. The All India Forward Bloc sprang a surprise by bagging Vaddepalli municipality in Jogulamba-Gadwal district. It was a double surprise, as AIFB candidates were reportedly followers of Kalvakuntla Kavitha, the daughter of K. Chandrasekhar Rao, the president of BRS. Kavitha has differed with her brother K. T. Rama Rao, working president of BRS, and media reports suggest she may start a new political party by April. Despite the setback, BRS leader K. T. Rama Rao said the partys victories were significant after its losses in the 2023 Assembly elections and the 2024 general elections, in which it did not win a single MP seat. He described the results as reflecting public discontent with Congress's rule. Another senior leader, T. Harish Rao, said this cannot be considered a victory for Congress since it did not win more than 90 per cent of the seats. BJP state president N. Ramachandra Rao highlighted the partys improved performance and said it has emerged as the single largest party in six ULBs. He said the party could secure Karimnagar and Nizamabad municipal corporations and Raikal, Narayanpet and Adilabad municipalities. In every election season, the Oppositions narrative shifts from one issue to another. This summer, the Congress party is leveraging a handful of issues to counter the ruling BJP. This is a complex strategy, requiring precise messaging to undercut the narratives where the BJP is traditionally strongest. Whether this movement will fall flatas previous attempts haveor slowly rattle the BJP in the upcoming elections (particularly in West Bengal and Assam) remains to be seen. The Congress party has used this session essentially to craft a multi-front political narrative for the broad-based Opposition, mentioning areas where leadership is allegedly compromised - foreign pressure, national security, and economic sovereignty. To mark out these areas, Congress has pointedly cited former Army General M.M. Naravanes mention of the leadership's response during the Chinese border approachspecifically, that no clear command was given. Another issue raised by the Congress is the IndiaUS trade dynamic, specifically the claim that Washington has imposed 18% tariffs on Indian goods while New Delhi has granted duty-free entry to US products. Finally, the party has pointed to the controversialthough unverifiedallegations involving the mention of BJP figures in the Epstein files." These are not three isolated controversies for the Congress; they appear to be part of an attempt to construct a compromised PM thesis ahead of electoral battles in four major states West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Assam. Although Congress is closer to power in only two states Kerala and Assam it is contesting against the BJP in only Assam. However, other Opposition parties are also showing a propensity to use this three-edged narrative against the BJP, primarily in West Bengal, where TMC, led by Mamata Banerjee, has been heading the state for more than a decade and wants to retain the government this summer. Though she has kept away from personally speaking on these issues, her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, has made scathing attacks on the BJP for not countering US tariffs with proportionate tariffs but rather bending to their demands. Interestingly, in another poll-bound state, Kerala, Congress will be pitched against the incumbent Left parties, yet both sides are showing surprising camaraderie at the national level, coordinating against the ruling BJP at the Centre and leaving the state battle to be fought in the state itself. Rahul Gandhi, speaking in the Lok Sabha recently, attacked the Narendra Modi-led Union government over the recently finalised trade deal with the United States. He characterised the deal as a 'wholesale surrender,' claiming that Indias energy security had been handed over to America and farmers' interests compromised. Gandhi added that had an INDIA bloc government negotiated the agreement, it would have insisted to Donald Trump that India be treated as an equal partner. Though the narrative could work as one of the factors in the state Assembly elections, these state-level contests are largely driven by local issues rather than federal ones. "In today's time, Assembly elections are won based on cadre strength and ground presence, and the BJP has that replete. These national issues have less resonance in state elections, plus when these elections approach, these issues would subsequently fade away, and the new immediate issues will emerge, even more so when these national issues are picked up by the Opposition, the turf on which they are seen as weak challengers," a political analyst said. External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Saturday confirmed that the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) Leaders' Summit was "not cancelled", but it had also not been formally scheduled so far. Jaishankar had been responding to a question that arose in a conversation with Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephulon the topic 'Navigating Uncertainty: India and Germany in a World in Disarrayin the 2026 edition of the Munich Security Conference: whether the summit of the security bloc comprising India, the United States, Japan and Australia, had lost its momentum after it had not been held last year. "The fact that the QUAD did not take place at the summit level itself, I wouldn't overread it. So do stay tuned," he said at the Munich conference. After admitting that the QUAD meeting last year did not take place, he declared that the bloc's operations were still taking place beyond high-level political meetingsin the form of various working groups and institutional mechanisms, an ANI report said. In fact, he even pointed out that two meetings in the QUAD Foreign Ministers Meeting (FMM) format had taken place since Marco Rubio became Washington's Secretary of State in January 2025. He also made sure to reiterate India's stance on procuring oil in line with national priorities as the US continues to push New Delhi to buy Venezuelan crude and move away from Russian oil. Jaishankar's remarks are said to be India's first public comments on the QUAD since US President Donald Trump announced an India-US trade deal earlier this month. This comes just two days after Moscow accused the US of trying to dissuade India and other countries from buying Russian oil. (sergei lavrov, india russia oil, india us interim trade deal, trump)https://t.co/GZR2HDb8CK THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) February 11, 2026 Loosely structured as an anti-China influence, the QUAD was one of US President Donald Trump's flagship policies during his first term in office. However, it was the shifting geopolitical and trade ties brought on by Trump's second term that had put the relevance of the bloc in serious doubt, especially with China using the absence of the QUAD Summit in 2025 to project its stabilising influence in the Global South at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. India, however, had been very careful in its discourse about the QUAD last year, with PM Narendra Modi talking about how the QUAD was important to the Indo-Pacific and its various sub-regions. However, India is also supposed to be hosting the QUAD Leaders' Summit this year, which is expected to build economic and security ties on the heels of the progress made in the interim trade deal. On February 13, US Senators Tim Kaine and Pete Ricketts, members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, wrote to Rubio encouraging the Trump administration to schedule the next QUAD Dialogue. "All four QUAD partners face shared challenges including supply chain vulnerabilities, restrictions on critical minerals, threats to a free and open Indo-Pacific, and intensifying competition over emerging technologies," read their letter, highlighting common concerns. Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak has responded to allegations regarding his ties with the late American financier Jeffrey Epstein in a televised interview with N12 News, expressing regret over their association while firmly defending the legality of his conduct. Barak said he regrets the moment I met him in 2003 and conceded that he should have exercised better judgement and conducted a more thorough investigation into Epsteins background. While acknowledging this lapse in judgement, he stressed that regret did not amount to wrongdoing. Over the 15 years he knew Epstein, Barak insisted he never saw any unreasonable occurrence, or any unreasonable behaviour, maintaining that nothing in his presence suggested criminal activity. He said he severed ties immediately in 2019 once the true extent and depth of Epsteins crimes became clear. Addressing criticism that he continued to associate with Epstein after the financiers 2008 conviction for sex offences, Barak argued that he, like many in American political and business circles, believed Epstein had paid his debt to society and was attempting to return to public life. In retrospect, he said, that assumption had proved mistaken, but at the time it was widely shared among members of the elite who interacted with Epstein. Barak also confronted revelations about his stays at Epsteins properties. He acknowledged that between 2015 and 2019, he stayed at Epsteins New York apartment, describing the arrangement as one of convenience during a period when he was a private citizen engaged in business and research activities in the United States. A citizen can stay in a house given to him by someone with whom he has social or business ties, he said, noting that the building contained more than 100 apartments and suggesting that the scale of the property undercut insinuations of secrecy or impropriety. On the question of visits to Epsteins private island, Little Saint James, Barak confirmed a single daytime visit lasting around three hours. He emphasised that he was accompanied by his wife and security personnel and said he saw nothing illicit. According to his account, the only people present were Epstein himself and maintenance workers. He rejected suggestions that the visit implied knowledge of or involvement in criminal conduct. For latest news and analyses on Middle East, visit: Yello! Middle East Barak also addressed a widely circulated 2016 photograph showing him entering Epsteins Manhattan townhouse with his face partially covered by a neck warmer. Critics had suggested the image conveyed an attempt at concealment. Barak dismissed that interpretation, explaining that he was protecting himself from the cold and that he was photographed leaving the same building later that day with his face uncovered. A substantial part of the interview focused on a newly released audio recording in which Barak discussed what he described as Israels demographic challenge in conversation with Epstein. In the recording, he suggested that Israel could easily absorb another million Russian-speaking immigrants to offset higher Arab birth rates. The comments provoked particular outrage for a remark in which he predicted that such immigration would bring young, beautiful girls tall and slim. Barak apologised for that phrasing, calling it an unfortunate choice of words that carried associations of inappropriate stereotypes. He acknowledged that the remark was insensitive and said he understood why it had drawn criticism. At the same time, he argued that private conversations sometimes adopt a looser tone and suggested that critics should reflect on their own informal exchanges before passing judgement. He also rejected accusations of racism stemming from his reference to quality immigrants. Barak said he was drawing a distinction between the emergency rescue operations of Israels founding years, when survival took precedence over selection, and the immigration policies of a modern developed state, which he argued could apply criteria to meet economic and social needs. He insisted there was no racism there toward Mizrahi or Sephardi Jewish communities and framed his comments as part of a serious policy discussion he had held in the past with international figures. Turning to the broader controversy, Barak characterised the media coverage and document releases as a poison machine designed to distort his words and damage his reputation. He sought to shift attention to his long-time political rival, Benjamin Netanyahu, questioning why Netanyahus relationship with other wealthy benefactors had not prompted comparable scrutiny. Both men, however, dismissed speculation contained in various files suggesting Epstein had links to Israeli intelligence, including claims that he might have worked for Mossad. Netanyahu stated that Baraks ties to Epstein were personal rather than state-related, and correspondence cited in the documents reportedly included a message in which Epstein joked to Barak that he should clarify he did not work for Israeli intelligence. Despite acknowledging that further document releases could shed additional light on his long association with Epstein, Barak struck a defiant tone. He maintained that any future revelations would contain no crime, no criminal act, nothing improper. I am responsible for all my actions, he said, adding pointedly that not everyone could make such a claim. One of the recently released documents from the US Department of Justice, made public under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, revealed a shocking violation of religious sanctity: the illicit acquisition and private possession of the Kiswathe sacred black-and-gold cloth of the Kaababy convicted sex offender and paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. The Epstein incident related to the Kiswa is seen by many as a symbolic crisis centred on the breach of Hurma (sanctity). Additionally, this represents an ontological disturbance that calls into question the very essence of sacred material culture. The sanctity of material objects in Islam mainly derives from their connection to divine worship, sacred history, or functional piety. An object itself has no inherent holiness. Key sacred objects include the Quran, mosques, and holy relics; these require proper handling with ritual purity and respect to prevent desecration. In this context, the Kiswa is one of the holiest objects in Islam. Its fragments are traditionally regarded as priceless relics, and these are usually gifted only by Saudi authorities to heads of state, high-ranking dignitaries, or major museums. Understanding the history of this sacred cloth is essential, as it tells a story of craftsmanship and changing political guardianship, starting in the pre-Islamic era when the Kaaba was covered with various tribal textiles and animal skins. Some claim that, initially, it was the Himyarite King of Yemen, As'ad al-Kamil, who ordered the covering of the Kaaba with a cloth. Later, Prophet Muhammad adopted this practice after the conquest of Makkah in 630 AD, using a Yemeni cloth with red and white stripes. His first successors, also known as the Rightly Guided Caliphs, then covered it with a plain white cloth. Over the centuries, the Kiswa became a powerful symbol of sovereignty, leading to a long period of Egyptian dominance from the Mamluk era onwards. The Dar al-Kiswa in Cairo, until the mid-20th century, was the main manufacturer. Egypt sent the sacred cloth to Makkah in the grand, ceremonial Mahmal caravana wooden palanquin carried by a decorated camel. In 1927, King Abdulaziz established a dedicated factory in Makkah, which eventually caused a permanent shift of production to Saudi Arabia. Mohammed Shoaib Raza Today, the Kiswa is a masterpiece of modern textile engineering combined with traditional hand embroidery. It is a 14-metre-high black garment that remains the most visible symbol of Islamic custodianship. The change in the Kiswa's colour over time is due to practical reasons, as colours other than black tend to look dirtier after long use. Previously, the Kiswa was replaced on the Kaaba every year on the ninth day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijja, during the Hajj; in recent years, it has been replaced at the start of the Islamic New Year, or Muharram. The Kiswa, which covers the sacred structure of the Kaaba, derives its sanctity from its close connection to the Haramthe inviolable sanctuary of Makkah. Therefore, the Kiswa functions within a layered spatial theology. Here, proximity to divine worship establishes gradations of sanctity: the mosque surrounding the Kaaba is sacred, as is the territory of the Haram; likewise, the Kiswa is sacred. To understand the importance of the Kiswas displacement into a profane domestic space, like Epsteins, it is crucial to comprehend how Islamic sacred geography functions. In Islam, holiness (hurma) is organised geographically and protected by law. In this context, the Haram (the sacred area around the Kaaba) is not just a symbol but a legal entity. Inside its boundaries, violence, hunting, and even certain natural acts are restricted. The Kiswa, as a material extension of the Kaaba, holds the same significance. It is treated with pure ritual care, and its yearly replacement is a carefully planned ceremony. Although Kiswa fragments are tightly regulated by custodial authorities, even when given as gifts, the process follows strict diplomatic protocols. When a fragment is moved into a private domestic setting, especially in a context of moral criminality, it becomes more than just a scandal. To understand this, Mary Douglass framework in Purity and Danger is helpful. Douglas explains that impurity is not about hygiene but about matter out of place. The textile, once part of a tightly structured sacred space, becomes matter out of place when situated in a secular, domestic environment. In Islamic law, this incident can be viewed through the categories of tahara (ritual purity) and najasa (impurity). While the Kiswa is not inherently sacred in an ontological senseunlike the Quran, whose divine speech grants it special statusit gains secondary sanctity through its function and proximity. Moving it into a morally tainted space produces a symbolic inversion. Therefore, this incident should not be seen as just an individual sin. It involves an ontological crossing in which sacred heritage becomes a commodity and prestige replaces genuine piety. Furthermore, the Epstein-Kiswa episode reveals a harsh reality: wealth and connections now enable people to acquire sacred objects that were once under the exclusive guardianship of religious and political authorities. Mohammed Shoaib Raza is a doctoral candidate at the Centre for West Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK. US President Donald Trump on Friday said that a regime change in Iran would be the best thing that could happen, as the Pentagon deployed a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East amid mounting speculation over a potential military strike. Speaking to reporters after a military event at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, Trump said that tremendous power would soon be positioned in the region, referring to the ongoing US military buildup. When asked directly whether he supported regime change in Iran, Trump responded: Well, it seems like that would be the best thing that could happen. The president accused Tehran of prolonging negotiations even as Washington and Tehran attempt to revive diplomacy over Irans long-running nuclear dispute with Western nations, as well as concerns regarding its crackdown on anti-government protests. For 47 years, theyve been talking and talking and talking, Trump said. In the meantime, weve lost a lot of lives while they talk. Legs blown off, arms blown off, faces blown off. Weve been going on for a long time. #WATCH | On Iran, US President Donald Trump says, "...For 47 years, they've been talking and talking and talking. In the meantime, we've lost a lot of lives while they talk...Let's see what happens. In the meantime, tremendous power has arrived and additional power, as you know, pic.twitter.com/rragHoRppE ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2026 The United States has sought to broaden nuclear negotiations to include Irans ballistic missile programme, its support for armed groups across the region, and human rights concerns. Tehran has indicated it is willing to discuss limits on its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief but has rejected linking the issue to its missile capabilities. Trump warned that his administration intends to resolve the matter once and for all and confirmed the arrival of additional US military assets in the region. A tremendous power has arrived and additional power, as you know, and other carriers are going out shortly. So well see it out. Get it settled for once and for all, and thatll be good, he said. Trump has previously threatened military strikes if no agreement is reached, while Iran has vowed to retaliate, raising fears of broader conflict as the United States increases its military presence in the Middle East. We have a situation right now where we have sent a very big carrier group to Iran. I would love to see if we could make a deal. Theyve been difficult to make a deal with. I thought we would have had a deal last time. They wish they did, and thats what we did, Midnight Hammer, Trump added. At a health-technology showcase during the World Health Expo 2026 at Expo City Dubai, UAE regulators and industry researchers presented an organ-on-a-chip device, a rapidly emerging laboratory platform designed to mimic how real human organs behave. The demonstration, coordinated with the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE), signals the countrys attempt to move drug testing and biomedical research toward more human-relevant models and reduced reliance on animal experiments. Organ-on-chip devices are small, transparent microfluidic platforms, typically the size of a microscope slide, etched with tiny channels through which fluids circulate. These channels act like miniature blood vessels, allowing nutrients, oxygen and biochemical signals to flow across living human cells grown inside the device. For latest news and analyses on Middle East, visit: Yello! Middle East Researchers seed the chips with organ-specific human cellsoften derived from primary tissue or stem cellswhich assemble into three-dimensional tissue structures. A thin porous membrane separates compartments inside the chip: one side may contain organ-tissue cells, while the other contains vascular endothelial cells that mimic blood-vessel linings. Continuous fluid flow, pressure changes, oxygen gradients and even mechanical stretching recreate aspects of the physical environment inside a living body. In effect, the device attempts to reproduce the microenvironment of an organ or the local biological and mechanical conditions that determine how cells actually function. Why scientists are pursuing it Pre-clinical drug testing today largely relies on two models: Flat cell cultures grown in petri dishes and animal experiments. Both have limitations. Two-dimensional cultures lack realistic tissue structure and circulation, while animal physiology often differs from that of humans. A significant proportion of medicines that appear effective and safe in animals later fail in human clinical trials, mainly because toxicity or metabolism behaves differently in people. Organ-on-chip systems aim to bridge this gap by enabling researchers to observe how human tissues respond to drugs before clinical trials. Scientists can monitor inflammation, toxicity, metabolism and drug absorption in real time. Researchers say the technology could allow more predictive safety and efficacy screening of medicines, modelling of diseases such as cancer or chronic inflammatory conditions, patient-specific testing using an individuals own cells, and reduced use of laboratory animals. Multiple devices can also be connected to create so-called body-on-a-chip systems, where, for example, a liver chip metabolises a drug and the resulting compounds then affect a heart or tumour chip. This begins to approximate how different organs interact in a real human body. Regulatory and industry interest The EDE presentation emphasised pre-clinical evaluationthe stage before medicines are approved for human trials and eventual manufacturing. Globally, regulators including the US Food and Drug Administration and European agencies have begun evaluating how such platforms could supplement conventional toxicity testing, though they do not yet replace clinical trials. Companies exhibiting at the event included international manufacturers developing AI-assisted analysis of chip-generated biological data. These systems use machine-learning models to interpret cell responses, but claims of very high predictive accuracy remain experimental and vary by disease type and organ model. Why it is important for the UAE For the UAE, the showcase forms part of a broader effort to build domestic biomedical regulation and pharmaceutical innovation capacity, aligning with international trends toward ethical testing and precision medicine. The country is working towards a more self-reliant healthcare ecosystem. By adopting organ-on-chip (OoC) technology, the Emirates Drug Establishment appears to be aiming to strengthen local drug-development capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign pre-clinical data. It would allow testing of drug efficacy and toxicity locally using laboratory models that could, in principle, be adapted to reflect regional genetic and physiological characteristics. The system is also being discussed within the framework of Project Falcon (Future of AI, Lab Automation, and Organ Chips for Onward Innovation in Medicine). By combining these chips with AI-assisted laboratory automation, researchers could simulate drughuman interactions at greater scale and speed. This convergence may help shorten early research timelines for new therapies while contributing to the UAEs ambition to develop advanced regulatory and biomedical research capacity. The initiative also aligns with the UAEs push to upgrade the national pharmaceutical system, encourage specialised research and development within the country, and promote innovative solutions aimed at building an advanced and sustainable pharmaceutical ecosystem. 18-year-old high-school dropout Jesse Strang (alias Jesse Van Rootselaar), now associated with the horrific murders of her mother, stepbrother, and six people at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in Canada, was quite sadistic as a child. These revelations came after a neighbour, identified as Melanie, recently claimed that the teenager had tried to kill her own family members in the past by burning the house down. At least 10 people, including the shooter, were killed in the gunfire at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia #JesseStrang #CanadaShooting https://t.co/4GKZ1vKnhG THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) February 11, 2026 "He was just sitting out in the front when the fire trucks arrived," she said to The Telegraph about the school shooter who killed herself after the attack on Tuesday. Sadistic behaviour from childhood Jennifer Strang, her dead mother, had once expressed serious concerns about the transgender shooter more than 10 years ago in a Facebook group called Parent Life Network Canada, as per a New York Post report. He shows intense empathy when he sees anyone hurt not by her own hand but has a devious grin when he hurts his siblings, Jennifer had confessed in the group back in 2015, the report said, offering screenshots. Whats insane to me is that Jennifer Strang acknowledged her son (Jesse Strang/Van Rootselaar) behaviour claiming he has a devious grin when he hurts his siblings when he was just 7 YEARS OLD? But was apprehensive about getting him tested for behavioural disorders. pic.twitter.com/Yq0dZoQfdV Berta girl (@free_alberta__) February 11, 2026 She went on to say that Jesse's school wanted her tested for behavioural disorders at the time, to which she agreed with some hesitation. Jennifer also described how Jesse's behaviour would often fluctuate between being "very helpful and nice", and being "pretty mean". The 36-year-old even questioned whether she was to blame for Jesse's bizarre behaviours, which also included talking like a baby despite being almost eight years old, the child's unusual attachment style, and the child's "somewhat territorial" nature. The report noted that Jesse slowly grew more dangerous over time, as she became fascinated with gory videos. Back in 2025, she had even created an account on WatchPeopleDie, a twisted platform true to its name. It added that Jesse's morbid comments could also be found under a number of videos on the website, from suicide bombers to mass shootings, and more. The police are now currently looking into both the motive behind the school shootingsaid to be one of the worst in Canadian historyand how Jesse acquired the weapons in the first place. Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, has pleaded guilty before a US court to charges related to orchestrating an assassination plot against Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in New York. Gupta, 54, pleaded guilty before US Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn to three counts: murder-for-hire, conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 29 by US District Judge Victor Marrero. According to reports, Gupta could face 20 to 24 years in prison under the recommended federal sentencing guidelines. In a statement, the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York said: NIKHIL GUPTA, a/k/a "Nick," an Indian national, pled guilty to all three counts contained in the Second Superseding Indictment, charging him with murder-for-hire, conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, in connection with his efforts to murder a U.S. citizen in New York City. According to US Attorney Jay Clayton, the murder-for-hire charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison; conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire also carries a maximum of 10 years; and conspiracy to commit money laundering carries a maximum sentence of 20 years. Following an investigation by FBI New York, @DEANEWYORKDiv, and @SDNYnews, Nikhil Gupta pled guilty to plotting to assassinate a U.S. citizen in New York City. Read more about the FBI's continued commitment to defend the homeland from foreign nationals targeting our citizens pic.twitter.com/cElDtolY5y FBI New York (@NewYorkFBI) February 13, 2026 The Indian government has denied any association or involvement in the alleged plot to kill an American national on US soil. However, allegations of assassination attempts against Sikh separatists in the United States and Canada have strained diplomatic relations. Earlier, US authorities charged Vikas Yadav, 39, a former Indian government official, with murder-for-hire and money laundering in connection with his alleged role in directing the foiled plot against Pannun. Prosecutors allege that Yadav and Gupta conspired during the summer of 2023 to assassinate the Sikh separatist leader. Gupta allegedly hired an individual to carry out the killing. The individualwho was later identified as an informant for the Federal Bureau of Investigationreportedly demanded $100,000 for the operation and received an advance payment of $15,000 on June 9, 2023. Federal prosecutors further claimed in an indictment that there were links between this alleged plot and the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada during the same period. They stated that communications were shared among Yadav, Gupta, and the alleged hitman concerning both incidents. Five European nations on Saturday claimed that Moscow had killed former Russian opposition leader, Alexei Navalny, with a toxin said to be "one of the deadliest on Earth". The UK, Sweden, France, Germany and the Netherlands are confident that Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a lethal toxin, the British foreign ministry said in a joint statement, citing analyses of samples" from the 47-year-old dissident, who died in prison in February 2024. The five nations added it was "highly likely" that Navalny died as a result of epibatidine, which contains the deadly toxin, but have not yet clarified how it was administered to Navalny. Scientists from five European countries have established: my husband, Alexei Navalny, was poisoned with epibatidine a neurotoxin, one of the deadliest poisons on earth. In nature, this poison can be found on the skin of the Ecuadorian dart frog. It causes paralysis, respiratory pic.twitter.com/doHGgSgzMA Yulia Navalnaya (@yulia_navalnaya) February 14, 2026 On the day of his death in prison, Navalny had allegedly felt unwell after taking a walk around the high-security facility located in a remote Siberian penal colony, after which he died, Russian authorities had said, back in 2024. How deadly is this toxin? According to National Geographic, poison dart frogs raised in the wild measure only about two inches long, but carry enough poison to kill up to 10 grown men. The fact that the frogs are indigenous to South American nations, and not Russia, has also been used by the five nations as probable cause in the Navalny murder. The toxin in epibatidine, which can be extracted from the skin of these frogs, is said to be a neurotoxin, or one that targets the nervous system, and is a known chemical weapon, as per a Sky News report. Said to be one of the deadliest on Earth, the 'dart frog' toxin is also 200 times stronger than morphine, and is capable of causing paralysis, breathing difficulties, and a painful death. The report added that Russian President Vladimir Putin's government has already been accused of an attempt on Navalny back in 2020 using a Novichok nerve agent, another chemical weapon. The five nations now plan to submit their findings to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), an international chemical weapons watchdog, in order to ramp up the pressure on Putin. A 22-year-old Indian student at the University of California, Berkeley, has been reported missing since February 9. The Berkeley Police Department is now seeking public assistance in locating Saketh Sreenivasaiah, who has been classified as an at-risk individual as search enters the fifth day. Sreenivasaiah was last seen in the 1700 block of Dwight Way on Tuesday, according to police. A search is currently underway near Lake Anza. The students backpack with his passport and laptop was found on a doorstep in the Park Hills neighbourhood next to Tilden Regional Park, the Berkeley Scanner reported. "We are working with EBRPD (East Bay Regional Park District) to coordinate ongoing search efforts," Berkeley Police Department said. "We are still asking for the communitys help in locating him." Police described him as being 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing about 160 pounds (73 kg), SFGate reported. The Indian embassy in San Francisco posted on X saying, "Consulate General of India in San Francisco is deeply concerned about the disappearance of Saketh Sreenivasaiah, an Indian post-graduate student of UC Berkeley, hailing from the State of Karnataka. The Consulate is in touch with the family and is also in contact with the concerned local authorities to locate the student." Sreenivasaiah has been pursuing his master's degree at the Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering department at UC Berkeley, according to his LinkedIn page. He has an undergraduate degree from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras in India, where he completed his B.Tech. in Chemical Engineering in 2025. He is a native of Karnataka. Baneet Singh, Sreenivasaiahs roomate turned to LinkedIn to appeal to the public. Hey all, my roommate, Saketh Sreenivasaiah, has been missing since Monday, the 9th, last seen near Lake Anza in the Berkeley hills. If any of my contacts know people in the area who have seen him recently, please reach out to me with any information. I'm working with the police dept desperately to make sure we find him. It's a hard time for us right now. Please provide any information that could help, he wrote. PM-designate Tarique Rahman, who led the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to a sweeping victory in the 2026 elections on Thursday, has again called for peace, unity, and a reset in ties with various neighbours (including India)which has been at the forefront of his campaign. Rahman, who recently returned to his country after a 17-year-long self-imposed exile declared at a press conference that the big win was dedicated to "people who aspire toand have sacrificed fordemocracy". This victory belongs to Bangladesh. This victory belongs to democracy ... From today, we are all free, with the true essence of freedom and rights restored, he said, ahead of taking over the reins from the interim government currently in place in the country, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. VIDEO | Dhaka, Bangladesh: This victory belongs to Bangladesh; we are all free now, with the true essence of freedom and rights restored, says BNP chairperson Tarique Rahman after winning the parliamentary election. (Full video available on https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/fDnW9hMszW Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 14, 2026 With your spontaneous participation, after more than one and a half decades, a parliament and government accountable to the people through direct voting are being re-established in the country, he added, as he asked people to stand united to ensure that no evil force can re-establish autocracy in the country, and that the nation is not turned into a subservient state". Despite the exclusion of ousted former PM Sheikh Hasina and her party, the Awami League, after the student-led protests of 2024, the February 12 polls were said to be Bangladesh's first chance at real democracy. The Tarique Rahman-led BNP is now holding talks with its allies to determine the composition of Bangladesh's new government. (tarique rahman bnp, bangladesh elections 2026, sheikh hasina awami league, yunus, bangladesh news, osman hadi)https://t.co/v9VxSkKW8w THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) February 13, 2026 One of Dhaka's primary objectives will be to recalibrate its foreign policy, as a part of which resetting ties with regional neighbours such as India, China, and Pakistan is expected to take place. Specifically, on the topic of ties with India, which had faced tensions under Yunus's interim government, Rahman said that the "interests of Bangladesh and its people will determine our foreign policy. This is in line with the BNP Chairman's 'Bangladesh First' policy, which mirrors Washington's 'America First' policy. Dhaka is also set to enforce constitutional reforms proposed in the July National Charter, which received the maximum number of votes in the National Referendum. First Niles Financial (OTCMKTS:FNFI Get Free Report) released its quarterly earnings results on Friday. The company reported $0.25 earnings per share for the quarter, Zacks reports. First Niles Financial Price Performance OTCMKTS:FNFI traded up $0.55 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $8.00. The stock had a trading volume of 100 shares, compared to its average volume of 673. The company has a market capitalization of $12.31 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 133.33 and a beta of 0.29. First Niles Financial has a 1-year low of $7.25 and a 1-year high of $12.94. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $7.86 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $8.12. Get First Niles Financial alerts: About First Niles Financial (Get Free Report) See Also First Niles Financial, Inc operates as a holding company for the Home Federal Savings and Loan Association of Niles that provides various banking products and services in Ohio, the United States. The company offers personal and business checking and savings, money market deposit, and Christmas club accounts, as well as certificates of deposit. It also provides various loans, including mortgage and consumer loans, home equity lines of credit, and commercial loans and lines of credit. In addition, the company provides e-statement, and night depository services; debit and ATM cards; safe deposit boxes; direct deposits; I.R.A. Receive News & Ratings for First Niles Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for First Niles Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. A10 Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ATEN Get Free Report) CEO Dhrupad Trivedi sold 33,333 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $20.69, for a total value of $689,659.77. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer owned 648,748 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,422,596.12. This trade represents a 4.89% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Dhrupad Trivedi also recently made the following trade(s): Get A10 Networks alerts: On Friday, February 13th, Dhrupad Trivedi sold 33,334 shares of A10 Networks stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $20.55, for a total value of $685,013.70. A10 Networks Price Performance NYSE ATEN traded up $0.35 on Friday, hitting $20.70. 1,090,054 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 790,283. A10 Networks, Inc. has a 1-year low of $13.81 and a 1-year high of $21.90. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $18.04 and a two-hundred day moving average of $17.80. The company has a current ratio of 3.56, a quick ratio of 3.43 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.03. The company has a market cap of $1.48 billion, a P/E ratio of 35.68 and a beta of 1.23. A10 Networks Dividend Announcement A10 Networks ( NYSE:ATEN Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, February 4th. The communications equipment provider reported $0.26 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.26. A10 Networks had a net margin of 14.50% and a return on equity of 24.10%. The company had revenue of $80.36 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $78.09 million. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.24 earnings per share. The companys revenue was up 8.3% on a year-over-year basis. A10 Networks has set its FY 2026 guidance at 0.640-0.650 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that A10 Networks, Inc. will post 0.69 EPS for the current year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 2nd. Shareholders of record on Monday, February 16th will be issued a dividend of $0.06 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, February 13th. This represents a $0.24 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.2%. A10 Networkss dividend payout ratio is currently 41.38%. Hedge Funds Weigh In On A10 Networks A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Penserra Capital Management LLC raised its stake in A10 Networks by 56.2% during the 2nd quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 3,964,989 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $76,722,000 after buying an additional 1,425,792 shares during the period. Boston Partners acquired a new position in shares of A10 Networks in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $14,795,000. Legal & General Group Plc raised its holdings in A10 Networks by 348.6% during the 2nd quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 992,678 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $19,208,000 after buying an additional 771,405 shares during the period. Barclays PLC lifted its stake in A10 Networks by 103.7% in the third quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 1,365,259 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $24,779,000 after buying an additional 695,150 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its holdings in shares of A10 Networks by 40.2% in the third quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 2,054,213 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $37,284,000 after buying an additional 588,922 shares during the period. 98.61% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades ATEN has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c+) rating on shares of A10 Networks in a research report on Wednesday, January 21st. BTIG Research reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $22.00 target price on shares of A10 Networks in a research note on Thursday, February 5th. Finally, Wall Street Zen lowered shares of A10 Networks from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, November 8th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $22.00. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on A10 Networks A10 Networks Company Profile (Get Free Report) A10 Networks, Inc (NYSE: ATEN), headquartered in San Jose, California, designs and sells networking and security solutions that accelerate application performance and protect data across on-premises, cloud and hybrid environments. Founded in 2004, the companys offerings target enterprises, service providers and cloud operators seeking high availability, secure access and optimized traffic delivery for critical applications. The companys core portfolio includes application delivery controllers (ADCs) for load balancing and traffic management, advanced distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) protection appliances, SSL inspection solutions and carrier-grade NAT (CGNAT) platforms. Read More Receive News & Ratings for A10 Networks Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for A10 Networks and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Franklin BSP Realty Trust (NYSE:FBRT) used its fourth-quarter 2025 earnings call to outline leadership changes, a shift in capital allocation priorities, and a reset of its quarterly dividend as management aims to better align payouts with near-term earnings and protect book value. Get alerts: Leadership changes and strategy emphasis Chairman Richard Byrne opened the call by announcing that Michael Comparato has been appointed chief executive officer effective immediately. Comparato previously led the commercial real estate practice at Benefit Street Partners. In connection with the change, Brian Buffone was named president. Byrne said he will remain actively engaged as chairman, focusing on strategic oversight and supporting the leadership transition. Dividend reset to $0.20 per share Comparato said the company is a different company today than we were six or nine months ago, emphasizing that the acquisition of NewPoint represents an intentional move away from being a pure-play mortgage REIT toward a broader commercial real estate investment platform that includes recurring servicing and fee income. Comparato said management and the board approved a reset of the quarterly dividend to $0.20 per common share beginning in the first quarter of 2026. He noted the company has earnings power to support a meaningfully higher dividend over time, but said management no longer believes it is prudent to sacrifice book value to maintain the prior payout level. The stated priorities going forward are sustainable dividend coverage, book value growth, and building more consistent earnings. Management attributed the dividend decision to several factors discussed on the call: Recent declines in SOFR, along with the timing of originations and repayments and the overall size of the loan portfolio, weighing on short-term returns. Spreads at multi-decade tights, with lower returns on new loans versus loans paying off. REO liquidations taking longer than anticipated, leaving equity locked in underperforming investments, even as management said it is making progress. The NewPoint acquisition, which management said trades some higher near-term credit returns for steadier recurring servicing and fee revenue that typically supports a lower dividend yield but greater earnings stability and book value growth. In the Q&A session, Comparato said he does not view current earnings as a steady state. He reiterated a path to returning to an earnings level of roughly $0.35 to $0.36 per share, but said it is taking longer than expected to get there. He also said the company wanted to avoid continuing to shrink the balance sheet through what he described as over-distributing. Quarterly results, financing actions, and share repurchases Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer Jerome Baglien reported GAAP net income of $18.4 million, or $0.13 per fully converted common share, for the quarter. Distributable earnings were $17.9 million, or $0.12 per fully converted share, and included $9.8 million of realized losses. Baglien said $7.7 million of those losses were related to debt extinguishments, with the remaining portion tied to REO sales. Excluding those items, he said distributable earnings would have been $0.22 per fully converted share, nearly flat compared with the prior quarter, with timing cited as the primary driver of quarter-over-quarter changes. Baglien said FBRT completed a $1 billion CLO (FL12) early in the quarter, increasing non-recourse financing capacity. The company called several older CLOs past their reinvestment periods, which produced a debt extinguishment charge of $0.07 per share. He said the new CLO should lower financing costs in 2026 and add origination capacity. Book value per share ended the quarter at $14.15, which Baglien said reflected the dividend outpacing earnings. The company continued share repurchases, buying back $14.4 million of common stock in the quarter, which he said contributed $0.05 to book value. After quarter end, the board reauthorized the repurchase program, providing $50 million available for future buybacks through December 31, 2026. Net leverage ended the quarter at 2.5x, with recourse leverage at 0.81x. Baglien said the company has ample financing capacity and liquidity, including reinvestment availability on two CLOs, and expects earnings to benefit in 2026 as the core portfolio grows and NewPoints contribution stabilizes. NewPoint contribution and 2026 expectations Baglien said NewPoints contribution in the quarter was modest, which he attributed to a lower origination cadence and higher tax reserves at the TRS that reduced reported earnings. He said FBRT expects NewPoints distributable earnings contribution to run at approximately $25 million to $33 million per year. For the quarter, NewPoint originated $1.1 billion of new agency loans. Management expects $4.5 billion to $5.5 billion of agency volumes in 2026. At quarter end, the MSR portfolio was valued at approximately $220 million and generated $8.8 million of income in the quarter, reflecting an average MSR rate of about 82 basis points and an implied portfolio life of 6.4 years. NewPoints servicing portfolio totaled $47.8 billion at quarter end. Baglien also said integration work is progressing, including migrating BSPs loans and servicing book onto NewPoint, with completion expected by the middle of the first quarter. The addition of BSP loans is expected to increase NewPoints servicing book by about $10 billion, which management said should help drive earnings power in 2026. Portfolio composition, credit trends, and REO resolution Buffone said the core portfolio ended the quarter at roughly $4.4 billion, with about 77% of loans backed by multifamily assets and very limited office exposure. During the quarter, FBRT originated 37 loans at a weighted average spread of 284 basis points, with multifamily representing 76% of new originations. Office exposure declined to $57 million across three loans, down from $130 million in the prior quarter due to two office payoffs. Buffone said overall credit quality remained stable, with an average risk rating of 2.4 at quarter end. He noted two loans were removed from the watch list during the quarterone repaid in full and one taken as REO and subsequently soldwhile two new multifamily assets were added. A Georgia office loan on the watch list was extended 18 months in exchange for a 5% principal paydown; the loan balance was reduced from $27.5 million to $21.1 million and remains on nonaccrual, with the borrower continuing to make monthly debt service payments. On REO, Buffone said the foreclosure REO balance declined to seven positions from nine in the prior quarter. The company sold three REO assets during the quarter at its adjusted debt basis, with remaining reserves charged to distributable earnings and contributing to realized losses. FBRT added a Texas multifamily asset to REO in the quarter, which Buffone said is already under a letter of intent and expected to be resolved in the first half of the year. In response to questions, management said origination activity remains a focus, though it is reluctant to chase the tightest spreads on commodity multifamily loans. Comparato said the company had a $1.7 billion under-application pipeline and is seeking to shift origination mix into areas with more attractive returns. He also said the companys goal is to grow the core book to $4.8 billion to $5.0 billion by year end. About Franklin BSP Realty Trust (NYSE:FBRT) Franklin BSP Realty Trust, Inc (NYSE: FBRT) is a publicly traded real estate investment trust sponsored by an affiliate of Franklin Square Capital Partners. The company focuses on acquiring, owning and managing single-tenant net leased commercial properties across the United States. Its portfolio spans retail, office, industrial and other property types, with leases structured to shift most property?level responsibilitiessuch as maintenance, property taxes and insuranceto the tenants. By concentrating on net lease investments, Franklin BSP Realty Trust aims to generate stable and predictable rental income streams. Featured Stories Hong Kong & China Gas Co. (OTCMKTS:HOKCY Get Free Report)s share price gapped down before the market opened on Wednesday . The stock had previously closed at $0.9207, but opened at $0.8549. Hong Kong & China Gas shares last traded at $0.93, with a volume of 210 shares traded. Hong Kong & China Gas Stock Performance The company has a current ratio of 0.67, a quick ratio of 0.61 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63. The firms 50-day moving average price is $0.88 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $0.87. Get Hong Kong & China Gas alerts: Institutional Inflows and Outflows A hedge fund recently raised its stake in Hong Kong & China Gas stock. Rhumbline Advisers grew its holdings in Hong Kong & China Gas Co. (OTCMKTS:HOKCY Free Report) by 26.9% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 131,441 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 27,860 shares during the period. Rhumbline Advisers holdings in Hong Kong & China Gas were worth $107,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. Hong Kong & China Gas Company Profile The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited, commonly known as Towngas, is a long-established utility and energy services company founded in 1862. It is principally engaged in the production, distribution and sale of town gas and related energy products, serving residential, commercial and industrial customers. Towngas operates through an integrated model that covers gas production facilities, transmission and distribution networks, customer metering and billing, and after-sales services. Core products and services include piped town gas for household and commercial use, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) distribution, gas appliances and fittings, and engineering, installation and maintenance services. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Hong Kong & China Gas Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hong Kong & China Gas and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund (NYSE:PTY Get Free Report) saw a significant growth in short interest during the month of January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 174,872 shares, a growth of 161.3% from the January 15th total of 66,918 shares. Currently, 0.1% of the shares of the company are sold short. Based on an average trading volume of 849,570 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.2 days. Based on an average trading volume of 849,570 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.2 days. Currently, 0.1% of the shares of the company are sold short. Institutional Trading of Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Royal Bank of Canada grew its position in shares of Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund by 0.8% during the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 272,394 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $3,939,000 after acquiring an additional 2,256 shares during the period. Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC purchased a new position in Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund in the first quarter valued at approximately $209,000. NewEdge Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund by 2.5% during the first quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 88,471 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $1,279,000 after purchasing an additional 2,164 shares during the period. Jane Street Group LLC purchased a new stake in Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund in the first quarter worth $472,000. Finally, Apollon Wealth Management LLC purchased a new stake in Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund in the second quarter worth $154,000. Institutional investors own 10.25% of the companys stock. Get Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund alerts: Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund Stock Up 0.2% PTY stock traded up $0.03 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $13.02. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,715,405 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,082,138. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $13.02 and its 200 day moving average price is $13.61. Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund has a 1 year low of $11.70 and a 1 year high of $14.78. Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund Dividend Announcement Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund Company Profile The business also recently declared a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 2nd. Investors of record on Thursday, February 12th will be issued a $0.1188 dividend. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 11.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 12th. (Get Free Report) The Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund (NYSE: PTY) is a closed-end management investment company sponsored by Pacific Investment Management Company LLC (PIMCO). The funds primary objective is to provide a high level of current income, with a secondary focus on capital appreciation. It seeks to achieve these goals through investment in a diversified portfolio of corporate debt securities, loan participations and other fixed-income instruments. PTY primarily invests in a broad range of U.S. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pimco Corporate & Income Opportunity Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. EssilorLuxottica Unsponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:ESLOY Get Free Report)s stock price shot up 7.8% on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $164.51 and last traded at $160.72. 45,800 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 46% from the average session volume of 85,300 shares. The stock had previously closed at $149.14. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of equities research analysts have recently commented on ESLOY shares. Kepler Capital Markets upgraded EssilorLuxottica from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, January 15th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating on shares of EssilorLuxottica in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Zacks Research cut shares of EssilorLuxottica from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, November 18th. HSBC upgraded shares of EssilorLuxottica from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, January 14th. Finally, UBS Group raised EssilorLuxottica from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, November 27th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have given a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, EssilorLuxottica currently has an average rating of Buy. Get EssilorLuxottica alerts: Check Out Our Latest Research Report on EssilorLuxottica EssilorLuxottica Trading Down 1.1% EssilorLuxottica Company Profile The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $158.79 and a 200-day simple moving average of $163.37. The company has a current ratio of 0.97, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.18. (Get Free Report) EssilorLuxottica SE is a global ophthalmic optics company formed through the 2018 merger of France-based Essilor and Italy-based Luxottica. Headquartered near Paris, the company combines lens manufacturing, frame design and production, brand management and retail operations to provide a vertically integrated offering across the vision care value chain. Its activities span product research and development, manufacturing, wholesale distribution and retailing of spectacles, sunglasses and ophthalmic lenses. The companys product portfolio includes prescription and non-prescription lenses, lens coatings and treatments, and an array of eyewear brands and frames. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for EssilorLuxottica Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EssilorLuxottica and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF (NYSEARCA:ASEA Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large decline in short interest in January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 14,895 shares, a decline of 62.3% from the January 15th total of 39,473 shares. Approximately 0.3% of the companys shares are short sold. Based on an average daily volume of 107,828 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days. Based on an average daily volume of 107,828 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days. Approximately 0.3% of the companys shares are short sold. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Cetera Investment Advisers lifted its position in Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF by 3.2% during the second quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 116,914 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,907,000 after buying an additional 3,634 shares during the period. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC purchased a new position in Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $126,000. Jane Street Group LLC lifted its position in Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF by 17.4% during the 2nd quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 54,716 shares of the companys stock valued at $892,000 after acquiring an additional 8,096 shares during the period. Barry Investment Advisors LLC boosted its stake in Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF by 0.7% during the third quarter. Barry Investment Advisors LLC now owns 100,298 shares of the companys stock worth $1,714,000 after acquiring an additional 719 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Boothe Investment Group Inc. grew its holdings in Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF by 1.3% in the third quarter. Boothe Investment Group Inc. now owns 730,872 shares of the companys stock worth $12,494,000 after purchasing an additional 9,700 shares during the period. Get Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF alerts: Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF Price Performance ASEA stock traded down $0.14 during trading on Friday, reaching $20.13. The company had a trading volume of 108,660 shares, compared to its average volume of 78,619. The business has a 50 day moving average of $19.01 and a 200 day moving average of $18.01. The company has a market cap of $91.59 million, a P/E ratio of 12.26 and a beta of 0.58. Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF has a 52 week low of $13.68 and a 52 week high of $20.47. Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF Company Profile The Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF (ASEA) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the FTSE\u002FASEAN 40 INDEX index. The fund tracks a market-cap weighted and -selected index of the 40 largest and most liquid stocks from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines. ASEA was launched on Feb 17, 2011 and is managed by Global X. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Invesco Senior Loan ETF (NYSEARCA:BKLN Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large decrease in short interest in January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 17,062,529 shares, a decrease of 60.0% from the January 15th total of 42,693,603 shares. Approximately 4.7% of the shares of the company are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 21,405,731 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.8 days. Based on an average daily volume of 21,405,731 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.8 days. Approximately 4.7% of the shares of the company are sold short. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in BKLN. Morgan Stanley raised its stake in Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 27.6% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 12,343,783 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $259,219,000 after acquiring an additional 2,670,004 shares during the period. UBS Group AG raised its position in shares of Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 24.3% during the 4th quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 10,219,040 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $214,600,000 after purchasing an additional 1,996,729 shares during the period. Bank of America Corp DE raised its position in shares of Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 58.7% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 9,943,545 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $208,118,000 after purchasing an additional 3,678,530 shares during the period. Investment Management Corp of Ontario lifted its stake in shares of Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 34.7% during the 2nd quarter. Investment Management Corp of Ontario now owns 9,726,878 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $203,486,000 after buying an additional 2,506,226 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 5.2% during the 4th quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 9,487,707 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $199,242,000 after buying an additional 472,851 shares in the last quarter. Get Invesco Senior Loan ETF alerts: Invesco Senior Loan ETF Price Performance Invesco Senior Loan ETF stock traded up $0.02 during trading on Friday, reaching $20.64. The company had a trading volume of 9,934,545 shares, compared to its average volume of 17,872,438. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $20.91 and its 200 day simple moving average is $20.91. Invesco Senior Loan ETF has a 52 week low of $20.02 and a 52 week high of $21.09. Invesco Senior Loan ETF Increases Dividend Invesco Senior Loan ETF Company Profile The business also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which was paid on Friday, January 23rd. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, January 20th were paid a $0.1078 dividend. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.3%. This is an increase from Invesco Senior Loan ETFs previous monthly dividend of $0.10. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, January 20th. (Get Free Report) The Invesco Senior Loan ETF (BKLN) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in high yield fixed income. The fund tracks a market-value-weighted index of senior loans issued by banks to corporations. BKLN was launched on Mar 3, 2011 and is managed by Invesco. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Invesco Senior Loan ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco Senior Loan ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. RediShred Capital Corp. (CVE:KUT Get Free Report) shares traded up 0.2% during trading on Friday . The company traded as high as C$4.96 and last traded at C$4.96. 990 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 98% from the average session volume of 40,833 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$4.95. RediShred Capital Stock Performance The company has a fifty day moving average price of C$4.96 and a two-hundred day moving average price of C$4.96. The firm has a market cap of C$91.31 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 129.73 and a beta of 1.34. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 77.90, a current ratio of 0.42 and a quick ratio of 1.33. RediShred Capital Company Profile (Get Free Report) RediShred Capital Corp., together with its subsidiaries, operates the Proshred franchise and license business in the United States. The company operates through three segments: Franchising and licensing, Corporate Locations, and Corporate. It grants and manages shredding business franchises under the Proshred brand, as well as operates corporate shredding locations. The company also provides shredding and destruction services; offers electronic waste disposal services under the Secure e-Cycle brand name; sells recycled paper and other recyclable by-products, such as metals and plastics; and resells electronics. See Also Receive News & Ratings for RediShred Capital Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for RediShred Capital and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hannover Ruck SE (FRA:HNR1 Get Free Report) rose 2.6% during trading on Friday . The stock traded as high as 250.80 and last traded at 250.20. Approximately 212,770 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, The stock had previously closed at 243.80. Hannover Ruck Price Performance The businesss 50-day moving average is 251.21 and its two-hundred day moving average is 253.56. About Hannover Ruck (Get Free Report) Hannover Ruck SE, together with its subsidiaries, provides reinsurance products and services in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Europe, the United States, Asia, Australia, Africa, and internationally. It operates through Property & Casualty Reinsurance; and Life & Health Reinsurance segments. The company provides property and casualty reinsurance solutions for agricultural, livestock, and bloodstock; aviation and space; catastrophe XL; credit, surety, and political risks; facultative; and marine and offshore energy businesses, as well as insurance-linked securities and structured reinsurance. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Hannover Ruck Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hannover Ruck and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Fintel Plc (LON:FNTL Get Free Report) fell 3% during mid-day trading on Friday . The stock traded as low as GBX 228 and last traded at GBX 230. 73,790 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 78% from the average session volume of 338,321 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 237. Fintel Price Performance The stock has a market capitalization of 239.64 million, a P/E ratio of 38.33 and a beta of 1.17. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 17.73, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a current ratio of 0.75. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of GBX 223.74 and a 200 day moving average price of GBX 224.38. Get Fintel alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In other Fintel news, insider Phil Smith acquired 34,232 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, January 19th. The stock was bought at an average price of GBX 219 per share, with a total value of 74,968.08. Also, insider Matthew Lloyd Timmins bought 49,333 shares of Fintel stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, January 21st. The shares were acquired at an average cost of GBX 243 per share, for a total transaction of 119,879.19. Insiders have acquired 320,114 shares of company stock worth $75,548,187 over the last quarter. Company insiders own 30.86% of the companys stock. About Fintel Fintel is a UK fintech and support services business, combining the award-winning intermediary business support services, and the leading research, ratings and fintech businesses. Fintel provides technology, compliance and regulatory support to thousands of intermediary businesses, data and targeted distribution services to hundreds of product providers and empowers millions of consumers to make better informed financial decisions. We serve our customers through three core divisions: The Intermediary Services division provides technology, compliance, and regulatory support to thousands of intermediary businesses through a comprehensive membership model. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Fintel Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fintel and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Pan African Resources PLC (OTCMKTS:PAFRF Get Free Report)s stock price traded up 12.4% during trading on Friday . The stock traded as high as $1.9785 and last traded at $1.9785. 1,000 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 61% from the average session volume of 2,567 shares. The stock had previously closed at $1.76. Pan African Resources Price Performance The companys 50 day simple moving average is $1.63 and its 200-day simple moving average is $1.20. Get Pan African Resources alerts: About Pan African Resources (Get Free Report) Pan African Resources is a South Africafocused gold mining and exploration company with diversified operations in the countrys prolific Witwatersrand and Barberton mining districts. The companys core business activities include the extraction, processing and sale of gold from both conventional hard rock mines and retreatment of tailings. Through its flagship Evander Gold Mines and Barberton Mines operations, Pan African produces saleable gold dore bars while continuously investing in exploration and development projects to extend mine life and enhance production efficiency. In addition to conventional mining, Pan African Resources operates a significant tailings retreatment plant at the Elikhulu Complex, which recovers gold from historic waste material and contributes to both sustainable resource utilization and environmental rehabilitation. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Pan African Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pan African Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Fidelity National Information Services (NYSE:FIS Get Free Report) and PAR Technology (NYSE:PAR Get Free Report) are both business services companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their institutional ownership, valuation, profitability, analyst recommendations, risk, dividends and earnings. Dividends Fidelity National Information Services pays an annual dividend of $1.60 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.4%. PAR Technology pays an annual dividend of $0.31 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.5%. Fidelity National Information Services pays out 592.6% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. PAR Technology pays out -14.5% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Fidelity National Information Services has raised its dividend for 1 consecutive years. Fidelity National Information Services is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth. Get Fidelity National Information Services alerts: Institutional and Insider Ownership 96.2% of Fidelity National Information Services shares are held by institutional investors. 0.2% of Fidelity National Information Services shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 3.7% of PAR Technology shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a stock is poised for long-term growth. Valuation & Earnings Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Fidelity National Information Services $10.13 billion 2.39 $1.45 billion $0.27 173.11 PAR Technology $440.45 million 1.92 -$4.99 million ($2.14) -9.73 This table compares Fidelity National Information Services and PAR Technologys gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Fidelity National Information Services has higher revenue and earnings than PAR Technology. PAR Technology is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Fidelity National Information Services, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Profitability This table compares Fidelity National Information Services and PAR Technologys net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Fidelity National Information Services 1.45% 19.76% 8.73% PAR Technology -19.21% -2.56% -1.58% Risk & Volatility Fidelity National Information Services has a beta of 0.9, meaning that its share price is 10% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, PAR Technology has a beta of 1.35, meaning that its share price is 35% more volatile than the S&P 500. Analyst Ratings This is a summary of current ratings for Fidelity National Information Services and PAR Technology, as provided by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Fidelity National Information Services 2 7 12 0 2.48 PAR Technology 1 2 6 0 2.56 Fidelity National Information Services presently has a consensus price target of $78.33, indicating a potential upside of 67.59%. PAR Technology has a consensus price target of $64.00, indicating a potential upside of 207.31%. Given PAR Technologys stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe PAR Technology is more favorable than Fidelity National Information Services. Summary Fidelity National Information Services beats PAR Technology on 12 of the 17 factors compared between the two stocks. About Fidelity National Information Services (Get Free Report) Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. engages in the provision of financial services technology solutions for financial institutions, businesses, and developers worldwide. It operates through Banking Solutions, Capital Market Solutions, and Corporate and Other segments. The company provides core processing and ancillary applications; mobile and online banking; fraud, risk management, and compliance; card and retail payment; electronic funds transfer and network; wealth and retirement; and item processing and output solutions. It also offers trading and asset, lending, leveraged and syndicated loan markets, and treasury and risk solutions. The company was founded in 1968 and is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. About PAR Technology (Get Free Report) PAR Technology Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides omnichannel cloud-based hardware and software solutions to the restaurant and retail industries worldwide. The Restaurant/Retail segment offers PUNCHH, an enterprise-grade customer loyalty and engagement solution; MENU, an eCommerce platform for restaurant brands; BRINK POS, an open cloud, point-of-sale solution; PAR PAYMENT SERVICES, a merchant services business that enables electronic payment and processing services for businesses; and DATA CENTRAL, a back-office solution that leverages business intelligence and automation technologies. This segment also offers Point-of-Sale Hardware; wireless headsets for drive-thru order-taking; and kitchen display systems, payment devices, cash drawers, printers, and other peripherals. In addition, this segment provides services, such as hardware repair, installation and implementation, training, and on-site and technical support services. The Government segment provides intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance solutions; mission systems operations and maintenance, and commercial software products; systems engineering support and software-based solutions; satellite and teleport facility operation and maintenance, engineering, and installation services comprising inside and outside plant services, and maintenance of infrastructure and information systems; satellite ground system support comprising operations and maintenance, sustainment, upgrades, communications security management, anomaly response/resolution, process improvement, emergency response, and disaster recovery services; and information technology infrastructure library services to the United States Department of Defense, intelligence community (IC), and other federal agencies. This segment also offers various IC support services, systems integration, situational awareness solutions, and mission readiness support services. The company was founded in 1968 and is based in New Hartford, New York. Receive News & Ratings for Fidelity National Information Services Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fidelity National Information Services and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. QXO, Inc. (NYSE:QXO Get Free Report) has earned a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the seventeen ratings firms that are currently covering the stock, Marketbeat Ratings reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, one has assigned a hold recommendation, fourteen have assigned a buy recommendation and one has assigned a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 1-year price target among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $32.4286. Several equities analysts recently issued reports on QXO shares. Truist Financial dropped their price target on QXO from $28.00 to $26.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, December 19th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d+) rating on shares of QXO in a research note on Monday, December 29th. Oppenheimer upped their price target on QXO from $27.00 to $30.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, January 16th. Royal Bank Of Canada set a $30.00 price target on QXO in a report on Friday, January 9th. Finally, William Blair reissued an outperform rating on shares of QXO in a research note on Wednesday, December 31st. Get QXO alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on QXO QXO Trading Up 4.5% Institutional Inflows and Outflows NYSE QXO opened at $27.07 on Wednesday. The firms fifty day moving average is $22.82 and its two-hundred day moving average is $20.54. QXO has a one year low of $11.85 and a one year high of $27.55. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37, a quick ratio of 2.24 and a current ratio of 3.06. The firm has a market cap of $18.26 billion, a PE ratio of -61.53, a P/E/G ratio of 3.24 and a beta of 2.55. Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in QXO. Royal Bank of Canada lifted its position in QXO by 67.5% in the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 119,688 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,620,000 after purchasing an additional 48,248 shares during the period. AQR Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of QXO during the 1st quarter worth approximately $615,000. Millennium Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of QXO by 6.6% in the 1st quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 322,115 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,361,000 after buying an additional 20,067 shares during the period. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC lifted its holdings in shares of QXO by 13.3% in the 1st quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC now owns 697,889 shares of the companys stock valued at $9,449,000 after buying an additional 81,758 shares during the period. Finally, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC boosted its stake in shares of QXO by 92.7% in the second quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC now owns 28,481 shares of the companys stock valued at $613,000 after buying an additional 13,700 shares in the last quarter. 58.68% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. About QXO (Get Free Report) QXO, Inc operates as a business application, technology, and consulting company in North America. The company provides solutions for accounting and business management, financial reporting, enterprise resource planning, human capital management, warehouse management systems, customer relationship management, and business intelligence. It also offers value-added services that focuses on consulting and professional, specialized programming, training, and technical support services. In addition, the company provides information technology managed services, such as cybersecurity, application hosting, disaster recovery, business continuity, cloud, and other services; and data back-up, network maintenance, and upgrade services. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for QXO Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for QXO and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of McGraw Hill, Inc. (NYSE:MH Get Free Report) have received an average rating of Moderate Buy from the fifteen ratings firms that are currently covering the firm, MarketBeat Ratings reports. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, two have issued a hold recommendation, eleven have assigned a buy recommendation and one has issued a strong buy recommendation on the company. The average 12 month target price among brokerages that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $20.3833. Several research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Needham & Company LLC reiterated a buy rating and issued a $19.00 price target on shares of McGraw Hill in a research report on Thursday. BTIG Research reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $22.00 target price on shares of McGraw Hill in a report on Thursday. BMO Capital Markets set a $19.00 price target on McGraw Hill in a report on Thursday. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d-) rating on shares of McGraw Hill in a research report on Monday, December 29th. Finally, Macquarie Infrastructure reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $19.00 price objective on shares of McGraw Hill in a research report on Tuesday, January 13th. Get McGraw Hill alerts: View Our Latest Report on McGraw Hill More McGraw Hill News Positive Sentiment: Q3 earnings beat McGraw Hill reported $0.28 EPS vs. $0.05 consensus and revenue +4.2% year/year, a clear upside that underpins the rally. MarketBeat Earnings Summary Q3 earnings beat McGraw Hill reported $0.28 EPS vs. $0.05 consensus and revenue +4.2% year/year, a clear upside that underpins the rally. Positive Sentiment: Raised FY?2026 revenue guidance management updated revenue guidance to roughly $2.1B (above the ~ $2.0B consensus), signaling upside to full?year sales expectations (company guidance text in filings/call). Raised FY?2026 revenue guidance management updated revenue guidance to roughly $2.1B (above the ~ $2.0B consensus), signaling upside to full?year sales expectations (company guidance text in filings/call). Positive Sentiment: Recurring?revenue durability CFO Bob Sallmann highlighted that ~80% of McGraw Hill revenue is recurring and described the model as durable, a bullish structural signal for predictable cash flow. CFO Interview Recurring?revenue durability CFO Bob Sallmann highlighted that ~80% of McGraw Hill revenue is recurring and described the model as durable, a bullish structural signal for predictable cash flow. Positive Sentiment: Analysts reaffirm/raise targets BTIG reiterated a Buy with a $22 target and Needham reaffirmed Buy with $19, both implying large upside from current levels and supporting investor confidence. BTIG/TickerReport Needham/TickerReport Analysts reaffirm/raise targets BTIG reiterated a Buy with a $22 target and Needham reaffirmed Buy with $19, both implying large upside from current levels and supporting investor confidence. Positive Sentiment: After?hours rally coverage outlets reported a near?19% after?hours surge following the results/guidance, reflecting strong investor reaction outside regular trading. MSN After?Hours Story After?hours rally coverage outlets reported a near?19% after?hours surge following the results/guidance, reflecting strong investor reaction outside regular trading. Neutral Sentiment: Earnings?call/transcript coverage full call transcripts and highlights (Seeking Alpha, MSN, Yahoo) provide details on digital growth, AI initiatives and segment commentary for deeper read?throughs. MSN Transcript Seeking Alpha Transcript Earnings?call/transcript coverage full call transcripts and highlights (Seeking Alpha, MSN, Yahoo) provide details on digital growth, AI initiatives and segment commentary for deeper read?throughs. Neutral Sentiment: Analytic takes pieces from Zacks and Yahoo summarize key metrics and segment trends; useful for modeling but not immediate price drivers. Zacks Analysis Yahoo Highlights Analytic takes pieces from Zacks and Yahoo summarize key metrics and segment trends; useful for modeling but not immediate price drivers. Negative Sentiment: Balance?sheet and liquidity caution MH shows a high debt/equity (~3.52) and tight liquidity (quick ratio ~0.92, current ratio ~1.01), factors that may limit investor enthusiasm despite the beat. Balance?sheet and liquidity caution MH shows a high debt/equity (~3.52) and tight liquidity (quick ratio ~0.92, current ratio ~1.01), factors that may limit investor enthusiasm despite the beat. Negative Sentiment: Technical/near?term pressure shares are below the 50?day SMA (~$15.45), trading volume is lighter than average, and some intraday weakness likely reflects profit?taking after the initial after?hours pop. Institutional Trading of McGraw Hill Here are the key news stories impacting McGraw Hill this week: Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of MH. American Century Companies Inc. bought a new position in McGraw Hill in the 3rd quarter worth $37,786,000. Vanguard Group Inc. bought a new position in shares of McGraw Hill in the third quarter worth about $32,923,000. Alyeska Investment Group L.P. purchased a new stake in shares of McGraw Hill during the third quarter worth about $23,744,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. bought a new stake in McGraw Hill during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $14,600,000. Finally, Norges Bank bought a new stake in McGraw Hill during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $18,485,000. McGraw Hill Stock Performance McGraw Hill stock opened at $13.75 on Monday. McGraw Hill has a one year low of $10.69 and a one year high of $18.00. The firms fifty day moving average price is $15.39. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.36, a quick ratio of 0.92 and a current ratio of 0.83. The stock has a market capitalization of $2.63 billion and a PE ratio of 9.82. McGraw Hill (NYSE:MH Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 11th. The company reported $0.28 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.05 by $0.23. McGraw Hills revenue for the quarter was up 4.2% compared to the same quarter last year. McGraw Hill Company Profile (Get Free Report) McGraw Hill (NYSE:MH) is a global learning science company specializing in educational content, digital learning platforms, and assessment solutions. The company offers textbooks and course materials for K-12 and higher education, along with professional development resources for corporate and workforce training. Its digital solutionsincluding adaptive learning platforms and analytics-driven toolssupport personalized instruction, progress tracking, and interactive engagement in both classroom and remote environments. Founded in 1888 in New York City, McGraw Hill has evolved from a technical periodical publisher into one of the worlds leading providers of educational content and technology. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for McGraw Hill Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for McGraw Hill and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Metis Global Partners LLC grew its holdings in Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE:KGC Free Report) (TSE:K) by 222.1% during the third quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 150,485 shares of the mining companys stock after acquiring an additional 103,765 shares during the quarter. Metis Global Partners LLCs holdings in Kinross Gold were worth $3,735,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Public Sector Pension Investment Board lifted its holdings in Kinross Gold by 76.2% during the 3rd quarter. Public Sector Pension Investment Board now owns 209,849 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $5,209,000 after buying an additional 90,754 shares in the last quarter. Leuthold Group LLC grew its stake in Kinross Gold by 0.9% in the 3rd quarter. Leuthold Group LLC now owns 609,931 shares of the mining companys stock worth $15,157,000 after acquiring an additional 5,535 shares in the last quarter. GK Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Kinross Gold during the third quarter worth approximately $227,000. Caprock Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of Kinross Gold during the third quarter valued at approximately $3,402,000. Finally, Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. purchased a new stake in shares of Kinross Gold in the third quarter valued at approximately $214,000. 63.69% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Kinross Gold alerts: Kinross Gold Trading Up 6.4% Shares of NYSE KGC opened at $34.42 on Friday. Kinross Gold Corporation has a 1-year low of $10.32 and a 1-year high of $39.11. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $31.54 and a 200 day moving average price of $25.98. The stock has a market capitalization of $41.30 billion, a P/E ratio of 24.07, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.34 and a beta of 0.74. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15, a current ratio of 2.83 and a quick ratio of 1.68. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research analysts have commented on the company. Jefferies Financial Group restated a buy rating and set a $33.00 price objective on shares of Kinross Gold in a report on Sunday, December 7th. Desjardins assumed coverage on Kinross Gold in a research note on Friday, November 28th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Wall Street Zen downgraded Kinross Gold from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday. Zacks Research cut shares of Kinross Gold from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, January 23rd. Finally, Scotiabank boosted their price target on shares of Kinross Gold from $32.00 to $45.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Monday, January 26th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, nine have given a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $34.81. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on KGC Kinross Gold Profile (Free Report) Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE: KGC) is a Toronto-based precious metals mining company primarily focused on the exploration, development and production of gold, with silver recovered as a by-product at some operations. The companys activities span the full mining lifecycle, including discovery and resource delineation, mine construction and operation, ore processing, and eventual site reclamation and closure. Kinross sells refined gold produced at its processing facilities and manages associated logistics and processing arrangements to deliver metal to market. Kinross operates a portfolio of producing mines and development projects across multiple regions, with a significant presence in the Americas and West Africa. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding KGC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE:KGC Free Report) (TSE:K). Receive News & Ratings for Kinross Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kinross Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Public Sector Pension Investment Board lifted its position in shares of Yum China (NYSE:YUMC Free Report) by 45.1% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 703,343 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 218,450 shares during the quarter. Public Sector Pension Investment Board owned about 0.19% of Yum China worth $30,826,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Concurrent Investment Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Yum China by 4.7% during the 2nd quarter. Concurrent Investment Advisors LLC now owns 5,106 shares of the companys stock worth $228,000 after acquiring an additional 230 shares during the period. BNP Paribas boosted its position in shares of Yum China by 1.6% during the 2nd quarter. BNP Paribas now owns 15,500 shares of the companys stock valued at $694,000 after purchasing an additional 250 shares in the last quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. grew its stake in Yum China by 9.3% during the third quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 3,093 shares of the companys stock worth $132,000 after purchasing an additional 263 shares during the period. Everstar Asset Management LLC increased its holdings in Yum China by 5.3% in the second quarter. Everstar Asset Management LLC now owns 5,388 shares of the companys stock worth $241,000 after purchasing an additional 272 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Coldstream Capital Management Inc. lifted its stake in Yum China by 5.4% in the second quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. now owns 5,518 shares of the companys stock valued at $247,000 after buying an additional 283 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 85.58% of the companys stock. Get Yum China alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In related news, insider Warton Wang sold 8,187 shares of Yum China stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $48.28, for a total transaction of $395,268.36. Following the transaction, the insider owned 46,847 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,261,773.16. The trade was a 14.88% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, insider Jeff Kuai sold 5,167 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $48.00, for a total value of $248,016.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 56,602 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,716,896. The trade was a 8.37% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Over the last ninety days, insiders have sold 25,855 shares of company stock valued at $1,306,804. 0.40% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Analysts Set New Price Targets YUMC has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $63.64 price objective on shares of Yum China in a research report on Thursday, February 5th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Yum China from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday, February 7th. CLSA reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $55.00 price target on shares of Yum China in a research note on Tuesday, November 25th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of Yum China in a report on Wednesday, January 21st. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group restated a buy rating and issued a $58.50 target price on shares of Yum China in a research note on Wednesday, February 4th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Yum China currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $59.05. Get Our Latest Stock Report on Yum China Yum China Stock Performance YUMC opened at $55.42 on Friday. Yum China has a 1-year low of $41.00 and a 1-year high of $58.39. The company has a market cap of $20.03 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.08, a PEG ratio of 1.52 and a beta of 0.14. The companys fifty day moving average price is $49.48 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $46.49. The company has a current ratio of 1.32, a quick ratio of 1.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.01. Yum China (NYSE:YUMC Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, February 4th. The company reported $0.40 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.35 by $0.05. Yum China had a net margin of 7.87% and a return on equity of 14.46%. The company had revenue of $2.82 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.72 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.30 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 8.8% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts expect that Yum China will post 2.54 EPS for the current fiscal year. Yum China declared that its board has approved a stock buyback program on Friday, December 12th that permits the company to buyback $1.00 billion in outstanding shares. This buyback authorization permits the company to reacquire up to 5.8% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback programs are often an indication that the companys leadership believes its shares are undervalued. Yum China Increases Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, March 25th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, March 4th will be paid a $0.29 dividend. This represents a $1.16 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.1%. This is a boost from Yum Chinas previous quarterly dividend of $0.24. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, March 4th. Yum Chinas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 38.25%. About Yum China (Free Report) Yum China Holdings, Inc operates as the largest quick-service restaurant company in China, through its ownership and franchising of brands such as KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. The companys core business encompasses full-service and fast?casual dining, takeout and delivery channels, as well as ancillary services including loyalty programs and digital ordering platforms. Yum Chinas restaurants offer a diverse menu that adapts global brand concepts to local consumer preferences, featuring items such as soy?marinated chicken, customized pizzas and region?inspired side dishes. In addition to its signature brands, Yum China has expanded its portfolio to include innovative concepts tailored to evolving market trends, such as plant?based offerings, self?service kiosks and mobile app integrations. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Yum China Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Yum China and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Public Sector Pension Investment Board boosted its stake in shares of Gates Industrial Corporation PLC (NYSE:GTES Free Report) by 28.5% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 1,004,735 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 222,587 shares during the quarter. Public Sector Pension Investment Board owned about 0.39% of Gates Industrial worth $24,938,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund lifted its position in shares of Gates Industrial by 3.5% during the third quarter. Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund now owns 121,161 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,007,000 after buying an additional 4,057 shares during the last quarter. Caprock Group LLC bought a new position in shares of Gates Industrial during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $1,695,000. Rhumbline Advisers lifted its position in Gates Industrial by 7.6% during the third quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 553,028 shares of the companys stock valued at $13,726,000 after acquiring an additional 39,189 shares during the last quarter. MQS Management LLC acquired a new stake in Gates Industrial in the third quarter valued at approximately $337,000. Finally, AdvisorShares Investments LLC purchased a new position in Gates Industrial in the third quarter worth $117,000. 98.50% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Gates Industrial alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades GTES has been the subject of several analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company initiated coverage on Gates Industrial in a report on Thursday, November 13th. They set an equal weight rating and a $23.00 price objective for the company. Barclays increased their price target on Gates Industrial from $26.00 to $32.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday. Royal Bank Of Canada restated an outperform rating and set a $31.00 price target on shares of Gates Industrial in a research note on Friday. Robert W. Baird set a $39.00 price objective on shares of Gates Industrial in a research report on Friday. Finally, Citigroup boosted their target price on shares of Gates Industrial from $27.00 to $33.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $29.67. Key Stories Impacting Gates Industrial Here are the key news stories impacting Gates Industrial this week: Positive Sentiment: Q4 adjusted EPS beat estimates Gates reported adjusted EPS of $0.38 vs. the $0.37 consensus, confirming modest improvement in profitability year-over-year. Read More. Q4 adjusted EPS beat estimates Gates reported adjusted EPS of $0.38 vs. the $0.37 consensus, confirming modest improvement in profitability year-over-year. Read More. Positive Sentiment: Capital returns and cash generation Management repurchased approximately $105 million of shares and generated $478.1 million of operating cash flow for 2025, supporting shareholder returns and balance-sheet flexibility. Read More. Capital returns and cash generation Management repurchased approximately $105 million of shares and generated $478.1 million of operating cash flow for 2025, supporting shareholder returns and balance-sheet flexibility. Read More. Neutral Sentiment: FY?2026 guidance essentially in line with consensus Gates provided an EPS range of $1.520$1.680 (consensus ~$1.56) and revenue guidance of $3.5B$3.6B, leaving room for execution risk but not signaling a material reset. Read More. FY?2026 guidance essentially in line with consensus Gates provided an EPS range of $1.520$1.680 (consensus ~$1.56) and revenue guidance of $3.5B$3.6B, leaving room for execution risk but not signaling a material reset. Read More. Neutral Sentiment: Revenue roughly in line with estimates but soft growth Q4 sales were $856.2M (in line with estimates) and up just 3.2% YoY, reflecting limited core sales expansion. Read More. Revenue roughly in line with estimates but soft growth Q4 sales were $856.2M (in line with estimates) and up just 3.2% YoY, reflecting limited core sales expansion. Read More. Negative Sentiment: Underlying demand and GAAP profitability show restraints core sales growth was modest (0.6% in the quarter, 1.0% for FY), and GAAP net income per diluted share for the quarter was $0.20 versus adjusted $0.38, highlighting one?time items and ongoing margin sensitivity. Read More. Underlying demand and GAAP profitability show restraints core sales growth was modest (0.6% in the quarter, 1.0% for FY), and GAAP net income per diluted share for the quarter was $0.20 versus adjusted $0.38, highlighting one?time items and ongoing margin sensitivity. Read More. Neutral Sentiment: Management provided supporting materials earnings slide deck and conference-call materials are available for deeper detail on segment trends and the drivers behind guidance. Read More. Gates Industrial Price Performance Shares of NYSE GTES opened at $28.04 on Friday. Gates Industrial Corporation PLC has a 52 week low of $14.70 and a 52 week high of $28.47. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $23.09 and its 200 day moving average price is $23.85. The company has a quick ratio of 2.50, a current ratio of 3.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.61. The firm has a market cap of $7.24 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.90 and a beta of 1.27. Gates Industrial (NYSE:GTES Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 12th. The company reported $0.38 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.37 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $856.20 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $853.35 million. Gates Industrial had a net margin of 7.30% and a return on equity of 10.36%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 3.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $0.36 EPS. Gates Industrial has set its FY 2026 guidance at 1.520-1.680 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Gates Industrial Corporation PLC will post 1.36 earnings per share for the current year. Gates Industrial Profile (Free Report) Gates Industrial Corporation PLC (NYSE: GTES) is a leading global manufacturer of engineered power transmission belts and fluid power products. The companys portfolio includes synchronous belts, V-belts, hose assemblies, fittings and hydraulic components designed to support a wide range of industrial and automotive applications. Gates Industrial serves sectors such as agriculture, mining, construction, manufacturing, transportation and consumer markets, offering solutions that improve performance, reliability and efficiency in demanding operating environments. In its power transmission segment, Gates Industrial produces high-strength belts engineered for precise motion control and minimal maintenance. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding GTES? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Gates Industrial Corporation PLC (NYSE:GTES Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Gates Industrial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Gates Industrial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE:CARR Get Free Report) have been given an average rating of Moderate Buy by the twenty-one brokerages that are presently covering the company, MarketBeat.com reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the company. The average 1-year price target among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $70.5989. Several equities analysts have commented on the stock. Rothschild & Co Redburn lowered their price objective on shares of Carrier Global from $67.00 to $61.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, January 21st. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their target price on shares of Carrier Global from $68.00 to $74.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, February 6th. Robert W. Baird lifted their price target on Carrier Global from $66.00 to $72.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, February 6th. Zacks Research cut Carrier Global from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Monday, February 9th. Finally, UBS Group lowered their price objective on Carrier Global from $73.00 to $70.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Monday, January 5th. Get Carrier Global alerts: Check Out Our Latest Analysis on CARR Institutional Investors Weigh In On Carrier Global Carrier Global Price Performance Several institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in CARR. Spirepoint Private Client LLC lifted its stake in shares of Carrier Global by 547.7% in the 3rd quarter. Spirepoint Private Client LLC now owns 60,694 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,623,000 after purchasing an additional 51,324 shares during the period. Oak Thistle LLC purchased a new position in Carrier Global in the third quarter valued at $1,986,000. Foster Victor Wealth Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of Carrier Global by 24.1% in the third quarter. Foster Victor Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 216,777 shares of the companys stock worth $12,931,000 after acquiring an additional 42,161 shares during the period. Brookstone Capital Management raised its position in shares of Carrier Global by 220.8% in the third quarter. Brookstone Capital Management now owns 51,852 shares of the companys stock worth $3,096,000 after acquiring an additional 35,691 shares during the period. Finally, Deprince Race & Zollo Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Carrier Global during the 3rd quarter worth about $20,678,000. Institutional investors own 91.00% of the companys stock. Shares of Carrier Global stock opened at $65.43 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $54.69 billion, a PE ratio of 38.26, a PEG ratio of 2.60 and a beta of 1.33. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $56.59 and a 200 day moving average of $58.97. The company has a current ratio of 1.20, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.80. Carrier Global has a 12 month low of $50.24 and a 12 month high of $81.09. Carrier Global (NYSE:CARR Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 5th. The company reported $0.34 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.36 by ($0.02). Carrier Global had a return on equity of 15.30% and a net margin of 6.82%.The firm had revenue of $4.84 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.05 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.54 EPS. The businesss revenue was down 6.0% compared to the same quarter last year. Carrier Global has set its FY 2026 guidance at 2.800-2.800 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that Carrier Global will post 2.99 EPS for the current fiscal year. Carrier Global declared that its board has approved a stock repurchase program on Tuesday, October 28th that permits the company to buyback $5.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization permits the company to repurchase up to 10.1% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback programs are typically a sign that the companys leadership believes its shares are undervalued. Carrier Global Increases Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, February 9th. Investors of record on Tuesday, January 20th were given a $0.24 dividend. This is a boost from Carrier Globals previous quarterly dividend of $0.23. This represents a $0.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.5%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, January 20th. Carrier Globals dividend payout ratio is 56.14%. About Carrier Global (Get Free Report) Carrier Global Corporation is a leading global provider of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, fire and security, and building automation solutions. The company designs, manufactures and sells a broad portfolio of products that includes air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps, chillers, rooftop units, commercial refrigeration systems, fire and smoke detection and suppression systems, security sensors and access controls, and a range of building controls and analytics software. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Carrier Global Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Carrier Global and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Krilogy Financial LLC acquired a new stake in Armstrong World Industries, Inc. (NYSE:AWI Free Report) in the third quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor acquired 3,930 shares of the construction companys stock, valued at approximately $753,000. Other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Burgundy Asset Management Ltd. grew its position in Armstrong World Industries by 3.0% during the second quarter. Burgundy Asset Management Ltd. now owns 1,321,078 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $214,596,000 after buying an additional 38,082 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in Armstrong World Industries by 0.8% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 943,284 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $153,248,000 after acquiring an additional 7,378 shares during the last quarter. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. grew its position in shares of Armstrong World Industries by 121.3% during the 2nd quarter. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. now owns 737,000 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $119,718,000 after acquiring an additional 404,000 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. grew its position in shares of Armstrong World Industries by 0.3% during the 2nd quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 682,445 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $110,856,000 after acquiring an additional 1,823 shares during the period. Finally, AQR Capital Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Armstrong World Industries by 118.6% during the 2nd quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 543,009 shares of the construction companys stock worth $88,206,000 after purchasing an additional 294,646 shares during the last quarter. 98.93% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Armstrong World Industries alerts: Armstrong World Industries Stock Performance Shares of AWI opened at $200.40 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a quick ratio of 1.04 and a current ratio of 1.52. The stock has a market capitalization of $8.64 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.67, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.72 and a beta of 1.33. Armstrong World Industries, Inc. has a 52-week low of $122.37 and a 52-week high of $206.08. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $191.40 and its 200 day simple moving average is $192.47. Analyst Ratings Changes Several research firms recently commented on AWI. Wall Street Zen downgraded Armstrong World Industries from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, November 2nd. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Armstrong World Industries in a research report on Wednesday, January 21st. Vertical Research started coverage on Armstrong World Industries in a report on Monday, October 20th. They issued a buy rating and a $238.00 price objective for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on shares of Armstrong World Industries from $210.00 to $220.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, Zacks Research downgraded shares of Armstrong World Industries from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have assigned a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $207.50. Read Our Latest Stock Report on Armstrong World Industries About Armstrong World Industries (Free Report) Armstrong World Industries, Inc is a leading global manufacturer of commercial ceiling and wall solutions. The company offers a diverse portfolio of acoustical, decorative and specialty ceiling systems designed to enhance interior environments in offices, healthcare facilities, schools, retail outlets and other non-residential settings. Through its focus on performance, aesthetics and sustainability, Armstrong World Industries addresses both functional and design requirements for architects, contractors and building owners. Armstrongs product range includes mineral fiber, fiberglass, wood wool, metal and stone wool ceiling panels, as well as suspension and grid systems. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AWI? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Armstrong World Industries, Inc. (NYSE:AWI Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Armstrong World Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Armstrong World Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. I have spent 30 years as a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician in solo practice. In three decades of treating patients, I have witnessed the slow, systematic transfer of health care decision-making from clinicians to people who have never touched a patient. When I started my career, physicians led health care. Today, private equity firms own hospitals, insurance company algorithms override clinical judgment, and administrators whose primary loyalty is to shareholders set productivity targets that make meaningful healing nearly impossible. I often hear my colleagues ask, How did we let this happen? The answer is uncomfortable but honest. It wasnt a hostile takeover; it was an abdication. Because we lacked business and leadership training, we ceded control of health care to private equity, insurance companies, and career businessmen. We left the room when the business of medicine was being discussed, and in our absence, others filled the vacuum. But after 14 years of teaching in a health care MBA program, Ive realized something critical: The boardroom needs us, and we are more prepared to lead than we think. The measurable cost of our absence The corporatization of American health care is no longer just a feeling shared in physician lounges. It is a documented reality with measurable consequences for our patients. Consider the recent data on private equity ownership. A 2023 study published in JAMA found that hospitals acquired by private equity firms experienced a 25.4 percent increase in hospital-acquired adverse events, including falls and central line infections. In my own world of post-acute care, the findings are even more sobering. A 2024 study in The Review of Financial Studies found that private equity ownership of nursing homes was associated with a 10 percent increase in mortality among Medicare patients. While private equity has captured the delivery side, insurance companies have tightened their grip through administrative barriers. According to the American Medical Associations 2023 Prior Authorization Survey, 94 percent of physicians report that prior authorization requirements delay necessary care. In Medicare Advantage, an investigation by the HHS Office of Inspector General revealed that 13 percent of prior authorization denials actually met Medicare coverage rules and should have been approved. When non-clinicians make decisions that affect patient care, the metrics that matter most to us (outcomes, safety, and compassion) become subordinate to relative value units and operating margins. This misalignment of incentives is a primary driver of the burnout crisis affecting over 60 percent of our workforce. The knowledge gap How did we lose our seat at the table? The roots lie in medical education. We spend a decade or more mastering the intricacies of human anatomy and clinical reasoning. Yet, we receive virtually no instruction in finance, negotiation, or organizational leadership. This gap reflects a cultural disposition within medicine that has long viewed business concerns as beneath the profession. That assumption proved catastrophic. By treating the business side as someone elses problem, we surrendered the power to shape the environments in which we practice. We lost the vocabulary to challenge insurance denials and the standing to demand seats on hospital boards. The result is a generation of clinicians who are employees rather than leaders, skilled practitioners who lack the agency to protect their patients from the decisions made in boardrooms far removed from the exam room. A bilateral solution For the past 14 years, in addition to my clinical practice, I have served as an adjunct professor for Husson Universitys health care MBA program. This dual role has given me a unique perspective on the solution. Ive realized that the problem runs both ways. Many future health care executives genuinely want to improve the system. However, they lack the clinical soul. They have never had to tell a family their loved one isnt coming home. Theyve never felt the moral weight of a patients trust. The path forward requires a bilateral shift: Clinicians must acquire business and leadership training. We need to stop viewing the MBA as a defection to the dark side and start seeing it as a tool for advocacy. We need to stop viewing the MBA as a defection to the dark side and start seeing it as a tool for advocacy. Health care leaders must be exposed to deep clinical understanding. Business students need to understand that every spreadsheet cell represents a human life. Here is the fundamental truth: It is far easier to teach a clinician how to manage and budget than it is to teach a businessman how to be a clinician. Training a physician takes a minimum of 11 years. The core competencies of business leadership (financial analysis, strategic planning, and operations) can be meaningfully acquired in two years. More importantly, clinicians already understand the product. We know what quality care looks like. We arent learning to care about patients; we are learning how to protect that care within a complex system. From the exam room to the classroom After 30 years of clinical practice, I have come to believe that my greatest impact may no longer be in the exam room. It will be in the classroom. By teaching the next generation of health care leaders, we can create a ripple effect that touches more lives than I ever could through individual clinical interactions. When we teach an MBA student that an efficiency metric in a rehab facility might actually prevent a stroke survivor from walking again, we are practicing a different, but equally vital, kind of medicine. To my fellow physicians: The system wont fix itself. We cannot continue to complain about the boardroom if we refuse to learn the language spoken there. The future of health care depends on clinicians who refuse to be sidelined. It is time for us to reclaim our seat at the table, not by abandoning our clinical values, but by finally acquiring the tools to defend them. Christopher Mastino is a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician. UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI Get Free Report) CAO Jean Felix Tematio sold 12,840 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $38.07, for a total transaction of $488,818.80. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer owned 6,952 shares in the company, valued at $264,662.64. The trade was a 64.87% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. UGI Stock Performance Shares of UGI opened at $38.78 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.64, a current ratio of 0.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.19. UGI Corporation has a 52-week low of $29.03 and a 52-week high of $41.34. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $38.21 and a 200-day simple moving average of $35.83. The company has a market capitalization of $8.32 billion, a PE ratio of 14.31 and a beta of 1.08. Get UGI alerts: UGI (NYSE:UGI Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, February 4th. The utilities provider reported $1.26 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.50 by ($0.24). UGI had a return on equity of 14.46% and a net margin of 8.17%.The company had revenue of $2.08 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.49 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.37 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 2.6% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts predict that UGI Corporation will post 3.02 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. UGI Dividend Announcement Analysts Set New Price Targets The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, April 1st. Investors of record on Monday, March 16th will be issued a dividend of $0.375 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, March 16th. This represents a $1.50 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.9%. UGIs payout ratio is currently 55.35%. UGI has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Wall Street Zen cut UGI from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, November 22nd. Jefferies Financial Group reissued a buy rating and issued a $45.00 price objective on shares of UGI in a research note on Wednesday, November 19th. Mizuho lifted their target price on shares of UGI from $41.00 to $44.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, December 15th. Weiss Ratings raised shares of UGI from a hold (c+) rating to a buy (b-) rating in a report on Monday, January 26th. Finally, UBS Group reissued an outperform rating on shares of UGI in a research note on Monday, December 15th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $44.50. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on UGI Institutional Investors Weigh In On UGI A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of UGI. Captrust Financial Advisors lifted its stake in shares of UGI by 34,940.4% during the second quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 2,576,169 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $93,824,000 after buying an additional 2,568,817 shares during the period. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp raised its holdings in UGI by 170.3% in the 2nd quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp now owns 2,470,299 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $89,968,000 after acquiring an additional 1,556,273 shares during the last quarter. SG Americas Securities LLC raised its holdings in UGI by 385.0% in the 2nd quarter. SG Americas Securities LLC now owns 164,791 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $6,002,000 after acquiring an additional 130,811 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of UGI by 14.3% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 930,787 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $30,781,000 after purchasing an additional 116,372 shares during the period. Finally, UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC boosted its holdings in shares of UGI by 17.2% during the first quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC now owns 785,327 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $25,971,000 after purchasing an additional 115,409 shares during the last quarter. 82.34% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. UGI Company Profile (Get Free Report) UGI Corporation (NYSE: UGI) is a publicly traded energy distribution company headquartered in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1882 as the United Gas Improvement Company, UGI has grown into a diversified provider of energy products and services. The companys operations are organized into three primary segmentsAmeriGas Propane, UGI Utilities and UGI Internationaleach focused on the delivery of propane, natural gas and related services to residential, commercial and industrial customers. AmeriGas Propane, UGIs largest segment, is the leading retail propane distributor in the United States with a network of dealers serving customers in all 50 states. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for UGI Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for UGI and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wealthfront Advisers LLC boosted its position in Equity Residential (NYSE:EQR Free Report) by 78.7% in the third quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 42,275 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 18,618 shares during the period. Wealthfront Advisers LLCs holdings in Equity Residential were worth $2,736,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in EQR. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Equity Residential by 0.6% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 56,316,304 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $3,800,787,000 after buying an additional 315,370 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new stake in Equity Residential during the second quarter worth $2,351,689,000. State Street Corp boosted its position in Equity Residential by 1.8% in the second quarter. State Street Corp now owns 24,234,081 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,651,909,000 after purchasing an additional 417,119 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its position in Equity Residential by 1.4% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 9,884,977 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $664,662,000 after purchasing an additional 137,533 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Invesco Ltd. grew its stake in Equity Residential by 20.9% in the 2nd quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 8,019,026 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $541,204,000 after purchasing an additional 1,384,580 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 92.68% of the companys stock. Get Equity Residential alerts: Equity Residential Stock Performance NYSE EQR opened at $63.82 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $24.28 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.78, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.74 and a beta of 0.76. The company has a quick ratio of 0.45, a current ratio of 0.31 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.73. The companys 50 day moving average is $62.04 and its 200-day moving average is $62.62. Equity Residential has a 12-month low of $58.38 and a 12-month high of $75.86. Equity Residential Announces Dividend Equity Residential ( NYSE:EQR Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 5th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.03 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.04 by ($0.01). Equity Residential had a return on equity of 9.98% and a net margin of 36.20%.The business had revenue of $781.91 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $786.35 million. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.00 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 2.0% on a year-over-year basis. Equity Residential has set its Q1 2026 guidance at 0.940-0.980 EPS and its FY 2026 guidance at 4.020-4.140 EPS. Sell-side analysts predict that Equity Residential will post 3.98 earnings per share for the current year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, January 16th. Stockholders of record on Friday, January 2nd were given a $0.6925 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, January 2nd. This represents a $2.77 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.3%. Equity Residentials payout ratio is 94.54%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on EQR shares. Evercore cut their price target on shares of Equity Residential from $70.00 to $68.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 3rd. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price objective on shares of Equity Residential from $69.00 to $71.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday. Truist Financial reduced their target price on shares of Equity Residential from $75.00 to $70.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Monday, November 17th. Stifel Nicolaus set a $78.50 price target on shares of Equity Residential in a research note on Friday, February 6th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded Equity Residential from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Seven research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and thirteen have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Equity Residential presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $69.68. Read Our Latest Research Report on EQR Insider Activity at Equity Residential In other Equity Residential news, EVP Catherine Carraway sold 656 shares of Equity Residential stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $65.13, for a total transaction of $42,725.28. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 18,339 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,194,419.07. The trade was a 3.45% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, EVP Robert Garechana sold 3,637 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $65.13, for a total value of $236,877.81. Following the sale, the executive vice president owned 18,740 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,220,536.20. This represents a 16.25% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. In the last three months, insiders have sold 10,058 shares of company stock worth $655,078. 1.10% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Equity Residential Profile (Free Report) Equity Residential (NYSE: EQR) is a publicly traded real estate investment trust that acquires, develops, owns and operates rental apartment properties. Headquartered in Chicago, the company focuses on delivering professionally managed, market-rate apartment homes and related services to renters. Its operations cover a range of property types, including high-rise and mid-rise assets, with amenities and on-site management designed to support resident retention and occupancy. The companys core activities include property acquisitions, development and redevelopment, leasing, and day-to-day property management. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Equity Residential Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Equity Residential and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. raised its holdings in shares of iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF (NYSEARCA:IEUR Free Report) by 243.0% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 50,162 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 35,538 shares during the period. Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. owned about 0.05% of iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF worth $3,417,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of IEUR. Twin Peaks Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF during the 2nd quarter valued at $26,000. Franklin Resources Inc. purchased a new stake in iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF in the second quarter worth $27,000. Family Legacy Financial Solutions LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF during the third quarter worth $29,000. Caldwell Trust Co purchased a new stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF during the second quarter valued at $33,000. Finally, MMA Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF during the third quarter valued at $35,000. Get iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF alerts: iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF Price Performance IEUR stock opened at $75.16 on Friday. iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF has a 12 month low of $53.17 and a 12 month high of $76.04. The firms 50-day moving average is $72.56 and its 200 day moving average is $69.46. The company has a market capitalization of $7.55 billion, a PE ratio of 16.78 and a beta of 0.93. iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF Company Profile The iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF (IEUR) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI Europe IMI index, a market-cap-weighted index of developed European securities. IEUR was launched on Jun 10, 2014 and is managed by BlackRock. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IEUR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF (NYSEARCA:IEUR Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Core MSCI Europe ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Harley-Davidson (NYSE:HOG Get Free Report) was downgraded by analysts at Zacks Research from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a note issued to investors on Thursday,Zacks.com reports. HOG has been the subject of several other research reports. Morgan Stanley set a $18.00 price target on Harley-Davidson in a research report on Friday, January 16th. DA Davidson reduced their price objective on shares of Harley-Davidson from $30.00 to $25.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Thursday. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Harley-Davidson in a report on Thursday, January 22nd. BMO Capital Markets reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $24.00 target price on shares of Harley-Davidson in a research note on Wednesday. Finally, UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of Harley-Davidson from $28.00 to $27.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $24.25. Get Harley-Davidson alerts: Read Our Latest Analysis on HOG Harley-Davidson Stock Performance Shares of HOG opened at $20.42 on Thursday. The company has a quick ratio of 2.36, a current ratio of 2.10 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52. The stock has a market cap of $2.41 billion, a P/E ratio of 7.82, a P/E/G ratio of 0.53 and a beta of 1.39. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $20.77 and its 200-day moving average price is $24.69. Harley-Davidson has a 52 week low of $19.33 and a 52 week high of $31.25. Harley-Davidson (NYSE:HOG Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 10th. The company reported ($2.44) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.92) by ($1.52). Harley-Davidson had a net margin of 8.03% and a return on equity of 10.27%. The company had revenue of $496.16 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $482.21 million. During the same period last year, the business earned ($0.93) EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was down 9.8% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts anticipate that Harley-Davidson will post 3.44 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Harley-Davidson A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. boosted its stake in shares of Harley-Davidson by 62.1% in the 1st quarter. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. now owns 86,436 shares of the companys stock worth $2,183,000 after buying an additional 33,097 shares during the last quarter. Empowered Funds LLC increased its position in Harley-Davidson by 18.3% during the first quarter. Empowered Funds LLC now owns 17,560 shares of the companys stock valued at $443,000 after acquiring an additional 2,712 shares during the last quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. lifted its holdings in Harley-Davidson by 153.8% in the first quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 2,109 shares of the companys stock valued at $53,000 after acquiring an additional 1,278 shares during the period. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC lifted its holdings in Harley-Davidson by 72.5% in the second quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 25,640 shares of the companys stock valued at $605,000 after acquiring an additional 10,773 shares during the period. Finally, VIRGINIA RETIREMENT SYSTEMS ET Al purchased a new position in Harley-Davidson in the second quarter worth about $641,000. 85.10% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Harley-Davidson Company Profile (Get Free Report) Harley-Davidson, Inc is a renowned American motorcycle manufacturer best known for its heavyweight cruiser and touring bikes. Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the company has built a strong reputation for producing distinctive motorcycles characterized by their signature V-twin engines, chrome finishes and robust frames. Harley-Davidson markets its products globally through a network of franchised dealerships and focuses on delivering an immersive brand experience to its customers, emphasizing lifestyle and community alongside its motorcycles. In addition to its core motorcycle business, Harley-Davidson offers an extensive range of parts, accessories and apparel under its Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories and MotorClothes lines. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Harley-Davidson Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Harley-Davidson and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Vontier (NYSE:VNT Get Free Report) issued its earnings results on Thursday. The company reported $0.86 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.85 by $0.01, FiscalAI reports. Vontier had a net margin of 13.20% and a return on equity of 39.25%. The company had revenue of $808.50 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $765.12 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $0.80 EPS. Vontiers quarterly revenue was up 4.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Vontier updated its FY 2026 guidance to 3.350-3.500 EPS and its Q1 2026 guidance to 0.780-0.810 EPS. Here are the key takeaways from Vontiers conference call: Get Vontier alerts: Vontier finished 2025 strong Q4 core sales were +5%, full-year organic sales ~4%, adjusted EPS was up ~11%, and the company generated over $460 million in adjusted free cash flow (~15% of sales). in adjusted free cash flow (~15% of sales). Strong cash allocation and balance sheet flexibility Vontier repurchased $300 million of stock in 2025 (including $125M in Q4), ended the year with nearly $500 million cash and reduced net leverage to 2.3x. of stock in 2025 (including $125M in Q4), ended the year with nearly $500 million cash and reduced net leverage to 2.3x. Momentum in Mobility Technologies Invenco closed the year with a revenue base near $650 million (organic +22%), driven by new products (FlexPay 6, NFX, vehicle ID, indoor terminal) and a strategic win for its unified payment solution with a global C?store customer. (organic +22%), driven by new products (FlexPay 6, NFX, vehicle ID, indoor terminal) and a strategic win for its solution with a global C?store customer. One-time headwinds pressured margins a $4 million Invenco inventory reserve (legacy inventory) and higher corporate healthcare costs reduced Q4 adjusted operating margins and contributed to a ~200 bps decline in MobilityTech segment margins for the quarter. Invenco inventory reserve (legacy inventory) and higher corporate healthcare costs reduced Q4 adjusted operating margins and contributed to a ~200 bps decline in MobilityTech segment margins for the quarter. 2026 guidance and efficiency actions Vontier expects ~3% core growth, ~80 bps operating margin expansion at the midpoint, ~$15 million of in?year simplification savings (largely ramping H2), and ~95% adjusted free cash flow conversion (~15% of sales). Vontier Trading Down 0.6% VNT stock opened at $41.86 on Friday. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $38.28 and a 200 day moving average price of $39.65. Vontier has a fifty-two week low of $27.22 and a fifty-two week high of $48.20. The firm has a market cap of $6.07 billion, a PE ratio of 15.16, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.69 and a beta of 1.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.27, a quick ratio of 0.90 and a current ratio of 1.16. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Vontier Trending Headlines about Vontier Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Boston Partners purchased a new stake in shares of Vontier during the 4th quarter valued at about $132,438,000. Corient Private Wealth LLC increased its stake in Vontier by 104.6% during the second quarter. Corient Private Wealth LLC now owns 4,793,944 shares of the companys stock worth $176,897,000 after acquiring an additional 2,450,723 shares during the last quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership increased its stake in Vontier by 107.7% during the third quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 1,944,880 shares of the companys stock worth $81,627,000 after acquiring an additional 1,008,340 shares during the last quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC raised its position in Vontier by 128.0% during the second quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 821,363 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,308,000 after purchasing an additional 461,173 shares during the period. Finally, Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC lifted its stake in shares of Vontier by 475.5% in the 2nd quarter. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC now owns 414,406 shares of the companys stock valued at $15,292,000 after purchasing an additional 342,394 shares during the last quarter. 95.83% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Here are the key news stories impacting Vontier this week: Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of research firms have recently weighed in on VNT. KeyCorp upped their price objective on Vontier from $45.00 to $50.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Friday. Robert W. Baird dropped their price target on Vontier from $45.00 to $44.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Bank of America reaffirmed an underperform rating and set a $40.00 price objective (down from $50.00) on shares of Vontier in a report on Friday, November 14th. Barclays boosted their target price on shares of Vontier from $47.00 to $55.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Friday. Finally, Weiss Ratings cut shares of Vontier from a buy (b-) rating to a hold (c+) rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 4th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Vontier currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $47.25. Get Our Latest Report on VNT About Vontier (Get Free Report) Vontier is a global industrial technology company focused on advancing mobility infrastructure and transportation solutions. Established as a standalone public company in October 2020 through the spin-off of Fortives mobility and transportation platforms, Vontier is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina. The companys mission centers on delivering innovative products and services that help customers meet evolving demands in fuel retail, fleet management, and automotive service. The companys diversified portfolio spans several well-known brands. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Vontier Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vontier and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hennes & Mauritz AB (OTCMKTS:HNNMY Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Thursday . The company traded as high as $4.1950 and last traded at $4.1950, with a volume of 2940 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $4.15. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of research firms have recently weighed in on HNNMY. Oddo Bhf raised shares of Hennes & Mauritz to a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, December 18th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a hold rating on shares of Hennes & Mauritz in a research note on Friday, January 30th. Citigroup raised Hennes & Mauritz from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, December 11th. Finally, Barclays lowered Hennes & Mauritz from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Friday. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Hennes & Mauritz presently has an average rating of Hold. Get Hennes & Mauritz alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Hennes & Mauritz Hennes & Mauritz Price Performance The companys 50-day simple moving average is $3.93 and its 200 day simple moving average is $3.56. The company has a quick ratio of 0.46, a current ratio of 1.18 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.47. The stock has a market capitalization of $29.05 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.75 and a beta of 1.21. Hennes & Mauritz (OTCMKTS:HNNMY Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 29th. The company reported $0.06 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.06. The company had revenue of $6.30 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.35 billion. Hennes & Mauritz had a return on equity of 30.80% and a net margin of 5.46%. Equities research analysts forecast that Hennes & Mauritz AB will post 0.15 EPS for the current year. Hennes & Mauritz Company Profile (Get Free Report) Hennes & Mauritz AB, commonly known as H&M, is a Swedish multinational fashion retailer that designs, sources and sells ready-to-wear clothing, accessories and home textiles. The company traces its roots to 1947, when Erling Persson opened a womens clothing store called Hennes (hers) in Vasteras, Sweden; the business expanded into menswear after the acquisition of a Stockholm-based retailer, Mauritz Widforss, in the late 1960s, which led to the Hennes & Mauritz name. Today the company is headquartered in Stockholm and operates a global retail business built around multiple branded concepts. H&Ms core activities include product design, sourcing and retailing of fashion for women, men, teenagers and children, as well as home goods under its H&M Home line. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Hennes & Mauritz Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hennes & Mauritz and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Mammoth Resources Corp. (CVE:MTH Get Free Report) fell 16.7% during mid-day trading on Thursday . The company traded as low as C$0.05 and last traded at C$0.05. 300,000 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 205% from the average session volume of 98,295 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.06. Mammoth Resources Trading Down 16.7% The firm has a market capitalization of C$5.33 million, a P/E ratio of -5.00 and a beta of 4.73. The businesss 50 day moving average is C$0.05 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$0.05. The company has a quick ratio of 5.53, a current ratio of 0.01 and a debt-to-equity ratio of -7.15. Mammoth Resources Company Profile (Get Free Report) Mammoth Resources Corp., an exploration stage company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and evaluation of mining properties in Mexico. It holds a 100% interest in the Tenoriba property consisting of four concessions, including Mapy, Mapy 2, Mapy 3, and Fernanda covering a land package of totalling 5,333 hectares located in the Sierra Madre precious metal belt in southwestern Chihuahua State, Mexico. The company was formerly known as Mammoth Capital Corp. and changed its name to Mammoth Resources Corp. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Mammoth Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mammoth Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. ArcelorMittal (NYSE:MT Get Free Report) saw a significant decrease in short interest in the month of January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 2,369,795 shares, a decrease of 27.8% from the January 15th total of 3,281,039 shares. Currently, 0.3% of the companys shares are sold short. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 1,863,206 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 1.3 days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 1,863,206 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 1.3 days. Currently, 0.3% of the companys shares are sold short. ArcelorMittal Trading Down 0.1% NYSE:MT opened at $61.53 on Friday. ArcelorMittal has a 12 month low of $23.19 and a 12 month high of $66.97. The company has a current ratio of 1.36, a quick ratio of 0.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19. The stock has a market capitalization of $47.68 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.01, a PEG ratio of 0.54 and a beta of 1.52. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $50.38 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $41.53. Get ArcelorMittal alerts: ArcelorMittal (NYSE:MT Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 5th. The basic materials company reported $0.86 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.56 by $0.30. The company had revenue of $14.97 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $15.56 billion. ArcelorMittal had a net margin of 5.14% and a return on equity of 5.27%. The businesss revenue was up 1.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $0.52 EPS. Analysts expect that ArcelorMittal will post 3.72 EPS for the current fiscal year. ArcelorMittal Announces Dividend Institutional Investors Weigh In On ArcelorMittal The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, March 18th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 20th will be issued a $0.15 dividend. This represents a $0.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.0%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, February 20th. ArcelorMittals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 12.44%. Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. State of Wyoming bought a new position in ArcelorMittal during the third quarter valued at about $36,000. True Wealth Design LLC grew its position in shares of ArcelorMittal by 41.4% during the 4th quarter. True Wealth Design LLC now owns 799 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $36,000 after acquiring an additional 234 shares during the period. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC purchased a new stake in shares of ArcelorMittal during the 4th quarter worth approximately $44,000. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. raised its stake in shares of ArcelorMittal by 44.2% in the first quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 1,635 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $47,000 after buying an additional 501 shares during the period. Finally, Allworth Financial LP lifted its position in shares of ArcelorMittal by 91.5% during the 4th quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 1,126 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $51,000 after buying an additional 538 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 9.29% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities research analysts have recently commented on MT shares. Oddo Bhf raised shares of ArcelorMittal from a neutral rating to an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 14th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of ArcelorMittal in a research report on Friday, February 6th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of ArcelorMittal in a report on Wednesday, January 21st. Jefferies Financial Group raised ArcelorMittal from a hold rating to a buy rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from $51.10 to $73.20 in a research report on Wednesday. Finally, Citigroup restated a buy rating on shares of ArcelorMittal in a research report on Friday. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, ArcelorMittal has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $51.98. View Our Latest Analysis on ArcelorMittal ArcelorMittal Company Profile (Get Free Report) ArcelorMittal is a multinational steel manufacturing company formed in 2006 through the merger of Arcelor and Mittal Steel. Headquartered in Luxembourg, the company is one of the worlds largest producers of steel and operates an integrated value chain that spans raw material extraction, steelmaking, processing and distribution. Its product portfolio includes flat and long carbon steel products, coated and specialty steels, tubular products and value-added solutions tailored for sectors such as automotive, construction, household appliances, energy and packaging. ArcelorMittals operations are global in scope, with production facilities, distribution networks and commercial activities across Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa and the Commonwealth of Independent States. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for ArcelorMittal Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ArcelorMittal and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Pro Medicus (ASX:PME) said it delivered another record half-year result, with CEO Dr. Sam Hupert highlighting revenue growth, expanding margins, and a surge in new contract wins as large implementations ramp up and new modality offerings begin to contribute. Get alerts: Financial performance and capital management Hupert said revenue rose 28.4% for the half, while underlying EBIT increased by about 30% and EBIT margins improved period-on-period. Cash and investments increased 5.3% despite share buybacks, higher dividends, and a $10 million investment made during the period. Record contract wins and growing forward revenue The company lifted its interim dividend by 28% to AUD 0.32 per share, fully franked. Management also noted that most revenue is generated in the U.S., which accounts for roughly 90% of total revenue. Management described the half as another record period, citing seven new contracts totaling AUD 280 million at minimum total contract value (TCV). Hupert said that level of sales would have represented a full year of contract wins just two years earlier. Key wins and renewals discussed included: University of Colorado (UCHealth Colorado), described as a $170 million full stack plus one deal that includes cardiology in addition to worklist, viewer, and archive. University of Heidelberg in Germany, which management characterized as a high-profile academic and cancer research institution expected to expand the companys footprint in Europe. A $44 million five-year contract with Radiology Associates of North Texas (RAN), described as the largest private radiologist-owned reading group in the U.S. BayCare, a $25 million deal that adds the archive to its viewer workflow and moves the client to full stack. Renewal of the FML contract. Hupert said Pro Medicus five-year forward revenue based on contractual minimums exceeded AUD 1 billion for the first time, describing the model as an annuity sales stream with predictability and upside as client exam volumes grow above industry averages. Implementation timing: Trinity cohorts and second-half weighting Responding to questions on revenue timing, Hupert said the company expects a step-up in second-half revenue as major go-lives contribute for a fuller periodparticularly the Trinity Health rollout. He said Trinitys first cohort went live at the end of October (a timeline set by the customer), and the second cohort was completed in January. Management said there are five cohorts in the first tranche, with four cohorts expected to be completed by June 30 and another early July, and that the full Trinity implementation is expected to be completed by October. In response to another question, management said those first five cohorts represent about 80%85% completion of the Trinity project, supporting a stronger second half and momentum into FY2027. On UCHealth Colorado, management said the implementation starts in April and finishes around July in three phases, implying a modest second-half FY2026 contribution and pretty much full revenue in FY2027. Product strategy: cloud-native full stack, cardiology, and pathology Hupert reiterated that Pro Medicus operates a software-only model with no CapEx requirements for hardware or cloud infrastructure and said this supports scalability and margin expansion. He said the company has not delivered an on-premise implementation in the U.S. in about five years and described Visage as cloud-native and cloud-vendor agnostic, with large deployments across AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. Management said clients are increasingly buying full stackviewer, archive, and workflowwhich it said increases contract value and simplifies implementations by reducing third-party dependencies. On expansion beyond radiology, management emphasized cardiologys early traction and pathologys progress. Hupert said cardiology is on the same code base as Visage 7 and integrates with third-party reporting systems such as Epic Cupid. He said the company is seeing pipeline opportunities that include both radiology and cardiology, and noted cardiology represented about 13%15% of the UCHealth Colorado contract value and about 10%12% in another recent deal. For digital pathology, management said the product was announced last year and is moving through validation and FDA approval processes. Hupert said an initial client deployment could occur within the next few months under internal validation, and that pathology is increasingly becoming an important factor in vendor selection even if not yet included in many RFPs. AI commentary, investments, and federal opportunities Hupert addressed investor questions on artificial intelligence, calling broad claims of AI laying waste to software businesses an overstatement. He said Pro Medicus expects to benefit from hyperscaler AI infrastructure buildouts given its capital-light model and described Visage as proprietary, domain-specific, and supported by regulated implementation processes and long-term contracts. Management outlined two AI monetization approaches: AI embedded under the bonnet to improve workflow, and opt-in second set of eyes tools that would be charged on a per-use basis. The company also discussed third-party AI integrations designed to keep tools seamlessly embedded in the Visage workflow, citing partnerships such as cardiac CT AI with Ellucid and collaborations with academic medical centers. Hupert said a breast cancer detection algorithm developed with NYU is currently with the FDA. On investments, management detailed a $10 million hybrid debt-and-equity investment in 4DMedical with a 12.5% annual coupon, noting an unrealized gain of about AUD 150 million as of Dec. 31, and said the investment cannot be realized until the two-year term ends. In federal markets, management said VISN-23 is progressing toward a secure GovCloud deployment and is expected to be completed by the end of March, positioning it as a poster child for expansion to other VISNs and broader Department of Defense opportunities. About Pro Medicus (ASX:PME) Pro Medicus Limited engages in the development and supply of healthcare imaging software and services to hospitals, diagnostic imaging groups, and other related health entities in Australia, North America, and Europe. The company offers Visage radiology information systems (RIS), a proprietary medical software for practice management, training, installation, professional services, and after-sale support and service products; and Promedicus.net, an e-health platform. It also provides healthcare imaging software that provides radiologists and clinicians with visualization capability for viewing 2-D, 3-D, and 4-D medical images, as well as picture archive and communication system (PACS)/digital imaging software; and integration products. See Also Viva Leisure (ASX:VVA) told investors its first-half FY26 result marked the first full period reflecting a strategic shift away from aggressive physical expansion and toward network optimization, technology investment, and converting scale into higher profits and cash flow. Get alerts: Profit conversion and cash generation highlighted Chief Executive Officer Harry Konstantinou said the half delivers on what matters most to shareholders: profit conversion and cash generation, pointing to statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) growth of 168% to AUD 5.2 million and adjusted free cash flow (AFCF) of AUD 19.9 million, up 25%. Revenue rose 17.6% year-over-year to AUD 116.5 million, which management said was the companys eighth consecutive half of revenue growth and was achieved with no acquisitions during the period. Underlying EBITDA increased 20.8% to AUD 25.4 million, with underlying EBITDA margin expanding to 21.8% from 21.2% a year earlier. Underlying NPAT rose 46.8% to AUD 8.1 million, while statutory EPS climbed to AUD 0.0532 from AUD 0.0195 and underlying EPS grew to AUD 0.0826. CFO Kym Gallagher attributed the stronger profit conversion to a larger contribution from the companys higher-margin technology and payments segment, as well as disciplined cost management. He noted rent expense increased 9.9% to AUD 28.7 million, growing more slowly than revenue, which he said reflected operating leverage. Organic growth without acquisitions Management repeatedly emphasized that member growth was driven organically during the half. Konstantinou said the corporate network added more than 7,000 members organically with just one net new site for the half. Across the prior corresponding period comparison, the company said it added about 27,000 members on a net basis, including roughly 17,000 organic members. In corporate health clubs, Viva reported 202 corporate locations and 265,612 members at the half year, generating AUD 102.9 million of revenue, up 16.3%. Average utilization across the network was said to be above 78%, compared with low 70s previously reported, while average members per corporate club increased to 1,314 from 1,210. Konstantinou said the network optimization program announced at the prior full-year results had driven more than 11,000 net new organic members from June through to the date of the call, while net locations increased by just one to 202. TPLR segment positioned as growth engine A key theme of the call was the expanding contribution from the companys technology, payments, licensing, and retail segment, which Viva renamed from TPLS to TPLR to reflect a retail direction. TPLR revenue grew 44.7% to AUD 9.3 million, representing 8.1% of group revenue, up from 6.5%. Gallagher said key contributors included Viva Pay, contributing over AUD 6 million per annum, and the companys vending and supplements operations, which he said were also exceeding AUD 6 million on an annualized basis. Konstantinou outlined four components to TPLR: Technology: a priority door access solution being piloted at World Gym, with additional revenue-generating products planned for launch in the second half and a next generation online joining experience targeted to complete sign-up in less than 45 seconds on average. a priority door access solution being piloted at World Gym, with additional revenue-generating products planned for launch in the second half and a next generation online joining experience targeted to complete sign-up in less than 45 seconds on average. Payments: Viva Pay, with a World Gym payments migration on track for the second half of FY27. Viva Pay, with a World Gym payments migration on track for the second half of FY27. Licensing: a pipeline of external licensing opportunities that management said did not exist 12 months ago. a pipeline of external licensing opportunities that management said did not exist 12 months ago. Retail: expansion of subsidiary branded stores within club locations, with three stores open plus online presence and a target of 20 or more locations by 31 December. Konstantinou said the company was targeting more than AUD 28 million in TPLR revenue for FY27 and suggested the pillar could grow at over 40% year-on-year, with a 30%40% net margin across this pillar, as it scales. Franchise pipeline and international expansion Viva reported 316 franchise locations with more than 390,000 franchise members. Franchise revenue rose 10.5% to AUD 4.2 million, while franchise locations increased 13.3% and franchise membership grew 9.9%, according to Gallagher. Management said there were 171 franchise locations sold across Plus Fitness, World Gym, and Boutique Fitness brands, expected to open over the next 12 to 24 months across Australia, Singapore, and the UK. Konstantinou highlighted 10 committed locations in Singapore and said the first Plus Fitness UK location was set to open in April, describing these as demand-led moves with committed franchisees. Balance sheet actions, buyback, and FY26 guidance On capital allocation, the company said it reduced senior debt by AUD 2.6 million to AUD 97.9 million, bringing net leverage to about 1.7 times. Viva also revised terms on its Commonwealth Bank facility, with the net leverage covenant limit increased from 2.25 times to 2.5 times, which management said provided additional flexibility. Operating cash flow increased 34% to AUD 42.2 million, while capital expenditure fell to AUD 13.1 million from AUD 15.9 million, reflecting a deliberate shift away from aggressive greenfield rollouts. Gallagher said there were no acquisitions in the half, compared with AUD 23.5 million in acquisition spend in the prior corresponding period. Viva announced the recommencement of an on-market share buyback of up to 10% of issued ordinary shares. Konstantinou said the board viewed the share price as not reflecting underlying value and called the buyback an efficient use of our cash. For FY26, the company guided to revenue in excess of AUD 237 million, statutory NPAT above AUD 11.5 million, and underlying NPAT above AUD 16 million. Management noted this underlying NPAT guidance was more than 20% above what it described as current analyst consensus of AUD 13 million, and said it had a high degree of confidence in delivery. In Q&A, Konstantinou described the guidance as conservative and said it largely reflected an annualization approach. Konstantinou also said membership had grown to over 670,000 since 31 December, an increase of more than 13,000 members, and corporate membership had exceeded 270,000, up 4,000 since December. About Viva Leisure (ASX:VVA) Viva Leisure Limited operates health clubs. The company operates health clubs within the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland under the Club Lime and Hiit Republic brands; and franchised health clubs under the Plus Fitness brand in Australia, New Zealand, and India. In addition, it operates ladies only health club under the Ladies Only brand; Boutiques under the Psycle Life, GROUNDUP, and Studio brands; indoor aquatics facilities under the Aquatics; swim school under the Swim School brand; health club under the FNF and Pinnacle brands; and personal training under the GymmyPT brand. Recommended Stories An excerpt from Physicians With Lived Experience: How Their Stories Offer Clinical Guidance (APA Publishing, 2025). Here is the truth: I have been on a stable dose of Wellbutrin (Bupropion) for thirteen years, and despite being quite a public advocate about self-disclosure and mental health, I have never once said that out loud. If you have ever read anything Ive written before this may seem surprising because I am really open about my own mental health. But, if you look closely, Ive never mentioned having seen a psychiatrist myself or taking medication. It is a boundary I put up, even though it wasnt always a conscious one. Until now. Dr. Jessi Gold is chief wellness officer for the University of Tennessee (UT) System and an associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC). Specializing in college mental health and burnout in health professionals, she is also a prolific writer, commentator, social media person, and sought-after plenary speaker. She is known for her warmth and authenticity and this is why her candid words in the short paragraph above are so important. They illustrate how layered the process of self-disclosure can be for psychiatrists and how the fact of taking medication for depression (or any other psychiatric illness) colors the narrative of sharing for many. She continued: No matter how many times Ive had conversations about why it isnt weak, a failure, or shameful to need medication for your mental health, and wholeheartedly believe every word I have said, it turns out it didnt protect me from internalizing the same negative beliefs about taking psychiatric medication myself As it turns out, underneath my psychiatrist exterior, I believed for myself, if people knew I took medication, theyd think I was sicker than I was in my head, I associated medication with worsened illness. And if people thought I was worse off, needing more than just therapy to get better, then my colleagues or patients might think that perhaps I would be less good at being a doctor. (Gold 2021) Like the lived experience narratives shared by so many other physicians, Dr. Golds story is a gift to the reader. Social media reaches a tremendous number of individuals, many of whom might identify with the partial sharing of seeing a therapist, but like her were tight-lipped about taking psychiatric medication. When mental health professionals share an internal struggle, the act is so normalizing and comforting for their patients and others in their orbit. I am thinking of the many medical students and residents whom she teaches and what a refreshing role model she must be. Internalized stigma is ever-present in many psychiatric academic and clinical faculty who live with a well-treated mental illness. Those who do share their stories are in the minority. I spoke with Dr. Gold over Zoom on March 30, 2023, about her decision to go public with her story. An uber-extrovert is how she describes herself, but the subject of mental health or being in therapy was not common when she was a premed undergraduate at the University of Pennsylvania. That was when she began to develop symptoms of depression and started treatment at home over the summer. During residency it was different as psychiatry residents began therapy and talked about it in their process groups. She felt the isolation of the pandemic and this did not feel good. She then began to get more active on social media and blended her personal and professional experiences more. This activity eased her into commenting on peoples stories and opening up about her own. She discussed therapy from both a personal and professional perspective. What I had (burnout) and what I was writing about seemed to help a lot of doctors and nurses feel heard and understood, and the mutuality was critical. She elaborated as follows: I wanted to respond to those who put their struggling out there, that therere not just left with no responses, but that someone who is a mental health clinician also struggles and thats important for them to know. I became more open about day-to-day things on social media during the pandemic. And if my patients read it, then thats okay, because it was something I could offer, not being on the front lines. I can make them understand that this is a normal reaction, and not to feel bad about it Telling your story is still scary, youre vulnerable and may fear being rejected, but it is still worth it, if you are ready and want to share. She also wrote pieces about Black doctors and racism, and therapist burnout during the pandemic. Storytelling for me is how we change, how we talk to each other. I asked Dr. Gold about the reaction of others to her shared lived experience. Apart from a few trolls, her social media reactions have been affirming, engaging, and inspiring. Her friends and family have been uniformly supportive. I inquired about people at work, particularly the impact of her openness about taking psychiatric medication among her medical associates, especially her psychiatry colleagues. She responded: Its very mixed. From a psychoanalytic perspective but also a forensic perspective, perhaps some people who know me may believe that theres too much information out there about me. Theres an undercurrent not talked about regarding what I say (self-disclosure), and why, I wonder, do they think this is self-serving? That I get lots of positive comments on social media, like is it an ego boost or that I got my name in the New York Times. Yes, I have a website, but thats about having a central place, for everything, to be put together, available and accessible for people to find and read or listen to podcasts. But I struggle with this because being self-serving couldnt be further from the truth. That is not why I write or what I write about on social media. I write to join in a conversation or express an opinion or to learn from others. This is not another way to boost me as a brand. Michael F. Myers is a professor of clinical psychiatry at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University in Brooklyn, New York, where he previously served as vice-chair of education and director of training in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. He is internationally recognized for his work on physician mental health, suicide prevention, ethics, and professional identity across the medical lifespan. Dr. Myers is the author or co-author of ten books, including Physicians With Lived Experience: How Their Stories Offer Clinical Guidance (APA Publishing, 2025), Becoming a Doctors Doctor, Why Physicians Die by Suicide, and The Physician as Patient, Touched by Suicide, and The Handbook of Physician Health, as well as widely cited works on medical relationships, marriage, and divorce. He has published more than 150 articles on topics including suicide, stigma, boundary crossings, ethics in medical education, sexual assault, AIDS, gender issues in training and practice, and the treatment of medical students and physicians. Dr. Myers has received multiple awards for excellence in teaching and has served on several medical journal editorial boards, including the Bellevue Literary Review, where he has been a board member since 2021. He is a recent past president of the New York City chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and lectures widely throughout North America and internationally. More information is available at michaelfmyers.com, as well as on LinkedIn and X @downstatedoctor. EssilorLuxottica Unsponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:ESLOY Get Free Report) gapped down prior to trading on Thursday . The stock had previously closed at $167.00, but opened at $157.89. EssilorLuxottica shares last traded at $157.6505, with a volume of 155,162 shares changing hands. Analysts Set New Price Targets ESLOY has been the topic of several analyst reports. Kepler Capital Markets raised EssilorLuxottica from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Thursday, January 15th. Zacks Research lowered shares of EssilorLuxottica from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, November 18th. UBS Group raised shares of EssilorLuxottica from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, November 27th. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a buy rating on shares of EssilorLuxottica in a research report on Friday, December 5th. Finally, HSBC upgraded shares of EssilorLuxottica from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, January 14th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have issued a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Buy. Get EssilorLuxottica alerts: Read Our Latest Research Report on ESLOY EssilorLuxottica Trading Down 1.1% EssilorLuxottica Company Profile The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.18, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a current ratio of 0.97. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $158.79 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $163.37. (Get Free Report) EssilorLuxottica SE is a global ophthalmic optics company formed through the 2018 merger of France-based Essilor and Italy-based Luxottica. Headquartered near Paris, the company combines lens manufacturing, frame design and production, brand management and retail operations to provide a vertically integrated offering across the vision care value chain. Its activities span product research and development, manufacturing, wholesale distribution and retailing of spectacles, sunglasses and ophthalmic lenses. The companys product portfolio includes prescription and non-prescription lenses, lens coatings and treatments, and an array of eyewear brands and frames. See Also Receive News & Ratings for EssilorLuxottica Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EssilorLuxottica and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. iShares MSCI South Africa ETF (NYSEARCA:EZA Get Free Report) was the target of a large growth in short interest in the month of January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 1,304,564 shares, a growth of 182.2% from the January 15th total of 462,327 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 513,771 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 2.5 days. Currently, 12.5% of the companys stock are sold short. Currently, 12.5% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average trading volume of 513,771 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 2.5 days. Institutional Trading of iShares MSCI South Africa ETF A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of EZA. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. boosted its stake in iShares MSCI South Africa ETF by 65.9% in the second quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. now owns 9,141 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $491,000 after acquiring an additional 3,631 shares in the last quarter. Innealta Capital LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI South Africa ETF by 138.7% during the 3rd quarter. Innealta Capital LLC now owns 21,697 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $1,391,000 after purchasing an additional 12,608 shares during the last quarter. SG Americas Securities LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares MSCI South Africa ETF by 386.7% in the 3rd quarter. SG Americas Securities LLC now owns 27,327 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,752,000 after purchasing an additional 21,712 shares in the last quarter. ABC Arbitrage SA acquired a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI South Africa ETF in the 3rd quarter worth $631,000. Finally, One Capital Management LLC grew its stake in iShares MSCI South Africa ETF by 11.0% during the 4th quarter. One Capital Management LLC now owns 31,141 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $2,142,000 after buying an additional 3,081 shares during the last quarter. Get iShares MSCI South Africa ETF alerts: iShares MSCI South Africa ETF Stock Up 1.6% Shares of NYSEARCA EZA traded up $1.17 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $75.32. 202,916 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 445,334. iShares MSCI South Africa ETF has a 1 year low of $39.74 and a 1 year high of $81.19. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $71.95 and a 200 day moving average of $65.52. The stock has a market cap of $783.33 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.34 and a beta of 0.78. iShares MSCI South Africa ETF Company Profile iShares MSCI South Africa ETF, formerly iShares MSCI South Africa Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange traded fund. The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of publicly traded securities in the aggregate in the South African market, as measured by the MSCI South Africa Index (the Index). The Index seeks to measure the performance of the South African equity market. The Index is a capitalization-weighted index that aims to capture 85% of the (publicly available) total market capitalization. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI South Africa ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI South Africa ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Newmont (NYSE:NEM Get Free Report) had its price target boosted by investment analysts at BNP Paribas Exane from $97.00 to $123.00 in a research note issued on Thursday,MarketScreener reports. The brokerage currently has a neutral rating on the basic materials companys stock. BNP Paribas Exanes price target suggests a potential downside of 2.31% from the stocks previous close. Other equities research analysts have also issued research reports about the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their target price on shares of Newmont from $99.90 to $123.90 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, January 12th. Raymond James Financial boosted their price objective on shares of Newmont from $111.00 to $130.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, January 15th. BMO Capital Markets increased their price objective on Newmont from $114.00 to $145.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, January 28th. Macquarie Infrastructure upped their price objective on Newmont from $115.00 to $126.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, February 6th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group boosted their price objective on shares of Newmont from $120.00 to $136.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 20th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have issued a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $131.94. Get Newmont alerts: View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Newmont Newmont Trading Up 6.6% Insiders Place Their Bets NYSE:NEM traded up $7.79 on Thursday, hitting $125.91. 7,619,113 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 10,645,593. Newmont has a fifty-two week low of $41.23 and a fifty-two week high of $134.88. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $110.21 and a 200-day moving average of $90.86. The company has a current ratio of 2.04, a quick ratio of 1.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.17. The stock has a market cap of $137.40 billion, a PE ratio of 19.55, a PEG ratio of 0.99 and a beta of 0.40. In related news, Director Bruce R. Brook sold 2,080 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, December 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.36, for a total transaction of $192,108.80. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 32,709 shares in the company, valued at $3,021,003.24. The trade was a 5.98% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. 0.05% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Newmont A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of NEM. Brighton Jones LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Newmont by 15.7% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 13,606 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $506,000 after buying an additional 1,847 shares during the period. Woodline Partners LP increased its holdings in shares of Newmont by 40.7% during the first quarter. Woodline Partners LP now owns 96,182 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $4,644,000 after purchasing an additional 27,813 shares during the period. Sivia Capital Partners LLC bought a new position in Newmont in the 2nd quarter valued at about $240,000. CWM LLC boosted its stake in Newmont by 137.6% during the 2nd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 44,356 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $2,584,000 after purchasing an additional 25,686 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Newmont by 20.6% during the second quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 18,606 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $1,084,000 after purchasing an additional 3,172 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 68.85% of the companys stock. Key Headlines Impacting Newmont Here are the key news stories impacting Newmont this week: Newmont Company Profile (Get Free Report) Newmont Corporation (NYSE: NEM) is a leading global gold mining company engaged in the exploration, development, processing and reclamation of gold properties. The companys core business centers on the production of gold, with additional byproduct metals produced from its operations. Newmont operates a portfolio of long?lived mines and development projects, and its activities span the full mine life cycle from early-stage exploration through to mining, milling and closure. Founded in 1921 and headquartered in Greenwood Village, Colorado, Newmont has grown through organic development and strategic acquisitions. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Newmont Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Newmont and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Upstart, Hut 8, Tempus AI, BigBear.ai, and SoundHound AI are the five Artificial Intelligence stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Artificial intelligence stocks are shares of publicly traded companies that develop, sell, or derive a significant portion of their revenue from AI technologies, products, or services. Investors buy these stocks to gain exposure to potential growth from AI adoption while facing risks such as high valuations, rapid technological change, competition, and regulatory uncertainty. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Artificial Intelligence stocks within the last several days. Get alerts: Upstart (UPST) Upstart Holdings, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates a cloud-based artificial intelligence (AI) lending platform in the United States. Its platform includes personal loans, automotive retail and refinance loans, home equity lines of credit, and small dollar loans that connects consumer demand for loans to its to bank and credit unions. Hut 8 (HUT) Hut 8 Corp., together with its subsidiaries, acquires, builds, manages, and operates data centers for digital assets mining, computing, and artificial intelligence in the United States. It operates in four segments: Digital Assets Mining, Managed Services, High Performance Computing Colocation and Cloud, and Other. Read Our Latest Research Report on HUT Tempus AI (TEM) Tempus AI Inc. is a technology company advancing precision medicine through the practical application of artificial intelligence principally in healthcare. The company provides AI-enabled precision medicine solutions to physicians to deliver personalized patient care and in parallel facilitates discovery, development and delivery of optimal therapeutics. Read Our Latest Research Report on TEM BigBear.ai (BBAI) BigBear.ai Holdings, Inc. provides artificial intelligence-powered decision intelligence solutions. It offers national security, supply chain management, and digital identity and biometrics solutions. The company also provides data ingestion, data enrichment, data processing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, predictive analytics, and predictive visualization solutions and services. Read Our Latest Research Report on BBAI SoundHound AI (SOUN) SoundHound AI, Inc. develops independent voice artificial intelligence (AI) solutions that enables businesses across automotive, TV, and IoT, and to customer service industries to deliver high-quality conversational experiences to their customers. Its products include Houndify platform that offers a suite of Houndify tools to help brands build conversational voice assistants, such as Application Programming Interfaces (API) for text and voice queries, support for custom commands, extensive library of content domains, inclusive software development kit platforms, collaboration capabilities, diagnostic tools, and built-in analytics; SoundHound Chat AI that integrates with knowledge domains, pulling real-time data like weather, sports, stocks, flight status, and restaurants; and SoundHound Smart Answering is built to offer customer establishments custom AI-powered voice assistant. Read Our Latest Research Report on SOUN See Also Daiwa House Industry (OTCMKTS:DWAHY Get Free Report) issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday. The company reported $0.97 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.55 by $0.42, Zacks reports. The company had revenue of $9.17 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.83 billion. Daiwa House Industry Stock Performance Shares of OTCMKTS DWAHY traded down $0.31 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $36.89. 23,454 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 31,082. Daiwa House Industry has a 12-month low of $26.24 and a 12-month high of $38.72. The firm has a market cap of $24.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.21 and a beta of 0.35. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $34.00 and a 200 day moving average price of $34.70. Get Daiwa House Industry alerts: Daiwa House Industry Company Profile (Get Free Report) Daiwa House Industry Co, Ltd. is a major Japanese construction and real estate development company headquartered in Osaka, Japan. Founded in 1955, the company is best known as one of Japans largest homebuilders and a comprehensive provider of real estate solutions. Its core activities span the planning, design, construction and sale of detached houses, condominiums and rental housing, leveraging prefabrication and standardized building techniques to serve residential markets across Japan. Beyond residential construction, Daiwa House operates broadly across commercial and industrial segments. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Daiwa House Industry Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Daiwa House Industry and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Japan Airlines Ltd (OTCMKTS:JAPSY Get Free Report) shares saw unusually-strong trading volume on Thursday . Approximately 226,694 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 449% from the previous sessions volume of 41,291 shares.The stock last traded at $10.1240 and had previously closed at $10.15. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Separately, Zacks Research upgraded Japan Airlines from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, January 26th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Japan Airlines has a consensus rating of Buy. Get Japan Airlines alerts: View Our Latest Research Report on JAPSY Japan Airlines Stock Performance The stocks 50-day moving average price is $9.44 and its 200-day moving average price is $9.80. The company has a market capitalization of $8.91 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.41 and a beta of 0.37. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60, a quick ratio of 1.40 and a current ratio of 1.46. Japan Airlines (OTCMKTS:JAPSY Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 3rd. The company reported $0.34 earnings per share for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $3.44 billion during the quarter. Japan Airlines had a return on equity of 11.07% and a net margin of 6.57%. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Japan Airlines Ltd will post 0.8 earnings per share for the current year. About Japan Airlines (Get Free Report) Japan Airlines (OTCMKTS:JAPSY) is the flag carrier of Japan, providing both scheduled passenger and cargo air transportation services. The company operates a comprehensive network of domestic and international flights, connecting major cities across Asia, Europe, North America and Oceania. In addition to its core passenger services, Japan Airlines offers charter operations, cargo logistics and maintenance support through its technical services division. The airlines network is centered on its primary hubs at Tokyos Haneda and Narita airports. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Japan Airlines Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Japan Airlines and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Orkla Asa (OTCMKTS:ORKLY Get Free Report)s stock price traded up 6.1% during trading on Thursday following a stronger than expected earnings report. The company traded as high as $13.7755 and last traded at $13.7350. 10,447 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 75% from the average session volume of 42,611 shares. The stock had previously closed at $12.94. The company reported $0.17 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.14 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $1.97 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.85 billion. Orkla Asa had a return on equity of 13.96% and a net margin of 16.06%. Get Orkla Asa alerts: Orkla Asa Stock Up 1.2% The company has a quick ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 1.33 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33. The stocks 50 day moving average is $11.53 and its 200-day moving average is $10.99. Orkla Asa Company Profile Orkla ASA (OTCMKTS: ORKLY) is a leading Norwegian industrial group with a strong focus on branded consumer goods, aluminium solutions and strategic investments. Founded in 1654 as a regional copper mine in Orkdal, Trndelag, the company has evolved over centuries into a diversified conglomerate headquartered in Oslo. Orklas portfolio spans fast-moving consumer goods, including food, snacks, confectionery and personal care products, alongside advanced aluminium solutions and financial investments in select industries. Within its branded consumer goods division, Orkla operates several business areas: Orkla Foods, Orkla Confectionery & Snacks, Orkla Care and Orkla Food Ingredients. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Orkla Asa Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Orkla Asa and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Canadian Natural Resources, Celsius, and Bank Of Montreal are the three Canadian stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Canadian stocks are equity shares of companies incorporated or primarily operating in Canada, usually listed on Canadian exchanges such as the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and typically quoted in Canadian dollars. For investors they provide exposure to sectors prominent in Canada (financials, energy, materials, etc.) and entail country-specific considerations like Canadian regulatory and tax rules, commodity and currency (CAD) risk, and the possibility of dual listings or ADRs on foreign exchanges. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Canadian stocks within the last several days. Get alerts: Canadian Natural Resources (CNQ) Canadian Natural Resources Limited acquires, explores for, develops, produces, markets, and sells crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids (NGLs). The company offers light and medium crude oil, primary heavy crude oil, Pelican Lake heavy crude oil, bitumen (thermal oil), and synthetic crude oil (SCO). Celsius (CELH) Celsius Holdings, Inc. develops, processes, markets, distributes, and sells functional energy drinks and liquid supplements in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Canadian, European, Middle Eastern, Asia-Pacific, and internationally. The company offers CELSIUS, a fitness drink or supplement designed to accelerate metabolism and burn body fat; various flavors and carbonated and non-carbonated functional energy drinks under the CELSIUS Originals and Vibe name, as well as functional energy drink under the CELSIUS Essentials and CELSIUS On-the-Go Powder names; and CELSIUS ready-to drink products. Read Our Latest Research Report on CELH Bank Of Montreal (BMO) Bank of Montreal provides diversified financial services primarily in North America. It operates through Canadian P&C, U.S P&C, BMO Wealth Management, and BMO Capital Markets segments. The companys personal banking products and services include deposits, mortgages, home lending, consumer credit, small business lending, credit cards, cash management, financial and investment advice, and other banking services; and commercial banking products and services comprise various of financing options and treasury and payment solutions, as well as risk management products. Read Our Latest Research Report on BMO See Also Internet Initiative Japan, Inc. (OTCMKTS:IIJIY Get Free Report)s stock price reached a new 52-week low during mid-day trading on Thursday . The stock traded as low as $29.00 and last traded at $29.00, with a volume of 1381 shares. The stock had previously closed at $30.00. Internet Initiative Japan Stock Performance The firm has a market cap of $2.63 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.05 and a beta of 1.17. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $33.67 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $35.66. Get Internet Initiative Japan alerts: Internet Initiative Japan (OTCMKTS:IIJIY Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 5th. The communications equipment provider reported $0.46 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.57 by ($0.11). Internet Initiative Japan had a net margin of 6.64% and a return on equity of 15.16%. The business had revenue of $557.44 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $565.72 million. Research analysts anticipate that Internet Initiative Japan, Inc. will post 0.37 earnings per share for the current year. About Internet Initiative Japan Internet Initiative Japan Inc (OTCMKTS: IIJIY) was founded in 1992 and is recognized as Japans first commercial Internet service provider. Headquartered in Tokyo, the company builds and operates large?scale IP networks, offering a full suite of connectivity solutions including dedicated internet access, virtual private networks (VPNs), multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) services, and high?capacity leased lines. IIJs network backbone spans major Japanese cities and is linked to international points of presence, supporting both domestic and cross-border data traffic. In addition to core connectivity services, IIJ provides a broad portfolio of IT infrastructure offerings. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Internet Initiative Japan Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Internet Initiative Japan and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Get Free Report)s share price shot up 2.3% during trading on Thursday after Argus raised their price target on the stock from $930.00 to $1,200.00. Argus currently has a buy rating on the stock. Eli Lilly and Company traded as high as $1,059.84 and last traded at $1,038.59. 3,585,182 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 4% from the average session volume of 3,455,708 shares. The stock had previously closed at $1,015.21. A number of other brokerages have also issued reports on LLY. National Bank Financial set a $1,286.00 target price on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Monday, December 1st. Truist Financial set a $1,281.00 price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Thursday, February 5th. Cantor Fitzgerald boosted their price target on Eli Lilly and Company from $985.00 to $1,205.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, February 5th. Zacks Research downgraded Eli Lilly and Company from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, January 30th. Finally, CICC Research upped their target price on Eli Lilly and Company from $1,060.00 to $1,107.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twenty have given a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $1,218.88. Get Eli Lilly and Company alerts: View Our Latest Report on LLY Eli Lilly and Company News Summary Institutional Trading of Eli Lilly and Company Here are the key news stories impacting Eli Lilly and Company this week: Large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Lazard Freres Gestion S.A.S. increased its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 114.3% during the 2nd quarter. Lazard Freres Gestion S.A.S. now owns 77,295 shares of the companys stock worth $60,253,000 after buying an additional 41,222 shares during the last quarter. Exencial Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Eli Lilly and Company by 189.6% in the third quarter. Exencial Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 17,408 shares of the companys stock valued at $13,283,000 after acquiring an additional 11,396 shares during the last quarter. Rede Wealth LLC purchased a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company during the third quarter valued at about $487,000. Central Pacific Bank Trust Division grew its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 25.8% during the third quarter. Central Pacific Bank Trust Division now owns 8,990 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,859,000 after acquiring an additional 1,843 shares during the period. Finally, Oak Family Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company in the 3rd quarter worth about $1,979,000. 82.53% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Eli Lilly and Company Stock Up 0.2% The company has a current ratio of 1.55, a quick ratio of 1.24 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.71. The firm has a market capitalization of $983.31 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 45.32, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 0.39. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $1,052.39 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $906.31. Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, February 4th. The company reported $7.54 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $7.48 by $0.06. The firm had revenue of $19.29 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.85 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 31.66% and a return on equity of 112.50%. The companys revenue was up 42.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $5.32 EPS. Eli Lilly and Company has set its FY 2026 guidance at 33.500-35.000 EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Eli Lilly and Company Increases Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, March 10th. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 13th will be paid a dividend of $1.73 per share. This is a boost from Eli Lilly and Companys previous quarterly dividend of $1.50. This represents a $6.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.7%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, February 13th. Eli Lilly and Companys payout ratio is presently 30.15%. About Eli Lilly and Company (Get Free Report) Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) is a global pharmaceutical company founded in 1876 and headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. The company researches, develops, manufactures and commercializes a broad range of medicines and therapies for patients worldwide. Eli Lilly maintains operations and commercial presence across North America, Europe, Asia and other regions, serving both developed and emerging markets. The company has been led in recent years by President and Chief Executive Officer David A. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Eli Lilly and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eli Lilly and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. (Photo by Seoul Metropolitan Government/courtesy of haps Magazine Korea) The Seoul Metropolitan Government is hosting special Lunar New Year programs at two Han River landmarks Hangang Play Place at Ttukseom Hangang Park and Seoul Battleship Park in Mangwon offering traditional games and performances throughout the holiday period. At Hangang Play Place, located inside the J-Bug structure at Ttukseom Hangang Park, the Seollal Playground will run from February 14 to 18, excluding Lunar New Years Day on February 17. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the program features ten traditional Korean games, including giant yutnori, jegichagi, neolttwigi, tuho, and traditional archery-style activities. A jegichagi competition will be held on February 15, with on-site registration and small prizes for top participants. In addition to hands-on activities, visitors can enjoy balloon and juggling shows, magic performances, coloring stations, and a lighthearted New Year tarot card experience. A movie screening program will also be held in the Under the Bridge zone, showing family-friendly animated films and popular Korean movies twice daily during the holiday. At Seoul Battleship Park in Mangwon Hangang Park, a one-day Seollal Traditional Games Festival will take place on February 16 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can participate freely in jegichagi, tuho, and team-based yutnori tournaments, along with face painting and balloon art activities. The event concludes with a childrens storytelling performance based on a traditional folktale, designed for families to enjoy together. The park remains open throughout the holiday except on Lunar New Years Day. Seoul City plans to continue expanding seasonal and holiday-themed programming across Han River parks and cultural spaces, offering residents and visitors more opportunities to enjoy the river as a year-round leisure and cultural destination. Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ Get Free Report)s stock price shot up 1.5% during mid-day trading on Thursday . The company traded as high as $246.35 and last traded at $244.54. 10,239,783 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 10% from the average session volume of 9,283,417 shares. The stock had previously closed at $240.86. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several equities analysts have issued reports on JNJ shares. Loop Capital set a $220.00 price objective on shares of Johnson & Johnson in a report on Tuesday, January 27th. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price objective on Johnson & Johnson from $205.00 to $220.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, January 22nd. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Johnson & Johnson in a research report on Wednesday, January 28th. Wall Street Zen downgraded Johnson & Johnson from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday. Finally, Scotiabank reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Johnson & Johnson in a research note on Thursday, January 22nd. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have given a Buy rating and eight have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Johnson & Johnson presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $233.73. Get Johnson & Johnson alerts: View Our Latest Stock Report on JNJ Johnson & Johnson Trading Down 0.5% The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $217.25 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $196.39. The company has a quick ratio of 0.80, a current ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48. The firm has a market capitalization of $586.36 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.02, a PEG ratio of 2.37 and a beta of 0.35. Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Saturday, January 31st. The company reported $2.46 earnings per share for the quarter. Johnson & Johnson had a return on equity of 33.04% and a net margin of 28.46%.The business had revenue of $24.28 billion during the quarter. Equities analysts forecast that Johnson & Johnson will post 10.58 earnings per share for the current year. Johnson & Johnson Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, March 10th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, February 24th will be issued a dividend of $1.30 per share. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, February 24th. This represents a $5.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.1%. Johnson & Johnsons dividend payout ratio is 47.06%. Institutional Trading of Johnson & Johnson Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Brighton Jones LLC lifted its position in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 13.9% during the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 51,876 shares of the companys stock worth $7,502,000 after purchasing an additional 6,332 shares during the last quarter. United Bank boosted its position in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 110.7% during the 1st quarter. United Bank now owns 9,279 shares of the companys stock worth $1,539,000 after acquiring an additional 4,876 shares in the last quarter. Sivia Capital Partners LLC increased its holdings in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 13.4% in the 2nd quarter. Sivia Capital Partners LLC now owns 5,863 shares of the companys stock valued at $896,000 after acquiring an additional 692 shares during the last quarter. Wealth Group Ltd. raised its position in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 12.8% during the 2nd quarter. Wealth Group Ltd. now owns 1,482 shares of the companys stock worth $226,000 after acquiring an additional 168 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Sendero Wealth Management LLC lifted its stake in Johnson & Johnson by 4.2% during the second quarter. Sendero Wealth Management LLC now owns 8,353 shares of the companys stock worth $1,276,000 after purchasing an additional 337 shares during the last quarter. 69.55% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Johnson & Johnson Company Profile (Get Free Report) Johnson & Johnson is a multinational healthcare company headquartered in New Brunswick, New Jersey, that develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of products across pharmaceuticals, medical devices and previously consumer health. Founded in 1886 by the Johnson family, the company has grown into a global healthcare organization with operations and sales in many countries around the world. The companys pharmaceuticals business, organized largely under its Janssen research and development organization, focuses on prescription medicines across therapeutic areas such as immunology, infectious disease, oncology and neuroscience. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Johnson & Johnson Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Johnson & Johnson and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Booking, Expedia Group, Travelers Companies, MakeMyTrip, and Trip.com Group are the five Travel stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Travel stocks are shares of publicly traded companies whose primary business is facilitating travel and tourismsuch as airlines, hotels and resorts, cruise lines, online travel agencies, car rental companies, and related services. For investors, these stocks are typically cyclical and sensitive to consumer discretionary spending, seasonality, fuel and labor costs, health or geopolitical events, and economic recoveries, making them potentially higher-risk but also high-reward during travel upswings. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Travel stocks within the last several days. Get alerts: Booking (BKNG) Booking Holdings Inc, formerly The Priceline Group Inc., is a provider of travel and restaurant online reservation and related services. The Company, through its online travel companies (OTCs), connects consumers wishing to make travel reservations with providers of travel services across the world. It offers consumers an array of accommodation reservations (including hotels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, apartments, vacation rentals and other properties) through its Booking.com, priceline.com and agoda.com brands. Expedia Group (EXPE) Expedia Group, Inc. operates as an online travel company in the United States and internationally. The company operates through B2C, B2B, and trivago segments. Its B2C segment includes Brand Expedia, a full-service online travel brand offers various travel products and services; Hotels.com for lodging accommodations; Vrbo, an online marketplace for the alternative accommodations; Orbitz, Travelocity, Wotif Group, ebookers, CheapTickets, Hotwire.com and CarRentals.com. Read Our Latest Research Report on EXPE Travelers Companies (TRV) The Travelers Companies, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance. Read Our Latest Research Report on TRV MakeMyTrip (MMYT) MakeMyTrip Limited, an online travel company, sells travel products and solutions in India, the United States, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Peru, Colombia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The company operates through three segments: Air Ticketing, Hotels and Packages, and Bus Ticketing. Read Our Latest Research Report on MMYT Trip.com Group (TCOM) Trip.com Group Limited, through its subsidiaries, operates as a travel service provider for accommodation reservation, transportation ticketing, packaged tours and in-destination, corporate travel management, and other travel-related services in China and internationally. The company acts as an agent for hotel-related transactions and selling air tickets, as well as provides train, long-distance bus, and ferry tickets; travel insurance products, such as flight delay, air accident, and baggage loss coverage; and air-ticket delivery, online check-in and seat selection, express security screening, real-time flight status tracker, and airport VIP lounge services. Read Our Latest Research Report on TCOM Featured Articles 13/02/2026 It was going to happen eventually. Idrissa Gana Gueye continues to defy his age, but at 36, after a draining and successful Africa Cup of Nations campaign in which he played 660 minutes, a tally bettered by only two other outfielders it looks like Father Time is starting to catch up with the midfielder. In fairness, it has perhaps been a slower decline than a sharp one but, since Gueye returned from Afcon, there is no doubt the former Paris Saint-Germain star looks short of his best. Yet he has played all but 15 minutes, with David Moyes throwing him straight back into the team against Leeds United, despite Merlin Rohl and Harrison Armstrong having previously performed excellently in a win over Aston Villa. While it is entirely understandable that Moyes wanted one of his mainstays back in the team, and there is no doubt Everton had missed Gueye during his absence, it did seem as though the Scot may have stumbled upon a template that worked in the middle. Throw in the fit-again Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, but keep a 4-3-3 shape. Allow James Garner to sit, but give each of the three in midfield licence to interchange. Gueye did not need to be put straight back in and then, especially, he did not need to be a permanent fixture. Ease him back in. Instead, Moyes has, essentially, flogged him. The gaps in midfield were there against Leeds, Brighton, Fulham (in the first half especially) and Bournemouth. Garner has suffered, too. It seemed he was relishing the opportunity to take more responsibility but, since Gueyes return, it has all seemed muddled, with each of them trying to do the same job, yet managing to not do any of it. It really is a worry, and Moyess stubbornness is becoming infuriating. Gueye is the last player in this Everton squad who should be hung out to dry. His levels of his 6 years at the club, across two spells, have been nothing short of superb. But time waits for no man and Gueyes numbers are drastically down from last season. And that isnt just because Everton are playing differently. Last season, Gueye led the Premier League for tackles attempted and tackles won. The Senegal international averaged 3.9 tackles per 90 and completed 2.3 of them. This season, Gueye is down to 2.1 tackles per 90 and 1.0 tackles completed. Theres no denying the drop-off there. Whereas Gueye has always had a tendency to just manage to be in the right place at the right time to nip in and win the ball, he is now looking just a step short. And Moyes isnt helping. Tuesday was the perfect opportunity to rotate Gueye out. It doesnt have to mean he is dropped, but it came on the back of him playing the full game at Fulham. A little breather, go with Armstrong, Rohl or Tim Iroegbunam in there, and let Garner pick up the slack. Moyes is still far too reluctant to trust his squad. Before this round of fixtures, no Premier League team had made fewer substitutes than Everton. And we are starting to see why that becomes an issue. Gueye does not deserve to be flogged. He does not deserve to be facing criticism. Because he can still be invaluable. But Everton need to have a succession plan. He may well not even be here next season, and it is doing nobody any good to keep pushing him to the brink. This near two-week break, before Manchester United visit Hill Dickinson Stadium, will help Gueye, but in the meantime, Moyes has to wake up and smell the coffee, too. Note: the following content is not moderated or vetted by the site owners at the time of submission. Comments are the responsibility of the poster. Disclaimer () How to get rid of these ads and support TW ToffeeWeb Photo: Press service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan MUNICH, Germany, February 14. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Armin Laschet, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Bundestag, in Munich on February 14, Trend's special correspondent reports. During the conversation, the head of state expressed satisfaction recalling his previous meetings with Armin Laschet. Armin Laschet conveyed his congratulations to the head of state on the progress made in Washington regarding the advancement of the peace agenda between Azerbaijan and Armenia. President Ilham Aliyev expressed gratitude for the congratulations and stated that achieving peace holds significant importance for the overall development of the region. The meeting discussed Azerbaijan's regional peace and cooperation initiatives. They emphasized that bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Germany are developing in various domains, including political, economic-trade, energy, and other fields. They touched upon the important role Azerbaijan plays in Europe's energy security, and exchanged views on the expansion of inter-parliamentary cooperation and the prospects for bilateral relations. The meeting highlighted Azerbaijan's role in interfaith and intercultural dialogue and the importance of sharing this experience within an international framework. Photo: Press service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan MUNICH, Germany, February 14. On February 14, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with President of the Republic of Bulgaria Iliana Iotova in Munich, Trend reports. President Iliana Iotova noted that she had participated in the Forum on Intercultural Dialogue held in Azerbaijan and had become closely acquainted with the countrys culture, emphasizing that the traditions of Novruz and the art of mugham had left a deep impression on her. Iliana Iotova also recalled the support provided by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation for the restoration of the Trapezitsa Architectural Museum-Reserve in Bulgaria and expressed her gratitude for this assistance. She thanked President Ilham Aliyev for the teaching of the Bulgarian language at higher education institutions in Azerbaijan and for the attention shown to Bulgarian culture. During the meeting, the sides expressed satisfaction with the signing, a few days earlier, of the Agreement on Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Government of the Republic of Bulgaria, and the Municipality of Veliko Tarnovo on the establishment and reconstruction of the Shusha Park in the city of Veliko Tarnovo. The parties discussed cooperation in the fields of energy, electricity exports, agriculture, tourism, and other areas, as well as collaboration within international organizations. Bulgarias support for the development of AzerbaijanEuropean Union relations was highly appreciated. It was also noted that Azerbaijan will host the World Urban Forum in May this year, and that Bulgaria will be represented at a high level at the event. Photo: Screenshot from the video BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 14. A press conference with participation of Azerbaijani and Armenian civil society representatives was held during a roundtable discussion within the framework of Peace Bridge initiative today, Trend reports. The Azerbaijani delegation arrived in Armenia on February 13 to participate in the bilateral roundtable discussion organized as part of the initiative. The event brought together an expanded delegation attending from each side. Emin Aliyev, Editor-in-Chief of Trend International Information Agency, was among the Azerbaijani representatives. The delegation from Azerbaijan consists of 19 members. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 14. On 1314 February 2026, a bilateral roundtable was held in Armenia in the city of Tsaghkadzor within the framework of the Peace Bridge initiative, bringing together representatives of the civil societies, expert community, and media of Armenia and Azerbaijan. Alongside the core members of the initiative, the meeting engaged a broader circle of participants from both sides, reaffirming the commitment to an inclusive and sustained dialogue platform, Trend reports. The Azerbaijani delegation arrived in Armenia via the land border through a delimited and demarcated section near the Armenian village of Voskepar and the Azerbaijani village of Ashaghi Askipara, having completed all required procedures. The crossing was regarded by participants as an important practical confidence-building measure and a visible reflection of the gradual normalization process between the two countries. Discussions focused on the current stage and future trajectories of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations, the implementation of the peace agenda endorsed during the Washington Summit on August 8, 2025, and its implications for the region. Participants exchanged assessments of the evolving regional security environment and the economic opportunities created by the peace process. A dedicated session addressed cooperation between the participants of the dialogue, including joint projects, public communication strategies, and mechanisms for intersocietal interactions. Considerable attention was given to trust-building, public diplomacy, and the development of practical recommendations aimed at supporting rapprochement at the societal level. Further discussions focused on regional security, borders, and connectivity, presenting the visions and expectations of both parties. Informal cultural and social activities held alongside the formal sessions contributed to interpersonal contacts and a constructive atmosphere. On the second day, participants examined the benefits of sustainable peace and the potential social and economic gains of establishing intersocietal relations. Views were exchanged on public expectations in both societies and on ways to ensure that the peace process delivers tangible results for citizens. As part of the program, participants held meetings with senior officials from Armenia, including Secretary of the Security Council Armen Grigoryan and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Vahan Kostanyan. These discussions provided an opportunity to exchange views on the role of civil society in supporting the peace agenda and on ways in which public initiatives can complement official efforts aimed at advancing peace. The event concluded with a press conference summarizing the outcomes of the discussions. The Azerbaijani delegation departed through the same delimited border section, marking another practical step in confidence-building. Participants reaffirmed that regular engagement within the Peace Bridge format can contribute meaningfully to strengthening mutual trust, expanding professional cooperation, and supporting the gradual normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations. On February 13, an Azerbaijani delegation visited Armenia to participate in a bilateral roundtable discussion within the framework of the "Peace Bridge" initiative. The meeting is attended by extended delegations from both sides. Emin Aliyev, Editor-in-Chief of Trend International Information Agency, was among the Azerbaijani representatives. The delegation from Azerbaijan consists of 19 members. Photo: Press service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan MUNICH, Germany, February 14. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Kaja Kallas, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, in Munich on February 14, Trend's special correspondent reports. They fondly recalled Kaja Kallass visit to Azerbaijan last year and her meeting with the head of state. The meeting underlined the European Unions interest in further developing relations with Azerbaijan. They highlighted the successful cooperation between Azerbaijan and the European Union in the energy sector, and in this regard, touched upon the significant contributions Azerbaijan has made to ensuring Europes energy security. They emphasized that, in addition to the energy sector, there are broad opportunities for cooperation in the field of transport between Azerbaijan and the European Union. The meeting also discussed the prospects for AzerbaijanEuropean Union cooperation, ensuring lasting peace and stability in the South Caucasus region, as well as other issues of mutual interest. MUNICH, Germany, February 14. Since August up to now, we not only enjoy an absolutely new situation on our border, but there is no shooting, no victims, no wounded, no problems, President Ilham Aliyev said during the panel discussion on "Open Corridor Policy? Deepening Trans-Caspian Cooperation" held in Munich, Trend reports. The head of state said, We have already started physical cooperation with Armenia. We lifted all the restrictions on the transportation of cargo through Azerbaijan. We are grateful to our Georgian friends that they provide very important transit after the goods reach Azerbaijan through Georgia, the President added. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 14. I would like to thank President Ilham Aliyev for his leadership in the peace process with Armenia, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said while speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Trend reports. "Peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia once seemed unattainable, and I thank you, President Ilham Aliyev, for your leadership in this peace process, which is actively supported by the European Union," he said. MUNICH, Germany, February 14. In the past, we have often viewed the Black Sea or the Caspian Sea more as a barrier dividing us. Peace projectsand the peace between Armenia and Azerbaijanhave opened what once seemed like an impossible door, said Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement, during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference on Open Corridor Policy? Deepening Trans-Caspian Cooperation, Trend reports. She expressed gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev for his leadership in advancing the peace initiative, which enjoys strong support from the European Union. Yes, we are building a new structure. This does not mean we will forget other routes between Europe and China, but we must focus on diversification. We will select the most suitable paths to transport greater volumes of cargo in the short term. The Trans-Caspian transport corridor could triple transport volumes by 2030, halve transit times, and save tens of millions in costs annually. This is also one of the most attractive factors for business, Marta Kos added. MUNICH, Germany, Feruary 14. We are witnessing major changes in the region, and this would not have been possible without peace, said Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement, during the panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference on Open Corridor Policy? Deepening Trans-Caspian Cooperation, Trend reports. Marta Kos noted that significant progress has been achieved in a short period. Not everything has been done yet, but truly, the process is moving very quickly. Political will is needed from both sides. This has also opened many channels for us from Europe. For example, we are now compiling a list of projects with Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkiye. You spoke about the TRIPP project. We are currently holding discussions with Azerbaijan on launching a technical-economic feasibility study for the Nakhchivan railway project, which is of great interest to us together with international financial institutions. Along with Nakhchivan, the TRIPP project could be a true game-changer, she added. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 15. On February 14, Foreign Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov met with Foreign Minister of the Federal Republic of Germany Johann David Wadephul on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Trend reports, citing the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. The current state and prospects for the development of bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Germany, as well as regional security issues, were discussed during the meeting. The importance of continuing high-level political dialogue was emphasized, and it was noted that mutual visits and meetings within international forums have made a significant contribution to deepening cooperation. The importance of expanding cooperation in the economic, trade, energy, agricultural, transport and logistics, as well as cultural and humanitarian spheres was emphasized. The contribution of strategic projects in the field of energy and transport, implemented at the initiative and with the participation of Azerbaijan, to ensuring energy security in Europe and the sustainable development of the region was noted. Prospects for cooperation in the field of renewable energy and joint projects on the green transition, as well as efforts in the wider region, including Central Asia, were discussed. Touching upon the importance of joint activities within international organizations, satisfaction was expressed with the continuation of cooperation and support based on respect for each other's legitimate interests and mutual trust in multilateral platforms. The other side was informed about the current situation in the region in the post-conflict period, the process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as the steps taken by Azerbaijan to ensure de facto peace and initial cooperation in the region after the historic Washington Summit. An exchange of views on other bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest took place during the meeting. 22:03 (GMT+4) On the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov met with Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany Johann David Wadephul, Trend reports via Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. Discussions focused on advancing Azerbaijan-Germany bilateral ties, including political dialogue, energy security, green transition, trade, transport & humanitarian cooperation. Regional developments, the Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization process, post-conflict reconstruction efforts were also addressed. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 14. On 14 February 2026, the Ministry of Defense board meeting on outcomes of 2025 was held under the leadership of the Minister of Defense, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, the statement of the ministry says, Trend reports. The meeting via video teleconference with the participation of deputy ministers, commanders of the types of troops (forces), Combined Arms Army Commander, Rector of the National Defense University, chiefs of main departments and departments, commanders of army corps and formations, as well as representatives of relevant state bodies analyzed the results of activities carried out within the last year and discussed the tasks set for 2026. The meeting commenced with a tribute to the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people, Heydar Aliyev, and Martyrs, who sacrificed their lives for the Motherland. The Minister of Defense highlighted successful reforms in army building in 2025 under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, and conveyed to the participants the tasks set by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. He emphasized the significant role of the countrys defense potential in the steady rise of Azerbaijans international prestige and in transforming the region into a global center of power. Colonel General Zakir Hasanov proudly noted that the exemplary discipline, military capability, and technical readiness demonstrated during the military parade dedicated to the 5-th anniversary of the Victory in the Patriotic War, held jointly by the Armed Forces and other structures on 8 November, Victory Day, were highly appreciated by the Victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief. The Minister of Defense stated that, in accordance with the directives of the President, measures for organizing armed defense of the countrys territorial integrity, ensuring reliable military security, enhancing the operational capabilities and combat readiness of the troops, and incorporating modern weapon systems into the armament of the Azerbaijan Army have been implemented consistently and successfully. Chairing the board meeting, Zakir Hasanov highlighted the support of the National Security Council, the State Security Service, and Military Prosecutors office in preventing unlawful actions and combating corruption in the service-combat activities of the Azerbaijan Army in 2025, as well as in organizing counterintelligence operations, and noted that joint efforts in these areas will continue hereinafter. Subsequently, a detailed analysis of the service-combat activities conducted by the Azerbaijan Army in 2025 was presented. It was noted that, as in previous years, the reforms in army development under the leadership of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief were decisively continued in 2025. Speakers at the board meeting reported that, during the past year, military personnel of the Azerbaijan Army participated in 15 bilateral and multilateral international exercises. It was emphasized that conducting various military exercises and intensive combat training sessions further enhanced the combat readiness of the troops as well as the professional level of the personnel. It was noted that particular attention was paid to mobilization readiness in 2025, and significant steps were taken to improve the quality of mobilization reserves. Over 19,000 military personnel of various specialties called up for training in 2025 received advanced instruction, were trained in the use of newly adopted weapons and equipment, and participated in practical exercises. These measures will continue in 2026. Work carried out in the liberated territories, including engineering and fortification activities, construction of new roads, and establishment of military infrastructure, was brought to the attention of the board members. It was reported that, in 2025, engineering and fortification units and state institutions constructed up to 79 km of new roads, cleared up to 67 km of roads from snow, and restored more than 571 km of existing roads. Special attention was given to the preservation and strengthening of personnel health, increasing the efficiency of practical exercises, and further strengthening discipline. It was reported that the Azerbaijan Army ensured that the troops were fully supplied with all types of material and technical resources in accordance with established standards, that personnel received quality nutrition, and that weapons, armored and automotive equipment were maintained in constant readiness for combat. Military units were continuously provided with weapons, ammunition, and other military equipment. Efforts to improve the socio-living conditions of personnel were highlighted, including the provision of food, supplies, fuel, and firewood in units located in high-mountain areas, full provision of warm clothing to military personnel, and overall achievement of objectives in material-technical support during the past year. Detailed information was provided on innovations in the military educational system. New courses for the personnel were established to modernize the military academic educational system, and new specialties were introduced to ensure alignment between higher educational programs and military accounting specialties. It was emphasized that participation of Azerbaijan Army representatives in various academic and strategic courses both domestically and abroad positively impacted professional personnel advancement. It was noted that in 2025, several innovations were applied in personnel recruitment and corresponding structural changes were implemented in the Azerbaijan Army to optimize staffing. During the board meeting, officials shared their views and proposals regarding the results of 2025 and future plans. In his concluding remarks, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov stated that the service-combat activities and achievements of the Azerbaijan Army in the past year had been highly appreciated by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief. He stressed the importance of international cooperation and joint exercises in military, military-technical, and military educational fields for ensuring sustainable peace and security in the region. The Minister discussed planned activities for 2026, emphasizing the importance of enhancing personnel professionalism, further raising troop combat readiness, increasing the intensity of training and field exercises, mastering and efficiently using newly adopted weapons and equipment, and applying innovative technologies. Appropriate instructions were issued to ensure heightened vigilance in combat duty and troop service. The necessity of strict compliance with fire safety and other safety regulations during daily service activities, as well as enhanced protection against seasonal respiratory infections due to cold weather in winter, was emphasized. The Minister instructed responsible officials to exercise strict control over the provision of the Azerbaijan Army Units during winter, maintain constant supervision of all types of reserves in military units, further improve service and socio-living conditions of personnel, and pay attention to psychological and medical support. In line with the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan declaring 2026 as the Year of Urban Planning and Architecture, the relevant measures were brought to the attention of the board members. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Minister of Defense congratulated the personnel on the occasion of the 14 February, Air Force Day and expressed confidence that the Azerbaijan Army would continue to justify the trust of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief and the nation. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 14. Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is entering a focused implementation phase across several strategic areas, including trade, connectivity, energy transition, and digital development, Deputy Executive Secretary of ESCAP Shombi Sharp told Trend. "Allow me first to express our great appreciation for the Government of Turkmenistans highly effective hosting of this years SPECA Week and warm hospitality shown to all participating Government, UN and other delegations," he said. Sharp noted that the discussions in Ashgabat demonstrated a high level of engagement and resulted in meaningful agreements among a wide range of stakeholders, leaving him optimistic about the future of regional cooperation. "In a world marked by so many challenges, from geopolitical uncertainty and climate change to economic volatility, the theme of the Week - Peace and Trust resonated deeply," he stressed. According to him, for Central Asia and neighboring regions, peace and trust are essential practical conditions for sustainable development, given the regions historical role as a crossroads of civilizations and trade routes. "ESCAP, along with our colleagues from UNECE and the UN Country Team led by the Resident Coordinator, has been working closely with the Government of Turkmenistan to advance the Sustainable Development Goals," Sharp said. He emphasized that the recent meetings reaffirmed a shared commitment to translate regional ambitions into tangible outcomes, especially with only five years remaining until the 2030 SDG deadline. "With only 5 years left until the 2030 goalpost, this partnership now enters a focused implementation phase across several strategic areas such as trade, innovation, connectivity, energy transition and data capacity building," Sharp noted. He added that stronger cooperation within the SPECA framework will play an important role in accelerating progress in these areas. "Given its central location, unique resources and capacities, Turkmenistan plays a leading role in promoting global sustainable transport and advancing regional connectivity," Sharp said. In this regard, he pointed to opportunities to deepen cooperation through the ESCAP Green Power Corridor Framework, which is aimed at strengthening energy security and expanding renewable energy generation. "We also see significant potential for future cooperation between Turkmenistan and ESCAP in digital economy development. Enhancing e-commerce and digital trade integrates regional markets, which will in turn drive economic growth across borders. ESCAP also looks toward joint action on climate adaptation and early warning systems to protect vulnerable communities, and technical programs to empower youth and women," Sharp emphasized. Sharp concluded that their joint efforts will ensure sustainable development stays focused on human dignity. Earlier in January, a delegation led by UNESCAP Deputy Executive Secretary Shombi Sharp visited Turkmenistan in the context of the SPECA Economic Forum 2026, held on January 21-22 in Ashgabat as part of SPECA Week under the United Nations Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA). TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, February 14. Uzbekistan has released the list of leading countries by the number of enterprises with foreign investment operating in the country, Trend reports via data from Uzbekistans Committee on Statistics. As of February 1, 2026, China ranks first with 5,218 enterprises, followed by Russia with 3,190 and Turkiye with 2,149. Kazakhstan holds fourth place with 1,221 companies, while South Korea accounts for 699. In Uzbekistan, Afghanistan leads with 647 enterprises, closely followed by the United Arab Emirates with 413. Tajikistan leads with 410 companies, followed closely by India with 394. Azerbaijan completes the top ten with a total of 368 enterprises. As of February 1, 2026, Uzbekistan proudly boasts a total of 18,513 enterprises with foreign investment. Photo: The Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, February 14. Uzbekistan and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Office for Afghanistan discussed prospects for expanding investment and infrastructure cooperation, Trend reports via the Uzbek Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade. The issue was addressed during a meeting between Uzbekistans Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade Laziz Kudratov and Sota Tosaka, Head of the JICA Office for Afghanistan. The sides explored practical steps to enhance coordination, create favorable conditions for the work of the representative office, and strengthen institutional partnership. The Uzbek side reaffirmed its readiness to provide comprehensive support for Japans initiatives and to maintain constructive dialogue. Particular attention was also given to supporting private sector development and advancing sustainable development projects. JICA is one of Uzbekistans key international partners, with total attracted funds exceeding $8.3 billion. Joint and ongoing projects cover energy, transport, agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure, alongside private sector financing programs and grant assistance, highlighting the long-term and wide-ranging nature of the strategic partnership. Photo: The Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, February 14. Uzbekistan and Russia discussed advancing industrial cooperation and expanding the supply of Russian products to the Uzbek market, Trend reports via the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan. The issue was addressed during B2B and B2G negotiations held at the ministry in Tashkent, with the participation of 10 leading companies from various regions of the Russian Federation. The sides explored opportunities for localizing production in Uzbekistan and launching joint industrial projects. The Russian delegation presented proposals in the areas of mining, construction materials manufacturing, furniture production, and related sectors. As part of the visit, targeted meetings were also held with representatives of the Ministry of Construction and Housing and Communal Services, the Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology, as well as several industry associations. Discussions covered the supply of equipment, the organization of after-sales and maintenance services, and the implementation of joint investment initiatives aimed at deepening bilateral partnership and expanding industrial cooperation. Meanwhile, Uzbekistans trade turnover with Russia reached $12.9 billion in 2025. During the period, Uzbek exports to Russia totaled $4.3 billion, making Russia the largest destination for Uzbekistans exports. Subscription to paid content Gain access to all that Trend has to offer, as well as to premium, licensed content via subscription or direct purchase through a credit card. Azerbaijan's Ministry of Finance opens tender to purchase license extension service Azerbaijan Ministry of Finance has announced a tender for the extension of required licenses and the procurement of equipment. Interested companies are invited to submit proposals in line with the established deadline and procedures. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 14. Western nations must reclaim control over their industries, rebuild manufacturing capacity and secure critical supply chains to remain competitive in the 21st century, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said at the Munich Security Conference, Trend reports. Reflecting on the historical foundations of transatlantic cooperation, Rubio argued that recent decades were marked by strategic economic missteps that weakened Western industrial strength. He criticized what he described as a dogmatic vision of free and unfettered trade, saying it allowed some countries to protect their own economies and subsidize domestic industries while undercutting Western manufacturing. In this delusion, we embraced a dogmatic vision of free and unfettered trade, even as some nations protected their economies and subsidized their companies to systematically undercut ours, shuttering our plants, resulting in large parts of our societies being deindustrialized, shipping millions of working and middle-class jobs overseas, and handing control of our critical supply chains to both adversaries and rivals, Rubio said. He emphasized the need for a renewed industrial agenda focused on advanced technologies and strategic autonomy. Together, we can reindustrialize our economies and rebuild our capacity to defend our people, Rubio stated. He pointed to commercial space travel, artificial intelligence, industrial automation, flexible manufacturing and secure supply chains for critical minerals as key areas for transatlantic cooperation. Together, we can not only take back control of our own industries and supply chains, we can prosper in the areas that will define the 21st century, he said, calling for the creation of Western supply chains not vulnerable to extortion from other powers. Rubio also underlined the importance of competitiveness in emerging markets, including the economies of the Global South, as part of a broader effort to advance shared economic interests. He argued that international institutions must be reformed to better serve the interests of sovereign nations, stressing that economic resilience and industrial capacity are central to national security. Armies do not fight for abstractions. Armies fight for a people. Armies fight for a nation. Armies fight for a way of life, Rubio said, adding that the West must defend not only its security but also its economic independence. Concluding his remarks, Rubio called for a revitalized transatlantic alliance focused on innovation, industrial renewal and strategic strength. We do not seek to separate, but to revitalize an old friendship and renew the greatest civilization in human history, he said. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, February 14. President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed the decree approving the Program of Socio-Economic Development of Turkmenistan and Investments in 2026, Trend reports via the press service of the Turkmen Government. The document was signed during a Cabinet meeting on countrys macroeconomic performance in 2025, chaired by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov on February 13. According to the program, Turkmenistan plans to maintain GDP growth at 6.3%, create about 5,300 jobs through the construction of new enterprises, expand the private sectors share of GDP to 72.9%, and allocate around 41.2 billion manats ($11.4 billion) in investments from all funding sources in 2026. President Berdimuhamedov emphasized the need to fully utilize production capacities, ensure stable sectoral and regional development, continue industrialization measures, increase the budgets revenue share, and strengthen control over targeted use of public expenditures. Additional instructions include the continued provision of preferential loans for improving housing conditions, enhancement of the interbank electronic payment system, improvement of banks digital services, financial support for economic development, and maintenance of national currency stability. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 14. Iranian and Turkish companies have signed memorandums of understandings for the construction of roads and railways valued at 2 billion euros on February 14, Trend reports, citing the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development of Iran. Under the memoranda, a total of 16 projects in the road and railway sectors will be carried out. The projects will be implemented across four provinces in Iran, utilizing both domestic and foreign investment. The signing took place during the International Conference on Financing and Investment Opportunities for Iran's Highway and Railway Corridors, held today in Tehran. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Within the framework of the INSTC, ownership of 125 km of land along the planned 162 km Rasht-Astara railway route in northern Iran has been acquired from private landowners. The intergovernmental agreement signed between Russia, Iran, and India on September 12, 2000, laid the foundation for the North-South Transport Corridor. In general, several countries have ratified the said agreement. (Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Belarus, Republic of Bulgaria, India, Islamic Republic of Iran, Republic of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kyrgyzstan, Sultanate of Oman, Russian Federation, Republic of Tajikistan, Republic of Turkiye, Ukraine). The purpose of establishing the corridor is to reduce the delivery time of cargo traveling from India to Russia, as well as to Northern and Western Europe (the delivery time along the existing route is more than six weeks; it is expected to be three weeks via North-South). The Gazvin-Rasht railroad, stretching 175 km, hit the ground running on March 6, 2019, linking Azerbaijan's railroads with Iran's railway network in the corridor. The Rasht-Astara railroad is set to take shape on Iranian soil. The North-South Corridor has three directions within Iran. The eastern direction is Turkmenistan and Central Asian countries, the middle direction is Russia and other countries across the Caspian Sea, and the western direction is Azerbaijan, Georgia, Russia, and Eastern European countries. Russia and Iran signed an agreement on May 17, 2023, to build the Rasht-Astara railroad in Gilan province in northern Iran. Nine stations will be built on the Rasht-Astara railroad line, which is about 163 kilometers long. With the completion of this railroad, the North-South international corridor will be improved, and Iran's railroad network will be integrated with Caucasus countries, Russia, and Northern European countries. According to the agreement, the Russian side is expected to spend 1.6 billion euros for the construction of this railroad. This railroad will be built and completed within 48 months. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 14. Iran is preparing to start construction of the Rasht-Astara railway as part of the International North-South Transport Corridor, Minister of Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadegh said at the International Conference on Financing and Investment Opportunities for Iran's Highway and Railway Corridors in Tehran today, Trend reports. According to her, the construction of this railway line is already nearing completion. Sadegh noted that the commissioning of this railway will connect India and Pakistan to Iran and create conditions for the full activation of the corridor. The minister added that in this way, the ports located in the south of Iran will be connected to the northern borders and the markets of the Eurasian Economic Union. The ownership of a 125-kilometer section of land for the Rasht-Astara railway line, part of the broader 162-kilometer route running through northern Iran, has already been secured from private landowners as part of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) initiative. Established through an intergovernmental agreement signed by Russia, Iran, and India on September 12, 2000, the foundation of the INSTC aims to enhance cargo transit between India and Russia, as well as to Northern and Western Europe. So far, 13 countries, including Azerbaijan, India, Iran, Russia, and Turkey, have ratified the agreement. Currently, the transport route spans over six weeks, but once the corridor becomes fully operational, this time is expected to be significantly reduced to just three weeks. The Qazvin-Rasht railroad (175 km), which became operational on March 6, 2019, serves as a vital link connecting Azerbaijans rail network with Irans railway system within the framework of the corridor. The Rasht-Astara railroad will be constructed on Iranian soil to further integrate the network. The North-South Corridor comprises three key directions within Iran: the eastern route connecting Turkmenistan and Central Asian countries, the central route linking Russia and other nations across the Caspian Sea, and the western route connecting Azerbaijan, Georgia, Russia, and Eastern Europe. Meanwhile, Russia and Iran signed an agreement on May 17, 2023, to build the Rasht-Astara railroad in Gilan Province in northern Iran. Nine stations will be built on the Rasht-Astara railroad line, which is about 163 kilometers long. With the completion of this railroad, the North-South international corridor will be improved, and Iran's railroad network will be integrated with the Caucasus countries, Russia, and Northern European countries. According to the agreement, the Russian side is expected to spend 1.6 billion euro for the construction of this railroad. This railroad will be built and completed within 48 months. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Azerbaijan's oil exports to Bulgaria surge in 2025 In 2025, Azerbaijan really hit the ground running with a notable boost in its exports of crude oil and petroleum products to Bulgaria. The export volume and value both hit the ground running, showing remarkable growth compared to the previous year. This boost shines a light on the blossoming trade relationship between the two countries. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, February 14. The President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, and the President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) Zou Jiayi on February 14, 2026, held a meeting and discussed the implementation of priority investment projects, including the construction of the Rogun HPP and the continuation of the reconstruction of the Nurek HPP, Trend reports via the press service of the President of Tajikistan. During the discussion, Emomali Rahmon, highly appreciating the current level of cooperation and the Banks contribution to the implementation of the countrys priority socio-economic development initiatives, expressed his gratitude to its leadership. The sides also emphasized that the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is one of Tajikistans key partners in building modern infrastructure and promoting a sustainable and "green" growth agenda. They further discussed prospects for expanding cooperation in the fields of energy, transport and urban infrastructure, water resource management, climate change adaptation, as well as digitalization and energy efficiency improvement. At the same time, the parties noted the importance of attracting long-term financing, improving project implementation mechanisms, and strengthening institutional capacity. Meanwhile, affirming their commitment to enhancing long-term and mutually beneficial cooperation, the sides expressed confidence that the agreements reached will give a new impetus to the further development of the strategic partnership between the Republic of Tajikistan and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 14. Kazakhstans Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov, Kyrgyzstans Energy Minister Taalaibek Ibrayev, and Uzbekistans Energy Minister Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov have discussed coordination in water and energy cooperation, Trend reports via the Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan. During a meeting in Uzbekistan, the parties reviewed the current state and prospects of trilateral cooperation in the management of water and energy resources, as well as issues related to ensuring the sustainable and balanced operation of the regional power system. Particular attention was paid to coordinating the operating regimes of generating facilities, complying with agreed water-use parameters, and developing joint approaches. In the course of the meeting, the importance of mutual support and prompt interaction during seasonal loads was emphasized, along with the need to maintain stable water regimes in transboundary rivers in the interests of energy security. The sides reaffirmed their commitment to continuing constructive dialogue and joint work in a spirit of good neighborliness aimed at strengthening the reliability of Central Asias water and energy system. A trilateral protocol formalizing the agreements reached was signed following the meeting. Iran's non-oil exports to Azerbaijan plummet in 10M2025 Irans non-oil exports to Azerbaijan decreased both in value and weight during the first ten months of the current Iranian year compared to the same period of the previous year. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 14. The efforts of countries working on regional peace, security, and the sovereignty of nations in the region are commendable, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said at the International Conference on Financing and Investment Opportunities for Iran's Highway and Railway Corridors in Tehran today, Trend reports. According to him, the presidents of Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Iraq, Egypt, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Oman, and Pakistan are trying to resolve problems through peace and stability. The Iranian president noted that no country wants war or believes it to be beneficial. "Iran has very close ties with neighboring countries. It has close ties with Azerbaijan. The peoples of Turkiye, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, and other countries have lived in harmony with each other for several thousand years," he pointed out. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel MUNICH, Germany, February 14. Trust between the United States and Europe is not irreparable and can be rebuilt over time, California Governor Gavin Newsom, told reporters on the sidelines of Munich Security Conference, Trend reports. Newsom expressed confidence in the long-term resilience of the partnership between the U.S. and Europe. I've always maintained a posture of more confidence. I don't understand this notion, this idea that somehow it's irreparable, and somehow trust has permanently been broken. It's temporary, and it will just take time to rebuild trust, he said. Commenting on global competition, particularly Chinas economic strategy, Newsom pointed to Beijings focus on industrial and technological strength. China's doubling down on statecraft, supply chains, dominating manufacturing. It's about technology, it's about innovation, he noted. MUNICH, Azerbaijan, February 14. Europe must continue strengthening its own security capabilities while maintaining transatlantic cooperation, Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs David van Weel, told reporters on the sidelines of Munich Security Conference, Trend reports. Van Weel acknowledged ongoing debates about climate policy, migration, and the role of international institutions, but emphasized that Europe must remain focused on its responsibilities. America has something to say about what we do for security, because its how America has taken care of our security. And we are responsible for that. So what we have to invest in, we have to continue with, he said. Addressing differences in domestic political approaches between the United States and Europe, he underlined the complexity of assessing internal political developments across regions. It is very difficult for us to assess what is happening in domestic politics in the United States. And the same applies to Europe, he said, adding that views can differ even within the European Union. Van Weel concluded by emphasizing the importance of shared values and cooperation. What we have to take seriously is the message we stand for together, he said. New England Patriots star Stefon Diggs pleaded not guilty on Friday to assault charges stemming from an alleged December altercation with a member of his staff. Less than a week after playing for the Patriots in their Super Bowl loss to the Seattle Seahawks, the veteran wide receiver was in court in Dedham, Massachusetts, where his lawyer said he was confident Diggs would be "completely exonerated." Diggs is facing charges of felony strangulation or suffocation and a lesser assault and battery charge against a live-in chef, according to prosecutors. He was released on personal recognizance and is due back in court on April 1. "We are confident that after the facts and evidence are reviewed in this case, he will be completely exonerated," attorney Mitchell Schuster told reporters outside the court, where Diggs's arraignment lasted less than five minutes. A police report from the Dedham Police Department says the alleged victim came to a police station on December 16 to report the incident, which she said stemmed from a pay dispute. She told police Diggs struck her in the face and tried to choke her "using the crook of his elbow around her neck," according to the report. When charges were filed on December 30, defense attorney David Meier said in a statement that Diggs "categorically denies these allegations." bb/js DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Heritage Behavioral Health Center in Decatur is looking to connect with the community. The organization will host "Stronger Together" from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, at the Decatur Public Library. The public will also have a chance to ask leaders questions about the building and what it will bring to the area. Heritage Behavioral Health Center President and CEO Mary Garrison said it is important to have these kinds of resources in central Illinois. "We're really living in a healthcare desert here in our community regarding behavioral health, and so the state has decided to invest in Heritage, and we're really honored to be able to move forward with this project and give back to the community," Garrison said. Additional information is available online. New! The latest from WAND in your inbox Sign up for our newsletters to receive breaking news and daily headlines. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. Top Stories: Man injured in Decatur drive by shooting Police: Wanted man dies by suicide after encounter with Mattoon officers Jacardia Wright signs future deal with Seahawks Woman sentenced to 10 years in DUI crash that killed 2-month-old Copyright 2026. WAND TV. All rights reserved. A very popular woman from County Waterford celebrated her 100th birthday recently in the company of family and friends, including her sister, Kitty. Hannah Hanrahan, from Doon, Ballinamult, was joined in her milestone birthday celebration by fellow residents at Dunabbey House, Dungarvan. The special occasion was also marked by the presence of Minister Mary Butler TD, who presented Hannah with a letter of congratulations and a cheque from the President of Ireland. Hannah was born on January 24th, 1926, in Glenane, Kilbrien. One of seven children born to Michael and Ellen Power, her one surviving sibling Kitty, was also present to celebrate Hannahs remarkable milestone. Over the past 100 years, Hannah has witnessed enormous change, living through a century of social, cultural and technological transformation. At her birthday party she spoke fondly of her happy youth in Kilbrien, recalling time spent with family and friends, as well as evenings enjoyed at dances and plays. It was at one such dance, held at the Halfway House in Ballymacarbry, that Hannah met her future husband, John Hanrahan of Ballinamult. Hannah and John were married in 1957 and together raised four daughters, Josephine, Eileen, Teresa and Mairead. Hannah was an active member of the Irish Countrywomens Association and was widely known as a wonderful baker. In 2017, she and John celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, however, sadly John passed away in 2018. Hannah was formerly a resident of the Padre Pio Nursing Home in Cappoquin and transferred to Dunabbey House last year. A lady of deep faith, Hannah looks forward to weekly Mass and takes part in the daily Rosary at Dunabbey. Everyone in the community wished her well on her birthday and also wished her continued great health and happiness. Deise Abu Youth Weekend, Saturday and Sunday, February 21 and 22 Deise Abu youth weekend is a celebration of creativity and participation, bringing young people and families together through music, song and dance. The focus is very much on taking part, learning from one another, and creating a lively, positive atmosphere for young musicians and dancers of different ages and abilities. Events will include workshops, sessions, performances and informal gatherings, with activity happening across a variety of local venues. Its designed to be accessible, inclusive and community-focused, something that families, visitors and the wider community can be a part of and enjoy. Aswell as a range of ticketed events from 5 to 15, there are also lots of fun free events to attend over the weekend, making it very affordable and inclusive. Find events, venue directions and whats on now over the weekend at www.cultureunderground.ie Macdara O Faolain Live, February 20, City Hall Classical music organisation Waterford Music will break with its usual programming for a concert of traditional Irish music featuring Macdara O Faolain, a native of the Ring Gaeltacht in West Waterford. The concert will take place in the Dr Mary Strangman Large Room, Waterford City. Macdara, a bouzouki player, fiddler and composer, will play with a gathering of fellow traditional musicians, including Victoria Adiiye (vocals and piano,) Maria O'Connor (cello) and David Munnelly (accordion.) Macdara and Friends will play their own arrangements of music by Bartok, Bach, O'Carolan and more. They will also play compositions by Macdara and by David Munnelly, which fuse classical, jazz, manouche and American music. Macdara is a well-known composer and collaborator in the Irish traditional music world, and he recently appeared as a guest on RTE Lyric FM's popular Marty in the Morning breakfast show. Available to book in advance at waterford-music.org. Eimhear Ni Ghlacain Live, March 13, The Haven Hotel With a growing fan base Eimhear Ni Ghlacain, has become one of the most popular artists on the Irish rebel scene. Her passionate and heartfelt renditions of our favourite ballads has earned her the title Queen of Irish Rebel , as she continues to draw crowds and sell out concerts across the globe. Tickets at thehavenhotel.com Advertisement Review Eating outCottesloe Cotts new catch: Why Tigerfish is the summers brightest hook Come for the contact high of wining and dining in a marquee neighbourhood. Stay for big-hitting dishes and drinks that reference the many tastes of Asia. Max Veenhuyzen February 14, 2026 Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A 1 / 4 The banchan plate at Tigerfish draws influence from across Asia. Jillian McHugh 2 / 4 Oysters with red nam jim sauce. Jillian McHugh 3 / 4 Banana leaf-roasted Humpty Doo baramundi with green curry. Jillian McHugh 4 / 4 Sharp cocktails such as the Cherry Possum and Rum Shiso Smash share the same pan-Asian focus as the cooking. Jillian McHugh Previous Slide Next Slide Good Food hat 15 / 20 How we score Modern Asian$$$$ Forgive me if this sounds rude, but as far as attention-grabbing headlines go, Perth gets a new modern Asian restaurant isnt likely to stop too many presses, doubly so when you consider that the newcomer in question has surfaced in a suburb not exactly renowned for the calibre of its Asian food options. (Sorry Cottesloe, we still love you.) Which makes the joyous appeal of Tigerfish the big, breezy and beautiful bar and dining room that opened in December at the Cottesloe Beach Hotel all the more remarkable. Tigerfish has opened at the iconic Cottesloe Beach Hotel. Jillian McHugh Advertisement Whereas many in the pan-Asian food and drink peloton place their trust in waving cats, different-but-same-same cooking and predictable oriental tropes to signal their intentions, the latest offering from the Prendiville Group (Sandalford Estate in the Swan Valley; Lontara on Rottnest Island) is willing to do things differently. Take, for instance, the look of the Cotts rebooted ground-floor space. Instead of taking cues (just) from Asia, Tigerfishs aesthetic also references its beachside address. Soft finishes, pastel tones and gentle curves serve as reminders that this is a place thats as much about West as it is East. If you remember venue manager Mark Rutter from his time at nearby Il Lido and the original Canteen Pizza, youll know that his approach to service is as sunny as the wines he enjoys pouring. Related Article Good Food hat 15 / 20 Review Testing the waters: a prototype for the modern WA seafood restaurant Not only have both of the above joined Rutter on his return to the Golden Triangle, hes sweetened the deal with some attractively priced sake, plus some really smart Asian-influenced cocktails from accomplished bartender Brendan Scott Grey. Advertisement But the biggest reason that Tigerfish succeeds as a modern Asian restaurant is Steven Ryu. Korean-born Ryu doesnt just oversee the kitchen, he also fits the description for modern Asian chef, not just by dint of a great resume before working at key Australasian dining rooms such as Sokyo and Cable Beach Resort, he owned restaurants in Seoul but also by his innate ability to recognise as well as create synergies between Asias myriad schools of cooking. Consider our mans banchan, the (mostly) vegetarian sides that add colour and texture to the Korean table. Here, Ryu brings both tradition blanched bean sprouts, say and innovation to the party. (The latter is represented by a fresh unfermented kimchi of coriander leaves plus more South-East Asian elements such as betel leaves and candied roasted nuts crushed into a rubble). What a way to kick things off. Tigerfish bartender Brendan Scott Grey, head chef Steven Ryu and venue manager Mark Rutter. Jillian McHugh At the other end of the meal, a summery dessert starring a shaving foam-like curl of coconut sorbet and diced mango cloaked with a cooling lychee granita proves Ryus border-crossing approach works equally well for sweets as it does savouries. Advertisement There are plenty of wins in between the start and finish line, too. Smoky fried rice and charry stems of kang kong (water spinach) licked with the liquorice perfume of Thai basil speak to a strong wok game. Fingers of cooked rice mixed with a bold red curry paste and cooked over charcoal until crunchy make for a cool riff on yakionigiri (grilled Japanese rice cakes). Grilled banana leaf barramundi gets finished with a vivid green curry thats as thick as it is fluorescent of hue. By and large, this is a kitchen that deals in big flavours: flavours that are big as Tigerfish itself, a vast, multi-zone venue that can, one of its publicists tells me, house more than 300 guests. While full houses are, Im sure, great for Tigerfishs bottom line, this more-more-more approach occasionally causes misfires. Related Article 14 / 20 Review A Turkish favourite expands to Vic Park and brings an exclusive doner with it Advertisement Plump balls of prawn meat bandaged in a puddle of coconut cream a mash-up of sui mai and laksa sound like a good time on paper but were derailed by heavy-handed seasoning. Its inevitable, I guess, that somewhere this big has to pre-shuck its oysters. Theyre fine when splashed with the zippy nam jim sauce theyre served with, but taste a little tired to enjoy au natural. I know big spaces need big food line-ups, but could Tigerfish benefit from tightening its menu? Then again, the upside of upsized menus and venues means guests have freedom to program their own adventure. Tigerfish brings fresh flavours to Cottesloe and earns a hat. Jillian McHugh An a la carte menu lets eaters cherry-pick favourites. Set menus hand the keys over to the kitchen. DJs soundtrack the walk-in bar area overlooking the ocean where sunsets and snackier things such as fish finger baos and crunchy tarts of spiced raw snapper are the stars of the show. Advertisement Tigerfish, if it wasnt obvious, is a party. Its also a party that a lot of Perth wants in on. Yes, you may have to book early to secure a prime-time table for your next WhatsApp group chat catch-up. Yes, the councils parking inspectors will be out in force. Yes, it will be loud I was both annoyed and relieved to be seated with the older Gen-X-and-above crowd in the quieter alfresco dining areas. But our waiter wasnt trying to be rude. They just had a good idea of what this particular modern (Asian) diner needed to have a good time. Advertisement The low-down Atmosphere: Cottesloe, as unlikely as it sounds, has entered Perths contemporary Asian dining chat Go-to dishes: Crispy rice cakes ($15), fried rice ($23), coconut sorbet with lychee granita and sago ($20) Drinks: Quietly accomplished, on-brand cocktails are the star of the show while spice-friendly wines and sharply priced sake play strong supporting roles Cost: About $210 for two people, excluding drinks Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant cant pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide. Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share License this article More: Cottesloe Tigerfish Perth Modern Asian Reviews Max Veenhuyzen is a journalist and photographer who has been writing about food, drink and travel for national and international publications for more than 20 years. He reviews restaurants for the Good Food Guide. Advertisement NationalWAUniversity Inside the biggest of its kind university campus in the heart of a major CBD Victoria Laurie February 15, 2026 2:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Music venues, dance stages and a world-class recital hall are among highlights of Australias newest educational building, which boasts zero noise and vibration despite its location on top of a noisy bus port and two railway tunnels in the heart of Perth. The new Edith Cowan University City Campus opened its doors to students this week, while making history as the first university campus located in Perths CBD. Edith Cowan Universitys Perth CBD campus opened this week. The $853 million, 11-storey building will also be the new home of ECUs prestigious Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, which has trained several generations of actors and musicians including Hugh Jackman, Eddie Perfect, Tim Minchin, Lucy Durack and Lisa McCune. Design leader Neil Appleton, from Lyons Architecture, says ECU City Campus is probably the biggest building of its kind in Australia. Advertisement Weve been in the educational space for 30 years, and weve never seen one this large, says Appleton, whose architectural firm also designed the Australian Catholic University in Melbourne and a large campus building in Bankstown for Western Sydney University. Related Article Education Sleepy city no more? Investors look west as ECU Perth prepares to open Whats amazing about the ECU project is that it started with a visionary idea from the university to represent the collision between business, technology and creativity, he said. Nestled inside the building, sharing teaching spaces and open plan floors with WAAPAs arts undergraduates, will be the universitys business, law and cybersecurity schools. There was a great opportunity to pursue a much larger idea about creativity, entrepreneurship and connections with industry, says Appleton. Advertisement Its designed like a mini city where there are streets and laneways in the air. You can peek a look at the work inside classrooms, and view activity from the outside. ECU vice chancellor Clare Pollock says the City Campus is one of the most extraordinary spaces that is investing in the creative and performing arts I dont know anywhere else in the world that a university campus is making that the central theme. She says that ambition is reflected in the 400-square-metre high-resolution LED screen that wraps around the main interior foyer, with digital content to be designed and programmed by ECUs student designers and performers. Even the buildings massive exterior has LED-illuminated fins across the facade for multi-storey light display. Zero noise and zero vibration were prerequisites for WAAPAs new world-class recital hall, five theatres, rehearsal rooms and stages with flooring adapted to different dance forms. Advertisement It took an army of creatives, architects and engineers to do it, admits Appleton. We adopted the box-in-box strategy where theres a completely isolated performance box inside a structural box. Its effectively a finely tuned instrument inside a prosaic structure, vibration-isolated using springs. The universitys new recital hall. More than 100 Yamaha pianos are being installed in music booths; occupying its own suite is the Aboriginal Performance Studio (which has produced screen actors like Lila McGuire, currently starring in the ABC TV series Goolagong). The Beck Square Piano, part of a collection of priceless historic pianos and 130 donated antique instruments, will also find a home in the city campus. Advertisement The Perth public will be invited to attend 300 performances and concerts throughout the year. Our brand new performance space and state-of-the-art facility will ensure WAAPA continues its place at the forefront of performing arts training, both nationally and internationally, says WAAPAs executive dean David Shirley. Jointly funded by the federal and state governments and ECU, the 65,000-square-metre campus building is also intended to bring more residential life to Perths CBD, attracting a community of more than 10,000 students and staff. The sense of Perth city in the evenings and weekends doesnt yet feel as full as you would find in Melbourne, says Appleton. As the capital furthest away from any other city, its doing pretty well but I think the building will accelerate growth. Advertisement ECUs City Campus will formally start its first semester next week. Pollock says it will mark a new era of campus activity in Australia. Were saying we are putting the arts into the centre of what we do as an organisation. Thats an extraordinarily powerful message for the university, for Perth city and for the country. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement PoliticsFederalSussan Ley The race for Farrer, and a strange saga that left the Liberals in shock Tony Wright February 14, 2026 10:46am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A If new Coalition leader Angus Taylor cares to study his history, he might learn that weird consequences can erupt and have done so, to the great shock of the Liberal Party when the voters of the vast electorate of Farrer, about to be abandoned by Sussan Ley, are asked to choose a new member. The last time things went crazy for the Liberal Party in Farrer was in 1984, and no Liberal who was around at the time is likely to have forgotten it. The byelection in Farrer precipitated by Leys decision to quit parliament following her defeat as leader is guaranteed to be Taylors first political test, and it is shaping up as a bunfight. Planes have featured in the fortunes of politicians in the sprawling NSW seat of Farrer, which is about to be vacated by Sussan Ley herself a trained pilot. The Liberal Party and the Nationals can be expected to field candidates, splitting the traditional conservative vote, a surging One Nation has announced it will enter the race, and at least one popular and battle-ready independent Michelle Milthorpe, who came second to Ley at the last election is already out of the blocks. It wouldnt be surprising if Labor chose to stay out of the contest and watch the feathers fly from a distance. Advertisement Farrer, sprawling along the Murray River from the foothills of the Snowy Mountains to the South Australian border, has always been conservative territory. Related Article Opinion Liberal Party Taylor-made Libs have three possible futures. Only one will save them Peter Hartcher Political and international editor After the electorate was founded in 1949, it spent a comfortable quarter-century in the hands of the Liberal Partys Sir David Fairbairn, wealthy grazier and minister in every Liberal cabinet until 1972. Liberal Wal Fife, a minister under Malcolm Fraser, then held the seat from 1975 to 1984, when his home town of Wagga was removed from the electorate in a redistribution, and he transferred to the seat of Hume now held by Taylor. The election for Farrer in 1984, then, was expected to be won handsomely by the Liberal candidate, the long-time mayor of Albury, John Roach. Advertisement A fellow named Tim Fischer was chosen to run for the Nationals, but his bumbling manner of speaking meant he wasnt initially taken too seriously. Roach was so confident that he happily swanned off for a trip to the Netherlands in the middle of the election campaign. The reason remains astonishing. In 1934, the citizens of Albury were credited with saving the crew of a KLM Royal Dutch Airline plane called the Uiver. The plane became lost in a storm over the upper Murray during the London to Melbourne air race, an event followed keenly by people throughout the world. Advertisement With the situation growing ever more desperate, the Albury town engineer used the towns electric lighting system to flash morse code into the night sky, hoping to catch the attention of the Uivers captain. The local radio stations announcer, Cleaver Bunton, went on air and called on everyone with a car to drive urgently to the racecourse and line up to create a makeshift landing strip lit with their headlights. The Uiver being hauled from the mud in Albury. Fairfax Media Amazingly, the Uiver, guided by the lights, landed safely. It became bogged, but the following morning, townsfolk dug it out and pushed it to solid ground. The plane took off and won the race by handicap. It caused a world sensation. Advertisement Fifty years later, the Dutch government announced it would present a medal honouring the city of Albury. Related Article Political leadership Therell be nothing left of the Liberal Party: Inside the downfall of Sussan Ley Alderman John Roach, Albury mayor and Liberal candidate for Farrer, flew to the Netherlands to accept the honour, leaving behind the election campaign. In Roachs absence, Fischer turned out to be a very canny candidate for the Nationals. He hurtled around the electorate, meeting voters during brief stops in every small town and district, earning the nickname Two Minute Tim. Advertisement He even hired a venerable plane, the Silver City, formerly the VIP aircraft used by BHP executives, loaded it with journalists including me, as I was employed by the Albury Border Morning Mail at the time and took his campaign to the air. When Roach returned from the Netherlands, I met him at Albury airport, inquired about whether hed enjoyed his overseas jaunt, and asked whether he realised he was about to lose his tilt for Farrer. He wasnt happy and, unsurprisingly, berated me for asking such an impudent question. Tim Fischer, pictured in 1986, won the NSW seat of Farrer for the Nationals two years earlier after the Liberal contender for the seat flew to the Netherlands mid-campaign. Bruce Miller Sure enough, a few days later Fischer became the member for Farrer. He held it comfortably until 2001, when he retired and Ley won it back for the Liberal Party. Advertisement Angus Taylor, having been handed a particularly awkward byelection by Sussan Ley, the leader he defeated on Friday, might advise whoever is chosen as the Liberal candidate to check their travel diaries and cancel any trip west of the South Australian border or east of the upper Murray. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter. LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) After nearly four decades, investigators identified an infant, only known as "Baby Doe," who was found dead in southern Indiana. The Dubois County Prosecutor Beth Schroeder said Friday the identification of the baby, who was found dead at Monastery Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand, Indiana in 1987, is the result of advances in DNA technology. The child's mother, who was a juvenile at the time, was previously charged with murder and voluntary manslaughter. Authorities noted the pregnancy was "unintended." "While the legal process moves forward, officials have emphasized the need to approach this case with sensitivity and compassion," Schroeder said in a release. The prosecutor said additional details will not be released at this time out of respect and ongoing investigation. Top Stories: 6 people facing more than 100 charges for illegally killing animals in alleged poaching ring Louisville family sues Masonic Homes after father found dead outside rehab facility Okolona neighbors want egg-throwing vandals caught after string of property damage Woman charged after package of drug-filled Lego pieces intercepted at Louisville's airport Copyright 2026 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved. The fate that befell Belmullet man Stephen Lavelle last month is the type of thing that ought to be a tipping point in discussions around reform of emergency care in Ireland. However, the sad reality is that the issues that arose in Mr Lavelles death are not new and it remains to be seen how much will actually change. Mr Lavelle became gravely ill in Binghamstown on Saturday night, January 10. An ambulance was called but despite several follow-up calls, no ambulance arrived. A doctor was called who described it as a category one emergency. Despite this, there was still no sign of an ambulance. The doctor told the family they had to get Stephen to the hospital as soon as possible. The family carried Stephen to a car to begin the 56-mile journey to Castlebar. An ambulance met the car merely three miles from the hospital. In the car Stephen was screaming in pain and his daughter-in-law had to perform CPR on him. At the hospital, Stephens pulse came back after eight minutes of CPR. He was ventilated and brought to the intensive care unit but, sadly, passed away the following morning. An inquest may reveal whether a more timely ambulance could have been the difference between life and death. At this point, it is impossible to make any conclusions in that regard but it serves to highlight a huge problem in our health service. Without knowing the specifics of why there was no ambulance available for Stephen Lavelle, it is no surprise, sadly, that something like this could occur given what we know and the alarm bells that have been rung by many unions on behalf of frontline workers in recent years. Dr Lisa Cunningham is an emergency consultant at Mayo University Hospital as well as being a flight medic. As such, she is among the best possible people placed to speak on this issue. With the permission of Stephen Lavelles family, she shared that story on social media, describing it as the reality on any given day in Ireland. How abandoned would you feel? How isolated, how vulnerable, how frustrated, how worried? All of these emotions while you are in a car trying to get your way to Castlebar hospital, she said. Talk to anyone working in emergency care in Mayo and they too will express grave sorrow but little surprise at what happened. When it comes to the National Ambulance Service, there are a number of concerns which have been frequently raised. They include a 20 percent increase in call volume, hospital handover delays, staffing shortages and, when you put those three together, the issue of staff welfare in terms of stress and burnout is unsurprising. Hospital handover delays are a big problem in Mayo because Mayo University Hospitals Emergency Department is the bottleneck around which so many problems exist in emergency care in the county. It is quite common for half a dozen or more ambulances to be backed up at the side of the Emergency Department, waiting for the admission of the people they have ferried to MUH. If a critical case arrives in an ambulance, then they will rightly jump the queue and get seen to. But a problem arises if there are so many ambulances waiting and a critical emergency, like what happened Stephen Lavelle, occurs on the periphery of the county. The ambulance from the Belmullet base may be tied up and redirecting one from Castlebar, Ballina or Mulranny may not be possible due to previous call outs. Logjams frequently happen at MUH, meaning instead of being responsive, many ambulances and their crews are left sitting idle outside the hospital. I experienced this myself when my son was brought by ambulance from Achill to MUH suffering from pneumonia three years ago this month. There were seven ambulances parked up with patients on board ahead of us. His condition was such that it was deemed necessary to jump the queue. Now part of me felt guilty about this - were too polite sometimes - but when it is your son and the medics look concerned, worries about what others may think do not take long to dissipate. It was an extremely busy day in MUH. So much so that while there was one last space for us to slot into in the Emergency Department, there was no bed or trolley left. The place was heaving. So my son was wheeled in and assessed on his ambulance stretcher. Nursing staff were being pushed beyond the limits of their capacity. One nurse asked that the department be put off call, which means any more ambulance calls would have to be directed to hospitals in Galway or Sligo. You could see the need for it on the day but the request was refused by hospital management. Despite the pressures they were under, the nursing staff were incredible in the care and kindness they showed and in making the right decisions in my sons treatment. After three hours, he was admitted and sent up to the Pediatric Department. But while we waited for that, the ambulance stretcher was where my son was treated. That was no hardship at all for us I was delighted we got in the door at all when I saw what was going on around us. But it meant that the ambulance crew had to wait in the Emergency Department for over two hours until the stretcher was returned to them. You would hope there was no emergency in that time. Many more of their colleagues were waiting much longer outside waits of over eight hours at MUH are not uncommon for ambulance crews. How is an ambulance service supposed to be responsive when they are detained so long and inefficiently at MUH? Thankfully, our son made a full recovery and was home within the week but it was an extremely revealing insight to the reality on the ground. A reality I had reported on for several years from speaking to people working on the frontline but there is nothing like seeing it with your own eyes to fully appreciate the extent of the issue. And we were among the lucky ones, his care was not compromised. There are many contributing issues that create hospital overcrowding but a constant is bed capacity. If there are no beds available in wards, then patients who come through the doors of the Emergency Department and need admission are technically admitted but often remain in the Emergency Department, which in turn shrinks the capacity there and creates the bottleneck. Ireland is an outlier in this regard by European standards. Despite our per capita health spend being 17 percent above the EU average, the European Commission Health Profile for Ireland in 2025 reported that acute care capacity is constrained: hospital bed density is 43 percent below the EU average, and Ireland records the EUs highest bed occupancy rate. In short, when it comes to hospital beds, demand outstrips supply in Ireland to a greater extent than most EU countries. This creates backlogs when it comes to waiting times for elective surgery but, more particularly, a major constraint when it comes to a streamlined emergency department. Which often means people are left waiting for hours in the waiting room or, more pertinently, ambulances are backed up at the side of the Emergency Department, stuck there, which then creates a shortage and a lack of adequate responsiveness. A lack of a minor injuries clinic in Mayo and a reduction in GP accessibility aggravates the issue, sending more and more people to an already constrained MUH Emergency Department, in many cases by ambulance. Change is badly needed. The issue of what happened to Stephen Lavelle was raised in the Dail by Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald while Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh has spoken on it too. The Government has stood by and allowed this to happen. And its ordinary people - in their most desperate, most vulnerable moments - who pay the price. No family should ever have to go through what Stephen Lavelle and his family went through on that awful night, said Deputy Conway-Walsh. It is hard to argue with that. Nigers Defence and Security Forces (FDS) said on Wednesday they had neutralised about 20 militants following an attack on their position in Makalondi, in the Torodi department of the Tillaberi region, near the border with Burkina Faso. According to the armys weekly bulletin published by state-run media outlet Le Sahel, security forces also destroyed around a dozen motorcycles and seized various weapons and military equipment during the counter-operation. The assault took place at approximately 4:00 p.m. local time (1500 GMT) on February 4, when armed assailants targeted a joint FDS position in Makalondi. Reinforcements, backed by air and ground units, were deployed to contain and repel the attack. The army reported that three FDS personnel were killed and seven others injured in the clashes. Defence Minister Salifou Mody conveyed condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and wished the injured a swift recovery. April Watson (right), longtime chief deputy director of the McCracken County Emergency Management department, officially entered the role of emergency management director Friday. This follows the resignation of Rob Estes (left), who held the position for nearly five years, and is leaving to take a teaching position at the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training in Richmond, Kentucky. Andy Friends 2025 book Comrades in Art: Artists Against Fascism 19331943 underpins the current Tate Britain display Artists International: The First Decade and will form the basis of a larger exhibition at the Towner gallery Eastbourne, Comrades in Art: Artists Against Fascism, running from May 7 to October 18, 2026. Comrades in Art traces how artists in Britain responded to a decade of political and cultural upheavalthe rise of fascism, the Spanish Civil War, World War II and the Cold War. Comrades in Art, 2025, Andy Friend [Photo: Thames & Hudson] At the centre of Friends narrative is the Artists International Association (AIA), founded in Britain in 1933 by a small group of radical, largely workingclass youth, refugees and exiles. In its early phase many members genuinely looked to revolutionary changean orientation that was later crushed by the rise of Stalinism and the Popular Front policies it imposed on the communist parties and their periphery. Friend reconstructs the AIAs emergence. Cartoonist James Holland recalled that the collapse of patronage after World War I and widespread impoverishment compelled artists to use their abilities to discredit a system that makes art and culture dependent on the caprices of the money markets. Many of these young artists saw in the Soviet Union the only existing society attempting to reorganise culture on a noncapitalist basis. Andy Friend during a tour of the exhibition at the Tate Modern, London [Photo: Andy Friend] Yet the trajectory Friend ultimately records is not the AIAs revolutionary promise but its political capitulation to the Popular Frontthe direct outcome of the Stalinist bureaucratic counterrevolution. Rooted in Russias economic backwardness, the isolation of the Soviet state after the defeat of revolutions abroad, the devastation of civil war, and the rise of a privileged bureaucratic caste, Stalinismwith its stated goal of building socialism in one country as an alternative to the perspective of world socialist revolutiontransformed the Bolshevik Party and the Comintern from organs of proletarian internationalism into diplomatic and political instruments for defending bureaucratic interests. The Comintern enforced classcollaborationist Popular Front alliances with progressive bourgeois forces and suppressed independent revolutionary currents, a process Leon Trotsky, the Left Opposition and the Fourth International fought in the face of ferocious repression. Culturally, this political turn meant dissolving explicitly revolutionary artistic groupings into broad, politically diluted coalitions; subordinating experimentation to propaganda; and elevating ideological conformity over critical and creative integrity. In Britain the AIA mirrored this Popular Front turn: the revolutionary sentiments that animated early reports by its leading founders Clifford Rowe and Pearl Binder after visits to the Soviet Union gradually gave way to institutional compromise and crossclass coalitions. Friend vividly describes those early, militant years. Rowe, already a political artistas shown by his cover for The Spirit of Invergordon, commemorating the 1931 naval mutinyspent 18 months in Moscow in the early 1930s. There he encountered a visual culture mobilised for mass education and political agitation, reinforcing his belief that art could function as a collective social force. His mural, The Struggle between the Unemployed and the Police Forces, produced for the Red Armys fifteenth anniversary celebrations and depicting the brutal repression of the British Hunger Marches, exemplified art committed to class struggle. Cliff Rowe, The Struggle between the Unemployed and the Police Forces, 193233. Collection of Borys Voznytskyi, Lviv National Art Gallery, Ukraine [Photo by Anna Sandra Thornberry, daughter of Clifford Hooper Rowe] Binder, born in Salford to a Russian Jewish tailor, was struck by the popular enthusiasm for art she witnessed in the Soviet Union among Red Army soldiers, housewives, street sweepers, shopkeepers, teachers and children. Her 1935 lithograph Russian Railway Journey beautifully captures that sympathy. Pearl Binder, Russian Railway Journey, lithograph, 1935 [Photo by Estate of Pearl Binder] Both rejected the Stalinist doctrine that later hardened into Socialist Realism, recognising it as doctrinal constraint that stifled experimentation and reduced artists to mere propagandists. Friend tells the story of Edith Simon (19172003), a Berlinborn Jewish refugee who became the youngest founding member of the AIA at 16, who recalled the electrifying sense of purpose the organisation offered: the belief that art could help revolutionise society, that artistic values were inseparable from social values, and that integrating art into everyday life could enhance both. Friend foregrounds the AIAs lively political cartooningparticularly the work of the Three Jameses (Holland, Fitton, Boswell). James Fitton produced early works including his 1928 May Day lithograph and his Constructiviststyle 1930 Russian Oil Products poster (pic 6). His 1935 Trapeze II fused political commitment with graphic discipline and popular spectacle. Fittons wife Margaret produced less political, more domestic and lyrical artworks exemplified by Rhubarb Pie. James Fitton, May Day, lithograph, 1928 [Photo by Estate of James Fitton] New Zealandborn James Boswell (19061971), influenced by German satirists, became one of the AIAs sharpest graphic voices. His illustrations for Left Review, including His Majestys Servants, lampooned state surveillance and undercover policing. Boswell was the only cardcarrying Communist Party of Great Britain (CPGB) member at the founding meeting. Another key figure was Peter Laszlo Peri (18991967), a Hungarian Jewish sculptor shaped by Constructivism and political exile, who introduced innovative concrete sculptureexemplified by his 1938 work Fishingand a commitment to workingclass representation. Peter Laszlo Peri, Fishing, pigmented concrete, 1938 [Photo by Estate of Peter Laszlo Peri] Early AIA activityposters, cartoons, book jackets and exhibitions confronting hunger, repression, war and unemploymenttreated art explicitly as a weapon in the class struggle. Comrades in Art testifies to this militant practice, reproducing several images from the 1934 cartoon book, Why We Are Marching! published for that years Hunger March, including Rowes cover design and Roy Lauriers It is a Fascist Scheme! satirising the National Governments Unemployment Bill and pernicious Means Test. After 1935 the AIA expanded rapidlyfrom roughly 30 founders to nearly a 1,000 members, including establishment figures such as Augustus John, Henry Moore, Paul Nash, and Laura Knight. The slogan Unity of Artists against Fascism, War and the Suppression of Culture was adopted. This rebranding coincided with the organisations full alignment with the Popular Front strategy. Its tragic consequences were revealed most starkly in Spain: the deaths of volunteers such as AIA member Felicia Brownewhose drawings of Republican militia appear in Comrades in Artand the collapse of revolutionary proletarian resistance under crossclass alliances stand as reminders of the human cost when antifascism is channelled into classcollaborationist politics. Felicia Browne, Drawings of Republican militia and supporters, 1936. [Photo by Tate Archive] Friend also highlights more oppositional figures who joined the AIA, including Viscount Jack Hastings, an Etoneducated aristocrat who broke with his class, absorbed Trotskyist ideas while apprenticing himself to the Mexican artist Diego Rivera, and attempted to bring that revolutionary visual politics back to Britain. Hastings never matched Riveras power, but his mural The Worker of the Future Clearing Away the Chaos of Capitalism at the Marx Memorial Library remains a rare British attempt to fuse muralism with an explicitly anticapitalist message. Jack Hastings, The Worker of the Future clearing away the Chaos of Capitalism, 1935, Ben Sutherland, Public domain, CC by 2.0 In 1937, the AIAs Unity of Artists exhibition and its Artists Congress in Support of Peace, Democracy and Cultural Development were hailed as major antifascist mobilisations but exposed the full consequences of the Popular Front turn. The AIA was now a broad, politically diluted coalition that had abandoned any residual independent socialist perspective and craved establishment approval. The Congress echoed Popular Front resolutions, ignoring the dangers of class collaboration. Guernica in Spain was destroyed by Nazi bombers the day after it ended. AIA Unity of Artists 1937 Exhibition and Artists Congress poster [Photo by Tate Archive] The twists and turns of Stalinist foreign policy had extraordinarily disorienting effects. The abrupt announcement of the StalinHitler Pact in 1939 led the AIA to define the Second World War as an inter-imperialist conflict. But after Hitlers invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941 the war was recast as a patriotic Peoples War in alliance with Britain, France and the United States. Wartime cultural mobilisationseen in Fitton, Rowe, Binder and others turning toward moraleboosting imageryculminated in the 1943 Art for Liberty exhibition, which adopted President Roosevelts Four Freedoms as its theme, a set of universal rights he claimed would shape the postwar world while legitimising emerging US hegemony. The AIAs wartime incorporation into establishment propaganda fed directly into post1945 reconstruction and the stabilisation of British capitalism, a trajectory that continued until the organisations dissolution in 1971. Friends book restores neglected artists and episodes to view, but it sidesteps the central narrative of Stalinist degeneration and Popular Front opportunism that defined the 1930s. The Popular Front did not advance socialist revolution; it demobilised the working class, drawing artists into crossclass projects that upheld capitalist property relations and the state, thereby betraying the revolutionary horizons many early AIA members had imagined. The Starmer governments proscription of Palestine Action (PA) as a terrorist organisation has been ruled unlawful by the High Court. The antiGaza genocide direct action group was banned in July 2025, with then Home Secretary Yvette Cooper telling Parliament its peaceful protests particularly targeting weapons manufacturers met the statutory definition for terrorism under the Terrorism Act and posed a threat to national security. Just 25 MPs voted against the order. Pro-Palestine activists and supporters celebrate the decision outside the High Court in London, February 13, 2026 Since that time, nearly 3,000 people have been arrested for merely indicating support for the organisation. Police have broadcast warnings not to do so at mass demonstrations. The terrorist label has seen individuals accused of participating in Palestine Action protests prior to the ban subjected to lengthy and draconian imprisonment on remand ahead of trial for criminal damage against Israeli arms suppliers and one UK military plane. Eight young people risked their lives in hunger strikes protesting the ban and their treatment by prison authorities. This was politically criminala dictatorial attempt to intimidate and repress popular opposition to the Israeli state and its genocide of the Palestinians, and the support given by British imperialism. Now the UKs highest court has been forced to admit it was unlawful. Current Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she was disappointed with the ruling and disagreed with the notion that banning this terrorist organisation is disproportionate. She will appeal the decision and PA remains proscribed at least until a hearing later in the month. The text of the judgment contains such phrases as Palestine Action is an organisation that promotes its political cause through criminality and encouragement of criminality and A very small number of Palestine Actions activities amounted to acts of terrorism within the definition. Where the High Court Justices demurred was that For these, and for Palestine Actions other criminal activities, the general criminal law remains available. The nature and scale of Palestine Actions activities falling within the definition of terrorism had not yet reached the level, scale and persistence to warrant proscription. Nevertheless, this is still a tremendous defeat for the Labour government. It has spent vast amounts of money and political capital in the course of its anti-democratic campaign spearheaded by the outlawing of Palestine Action. Hours of screen time and reams of articles have been used by ministers and their flunkies in the press to demonise the organisation. Millions have been spent on policing operations which have seen footage widely broadcast of elderly and disabled protesters being bundled away for quietly holding placards. The government has ignored letters of protest from international human rights organisations and United Nations officials. A woman is arrrested and dragged away by police This crackdown was supposed to have been rubber stamped by the courts. Clearly the Justices sympathies are with the government. However, they have intervened to sound a note of caution that its attacks on democratic rights are brazen and are seen as suchat a time when Labour is massively unpopular and mired in crisis over its links with the criminal oligarchy, embodied by the Mandelson-Epstein affair. The acquittal by a jury of six PA-associated defendants last week will have set alarm bells ringing in the ruling class. The activists broke into Israeli arms manufacturer Elbit Systems factory at Filton, near Bristol, to dismantle weapons and equipment. They were being tried for aggravated burglary, criminal damage and in the case of two defendants, violent disorder. This related to an altercation with a police officer, which saw one of these individuals also charged with grievous bodily harm. During the trial, judge Mr. Justice Johnson told jurors to disregard their views on the conflict in the Middle East. He barred any hearing of evidence related to Elbits contribution to the Israeli war in Gaza. In addition, in the Guardians reporting, one juror asked the judge whether it would count as a lawful excuse if a defendant believed they were performing a life-saving action by destroying weapons used to kill civilians in an illegal genocide. Johnson said it would not. Despite the judges directions and the torrent of slander in the media portraying the PA activists as violent thugs, the jury deliberated for over 36 hours and delivered verdicts of not guilty on aggravated burglary, while not reaching a verdict on the other charges. With multiple PA-protest trials set to go ahead this year, the threat of more acquittals was real. Under these conditions, the magistrates set to try the large numbers of people accused simply of expressing support for Palestine Action would be under enormous pressure, and the legal system would be brought into disrepute by such nakedly political prosecutions. What is taking place in the courts is the tip of an iceberg of popular hostility to the Labour government, its support for Israel and its draconian agenda. It must now find broader expression. Mass opposition has been kept passive by the leadership of the movement against the Gaza genocide, the Palestine Coalition, which has limited action to routine protests and moral appeals, while championing supine Corbynites, Labour lefts and trade union bureaucrats as anti-war leaderseven those like John McDonnell openly supporting NATOs efforts in Ukraine. Resistance has therefore largely taken the form of defensive actions like legal cases and the actions organised by civil rights group Defend Our Juries. This must now pass over into a counteroffensive against the governments attack on democratic rights and support for oppression around the worldone which fuses the spirit of urgency and self-sacrifice which has animated PA protesters with a perspective for the broad mobilisation of millions. The immediate demands of that movement must be: Drop all charges against pro-Palestine activists and supporters, with formal apologies and financial recompense given. End the proscription on Palestine Action and all measures to suppress free speech. Make public all documents relating to the decision to proscribe Palestine Action, including discussions with Israeli officials and the US Trump administration. Remove from their positions all ministers and government officials responsible for violating democratic rights. Repeal all laws infringing the right to protest, beginning with the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act (2022), the Public Order Act (2023), and the whole suite of counter-terror legislation. Fighting for these demands means taking up a political struggle against a Labour government totally committed to its reactionary agenda, at home and abroad. As the Socialist Equality Party has argued in a recent statement, this means building a revolutionary socialist opposition: The eruption of trade and military war means an end to social compromise and democratic rule and a turn to class war, state repression and right-wing reaction. This finds its most developed expressions in Trumps efforts to erect a fascist dictatorship in the United States, the promotion of far-right parties across Europe, the predatory imperialist war in Ukraine, the Gaza genocide, and the advanced preparations for regime change in Iran. The new party the working class needs must be built according to these political realities. Its task is the industrial and political mobilisation of the working class, independently of all sections of the labour and trade union bureaucracy, including its left flank now organised as Corbyn and Sultanas Your Party. The wave of opposition to the proscription of PA, and the persistence of anti-genocide protests, demonstrate the real balance of forces in the country, leaving the Labour government deeply isolated. The problem facing its opponents is not one of powerlessness or lack of determination, but of political organisation. This is the fight which must now be taken up. *** WSWS reporters spoke to some of those gathered outside the court. Retail worker Mae said the decision proved 'each of these actions they [government] have taken, especially the prescription of Palestine Action and the arrests made subsequently to that, are completely illegal.' Ginny, a now retired National Health Service consultant said, Ive been arrested five times for holding signs like this for terrorism. Moroccos King Mohammed VI presided over the launch of a major Safran Landing Systems manufacturing plant in Nouaceur industrial zone of Midparc, near Casablanca, marking a fresh expansion of the countrys fastgrowing aerospace industry. The facility, set to become one of Safrans largest global centers for landinggear systems, will be built over 7 hectares and will focus on highprecision machining, advanced assembly, testing, certification and maintenance operations for landinggear systems used on Airbus A320 aircraft, MAP reported. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Safran Chairman Ross McInnes said the new plant follows the recent inauguration of the groups aircraftengine industrial complex and will house some of the companys most strategic hightechnology processes. The site aims to support rapid production of Airbuss A320 family and prepare for nextgeneration short and mediumhaul aircraft, he added. The project represents an investment of more than 280 million and is expected to create 500 jobs once fully operational. The facility will be powered entirely by decarbonized energy, and Safran expects it to attract additional suppliers to Moroccos aerospace ecosystem, he said. Industry Minister Ryad Mezzour said the project underscores Moroccos rise over the past two decades into a competitive global aeronautics platform, supported by a skilled workforce and expanding industrial infrastructure. Safran, a longstanding partner of Morocco with more than 25 years of local operations, has played a central role in that development, he noted. Safran, the worlds top maker of narrowbody aircraft engines and the thirdlargest aerospace supplier globally, continues to deepen its footprint in Morocco, underlining the countrys strengthening position in global aerospace value chains. In October, Safran announced the setting up of Moroccos first aircraft engine manufacturing complex in Nouaceur. Nithya Raman, a sitting member of the Los Angeles City Council and a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, announced her candidacy for mayor of Los Angeles. Entering the race well into the election cycle, Raman is attempting to position herself as a change agent prepared to challenge the citys political establishment. Los Angeles Councilmember Nithya Raman talks during a press conference in the North Hollywood section of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024. [AP Photo/Richard Vogel] Raman declared her candidacy after growing frustrated that as a councilmember she could not adequately help constituents with basic issues such as long-delayed streetlight repairs. Ive hit up against my limitations as a council member, she said. To make sure departments are doing their job and to meet the incredible moment of crisis and challenge facing Los Angeles, she argued, we need to be doing something differently at the very top. She described Los Angeles as at a breaking point, asserting that city agencies cant seem to manage the basics, and that residents feel this breakdown in the most basic ways. While expressing deep respect and significant alignment with Mayor Karen Bass, she insisted that major operational changes are needed. Raman has indicated that her campaign will center on housing and homelessness, government accountability and transparency, and improving public safety. She touts her districts record of clearing large encampments by moving people indoors, into housing. At the same time, she criticizes the existing system as very expensive and lacking clarity, accountability, and data and metrics for oversight, warning that without these the city will continue to spend money without results. She links the citys fiscal management to its inability to perform basic services, arguing that unresolved budget issues are preventing even simple repairs like fixing streetlights. These themes are crafted to present Raman as an outsider challenging dysfunction. But Raman is not an external critic of city governance; she is an integral part of it. Since taking office in 2020, she has voted for budgets, policing allocations and restructuring measures that have deepened the very crises she now invokes as justification for her candidacy. The poverty, homelessness and deteriorating public infrastructure afflicting working class Angelenos are the predictable outcome of policies advanced by the Democratic Party establishment, including its self-styled socialist wing. Her entry into the race also comes as other figures associated with the DSA, including Rae Huang, seek to posture as alternatives within the same political framework. The multiplication of nominally socialist candidacies reflects the Democratic Partys effort to provide multiple outlets through which opposition can be channeled back into safe, electoral forms. The political significance of Ramans campaign lies in the anxieties gripping sections of the ruling elite. Mayor Basss record was marked by expanded police funding, intensified encampment sweeps and anti-worker measures, including the firing of city employees under the banner of fiscal responsibility, generating widespread discontent. Basss handling of Januarys wildfires further fueled public outrage, coming on the heels of budget cuts to the fire department and the failure to fill critical vacancies, which left the city ill-prepared to confront escalating climate-driven emergencies. In public addresses, Bass has combined language about compassion with law-and-order initiatives and budgetary austerity. Lt. Matt Phillips, left, from Kitsap County firefighting strike team from Bainbridge Island, Wash., directs his crew while checking homes for structural issues in the aftermath of the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles on Friday. January 17, 2025. [AP Photo/Richard Vogel] Significantly, Raman voted in favor of most reactionary measures spearheaded by Bass, such as the declaration of fiscal emergency last summer, passed unanimously by the city council, that prepared the destruction of hundreds of jobs. Under conditions of extreme inequality, the ruling class fears that anger over housing costs, homelessness, low wages and decaying social services is erupting outside the carefully managed channels of official politics. Ramans candidacy serves to construct a left safety valve within the Democratic Party, absorbing opposition while preventing it from developing into an independent movement of the working class. Experience elsewhere underscores this dynamic. In New York, DSA member Zohran Mamdani entered office proclaiming progressive credentials. Yet almost immediately after being elected mayor, Mamdani declared his intention to pursue a partnership with President Donald Trump, signaling his willingness to collaborate with the very billionaires he had ostensibly opposed. Ramans own record underscores the hollowness of her claims. Though often described as a champion of tenants and unhoused residents, she supported the restructuring of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), a move that opens the door wider to private contractors and funnels public funds into corporate hands. The measure, backed by all DSA-aligned councilmembers, further entrenched the model of outsourcing social services to nonprofit and for-profit entities with minimal democratic oversight. As a councilmember, she initially backed Measure ULA, the mansion tax, which taxed high-value property sales to fund affordable housing and tenant programs. Yet she soon pivoted, leading efforts to carve out exemptions for new multifamily and commercial projects. Claiming the tax slowed housing construction, she moved with Mayor Bass to appease developers, even as critics warned the changes could strip over $100 million from the very programs the measure was meant to support, an unmistakable signal of her alignment with real estate interests over social need. Ramans stance on Israel and Palestine provoked disgust, including an intense crisis within the DSA itself. She pursued and accepted an endorsement from Democrats for Israel Los Angeles, leading to her censure by the organization she nominally represents. While presenting herself as a progressive, Raman aligned with a pro-Zionist formation tied to the foreign policy consensus of the Democratic Party establishment. Raman represents some of the citys affluent districts. Her appeals to renters and working families are framed in technocratic language about metrics, efficiency and oversight rather than in any challenge to real estate speculation or corporate power. Despite branding herself as a reformer, she has consistently operated within pro-corporate parameters, promoting public-private partnerships and incremental adjustments instead of structural change. The response from Yvonne Wheeler, president of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, which denounced Raman as a political opportunist, exposed the union bureaucracys fears that even a nominally socialist campaign could draw attention to the citys underlying class divisions, its juxtaposition of tent encampments and luxury towers, of stagnant wages and concentrated wealth. A homeless man pushes a shopping cart full of his belongings across an intersection in the Skid Row area of Los Angeles. [AP Photo/Jae C. Hong] Los Angeles epitomizes contemporary American inequality. Entire neighborhoods are wracked by homelessness and precarious employment, while a thin stratum of 56 billionaires and 516 centimillionaires exerts decisive influence over municipal policy. Between 2014 and 2024, Los Angeles, now the fifth-wealthiest city in the world, saw its millionaire population grow by 35 percent. The union apparatus, far from organizing a struggle against this order, functions as a partner within it. Its leaders negotiate concessions, police worker dissent and channel discontent back into Democratic Party campaigns. Ongoing labor struggles across California underscore the fragility of this arrangement. Nurses, teachers, retail workers and graduate students have all mounted significant actions over wages, staffing and working conditions. A growing awareness of collective power threatens to extend beyond the cautious confines imposed by union officials. The denunciation of Raman is bound up with fears that political discontent could converge with industrial militancy. Other DSA-affiliated officials reinforce this dynamic. Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez, frequently cited as part of the citys progressive bloc, has functioned as a loyal ally of Bass, backing budgets and policing measures. The so-called left wing of the council operates as a loyal flank, providing progressive cover for policies fundamentally aligned with business interests. Ramans campaign thus emerges at a moment of mounting instability. By presenting herself as both aligned with Bass and distinct from her, she attempts to straddle a widening divide. She invokes crisis and dysfunction while avoiding any critique of the capitalist framework that produces them. She emphasizes managerial competence to reduce systemic social breakdown to administrative failure. But the real crisis confronting Los Angeles is not one of bureaucratic inefficiency. It is rooted in a social order that subordinates housing, healthcare and public services to profit. No rearrangement of city management, no rebranding of Democratic Party leadership and no proliferation of DSA-aligned candidacies can resolve the contradiction between immense private wealth and mass deprivation. The working class does not require a new change agent within the same political machinery. It requires an independent political movement, grounded in genuine socialist principles, that rejects the subordination of social needs to market imperatives. The emergence of such a movement is precisely what sections of the ruling class and their allies in the union bureaucracy seek to forestall. In this Oct. 12, 2020 photo, a worker heads into the JBS meatpacking plant in Greeley, Colorado. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File) Workers at the JBS meatpacking plant in Greeley, Colorado, the third largest beef plant in the US, voted 99 percent in favor of strike action this past week. The largely immigrant workforce endures extremely hazardous conditions for extremely low pay, with the constant threat of deportation by ICE agents. At the beginning of the month, many of the immigrant workforce were scheduled to lose Temporary Protected Status (TPS), at the direction of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, before a US District Court judge paused the termination on February 2. Many of the workers reported the presence of unmarked vans driving around voting sites which they believed contained ICE agents. By voting in favor of strike action, the JBS workers are taking a highly courageous stand and joining a growing wave of resistance to both the international jobs bloodbath currently underway along with the Trump administrations plans for war and dictatorship. The final decision to strike is anticipated to take place on February 20, the one day JBS is willing to negotiate a new contract, according to union officials. The last contract for the UFCW workers expired in July, although the union and the company extended the contract. Should an agreement not be reached, the union could elect to end the extension with seven days notice, meaning that the workers could begin striking on February 27 under these terms. In language intended to mask a sellout in the works, however, UFCW Local 7 President and Vice President of UFCW International Kim Cordova stated that If JBS does not return to the bargaining table and they dont resolve the unfair labor practices, then we will pull the extension. Only last summer, Local 7 betrayed a powerful strike by Colorado grocery workers at both the Safeway and King Soopers chains, crafting concessionary agreements behind the backs of picketers. Should workers press forward with the JBS strike, it would be the first in the plants history and also the first major strike of meatpacking workers since the 1985-86 Hormel strike in Minnesota. That struggle, like the PATCO and Phelps Dodge strikes the same decade, was a milestone in the conversion of the trade unions into instruments of corporate management. The UFCW cut off benefits to the striking Hormel workers and replaced the local P-9 union with a scab local in order to ratify a sellout agreement. Conditions at the plants have only steadily eroded since. Even with injuries and deaths common in US factories, the JBS Greeley plant itself stands out as a particularly notorious example. In 2020, at least six workers at the plant died from COVID-19, with management refusing to shut the plant down. The first Trump administration had issued an executive order to keep meat processing plants open despite rampaging infections and deaths. JBS then rejected hundreds of workers compensation claims despite numerous fatalities and cases of Long COVID. Since then, workers have regularly sustained severe injuries at the plant, including lost limbs and even deaths, as the company imposes longer hours with fewer breaks. Whenever workers would complain about such harsh conditions, the company retaliated severely, with the UFCW doing nothing to defend either union or non-union plant workers. The strike vote also follows a class action lawsuit filed against JBS in December. The suit alleges that the workers, especially those migrating from Haiti, were hired under false pretenses. Workers were lured to immigrate to the US in late 2023 via social media with promises of steady, good-paying work and free housing. Instead, they were forced to cram into small motel rooms without heat in the winter time, while working long hours on the processing line, and were denied food and bathroom breaks. The workers hired from Haiti were assigned the B shift at night, which processes around 440 head of cattle per hour versus the usual 390 head processed in the daytime A shift, itself an obscenely fast speed. Workers on the B shift were not only unable to take adequate breaks, but werent able to even pause and collect themselves for a second or two on the line as they were forced to cut beef non-stop. Many found themselves no longer able to fully extend or close their fingers as they had to tightly grasp hooks and knives throughout the entirety of their shifts, which officially last 8.5 hours but which are commonly longer to accommodate production quotas. The denial of even bathroom breaks sometimes led to instances of workers soiling themselves on the line. JBS also paid a $5.5 million settlement in 2021 for discriminating against Muslim employees at the Greeley plant by denying them breaks for prayer. The company also turned off water fountains during the month of Ramadan so that the employees could not drink water while fasting. The company also knowingly hired a vendor that utilized child labor, Packer Sanitation Services, putting minors at risk of working at a plant filled with lethal blades and hazardous chemicals. Prior to the strike vote, JBS workers had independently begun short work stoppages to protest these conditions. The assembly line workers would coordinate these actions by banging their meat hooks on the sides of work stations, letting beef slide past on conveyor belts until supervisors either slowed down or stopped the belts entirely. These actions compelled the UFCW bureaucracy to hold a strike vote. Tchelly Moise, a representative of UFCW Local 7, told reporters with Mother Jones simply that, People at the plant, theyre pissed off. JBS workers in Colorado earn between $17 and $25 per hour, which means that the meat processing workers cannot afford the areas cost of living. The companys latest proposal includes a mere 90 cent wage increase along with a pension plan that it knows workers will not last long enough to vest, given the extremely hazardous conditions present in the plant and deportation threats for the immigrant workforce. This is despite the companys beef division having made record revenues in the third quarter of 2025 of $7.2 billion with a net profit that same quarter of $644.1 million. The company is a major supporter of the Trump administration, donating $5 million to his second-term inaugural committee. While workers are determined, the UFCW bureaucrats will do everything they can to limit the struggle. The union is filled with officials who make a line workers income several times over, including Local 7 president Kim Cordova, who made nearly $250,000 in 2025. Infamously, the UFCW allowed the meatpacking industry to operate even during the initial COVID shutdowns in 2020. In Waterloo, Iowa, the union even worked out an attendance bonus at a plant, where managers ran a betting pool on how many workers would get infected. JBS workers should be prepared to combat this initiative by organizing to ensure democratic, rank-and-file control over the strike. This means the formation of rank-and-file strike committees that give workers the ability to prevent any attempt to prevent or shut down a strike until their demands are met. Workers must also organize to protect themselves from potential ICE raids and appeal for support from workers across Colorado and the US. On two occasions over the past week and a half, members of the pseudo-left Socialist Alternative (SAlt) organisation have sought to obstruct campaigns by the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) at Victoria University in Melbourne. SAlts actions go far beyond the bounds of legitimate political discussion or debate. They have been attempts to prevent the IYSSE from discussing a socialist perspective with students at working-class campuses, where it has been an affiliated club for a decade. The modus operandi has been provocation, harassment and lies. Both incidents occurred at orientation events marking the beginning of the academic year, the first at Footscray Nicholson campus on February 5, the second at Footscray Park campus last Thursday. On the first occasion, three members of SAlt came over to the IYSSEs stall, interrupting discussions with students and hurling false allegations. They repeatedly returned, despite being asked to leave. On the second, two members of SAlt did the same, but desisted when an IYSSE member filmed them and demanded they leave its club alone. National Union of Students education officer James McVicar [Photo: Sydney Criminal Lawyers] Both obstruction attempts were led by James McVicar, a prominent member of SAlt, who was also the education officer of the National Union of Students last year. McVicars role, and the fact that SAlt members staged similar provocations against the IYSSE last year, including at Western Sydney University, indicates a nationally-coordinated attempt to hinder the IYSSE approved by SAlts leadership. In each incident, the playbook was the same. McVicar and other SAlt members began shouting that the IYSSE was pro-sexism and endorsed sexual assault, and demanding to know whether students engaged in discussion with the IYSSE held those positions also. The claims are offensive and inflammatory lies. As the youth wing of the Socialist Equality Party, the IYSSE opposes all forms of exploitation and oppression. In attempting to justify their allegations, all that McVicar and the other SAlt members could state was that the IYSSE opposes the MeToo movement as though that were a damning and unanswerable indictment. In fact the IYSSE has made no secret of its opposition to the discredited and largely defunct MeToo movement, which was a campaign orchestrated by powerful sections of the ruling class to attack core democratic rights and to pollute political consciousness. SAlt is attempting to take advantage, not only of the politically reactionary atmosphere on university campuses, where anti-Marxist identity politics have been promoted for decades, but also to exploit the fact that most young people beginning university today likely know little or nothing about MeToo, including its origins, class character and political aims. MeToo was launched in 2017 by the New York Times and the Democratic Party, two ruling-class institutions of American imperialism. Overnight and seemingly apropos nothing, both insisted that the primary issue in society was sexual misconduct by men against women, particularly in Hollywood, the arts and other privileged circles. That assertion was aimed at deflecting a growing opposition to the fascistic Trump administration into the most reactionary channels. It was based on the fraudulent claim that gender, not class, was the fundamental division in American society and that redress could be found through the public vilification of powerful men. In practice, that involved the Times and other corporate outlets publishing lurid and unsubstantiated accusations against individuals, often based on the claims of unidentified sources. Events that supposedly occurred decades before were dredged up, with those accused having no possibility or option of refuting the claims. Many of those targeted were Jewish, and/or had a reputation for cultural non-conformity. A vast gamut of alleged conduct was conflated, ranging from claims of serious sexual assault to such things as sexual propositions and even unsatisfying consensual sexual encounters. Most significantly, MeToo explicitly opposed the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial. These cornerstones of democratic rights, established over centuries of struggle against tyranny and despotism, had to be dispensed with entirely. The criminal burden of proof was to be overturned, on the basis of the fantastical assertion that it was necessary to believe women on all occasions and in all circumstances. MeToo succeeded in destroying careers and even lives. But it resulted in virtually no criminal prosecutions. The attempt by sections of the media to transplant MeToo to Australia was similarly a failure on that front. While highly-talented and significant figures such as Geoffrey Rush were drummed out of their industries and vilified, the legal actions that ensued were successful defamation claims won by those targeted by the MeToo witch hunters. The anti-democratic modus operandi expressed the class essence of MeToo. The defence of democratic rights is vital to workers and the poor, who are the primary targets of state persecution and harassment. But MeToo had nothing to do with the defence of the oppressed. Instead, its social base consisted of a grasping and affluent layer of the upper middle-class, seeking to gain greater privilege, including through the weaponised deployment of gender politics. SAlt is promoting MeToo years after it entered a state of dormancy. Under conditions where unsubstantiated accusations were increasingly being refuted, and where they were supporting Joe Biden, himself the subject of sexual assault allegations, as presidential candidate, the Democratic Party, the New York Times and their periphery turned off the MeToo tap as abruptly as they had turned it on, demonstrating its confected character. It should also be noted that in the years since, it has become clear that many of MeToos promoters in the media and political establishment were either aware of, or even involved in, the network maintained by Jeffrey Epstein, based on the industrial-scale trafficking and sexual exploitation of vulnerable young women and girls. The response of the MeToo champions to the Epstein revelations is largely a shrug or an embarrassed silence. As early as 2018, the discrediting of the MeToo movement found a notable expression in an article published in SAlts own Red Flag newspaper. Its author, Sarah Garnham, then as now a leading member of SAlt, began by stating that #MeToo is sensational, gimmicky and mainly focused on Hollywood and other elite hierarchies Garnham went on to note: billionaires such as Oprah Winfrey enthusiastically embrace the campaign because they hope to keep it at the level of tokenism and individualism and also because liberal feminism has become a key part of how they justify their privilege. In the most significant portion of the article, Garnham obliquely referenced the attempts of MeToo to do away with the presumption of innocence, and responded that left wing people should strongly oppose calls for all men accused of sexual assault or harassment to be punished without trial. We cannot rely on the authorities, within either our industries or the state, to provide justice. That was necessary, in part, because otherwise the most victimised men will be punished under the guise of protecting women. Garnhams article was a cynical exercise in double-speak. While criticising elements of MeToo, she promoted it as a positive, as though there could be a good and a bad side to a ruling-class concoction directed against democratic rights. The article was fundamentally an appeal for MeToo to pay greater attention to the plight of working-class women, lest it be wholly discredited. In the years since Garnhams piece, Red Flag has referenced MeToo on only a handful of occasions, each of them peripheral mentions. In other words, on the basis of the IYSSEs opposition to a movement that SAlt now writes nothing about, and that it previously acknowledged was attacking fundamental democratic rights, it is seeking to blacklist us from university campuses! In its attempts to undermine the IYSSE through lies and unsubstantiated accusations, SAlt is itself giving a demonstration of the reactionary, anti-democratic and anti-socialist character of MeToo and of the pseudo-left itself. The other claim made by McVicar makes clear the essentially right-wing character of SAlts attacks on the IYSSE. During the first provocation, he declared that the IYSSE supports the Putin regime in Russia. That is another lie. The IYSSE has a long-documented record of implacable opposition to the Russian government, which represents a corrupt oligarchy spawned by the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the final crime of the Stalinist bureaucracy. McVicar was referring to the fact that the IYSSE opposes, from the standpoint of socialist internationalism, the US-NATO proxy war against Russia in Ukraine. We have exposed American imperialisms role in provoking Russias reactionary invasion, and the manner in which it has been used by NATO to press ahead with longstanding plans for a direct assault on the Russian landmass aimed at dismembering it and stealing its resources. The IYSSE has fought for the unity of Russian and Ukrainian workers, against the US, NATO and all of the oligarchic regimes, on the basis of a socialist program. SAlt, by contrast, has promoted the imperialist line of support for Ukraine, under conditions where it has been transformed into a garrison state of the US and NATO. The Ukrainian government has annulled elections, ruling as a dictatorship, and is literally dragging young men off the streets to send them to the frontlines to serve as cannon fodder. McVicars claim, that the IYSSE supports Putin, has been used to persecute our comrades in Ukraine, including the courageous socialist youth leader Bogdan Syrotiuk, who has been imprisoned for over a year for his principled opposition to the war. On the issue of MeToo, SAlt is drawing from the playbook of Joseph McCarthy. On the issue of Ukraine, it is in a de facto alliance with the CIA against anti-war socialists. Such is the character of the pseudo-left. Whatever its occasional left-wing or socialist phraseology, SAlt is a party not of the working class, but of the upper middle-class, seeking to advance its own interests within the framework of capitalist politics, in a similar manner to the proponents of MeToo. The IYSSE and the SEP have exposed SAlts various reactionary positions, including its support for the CIA regime-change operation in Syria, which has resulted in the installation of a pro-US and pro-Israeli Al Qaeda linked dictatorship, and its backing of the proxy war against Russia in Ukraine. We have opposed SAlts attempts to subordinate mass opposition to the genocide in Gaza to endless appeals to the very Labor government that is complicit in the war crimes. The IYSSE has also detailed the utterly opportunist character of SAlts electoral fronts, such as the Victorian Socialists, which it is expanding nationally. They are political traps, based on a reformist program, in an era where the capitalist class has dispensed with reforms. Their real purpose is to funnel discontent back behind the crisis-ridden parliamentary set-up and to hoist SAlts ambitious leaders into the corridors of political power. SAlt has never answered a single one of our dozens of exposures, which have been read by thousands on the World Socialist Web Site. While the IYSSE conducts its struggle against the pseudo-left on the plane of Marxist analysis, citation and objectivity, they are only able to respond with malicious lies and attacks on our democratic rights. All defenders of democratic rights and socialist-minded youth should insist that SAlt immediately desist from obstructing the IYSSEs campaigns. It is doing the work of right-wing university managements, governments and the intelligence agencies for them. The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford sails in formation with the guided missile destroyers USS Winston Churchill, USS Mitscher, USS Mahan, USS Bainbridge and USS Forrest Sherman in the Atlantic Ocean, Nov. 12, 2024. [Photo: Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Jacob Mattingly ] The US military is preparing for sustained, weeks-long operations against Iran if US President Donald Trump orders an attack, Reuters reported Friday, citing US officials. The planned campaign would mark a far larger US assault on Iran than anything previously carried out. In a sustained campaign, the US military could hit Iranian state and security facilities, not just nuclear infrastructure, one of the officials said. The United States fully expected Iran to retaliate, leading to back-and-forth strikes and reprisals over a period of time. Such a war could entail massive loss of life and have incalculable global consequences. It would be illegal under international law and take place in defiance of the popular will, with 85 percent of the American population opposed to a war against Iran, according to a YouGov poll. Last June, the US launched Midnight Hammer in coordination with a 12-day Israeli bombing campaign that together killed over one thousand Iranians. Iran staged a limited retaliatory strike on a US base in Qatar. What is now being planned is qualitatively differentan air and missile campaign targeting the Iranian state itself, with the expectation of extended back-and-forth combat. The buildup takes place just weeks after the USS Gerald R. Ford, the worlds largest and newest aircraft carrier, took part in the seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on January 3. The Ford, which has been at sea for more than 200 days, has now been ordered from the Caribbean to the Middle East, where it will join the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group already in the region. The same carrier used in the kidnapping of the president of Venezuela is being redeployed to wage war against Iran. Trump, speaking to troops at Fort Bragg, North Carolina on Friday, said it had been difficult to make a deal with Iran. Sometimes you have to have fear, he declared. Thats the only thing that really will get the situation taken care of. Asked if he wanted regime change, Trump responded: Seems like that would be the best thing that could happen. The Ford strike group includes the guided-missile cruiser Normandy and destroyers Thomas Hudner, Ramage, Carney and Roosevelt. The carrier holds more than 75 military aircraft, including F-18 Super Hornet fighters and E-2 Hawkeye early warning aircraft. Satellite imagery analyzed by Reuters shows a massive buildup at US bases across the Middle East. At Al-Udeid air base in Qatar, the largest US facility in the region, Patriot missiles have been placed in mobile HEMTT truck launchers, giving them rapid mobility in case of an Iranian attack. The base houses an RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft, 18 KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft, and seven C-17 transport planes. At Muwaffaq Salti air base in Jordan, images from February 2 show 17 F-15E Strike Eagle fighter-bombers, eight A-10 Thunderbolt close air support aircraft, and four EA-18G Growler electronic warfare jetswhere none had been visible weeks earlier. Additional forces have been deployed to Prince Sultan air base in Saudi Arabia, Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean and Dukhan base in Oman. Approximately 112 C-17 Globemaster cargo planes have reportedly arrived or made their way toward the Gulf region. Irans Revolutionary Guards have warned they could retaliate against any US military base in the region. The US maintains bases in Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Turkey and on Diego Garcia. Ali Shamkhani, an adviser to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, warned: We will respond decisively to any adventurismour military readiness is high. The military buildup coincides with the Munich Security Conference, whose organizers titled their annual report Under Destruction. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz opened the conference by declaring: This order, as flawed as it has been even in its heyday, no longer exists. He warned that a divide has opened up between Europe and the United States. But while European leaders condemned Trumps tariffs and threats against allies, they have fully supported the US posture toward Iran. On January 29, the EU unanimously designated Irans Revolutionary Guards a terrorist organizationall 27 member states voting in lockstep with Washingtons escalation. The Munich conference withdrew its invitation to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, with Germanys foreign ministry declaring his participation inappropriate. In his place, exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, son of the Shah overthrown in 1979, was given a platform. Pahlavi called for humanitarian intervention and an equalizing factorthat is, US military strikes to neutralize the regimes instrument of repression. He told the conference that help is on the way from Trump and positioned himself as the leader of a post-regime transition. Democratic Socialists of America Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez spoke at the Munich Security Conference on the subject of The Rise of Populism. In her entire appearance at the conference, she did not say a single word about Trumps preparations for war against Iranthe most significant military escalation of his presidency. What she did say is revealing. She warned that Trump is looking to withdraw the United States from the entire world so that we can turn into an age of authoritarianisms, of authoritarians... where Putin can saber rattle around Europe and try to bully around our own allies there. This is not opposition to war; rather Ocasio-Cortez condemned Trump as being insufficiently aggressive against Putini.e., being insufficiently committed to the war in Ukraine. The Democrats have been silent as the administration amasses approximately 50,000 troops and the largest concentration of military firepower in the Middle East since the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Their earlier statements on Iran amounted to endorsements of regime change in response to the emergence of localized protests against the government last month. Senator Mark Warner declared on January 11, The Iranian regime is awful, and I stand with the Iranian people. Ocasio-Cortez tweeted that month, The Iranian governments violent crackdown on demonstrators is horrific. Far from opposing the war buildup, the Democrats have actively funded it. On January 30, the Senate passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act by a vote of 71 to 29, including $839 billion for the Pentagonan $8.4 billion increase over the militarys own budget request. Twenty-three Democrats voted for the bill, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Minority Whip Dick Durbin and Vice Chair Mark Warner. In the House, the bill passed 341 to 88, with 149 Democrats voting yes and only 64 voting no. Republicans on the House Appropriations Committee hailed the legislation as America First, Fully Funded. In the space of weeks, the Trump administration has kidnapped the president of Venezuela, threatened to annex Greenland, backed the Israeli genocide in Gaza and is now preparing a sustained bombing campaign against a country of 88 million people. Each of these operations targets nations whose resources Washington seeks to control as part of its escalating confrontation with ChinaVenezuelas oil, Irans oil and natural gas and the Strait of Hormuz through which 20 percent of the worlds oil passes daily. The working class cannot entrust the fight against imperialist war to any faction of the political establishment. The same administration threatening to devastate Iran is attacking immigrants, gutting social programs, and constructing a police state at home. Opposition to war must come from the independent mobilization of the international working class against the capitalist system that produces war, inequality and dictatorship. At the very centre of the scientific historical materialist method developed by Karl Marx is the understanding that the objective foundations of revolution are to be found in the contradiction between the growth of the productive forces and the social relations within which they have developed. In the course of the past century and half since this foundational conception was first elaborated, this contradiction has erupted in the form of economic crises, wars, the intensification of the class struggle and social revolution, most notably the October 1917 Russian revolution. The development of artificial intelligence (or more correctly augmented intelligence) AI and the growing concern that it has the potential to set off a major economic and financial crises shows that the contradiction identified by Marx is rapidly coming to the surface once again. AI contains within it the potential for an enormous advance of the productive force in every area of economic activity, possibly the greatest in human history. But it is running into a headlong conflict with the system of social relationsthe capitalist market and profit system, based on private ownership within which it is encased. This conflict is expressed in the fears that while it will bring about vast increases in productivity, this very development will result in economic and financial crises and social devastation. These fears are manifested in two basic forms. First, the possibility that the massive investments in AI data centres, running into trillions of dollars, will not generate sufficient revenue to return a profit. The second is that the application of AI to a whole swathe of economic and financial activity will simply wipe out a range of companies, many of which have existed for decades, and lead to a crisis for the financial institutions, particularly private credit, that have backed them. The initial business model for AI, advanced in the wake of the release of OpenAIs ChatGPT in November 2022, was that the massive investments by so-called hyperscalers, Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Meta and others, combined with the high-end chips developed by Nvidia would create monopolistic dominance of AI, enabling them to secure super-profits and pay off their investments. CNBCs illustration of artificial intelligence investments [Photo: CNBC] But this happy scenario has come under question on a number of fronts. There is concern over whether the financial arrangements between the major players, in particular the circularity in which one firm provides money to another to enable it to buy its products, has created a false picture similar to that which accompanied the dot.com bubble at the beginning of the century. Circular deals can give the appearance of confidence and economic health but in the final analysis profitability will be determined by the take-up of AI outside of these confines. Concerns that the capital spending on AI is outrunning profit generation were seen in the reaction to an announcement by Amazon earlier this month. With news that its investment in 2026 would be $200 billion, up from the $130 billion last year, its share price fell. Amazon shares are now down 20 percent since their peak last November. There have also been significant falls in the share price of Microsoft, Nvidia and Meta. As the Australian Financial Review noted in a recent article suddenly, investors are very sceptical that the huge amounts being invested by the likes of Amazon will deliver returns. Aside from the issue of whether sufficient revenue can be generated there is the question of moral depreciation. That is, depreciation not through wear and tear, but because of the development of a superior product. The history of technology shows that an innovation which enjoys superiority and greater profits at one point, can rapidly lose it. Not so long ago the Blackberry cell phone was all the rageeveryone had to have one because of the innovations it had made. But it was very quickly superseded and has largely passed into history. Something similar is certainly possible in the development of AI, which is still very much in its infancy, with the result that the massive investments undertaken so far could become stranded assets. But while they could lose their value the debts used to finance them would remain. There was an indication of this possibility when the major AI firms and investors were jolted by the news at the beginning of 2025 that the Chinese start-up company DeepSeek had developed a chatbot as good as those available but produced at a fraction of the cost and utilising less powerful chips because of the bans imposed by the US. These issues concern what might be characterised as the failures of AI within the framework of the profit system. That is, the consequences of any inability to generate the revenues needed to return a sufficient profit on the massive capital investments that have been made, and the potential for the development of catastrophic economic and financial crises. But what can be termed the successes of AI are no less dangerous for the stability of the profit system and its financial structures. This is because the introduction of AI generates additional profit through cost cutting based on the elimination of labour and the potential wiping out of whole firms whose operations are based on a technology now being superseded by AI. Events so far this month have seen the beginning of what is set to be a major transformation. The release by the AI firm Anthropic of its Claude Cowork platform, which has the capacity to develop codes, among other things, as well as automating functions such as customer support and legal services, sent a shock wave through the world of software firms. A JPMorgan index of software stocks fell by 7 percent, bringing the total decline for the year to 18 percent. This month alone, the market value of two of the worlds largest software companies, Salesforce and ServiceNow, has fallen by a fifth, according to a report in the Financial Times. There are major financial implications because the software market has been a target of private credit firms. It has been estimated that takeovers of software companies financed by private equity funds have accounted for about 40 percent of their trillions of dollars of deal-making activity in the past decade. The global investment bank UBS has warned that in the worst-case private credit could see default rates rise to as high as 13 percent in the US by AI generated aggressive disruption among corporate borrowers. According to UBS analysts as much as 35 percent of the $1.7 trillion private credit market is exposed to the risk of disruption caused by AI. This week markets were hit with another AI shock as the Los Angeles-based fintech firm Altruist announced the launch of a tax planning tool in its AI platform Hazel. The shares of financial services companies including Charles Schwab and Morgan Stanley were sold off. It said the new tool enabled advisers to develop strategies for clients within minutes after reading tax returns and payslips. Even allowing for a degree of boosterism, remarks by the Altruist CEO Jason Wenk indicate the direction of developments. He claimed the Hazel platform could replace any platform in wealth management and that jobs which previously required entire teams could be done with AI effectively for $100 a month. Karl Marx did not foresee the specific development of AI. But he did point to the objective logic that has brought it about. He noted in the Grundrisse, his rough draft for Capital, that capital calls to life all the powers of science and of nature and provides thereby the foundation for the development of humanity. But at the same time, it has confined these developments within the framework of a social system based on the exploitation of wage labour and profit. Forces of production and social relationstwo different sides of the development of the social individualappear to capital as mere means, and are merely means for it to produce on its limited foundation. In fact, they are the material conditions to blow this foundation sky high. (Marx Grundrisse p.706.) This blowing sky high will take the form of economic and financial crises. It will bring an eruption of class struggle, the beginnings of which can be seen, in which the working class must fight on the basis of a socialist program. It will be enormously strengthened ideologically and politically in that struggle because all the objections advanced by the bourgeoisie and its defenders about the impossibility of socialismconscious planning of the economy cannot be undertaken, there is insufficiency of material resources to ensure genuine social equality, it is impossible to liberate human beings from degrading labour, the capitalist system is so complex that nothing other than a system based on the blind destructive force of the market is possible and so onhave been blown sky high by the advent of AI. Supporters of February 12 all-India general strike [Photo: CITU/Facebook] Millions of workersincluding bank employees, defence industry and other manufacturing workers, government employees and agricultural labourersjoined Thursdays all-India protest strike against the Narendra Modi-led BJP governments class-war assault. In some parts of India large numbers of small farmers also participated in protest rallies. Thursdays action was a further indication of the mass social anger against Modis far-right, Hindu supremacist government and the state of Indian society more generally. In response to mounting great-power conflict and increasing global economic turbulence, including Trumps trade war, the Modi government has dramatically accelerated its drive to intensify worker-exploitation in recent weeks. The government is pushing through a sweeping labour law reform that guts minimum wage, occupational health and safety and other workplace standards; promotes precarious contract employment; eviscerates protections against mass layoffs; and establishes a vast array of new restrictions aimed at robbing workers of the legal right to strike. In December, the government announced the end of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee program (MGNREGA), abolishing the statutory right of one member of every rural family to 100 days of menial minimum-wage work per year. While chronically underfunded and oversubscribed, the MGNREGA has provided a critical lifeline for tens of millions of rural poor for the past two decades. The BJP rural relief program that will replace the MGNREGA has two main objectives: slashing government expenditure and depressing rural wages. At the start of this month, the government presented the budget for the fiscal year beginning April 1. It continued a years-long social spending austerity drive, offered still more subsidies for business and boosted Indias military spending a further 15 percent to US $88 billion. Since 2000, Indias annual defence budget has increased more than five-fold. Expanding Indias military might has been a key objective of New Delhi, under BJP and Congress Party governments alike, and is a central element of its anti-China global strategic partnership with US imperialism. Thursdays strike was called by ten central labour federations, including the Congress Party-aligned Indian National Trades Union Congress (INTUC). However, it was politically led by the labour federations affiliated with the two principal Stalinist partiesthe Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), which is aligned with the Communist Party of India (Marxist), and the Communist Party of Indias All-India Trades Union Congress (AITUC). The Stalinists are boasting that 300 million peopleor one in five Indiansparticipated in the strike or protests related to it. This is, to say the least, a wild overestimation and one that should not be dismissed as mere over exuberance or theatrics. It is a deliberate attempt to befuddle workers as to the one-day strikes significance and, even more importantly, the political perspective underlying it. The Joint Platform of Central Trade Unions (JPTCU) has called half-a-dozen one-day general strikes against the Modi government over the past decade. In so doing, their aim has not been to develop a mass industrial and political working class counter-offensive against the Modi government and the Indian ruling class as a whole. Rather, these actions have been a cynical maneuver on their part, directed at maintaining some degree of credibility as an oppositional force and control over an increasingly restless working class. While they thunder against Modi, the unions have systematically isolated and suppressed one militant worker struggle after another. Led by the twin Stalinist parties and their CITU and AITUC, the unions have worked to channel the opposition to the BJP government and the would-be Hindu strongman Modi behind the Congress Party, till recently the Indian bourgeoisies preferred party of national government, and its right-wing ethno-nationalist and caste-ist allies. Their goal is to shackle the working class to the Congress-led INDIA electoral coalition and the prospect of bringing to power an alternate right-wing capitalist governmentone no less committed to pro-investor reform and the Indo-US alliance than Modisat the next election not slated until 2029. Millions of workers did join Thursdays strike, seeking a means to fight back. But reports suggestcontrary to the Stalinist leaders boaststhat the overall participation in Thursdays strike was less, possibly considerably less, than in other recent JPTCU-called national strikes. For example, few if any workers joined the strike in two of the countrys largest industrial and auto-manufacturing hubs, the Gurgaon-Manesar industrial belt, which lies on the outskirts of Delhi, and the SriperumbudurOragadam Industrial Corridor, near Chennai. This is not because of any lessening of workers opposition to the Modi government, but because of diminishing confidence in the pro-capitalist unions and fears of state-supported management reprisals. The strike call was massively followed in the eastern state of Odisha and in the south Indian state of Kerala, the only one of Indias 28 states where the Stalinists lead the state government. Elsewhere the extent of worker participation varied widely. In Odisha, where the BJP only recently came to power at the state level, banking, public transport, schools, markets and government offices were heavily disrupted. Roads and railways were blocked in cities such as Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Rourkela by rail rook and chakka jam actions (blockades.) Kerala witnessed a near-total shutdown as buses and shops stayed closed and auto-rickshaw unions joined. At the same time, the Stalinist-led Left Democratic Front government, which has been heavily promoting Kerala as a prime destination for global investment, issued a dies non order treating employees absence as a service break. Assam, parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Bihar, and Goa also saw considerable disruptions in banking, insurance and public sector operations. By contrast, BJP-ruled and major industrial states such as Karnataka, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal reported little effect. Public transport, schools, factories and offices operated normally, and many areas considered traditional left strongholds failed to mobilize. In much of northern India, the strike was limited to minor demonstrations and reduced attendance at government offices. Where the strike did have a major impact, it was largely due to the participation of public sector workersespecially in banks, insurance, postal services, coal and other mines, gas pipelines and road transport. Private-sector industrial and IT workers largely stayed on the job, deterred by state/management intimidation and union passivity. Rural workers and farmers also participated. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha and All India Kisan Sabha called for a Bharat Bandh (all-India shutdown) against the IndiaUS trade deal and the dismantling of rural welfare measures. Farmers warned that cheap US imports would erode minimum support prices and devastate smallholders. Placards reading Reject Labour Codes and Oppose anti-worker policies were common at protests. Demonstrators also opposed the dismantling of the MGNREGA and demanded its full restoration. Large anti-government rallies were held in many cities, including Hyderabad, Patna, Ranchi, Raipur and Visakhapatnam. In Jharkhand and Nagpur, coal and transport workers staged sit-ins. The Congress Party-led Karnataka State government invoked Section 144 of the Criminal Code to ban rallies and demonstrations in in support of Thursday's national strike. Above, police load detained protesting workers onto busses. Supporters of the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) and World Socialist Web Site intervened in Bengaluru (Bangalore), Karnatakas largest city. They distributed a Socialist Equality Party (Sri Lanka) statement supporting the strike titled: To defeat reaction and secure social equality, workers must forge their independent class power! A subhead read: Build rank-and-file committees! Rally the rural toilers in a mass counter-offensive against Indian capitalism and all its political representatives, from the BJP, Congress and the DMK to the Stalinist CPM! The Congress Party national leadership claimed to support Thursdays strike. But since returning to power in Karnataka in 2023, the Congress Party-led state government has missed no opportunity to demonstrate its slavish support for big business. It is among the state governments that have gone the furthest in implementing the BJPs labour reform and it mobilized huge numbers of police to block the march the unions were planning to hold on Thursday from Bengalurus Town Hall to Freedom Park. The states Congress government deployed heavy police presence to block a march from Town Hall to Freedom Park. More than 125 strike supporters were taken into preventive arrest after the state government invoked the draconian Section 144 of the Criminal Code to ban all rallies, protests and meetings in support of the strike. Participation in the proscribed Bengaluru march was modest. Small groups of women, Anganwadi (public health) workers and employees from companies like Bosch and Afran joined. The limited turnout underscored the unions failure to mobilize against state repression. As one aerospace worker, Jadesh Kumar, told the WSWS, both BJP and Congress governments serve the same capitalist interests. Kumar asked, Why do we need these labour Codes? It is to further enhance modern-day slavery. Workers wont be given any permanent jobs and will be kept as contract employees always. And the so-called problematic worker will simply be removed by management without any explanation now. The SEP statement explained the need for the working class to adopt a new strategy, based on class struggle and socialist internationalism: For decades, the Stalinist parties including the CPM, under the pretext of fighting Modis Hindu supremacism, have systematically propped up the Congress Party as a supposedly secular alternative to the BJP. In doing so, they have subordinated the working class to a faction of the same capitalist establishment responsible for deepening social inequality, communal divisions and pro-market reforms. By blocking the independent political mobilization of the working classthe only social force capable of defeating both Hindu supremacism and the capitalist system that breeds itthey have politically disarmed workers. This class collaboration has paralyzed opposition, enabling the BJP and Hindu communal forces to expand their influence and consolidate power. Only an independent movement of the working class, armed with an international socialist program, can put an end to communal reaction and capitalist exploitation alike. A rally in Civic Center Plaza of San Francisco educators [Photo: @ayahaliahmad] The strike by educators in San Francisco has exposed both the deep social crisis in public education and the immense power of teachers and school workers when they take collective action. Rallies have drawn broad support from parents and students, and the demand for decent wages, affordable healthcare and properly funded schools has resonated across the city. That power, however, is now being channeled into a deal designed to contain and suppress it. The United Educators of San Francisco (UESF) bureaucracy is promoting a tentative agreement brokered by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Mayor Daniel Luriean heir to the multibillion-dollar Levi Strauss & Co. fortune. Their intervention shows that the strike has struck a nerve among the ruling elite of a city defined by staggering wealth inequality, where billionaires and multimillionaires coexist alongside underfunded public schools. The interviews below were conducted at a rally at Ocean Beach on Thursday. They reveal the depth of that support and the determination of educators, parents and students. Students themselves have turned out in solidarity, recognizing that their own education is directly bound up with their teachers working conditions. Educators and their supporters must reject the agreement and oppose the attempts to ram through a sellout. The strike must continue on a new basis, under rank-and-file democratic control and the expansion of the strike to link up with other workers engaged in struggles, including the 31,000 Kaiser nurses across the West Coast and to teachers in Los Angeles, who have authorized strike action. The issues raised in this strike cannot be resolved through backroom negotiations with the political representatives of the citys billionaires, but only through the independent mobilization of the rank and file. Michelle has worked in education for seven years. The main things we need right now are healthcare and wages. Sanctuary schools is another thing as well as Special Education. So theres a lot on the table right now. I think that the moneys there. I think maybe the mayor needs to do more about getting funds into the schools. I know theres a way to make it happen if they really wanted to do it. People are tired and fed up and the schools are very underfunded. Weve just got to get more money into classrooms so we can support the students better. Heidi, a parent of San Francisco Public Schools students, and hospitality worker at the Ocean Beach UESF rally. Heidi works in hospitality and fine dining and came to the rally at Ocean Beach to show her support for her kids teachers. She has been struggling to juggle childcare with her job while the teachers are out on strike. Our after school program has some capacity to help out with childcare, but its being done on a first come, first serve basis. So that feels a little dystopian. I came out today because my kids teachers, theyre incredible. Both of my kids have IEPs, so its not even just the teachers, its also the paraprofessionals that work with them every day. They have a music program. My son is learning the trumpet right now. We would like to keep all of those, they call them extracurriculars, but I mean, learning how to read music opens up so much for learning math and for learning languages. So theyre actually kind of STEM fields in their own right, not just extras or fun subjects. I wait on millionaires every single day, and they literally dont even know this whole strike is happening because their kids dont go to the public schools here. Its ridiculous and kind of shameful that in a city full of millionaires, we cant pay our teachers enough to actually live here too. I grew up in Alameda and had teachers that were commuting long distances from the city. So we had this issue way back then. Here we are decades later and its even worse, she said. Shoshana and Heather at the Ocean Beach UESF rally. Shoshana and Heather spoke with the WSWS. We came out for our students, the teachers, the staff, paras, the janitors. Everybody. Were here for everybody to make SFUSD better. Were out here for the caseloads, for the health insurance, for our Special Education. We got the sanctuary schools, which is great. And we also need raises so people can afford to live here. The cost of living is too high. Sometimes a teacher gets a job and then they cant afford to pay their rent or they cant afford to live here. Or teachers come from other places and they cant find a place to live and have to leave. Theres so many openings and vacancies because of that. The kids need stability, they need consistency. Thats what helps students is to have consistent teachers in the classroom. But teachers gotta eat! Everyones gotta eat and be able to live. The wealth gap is crazy here. Theres money somewhere, so lets tap into those resources. Lets get creative with how we find money to support education, with how we manage the money. SFUSD needs to be taking care of our health care across the board and set a precedent no matter what, whether you have kids or not, and you should be able to afford health care and afford to live here no matter what. A contingent of students from Ruth Asawa High School joined the rally at Ocean Beach in spite of the poor weather. Its super important to show our support as students because the teachers pay directly impacts us and the way that they teach us and the education were getting, one student said. Teachers deserve our support. Theyre striking so they can get a livable wage so they can focus on teaching us and giving us a good education. Its sending a message to the district to have all of us students here, another said. When the teachers are happy, were happy. Right now it seems like theyre not that happy, so we just want to be here for them until they get what they want. I think access to free public education is very important, especially in a big city like San Francisco with so many lower and upper class kids. Its important that we all come out to show our support for the movement and for the teachers because without them, our schools would be really bad. We also want to work to make our schools a lot better, like more access to AP classes and funding and stuff like that from the state. One student said, In San Francisco living costs are so much higher than usual and I think teachers havent been paid correctly in a long time. Ive been in public school since elementary school and our teachers just put so much effort into making our education as well-rounded and interesting as possible. Its kind of just our duty to be out here for them. Teachers have done so much for us and this is really the least that we could do. Australian documentary filmmaker James Ricketson was attacked and arrested by New South Wales (NSW) riot police outside Sydney Town Hall on Monday night. The 76-year-old was among scores protesting the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog who were assaulted by police. In June 2017, Ricketson was arrested in Cambodia and falsely accused of spying for unspecified foreign states while filming poverty in Phnom Penh. Imprisoned for 15 months, he was found guilty after a three-week trial in August 2018 and sentenced to six years jail. Ignored for months by the Australian government, Ricketson was freed only after more than 100,000 people signed a petition demanding Canberra intervene. Ricketson spoke with the WSWS this week about the brutal police assault on the Sydney Town Hall demonstrators. Richard Phillips: Can you describe what happened on Monday night? James Ricketson: I was at the demonstration with my sign, wandering around, bumping into a few old friends and chatting. I couldnt hear the speakers properly, so at about seven oclock I sat on the wall outside the Town Hall. James Ricketson at Sydney Town Hall protest against Israeli President Herzog's Australian visit, February 9, 2026. [Photo by John Janson-Moore] The police were off to my left, and the horses were there, but they werent doing anything. They were just standing around. In my few interactions with the cops up to that point, theyd been perfectly reasonable. They werent being heavy, nasty, vicious or aggressive. Then something changed. The energy was going out of the rally. People started wandering down George Street past the Town Hall, very casually. They werent marching anywhere; they were just trying to cross the road to catch a train or bus or go to dinner. Suddenly the police said, No, you cant come this way. I told them, I just want to go to the railway station and catch a train. They said Id have to walk up to the KFC and go around that way. I said, Thats ridiculous, and went back to sit on the wall. Then they clearly received instructions to move forward. They started advancing like a big battering ramabout a dozen cops in a line with more police behind themslowly pushing people who wanted to head north back to the south. At the same time there were people coming from the south, from the rally, who wanted to cross the road, which meant you had two flows of people and a police line driving into them. RP: And thats when it turned into a kettling operation by the police? JR: Yes. There was a crush of people, and I just happened to be there. There was a skirmish between a guy and a policeman a few feet from me and then the whole thing erupted. The cop standing next to me suddenly pushed me. You can see this in the footage. I wasnt even looking at him. He shoved me, I put my hand on his shoulderyou can see that in the videoand the next thing I was on the ground. Four or five cops were on top of me, kneeling and punching, pressing my head into the ground, and then they dragged my hands behind my back to handcuff me with zip ties. Some of the injuries Ricketson sustained from police attack at Sydney Town Hall protest, February 9, 2026. [Photo by James Ricketson] In the process, though I didnt realise immediately, I scraped and gashed one elbow and damaged the other. Ive got bruises all over me and cant use my left leg because its swollen, and theres a very sore area under the right-hand side of my rib cage. Ive spent most of today trying to get into hospital or to get x-rays. The police quickly went from being reasonable to being vicious dogs. They must have received an order from somewhere in the chain of command to create chaos, which, of course, was required for [NSW Labor Premier] Minns and the police commissioner to justify having hundreds of cops there. RP: According to the media, over 500 police were deployed. JR: Whatever the exact number, the objective was, first, to retrospectively justify the huge police presence and second, to create an atmosphere in which they hoped protesters would be blamed for the violence. They operated just like ICE officers in the US. If theyd wanted to arrest me, the officer could have just said, Mate, youre under arrest, you assaulted me, which would have been a ridiculous claim, but Id have had the option of arguing or going quietly. Instead, their modus operandi was maximum violence immediately. You can see their methods in other footage where they attacked a man in a white shirt who is holding his hands up in the air and saying, Hey, hey, hey. They punch him to the ground and keep punching him. This was their first resort, not their last. RP: After they arrested you, you were held for five hours? JR: Yes, and they put me in a cell for about five hours. I was pushed around by one of the young cops when I was taken into the station. There was a scuffle and he ripped my t-shirt. This was in front of the duty sergeant. He didnt admonish the officer because this is the usual operating procedure. At no stage in the cell did they ask if I wanted water or offer to allow me to go to the bathroom. At no stage did they check my injuries, even though I was bleeding and left blood all over the bench in the cell. No one came over to say, Do you need help? The only time anyone approached was when a police medic came to the window and asked if I wanted an ambulance. I said, I dont want to talk to you through plexiglass, I want to talk to you as a human being. He said, Okay, so your answer is no, and walked off. After about four and a half hours a woman came, introduced herself as a detective, and said she wanted to talk to me about the incident. I said that was fine, but I wanted it recorded because I dont trust the police. She pulled out a recorder, taped the interview, and I told her pretty much what Ive just told you. She said she would go and look at the body-cam footage. About twenty minutes later she returned and said, Look, Mr Ricketson, youre free to go. It was incredible. Then they kept me another 45 minutes, saying they had paperwork to do and that Id need to sign for my possessions. They had taken everything from me when I was put in the cell. Finally, a policemanthe same one who had pushed me around and ripped my t-shirtcame to the door, handed me my possessions and said, Youre free to go. No fingerprints, no photographs, no documents to sign, and if there werent audio-visual recordings of what happened at the police station, they could just deny I was ever there. Normally they fingerprint you, take your photograph, bag your possessions, and you sign to say youve received everything back and that your money is intact. None of that happened. My suspicion is that after I told the detective that I was a filmmaker and occasional journalist, she made some phone calls and someone said, Just let him go. RP: Weve just published an interview with a retired Irish man who was at his first demonstration. He was physically assaulted by police who threw him to the ground, broke his glasses and accused him of assault. JR: Yes, that ties in. Theyd obviously been given permission to do that. Someone has said, Go for it, boys. Do your worst, inflict as much pain as possible. Even in the paddy wagon going back to the station, there was a young guy whod been arrested and still had his hands tied behind his back. In the back of those vans theres nothing to hold on to, so whenever you go around a corner you slide across the seat or onto the floor or into the person next to you. I shouted to the officers, Why dont you take his handcuffs off? Theres no need for him to have handcuffs on in the back of the van. All of this is designed to be as cruel as possible. Australian filmmaker James Ricketson, escorted by prison guards at the Cambodian Supreme Court in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, January 17, 2018. [AP Photo/Heng Sinith] My jailing on bogus spying charges in Cambodia in 2017 was to intimidate and silence other journalists. The police violence in Sydney on Monday was intended to terrify people about going to future demonstrations. I was roughed up by the Cambodian police when I was arrested. They said I had to go to the police station for questioning and I refused. But that was nothing compared to what the police did to me in Sydney on Monday night. My younger brother Robert, who has serious medical issues, had planned to come but wasnt feeling well and didnt go. If he had been treated like that he could easily have died. Thats how serious his illnesses are. They could have broken my hips when they slammed me into the road. Everyone knows the hips of 76-year-olds dont heal easily. Im thankful nobody died this time, but if they try this again, I suspect someone will. RP: Minns and Albanese have doubled down in their defence of the police. JR: Exactly but just look at the footage. How do you blame the Muslim men who were praying? In what sense did they incite violence by praying in the street? Yet they were dragged away as if they were the problem. RP: Minns and Albanese, who seized on the Bondi terrorist attack to impose a barrage of antidemocratic laws, have used the Herzog visit as a political provocation against the mass opposition expressed in large, ongoing and entirely peaceful anti-genocide protests. JR: Yes, and very successful protests. The Harbour Bridge march with over 200,000 people made it very clear there is mass opposition in Australia to Israels genocide. Minns response was to try and ban it, but he couldnt, and now, as we saw on Monday, he thinks he can control it with a bit of biffo. Labors following the ICE playbook in the United States. My older brother, whos been a Labor voter all his life, told me hes never going to vote for Minns or Albanese at the next elections, and there are many like him. Once all the available footage from Monday night is gathered and organised on a timeline, it will become obvious who actually caused the violence. Im hoping someone is doing that. RP: What do you think of Labors laws criminalising protests, slogans, etc.? JR: They totally suck. I didnt take my mobile phone to the demonstration because I thought there was a possibility Id get arrested and the police would download everything on my phone. I was also aware there was a possibility of a $5,000 fine, which I would refuse to pay. If youre young, with a partner and a mortgage, thats a strong disincentive to protest. RP: And where do you think these laws are heading? JR: Im very worried about them, as everyone should be. There will be mission creep. You get one law in place, then you stretch it a bit more, and a bit more. My sign on Monday night said, Im not antisemitic, Im anti-genocide. Even a sign like that could soon be construed as antisemitic. The thing to keep in mind is all this is about intimidation, to frighten people away from protest. The only answer is solidarity, organisation and a willingness not to be bullied into silence. My concern is not what happened to me, but who gave the orders for the police to do this, and that there are serious consequences for all those responsible for the police violence. Its just been announced that theres going to be an official Law Enforcement Conduct Commission investigation. This will be a cover-up. There needs to be a completely independent investigation of what happenednothing to do with the police, nothing to do with the government. Unless that occurs, it will happen again with even more dangerous consequences. The California real estate market is getting a touch of whimsical history as the longtime La Jolla home of legendary author Theodor Geisel better known as Dr. Seuss hits the auction block. The estate, which has been under the stewardship of University of California San Diego since 2018, is being offered via a sealed-bid process with an asking price of just under $10 million, according to Robb Report. The sale is a rare opportunity to own a piece of literary Americana that hasn't changed hands through a traditional sale in over 70 years. Don't Miss: Fast Company Calls It a Groundbreaking Step for the Creator Economy' Investors Can Still Get In at $0.85/Share Why Billionaires Like Warren Buffett Prefer Real Assets Over SpeculationInstitutional Real Estate Is Now Accessible to Individuals A Historic Asset with Seussian Details The 5,000-square-foot main house sits on a hillside spanning 1.5 acres north of Mount Soledad. It has four bedrooms and four bathrooms, a Spanish Revival observation tower built in the 1920s and custom touches like a "Cat in the Hat" etching on the front door and the character's signature bow tie tiled into the bottom of the pool, Robb Report said. Advertisement Advertisement "The view is second to none," a representative with listing brokerage Barry Estates said to Realtor.com. "To have the panoramic view sweeping up the coastline is nothing less than stunning." The study, with its original corkboard walls, is where Geisel penned and illustrated his classic children's books like "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" and "Green Eggs and Ham." Geisel wrote 42 of his 68 published books in the home, according to the listing. See Also: This investment firm leverages expert insights and a 2.40x net equity multiple to help accredited investors capitalize on 2026 multifamily market trendsread the full forecast now. It's not UCSD's first attempt to sell property since it received it as a gift from the Geisel Trust in 2018 after Geisel's second wife, Audrey, died. The university listed the property in 2022 for about $19 million but didn't get a buyer. Advertisement Advertisement Two lots surrounding the home sold for a total of $9 million, Realtor.com reported. The UCSD home is expected to get "at least full price," the Barry Estates representative said. 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For investors who want professionally vetted stock exposure without the demands of active trading, Motley Fool Asset Management offers a straightforward way to access expert-driven strategies through the simplicity and liquidity of an ETF. Advertisement Advertisement Image: USA Today Network UNLOCKED: 5 NEW TRADES EVERY WEEK. Click now to get top trade ideas daily, plus unlimited access to cutting-edge tools and strategies to gain an edge in the markets. Get the latest stock analysis from Benzinga: This article One House, Two House, Pink House, New House Dr. Seuss' Estate Is Up For Grabs At $10M originally appeared on Benzinga.com NEED TO KNOW Former Bachelor Jake Pavelka is engaged! The pilot-turned-entrepreneur proposed to his girlfriend of two years, Aimee, at their Dallas, Texas, home on Nov. 22 Jake also opens up about leaving Hollywood in the years after The Bachelor and how his and Aimee's love story unfolded Former Bachelor Jake Pavelka is flying solo no more. The pilot-turned-entrepreneur, 48, and his girlfriend of two years, Aimee, 41, who works in aerospace and defense contracts, got engaged on Nov. 22, they exclusively reveal to PEOPLE. In the month between picking up Aimee's ring and proposing, Jake says he went back-and-forth about whether to do something "really big and extravagant" or "simple and intimate." Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, Jake went with the second option. After dinner at Drake's Hollywood nearby their apartment in Dallas, Texas, he popped the question when they arrived home. "We went and had a great dinner and laughed and had champagne," he says. "Then we took an Uber back to our apartment. I had rose petals on the ground and a table set up with candles. We walked in the apartment and she was like, 'What's going on here? Did somebody break into our apartment?' She was looking at a table trying to figure out how a candle got lit." "When she turned around, I was down on one knee with a really pretty ring, and I asked her to marry me," he continues. "She kind of gasped and then muttered yes. It was sweet and intimate. I definitely made the right choice keeping it private. It was a really special moment." Jake Palelka and fiancee Aimee Jenny Quicksall Though the proposal went off without a hitch, Jake says it wasn't without stress. Advertisement Advertisement "We live in a high-rise in Dallas, so on the way to dinner, I walked Aimee to the elevator and then I said, 'Oh, my gosh, I forgot something. I got to run back to the apartment real quick,'" he recalls. "I frantically ripped a bag of rose petals open, I pulled the table away from the wall and set a battery-operated candle on there. I sprinkled the roses everywhere and decorated real quick, got back to the elevator and she was like, 'What did you forget?' I was like, 'I needed to get a drink of water.' I couldn't even think of a good lie." No matter how the proposal went down, though, Aimee says "it would've been perfect" with "just him asking." Jake Pavelka and fiancee Aimee Jenny Quicksall After the proposal, the couple whose engagement photos were shot by Jenny Quicksall made calls to their parents and then "stopped there for a little while to figure out how we wanted to break the news," Jake says. It's been nearly 17 years since Jake first appeared as a contestant on ABC's The Bachelorette in 2009, on Jillian Harris' season. He was brought back to the network a year later to star in the 14th season of The Bachelor, which ended with him proposing to contestant Vienna Girardi. Advertisement Advertisement Jake and Vienna split three months after the finale aired in March 2010, and a stint on Dancing with the Stars and several TV roles followed. "When I did The Bachelor, there were two people who gave me really solid advice," Jake says. "The first one was [then-host] Chris Harrison. He said, 'If I could offer you any advice, don't quit your day job. This is an opportunity and it's a moment in time to accentuate what you're doing currently. There's all of this opportunity after The Bachelor, because for a short moment in time, you're recognizable, you get offers. Do all of it, and stay true to who you are.'" Jake Pavelka and fiancee Aimee Jenny Quicksall He says Bachelor executive producer Martin Hilton gave him the same advice. "I went out to Hollywood and had an absolute blast and met some great people," he says. "Then I came back to Dallas and kept flying airplanes for a little while." Advertisement Advertisement After his cameo on JoJo Fletcher's season of The Bachelorette in 2016, he took a step back from the public eye to open his waste management business Rhino Removal in 2017. In January 2024, the company was acquired by a publicly traded company. "I would say it's one of the more meaningful things I've done," he says. "So yes, I stepped away from Hollywood and built a garbage company." About a week after Rhino Removal was acquired, Jake and Aimee matched on the dating app Bumble. "I was on a layover in Santa Barbara with the airline, and we matched up," Jake says. "She was living in Los Angeles. I was very, very intrigued, I'll tell you that." Advertisement Advertisement Another week or two later, the two decided to meet up in Las Vegas for their first date. They met at the restaurant Zuma and "had sushi for about six hours," Jake recalls. Aimee, whose makeup for their engagement photo session was perfected by Dana Tao of Cheek to Cheek Artistry, had never seen Jake's season of The Bachelor, and Jake says he certainly didn't "lead with that." "The Bachelor, Dancing with the Stars and all the really fun things that I got to do, those don't define who I am," he says. "So, I think it's really unnatural for somebody to lead with that." Jake Pavelka and fiancee Aimee Jenny Quicksall Still, he knew he had to bring it up. "I remember the conversation was going really well, and it's really crazy, but even 15, almost 16 years later, I still occasionally get recognized as Jake, the pilot," he says. "It feels a little disingenuous if somebody comes up to the table or something and says, 'Hey, are you Jake?' And the other person is left trying to connect the dots. The conversation went on for a couple of hours, and then I just told her, 'I did get to do something really unique and really special years and years and years ago.' I think Aimee had a couple of questions about it like, 'Is it scripted? Did you have fun? Did you find love on there?' The normal questions that I get. And that was kind of it." Advertisement Advertisement Early on, Jake says he knew he "trusted" Aimee "completely." "I wanted her to be involved in decisions, even the stressful ones," he says. "She's made everything feel a lot lighter and manageable. As a man, a great woman can make you feel like you can tackle the world. I've never met anybody that could help me with that. And Aimee, it's just so natural for her." Aimee says she knew "early on" that Jake was "the one." "I just never experienced anything like this with anyone," she says. "Jake is just so genuine. He's so kind and thoughtful, and he makes me feel so loved. He makes me feel safe, supported, secure. He just has the biggest heart. Being with him is just so easy and effortless and I just feel completely at peace with him. He just makes me the happiest I've ever been. And I just feel like I'm the luckiest girl in the world." Advertisement Advertisement Since his time on The Bachelor, Jake says he feels "more settled into who I am." "Early in life, I felt like I had things to prove to myself and maybe to the world," he says. "Now, I'm more focused on building something steady and meaningful. Success looks a lot different today than maybe what it did 15, 20 years ago." Jake Pavelka and fiancee Aimee Jenny Quicksall So, Aimee was worth the wait? "Oh, completely," he says. "I'm 48 years old. I wasn't sure if I was ever going to get married. You hear people talk about marriage being the best decision that they ever made, and I can clearly see it. I see exactly what they're talking about. It's very simple: Aimee makes me better as a person. She brings perspective and balance." Advertisement Advertisement Looking ahead to the wedding, Jake says he and Aimee are planning to celebrate out West. "Aimee's family, for the most part, is in L.A.," he says. "I think it's going to make most sense to have a wedding in California where it's easy for her family, and my aunts and uncles live between [L.A.] and Orange County. My family from Texas is pretty mobile, so we can travel out there. So, I think we're going to have an early summer wedding in California." Read the original article on People Real estate stories are usually boring. This one is just dates. On January 9, 2026, property records show James Van Der Beek and his wife, Kimberly, bought the 36-acre ranch in Spicewood, Texas, where their family had been renting since 2020. The price was $4.76 million. On February 11, 2026, Van Der Beek died at 48 after a colorectal cancer battle he had spoken about publicly, including revealing he had stage 3 disease. Advertisement Advertisement He owned the ranch for 33 days. If that number stings, it should. The purchase reads less like celebrity real estate and more like a family trying to make home legally permanent. Credit: James Van Der Beek/Instagram. The Ranch They Fell in Love With The Van Der Beeks left Los Angeles in 2020 and traded city life for Texas Hill Country space outside Austin. The spread includes a main house, cabins, a pool, and views toward the Pedernales River. At first, it was a test drive. In a 2020 Instagram Live, Kimberly said they were going to try Texas out for a year, praising their incredible landlords for letting them steward the land like it was theirs. Then the trial became the plan. Their kids grew up there. Their routines formed there. The ranch stopped being a rental and started being the place where their life made sense. A view of the Pedernales River in Texas Hill Country. Realtor.com notes the familys ranch had river views. Credit: Aaron Steger via Wikimedia Commons. The Purchase He Made While Sick Van Der Beek was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2023. He went public with it in November 2024. Advertisement Advertisement In a December 2025 interview that aired on TODAY, he credited Kimberly with carrying the load, saying he would not be alive without her and that she had stepped up as caretaker, nurse, and head of the household. Then came the real estate move that looks different once you know the ending. Realtor.com reports the ranch purchase closed on January 9 through an LLC managed by a California attorney. The outlet also notes the deal appears to have happened off-market, with no public listing recorded before the sale. Thirty-three days later, he was gone. James Van Der Beek went public with his cancer diagnosis in November 2024. Credit: James Van Der Beek/Instagram. The Financial Reality Behind the Purchase This week, a GoFundMe was launched for Kimberly and the children. The fundraiser description says the costs of medical care and the extended fight against cancer left the family out of funds, and that they are working hard to stay in their home and maintain stability, including keeping the kids in school. Advertisement Advertisement Thats the part readers often argue about, usually without understanding the order of pain. A home can be secured, and the rest of life can still be on fire. Medical bills hit now. Daily living hits now. Grief hits now. An asset doesnt automatically turn into cash that you can use without consequences. Both things can be true at the same time. What the Purchase Actually Meant This wasnt a dream home flex. It reads like a control grab in a situation where control was running out. Renting is fine. Until it isnt. Owners sell. Terms change. The place that raised your kids can get priced, flipped, or repurposed out from under you. Advertisement Advertisement Ownership is different. Its paperwork. Its leverage. Its a roof your family does not have to renegotiate every year. The Home He Left Behind The ranch is not modest. Realtor.com describes a 5,149-square-foot main house with five bedrooms and three bathrooms, plus cabins on the property. It also notes features such as a commercial kitchen, balconies with views of the sky and the river, a pool, and even a tram down to the river. After Van Der Beeks death, Alfonso Ribeiro posted a tribute saying being able to say goodbye that weekend would always live with him. Its a brutal detail because it suggests the ranch wasnt just where the family lived. Its where goodbye happened. Credit: Alfonso Ribeiro/Instagram. The Question Nobody Wants To Answer What do you do when your life is shrinking, when you can feel time running out, and you've got six kids and a spouse who has been carrying the load with you? Advertisement Advertisement Some people write letters for future birthdays. Some set up trusts. Some spend on experiences. James Van Der Beek bought the place his family had already built their life around. He owned it for 33 days. They'll live with what that purchase meant for a lot longer. That's the part people debate. Would you prioritize locking in the family home or keeping liquidity for care and living costs? What would you do?" The death of James Van Der Beek at 48 has left Hollywood shaken. The actor, better known for Dawsons Creek and Varsity Blues, passed away on February 11 from colorectal cancer. The actor had originally announced his diagnosis in November 2024. Van Der Beek spoke to Healthline last August about his health, telling the outlet that there wasnt any red flag or something glaring that pointed to him having cancer. I was healthy. I was doing the cold plunge, he said. I was in amazing cardiovascular shape, and I had stage 3 cancer, and I had no idea. More from StyleCaster Advertisement Advertisement But what were the first signs of the disease? What Were James Van Der Beek Colorectal Cancer Symptoms? James Van Der Beek The actor said in the interview that he noticed a change in bowel movements, something he thought was related to his coffee consumption, but that has been identified as a leading sign of this type of cancer, and he admitted that before his diagnosis, he didnt even know it was a possibility. Before my diagnosis, I didnt know much about colorectal cancer, Van Der Beek said. I didnt even realize the screening age [had] dropped to 45; I thought it was still 50. Van Der Beek finally underwent a colonoscopy, which revealed his colon cancer. Changes in bowel habits are one of the primary red flags for colorectal cancer, according to the CDC. Other symptoms include blood in or on your stool, diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way, unexplained weight loss, and abdominal pain, aches, or cramps that dont go away. Advertisement Advertisement The CDC also says that colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer death and the second most common cause of cancer mortality. In a more recent interview with Today in December 2025, Van Der Beek had said he was feeling better. I feel much, much better than I did a couple months ago, he said. Its been a longer journey than I ever thought it would be. Its required more of me more patience, more discipline, more strength than I knew I had. I knew I was strong I didnt know I was this strong. But I feel good. He also revealed he decided to get a colonoscopy after feeling like something was off in his body, back in 2023. He was informed he had cancer right away, as he was coming off the anesthetic. I went into shock, he said. I really dont think I knew what to do. Neither did my wife. And we drove home in silence. And part of me wanted to panic. Part of me wanted to just freak out. But then another part of my brain was like, You dont know enough yet. He added, One of the things I was really lucky about was when I heard the news, I was like, This is gonna be the best thing thats ever happened to me. I had this little voice in my head that said, Youre gonna make changes in your life that you would never, ever make if you didnt have this extreme of a diagnosis, and its gonna add healthy, happy years to your life. Best of StyleCaster Sign up for Stylecaster's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Feb 13 (Reuters) - The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics chief Casey Wasserman is putting his talent and marketing agency up for sale, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday, following criticism for flirtatious email exchanges with convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell more than 20 years ago. Wasserman has been criticized and called on to resign as the LA28 chief after the release of messages. His firm too has lost a client, with pop star Chappell Roan saying earlier this week she was no longer represented by his company. Wasserman has denied having a personal or business relationship with late financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He has previously apologized for his association with Maxwell, saying their relationship came before her or Epstein's crimes were revealed. Advertisement Advertisement Wasserman's talent agency did not respond to a request for comment outside regular business hours. According to the Journal, Wasserman told his firm's staff in an internal memo that he felt that he had "become a distraction" to its work and had begun the process of selling the company. "I'm deeply sorry that my past personal mistakes have caused you so much discomfort, Wasserman wrote in the memo, reported by the newspaper. "Its not fair to you, and it's not fair to the clients and partners we represent so vigorously and care so deeply about, he wrote. Advertisement Advertisement The LA28 said earlier this week that Wasserman will remain chairman of the 2028 games after organizers conducted a review of his past interactions with Maxwell and Epstein, and found his relationship with them did not go beyond what had already been publicly documented. (Reporting by Shubham Kalia and Devika Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Lincoln Feast) TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) Law enforcement investigating the disappearance of Today show host Savannah Guthrie 's mother sealed off a road near Nancy Guthrie's home in Arizona late Friday night. A parade of sheriffs and FBI vehicles, including forensics vehicles, passed through the roadblock that was set up about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) from the house. The two agencies also tagged and towed a Range Rover SUV from a Culver's restaurant parking lot. The restaurant is just over 2 miles from Nancy Guthrie's home. This activity took place at the same time the sheriff's office closed a road just north of the Guthrie home. Advertisement Advertisement The Pima County Sheriffs Department confirmed Saturday that a federal court-ordered search warrant was executed at the home Friday in connection with the Guthrie case. The warrant was based on a lead the agency had received. No arrests were made. A traffic stop was also conducted, and while someone was questioned, no arrests were made, the sheriffs office said. No additional information was released Saturday. Guthrie, 84, was reported missing on Feb. 1. Authorities say her blood was found on the front porch of her Tucson-area home. Purported ransom notes were sent to news outlets, but two deadlines for paying have passed. Advertisement Advertisement Authorities have expressed concerns Guthries health because she needs daily medication. She is said to have a pacemaker and has dealt with high blood pressure and heart issues, according to sheriffs dispatcher audio on broadcastify.com. Investigators have studied surveillance video, sorted through thousands of tips and submitted DNA and other evidence for laboratory analysis. The FBI said it has collected more than 13,000 tips since Feb. 1, the day Guthrie was reported missing. The sheriffs department, meanwhile, said it has taken at least 18,000 calls. On Tuesday, authorities released footage showing an armed, masked person at Guthries doorstep on the night she was abducted. The videos less than a combined minute in length gave investigators and the public their first glimpse of who was outside Guthries home in the foothills outside Tucson. Experts say the video could contain a mountain of clues. ___ Associated Press writers Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu and Freida Frisaro in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, contributed to this report. UPDATE: The Pima County Sheriffs Department issued a statement on X late Friday evening after heavy law enforcement activity occurred two miles from Nancy Guthries home in Tucson, Arizona. Law enforcement activity is underway at a residence near E Orange Grove Rd & N First Ave related to the Guthrie case, the statement read. Because this is a joint investigation, at the request of the FBI no additional information is currently available. The message came as multiple media reports claimed three people including two men and an older woman were detained amid the Friday night law enforcement activity. Advertisement Advertisement ORIGINAL: The Pima County SWAT team descended upon a Tucson neighborhood Friday evening in connection with the Nancy Guthrie investigation, according to the sheriffs department. The Pima County Sheriffs Department told media that the neighborhood, which is located about five minutes away from Nancys house, was blocked off as officials conducted an operation tied to the disappearance of Today host Savannah Guthries 84-year-old mother, who has been missing for 13 days. The FBI and Sheriffs Department were also on the scene. Per the PCSD, reports that current law enforcement activity is surrounding a home belonging to a former county attorney is NOT accurate. They also noted that a written statement is forthcoming. However, Sheriff Chris Nanos did note to KOLD Friday evening, We are actively working a lead at First and Orange Grove. I cannot say anything else. Advertisement Advertisement Three people are said to have been detained amid Friday nights law enforcement activity, according to multiple media reports. Its currently unclear if anyone is a suspect, but local law enforcement sources told Fox News that, following a tip, two men and one of their moms were detained. The update comes after Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said Thursday that more detainments tied to the case were likely, as officials were combing through thousands of tips, including calls and messages. Additionally, investigators reached out to Nancys neighbors for doorbell footage, asking them to provide surveillance from specific dates tied to the investigation. The Pima County Sheriffs Department also confirmed they located several items of evidence, including black gloves, which were submitted for DNA analysis. On Friday, investigators in the Nancy Guthrie case disclosed theyre working to identify unknown DNA found at the Tucson property belonging to Nancy. The FBI shared Thursday afternoon that they could confirm the suspects height and the backpack he was carrying in previously released Nest camera footage. They also upped the reward to $100,000. Advertisement Advertisement The suspect is described as a male, approximately 59 510 tall, with an average build, FBI Phoenix wrote on X. In the video, he is wearing a black, 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack. We hope this updated description will help concentrate the public tips we are receiving. Since February 1, 2026, the FBI has collected over 13,000 tips from the public related to this case. Savannah issued a statement Thursday, penning an optimistic message on Instagram amid the ongoing search for her mother: Our lovely mom. We will never give up on her. Thank you for your prayers and hope. Nancy was last seen on the evening of Jan. 31, when family dropped her off at her home after a dinner and a game night. However, by late-midday Sunday, Nancy was reported missing after not attending church. In the days following, several media outlets, including TMZ and local Tucson TV stations, reported receiving ransom notes demanding millions of dollars worth of cryptocurrency. On Tuesday evening, both TMZ and KGUN reported that there was activity in the bitcoin account tied to the alleged ransom notes. Advertisement Advertisement Savannah and her siblings, Annie and Camron, made multiple public pleas to Nancys captors, stating they would pay the demands while begging for their mothers safe return. We received your message, and we understand, Savannah, with her siblings at her side, said in a Saturday evening Instagram post. We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay. The post Nancy Guthrie Update: SWAT Team Conducts Operation at Tucson Home appeared first on TheWrap. Rosie O'Donnell did not announce her return to the United States. There were no social media posts, no press alerts, and no public appearances. After more than a year living abroad, she came back quietly, stayed for two weeks, and left again without drawing attention. The visit was deliberate. This was not about reclaiming a public role or staging a political moment. She wanted to feel the country again after distance. She wanted to see her family. She wanted to know how difficult it would be to enter and exit the U.S. under the current climate. She shared these details during an interview with Chris Cuomo on SiriusXMs Cuomo Mornings. Her explanation made one thing clear. This was personal, not performative. Advertisement Advertisement She had not been home in over a year. Why She Left the U.S. in the First Place ODonnell relocated to Ireland in January 2025 after Donald Trumps second election victory. At the time, she said the political environment had become emotionally overwhelming. The constant tension wore on her mental health. Leaving offered distance, calm, and a reset. Over time, that distance grew deeper. She stopped watching American news. She stepped away from U.S. television and pop culture. Life outside the country slowly reshaped how she viewed it. That separation mattered when she returned. Photo Credit: rosie/Instagram How the Country Felt After a Year Away Spending two weeks in New York was jarring. ODonnell said the U.S. felt like a different country from the one she remembered. The shift was not tied to one moment or one policy. It was the overall energy. Advertisement Advertisement She felt disconnected. Unsettled. Overstimulated. After a year of silence from American media, re-entering that environment made the contrast impossible to ignore. The pace felt harsher. The tension felt constant. The mood felt heavier. Despite the discomfort, family pulled her home. ODonnell lives in Ireland with her 13-year-old child, but her four adult children still live in the U.S. She wanted to see them in person. She wanted to hold them. She wanted to sit with them without a screen in between. She also wanted reassurance before bringing her youngest child back for a summer visit later in the year. The trip doubled as a safety check. There was another emotional layer. Her son is expecting his first child. Becoming a grandmother gave the visit urgency. It turned the trip into something deeply personal, not abstract or political. Advertisement Advertisement Throughout the stay, she kept a low profile. No public schedule. No events. Just family and observation. Ireland Versus America: The Cultural Contrast Living in Ireland has changed her expectations. She described Irish life as calmer and less driven by celebrity. News coverage feels more balanced. Daily life feels steadier. People seem less consumed by status and constant competition. Returning to the U.S. made that difference feel stark. She said being back revealed how much she had adapted to a slower, quieter rhythm. America, by comparison, felt loud and unsettled. That contrast reinforced why leaving had helped her mental health. ODonnell was clear about one thing. She does not regret the move. She said leaving was necessary to protect herself, her child, and her sanity. Life abroad has given her peace. Being back, even briefly, reminded her why she needed distance in the first place. Advertisement Advertisement She described the feeling in simple terms. Something felt wrong. And it felt unresolved. That sense stayed with her throughout the visit. Security Fears and the Trump Factor Safety has always been part of the calculation. ODonnell previously revealed she skipped major family milestones, including her daughters college graduation, after being advised it was not safe for her to return at the time. Those concerns are tied to her long-running feud with Donald Trump. Their conflict dates back years, including public clashes during her time on The View. More recently, Trump escalated the rhetoric by suggesting he might revoke her U.S. citizenship on Truth Social, calling her a threat and saying she should remain in Ireland. Advertisement Advertisement She responded strongly, calling him dangerous and citing those comments as proof she made the right decision to leave. What Her Visit Ultimately Confirmed Her quiet return answered practical questions. She was able to enter and exit the country without incident. No one stopped her. No confrontation followed. Emotionally, the answer was more complicated. The trip showed she has not cut herself off from the United States completely. At the same time, it confirmed that distance still feels safer. For now, Ireland remains home. Rosie O'Donnell is reflecting on her move to Ireland and a recent quiet return to the United States. After relocating overseas with her child earlier this year, the former "The View" host spent two weeks back home reconnecting with family and reassessing how the country feels amid ongoing political tensions. Rosie O'Donnell admitted that the experience was emotional, eye-opening, and reaffirmed why she chose to leave. Rosie O'Donnell Opens Up About Quiet Return To The US After Relocating to Ireland Mark Von Holden/ AFF-USA.com / MEGA During a February 13 appearance on "SiriusXM's Cuomo Mornings" with Chris Cuomo, O'Donnell revealed she recently spent two weeks back home in the United States without publicly announcing it. Advertisement Advertisement She said the trip was deeply personal, explaining that she wanted to visit family and also gauge how it felt to reenter the country after relocating abroad. O'Donnell also admitted she was curious about how easy it would be to travel in and out and wanted to assess whether she felt comfortable doing so. "I wanted to see how hard it would be for me to get in and out of the country. I wanted to feel what it felt like," she stated, per People Magazine. The 63-year-old comedian confirmed in March 2025 that she had moved to Ireland in January with her 13-year-old child, Clay. At the time, she cited ongoing political tensions, including her long-standing feud with President Donald Trump, as well as broader concerns about the direction of the country as motivating factors behind her decision to leave. The Comedian Returned To The US To Check If It's 'Safe' For Her And Her Daughter To Spend The Summer MEGA Despite settling overseas, much of her family remains in the U.S. O'Donnell shared that she hadn't seen her children in over a year and felt a strong desire to reconnect. Advertisement Advertisement "I wanted to hold my children again," she said. "And I hadn't been home in over a year." O'Donnell continued, "I also wanted to make sure that it was safe for me before I brought my daughter this summer, where we plan to spend the summertime off from her schooling here with my family." Additionally, one of her adult sons is expecting his first child, making the trip especially meaningful. Rosie O'Donnell Says Coming Back To The US Was 'Scary' ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA The "A League of Their Own" actress said returning to New York felt "like a very different country" after stepping away from American news and celebrity culture for a year. She described her life in Ireland as calmer and more balanced, free from what she called the intensity of US media and fame. Advertisement Advertisement "I don't regret leaving at all," she noted. "I think I did what I needed to do to save myself, my child, and my sanity." The comedian added, "The energy that I felt while in the United States it was scary. There's a feeling that something is really wrong and no one is doing anything about it." President Donald Trump Says He's Considering Revoking The Actress's Citizenship MEGA Despite relocating to Ireland last year, O'Donnell found herself back in the political spotlight after Trump publicly suggested he might attempt to revoke her US citizenship. In a July 12, 2025, social media post, Trump, 79, claimed he was "giving serious consideration" to stripping O'Donnell of her citizenship, alleging she was "not in the best interests" of the country and calling her a "Threat to Humanity." Advertisement Advertisement He added that she should remain in Ireland "if they want her." The former "The View" host quickly fired back on Instagram at the time, accusing the president of targeting her because she has long criticized him. She wrote that he resents being "seen for who he is," and described him as "a criminal con man, sexually abusing liar out to harm our nation to serve himself." O'Donnell reiterated that political tensions were a major factor in her decision to move abroad, saying she stands firmly opposed to what she believes he represents alongside millions of others. Rosie O'Donnell Says Her Daughter Blames Trump For Making Them Move To Ireland ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA O'Donnell has also shared that the political climate has deeply affected her daughter. Advertisement Advertisement While speaking on "The Jim Acosta Show," she revealed her child has expressed anger toward Trump, blaming him for their move and for what she perceives as broader harm to the country. As reported by The Blast, O'Donnell recalled her daughter emotionally declaring that "he made us move for our own safety" and is now "destroying the country." While acknowledging how difficult it is to shield her child from political turmoil, O'Donnell said her daughter is aware of the situation and hears her conversations. Conservative pundit Pete Seat went at it with Elie Mystal over the Epstein files on CNNs Table For Five on Saturday, accusing him of deflecting over the Biden administrations lack of action. Seat began by addressing host Abby Phillips bewilderment at Attorney General Pam Bondis embattled performance in front of the House Judiciary Committee this week. She did what she did because Pam Bondi is a triple threat: She is inept, incompetent and incapable, and thats what we saw in that hearing, Seat said before calling on President Donald Trump to get rid of Bondi just like he did with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in Minnesota. Advertisement Advertisement Seat then turned on Mystal. But I do want to follow up to what you said Did you once ask why the Biden administration didnt look those survivors in the face, even one time? And dont roll your eyes! he said. Check out the exchange below: MYSTAL: Were not going to play whataboutism over the Epstein files. The person in charge right now is Pam Bondi and the Trump administration SEAT: Nothing! Four years! MYSTAL: and they should be investigating. And if you want to talk about things that I think Merrick Garland should investigate, you dont want to get me started on who I think Merrick Garland should have in jail right now, because if Merrick Garland was doing a good job, Trump wouldnt have even been able to run for president. SEAT: Thats an incredibly skilled deflection. MYSTAL: I am not deflecting! SEAT: You are! Because you wont answer the question. Did you wonder why the Biden administration did not seek justice for those survivors for four whole years? MYSTAL: They didnt not seek justice. Im not deflecting from the question, I am disagreeing with your with your incorrect premise. They did seek justice. I didnt think Merrick Garland went hard enough. I didnt think Merrick Garland did a great job. I do not think that Pam Bondi is doing a great job. I do not think Donald Trump is doing a good job. Is that a full enough answer? Nobody involved here is doing enough to defend the Epstein victims. Are you satisfied with that answer? SEAT: Sure, good job. Watch above via CNN. The post Elie Mystal Loses It on CNN Guest Over Epstein Files: I Am NOT Deflecting! first appeared on Mediaite. Rome-based TVCO has seized worldwide distribution rights excluding Latin America to Hidden Island (Isla oculta), a high-concept sci-fi series from Chiles Rio Estudios. TVCOs long track record in the European market gives us great confidence in successfully positioning the series across diverse markets, said showrunner Pablo Diaz del Rios who added that his company, Rio Estudios, would be handling Latin American sales. More from Variety Advertisement Advertisement Hidden Island is among the 17 scripted series participating in the Berlinale Series Market Selects, with a screening slated for Feb. 16. Set in southern Patagonia, the six-part series follows Fabiola, a strong-willed detective who investigates the disappearance of a Mexican archaeology student who vanished while seeking the mythical Friendship Island. As the case deepens, Fabiola must decide whether its an outright kidnapping or something more unusual. Reports about the island warn of strange disappearances, miraculous healings and possible extraterrestrial activity. The series delivers a compelling blend of thriller and mystery, anchored by a powerful female lead and a strong narrative identity. We strongly believe Hidden Island has all the elements to resonate with broadcasters and platforms worldwide, and the European Film Market in Berlin marks the ideal launchpad for its international journey, said Simonetta Polese, TVCO head of sales. The series boasts a top-notch talent from Chile, led by star Daniela Ramirez, International Emmy-nominated for her performance in HBO Maxs limited series Isabel: The Intimate Story of Isabel Allende. Advertisement Advertisement Writers include Julio Rojas, renowned for his hit serial podcast Case 63, alongside Felipe Carmona (Prison in the Andes) and Juan M. Dartizio (An Unknown Enemy). Rodrigo Susarte, known for Gen Mishima and Invunche, directed all six episodes. I think we didnt fall into cliches, that we managed to create a more philosophical, more existential series, with nods to sci-fi, Diaz said in an earlier interview, adding: Although we didnt have the budget to make an Interstellar or an Arrival, I think we held our own pretty well, given the resources we had. Lets say the series ends up talking about artificial intelligence and about humanity about what were experiencing as humanity in current times. Fabiola will feel it as a kind of premonition, and shell have a vision for the second season, which takes place in the year 2028, he added. Hidden Island will vie for Berlin Series Markets newly introduced Studio Babelsberg Production Excellence Award, which will recognize outstanding producing qualities that encompass a creative vision, execution, innovative approaches and robust international appeal. Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. It's hard to think of a more perfect handheld meal than the burrito. You get a thin flour tortilla topped with various ingredients, then rolled into a neat package that you can easily eat on the go. Plus, the burrito is incredibly versatile. Like its cousin, the taco, a burrito can include pretty much anything you want in it, provided it's all wrapped up in a flour tortilla. And that's exactly why the dish has taken on so many forms. Most sources point to Northern Mexico as the birthplace of the burrito, specifically the states of Sonora and Chihuahua where wheat is a staple crop and flour tortillas are common. The name translates to "little donkey," which may refer to the way the meal was transported back in the day. Those early burritos likely contained just a few basic ingredients like beans and meat or cheese, and you can still find this style in Mexico today. But as the dish spread, it began adapting to new ingredients, regional tastes, and expectations around portion size. When I first moved to Mexico, my basic understanding about burritos came from what I had experienced in Canada and the U.S. That is to say, a flour tortilla wrapped around meat, cheese, beans, veggies, and rice. Perhaps some guacamole, sour cream, and salsa too. If you've eaten at Chipotle or Qdoba, you know the drill. But I've come to realize that burritos vary vastly in different regions. If you're looking to expand beyond the version you're used to, these are several styles of burritos you'll find in Mexico and the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Read more: The Best Texas Roadhouse Menu Items, Ranked Burro percheron A burro percheron cut in half on a table - mrnitospercherones / Instagram While burritos can be found throughout Mexico, they're more common in the Northwestern states, where they're often much smaller and thinner than what you find in the U.S. However, one exception is the burro percheron, a mighty-meat-filled creation that can reach lengths of 20 inches and weigh up to two pounds. Inside the expansive flour tortilla, you'll find a mix of seasoned and grilled carne asada, diced tomatoes, avocado, and mild cheese like queso Chihuahua. This monstrous burrito became popular in the state of Sonora in the 1980s and 1990s, and now you can find it in many other places, including neighboring Chihuahua and even some spots in the United States. It's named after the Percheron horse, which is known for its hefty size. As for the burro part, that's the term many Nortenos (Northerners) use for burritos, which is fitting considering it refers to a full-sized donkey as opposed to a little donkey. To construct a burro percheron, the first thing you need is a sobaquera, a huge flour tortilla that's stretched thin by hand. Carne asada is the most common meat used in the filling, but there's nothing to say you can't use other proteins like chicken or carnitas (slow-cooked pork). In addition to avocado and tomatoes, some people add onions and chiles, and many top the burrito with salsa and crema. You can also find versions wrapped in bacon or drowned in sauce. Mission burrito A person holding two halves of a Mission burrito - mattgeeeeeee / Instagram If you're from the United States, you're probably familiar with the Mission burrito. Like the burro percheron, this burrito is ultra-bulky and packed with meat and cheese, along with rice, beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, and sour cream. The meat can include anything from carne asada to carnitas, and you can also leave the meat out altogether for a vegetarian version. Everything gets rolled up in a flour tortilla, then the burrito is wrapped in foil to keep everything in place. Advertisement Advertisement By most accounts, the origin of the Mission-style burrito is a spot called El Faro in San Francisco's Mission District. The story goes that back in 1962, owner Febronio Ontiveros was tasked with creating extra-large burritos to feed local firefighters, so he doubled up on the flour tortillas for each burrito. The ultra-filling meal was a hit and others soon began to follow suit. Now, you can find multiple variations, including "dorado-style" burritos that are griddled to make the outside crispy and golden. Interestingly, the Mission burrito was the inspiration for Chipotle Mexican Grill. Chipotle founder Steve Ells spent some time in San Francisco after graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, and that's where he became enamored with the city's iconic, customizable burritos. He took the concept to Denver, Colorado, and in 1993, Chipotle was born. Thanks to the chain's colossal success, this style of burrito is now what many people picture when they hear the word "burrito." Burrita de mariscos Trays of burritas de mariscos at Tacon de Marlin in Puerto Vallarta - tacondemarlin / Instagram You can't visit Puerto Vallarta without trying burritas de mariscos. Located on Mexico's Pacific Coast, the resort town is famous for its fresh seafood, and one of the most popular ways to enjoy it is in a burrita (essentially a burrito that's folded instead of rolled). But don't expect your typical seafood burrito with rice and beans. These coastal creations are cheesy and creamy, packed with succulent seafood and fresh veggies, and griddled until crispy and golden on the outside. The restaurant Tacon de Marlin popularized burritas de mariscos in Puerto Vallarta over 25 years ago, and now they're among Mexico's most iconic seafood dishes. The small chain has locations in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, plus there are plenty of other places that emulate the style all along the coast. The smoked marlin burrita is the star of the menu, but you can also opt for shrimp, crab, octopus, sea bass, or mixto burritas that include a mix of various types of seafood. Advertisement Advertisement The secret to these ultra-craveable burritas is all in the preparation. The seafood goes onto a griddle with sliced red onions and sliced American cheese. Once everything is cooked and the cheese is melted, it's all piled onto a flour tortilla and topped with lettuce, tomatoes, house-made ketchup, and mayo. Then, the tortilla is folded into a square and slapped on the griddle to crisp up. The final step is to slice the burrita in half and griddle the cut edges for extra char and caramelization. California burrito A California burrito cut in half on a plate - Lokyo Multimedia/Shutterstock Like the name suggests, the California burrito hails from the Golden State and it's the perfect mash-up of Mexican and American flavors. It starts with a large flour tortilla that's piled with carne asada, Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, and french fries. The addition of fries might seem somewhat odd, but folks from Southern California will tell you they're great for soaking up moisture and adding extra texture and flavor. Although there is some dispute over exactly who created the first California burrito, we do know that it was born in San Diego sometime in the 1980s. Some say it came about at Lolita's Mexican Food thanks to a customer who would often order a carne asada burrito and stuff fries into it. Others say it was created at a restaurant called Santana's. When popular chain Roberto's Taco Shop added it to the menu, the dish really took off. Today, you can find countless spots in San Diego that serve this carb-tastic creation. The ingredients are pretty much the same, although there are slight variations, like versions without pico de gallo and guacamole. You can also find California breakfast burritos with eggs, breakfast meats like sausage and bacon, and fries or diced potatoes. Venture outside of San Diego, though, and the California burrito isn't nearly as ubiquitous. In many parts of the country, some might confuse it with the Mission-style burrito thanks to the Chipotle effect. Burrito de guisado Three tacos de guisado on aplate - Atmosfera Multimedia/Shutterstock Bunyanesque burritos may be the norm in the many parts of the U.S. and a few small pockets of Mexico, but the majority of burritos south of the border are much simpler affairs. Often, they simply consist of a flour tortilla filled with some sort of guisado, which is a stew-like dish featuring meat, vegetables, or both slow-cooked and simmered in a sauce. Burritos de guisados are usually rolled thin so that they're easy to eat and carry. Advertisement Advertisement The beauty of guisados is that there are so many styles to choose from. Depending on the restaurant or food stand you visit, you might find chicharron in a vibrant salsa roja, shredded chicken in tomatillo-infused chile verde, or rajas con crema featuring roasted poblanos cooked in a cream sauce, sometimes with chunks of potatoes. Chile colorado (a stew featuring beef in red chile sauce) can be considered a type of guisado, as can chicken tinga. Beyond the variety of fillings, burritos de guisado are also popular for practical reasons. Tacos de guisado are one of the most popular taco styles across Mexico, but their saucy fillings can make them messy to eat and tricky to transport. Wrapping that same stew inside a flour tortilla turns it into a compact, portable meal that holds up on the walk to work, during a school break, or anywhere you need something filling that won't spill down your arm. Breakfast burrito A breakfast burrito on a plate - Lanista/Shutterstock Unlike some burrito styles tied to a single city, the breakfast burrito is everywhere. It's a staple at diners, brunch spots, mom and pop shops, and even fast food chains throughout Mexico and the U.S. You might think it was one of the earlier burrito styles to emerge, thanks to its simple ingredients (at its most basic, it can simply include scrambled eggs wrapped in a flour tortilla). However, it's actually a relatively modern creation with roots that can be traced to New Mexico. Legend has it that the breakfast burrito first made its appearance at a restaurant in Santa Fe, New Mexico, called Tia Sophia's in 1975. To be fair, the Santa Fe New Mexican noted that the idea of wrapping breakfast foods in tortillas was nothing new in the state, but that Tia Sophia's co-founder, James Maryol, was the first to name it a breakfast burrito and serve it in a restaurant setting. The dish was a hit and would go on to become beloved around the world. Advertisement Advertisement It's easy to see why the breakfast burrito is so popular. For one, it can be as simple or super-stuffed as you want, with fillings like eggs, cheese, potatoes or hash browns, bacon, chorizo, peppers, onions, and more. You can also slather it with salsa or give it a healthy dollop of guacamole or sour cream. Plus, as long as it's not covered in saucy toppings, it's easy to hold in one hand, whether you're sitting down with coffee or heading out the door. Burrito de chile relleno An open burrito de chile relleno on a table - i8chile / Instagram In the Mexican state of Chihuahua, burritos are a big deal. In fact, some say they were created in the city of Juarez, although it's hard to say for sure. The town of Villa Ahumada is famous for its burrito restaurants and stands, and one of the most popular styles you'll find there is the burrito de chile relleno. Simple, but packed with satisfying textures and flavors, it features a roasted chile that's stuffed with cheese, battered, fried, and rolled in a flour tortilla. The burrito de chile relleno is a great representation of Chihuahua-style cuisine because it combines local and foreign influences. Chiles are native to Mexico, and the flour tortilla was created in the north. Then you have the queso Chihuahua, also called Mennonite cheese because it comes from the community that settled in the region over a century ago. The cheese is mild and creamy, and it melts easily, making it the perfect filling for a chile relleno. Also sometimes called a burrito Norteno, the burrito de chile relleno starts with a large green chile, usually an Anaheim or chile guero. The chile is roasted, and the blackened skin is scraped off, then it's slit open and filled with queso Chihuahua. The stuffed chile gets dunked into a simple batter of eggs and flour, then it's fried until crispy and browned. Finally, it's rolled up in a flour tortilla, sometimes with refried beans and salsa. Chimichanga A plate of chimichangas with guacamole, crema, and pico de gallo - Catherine Murray/Shutterstock Crispy and golden on the outside and filled with all manner of tasty ingredients, the chimichanga is a Southwestern favorite. It may look slightly different than your average burrito and sport a different name, but don't let that fool you the chimichanga is really just a burrito that's deep-fried. Think of it like a dorado-style burrito, but instead of a light griddling, it gets a full-on fry for a crunchy outer shell. Advertisement Advertisement The chimichanga has a much-debated origin story. One theory states that Monica Flin of El Charro restaurant in Tucson, Arizona, created it in the 1920s after accidentally dropping a burrito into the deep-fryer. Apparently, she was about to curse in Spanish, but then changed course and shouted out the nonsense word "chimichanga" instead. Others say restaurant owner Woody Johnson created it at Woody's El Nido in Phoenix, Arizona, a few decades later. Some also believe it may have been invented in Mexico. Regardless of where or when it originated, the chimichanga has endured as a delicious and highly adaptable dish. Typical fillings include meat, beans, rice, and cheese, although you can experiment with pretty much anything you like. You can stuff the flour tortilla to the max and top it with pico de gallo, sour cream, and guacamole, or make smaller versions to serve as party snacks. The only real rule is that the chimichangas should be made with tightly wrapped flour tortillas so the insides don't fall out while frying. Burrito de machaca A burrito de machaca on a plate with fries and salsa - manosantamzt / Instagram One of the reasons that burritos really took off in northern Mexico was their portability. This was particularly appealing to vaqueros (cowboys) as they could carry these handheld meals in their saddlebags as they were out on the land tending to cattle. Ingredients that could withstand long days in the heat were especially valuable, which helps explain the popularity of machaca. Made from beef that's salted, marinated, and dried to preserve it, machaca can be stored for extended periods before being pounded into fine shreds Machaca is very popular in Northern Mexico, but harder to find outside the country and even in some other Mexican states. However, it's pretty easy to make at home. All you need to do is marinate beef (any cut will do) in salt, pepper, and garlic. You can also add other flavor enhancers such as dried chilis, spices, or herbs. Traditionally, machaca is dried in the sun, but you can dry it on low heat in the oven or in a dehydrator. When it reaches a jerky-like consistency, cool it, then pound it until it's soft and fluffy. Advertisement Advertisement There are numerous ways you can use machaca in burritos. You can go basic with just a layer of machaca and refried beans. Some people also like to rehydrate it by sauteing it with ingredients like onions, tomatoes, and potatoes, or mixing it into a stew like chile colorado for an extra-beefy guisado-style filling. I also like it in breakfast burritos, as the salty beef works nicely with creamy scrambled eggs. Smothered/wet burrito A wet burrito on a plate - The Image Party/Shutterstock As the name suggests, a wet or smothered burrito is doused in sauce, making it more of a knife and fork meal than a handheld bite. It's often filled with ground or shredded meat, cheese, beans, and rice, then slathered in sauce (usually red or green salsa or enchilada sauce) and sometimes melted cheese. The only real difference between smothered burritos and enchiladas is that the latter are traditionally made with corn tortillas. Some say the wet burrito was created in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in the 1960s. This theory makes sense, as there was a large Mexican population living there during that time. However, the truth is this style likely developed in different pockets of the U.S. independently. For example, people in New Mexico have been smothering breakfast burritos with sauces for decades. Then there is the Mexican hamburger from Denver, Colorado, which features a ground beef patty and beans wrapped in a flour tortilla and topped with green chile sauce and melted cheese. Like many of the burritos on this list, smothered burritos don't have to conform to a strict set of ingredients. You can tweak them to your liking with different fillings and sauces, and experiment with unconventional flavors. For example, mole is typically used for meats or enchiladas (aka enmoladas), but it can work beautifully on a wet burrito. Sriracha can amp up the heat, while tzatziki can cool things down a notch. Advertisement Advertisement Want more food knowledge? Sign up to our free newsletter where we're helping thousands of foodies, like you, become culinary masters, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google. Read the original article on Chowhound. There's nothing better than cozying up with a warm bowl of chili on a cold day. These healthy recipes are packed with seasonal flavors, including winter produce, creamy cheese and hearty proteins. From Creamy White Chili with Sweet Potatoes & White Beans to Turkey Chili, these simple, savory recipes are ready in three steps or less, and will surely be a welcome addition to your winter menu. 01 of 14 Creamy White Chili with Sweet Potatoes & White Beans Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Sally McKay, Prop Stylist Hannah Greenwood A bowl of creamy white chili with sweet potatoes is the perfect comfort food to warm you from the inside out. This hearty plant-based dish blends white beans and the subtle sweetness of sweet potatoes in a rich, flavorful broth. A can of chopped green chiles adds to the warmth. If you like your chili on the mild side, opt for mild green chiles. Advertisement Advertisement View Recipe 02 of 14 Slow-Cooker Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall , Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless This hearty sweet potato and black bean chili has a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Swap out regular chili powder for chipotle and ancho chile powder, or try using reduced-sodium taco or fajita seasoning for a unique twist. View Recipe 03 of 14 Copycat Wendy's Chili Photographer: Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster This copycat Wendy's chili is a lighter yet hearty take on the original version. Lean ground beef is a healthy swap that helps keep saturated fat in check, while plenty of beans help thicken the chili and add a boost of fiber. While the original Wendy's chili isn't spicy, you can add heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh hot green chiles, such as jalapenos or serranos, as garnish. Advertisement Advertisement View Recipe 04 of 14 Turkey Chili Photographer: Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster In this healthy turkey chili recipe, we skip browning the turkey for two reasonsit helps save time, and the lean turkey stays tender as it gently simmers in the chili. Poblano peppers and chipotles in adobo add a nice spice and smokiness to the dish. Top with your favorite garnishes, like shredded cheese, yogurt, avocado or lime wedges. View Recipe 05 of 14 Slow-Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili Jason Donnelly If you like Buffalo wings, you'll love the flavors in this warm, hearty chili that comes together easily in the slow cooker. Sour cream helps cut the heat, but you could also use plain strained yogurt. View Recipe 06 of 14 Vegan Quinoa Chili Photographer / Antonis Achilleos, Prop Stylist / Christine Kelly, Food Stylist / Karen Rankin This light but filling vegan quinoa chili is packed with fresh veggies, with quinoa and black beans adding protein and fiber. Complete this easy one-pot dinner with vegan cheese, dairy-free yogurt or your favorite chili toppings. Advertisement Advertisement View Recipe 07 of 14 White Chicken Chili Casserole Marty Baldwin This easy, one-skillet casserole is packed with heat thanks to two kinds of peppers, poblanos and jalapeno. If you want to increase the spice level, leave the seeds in the jalapeno. Finish with your favorite toppings like Cheddar, cilantro and crumbled tortilla chips. View Recipe 08 of 14 Lentil Chili Caitlin Bensel This vegan lentil chili is easy and satisfying, with earthy flavors balanced by spices. Use this basic chili recipe to customize with your favorite add-ins. View Recipe 09 of 14 Slow-Cooker Turkey Chili Will Dickey Ground turkey and canned kidney beans combine in this easy slow-cooker turkey chili. A tomato base, plus cumin and garlic powder, supplies plenty of flavor, while jalapeno and chili powder bring on the heat. Advertisement Advertisement View Recipe 10 of 14 Kickin' Hot Chili Christine Ma If you like your chili seriously hot, this recipe is for you. For an even bigger kick, use a whole teaspoon of cayenne pepper. View Recipe 11 of 14 Creamy Queso Chili Jacob Fox This mashup of the classic cheesy dip chile con queso with the beans and vegetables of a chili is the best of both worlds. View Recipe 12 of 14 Mom's Chili This healthy basic beef chili recipe is well worth doubling so you can throw a batch in the freezer. Serve topped with diced red onion, sliced scallions, shredded cheese and your favorite hot sauce. View Recipe 13 of 14 Turkey Pumpkin Chili Caitlin Bensel Advertisement Advertisement Canned pumpkin adds mellow background flavor and works to thicken up this turkey pumpkin chili. Smoked paprika adds flavor with a hint of spice. This chili is on the thicker sideif you want it thinner, add a bit more water. View Recipe 14 of 14 Quinoa Chili with Sweet Potatoes Jennifer Causey This hearty vegetarian quinoa chili with sweet potatoes has mild spice from poblanos and green chiles. Chili powder, cumin and garlic provide classic chili flavor. View Recipe Read the original article on EatingWell The Supreme Court recently dismissed as withdrawn a Special Leave Petition (SLP) filed by Keyana Estate, an associate of the Kalpataru Group, bringing a seven-year legal battle to an end in favour of Goregaon homebuyer Paresh Parihar. Parihar booked a flat in 2013 in the Kalpataru Radiance project at Goregaon (West), with possession promised by December 2016, but received it only in January 2024. With the matter now closed, the developer is required to pay approximately Rs 1.82 crore to the homebuyer as interest for the delayed possession. The dispute began when Parihar and his wife, who paid over Rs 3 crore around 95 per cent of the total flat cost did not receive possession within the agreed time. Under the agreement signed in December 2014, the developer was required to hand over the flat by December 31, 2016, with a short grace period. When this did not happen, the couple approached the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) in 2019. In September 2020, MahaRERA held that the developer failed to deliver possession on time and was liable under Section 18 of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. It directed the promoter to pay interest at 9 per cent per annum from July 1, 2017, until actual possession with occupation certificate. The developer challenged this order before the Real Estate Appellate Tribunal, but the appeal was dismissed. The tribunal also ordered that Rs 52.1 lakh deposited by the developer as a pre-condition for appeal be released to the homebuyers. The matter then reached the Bombay High Court. In its judgment dated October 8, 2025, Justice NJ Jamadar dismissed the developers second appeal, holding that no substantial question of law arose. The top court noted that although an Occupation Certificate was issued on April 10, 2023, it was subject to conditions, including compliance under Section 270A of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, which requires proof of adequate water supply before occupation. The court observed that merely offering possession without fulfilling such mandatory conditions could not free the developer from liability. It also pointed out that 95 per cent of the sale consideration was already paid by the buyers and rejected the developers defence of force majeure. For the Parihar family, the wait for their home was not just a delay on paper it was years of silent suffering. What was meant to be a dream home promised in December 2016 turned into an endless stretch of uncertainty, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion, with possession finally coming only in January 2024. They paid nearly everything they saved, yet lived with the constant fear of losing both money and hope. It was a mental, physical, and financial ordeal for us, Parihar said, his voice heavy with emotion. There were times we felt broken and pressured to give up, but we kept fighting not just for our home, but for our dignity. This journey tested our patience, our faith, and our strength, but it also proved that if you refuse to surrender, even the most powerful can be held accountable, he added. If you want to find good food in an unfamiliar city, one smart approach is to follow in Anthony Bourdain's footsteps. In Miami, they might lead you to a local Haitian chain called Chef Creole Seasoned Kitchen, one of Bourdain's favorite hidden gems around the country. Bourdain visited on a 2005 episode of his spirited Travel Channel series, "No Reservations," where he visited Miami's Little Haiti neighborhood. He met the restaurant's eponymous Chef Creole (real name Wilkinson Ken Sejour) during a passionate game of dominoes. He then stopped by the restaurant's open-air 54th Street location with its outdoor grill at the south end of Little Haiti to tuck into a meal of conch, a shellfish popular in Caribbean food, alongside grilled fish. Bourdain goes on to dub Sejour's food, "another example of food being the best expression of a place and a personality," noting there's no shortage of personality to go around here. Read more: 9 Restaurant Chains That Make Your Food Fresh To Order How to eat like Anthony Bourdain at Chef Creole Chef Creole, Ken Sejour, giving thumbs up against a tropical, beach shack background. - Sergi Alexander/Getty Images Ken Sejour gave Anthony Bourdain a crash course on what to put in Creole seasoning for fresh seafood, which is used to season conch. Super spicy Scotch bonnet peppers are first on the list. Sejour didn't spill about the other ingredients, but some staples in Creole seasoning include paprika, onion, garlic, and herbs like oregano and thyme. Bourdain ate the conch stew with sweet, green plantains; he also sampled fresh-grilled snapper, which was also spiced up with Scotch bonnets. Advertisement Advertisement Bourdain is hardly the first person to enjoy Chef Creole's food. Sejour, who was born in the Bahamas to Haitian parents and raised in Miami, opened the first Chef Creole restaurant on 77th Street in Little Haiti in 1992, and it became a Miami favorite. He's also cooked for other big names, from the Obamas to Pitbull. That said, the so-called "Bourdain effect" likely helped it draw in customers too it now numbers seven locations around the Miami area, including at the city's airport and Hard Rock Stadium. What else to order at Chef Creole A plate of Haitian griot with rice and sides in black to-go container from Chef Creole. - chefcreole305/Instagram Given Anthony Bourdain visited Chef Creole some 20 years ago, the restaurant has inevitably evolved a bit. The grilled snapper isn't specifically listed on the standard menu, and it's unclear what type of fish filet is offered. However, in 2025, one Yelp reviewer mentioned receiving the biggest snapper they've ever ordered. The conch stew is still available and there are plenty of other options to try if you decide to stop by. The award-winning conch fritters are likely a good bet. Otherwise, the seafood is frequently recommended by patrons, with options including steamed, fried, and stewed. If you're not in the mood for fish, other notable menu items include griot (fried pork), a classic Haitian dish of pork shoulder marinated with hot peppers and onions, simmered, and then fried. Oxtail (queue de boeuf) is also a Haitian and Caribbean classic: At Chef Creole, it's sauteed in tomato sauce until it's perfectly tender. Whatever you get, ask for some pikliz (a classic Haitian condiment of pickled vegetables and chile), but be warned the pikliz here is particularly spicy. You won't break the bank, either: Most entrees hover around $15 to $16, although you'll pay a bit more for oxtail and market prices for some seafood items. As for the vibes befitting of a Caribbean restaurant, expect it to be laid back and beachy quite possibly with some bouncy tropical tunes, pretty much in line with Sejour's jovial attitude on Bourdain's series. Advertisement Advertisement Want more food knowledge? Sign up to our free newsletter where we're helping thousands of foodies, like you, become culinary masters, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google. Read the original article on Chowhound. Valentines Day may celebrate love with roses, teddy bears, jewelry, and chocolate. But like most holidays, it produces a lot of waste. The first environmental impact comes from flowers. According to the Thompson Earth Systems Institute, approximately 80% of flowers are imported from other countries to the US, primarily from Ecuador and Colombia, where they are grown using high amounts of water, pesticides, and fertilizers. There's also the impact of transportation, meaning if you find a florist locally or purchase a potted plant, you lower the biggest flower carbon footprint. Plus, once the flowers arrive, they're often wrapped in plastic and tossed within a week or two. Advertisement Advertisement It also helps if you snag your chocolates or sweet treat from a local shop. Making your own cards or choosing a digital option could save some of the 145 million that end up in landfills every year, according to the Thompson Earth Systems Institute. You may be thinking about how many cards are initially made of paper, but most cannot be recycled due to the materials used to design them glitter, foil, ribbons, beads, plastics, and other embellishments. Lastly, find an experience over a physical gift, or try your hand at thrifting gifts. This can be books, clothes, or even jewelry, which often saves you lots of money! Advertisement Advertisement We can still celebrate love while reducing our impact on the planet, with sustainable alternatives. Contact Brittany Van Voorhees at bvanvoorhe@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram. If you like weather, watch Brad Panovich and the WCNC Weather Impact Team on their Emmy Award-winning Weather IQ YouTube channel. MONDAY, Feb. 16 BLOOM-VERNON BOE: The Regular Meeting of the Bloom-Vernon Board of Education will take place at 6:30 p.m., 10529 Main Street, South Webster, Ohio. SCIOTOVILLE SCHOOLS: The governing board of Sciotoville Community School will hold its regular February meeting at 5:30 p.m. in the multipurpose room of Sciotoville Elementary Academy. FREE PLANETARIUM SHOW: A free show will be offered at 7 p.m. at the Clark Planetarium in the Advanced Technology Center on the campus of Shawnee State University. Free shows are offered on Mondays and Thursdays. Learn more about the planetariums shows at www.shawnee.edu/planetarium. Advertisement Advertisement TUESDAY, FEB. 17 REVOLUTONARY WAR COOKING: The Portsmouth Public Library will host Revolutionary War Cooking at 5:30 for teens and adults aged 13 and older. G will learn about the food and cooking methods used during the Revolutionary War and special guest PJ Davis will be in attendance to discuss his cookbooks and to provide samples. The Portsmouth Public Library is located at 1220 Gallia Street, Portsmouth. MADISON TOWNSHIP: The Madison Township Board of Trustees will conduct their monthly meeting at 6 p.m. in the township meeting room at 457 White Gravel Road in Minford. ADAMHS MEETING: The Adams, Lawrence, Scioto Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services Board will hold the Finance Committee meeting at 5:30 p.m. and the Board of Directors meeting at 6 p.m. at 919 7th Street, Portsmouth. Advertisement Advertisement JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP: The monthly meetings for the Jefferson Township Board of Trustees will be held month at 6 pm at the Office of the Township at 200 Glendale Rd., Lucasville. changes. HARRISON TOWNSHIP: The Harrison Township Trustees will conduct their monthly meeting at 6 p.m. in the township meeting room at the Minford Fire Department, formally the EMS building. BOARD OF ELECTIONS: The Scioto County Board of Elections will meet at 3 p.m. in the office at 602 7th St., Room 105, Portsmouth. WATER DISTRICT: The regular board meeting of the Northwest Regional Water District will be at 7 p.m. at the Thomas E. and Lois E. Slye Annex located at 123 Smith Street, McDermott, Ohio 45652. Advertisement Advertisement WEDESNDAY, Feb. 18 VALLEY BOE: The Valley Board of Education will have their monthly meeting at 6 p.m. in the Valley High School Library. THURSDAY, Feb. 19 LEGO CLUB: South Webster Library will host their LEGO Club at 4 p.m. for tweens ages six to 12. The South Webster Library is located at 496 Webster Street, South Webster. SCDD MEETING: Scioto County Developmental Disabilities will conduct their February Board meeting at 5 p.m. at the Carousel Center, 1112 Gallia Street, Portsmouth. An Ethics Council meeting will take place at 4:45 p.m. in the same location, if needed. Meetings are open to the public with the exception of executive session. Advertisement Advertisement COUNTY COMMISSIONERS: The Scioto County Commissioners will meet in regular session at 9:30 a.m., on the third floor of the Scioto County Courthouse, 602 Seventh St., Portsmouth. The commissioners meeting is also livestreamed on their Facebook page. FREE PLANETARIUM SHOW: A free show will be offered at 7 p.m. at the Clark Planetarium in the Advanced Technology Center on the campus of Shawnee State University. Free shows are offered on Mondays and Thursdays. Learn more about the planetariums shows at www.shawnee.edu/planetarium. SATURDAY, Feb. 21 DAR MEETING: The Joseph Spencer Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will meet at 1 p.m. at the Community Action Organization of Scioto County Welcome Center, 342 2nd St, Portsmouth. Anyone is welcome to visit and join. Membership requires a woman be at least 18 years of age and be able to prove direct lineal descent to an American Revolutionary patriot. Feb. 14Superior: A LiveWell Friends and Flavors free healthy cooking class is 9-11 a.m. at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, 820 Belknap St. Make a lemon chicken veggie quinoa skillet, matcha latte and chocolate-covered strawberries. RSVP at livewellnorthernwi.org/calendar. Superior: The Superior YMCA is offering free admission for all community members from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The fee to become a member will also be discounted to $14. Advertisement Advertisement Superior: The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center has four escape rooms 9 a.m. to 9 .m. Feb. 14 and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Feb. 15. Follow clues to find the famous Marge plane, a stolen school mascot, or a lost baby gorilla's mother or to escape a speakeasy during prohibition. Tickets are $31.10 for ages 13 and up and $21.40 for children 12 and under. Details and tickets at bongcenter.org/event. Walk-ins also accepted if space is available. Superior: Youths can make a Valentine's Day tree from 10 a.m. to noon at Superior Public Library. Superior: Photographer Michael Anderson leads a free nature photography class and walk from 10 a.m. to noon beginning and ending at Barkers Island Inn, in the Erie Room. RSVP at Advertisement Advertisement livewellnorthernwi.org/calendar. Superior: St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 2316 E. Fourth St., holds its annual salad bar lunch and raffle at noon. A variety of homemade salads, breads, desserts and beverages will be served. Cost is $12 for ages 13 and up, $7 for ages 6-12 and free for 5 and younger. Superior: An adult prom with music, dancing, food and drinks is 6:30-11 p.m. at the Belgium Club. Tickets are $25 plus fees at getschickdoneevents.com/adult-prom. Superior: Time Arc Theatre presents "The 39 Steps" at 7 p.m. Feb. 14, 20 and 21, and 2 p.m. Feb. 15 and 22 in the third-floor ballroom of the former post office at 1401 Tower Ave. Five actors portray 150 characters in the comedic adaptation of the 1935 Alfred Hitchcock film. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for youths at Advertisement Advertisement https://givebutter.com/E9IGHl. Superior: The University of Wisconsin-Superior Jazz Band holds its annual Valentine's Day swing dance at 7:30 p.m. in the Yellowjacket Union Great Room. The band, along with vocalists and soloists performs music from the golden age of big band. Swing dance lessons provided. Admission is $5 for most adults and free for students. Highland: The Highland Fire Department hosts a skating and sledding party from noon to 4 p.m. at 9360 S. Highway S. Bring your own sled. Lunch available. Superior: Livewell storytelling sessions are 12:30-2 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Lew Martin Senior Center and 1-2:30 p.m. Feb. 18 over Zoom at Advertisement Advertisement wisconsin-edu.zoom.us/j/94757920790 . All ages invited to share about something you are grateful for. Superior: Superior High School holds a pops concert at 7 p.m. in the performing arts center and streamed at www.youtube.com/@SuperiorSpartans. A dinner will be available from 5-6:30 p.m. Superior: Lake Superior Life-Care Center, 1225 Tower Ave., offers a free clinic providing non-emergency medical services. Call 715-394-4102 to schedule a time between 9 a.m. and noon. No walk-ins. Superior: Free memory and brain health screenings are available from noon to 2 p.m. at the Superior YMCA, no appointment required. Advertisement Advertisement Superior: Story time, with songs and crafts, is at 10:30 a.m. at Superior Public Library. Superior: Seniors can play free bingo for prizes from 2-3 p.m. at the Lew Martin Senior Center, 1527 Tower Ave. Superior: The Superior Business Improvement District Women in Business group meets at 9:30 a.m. in the third-floor ballroom of the former post office at 1401 Tower Ave. Guest speaker is Carolyn Nelson-Kavajecz from Create Wisconsin. RSVP at www.superiorbid.com/women-in-business. Superior: Teens can participate in an "In Their Shoes: Teens and Dating Violence" activity at 6 p.m. in the Superior High School Library Conference Room. Food and prizes. Sponsored by local organizations in observance of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Advertisement Advertisement Superior: University of Wisconsin-Superior orchestra director and professor of violin and viola Erin Aldridge performs at 7:30 p.m. in Webb Recital Hall in the Holden Fine and Applied Arts Center. Aldridge will perform classical works, then be joined by Danny Frank to perform premieres of her compositions inspired by bluegrass. Admission is $15. Superior: The Read Between the Wines Silent Book Club meets at 6 p.m. at Wine Sellar Winery. New members are welcome to come read any book and socialize with other readers. Wine and non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase. Superior: Cooper Elementary School PTA hosts a movie night at 5:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Bring a chair or blanket. Popcorn provided; additional snacks and drinks available for purchase. Solon Springs: Play eight games of bingo beginning at 6 p.m. at the Solon Springs Community Center. $1 a game, proceeds shared between winners and Our Savior's Lutheran Church quilting group. Advertisement Advertisement Superior: Three student-directed short plays will be staged at 7 p.m. Feb. 19 and 20 and 2 p.m. Feb. 21 at the University of Wisconsin-Superior in the Experimental Lab Theatre in the Holden Fine Arts Center, 1805 Catlin Ave. Megan Peterson directs "'Dentity Crisis," Andy Hill directs "The Actors Nightmare," and Cheyanne Warner directs "Here We Are." Admission is $5. Superior: A free LiveWell hip hop dance class is 5-6:30 p.m. at Sterling Silver Dance Studio, 69 N. 28th St. Suite 1A. No dance experience required. Bring clean shoes to change into. Superior: A yoga class for ages 12 and up is at 10:30 a.m. at Superior Public Library. Bring a mat if you have one. Free, but a donation to the library will be accepted. Barnes: The Jackpine Riders Snowmobile and ATV Club holds a meat raffle fundraiser to support trail maintenance at 1 p.m. at Georgia's Bar-N-Grill, 11050 Ellison Lake Road. Advertisement Advertisement Maple: The Douglas County Beef Improvement Association holds a spaghetti dinner and silent auction from 4-7 p.m. at Northwestern High School. Meal is $8. Proceeds support youth livestock projects. Summit: Community events will be held 5-8 p.m. in the Superior School Forest, 2155 E. School Forest Road (off of Highway 35). Go snowshoeing on trails lit by luminaries (bring snowshoes if you have them or some will be available to borrow), roast marshmallows by a bonfire, relax in a conversation dome and warm up while doing indoor activities. Superior: Take a sauna at 11 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. on Wisconsin Point near lot 5. Register at livewellnorthernwi.org/calendar. Advertisement Advertisement Superior: The Fairlawn Mansion History Talk Series focuses on weddings from 1-2:30 p.m. at the mansion. Learn about past traditions and the Pattison family weddings that were held at the mansion, and see a special wedding collection. Tickets are $10 at superiorhistoricproperties.org. Superior: The Lake Superior Ragtime Society invites guests to listen or join in playing at 1 p.m. at United Presbyterian Church, 1401 Belknap St. Superior: A men's discussion group meets at 6 p.m. at Vintage Italian Pizza. Men invited for pizza and conversation about managing life's challenges. RSVP at livewellnorthernwi.org/calendar. Solon Springs: Youths can make a sand art craft from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at the Joan Salmen Memorial Library. Superior: Watch a screening of the newest "Superman" at 6 p.m. at Superior Public Library. Superior: The Superior-Douglas County Area Chamber of Commerce holds its monthly Good Morning Superior networking event at 8:30 a.m. at Shannon's Stained Glassery, 5904 Tower Ave. Superior: Story time, with songs and crafts, is at 10:30 a.m. at Superior Public Library. Superior: Business officials are invited to a lunch and learn about "supply chain stability: how small and mid-size businesses can navigate and mitigate risk" at noon at the Superior Entrepreneurship Center, 1401 Tower Ave. Free lunch provided by 7 West Tap House. Registration required at tinyurl.com/BizLunchLearn. Hosted by the University of Wisconsin-Superior Center for Continuing Education. Superior: Teens can watch a screening of "The Wisdom of Trauma" at 6 p.m. in the Superior High School Library Conference Room. Food and prizes. Sponsored by local organizations in observance of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Superior: Youths can sign up for a time to Read to a Reptile between 4-5 p.m. Feb. 25 or 5:30-7 p.m. Feb. 26 at Superior Public Library. Email wiisanenk@superiorlibrary.org. Superior: Get help using a digital device from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Feb. 25 or 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Superior Public Library. Staff can assist with settings, using emails and apps and more. Superior: The University of Wisconsin-Superior hosts a job and internship fair that is open to the public from noon to 3 p.m. in the Yellowjacket Union Great Room. More than 75 businesses and organizations are participating. Superior: A free Senior Planet class about apps that can help you unwind is at 1 p.m. at Superior Public Library. Superior: Watch a livestream of a presentation by motivational speaker Erin King at 3 p.m. in the third-floor ballroom of the Superior Entrepreneurship Center, 1401 Tower Ave. Superior: A free 4-H club for kindergarten through eighth graders and an accompanying adult meets from 5:30-6:30 p.m. the last Thursday of each month in the meeting room of the Superior Public Library. Participate in games, science, art and other 4-H activities. Register at https://go.wisc.edu/zsf484. Solon Springs: Play eight games of bingo beginning at 6 p.m. at the Solon Springs Community Center. $1 a game, proceeds shared between winners and the community center sign fund. Superior: The Page Turners Book Club meets at 6 p.m. at Superior Public Library to discuss "The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World" by Robin Wall Kimmerer. New members welcome. If you're looking to have a bright Hawaiian Christmas Day this year, or perhaps escape the bitter cold around this time next year, Delta Air Lines will have you covered with its largest-ever slate of flights between the mainland United States and Hawaii. This week, Delta announced two new flights between the United States mainland and the Aloha State, along with "expanded flying and aircraft upgrades across its existing Hawaii routes" as part of what it is calling its "most robust seasonal schedule to date." Two New Routes On Friday, Delta officially announced the launch of MinneapolisSt. Paul to Maui and the return of Boston to Honolulu beginning Dec. 19, 2026, bringing two new routes to travelers looking to get to the tropical paradise beginning next winter. Advertisement Advertisement Hawaii plays an important role in our long-haul leisure network, said Amy Martin, Delta Air Lines Vice President of Network Planning, in a news release. This expansion strengthens connectivity from key U.S. hubs while giving customers more choice in how they reach the islands, alongside the premium travel experience they expect on these long-haul flights. For the Boston-Honolulu route, flights will operate daily during peak late-December holiday travel, then will transition to four times weekly through the winter season. As for the Minneapolis-St. Paul to Maui route, it will also operate daily during peak holiday and spring break periods, with five weekly flights scheduled through the core winter season. Both routes will use the Airbus A330-300. Enhancing Existing Flights In addition to the launch of the two new flights, Delta is also expanding its existing flights to Hawaii with added frequencies, earlier seasonal service, and aircraft enhancements as it boasts its most expansive Hawaii schedule to date. Here is the airline's rundown of some enhancements to its current slate of flights to the Aloha State: Advertisement Advertisement Atlanta (ATL) Honolulu (HNL): Second frequency operating three-times-weekly from January 04, 2027, through March on the Airbus A330-300 Detroit (DTW) Honolulu (HNL): Expands from three-times-weekly to daily service beginning Nov. 9, 2026, operated by the Airbus A330-300 New York-JFK Honolulu (HNL): Expands from up to five weekly flights to daily service beginning Apr. 1, 2026, on the Boeing 767-300 Salt Lake City (SLC) Kona (KOA): Daily service on the Boeing 767-300 will begin Nov. 9, 2026, launching earlier than last year and giving Mountain West customers an earlier start to winter travel to the Big Island Advertisement Advertisement Los Angeles (LAX) Kona (KOA): Beginning Nov. 9, 2026, service will be upgauged to the Boeing 767300 for the winter season, providing customers with a widebody onboard experience to Hawaii Island. Needless to say, if you are looking for a tropical trip, Delta has you covered. This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Feb 13, 2026, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here. The roughly three million Catholics in New Jersey will observe Ash Wednesday on Feb. 18 which marks the beginning of Lent, but before that solemn, 40-day period of fasting, reflection and giving of alms, there will be the Fat Tuesday celebration. But what is Fat Tuesday, and is it considered heretical? Here's what to know. When is Fat Tuesday? The daylong Fat Tuesday celebration is Tuesday, Feb. 17. What is Fat Tuesday? Dynamic Catholic explains Fat Tuesday as a great feast to be had before the Lent fasting period. Advertisement Advertisement "Traditionally, Catholics have embraced Fat Tuesday as a way to get rid of all the fats and desserts in the house in preparation for Lent. With these tempting goodies already consumed, its easier to more fully engage in Lent and experience spiritual growth," read Dynamic Catholic's website. "The deeper meaning for Fat Tuesday actually comes from its traditional name, Shrove Tuesday. The word 'shrove' means to give absolution to be forgiven. "Shrove Tuesday is an invitation to reflect on your life, seek forgiveness and peace, and get ready for 40 days of spiritual renewal during Lent." Is Mardi Gras the same as Fat Tuesday? Mardi Gras is the French phrase for Fat Tuesday, and each are synonymous, according to Catholic Answers. "Rooted in Catholic tradition, Mardi Gras marks the last day of feasting before Lents fasting and penance," read Catholic Answers' website. "The day embodies the joy and gratitude for Gods gifts, reminding us to reflect on our spiritual journey and prepare our hearts for the renewal and repentance of Lent, a season which, in turn, is ordered toward preparing for the great celebration of Easter." Is celebrating Fat Tuesday heretical? Dynamic Catholic doesn't say celebrating Fat Tuesday even in New Orleans goes against any Catholic teachings. In fact, its website favorably mentions Louisiana Mardi Gras celebrations. Advertisement Advertisement However, some claim the excess, drinking and raucous behavior attached to some Mardi Gras celebrations go against rooted Christian norms. "Even celebrating too much, in the hope of somehow undoing it with a good Lent, suggests a kind of perverse, scoreboard-style thinking uncomfortably close to Pelagianism, a heresy Catholics ought to take care to avoid," Jack Butler wrote in a National Review report. "It is unlikely that todays New Orleans revelers are all actually uppercase Bacchanals, literally worshipping the god of their earthly delights. "But many are nonetheless drawing from the diluted remnants of a religious tradition, while ignoring where it actually came from." Damon C. Williams is a Philadelphia-based journalist reporting on trending topics across the Mid-Atlantic Region. This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: When is Fat Tuesday? What to know about the beginning of Lent a plate of fries with ketchup - Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock If you're a fry fan, your favorite fast-food restaurant may largely depend on how it preps its potatoes. Do you like your fries crinkle cut or curly? Arby's may be your jam. Prefer waffle fries? Check out Chick-fil-A. If you're less set on a particular style, we've ranked the fries of 15 fast food restaurants to help you know which is the best. But what happens if you and your fellow diner have different yet equally strong opinions? If you live in Idaho, the answer comes in the form of the Boise Fry Company, which Chowhound judged to deliver the absolute best french fries in the entire state. Boise Fry Company also serves burgers and other sandwiches, but the emphasis truly is on the fry itself. In fact, the website proclaims: "Award winning organic, natural, and locally grown Idaho fries, where burgers are served on the side!" While the potatoes are organic and locally sourced, the real magic comes from the fact that you can completely customize your fry order. Start by choosing your preferred type of potato (out of a rotating six options, from Russet to yam), then how you'd like it cut. If you're not overly familiar with different potato varieties, the online menu adds some helpful descriptions. For example, Russets are classic, firm, and starchy, while red potatoes are rich, salty, and buttery. The fries will arrive "naked" (unsalted) so that you can add your preferred seasonings from Boise Fry Company's 10+ salt offerings and just as many sauce options. Read more: The Best Texas Roadhouse Menu Items, Ranked So many styles and seasonings several styles of fries and three dipping sauces - @boisefryco/Instagram Boise Fry Company's iconic fries come from potatoes that are grown nearby for the most part, from King's Crown Organic Farms in Glenns Ferry, Idaho. They are cut and fried fresh in-house and, unless you request an alternative, fried in beef tallow. The types and cuts of potatoes may rotate throughout the year, but in general, you can choose from Russets, red, gold, sweet, and purple potatoes, as well as yams. As far as cuts, you can generally choose between regular, homestyle, curly, shoestring, and po'ball (fried mashed potato balls). Advertisement Advertisement The best part about Boise is that you can customize the salts and sauces for your fries, and you have both sweet and savory options. Looking at reviews, the standout sauce seems to be the blueberry ketchup. But if you want to try a few different ones, nothing's stopping you. The options run the gamut, from fairly standard, like spicy ketchup, to nicely out-of-the-box, like maple marshmallow (which would probably be great on sweet potato fries!). Salt choices include cajun, garlic rosemary, and cinnamon ginger, among others. That said, it's worth noting that Boise also has set options on the specialty fries menu if you don't feel like customizing your order entirely. If you want something fancier, check out the Frychos (your fry of choice with nacho-style toppings) and truffle parmesan fries (your fry choice seasoned with garlic oil plus truffle salt and parmesan). Boise Fry Company's Bourgeouis and poutine specialty fries are made with homestyle Russet fries, so they may be less customizable but still fun options. Want more food knowledge? Sign up to our free newsletter where we're helping thousands of foodies, like you, become culinary masters, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google. Read the original article on Chowhound. In 2015, Kat Smith joined the Peace Corps as a volunteer and moved to Ecuador. Since then, she's lived all around the world in places like Peru, South Korea, and currently is in Italy. Smith told BI she loves being American, but she feels more at home abroad. This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kat Smith, 35, who has lived abroad since 2015. Smith, the founder of Away Abroad, a website for female travelers, currently lives in Trieste, Italy, with her husband. This conversation has been edited for length and clarity. I think people don't always believe me when I say it, but living abroad has always felt more fun to me. I love the cultural challenges, the language barrier, the different food, and the process of figuring out the day-to-day. Advertisement Advertisement I'm originally from Conyers, a small town just outside Atlanta. In high school, I moved to Athens, Georgia. It was a typical small, suburban place there weren't many people traveling internationally. Certainly, no one was moving abroad the way I eventually did. When I was 18, between graduating from high school and starting at the University of Georgia, my parents basically forced a gap semester on me. They came home from a dinner party one night and were like, "Instead of going to college, you're going to Guatemala." I did not want to go, but hindsight is 20/20. Going to Guatemala was the best thing that could have happened to me. While I was there, I met a Peace Corps volunteer. Spending time with them and being in the country changed my perception of the world and opened my eyes to what was even possible. Advertisement Advertisement When I got back and started university, I met with an advisor who had also served in the Peace Corps. After talking with him more, it just felt like the right path for me. Living abroad changed me as a person In 2013, almost exactly a month after I graduated from university, I joined the Peace Corps and left the US for Ecuador. At the time I applied, you didn't really have much say in where you went. I basically said, "Send me anywhere in the world," and they sent me to Ecuador. During training, they placed me in a community based on my skill set and the community's needs. I ended up in Tumbaco for 3 months for training and then in Arenillas, a really small town in the southwestern province of El Oro, where I lived for about two years. Advertisement Advertisement When my service ended, a friend of mine and I hitchhiked through the Peruvian Amazon and ended up working at an eco-lodge in the middle of the rainforest for a few months. Smith's boat ride on the Amazon river. Courtesy of Kat Smith Around that time, in 2015, my dad was like, "Okay, you haven't been home in almost three years. I'm buying you a ticketyou're coming to visit." So, begrudgingly, I went back to the US. I remember feeling reverse culture shock more intensely than I ever felt culture shock. It completely caught me off guard. All of a sudden, the US didn't feel like home anymore. I felt like I didn't fit in. I also knew I wasn't the same person I'd been when I'd left, which created an internal conflict. I don't want to be that dramatic, but I had a different mindset, and trying to be the old me was hard. I've traveled and lived all around the world Over the years, I've lived in Panama City, been to Colombia, worked on a yacht in the South of France, and backpacked through Eastern Europe for a couple of months. I also backpacked between Vietnam and Thailand, and taught English in South Korea. Smith and her husband, Rafael Tudela, in Cartagena, Colombia. Courtesy of Kat Smith Somewhere in the middle of all of that, I fell in love and got married in Colombia in 2018. Not long after, my husband and I moved to Vietnam, where we stayed for three years while I was teaching English, before leaving in 2021 because of COVID restrictions. Advertisement Advertisement After Vietnam, we went back to the US for a while. We bought a van, converted it, and traveled up and down the West Coast. I loved nature, but after a few months, I was ready to leave again. Smith inside of the van she traveled with throughout the US. Courtesy of Kat Smith So we tried Albania next. We stayed for a couple of months, but it didn't feel like the right long-term fit. Instead, we kept moving and spent time around the Balkans traveling through Montenegro, Serbia, Bosnia, and Croatia. My journey hasn't been perfect Looking back, I've made a few mistakes along the way. One of the things I cringe about most is how I treated my friends and family back home. I was pretty insensitive about their choices friends who just wanted to graduate, buy a house 10 minutes from where they grew up, and settle into a typical, structured, no-surprises kind of life. I think I judged that because I felt like what I was doing was so extravagant. Advertisement Advertisement But honestly, I was a bit of a brat about accepting other people's paths. I did something similar with my family, too. I didn't really consider what it meant for them when I left. I was so focused on what it meant for me, and not necessarily on how it was affecting everyone around me. Smith and friends exploring a neighborhood in Seoul. Courtesy of Kat Smith Italy is home for now In 2023, we moved to Italy for a job opportunity for my husband. He has an EU Blue Card basically a work permit for skilled workers and I'm on a family reunification visa linked to his. We've been living in Trieste for the past 2.5 years. Trieste is fantastic, but it's also an up-and-coming city that's gotten really expensive, fast. Even in the short time we've been here, we've seen a big jump in costs. Our rent, for example, increased by $308 a month, which still feels crazy. Advertisement Advertisement Our apartment is really nice: one bedroom, one bath, open floor plan, and close to everything. I'm really into nature, and we have a beautiful view of the sea and the hills. We were paying $1,423 a month, and now it's $1,732. The view from Smith's apartment in Trieste. Courtesy of Kat smith That rising cost of living is one of the reasons we started looking at other places just to get more for our money. We ended up buying an apartment in Belluno for $260,955, and we'll move in April. Belluno is a much smaller town, kind of a gateway to the Dolomites, and it sits north of Venice. We're big mountain people, and the Dolomites are genuinely my happy place. Being closer to them means we can hike and snowboard more regularly without a long drive, which was a huge perk for us. Although we didn't choose Italy initially and only moved here for my husband's job, there are a lot of reasons we've chosen to stay rather than move on like we typically do after a few years. Advertisement Advertisement Italy has a strategic geographic position. I love living smack dab in the middle of the world. Not only is this exciting adventure-wise, but it's also meant more people have been able to visit us, including our parents, who aren't as keen on the long-haul flights. Smith and her dog on a hike in Montenegro. Courtesy of Kat Smith On top of that, the culture clicks for both of us. As an intercultural couple, we have different triggers, things we look for, and things we want to avoid. Northern Italy has provided the perfect balance for us. I really hope Italy can be our home base, at least for the foreseeable future. But I also know myself: If, two years from now, it doesn't feel right, we'll pivot. I'm not setting a deadline; it's more about whether it still feels like home. And right now, it does. Read the original article on Business Insider As conservatives push to overturn marriage equality, LGBTQ+ couples are uniting to show that their love is stronger. A new campaign from GLAAD aims to spotlight queer married couples, asking for submissions from those whose lives have been made better by having the legal right to marry. GLAAD I Found You uplifts "married queer couples finding each other and celebrating joy, the same as any other couple who decides to make this life-changing commitment." "Like any good love story, some have meet-cutes, some have meet-laters. Some overcome incredible odds to be together. Some felt a spark that still burns decades later," Darian Aaron, GLAAD Senior Director of News, U.S. South, told The Advocate. "In the 11th year since marriage equality was legalized, we are still discovering that love is love, that all couples who marry want the same thing - to be a family, to be there for each other. Accurate LGBTQ storytelling demystifies and humanizes everything, including our marriages and relationships, bridging any divides others try to build." Advertisement Advertisement One of the couples featured is Brandon Davis and Davie Roberts, two business owners from Asheville, North Carolina whose cafe and bar was destroyed by Hurricane Helene just 31 days after it opened. The couple wasn't expecting to go viral, but the donations came pouring in, and the two were able to open a new space twice as big just four months later. GLAAD has always been a source of guidance for me when I've felt lost, Davis says. They represent love, grace and humanity. This organization has always spotlighted those who are doing the work to create queer community and I am highly honored our bar DayTrip has been noticed by them. Another couple featured is the TikTok "Rainbow Aunties" Marilyn Johnson Jordan and Wilma J. Scales, both 61, who have been together since they were 20. Jordan left her husband to follow Scales to New Orleans after the former had enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard. In an era of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," even their young children knew them as "mom" and "auntie" until Scales left in 1998. The two got married as soon as the U.S. Supreme Court handed down its landmark ruling in 2014. "We were going to live as out loud as we could because we had been silent and suffocating for so many years," Jordan told GLAAD. Advertisement Advertisement Also featured are Matty Maggiacomo and Evan Feeley, who met on Grindr just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. They kept in touch while socially distanced, speaking every night on the phone or FaceTime, and mailing each other handwritten letters. The two moved in together in 2021, and the rest is history. "We hope the GLAAD I Found You campaign will not only serve as a source of inspiration and representation but will showcase the beautiful diversity within our community, especially during a time when DEI is wrongly considered a weakness," Aaron continued. "The stories featured in 'GLAAD I Found You' are not merely sidebar or niche features; they are front-page worthy." To read the couples' full stories, and the stories of other LGBTQ+ married couples, click here. To submit your love story for publishing consideration on GLAAD platforms, click here. This article originally appeared on Advocate: These LGBTQ+ married couples arent afraid to show their love RELATED Bill Bellair, left, poses for a photo with Mr. P Head and Michelle Matte during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Paczki sit on a table during during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Detroit media personality JoAnne Purtan, now a morning host on WOMC (104.3), eats a paczek during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Kristen Schultz smiles during a Paczki Day block party at Eastern Market Brewing Co. in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. The brewery's Pazcki Beer a raspberry-pastry-inspired blonde ale is in the foreground. Michael Babcock, a brand ambassador with Detroit City Distillery, takes a shot with friends during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. An illustration of Mr. P Head is displayed during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Jenny Golota smiles during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Golota said she has attended the celebration for years and enjoys honoring her Polish heritage and food traditions. A sign reading Paczki cans sold out is posted on a cooler inside Eastern Market Brewing Co. during a Paczki Day block party in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. A sign reading Paczki Day is seen during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. People line up to grab their complimentary paczki inside the Detroit City Distillerys 100 Proof event space during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. People gather inside the Detroit City Distillerys 100 Proof event space during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. People gather inside the Detroit City Distillerys 100 Proof event space during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. People gather inside the Detroit City Distillerys 100 Proof event space during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. A person wearing a paczki costume makes his way through a crowd during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Zak Vossen, 35, an employee with Detroit City Distillerys west-side operations, pours a shot for a costumer during the distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Bottles of Detroit City Distillery spirits, including its paczki vodka are displayed on a shelf during the distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Dante Dasaro, brand development manager, photographs Mr. P Head and other attendees during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Jalen Yockey, 25, an ice carver, works on a sculpture during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Paczki-themed merchandise is displayed for sale during the Detroit City Distillery annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. People gather inside Eastern Market Brewing Co. during a Paczki Day block party in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. A person wearing a paczki costume walks out of the Detroit City Distillerys 100 Proof event space during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. A band performs during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Detroit hot spots lube up for Paczki Day with weekend parties 1 of 22 Bill Bellair, left, poses for a photo with Mr. P Head and Michelle Matte during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. People dressed in paczki gear drank paczki-flavored liquor and beer, ate perogies and kielbasa, and celebrated Polish heritage at paczki parties in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14. The parties at Detroit City Distillery and Eastern Market Brewing Co. down the road were bumping Saturday morning and afternoon ahead of Fat Tuesday on Feb. 17 and the beginning of Lent on Wednesday, Feb. 18. Detroit City Distillery owners J.P. Jerome and Mike Derksen said this is the distillery's ninth year making Paczki Day Vodka. A person wearing a paczek costume makes his way through a crowd during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. "For the vodka, we get hundreds of dozens of paczkis every year from (New Palace Bakery) Hamtramck, and we break them up, put them in the still, let them sit for a day then distill it so it comes out clear, tastes like raspberry and doughnut paczki," Jerome said. "It's probably the low cal(orie) way of enjoying a paczki." Advertisement Advertisement Distiller Steve Orzechowski thought of it, and it has been an important tradition for the distillery ever since. This year is the biggest Paczki Day Vodka event they've hosted yet, the owners said. Jenny Golota, 42, drove with friends to the Motor City Distillery party all the way from Lansing. Jenny Golota smiles during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Golota said she has attended the celebration for years and enjoys honoring her Polish heritage and food traditions. My friends arent Polish but theyre Polish today because they knew how excited I was for this," she said. "It's celebrating Fat Tuesday. It's happiness. It's just part of my heritage that I love the most because I love desserts." Golota, who was wearing a beanie with a paczek on it she bought at the distillery a previous year, said she has been coming for the Paczki Day Vodka for years, but this was her first time staying for the party. Advertisement Advertisement She said she loved the camaraderie of meeting other people with Polish heritage, eating a kielbasa sausage, watching an ice sculpting of the eagle on the Polish flag, and even taking a shot ski a ski with holes for shot glasses that people stand in a line by each glass and take the shots at the same time. Kristen Schultz smiles during a Paczki Day block party at Eastern Market Brewing Co. in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. The brewery's Pazcki Beer a raspberry-pastry-inspired blonde ale is in the foreground. Less than a half mile away, people lined up down the street to taste different paczki-flavored beers at Eastern Market Brewing Co. Owner Dayne Bartscht said the Paczki Beer tradition started when the brewery opened in 2017, and it has grown ever since, with canned beers becoming available in 2021. The can orders have sold out every year, he said. Bottles of Detroit City Distillery spirits, including its paczki vodka are displayed on a shelf during the distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. "What makes it special is that it allows us to celebrate Detroit culture while showcasing the creativity that defines our brand," Bartscht said. Advertisement Advertisement More: Where to buy paczki in metro Detroit on Fat Tuesday Elise Chom, 38, of Clinton Township, came with her cousin Russ Coearyn, 25, of Brighton, and his fiancee, Abigail Payment, 23, of Ovid, Michigan. They tried a flight of the cherry cheesecake blonde, raspberry jam blonde, lemon blueberry sour, orange creamsicle IPA and maple coffee stout paczki beers at Eastern Market Brewing Co. Their favorites were orange creamsicle and blueberry lemon sour. They said theyve purchased the paczki. Chom said the raspberry jam and cherry cheesecake flavors tasted most like a paczek, the singular of paczki. The coffee one, which she was not a fan of, tasted the least like a paczek, she said. They also liked some of last year's beer flavors, they said, and before heading to the Brewing Co. for beer tried some of the new Polish-inspired bourbon from Detroit City Distillery. Paczki sit on a table during the Detroit City Distillerys annual Paczki Day Vodka event in Detroit on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. For me, as a good Polack, it (the event) is a testament to Detroits Polish history and continuing moving forward what makes Detroit Detroit," Chom said. Advertisement Advertisement Coearyn said though he is Irish, he enjoys celebrating Polish traditions, too. Celebrating tradition is pretty cool, regardless if youre Polish or not, Coearyn said. We all like paczki. Contact Natalie Davies at ndavies@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michiganders celebrate Polish history in Detroit ahead of Fat Tuesday People named Eriq are typically characterized by a compelling blend of traditional leadership qualities and modern adaptability. They often exhibit natural authority and confidence that draws others to them, combined with the emotional intelligence to understand and connect with diverse personalities. Eriqs tend to be strategic thinkers who approach challenges with careful planning and determination, yet they remain flexible enough to adapt when circumstances change. Their communication skills are usually well-developed, allowing them to articulate their vision effectively and inspire others. While they project strength and competence, they also possess the humility to learn from experiences and the wisdom to know when to lead and when to collaborate. This balance of traditional masculine virtues with contemporary emotional awareness makes Eriqs effective in both professional and personal contexts. A Moore nonprofit is traveling across state lines this weekend to reunite a local Vietnam veteran with his 98-year-old mother for the first time in three decades. Wheelchairs for Vets stepped in to assist Norman resident Todd Nichols after learning his electric wheelchair had been stolen. When Stacy Reddig arrived to assess the situation, he quickly realized that mobility equipment alone would not be enough to solve Nichols most pressing concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Reddig, who spent over 18 years in the Navy, said the nonprofit focusing on providing medical equipment to former service members who face financial barriers. Nichols served in the 101st Airborne during the Vietnam War and said his disability and inability to drive have compounded the difficulty of managing long-distance travel alone. His mother Mary Nichols is currently staying in a care facility. Shes 98 years old and lives in Greenbrier, Arkansas, just down there by Conway, Todd Nichols said. Between logistical and financial constraints, Nichols spent months searching for an organization that would provide the specific financial assistance needed for travel and lodging. Advertisement Advertisement Once I get all my check, it pays everything, my rent and everything, and after that Im broke, Nichols said. Nichols said he is looking for help setting up a GoFundMe as he needs funding for gas, a hotel and food so he can visit his mother. I havent seen her in 30 years, he said. When Reddig delivered the new electric wheelchair, he decided the nonprofit would help handle the trip to Arkansas. Reddig said he started the organization to provide items that the Department of Veterans Affairs might not always cover all of the cost of or provide in a timely manner, such as medical equipment, beds, wheelchairs, scooters and more. Advertisement Advertisement (Veterans) have a bond, and weve been in that situation before, and we just want to help, Stacy Reddig said. We were fortunate enough to pick it up and say, Hey, well take you over there. So, thats just what veterans do. Reddig said that while the government provides some assistance to veterans, there are sometimes gaps in meeting the specific medical requirements of every individual. He said he views this act of service as a calling and a way to honor those who served. This is how I give back to veterans, Stacy Reddig said. Hes a wonderful person, and Im so blessed to meet this guy. A Nash County man aspires to take his locally renowned side hustle to the national stage. Jason Ciccone's Jammin' Jay's Dip began with a serendipitous mistake. "I was actually trying to copy tzatziki sauce.. but back in the 90's, they didn't have the same things we do now, the lovely internet," he said. "It became a fan favorite of everybody's." What started as a gyro condiment soon extended beyond family and friends. Ciccone began setting up at festivals, grilling under a large tent. Then came Hurricane Floyd in 1999. Advertisement Advertisement "Hurricane Floyd shut down everything east of I-95 past Richmond," Ciccone recalled. With shows scheduled and money invested -- along with a wife and two children to support -- he faced a difficult decision. Ciccone chose to prioritize his family, but the dip remained a cherished tradition. "My family.. every time we'd get together they'd always ask me to make the dip and the gyros," he said. "One day my brother asked me: 'Everybody loves the dips -- why aren't you doing something with it?'" Inspired, Ciccone decided to relaunch the venture, naming the company in honor of his nephew, who took his own life after returning from Iraq in 2012. Advertisement Advertisement "He used to say, 'Uncle Jay, your dip is jammin','" Ciccone shared. "That's how we came up with the name: Jammin' Jay's Dip Mix." His daughter-in-law designed the logo, and today, Jammin Jay's Dip is available in four flavors, sold online and in multiple NC stores -- still a side hustle for now. "I want to be the next ranch," Ciccone said, with ambitions of going national while remaining proudly North Carolina-made. SEE ALSO: Raleigh-based company creates swimwear for diverse body types NEVADA, Mo. Red is the primary color associated with Valentines Day, but an event tonight in Nevada was missing it. I saw the class on our welcoming day, and I was like this is what I want to do, Angelina Noble, Nevada Regional Technical Center Culinary Student. Advertisement Advertisement Noble says she knew from a young age what she wanted to pursue as a career. Growing up I really liked helping out in the kitchen and I didnt really get the opportunity to, and this just give me more hands-on experience especially with it setting me up for jobs, said Noble. Part of that hands-on experience includes Fridays Valentine-themed fundraiser. Every kid that is coming into this program we are hoping they are going into the food service and the hospitality industrial and what better experience can we give them than here you go, heres a restaurant lets run it, because they are doing everything, Emily Daniel, Nevada Regional Technical Center Culinary Instructor. Advertisement Advertisement Daniel says the students will be handling everything from building the menu, cooking the dishes to serving the guests. She adds this years class chose to design an entire meal without using red meat, but its not just about learning how to cook, its also about the life skills they learn along the way. Those kids are going to have to come out here and speak to people they do not know and take their order which right now is kind of uncommon for kids to talk to each other right? Cell Phones, so they are going to have to come out here and communication that is a really big key, said Daniel. Its exciting, its really like nerve wrecking at first but once you get going and you start making friends along the way its a lot of fun, said Noble. Daniel says all money raised will go towards the culinary program. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. Feb. 14GRAND FORKS For Brad Durick, a catfish guide for 19 years, it's not uncommon to pull something other than fish out of the Red River. Once in Grand Forks, Durick thought he was reeling in a small fish, but to his surprise actually pulled up a 1974 license plate. Another year, during spring flood season, a washer and dryer floated right past him. A buddy of his knows a spot in the river almost certainly someone's old dumping ground where antique glass bottles can be found any time the water's low. Under any bridge, you're sure to find lots and lots of tires. And sitting on a file cabinet in Durick's dining room is his most prized find: the bottom half of a massive elk shed. Advertisement Advertisement He has no idea how old it is, but according to one local taxidermist, it's much larger than the sheds found on any of the elk that live in the area now. "The base of this particular elk antler is just gigantic compared to any elk you see nowadays," he said. "I remember where I found it, and every time I'm out there, I try to find the other half, hoping it shows. ... I've been looking for the top half now for three or four years." The Red River, and the muddy bottom for which it's known, has been offering up relics and oddities for as long as people have been around to find them. To an extent, that's typical of any river that runs through a town, Durick said. But unlike many other major rivers in the country that have been altered to create shipping routes over the years, the Red River north of Grand Forks, for the most part, flows where it always has. Advertisement Advertisement "Other than like, Oslo and Drayton and Pembina, most of that river is still wild the way it always has been," Durick said. "That leaves a lot of things there to be discovered still, too." Sgt. Thomas Inocencio, of the Grand Forks County Sheriff's Department, also suspects the river's soft, silty bed plays a role in preserving items lost in the water. Inocencio, the commander of the Northeast Regional Water Operations Team, said most of his team's discoveries are made when they're out sweeping the river for hazardous underwater objects. Mostly they find cars. Sometimes they find boats. But there is a bit of a thrill in discovering something unusual, he said. "Whenever we find something different, it's exciting," he said. "You just don't ever know what it is you're going to find down there." Advertisement Advertisement How many years has it been since bison roamed the Grand Forks area? Do the math, Durick said that's how long the bison skulls that can be found in the river have likely been submerged, he said, since the animals went for an unlucky drink or swim. "Mother Nature doing its dirty work," he quipped. A bison skull horn found by Inocencio still his favorite discovery to date was sent by the sheriff's department to the University of North Dakota to be dated. The results showed it's around 100 years old. Durick said he suspects some are even older possibly the early 1800s or 1700s. When the water is low, Durick said bison skulls can be found relatively easily. He recalled a day in Grand Forks some years ago when he and a friend threw some kayaks in the water and paddled about seven miles north, only to realize the water was full of bison bones. Advertisement Advertisement They spent the rest of the day bone hunting, and by evening had pulled 10 skulls out of the water. They also found one complete bison skeleton that, to Durick's disappointment, shattered when he touched it. "We were finding so many leg bones, and things like that, we weren't picking them up," he recalled. "That was one of those days where we were going to fish a little, going to hunt a little. I was so hungry and so sunburnt at the end of that we fished for maybe 20 minutes, and then we started finding skulls." Most of what the sheriff's department finds underwater are vehicles, some of them decades old, Inocencio said. Inocencio's team is heavily assisted by sonar, but in the zero-visibility conditions of the Red River, often the only way to understand what's submerged is to dive blind and figure it out using just their hands. Advertisement Advertisement When going under, visibility becomes pitch black quickly due to the silt moving in the current. Inocencio said he generally closes his eyes before getting in the water and keeps them closed until coming back up. A few years ago, when sonar picked up what looked like a cement truck lying on its side, with the drum on the back, his team went down to investigate. Using their hands, they determined by feeling the interior that it was not a cement truck, but an old fertilizer truck. Based on the feel of the vehicle's curved bumper, they speculated that it's a mid-century truck. Like nearly all the cars the team has discovered, that antique fertilizer truck is still down there. Once a car in the river has become encased in mud, it's generally not feasible to pull it out of the water. One small mud-filled sedan, reported missing around 2010 and recovered in 2021, weighed more than 10,000 pounds when it was pulled out of the river, according to Inocencio. Instead, whenever they find a car in the water, they'll pull the license plate up to do an investigation. With the exception of one vehicle that could possibly have been a case of insurance fraud, he said they haven't found any cars submerged in the river in recent memory that they suspect were put there for criminal reasons. Like the Water Operations Team, Durick has Advertisement Advertisement also equipped his boat with a side-imaging system. He confirmed what Inocencio already knows: aside from garbage, it's mostly cars in the river, some of them very old. He knows of one spot where two pickups and a boat trailer can be found that today is just the middle of the river, but in the 1960s would have been right at the end of a long-gone boat ramp. A couple years ago, the Water Operations Team's sonar picked up another vessel that appeared to be lying on its side, partially buried in mud in the downtown area. The team studied what appeared to be a 25- to 30-foot section of a boat, and its curved handrails and the shape of its hatches led them to the Myra Museum at the Grand Forks County Historical Society. Upon walking into the local history museum, Inocencio spotted an old photo on the wall of one of the many river barges that used to haul grain between Grand Forks and Canada. Advertisement Advertisement He recognized the boat from the river immediately. "It would be neat to know if that is in fact a grain barge downtown," he said. "It would be neat to know the circumstances involved with that, why that's on the bottom of the river. How long has it been there?" It's not the first time remnants of Grand Forks' steamboat past have been found in the Red River. According to Herald archives, a steamboat boiler was recovered from the river in 1982 and donated to the East Grand Forks Heritage Museum some years later. In 1992, the Herald reported that volunteers were building a replica of the "Fram" steamboat using the recovered boiler. The "Fram" boiler can still be seen at the Heritage Village. Durick suspects that much of what he's found at the bottom of the river on his side-imaging system was put there by the Flood of '97 or other floods over the years. Advertisement Advertisement For example, downstream from the Point Bridge in the Lincoln Park area is a single-car garage on its side, according to Inocencio. And one year during the spring flood season, Durick spied a freezer lodged in a tree. The freezer is long gone now, but he still calls that section of the river "The Fridge." In January 1998, the Herald reported that 550 containers that held or may have held hazardous materials before being swept away in the floodwaters were recovered in the Red River in Manitoba. Forty additional containers still with some contents were discovered in the river between Wahpeton and the international border. Perhaps a much older discovery: in downtown Grand Forks, Durick also discovered an overturned covered wagon. "Like 'Little House on the Prairie,' " he said. Advertisement Advertisement Those older finds are the ones Inocencio finds most fascinating. "Whether they've been discarded or abandoned, they're things that have a story behind them, and you don't know what the story is," Inocencio said. "It's somewhat intriguing to be able to learn things about that, and find out more history about how that got there, why it's there." Durick was more succinct. "This river's so cool," he said. Few highways carry memories in their miles quite like Route 66. Commissioned in 1926, Route 66 spans 2,448 miles between Chicago, Illinois, and Santa Monica, California. Dubbed the "Main Street of America," this legendary route has evolved far beyond its original purpose. Over the years, it has become a rite of passage for travelers nationwide, embodying the true spirit of the Great American Road Trip. More than a line on a map, Route 66 is a journey where millions have chased sunsets, wandered through charming locales, including a few that inspired the fictional town of Radiator Springs in Disney-Pixar's Cars, immersed themselves in art and culture, and celebrated 100 years of American travel at its finest. At its peak, the route's popularity inspired Bobby Troup to write the 1946 hit "Route 66," later recorded by musical greats Nat King Cole, Chuck Berry, and The Rolling Stones. The glory days of Route 66 ended after the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 was signed by former President Dwight D. Eisenhower. With the completion of the Interstate Highway System, five major highways, Interstates 55, 44, 40, 15, and 10, rerouted traffic and gradually eclipsed Route 66, fading all the little map dots along the way. Advertisement Advertisement Despite decades of decline, the "Mother Road" remains iconic, historic, and strewn with stops that continue to inspire road trips today. Travelers can still collect Route 66 passport stamps to commemorate their journey through each state. To honor Route 66's 100th anniversary, let's hit the road and explore eight destinations that capture the soul of this storied highway. ILLINOIS Pink Elephant Antique Mall Getty Images Route 66 spans 301 miles through Illinois. Route 66 begins in Chicago and runs South across the Western half of Illinois. Popular stops include the American Giants Museum in Atlanta, the Pink Elephant Antique Mall in Livingston, and the Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield. The Pink Elephant is a must-see, three-story antique store complete with a 1950s-style diner, a fudge factory, and a candy shop. The venue also hosts car shows, cruise-ins, and historic festivals throughout the year. MISSOURI Gay Parita Sinclair Filling Station Getty Images Route 66 spans 317 miles through Missouri. Advertisement Advertisement The Missouri stretch of Route 66 starts in St. Louis. One of the first attractions is the Chain of Rocks Bridge, connecting Illinois and Missouri. Traveling West, drivers pass by the famed Gay Parita Sinclair Filling Station in Halltown. The original Gay Parita was built in 1930 by Fred and Gay Mason. The structure burned down in 1955 and was reconstructed by Gary and Lena Turner in the early 2000s. The filling station offers more than just a convenient fuel stop; it provides a nostalgic look into the past. After five miles, voyagers reach Spencer Station in Spencer. The entire town of Spencer was purchased by Sidney Casey in 1925. Aside from the restored station, very little remains of the original shops and stores. KANSAS Gearhead Curious Getty Images Route 66 spans only 13 miles through Kansas. Kansas boasts the shortest section of the enduring route, which winds its way through Galena. Here, travelers are encouraged to visit Gearhead Curios, Luigi's Pit Stop (one of several locations that inspired Cars), and the iconic Route 66 drive-thru shield landmark. Gearhead Curios, a restored Texaco filling station, is a recommended stop along the Kansas stretch of Route 66, where people gather to share stories and take photos with Cars' character, Doc Hudson. Down the road, drivers delight in crossing the only remaining Marsh Arch Bridge along the route, the Rainbow Curve Bridge, built over Brush Creek in 1923. OKLAHOMA Rock Caf Route 66 spans 432 miles through Oklahoma. Advertisement Advertisement The Sooner state claims one of the longest portions of Route 66, home to standout attractions such as the Blue Whale in Catoosa, the Round Barn in Arcadia, Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza in Tulsa, the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, and the legendary Hi-Way Cafe in Vinita. The Rock Caf in Stroud is recognized as a favorite stop along Oklahoma's stretch of Route 66. Its owner, Dawn Welch, inspired the character Sally Carrera inCarsfor her dedication to restoring Stroud after Route 66 vanished from the map. TEXAS Cadillac Ranch Getty Images Route 66 spans 186 miles through Texas. Cadillac Ranch is among the Mother Road's most photographed stops, greeting travelers as they head west from Amarillo. This roadside marvel showcases a row of cars, each half-buried nose-first in the ground and painted with colorful graffiti. The Texas portion of Route 66 is also home to the midway point between Chicago and Los Angeles, designated by a sign in Adrian, where travelers can recharge at the Mid-Point Caf & Gift Shop. Other Lone Star State stops include the Fabulous 40s Motel, Dream Maker Station Route 66 Souvenir & Gift Shop, and the Conoco Tower Station & U-Drop Inn Cafe, where Pixar drew the inspiration for Ramone's House of Body Art in Cars. NEW MEXICO Tee Pee Curios Getty Images Route 66 spans 487 miles through New Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement The longest stretch of Route 66 is through New Mexico. On this leg of the journey, drivers enjoy a range of attractions, with Tee Pee Curios in Tucumcari emerging as a highlight. This unmistakable stop showcases a towering teepee and offers crafts, murals, and souvenirs that pay tribute to the Mother Road. Westbound, travelers pass through the "Most Patriotic Small Town in America," Gallup, located in the middle of the Navajo Reservation. Residents of Gallup hold nightly Indian dances at the McKinley Courthouse Square Plaza in the summer, and the El Morro Theatre, built in 1928, remains open as a fully operational movie theater. ARIZONA Winslow Route 66 spans 401 miles through Arizona. The Route 66 corridor through Arizona is immortalized in the Eagles' hit "Take It Easy," which transports fans to the beloved corner in Winslow. Travelers flock to this iconic corner to snap photos and wander around the nearby shops and restaurants that reflect the charm of historic Route 66. Driving East from Winslow, road-trippers hit a few more attractions, the Wigwam Village Motel in Holbrook and the Jackrabbit Trading Post in Joseph City. Advertisement Advertisement Westbound, drivers arrive in Seligman to see Angel & Vilma Delgadillo's Original Route 66 Gift Shop and the iconic Snow Cap Drive-In, a food staple that's been slinging burgers since 1953. CALIFORNIA Roy's Motel and Cafe Getty Images Route 66 spans 314 miles through California. The lengthy journey along the Mother Road concludes in California. After a 10 to 12-day journey from Chicago, travelers finally reach this point, greeted by the sight of Roy's Motel and Cafe in Amboy, an oasis gleaming on the dusty Mojave Desert horizon. The popular spot proudly displays a welcoming neon sign that can be seen for miles as drivers head west toward the coast, still a three-hour drive from Amboy. The site is a popular stop for fuel and food, and even hosts its own car show, with an event scheduled for March 7, 2026, to mark the 100th anniversary of Route 66. Although the sign still glows, Roy's no longer operates as a motel. Just 30 minutes west of Amboy, the Ludlow Cafe and Ludlow Motel serve as must-see stops, solidifying Ludlow's status on Route 66. This article was originally published on www.mentalfloss.com as Route 66 Road Trip: Must-See Stops From Illinois to California. Feb. 12At 13, Parker Ritzmann found himself bounced to Spokane's Hutton Settlement after growing up in Kentucky and Ethiopia, where he was born. Clashing cultures with his adoptive family in the U.S. would lead to him being rehomed across the country, but it didn't sit well with him at first. "When I first got to the children's home, I was getting into quite a bit of trouble, and in that time period, it was more so just out of anger and resentment towards this whole idea of 'Why the hell am I here?' " Ritzmann said. "Like, this idea of being adopted from a developing country and then only to be sent back to, like, a modern orphanage, almost." But after getting straightened out by a mentor and channeling his energy to entrepreneurship by way of a coffee shop, Ritzmann found out life could be so much more. Advertisement Advertisement Now, the former West Valley High School student behind HOPE Neighborhood Roasters was selected as one of over 5,800 applicants around the world for a fully funded master's fellowship at China's prestigious Tsinghua University. Ritzmann, 22, was one of 150 students selected for this year's cohort of Schwartzman Scholars. Graduates in the program spend a year in Beijing, China to attend Tsinghua the top ranked university in the country and eleventh ranked in the world studying global affairs. "What I'm really excited for is the people that I'm going to be around and meeting. I think I've always craved to be around individuals who are ambitious and also intellectually curious, and from different walks of life," he said, adding that the program is essentially bringing "some of the most extraordinary young people in the world" together to network and learn. "I just know that I'm going to thrive in that environment, because that's kind of what I've always felt like I was doing." Currently a business student at the University of Washington, Ritzmann remembers the drizzly Seattle day he got the acceptance call. Advertisement Advertisement "I pretty much just threw my phone, starting jumping up and down, and I was sprinting in the rain," he said. Longtime mentor of Ritzmann's Dave Milliken vouched for his story. "I mean, he called me just, like, bouncing off the walls, he was so excited," Milliken said. "I mean really, tearfully, just a moment of joy, and yet not surprised. I mean this kid, to me I'm jut so amazed at how he seeks these opportunities that are very challenging. These are not easy pathways." Ritzmann and Milliken met around nine years ago, when Ritzmann joined Spokane's Hutton Settlement . Advertisement Advertisement Milliken was the director of Hutton at the time, and when he caught wind that the teenaged Ritzmann was selling "paraphernalia" at school, he gave him an ultimatum: keep doing what he was doing and leave Hutton, or stop and see how the place could support him. "That was really the biggest shift in my life. It was like the first time I felt I had a choice. I could choose my destiny," Ritzmann said. "And historically, like, my whole life has been the absence of choice, the lack of ability to choose. And so from there, that was a pretty, like, big inflection point." Soon after, the coronavirus pandemic began. Coffee shops shut down, but Hutton was deemed an essential business, so students and staff remained. "And I was like, well, they still need coffee, because coffee is pretty crucial in a lot of people's lives today," Ritzmann said. Advertisement Advertisement So he opened Oasis Cafe. Milliken, who was by then working as the campus program director, remembers seeing Ritzmann hauling coffees across the cafeteria during lunchtime. He had asked for a loan from his house parent to buy an espresso machine. "So I think, you know, early on, it was pretty evident that this kid had this entrepreneurial slant," Milliken said. "And of course, I ordered a coffee from him." Soon after, Ritzmann won a cornhole tournament with the prize of dinner with the executive director, Chud Wendle. Riding to dinner together, Ritzmann and Milliken decided to pitch the idea of a coffee roasting business to Wendle. Wendle gave them the green light. Oasis cafe morphed into the HOPE Neighborhood Roasters, spearheaded by Ritzmann and two fellow Hutton residents. Advertisement Advertisement Ritzmann's innovation and success in beginning a business has inspired other kids, Wendle said. When he drafted HOPE, it was really intended to be a mentorship program in addition to a roastery. "We are now in the fifth generation of those aspiring to be Parker," Wendle said of the HOPE management team. "They call him grandfather Parker." To watch Ritzmann turn his life around, graduate high school, get into the University of Washington and now be accepted into the Schwarzman Scholar program is a "big deal" for kids in the foster system, Wendle said. "It's sort of breaking that glass ceiling." Advertisement Advertisement 16-year-old Isaac Hendrickson has lived at the Hutton settlement for around four years. He shared the same cottage as Ritzmann before he moved to the west side, and worked at the roastery under his guidance for a period. The coffee program is one of a few on campus with a "pretty big hype" surrounding it, Hendrickson said, and he had moved up through other positions to work there. "Parker was a big advocate for me to be not one just to follow in his footsteps, but also to 'You can be something more,' " Hendrickson said. "I guess he kind of helped push me to grow outside of what I already know." When Ritzmann went to college, he was accepted on a full-ride scholarship. During his four years of business studies, he has traveled over 30 countries and five continents including Ethiopia. Ritzmann is open about the fact that his upbringing was far from perfect. When he was at a crossroads, he said finding a mentor helped him the most. Advertisement Advertisement "David was this figure in my life, like a mentor who I sought out and who I wanted to build a relationship with, who believed in me before I believed in myself," he said. "That relationship with another human, I think, is very important." He harkened back to the philosophers Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau and their musings on self-reliance and actualization. "You have to believe in yourself and you have to trust in yourself, and if you don't have that especially coming from the places that young people like me come from it's gonna be a hard path," he said. "You're always gonna be seeking outside for affirmation and belief. But the reality is, you have to build it within yourself." Curiosity is another area to focus on, Ritzmann said especially for folks from backgrounds "at the margins of society." Advertisement Advertisement "There's so much out there in the world, and I think that a lot of people operate on assumptions," he said. "And this idea that things are just the way they are like this is how it's gonna be, and this is how it should be I think that if you continue to live your entire life like that you miss out on, like, 'What's on the other side?' " Like Ritzmann, Hendrickson was adopted from Ethiopia. The two keep in touch, often talking about career paths. "I do base a lot of things I do off of Parker, which is why I keep in touch," Hendrickson said. "It was actually funny, he sent me a text the other day. He was talking about, 'Oh, you can be the next Schwartzman Scholar from Washington.' And I was like, yeah, that would be fun." Becoming a lawyer is the current career goal for Hendrickson. Ritzmann's acceptance to Tsinghua University makes that feel even more possible. Advertisement Advertisement "It makes me think like, 'Oh my gosh, if he can do it, so can I,' " he said. "It makes it so you don't doubt yourself so much, and you see how many paths there are and how much opportunity there is if you take advantage of it." The future is wide open for Ritzmann. "I'm interested in supply chains and global development, especially in emerging markets," he said of what he plans to study. "But I'm going into this program with this mindset of just exploring, exploring, exploring." Born in Ramallah at the end of the 90s, Ayham Hassan grew up privy to the political weight attributed to certain sartorial practices. I became aware early on that Palestinian textiles are not just objects, said the designer, who is based between London and the occupied West Bank. They are evidence carrying geography, lineage, and memory. When Hassan graduated from Londons Central Saint Martins art and design college last June, he titled his final collection IM-Mortal Magenta: The Color That Doesnt Exist. Shaped by his understanding of this relationship between art and politics, it was infused with visual elements inspired by Gaza. The color magenta became a conceptual anchor, used to speak about erasure and survival, he explained in an email. And tatreez informed not only the visual language, but also the structure of the work, and fundamentally how I design. This perception of tatreez, or traditional Palestinian embroidery, as a type of visual language is widely shared, owing to its intimacy with the land and biographical characteristics. A centuries-old creative practice, tatreez originally married its maker (usually women from rural communities) with their respective region. Details like color, technique and even its depictions of certain plants and flowers were tied to specific areas; by design it denoted social status and personal life events, including marriage or widowhood. A married woman from Bethlehem wearing a hat and veil, Matson Photo Service, ca. 193439. - Library of Congress A photograph shows Faredah Ibrahim Farah, 1924. - Musa Allush Collection/The Palestinian Museum Digital Archive/Courtesy MoMU Beginning in 1948, following the Arab-Israeli war (recognized as the Nakba, or catastrophe, during which 700,000 Palestinians were expelled from their homes) as well as later intifadas, or uprisings, against the occupation in 1987 and 2000 tatreez became a political vehicle, actively embodying resistance for many Palestinians. Advertisement Advertisement Today its become part of an understanding of Palestinian steadfastness, or sumud of resistance more broadly, Rachel Dedman, a curator of Middle Eastern art at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, and author of Stitching the Intifada: Embroidery and Resistance in Palestine, said during a video call. And its practice as one of solidarity is becoming more and more clear. On TikTok you get lots of results for people running stitching circles and tatreez workshops. Dedman has spent the past decade researching tatreez and curating exhibitions in Europe and across the Middle East, following an initial invitation from the Palestinian Museum in Birzeit, north of Ramallah, in 2014. Thread Memory: Embroidery from Palestine is currently on show at the V&A Dundee in Scotland while more recently Embroidering Palestine opened at MoMu, the fashion museum of Antwerp, where work by Hassan is displayed alongside thobes (embroidered ankle-length dresses, also known as thobs) made over a century ago. Often in museums theres a feeling that historic fashion is something thats unchanging and static, held in amber, said Dedman. In the 19th century, tatreez and Palestinian dress was fashion women were looking at each other. Being in MoMu then, I was excited to really approach this as fashion in the fullest sense, carving that connection between a 19th century embroidered thobe and the work of designers in the present. A design by Palestinian brand Nazzal Studio. - Zaid Al-Lozi/Courtesy MoMU The purpose of tatreez was a celebration of culture, land and identity, added Samar Abdrabbou, a Palestinian program manager for Made in Palestine (MIP), an Australian humanitarian non-profit, who is based in Bethlehem. Many women used the traditional craft to celebrate their beauty and femininity they were not trying to fight or resist, Abdrabbou explained. Tatreez was never meant to be political, but during the Nakba many women left with only the thobe they were wearing, and a lot of fabric factories were burned. Palestinian women never stopped stitching. Advertisement Advertisement After 1948, tatreez became important as material evidence of Palestinian presence on the land, and women started to insert politically charged motifs into their work. They also began appropriating colors in their tatreez, and the watermelon became a symbol of Palestinian solidarity with its red flesh, white rind, black seeds, and green skin mirroring the Palestinian flag. Those objects are fascinating because they render womens bodies sites of active political power, engaging in this explicitly political moment, making tatreez with a view to being seen, said Dedman. And theyre not what we associate with protest, because they take so long to make and theyre often stitched in difficult circumstances. In 2021, the global significance of tatreez was recognized by UNESCO, when it was added to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, a safeguarding measure to ensure its preservation. Its political interpretations still continue today. As Hassan asserted, Carrying embroidery between London and Palestine has never felt neutral to me. Tatreez is read very differently depending on who is looking at it. It is framed as heritage or folk craft, or under occupation it is immediately politicized. Actor Saja Kilani at the 83rd Annual Golden Globes in January 2026. She wore a custom gown, by Jordanian designer Reema Dahbour, inspired by a traditional Palestinian thobe, with tatreez embroidery at the neckline. - Roger Kisby/2026GG/Penske Media/Getty Images A pixel dress featuring tatreez in Reemami's Spring-Summer 2024 show. - Courtesy Reemami/MoMU Hassan's 2025 graduate collection Immortal Magenta serves as protest. - Niklas Haze/Courtesy MoMU Being a part of the exhibition at MoMu then, alongside other contemporary designers like Studio Nazzal and Zeid Hijazi, feels particularly remarkable. Presenting Palestinian embroidery and contemporary design within a major European fashion museum is an act of visibility at a time when Palestinian lives, histories, and voices are systematically erased or misrepresented, said Hassan. Tatreez is not simply ornamentation; it is a living language, a form of resistance, and an intergenerational archive. Its really about looking at the wealth of beauty, that side that we dont necessarily see, added Dedman, in reference to the images of destruction in Gaza after two years of war. Were celebrating Palestinian joy, creativity and brilliance, as much as we are engaging with the realities of the situation. To be able to bring people closer to the intimate lives, of Palestinian women in particular, is very important. Moroccan-Belgian photographer Mous Lamrabat seeks to create connection through his images. - Mous Lamrabat/Courtesy MoMU Advertisement Advertisement For Abdrabbou, who in 2024 established SAMARKAND, a cultural initiative dedicated to preserving and teaching tatreez, practicing the art feels most keenly like a way to honor her heritage. Traditionally passed between generations in families, increasingly she recognized an absence of knowledge about the craft amongst younger Palestinians and sought to rectify this. Im doing it to celebrate and keep this traditional art alive, she said, though acknowledged there is a political component too. I remember seeing a photo of a tatreez piece under the rubble (in Gaza), the first thing I thought about was the time and effort that the woman who made this piece put in it. This was my personal urgent response. The sense of community while stitching with other people is so powerful. Women feel comfortable and supported, everyone shares personal stories, continued Abdrabbou, discussing her weekly Tatreez circle at a local cafe in Bethlehem. Open to men as well as women, she receives both Palestinians and international audiences. I believe its important for everyone living in Palestine to learn about the traditions and culture of the country. And since its a diverse group, of Palestinians and internationals, we hear about crafts and traditions from different countries and cultures too. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com People in Philadelphia are feeling the love this Valentine's Day. The Iconic LOVE Sculpture, once again, is serving as the perfect backdrop for a photo op, and in 10 couples' cases, a special V-Day wedding. "It's something that we've been wanting to do. Spontaneous. We're from around this area. So why not here?" said Marc Bondad of Cherry Hill, New Jersey. For the Bondad Couple, it's a love story, 13 years in the making. Surrounded by family and friends, the Bondad couple was one of the first to tie the knot, kicking off the annual Philadelphia tradition. Advertisement Advertisement In between the weddings and pictures, Action News was there for a surprise proposal. "I'm feeling very emotional, very happy. I'm absolutely happy," said Shramelle Dellesandro, Washington, D.C. "I was trying to avoid Valentine's Day. I wanted to actually do it yesterday, but with everything, it fell on Valentine's Day. So, I'm happy, regardless, he said yes, so I'm thankful," said Augustine Joseph, Washington, D.C. It wasn't just about the weddings and photo ops; the Welcome Center transformed into the Make Love Market with Now + Then Marketplace. The 20 local vendors included caricature artists, florists, and more to help with last-minute gift ideas. Advertisement Advertisement "So special Valentine's Day edition, selling everything with lovers in mind, self-love, self-care," said Operator of Then + Now Marketplace, Steph Irwin. It's all in the name of love. "This is our fifth Valentine's Day. We are celebrating two years of marriage. We have a 9-month-old. We are just so grateful," said Tina McIntosh, of Burlington County, New Jersey. "To be here in the sun, and the wedding, just kind of bought Valentine's Day back, very fun to celebrate it here," said Margie Omero, of Maryland. Ten couples married or renewed their vows in front of the LOVE sculpture. They were allotted 30 minutes, and Parks & Rec provided an officiant from Journeys of the Heart. It was a nagging numbness in his left hand that changed everything for Faizal Kottikollon. The Dubai-based businessman had long been a yoga devotee with a penchant for headstands. And that, several concerned doctors eventually concluded, was the problem. Years of overzealous inversions had compressed his vertebrae, damaging his nerves so severely that risky, major surgery appeared to be the only solution. Kottikollon, then in his late 50s, resolved to find another answer. He found it, he hoped, in Ayurveda, a holistic medical system practiced widely in Kerala, the Indian state where he was born and raised. There, he was prescribed brimhana, or tissue regeneration, using a bolus therapy made from goat meat mixed with rice, milk, and spices. Through the skin pores, this goat protein goes inside the bodyinside the nervesand leaves the RNA of the goat protein, which regenerates our dead nerves, he explains. Ayurveda, he adds, holds that the goat meat is the closest chemical analogue to human flesh. Within three cycles of treatment, the cervical issue was solved. I had three M.R.I.s taken subsequentlyit was completely gone. More from Robb Report Tulah Clinical Wellness Sanctuary That experience became the seed of the idea that will soon open to the world, and which Kottikollon is sharing exclusively with Robb Report: Tulah Clinical Wellness, his entrant in the booming longevity market. Advertisement Advertisement Kottikollons approach diverges sharply from Silicon Valleys model, often defined by prescription-heavy biohacking and evangelized by the likes of Bryan Johnson. Instead, Tulah emphasizes integration, pairing conventional diagnostics such as M.R.I.s and bloodwork with complementary therapies drawing from Ayurveda, Vedanta, and other traditional systems. Longevity is becoming a buzzword, but today a lot of biohacking is happening at the top level without understanding the foundations correctly, he says. Everybody wants to live longer, but using chemicals to do it is not the right way of looking at life and longevity. We need to make sure that youre mentally and physically both in good condition until youre 90 to 100 years old. Tulah Clinical Wellness Sanctuary founder Faizal Kottikollon He is aiming squarely at an ultra-high-net-worth clientele. When Tulah opens later this year, stays will cost up to $2,700 per person per night, inclusive of all treatments and meals. More intriguing, though, is the strategy underpinning Tulahs rollout, which upends the blueprint deployed by most operators in this sector. Kottikollon does not envision guests arriving for an annual weeklong retreat only to return to daily life unchanged. Rather, he wants the experience to offer an ongoing framework, woven into how people live, long after they leave the property. To support that ambition, he is investing heavily: The 30-acre 65-suite residential clinic in the hills of northern Keralaan estimated $100 million projectwill serve as the mother ship for a global network of satellite locations. He plans to open as many as 40 facilities over the next decade, beginning with Dubai later this year, followed by Tokyo and London. Tulah Clinical Wellness Sanctuary He certainly has the experienceand the capitalto gamble on such a project. Kottikollon earned his fortune in 2011, selling a stake in his valve company, ETC, for $400 million. He later pivoted to construction with KEF Infra, a modular-building firm producing prefabricated schools, malls, and hospitals. One of those projects, the innovative Meitra Hospital in Keralas Calicut, helped inspire Tulahs integrated ethos. Today, health care is more of a reactive medicine, he says. Covid made me really go into the concept of prevention, Kottikollon explains of the acute issues that afflicted India during the pandemic. It was hit, of course, not only by the first wave, but became the global epicenter of the second wave a few months later. This experience triggered his resolve to invest in what he believes is a truly effective new health-care model. Advertisement Advertisement Health and discipline, he notes, were ingrained early. His father, Peekay, was an enthusiastic weight lifter who earned the title of Mr. Kozhikode in Kerala. Kottikollon says that he inculcated, at a very young age, that I should be disciplined and work out. I dont drink or smoke and have always been into health and wellness. Still, the move to create Tulah was a bold departure from the mainstream industrial businesses on which he had built his fortune. Tulah Clinical Wellness Sanctuary For the campus design, he hired architect Wisam Al Lami, emphasizing flowing, curved forms inspired by Zaha Hadids work. Youll never see a sharp corner in Tulah, he says. The mind is much calmer when you see a river flowing, and its like that. He also spent five years developing a custom water-cooling technology that keeps interior temperatures at 70 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit without chemical coolants. The campus is densely forested, and the anchor of the complex is the Sonorium, which Kottikollon claims is the worlds largest sound-healing dome. Clinically, Tulah will be formidable. The facility will house M.R.I.s, C.T. and M.T.I. scans, I.C.U. beds, and operating rooms. Blood-work results will be ready within hours rather than days, and endogenomic testing will be conducted both at intake and discharge to demonstrate measurable health impact. Tulah will adhere to the same protocols as the F.D.A.exozomes will be available, for example, but not stem-cell therapyand the chief of medical services is Dr. Ravi Parihar, an orthopedic surgeon who trained in India as well as the U.K. Tulah Clinical Wellness Sanctuary All the investigation will be done by modern science, Kottikollon explains. But the solution will mostly come from the Eastern way of doing things. Was it harder to persuade Eastern practitioners to embrace allopathic protocols or vice versa? Western-medicine doctors, he laughs, because their ego is higher. At Meitra, he notes, he trained doctors in both systems. He also touts a 2023 study of 50 patients treated there, comparing integrative care with purely Western protocols over a 12-week period. Among other findings, total cholesterol markers for the integrative group fell by 28 percent. Advertisement Advertisement Tulah will also offer its own signature practices. Clinical yoga, developed by B. K. S. Iyengar, functions as a musculoskeletal discipline. Its where we work on the spine, because the spine is where our seven energy centers are lying, the seven chakras, Kottikollon says. So once the spine is aligned, what clinical yoga does is, if your body is aligned correctly and strong, your mind works much clearer. The clinic has also patented its Vichy shower bed, which uses heat, sound, vibration, and pressure to apply 40 different Ayurvedic therapies. It is, he says, the ideal shorthand for Tulahs hybrid approach. Follow Ayurvedic principles closely enough, he adds, and a healthy lifespan of 120 should be achievable. Everybody wants to live longer, but using chemicals to do it is not the right way of looking at life and longevity. Patients must stay for at least one week, though longer visits are encouraged. After 48 hours of intake testing, personalized programs are designed and shared. Most guests, he expects, will arrive with persistent lifestyle-related issues like his own, such as diabetes or musculoskeletal pain. Kottikollon is careful to stress what Tulah is not: He isnt creating a haven for anyone keen to dismiss Western treatment for, say, cancer and instead opt for an entirely alternative plan. He says his focus remains on rehabilitation for lifestyle diseases and musculoskeletal issues. And its clearly demarcated what we can and cannot do. Tulah Clinical Wellness Sanctuary The real differentiator may be what happens after guests leave Tulah. The clinic has developed a proprietary algorithm, the Tulah Life Index, which aggregates metrics ranging from gut health to muscle mass into a single score out of 100. Sixty and above, he says, is solid. The accompanying app integrates with wearables like the Oura Ring and Apple Watch, providing tailored recommendations and continuous monitoring. The data will be supported by the network of Urban Tulah hubs that will replicate most services offered in Kerala, other than overnight accommodation. The first Urban Tulah, a hybrid social club and wellness center, will open in Dubai later this year on a membership model (monthly dues are yet to be determined). Members will come in for checkups, healthy meals, and talks from experts in various fields. London, Germany, and Singapore could be next. Ive been to all the major wellness resorts in the world, Kottikollon says. You feel better when youre there, but you go back to the old lifestyles. Tulah tech was developed for the follow-up to happen. The strategy has drawn plaudits from leaders in the longevity space. Dr. Sabine Donnai, founder of London-based Viavi, lauds Tulahs integrative protocols while noting that many conventional wellness retreats are often effective simply because guests disengage from stress. The impact I see for most people? Its the being away, she says. You do not reset your physiology during a week, and there is no follow-through. Weve looked for that everywhere, and nobody actually has that hub and the spokes where you can keep on going for remeasuring, redoing, follow-up treatments. She does sound a note of caution around herbal treatments, where Ayurveda typically insists on just-picked freshness for maximum efficacy. (Clinical protocols follow Ayurvedas yukti principle, using dried or extract-based equivalents when effective, a Tulah spokesperson told Robb Report. And each Urban Centre includes a micro-apothecary to prepare treatments requiring genuinely fresh botanicals.) Tulah Clinical Wellness Sanctuary California concierge physician Jordan Shlain, founder of Private Medical, is cautiously optimistic. Were at the peak of the hype cycle for longevity, he says, while welcoming Tulahs emphasis on continuity of care. Longevity centers help you recognize theres hard work to do, not while youre there but every day, or most days. Still, he warns against performative wellness, citing flashy diagnostics that lack clinical grounding. Its not proven tech, but big fancy machines [that] spit out colorful graphs, maybe saying you gotta stop eating this or that. But based on what? Ayurveda, he notes, is different. Theres proof it lowers your inflammation while youre there, but a lot of it is psychological in nature. Its a window of what your life could be like if you created the habits around it. Advertisement Advertisement Others are more skeptical. Brad Inman, the real-estate entrepreneurturnedlongevity guru who founded Livelong Media questions whether Kottikollons resources can sustain a global network. He argues that franchising would be more be more viable. These high-end clinics are harder to sell and harder to service. But considering how hot longevity is some smart, well-financed people in venture capital or private equity could make this happen. He also doubts the appeal of major city locations like London. Its not like were all living the longevity dream every day, even if we try to, he adds, suggesting that resort destinations such as St. Barts would more readily lure guests with both the time and the inclination for follow-up checkups. Tulah Clinical Wellness Sanctuary Kottikollon, though, remains undeterred. He believes that once guests see, feeland clinically verifythe results, they will commit. Days at Tulah, he explains, begin and end with communal rituals: a dawn gathering in the forest, where guests ring a small bell as the sun rises, and an evening lamp-lighting ceremony at sunset. People have to be taught about longevity, that its not just about biohacking, he says. Its about looking inwardly, you know, a holistic approach to the body and mind. Just dont overdo the headstands. Top: Youll struggle to find a sharp edge or hard corner hereTulahs approach to architecture is distinctly sinuous and organic, as this rendering shows. Sign up for RobbReports's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. A man has been charged with murder after a Downtown Valentine's Day shooting, according to Cincinnati police. De'Angelo Robinson, 28, has been accused of fatally shooting 29-year-old Tobias Hood near the 200 block of East Third Street on Feb. 14. He faces murder and felony assault charges. Responding officers found Hood injured just before 1 a.m., according to a news release. When the fire department arrived, he was determined to be dead. Advertisement Advertisement Enquirer media partner Fox19 reported that police at the scene said the shooting occurred on a party bus. Fox19 also said another person had been injured and was taken to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center with injuries not considered to be life-threatening. Robinson is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 16 at 9 a.m. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Man charged in fatal downtown Cincinnati shooting on Third Street A teenage boy was injured in a drive-by shooting on Chicago's Far South Side early Saturday morning, police said. Police said officers responded to a report of a shooting in the South Deering neighborhood's 10000-block of South Paxton Avenue just after 3:30 a.m. A 15-year-old boy was outside when a dark-colored sedan went past him, and someone took out a gun and fired shots, police said. The Chicago Fire Department treated the victim, who suffered a gunshot wound to the face, on the scene. He was and transported to Comer Children's Hospital in fair condition. Area Two detectives are investigating. Police did not immediately provide further information about the shooting. INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER Track crime and safety in your neighborhood An 18-month-old boy was found safe after being abducted in West Covina, allegedly by an estranged aunt who remained at large, authorities said Saturday morning. Isaiah Sunel Nava was located on Skid Row in downtown Los Angeles, according to the West Covina Police Department, and is considered "OK." Additional details were not immediately available. Police are still looking for the toddler's estranged aunt, 26-year-old Amber Alexis Destiny Zarate, who they say is their primary person of interest. Advertisement Advertisement Officers were called at 5:50 p.m. Friday to a residence in the 1600 block of East Mardina Street regarding a reported kidnapping. They subsequently learned the child was taken from the home by Zarate, police Sgt. Steve Spagon said. Investigators obtained surveillance video showing Zarate in the area at the time of the abduction, authorities said. Zarate is on parole, a known drug user, has violent tendencies and has outstanding warrants for her arrest, according to police. Update: Abducted child has been safely located. pic.twitter.com/7qlARCIm4S West Covina Police (@WestCovinaPD) February 14, 2026 Zarate is homeless and frequents the Los Angeles area, according to police. She was last seen wearing a black top and white pants, was carrying a black backpack and was believed to be traveling on foot. Anyone with information about this kidnapping is asked to call the West Covina Police Department at 626-939-8500. Anonymous callers may call the Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers by telephone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or by email at info@lacrimestoppers.org. Dash camera video shows the moment a six-car crash happened on Interstate 70 Friday evening. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] As reported on News Center 7 at 11:00, the crash happened on I-70 eastbound near US-68 in Clark County around 6:30 p.m. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Raymond Shaff, of Springfield, was one of the six drivers involved. The black car in front of me also stopped... so I hit the brakes harder. Didnt hit them, but then the car from behind me rear-ended me, he said. Seconds later, another crash happened right next to him. This white car just zipped right past me, Shaff said. Shaff and his 6-year-old daughter were not injured in this crash. All six cars involved in the crash were damaged. Theres a piece hanging on the back. Theres a wire thats connected to one of the lights thats off, Shaff said. The dash camera video shows that everyone involved seemed to be most worried about each other. Advertisement Advertisement Everybody came out and helped and see how everybodys doing. Everybody was super awesome. I have no complaints. Everybody did the right thing and checked on us, Shaff said. An Ohio State Highway Patrol trooper told News Center 7 that two people were hospitalized. Shaff hopes they are okay, and now hes focused on his car. Itll be someones insurance. I just dont know whos, he said. The Ohio State Highway Patrol is working to learn what caused the crash. News Center 7 will continue to follow this story. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] LAWRENCEBURG, Ky. (FOX 56) An investigation is underway after a shooting early Saturday morning in Lawrenceburg left two people hospitalized. Kentucky State Police said troopers were called shortly before 1:30 a.m. on Feb. 14 to Lovers Leap Road following reports of shots fired. According to a news release, a preliminary investigation indicates that between 50 and 75 Kentucky State University students were attending a large party at an Airbnb property when an altercation broke out. During the disturbance, someone allegedly fired a gun. Advertisement Advertisement Read more of the latest Kentucky news One neighbor, Stephanie, said it was alarming knowing something so violent and reckless happened just up the road from her home, where her kids were sleeping. I woke up, and my dogs were barking. And when I got up, I went to go look outside to see what was going on, thinking it was maybe an animal in the yard or something on the porch. When I looked out, I saw just the whole road covered with cars, blue lights. It was really odd to see that out here, especially at that time of hour, because out here, you just dont see that, Stephanie said. Two people were struck: 19-year-old Darris Ivy of St. Clair, Illinois, and 20-year-old Kamora Laye of Louisville. Both were taken to Frankfort Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. Advertisement Advertisement I have gotten word that the female Miss Laye has been discharged from the hospital and is recovering. The male, Mr. Ivy, is still there, doing well, from what I understand, KSP trooper Andy Stepp said. People were shot. Some lives could have been lost. It didnt seem that way, the way they were out here on the road. I mean, it was still a party going on No concern for life, that, you know, somebody could have died, Stephanie said. Detectives attempted to interview several people at the scene, but investigators said a lack of cooperation made it difficult to gather information about a suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Airbnb said the individual who booked the reservation did not disclose or have permission from the host to have a gathering. We hope those impacted by this needless violence make a swift recovery. Disruptive parties are strictly prohibited on Airbnb, weve removed the account of the person who made the booking, and have suspended the listing. We stand ready to assist the Kentucky State Police in their investigation, an Airbnb Spokesperson told FOX 56 News. Stepp said that detectives are still investigating the evidence that they collected at the scene. He urged anyone with information to contact KSP Post 12 in Frankfort at (502) 227-2221. Read more of the latest Lexington & central Kentucky news Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Stay with FOX 56 News for updates. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. A man is dead after being shot by Villa Rica police officers on Interstate 20 in Douglas County on Friday afternoon. Jorge Narvaez, 52 of Carrollton, was killed, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation confirmed. The GBI says Narvaez got into a domestic dispute with his wife and another person just before 2:30 p.m. As they tried getting away from them, the GBI says he followed them in a separate car. Several people called 911 for a possible road rage incident between two cars. Advertisement Advertisement When officers pulled the cars over, Narvaez got out of his car with a gun and walked toward his wifes car and a responding officer. Thats when two officers shot at Narvaez, hitting him multiple times. He was pronounced dead on scene. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] More than eight hours after the shooting, all eastbound lanes of I-20 remain blocked. Uriel Valle told Channel 2s Eryn Rogers he saw the whole thing happen. We see two people pass us kind of swerving through the highway, through the other vehicles, he described. We thought they were playing. Valle said he was returning home from finishing a roofing job in Villa Rica when things escalated. Advertisement Advertisement The next thing I know, I see them bump into each other, getting out the emergency lane, Valle said. At that point, Im like, Ok, theyre actually not playing. He recorded the incident on video and shared it with Channel 2 Action News. I just seen the guy hold the weapon, and the other guy was hiding behind the vehicle, and the next thing you know the guy was laying on the ground, the one that was holding the weapon, he said. I just heard the gunshots, and thats about it. There is no estimated time for the interstate to reopen. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The Brief Mike Noble with Noble Predictive Insights spoke out about Karrin Taylor Robson's decision to suspend her campaign for Arizona governor. Robson announced the decision on Feb. 12. "From a data perspective, I was just frankly surprised," Noble said. PHOENIX - 2026's race to be Arizona's next governor had a shake-up on Feb. 12, with Karrin Taylor Robson announcing that she is suspending her campaign. The backstory On Feb. 12, we reported that Robson, whose campaign was endorsed by President Donald Trump, announced on X that she is suspending her campaign for governor after "deep reflection, prayer, and many conversations with my family." Advertisement Advertisement "We cannot afford a divisive Republican primary that drains resources and turns into months of intraparty attacks," read a portion of her statement. "It only weakens our conservative cause and gives the left exactly what they want, a fractured Republican Party heading into November. With so much on the line in 2026, I am not willing to contribute to that outcome." This was Robson's second campaign for governor. She ran in 2022, but lost to Kari Lake in the Republican primary. Expert Perspective Mike Noble with Noble Predictive Insights called Robsons announcement a bombshell. Advertisement Advertisement "From a data perspective, I was just frankly surprised," Noble said. Noble believes the news could clear up the primaries for Arizonas GOP voters. He said Robsons campaign suspension was not something he saw coming, due in part to her fundraising and positive polling. This is according to Noble Predictive Insights' August 2025 Public Opinion Pulse poll on the race. Noble said Robsons announcement likely strengthens one prominent Arizona congressmans chances over anothers. "This is great news for Andy Biggs and bad news for Congressman Schweikert," Noble said. "Biggs is now the only Trump-endorsed candidate in this race." Advertisement Advertisement Noble said that endorsement is significant for a Republican base that backs many of the presidents policy decisions. However, he added that midterms typically result in losses for the party in power. "It's gonna be a big matchup, but right now Id say the advantage goes to the incumbent Katie Hobbs," Noble said. "One, she has more than $5 million in the bank; right now Biggs has less than a million. The other big factor is that Republicans are in the seat of power and were in the midterms, and right now, the independents are not very happy with Republicans." Dig deeper Noble said his main curiosity for the general election lies with the voters outside of the two main parties. Advertisement Advertisement "Where are the independents aligned? Because really it comes down to 15-18% of the elector," Noble said. "A lot of the die is already cast between Republicans and Democrats. Which way those independents go, right now, at least in the polling, at least a year out, its that theyre really shifting toward Democrats." What's next Noble said it will also be notable which of the remaining GOP candidates Robson chooses to endorse, if she issues an endorsement at all. The Source Information for this article was gathered by FOX 10's Nicole Krasean. WASHINGTON The way Andy Beshear sees it, the next Democratic nominee for president ought to be a governor. He runs a state himself, and he says his colleagues have a proven track record against President Donald Trump and for struggling Americans. When the American people are hungry for someone that makes their life a little bit better or a little bit easier, that's what governors do on a daily basis, the 48-year-old Kentucky leader told USA TODAY. People see Democratic governors have the receipts, and Donald Trump does not. He probably doesn't like that very much. Advertisement Advertisement The question for rank-and-file Democratic primary voters beginning to kick the tires on early contenders, however, is more likely going to be what type of governor. More: You do the (midterm) math. Watch Trump's 37% approval, MAGA's $304 million Former U.S. Ambassador to Japan and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff See 19 potential Democratic presidential candidates for the 2028 election 1 of 2 Former U.S. Ambassador to Japan and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel California Gov. Gavin Newsom, 58, seized the spotlight early last year by resisting the Trump administrations deployment of the National Guard in his state, counteracting the White Houses effort to take more House seats through redistricting when other Democratic governors hesitated, and using a punchy online style going toe-to-toe with Trump and the MAGA movement. Beshear is often cast as the anti-Newsom in terms of personal background and political presentation, coming from a red state Trump has won three times with ease. He talks about kitchen table issues; learning Gen Z slang from his teenage children; and his Christian faith when defending abortion rights and supporting LGBTQ+ communities. Advertisement Advertisement Americans are already tired of the chaos and divisiveness Beshear says has been caused by the current administration, and they will be even more exhausted by 2028, suggesting Democrats aren't looking for a liberal version of Trump. "I'm not going to criticize Gavin because he's in a very different position this president attacks California and attacks him on a daily basis," Beshear said. "But for me, I'm not the guy that mocks people on social media. And if that's what Democrats are looking for, then I'm not their guy." 'Don't poke the bear': Newsom uses Trumps punchy style to make 2028 case With a few exceptions, top contenders in the shadow primary for the 2028 Democratic nomination are governors, including Beshear and Newsom, Maryland's Wes Moore, Pennsylvania's Josh Shapiro, Michigan's Gretchen Whitmer and Illinois' JB Pritzker. Advertisement Advertisement But unlike chief state executives who have claimed the White House before Jimmy Carter of Georgia, Bill Clinton of Arkansas and George W. Bush of Texas they are contending with a president of the opposite party who relishes picking fights with states and their leaders. That means the early jockeying is as much a personality question for Democrats as an ideological litmus test for how best to handle Trump and his voters ahead of the midterms. More: 'I will confess.' Stephen A. Smith comments on possible presidential run Democrats sense momentum but differ on what comes next Govs. Gavin Newsom, Gretchen Whitmer, Wes Moore and Andy Beshear. Matt Bennett, a cofounder of the centrist group Third Way, said the level of alarm about Trump among Democrats is at its maximum, from unrest over immigration enforcement to the Trump doctrine internationally. The question is how best to use that siren. Advertisement Advertisement Pritzker and Newsom run very blue states targeted by Trump for heavy-handed immigration enforcement, and their combative approach makes sense for them, Bennett said. But for candidates running out of swing districts or battleground states this fall, following the example set by potential contenders like Beshear and Shapiro makes more sense, he said. More: Governor races are set to be major referendums on Trump vs. Democrats So I think they're modeling the behavior that we should be seeing from candidates, Bennett said. Moore also runs a heavily Democratic state and has ruled out running in the past, but his name keeps bubbling up on the short list. He has tussled with Trump over funding to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge and has supported offsetting red-state redistricting by redrawing the congressional maps in Maryland. Advertisement Advertisement In an interview on CNNs State of the Union on Feb. 8, Moore denied that the push was part of a competition with Newsom. When you are watching Donald Trump in front of our face trying to ruin and trying to thwart democracy, we have an obligation to step up, he said. In the same appearance, Moore criticized Trump for a social media post he later deleted that depicted former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, as apes. He said it was "not lost" on him, as the nations only Black governor now in office, that he was not invited to a typically bipartisan event for governors at the White House later in February. You can un-invite, you can un-tweet, but you can never erase, Moore said. He stopped short of accusing Trump of racism. Advertisement Advertisement Trumps snub united Democrats this week when at least 18 of their governors from across the country, including many of the would-be 2028 contenders, closed ranks, telling USA TODAY exclusively on Feb. 10 that they were boycotting the event. The White House reversed course on Feb. 11, according to the National Governors Association, a bipartisan group, but it remained unclear whether Moore would be excluded. Shapiro, a moderate conciliator whos running for a second term this year and on a book tour has become more vocal as of late about Trump. He accused Trump of peddling racist videos and statements amid the Obama controversy, for instance. But he emphasizes that swing states Trump carried in 2024 have Democratic governors who have focused on pragmatic leadership rather than anti-Trump rhetoric. The reason theyre popular in those states is because they're delivering tangible things, he said at a reporter roundtable hosted Jan. 29 by the Christian Science Monitor, referring to himself, Whitmer and others such as Wisconsins Tony Evers and North Carolinas Josh Stein. President Donald Trump listens as Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer speaks during a visit with Michigan Air National Guard Troops on April 29, 2025, at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan. Nonetheless, when the president aggressively demonizes political enemies and even U.S. allies like Canada and Denmark even the most affable centrist sometimes can't help taking a shot at him. Advertisement Advertisement Beshears mild-mannered persona gave way to calling the presidents obsession with taking over Greenland dumb as hell" at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, for example. Democrats of all stripes have adopted more coarse language since Trumps return to power, exemplified last weekend by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who dropped an f-bomb in response to the presidents social media posting about the Obamas. Like New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, some Democratic governors have tried to forge a more friendly relationship with Trump. Whitmer was mocked by pundits last April after she was photographed hiding behind a folder during a surprise Trump news conference when she visited the Oval Office. The Michigan governor, who was on the vice presidential nominee list in 2024, recently became vice chair of the Democratic Governors Association. Advertisement Advertisement In a Substack post laying out her plans to help recruit and train candidates in 2026, she said she believed Democrats successes in Michigan could be replicated elsewhere. Nowhere did she mention Trump. The last Democratic nominee, former Vice President Kamala Harris, who lost every swing state to Trump in 2024 and passed last year on running for California governor in 2026, has also taken a hands-off approach. She recently transferred control of her campaigns X and TikTok accounts to a progressive advocacy organization and rebranded it as "Headquarters." The account is managed by several of her former aides. The move allowed Democrats to push out rapid-response style content to the accounts 1.1 million followers, most of it aimed squarely at Trump, ahead of the midterms. Advertisement Advertisement The former Democratic presidential nominee appears to be only tangentially involved in the efforts, serving as chair emerita of the project, while she continues a book tour about her failed 107-day White House campaign that has taken her to a number of early Democratic primary and battleground states. She struck at Trump in a Feb. 6 post on her personal account that said no one believes the White Houses claim that an aide erroneously posted the video of the Obamas to Trumps social account. We are all clear-eyed about who Donald Trump is and what he believes, Harris said. Taking on the 'Epstein class' and anticipating swing voters' pivot Rep. Ro Khanna, D-California, speaks prior to a House Oversight Committee closed-door video deposition of Ghislaine Maxwell, convicted and jailed associate of the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, on Capitol Hill, Feb. 9, 2026. Maxwell declined to testify. Trump is not expected to be on the 2028 ballot because to term limits despite publicly toying with the idea, so Democrats also have to find a message that will work against a different Republican nominee. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis are considered potential candidates. Rahm Emanuel, a veteran Democratic House member before serving as U.S. ambassador to Japan in the Biden administration, said it is obvious the 2026 contests will be a referendum on the president and "the Republicans who enable him in Congress. But Democrats, he added, must also anticipate where swing voters will be after the midterms. "If you want people to hand over the keys to the car, you got to be able to show that you can fight for America with the same vigor in which you're just fighting Trump," Emanuel told USA TODAY. "And so to me, you don't skate where the puck is you know the old saying you skate to where the puck will be." The former Chicago mayor and Obama-era White House chief of staff is considering a run for president. He said he plans to lay out his vision on education in a few weeks during a stop in Michigan, a key battleground state, with an emphasis on vocational training. Other likely contenders in 2028 are gaining notoriety by holding the administration accountable in the present. More than any of his potential competitors, Rep. Ro Khanna of California has used his online presence to challenge Vance, a likely candidate on the GOP side who, like Khanna, attended Yale Law School and has ties to Silicon Valley. In recent months, Khanna helped lead a bipartisan push alongside Kentucky Republican Rep. Thomas Massie to force the Justice Department to release its case files on convicted sex offender and financier Jeffrey Epstein. National Director of World Without Exploitation Lauren Hersh embraces Jeffrey Epstein survivor Liz Stein as they react to the Senate's passing of the bill to force the release of files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. Annie Farmer, victim of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, speaks from the podium during a candlelight vigil to honor survivors of his crimes in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. US lawmakers voted overwhelmingly on November 18 for releasing government files on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after President Donald Trump dropped his opposition to opening the books on a scandal that has roiled politics, law enforcement and the country's elite. Epstein abuse survivor Danielle Bensky, and National Director of World Without Exploitation Lauren Hersh embrace after receiving word that the U.S. Senate unanimously approved passage of the House's Epstein Files Transparency Act on Capitol Hill on Nov. 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House voted 427-1 to approve the bill and the release of documents and files. The legislation instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. President Donald Trump can now sign it into law. Epstein abuse survivors were attending a bipartisan vigil hosted by the Democratic Women's Caucus. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) walks to the House Chambers on Nov. 18, 2025 before the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Jena-Lisa Jones, left, victim of Jeffrey Epstein, left, and along with other Epstein survivors and family members depart the United States House of Representatives on Nov. 18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. The group of Epstein survivors and family members depart the United States House of Representatives on Nov.18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Troy Nehls (R-TX) departs the United States House of Representatives on Nov.18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) departs the United States House of Representatives on Nov.18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) departs the United States House of Representatives on Nov. 18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Reps. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) who are leading the charge to release files related to the late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, speaking Tuesday morning, Nov. 18, 2025 along with survivors as the House prepares to vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) departs the House floor, following the vote of the U.S. House of Representatives, which passed the bill seeking to release files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. U.S. Representative Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ) speaks at a press conference calling for the release of the Epstein files, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. Reporters and members of Congress participate in live TV segments before the U.S. House of Representatives begins voting on the release of files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) walks to the House Chambers in the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House voted 427-1 to approve the Epstein Files Transparency Act and the release of documents and files. The legislation instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. It now goes to the Senate for a vote before President Donald Trump can sign it into law. Reps. Thomas Massie (R-KY) center, and Ro Khanna (D-CA), left, and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), center right, who are leading the charge to release files related to the late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, speaking Tuesday morning, Nov. 18, 2025 along with survivors as the House prepares to vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) departs the United States House of Representatives on Nov. 18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) departing the Capitol on Nov. 18, 2025 after the House voted on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. See emotional reactions to Epstein files bill clearing Congress in rare moment of unity 1 of 17 National Director of World Without Exploitation Lauren Hersh embraces Jeffrey Epstein survivor Liz Stein as they react to the Senate's passing of the bill to force the release of files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. In a text message, Khanna said theyd held Trump and the entire Epstein class accountable by passing the underlying legislation. This is about holding the rich and powerful who act above the law accountable. I have taken concrete action that has led to the MAGA coalition breaking and this Administration losing trust with millions of MAGA voters who expected Trump to Drain the Swamp, Khanna said. He pointed to Shawn Ryan, a popular podcaster who lashed out at Trump and the White House as protecting pedophiles in a January episode that featured the Democratic congressman. More: A triumphant Trump today but troubles ahead. Happy new year? Some swing-state Democrats are eager to go on offense. Sen. Jon Ossoff, 38, a potential presidential candidate if he holds his competitive seat in Georgia in 2026, is calling out Trump as a fake populist. We were told that MAGA was for working-class Americans, Ossoff said at a rally Feb. 7. But this is a government of, by and for the ultra-rich. It is the wealthiest Cabinet ever. This is the Epstein class ruling our country. They are the elites they pretend to hate. That message resonates with progressives. Joseph Geevarghese, executive director of the Bernie Sanders-founded Our Revolution, said voters see for themselves who Trump is fighting for when wealthy CEOs such as Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and former DOGE chief Elon Musk attend White House events. Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Georgia, arrives to speak during a Kamala Harris campaign rally in Clarkston, Georgia, on October 24, 2024. The economic populist message that Donald Trump ran on is still resonant, Geevarghese said. The issue is Donald Trump isn't delivering. He's all but walked away from the early populism that he espoused. And I think Democrats who want to win have to point that out. Usamah Andrabi, a spokesman for the Sanders-connected progressive group Justice Democrats, agreed the party doesnt have to choose between resisting the Trump administration and winning over some of the presidents voters. The future of the Democratic Party demands leaders who can unite the bottom 99% across our differences against the top 1% robbing us all blind and trying to divide us against each other, Andrabi said. Risk of turning off swing voters? A person displays a sign as Vice President JD Vance delivers remarks at Uline Inc., in Alburtis, Pennsylvania, U.S., December 16, 2025. Trump argued in a Fox Business interview that aired Feb. 10 that he had "done a great job" in his second term but that the problem is voters don't see it. "Maybe we have a public relations problem, because I don't know that we get it out the way it should because I don't think anybody has had a more successful first year as a president than I have with all of the things we did," the president told host Larry Kudlow, director of the National Economic Council during Trump's first administration. Democrats' maneuvering comes as the partys base is itching to rebuke Trump: 91% of Democratic voters said in January that they were extremely or very motivated for the 2026 elections, according to a Feb. 2 poll released by Echelon Insights, a Republican-run opinion research firm. That is 10 percentage points higher than when Democrats were asked that same question in August and outpaces Republican excitement by 16 percentage points. More: Democrats face new dividing line: Cooperate or resist Trump 2.0? But it was less than a year ago when Democrats were in the tank with voters, polls showed, and recent surveys show a record-high 45% of Americans are turning their back on both parties and identifying as independents, according to a Gallup survey in January. "Democrats can keep talking, and President Trump will keep delivering," White House spokesman Kush Desai said in a statement to USA TODAY when asked about the potential 2028 field of Democratic candidates. Beshear heads the Democratic Governors Association, which nabbed wins in 2025 contests in Virginia and New Jersey thanks largely to an emphasis on affordability. But those were states Harris won. In 2026, Democrats have to defend governorships in six of the seven swing states Trump won in the 2024 election: Arizona, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada and Wisconsin. Democratic governors "have the receipts" on making life more affordable, such as bringing in jobs that are increasing wages, Beshear said. They have also served as the "last line of defense" against the administration on issues such as immigration enforcement, but he warned against diving too far to the left. I think a whole lot of the country feels, rightly or wrongly, that the pendulum swung too far to the left during the Biden administration, that it is swinging way too far to the right during the Trump administration, and they just want it to stop swinging." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 2028 Dems face a personality question. How do you approach Trump? NEVADA, Mo. A $25,000 grant will allow an area YMCA to expand its Out-of-School-Times Program. Nevadas Osage Prairie YMCA in Vernon County received the funding from the YMCA of the USA, which awards grants to local branches each year. Senior Associate Executive Director Sammie McCullough says the funding will expand the current after-school program at Truman Elementary School for children ages 5 to 12. Advertisement Advertisement The additional funding will also provide local families with childcare options on unexpected days off from school, such as winter weather closures, and during summer camps. Nowadays, we dont have just one-income families. Its often a two-income household, and with the cost of everything, childcare especially after school or during the summer can be very costly. This grant helps us offset those costs directly for parents, said Sammie McCullough, Osage Prairie YMCA senior associate executive director. McCullough says the goal is to continue expanding the program by partnering with additional schools. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. Feb. 13Grand juries, which meet in secret, review criminal charges brought by police and prosecutors and investigate possible criminal behavior. The proceedings are usually one-sided because the accused is not present and witnesses are not cross-examined. A grand jury may issue an indictment if it finds probable cause that a crime was committed and the accused person is responsible. An indictment is an accusation that must then be proven in court. The grand jury may also elect to issue no indictment. BUTLER COUNTY Indictments returned during a recent session of the Butler County grand jury: Advertisement Advertisement Roy D. Dillow, 1029 Manhattan St., Middletown; indicted on one count each of possession of cocaine and possessing drug abuse instruments. Michael J. Alcorn, 11 N. Sutphin St., Middletown; indicted on one count of grand theft. Tari Lee Cortright, 1269 Harmon Ave., Hamilton; indicted on one count each of aggravated possession of drugs, and illegal use or possession of drug paraphernalia. Jake R. Pfalz, 1592 Hill Ave., Apt. 1, Cincinnati; indicted on one count of theft. Walter R. Trujillo Zacarias, 650 N. University Blvd., Middletown; indicted on one count each of possession of cocaine, illegal use or possession of drug paraphernalia, and carrying concealed weapons. Advertisement Advertisement Anthony Wayne Cassano, 454 Rockford Drive, Hamilton; indicted on one count of grand theft. Christina Marie Rucker, 25 Highland Ave., Hamilton; indicted on one count each of tampering with evidence and aggravated possession of drugs. Emily Renee Raybourne, 705 North D St., Hamilton; indicted on one count each of grand theft of a motor vehicle, failure to comply with an order or signal of a police officer, and obstructing official business. Shawn Lee Lewis, 1006 Jackson St., Middletown; indicted on one count of failure to register (direct). John Vincent Barone, 9958 McCauly Road, Sharonville; indicted on one count each of aggravated possession of drugs (direct), and criminal damaging or endangering (direct). Advertisement Advertisement Michael Dean Withrow, 509 Millville Ave., Hamilton; indicted on one count each of aggravated assault and discharge of a firearm on or near prohibited premises. William Carl Glenn, 2105 Hill Ave., Middletown; indicted on one count of receiving stolen property. Gary Wayne Hall, 5232 W. Ohio 63, Lebanon; indicted on one count of receiving stolen property. Bart Joshua Taylor, 1552 Lingo St., Cincinnati; indicted on two counts of aggravated possession of drugs. Nathaniel Tyler Plummer, 313 South C St., Hamilton; indicted on one count each of failure to comply with an order or signal of a police officer, and aggravated menacing. Advertisement Advertisement Kendal Ronald Parker, 547 N. 5th St., Hamilton; indicted on one count each of strangulation and domestic violence. Travis James Odell Wilkins, Jr., 2250 E. Davis Road, Apt. C, Kettering; indicted on one count of theft. Dayton Knight, 6404 Sitka Drive, Cincinnati; indicted on one count of theft. Ronald Lynn James, 5232 W. Ohio 63, Lebanon; indicted on two counts of illegal use or possession of drug paraphernalia, and one count each of trafficking in a fentanyl-related compound, and possession of a fentanyl-related compound. Zachary Brandon Nicol, 924 Haverhill Drive, Hamilton; indicted on one count each of escape and aggravated possession of drugs. Advertisement Advertisement Joseph Wade Boggs, Jr., 316 Baltimore St., Middletown; indicted on two counts of kidnapping (direct), and one count each of rape (direct) and gross sexual imposition (direct). WARREN COUNTY Indictments returned during a recent session of the Warren County grand jury: Emily Marie Byrd, 40 Baker Ave., Cincinnati; indicted on one count each of illegal conveyance of drugs of abuse onto grounds of a specified governmental facility, possession of fentanyl-related compound, possession of heroin, and possession of drugs. Hayden Marie Williams, 2471 County Road 144, Apt. B, South Point; indicted on one count each of possession of cocaine, and illegal use or possession of drug paraphernalia. Advertisement Advertisement Amber Josephine George, 9761 Bob White Place, Mason; indicted on one count each of aggravated possession of drugs, and use or possession of drug paraphernalia. Samantha Josephine Clemmons, 721 11th Ave., Middletown; indicted on one count each of theft and criminal trespass. Casino Rayshawn Harris, Lebanon Correctional Institution; indicted on two counts of aggravated possession of drugs. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters in Bratislava, Slovakia on Sunday the United States is aware of the lab reports pointing to Russia killing Alexei Navalny while in prison. "We obviously are aware of the report. It's a troubling report. We're aware of that case of Mr. Navalny and certainly... we don't have any reason to question it," Rubio said. When asked why the United States did not sign the statement, Rubio added it's not their battle. Advertisement Advertisement "Those countries came to that conclusion. They coordinated that. We chose - Doesn't mean we disagree with the outcome. We just - it wasn't our endeavour. Sometimes countries go out and do their thing based on the intelligence they've gathered," Rubio added. During a chemical weapons convention on Saturday, five European countries claimed Russia poisoned an opposition leader while in prison. In a statement, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands reported that analysis of samples taken from Alexei Navalny's body "conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine." The statement went on to say, "only the Russian Government had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin against Alexei Navalny during his imprisonment in Russia." Advertisement Advertisement Epibatidine is a toxin found in the skin of dart frogs in South America. It is not native to Russia. The information was released during the Chemical Weapons Convention taking place currently in Munich. The five countries informed the Organization on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons of Russia's alleged breach. Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova dismissed the countries' claims, according to state media outlet TASS. "When the test results are available and the formulas for the substances are disclosed, we will comment accordingly," Zakharova said. "Until then, all such assertions are merely propaganda aimed at diverting attention from pressing Western issues." Advertisement Advertisement Back in September, Yulia Navalnaya, Navalny's widow, said that tests conducted in two foreign laboratories concluded he was poisoned before he died in custody. She said his supporters managed to move biological samples out of Russia, where they were analyzed in separate countries. "These labs in two different countries reached the same conclusion: Alexei was killed. More specifically, he was poisoned," Navalnaya said in a video posted on social media. She urged the laboratories to publish their findings, accusing them of withholding results for "political considerations." Navalny died in February 2024 while serving a 19-year sentence in an Arctic penal colony. Russian officials said he became ill after a walk and later attributed his death to "sudden death syndrome." State investigators later said his death was caused by arrhythmia. The post Rubio says US aware of reports Russia poisoned opposition leader appeared first on Straight Arrow News. Related Links LONDON (AP) Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned by the Kremlin with a rare and lethal toxin found in the skin of poison dart frogs, five European countries said Saturday. The foreign ministries of the U.K., France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said analysis in European labs of samples taken from Navalny's body conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine. The neurotoxin secreted by dart frogs in South America is not found naturally in Russia, they said. A joint statement said: Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison. Advertisement Advertisement The five countries said they were reporting Russia to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons for a breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. There was no immediate comment from the organization. Navalny, who crusaded against official corruption and staged massive anti-Kremlin protests as President Vladimir Putins fiercest foe, died in an Arctic penal colony on Feb. 16, 2024, while serving a 19-year sentence that he believed to be politically motivated. Russia saw Navalny as a threat, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said. By using this form of poison the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot wrote on X that the poisoning of Navalny shows that Vladimir Putin is prepared to use biological weapons against his own people in order to remain in power. Advertisement Advertisement The European nations assessment came as Navalnys widow, Yulia Navalnaya, attended the Munich Security Conference in Germany, and just before the second anniversary of Navalnys death. She said last year that two independent labs had found that her husband was poisoned shortly before he died. She has repeatedly blamed Putin for her husband's death. Russian officials have vehemently denied the accusation. Navalnaya said Saturday that she had been certain from the first day that her husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof. Putin killed Alexei with chemical weapon, she wrote on She said Putin was a murderer who must be held accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Russian authorities said that the politician became ill after a walk and died from natural causes. Epibatidine is found naturally in dart frogs in the wild, and can also be manufactured in a lab, which European scientists suspect was the case with the substance used on Navalny. It works on the body in a similar way to nerve agents, causing shortness of breath, convulsions, seizures, a slowed heart rate and ultimately death. European officials said they had a high degree of confidence in the assessment that Navalny died from epibatidine poisoning. Asked why the results had taken so long, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said that it had been a complicated process. Wadephul said no one but Putins henchmen will be able to say in detail what happened on Feb. 16, 2024, in the Russian penal colony. But it is clear that Russian authorities had the possibility, the motive and the means to administer the poison to Navalny. Advertisement Advertisement Navalny was the target of an earlier poisoning in 2020, with a nerve agent in an attack he blamed on the Kremlin, which always denied involvement. His family and allies fought to have him flown to Germany for treatment and recovery. Five months later, he returned to Russia, where he was immediately arrested and imprisoned for the last three years of his life. The U.K. has accused Russia of repeatedly flouting international bans on chemical and biological weapons. It accuses the Kremlin of carrying out a 2018 attack in the English city of Salisbury that targeted a former Russian intelligence officer, Sergei Skripal, with the nerve agent Novichok. Skripal and his daughter became seriously ill, and a British woman, Dawn Sturgess, died after she came across a discarded bottle with traces of the nerve agent. A British inquiry concluded that the attack must have been authorized at the highest level, by President Putin. The Kremlin has denied involvement. Advertisement Advertisement Russia also denied poisoning Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian agent turned Kremlin critic who died in London in 2006, after ingesting the radioactive isotope polonium-210. A British inquiry concluded that two Russian agents killed Litvinenko, and Putin had probably approved the operation. ___ Associated Press writers John Leicester in Paris, Mike Corder in The Hague and Philipp Jenne in Munich contributed to this report. The principal of Abington Senior High School in Montgomery County has been placed on administrative leave following allegations of inappropriate social media posts. In a statement on Thursday, school district officials called the situation involving Principal Alice Swift a personnel matter, adding that they could not provide more details concerning the investigation into the posts. A student tells Action News that Swift reposted content she believed was antisemitic, but it is unclear if that is true. Advertisement Advertisement The Anti-Defamation League says it is investigating. "We'll reach out to the school district like we do with any report that comes into us with potential issues," said Anti-Defamation League Philadelphia Senior Regional Director Andrew Goretsky. Goretsky wouldn't discuss specifics of the case until the investigation is complete. He says antisemitic behavior is becoming more normalized. Goretsky appealed for people to report possibly antisemitic behavior or rhetoric so the ADL can investigate. "It's very important that people report. One of the reasons people don't report is when they've either been a victim or perceive to be a victim. They have a hesitancy to report because they don't want to draw more attention to themselves," he added. Swift has been at the head of the school since 2024. NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) Africas top regional body opened its annual summit on Saturday in Ethiopia to discuss the future of the continent of some 1.4 billion people, as the organization faces widespread discontent. Set up to promote the unity and solidarity of the African States, analysts say the African Union faces a legitimacy crisis among youth for failing to meet their expectations. Meanwhile, several African countries battle military coups, disputed elections and protests inspired by economic hardship worsened by foreign aid cuts. Africa has the youngest population in the world, with more than 400 million people aged 15 to 35 years old. But it is also home to several of the oldest and longest-serving leaders a paradox that has contributed to an upsurge in coups. Advertisement Advertisement With a young population set to double by 2050, it is the only rapidly growing region where its people are getting poorer. Many African youths, on social media, express how they view the AU as a bloc of old leaders, which sees their interests as less of a priority. The organization has missed opportunities to be people-centered and citizen-driven and has instead focused largely on governments and leaders, said Liesl Louw-Vaudran, a senior analyst with the Crisis Group. What the youth is really asking and why people are frustrated is because this is not an African Union for citizens. Its not a people-driven African Union, Louw-Vaudran added. As several African countries held elections for new presidents over the last year, a clear pattern of sidelined opposition candidates emerged, leading to disputed results and protests from mostly young voters after incumbents were reelected. Advertisement Advertisement The AU was often accused of being quick to side with the reelected and slow to call out flawed processes. As authorities in Uganda shut down the internet and clamped down on the opposition during the East African countrys presidential election in January, the African Union Commission issued a statement commending the conduct of the poll. This enraged many youths, with one person saying: Dictatorship club has spoken. The day after, the AU election observer mission issued a preliminary report noting reports of harassment, intimidation and arrest of opposition leaders, candidates, supporters media and civic society actors in the election. Advertisement Advertisement One key challenge the AU has battled over the years is weak enforcement of resolutions, according to Macharia Munene, a professor of history at the United States International University in Nairobi. And that's because "not all members meet their dues or fully accept what is generally decided, he said. In Nigerias capital of Abuja, resident Chima Ekwueme said the African Union does not care about holding leaders accountable, citing Nigerias deadly security crises and economic hardship despite its rich mineral wealth. They are there for their own interests, Ekwueme, 32, told The Associated Press. In Nigeria, we have all it takes to put things in order (but) look at how difficult things are and where is the AU? At the 39th African Union Summit being held in Ethiopias capital, Addis Ababa, on Saturday and Sunday, the theme is water and sanitation. Discussions will feature the continents response to climate change and humanitarian crises following foreign aid cuts from international partners such as the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Observers say the AU Summit will provide an opportunity to align continental priorities with international partners, especially as discussions around a new world order stirred by U.S. President Donald Trump come up, with foreign leaders signaling shifting global alliances. From Sudan to the Sahel, to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, in Somalia and elsewhere, our people continue to pay the heavy price of instability, AU Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf said Saturday. He also called for an immediate halt to the extermination.. of the Palestinian people," prompting Mohammad Mustafa, Prime Minister of the State of Palestine, to thank Africa for its solidarity. Still, critics urge the African Union to look inward by paying closer attention to the continents most pressing challenges and doing more to hold leaders accountable when they fail to meet expectations. ___ Asadu reported from Abuja, Nigeria. When the state of Alaska turned over a copy of the states voter rolls to the Department of Justice in December, it also signed an agreement that allows the DOJ to ask the state to put individual Alaskans on track for removal from the states voter list. Officially labeled a confidential memorandum of understanding, the document was signed Dec. 19 by Carol Beecher, director of the Alaska Division of Elections, and U.S. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon. Alaska is one of at least a dozen states that have signed similar documents or expressed an interest in them, even as more states continue to fight the requests in court. Advertisement Advertisement In part, the document says the Justice Department will securely notify you or your state of any voter list maintenance issues i.e., that your states (list) only includes eligible voters. It goes on to state that within forty-five (45) days of receiving that notice from the Justice Department of any issues your state will clean its (list) by removing ineligible voters and resubmit the updated (list) to the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department to confirm that the state is following federal law. Alaskas signed agreement was obtained by the Alaska Beacon on Tuesday via a public records request. Beecher and Kelly Howell, chief of staff to Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom, said the agreement does not allow DOJ to purge voters a term that means removing them from the voter roll altogether. Advertisement Advertisement Instead, the DOJs picks, if any, would be placed on the states inactive voter list. Anyone on that list must provide ID and have their identity verified if they wish to vote. People on the inactive list are also placed on the states path to removal, a process that takes four years according to a timeline set by federal and state law. The agreement says in part that it was entered into at your states request, but by email, Dahlstroms office said that isnt correct and that the Department of Justice provided the agreement. The lieutenant governor is in charge of Alaskas elections, and in a cover letter dated Dec. 19, she said the memo was entered at the request of the Department of Justice and state law. Advertisement Advertisement That law, Dahlstrom said, allows the Division of Elections to share voters confidential information with a federal government agency, such as the Department of Justice, provided it uses the information only for governmental purposes authorized under law. If the Department of Justice were to seek faster removal of Alaskans from the voter rolls, it could violate that clause. Responding to questions from the Beacon, the lieutenant governors chief of staff said the state has not received any notices from the Justice Department about problems with its voter list, that no ineligible voters have been removed and that the state isnt aware of any times when Alaskas rolls were used for pre-litigation or litigation purposes, as defined in the agreement. Concerns about states rights being overridden The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly upheld the right of states to set the rules for local and state elections; changing voter rolls would represent a new expansion of powers by the Department of Justice. Advertisement Advertisement Former Democratic state Sen. Tom Begich, posting about the issue on social media, said he is outraged by the agreement between the state and the federal government. That kind of federal interference threatens our constitutional right to run our own elections, he said. He later issued a statement calling on the Alaska Legislature to investigate the issue. Dahlstrom, a Republican, is also a candidate for governor. Writing in an opinion column published by the Juneau Independent on Friday, former Alaska Attorney General Bruce Botelho, a Democrat, said it is alarming that the federal government has demanded the copy of the voter roll with personally identifying information. Advertisement Advertisement Nationally, at least 11 other states have either signed or expressed interest in agreements similar to the one signed by Alaska, according to federal court testimony in December over a lawsuit that challenged the state of Californias refusal to turn over its voter rolls to the federal government. The text of Alaskas agreement is almost identical to ones previously disclosed in court and by the American Civil Liberties Union in a lawsuit by the federal government against the state of Colorado. We will not comply with the Trump Department of Justices request for Coloradans sensitive voting information, said Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, a Democrat, in December. The DOJ can take a hike; it does not have a legal right to the information. Colorado will not help Donald Trump undermine our elections and hurt the American people. Nationally, the federal government has sued more than two dozen states, including Colorado, that refused to send voter rolls to the federal government. Advertisement Advertisement Those states generally have provided copies of publicly available rolls, but the federal government is seeking more detailed information, including lists of personally identifying information that may include birth dates, drivers license numbers and Social Security numbers in part or whole. The manner in which the Department of Justice has acted makes clear that what is at stake is not voter integrity, but voter privacy, Botelho said. The Justice Department has said that its requests are necessary to make sure that states are following federal laws that require them to regularly maintain their lists and keep noncitizens from voting. The Department of Justice has been sharing the voter rolls with the Department of Homeland Security, searching for noncitizens. Advertisement Advertisement As of this week, federal judges had ruled against the Department of Justice in lawsuits covering Oregon, California and Michigan. The department has not prevailed in any case so far. In the Oregon ruling, published on Feb. 5, Judge Mustafa Kashubhai wrote that the federal government cannot be trusted about its true motives. When Plaintiff, in this case, conveys assurances that any private and sensitive data will remain private and used only for a declared and limited purpose, it must be thoroughly scrutinized and squared with its open and public statements to the contrary, he wrote. Alaska-specific implications may be broad The national ACLU has opposed the federal governments requests in general. When contacted Friday about the Alaska memo, the Alaska chapter of the organization said it did not have immediate comment and was still researching the issue. Advertisement Advertisement The agreement between the state of Alaska and the Department of Justice could have broad consequences here. Days before signing the agreement, the Alaska Division of Elections disclosed that dozens of noncitizens had accidentally been registered to vote by the Alaska Department of Motor Vehicles. Under guidelines imposed by the Trump administration, those noncitizens could be deported, because federal law strictly prohibits noncitizens from registering to vote, and appearing on a voter list prompts special review when someone is attempting to become a citizen. The state has also criminally charged 11 American Samoa-born Alaska residents for voting in state elections. People born in American Samoa are American nationals, but not citizens, and thus are ineligible to vote. Advertisement Advertisement When the Alaska Beacon reviewed Division of Elections files that were turned over to the Department of Justice last year, it found 70 people labeled as noncitizens who either voted or attempted to vote in the state between 2015 and 2025. Those people were on the states inactive voter list, which was not provided to the Department of Justice. In addition, the violent federal crackdown against noncitizens in Minnesota and other states has ensnared many American citizens, indicating that the federal action is resulting in many false positives or is targeting Americans regardless of citizenship. Correction: The initial version of this article incorrectly stated that the memo would allow the Department of Justice to direct the purge of individual voters. It only permits DOJ to identify Alaskans for eventual removal and does not immediately prevent them from voting. It has also been corrected to reflect that only two of the 11 other states that have expressed interest in signing similar MOUs with the federal government have signed them. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE A Pekin woman convicted of trying to solicit the murder of her husband said in a "Dateline NBC" interview that she never wanted to hurt him or anyone else, accusing a former boyfriend of trying to manipulate her before she was arrested last year. In the Dateline piece "Secrets in the Ashes," Allison L. Salinas, 48, told correspondent Andrea Canning that she had been going through a rough patch in her marriage when she originally contacted her ex-boyfriend, James Turrentine of Dallas, to arrange for her current husband, Patrick Salinas, to be killed. More: Why a Pekin woman convicted in murder plot wants to appeal conviction Advertisement Advertisement However, by the time she was arrested for trying to solicit his murder in July 2025, the two had reconciled, with Patrick being the first person she called before she was taken to the Tazewell County Jail. Salinas said that Turrentine had manipulated her feelings and played on her emotions, also saying that the pair had sex in a motel room. He was interviewed at length by "Dateline" and denied the allegations, saying that Salinas "love-bombed" him through phone calls and messages before she proposed trying to kill her husband. The "Dateline" piece details Salinas' background going back to when she lived in Texas, spotlighting her relationship with a man named Delbert Mills, who was accused of burning down his wife's house in Texas in 2003. Mills was found guilty of first-degree murder, but the woman's family members said they suspected that Salinas was involved in the planning of the fire, citing the fact that Mills and Salinas got married so quickly afterward. Salinas never faced criminal charges in Texas and would eventually move to Pekin, where she would marry Patrick Salinas assuming his last name and would become involved in the community. Salinas opened a short-lived bakery and became involved politically, running as a Republican for U.S. Senate in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement However, the show detailed numerous instances of suspicious activity involving her, which included a community fundraiser in the East Bluff of Peoria where she promised to get the likes of Nelly, Brad Paisley and Gwen Stefani to perform despite all three of them being on tour at the time; another fundraiser for her Senate campaign to benefit first responders that fizzled out; and numerous people who claimed that Salinas never paid them for work they did at her bakery or on her Senate campaign. Turrentine and another woman, Kate Elliott, told the show they compiled a list of the scams that Salinas was allegedly involved with, including claiming that she had been a cancer survivor multiple times. Elliott said the end of the Senate campaign and the closure of the bakery all coincided with times where Salinas said she had cancer. Allison L. Salinas during an interview from Logan Correctional Center in Lincoln on an episode of Dateline NBC, broadcast Jan. 23, 2026. A murder plot and continued phone conversations Turrentine and Salinas continued a long-distance relationship, with Turrentine hoping that he could gain her trust regarding any sort of future scams, according to the "Dateline" interview. However, in late 2023, Salinas asked him for help in killing Patrick. "Dateline" obtained recordings made by Turrentine of phone calls between the two in which Salinas spelled out her plans for killing her husband. In the phone calls, Salinas dismisses the idea of poisoning her husband with shellfish, saying that it would be too easy for him to call emergency responders and get help. She eventually settled on luring Patrick into a wooden area, where a hitman would be waiting to kill him. Advertisement Advertisement Salinas, in the recordings, said that the hitman and her husband would need to be positioned in an area where no one could see them and the gun used would have to have a silencer in order to be as quiet as possible. Salinas continued to ask Turrentine for help in finding someone to kill Patrick, with Turrentine telling Canning that he found it "callous" in terms of the way she described her schemes to kill her husband. Salinas also suggested paying the hitman in small increments withdrawn from a checking account, looking to avoid drawing suspicions from the bank. Turrentine noted that Salinas always wanted to have some sort of alibi so that it didn't look like she had tried to kill her husband. She said in the phone calls that the murder had to take place when she was working. Salinas, in the recordings, said that it would "suck" when the plan succeeded and she had to be the grieving widow mourning the death of her supposedly-beloved husband. She said that she wouldn't be able to be happy unless Patrick was "gone." How police began investigating the murder plot Frustrated that police weren't acting quicker to investigate the murder plot, Turrentine eventually posted the calls in an 11-minute video posted to Facebook in July 2025, complete with a voice-over augmented with artificial intelligence software. The video lays out much of the murder plot and connects it with the death of Delbert Mills' wife in 2003, noting the similarities in how both played out. Advertisement Advertisement Turrentine said that within 36 hours, Pekin police reached out to him, apologizing for the slow nature of the investigation and promising to investigate. A detective began looking into Salinas' background, listened to the recordings and interviewed Turrentine and Elliott before turning her attention back to Salinas. More: Daniel Ruffin faces new criminal charges involving a second Peoria student "Dateline" also obtained video footage of the detective's interview with Salinas at Pekin police headquarters, where she says that she isn't oblivious to the potential for serious consequences if the plot was carried out. She said that she didn't want anyone to be harmed and chalked up her phone conversations as her just "saying things," but the detective pointed out that Salinas thinking through all of the details of her supposed murder plot. Salinas said that she didn't mean any of the things said on the phone calls to Turrentine, but because the conversations happened, she was placed under arrest at the end of the interview. The footage ends with Salinas placed in handcuffs and taken into custody. Advertisement Advertisement Turrentine told Canning that he felt a sense of relief when she was arrested, with his ordeal likely to come to an end. Husband stands behind Alison Salinas "Dateline" also spoke with Patrick Salinas, who said he doesn't believe any of the charges against his wife. Patrick defended his wife and said he felt the accusations weren't where her heart was, even though she pleaded guilty in August 2025 and was serving a jail sentence. Patrick said that the pair had been through a lot in their relationship, but their marriage remained intact. He told Canning that those upset about their continued relationship didn't know his wife on a personal basis. However, Patrick noted that he hadn't actually listened to the phone calls between his wife and her ex-boyfriend, saying that Turrentine was selectively using words to try and manipulate her into trying to kill him, feeling that he did enough to get into her head and make her muse about killing him. Alison Salinas speaks from prison Dateline interviewed Salinas from the Logan Correctional Facility in Lincoln, where she spoke about not wanting to hurt anyone and about how she felt Turrentine had manipulated her. Salinas said all she wanted at the time was someone to be nice and loving, but it turned darker. She said that Turrentine brought up many of the ideas in the plot and made her believe it, noting that her mental state at the time of the calls was so bad, she would have believed anything. Advertisement Advertisement She said that the recordings didn't exactly tell the whole story behind the relationship between her and Turrentine, also feeling that the charges against her were tainted because he is a registered sex offender in Texas. Turrentine, going by the name John J. Rexstar, was charged with indecency with a child in 2006 for an incident with an 11-year-old girl, according to Texas' sex offender registry. Turrentine told Canning that the charges were eventually dropped after he completed probation, stating that he was not a convicted felon. He said that he's stayed on the straight and narrow since that incident, saying that he believes in atonement and redemption and that it is possible for someone to change over a period of time. More: Clearing old marijuana records is a struggle in Illinois Turrentine said that his recordings prove that Salinas was behind the murder plot the whole time. Advertisement Advertisement When asked by "Dateline" about her alleged history of scams, Salinas said that she had never stolen money from anyone, saying that no one could prove the scams had occurred. She also said that she had survived three bouts of cancer. She accused Elliott of being an "internet troll" out to sully her reputation, with Turrentine joining in her cause. Salinas also denied allegations that she sold frozen pastries at her bakery in Pekin, saying that 90% of the products sold were homemade. However, she declined to say if everything she sold was fresh. She defended the quality of her baking, saying she made "killer" brownies, cookies and cupcakes. When asked if she was blaming everyone but herself for the situation she currently finds herself in, she said that she was merely trying to fill in some of the holes that weren't examined when she was arrested. Advertisement Advertisement While Salinas pleaded guilty just a few weeks after she was arrested, she said that she was forced to accept a plea deal because she was told that she would get a much harsher sentence than what she ended up getting 30 years as opposed to 16 years. Salinas filed a motion for post-conviction relief on Jan. 16. Court documents obtained from the Tazewell County Circuit Clerk's Office show Salinas is looking for relief because she feels that her counsel through the Tazewell County Public Defender's Office was ineffective, saying that he did not have a psychiatrist called in to back up a claim of "severe" history of mental health issues. She also said that the public defender did not provide her with the "vital information" needed to support her claims of innocence. Salinas said that while she is unable to provide documentation of these mental health issues, she would be able to have them for future court appearances through her new counsel. More: See which central Illinois businesses sold alcohol to minors in January Advertisement Advertisement She also filed a motion to would allow her to make an appeal without having to pay any fees associated with it. Salinas said that because she is currently incarcerated, she has no income to pay for counsel or the cost of future litigation. No date has been set to review the motions, and Salinas currently remains in custody at Logan. As for her connections to the death of Delbert Mills' wife, Salinas told Dateline that it was a "horrible situation," calling Delbert "probably the worst human being I've ever met." She said that they had began seeing each other shortly after the death of his wife and got married three months after the fire, a move she said was "one of her worst mistakes." She denied being involved in the death of Delbert's wife, saying that it was "horrible" what happened to her and that her young son didn't deserve to be without his mother. However, when asked when she could see the similarities between what she had planned and what happened to Delbert's wife, Salinas said she didn't see it that way. She reiterated that she didn't want to see her husband get hurt and never wanted anything to happen to him. "Secrets in the Ashes" is now streaming on Peacock and is also available as a podcast on Apple and Spotify, among other places. This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Allison Salinas of Illinois says she never wanted to hurt husband Are you ready, Texas? We're approaching the moment when the sunlight lasts longer, but your sleep, at least for one night, gets shorter. Daylight Saving Time returns in less than a month, despite attempts by state lawmakers to axe it for good. The practice requires folks to move their clocks forward by one hour in the spring and then back again in the autumn, so it's less dark during the waking hours. It was originally intended to save energy, but it has been met with debate from our representatives over the years. Advertisement Advertisement Here's what to know for 2026. When is daylight saving time? Daylight Saving Time will start at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2026, according to the US Naval Observatory Astronomical Applications Department. It also cuts into your slumber, prompting a rough adjustment for those counting on getting their eight hours. If someone you know is cracking the following morning, this may be the culprit. We'll also experience some dark mornings and brighter evenings for a while. As the days grow longer into the spring and summer months, it'll balance out again as we brace to turn our clocks back an hour in November. Is Texas stopping Daylight Saving Time? No, the Lone Star State is not opting out this year. However, the Texas Legislature did try to stop us from participating. During the 2025 legislative session, lawmakers passed House Bill 1393, which requires both the Central and Mountain Time zones within the state to observe daylight saving time year-round. The standard time in the state would be referred to as "Texas Time." Advertisement Advertisement However, the bill won't take effect unless the U.S. Congress passes a federal law allowing year-round daylight saving time. Other states have similar trigger laws in place, such as Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, and Florida. Is the U.S. doing daylight saving time in 2026? Much of the U.S. will. Hawaii and most of Arizona are the only ones that do not observe daylight saving time, opting out of the Uniform Time Act of 1966. What states are considering getting rid of daylight saving time? You're not alone in wanting to never worry about switching your clocks again. Over the last decade, several places have taken measures to end the practice. Per ABC 10, these include: Connecticut, Idaho, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wyoming, and, of course, Texas. Is daylight saving time coming to an end permanently? As of now, no. Much of the nation is awaiting the U.S. Congress to pass a federal law allowing year-round daylight saving time. The Uniform Time Act of 1966 allows states to stay on Standard Time year-round or observe DST for a part of a given year, but not permanently. Advertisement Advertisement Texas has passed a "trigger law" to end DST, but it won't go into effect until Congress changes the federal mandate. During last year's legislative session, State Sen. Nathan Johnson, a Dallas Democrat, cited studies showing that standard time is healthier as it aligns with the body's natural circadian rhythms, which regulate sleep-wake cycles, the Texas Tribune reports. This article originally published at It's almost time to move your clocks forward. What Texans should know.. Springfield School, built in 1951 as a school for Black children during segregation, provided education to those denied equal opportunities. Once a source of pride and a premier facility in North Carolina, it now sits abandoned, vandalized, and neglected. Alumni are now uniting to preserve the historic campus. Located in Lucama on Springfield School Road, it was the first local high school for Black children, succeeding the Rosenwald School that only served children through the sixth grade. Rickey Kirby, a 1968 graduate, said: "It was just the perfect place for me to be because I wanted to know everything." Advertisement Advertisement Brenda Carter, another graduate, said her elementary school teachers made writing and arithmetic come alive. "It feels so good to come back," Carter said, "like you are at home again." In the '50s, Black families were excited to finally have access to a high school education; however, not everybody was happy about it in Wilson County. It made headlines. The Wilson Daily Times publisher even wrote that "White folks should bring a lawsuit." "There were some very negative comments about Black kids getting a brand new school," Kirby recalled. "Some person said, 'Why did they get a new school? They don't even know how to use indoor bathrooms." Even with a new facility, the district only provided Springfield students with used and outdated books from all-White schools. Despite facing prejudice -- such as criticism over its construction -- Black students excelled, with Kirby later serving in the Marines. SEE ALSO: Black Greek Life at UNC: A legacy of community, service, and support Carter said there was a sense of pride that came with being a Springfield Wildcat. Advertisement Advertisement "I looked forward to coming to school because it was you get the leave home, come play with your friends, and you learn something different every day," she added. In the 1970s, the school was integrated and became a middle school. High school students later attended Rock Ridge School. The school later closed in the 1980s. Carter bought the property from a construction company. He and Kirby joined forces after Kirby shared a similar vision of creating opportunities for his rural hometown. "It has so much potential, and it's in a community where there's no arts," Kirby said. Advertisement Advertisement With experience in general contracting, Kirby enlisted his daughter's help to establish the nonprofit Springfield Community Center for Arts, Education, and Civil Rights Legacy. The group aims to raise awareness of the history and crowdfund donations to support the project. "A nice, safe space for kids and people of really all ages to come in, to be creative and to learn and to enjoy community," said Chandler Kirby, Rickey's daughter. The group plans to include multipurpose spaces, a cafe, a youth esports arena, and a makers space. "The hope for this space is that we bring it back alive, have people to come in and learn different things, and just have some for the community, " Carter said. Advertisement Advertisement "I think it sets a precedent for other rural areas," Chandler said, "as well to be more intentional about providing things that aren't necessarily just the basic needs." The project seeks to preserve history while building a new beacon of hope for future generations. MUNICH Trump administration officials have taken a markedly warm even friendly approach to European allies this weekend at the Munich Security Conference. But the message itself is uncompromising: Join Donald Trumps campaign to reshape the world for Washingtons benefit, or get out of the way. The U.S. sent more than half a dozen senior officials to the annual global confab of government officials and security professionals. It was, in some ways, a rare instance of the Trump administration engaging with the exact types of multinational institutions that it has excoriated over much of the last year. Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby earned praise in the corridors of the grand Bayerischer Hof hotel for conciliatory remarks that called for the U.S. and its allies to work together to secure Europe. Secretary of State Marco Rubio received a standing ovation when he said in his Saturday speech to the conference: The U.S. and Europe belong together. Advertisement Advertisement But between the backslapping in the hallways and swigs of mai tais at Trader Vics, a tiki bar inside the Bayerischer Hof where former Sen. John McCain once held court with bipartisan delegations, European officials vented. The tone from the U.S. had changed, attendees said, but the perception that the Trump administration would like to see a Europe whiter and more right-leaning had not. Officials understand the U.S. message is join us, and if youre not, we go alone, a European official said. Of course, we want to be with the U.S." While the U.S. wants to dispose of the so-called rules-based international order, for us the rules-based part is very important. Such concerns didnt bother the delegation, representing an administration that has only been further emboldened after Trumps attack on Iran last year, its capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and a recent threat to seize Greenland. Rubio on Saturday participated in a G7 meeting. But he snubbed a gathering with European allies on Ukraine Friday evening, citing scheduling constraints. U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said the U.S. wanted to express urgency this year but not throw everybody into a panic. Advertisement Advertisement We just need to, every single day, chop wood and carry water, ignore all of the political noise, he said Saturday in an interview at the POLITICO Pub in Munich. But Rubios marquee speech fell flat to many on the sidelines. More than a dozen European officials expressed concern that few of America's policies toward Europe have changed despite Rubios promise of a common destiny with transatlantic allies. And some who had fashioned themselves as model allies by spending billions to boost their arsenals with U.S. weapons were still wondering when their long-promised arms would show up. The underlying message was the same: We dont want weak allies, dont defend the old order, said one former European official, who like others, was granted anonymity to speak candidly about a close ally. If the smallest common denominators the Americans can find are our common history going back to Columbus, narrow national security interests and common civilization, that alone shows how far apart Europe and the U.S. are drifting. While many Europeans found parts of Rubios speech to love, he did not exclude reference to the MAGA culture wars some in the administration are pushing on the continent. Finnish Prime Minister Alexander Stubb, a European leader known to have one of the best rapports with the president, said Europe would not embrace such ideals. Advertisement Advertisement "MAGA means anti-EU. It means anti-liberal world order. It means anti-climate change. That's the ideological undercurrent" guiding U.S. foreign policy, he said in a Saturday interview in the POLITICO Pub. Behind closed doors, American officials were more candid about their antagonism. Colby, for example, told an audience at a private side event at Munich that the U.S. shared interests, but not values with Europe. He expressed readiness to work together, but a clear message that Europe must step up, and that we have moved from a value-based world to an interest-based world, said one of the participants. The sidelines of the conference last year were filled with ashen-faced European diplomats stunned by Vice President JD Vances harsh criticism of the continents democracies. This weekend in Munich, there was at least the appearance of healing. Advertisement Advertisement After Rubios speech, diplomats who had been holding their breath waiting for another American browbeating took time out of back-to-back bilateral meetings to smoke cigarettes and play chess in the courtyards of the conferences two connected hotels. Even U.S. officials, who kept their European colleagues at arms length last year, were a fixture in the hallways and on the sidelines. Whitaker, the U.S. ambassador to NATO, spent much of his time at the conference at the POLITICO Pub, hobnobbing with his colleagues from allied nations and setting up an impromptu office in a cabana. He had a cordial run-in with Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen in a patio between the connected hotels making up the conference grounds. But the happenings at this annual forum are not likely to resonate much in Washington. Trumps advisers want to see him focus more on domestic issues. And Vances team told European officials he would not attend the gathering as vice presidents usually do to focus more on the administrations domestic agenda, one diplomat said. Other European officials at the conference said Washingtons strategic messaging could not obscure its approach to the continent since Trump returned to power. Advertisement Advertisement Im worried about denial," Alice Rufo, French deputy defense minister, told reporters, referring to the national security strategy released late last year suggesting Europes civilizational decline.We need to read the [U.S. administrations] documents. They are very clear. While Rubio hit the right notes, his travel on Sunday and Monday to Hungary and Slovakia EU and NATO countries which have drifted in a more nationalist and pro-Russia direction sends a strong message. Marco Rubio comes with a conciliatory tone, but then he goes to Hungary and Slovakia. What kind of a signal is that? a European lawmaker said. Some European officials, though, said Rubio delivered a stern message the continent needed to hear. Advertisement Advertisement It is a milder way of telling us that the time of unicorns riding bicycles across rainbows laced with tofu and almond milk is over, an EU official said. This is not simply about being reassured or not. It is about whether we want to live in reality or in an artificial la la land of big announcements. Laura Kayali, Jacopo Barigazzi and Paul McLeary contributed to this report. A mining company is dropping a controversial plan to mine the riverbed of the Mississippi River corridor between Cottage Grove and Inver Grove Heights, a decision that environmentalists on Friday hailed as a win for the river. Officials from the mining company, Amrize Midwest Inc., said Friday that the decision to discontinue planning and development of the project was a business decision made in the best interests of our customers. Amrize, which operates the Nelson sand and gravel mine on Lower Grey Cloud Island, wanted to expand and shift operations into the Mississippi River and mine the actual riverbed. Advertisement Advertisement The Cottage Grove City Council, over the objections of numerous agencies and residents, unanimously approved a final environmental review in November for the project proposed by Amrize, formerly known as Aggregate Industries and Holcim-MCR Inc. Among the agencies that raised concerns about the project: Dakota County, the Metropolitan Council, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the National Park Service, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Prairie Island Indian Community. The environmental review was so legally flawed that Im not surprised they couldnt figure out how to move forward, said Colleen OConnor Toberman, land use and planning program director for the nonprofit Friends of the Mississippi River. The end of this project is definitely due to a really strong and organized outcry from the community that includes residents, people who love the river and the parks around the river. Everyone but the city of Cottage Grove knew this was a bad idea, and everyone spoke up until (Amrize) kind of saw the writing on the wall. Dakota County sought review Officials from Dakota County and the Met Council asked the Minnesota Court of Appeals on Dec. 16 to review the projects environmental impact statement before the project could proceed. Advertisement Advertisement Dakota County officials raised concerns about visual and noise impacts, as well as impacts to wildlife and the river. The view from the Mississippi River bluffs at Dakota Countys Spring Lake Park Reserve, a 1,100-acre park in Rosemount and Niniger Township, would have been right at the mining operation, said Dakota County Planning Manager Kurt Chatfield. The dredge used to mine the river bed would have been 65 feet tall Thats the height of a six-story building within the river itself. Impacts on wildlife and the river also were a concern. Many of the visitors that come to a place like a park reserve are there to enjoy the birds and the wildlife, he said. This was going to be very impactful, not just for the area, but for the 200 acres that would be mined underwater. Because Amrize officials have decided to withdraw, Dakota County officials will dismiss the pending legal appeal, said Dakota County Commissioner Joe Atkins. Advertisement Advertisement Atkins said the proposed project would have involved noisy crushers, conveyors, and bright lights operating 24/7 for nine months a year for up to 25 years. Mine nearly depleted Amrize had proposed its mining area to reach additional aggregate reserves on about 400 acres of privately owned land that it leases adjacent to the existing facility in the backwaters area of the Mississippi River. Related Articles There are about five years of life remaining in the existing permitted Nelson Sand & Gravel Mine Facility; the expansion could have extended the life of the mine by another 20 to 25 years, according to Amrize officials. Advertisement Advertisement The Nelson mine site has been in operation since the early 1950s on privately held land on Lower Grey Cloud Island. Approximately 15 union and management employees work on the site, said Michael Lach, general manager. Materials from the Nelson mine have helped to build the Twin Cities for more than 70 years, Lach said. The materials for roadways, schools, hospitals and homes that have shaped this community came from this site. Cottage Grove leaders and the larger community have supported us for decades, and we appreciate their partnership. Lach said the company will source sand and gravel material from other operations. Amrize Midwest Senior Vice President Rodrigo Gallardo shared the companys news in a certified letter sent Feb. 12 to Cottage Grove City Administrator Jennifer Levitt. Advertisement Advertisement After careful internal review, we have decided to discontinue all planning and development for this project, effective immediately, Gallardo wrote. We appreciate the time and effort which has been put forth by the city and their staff relating to this project. A spokesman for the city on Friday said that the city considers Amrizes application withdrawn. Mayor defends city process Cottage Grove Mayor Myron Bailey on Friday defended the citys process and questioned why Dakota County and the Met Council sued the city when officials from both the DNR and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers made it clear the agencies were not going to approve the necessary permits to allow the project to move forward. This would have happened without having to waste taxpayers money, he said. Advertisement Advertisement The city had to pay a $50,000 deductible to the League of Minnesota Cities for legal representation, he said, and taxpayers in Dakota County and in the Metropolitan Council region also are footing the bill. We werent making a decision on the viability of the project, just the environmental pieces, he said. Related Articles He said city officials spent three years working with a team of specialists and experts, including hydrologists, biologists, archaeologists, ecologists, noise specialists, geologists and engineers, to review the adequacy of the 1,000 page environmental impact statement. Advertisement Advertisement We took our role as the responsible governmental unit to gather potential impacts very seriously, Bailey said. We were not approving the project. The council never had that determination or decision to make on the project. We were asked to do a particular job, and we did it. We followed the law to make sure that everything was done correctly. But Dakota Countys Chatfield said the final environmental impact statement did not address mitigation to offset the visual impacts, noise impacts and impacts to wildlife and the river. (Refiles to add opening quotation mark in paragraph 22) By Feras Dalatey, Suleiman Al-Khalidi, Orhan Qereman and Jonathan Spicer Feb 13 (Reuters) - A U.S.-backed ceasefire agreement in northeastern Syria leaves thorny questions unresolved, as Kurds seek to retain some authority despite a much weakened hand following the rapid advance of central government forces. The progress of the deal tests the ability of Syria's new leaders to stabilise a nation fractured by 14 years of war, following several bouts of violence pitting it against minority groups who are suspicious of the Islamist-led government. Advertisement Advertisement The struggle for Syria's northeast has brought the biggest shift in control since former leader Bashar al-Assad was ousted in December 2024. After months of deadlock, Damascus seized swathes of territory from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) before agreeing to the plan that foresees its remaining enclave being integrated into the state. Preliminary steps have gone smoothly since the January 29 agreement: small contingents of government forces have deployed into two Kurdish-run cities, fighters have withdrawn from frontlines, and Damascus on Friday announced the appointment of a regional governor nominated by the Kurds. But a dozen government and Kurdish officials said core issues had yet to be tackled, including precisely how SDF fighters will be integrated, the fate of SDF heavy weapons, and arrangements for a border crossing to Iraq that has been an SDF lifeline. For now, the SDF has a firm grip over areas it still holds. But the question of how much authority the SDF would retain had yet to be answered, said Noah Bonsey of International Crisis Group, a think tank. Advertisement Advertisement He said further progress in implementing the deal currently looked like the most likely scenario, "but the risk ... of missteps, and thus ultimately the risk of renewed escalation is still high." WASHINGTON PLEASED WITH PROGRESS, URGES FLEXIBILITY President Ahmed al-Sharaa has now brought almost all of Syria back under central control. A Western official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Washington, which withdrew some forces from Syria this week, is pleased with progress toward integration and has urged Sharaa to be as flexible as possible with SDF requests. The U.S. advice is: avoid taking a hard line as a sign of goodwill, since a degree of autonomy for Kurds is desirable as long as it does not threaten the core need for central authority in Damascus, the official said. Advertisement Advertisement Asked for comment, the U.S. State Department referred to a statement by Syria envoy Tom Barrack in which he said the agreement paved the way for lasting peace for all Syrians. Syria's information ministry and the SDF did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The agreement, a copy of which was seen by Reuters, foresees the defence ministry establishing a division for the northeast, integrating SDF forces into three brigades. It stipulates that 15 government security vehicles would deploy into each of the SDF-held cities of Qamishli and Hasakah, and that "integration of SDF security forces" would begin. Deployments this month were largely incident-free, in stark contrast to the government's attempt to enter Druze-majority Sweida last July, which led to deadly violence. The U.S., meanwhile, has moved thousands of Islamic State prisoners formerly guarded by the SDF to Iraq. Advertisement Advertisement But there are also signs of friction on the ground. The SDF accuses the government of besieging Kobani, a Kurdish-run town cut off from the main SDF enclave, while Arabs living in SDF areas are resentful of its continued control, notably in ethnically mixed Hasakah city, according to two Syrian security officials. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi has said the three brigades comprising SDF fighters will be based in Qamishli, Hasakah and Derik, near the Iraqi border. But officials on both sides said that while there was a tentative understanding on a location near Qamishli, the other two had yet to be agreed. The SDF wants one stationed on Mount Abdelaziz near Hasakah city, overlooking its southern approaches and an extensive network of tunnels, Syrian military sources said. Damascus objects to this. Advertisement Advertisement KURDISH OFFICIAL SEES SECURITY IN KURDISH HANDS Arab-majority areas fell quickly to the government advance, including Deir al-Zor province and its oil fields. But the deal requires the SDF to hand over two other fields near Qamishli - Rmeilan and Sweidiya - and Qamishli airport. This has yet to happen. A regional intelligence officer described SDF concessions so far as symbolic. Abdulkarim Omar, a senior Kurdish official, told Reuters that government security forces would withdraw after coordinating and finalising "integration mechanisms". "The Asayish (Kurdish security forces) will be part of the interior ministry, and they are the ones who will protect this region from within," he said, adding that "lengthy discussions" were needed on the agreement's implementation. Advertisement Advertisement Turkey has also indicated lingering doubts. It views the Kurdish YPG militia, the SDF's backbone, as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which staged a decades-long insurgency in Turkey before entering a peace process. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said the YPG's withdrawal created a "healthier" security map, but Turkey's security concerns would only be fully addressed when YPG severs links to the PKK and undergoes a "historic transformation". (Additional reporting by Ece Toksabay in Ankara and Tom Perry in Beirut; Writing by Feras Dalatey and Tom Perry; Editing by Aidan Lewis) Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez delivered a dire warning about President Donald Trumps apparent ambition to destroy the international rules-based order and let authoritarians carve out the world as long as he gets the Western Hemisphere. The New York Democrat made her case Friday during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference, beginning with a call for protecting the worlds democracies amid Trumps controversial foreign and domestic policy actions that define this volatile new era. Politics: Greg Gutfeld's Crass New Title For Jeffrey Epstein Is Condemned Online I think what we are seeking is a return to a rules-based order that eliminates the hypocrisies around when, too often in the West, we look the other way for inconvenient populations to act out these paradoxes, Ocasio-Cortez said. Advertisement Advertisement She continued with examples: Whether it is kidnapping a foreign head of state, whether it is threatening our allies to colonize Greenland, whether it is looking the other way in a genocide, hypocrisies are vulnerabilities and they threaten democracies globally. Ocasio-Cortez delivered her most pointed remarks, however, when moderating New York Times journalist Katrin Bennhold asked which policies or institutions such as NATO, the Paris Climate Accords or the Iran nuclear deal a Democratic administration would save. The progressive congresswoman began by arguing that the U.S. must first revisit its commitments to foreign assistance through agencies such as USAID, and renew Americas political agreements with various allies that the Trump administration has abandoned. Politics: Obama Confirms Existence Of Aliens, But Says They Aren't Where People Think They are looking to withdraw the United States from the entire world so that we can turn into an age of authoritarianism, of authoritarians, that can carve out the world where Donald Trump can command the Western Hemisphere and Latin America, she continued. Advertisement Advertisement Ocasio-Cortez added that Trump sees the entire Western Hemisphere as his personal sandbox. Like this article? Keep independent journalism alive. Support HuffPost. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on Friday at the Munich Security Conference. Sven Hoppe/Picture Alliance/Getty Images She further argued Trump wouldnt care if strong-arm leaders such as Russias Vladimir Putin started to saber-rattle around Europe and militarily bully Americas allies there, reiterating that his goal is for authoritarians to have their own geographic domains. Trump has admitted there is only one thing limiting his quest for land and resources, telling the New York Times, My own morality. My own mind. Its the only thing that can stop me. Politics: Glove With DNA Sample 'Appears' To Match Glove Of Man In Nancy Guthrie Doorbell Footage I dont need international law, he continued at the time. Im not looking to hurt people. Advertisement Advertisement Ocasio-Cortez on Friday finished making her case by returning to the moderators central question about which institutions or policies a Democratic administration might want to save, sparking renewed speculation of her potential presidential run in 2028. She told Bennhold, And it actually is the Trans-Pacific Partnership, it is our global alliances that can be a hard stop against authoritarian consolidation of power, particularly in the installation of regional puppet governments. Related... Read the original on HuffPost The Brief Authorities say they are searching for 23-year-old Gilberto "Gil" Mendez III, an "armed and dangerous" suspect wanted for a Feb. 12 home invasion shooting in Bullhead City that left a 33-year-old man wounded. Police say he and another masked intruder opened fire inside a home occupied by four children before fleeing toward the Bullhead City or Laughlin, Nevada, areas. Mendez is reportedly linked to recent shootings in the area. BULLHEAD CITY, Ariz. - Arizona authorities are searching for an attempted homicide suspect linked to a Feb. 12 shooting and several other recent violent incidents. What we know The shooting happened at around 5:20 a.m. near Lakeside Drive and Marina Boulevard in Bullhead City, the police department said. Advertisement Advertisement Investigators say 23-year-old Gilberto "Gil" Mendez III shot a 33-year-old man in both legs and grazed the victim's arm during the incident. "It was reported that two armed males with masks entered the home. An altercation occurred over previous interactions, and shots were fired. The suspects fled prior to police arrival," police said. "Other people were inside the home during the shooting, including four children. No one else was injured." The victim was taken to the hospital and is stable. Mendez was identified as the shooter. He's known to live in both Bullhead City and Laughlin, Nevada. "He is believed to be responsible for other recent shootings in the Bullhead City area," police said. Advertisement Advertisement Police didn't provide information about the second suspect. Map of the area where the shooting happened What you can do Anyone with information about this case is asked to call 911 immediately, or call the Bullhead City Police Department at 928-763-1999. Authorities warn the public not to approach Mendez, as he is considered armed and dangerous. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. A teacher at the Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind has been fired and arrested following reports of alleged inappropriate interactions with students, according to school and state education officials. The Arkansas Department of Education said a student recently reported the interactions, prompting school leaders to open an immediate internal investigation. During that review, officials determined that multiple students had been affected. Former Bryant High School teacher arrested 2nd time for sexual misconduct with student Advertisement Advertisement The teacher, whose name has not been released, was fired on Thursday. Local law enforcement also launched an investigation and determined there was sufficient cause for arrest. In a statement, the school said it is working closely with law enforcement as the case moves forward. We are continuing to work with law enforcement to ensure the wellbeing and safety of our students remain top priorities. Parents should contact school administration with any concerns, the statement read. Parents react after arrest of former Garland County teacher previously convicted on child pornography charges ARDB officials said the school is providing counseling and support services for students and families. Parents who believe their child may have been impacted are urged to reach out to their childs principal. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. A 24-year-old has been charged months after a 50-year-old man was found dead in the roadway in Clayton County. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced the arrest of Royal McCollough III, 24, of Jonesboro, in connection with the death of Donald Eugene Kelly. McCollough is charged with malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. He was charged on Feb. 12 and is currently being held at the Clayton County Jail on related charges. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement The investigation dates back to November 23, 2025, when officers responded to the area of Fayetteville Road, Williamson Mill Road in Jonesboro, around 3 a.m. There, they found Kelly dead in the roadway. The Jonesboro Police Department requested the GBI to investigate the death. Authorities have not released details about what led up to the killing. The investigation remains ongoing. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] This story has been updated to add new information. JACKSON TWP. Police have arrested a teen they believe is responsible for setting two carport fires in the Lake Cable Village Apartments. Jackson Police Chief Mark Brink said in a news release on Feb. 12 that detectives have arrested a 15-year-old boy on felony charges related to the fires on Feb. 10 and Feb. 11 at carports on the apartments' property. Advertisement Advertisement The boy, who resides in one of the apartments, has been charged with aggravated arson, a first-degree felony, and arson, a fourth-degree felony, the chief said. Denny Tan, a fire inspector for the Jackson Township Fire Department, said the blazes scorched two carports at nearby apartment buildings, causing the loss of 14 vehicles, including one motorcycle. Multiple vehicles were scorched on the evening of Feb. 11 from a carport fire at Lake Cable Village Apartments, 5625 Lasater St. NW, in Jackson Township. The fire is being investigated as arson. The initial blaze broke out around 3 p.m. Feb. 10 at the apartment complex at 4842 South Blvd. NW. A second fire was reported shortly after 7 p.m. Feb. 11 at 5625 Lasater St. NW, which is also part of the unit. One minor injury was reported. Jackson fire inspectors and police, in addition to the Ohio Fire Marshal's Office and Explosion Investigations Bureau, participated in the arson investigation, according to a news release from the fire marshal's office. Advertisement Advertisement Krista Olszewski, a resident at Lake Cable apartments since last summer, said her 2016 Kia Soul was destroyed in the Feb. 11 fire. "It could have been worse and spread to the apartments," she said on the morning of Feb. 12. "We were really scared." A carport fire Feb. 10 at the Lake Cable Village Apartments in Jackson Township destroyed multiple vehicles. Olszewski said she and neighboring residents have not been displaced by the blaze. Danielle Novak, managing director of Lake Cable apartments, told The Independent on Feb. 12 that the fires were "quite a shock" to residents and employees. She said messages have been sent to residents seeking any information related to the fires to assist the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Fire update: ProTech Security remains open despite loss of warehouse in blaze "It's a bit of a mess, and hopefully it gets figured out soon," Novak said. "We're thankful no one (here) was hurt." Anyone with further details about the fires is asked to call the state fire marshal's tip line at 800-589-2728, or the Jackson police department at 330-832-1553. Reach Steven Grazier at steven.grazier@indeonline.com. On X (formerly Twitter): @sgrazierINDE This article originally appeared on The Independent: Jackson Twp. firefighters battle carport fires. Arson suspected ASHTABULA Work on Main Avenue and downtown Ashtabula may soon begin as the winter starts to close. One major project coming to the citys downtown this year is the Main Avenue facade program, which will upgrade several buildings and business along Main Avenue. Ashtabula City Council President John Roskovics said the program is a big deal for downtown. We probably applied for that grant a couple years ago, he said. Advertisement Advertisement The money for it is coming through federal American Rescue Plan Act funds through Ohio, he said. Roskovics said he expects the facade program to begin when the weather breaks and snow starts to melt. All the money has to be spent by this fall, he said. Ashtabula Downtown Development Association past President Rick Coblitz said his organization has been advocating for upgrades like the facade program for years, and waiting a long time for them to move forward. Were very happy with the cooperation of the city to get these projects moving, he said. The city and the architects working on the facade program met with downtown business and property owners on the program Wednesday, Coblitz said. Advertisement Advertisement Michaels Furniture owner Westley Sabroff said he is participating in the program. [The program helps] pay for the project improvements, and then I have to pay a portion of the project, he said. Sabroff said he and many local business owners have been anticipating the project. These processes always take time, he said. Its not specific to this city. Its a process. They just have to get all their ducks in a row. Sabroff said he is excited for the new look of Main Avenue from upgrades to windows and doors on buildings. I just think that this grant will help revitalize downtown Ashtabula, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Over the years, many downtown businesses have only lasted six to 12 months before closing, Sabroff said. A lot of these smaller business, they just come and go by the wayside, he said. Sabroff said he hopes the facade program will change that. Alongside the facade program, there are other projects coming to downtown, including the streetscape improvements on Main Avenue and the reconstruction of a portion of Route 84 just east of it. Its going to be an exciting time downtown, Roskovics said. Ashtabula City Manager Jim Timonere said at a Feb. 2 city council meeting that around $3 million was being invested into downtown Ashtabula with all these projects. Advertisement Advertisement Sabroff said he thinks the upgrades will help downtown, particularly during the winter. I think the lighting is huge, because when it hits dark in this time of the year at around 6 oclock, it is dark, he said. The lighting will help with people feeling more [secure], theyll feel more confident, and they wont be scared to come out. So, its a good thing for the city. In a significant animal trafficking bust, the Sri Lankan Navy stopped an attempt to smuggle birds. What happened? According to the Daily News, the Naval Detachment of Kachchativu under SLNS Wasaba in the Northern Naval Command of Sri Lanka detected a suspicious dinghy and immediately took action to mount an investigation. Upon arriving at the dinghy, authorities discovered three suspects attempting to smuggle 237 pigeons. They immediately confiscated the birds, suspects, and the dinghy. Why is this smuggling attempt concerning? Wildlife smuggling is a profitable business, creating billions of dollars every year. It is also incredibly dangerous for the smuggled wildlife, as these animals are improperly handled and cared for during trafficking attempts, resulting in injury and death. Advertisement Advertisement When trafficked wildlife dies, it contributes to population decline, which can be disastrous for already endangered species. While many people consider pigeons to be pests, these birds play a role in urban ecosystems. They're responsible for dispersing seeds and maintaining green spaces in cities, providing fertilizer through their droppings, and serving as bioindicators, meaning their health and well-being can indicate how well an ecosystem is doing. Pigeons removed from their natural habitats throw urban ecosystems out of balance. Additionally, when traffickers smuggle wildlife into new areas, those animals can become invasive species. Invasive species can cause numerous issues in their new homes; for example, pigeons can carry pathogens and parasites that may affect native birds and wildlife. Invasive animal species can also reduce food security, alter soil chemistry, and even contribute to increases in extreme weather events. What's being done to prevent wildlife smuggling in Sri Lanka? The navy remanded the alleged suspects to the Delft Police Station for further legal action. Advertisement Advertisement In 2012, Sri Lanka formed the Sri Lanka Wildlife Enforcement Network, a semi-formal group comprising all the country's law enforcement agencies. These agencies work together to share information on trafficking activities and to train agents to better gather intelligence, identify, and combat smuggling attempts. Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. Feb. 14 (UPI) -- The Routt County, Colorado, Coroner's Office has identified the four victims who died in a plane crash while approaching a Steamboat Springs airport early Friday morning. The victims are Aaron Stokes, 47, Jackson Stokes, 21, Colin Stokes, 21, and Austin Huskey, 37, the Steamboat Pilot reported. Aaron Stokes is the father of Jackson Stokes, but it is unclear if he also is the father of Colin Stokes. Advertisement Advertisement Aaron Stokes was a resident of Franklin, Tenn., which is where the flight originated on Thursday before making a brief stop in Kansas City and then proceeding to Steamboat Springs. Franklin is located about 20 miles south of Nashville and is home to many country music stars and other celebrities. Aaron Stokes was the founder of Shop Fix Academy, which assisted the owners of independent auto shops, according to his Ever Loved obituary. "The Franklin, Tennessee, community and the global automotive industry are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Aaron Stokes, a visionary entrepreneur, mentor and beloved family man," the obituary says. Advertisement Advertisement "A self-made multi-millionaire with 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, Aaron's influence extended significantly within the industry," it continues. "He successfully owned and operated five auto repair shops and hosted the popular radio show Fixin' Cars with Aaron Stokes." The obituary describes him as a "cherished member of the Franklin community. Known for his vibrant personality, kindness, and adventurous spirit, he embraced life with enthusiasm. "He was a devoted husband and father, and his family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Friends remember him for his deep faith and unwavering integrity." The plane crashed at 12:20 a.m. MST near the summit of Emerald Mountain, which is located southeast of Steamboat Springs and the Yampa River. Advertisement Advertisement The remote crash site required a local rescue team to recover the victims' bodies. ALS Aviation LLC of Franklin is the registered owner of the single-engine, turboprop Epic Aircraft E1000 that crashed and caused the deaths of all four aboard it. Initial reports do not say which of the four deceased passengers was piloting the aircraft or if ALS might have been owned by Aaron Stokes. The company was formed in 2021 and dissolved in 2024, but its ownership certificate is valid through 2031. The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash and its cause. The Brief Juliana Magalhaes was sentenced to 10 years for the 2023 killing of Joseph Ryan. She testified she shot Ryan while Brendan Banfield fatally stabbed his wife. Her plea deal sought no prison time, but the judge rejected it. FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. - An au pair who admitted plotting with her employerturnedlover to kill his wife and another man was sentenced Friday to 10 years in prison. Judge Penney Azcarate handed down the sentence to Juliana Peres Magalhaes for the February 2023 killing of Joseph Ryan. She will also serve two years of probation after her release. Advertisement Advertisement READ MORE: Deadly Desire? Brendan Banfield on Trial Joseph Ryans mother, Deirdre Fisher, spoke by video call during the hearing. "I lost my peace and sense of well-being," she said. "I can never unhear Joe's moans and cries after he was shot, the cries of a dying man." "For us, Joe did not just die on February 23, he was murdered over and over again every time lies were spoken," said his aunt, Sanita Ryan, who was present in the courtroom. Magalhaes sat with her hands folded in front of her face as she listened, showing visible emotion when the sentence was handed down. What we know Magalhaes testified that she shot Ryan while Brendan Banfield fatally stabbed his wife, Christine, in the couples bedroom. Advertisement Advertisement She pleaded guilty to a reduced manslaughter charge in Ryans death after agreeing to cooperate with prosecutors in their case against Banfield, who was convicted this month of aggravated murder in both killings. Prosecutors said Magalhaes and Banfield were having an affair in the months leading up to the attacks and continued their relationship afterward. During Banfields trial, Magalhaes testified that she and Banfield, an IRS agent, created an online account in Christine Banfields name on a fetish platform. Ryan connected with the account and agreed to meet for a sexual encounter involving a knife. READ MORE: Brendan Banfield ruled guilty in au pair murder trial Advertisement Advertisement Magalhaes said she and Banfield took the couples 4yearold child to the basement before entering the bedroom, where she said Banfield shot Ryan and stabbed his wife in the neck. When she saw Ryan move, she testified, she fired the second shot that killed him. She was not arrested until eight months later and remained silent for more than a year, only deciding to talk as her own trial approached. Banfields attorney challenged her credibility, arguing she was telling prosecutors what they wanted to hear. "People all over the world who watched this trial saw that Juliana's testimony was invaluable in helping the jury understand the convoluted double-murder plot orchestrated by Brendan Banfield. No prison sentence can address the harm created by her actions," said Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney Steve Descano in a statement. "Todays hearing was dedicated specifically to Joe, a beloved son, nephew, and grandson, who was a perfect stranger to Magalhaes and Brendan Banfield and tragically ensnared in their plot. The court cannot bring Joe back to his loved ones, but the court can ensure that Brendan, the mastermind behind this scheme, faces a lifetime in prison for his murder." Advertisement Advertisement As part of her plea deal, both sides recommended that she be released at sentencing, but Azcarate rejected the agreement. In Virginia, manslaughter carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The Source Information in this article comes from the Associated Press and previous FOX 5 reporting. Bangladesh's prime minister-in-waiting Tarique Rahman on Saturday dedicated his landslide election win to those who "sacrificed for democracy", calling for unity after the first polls since a deadly 2024 uprising. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief Rahman, 60, the scion of one of the most powerful political dynasties, is set to lead the South Asian nation of 170 million people after sweeping elections on Thursday. "This victory belongs to Bangladesh, belongs to democracy," he said, in his first speech since the vote. "This victory belongs to people who aspire to and have sacrificed for democracy." Advertisement Advertisement He will take over from an interim government that has steered Bangladesh since the student-led uprising ended the iron-fisted rule of Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. The success of BNP chief Rahman marks a remarkable turnaround for a man who only returned to Bangladesh in December after 17 years in exile in Britain, far from Dhaka's political storms. The BNP alliance won 212 seats, compared with 77 for the Jamaat-e-Islami-led alliance, according to the Electoral Commission. - 'Remain united' - Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman, 67, had initially alleged "inconsistencies and fabrications" in the vote, but earlier on Saturday, he conceded. Advertisement Advertisement He said he would "serve as a vigilant, principled, and peaceful opposition". He noted that his Islamist party -- which had been crushed under Hasina -- had quadrupled its seats in parliament from its previous best, calling it "a foundation" for the future. Hasina's Awami League party was barred from taking part. Hasina, 78, who was sentenced to death in absentia for crimes against humanity, issued a statement from hiding in India decrying an "illegal and unconstitutional election". BNP chief Rahman called for all to work together after a tumultuous political period. Advertisement Advertisement "Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united," Rahman said. - 'Freedom-loving' - His father, president Ziaur Rahman, was assassinated in 1981, while his mother, Khaleda Zia, served three terms as prime minister and dominated national politics for decades. "The freedom-loving, pro-democracy people of the country have once again brought victory to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party," he added, in an initial speech in English, before switching to Bangla. Retiring interim leader, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, earlier on Saturday said Rahman "would help guide the country toward stability, inclusiveness, and development". Advertisement Advertisement The US embassy congratulated Rahman and the BNP for a "historic victory", while neighbouring India praised his "decisive win", a notable shift after deeply strained ties. China and Pakistan, which both grew closer to Bangladesh since the 2024 uprising and the souring of ties with India, where Hasina has sheltered since her ouster, also congratulated the BNP. International election observers said the polls had been a success, with the European Union saying Saturday they had been "credible". The Election Commission said turnout was 59 percent across 299 constituencies out of 300 in which voting took place. Advertisement Advertisement Only seven women were elected, although a further 50 seats in parliament reserved for women will be named from party lists. Voters on Thursday also endorsed proposals in a referendum for a sweeping democratic reform charter backed by Yunus, to overhaul what he called a "completely broken" system of government and to prevent a return to one-party rule. Those include prime ministerial term limits, a new upper house of parliament, stronger presidential powers and greater judicial independence. But Rahman said the new government he will lead faces daunting challenges. "We are about to begin our journey in a situation marked by a fragile economy left behind by an authoritarian regime, weakening constitutional and structural institutions, and destroying law and order," he said. bur-pjm/mtp Former President Barack Obama broke his silence on President Donald Trump posting a video depicting both him and his wife Michelle Obama as apes, arguing there is a lack of shame among the presidents supporters. Obama joined Brian Tyler Cohen for the Saturday episode of his podcast where the former president dove into a variety of issues, but he first addressed Trumps controversial video post to social media, which hes since blamed on an unidentified staffer. The video, posted to Trumps Truth Social, depicted a number of politicians as animals, but the beginning depicts the Obamas faces on apes, an image largely condemned as racist. Trump has since defended the post. Advertisement Advertisement That was a video on, as you know, voter fraud, and a fairly long video, and they had a little piece that had to do with The Lion King. Its been very wellits been shown all over the place, long before that was posted. But that was a very strong, and Im sure you saw it, very strong piece on voter fraud. And the piece that youre talking about was all over the place many times, I believe for years, he told reporters this week. Cohen asked Obama about the overall devolution of political discourse, mentioning the ape video, administration officials rhetoric on ICE raids and shootings, and more. Just days ago Donald Trump put a picture of you, your face on an apes body, and so again weve kind of seen the devolution of the discourse. How do we come back from the place that we have fallen into? he asked. Obama stressed that he believes the majority of Americans find the video and more troubling. He also called out supporters of the president for what he called a lack of shame. Trumps video, he argued, is a distraction and part of a clown show playing out on social media and on TV. The former president said: First of all, I think its important to recognize that the majority of the American people find this behavior deeply troubling. It is true that it gets attention. Its true that its a distraction, but as Im traveling around the country, as youre traveling around the country, you meet people they still believe in decency, courtesy, kindness, and theres this sort of clown show happening in social media and on television and what is true is there doesnt seem to be any shame about this among people who used to feel like you had to have some sense of decorum and some sense of propriety and respect for the office. So thats been lost. Watch above via Brian Tyler Cohen. The post Barack Obama Hits Back at Trump Over Racist Ape Video first appeared on Mediaite. Barack Obama responded to the racist video posted by Donald Trumps Truth Social account last week that depicted the former president and his wife, Michelle Obama, as apes. While speaking to Brian Taylor Cohen on the Saturday episode of his podcast, Obama said, What is true is that there doesnt seem to be any shame about this among people who used to feel like you had to have some sort of decorum. Obama emphasized that it is important to recognize that the majority of the American people find this behavior deeply troubling. He continued: You know, it is true that it gets attention. Its true that its a distraction. But, you know, as Im traveling around the country, as youre traveling around the country, you meet people. They still believe in decency, courtesy, kindness. And theres this sort of clown show thats happening in social media and on television. Advertisement Advertisement And what is true is that there doesnt seem to be any shame about this among people who used to feel like you had to have some sort of decorum. And a sense of propriety and respect for the office, right? So thats been lost, Obama also said. But the former president also said he has reason to be hopeful. The reason I point out that I dont think the majority of the American people approve of this is because ultimately, the answer is going to come from the American people. And we just saw this in Minnesota and Minneapolis. The unprecedented nature of what ICE was doing in Minneapolis [and] St. Paul has resulted in the extraordinary outpouring of organizing, community building, decency, neighbors, buying groceries for folks, accompanying children to school, teachers who were standing up for their kids, Obama said. Advertisement Advertisement Not just randomly, but in a systematic, organized way, citizens saying, This is not the America we believe in, and were going to fight back, and were going to push back with the truth, and with cameras, and with peaceful protests, and shining a light on the sort of behavior that, you know, in the past weve seen in authoritarian countries and weve seen in dictatorships, but we have not seen in America. Trump has repeatedly refused to apologize for the video. That was a video on, as you know, voter fraud, and a fairly long video, and they had a little piece that had to do with The Lion King,' he told reporters this week. He continued: Its been very wellits been shown all over the place, long before that was posted. But that was a very strong, and Im sure you saw it, very strong piece on voter fraud. And the piece that youre talking about was all over the place many times, I believe for years. Reaction to the video was strongly negative on both sides of the aisle, and Trumps team ultimately deleted it after it was live for 12 hours. The post Barack Obama Responds to Trumps Racist Ape Video: Doesnt Seem to Be Any Shame | Video appeared first on TheWrap. By Aida Pelaez-Fernandez and Sarah Morland Feb 12 (Reuters) - Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley won a historic third election victory, with her Barbados Labour Party sweeping all seats of the island nation's House of Assembly, as counting ended early on Thursday. Mottley's BLP won all 30 seats for the third time, unseating opposition leader Ralph Thorne, who ran for the BLP in the last campaign, in an election that pitted her more global-facing approach against the opposition's focus on Barbadians' domestic needs. Advertisement Advertisement "Our mission first and foremost is to stop poor people from being poor and to remove injustice wherever it exists to create opportunities for people," Mottley, 60, said in a victory speech. She is the second leader to serve more than two consecutive terms. Surrounded by supporters dressed in red, she pledged to strengthen efforts on issues such as infrastructure, healthcare and road safety. "We did not come simply to hold office. We have come to make Barbados better and to make your lives better," she said. Friday will be a public holiday in Barbados, she added. At her swearing-in ceremony, Mottley told reporters the international landscape had changed substantially since her first election win in 2018, and that the small island would look to unity and innovation to move forward. Advertisement Advertisement Mottley has been a leading voice on reforming debt for climate-vulnerable nations, including through debt-for-climate swaps. Barbados, which defaulted on bonds in 2018, last year brought its debt-to-GDP ratio to just under 100% for the first time in over a decade. 'CLEAR ELECTORAL VICTORY' "The people have spoken, and we respect their voices," the opposition Democratic Labour Party said. Thorne did not cast a ballot because he was not registered in the district where he was living and competing, according to state TV network CBC. He was elected there in 2022 as a member of the BLP but moved to the DLP in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement The head of the Caribbean Community's electoral observation mission said before the election it had received concerns about inaccuracies on the voting register. Some opposition candidates said this would justify a delay in the vote, but the electoral commission said citizens had time to address inaccuracies and the process was legitimate. The BLP was expected to win comfortably, with a mid-January poll commissioned by Barbados' The Nation Publishing and Starcom Network showing more support for the ruling party compared to the last election, though many of those surveyed were undecided or did not plan to vote. An official turnout figure was not available by late afternoon. In the prior 2022 general election, turnout landed below 50%, according to the International Foundation for Electoral Systems. Advertisement Advertisement Barbados is the Caribbean's easternmost country, home to around 283,000 people and a little over half the geographical size of Singapore. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated Mottley on her "clear electoral victory," adding that Washington was looking to increase collaboration on crime and drug trafficking in the region. The U.S. has expanded its military presence in the Caribbean and has agreements with both the Dominican Republic and nearby Trinidad and Tobago to dock warships in their territories. It has long imposed an economic embargo on Cuba and this year threatened sanctions on countries that supply it with oil. On January 3, the U.S. captured Venezuela's president in a surprise overnight attack on its capital. (Reporting by Aida Pelaez-Fernandez in Barcelona, Sarah Morland in Mexico City, Sarah Peter in Castries and Jasper Ward in Washington; Editing by Kate Mayberry, Rod Nickel and Matthew Lewis) For the past decade, Mia Mottley has steered Barbados from a former British colony that ditched the monarchy to a republic championing climate financing and debt reform for small island-states. In the process, she has emerged as one of the regions most influential global voices. This week voters rewarded her leadership with a resounding mandate. Mottley, 60, secured a historic third consecutive term in Wednesdays parliamentary elections, and her Barbados Labor Party claimed every one of the 30 seats in the House of Assembly in a clean sweep. It marked the third time the party had captured every seat. On Thursday, Mottley was sworn in. Advertisement Advertisement I accept this responsibility with humility and with resolve, she said after her swearing in by President Jeffrey Bostic. The people of Barbados have given me a mandate, and I am fully committed to honoring it through service and hard work. In a congratulatory note, U.S. Secretary State Marco Rubio congratulated Mottley on her electoral victory, and said the United States looks forward to expanding collaboration with Barbados to strengthen regional security by deepening cooperation to counter transnational criminal organizations and illicit drug trafficking. Enhanced cooperation in these areas will support greater stability, security, and prosperity for both Americans and Barbadians, Rubio said. Outcomes at the polls Mottleys victory came a month after she called general elections amid questions about whether she would seek to become the next secretary-general of the United Nations, replacing Antonio Guterres, whose term ends on Dec. 31. Her name has been circulated alongside other prominent women leaders, including former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, who was formally nominated by her country earlier this month. The other contender is Costa Ricas former Vice President Rebeca Grynspan, who currently serves as secretary-general of U.N. Trade and Development. Advertisement Advertisement Pollster Peter Wickham said that, while he doesnt see Mottley serving the full five-years of her term, he is not sure if she will make a bid for the U.N. in the current environment of financial cuts and U.S. tensions. I feel that at some level, theres an exhaustion on her part, where she kind of seems to want to move on. I think that shes at that stage, he said. But having said that, right now, shes the best thing for Barbados.... The U.N. thing, shes never actually addressed it frontally. I dont know that this is her desire, but I also dont know if thats possible right now, to be honest. Barbados is the third Caribbean nation to go to the polls in recent months. In each case voters have delivered different outcomes for the labor parties in those countries: Hammered at the polls in St. Vincent and the Grenadines; retained in St. Lucia, and now Barbados, where there was a sweep. Cost of living is an issue, and my sense is people have different ways of seeing it and saying, Look, you know, we have these issues, but we have different views on who can better address it, Wickham added. First female leader since independence Barbados first female leader since its independence in 1966, Mottley has built an international profile calling on rich nations to overhaul financial institutions to help vulnerable countries, and championing climate financing for vulnerable nations. In the region, she also took a lead on the involvement of the regional bloc CARICOM in Haitis political and gang crises. But if the recent elections, even with its clean sweep, reveal anything, its the challenges she faces at home. Advertisement Advertisement Voter turnout was essentially the same as in the last election, even though the registered voter rolls had increased by over 7,000 voters since 2024, according to an analysis by Wickham. Analysts say the turnout strongly suggests voter apathy, while polling data showed frustrations over crime and the higher cost of living. Wickham said he believes the election victory has a lot more to do with the opposition, the Democratic Labor Party, than it has to do with the government. Its really an indictment on the opposition, he said. I mean, if you cant, after three terms, get a single seat, it speaks more to you than to anything else. Wickham said he believes the majority of people in Barbados feel the Mottley is addressing the domestic issues. Still, the prime minister seems to recognize it is on peoples minds. Advertisement Advertisement Our mission first and foremost is to stop poor people from being poor and to remove injustice wherever it exists to create opportunities for people, Mottley said after her victory. She also said she plans to address electoral reforms. Not only did the Democratic Labor Party fail to secure a seat, but its leader Ralph Thorne was unable to vote. Thorne said he was told at the polls that he was registered elsewhere. It is clear that in the mad rush to conduct an election, the [Electoral and Boundaries Commission] has been caught in a state of unpreparedness, and that unpreparedness has resulted in the disenfranchisement of many people today, and that is quite unfortunate, Thorne told local media. We feel vindicated, though, that we took the position that the process was rushed, and it was rushed to the disadvantage of many people. Wickham, who welcomes Mottleys commitment to electoral reform, said there is an issue with electoral voter lists throughout the region that needs to be addressed. All of our electoral lists are bloated because we have this archaic system in the Caribbean where its easy to get on the list, but its very hard to get off, he said. I mean, people die every day, and they dont automatically come off the list. Advertisement Advertisement An electoral observation team from the 15-member CARICOM concluded that despite some minor challenges on election day, they were not significant enough to affect the outcome of the elections. It is the missions considered view that the results of the 2026 General Election reflect the will of the people of Barbados, CARICOM said. . Public school leaders across the state are speaking out against a state lawmaker's bill they say is designed to force them to stop fighting the state's school choice voucher program in court. House Bill 671, introduced by Ohio Rep. Jamie Callender, R-Concord, would strip state funding for any public school participating in lawsuits against the state's EdChoice voucher program, which has been expanded to allow nearly all students to receive vouchers to attend private schools, not just those who are low-income. Callender's bill was introduced on Feb. 2 and has been referred to the Ohio House Finance Committee. In 2022, 100 public schools sued over the private school voucher program. That coalition, called Vouchers Hurt Ohio, has since tripled in size to more than 300 public schools and associations statewide. In June 2025, the group won a lawsuit after a Franklin County judge ruled that using public funding for private school education was unconstitutional. The state has since appealed the decision. Advertisement Advertisement Among the Summit County public school districts that have joined Vouchers Hurt Ohio's voucher challenge are Akron, Barberton, Cuyahoga Falls, Hudson, Nordonia Hills, Norton, Twinsburg and Woodridge. The Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio, whose member districts include Akron, Barberton, Revere and Twinsburg, is also participating in the lawsuit. William Phillis, executive director of the Ohio Coalition for Equity and Adequacy of School Funding, which is behind Vouchers Hurt Ohio, said the legislation was "purely an intimidation tactic" during a Feb. 12 press conference at the Ohio Statehouse. "And that intimidation tactic didn't work," Phillis said. "So in a sense, Representative Callender has given us a gift he raised public attention to the egregious nature of this kind of legislation." William L. Phillis, executive director of the Ohio Coalition for Equity & Adequacy of School Funding, speaks at a press conference on at the Ohio Statehouse to address the unconstitutionality of Rep. Jamie's Callender's "School Bully Bill." Callender could not be reached for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Ohio Senate President Rob McColley, R-Napoleon, said some Republican lawmakers had expressed concerns that school districts were using state funding to sue over vouchers. He said the legislature was confident the state would be successful in its litigation. There has been some frustration shared among some of my Republican colleagues that weve been funding these state institutions and that they are using the very funding we are providing them to sue us on this stuff," McColley said. Advocacy group calls legislation 'School Bully Bill' Eric Brown, former Chief Justice, Ohio Supreme Court, former President, Columbus Board of Education, with the Vouchers Hurt Ohio, coalition of public schools challenging the constitutionality of the $1.7 billion EdChoice private school voucher program, holds a press conference on at the Ohio Statehouse to address the unconstitutionality of Rep. Jamie's Callender's "School Bully Bill." At the Feb. 12 press conference, public school advocates dubbed House Bill 671 the 'School Bully Bill' and said it was an attempt to silence public schools fighting for school funding in court. They said billions of dollars of state education funding would be cut off if this bill became law. Mark Wallach, the attorney representing Vouchers Hurt Ohio, said Callender's bill "is not a serious piece of legislation." Advertisement Advertisement "And I'm confident we would be able to have it quickly declared unconstitutional (if it were to pass)," Wallach said. Eric Brown, former chief justice of the Ohio Supreme Court and former longtime board member of Columbus City Schools, said the bill was "laughable." "This bill is outrageous and doesn't belong in the legislature," Brown said. "Representative Callender is trying to bully and intimidate our local school districts and it won't work." Akron, other Ohio school districts push back on bill Barbara Sykes, a former state lawmaker who is now board president for Akron Public Schools, said public school districts have a constitutional right to ask a court to determine the validity of school choice vouchers. Advertisement Advertisement "We have three branches of government not one so it is constitutional for our school system to go to the branch of government that says if you need clarification or if you need understanding on this law, then you can come to us," said Sykes, who has sat on the Vouchers Hurt Ohio state board since Akron Public Schools joined the coaltion in 2024. "We have joined together, and were going through the court system we are using the system that we can use to ask the court if this is constitutional." Mike Brown, a spokesperson for Columbus City Schools, the state's largest district and a participant in the lawsuit since 2021, said the proposed legislation is an attempt to silence hundreds of districts by "unconstitutionally limiting public schools right to advocate for students best interests. "CCS is focused on taking education to a higher level, but that means the state must live up to its legislated promise to fully fund the Ohio school formula," Brown said. "HB 671 will not fairly fund a single textbook, lunch or teacher to improve education for students and seems designed to silence 300-plus local districts, likely including those in the representatives own district." It does not appear that any public schools in Callender's Northeast Ohio district are participants in the lawsuit, but several adjacent districts are involved in the suit. Advertisement Advertisement Eve Bolton, board member for Cincinnati Public Schools, Ohio's second-largest district that joined the lawsuit in 2022, spoke out against the bill in a Feb. 9 board meeting, saying there's "strength in numbers" among the hundreds of districts challenging vouchers in the lawsuit. "This is something that has to be fought," Bolton said about Callender's proposal. "I have every confidence that suburban schools, urban schools and rural schools will fight this, and ultimately I think we will win." Cincinnati school treasurer Michael Gustin estimated during the meeting that $156 million of the district's funding, or a quarter of its annual budget, is at risk under the proposed legislation. Akron Beacon Journal education writer Kelli Weir and USA Today Statehouse news bureau reporter Jesse Balmert contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio school districts suing over vouchers oppose Ohio House Bill 671 A Boise man was sentenced to two years in federal prison after authorities found seven homemade bombs in his possession, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Idaho announced Friday. The man, 69-year-old Jonathan VanCuren, pleaded guilty to the charge on Sept. 18, 2025. After his prison sentence, he will also spend two years under supervised release. According to court documents, law enforcement searched VanCurens home in February 2024, where they found seven Improvised Explosive Devices in boxes that belonged to him. Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said each device contained an explosive main charge, main charge container and initiation system, and all seven devices were assembled and in operating condition. The Boise Police Department, Boise Police Bomb Squad and the Federal Bureau of Investigation were involved in the investigation. In the release, Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls with the Salt Lake City FBI said manufacturing explosives inside a home is illegal and highly dangerous. With one careless mistake, Vancurens blatant disregard for the law and public safety could have ended in catastrophe, Bohls said. The FBI and our state and local partners, who brought us into this investigation, will not tolerate those who threaten our communitys safety. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) Halfway into Utahs 2026 Legislative session, the Great Salt Lake Project has released a report on some of the legislature introduced to help save the lake. According to experts with the University of Utah (U of U) Great Salt Lake Project, the Great Salt Lake requires immediate attention in order to preserve our water resources, air quality, wildlife, and economy. The Great Salt Lake reportedly contributes to approximately 50% of all precipitation along the Wasatch Front, which includes yearly snowpack that fills our reservoirs. It also provides a home for millions of animals and contributes millions of dollars to Utahs economy in outdoor recreation revenue. Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, dust from the Great Salt Lakes exposed lakebed can lead to significant air pollution and subsequent health issues, according to a policy report from the Great Salt Lake Project. Governor Cox holds meeting on state of Great Salt Lake, announces $200M in funding Last September, Governor Spencer Cox and other state and community leaders publicly committed to restore the Great Salt Lake to healthier levels, with the goal of doing so by the 2034 Olympics. Additionally, several bills have been introduced during the 2026 legislative session to help accomplish this, which the Great Salt Lake Project highlighted in their report. Water law moves at a glacial pace. Even so, Utah has made significant and meaningful reforms to state water law over the past six years to respond to the lakes decline. That progress matterbut the work is not finished, said Beth Parker, professor of law and another lead of the Great Salt Lake Project. Advertisement Advertisement Parker added, Rep. Jill Koford is the sponsor of the two most important bills for the lake this legislative session. The first of these (H.B. 348), cuts the red tape in transferring water rights to the lake. The second (H.B. 410), gives the state $5 million dollars to lease water from farmers. Additionally, other bills reportedly impose higher water rates for excessive use, prohibit overhead irrigation of nonfunctional turf for some new developments, and require water-wise landscaping on new developments. Ten bills to keep an eye on during the 2026 General Legislative Session In total, the introduced bills help conserve water in Urban and Suburban areas, streamline water transfers, and provide sustained funding for restoration efforts, key priorities in saving the lake according to the Great Salt Lake Project. Advertisement Advertisement Collectively, the above measures would deliver tangible benefits to the lake and build on prior efforts to move Utah closer to its goal of restoring Great Salt Lake to a healthy level, the policy report reads, though it noted that other action is still necessary. Brig Daniels, a law professor with U of U and a project lead with the Great Salt Lake Project, added, Great Salt Lake is nearing an all-time low, and this legislative session matters more than ever. To restore the lake by 2034, we need bold progress this year and every year. You can read the full policy guide here. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. CUMBERLAND, Md. (AP) The violent deaths linked to the group known as Zizians stopped at six a year ago, after a U.S. border agent was killed and three members were arrested on trespassing and gun charges in the woods of western Maryland. Seven of the group's members are jailed in three states, all awaiting trial. Police in Maryland quickly connected Jack Ziz LaSota, Michelle Zajko and Daniel Blank to homicide investigations in California, Pennsylvania and Vermont after a landowner found them living in box trucks at the end of a snow covered dirt road last February, according to court documents and pre-trial testimony. All the suspects involved are to be questioned regarding other crimes that have occurred across the country and have ties with the Zizians Cult, Maryland state Trooper Brandon Jeffries wrote after their Feb. 16, 2025 arrests. But their prosecutions have only inched along amid trial delays and little action in other cases. Advertisement Advertisement Called Zizians by outsiders, the young, highly intelligent computer scientists appear to share radical beliefs about veganism, animal rights, gender identity and artificial intelligence. Since 2022, members have been tied to the death of one of their own during an attack on a California landlord, the landlords subsequent killing, the shooting deaths of Zajkos parents in Pennsylvania, and a highway shootout in Vermont that left the border agent and another Zizian dead. Arguing theyre victims of injustice Jury selection was supposed to start this week in Cumberland, Maryland, where LaSota, Zajko and Blank are charged with possession of LSD and possession with intent to deliver LSD, multiple gun violations, trespassing and hindering a police officer. The trial was delayed until June, however, after Zajko, who also is charged with resisting arrest, fired her attorney, briefly represented herself and hired a new lawyer. In handwritten filings, she has made sprawling allegations of rights violations by snitches inside the Allegany County Detention Center and lies by police and prosecutors. Advertisement Advertisement In the interest of Hope, Justice and Truth, for the good of all people, and for the establishment of a true peace, the defense moves to dismiss this case, Zajko declared in 20 pages of neat but almost indecipherably small handwriting. Their lawyers and the lead prosecutor have all declined comment or not responded to interview requests. Vermont border agent killed Zajko also is accused of supplying the guns two other Zizians used in a fatal shootout in Vermont in January 2025, although her federal court docket starts and ends with the complaint charging her with lying to a Vermont gun dealer. In that case, Teresa Youngblut is accused of opening fire on Border Patrol Agent David Maland during a traffic stop before another agent wounded her and killed her companion, Felix Bauckholt. The encounter happened just hours after President Donald Trump was sworn in for his second term, but in a Maryland court filing, Zajko sought to blame it on a culture of impunity she says is now evident in the administrations mass deportation campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Renee Good is probably dead because the regime has so far been able to get away with murdering Ms. Bauckholt & framing Youngblut, Zajko claimed. Good was fatally shot last month by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis. Neither ICE nor border patrol officials responded to messages seeking comment. Zajko claimed authorities arrested the group to prevent them from exonerating Youngblut, who has pleaded not guilty in Vermont to murder and could face the death penalty if convicted. It is an act of obscene cruelty, despotism & the mark of a tyrannical regime to use a bad faith investigation & the threat of phony charges to conceal exculpatory evidence, threaten witnesses into silence, or threaten to put an innocent person to death, all to protect a murderous border patrol human, wrote Zajko. The judge in Youngbluts case last week suspended deadlines for pretrial motions, citing the complexity of the capital case and noting that the exchange of evidence will include material related to investigations into other individuals in multiple jurisdictions. Murder trials pending in California, an open case in Pennsylvania Two other Zizians, Suri Dao and Alexander Leatham, are charged in a 2022 attack on a landlord in California that left another member, Emma Borhanian, dead, but their trial has been postponed multiple times. Another member, Maximilian Snyder, is charged with killing the landlord, Curtis Lind, three years later, just days before the Vermont shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Daos attorney, Brian Ford, said proceedings are suspended for competency hearings and that his client is not guilty. Attorneys for the others, as well as family members of victims and those accused, either declined to comment or did not respond to messages. LaSota, described by authorities as the apparent leader of the Zizians, has a May trial date in Baltimore federal court on a separate charge of being an armed fugitive a charge she has asked to have dismissed, arguing it violates her Second Amendment rights. Authorities allege LaSota faked her own death to evade charges after a 2019 protest in California and disappeared again after being accused of obstructing the investigation into the December 2022 shooting deaths of Zajkos parents, Richard and Rita Zajko, in Chester Heights, Pennsylvania. No one has been charged for killing the Zajkos, and the Delaware County district attorneys office said only that it still is being investigated. Jeffries, the Maryland trooper, said in a report that Blank is under investigation for a double homicide that occurred in Delaware County, PA. Advertisement Advertisement Authorities also have described Zajko as a person of interest in her parents death. She has denied any role. In her recent filing, she referred to them as adoptive guardians and suggested her father might have killed her mother and then himself. Richard Zajkos sister-in-law, Rosanne Zajko, declined to comment on behalf of the family. Mountainside arrests in Maryland James Broadwater wasnt sure what to make of the strangers dressed all in black who parked their trucks near his home in Eckhart Mines, outside Frostburg, Maryland. Then Jeffries, the state trooper, told him to Google Zizians. Broadwater testified recently that he had encountered LaSota and Zajko about a half-mile uphill from his house. They asked to stay, but Broadwater gave them until the next morning to leave. After talking with his wife he called state police. He changed his mind because he was afraid what would happen if he asked you guys to leave, Jeffries said when questioned by Zajko in court. Advertisement Advertisement Jeffries testified that a dispatcher had told him about an Associated Press article on the Zizians, published the day before, reporting details about the six deaths. He said LaSota told him they were willing to leave but the three would not identify themselves. Jeffries said his suspicions were heightened because of the news coverage, their tactical gear that included ammunition on gun belts, and how the trucks were parked with chains on their tires. I wanted to make sure I identified them before they left, he testified, and they made the arrests. The Zizians in Maryland have been working on a joint defense while jailed, though Blanks parents are pressing the judge to release their son on bail, and his lawyer has sought to distance him from the others. Blank "should not be detained because of the company in which he was arrested, attorney Rebecca Lechliter wrote. ___ Ramer reported from Concord, New Hampshire. PLATTSBURGH Brennan Buick GMC will donate to the North Country Honor Flight for every car sold during the month of February. The fundraiser is a collaboration between the Brennan team and Honor Flight to support sending local veterans on a trip to Washington, D.C., where they spend the day visiting various monuments dedicated to their fallen fellow service members. Dealer Principal Annie Brennan said the team has supported Honor Flight ever since learning of it in 2023 through the Plattsburgh Noon Rotary Club and called the partnership a perfect fit. Advertisement Advertisement We were incredibly moved by the mission and have been proud supporters ever since, she said. When Bill DelTosta approached us about partnering on a larger initiative, we were very excited about the opportunity. Were always looking for meaningful ways to give back to the community that supports us, and this felt like a perfect fit. North Country Honor Flight marketing volunteer Bill DelTosta said the Brennans warmed up to the deal instantly when he approached the team. Its solely for the month of February, and its $100 for every vehicle they sell, he said. The Brennan dealership will present the North Country Honor Flight team with a check in the beginning of March, DelTosta said. Advertisement Advertisement While Annie said the immediate Brennan family doesnt have a military background, their team members and valued customers do. In a community like ours, youre never far removed from someone who has served, and that makes supporting this cause especially meaningful, she said. While Brennan Buick GMC will donate to the cause for every car sold, they also encourage people to support North Country Honor Flight in any way they can. We are deeply grateful to those who have served our country, and were equally grateful that the North Country Honor Flight allows us the opportunity to help show our appreciation in a tangible way, Annie said. Its an incredible organization, and one of the many reasons were proud to be part of the North Country community. Advertisement Advertisement We strongly believe a business should be deeply rooted in the community it serves, and our team takes great pride in supporting organizations that strengthen the North Country. We are deeply grateful to those who have served our country, and were equally grateful that the North Country Honor Flight allows us the opportunity to help show our appreciation in a tangible way. Its an incredible organization, and one of the many reasons were proud to be part of the North Country community. Annie Brennan Brennan Buick GMC Principal A British brigade was destroyed in a Nato wargame in Estonia last year, it has emerged. Hedgehog 2025, a military exercise involving more than 16,000 troops from 12 Nato countries, simulated a battlefield contested and congested with a variety of drones, according to the head of Estonias unmanned systems unit. During one scenario, a battle group consisting of thousands of troops, including a British brigade and an Estonian division, was defeated by a simulated enemy operated by a Ukrainian team in a horrible result for Nato. Advertisement Advertisement The battle group was just walking around, not using any kind of disguise, parking tents and armoured vehicles one participant, who played the enemy, told The Wall Street Journal. It was all destroyed. Lt Col Arbo Probal, head of the unmanned systems programme for the Estonian Defence Forces, said the aim of the exercise was designed to test soldiers ability to adapt under fire. The aim was really to create friction, the stress for units and the cognitive overload as soon as possible, he said. The scenario envisaged a battlefield where tanks and troops had the ability to advance, mimicking the early stages of the war in Ukraine, rather than the largely frozen front lines along which troops are currently fighting. Estonian troops board an RAF Chinook from 18(B) Squadron during an exercise in Estonia - AS1 Mark Dollard/Ministry of Defence The Ukrainian team used Delta, a sophisticated battlefield-management system, to counter Nato forces. The system allows Ukrainian troops to collect real-time battlefield intelligence and use artificial intelligence to analyse data, identify targets and coordinate strikes. Advertisement Advertisement One team of 10 Ukrainians, acting as the enemy, counter-attacked Nato forces, mock-destroying 17 armoured vehicles and carrying out 30 strikes in half a day. Aivar Hanniotti, an Estonian systems coordinator who led another unit on the opposing side, said the results were horrible for Nato forces. We quite easily found cars and mechanised units, and we were able to take them out quite fast with strike drones, he explained. Two battalions were eliminated in a single day, Mr Hanniotti said, adding that they were not able to fight any more after that. One commander reportedly observed the drill and concluded: We are f----d. A British Challenger 2 tank deployed on Hedgehog 2025 in Estonia - AS1 Leah Jones/Ministry of Defence The exercise underlines how drones have become the defining weapon of the war in Ukraine, with analysts estimating that the weapons are responsible for about 70 per cent of all casualties. Advertisement Advertisement European allies of Kyiv have moved quickly to produce their own drones and to train their militaries in unmanned warfare. On Friday, Volodymyr Zelensky unveiled the first strike drone that was jointly produced by Germany and Ukraine. The Ukrainian president, who is attending the Munich Security Conference, said: This is modern Ukrainian technology. Battle-tested. Powered by AI. It will strike, it will scout, it will protect our soldiers. Britain announced last year that it would invest 2bn in drones to make the Army battle-ready. The countrys strategic defence review, unveiled one month after the exercise in Estonia, said that drones had become an essential component of land warfare and that the Army needed to invest in a mix of unmanned aerial vehicles. Advertisement Advertisement It comes as the US continues to push for Russia and Ukraine to negotiate an end to the war. Donald Trump, the US president, recently set a June deadline for the two sides to negotiate a peace deal. Mr Trump said on Friday that his Ukrainian counterpart would miss an opportunity if he doesnt get moving, claiming Russia wanted to make a deal to end the war. Russia wants to make a deal and Zelenskys going to have to get moving. Otherwise hes going to miss a great opportunity. He has to move, Mr Trump told reporters at the White House. However, Marco Rubio skipped a meeting with European leaders on the war in Ukraine on Friday, the Financial Times reported. Advertisement Advertisement The US secretary of state had been set to attend a meeting with the leaders of Germany, Poland, Finland and the European Commission but pulled out after apparent scheduling conflicts. One European official said the cancellation was insane, though Mr Rubio did meet Friedrich Merz, the German Chancellor, as well as the leaders of Denmark and Greenland. Chinnoks from the RAFs 18(B) Squadron during an exercise in Estonia - AS1 Mark Dollard/Ministry of Defence A new round of peace talks involving Ukraine, the US and Russia will take place in Geneva on Feb 17 and 18. Vladimir Medinsky, a presidential aide to Vladimir Putin, will lead the Russian delegation, the Kremlin said on Friday. Mr Medinskys return suggests Moscow may be attempting to stall peace talks after he was previously described by Ukrainian officials as a pseudo-historian over his hardline demands. Advertisement Advertisement During negotiations last year, Mr Medinsky compared the war in Ukraine to the Great Northern War, which involved Russia and Sweden and lasted for 21 years between 1700 and 1721 during the rule of Peter the Great. The Ukrainian delegation will be led by Rustem Umerov and Kyrylo Budanov, two senior advisers to Mr Zelensky. A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: Lessons learnt from Ukraine are driving a landmark shift in the UKs defence and getting drones into the hands of technically skilled and tactically aware pilots is central to our objective of doubling the Armys lethality by 2027 and tripling it by 2030. We are spending 4bn on boosting our drone capabilities. The Army has already trained over 3,000 drone pilots, with another 6,000 to be trained next year. Advertisement Advertisement This is backed by the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War, including an extra 5bn this year alone and 270bn over this Parliament. Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays. A British couple detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan for seven-and-a-half months have described a "huge culture shock" after returning to the UK. Peter, 80, and his wife Barbie Reynolds, 76, said they were never told why they were being held, nor why they were released in September. The couple, who have run a charity programme in Afghanistan for almost two decades, told BBC Newsnight the last five months in the UK have been "totally different". Advertisement Advertisement "What we've been through changes us. What we've been through in the last, well decades, but also obviously last year, it reshapes you," said Barbie. "You think differently and you see things differently than we did when we used to live here before." While living in their long-term home in Afghanistan's Bamiyan province, Barbie said she wore a Hijab at all times and was not allowed out in public without her husband. "The freedom here is very striking; people are free to wear what they want, go where they want," she said. They were arrested on 1 February 2025 after taking a chartered flight from Kabul to Bamiyan province, along with friend Faye Hall and their translator who were later released. Advertisement Advertisement The Taliban said the pair had broken Afghan laws and were released after judicial proceedings - but has never disclosed the reason for their detention. They were released through Qatari mediation but Peter said the reason for their detention was "a complete mystery". The couple, who married in Kabul in 1970, previously said they were detained in 10 different prisons and at one point thought they would be executed. "I wasn't sure whether Barbie was alive," Peter said. Barbie said she shared a prison block with 240 women but there were "many more blocks with women, with 40 children". Advertisement Advertisement "It was cramped, there were about seven toilets for that number of people. They tried to fix the showers but they broke again and the drains were always overflowing," she said. During Ramadan, Barbie had one meal a day but after Ramadan, they were given the same amount of food but just divided at lunchtime and dinner. "I became very malnourished and I got anaemia - Peter said I aged 20 years when I next saw him," she said. "Sometimes I could hardly walk and I became really quite poorly." Taliban officials maintained the pair received adequate medical care during their detention and that their human rights were respected. Advertisement Advertisement One of the prisons Peter and Barbie were held in was Pul-e-Charkhi, a notorious maximum security prison outside Kabul that is home to some of the most dangerous criminals. At one point they were held in basement cells with no windows for two months. For the final weeks of their detention they were moved above ground, where they say they had access to better food and were treated with kindness. Peter said he was "shocked" when he saw Barbie after months apart. "She was no longer a 76-year-old, she was in her 90s," he said, adding that his wife was unable to steady herself to walk. Advertisement Advertisement They previously said they wished to "hug" the people who decided to jail them and forgive them. "I'd want them to know I'm not holding a grudge against them," Peter said. He added that he would love still to work with the government of Afghanistan "for the good of the people of the country". They sent a message to Craig and Lindsay Foreman, who were arrested and detained in Iran in January 2025. "Hang in there, don't lose your hope," said Barbie. The British Museum has removed the word Palestine from displays about the ancient Middle East following complaints. Maps and information boards about ancient Egypt and the seafaring Phoenicians labelled the eastern coast of the Mediterranean as Palestine, and some peoples were described as being of Palestinian descent. However, the museum received complaints that it was using the term retroactively to describe regions and civilisations that had existed before it was coined. Advertisement Advertisement Curators conceded that the word was not meaningful as a historical geographic term, a decision that comes amid ongoing debate about ancestral claims to land in the region. Some Egypt displays have now been changed to remove references to Palestine, and there are plans to ensure that the term does not appear anachronistically in other information panels. The changes have been made following audience research, and after concerns were raised by UK Lawyers for Israel, a voluntary association of lawyers. In a letter to Nicholas Cullinan, the museums director, the group claimed: Applying a single name Palestine retrospectively to the entire region, across thousands of years, erases historical changes and creates a false impression of continuity. Advertisement Advertisement It also has the compounding effect of erasing the Kingdoms of Israel and of Judea, which emerged from around 1000 BC, and of re-framing the origins of the Israelites and Jewish people as erroneously stemming from Palestine. The chosen terminology in the items described above implies the existence of an ancient and continuous region called Palestine. The region around the eastern seaboard of the Mediterranean has had a number of names. One of the earliest and most prominent is Canaan, with the Canaanite people referred to in ancient texts from around 1500 BC. The area was often controlled by smaller powers, including the Philistines, and a 1200 BC Egyptian inscription contains one of the earliest mentions of a kingdom called Israel. Several centuries later, an Assyrian text mentions Judah for the first time. The Greeks later referred to the land of the Phoenicians, around what is now Lebanon. The historian Herodotus is believed to have made the first textual mention of Palestine in the fifth century BC. Advertisement Advertisement This word was later used to denote the province in the Roman and Byzantine empires. The area was Arabised following the Muslim conquest in the 7th century. Palestine became a common and neutral geographic term for the southern area of the Levant in the later 19th century, but the museum has now accepted that the term has lost its original neutrality. The British Museum changed its labelling after a complaint from UK Lawyers for Israel - English Heritage/Heritage Images/Getty Images Concerns were raised about the museum using the word, which has a specific and highly politicised modern meaning, in an Egyptian display covering the period from around 1700 to 1500 BC. The exhibition described the Hyksos people from the Nile Delta as being of Palestinian descent. Advertisement Advertisement A map covering the New Kingdom was flagged for using the same geographic term and describing Egyptian forces as having dominance in Palestine. The Phoenician civilisation was also described as being based in Palestine. It is understood that the Palestinian descent has been changed to read Canaanite descent in the Hyksos panel. Further changes have been promised as part of the Museums master plan for redisplay and reconstruction, and they will be implemented in the coming years. Panels are being reviewed case by case. A British Museum spokesman said: For the Middle East galleries for maps showing ancient cultural regions, the term Canaan is relevant for the southern Levant in the later second millennium BC. Advertisement Advertisement We use the UN terminology on maps that show modern boundaries, for example Gaza, West Bank, Israel, Jordan, and refer to Palestinian as a cultural or ethnographic identifier where appropriate. Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays. The suspect in the double-murder near Westgate Mall that claimed the life of two teenagers has been captured in Mexico after being on the run for almost a year, the Plymouth County District Attorney's Office said in a written statement Saturday morning. Davinci Leonard was taken into custody in Mexico on Thursday, Feb. 12, by the U.S. Marshals Service and Mexican authorities, the DA's office said. A lot of work was put into this case by troopers assigned to our Detective Unit, the MSP Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section, Brockton Police, and our federal partners at the U.S. Marshals. This was a lengthy and thorough investigation which took officers up and down the east coast, west to Michigan and California, and then on to Haiti, and ultimately to Mexico. I commend all those involved for their hard work and determination on this case," Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruz said. Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, at approximately 1:30 p.m. pacific time, the U.S. Marshals of the Southern District of California Mexico Investigative Liaison team along with the San Diego Fugitive Task Force coordinated and facilitated the apprehension of Leonard with Fuerza Estatal de Seguridad Ciudadana (FESC), the DA's office said. Leonard was "expelled" back to the United States to San Diego, California, and into the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service, the DA's office said. Davinci Leonard, of Brockton, left, and Cevannah Alvarez, of New Bedford, had been dating for several months before he shot and killed her on March 22, 2025 near the Westgate Mall in Brockton, according to Alvarez's family. What happened on day of double homicide? On Saturday, March 22, 2025, two teenagers, Tymari Alberton, 15, and Cevannah Alvarez, 18, were fatally shot after attending the opening of a new indoor trampoline park near Brocktons Westgate Mall. The Plymouth County District Attorneys Office identified the shooter as Cevannah's boyfriend, Davinci Leonard, 23. The U.S. Marshals in the District of Massachusetts joined the search for Leonard in December, offering up a reward of $7,500 for information leading to his capture. Advertisement Advertisement Two men accused of aiding Leonard in the aftermath of the shooting, David Mosley-Lott, 32, of Quincy and Jaylen Speed, 24, of Dorchester, were arrested in connection with the fatal shooting. Mosley-Lott and Speed were both initially ordered held on $50,000 cash bail on one count each of accessory after the fact. In December, Speeds bail was lowered to $7,500 and he was released on Jan. 16, according to court records. Both were scheduled to appear in Brockton District Court on Feb. 9. What happens next? Leonard will be transported back to Massachusetts for his arraignment in Brockton District Court "some time next week," the DA's office said. (This story was updated to add new information.) With reporting by Rebecca Hyman This article originally appeared on The Enterprise: Brockton double murder suspect Davinci Leonard captured in Mexico The brother of a British tourist who died in a mass methanol poisoning says the punishments issued to 10 people linked to the case are an "absolute joke". Simone White, 28, was one of six people who died after drinking free shots at the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng, Laos, in November 2024. The UK government recently told Simone's family that 10 people charged with destruction of evidence had received suspended sentences and fines of $185 (135) each, with no plans for further action to be taken. Advertisement Advertisement Her brother, Zak White, tells BBC Newsbeat: "I don't think we're ever going to get to the bottom of what happened and get a fair punishment." Trainee lawyer Simone and childhood friend Bethany Clarke had met up in Laos and spent a night at the hostel, where about 100 guests were given free shots. It is thought those drinks were tainted with methanol, a toxic substance normally found in paint thinner but that is sometimes mixed with alcohol illegally to cut costs. The friends felt unwell the next day and were eventually taken to hospital, where Simone, from Orpington in south-east London, was put on life support before she died. Advertisement Advertisement Since then, survivor Bethany and Simone's family have been pushing for greater awareness of the dangers of methanol, and answers from authorities in Laos. A recent update from the UK Foreign Office, shared with relatives and seen by Newsbeat, says 13 suspects were initially arrested. Of those, 10 people connected to the Nana Hostel were convicted of destruction of evidence, according to the memo. It said the owner of the distillery believed to have supplied the methanol was still awaiting trial. Bethany, speaking to Newsbeat from her home in Australia, said the news had made her feel "pure frustration" and "anger". Advertisement Advertisement It suggests that no-one is likely to be found criminally responsible over the deaths, nor the life-changing injuries suffered by other tourists. "Thinking about all of the families involved, obviously they all want justice and it just seems like they're not going to get it," says Bethany. Bethany (left) met her friend Simone in Laos to explore the south-east Asian country [Bethany Clarke] Zak tells Newsbeat the family had braced themselves for an unsatisfying resolution to the case. "We've kind of had a strong kind of indication that there wasn't really ever going to be any justice," he says. "The Laos authorities have been very difficult throughout the whole process and not very forthcoming with trying to speed things along." Advertisement Advertisement The Foreign Office said Laos' Ministry of Public Security had said the hostel could not reopen until court proceedings concluded - although it was not clear if this included those involving the distillery owner. But Newsbeat found listings for the rebranded Paradise Hostel available on Booking.com and Agoda. We were told the business was under new ownership, but the listing disappeared from Booking.com after it noticed "unusual activity" in its reviews. A spokesperson said it had suspended the listing temporarily for breaching its terms and conditions. Agoda said it was investigating the listing after being contacted by Newsbeat. Simone had been staying at the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng [White Family] Bethany says there are still unanswered questions over the case, such as the identities of those charged, and frustration at the lack of concrete information coming out of Laos. Advertisement Advertisement "Even to this day, having spoken to a few different people, I still don't really know exactly what is going on right now," she says. "I don't know what these charges relate to exactly, and I don't know who they relate to exactly. "We haven't got a clue what's going on with any of it. So it's very limited communications from the law authorities." Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer said the UK government "share the disappointment of the families at this outcome and we understand their frustration". He said the government had "been clear" it expected "robust action" from Laos against those who sell tainted alcohol and continued to raise the issue via its embassy." Advertisement Advertisement The Foreign Office has previously extended its methanol warnings to 27 countries deemed high-risk, and worked with content creators to spread awareness on social media. But both Zak and Bethany have said they want those efforts to go further. [BBC] Listen to Newsbeat live at 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays - or listen back here. A rescue operation was conducted this morning in Eastham around 9:30 a.m., and the Cape & Islands District Attorney is investigating. Members of the Eastham police and fire, and the United States Coast Guard were called to First Encounter Beach for an ice rescue. Boston 25 is working to learn more information at this time; however, the Cape and Islands District Attorney did confirm that the State Police Detectives unit assigned to the Cape & Islands District Attorneys Office have been notified and have responded to the scene. Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW By Andy Sullivan, David Ljunggren and Ryan Patrick Jones Feb 13 (Reuters) - Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney told grieving residents of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, on Friday that Canadians "will always be with you" at a vigil to mourn victims of one of the country's worst mass shootings. Carney, opposition leaders and provincial officials traveled to the remote town in a show of support for residents following Tuesday's attack, in which a gun-wielding teenager took the lives of eight people before killing herself. Advertisement Advertisement "When you wake up tomorrow and the world feels impossible, know that millions of Canadians are with you," he said. Carney, a Liberal, was joined by Conservative chief Pierre Poilievre and leaders of several smaller parties at the candlelight ceremony. Jesse Van Rootselaar, 18, who had suffered a series of mental health problems, killed her mother and stepbrother at home before shooting dead a teacher and five young students at her former school in Tumbler Ridge, a settlement of around 2,400 in the Canadian Rockies, according to police. Van Rootselaar, who police say was born a male but began identifying as a woman six years ago, then died by suicide. Advertisement Advertisement Van Rootselaar was not targeting anyone specifically at the school, Royal Canadian Mounted Police Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald said. "This suspect was, for lack of a better term, hunting. They were prepared and engaging anybody and everybody they could come in contact with," he said at a news briefing. The agency said earlier they had at one point seized guns from the house where Van Rootselaar was living but returned them after the owner, who they did not identify, successfully appealed the decision. The Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights, a pro-gun lobby group, questioned why weapons had been returned to a house where a person with mental illness was living. McDonald said the two main weapons used in the attack had not previously been seized by police. He did not address the status of two other firearms that were used in the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement The mass shooting was one of the worst in Canadian history. The deadliest took place in April 2020 when a 51-year-old man killed 22 people in Nova Scotia, before police shot him dead. Few townspeople wanted to speak to media on Thursday and British Columbia police said families and friends of the victims had requested privacy. Police named the school victims as Abel Mwansa, 12; Ezekiel Schofield, 13; Kylie Smith, 12; Zoey Benoit, 12; and Ticaria Lampert, 12, as well as teacher Shannda Aviugana-Durand, 39. Lampert's mother Sarah, speaking to reporters on Thursday, described her daughter as a "blazing light in the darkness ... (who) just wanted to bring sunshine to everyone and everything she ever touched." (Reporting by Andy Sullivan, David Ljunggren and Ryan Patrick JonesEditing by Rod Nickel, Deepa Babington, Jonathan Oatis and Lincoln Feast.) Here are some of The Providence Journal's most-read stories for the week of Feb. 8, supported by your subscriptions. Here are the week's top reads on providencejournal.com: The roof of the main building at Castle Hill Inn in Newport shows heavy damage following a fire on the night of Feb. 5. The blaze that erupted at Newports historic Castle Hill Inn on Thursday, Feb. 5, has been deemed to be accidental and related to the use of a wood-burning fireplace, according to the Rhode Island State Fire Marshals Office. Advertisement Advertisement A portion of Castle Hill Inns third floor and attic was damaged in a two-alarm fire that Thursday night, the flame having evaded detection for a short period of time by traveling within the walls. Soon afterward, the inn announced its plans to house guests for the coming months while the 1870 Gilded Age mansion at the heart of the luxury hotel complex undergoes repairs, as well as how the fire will affect operations at its restaurants and events spaces. Newport: Castle Hill Inn fire deemed accidental, cause determined A screenshot taken from body worn camera footage recorded by Lt. Patrick Potter of the Providence Police department during the response to the Dec. 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University. A screenshot taken from body worn camera footage recorded by Lt. Patrick Potter of the Providence Police department during the response to the Dec. 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University. A screenshot taken from body worn camera footage recorded by Lt. Patrick Potter of the Providence Police department during the response to the Dec. 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University. A screenshot taken from body worn camera footage recorded by Lt. Patrick Potter of the Providence Police department during the response to the Dec. 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University. A screenshot taken from body worn camera footage recorded by Lt. Patrick Potter of the Providence Police department during the response to the Dec. 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University. A screenshot taken from body worn camera footage recorded by Lt. Patrick Potter of the Providence Police department during the response to the Dec. 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University. A screenshot taken from body worn camera footage recorded by Lt. Patrick Potter of the Providence Police department during the response to the Dec. 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University. A screenshot taken from body worn camera footage recorded by Lt. Patrick Potter of the Providence Police department during the response to the Dec. 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University. A screenshot taken from body worn camera footage recorded by Lt. Patrick Potter of the Providence Police department during the response to the Dec. 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University. A screenshot taken from body worn camera footage recorded by Lt. Patrick Potter of the Providence Police department during the response to the Dec. 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University. Body cam footage from Brown shooting response released. See images. 1 of 10 A screenshot taken from body worn camera footage recorded by Lt. Patrick Potter of the Providence Police department during the response to the Dec. 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University. The City of Providence and the Providence Police Department have released a significant number of public records relating to the Dec. 13 mass shooting at Brown University, including body-worn-camera footage, call audio from Providence and Brown police, and incident reports from the responding officers. Advertisement Advertisement It is the first major release since the manhunt for the shooter, Claudio Neves Valente, ended on Dec. 18, when law enforcement found Neves Valente's body in a self-storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire, days after he killed two students and wounded nine others at Brown, and then killed MIT professor Nuno Loureiro in his Brookline, Massachusetts, home. Read the full story for a breakdown on what the documents and video footage show, and a separate story for an explanation on why city officials say no further material on the shooting will be released. Providence: Police release body cam footage, incident reports from Brown shooting. What they show. A new grocery store is opening in Walnut Hill Plaza in Woonsocket, but Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos says restrictive covenants make it particularly hard for new food stores to move into the city. If you're wondering why a neighborhood or possibly even an entire city, such as Woonsocket has very few grocery stores, chances are it's because major chains such as Stop & Shop and Walmart have taken steps to box out potential competitors. Advertisement Advertisement Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos wants to outlaw the practice of placing restrictive "scorched earth" covenants on deeds that prohibit the properties from being used to sell groceries in any capacity. The result, in many cases, is that buildings and sometimes even entire shopping plazas sit vacant for years, becoming an eyesore and "bringing down the whole community," she said. Political Scene explores this growing cause of "food deserts" areas where residents lack nearby access to fresh, healthy and affordable food and explains the potential remedies proposed by the lieutenant governor. Political Scene: How Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos hopes to bring more grocery stores to RI Settlement talks are underway in a lawsuit that accuses a Warwick police officer of using excessive force in a 2023 encounter that left a man paralyzed due to spinal cord injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Raymond Brehmer, 52, sued the city and Police Officer Normand Guilbert over a November 2023 incident in a parking lot on Post Road that resulted in him being gravely injured during an arrest. Brehmer, of Warwick, is accusing Guilbert of assault and battery. He alleges, too, that Guilbert and the city violated his right to be free from unreasonable and excessive force and acted with negligence by failing to take reasonable care to avoid inflicting harm. Read the full story for details on the incident, and why Warwick taxpayers are worried they'll be on the hook for most of the settlement, since the city's insurer would only cover $5 million. Courts: Encounter with Warwick cop left him paralyzed. Now he's suing for $75 million Gas leaf blowers are a significant source of noise in Providence. Gas-powered leaf blowers and lawn equipment are once again kicking up a dust storm at the Rhode Island State House, but not in the same way they have before. Advertisement Advertisement On the heels of the City of Providence's recent move to phase them out by 2033, eight of the 10 House Republicans have introduced a bill to ban cities and towns from enacting any restrictions on "the sale, purchase, ownership, or use of ... landscape equipment based solely upon the type of fuel or power source used by such equipment." The passage of similar laws in states such as Georgia and Texas was seen in some quarters as an effort to protect oil and gas industries. But Rhode Island landscapers said the issue for them is more personal survival. Read on for more information on this political turf war. Politics: 'Freedumb': RI Republicans want to ban gas-powered leaf blower bans Advertisement Advertisement To read the full stories, go to providencejournal.com. Find out how to subscribe here. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Castle Hill Inn fire, Brown shooting reports, grocery store shortage A New Castle man charged in connection with a drug trafficking operation out of Puerto Rico has entered a guilty plea. The Department of Justice announced that Daniel Feliciano, 49, pleaded guilty to six counts of violating federal narcotics and firearm laws on Thursday. In connection with the plea, the court was told that between October 2022 and March 2024, Feliciano conspired with others to distribute cocaine in the New Castle area. In addition to conspiracy, the DOJ says Feliciano pleaded guilty to distributing and/or possessing with intent to distribute quantities of cocaine on three different dates, as well as possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes. Advertisement Advertisement In March 2024, the DOJ said a federal search warrant was executed at Felicianos New Castle home. At that time, investigators seized approximately 150 grams of cocaine and crack, multiple digital scales that contained or later tested positive for cocaine residue, an assortment of drug packaging materials, nearly $2,000 in cash, three cell phones, three firearms, and various calibers and quantities of ammunition and loaded and unloaded magazines that totaled more than 2,400 rounds. Per the DOJ, investigators determined Feliciano had the guns to protect his product, his profits, and his person in relation to his drug trafficking crimes. Because of a prior felony conviction, Feliciano is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Feliciano is one of 17 people from New Castle, Puerto Rico and Youngstown, Ohio, charged in this operation. He was one of the last defendants to plead guilty, the DOJ says. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW 11 Investigates continues to break new details on a bar brawl involving off-duty Pittsburgh police officers. Chief Investigator Rick Earle got the reaction from the chief and the citizen police review board. The CPRB has opened an investigation into that bar fight. Chief Jason Lando confirmed to 11 Investigates that the Office of Municipal Investigations is also looking into it. Lando, sworn in Friday afternoon as the new police chief, just days after suspending four of his off-duty officers allegedly involved in a bar fight. Advertisement Advertisement Its disheartening. I cant speak about it now, only because it is not a Pittsburgh police department investigation, Lando said. The fight happened at a bar in Pleasant Hills where the off-duty officers were celebrating a promotion. Sources tell 11 Investigates there is video of the altercation that shows one of the off-duty officers hitting a person in the head with a bottle. No charges have been filed, but Lando said a criminal investigation by another police department is underway. I take the work our officers do seriously, but also if they dont behave according to our rules and regulations and policies, there has to be accountability, Lando said. Advertisement Advertisement A current total of four officers are on paid administrative leave as the investigation continues. The executive director of the Citizen Police Review Board, Beth Pittinger, said she is concerned. Were concerned because the officers, no matter what they do when theyre off duty, theyre still reflecting back on their peers, their colleagues, other Pittsburgh police, the institution and other officers, CPRB Executive Director Beth Pittinger said. Pittinger said this will be the first major disciplinary test for the new chief and new public safety director, Sheldon Williams. We were very pleased to hear that the chief did suspend them immediately, no playing around, waiting a couple weeks, or this or that, immediately, which is the appropriate thing to do, and hopefully will bring it to a quick resolution internally, Pittinger said. Earle reached out to the bar and has not heard back. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW BEIJING, Feb 13 (Reuters) - Chinese officials on Thursday handed over a satellite ground station to Namibia outside the southern African nation's capital Windhoek, Chinese state media reported, marking another step forward in China's expanding space programme overseas. The Chinese-built ground data receiving station will "significantly enhance Namibia's ability to receive and process remote-sensing data from satellites," the state-run Xinhua news agency said on Friday. As the U.S. has pulled back from aid to African countries, China has been building alliances and widening its space footprint on the continent, offering satellites, laboratories, and monitoring stations. Beijing says it is helping boost African space programmes because it wants no country left behind. Advertisement Advertisement Reuters has reported that China's aid projects are giving it access to a broader surveillance network as it seeks space dominance. Beijing can tap data and images collected from satellites, telescopes and ground stations it has provided African countries. Chinese personnel also maintain a long-term presence in facilities it builds in Africa. "Namibia will fully own the satellite ground station and operate it independently," Zhao Weiping, the Chinese ambassador to Namibia, was quoted by Xinhua as saying on Thursday. But Chinese experts will continue to provide technical support to the 14 local technicians they helped train, he said. Advertisement Advertisement A second phase of the facility is also in the works, the envoy added. "CHINA AID FOR SHARED FUTURE" is prominently painted on the dome-shaped facility in photos published by Xinhua. (Reporting by Beijing NewsroomEditing by Mark Potter) BEIJING, Feb 14 (Reuters) - Chinas foreign ministry commissioners office in Hong Kong said on Saturday it had summoned the heads of the UK, U.S., Australian and European Union missions over their officials negative comments on Jimmy Lais sentencing. The office said it expressed "strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition" and urged those governments to respect Chinas sovereignty and Hong Kongs rule of law, stop "irresponsible" remarks on national security cases and cease interfering in Hong Kong and Chinas internal affairs. Earlier this month, a Hong Kong court sentenced Lai, a prominent China critic and former media tycoon, to 20 years in prison in a landmark foreigncollusion case under the citys national security law. (Reporting by Beijing newsroom; Editing by Lincoln Feast.) LAS VEGAS (KLAS) City of Las Vegas crews started removing vehicles on Friday after repeated complaints of people living in abandoned RVs, trailers, and cars in an east Las Vegas neighborhood. Residents told 8 News Now that while the cleanup is a step in the right direction, theyre still worried the issue isnt completely solved. Abandoned vehicles in Las Vegas neighborhoods raise safety concerns Advertisement Advertisement I am so happy when I saw that, I think thats fabulous, as you can see what type of people they are, thats awesome, said neighbor Theresa Perez. Perez added that she appreciated the progress but hoped the city would stay consistent to prevent the problem from returning. >>Download the 8 News Now Vegas streaming app She said the vehicles had become magnets for trash, illegal dumping, and safety concerns, with many parked for long periods without moving. I felt like I was so alone in calling or reporting. That little trailer right here on Cartier theyre gone, and of course they left their buckets behind, and thats so disgusting its just not ok, said Perez. Advertisement Advertisement Oscar Gonzalez is the owner of Herma Graphix, which specializes in car wraps and tinting near Nellis and Lake Mead boulevards. He said abandoned vehicles have been an ongoing issue there during the six years his business has operated, sometimes impacting customers and day-to-day operations. Its the garbage and the vehicles, my clients think their cars will get damaged here, and it becomes a very big problem that also affects our work, said Gonzalez. Gonzalez added that while the area may look better now, the ongoing activity still concerns him. They make bonfires, they use the bathroom outdoors, its very, very uncomfortable right now, it looks clean, but there are days when its a mess of clothes, said Gonzalez. Advertisement Advertisement Abandoned vehicles can pose public health risks and block emergency access, which is why enforcement teams work to identify owners first before removing them. Officials said cleanup efforts take time because they must follow legal procedures, including tagging vehicles and issuing notices before towing them away. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. On Tuesday, Tippecanoe Superior Court 2 Judge Steven Meyer administered the oath of office to a newly appointed judge and colleague. The same day, Cass Superior 2 Judge Lisa Swaim approved the states request to amend and add additional charges against codefendants accused of shooting Meyer and his wife. Indiana Chief Justice Loretta Rush spoke at the swearing-in ceremony and said she was thrilled to see Judge Meyer. The last time she had seen him was in the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Justice Rush spoke of the importance of the rule of law and peacefully resolving disputes. She also wanted to highlight Meyers courage and strength. Rush explained Meyer had told her threats of violence wouldnt stop him from doing his job. His words were comforting, Rush said, as she communicated with judges throughout the state. Rush added the safety of judges is a priority as Chief Justice. We cant let fear or violence deter us, Rush said. Prosecutors filed their request to modify and add charges for Raylen Ferguson, Thomas Moss, Blake Smith and Amanda Milsap on Feb. 6. Ferguson, Moss and Smiths new charges are for conspiracy to commit murder and attempted murder. Advertisement Advertisement Milsap faces a new invasion of privacy charge for allegedly breaking a no contact order meant to protect the alleged victim in a domestic abuse case Moss was fighting in Meyers courtroom. Ferguson now faces 13 charges, Moss and Smith now face 12 charges and Milsap faces three. The approval of new charges comes after prosecutors submitted an amended probable cause affidavit that alleges Ferguson admitted to shooting Judge Meyer and his wife. The new affidavit also alleges Ferguson admitted to going to Pennsylvania to locate the alleged victim in Mosss domestic battery case. According to the affidavit, Ferguson said he targeted the judge and the alleged domestic battery victim because Moss felt he would die in prison with the pending case and wanted to spend more time with his child. Advertisement Advertisement Ferguson allegedly told authorities he did not want to be part of the plan and asked if someone else could take his place. However, he was allegedly in debt to Moss and his girlfriend, Nevaeh Bell at one point owing them at least $22,000 and had been promised the debt would be absolved and he would have a new rank in the gang if he carried out the plan. Initially, Ferguson allegedly told authorities, the plan had been to kill the alleged victim in the domestic battery case and their spouse if necessary. He allegedly told them Bell and Moss gave him a mask, that Smith gave him a gun that was wiped down and taken apart to ensure there werent any identifiable traits, and that he was given handwritten notes to leave in Pennsylvania and Lafayette to confuse investigators. When he failed in Pennsylvania, he allegedly told authorities, he was told to go after the judge. Allegedly, the initial plan was to break into the judges house, have his wife zip-tie him at gunpoint, leave the note, shoot the judge, then leave through the back door. He allegedly said he returned to Smiths home after the shooting, stripped and took a shower while Smith likely burned his clothes. Advertisement Advertisement The codefendants are due to appear for pretrial conferences in March, with the exception of Milsap, whose attorney has requested a speedy trial. Milsap will appear before Judge Swaim, who was appointed by Justice Rush as a special judge for the case, on Feb. 19. The pretrial conferences will double as initial hearings for the new charges. If you think the recent freezing temperatures will have any effect on Rhode Islands surging tick populations, think again. One thing people need to know about ticks is theyre not killed by the cold weather, said University of Rhode Island tick expert Tom Mather. They've figured out how to get through the winter. Even a stretch of sub-zero weather like one in late January and early February wont harm the black-legged tick, the Lyme disease-carrying species that should be familiar to anyone who spends time outdoors in Rhode Island. As Mather points out, its the same type of tick found in the frigid landscape of northern Minnesota. Advertisement Advertisement As for species more associated with the southern United States whose populations around here are increasing such as the lone star tick, the type that can trigger an allergy to red meat in some people they too appear to be getting by just fine in colder climes, judging by documented increases in encounters over time, said Mather, director of URIs Center for Vector-Borne Disease. Find our more in depth read on tick numbers in Rhode Island here: More: If you think this cold weather will help with ticks, think again. Here's why. How do ticks survive in cold weather? Ticks have evolved different techniques to survive winter. They stay deep down in the leaf litter close to the forest floor to limit exposure to the cold air. Snow may actually help them by adding another layer of insulation. Think of it as a blanket of sorts. Advertisement Advertisement Ticks dont hibernate, but instead enter a state of dormancy called diapause in which they essentially stop moving. Like certain kinds of frogs, some circulate substances through their bodies that act like antifreeze. Others expel water from their cells to prevent the freeze-thaw cycle from bursting cell walls. An adult female Haemaphysalis longicornis tick, commonly known as the Asian longhorned tick. Spring moisture is more important than winter cold for tick populations A big predictor of year-to-year swings in tick numbers is the weather in spring after ticks have emerged from dormancy. Thats when they must move out of the leaf litter, climb up onto taller grasses, and start looking for new hosts on which to latch. In doing so, they risk exposure to heat and dryness, which are bigger threats to their survival than the cold. Rhode Island being a coastal state, theres generally a decent amount of moisture in the air at most times, which has helped contribute to the states large tick populations. But humidity levels can vary and they can make a big difference in annual fluctuations in tick numbers. Advertisement Advertisement One of the students in his lab correlated low tick numbers to periods when humidity had dropped below 82%. The study theorized that ticks couldnt extract enough moisture from the air for extended time under that treshhold. Mathers rule of thumb: if people are having to water their lawns before Memorial Day, its probably not going to be a big tick year. Its a bit of a red herring to talk about winter, he said. The question we should be asking is, how dry is it going to be? This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Does cold weather kill ticks? Why you want a dry spring instead. BEDFORD, Pa. A Colorado man is accused of slashing another mans face with a knife late Wednesday near the Pennsylvania Turnpike in East Providence Township, Bedford County. Luis Palma, 31, of Denver, faces attempted homicide charges, accused of attacking a Maryland man from behind with a knife outside a Breezewood Sheetz store at 16417 Lincoln Highway. The incident occurred moments after Palma was spotted banging on the windows of a parked SUV, police alleged. Advertisement Advertisement A state police corporal told investigating officers he was at the gas station with his unmarked cruiser when he observed Palma approach the Maryland man from behind and make a slashing motion, according to a criminal complaint. State police said Palma took the man to the ground and then started to walk away, but was held at the scene by the state police corporal, who drew his gun and ordered Palma to drop the knife. Palma was taken into custody without further incident, police wrote. The 74-year-old man injured in the knife incident, identified as a resident of Annapolis, Maryland, said he was traveling to Ligonier and stopped for gasoline when he was attacked, state police said. Advertisement Advertisement Palma allegedly told police he attacked the man because Palma believed he was being followed. After being read his Miranda warning, Palma allegedly told police he would have killed the man, but noticed other people coming in his direction. The injured man was transported to UPMC Bedford for treatment, state police said. Palma was lodged in Bedford County Prison after being denied bail, online court records show. An attorney for Palma was not listed as of Thursday. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb. 18. The leaders of seven states failed to negotiate a deal to share the diminishing waters of the Colorado River by a Trump administration deadline on Saturday, leaving the Southwest in a quagmire with uncertain repercussions while the rivers depleted reservoirs continue to decline. Former U.S. Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt said in an interview with The Times that the impasse now appears so intractable that Trump administration officials should take a step back, abandon the current effort and begin all over again. Babbitt said he believes it would be a mistake for Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to try to impose a long-term solution by ordering major water cuts across the Southwest which would likely set off a lengthy court battle . Advertisement Advertisement We need a fresh start, Babbitt said. I believe that in the absence of a unanimous agreement, [the Interior Department] should renew the existing agreements for five years, and then we should start all over. We should scrap the entire process and invent a new one. Read more: How failing negotiations could spiral into a bitter fight over the Colorado River Officials for the seven states have tried to boost reservoir levels via voluntary water cutbacks and federal payments to farmers who agree to leave fields dry part of the year. But after more than two years of trying to hash out new long-term rules for sharing water, they remain deadlocked; the existing rules are set to expire at the end of this year. The states similarly blew past an earlier federal deadline in November. Advertisement Advertisement Interior Department officials have not said how they will respond. The agency is considering four options for imposing cutbacks starting next year, as well as the option of taking no action. Babbitt, who was Interior secretary under President Clinton from 1993 to 2001, said he thinks the Trump administrations options are too narrow and inadequate. They would place the burden of water cuts on Arizona, California and Nevada while not requiring any for the four other upriver states Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and New Mexico. Without a consensus, the only reasonable approach is to extend existing water-saving agreements for a few years while making a new push for solutions, Babbitt said. Federal officials have missed the opportunity to take a strong leadership role, he said, and its time to reimagine the effort as a much more inclusive, public, broad process. Advertisement Advertisement The river provides for about 35 million people and 5 million acres of farmland, from the Rocky Mountains to northern Mexico. California uses more water than any other state but has cut back substantially in recent years. Since 2000, relentless drought intensified by climate change has sapped the rivers flow and left reservoirs depleted. This winters record warmth and lack of storms has left the Rockies with very little snow . Lake Mead, the rivers largest reservoir, is now 34% full, while Lake Powell is at 26%. Read more: They sounded alarms about a coming Colorado River crisis. But warnings went unheeded Advertisement Advertisement Our states have conserved large volumes of water in recent years, California Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a joint statement with Arizonas Katie Hobbs and Nevadas Joe Lombardo. Our stance remains firm and fair: all seven basin states must share in the responsibility of conservation. The states positions havent changed much in the last two years, said JB Hamby, Californias lead negotiator, and moving toward an agreement will require firm commitments for cuts by all. Officials representing the four Upper Basin states said theyve offered compromises and are prepared to continue negotiating. In a statement, they stressed they are already dealing with substantial water cuts, and said their downstream neighbors are trying to secure water that simply does not exist. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamations latest forecast shows the amount of runoff flowing into Lake Powell will decrease so dramatically this year that the dropping reservoir levels could render Glen Canyon Dam unable to continue generating electricity. Advertisement Advertisement The Interior Department said in a statement Saturday that it will finalize new rules by Oct. 1, and it cannot delay action. The agency is accepting comments from the public as part of its review of options until March 2. Negotiation efforts have been productive, Burgum said. We believe that a fair compromise with shared responsibility remains within reach. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Nevada and six other Colorado River states have failed to resolve a major disagreement on how to share the rivers dwindling water supply, and will not reach a deal in time for a federally-imposed Valentines Day deadline. At the center of the rift is whether upstream states will agree to mandatory water cuts during dry years and long-term conservation plans in order to spare downstream states from taking steeper cuts. Negotiators for the Lower Basin states Nevada, Arizona, and California and Upper Basin states Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming have been at an impasse for months on a compromise plan that could replace the rivers operating guidelines set to expire at the end of 2026. Advertisement Advertisement John Entsminger, Nevadas lead negotiator and general manager of the Southern Nevada Water Authority, said negotiations between states have yielded almost no headway after years of being bogged down by the same tired rhetoric and entrenched positions. The seven Colorado River Basin states have failed to reach an agreement to collectively protect our respective communities and economies in the face of almost certain reductions to our use of the river, said Entsminger in a statement on Friday, ahead of the deadline. Prolonged drought driven by climate change has put immense pressure on the overtapped Colorado River which sustains agriculture in the West and provides water for 40 million people across seven U.S. states, 30 Native American tribes and parts of northern Mexico. Record low snowpack across the west this winter will likely strain the river further. Historically, Lower Basin states have used nearly all their 7.5 million acre-feet Colorado River allocations under the 1922 Colorado River Compact, compared to the 4.5 million acres-feet used by the Upper Basin states. Advertisement Advertisement In recent years, Lower Basin states have undertaken significant conservation efforts and have reduced their consumption from 7.4 million acre-feet in 2015 to just over 6 million in 2024. In contrast, Upper Basin states have increased their usage in the past five years, from 3.9 million acre-feet in 2021 to 4.4 million in 2024. Governors for the rivers Lower Basin states including Nevadas Gov. Joe Lombardo issued a joint statement reiterating their stance that all seven basin states should be required to cut water use under any new guidelines. Our shared success hinges on compromise, and we have offered significant flexibility, allowing states without robust conservation programs time to gradually develop these programs in ways that work in each state, the statement said. Advertisement Advertisement In order to secure a seven-state agreement, Lower Basin governors said they have all agreed to reduce their states Colorado River share. Arizona has offered to significantly cut its share by 27%, while California and Nevada have offered to cut 10% and 17% respectively. Arizonas lead negotiator, Tom Buschatzke, said in a statement issued Friday that Lower Basin states have offered numerous, good-faith compromises to the representatives of the Upper Basin states. In that time, virtually all of them have been rejected. Arizona, California and Nevada have received one consistent message from our counterparts in the Upper Basin there will be no firm commitment to reduce uses in the Upper Basin, no matter how dire the conditions of the river may be, he continued. Upper Basin states argue they dont have the infrastructure to store water during dry years like Lower Basin states, and are already restricted by available supply every year. Advertisement Advertisement In a joint statement, governors for the Upper Basin states said they have likewise come together in good faith throughout this process to reach a solution that works for each of the seven states, but reiterated that upstream states will only accept voluntary conservation plans. The Upper Basin state governors said they are putting every tool on the table available to us, including releases from our upstream reservoirs, a meaningful voluntary conservation both now and in the future, and continued strict self-regulation of water supplies. The Upper Colorado River Commission, chaired by Colorados lead state negotiator, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Upper Basin states have also said they dont have the legal authority to significantly reduce flows to water users on their own under the 1922 Colorado River Compact. Advertisement Advertisement Failure to reach a seven-state consensus could lead to litigation that would likely take decades to resolve. Last year, Arizona put a total of $3 million to its Colorado River legal defense fund, and Gov. Katie Hobbs proposed budget for this year would put another $1 million toward that fund. Entsminger, Nevadas lead river negotiator, alluded to the possibility of litigation in the future if states cant reach a consensus. While I will continue to work with my Colorado River counterparts in hopes of finding a workable solution to this crisis, we must also prepare to fight for our water supply if it comes to that, Entsminger said in a statement Friday. Governors for Arizona, California, and Nevada said they are still committed to a seven-state solution despite missing the federal deadline and will continue to pursue a consensus. Advertisement Advertisement If states cant reach a consensus, the federal government will need to implement its own plan. The Bureau of Reclamation, which manages water in the West under the Interior Department, needs to have a final plan in place by the time the 2027 water year begins in October. In the absence of a seven-state agreement, the Bureau of Reclamation would likely impose a compliance option that relies on significant cuts to Lower Basin states to meet its deadline. In a statement Saturday, the Department of the Interior said that while Colorado River states have not reached a consensus, the agency would move forward with finalizing post-2026 guidelines in order to meet their deadline. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum said the agency would continue to work with the seven Colorado River states to identify shared solutions and reduce litigation risk. Advertisement Advertisement Negotiation efforts have been productive; we have listened to every states perspective and have narrowed the discussion by identifying key elements and issues necessary for an agreement. We believe that a fair compromise with shared responsibility remains within reach, Burgum said. UPDATE: This story was updated with a comment from the U.S. Department of the Interior. A federal deadline to reach a new seven-state agreement governing the future of the Colorado River passed this week without consensus, as new projections show worsening water conditions that could threaten hydropower production at one of the nations largest reservoirs. Negotiators from the Lower Basin states Arizona, California and Nevada and the Upper Basin states Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming failed to finalize post-2026 operating guidelines for the river, deepening an impasse over how to divide shrinking supplies in a warming, drought-stricken West. RELATED: 7 governors summoned to DC for Colorado River talks Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, Arizona Department of Water Resources Director Tom Buschatzke, Arizonas lead Colorado River negotiator, said the state remains committed to compromise but cannot shoulder deeper cuts alone. Throughout the negotiations Arizona and its Lower Basin partners have offered numerous, good-faith compromises, Buschatzke said, adding that proposals were repeatedly rejected by Upper Basin representatives. According to Arizona officials, the Lower Basin states offered significant reductions to their Colorado River allocations: 27 percent for Arizona, 17 percent for Nevada and 10 percent for California. They also proposed addressing evaporation and system losses and, last summer, introduced a plan to divide water based on a three-year rolling average of natural flows in the river. Buschatzke said the Lower Basin has received one consistent message from Upper Basin counterparts: that there would be no firm commitment to reduce uses in the Upper Basin, regardless of river conditions. Advertisement Advertisement As shortages have intensified, "central Arizona farmers have fallowed nearly half their land more than 100,000 acres because of cuts in the states river deliveries," he said. All of those who benefit from the Colorado Rivers bounty must share in the responsibility to preserve the rivers health, Buschatzke said. The missed deadline comes as federal officials warn that hydrologic conditions across the basin are deteriorating. In Washington, the Bureau of Reclamation released its February 24-Month Study projecting that water year inflow into Lake Powell is now expected to reach just 52% of average. The most probable inflow forecast dropped by 1.5 million acre-feet since January and is roughly 3 million acre-feet lower than projections made in November a decline equivalent to about 50 feet of elevation at the reservoir. Advertisement Advertisement For the first time in its monthly study projections, the agency indicated that Lake Powell could fall to 3,490 feet in elevation by December 2026, the minimum power pool at which Glen Canyon Dam can no longer generate hydropower. By March 2027, the lake could drop to 3,476 feet, the lowest level since it was first filled, further constraining the dams ability to release water. The basins poor hydrologic outlook highlights the necessity for collaboration, Acting Commissioner Scott Cameron said in a statement, noting that federal officials are working with the basin states to develop the next set of operating guidelines. To help stabilize reservoir levels, the Bureau of Reclamation began adjusting monthly releases from Lake Powell on Dec. 1, 2025, to temporarily retain more water. Additional operational tools could be deployed through 2026 if conditions worsen, officials said. Protecting reservoir elevations is critical to ensure reliable water deliveries and continued power generation across the Southwest, where millions depend on the Colorado River for drinking water, irrigation and electricity. Advertisement Advertisement Despite the stalled negotiations, Arizona officials said talks are not over. The negotiations may be at an unfortunate stalemate, Buschatzke said, but they are not at an end. Watch 12News for free You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12+ app! The free 12+ app from 12News lets users stream live events including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"on Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV. 12+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona. Advertisement Advertisement Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives. Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for "12 News KPNX." Amazon Fire TV: Search for "12 News KPNX" to find the free 12+ app to add to your account, or have the 12+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app. Colorado has reported its first confirmed measles case for 2026, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. An unvaccinated elementary school-age child from Arapahoe County tested positive for measles, confirmed Hope Shuler, interim communications director for the state's Division of Disease Control and Public Health Response. Since the child was out of state during their entire infectious period, there is no risk of public exposure in Colorado, Shuler said. The state received preliminary information about the case on Feb. 4 and added it to CDPHE's website Feb. 9 after a case interview was completed and exposure information was confirmed, Shuler said. Advertisement Advertisement Measles outbreak news: Nursing students hit by measles outbreak at Florida university Measles cases are on the rise across the country, with 910 confirmed measles cases reported in 24 states as of Feb. 12, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So far in 2026, there have been five new reported outbreaks. In 2025, there were 2,280 total confirmed measles cases reported in the U.S. and 48 total outbreaks, per the CDC. The majority 93% were among unvaccinated individuals or those with an unknown vaccination status. Last year marked the largest surge in measles cases for the U.S. since 1991. How many 2025 Colorado measles cases were among the unvaccinated? There were 35 confirmed cases of measles and one probable case reported in the state in 2025, according to the CDPHE website. Of those, 21 cases were among individuals older than 18, nine were within the 5-17 age group, and six cases were reported in children 4 years old and younger. Advertisement Advertisement The majority of cases 24 were in individuals who were not vaccinated with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Four infected individuals had an unknown vaccination status, seven had been fully vaccinated and one had received only one dose of the MMR vaccine, state data shows. None of the 2025 cases were reported in Larimer County. In 2025, 10 of the state's cases were associated with an out-of-state traveler who flew while infectious. How to prevent getting the measles The MMR vaccine remains the best tool for preventing contracting measles, with two doses of the vaccine providing approximately 97% protection against infection, according to the CDPHE. Individuals are especially encouraged to get vaccinated if they plan to travel internationally or to areas of the U.S. where measles is spreading. Advertisement Advertisement To find a vaccine provider, find your immunization records or learn more about the MMR vaccine, visit the CDPHE website. In other news: Health District of Northern Larimer County gets new name, leader Want more Fort Collins development news? Subscribe to The Buzz, the Coloradoan's weekly dive into local business, development, real estate and restaurant news. This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Unvaccinated child contracts Colorado's first measles case of 2026 This article was originally published in The Conversation. Generative artificial intelligence technology is rapidly reshaping education in unprecedented ways. With its potential benefits and risks, K-12 schools are actively trying to adapt teaching and learning. But as schools seek to navigate into the age of generative AI, theres a challenge: Schools are operating in a policy vacuum. While a number of states offer guidance on AI, only a couple of states require local schools to form specific policies, even as teachers, students and school leaders continue to use generative AI in countless new ways. As a policymaker noted in a survey, You have policy and whats actually happening in the classrooms those are two very different things. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter As part of my labs research on AI and education policy, I conducted a survey in late 2025 with members of the National Association of State Boards of Education, the only nonprofit dedicated solely to helping state boards advance equity and excellence in public education. The survey of the associations members reflects how education policy is typically formed through dynamic interactions across national, state and local levels, rather than being dictated by a single source. Advertisement Advertisement But even in the absence of hard-and-fast rules and guardrails on how AI can be used in schools, education policymakers identified a number of ethical concerns raised by the technologys spread, including student safety, data privacy and negative impacts on student learning. Related Reflections on Whether AI is Actually Changing Schools and Where They also expressed concerns over industry influence and that schools will later be charged by technology providers for large language model-based tools that are currently free. Others report that administrators in their state are very concerned about deepfakes: What happens when a student deepfakes my voice and sends it out to cancel school or bomb threat? At the same time, policymakers said teaching students to use AI technology to their benefit remains a priority. Local actions dominate Although chatbots have been widely available for more than three years, the survey revealed that states are in the early stages of addressing generative AI, with most yet to implement official policies. While many states are providing guidance or tool kits, or are starting to write state-level policies, local decisions dominate the landscape, with each school district primarily responsible for shaping its own plans. Advertisement Advertisement When asked whether their state has implemented any generative AI policies, respondents said there was a high degree of local influence regardless of whether a state issued guidance or not. We are a local control state, so some school districts have banned (generative AI), wrote one respondent. Our (state) department of education has an AI tool kit, but policies are all local, wrote another. One shared that their state has a basic requirement that districts adopt a local policy about AI. Like other education policies, generative AI adoption occurs within the existing state education governance structures, with authority and accountability balanced between state and local levels. As with previous waves of technology in K-12 schools, local decision-making plays a critical role. Yet there is generally a lack of evidence related to how AI will affect learners and teachers, which will take years to become more clear. That lag adds to the challenges in formulating policies. States as a lighthouse However, state policy can provide vital guidance by prioritizing ethics, equity and safety, and by being adaptable to changing needs. A coherent state policy can also answer key questions, such as acceptable student use of AI, and ensure more consistent standards of practice. Without such direction, districts are left to their own devices to identify appropriate, effective uses and construct guardrails. Advertisement Advertisement As it stands, AI usage and policy development are uneven, depending on how well resourced a school is. Data from a RAND-led panel of educators showed that teachers and principals in higher-poverty schools are about half as likely to AI guidance provided. The poorest schools are also less likely to use AI tools. Related Schools Need to Adopt Clear Rules for AI Use. Parents Can Help Make That Happen When asked about foundational generative AI policies in education, policymakers focused on privacy, safety and equity. One respondent, for example, said school districts should have the same access to funding and training, including for administrators. And rather than having the technology imposed on schools and families, many argued for grounding the discussion in human values and broad participation. As one policymaker noted, What is the role that families play in all this? This is something that is constantly missing from the conversation and something to uplift. As we know, parents are our kids first teachers. Introducing new technology According to a Feb. 24, 2025, Gallup Poll, 60% of teachers report using some AI for their work in a range of ways. Our survey also found there is shadow use of AI, as one policymaker put it, where employees implement generative AI without explicit school or district IT or security approval. Advertisement Advertisement Related AI Trailblazer Google Doesnt Want Schools to Bypass the Human Some states, such as Indiana, offer schools the opportunity to apply for a one-time competitive grant to fund a pilot of an AI-powered platform of their choosing as long as the product vendors are approved by the state. Grant proposals that focus on supporting students or professional development for educators receive priority. In other states, schools opt in to pilot tests that are funded by nonprofits. For example, an eighth grade language arts teacher in California participated in a pilot where she used AI-powered tools to generate feedback on her students writing. Teaching 150 kids a day and providing meaningful feedback for every student is not possible; I would try anything to lessen grading and give me back my time to spend with kids. This is why I became a teacher: to spend time with the kids. This teacher also noted the tools showed bias when analyzing the work of her students learning English, which gave her the opportunity to discuss algorithmic bias in these tools. One initiative from the Netherlands offers a different approach than finding ways to implement products developed by technology companies. Instead, schools take the lead with questions or challenges they are facing and turn to industry to develop solutions informed by research. Core principles One theme that emerged from survey respondents is the need to emphasize ethical principles in providing guidance on how to use AI technology in teaching and learning. This could begin with ensuring that students and teachers learn about the limitations and opportunities of generative AI, when and how to leverage these tools effectively, critically evaluate its output and ethically disclose its use. Advertisement Advertisement Often, policymakers struggle to know where to begin in formulating policies. Analyzing tensions and decision-making in organizational context or what my colleagues and I called dilemma analysis in a recent report is an approach schools, districts and states can take to navigate the myriad of ethical and societal impacts of generative AI. Despite the confusion around AI and a fragmented policy landscape, policymakers said they recognize it is incumbent upon each school, district and state to engage their communities and families to co-create a path forward. As one policymaker put it: Knowing the horse has already left the barn (and that AI use) is already prevalent among students and faculty (on) AI-human collaboration vs. outright ban, where on the spectrum do you want to be? This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. The February 9 EPIC candidate forum took another unexpected turn when congressional candidate Mark Newgent urged Democratic attendees to vote in the Republican primary to remove Rep. Keith Self from office. The Dallas Express captured the remarks on exclusive video from inside the East Plano Islamic Center. The DX Brief Mark Newgent encouraged Democrats at the forum to request a Republican ballot and vote against Keith Self Texas operates under an open primary system with no party registration requirement Newgent framed the appeal as the only chance to remove Self His campaign later described the remarks as outreach aimed at expanding the Republican coalition Self responded sharply, accusing Newgent of serving special interests and abandoning conservative principles The exchange unfolded amid ongoing tensions surrounding EPICs proposed Collin County project The forum later descended into chaos during a separate exchange over Sharia law In the full Premium Substack report, we publish: Advertisement Advertisement The exclusive video of Newgents remarks His campaigns full statement to The Dallas Express Rep. Keith Selfs direct response The broader implications for the TX-03 Republican primary Watch the full clip and read the complete analysis available exclusively to Premium subscribers on our DX Substack. A top Pentagon policy official went to Munich this week to deliver a wake-up call to Americas NATO allies. Elbridge Colby, an under secretary of defense, warned them that the days when the U.S. served as the primary guarantor of European security are gone: The core strategic reality . is this: Europe must assume primary responsibility for its own conventional defense. Its a message that President Donald Trump himself conveyed in his own brash way to Americas allies across the Atlantic, and which his administration has forcefully underscored in its latest strategic documents . But its still an idea that leaves Europeans scratching their heads: Where is Trumps aggressive new stance toward the NATO alliance coming from? One answer can be found in an unexpected place: a 2023 white paper authored by the British academic and conservative historian Sumantra Maitra. In the paper, published by the Trump-aligned think tank Center for Renewing America, Maitra sketched out a theory of what he called Dormant NATO a radically re-imagined Western alliance in which America plays a much more minor role relative to its European allies. This new NATO would be dormant, Maitra wrote, kept in a kind of cryogenic sleep unless a hegemonic threat to Western security emerged. Advertisement Advertisement Maitras paper which he later turned into a much-talked about essay in Foreign Affairs was reportedly handed around among Trumps inner circle of foreign policy advisors , and his major policy recommendations have since been incorporated into the administrations National Security Strategy and National Defense Strategy. Both documents stressed the importance of burden shifting between the United States and its European allies a term that Maitra has pushed in lieu of the gentler burden sharing advocated by past administrations. As this years Munich Security Conference got underway, POLITICO Magazine spoke with Maitra about the rationale for Trumps new policy and what Europeans should expect as the U.S. pushes the alliance into this more dormant posture. If I were advising a European government, I would say to sit down with the U.S. and ask for a timeline and an outline of a troop drawdown, Maitra said. That is inevitably going to happen someday, so they might as well prepare for it. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. What is Dormant NATO? Dormant NATO is a theoretical doctrine which deals with the concept of burden shifting. It tries to find a middle ground between complete U.S. retrenchment from Europe on the one hand and the continuation of the current U.S. strategy of forward defense and forward positioning and complete primacy over the European continent. Advertisement Advertisement Essentially, it has three components, which are very similar to the kind of thing that youre going to find in the National Security Strategy but Dormant NATO said it first. First, it has burden shifting, a phrase I helped coin. The debate was about burden sharing, but now it is aboutburden shifting the United States can keep the nuclear umbrella or the naval power in Europe, but most of the logistics, the intelligence, the army and the infantry are going to be in the hands of the Europeans. The second thing is that the Europeans will have commands. Right now, the United States is the head of the combatant commands in NATO, and that will transfer to the hands of the European generals and European admirals. And the final phase would be a pledge to have no new expansion of NATO. NATO needs to be finite, because you cannot have a grand strategy of an entity if its constantly mutating and shifting. NATO, the way it is now, is going to be a closed club, and that is it. Why is this shift in posture necessary? What problem is it trying to solve? The foreign policy of any country is determinant on structural factors, and the structural reality of the world that we live now is this: On one hand, you have the rise of China as a peer rival in Asia, which is in a different league compared to pretty much every other great power rival the United States has faced in his entire history. The second thing is the Global War on Terror that went on for 20 years, and its decimated American coffers. The U.S. is in massive debt, and people are unhappy about forever wars. Advertisement Advertisement So I think the best way to move forward would be to radically change the grand strategy to an offshore balancing of position . That means that Europe is extremely important to us, but fundamentally we are going to be a Western Hemisphere power. We will obviously go to Europe if there is a hegemonic threat, but if there is no hegemonic threat, Europe is stable, its rich, its powerful, and theyre allied to us, so they can take a lot more burden when it comes to continental security. How are you seeing these ideas reflected in the administrations policy? There is a lot of overlap. I dont speak for the administration, but I know the administration has read Dormant NATO, and if you look at the policy suggestions coming out of the administration, you know youre going to see a lot of similarity between the two doctrines even using the phrase burden shifting. So there are quite a few things that are happening. Secretary of Defense [Pete] Hegseth gave a speech in Brussels last year where he talked about no NATO expansion [into Ukraine]. Obviously the NSS and the NDS talk about burden shifting and they talk about no NATO expansion. The NSS specifically mentions that there shouldnt be any NATO expansion. You have seen combatant commands being handed over to the British, to the Germans, the Poles and the Italians so that is another pillar of Dormant NATO that is being utilized in the American strategy. The administration is signaling a major pullback from Europe, but at the same time its announcing relatively minor troop withdrawals . How do you square the ambition of its rhetoric with the relatively small-bore nature of its with troop withdrawal commitments? The troop withdrawal could do a little bit more, if Im being honest with you, but I also dont think that troop withdrawals are the be-all-and-end-all of the administration strategy. At the end of the day, troop deployment is completely in the hands of the president, depending on the presidents will, so that is not the big part of it. The bigger shifts are happening in two directions: One, we are handing over the combatant commands and the Joint Forces commands to the Europeans. That trains the European officer class to be in a position where they are going to have a lot more power and commanding interoperability, and where they can do things in Europe without the Americans having to spoonfeed them every single detail. That itself is a major change. Advertisement Advertisement The second thing thats happening is that, at the end of the day, a countrys strategy is dependent on the documents that it puts out so, for example, if the National Security Strategy comes out and includes burden shifting, the Europeans will take that as the grand strategy of the Republic, and they, in turn, develop their forces depending on that strategy. We have seen that before with George H.W. Bushs New World Order, or George W Bushs War on Terror, or Bidens autocracy versus democracy framing. The NSS shapes how European powers position their military and their capability, so I think the fact that we are pretty openly talking about burden shifting will in itself shape the European capability in a way. They are going to be like, Fine, these guys are moving out, and we have to do something about it, and that will create a snowballing effect in Europe. Some of your critics charge that a dormant NATO will inevitably become a dead NATO because it would neuter the Article 5 commitment. How do you respond to that? In what type of scenario would a dormant NATO reactivate and wake up? For pretty much the entirety of its first phase [between 1949 and 1991], NATO was essentially a dormant NATO. It was a defensive alliance which was only there in case of a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency scenario. And if you actually read Dormant NATO, you will see that at no point does it suggest a complete withdrawal, and at no point does it suggest that we shouldnt be part of the common defense or Europe. NATO Article 5 says one single thing: if one of the countries is attacked, it has the right to call the other countries and theyre going to come to the table. And depending on the kind of threat, theyre going to decide on what kind of participation theyre going to have in the future. That isnt changing with Dormant NATO. If we are called to the defense of Europe, and if we foresee a hegemonic threat, the U.S Congress still has the power to decide that we are going to go there and defend. Advertisement Advertisement The question then becomes what kind of threat Europe is facing. If its genuinely facing something like the Third Reich or something like the USSR, thats a whole different thing. At that point of time, clearly the United States has to go and defend, because the U.S. grand strategy has forever been to oppose a unified Europe under one single hegemon. That hasnt changed. Other than that, I think Dormant NATO is essentially how NATO was in its first phase. There is a revanchist power in Europe at this point in Putins Russia, so how do you respond to the counterargument that now is simply not the time for the U.S. to carry through on this strategy? I think Colby is completely right in his assessment that Russia is a regional nuisance. It is a power, but its also a very odd kind of power. It can be revanchist, but, like, I can want to be James Bond, but Im not capable of doing that. Putins Russia is not capable of being a hegemonic threat to the European continent. Under no military scenario can one foresee Russian tanks rolling through Poland or Germany or France. Russia is, though, a big power with 6,000 nukes, so we have to figure out a way that Russian interests are sort of satiated without them being any kind of genuine revanchist threat. So we have to talk to the Russians and to the Germans and say, Hey, by the way, you guys have to talk too, and we can only do so much from this distance. And if this is not the time, when will it be the time? If Russians are a revanchist threat to Europe, does that not push the Europeans to rearm rapidly? If that doesnt push the Europeans to rearm rapidly, what would? In his speech, Colby said theres nothing anti-European about this strategy, but other administration officials have made some rather pointed comments about Europe, and the NSS openly criticized Europe for overseeing civilizational erasure. What do you make of the administrations rhetoric around this sort of civilizational politics? Personally, Im a military historian and a realist, so let me put it this way: Historically, there is no evidence that kinship or culture is solid ground for any kind of solidarity or alliance. Alliances are built on interest. At the end of the day, it doesnt matter whos ruling Western Europe Germany, France or the U.K. Those are the countries which will be the most important to us purely because of geography and because of manpower and production capacity. So I dont really buy some of those civilizational arguments, and I think some of that is basically rhetorical. But is it counterproductive? Does it make it harder to effectuate this change in military strategy if Americas political leaders are privately and publicly casting aspersions on European political leadership? If it were me, I would probably be a little bit more disciplined when it comes to rhetorical extremes about Europe. But that being said, one has to differentiate between a private chat, for example, and the actual grand strategy. I might hate my neighbor, but if their house is on fire, Im still going to try and save it. So spin this forward a bit. What moves in this direction should Europe expect next from the U.S., and how should they best prepare for them? If I were advising a European government, I would say to sit down with the U.S. and ask for a timeline and an outline of a troop drawdown. That is inevitably going to happen someday, so they might as well prepare for it. The way that they have reacted to the combatant command change to and the burden shifting is pretty optimistic. They were expecting that, and they saw it coming, so that was fine. I think they have to figure out two things. One, they have to accept that it is the U.S. that is ideally positioned to provide the nuclear deterrence to Europe, so any idea of a European nuclear weapon is completely dead on arrival. That is not going to happen, and they are just wasting time if they keep on talking about that nonsense. Second, I think they need to sit down among themselves and figure out the nitty-gritty details of basic things like troop movements and logistical movements. They need to talk to Americans and say Fine, we understand that you want to shift some of the logistical burden on the infantry, so give us a timeline, and lets decide on when youre going to do it. For example, if the U.S. wants to move back the surge of 20,000 troops that happened after the Russian invasion [of Ukraine] under Biden, the Americans should just tell the Europeans, By the way, this is 2026, and by 2028 were moving that out, so figure it out. That kind of simple logistical conversation is going to be very helpful. Three seats will be up for election on the Astoria City Council in November, including the position of mayor. Filing has yet to open, but one Astoria man has already decided he wants to run for that particular post. Sean Davis is a combat veteran and the co-founder and host of Rogue Cell, a program that airs on Astoria-based community radio station KMUN. The show is nested under a nonprofit of the same name that Davis co-founded which aims to connect veterans to community and reduce the risk of suicide. Advertisement Advertisement (Davis had also previously reported two features for KMUN as a volunteer. As he runs for mayor, he will no longer be involved in volunteer work with the KMUN News Department.) Davis wants to be, in his words, a citizen mayor, someone who is deeply involved across multiple parts of the community and who spends a lot of time listening. Wherever I go, I try to make that community better, Davis said. Current Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick has not said if he plans to run for reelection. But in an email to KMUN, he said of Davis, Seans a good guy. If I choose not (to) run in the November election, I think he will make a great Mayor. Advertisement Advertisement Davis said he is not running because of anything Fitzpatrick did or didnt do as mayor, but that he feels uniquely qualified right now to make a difference in the role. Among his priorities if elected are to focus on economic development that doesnt rely solely on tourism, looking to underutilized properties and partnerships; support for public safety; expanding workforce, multi-family and transitional housing options; and developing real, safe alternatives to street camping for the areas unhoused population. This isnt the first time Davis has been interested in being mayor of a city. In 2016, he made a bid to become the mayor of Portland. At the time he was post commander for American Legion Post 134 in northeast Portland. In an incredibly crowded field there were 15 candidates total on the ballot and against more well-known and more resourced candidates, Davis finished fifth. Advertisement Advertisement Since moving to Astoria in 2022, Davis has involved himself in the community and gotten to know key players including former longtime city employees. Im not going to be somebody whos just like, Hey, Im going to champion this and make it happen, because I understand what the mayors powers are here, Davis said. Youre just part of a team. (The position) really doesnt have too much more authority than any other city councilman would. Raised in rural Oregon, Davis served in the U.S. Army and, after Sept. 11, 2001, in the Oregon National Guard. He was deployed to Iraq where he was injured in an ambush and awarded the Purple Heart. When he returned to Oregon, he went to college, worked as a writing instructor at local community colleges and fought wildland fires across the Pacific Northwest. Davis eventually moved back to his hometown, McKenzie Bridge, an unincorporated community in Lane County, serving on the school board among other positions. His community was impacted by Oregons disastrous Holiday Farm Fire in 2020 and Davis helped with efforts to rebuild. Advertisement Advertisement Communication and a sense of teamwork are key attributes he feels he could contribute if elected as Astorias mayor. My entire adult life Ive built teams that help communities, whether that was in war-torn Iraq or down in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina or in McKenzie Bridge, where I lived, after the fire . I think I have a skill set where I can bring people to the table, Davis said. The two other seats up for election on the Astoria City Council in November are Ward 1, which represents the Uniontown neighborhood on the citys east side as well as waterfront near the Port of Astoria and Ward 3, which covers the core downtown area. The seats are held by Andy Davis and Elisabeth Adams respectively. Davis, a senior research analyst for the Oregon Health Authority, and Adams, owner of Wild Roots Movement & Massage downtown, have told KMUN they do not plan to run for reelection. KMUN is The Astorians media partner Feb. 13A transient woman with a lengthy criminal history in Montana is in local custody while facing charges in another county for alleged drug trafficking. Tarryne Joan Galloway, 25, was convicted of criminal endangerment in 2021 in Lincoln County following a traffic accident while she drove under the influence. She was sentenced to a 10-year term in the Montana State Women's Prison. Five of those years were suspended, however. Galloway was scheduled to appear Monday in Lincoln County District Court on a petition to revoke a partially suspended sentence from the 2021 case. Galloway also has a 2021 conviction in Missoula County for criminal possession of dangerous drugs from a 2018 incident. She received a 3-year sentence for that offense. According to Sanders County Justice Court records, Galloway pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in 2020. In Mineral County Justice Court, Galloway also has a number of case filings, including for probation violations, theft and arrest warrants in other jurisdictions. A Jan. 22 court filing detailed Galloway's history of incarceration and her difficulties in staying out of legal trouble. She began her prison time in Billings in July 2021. In February 2023 she was moved to the pre-release center in Butte. After finishing her Missoula County sentence on Sept. 1, 2023, she was arrested on a parole hold Nov. 20, 2023. Following an intervention hearing, she was released four days later. About a month later, Galloway absconded from supervision in Missoula County. Feb. 15, 2024, she was arrested in Mineral County and returned to the state prison in March. In April 2025, Galloway was moved to the pre-release center in Butte. In September, she was granted entry to a transitional living program and in November she was paroled. But Galloway found trouble again when she was arrested Jan. 18, 2026, by a Montana Highway Patrol trooper and accused of drug trafficking. Five days before that she was arrested, she tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine. Probation and Parole officer Cacie Cain, who wrote the violations report, recommended her suspended sentence be revoked and returned to the state prison. In the 2021 incident in Lincoln County, Galloway was driving a Ford Explorer when it struck a van after running a red light. There were children in the car that was struck but they were apparently uninjured. The driver of the van told law enforcement she believed she was going to be struck by the Explorer, so she sped up because she had a child in a car seat in the backseat and she feared for her safety. Officer Ian Smith, then with Libby police, investigated. After performing standard field sobriety tests, Smith believed Galloway was under the influence of marijuana. A breath test also indicated the presence of alcohol. The victim of the accident told Smith when Galloway spoke to her after the collision, the accused said, "I guess that's what happens when you smoke marijuana and drive." During Smith's investigation, Galloway gave a fake name and birth date. Repeated efforts to determine her identity went for naught. The people in the vehicle with Galloway at the time said they would wait for her, but they disappeared and were known to be users of illegal drugs. Smith became concerned Galloway was a victim of human trafficking. She said wasn't. Eventually, Smith spoke with the accused's grandmother who helped him identify her as Galloway. Later that day, a FBI fingerprint check officially determined the woman was Galloway. Smith also served a warrant on Galloway for a 2018 case. According to https://newstalkkgvo.com/, she was accused of meth possession while in the company of two other men during a traffic stop by Missoula police. Multiple outlets reported a swarm of police activity overnight Friday into Saturday morning including SWAT and forensics in an area about 2 miles from the home of Nancy Guthrie, mother of beloved journalist Savannah Guthrie. Ms. Guthrie went missing almost two weeks ago in a case that quickly turned into a kidnapping investigation, complete with ransom demands, with Hollywood tabloid TMZ the recipient of multiple messages from the alleged kidnappers. There have been many dramatic developments in the story, including the recovery of disturbing video surveillance footage and the arrest of a man who was later released. Advertisement Advertisement On Friday night, multiple cable networks cut to live shots of an area near the Guthrie home. There was also police and FBI activity at a second location in the vicinity. From CNN: Law enforcement vehicles seen: More than a dozen law enforcement vehicles, including those from SWAT and forensics, descended on a residence two miles from Guthries home. Multiple roads were closed and reopened about four hours later, according to CNN teams on the ground. Authorities seen at second location: Local authorities and the FBI also converged at a second location near where law enforcement activity was underway. Its unknown if the new location was related to the ongoing Guthrie investigation. Authorities were seen investigating a gray Range Rover in a parking lot of a restaurant. Official comment from authorities: Shortly after law enforcement were seen converging, Pima County Sheriffs Department said a written statement would be forthcoming, later saying that, at the FBIs request, no additional information was available. No indication of Guthries whereabouts: A law enforcement source said on Friday that officials have still not identified her location or the identity of her abductor. Authorities are appealing to the public for any tips that may help them solve the case. Watch above via CNN. The post Cops Including SWAT and Forensics Swarm Area Near Nancy Guthrie Home In Middle of the Night first appeared on Mediaite. Islamabad, Pakistan The Bangladesh Nationalist Partys (BNP) commanding victory in Bangladeshs parliamentary election marks not only a political watershed for the South Asian nation, but also a potential recalibration of regional power dynamics across India, Pakistan and China. The Election Commission has published the gazette of the members of parliament elected, a final official seal on the election process on Saturday. Initial results published on Friday by the Election Commission gave the BNP and its allies at least 212 out of 299 parliamentary seats, while the opposition Jamaat-e-Islami and its allies won 77 seats. Advertisement Advertisement Tarique Rahmans party has delivered what observers described as Bangladeshs first genuinely competitive election in nearly two decades. The country marked a decisive break from the Sheikh Hasina era and signalled the beginning of what analysts call a paradigm shift in Dhakas foreign policy orientation. Soon after the results were announced, the prime ministers of both India and Pakistan congratulated 60-year-old Rahman for a decisive win. Delwar Hossain, professor of international relations at the University of Dhaka, described the election outcome as a new turning point in crafting bilateral relations with India and Pakistan. Advertisement Advertisement The new government may bring about a policy framework with clarity of purpose and effective implementation strategies, Hossain told Al Jazeera. The continuing India-Pakistan hostility and China-India rivalry may remain critical determinants of Bangladeshs foreign policy moves in its neighbourhood. Will India ties be reset? Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted his congratulations to Rahman on X on Friday, following it up with a phone call hours later. India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh, Modi wrote, adding that Rahmans win shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership. In another post, Modi said he spoke with Rahman over the phone to convey his wishes. Advertisement Advertisement As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed Indias continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples, he said. New Delhi had cultivated close ties with Hasinas government, viewing Bangladesh as a crucial partner as regional powers India and China competed for influence in South Asia. But since a mass uprising in 2024 toppled Hasinas authoritarian government and forced her into exile in India, relations between New Delhi and Dhaka plunged to historic lows, marked by recriminations, trade restrictions and Indias refusal to extradite Hasina despite a death sentence handed down by Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal over her handling of the deadly 2024 protests. Yet, India began adjusting to a new political reality in post-Hasina Bangladesh. Earlier this year, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar attended the funeral of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, whose son Rahman is set to be the next Bangladeshi prime minister. Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar meets BNP chief Tarique Rahman [Handout/Indian External Affairs Ministry] India has experience dealing with BNP-led political regimes in the past, Hossain said. India has demonstrated its eagerness to work with the future BNP government. Now that the elections are over, that has become a reality. Advertisement Advertisement Asif Bin Ali, a geopolitical analyst at Georgia State University, said an elected government in Bangladesh would have strong incentives to move back to a working relationship with India, even if it cannot and should not reproduce the level of political closeness seen under Sheikh Hasina. I expect a more cautious middle position that stresses mutual respect, reciprocal sovereignty and noninterference in each others domestic politics, while keeping space for Dhakas own strategic autonomy, Ali told Al Jazeera. Still, major irritants persist besides Hasina the unresolved water sharing disputes over rivers such as Teesta, deadly border shootings by Indian forces and a large trade deficit in Indias favour. The new government will also face pressure at home to adopt a firmer tone towards New Delhi, particularly amid anti-India sentiment among a large section of Bangladeshi youth, who allege excessive Indian interference in the countrys internal affairs. Advertisement Advertisement Saleh Shahriar of North South University in Dhaka questioned how far the BNP would go in its dealings with India. Tarique Rahmans BNP is different from Khaleda Zias BNP, he said. The Pakistan pivot Where India confronts uncertainty, Pakistan has seen an opportunity. Under Bangladeshs interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh and Pakistan resumed direct flights, exchanged high-level civilian and military visits, and eased visa procedures, among various other confidence-building steps. Analysts say that momentum could gather pace under a BNP government. Former Pakistani foreign secretary and diplomat Salman Bashir told Al Jazeera the Bangladesh election marks the end of Awami Leagues long dalliance with India and a reopening of close relations with Pakistan. Advertisement Advertisement Bangladesh does not have to balance its relations with India and Pakistan, Bashir said. Ties with Pakistan have improved. Pakistan should persist with its present policy of giving priority to its relations with Dhaka. Pakistans Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar with Bangladeshs Muhammad Yunus [Handout/Office of the Chief Adviser, Government of Bangladesh] Last month, the Pakistani military announced that it was in conversation with its Bangladeshi counterparts to sell them Pakistan-manufactured JF-17 fighter jets. Bashir said there is a possibility that Bangladesh, Pakistan and China may come closer in defence matters. It should be possible for Bangladesh to lead a more independent policy towards Pakistan and the Middle East. Ties with China would be strengthened. In short, it means a reversal of Indias dominant posture in the region, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Other analysts, however, urge caution. Bangladeshs economic interests and geography ensure India remains its primary neighbour, said Ali, the analyst at Georgia State University. Praveen Donthi of the International Crisis Group thinks Dhaka will try to balance relations with both Beijing and New Delhi, with possible outreach to Islamabad as well. He said India pursues a pragmatic approach to its strategic and foreign policy, though it may sometimes take time to reorient itself. Shahab Enam Khan, executive director of the Bangladesh Center for Indo-Pacific Affairs, said the BNP will pursue a more transactional approach towards both Islamabad and Delhi. Pakistan, as a natural regional neighbour, will benefit from more transparent and structured cooperation, he said. New chapter with China? Perhaps the most consequential relationship for the incoming Bangladesh government will be with China. Advertisement Advertisement Beijing maintained strong ties with Hasina, while also cultivating links across Bangladeshs political spectrum, positioning itself regardless of the domestic political dynamics. Under Hasinas long rule, China expanded its economic footprint through its Belt and Road Initiative, deepening infrastructure investments and military cooperation with Dhaka. The interim government that succeeded Hasina also secured about $2.1bn in Chinese investments, loans and grants, alongside high-level visits to Beijing, including by Yunus. On Friday, the Chinese embassy congratulated the BNP on its victory, expressing readiness to work with the new government on writing new chapters of China-Bangladesh relations. Advertisement Advertisement Hossain, professor of international relations at the University of Dhaka, said the BNP would likely further deepen its relations with China, hearkening back to the past experience of friendly ties under the previous governments led by the party. At the same time, he noted, Bangladesh will face a growing American opposition to Chinas increased presence in the region. Ali of the Georgia State University argued that Dhakas most viable path would be to keep Chinese investment and connectivity projects where they serve Bangladeshs interests, while making foreign policy more predictable and rules-based in relation to China, India and the US. If Dhaka can be transparent about its red lines and priorities and keep the China file focused on economics rather than security symbolism, it will have a better chance of avoiding being dragged into major power rivalries while protecting its own strategic space, he said. Dhakas delicate balancing act As Rahman prepares to assume office, he faces what Shahriar, professor at North South University in Dhaka, describes as a great power competition in the Bay of Bengal region. The BNP manifesto emphasised a Bangladesh First policy, which called for all international relations and engagements to prioritise national sovereignty, security and the welfare of the people. The reality is, as a sovereign country, Bangladesh needs to develop its relations with all the countries, including China, Pakistan, Myanmar. This will be a great challenge for the upcoming government, he said. People vote during the general election in Dhaka, on February 12, 2026 [Mohammad Ponis Hossain/Reuters] Khan from the Bangladesh Center for Indo-Pacific Affairs said the new administration must ground its diplomacy in pragmatism rather than rhetoric. Donthi of the International Crisis Group said the Bangladesh verdict gives the South Asian region a chance to recalibrate, as it is no longer a region that can be counted as the back yard of one or the other. Foreign policy, he said, tends to evolve gradually rather than shift abruptly. There are likely to be small, incremental shifts towards regional balancing between India and China, as already observed during Sheikh Hasinas leadership. Dhaka will also aim to build a more active relationship with the US and, however minimally, normalise relations with Islamabad, he said. Eighteen months ago, it was plausible that artificial intelligence might take a different path than social media. Back then, AIs development hadnt consolidated under a small number of big tech firms. Nor had it capitalized on consumer attention, surveilling users and delivering ads. Unfortunately, the AI industry is now taking a page from the social media playbook and has set its sights on monetizing consumer attention. When OpenAI launched its ChatGPT Search feature in late 2024 and its browser, ChatGPT Atlas, in October 2025, it kicked off a race to capture online behavioral data to power advertising. Its part of a yearslong turnabout by OpenAI, whose CEO Sam Altman once called the combination of ads and AI unsettling and now promises that ads can be deployed in AI apps while preserving trust. The rampant speculation among OpenAI users who believe they see paid placements in ChatGPT responses suggests they are not convinced. In 2024, AI search company Perplexity started experimenting with ads in its offerings. A few months after that, Microsoft introduced ads to its Copilot AI. Googles AI Mode for search now increasingly features ads, as does Amazons Rufus chatbot. OpenAI announced on Jan. 16, 2026, that it will soon begin testing ads in the unpaid version of ChatGPT. Advertisement Advertisement As a security expert and data scientist, we see these examples as harbingers of a future where AI companies profit from manipulating their users behavior for the benefit of their advertisers and investors. Its also a reminder that time to steer the direction of AI development away from private exploitation and toward public benefit is quickly running out. The functionality of ChatGPT Search and its Atlas browser is not really new. Meta, commercial AI competitor Perplexity and even ChatGPT itself have had similar AI search features for years, and both Google and Microsoft beat OpenAI to the punch by integrating AI with their browsers. But OpenAIs business positioning signals a shift. We believe the ChatGPT Search and Atlas announcements are worrisome because there is really only one way to make money on search: the advertising model pioneered ruthlessly by Google. Advertising model Ruled a monopolist in U.S. federal court, Google has earned more than US$1.6 trillion in advertising revenue since 2001. You may think of Google as a web search company, or a streaming video company (YouTube), or an email company (Gmail), or a mobile phone company (Android, Pixel), or maybe even an AI company (Gemini). But those products are ancillary to Googles bottom line. The advertising segment typically accounts for 80% to 90% of its total revenue. Everything else is there to collect users data and direct users attention to its advertising revenue stream. Advertisement Advertisement After two decades in this monopoly position, Googles search product is much more tuned to the companys needs than those of its users. When Google Search first arrived decades ago, it was revelatory in its ability to instantly find useful information across the still-nascent web. In 2025, its search result pages are dominated by low-quality and often AI-generated content, spam sites that exist solely to drive traffic to Amazon sales a tactic known as affiliate marketing and paid ad placements, which at times are indistinguishable from organic results. Plenty of advertisers and observers seem to think AI-powered advertising is the future of the ad business. Highly persuasive Paid advertising in AI search, and AI models generally, could look very different from traditional web search. It has the potential to influence your thinking, spending patterns and even personal beliefs in much more subtle ways. Because AI can engage in active dialogue, addressing your specific questions, concerns and ideas rather than just filtering static content, its potential for influence is much greater. Its like the difference between reading a textbook and having a conversation with its author. Imagine youre conversing with your AI agent about an upcoming vacation. Did it recommend a particular airline or hotel chain because they really are best for you, or does the company get a kickback for every mention? If you ask about a political issue, does the model bias its answer based on which political party has paid the company a fee, or based on the bias of the models corporate owners? Advertisement Advertisement There is mounting evidence that AI models are at least as effective as people at persuading users to do things. A December 2023 meta-analysis of 121 randomized trials reported that AI models are as good as humans at shifting peoples perceptions, attitudes and behaviors. A more recent meta-analysis of eight studies similarly concluded there was no significant overall difference in persuasive performance between (large language models) and humans. This influence may go well beyond shaping what products you buy or who you vote for. As with the field of search engine optimization, the incentive for humans to perform for AI models might shape the way people write and communicate with each other. How we express ourselves online is likely to be increasingly directed to win the attention of AIs and earn placement in the responses they return to users. A different way forward Much of this is discouraging, but there is much that can be done to change it. First, its important to recognize that todays AI is fundamentally untrustworthy, for the same reasons that search engines and social media platforms are. Advertisement Advertisement The problem is not the technology itself; fast ways to find information and communicate with friends and family can be wonderful capabilities. The problem is the priorities of the corporations who own these platforms and for whose benefit they are operated. Recognize that you dont have control over what data is fed to the AI, who it is shared with and how it is used. Its important to keep that in mind when you connect devices and services to AI platforms, ask them questions, or consider buying or doing the things they suggest. There is also a lot that people can demand of governments to restrain harmful corporate uses of AI. In the U.S., Congress could enshrine consumers rights to control their own personal data, as the EU already has. It could also create a data protection enforcement agency, as essentially every other developed nation has. Governments worldwide could invest in Public AI models built by public agencies offered universally for public benefit and transparently under public oversight. They could also restrict how corporations can collude to exploit people using AI, for example by barring advertisements for dangerous products such as cigarettes and requiring disclosure of paid endorsements. Every technology company seeks to differentiate itself from competitors, particularly in an era when yesterdays groundbreaking AI quickly becomes a commodity that will run on any kids phone. One differentiator is in building a trustworthy service. It remains to be seen whether companies such as OpenAI and Anthropic can sustain profitable businesses on the back of subscription AI services like the premium editions of ChatGPT, Plus and Pro, and Claude Pro. If they are going to continue convincing consumers and businesses to pay for these premium services, they will need to build trust. Advertisement Advertisement That will require making real commitments to consumers on transparency, privacy, reliability and security that are followed through consistently and verifiably. And while no one knows what the future business models for AI will be, we can be certain that consumers do not want to be exploited by AI, secretly or otherwise. This story has been updated with news about OpenAIs plan to test advertising in ChatGPT. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Bruce Schneier, Harvard Kennedy School and Nathan Sanders, Harvard University Advertisement Advertisement Read more: The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. By Nate Raymond, Kristina Cooke and Brad Heath WASHINGTON, Feb 14 (Reuters) - Hundreds of judges around the country have ruled more than 4,400 times since October that President Donald Trumps administration is detaining immigrants unlawfully, a Reuters review of court records found. The decisions amount to a sweeping legal rebuke of Trumps immigration crackdown. Yet the administration has continued jailing people indefinitely even after courts ruled the policy was illegal. Advertisement Advertisement "It is appalling that the Government insists that this Court should redefine or completely disregard the current law as it is clearly written," U.S. District Judge Thomas Johnston of West Virginia, an appointee of President George W. Bush, wrote last week, ordering the release of a Venezuelan detainee in the state. Most of the rulings center on the Trump administrations departure from a nearly three-decade-old interpretation of federal law that immigrants already living in the United States could be released on bond while they pursue their cases in immigration court. White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said the administration is "working to lawfully deliver on President Trumps mandate to enforce federal immigration law." SOARING NUMBER OF IMMIGRANT DETAINEES Advertisement Advertisement Under Trump, the number of people in ICE detention reached about 68,000 this month, up about 75% from when Trump took office last year. A conservative appeals court in New Orleans last week gave the Trump administration a victory in its drive to lock up more immigrants. Just because prior administrations did not fully utilize the law to detain people does not mean they lacked the authority to do more, U.S. Circuit Judge Edith Jones wrote in a decision reversing rulings that led to the release of two Mexican men. Both remain free, their lawyer said. Other appeals courts are set to take up the issue in the coming weeks. Tricia McLaughlin, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, said the increase in lawsuits came as "no surprise" - "especially after many activist judges have attempted to thwart President Trump from fulfilling the American people's mandate for mass deportations." Advertisement Advertisement The department did not respond to more specific questions about the cases and data findings in this story. With few other legal paths to freedom, immigrant detainees have filed more than 20,200 federal lawsuits demanding their release since Trump took office, a Reuters review of court dockets found, underscoring the sweeping impact of Trump's policy change. In at least 4,421 cases, more than 400 federal judges ruled since the beginning of October that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is holding people illegally as it carries out its mass-deportation campaign, Reuters found. Other cases are pending, have been dismissed because the detainee was released, or were transferred to another judicial district, which would force immigrants to file a new case. Reuters was unable to determine how many cases were moved or re-filed. Advertisement Advertisement Joseph Thomas, an 18-year-old high school student from Venezuela, was arrested during a traffic stop in Wisconsin in late December, while riding with his father, Elias Thomas, on his Walmart delivery route. The men are asylum seekers who entered the United States in August 2023. Both are authorized to work, their lawyer, Carrie Peltier, said. Peltier said they were stopped for driving while brown. Within a month, judges ordered the release of father and son. Chief U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz - also a Bush appointee - ruled that Joseph had been detained illegally and ordered his immediate release. In his ruling, he said Joseph was not subject to mandatory detention, and called out a lack of any evidence that ICE had a warrant when it detained Joseph while he was a passenger in his fathers car. Advertisement Advertisement U.S. District Judge Eric Tostrud, a Trump appointee, ruled that Josephs father Elias was eligible for a bond hearing. This raises an issue of statutory interpretation that courts in this District have repeatedly considered and rejected, and it will be rejected here as well, Tostrud wrote in his order. Joseph is now taking classes online, afraid to return to school. LANDSLIDE OF LAWSUITS Habeas corpus - Latin for you shall have the body - emerged in the English courts in the 1300s and is enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. It provides a legal recourse for people the government has detained unlawfully. Advertisement Advertisement Reuters counted habeas lawsuits by gathering the dockets of every publicly filed federal court case over more than two decades from Westlaw, a legal research tool that is a division of Thomson Reuters. The records, combined with other court filings, offer the most comprehensive view to date of the scale of lawsuits moving through the U.S. justice system and of the defeats for the administration. Within the span of a few days in January, lawyers filed habeas petitions for Liam Conejo, a five-year-old Ecuadorean boy detained in the driveway of his Minnesota home; a Ukrainian man with a valid temporary humanitarian status who was detained on his way to work as a cable technician; a Salvadoran man married to a U.S. citizen and father of a 3-year-old autistic child who is also a U.S. citizen; an Eritrean hospital worker with refugee status who was arrested after letting agents into his apartment complex and a Venezuelan man who was arrested after dropping off his daughter at school. None had criminal records. Advertisement Advertisement DIVERTED LAWYERS, VIOLATED ORDERS The rush of lawsuits is forcing the U.S. Justice Department offices to divert attorneys who would normally prosecute criminal cases to respond to habeas cases. Using court dockets, Reuters found more than 700 Justice Department attorneys representing the government in immigration cases. Five of the attorneys each appeared on the dockets of more than 1,000 habeas cases. Partly as a result of that legal logjam, judges have found that the government has left people locked up even after judges ordered their release. In a court order issued last month in Minnesota, Schiltz said the government had violated 96 orders in 76 cases. The U.S. Attorney there, Daniel Rosen, said in a filing two days later that the cases had created an "enormous burden" for government attorneys. Advertisement Advertisement Similarly, U.S. District Judge Nusrat Choudhury, an appointee of Democratic President Joe Biden in New York, wrote this month that ICE violated two "clear and unambiguous orders" by flying a man to New Mexico for detention while falsely claiming he was in New Jersey and could be brought to a court hearing. A Justice Department spokesperson, Natalie Baldassarre, said the administration "is complying with court orders and fully enforcing federal immigration law." "If rogue judges followed the law in adjudicating cases and respected the governments obligation to properly prepare cases, there wouldnt be an overwhelming habeas caseload or concern over DHS following orders," she said. LEGAL HURDLES Advertisement Advertisement In New York, advocates have waited outside immigration court to connect detained immigrants with lawyers who can file same-day habeas claims - blocking their rapid transfer to a detention center in another state. On January 16, U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken issued an emergency ruling for an Ecuadorean man who was detained at his court hearing, barring the government from moving him out of New York. On January 30, U.S. District Judge Andrew Carter, who like Oetken was appointed by Democratic President Barack Obama, ordered his immediate release. Still, many immigrants arent able to seek that relief. Some arent aware that they can file a habeas case. Others cant find affordable lawyers. Judy Rall, the U.S. citizen wife of a Venezuelan detainee who has spent almost a year at the Bluebonnet detention center in Texas, said she was quoted upwards of $5,000 to file a habeas petition, which she could not afford. She and her husband have a pending immigration case based on their marriage, but the government has declined to release him while the case is being adjudicated. He has no criminal record, but the government has alleged, without providing evidence, that he has links to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. This month, her lawyer offered to take on the habeas case for free. "Our home burnt down, and I had told them I needed him to come help," she said. "I assume that is the reason." (Reporting by Nate Raymond in Boston, Kristina Cooke in San Francisco and Brad Heath in Washington, D.C.; additional reporting by Brad Brooks in Minneapolis; Editing by Craig Timberg and Suzanne Goldenberg) Firefighters in North Attleboro battled two significant house fires overnight. According to Chief Christopher Coleman, around 12:12 a.m. on Saturday, North Attleboro Fire Department received a report of a house fire with the possibility of two residents trapped inside at 50 Oakhurst Street. When crews arrived, they found heavy fire in the wall which extended to the attic of the multi-family home. A second alarm was quickly struck. Advertisement Advertisement Two residents were found on the second floor and were able to exit with the assistance of North Attleboro Fire and Police. The fire was under control within 25 minutes of the crews arrival, and there were no injuries reported. Mutual aid was provided by the Attleboro, Foxborough, Mansfield, Seekonk, and Cumberland, Rhode Island, fire departments. The Mansfield Emergency Management Agency also responded to the scene. While firefighters were responding to the fire on Oakhurst Street, dispatchers received another report around 1:36 a.m. for a fire alarm at 60 Wendy Drive. When crews arrived, heavy smoke was coming from the house with a large fire in the basement. Advertisement Advertisement A third alarm was struck, and brought crews from the Wrentham, Norton, Norfolk, Walpole, Plainville, Rehoboth, Franklin, Easton and Pawtucket, Rhode Island, fire departments. The Providence Canteen and Mansfield Emergency Management Agency provided relief for firefighters. The fire was under control within 45 minutes, and there were no injuries. The fires remain under investigation, and they do not appear suspicious. Both families for both homes were displaced. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW An annual cigar festival in Cuban capital Havana has become the latest casualty of a fuel shortage caused by a US oil blockade. The organising committee of the Festival del Habano announced on Saturday that this year's event - which was due to take place over five days in late February - would be postponed until further notice. It said the decision was motivated "by the complex economic situation" facing Cuba due to the "economic, commercial and financial blockade" by the US. Advertisement Advertisement A fuel shortage causing power cuts on the Caribbean island has been worsened by the US seizing oil shipments from Cuba's long-standing ally Venezuela. Cuba also has a shortage of aviation fuel, leading several airlines to suspend services there, while some countries, including the UK, have warned against non-essential travel to the island. Cuban cigars are regarded as among the finest in the world, but are illegal in the US due to long-standing American trade embargoes. More than 1,300 people from around 70 countries are estimated to attend the Habano Festival each year to sample cigars from Cuba's producers, as well as visit tobacco plantations and factories. Advertisement Advertisement With international tourism to the island nation limited by the US embargo, the festival's organisers said they hoped to wait until conditions had improved. The organising committee said it was working on setting a new date, which has yet to be announced. "The priority of the Habano Festival is to offer its participants a comprehensive experience at the height of the relevance and prestige that this event represents internationally," it said. "The postponement of this celebration is a measure aimed at protecting this experience." Venezuela was previously believed to have sent around 35,000 barrels of oil a day to Cuba before the US military seized former president Nicolas Maduro on 3 January. Advertisement Advertisement Power cuts lasting up to 18 hours a day have since affected hospital emergency wards, dialysis patients and pumping stations. US President Donald Trump has urged Cuban leaders to "make a deal" or face unspecified consequences. UN human rights experts have described Washington's restrictions on Cuba's oil imports as an "extreme form of unilateral economic coercion". The US and Cuba have had a strained relationship since the communist Fidel Castro overthrew a US-backed government in 1959. US economic and trade embargoes on Cuba have been in place since 1960. While steps were taken to improve diplomatic relations, particularly under former US President Barack Obama, the Trump administration has reversed many of these moves. CAMBRIDGE - Cyber criminals stole nearly half a million dollars from the Cambridge Central School District, the district announced Friday. According to a statement released by the district, about $461,000 was stolen from the district's capital construction fund through an "unauthorized transfer." The district is working with State Police, FBI and the U.S. Secret Service to investigate the case. The district's "primary focus" is the recovery of the funds, the statement reads. Advertisement Advertisement It is unclear when exactly the theft was discovered and if any funds have been recovered so far. District Superintendent James Ducharme declined to comment beyond what the district had announced. State Police did not immediately respond for comment. "We can assure the community that this will not impact district operations and this fraud incident does not impact the ongoing 2026-27 budget development process," the district statement reads. The district added in its statement that it's reviewing internal controls and financial protocols following this incident and the increasing rate of cyberattacks nationwide. Officials are also working with the Washington-Saratoga-Warren-Hamilton-Essex (WSWHE) BOCES to ensure its network wasn't compromised. According to the World Economic Forum's 2026 Global Cybersecurity Outlook, "organizations confront a surge in AI-driven threats, geopolitical volatility and supply chain vulnerabilities" amid an evolving cyber landscape. The FBI says this expanding digital landscape "creates a larger-than-ever attack surface for hostile actors." Advertisement Advertisement In October, cyber criminals stole $1 million from the Voorheesville school district. As in the Cambridge district, the money was stolen from the Voorheesville school district's capital construction fund through an "unauthorized transfer." This article originally published at Cyber criminals stole $461K from Cambridge school district, administrators say. The group seeking to undo the new data center zone near Adamstown with a ballot referendum says it has the support of 13 nonprofit groups. The Frederick County Data Center Referendum Committee organizers have said they need about 15,000 signatures from registered Frederick County voters by mid-March to secure a referendum that would allow voters to overturn the 2,615-acre Critical Digital Infrastructure overlay zone enacted in January. Since the effort launched during the week of Jan. 18, the committee has sought formal support from nonprofit organizations and now has secured 13, with at least one more still considering, according to Elizabeth Bauer, the referendum movement's lead organizer. Advertisement Advertisement One of those groups, Climate Communications Coalition, is an environmental advocacy organization with "national reach," according to its executive director, Sonia Demiray. She said her organization "is very much in support" of the referendum movement because she believes that expanding the data center zone beyond the existing campus on the former Alcoa Eastalco site will lead to additional air, water, light and noise pollution. All of those issues will "impact biodiversity, the climate, the communities, everyone," she told The Frederick News-Post. She cited particular concern about emissions from the data centers' backup diesel generators, which will "necessarily have to run pretty much 24/7 until the grid is up to par, and that can take decades." Advertisement Advertisement The Climate Communications Coalition has "a vast network of contacts" that the organization will use to raise awareness of the referendum petition drive, she said. She noted that the group has worked in the past to encourage the Maryland General Assembly to pass the Cumulative Harms to Environmental Restoration for Improving Shared Health - CHERISH Our Communities Act. The proposed bill would "require that large polluters such as data centers ... look at an environmental justice map" and prove that their intended projects wouldn't add distress to "overburdened communities," Demiray said. Jennifer Kunze is the Maryland organizing director of Clean Water Action, a national nonprofit environmental advocacy group with over one million members, according to its website. Advertisement Advertisement She said that Clean Water Action, as a group that formed to help pass the federal Clean Water Act, supports the data center referendum in part due to recent studies that show links between data center construction and groundwater pollution. "There's been recent research about PFAS contamination coming from data centers, and turning farmland into impervious surfaces has a tremendous impact on water quality," Kunze said. "That's a particular concern with the issue at hand in this referendum, whether the data center overlay that the county eventually has covers a former industrial site primarily or expands into what's currently farmlands." Kunze said Clean Water Action also supports the grassroots nature of the referendum drive and will help gather signatures for it. "That kind of direct democracy and community organizing is something we want to support as well as supporting the substance of this issue," she said. Advertisement Advertisement David Burrier, president of the Frederick County Farm Bureau, said his organization of about 780 members supports the referendum movement because the County Council took more than 800 acres of agriculture in the new CDI zone out of the Priority Preservation Area and Rural Legacy Area. "The PPA acres are the very, very best land in the county," he said. "That's the cream of the crop. Certainly, we're concerned with that." Karen Cannon, the executive director of Mobilize Frederick, a local nonprofit focused on climate change issues, wrote in an email that the group supports the concept of a CDI overlay zone, but backs the referendum because the zone should be confined to the existing data center campus for now. She wrote that until data centers currently under construction come online, "the impacts of data centers on the County are unknown and expansion of the area in the overlay zone brings risks in terms of water and energy use, air pollution from diesel backup generators, impacts to electrical capacity and rates, and increased climate pollution." Advertisement Advertisement Her group does not approve of the rezoning of farmland within the CDI overlay for industrial uses, she said. She said her group is helping to publicize the petition drive, which will have a table at the upcoming climate summit at Hood College on Feb. 27 and 28. Lydia Lawrence, the director of conservation with Nature Forward, a group that advocates environmental protection in the greater Washington, D.C., area, confirmed in an email that her organization supports the referendum movement. She said it is partnering with grassroots efforts in Frederick County through Marylanders for Data Center Reform, which Nature Forward launched. Advertisement Advertisement "With Frederick County, Md. emerging as a data center hub in the state, it's important for all of us to speak up," Lawrence wrote. "Hearing not just from Frederick County residents but also from those of us in neighboring locales sends an important message to elected leaders and developers that responsible growth and community priorities must guide the future of development in Maryland." Mustafa Abdullah, a strategy director for the Chesapeake Climate Action Network Action Fund, confirmed in an email that his group supports the referendum. "Data centers are like vampires that threaten to suck the life out of regional resources," he wrote in part. "Residents in Frederick know that is true so they have come out vehemently opposed to the large expansion of the Eastalco data center complex." He wrote that "for Maryland to have any chance of hitting its climate goals, data centers must come online at a pace where they can meet their energy demands with clean energy and without compromising local and state climate goals." Advertisement Advertisement Brandon Hill is the facilitator for The Tri-County Coalition, a "loose coalition of various organizations and community leaders," which supports the referendum movement, he wrote in an email. "The Tri-County Coalition believes that unregulated hyperscale data center compounds are the single-biggest threat to Maryland's fresh water supply, its environment, its stable electric grid and its conservation efforts," Hill wrote. Betty Law, the chair of the Fellowship of Scientists and Engineers, wrote in an email: "We wholeheartedly support the Referendum." "This referendum is an opportunity for all the voters of Frederick County to decide our identity for our future: do we maintain our heritage of agriculture and open land or become a sprawl of heavy high tech industry?" Law wrote. Advertisement Advertisement The Sugarloaf Alliance and Envision Frederick County also formally support the referendum movements. Members of those boards are on the referendum committee. Bauer said other nonprofit supporters include the Frederick County Landmarks Foundation, Maryland Legislative Coalition Climate Justice Wing, and Citizens for Responsible Growth. Representatives from those organizations did not respond to a request for comment by press time on Friday. DENVER (KDVR) Lawmakers at the Colorado Capitol introduced new bills to put parameters on how businesses use the data they collect from consumers and who can have access to that information. State lawmakers are looking into how companies are using the data they collected from you and who they could be sharing it with. I-70 eastbound closed near Silver Plume after multi-vehicle crash Our constituencies are asking what data is out there about them, is their data safe, and how is their data being used against them, said House Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon. Advertisement Advertisement AML Bacon is sponsoring new data and privacy measures at the Capitol. The newest bill would ban businesses from setting individualized prices based off surveillance data they collected from you. Apps include rideshare and grocery store apps, among others. Data includes things like peoples purchasing and browsing history. When we go into a grocery store, we are playing against a supercomputer. It means our bargaining power has fundamentally shifted. This is no longer supply and demand. Its no longer that Im a driver and can negotiate my contract. Thats really important, Bacon said, during a press briefing on the bills. We do have conversations with the businesses that employ some of these practices. We do it to understand what the landscape is right now and we do it to understand how we can protect consumers. And then we also do it to be sure businesses can still operate because they are a part of community, we need businesses to be able to sell things. So yes, we are having those conversations, Bacon added. Amber Alert: Police say 4-year-old boy forcibly taken from home Advertisement Advertisement Another bill, a bipartisan effort, would stop law enforcement and in some cases government agencies from buying and sharing that data. Lawmakers worry law enforcement could use this data without consumers knowledge. Assistant Majority Leader Bacon said under the proposal, they would need a warrant to get that data. The issue is: if law enforcement is buying data that we give to entities that we pay for or subscribe to, that is national, that might even be international. There arent necessarily boundaries on that until we put them down in statute to say that this information cannot be shared with nor purchased in the state of Colorado, AML Bacon said. We need law enforcement to share with us what it is that they need as well as what it is that they know, and then we need to get into negotiation as well on what we are willing to accept and tolerate. We need to be present in that conversation because no one likes it or feels safe when you feel like the entity that you pay taxes to or are supposed to call when you need something is spying on you. Thats not okay either. A third bill would ensure Colorado public schools and colleges cannot discriminate against students based on protected characteristics. All three measures have been introduced in the House. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. LA PAZ, Bolivia (AP) The United States has resumed intelligence coordination on counternarcotics efforts with Bolivia under its conservative president, a high-ranking Bolivian official said, reviving a sensitive relationship nearly 20 years after left-wing former President Evo Morales expelled U.S. anti-drug agents from the worlds third-biggest producer of cocaine. While officials finalize the details of a deal that will see the Drug Enforcement Administration return to the Andean nation, the U.S. has started sharing information on transnational criminal networks with Bolivian law enforcement and helping vet and train officers, Bolivias Vice Minister of Social Defense and Controlled Substances Ernesto Justiniano told The Associated Press in an interview late Thursday. We are already receiving support in various ways, in the training and integrity analysis of personnel, Justiniano said. There is a lot of intelligence, resources, they can provide us, and we need it. Advertisement Advertisement The DEA did not respond to a request for comment on Justiniano's remarks, his first to foreign media on the U.S. counternarcotics assistance already underway in Bolivia. The quiet resumption of coordination comes as Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz, a centrist former senator who took office last November, restores full diplomatic relations with Washington after nearly two decades in which Morales Movement Toward Socialism party, or MAS, shunned the West in favor of China, Russia, Cuba and Iran. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has praised Pazs election as a transformative opportunity for both nations as the Trump administration overhauls decades of U.S. policy to try to make Washington the dominant world power in the Western Hemisphere. The exact details of the DEAs renewed presence in Bolivia are still being hammered out, with Justiniano saying that there were still a couple more meetings to be held, an agreement to be finalized by the foreign ministry. Advertisement Advertisement But experts say the agency's return marks an important foreign policy achievement for the U.S. in Latin America, where President Donald Trump's deployment of military force against cartels smuggling drugs galls traditional allies like Colombia and Mexico. We have little idea whats been going on these past 20 years, so having the DEA back there can open a lot of other doors for the U.S., said retired U.S. diplomat Daniel Foote, who served in the Peace Corps in Bolivia during the cocaine heyday and later worked on counternarcotics policy in the country. This is as much about helping Bolivia as it is keeping the U.S. safe. Bitter memories of US intervention Justiniano was equivocal when asked if this renewed U.S. assistance would look like a return to the heavy-handed policies of the late 1990s, when DEA-backed Bolivian forces got into deadly clashes with farmers as they moved in to burn crops that had sustained Indigenous communities for centuries. He acknowledged the sensitivities, particularly in the coca leaf-growing jungle region near Bolivia's central city of Cochabamba where resentment lingers over Washington's militarized approach. National backlash in 2006 vaulted Morales, a charismatic former coca growers union leader, to power and helped sustain his popularity for an unprecedented three consecutive terms. Advertisement Advertisement In Bolivia, when it comes to language, you have to be very careful, Justiniano said. Are we going to have bases full of gringos here? No, thats not going to happen. But Bolivia would welcome the DEA, along with other regional forces, playing a direct role in its interdiction operations on the ground, he said, adding: We do need to conduct joint operations." Farmers in the tropical Chapare region are girding for harder-line policies that could impede legal production of coca, the mild stimulant chewed and revered for millennia among Indigenous communities but stigmatized abroad as the raw material for cocaine. We will not allow the establishment of any military base in the Cochabamba tropics, coca growers leader Aquilardo Caricari said at a recent press conference, citing the arrests and killings of farmers in the 1990s. Advertisement Advertisement Morales, for his part, has been hiding out in the Chapare for months evading an arrest warrant linked to allegations of statutory rape that he denies. He has not appeared publicly since the Jan. 3 U.S. seizure of his ally, former Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro amid speculation he may have slipped out of the country. Bolivia became a 'blind spot' As the first Indigenous president of majority-Indigenous Bolivia, Morales made coca leaves central to his agenda of resisting foreign meddling and promoting Andean heritage. Decriminalizing the leaf and extolling its medicinal benefits, he allotted coca plots of 1,600 square meters (1,913 square yards) to farming families and empowered unions to stop excess production. But the legal market for the plant's traditional use didn't put off the illicit one for its processing into cocaine, officials say, where the prices offered are much higher. Advertisement Advertisement Justiniano claimed that over 90% of the coca grown in the Chapare is now diverted into the cocaine trade, but that obtaining data about drug trafficking in Bolivia has been almost impossible since Morales kicked out U.S. anti-narcotics agents in 2008. At the time of its expulsion, the DEA had about 100 agents in four offices across the country the agencys second-biggest foreign footprint outside Colombia. Ever since, Foote said, Bolivia has been a blind spot. The once-sleepy city of Santa Cruz in eastern Bolivia is now a thriving hub for traffickers who live in modern, gated suburbs, drawn from as far afield as Albania and China. Questions linger over DEA return In an echo of history, Paz is seeking to reclaim Bolivia's place as U.S. ally in the fight against drugs nearly four decades after his father, former President Jaime Paz Zamora, did the same. Advertisement Advertisement By the time Paz Zamora took office in 1989, Colombia's Medellin and Cali cartels had been using Bolivia as an air bridge for years, purchasing semi-processed coca paste for conversion into cocaine powder to distribute globally. Paz Zamora invited the U.S. military to train Bolivias security forces, extradited cocaine kingpins to face charges in the U.S. and dismissed members of his own government accused of taking drug money, remembers Robert Gelbard, the U.S. ambassador to Bolivia at the time. While the efforts successfully drove down cocaine production, Gelbard said he hoped that this time, under the younger Paz, the DEA wouldn't take the sort of aggressive approach we followed in the 1990s." Even if Bolivia wanted the DEA to return with guns blazing, it might not get much cooperation from Washington. The agency ordered the closure of more than a dozen offices worldwide during the Biden administration. Advertisement Advertisement Jaime Aparicio, the former Bolivian ambassador to Washington, expects Trump to be different. Drugs are his main enemy in this region, he said. ___ DeBre reported from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Associated Press writer Joshua Goodman contributed from Miami. ANDERSON COOPER: According to new reporting, there may be repercussions for some Republican lawmakers, including South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, whos black. He called the Obama post, quote, the most racist thing Ive seen out of this White House, seen as Alayna Treene has the story joins us now. So Alayna, youre reporting that the president has talked about consequences for Republicans who push back on the post. Is it clear what that means? ALAYNA TREENE: Not necessarily, but we have a good idea, Anderson, from what weve even heard the president say this week when we saw six Republicans break with him on a different issue, on his tariffs on Canada. He said that they would likely face primaries and would suffer consequences in the elections. But look, from what I was told from multiple sources who were with the president or had been hearing about these comments last weekend when he was at Mar-a-Lago is he was specifically focused on two lawmakers. He had railed against a lot of them, but Tim Scott in particular really got under his skin that he had spoken out publicly about that post. The president telling his allies essentially that he felt Tim Scott should have reached out privately given they have a close relationship. That it was really Scotts post calling it racist that he felt made the entire story blow up. I will say from another conversation I had with the source, they said that Tim Scott had actually privately reached out to the president first before he had posted that criticism of the post, but then didnt reach him. And so he went ahead and published it on social media. Now, the president also had pretty strong words. I was told even stronger language for Alabama Senator Katie Britt, who had also spoken out about this. He had used a lot of expletives, I was told, when talking about her lack of loyalty in doing that. And also said that she was dead to him. So very, very much anger from the president over how some of these lawmakers had reacted. And I do think it reflects kind of this growing, a sense that were seeing of Republicans who, for the presidents first year in office, really rarely, if at all, stepped out of line to break with him. Were seeing that happen more and more in recent months. Saturday, Feb. 14, is the deadline for seven western states to come to some kind of agreement over the Colorado River. These states, which rely on the Colorado, must agree on how to reduce their water intake from a source that is drying out. Some of those states refuse mandatory conservation measures, opting instead for voluntary action. You may not think so, but this will have an impact on Northern California. It may be somewhat of a cliche, but time is running out for seven states that get water from the Colorado River. Advertisement Advertisement "Oh, it ran out a long time ago. I think we're at a disastrous point. I think history will judge us very poorly," said Felicia Marcus, former chair of the State Water Resources Control Board, Twenty-six years of continuous drought have impacted the flow of the Colorado. Think of its reservoirs as a savings account that continues to be depleted. MORE: North Bay reservoirs reach capacity after winter storms, ending drought fears The Colorado River provides water to nearly 35 million people in the U.S., including five million acres of farmland. The river hasn't been able to keep up with the demand. "We use more every year, on average, than nature supplies," said Anne Castle, former U.S. commissioner for the Upper Colorado River Commission. Advertisement Advertisement Seven states, including California, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona, take water from the Colorado. Representatives from those states recently met in the nation's capital to talk about conservation, an issue discussed so many times that people have lost track and, perhaps, hope it will be resolved. MORE: California has zero areas of dryness for 1st time in 25 years: Drought Monitor Let's take a closer look at California and its relationship to the Colorado. Southern California takes about one-third of the Colorado River's total flow. That's the largest share among the seven basin states. Between 70% and 80% of what Southern California takes from the Colorado goes to the agricultural needs of the Imperial Valley. That's crucial because two-thirds of the nation's vegetables during the winter months come from the Imperial Valley. Advertisement Advertisement The rest of California's share of the Colorado River goes to urban areas and homes via the Metropolitan Water District. But when it comes to the pecking order, they have less of a water priority than the Imperial Valley, as dictated by an old water rights agreement. People in Southern California know how to deal with drought conditions. "Waves and waves of water conservation, both in terms of fixtures, but also in terms of letting lawns turn brown, transferring lawns -- which is a lot of urban water," Marcus said. What does all of that have to do with us here in Northern California? We don't get anything from the Colorado. People in the know told me, you can bet your bottom dollar that Southern California will look to us if it needs to increase its demand for water. MORE: Trump executive order could divide control of CA's water system, putting distribution at risk Northern California already supplies 30% of Southern California's water demands. Advertisement Advertisement Here's how it moves: The Sierra snowpack feeds the Feather River, which then collects at Lake Oroville. The dam there controls what is released into the Delta watershed. From there, the water goes to the Central Valley and Southern California through miles and miles of canals, tunnels and pipelines. "In Northern California, we are just absolutely pulling for the folks on the Colorado River basin to come together and find a solution to help water supply for all seven basin states. But obviously the urban areas of Southern California need that water supply, and if they get that water supply, it takes pressure off of Northern California, and so we're really pulling for them to come to an agreement," said David Guy, president of the Northern California Water Association. "I'm a very diverse farmer here in Northern California. We're looking at one of my wheat fields," said Fritz Durst of Yolo County. Farmers like him are also hoping for a resolution. MORE: Stanford study documents sinking in San Joaquin Valley and looks for potential solutions Durst says in a drought year, if Southern California demands more water, he'll have to leave some of his land unplanted -- like his rice fields -- therefore giving up some of his water needs. Advertisement Advertisement "I'll allow the water that I would normally take out of the Sacramento River to stay in the river to flow through the Delta and get transferred to Southern California," he said. While he gets compensated for not growing his crops, there are economic and ecological impacts to his actions. "There are people who transport and mill the rice afterwards, the effects go all the way to Sacramento, because that's where my rice gets milled. There's no habit and there's no rice in the wintertime for the migrating birds to eat, so it affects birds, fish," Durst said. He told us he's done that only four times in the past 40 years. He fears the effects of global warming will only make matters worse. If you're on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live As storms move into the San Antonio area, roads are getting a bit slicker and more dangerous. As lovers look to celebrate Valentine's Day, a crash is causing traffic issues on Loop 410 North. According to the traffic monitoring site SigAlert and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the crash on Loop 410 North between Lakeside Parkway and TX-151 (Exit 9) was reported online around 6 a.m. on Saturday, February 14. As of 8:18 a.m., this portion of Loop 410 North remains closed. Seek alternate routes to avoid delays. Advertisement Advertisement News 4 San Antonio reports that officials say the crash occurred on Saturday around 4:30 a.m. and was fatal. MySA has reached out to SAPD and will update this article when more information becomes available. This article originally published at Deadly crash shuts down major San Antonio highway, reports say. (The Center Square) - Nicknamed the Silver State, Nevada has resource-rich mountains, deserts and people who are no stranger to the mining industry. As Nevada prepares for another mining boom via lithium, groups have expressed concern about its potential damage. In the lesser-known Amargosa River Basin of Death Valley, the Indigenous Timbisha Shoshone Tribe is bringing the Bureau of Land Management to court over zeolite mining, with fears it could severely threaten their limited water supply. The lawsuit, which involves an area on the California side of the Nevada border, was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central California. The question has always been, 'What does meaningful consultation look like?' Amargosa Conservancy Executive Director Mason Voehl told The Center Square. Advertisement Advertisement Voehl and the Amargosa Conservancy are partnered with the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe in a federal lawsuit over mining exploration in the area. Their argument against the BLM and its Principal Deputy Director Bill Groffy is that they side-stepped the Endangered Species Act and did not meaningfully consult with the tribe over the site. The issue of tribal consultation, Voehl said, is a touchy subject. Oftentimes we'll see agencies do as little as maybe sending a letter or a few emails with details about a project, and they'll consider that consultation." Voehl said the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe had been contacted by the BLM. But he added, There were things that the tribe had asked for more of the full details on. The Timbisha Shoshone Tribe did not respond to a request by The Center Square in time for this story. Advertisement Advertisement The mining exploration the lawsuit seeks to halt is being undertaken by the St. Cloud Mining company in search of zeolites, a widely applicable set of materials used in anything from wastewater treatment to medicine. Voehl said the conservancy had unsuccessfully tried to contact St. Cloud Mining. The exploratory drilling is only a few miles from Nevadas Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge and just over the California border. The lawsuit seeks to force the BLM to do more meaningful consultations, especially as it relates to the Endangered Species Act. The connection our people share with the Amargosa River and its abundant plant and wildlife communities is older than time, Mandi Campbell, the Timbisha Shoshone tribal historic preservation officer, said in a press release. We have stood tall in the face of mining threats in these lands before, and we're doing it again. We will never back down in defense of our sacred places and homelands. Advertisement Advertisement The argument specifies three rare plants that the tribe said would be threatened by the mining exploration. The Amargosa River originates from groundwater, never reaching the ocean and instead ends in springs and wetlands in the desert. As an entirely contained river system, the wildlife is often unique to the area and offers a rare oasis from the surrounding desert. Voehl said it has been called the Galapagos of the desert. This is one of the hottest and driest places on the planet, said Voehl. And so, of course, wherever you find water, you find life. While the lawsuit centers around enforcing a more strict environmental review, its proponents are also concerned about mining explorations potential impact on the water supply. Advertisement Advertisement For the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe whose reservation lands are largely within Desert Valley, the Amargosa River also represents a rare source of water. Mining, even just for explorative purposes, could threaten the water in a number of ways, tribal members claim. Their primary fear would be that the drills, boring down to 200 feet through the ground, would puncture underwater springs feeding the river and damage the flow by removing pressure. This could cause catastrophic cascading effects, Voehl said, with nearby Tecopa, Calif., suffering a similar event decades ago that the area still deals with. The lawsuit has yet to see its court date. Voehl said the case could take months or longer. The BLM did not respond to a request for comment by The Center Square. Advertisement Advertisement Voehl said this lawsuit solely seeks to cease St. Cloud Minings exploration. But in the face of a regional mining boom, he also argued that people were fighting for a future focused on ecotourism. You can actually build an economy around that in a way that mining can't, because of the boom and bust nature of the [mining] business, he said. I think we've actually seen a pretty remarkable turn And a recognition that there's got to be places that are too special to risk no matter what the mineral or prospects of a single mine might be. Speaking to a crowd of over 1,000 in Durham on Friday, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders decried income inequality and corporate influence as he campaigned for a progressive challenger to an incumbent North Carolina congresswoman. Were here in Durham to say loudly and clearly that we believe in democracy, he said. Not billionaires buying elections, not efforts to divide us up were going to bring our people together in the fight for economic, racial, social and environmental justice. During Fridays rally, Sanders reiterated his support for Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam, who is running against U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee in the Democratic primary for North Carolinas 4th Congressional District. US Senator Bernie Sanders speaks at the Durham Convention Center, during his Fighting Oligarchy tour on Friday, February 13, 2026 in Durham, N.C. (Robert Willett/rwillett@newsobserver.com) We need somebody new because these are unprecedented and difficult times in America, Sanders told The News & Observer after the rally. Trump is an authoritarian. Trump is busy giving huge tax breaks to billionaires and throwing working people off their health care. I think right now what we need are fighters, people who really have a history of standing up to oligarchy, standing up the powerful special interests and I think thats Nida. Advertisement Advertisement Allam,a 32-year-old progressive activist, joined Sanders at the rally and urged attendees to support her primary campaign against Foushee, who is 69 and has the backing of the states top Democrats. Durham County Commissioner and candidate for US House Nida Allam, addresses the crowd during a rally with US Senator Bernie Sanders at the Durham Convention Center on Friday, February 13, 2026 in Durham, N.C. (Robert Willett/rwillett@newsobserver.com) What were up against is not just the authoritarian Trump regime or the billionaire class drunk on their own greed, Allam said. What were up against is the corporate interests that have come to dominate our own party. My opponent may be a Democrat, but shes cashing checks from all the same companies as a MAGA Republican. When Allam and Foushee first ran against each other in 2022, the race became the most expensive Democratic primary in North Carolina history after pro-Israel PACs and Sam Bankman Fried, the cryptocurrency billionaire who was later convicted of fraud, funnelled millions toward Foushees campaign. Foushee has pledged not to take donations from AIPAC this election, but she has continued to take contributions from PACs aligned with major corporations, including defense contractors like Lockheed Martin. Advertisement Advertisement Foushee has defended her record, telling The N&O in an interview that no corporation has impacted my votes. She is also member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and said of her opponent: I was a progressive before she was born. Fridays rally was part of Sanders nationwide Fighting Oligarchy tour. The Vermont senator, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, has travelled across the country since the inauguration of President Donald Trump to give speeches against corporate influence and support local progressive candidates. Clay Aiken listens to remarks by Senator Bernie Sanders at the Durham Convention Center on Friday, February 13, 2026 in Durham, N.C. (Robert Willett/rwillett@newsobserver.com) The rally also featured speeches from Braxton Winston, president of the NC AFL-CIO, and Wesley Knott, chair of the Wake County Democratic Party both of whom endorsed Allam. I know Im not supposed to say this as the chair of a county party, but Im gonna be honest: I had started to lose faith in this party, Knott said. ... But when I heard Nida was running, I felt that hope stirring up in my soul again. And yall, for the first time in a long time, Im feeling hopeful again. Advertisement Advertisement Leading up to the event, hundreds of attendees lined up outside the Durham Convention Center. Durham County Commissioner and candidate for US House Nida Allam, embraces Senator Bernie Sanders at the Durham Convention Center on Friday, February 13, 2026 in Durham, N.C. (Robert Willett/rwillett@newsobserver.com) Kate and Jim Ford, a Durham couple, told The N&O theyve been fans of Sanders since his 2016 presidential campaign. I think its great that he stands his ground and is open about every everything that happens, Kate Ford said. And the fact that hes touring like this, hes trying to get the word out and hes really trying to make a difference. The Fords said they werent familiar with Allam, but were excited to hear her speak and planned to vote following the rally. Trump visited North Carolina at the same time as Sanders, speaking to soldiers at Fort Bragg. Rep. Henry Cuellar speaks with a reporter in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on February 10, 2026. Credit - Heather DiehlGetty Images House Republicans have passed an election reform bill backed by President Donald Trump that would introduce stricter voter identification requirements, joined by a single Democrat who broke party lines to support the legislation. The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility, or SAVE America, Act, which passed by an otherwise party-line vote of 218-213 on Wednesday, would require voters to provide proof of citizenship and photo identification to cast ballots in all 50 states, among other changes. It now heads to the Senate, where it faces slim odds of garnering the 60 votes it would need to overcome a potential filibuster. Advertisement Advertisement An earlier version of the legislation passed the House last year with the backing of four Democrats. But on Wednesday, Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas was the only member of the party to vote for the revised bill, which includes additional requirements pushed by Trump. I support the SAVE America Act because I believe in the fundamental principle: American citizens should decide American elections, Cuellar said in a statement posted on X. He cited similarly strict identification standards for voters in his home state, which he said has some of the strongest election security laws in the country. Cuellar also stated that already-registered voters registration status would not change under the bill, and that the legislation would require states to "accommodate name changes and accept multiple, commonly held forms of identification. Read more: Trumps Push to Nationalize Elections, Explained Advertisement Advertisement Opponents of the bill have argued that its requirements would be challenging for many American citizens to meet. A 2023 Brennan Center for Justice survey showed that 9.1 percent of voting-age Americansabout 21.3 million peopledo not have documents proving their citizenship readily available. Roughly half of U.S. citizens, meanwhile, do not have a passport. And as many as 69 million American womens birth certificates do not reflect their legal names since changing their surnames following marriage. Cuellar noted in his statement that the bill allows for citizens to show proof of identification through an affidavit, in lieu of traditional documents. At the end of the day, election security and voter access go together, Cuellar concluded. When Americans trust the system, our democracy grows stronger. Thats why I voted yes. The bill appears all-but doomed in the Senate, given Republicans slim majority and Democrats opposition to similar proposals in the past. And one Republican Senator has already openly opposed the legislation. Advertisement Advertisement When Democrats attempted to advance sweeping election reform legislation in 2021, Republicans were unanimous in opposition because it would have federalized elections, something we have long opposed, Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska posted on X on Wednesday. Now, Im seeing proposals such as the SAVE Act and MEGA that would effectively do just that. Once again, I do not support these efforts. Murkowski stressed that the Constitution provides states the authority to regulate the times, places, and manner of holding federal elections, and added that one-size-fits-all mandates seldom work in places like Alaska. Election Day is fast approaching. Imposing new federal requirements now, when states are deep into their preparations, would negatively impact election integrity by forcing election officials to scramble to adhere to new policies likely without the necessary resources, she continued. Ensuring public trust in our elections is at the core of our democracy, but federal overreach is not how we achieve this. Trump and Republican supporters of the legislation have contended that it is a necessary measure to combat fraud in elections, though research indicates such fraud is very rare. Advertisement Advertisement Thats it. Thats all that the bill does. Proof of citizenship and photo ID to vote, Speaker Mike Johnson said in remarks following the bills House passage. This has become a bitter partisan fight and its madness to us Were hoping that some Democrats in the Senate will come to their senses and do the right thing for the people. In addition to the proof of citizenship and photo identification requirements, the bill would also mandate that states share voter information with the Department of Homeland Security. Cuellar, a conservative Democrat who has been serving in the House since 2005, was charged along with his wife last year with bribery, money laundering, and conspiracy. Federal authorities alleged that the couple accepted around $600,000 in bribes from an oil and gas company in Azerbaijan and a bank in Mexico City between 2014 and 2021. Trump pardoned the couple in December. This pardon gives us a clean slate. The noise is gone. The work remains. And I intend to meet it head on, Cuellar wrote in a post thanking the President. Contact us at letters@time.com. Three Democrats are on the primary ballot for Texas Congressional District 30. The winner on March 3 will advance to the November election and face off with one of these Republican candidates. Here are the Democrats responses to the Star-Telegrams candidate questionnaire, in the order theyll appear on your ballot. Rodney Labruce Age (as of March 3): 52 Campaign website: labruceforcongress.com Best way for voters to reach you: rodney@labruceforcongress.com Advertisement Advertisement Occupation: Finance professional in the real estate industry; pastor Education: Bachelors degree in Finance; additional professional certifications in finance and insurance Have you run for elected office before? No Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in Dallas County and Tarrant County. Ive spent nearly 17 years as a pastor in Dallas County, but my work has always reached beyond the pulpit. Ive sat at kitchen tables with families facing eviction and worked with neighbors struggling to make ends meet. I founded the Unified Advocacy and Leadership Coalition to move us past band-aid solutions and toward fixing the root causes of poverty. By bringing together our churches, businesses, and local schools, Ive spent my career building the local capacity needed to help people move from just surviving to truly thriving. Im running to bring that same spirit of collaborative, results-oriented leadership to Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? Yes. I was arrested in the past, but the case was dismissed, and no conviction resulted. Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? Yes. I filed for personal bankruptcy in 2012 and successfully completed the process. That experience gave me firsthand insight into the financial instability many families face today. Who are your top three campaign contributors? My funding comes from neighbors right here in the district, not corporate PACs. Im running because I believe our community deserves a representative who listens to local voices, not special interests. Why are you seeking this office? Im running because for too long, weve watched the wealth gap widen while leadership focuses on headlines rather than household stability. For 60 years, the approach has been to react to crises instead of solving their root causes. The result is that working families in our district are working harder than ever but falling further behind. I believe Congress must get back to systematic problem-solving. My goal is a self-reliant District 30 where we aggressively secure federal resources to build up our local institutions. We need these resources to create lasting economic security, not to create dependency. We dont need more slogans; we need focus, discipline, and real outcomes. If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be? We close the wealth gap by ensuring families can actually get ahead, not just get by. My priority is to strengthen household security by fighting for better wages, protecting affordable housing, and expanding access to the capital people need to start businesses. I want every family in District 30 to have a real path to building generational wealth. How will you measure your success as a member of Congress? Success isnt measured by the number of bills passed, but by the number of families who no longer need government assistance because they are thriving. I measure success by whether we are moving toward zero poverty in District 30. We have spent decades on policies that treat the symptoms of crisis while leaving the root causes untouched. If a family is still stuck below the poverty line, the system has failed them. I will work to build an economy where every household has the stability and the tools to stand on their own two feet. Why should voters choose you over your opponents? Voters should choose me because I am focused on ending poverty, not just managing it. For 17 years as a pastor and community leader, I have seen how often politics revolves around the headline of the week or personal branding rather than long-term solutions. I am running with a clear and measurable goal to eliminate poverty in District 30 by fixing root causes and building true economic self-reliance. I bring real-world experience in building coalitions, working across differences, and measuring success by actual outcomes. I am focused on results rather than how much attention I can get or how closely I follow an ideology. I am ready to do the disciplined work it takes to move our district from survival to stability. What is the biggest challenge facing Congress? How would you address it if elected? The biggest challenge facing Congress is a loss of strategic focus. Too often, our leaders chase headlines and react to the crisis of the day instead of fixing root causes like the wealth gap and economic insecurity. This reactive approach creates a lot of noise but very little progress for working families. If elected, I will push for disciplined, outcome-focused policymaking. We should measure success by whether poverty is actually decreasing and families are becoming more stable, not by who got the most news coverage. Restoring seriousness to the work is the only way Congress will earn the publics trust again. What is the number one challenge your constituents are facing, and how do you plan to resolve it? The number one challenge my constituents face is economic insecurity. Even when the national economy shows progress, too many families in District 30 are still living one emergency away from financial collapse. I plan to resolve this by moving past temporary relief and focusing on permanent stability. My approach involves raising wages, protecting affordable housing, and dismantling the workforce barriers that follow people after incarceration. I will fight for federal resources that help our district become more economically self-reliant, ensuring that every household has the tools to move above the poverty line and stay there. We do not need more band-aid solutions; we need a foundation for long-term independence. How would you interact and work with members of the opposite party? Are there specific policy ideas where you see opportunities for bipartisanship? I will work with anyone who is serious about producing results. In my 17 years as a pastor, I have learned that ending poverty and strengthening economic security are not partisan goals. They are human ones. I approach bipartisanship through outcomes rather than political labels. There are real opportunities for cooperation in areas like criminal justice reform, workforce development, and infrastructure. When proposals focus on measurable improvements instead of headlines, progress is possible. I will engage respectfully, stay focused on solutions, and hold everyone accountable to the results they deliver for District 30. How would you approach foreign policy as a member of Congress? I approach foreign policy with an emphasis on diplomacy, stability, and accountability. Congress has a responsibility to think strategically instead of reactively. We must avoid drifting into conflicts without clear objectives or oversight. I believe Congress must reclaim its constitutional role in authorizing the use of military force and prioritize diplomatic solutions whenever possible. A serious foreign policy is one that is disciplined, transparent, and focused on lasting outcomes rather than short-term political gains. Ultimately, our global decisions should reflect our values at home by protecting human rights and ensuring that federal resources are used to build long-term stability rather than fueling endless crises. What steps, if any, should Congress take regarding artificial intelligence, including regulation and/or safeguards? Congress must approach artificial intelligence with seriousness and restraint. We need federal safeguards that protect workers, privacy, and civil rights while allowing responsible innovation to flourish. I believe we must establish a clear national standard to ensure AI does not deepen the wealth gap, displace workers without a safety net, or operate in a black box. Congress should prioritize data privacy and algorithmic accountability, particularly when AI is used in employment, housing, and criminal justice decisions. My goal is to ensure this technology strengthens economic opportunity for everyone rather than accelerating inequality or concentrating power in the hands of a few. We need a unified framework that protects the American worker and keeps our communitys future secure. What should be prioritized in federal spending and what, if anything, do you believe should receive less budget allocations? Federal spending should prioritize investments that move people permanently above the poverty line. I will advocate for funding that builds a foundation for independence, including affordable housing, healthcare, education, and workforce development. We must also invest in infrastructure that strengthens local economies. My goal is to use federal resources to build local capacity and self-reliance, ensuring our community is not trapped in a cycle of permanent dependency. Advertisement Advertisement We should reduce funding for programs that merely manage poverty rather than eliminate it. I would scale back corporate subsidies for highly profitable industries and eliminate wasteful administrative overhead by consolidating redundant programs. Congress must stop funding reactive solutions that treat symptoms while ignoring root causes. I will work to ensure federal dollars are used for disciplined, outcome-focused solutions that provide a clear path to economic stability. What should Congress do to address healthcare? With premium tax credits having lapsed, hundreds of thousands of Texans are at risk of losing coverage in 2026. I will work to restore and make permanent the enhanced subsidies that keep private insurance affordable for working families. We must also protect our safety-net hospitals from federal funding cuts, ensuring they remain viable to serve our most vulnerable neighbors. A serious healthcare policy prioritizes keeping people healthy over simply managing their sickness. I will advocate for increased funding for Community Health Centers and the permanent extension of telehealth flexibilities. By shifting our focus toward preventive care and chronic disease management, we can improve health outcomes and prevent the medical debt that so often traps families in poverty. How do you plan to ensure affordability for Texans in the day-to-day as well as in the housing market? The housing market is stuck because supply has not kept pace with our growth. I support federal legislation like the ROAD to Housing Act to cut the regulatory red tape that makes building too expensive and slow. We must also address speculative pressures by curbing large institutional investors who buy up single-family homes. This practice artificially inflates prices and prevents everyday Texans from outbidding Wall Street. Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, affordability requires a stronger floor for working families. I will prioritize policies that strengthen wages and remove workforce barriers like the high cost of childcare and the long-term impacts of incarceration. By focusing on root-cause solutions rather than short-term band-aids, we can build a District 30 where families are not just surviving month to month. We can build a community that achieves the generational wealth and self-reliance it deserves. What should Congress do, if anything, to address security along the U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policy? Congress must move beyond crisis-driven politics and address border security and immigration as a long-term systems issue. Security matters, but enforcement alone does not solve the problem. I believe we must modernize the asylum and immigration system to create lawful and efficient pathways for work and residency. We must also address the root causes of migration through regional stability and economic development. A functional and humane system strengthens our economy, improves security, and reduces long-term costs for taxpayers. Our goal should be order, fairness, and sustainability rather than perpetual crisis management. I will advocate for a disciplined approach that ensures our borders are secure while treating people with the dignity they deserve. By fixing the systemic backlogs and focusing on long-term stability, we can create an immigration policy that works for North Texas and the nation. Barbara Mallory Caraway Age (as of March 3): 69 Advertisement Advertisement Campaign website: Barbaraforcongress.com Best way for voters to reach you: Carawayforcongress1@gmail.com Occupation: Small Business Owner/ Consultant Education: BA-Texas Southern University, Certification-Dispute Mediation, National Association of Certified Mefiators Have you run for elected office before? 2007-2013- Texas House of Representatives, Dallas City Council, 1993-2001, Democratic Precinct Chair, Congressional Candidate 2012, 2014 Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in Dallas County and Tarrant County. Dallas County-Serving as a member of the Texas Legislature, Dallas City Council, and as a Democratic Precinct Chair. I am a member of Camp Wisdom United Methodist Church and the Cedar Crest Homeowners Association. Advertisement Advertisement Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? No Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? No Who are your top three campaign contributors? Corey Toney, Ken Watterson, Wayne Kirk. Why are you seeking this office? I am running to represent District 30 and Texas to use my legislative experience to fight for rights afforded by the U. S. Constitution that guarantees a right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Exercising this oath I will be the voice and advocate for safe and livable neighborhoods, the best educational opportunities available. To work for the fair allocation of taxpayer dollars, fair and a liable wage. I also want to work to increase the minimum wage and against government retaliation on its citizens. If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be? How well I represent the will of my constituents and my ability to work with members of Congress to delivery on the priorities that make their lives better. How will you measure your success as a member of Congress? How well I represent the will of my constituents and my ability to work with members of Congress to delivery on the priorities that make their lives better. Why should voters choose you over your opponents? I am the only District 30 candidate with legislative experience. My work in the Texas Legislature and a Dallas Councilmember equips me with the understanding of how government works and the ability to deliver to my constituents. I can hit the ground running. My community involvement provides me with the boots on the ground service that connects me with the grass roots knowledge of the issues affecting the district. But most of all it is my sincere to serve the people. What is the biggest challenge facing Congress? How would you address it if elected? I believe that the credibility and reputation of Congress being a fair and open body is questioned. Who does Congress really represent, constituents or special interest? I also know that politician division is hurting our country. If elected I will honor my oath to the Constitution not to individuals or special interest. I will work tirelessly with other members to my deliver to my constituents and to Texas. What is the number one challenge your constituents are facing, and how do you plan to resolve it? Affordability. The cost of groceries and electricity is more expensive. The cost of homeownership is How would you interact and work with members of the opposite party? Are there specific policy ideas where you see opportunities for bipartisanship? I will have an open door policy of working with any individual or party who is willing to make life easier, better, safer and more successful for my constituents and the nation. How would you approach foreign policy as a member of Congress? At this point we need to rebuild the confidence and relationships with our allies. Continue our membership and support of NATO. What steps, if any, should Congress take regarding artificial intelligence, including regulation and/or safeguards? Congress should prohibit the of priority and personal property without the consent of the owner. It should enact ethical standards that safeguard against promoting and using fake and erroneous information that harms the wellbeing of individuals. Congress should balance the impact of AI on the workforce to make sure it doesnt eliminate jobs from humans. What should be prioritized in federal spending and what, if anything, do you believe should receive less budget allocations? Congress should address the national debt which requires that we pay high interest on that debt. Less budget allocations should enacting a more equitable tax system that includes corporations and billionaires paying their fair share. What should Congress do to address healthcare? Congress should continue to fund the Affordable Care Act Subsidies, Medicaid for low-income families and people who qualify. Congress should also continue funding for Medicare, including for dental and eyeglass prescriptions. How do you plan to ensure affordability for Texans in the day-to-day as well as in the housing market? Texans are working longer hours and getting paid less. I will push to increase the minimum wage and a living wage. Everyday living expenses like groceries, electricity and rent are also increasing. I would support and introduce legislation that continue assistance with low-interest loans for first time homebuyers. There should be a prohibition against corporations buying up and inflating existing homes. What should Congress do, if anything, to address security along the U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policy? Congress should use modern day technology to help curtail drug activity along ports of entry, fund processing centers. Congress should pass comprehensive immigration reform. Frederick D. Haynes III Age (as of March 3): 65 Advertisement Advertisement Campaign website: www.haynesforcongress.com Best way for voters to reach you: info@haynesforcongress.com Occupation: Senior Pastor Education: Bachelor of Arts, Master of Divinity, Doctorate in Ministry, Doctor of Philosophy Have you run for elected office before? No Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in Dallas County and Tarrant County. For decades, my civic involvement and activism in Dallas County and Tarrant County have been grounded in the belief that faith must be expressed through justice, service, and community engagement. In Dallas County, I have worked with community leaders, educators, and policymakers to advocate for equitable public education, criminal justice reform, economic opportunity, and access to health and mental health services. Through Friendship-West Baptist Church, I have supported initiatives focused on youth development, workforce readiness, voter engagement, and violence prevention in partnership with nonprofits, school districts, and civic institutions. Advertisement Advertisement In Tarrant County, my work has included regional and interfaith collaborations addressing poverty, public safety, and civic participation. Across both counties, my activism centers on amplifying marginalized voices, strengthening democratic engagement, and advancing policies rooted in dignity, fairness, and opportunity for all. Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? No Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? No Who are your top three campaign contributors? Jane Brown, Willis Johnson, ueretha Jones-Slack Why are you seeking this office? U.A. House of Representatives, Texas 30 If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be? If elected, my top three policy priorities will be expanding economic opportunity for working families, advancing justice and public safety reforms that protect both communities and constitutional rights, and strengthening access to quality education and healthcare, including mental health services. How will you measure your success as a member of Congress? I will measure success by tangible outcomes, whether families are earning more, communities are safer and healthier, and federal resources are reaching those who need them most. Why should voters choose you over your opponents? Voters should choose me because I bring a proven record of moral leadership, coalition-building, and results-driven advocacy rooted in faith, justice, and service, not politics as usual. What is the biggest challenge facing Congress? How would you address it if elected? One of the biggest challenge facing Congress is deep polarization that blocks progress. I will address it by building principled partnerships, centering people over parties, and focusing on solutions, not soundbites. What is the number one challenge your constituents are facing, and how do you plan to resolve it? The number one challenge facing my constituents is economic insecurity. I will fight for policies that create good jobs, lower costs, and expand opportunity so families can thrive, not just survive. How would you interact and work with members of the opposite party? Are there specific policy ideas where you see opportunities for bipartisanship? I will work with members of the opposite party by focusing on shared goals rather than partisan labels. Bipartisan opportunities exist in areas such as infrastructure, workforce development, veterans services, public safety, and responsible technology policy. How would you approach foreign policy as a member of Congress? As a member of Congress, I would approach foreign policy by prioritizing diplomacy, human rights, and global stability while ensuring America remains a strong and trusted partner. What steps, if any, should Congress take regarding artificial intelligence, including regulation and/or safeguards? Congress should address artificial intelligence by supporting innovation alongside clear safeguards that protect privacy, prevent discrimination, and promote transparency. What should be prioritized in federal spending and what, if anything, do you believe should receive less budget allocations? Federal spending should prioritize education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic opportunity for working families. Congress should reduce wasteful spending and excessive corporate subsidies that do not produce clear public benefit. What should Congress do to address healthcare? Congress must lower prescription drug costs, expand access to affordable coverage, and invest in mental health and preventive care to improve outcomes while reducing long-term costs. How do you plan to ensure affordability for Texans in the day-to-day as well as in the housing market? To ensure affordability, I will support policies that raise wages, lower everyday costs like childcare and utilities, and expand affordable housing through federal investment and partnerships with local governments. What should Congress do, if anything, to address security along the U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policy? Congress should pursue a balanced, humane approach, strengthening border security and infrastructure while fixing a broken immigration system, modernizing asylum processing, and creating lawful pathways that reflect both our economic needs and national values. Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran's last shah who was overthrown in 1979, said on the fringes of the Munich Security Conference that more talks between Washington and Tehran could cost lives without offering a realistic solution to the country's crisis. "Every day that goes by, more Iranians are dying in Iran," he told reporters on Saturday, arguing that only a "rapid intervention" would help save lives and improve regional security. The ultimate goal, he said, should be to remove the government in Tehran from power as quickly as possible, adding that the leadership was using talks "to buy time." Advertisement Advertisement From exile, Pahlavi has sought to position himself as a leading opposition figure at a time when Iran lacks an organized political force to challenge the ruling establishment, though the extent of his influence remains unclear despite his rising profile. In Munich, he once again appealed to US President Donald Trump to follow up on his statement to the Iranian people last month that "help is on the way." "You deployed a massive armada and have signalled unmistakably that brutality's time is ending," Pahlavi said, adding that Iranians had heard Trump's words and trusted him. Trump could immortalize himself as one of "the world's greatest heroes" if he took decisive military action, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Pahlavi said protests in Iran were continuing despite the risks. "People are still out there resisting. The regime, unfortunately, continues its campaign of imprisonment," he said, adding that demonstrators would need support from abroad to return to the streets in large numbers. Trump has delivered mixed messages on Iran in recent weeks, offering varying justifications for a potential attack from responding to the government's brutal crackdown on protesters to inflicting damage on its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. He has deployed military assets to the region, including aircraft carriers, and said he would favour a change of power in Iran, calling it "the best thing that could happen." Advertisement Advertisement But he also said that Tehran could avoid a US attack by agreeing to a deal that significantly curbs Iran's nuclear programme, among other things. The United States and Iran held talks last year over Tehran's nuclear programme, but negotiations stalled. New talks began earlier this month in Oman and another round is anticipated. Protest in Munich Meanwhile, a large demonstration highlighting Iran's human rights situation was expected to draw huge crowds in Munich. The group known as the Munich Circle said it had registered 100,000 participants for a protest against Iran's hardline clerical rulers. Advertisement Advertisement Police estimated that around 15,000 had people had gathered as the rally kicked off at midday. Organizers said the timing during the Munich Security Conference was deliberate, as political and military decision-makers from around the world were in the city. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) says more than 7,000 people died in the crackdown by Iranian authorities on anti-government protests triggered by severe economic conditions. The unrest erupted in late December and turned most violent on January 8 and 9. Although the protests have since subsided, activists are still counting the dead and fear the toll could rise further. Advertisement Advertisement The Munich Security Conference, which opened on Friday and runs through Sunday, is considered the world's premier gathering of security policy experts, drawing more than 60 world leaders and around 100 foreign and defence ministers to its 62nd edition. Reza Pahlavi, son of the deposed Iranian Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, speaks during a press conference at the 62nd Munich Security Conference. Marijan Murat/dpa The Department of Homeland Security is pushing Silicon Valley to strip anonymity from Americans who track or criticize Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The agency has fired off hundreds of subpoenas demanding names, email addresses, and phone numbers tied to anti-ICE social media accounts, the New York Times reported Friday. Demonstrators held a rally, holding banners and chanting slogans as they gather to protest against President Donald Trump, ICE raids, arrests, and the Trump administration around the China Town in Washington, DC, on January 30, 2026. / Anadolu / Anadolu via Getty Images Unlike traditional warrants, administrative subpoenas do not require approval from a judge before they are issued. Instead of seeking court authorization first, DHS can sign and send the demands directly to tech companiesa power civil liberties advocates say is now being deployed far more aggressively. Advertisement Advertisement Google, Meta, Reddit, and Discord received subpoenas targeting anonymous accounts that posted about ICE activity, the Times reported. The paper reviewed two sent to Meta and said some companies complied, while others alerted users and gave them 10 to 14 days to fight the requests in court. DHS said it has broad administrative subpoena authority but did not directly address questions about the scope or frequency of the requests. ICE has become increasingly unpopular in Minnesota for its actions. / Jen Golbeck/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images In court filings, department lawyers have argued that the subpoenas are intended to help investigate threats to its own officers or impediments to their officers, and to keep ICE agents safe in the field. Advertisement Advertisement One of the accounts targeted was Montco Community Watch, a Facebook and Instagram pages that post bilingual alerts about ICE sightings in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. After Meta notified the account holders of the subpoena, the American Civil Liberties Union moved to block it in federal court, arguing the government was targeting protected speech. DHS later withdrew the request before a judge could rule. The government is taking more liberties than they used to, said Steve Loney, a senior supervising attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania, who has represented individuals whose account information was sought by DHS. Kristi Noem has faced bipartisan criticism over the fatal federal law enforcement shooting of Alex Pretti. / Michael Gonzalez / Getty Images Its a whole other level of frequency and lack of accountability. Advertisement Advertisement The move comes amid a broader push by the Trump administration to tamp down criticism of ICE. Agents have told protesters in cities including Minneapolis and Chicago that they were being recorded and identified. White House border czar Tom Homan has previously publicly discussed creating a database of people arrested for interfering with immigration enforcement. Were going to make sure everyone knows who they are...were going to broadcast every one of these people [that] we arrest, he told Laura Ingraham last month. The expanding use of administrative subpoenas to unmask online critics has alarmed privacy advocates, who warn it could chill speech. Advertisement Advertisement Once largely confined to serious criminal investigations, the tool is now being used to pierce anonymity a move critics say pushes federal power into protected expression. President Trump's border czar Tom Homan announced the ICE surge operation to Minnesota would end during a press conference at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis on February 12, 2026. / Stephen Maturen/Getty Images Tech companies have pushed back before. In 2017, Twitter (now X) sued the federal government to block an administrative subpoena seeking to unmask an account critical of the first Trump administration. The subpoena was ultimately withdrawn. But the scale of the current effort suggests a far more aggressive test of those boundaries. Whether Silicon Valley resists or complies may help determine how much anonymity survives for Americans criticizing government policy online. In conversations with employers, students and working adults across western Pennsylvania, one theme comes up again and again: nearly every job today requires confidence navigating digital environments. Assignments are submitted online, collaboration takes place virtually, and new tools are introduced faster than formal training can keep pace. Yet digital literacy the ability to confidently and effectively navigate these environments is often treated as assumed knowledge rather than a skill that must be built. This disconnect creates challenges for both learners and employers. Students may complete coursework without fully developing the digital habits required in modern workplaces, while employers across western Pennsylvania report difficulty finding candidates who are comfortable operating in digital-first settings. For adult learners navigating upskilling or career transitions, the learning curve can be especially steep, particularly as workplaces adopt new tools at an accelerated pace. Advertisement Advertisement Workforce and community leaders in Western PA have identified digital inclusion and skills as key priorities. The Greater Pittsburgh Digital Inclusion Alliance and partners are working to bridge gaps in connectivity, training and device access that affect jobseekers and incumbent workers alike. As artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies become embedded across industries, digital literacy is no longer static. It increasingly includes judgment, discernment, and responsible use knowing not just how to access tools, but when and how to apply them appropriately. As technology reshapes nearly every industry, digital literacy has become a quiet but critical factor in career readiness. Why digital literacy matters more than ever Digital literacy today extends well beyond basic technical proficiency. It includes a set of practical, transferable capabilities that show up across roles and sectors: Navigating digital platforms with confidence. From project management systems to learning portals, employees are expected to adapt to new interfaces without extensive onboarding quickly. Communicating clearly in virtual environments. Writing concise messages, participating in video meetings, and collaborating asynchronously are now everyday requirements. Evaluating information critically. With constant access to online content and AI-generated outputs, discerning credible sources and understanding context are essential skills. Managing work independently. Digital environments often require strong time management and self-direction without constant supervision. Advertisement Advertisement When these skills are underdeveloped, employers may see delays in onboarding, breakdowns in remote collaboration, or hesitation around using emerging tools responsibly. These competencies are rarely taught in isolation. Instead, they are developed through repeated exposure and practice, often in learning environments that mirror how work actually happens. How learning models shape digital fluency The way people learn plays a formative role in how prepared they are for AI-enabled, digitally driven workplaces. Online and hybrid learning models naturally reinforce both the form and function of digital literacy. Students must learn how to engage with course content through digital tools and collaborate virtually with peers and instructors. Over time, this builds familiarity and confidence that translates directly to professional settings. For employers, this often means candidates who are more comfortable adapting to new systems and workflows. For learners, it means developing readiness that extends beyond any single tool or platform. This model is also responsive to the needs of learners balancing education with jobs, caregiving, or military service a reality for many in western Pennsylvania. The result? Comfort operating in dynamic, tech-driven environments, regardless of age or prior experience. As emerging technologies like artificial intelligence become more integrated into daily work, one of the most important elements of digital literacy is knowing how to use new tools responsibly. Learning environments that emphasize critical thinking, ethical awareness, and adaptability help prepare individuals to engage with technology thoughtfully as expectations continue to evolve. A workforce issue with local impact The implications extend beyond individual students. Gaps in digital literacy can slow hiring, limit productivity, and affect economic mobility. While up-to-date curriculum plays a role, employers and educators alike share responsibility for preparing learners to operate confidently in digital-first environments. Advertisement Advertisement Today, digital literacy is not optional, and it is not limited to tech careers. It is a foundational skill shaping how people learn, work, and advance. As industries evolve, helping western Pennsylvanias learners build readiness and adaptability in digital spaces will be essential to supporting a resilient, future-ready workforce. Alison Barber Bell is the regional vice president at Western Governors University. This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Opinion: Digital literacy is new baseline skill for Pennsylvanians SARATOGA SPRINGS - The venerable Compton's Restaurant says it is being sued by its landlord but intends to stay open and contest the legal matter, according to a Facebook post by the diner Saturday morning. The post intimated the Rochester-based landlord was trying to force out Compton's and that its second-generation owners considered relocating. It said, "We were going back and forth for 6 months trying (to) figure out how we are going to handle it. Deciding if we just wanted to relieve stress and not fight. Just look for a new location." Advertisement Advertisement But, it continued, "We are going to fight. We believe we have done nothing wrong. It will be a long battle and we are preparing for it." A day earlier, also on Facebook, the owners wrote, "Closing is not an option for us." The owners - sisters Sandy Compton and Tina Maher, who are the daughters of founder John Compton, and Maher's husband, William - said in Saturday's post that the suit's allegations include nonpayment of rent, which they disputed, writing, "We have provided proof that we have paid every month." The business owners could not be reached for comment. The building's owner has previously said he does not speak to the media. Court documents could not be located on Saturday. Customer fervor since Compton's first alluded to problems, in a Thursday Facebook post, has been strong enough to encourage the family to try to continue operating in the original location. "The support we have felt is incredible. We love the business and the customers. Compton's in Saratoga is a priority for us." John Compton opened the diner, at 457 Broadway, in 1984, selling it to his daughters and son-in-law upon retiring in 2016. Five years later, they sold the three-story building, with apartments above the restaurant, to developer Angelo Ingrassia of Rochester, who already owned the one-story building next door, at 453 Broadway. Formerly a Bruegger's Bagels location for many years, 453 Broadway is now a taproom for Cooperstown Distillery. Advertisement Advertisement Ingrassia's plan to add three stories above 453 Broadway, renovate the two floors of apartments in the Compton's building and erect a new structure behind them was approved by the city in late 2024, according to The Business Review. When Ingrassia bought the Compton's building, the media outlet reported the restaurant had signed a lease allowing it to stay for another 10 years. It was unclear if the planned construction and renovation are related to Compton's difficulties. Currently open six days a week, Compton's will expand to daily service from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. in March, according to the owners' post. In November, it was named New York's best "hole-in-the-wall breakfast spot" by the website The Daily Meal as part of a 50-state roundup. This article originally published at In dispute with landlord, Compton's says it is being sued, vows to stay put. Greenland's natural resources, including potential vast rare earths deposits vital to the AI boom, have attracted attention since US President Donald Trump showed interest in the Danish self-governing territory. Harsh conditions and weak infrastructure make mining a difficult task, however. Only two mines are operational. Lumina Sustainable Materials runs an anorthosite mine (a type of rock used in building and industrial materials) backed by Canadian-Swiss investors, and Canada-listed Amaroq operates a gold mine. Advertisement Advertisement As climate change melts sea ice and opens up new shipping routes around Greenland, commercial interest is rising. Data from Greenland's Mineral Resources Authority shows 138 active mining licences (as of February 13), held by 63 companies and individuals. An AFP review of this official data outlines the current state of Greenland's mining industry. - Limited mining - Only nine of the active permits are exploitation licences authorising production and mining. To obtain these 30-year licences, companies must first explore a designated area and demonstrate that sufficient resources exist for commercial exploitation. Advertisement Advertisement The two firms operating Greenland's existing mines hold such permits, along with several other companies. US mining company Critical Metals Corp holds the only active permit to exploit rare earths for a deposit in Kalaalit Nunaat, which is still years from becoming operational. British firm GreenRoc Mining Plc obtained a licence in December 2025 and plans to exploit a graphite deposit that is expected to produce around 80,000 tonnes of graphite concentrate per year, a company spokesperson told AFP. Commercial production is expected to begin in 2029. Other companies with recently issued exploitation permits include an anorthosite mining project backed by investors from Denmark and Luxembourg, and a molybdenum project backed by the European Union and run by Canadian company Greenland Resources. Advertisement Advertisement The remaining exploitation permits are held by companies with projects on hold or seeking to divest. "The path from exploration to exploitation is inherently long and complex, often taking many years" a Greenland Mineral Resources Authority spokesperson told AFP. Projects can be discontinued "due to lack of viable resources, economic feasibility, environmental assessments or social considerations", the spokesperson added. - Over 70 types of minerals explored - Nearly two-thirds of licences are exploration permits. Other types of licences include permits for sand extractions, small-scale exploration or scientific research. Advertisement Advertisement They grant companies exclusive access to specified areas where they can look for "all mineral resources except hydrocarbons and radioactive elements, unless otherwise stipulated", according to the application procedure detailed online. These active licences show the supposed breadth of Greenland's mineral assets. Over 70 different types of minerals and resources are explored and mined, according to an AFP analysis. Gold is mentioned in 49 permits, copper in 36 and nickel in 24. Rare earth elements are mentioned in 17 licences, with more permits referencing specific rare earths such as cerium or terbium. Advertisement Advertisement Three oil exploration licences are also owned by British firm White Flame Energy and are active until late 2028. Greenland contains over 31 billion barrels of oil equivalent of oil and natural gas, according to estimates by the US Geological Survey. All mining activities take place along Greenland's coasts, where conditions are milder, particularly in the southeastern regions of Sermersooq and Kujalleq. About 80 percent of Greenland is covered by ice, which can be up to three kilometres (two miles) thick in parts of the island's interior. Surveying and mining under such a thick ice sheet is impossible, according to experts, leaving large areas of the territory unexplored. lmc-ot/maj/jwp/gil One person died after a vehicle crashed into a building at a college in Kansas City, police said. Officers responded around 2:41 p.m. Friday to Rockhurst Road and Virginia Avenue for a reported crash. According to a preliminary investigation, the crash happened as a white Nissan Murano sped south on Virginia Avenue. The Nissan then failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection of Rockhurst Road and Virginia Avenue, according to a crash report. Advertisement Advertisement The Nissan continued south and struck a gold Jeep Wrangler that was unoccupied and parked on Rockhurst Road. After hitting the Jeep, the Nissan traveled over a curb and up a grassy hill, where it began to roll, according to the crash report. The Nissan then struck Rockhurst Universitys Corcoran Building before coming to rest, according to the crash report. Paramedics transported the driver of the Nissan to a hospital, where they were later pronounced dead. Police have not yet publicly identified the person who died. The fatal crash is Kansas Citys seventh traffic death this year, according to a police department spokesman. At this time last year, the city had recorded five traffic deaths. Forensic analyses indicate that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died two years ago in an Arctic penal colony, was killed with a powerful frog toxin, European governments said on Saturday, directly accusing the Kremlin of murder. Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, France and the United Kingdom allege that analyses of Navalny's remains showed traces of the highly potent toxin epibatidine. "Russia claimed that Navalny died of natural causes. But given the toxicity of epibatidine and reported symptoms, poisoning was highly likely the cause of his death. Navalny died while held in prison, meaning Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison to him," a joint statement said. Advertisement Advertisement The announcement was made by German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and his counterparts on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, where dozens of world leaders and top defence officials have gathered for three days of talks. Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnaya, who was present at the announcement, said the findings proved that Russian President Vladimir Putin was a murderer. Wadephul said the new analyses had clarified the cause of death. "Alexei Navalny was poisoned in Russian custody," he said. According to the German minister, the remains contained epibatidine, an extremely potent nerve toxin first discovered in the skin secretions of certain poison dart frogs in Ecuador. Advertisement Advertisement He said the substance - which can also be produced in laboratories - is about 200 times stronger than morphine and paralyses the respiratory muscles, causing victims to suffocate. It was not immediately clear when, where or how the analyses were carried out. When asked by a journalist why the analyses, in which France had also participated, had taken so long, Wadephul said that it had been a complicated process that required coordination with various European partners. Navalny's death in February 2024 prompted international condemnation and accusations from Western governments that the Kremlin was responsible. Advertisement Advertisement Moscow has repeatedly denied involvement in his death. "No one except Putin's henchmen will be able to tell us exactly what happened on February 16, 2024 in the Russian penal colony," said Wadephul. "One thing is clear: the Russian authorities had the motive and the means to administer the poison to Navalny." Navalny, he said, was not only the courageous face of the Russian opposition but had previously survived a poisoning attempt. After receiving treatment at Berlins Charite, he returned to Russia despite the risks. Navalny's death, which marks its second anniversary this Monday, remains a bitter blow for all people, especially in Russia, who have not given up hope for a free country, Wadephul said. Advertisement Advertisement "Putin tramples on international law and humanity every day, and not just in Ukraine," he added. The German minister also accused Putin of disregarding the Chemical Weapons Convention, and said the director general of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has been informed of the findings. Meanwhile, Navalnaya thanked the laboratories in Germany, Great Britain, Sweden and the Netherlands that participated in the analyses. She said learning of her husband's death had been the hardest day of her life, and that she knew he had been murdered. "What else could have happened to a young, charismatic opposition leader in Putin's prison?" she asked. Advertisement Advertisement British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said: "We are here today to shine a spotlight on the Kremlin's barbaric attempt to silence Alexei Navalny's voice." Her Swedish counterpart Maria Stenergard added that it was "extremely important in order to be able to hold Russia accountable for what they have been doing." Alexei Navalny, who died in an Arctic prison camp two years ago, was murdered by the Russian state using a powerful frog toxin, the governments of Germany, Britain, Sweden and the Netherlands said on Saturday. The countries said analyses of Navalny's remains showed traces of the highly potent toxin epibatidine, and accused Moscow of killing Russian President Vladimir Putin's biggest foe. The announcement was made by German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and his counterparts on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, where dozens of world leaders and top defence officials have gathered for three days of talks. Advertisement Advertisement Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnaya, who was present at the announcement, said the findings proved that Putin was a murderer. Wadephul said the new analyses had clarified the cause of death. "Alexei Navalny was poisoned in Russian custody," he said. According to the German minister, the remains contained epibatidine, an extremely potent nerve toxin found in the skin secretions of certain poison dart frogs in Ecuador. He said the substance was about 200 times stronger than morphine and paralysed the respiratory muscles, causing victims to suffocate. It was not immediately clear when, where or how the analyses were carried out. Navalny's death in February 2024 prompted international condemnation and accusations from Western governments that the Kremlin was responsible. Moscow has repeatedly denied involvement in his death. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died in an Arctic prison camp two years ago, was murdered by the Russian government using a powerful frog toxin, European countries said on Saturday. Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, France and the United Kingdom allege that analyses of Navalny's remains showed traces of the highly potent toxin epibatidine. The announcement was made by German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and his counterparts on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, where dozens of world leaders and top defence officials have gathered for three days of talks. Advertisement Advertisement Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnaya, who was present at the announcement, said the findings proved that Russian President Vladimir Putin was a murderer. Wadephul said the new analyses had clarified the cause of death. "Alexei Navalny was poisoned in Russian custody," he said. According to the German minister, the remains contained epibatidine, an extremely potent nerve toxin first discovered in the skin secretions of certain poison dart frogs in Ecuador. He said the substance - which can also be produced in laboratories - is about 200 times stronger than morphine and paralyses the respiratory muscles, causing victims to suffocate. Advertisement Advertisement It was not immediately clear when, where or how the analyses were carried out. Navalny's death in February 2024 prompted international condemnation and accusations from Western governments that the Kremlin was responsible. Moscow has repeatedly denied involvement in his death. "No one except Putin's henchmen will be able to tell us exactly what happened on February 16, 2024 in the Russian penal colony," said Wadephul. "One thing is clear: the Russian authorities had the motive and the means to administer the poison to Navalny." Navalny was not only the courageous face of the Russian opposition, he said, but had already been the victim of a poison attack. He was subsequently treated at the Charite hospital in Berlin and, despite everything, returned to Russia afterwards. Advertisement Advertisement Navalny's death, which marks its second anniversary this Monday, remains a bitter blow for all people, especially in Russia, who have not given up hope for a free country, Wadephul said. "Putin tramples on international law and humanity every day, and not just in Ukraine," he added. The German minister also accused Putin of disregarding the Chemical Weapons Convention, and said the director general of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has been informed of the findings. Meanwhile, Navalnaya thanked the laboratories in Germany, Great Britain, Sweden and the Netherlands that participated in the analyses. Advertisement Advertisement She said learning of her husband's death had been the hardest day of her life, and that she knew he had been murdered. "What else could have happened to a young, charismatic opposition leader in Putin's prison?" she asked. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said: "We are here today to shine a spotlight on the Kremlin's barbaric attempt to silence Alexei Navalny's voice." Her Swedish counterpart Maria Stenergard added that it was "extremely important in order to be able to hold Russia accountable for what they have been doing." Julia Navalnaya, Russian human rights activist and wife of Russian opposition leader and dissident Alexei Navalny, gives a press statement on the death and circumstances surrounding her husband's death on the sidelines of the 62nd Munich Security Conference (MSC). Kay Nietfeld/dpa Five European countries, including Britain, France and Germany, said Saturday that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was killed by a "rare toxin" from a dart frog and that the Russian state was the prime suspect. Navalny, a staunch critic of President Vladimir Putin, died in a Russian prison on February 16, 2024, while serving a 19-year sentence. "The UK, Sweden, France, Germany and The Netherlands are confident that Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a lethal toxin," the countries said in a joint statement released at the Munich Security Conference. Advertisement Advertisement According to the European states, a toxin found in the skin of South American dart frogs known as epibatidine was found on laboratory analyses of samples from his body. "Russia claimed that Navalny died of natural causes. But given the toxicity of epibatidine and reported symptoms, poisoning was highly likely the cause of his death," said the statement. "Navalny died while held in prison, meaning Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison to him," the countries said. Britain's foreign office said separately that "only the Russian state had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin". It added: "We hold it (Russia) responsible for his death." Advertisement Advertisement UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed Navalny's "courage in the face of tyranny" in a social media post, slamming "Putin's murderous intent". The Kremlin has not yet commented on the allegations. Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman and Moscow's embassy in London dismissed the Western report. Putin said in 2024 that Navalny had "passed away". The opposition leader died shortly before a presidential election in Russia. - 'Science-proven facts' - Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnya, said it was now "science-proven" that the Kremlin opponent had been murdered. Advertisement Advertisement "Two years ago, I came on stage here and said that it was Vladimir Putin who killed my husband," Navalnaya said on the sidelines of the conference in Germany. "I was of course certain that it was a murder... but back then it was just words. But today, these words have become science-proven facts," Navalnaya added. Navalnaya last September said that laboratory analysis of smuggled biological samples found her husband was killed by poisoning. "Today, beside his widow, the UK is shining a light on the Kremlin's barbaric plot to silence his voice," UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, who met Navalnaya while attending the Munich conference, said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot paid "tribute" to Navalny after the findings. "We now know that Vladimir Putin is prepared to use biological weapons against his own people to remain in power," Barrot said in a post on X. Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said: "I am proud that together we have been able to contribute to the truth coming out and that the evidence is now available to hold Russia accountable." - Chemical weapons watchdog - Moscow has never fully explained Navalny's death, saying only that he fell ill and collapsed during a walk in his Arctic prison colony. Navalny and his foundation were considered "extremist" by the Russian authorities. Advertisement Advertisement The European countries said they had reported Russia to the world's chemical weapons watchdog -- the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons -- over the finding. "We are further concerned that Russia did not destroy all of its chemical weapons," the countries said, accusing Moscow of breaching the Chemical Weapons Convention. Navalny was previously poisoned with the Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok in 2020 while campaigning in Siberia and was flown to Germany on an emergency evacuation flight, where he spent months recovering. Jailed upon his return to Russia in January 2021, he was convicted on a series of charges, including "extremism", but continued to campaign against Putin and Russia's invasion of Ukraine from behind bars. Advertisement Advertisement The charismatic anti-corruption campaigner had rallied hundreds of thousands across Russia in anti-Kremlin protests as he exposed the alleged ill-gotten gains of Putin's inner circle. Putin's main political opponent, Navalny was the only opposition leader who was able to galvanise big protests in Russia. Public displays of opposition to Putin inside Russia have become exceptionally rare since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and clamped down on dissenters and critics of the war. burs/jhb A former intensive care unit nurse from Hart County has been sentenced to years in prison after pleading guilty to trafficking a 16-year-old girl in Fulton County. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr announced Saturday that Reed Cohen Skelton, 26, of Bowersville, targeted the teenager through social media apps, including Snapchat, before abducting and exploiting her months later. Advertisement Advertisement This is the disturbing reality that were seeing online, where traffickers are targeting our children for abuse and exploitation, Carr said. Whether its Snapchat or Roblox or any other app, child predators will find a way to communicate with their next victim, and were doing everything in our power to stop them. Our team is on the ground leading this fight, and we wont rest until every child is safe and every trafficker is brought to justice. TRENDING STORIES: According to court records, Skelton first made online contact with the teenager and communicated with her over several months, exchanging sexually explicit content. In November 2024, he traveled to Cobb County to pick up the girl and took her to a hotel in Fulton County, where he rented a room and had sex with her, paying $500. He also created and kept digital files of the abuse. Advertisement Advertisement On Feb. 12, Skelton pleaded guilty to two counts of trafficking of persons for sexual servitude and one count of sexual exploitation of a minor. He was sentenced to 25 years, with the first 10 years to be served in prison and the remaining time on strict probation. He is also required to register as a sex offender. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A former high-ranking NYPD official from Yonkers has been charged in a pair of bribery schemes, including one in which he and a Florida CEO allegedly conspired to get the businessman a contract to put his company's digital panic buttons into city schools. Kevin Taylor and Geno Roefaro, the CEO of SaferWatch, were arrested Thursday, Feb. 12, on an indcitment charging them with bribery and other offenses. Taylor pleaded not guilty in Manhattan federal court and Geno Roefaro made a court appearance in the Southern District of Florida, where bond was set and he agreed to appear in New York for an arraignment on March 6.. The second alleged scheme accuses Taylor of soliciting $75,000 from two employees of a body-armor company to help the business keep its NYPD contract. Advertisement Advertisement The NYPD is the greatest police force in the world, including because it invests wisely and honestly in resources, U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said in a news release announcing the indictment. The NYPD procurement process is not for sale." The alleged schemes began after Taylor, a then 27-year veteran of the department, was promoted in 2023 to Inspector and assigned as commanding officer of the School Safety Division. In early 2023, SaferWatch had a modest contract for a pilot program providing its panic-button application to four NYC high schools. On two occasions in August 2023, according to the indictment, Roefaro withdrew money from banks in New York City - a total of $35,000 - and gave the money to Taylor in Yonkers. In between the two payments, Taylor wrote a memo to a deputy police commissioner overseeing the school safety division urging the department to spend $11 million on SaferWatch products. Advertisement Advertisement The following month, an official supervised by Taylor issued a $19,830 no-bid purchase order for SaferWatch to provide a tipline in the SSD command center. In early October, Roefaro allegedly paid for a vacation trip to Las Vegas for Taylor and a romantic partner, spending more than $10,000 to cover airfare, a luxury hotel stay, a helicopter tour and meals, including a visit to a medieval-themed dinner theater. Two weeks after returning from the trip, Taylor testified before two City Council committees urging the expansion of the tipline pilot program. Days after that he and a romantic partner traveled to the Bahamas, with Roefaro picking up the tab for the airfare and a pair of meals, one at an expensive steakhouse. In November 2023, Roefaro allegedly paid Taylor another $35,000. Advertisement Advertisement But Roefaro began complaining about the returns on his investment. While their communication was generally done on the Signal encrypted messaging service with texts set to delete after several hours, they also sometimes saved screenshots on their phones. Law enforcement was able to obtain those through search warrants. In one Roefaro allegedly told Taylor he had gotten nothing for the hundreds of thousands of dollars he'd spent. Taylor's response, according to the indictment, was : "You got nothing from me??" and later "You can't play with the big boys and piss like a puppy." Still he kept going to bat for Roefaro, sending a memo to the police commissioner... Advertisement Advertisement By the end of 2023, Roefaro was insisting on some good news, including the announcement and launch of an expanded contract by mid January 2024. "If not. I'm (expletive)," he allegedly texted. "And you don't want me to be (expletive). I'm both your whore and your sugar daddy all in one." While it appeared a press conference was going to happen, Roefaro paid for spa services and meals at upscale restaurants for Taylor and a romantic partner on another trip to the Bahamas. The press conference - or expanded contract - never materialized and Taylor was reassigned in February 2024. An article in The City newspaper in September 2024 detailed Saferwatch's lobbying efforts to get the administration of Mayor Eric Adams to support an expanded contract for the company. That included hiring a firm owned by Terence Banks that would lobby his brothers, schools chancellor David Banks and Philip Banks, the deputy mayor for public safety. Advertisement Advertisement Taylor was only mentioned peripherally in the article which cited his testimony to the City Council committees. But Taylor sent a link to the article to the woman he traveled with that year to the Bahamas and expressed concern that Roefaro could incriminate him. Richard Langone, Taylor's lawyer, called the allegations "specious" and a result of the collapsed federal prosecution against Adams. "I truly, truly believe this man is going to be exonerated," he said in a phone interview, adding that "(federal prosecutors) couldn't take down Adams" so they are going after anyone they can get. He suggested that Taylor never did anything to "inhibit" the contracting process. The allegations related to the second scheme are that from the Spring of 2023 until early 2024 Taylor repeatedly solicited money from two employees of a body-armor company that was awarded a nearly $2.8 million contract to provide ballistic vests to officers in the school-safety division. He urged them repeatedly to provide a contribution to a holiday party he was throwing for the school-safety division and for which he was on the hook for more than $125,000. The employees never paid him or made the the contribution even though they were continuously worried that Taylor could disrupt their ability to complete the contract by holding up fittings of officers to determine vest sizes. Advertisement Advertisement Taylor, 52, and Roefaro, 39, of Pompano Beach, Fla. are charged with honest services wire fraud, bribery and conspiracy to commit those crimes. Taylor is additionally charged with extortion under the color of official right. Each faces up to 20 years in prison. This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Ex-NYPD official from Yonkers, Florida CEO face federal bribery charges Former White House attorney Ty Cobb on Friday appeared on MS NOWs The Beat with Ari Melber to discuss the federal indictment of journalist Don Lemon, but the conversation took an intriguing turn when he named senior Trump administration officials he believes deserve immediate impeachment. Melber argued that Lemons arrest on federal civil rights charges is part of an ongoing Trump campaign to crack down on his critics. Lemon was indicted in connection with his coverage of a recent protest in Minnesota against Trumps immigration agenda. Politics: Obama Confirms Existence Of Aliens, But Says They Aren't Where People Think When Melber asked Cobb how many such cases the Department of Justice must bring before U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi is charged with a potentially impeachable offense, Cobb who became a vocal Trump critic after serving in his first administration didnt hold back. Advertisement Advertisement Well, it should only be one, Cobb told Melber. If theres one fraudulent, unsupported indictment thats brought for personal reasons, political reasons in which the facts are distorted and the law is abused, that alone should be impeachable. The former White House attorney decried the wealth of evidence that he says already exists to impeach Bondi before Melber asked if Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche should be ousted as well. Cobb argued Blanche might certainly have committed an impeachable offense when he interviewed Ghislaine Maxwell, co-conspirator of late child *** offender Jeffrey Epstein, and allegedly extorted her confession that Trump never did anything inappropriate. Politics: Hillary Clinton Fumes As She's Teased About Trump Rant At High-Profile Panel Maxwell has notably been positioning herself for a pardon and was moved to a cushier prison after defending Trump, which Bondi oddly denied in sworn testimony to Congress, prompting Cobbs suspicion that she made it in exchange for favorable treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Following his teardown of Bondi, Cobb took aim at two more faces of the Trump administration: Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Like this article? Keep independent journalism alive. Support HuffPost. Kristi Noem, whos supervising the execution of American citizens and lying about them as being alleged terrorists, said Cobb, referring to the Homeland Security chief and her accusations against two Minnesota residents killed by federal agents last month. Hegseth and the multitude of classified violations that he has, as well as the war crimes being committed at his behest, he continued, referring to the U.S. military strikes on alleged drug smugglers Hegseth has overseen since September. Politics: GOP Rep. Thomas Massie Nails Trump With Absolutely Devastating New Epstein Label All of those people should be impeached, Cobb concluded. Advertisement Advertisement Cobb, who served as special counsel during Trumps first term, then revisited his thoughts on the president and possible corruption, saying theres extraordinary information out there. The $500 million bribe from the UAE in exchange for our AI chips, the $480 million plane from Qatar in exchange for an Air Force base, and him parking his Venezuela oil revenue account in Qatar, said Cobb. The facts here are just extraordinary and unprecedented. Cobb concluded, This is not a matter of degree. This is a ripple in the force. Impeachment, however, is a weak tool in the hands of a Congress where you have people like [House Speaker] Mike Johnson and others who are willing to do whatever the president desires. Watch the full conversation on MS NOWs YouTube account. Related... Read the original on HuffPost By Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali WASHINGTON, Feb 14 (Reuters) - The U.S. military is preparing for the possibility of sustained, weeks-long operations against Iran if President Donald Trump orders an attack, two U.S. officials told Reuters, in what could become a far more serious conflict than previously seen between the countries. The disclosure by the officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the planning, raises the stakes for the diplomacy underway between the United States and Iran. Advertisement Advertisement U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will hold negotiations with Iran on Tuesday in Geneva, with representatives from Oman acting as mediators. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned on Saturday that while Trump's preference was to reach a deal with Tehran, "thats very hard to do." Meanwhile, Trump has amassed military forces in the region, raising fears of new military action. U.S. officials said on Friday the Pentagon was sending an additional aircraft carrier to the Middle East, adding thousands more troops along with fighter aircraft, guided-missile destroyers and other firepower capable of waging attacks and defending against them. Trump, speaking on Friday after a military event at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, openly floated the possibility of changing the government in Iran, saying it "seems like that would be the best thing that could happen." He declined to share who he wanted to take over Iran, but said, "there are people." "For 47 years, they've been talking and talking and talking," Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Trump has long voiced skepticism about sending ground troops into Iran, saying last year, "the last thing you want to do is ground forces," and the kinds of U.S. firepower arrayed in the Middle East so far suggest options for strikes primarily by air and naval forces. In Venezuela, Trump demonstrated a willingness to rely also on special operations forces to seize that country's president, Nicolas Maduro, in a raid last month. Asked for comment on the preparations for a potentially sustained U.S. military operation, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said: "President Trump has all options on the table with regard to Iran." "He listens to a variety of perspectives on any given issue, but makes the final decision based on what is best for our country and national security," Kelly said. The Pentagon declined to comment. Advertisement Advertisement The United States sent two aircraft carriers to the region last year, when it carried out strikes against Iranian nuclear sites. However, June's "Midnight Hammer" operation was essentially a one-off U.S. attack, with stealth bombers flying from the United States to strike Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran staged a very limited retaliatory strike on a U.S. base in Qatar. RISKS INCREASING The planning under way this time is more complex, the officials said. In a sustained campaign, the U.S. military could hit Iranian state and security facilities, not just nuclear infrastructure, one of the officials said. The official declined to provide specific details. Advertisement Advertisement Experts say the risks to U.S. forces would be far greater in such an operation against Iran, which boasts a formidable arsenal of missiles. Retaliatory Iranian strikes also increase the risk of a regional conflict. The same official said the United States fully expected Iran to retaliate, leading to back-and-forth strikes and reprisals over time. The White House and Pentagon did not respond to questions about the risks of retaliation or regional conflict. Trump has repeatedly threatened to bomb Iran over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and crushing of internal dissent. On Thursday, he warned the alternative to a diplomatic solution would "be very traumatic, very traumatic." Advertisement Advertisement Iran's Revolutionary Guard has warned that in case of strikes on Iranian territory, it could retaliate against any U.S. military base. The U.S. maintains bases throughout the Middle East, including in Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met Trump for talks in Washington on Wednesday, saying that if an agreement with Iran were reached, "it must include the elements that are vital to Israel." Iran has said it is prepared to discuss curbs on its nuclear program in exchange for lifting sanctions, but has ruled out linking the issue to missiles. Advertisement Advertisement On Saturday, Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi said U.S. military intervention in Iran could save lives and urged Washington not to spend too long negotiating with Tehran's clerical rulers on a nuclear deal. The exiled son of Iran's toppled shah told Reuters in an interview there were signs that the Iranian government was on the brink of collapse and that an attack could weaken it or accelerate its fall. "We are hoping that this attack will expedite the process and the people can be finally back in the streets and take it all the way to the ultimate regime's downfall," said Pahlavi, who is based in the United States and has lived outside Iran since before his father was toppled in the 1979 Islamic Revolution. (Reporting by Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali; Editing by Don Durfee, Rosalba O'Brien, Rod Nickel) Newly unsealed records reveal that Jeffrey Epstein kept some of his underage victims in an apartment building just 10 blocks from his Upper East Side townhouse. 301 E. 66th St., a 16-story postwar condo between First and Second avenues with a 24-hour doorman, hid another sordid operation. The files show the building functioned as a logistical hub for Epsteins world and, according to civil complaints and sworn testimony, the underage girls he trafficked. More than a dozen apartments also cycled between wealthy guests, notable foreign dignitaries and Epstein staffers. The sheer volume of high-profile names including former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and longevity guru and CBS contributor Peter Attia, reinforces how No. 301 functioned as a kind of shadow annex separate from the notorious townhouse. The newly released Epstein files reveal that more than a dozen apartments inside 301 E. 66th St. were used as a tightly managed lodging network for Jeffrey Epsteins guests, staff and, according to sworn complaints, underage girls trafficked through his modeling connections. Matthew McDermott for NY Post Apts. for models The newly released emails show the most disturbing aspects those being the living arrangement for the young girls. In Epsteins address book, certain units were marked Apts. for models. Advertisement Advertisement One victim had previously described arriving at the building and being shown to a small apartment stocked with domestic comforts. I remember the apartment clearly, she said in her 2022 account. It was relatively small and there was Dannon yogurt in the fridge and a basket of fruit and cookies on the counter. It was a gesture showing the guise of care before she was taken about nine blocks away to Epsteins townhouse at 9 E. 71st St. to give him a massage. I remember feeling quite special, she recalled in the interview. It was part of the manipulation here we are caring for you, we are providing for you. Thats all part of the grooming process. Some apartments were labeled in his address book as Apts. for models, and civil filings allege the condos were used to house young women brought from overseas and provided with living quarters, transportation and other benefits to secure compliance. Courtesy of Corcoran The floor plan of unit 10N one of the units mentioned in the emails obtained by The Post. Courtesy of Corcoran Civil filings from 2015 allege that employees of MC2 Models, headed by a longtime Epstein associate, told attorney Bradley Edwards a representative for the victims that Epsteins numerous condos at 301 East 66 Street were used to house young models brought from overseas on promises of work. According to sworn statements referenced in litigation, visas were arranged and the girls were charged rent. Advertisement Advertisement One complaint alleges Epstein provided living quarters at 301 East 66th Street, along with car service and other benefits, as inducement to maintain sexual compliance. In a 2015 email, an associate wrote to Epstein that a young woman was asking what apartment can become hers and listed available options: 11J, 11B, 11P, 8A, and 10B noting that another unit was being renovated. The message asked plainly: What apartment do you want to call her own? Emails also show Epsteins driver, identified as Jojo, instructed to collect the girls from the building at 8:15 a.m. and deliver them to the 71st Street townhouse by 8:30. JE would like everyone to be at the house at 8:30am, Jojo wrote. Photos obtained by the officials show a chalkboard within a unit and a photo of a young child. DOJ Some units in the building were set up as offices. DOJ Another office set up in one of the units in the building, as seen in the DOJ files. DOJ Another message describes waiting for a young girls arrival at JFK, bringing her to 301 to settle in before taking her over. Advertisement Advertisement Other apartments, according to the documents, include Nos. 10F and 10N. The former, with one-bedroom, has a balcony, according to a 2023 listing. The latter, also a one-bedroom, describes eastern exposures that flood the unit with light all day, according to a 2024 listing. The ownership structure and Mark Epsteins role Property records show that a majority of the buildings roughly 200 units more than 150 are owned by an entity called 301 66 Owners Corp., which shares an address with Ossa Properties, the company run by Epsteins brother, Mark Epstein. Mark, who declined to comment for this story, has previously said he bought the building in the early 1990s and has denied operational knowledge of his brothers conduct there. The internal emails show that Jeffrey Epstein was informed when units became available and was looped into renovation and logistics planning. I never saw him but I always heard he owned the building, a longtime resident, who also declined to share her name, told The Post of Mark. At the same time, high-profile visitors including academics, foreign officials and politically connected figures were offered free or short-term stays. A bedroom in one of the units at the building. Courtesy of Corcoran A bathroom seen in unit another unit mentioned in the files. Courtesy of Corcoran In a March 2011 email, Anthony Barrett of Ossa notified Jeffrey Epstein that unit 12B, an estate sale, was coming to market and asked whether he had any interest. The note detailed price expectations and the apartments unrenovated condition. It reads like a standard investment inquiry, but within the broader email trove, it underscores how closely Jeffrey was tied to inventory inside the building. Fifteen units and counting A 2012 internal email from longtime assistant Lesley Groff lists some 15 apartments tied to Epsteins orbit, including: Advertisement Advertisement 5P (studio) for staffers Lynn and Jojo 7J (one-bedroom) for Jean-Luc Brunel 11P (studio) for Dana 14G (one-bedroom) for Sarah 8A (studio) for Renata, later reassigned 2C (one-bedroom) labeled JEs brother 10N designated Guest Apartment 11B marked Guest Apt 4M, another Guest Apt. By 2016, correspondence shows a smaller active roster but continued rotation. In one exchange, Groff wrote: 11J is Ehud and Nili they seem to have taken the apartment over they installed an alarm system! This note refers to former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and his wife, Nili Priel, who stayed in the building on multiple occasions. The address functioned like a discreet hospitality suite. In one email, a guest was told: You will stay in 3M. Code is 7002! In another, Epstein instructed that if flight details were sent, my car and driver will pick you up at the airport, and take you to 301 east 66. In one exchange obtained by The Post, Epstein told a contact he could offer a one bedroom at 301 east 66, pitching it as an alternative to a hotel or an Airbnb. Advertisement Advertisement The offering of free, furnished Manhattan apartments, even to wealthy visitors, was currency for Epstein to keep high-profile names in his debt. The nondescript Upper East Side condo building is largely controlled by entities tied to his brother, Mark Epstein (pictured left). Patrick McMullan via Getty Images The guest list The email records show an unusually broad and eclectic list of other occupants and short-term guests: Jean-Luc Brunel, Epsteins longtime associate and head of MC2 Models, had unit 7J. Ehud Barak, former Israeli prime minister, and his wife Nili stayed in 11J. Yoni Koren, an Israeli intelligence officer and aide to Barak, stayed in the building. Cecile de Jongh, former First Lady of the US Virgin Islands, visited in 2017. Lawrence Krauss, the theoretical physicist, was offered apartment 10F described in an email as one bedroom, nice brand new apartment. Martin Nowak, a Harvard professor and later beneficiary of Epsteins estate, requested stays multiple times. Moshe Hoffman, affiliated with Harvard and MIT Media Lab. Joscha Bach, an AI researcher whose childrens private-school tuition was paid by Epstein, requested apartments during visits. Stephen Kosslyn, former Stanford neuroscientist. Peter Attia, the physician and longevity influencer, appears in the email chains as a guest. Jack Goldberger, Epsteins West Palm Beach defense attorney in 2008, requested weekend stays. Eva Andersson-Dubin, a former model who dated Epstein and later married hedge-fund billionaire Glenn Dubin, lived there and later arranged units for staff and friends. Larry Visoski, Epsteins longtime pilot, regularly requested units for himself and other pilots. The ranch manager of Epsteins New Mexico property inquired about staying. Romanian painter Ion Nicola, who worked on Epsteins properties, stayed there. Assistant Sarah Kellen, who received immunity in Epsteins 2008 plea deal, registered her business at the building. Groff herself operated from a 10th-floor unit, as did Epsteins attorney and estate co-executor Darren Indyke. Steve Bannon, political strategist visited Epstein. In text exchanges from 2018 obtained by The Post, Epstein texts Bannon: Im in New York tonite thru sat, if you want to visit under the cover of darkness or breakfast tomorrow if you like. To which Bannon responds: Do u have access thats not the front door they have 24/7 surveillance on you. The lobby of the building at 301 E. 66th St. Courtesy of Corcoran Renovated, standardized, controlled The renovation documents reveal systematic upgrades across units: Advertisement Advertisement 2G: new kitchen work, crown molding, window treatments, radiator covers. 10N: bleached floor finish, full kitchen and bathroom renovation, new lighting. 11B: new wood floors, crown and trim to hide wires, radiator covers, kitchen and bath overhaul. 10B: new bathroom, new cabinets, trim work. 8H and 8A: kitchen cabinet replacements and cosmetic updates. 3M: cabinetry and closet work. The repeated reference to trim installed to hide wires appears across multiple units. Even paint colors required approval. In 2018, Karyna Shulyak Epsteins companion responded to a repainting quote by writing it looked correct and that she would choose the color with him when he is back. When a former house manager complained in 2014 of burned-out lightbulbs, chipped glasses and moldy closets, Epstein replied with one word: outrageous. He authorized restocking silverware and household goods. Advertisement Advertisement In another exchange about heating issues, he ordered: Buy two large space heaters Today. Epstein would allegedly take these underage girls from the condo building to his Manhattan townhouse for massages and sexual compliance. DOJ The quiet address Today, 301 E. 66th Street remains what it has long appeared to be: a conventional Upper East Side condo building with a doorman and roof deck. A furnished one-bedroom rented there on Friday for roughly $5,500 per month, according to StreetEasy. No units are currently listed for sale. Mark Epstein still controls a substantial share of the buildings units and has been active in local development disputes. Additional reporting by Desheania Andrews Did Elon Musk reveal plans to buy CBS after Feb. 20? No, that's not true: The claim appeared on a Facebook page aimed at American and European audiences but produced in Vietnam. It is part of a clickbait operation that uses AI tools and is described by some fact-checkers as "Viet Spam." The article claims Musk made the announcement on X, but there is no evidence he did so. The same false claim made previously had cited a Jan. 20 announcement date, which passed without such an announcement. The claim appeared in a Feb. 12, 2026, post on Facebook account @TheDailyScope (archived here) . It opened: BREAKING: Elon Musk reveals plans to buy CBS after February 20, promising a radical shift. "I will remove wokeness from the network," he declares, setting the stage for a dramatic transformation in broadcast television. Read the full story in the comments. This is what the post looked like on Facebook at the time of writing: Image source: Lead Stories screenshot of post at facebook.com/TheDailyScope. The claim was part of a pattern of clickbait using AI tools to produce fake stories described by some fact-checkers as "Viet spam." Multiple pages repeat the claim, including versions that cited Jan. 20 as the date Musk was supposed to buy CBS, as these Facebook posts show (archived here). Advertisement Advertisement The Facebook page that published the fictional story about Musk revealing a plan to buy CBS is managed from Vietnam, according to Meta's transparency data (archived here), as this screenshot shows: Image source: Lead Stories screenshot of post at facebook.com/TheDailyScope transparency page. The Vietnam connection is significant, since fact-checkers, including Lead Stories, have identified a major source of AI-generated false stories coming from a single operation based in that Southeast Asian country. You can see recent reporting and fact checks mentioning that country here. The post includes a link to an article (archived here) that claims a "tweet that quickly went viral," by Musk, with him quoted as writing, "Legacy media has lost its way." Lead Stories searched X (archived here) for the quote by Musk and did not find any matches, as this screenshot shows: Image source: Lead Stories screenshot of post at x.com. Had Musk announced he was planning to buy CBS it would have been newsworthy, given his stature as one of the wealthiest humans on earth and CBS' stature in broadcast news. Lead Stories searched Google News (archived here) and Yahoo! News (archived here) and did not find any legitimate news reports about the purchase. SEOUL, Feb 13 (Reuters) - North Korea is expected to convene the Ninth Congress of the ruling Workers' Party this month, the country's biggest political gathering that reviews performance, sets new policy goals and can bring leadership change. The Congress comes as leader Kim Jong Un has stepped up weapons development and factory inspections, while deepening ties with Russia amid sustained tension with South Korea and the United States. The following are some themes likely to be in focus. Advertisement Advertisement TIMING AND WHAT THE CONGRESS DOES The decision to convene the event was approved at a plenary meeting in June, when state media said the party agreed to hold the Ninth Congress but did not set a date. State media KCNA later reported that the party's Politburo adopted a decision to open the Congress in Pyongyang in late February 2026. The Congress is the party's top decision-making forum and is expected to review the past five years and set the governing line for the next phase, spanning the economy, defence and diplomacy. NEW FIVE-YEAR PLAN The Congress is expected to provide a verdict on the current five-year development push and outline future goals, with Kim urging officials to set "scientific and realistic" plans for the next five years. Advertisement Advertisement At the 2021 Congress, Kim said a previous economic plan had failed in "almost every sector" and unveiled a new five-year plan through 2025. Kim's speech emphasised concentrating investment on core heavy industries such as metals and chemicals, and strengthening agriculture and light industry to increase consumer goods output. In the run-up to the Ninth Congress, Kim has paired military messaging with visits tied to economic priorities, including inspections of construction and industrial facilities, as the government seeks to show progress heading into the meeting. WEAPONS BUILDUP Kim has used late-2025 events to underscore what state media described as an "unlimited" drive to develop the country's nuclear force, while showcasing cruise missile launches and other weapons activity. Advertisement Advertisement He has also called for increased production of key conventional systems, including multiple rocket launchers, ahead of weapons production goals to be set out at the congress. Analysts have said the Congress could be used to announce a further push for more nuclear weapons and new conventional armaments, possibly to bolster leverage for any future talks with the United States. LEADERSHIP SIGNALS AND SUCCESSION SPECULATION The Congress can reshuffle elite positions and can feature major turnover in the country's leadership. During the last Congress in 2021, more than seven out of 10 members of the Congress' executive committee were replaced with economic technocrats, according to South Korean analysts. Advertisement Advertisement Analysts also raised the possibility the Congress could revive the title of "president" for Kim a designation historically associated with state founder Kim Il Sung, aligning the leader's position more closely with foreign heads of state. Kim's teenage daughter Ju Ae has also appeared prominently at recent high-profile events, fuelling outside speculation about succession signals at the congress. While analysts differ on what roles, if any, could realistically be announced given her age, South Koreas spy agency has said it is watching closely whether she is given any formal title or post. If Ju Ae eventually became leader it would extend the family dynasty to a fourth generation. Advertisement Advertisement RUSSIA TIES At a key party meeting in December, Kim praised participation by North Korean soldiers in overseas military operations, as state media highlighted a mutual defence pact signed with Russia. Under this pact, in 2024 North Korea sent thousands of troops, artillery ammunition and missiles to support Russia's war in Ukraine, according to South Korean, Ukrainian and Western sources. The Congress could further formalise policy priorities around this partnership, including defence industry production targets and the strategic framing of North Korea's external security environment. U.S., SOUTH KOREA AND CHINA Advertisement Advertisement North Korea has dismissed outreach from South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, while recent missile launches were seen by some analysts as messages aimed at China as well as South Korea and Japan. With U.S. President Donald Trump voicing interest in resuming dialogue with Pyongyang, analysts quoted by Reuters have linked the North's weapons activity to an effort to raise negotiating leverage for any potential contact with Washington. (Reporting by Kyu-seok ShimEditing by Ed Davies and Michael Perry) The Brief Gibson came out of retirement because she believes the "torture" of a kidnapping is uniquely painful for families; she has personally helped recover eight kidnapped victims in the past. Though it is an unofficial sketch, Gibson used the distance between the eyes and the "philtrum" (the area between the nose and lip) visible in the video to estimate the suspect's facial structure. Gibson challenged those criticizing her for "guessing" on a masked suspect to "do your own version" if it helps the case, stating she is willing to risk her professional reputation at age 76 if it leads to a rescue. HOUSTON - The worlds most successful forensic artist is returning to her easel for one of the most high-profile kidnapping cases in recent memory. "Where are they? Can I stop it?'" The backstory Lois Gibson, the Guinness World Record holder and retired Houston Police Department veteran, has released an unofficial forensic sketch of the suspect wanted in the February 1 disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie. Guthrie, the mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, was taken from her Arizona home in a case that has captured national attention. Advertisement Advertisement LATEST REPORT: 1 reportedly detained in connection with case Despite retiring in 2021 after a 43-year career, Gibson says she felt a hard need to assist the Guthrie family. "I knew the pain that the loved ones were going through," Gibson said. "It's the most horrific, insane torture if you have a kidnapping... every minute seems like a half hour because you say, 'Where are they? Are they being killed? Can I stop it?'" Drawing through the mask Big picture view The challenge of this specific unofficial sketch lies in the surveillance footage released by the FBI, which shows a suspect wearing a ski mask and armed with a handgun. Additional recovered footage, from the same camera - at the same timeline the morning of Nancy Guthries disappearance. This footage is just before the original video shared, with the individual approaching Nancy Guthries front door. 1-800-CALL-FBI or https://t.co/h2BxNqSxkhpic.twitter.com/IgMHXWkL5X FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) February 10, 2026 Gibson admits that because the face was covered, much of her work is an "educated guess" based on mathematical probability and decades of experience. Advertisement Advertisement She focused on the few features visible through the mask: the eyes, the eyelids, and a distinct mustache. "I have the philtrum ratio to where the eyes are, and I know the nose ends there," Gibson explained, referencing the biological measurements she uses to reconstruct a face. "I got the eye shape... I got this mustache. If I had to bet my house and car, yeah, he had the mustache." While Gibson acknowledges that parts of the rendering, like the hair and the exact shape of the jaw, are "brave guesses," she is unapologetic about her decision to put the image out. "Ive gotten hugely criticized by people in my field, of course, and I knew they would," Gibson said. "Ill take the hit because I went into battle. If it solves it, oh my gosh... I wanted to help the emotional pain of the Guthrie family." A career of results Why you should care Gibson is no stranger to high-stakes cases. Over her career, she has worked 5,089 cases and helped identify more than 1,300 suspects. Advertisement Advertisement She famously helped recover a 10-hour-old baby that had been kidnapped from a hospital. For this case, she worked quickly, completing the unofficial rendering in less than an hour. "Me drawing a face is like a fish swimming in water," she said. "I don't feel right unless I'm drawing it." As the FBI continues its search and maintains a $100,000 reward for Guthries safe return, Gibson hopes her unofficial contribution provides the one lead the detectives need. "Somebody knows that guy," Gibson said. "I did it for the victims. That's what I do." The Source Lois Gibson, retired Houston Police forensic artist The report, The Business of Despair, by the investigative collective All Eyes On Wagner, documents recruitment networks operating across Africa and Russia. Founded in 2014, Wagner is a Russian state-funded private military company that conducts covert military operations outside Russia. With the war in Ukraine entering its fifth year and recruitment from prisons largely exhausted, Russia has increasingly turned to foreign nationals to sustain its military effort. Families seeking answers The investigation lists 1,417 fighters from 35 African countries, who enlisted between 2023 and mid-2025. Some joined voluntarily because of the salaries offered, while others were deceived by false job offers or pressured into signing military contracts. Advertisement Advertisement Compiled through NGOs and the Ukrainian programme I Want to Live, the non-exhaustive list shows a death rate exceeding 22 percent, not including those wounded or missing. The recruits are aged between 18 and 57, with an average age of 31. Egypt has the highest number of recruits, with 361 recorded. Cameroon has suffered the heaviest losses, with 94 deaths among 335 fighters listed. Among Gambian recruits, 23 of 56 contract soldiers have died. Nairobi sounds alarm over recruiters luring Kenyans into Russian war effort Far from being marginal, this recruitment forms the backbone of a strategy built around fighters to be injected into the waves of assaults used to overwhelm Ukrainian defence lines, the report said. Advertisement Advertisement All Eyes On Wagner's Lou Osborne said the publication of the list should "enable families, who have often been without news for months, to find out the fate of their loved ones, to contact their national authorities to request the return of remains and stranded persons, and to take action against these recruitments, which have become increasingly numerous as the invasion of Ukraine drags on". The story of Joel and Linda Joel (not his real name), a 24-year-old, is recorded as having been killed on 24 May, 2025 after going missing 10 months earlier while serving in the 255th Motorised Infantry Regiment. His wife Linda, also using a pseudonym, told RFI last month she lost contact with him on 26 July, 2024, weeks after he arrived in Russia following promises of a well-paid job that would allow him to support his sick parents and two-month-old baby. A Cameroonian recruitment agency had promised him travel to Poland, but after a stop in Russia and without enough money to continue the journey, he was forced to enlist in the Russian military. Advertisement Advertisement After two weeks of training, he was sent to the frontline in Donetsk and never contacted his family again. Linda said she now wants to know whether his body was buried and if there is a grave. Despite requests for comment from RFI, the Cameroonian government has not responded to the reports of its 94 nationals killed in Ukraine, or the testimonies from families of missing citizens. In March 2025, the country's defence ministry referred to clandestine departures and banned uniformed personnel from leaving the country without ministerial authorisation. 'We come here to die': African recruits sent to fight Russia's war in Ukraine Students and migrants recruited The investigation documents several recruitment pathways, including fake job offers and pressure on foreign students to enlist. Advertisement Advertisement Malick Diop from Senegal travelled to Nizhny Novgorod to study but is now being held prisoner by Ukrainian forces, according to the report. One 25-year-old Egyptian graduate of a language programme in Russia was forced to sign a military contract in order to renew his visa. Togo has said young Togolese citizens were misled by promises of work or education. Illegal migrants arrested in Russia have also been offered residency papers in exchange for joining the army. The presence of fighters from Burkina Faso and the Central African Republic, previously documented, was confirmed by the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement All Eyes On Wagner identified recruitment networks involving travel agencies in Russia and Africa offering fast-track procedures to obtain visas within weeks. Recruiters used social media platforms and messaging services including Facebook, Instagram, Telegram and TikTok to promote life in Russia through images of Moscow skyscrapers and luxury cars. They promised signing bonuses worth several thousand dollars, monthly salaries of 1,600 or more for specialists, health insurance and simplified access to citizenship. Several fighters who returned or remain in Russia reported unpaid wages or salaries lower than promised. Advertisement Advertisement A report by French Institute of International Relations researcher Thierry Vircoulon estimated that between 3,000 and 4,000 Africans were among 18,000 to 20,000 foreign fighters in the Russian army. These abusive and deceptive recruitment practices are akin to a form of human trafficking, the most tragic consequence of which is sending amateur mercenaries to the front lines as cannon fodder, the report said. Another recruitment channel targeted young women aged 18 to 22, particularly from Cote dIvoire, according to the investigation. How Moscow is reinventing its influence machine across Africa Kenya pushes back In Kenya, civil society organisations have protested against recruitment networks, while families and fighters have circulated videos calling for repatriation. Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, Kenyas foreign minister announced a visit to Moscow to curb the recruitment, while a senior official denounced a pattern of luring people and killing them. All Eyes On Wagner said two Kenyan companies, Global Face Human Resources Ltd and Ecopillars Manpower, had been dismantled. According to the investigation, victims signed payment agreements, worth between 10,000 and 15,000, with a foreign company responsible for visas and travel arrangements. The companies manager was arrested and a Russian entrepreneur based in Nairobi was deported. The published list identifies 45 Kenyan recruits. Hundreds more are believed to have passed through Russia, according to reporting cited in the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine has also stepped up online campaigns aimed at discouraging Africans from joining the war, including videos showing drone strikes and Russian footage containing racist content. The All Eyes on Wagner investigation can be read here. This article has been adapted from the original version in French by Francois Mazet. 'Walking through the chaos' is how Samuel Gray, the senior pastor at Family Baptist Church in Tulare, describes this week, after the church caught fire on Monday morning, destroying the chapel and part of their offices that have been there since 1989. "Through it we've seen God's hand, we have seen his graces, we have seen his preparations as we go through this. From a Monday morning shock to now it has just been a constant movement," explains Gray. Moving forward with hope, Gray has seen the community, other churches and the California Southern Baptist Disaster Relief team have come together to help with basic needs. RELATED: Fire breaks out at Family Baptist Church in Tulare In the meantime, the latest service was held outdoors in the parking lot, keeping the spirit of their mission alive and helping parishioners hold on to hope through prayer. Advertisement Advertisement "It's encouraging, and also it's just a reminder that God is in control," says Gray. "The church is the people and not the building. While the building has burned, the church has not, so we are just looking forward." Meanwhile, the investigation by the Tulare City Fire Department continues. It hopes to have a completed report of the cause of the fire within the next couple of weeks. "We are fairly confident that this was not an intentionally set fire and we do believe that the fire originated inside of the church," explains Fire Marshall, Ryan Leonardo, with the City of Tulare. The church will set up a temporary tent for Sunday services. They will have a bilingual service on Sunday at 11 o'clock, in English and in Spanish. The community is welcome to come. For more information, you can visit their website here. Feb 13 (Reuters) - U.S. Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Martin Makary, in an interview on Friday, urged Americans to get vaccinated for measles, as the country faces its largest measles surge in more than three decades. "When we hear about cases of measles in an outbreak in South Carolina, that should serve as a good reminder for parents to make sure that their kids are vaccinated," Makary said during an appearance on MS NOW's "Chris Jansing Reports". The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) two-shot protocol remains recommended at the federal level starting at 12 months of age, with a second at 4 to 6 years of age. Advertisement Advertisement South Carolina reported 950 measles cases on Friday, including 17 new infections since Tuesday, according to state health officials. No deaths have been reported by the state. Among those infected, a significant majority of 883 individuals were unvaccinated, and 19 were partially vaccinated with one of the recommended two-dose measles-mumps-rubella vaccines. "I think everyone in this administration has been pretty clear that the best way to prevent measles is to get your kid vaccinated against measles," Makary added. Earlier this week, National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya also expressed his support for Americans getting vaccinated against measles. Advertisement Advertisement "The answer is yes," Bhattacharya said about the vaccines when asked by Reuters about recent outbreaks. On Sunday, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz also urged Americans to take the measles vaccine in an interview with CNN. "Take the vaccine, please," he said. (Reporting by Sneha S K in Bengaluru; Editing by Vijay Kishore) A federal judge on Friday ordered the U.S. government to bring back an Austin college student who was deported to Honduras despite a court order blocking her removal, according to a court document obtained by the American-Statesman. Any Lucia Lopez Belloza, 20, had planned to surprise her Austin-based parents for Thanksgiving with a trip home from her first semester at Babson College. Instead, federal immigration agents arrested her at Boston's Logan International Airport and deported her to Honduras, her native country, two days later. Her family has insisted they were unaware of any deportation order against her. Advertisement Advertisement Lopez Bellozas arrest attracted national attention, exemplifying the far-reaching scope of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown. At the time of her deportation, Lopez Belloza had lived in the United States for more than a decade and was attending university on a scholarship. In his Friday order, the presiding U.S. District Judge Richard G. Stearns suggested that the federal government should fix what he wrote was an erroneous action. He gave the government 14 days to facilitate her return. Wisdom counsels that redemption may be found by acknowledging and fixing our own errors, Stearns wrote. In this unfortunate case, the government commendably admits that it did wrong. Now it is time for the government to make amends. Stearns words referenced an apology government lawyers made at a court hearing last month as the judge considered holding the government in contempt for not complying with the initial court order pausing Lopez Bellozas deportation. After arresting Lopez Belloza, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement quickly transferred her from Massachusetts to Texas, a move the agency later argued stripped the judge of jurisdiction. Yet, the Department of Homeland Security has insisted it did nothing wrong, pointing to Lopez Bellozas outstanding removal order. Advertisement Advertisement There was no mistake, the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement. It did not respond to Statesman questions seeking to clarify its position. Stearns previously asked the Trump administration to consider options for legally returning her. On Feb. 6, the government declined to bring her back, suggesting instead that Lopez Belloza apply for a new nonimmigrant student visa from abroad, according to a court document obtained by the Statesman. U.S. Rep. Greg Casar, an Austin Democrat, celebrated the news Friday, calling the judges order a necessary step. The Trump Administration must follow this judges order and let Any Lopez Belloza return to her family and her school, Casar said. Any attempt to further prosecute, jail, or deport an innocent American college student is unacceptable. Advertisement Advertisement On Friday evening, Lopez Bellozas attorney, Todd Pomerleau, said that though he believes the federal government is willing to break court orders, he is hopeful that Fridays order will mark the beginning of his clients return. He said Lopez Belloza could gain permanent legal status to remain in the United States through several means, including a new visa application process her mother has begun. Fourteen days from now she should be on U.S. soil, if not sooner, Pomerleau said. Theres an end in sight. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is investigating whether two development companies behind a master-planned North Texas community formerly known as East Plano Islamic Center City discriminated against peoples religion or national origin. The investigation comes after several state officials accused entities behind the development that marketed to Muslims and is now called The Meadow of religious discrimination. It also comes after the U.S. Justice Department quietly closed its own probe into the housing project, saying the developers agreed to follow federal fair housing laws. The Meadow is a planned community with more than 1,000 residential units, a mosque, a K-12 faith-based school and retail shops near Josephine, northeast of Dallas. HUD Secretary Scott Turner said Friday the investigation into EPIC Real Properties, Inc., and Community Capital Partners comes after the Texas Workforce Commission filed a complaint alleging The Meadows developers were engaged in a large-scale pattern of religious discriminatory conduct. Advertisement Advertisement The state workforce commission resolved its investigation into the projects alleged religious discrimination last September, according to documents obtained by KERA. HUD did not immediately respond to emailed questions about the investigation or state Workforce Commissions complaint. As HUD Secretary, I will not stand for illegal religious or national origin discrimination in housing and will ensure that this matter receives a thorough investigation so that this community is open to all Texans, Turner said in a statement Friday. In a press release, officials with The Meadow said they have followed all laws and that HUDs investigation addresses the same concerns the state workforce commission already resolved through a conciliation agreement. A lawyer for one of The Meadows developers said they sued the workforce commission to comply with the agreement and formally close the state investigation, after which HUDs probe was announced. That sequence of events raises serious due process concerns and appears less like neutral enforcement and more like an effort to shift forums once the State was required to defend its actions in court, said Eric Hudson, legal counsel for Community Capital Partners. Advertisement Advertisement Fridays announcement is far from the first time the planned community has been investigated, as the construction project has drawn repeated backlash from Gov. Greg Abbott, Attorney General Ken Paxton and others. Several investigations from multiple state agencies and a lawsuit from Paxtons office are currently underway. The Department of Justice opened its now-closed investigation into the center in May at the request of U.S. Sen. John Cornyn. Opposition to Islam has become a key campaign pillar for some state Republicans on the March 3 GOP primary ballot. HUDs investigation into the North Texas development comes weeks after it closed a yearslong investigation into Texas distribution of Hurricane Harvey aid, finding no reasonable cause to believe Texas officials discriminated based on race or national origin. Abbott applauded the new investigation in a statement shortly after it was announced, taking credit for the initial state investigation into the planned community and the resulting complaint from the Texas Workforce Commission. He also affirmed he hoped the investigation would result in the project not being completed. Together, we will hold anyone involved in violating the law accountable, Abbott said. The Meadow will remain just that an empty field. The final deadline for the seven states in the Colorado River Basin to negotiate a new 20-year agreement for how to manage the water supply for years to come is here. The states, once again, have not reached a deal, and after two extensions in November and December, the federal government is done resetting the clock. The federal government will now step in to determine, at least for a time, how water gets divided among the states and parties signed onto the Colorado River Compact. What is the Colorado River Compact? The Colorado River Compact is an agreement, originally signed in 1922, between the Upper Basin states of Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and New Mexico, and the Lower Basin states of Arizona, Nevada and California, that described how they would equitably divide rights to water from the Colorado River. Advertisement Advertisement Since the 1960s, an additional operating agreement has been in effect between the seven states that implemented usage restrictions to ensure all states had access to water as the West grew. The current operating agreement determines how the Colorado River can be used through 2026. Major population and economic growth, particularly within the Lower Basin, has changed how much water states are willing to give up in the event of a drought. "It's important for people to understand that many times, in many years, we get 90% or 100% of the snow pack that we've historically gotten," Tom Buschatzke, director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources told Straight Arrow News. "We get 60% or 70% runoff, not 90% or the 85% of the runoff from that snow that we used to get. That is because of the warming trend." As less water flows through the Colorado River, the Upper and Lower Basin can't agree on who should bear the brunt of water reductions. Has the federal government laid out a plan? In January, the Bureau of Reclamation released a draft of five potential options to manage the Colorado River Basin after 2026. At the time, the bureau described the plans as "No Action," "Basic Coordination," "Enhanced Coordination," "Maximum Operational Flexibility" and "Supply Driven." Advertisement Advertisement A no-action plan would allow large reservoirs like Lake Mead and Lake Powell to fall below critical levels in low water years, which could jeopardize hydroelectric operations at facilities like the Hoover Dam. A basic coordination plan takes this into account, preserving a smaller amount of water in Lake Mead to ensure there is enough water to "protect critically low elevations." Areas below Lake Mead would get less water than promised to maintain reservoir levels. Arizona would be hit the hardest by both plans, taking on around three-quarters of the required cuts. That's because the Central Arizona Project which carries Arizona's portion of the Colorado River water supply across the state has the most junior river rights and is always the first to see cuts, Buschatzke said. The "enhanced coordination" alternative attempts to protect critical resources and distribute water storage between Lake Mead and Lake Powell. It also attempts to more evenly distribute water shortages across Arizona, California, Nevada and Mexico, with California taking on a majority (nearly 50%) of the cuts. It also introduces mandatory conservation plans for Upper Basin states. Advertisement Advertisement The "maximum operational flexibility" alternative takes a proactive approach to conserving water across the Upper and Lower Basin states. It would create several surplus pools along the river system to keep Lake Powell above critical levels. It offers a more flexible approach to implementing cuts during shortage years and requires the Upper Basin to release more water to limit impacts in the Lower Basin. The final alternative, a "supply-driven" alternative, would take a data-driven approach. It would release water from Lake Powell based on a 3-year rolling average of river flows, not what was happening in that particular year. The plan would do the same for Lake Mead in terms of releasing water to the Lower Basin states. Arizona would take on 80% of cuts during a small shortage, but if the river were running particularly low, the cuts would be distributed more equally between the lower basin. Page, Arizona, The water reservoir behind the Glen Canyon Dam is only 27 percent full. White rock around the lake is the 'bathtub ring,' which shows how dramatically the water has dropped. (Photo by: Jim West/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) Two of the four intake towers sit in the reservoir of Lake Mead at the Hoover Dam in Boulder City, Nevada on June 8, 2024. (Photo by JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images) What are the implications of potential federal plans? The federal plans were all developed without much input from the stakeholders: the seven basin states, dozens of tribes and Mexico, which also has junior rights to the Colorado River. Advertisement Advertisement Even without an operating agreement, the original Colorado River Compact requires a certain amount of water to flow from the Upper Basin to the Lower Basin over a 10-year period. While that threshold has never been reached, consecutive low snowpack years, like what Colorado and Utah are currently experiencing, could drop river flows below the mark. Then, more mandatory cuts could come into play. "The likelihood of litigation is very high," Buschatzke said. Arizona's legislature approved $3 million for the state to fight potential mandated water cuts under a federal plan. Another bill just passed the state House and is working its way through the Senate adds another $1 million. Potential lawsuits will likely center around which stakeholders must cut water usage. The Upper Basin argues it doesn't have the water flow to commit to major cuts. The Lower Basin says it already cut enough. What comes next? The federal government has until Oct. 1 to determine how much water it needs to release from Lake Powell and Lake Mead for next year. That's when it will become clear how short, if at all, the Lower Basin will be on water. Advertisement Advertisement The uncertainty that comes with not being able to plan for the future could be detrimental, particularly for Arizona, which faces the widest range of possible outcomes. "The uncertainty that will occur will hurt us economically," Buschatzke said. "It will create a huge challenge for the farmers, who often have multi-year contracts to sell their crops." He said around 90% of all the vegetables - produce like lettuce, broccoli, and other crops - are grown with Colorado River water in Arizona between November and April. "There will be economic impacts, and the uncertainty may hurt our economy from a growth perspective as well," Buschatzke said. There is a potential five-year deal on the table that could help the seven basin states avoid litigation and potential Supreme Court cases. It helps set guidelines for the short-term management for the river, but it doesn't help with long-term planning for city managers and businesses. Advertisement Advertisement The post Feds take over after Western states fail to strike Colorado River deal appeared first on Straight Arrow News. Related Links A dispute between two men is believed to have led to a deadly shooting early Friday in West Philadelphia. The gunfire broke out around 2 a.m. on the 5400 block of Wyalusing Avenue. Police say a 40-year-old man was shot several times and died at the scene. The suspect ran from the area and was last seen wearing a dark blue hoodie, black pants, and black-and-white sneakers. Anyone with information is asked to call Philadelphia Police. The Brief A fire broke out shortly after 2 a.m. on Feb. 13 at SkyLand Ranch amusement park in Sevierville, Tennessee. The dramatic video shows flames and smoke rising near a roller-coaster track. Two barns were damaged, but all animals were safely evacuated and no injuries were reported, according to park officials. A fire broke out at SkyLand Ranch amusement park in Sevierville, Tennessee the hometown of Dolly Parton on Friday. Fire breaks out at amusement park Dramatic footage recorded by Chris Rogan shows flames and smoke rising near a roller-coaster track, which is visible against the night sky. Advertisement Advertisement According to SkyLand Ranch, two barns were damaged in the fire. The park reported that all animals housed in the barns were evacuated safely and that no injuries occurred. A fire erupted at a Tennessee amusement park, with dramatic video capturing the blaze. (Credit: Chris Rogan via Storyful) Local news outlets said the fire was first reported shortly after 2 a.m. on Feb. 13, and responding crews worked to contain the blaze. Fire at Disney Worlds EPCOT last year Last year, a fire sparked backstage at Walt Disney World's EPCOT theme park, sending a dark plume of smoke above the World Showcase, near the France Pavilion. People at or near the park flooded social media with videos and photos of the fire and smoke. RELATED: Fire sparks backstage at Walt Disney World's EPCOT, officials say Advertisement Advertisement FOX 35 Orlando confirmed that some people had to be evacuated off "Remy's Ratatouille Adventure" to backstage. No injuries were reported. The Source This story was reported from Los Angeles. Storyful contributed. A fire broke out at a key fuel processing plant in the Cuban capital Havana, threatening to exacerbate an energy crisis as the country struggles under an oil blockade imposed by the United States. A large plume of smoke was seen rising above Havana Bay from the Nico Lopez refinery on Friday, drawing the attention of the capitals residents before fading as fire crews fought to bring the situation under control. Cubas Ministry of Energy and Mines said the fire, which erupted in a warehouse at the refinery, was eventually extinguished and that the cause is under investigation. There were no injuries and the fire did not spread to nearby areas, the ministry said in a post on social media. Advertisement Advertisement The workday at the Nico Lopez Refinery continues with complete normalcy, the ministry said. Continua con total normalidad la jornada en la Refineria Nico Lopez. El incendio ocurrido hoy se controlo rapidamente, no se extendio a otras areas, solo en el almacen que contenia productos en desuso. No hubo lesionados y se mantiene la investigacion para determinar las causas. Ministerio de Energia y Minas de Cuba (@EnergiaMinasCub) February 13, 2026 The location of the fire was close to where two oil tankers were moored in Havanas harbour. Cuba, which has been in a severe economic crisis for years, relied heavily on oil imports from Venezuela, which have been cut off since the abduction of the countrys leader Nicolas Maduro by United States forces last month. US President Donald Trump has also threatened Cubas government and passed a recent executive order allowing for trade tariffs on any country that supplies oil to the island. The country has seen widespread power outages due to the lack of fuel. Bus and train services have been cut, some hotels have closed, schools and universities have been restricted, and public sector workers are on a four-day work week. Staffing at hospitals was also cut back. Advertisement Advertisement United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned last week of a humanitarian collapse in Cuba if its energy needs go unmet. Men fish as black smoke billows from a fire at the Nico Lopez oil refinery in Havana on February 13, 2026 [Yamil Lage/AFP] On Thursday, two Mexican navy vessels carrying more than 800 tonnes of humanitarian aid arrived in Havana, underscoring the nations growing need for humanitarian assistance amid the tightening US stranglehold on fuel. Experts in maritime transport tracking told the AFP news agency that no foreign fuel or oil tankers have arrived in Cuba in weeks. Cuba can only produce about one-third of its total fuel requirements. Cubas Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos de Cossio accused the US of carrying out massive punishment against the Cuban people in a post on social media Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Cuba requires imports of fuel and the US is applying threats [and] coercive measures against any country that provides it, the deputy minister said. Lack of fuel harms transportation, medical services, schooling, energy, production of food, the standard of living, he said. Massive punishment is a crime, he added. Quite criminal to have provoking a humanitarian crisis as your priority goal in foreign policy toward a country and its population. Seems medieval. https://t.co/BtnZscOT6t Carlos F. de Cossio (@CarlosFdeCossio) February 14, 2026 Mexicos President Claudia Sheinbaum has said her government seeks to open the doors for dialogue to develop between Cuba and the US and has criticised Washingtons oil restrictions as unfair. If it's seems like everyone is getting sick, that's ikely because cases of influenza are surging across California somewhat late in the flu season. So far this flu season, more than 154,000 people have tested positive for influenza, a vast undercount wastewater data shows. Nearly 19,000 cases were confirmed in the first week of Februray. According to the California Department of Public Health, every county in the state is seeing the flu spread at 'very high' or 'high' levels, with the highest rates of spread currently across all of Southern california and the very northern counties of the state. "Many regions in California are experiencing very high levels of seasonal influenza activity," state health officials warned in a written statement. "Test positivity, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations from influenza are all increasing statewide." Influenza cases rose slowly starting in November, before exploding in mid-December, according to data from the California Department of Public Health. By early January, cases peaked, followed by a small dip in positive case rates that health officials hoped meant flu season would end early this year. Advertisement Advertisement But cases again rose to an eaven higher peak in February, the data reveals. Seasonal flu activity remains elevated across the country, including in California, where children are among the most impacted, according to state health officials. "Children and kids are always the first to register new trends," Dr. Caitlin Rivers, an epidemiologist who writes about infectious disease, told CNN. "So I do think that the increase will hit adults as well, but for now, its really concentrated in kids." So far, more than 14,600 people have been hospitalized in California due to the flu, and 262 have died, including three children, according to data from the Department of Public Health. Advertisement Advertisement Flu activity this year has been mostly driven by a new mutation called "subclade K." Subclade K is an Influenza A strain H3NS that has mutated seven times, making the flu a more serious threat than in years past. The subclade K mutation emerged after the vaccine was chosen for the Northern Hemisphere, last February. Once the mutation became established, there wasnt time to develop a better-matched vaccine. That leaves more people susceptible because the virus has found a way to evade pre-existing immunity from either an infection or vaccination. It seems, however, that Influenza B strains may be on the come-up, according to CNN. Influenza B differs in that a person can get it more than once in a season. In California during the week ending Feb. 7, cases of Influenza B appeared to nearly double, reaching 15,300 confirmed cases. However, Influenza A remains dominent in the golden State, with more than 17,100 cases confirmed last week. Health officials recommend people protect themselves and their families from sickness by getting updated COVID-19 and flu vaccines, and RSV vaccines for people over 60 years old. Officials also advise people to take additional precautions, such as avoiding people who are sick, washing hands and wearing a mask. Advertisement Advertisement "Current seasonal flu vaccines remain effective at reducing severe illness and hospitalization, including the currently circulating viruses," Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer, said in a January statement. "As a pediatrician, parent, and daughter, I have made sure that my own family is protected with this seasons flu vaccine." Local Editor Kristina Houck and AP News contributed to this report. Flu Cases Spreading At Very High Levels Across CA, Strain Capable Of Reinfections On The Rise originally appeared on the Across California Patch ROCKVILLE, Md. (DC News Now) A former Laurel police chief responsible for setting more than a dozen arson fires across multiple Maryland counties was sentenced to 55 years in prison in Montgomery County on Friday. Prosecutors say over ten years, former Laurel Police Chief David Crawford targeted people he had disputes with, setting fire to their homes, including his own stepsons. Crawford was already serving two life sentences in Howard County. On Friday, a Montgomery County judge handed down an additional 55-year sentence for first- and second-degree arson. Advertisement Advertisement To finally have closure on the case is God-sent, said Crawfords stepson, Justin Scherstrom. Scherstrom said he feels relieved after his stepfather was sentenced for setting fire to two of his homes in Clarksburg. I definitely forgive him, but at the same time I dont think hes capable of rehabilitation, Scherstrom said. PREVIOUS: Former Laurel police chief sentenced to life for series of arsons in Maryland The fires happened twice at the familys townhome on Majestic Elm Court, first in September 2016 and again in 2017, and later at their home on Peppervine Drive in November 2020. I just kind of thought that family bickering is normal. So when I started to consider him as a suspect, it was tough, Scherstrom said. Advertisement Advertisement Montgomery County States Attorney John McCarthy said Crawfords background in law enforcement made his actions especially troubling. Because of his background in law enforcement, he particularly knew the risks he was taking, McCarthy said. Investigators say Scherstrom was not the only victim. Authorities determined Crawford set fires at the homes of people he had conflicts with across Charles, Howard, Prince Georges, and Montgomery counties between 2011 and 2020. Many of the victims were home at the time. Surveillance video showed Crawford wearing a hoodie and pouring gallons of gasoline before using a stick wrapped in cloth to ignite the fires at home in Prince Georges County. Advertisement Advertisement He was aggressive in his personality. If he didnt get a promotion from you and he was [overlooked], you would become a target. If you fired him from a job, you would become a target. If you had a dispute with you over some school board matter, you would become a target, McCarthy said. Crawford had previously been sentenced to two life sentences plus 75 years in prison in Howard County. Prosecutors said the additional 55-year sentence serves as a safeguard. We wanted this to be a backstop to ensure that if anything happened during the appeal on the prior cases, that it would essentially ensure that the defendant, who is now 74 years old, would spend the rest of his life behind bars, McCarthy said. Crawford will serve his life sentence in Howard County concurrently with the 55-year sentence in Montgomery County. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Chinese premier hosts symposium for foreign experts in China Xinhua) 08:05, February 14, 2026 Chinese Premier Li Qiang hosts a symposium for representatives of the foreign experts who won the 2025 Chinese Government Friendship Award, as well as other foreign experts working in China, ahead of the Spring Festival, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 13, 2026. Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang also attended the symposium. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) BEIJING, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Ahead of the Spring Festival, Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Friday afternoon hosted a symposium at the Great Hall of the People for representatives of the foreign experts who won the 2025 Chinese Government Friendship Award, as well as other foreign experts working in China. Li extended best wishes and sincere greetings for the Spring Festival to the foreign experts, and thanked them for their long-term concern and support for China's modernization efforts. He also listened to their opinions and suggestions on China's development and government work. Experts from countries including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Uganda, Bulgaria, Belarus and Germany delivered speeches on topics such as sci-tech innovation, agricultural development, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, talent cultivation, and investment cooperation. Li expressed the hope that foreign experts will remain committed to acting as a bridge between China and the world, and play greater roles in enhancing mutual trust and understanding, strengthening exchanges and mutual learning, and achieving mutually beneficial outcomes. Foreign experts have built their careers in China, and their innovative achievements and work results create significant spillover effects, benefiting both China and the world, Li said. The recommendations of the Communist Party of China Central Committee for the formulation of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), lay out a grand blueprint for China's development over the next five years. He encouraged foreign experts to seize the opportunity, remain engaged and work together for a better future, while making greater contributions to the progress of human civilization. Foreign experts working in China are sincere friends of the Chinese people, Li said, stressing that the Chinese government will strive to create a better environment for their life and work, and it will continue to safeguard peace and stability. It will also step up support through various innovation policies, and optimize services related to visas, social security, medical care and children's education, he added. These efforts aim to ensure that talent from various countries can feel more secure at work, more comfortable in daily life, and more satisfied with their development in China, enabling them to achieve professional success while experiencing the warmth of home, Li said. Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang also attended the symposium. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) NEW YORK (AP) A former high-ranking official in the New York Police Department has been charged with accepting $35,000 in cash, luxury travel perks and other bribes from a Florida businessman seeking to sell panic buttons to the citys public schools and police. In an indictment Thursday, federal prosecutors said Kevin Taylor attempted to steer an $11 million contract toward the company, SaferWatch, while serving as the commanding officer of the NYPDs School Safety Division. The company markets its product as a mobile panic alert system used for mass shootings and other emergencies. In exchange, the companys founder, Gene Roefaro, showered Taylor and his romantic partner with gifts including luxury hotels and airfare to the Bahamas and Las Vegas, helicopter tours, tickets to Broadway musicals and a medieval-themed dinner theater along with multiple cash payments, prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Taylor pleaded not guilty to bribery and wire fraud charges on Thursday. An emailed inquiry to his attorney was not returned. Roefaro is also facing charges, including bribery and wire fraud. He has not yet entered a plea. An attorney for Roefaro said it was puzzling and deeply concerning that the United States Attorneys Office has chosen to pursue charges against Geno, while at the very same time, alleging and seeking to prove that he was the victim of an extortionate shakedown." The charges are the latest allegations of corruption and favor-trading lodged against officials appointed by the citys former mayor, Eric Adams, who faced his own indictment in a separate bribery scheme that also involved luxury travel gifts. While the case against Adams was later abandoned by the Trump administration, at least some of the probes into his inner circle remain active, including an ongoing bribery case involving his former chief advisor. In recent weeks, federal prosecutors have announced bribery charges against two other NYPD officers and a former housing official under Adams. Advertisement Advertisement The investigation into SaferWatch first emerged in September 2024 as part of a sprawling federal probe into the Adams administration. The company was one of several to hire a consulting firm run by the brother of two top Adams officials, both of whom resigned after their homes were searched by federal authorities. Federal prosecutors allege that in 2023 Taylor helped secured a no-bid contract to pilot Roefaros products within the command center of the NYPDs school safety division. But as the police official struggled to expand the program, Roefaro grew frustrated, at times describing himself as a sugar daddy who had made a MAJOR investment and zero return, according to the indictment. Its been fun, but its not fun or funny anymore, Roefaro allegedly texted Taylor in late 2023. Our company (ME) needs to report something real and significant that is in place prior to end of year. Days later, Taylor tried to put together a press conference to announce his division would be procuring a tip line from Roefaro's company, prosecutors said. But that event was later cancelled. During roughly the same time, Taylor was also attempting to solicit $75,000 in bribes from two businessmen involved in a company that sold bullet-resistant vests to police, according to the indictment. Both men declined his solicitations, prosecutors said. Dr Halima Begum resigned as CEO of Oxfam GB amid allegations of bullying Oxfams former chief executive has accused the charity of being toxic and anti-Semitic during her tenure. Halima Begum resigned as the chief executive of Oxfam GB in December amid allegations that she was bullying staff. Now she has accused the charity of having a disproportionate focus on Gaza compared with other world crises, and said it was too quick to describe Israels actions in Gaza as a genocide. Advertisement Advertisement Ms Begum, who is taking Oxfam to an employment tribunal over her departure, also accused the charity of racism and sexism from board members at two board meetings. In her tribunal claim, she accuses the organisation of having a toxic anti-Semitic culture. Ms Begum, who was appointed in 2024, told Channel 4 News: Its important to work around the rule of law and maintain that the international rule of law must not be compromised. But we have to show consistency with other crises in the world, and it always felt as though we were disproportionately working around the crisis in Gaza. Referring to Gaza, she added: But other examples include quite strong pushback when we were not ready yet to use the word genocide. Advertisement Advertisement To use the word genocide, it has to be something we arrive at with consultation and evidence and good legal advice and to try and use that term before we are ready as an organisation feels quite risky to me. Ms Begum said Oxfam were always disproportionately working around the crisis in Gaza - Abdel Kareem Hana/AP Photo The charity adopted the term genocide to describe Israels actions in Gaza in summer 2025 and accused the Israeli government of routinely blocking aid. Ms Begum added that even as a Muslim woman it was difficult to hold on to neutrality and impartiality within the organisation. She claimed that during the charitys restructure, in which large numbers of UK staff were made redundant, a member of the senior team called the all-female leadership team a bunch of s--ts. In December, the charitys board found Ms Begums 130,000-a-year position had become untenable after she allegedly created a climate of fear. Advertisement Advertisement Almost 70 members of staff signed a letter calling for Oxfams trustees to begin an investigation into her alleged conduct after several others resigned after falling out with her, The Times reported at the time. Ms Begum said she was shocked after being the only person reviewed and investigated after the letter was sent despite the fact that other senior members were named in the letter, particularly another white female colleague. Oxfams board of trustees later commissioned an external review to examine concerns raised about the leadership, conduct and approach of Ms Begum. The investigation drew on testimony from 32 current and former colleagues, the charity said. Findings showed serious issues in the CEOs leadership behaviour and her decision making, including breaches of organisational processes and values, and inappropriate interference into safeguarding and integrity investigations. Attempted to rewrite neutral Gaza messaging The report also alleged Ms Begum attempted to rewrite Oxfams politically neutral public messaging on the war in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement It also said that staff claimed she was not careful enough in considering the safety of staff in Gaza when she publicly called for the UK to stop arming Israel, for example. Concerns were also raised after Ms Begum took part in a panel discussion in Parliament alongside a Palestinian journalist who reportedly called the Oct 7 attacks a great day. Asked about the report, Dr Begum said: They were never really shared with me, so there was no natural justice in this process. I was quite shocked to see allegations of this kind for the first time in the newspapers. And in this day and age, if that is not a witch-hunt, I dont know how and where else we would describe a witch-hunt. Advertisement Advertisement Dr Begum claims she was forced to resign on Dec 14 because the board did not give [her] the opportunity to respond to the reports findings. She claimed that apart from two weeks at the beginning of her tenure, the workplace was unsafe, adding: The minority of staff who had a very toxic culture in the way they operated, which then affected the whole organisation. Dr Begum concluded that the whole public nature of the fallout with Oxfam has been incredibly hard to bear and devastating after being accused of all sorts of things and having no chance to reply or rebut any of these allegations. The fallout comes after a difficult year financially for the charity. Financial figures, released in December, showed that its profits from shops had fallen by two thirds over the past three years. Oxfam announced earlier this year that it would be making 250 of its 2,100 UK staff redundant - Nick Ansell/PA Wire Oxfam also announced it would be making 250 of its 2,100 UK staff redundant earlier this year to save 10.2m from its wage bill. Advertisement Advertisement An Oxfam spokesman said: These claims represent one individuals perspective and are strongly disputed by Oxfam GB. To date, we have not received Dr Begums employment tribunal claim. We have a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, harassment and abuse of power in all areas of our work including racism, anti-Semitism [and] sexism. It would be inaccurate and misleading to characterise Oxfam as a racist organisation. We abhor anti-Semitism. We unequivocally reject any allegation of antisemitism which runs counter to Oxfams core humanitarian principles of impartiality and humanity. Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays. Feb. 13STOCKTON New charges have been filed this week against a former Stockton Police Department officer already serving a sentence on multiple sexual assault convictions. The San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office announced Wednesday that Nicholas Bloed had been arraigned on a new set of sexual assault charges. Bloed, who is currently serving an eight-year sentence in state prison, has been charged with two counts of oral copulation by threat of authority to arrest or deport, two counts of rape by threat to arrest or deport, and one count of assault by a public officer. Advertisement Advertisement In addition, the District Attorney's Office has also alleged aggravating factors for sentencing, which include the defendant's planning, sophistication and professionalism, as well as the victimization of a particularly vulnerable individual. "A previous sentence does not grant a pass for additional victims or uncharged crimes," District Attorney Ron Freitas said. "Our pursuit of justice is exhaustive. We will continue to bring every viable charge to light to ensure that this defendant is held fully accountable for the total scope of his actions against our community." Bloed pleaded guilty to two counts of oral copulation by threat of arrest and two counts of assault by a public officer under color of authority last year. The two former counts are classified as serious felonies under California's Three Strikes Law, resulting in two strikes on Bloed's criminal record, the District Attorney's Office said. Advertisement Advertisement As part of the sentence, Bloed was remanded into custody and is required to register as a sex offender for a minimum of 10 years, after which he may petition for termination of registration. An investigation into Bloed began after one victim came forward and said that he pulled her over in 2021 because she was driving an unregistered vehicle without license plates. Instead of issuing a ticket, Bloed took her phone to get her number. He let her go, but pulled her over again, which resulted in five months of multiple instances of sexual abuse, according to the victim's lawyer. The victim filed a complaint with the Stockton Police Department in May of 2022, and Bloed was placed on paid administrative leave that same month. By the following October, he was no longer with the department, and additional victims had come forward with allegations of abuse, reports state. One woman told KCRA in 2022 that Bloed had assaulted her at the Motel 6 near Interstate 5 and Plymouth Road. She said she was staying with a woman who was afraid to be alone with Bloed because he had been assaulting her since 2017 after meeting on an escort website, reports state. Bloed is scheduled to appear in court again on Friday, Feb. 27 for further arraignment on these new charges. Fox News correspondent Aishah Hasnie flat-out asked TMZs Harvey Levin if hed be willing to fork over the $50,000 being requested for information on Nancy Guthries kidnapper. Levin joined Hasnie as she was hosting Fox News Live on Saturday following heavy police activity just two miles away from Guthries Tucson, Arizona home. Sheriff Chris Nanos revealed that the late night operation was police executing a search warrant and chasing down leads. Authorities said no suspects are in custody. Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today anchor Samantha Guthrie, has been missing since the beginning of the month. Advertisement Advertisement TMZ has found itself at the center of the story, having received multiple ransom notes regarding the kidnapping. A total of $6 million in Bitcoin has been demanded for Guthrie. Levin also detailed other emails hes received from someone claiming to have information on the kidnapper. He said police are taking the notes extremely seriously. The unidentified person sending the messages is requesting $50,000 to begin handing over information. They also warned authorities need to be prepared to go international. Would you put up that money just to see where it goes? Hasnie asked Levin, the founder of TMZ. Levin argued it would be highly inappropriate and could impede the investigation. He also argued there is likely a very good reason the family has not paid the ransom. He said: I think its really inappropriate because, based on what we know, we could be interfering with law enforcement. They are not just sitting back. Theres a reason that this ransom, this $6 million ransom has not been paid and theres a reason why the Guthrie family and/or law enforcement has not paid the money. I dont know what that reason is. Personally, Im puzzled, but its very clear to me that they could do it if they want to. And if we got involved in that, I think it would be highly inappropriate and could actually impede the investigation. Theres something, obviously theres lot theyre not telling us, but I do know theyre really interested in this, so were just kind of following along and passing the information on. Watch above via Fox News. The post Fox Host Flat Out Asks TMZs Harvey Levin If Hed Fork Over $50K Himself for Information on Nancy Guthrie Kidnapper first appeared on Mediaite. MUNICH, Feb 14 (Reuters) - Some G7 countries have expressed willingness to move ahead with maritime services ban of Russian oil and France is "reasonably optimistic a deal can be reached, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on Saturday. "We hope to be able to include it in the 20th (EU) sanctions package we are actively preparing," Barrot told reporters after a G7 foreign ministers meeting in Munich. "Some of the G7 countries have expressed willingness to move forward. The jury is still out, but my expectations are reasonably optimistic," he added. (Reporting by John Irish, writing Leigh ThomasEditing by Bernadette Baum) FROSTBURG Frostburg State University announced the launch of its Entrepreneurial and Innovation HUB at the Tri-State Growth & Commerce Coalitions luncheon Thursday, outlining an integrated approach to supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses and workforce development across Western Maryland and the tri-state region. FSU Interim President Darlene Smith presented the HUBs framework, which organizes five interconnected pillars into a comprehensive ecosystem supporting ventures from ideation through market expansion. The five pillars include the Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Western Region Small Business Development Center, Frostburg Outdoor Recreation Economy Institute, Appalachian Innovation Institute and the Center for Product Design and Advanced Manufacturing. Advertisement Advertisement This HUB is our response to what the business community told us they need, Smith said, referencing TGCCs fall 2025 workforce survey. Three-quarters of regional employers are ready to offer internships and apprenticeships, but we lack a coordinated system to connect students with those opportunities. The HUB addresses that gap directly. The announcement builds on TGCCs Imagine 2031 framework presented at Januarys PACE conference, which outlined a five-year roadmap to regional prosperity through coordinated infrastructure investment across three strategic pillars: Gateway (transportation), Destination (quality of place) and Foundation (economic transformation). Stacy Wassell, director of CEI, announced the FSU Entrepreneurship Accelerator launching Feb. 16 with over 40 student entrepreneurs and local business owners. The three-month program, developed in partnership with the Maryland Energy Innovation Accelerator, provides mentorship, business planning support and access to regional networks across all industry sectors. Advertisement Advertisement We need the business communitys expertise to make this work, Wassell said, inviting regional employers to serve as mentors through virtual monthly sessions culminating in an April pitch competition. Jeff Simcoe, director of FOREI, shared updates on the outdoor recreation economy, including the recently launched BASELINE study and the launch of the Outdoor Business Alliance of Appalachia Maryland, positioning the region as a leader in outdoor industry innovation. Jennifer Walsh, executive director of TGCC and senior associate vice president for FSUs Division of Advancement and Regional Engagement, emphasized the partnerships strategic value. TGCCs role is to see the missing interconnections and bring them together. FSU brings academic expertise and student talent; TGCC brings business leadership and expertise a vast regional network, and the ability to convene across sectors and jurisdictions. Together, were building systematic pathways instead of leaving connections to chance. Advertisement Advertisement The luncheon was sponsored by FOREI and the Rural Maryland Council. Those interested in mentorship opportunities or partnerships can contact Wassell at swassell@frostburg.edu or Walsh at jennifer@greatercc.org. Only three House Republicans won re-election in 2024 while Kamala Harris carried their districts and one of them, Rep. Don Bacon, is retiring this year in Nebraska, giving Democrats a big opportunity in the Omaha-area seat theyve been trying to capture for years. This has given way to a crowded Democratic primary sparring on issues from policy positions to whether one candidate is, by seeking the seat, jeopardizing the partys limited power in the state Legislature. And unlike in most congressional districts around the country, in Nebraskas 2nd Congressional District, a so-called blue dot, this could have national implications. Harris and Joe Biden each carried the district and the electoral vote that comes with it under Nebraska law. Many Republicans there want to change that law to the more common winner-take-all format, which would mean another practically automatic GOP electoral vote in the deep-red state. Previous efforts to change the law have failed, but changes in the makeup of the state Legislature could tip the balance. Advertisement Advertisement Opponents of state Sen. John Cavanaugh are starting to raise the issue as the Democratic primary heats up. The No. 1 reason that I actually got into the race was because of my concern about Sen. Cavanaughs candidacy, said Crystal Rhoades, clerk of the Douglas County District Court. His candidacy is extremely problematic, because if he is successfully elected to Congress, our Republican governor is going to appoint his replacement in the Nebraska Legislature. And when that happens, the Democrats are no longer going to have enough votes to sustain a filibuster. Though legislators serving in Nebraskas unicameral state Legislature are technically nonpartisan, members of the Republican-leaning bloc currently hold a narrow supermajority, with 33 GOP-leaning members to 16 Democratic-leaning members. If Cavanaugh wins the primary and the general election in November, he would have to resign his seat in the Nebraska Legislature, granting Republican Gov. Jim Pillen the chance to appoint a successor to serve for the next two years. Advertisement Advertisement Democrats in the state assume that, given the opportunity, Pillen would appoint a Republican to Cavanaughs seat, temporarily expanding the GOP-leaning supermajority in the state Legislature. I think that person, who the governor would appoint, would support winner-take-all, Barry Rubin, a nonpartisan political operative in Nebraska who once served as executive director of the states Democratic party, told NBC News. If [Cavanaugh] wins and nothing changes, the blue dot is gone, he continued, pointing to other policy issues that could be affected, too. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the Democratic vice presidential nominee in 2024, speaks during a campaign rally that year in Papillion, Nebraska. (Charlie Neibergall / AP file) (Charlie Neibergall) Cavanaugh defended his candidacy, telling NBC News that he expects Democrats to pick up more seats in the Legislature in November, which would expand their minority enough that one pickup of his seat wouldnt have the effect Rhoades is predicting. If he wins the primary and general elections, I will not resign until after the election in January, and at that point we will have already had the opportunity to elect more Democrats to the Legislature, Cavanaugh said. Advertisement Advertisement Omaha City Councilman Danny Begley, who has endorsed Cavanaugh, agreed. Begley, who also serves as vice president for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1483, added that he thinks other candidates are raising the blue dot issue to scare people from voting for John. Rhoades disagreed, saying the margins in legislative districts on the ballot this year are too steep for Democrats to count on flipping them. Rubin, the nonpartisan strategist, acknowledged that this blue dot problem seemed niche and wonky, but added that Omaha-area Democratic voters are particularly tuned in to how this issue could affect the future of their representation in the electoral college. It is a legitimate argument to make in a Democratic primary, because there is a real factor of unintended consequences, he said, adding that keeping the blue dot is an issue that Democratic primary voters are very passionate about. Advertisement Advertisement While Rhoades has repeatedly slammed Cavanaugh in the primary for how his candidacy could impact the state, political organizer Denise Powell, another leading candidate, said that it still ranks behind traditional political issues. It is certainly something that folks are bringing up to me, Powell said. But at the end of the day, when Im out talking, like 99.9% of people are talking to me about their health care costs and the cost of groceries. Cavanaugh and Powell lead the pack in fundraising each raising north of $300,000 in the last quarter of 2025 and in national attention. Cavanaugh touts endorsements from Reps. Ro Khanna, D-Calif.; Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash.; and Jamie Raskin, D-Md., and the Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC. Powell, meanwhile, has been endorsed by Rep. Emily Randall, D-Wash., former Rep. Annie Kuster, D-N.H., the Congressional Hispanic Caucus BOLD PAC and EMILYs List, a national organization that works to elect Democratic women. Advertisement Advertisement This seat is much more competitive without Bacon, but Democrats cant take anything for granted. If we dont get this one, we dont flip the House, one national Democratic strategist backing Powell told NBC News. On the other side of the aisle, Republicans have cleared the field for Omaha City Councilman Brinker Harding, who has been endorsed by Bacon, Pillen and GOP Sens. Pete Ricketts and Deb Fischer. Though the seat has been in Republican hands for almost a decade and Harding is already preparing for the general election, he faces an uphill battle in the general election, two years after Harris carried the district by about 5 points. The Democratic primary so far has centered on each candidates plan to stand up to President Donald Trumps agenda and to lower costs. Advertisement Advertisement Affordability and health care are big, Powell told NBC News in an interview about the concerns shes hearing from voters in the district. People [are] worried about how theyre going to make ends meet, life is getting harder for people. And then alongside that, I think were all witnessing so many of these abuses of power coming down from this administration. Several national Democratic operatives backing Powell praised her response to Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids around the country, noting that Powell is Latina and the daughter of immigrants. Voters arent looking for more of the same. They want authentic leaders who understand the challenges theyre facing and are going to fight back against the chaos theyre seeing in the news, Jessica Mackler, the president of EMILYs List, told NBC News in a statement. In his campaign, Cavanaugh has touted his work serving parts of the district in his two terms as a state legislator. Advertisement Advertisement Im somebody who gets things done for my constituents and passes legislation that actually improves the economic conditions of people in Nebraska, Cavanaugh said in an interview. Evan Brown, the executive director of the CPC PAC, told NBC News that Cavanaughs record in the state Legislature is part of the reason the group decided to endorse him in this race. Someone like John, who can focus on kitchen table issues, can win a critical, strategic seat like this, and he has also just built so much trust in the community, and thats what were seeing on the ground and in the polling and in the fundraising, showing that hes the strongest candidate in this race, Brown said. Cavanaughs candidacy is boosted by his family legacy in Omaha. In the 1970s, Cavanaughs father represented the 2nd District in Congress and his sister, state Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh, also serves in the statehouse. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The Gateway rail tunnel project has yet to receive the full $205 million in reimbursements it is owed from the Trump administration, two people familiar with the matter told POLITICO, but the administration is working to get the money out the door. Construction on the project between New York and New Jersey has been paused since Feb. 6. Gateway Development Corporation has gotten $30 million so far. The project is expected to receive the total sum by Wednesday, the people said. Molly Beckhardt, a spokesperson for Gateway, confirmed receipt of the $30 million and said that while construction is currently paused the hope is to get workers back on the job as soon as possible. Advertisement Advertisement "We have received an initial disbursement of $30 million from the federal government and expect to receive the full $205 million in reimbursement funds," she said in a statement. "Construction remains paused for now, and we are working with our contractors to plan how to deploy these funds in the most effective way and get workers back on the job to resume some construction as soon as possible. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), who has been pushing to unfreeze the funding, criticized President Donald Trump for halting the funds in the first place. These Gateway funds were appropriated by Congress and committed by contract, and they never should have been cut off by President Trump," Schumer said in a statement. "The first $30 million has been sent, and we eagerly await the rest of the money to be sent as quickly as possible so construction can resume." U.S. District Court Judge Jeannette Vargas directed the Trump administration to file a status report by 3 p.m. Tuesday on their efforts to transfer the money to Gateway, the people added. Advertisement Advertisement The move comes after Letitia James, the New York attorney general, and Jennifer Davenport, the acting attorney general for New Jersey, called for an emergency hearing Friday afternoon. Davenport cheered the news that funding had begun flowing again: "Because of our efforts, the Department of Transportation is finally delivering the Gateway project funds it has been unlawfully freezing for months. When we fight, we win. We will always stand up for the Gateway project, for New Jerseyans, and for our workers from attacks out of Washington, D.C. DOT said in a statement that it is "following the court order." The Trump administration froze federal funds for Gateway at the end of September, citing concerns over diversity, equity and inclusion practices. This story was produced by Spotlight Delaware as part of a partnership with Delaware Online/The News Journal. For more about Spotlight Delaware, visit www.spotlightdelaware.org. The Georgetown Town Council approved a property rezoning request on Feb. 9, allowing Little Living to move forward with building its controversial tiny home community after nearly six months of turmoil between residents and town leaders. The vote likely marks the last major governmental hurdle standing between the nonprofit and its ability to break ground on the homes. Advertisement Advertisement Now, Little Living founder George Meringolo said the organization will just need to get site plan approval from the town planning commission before being able to begin construction. Because of Georgetowns cottage housing zoning ordinance, which the Town Council passed in December to allow for projects like Little Living to move forward, the planning commissions approval of the site plan is guaranteed as long as Little Living adheres to the towns building codes. Basically were done, Meringolo told Spotlight Delaware following the vote. Its just a matter of going through the normal requirements for any site plan. Little Livings Georgetown project has become a flashpoint in the increasingly divided town, as residents have consistently questioned the leadership and decision-making of officials both at council meetings and online. Advertisement Advertisement Meringolo plans to build 20 tiny homes, each between 450 and 800 square feet, on a roughly 1 acre property located at 501 and 503 E. Market St., about a half mile from The Circle. The rezoning, which changed the East Market Street property from commercial to single-family residential, passed 3-1 on the evening of Feb. 9, as council member Penuel Barrett voted no and council member Tony Neal was absent from the meeting. Georgetowns cottage housing ordinance, an earlier step in Little Livings approval process, passed the Town Council on Dec. 8, with all members in favor except Barrett. That ordinance allows for 12 tiny homes to be built on a single acre of land within town limits. Other organizations have expressed interest in building cottage houses in Georgetown, including Springboard Delaware, which runs the Pallet Village homeless shelter, and Hearth and Shelter. Advertisement Advertisement Also at the Feb. 9 meeting, the towns Supportive Housing Issues Committee, which council members created last September in an effort to address housing and homelessness issues, presented a recommendation in favor of cottage dwelling units, like the proposed Little Living project. Dennis Winzenried, a member of the committee, told Spotlight Delaware the group plans to present its final recommendations to the Town Council in March. DOWNSTATE NEWS: 44-year-old man detained by ICE in Georgetown housing development A heated discourse Consistent with the tenor of other Town Council meetings in recent months, a number of residents expressed their disapproval of the Little Living project, and what they view as the council going against the people's will by approving it. Advertisement Advertisement Sue Barlow, a former Town Council member who has previously referred to the proposed cottage houses as sharecropper shacks, said she is worried that the tiny homes will bring down the values of nearby houses. We deserve elected officials that will look out for our interests, the people who have worked hard all our lives in this town, Barlow said at the meeting. One small housing development is going to ruin a lot of our lives. Mayor Bill West and members of the Town Council defended their decision to support the project, citing the dire need for more affordable housing in town. Georgetown Mayor Bill West speaks at a candlelight vigil on the Georgetown Circle for Delaware State Police Cpl. Matthew "Ty" Snook on Dec. 28, 2025. Snook died after being shot while on duty on Dec. 23 at the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles office near New Castle. He also referenced the Facebook group Make Georgetown Great Again, which has ballooned to more than 4,500 members, criticizing the towns handling of the homeless population. Members also have called for candidates to challenge West and other council members in the upcoming May election with the tagline May is on the way. Advertisement Advertisement West said the group has done nothing productive for the town, other than make me look famous. A handful of residents responded to Wests claims during the public comment portion of the meeting, blaming his leadership for the controversy in town. Wests wife, Faye West, then got involved, defending her husband. Faye West said the hate in town is coming from the racist website referencing Make Georgetown Great Again and not her husband, who she said spends every day working to care for residents. Next steps for Little Living With the rezoning approved, Meringolo, Little Livings founder, said the organizations next priorities are working with its engineer to submit the site plan to the towns planning commission, and respond to any concerns from the planning department as quickly as possible. Advertisement Advertisement The project has already received the necessary approvals from the state Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, the state Department of Transportation and other relevant agencies to move forward with construction, he said. MORE TO READ: ChristianaCare announces health campus planned for Georgetown Meringolo said he expects to break ground on the East Market Street property by October or November of this year and have all 20 homes completed by spring 2027. He added that Little Living has secured a Longwood Foundation grant and other funding from DNREC and the states Downtown Development District program. The nonprofit is only about $500,000 short of the $4.5 million the homes will cost to build. Advertisement Advertisement West told Spotlight Delaware that he is encouraging Little Living to consider doing a phased approach to building the tiny homes, such as 10 one year and 10 the following year. Meringolo, however, said a phased approach would be logistically complicated. He plans to build all 20 tiny homes at once. Still, West said he and the other council members feel confident the project will be a positive addition to the town. Get stories like this delivered to your email inbox by signing up for the free newsletter at spotlightdelaware.org/subscribe. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Little Living rezoning moves ahead with Georgetown council approval PINE BLUFF, Ark. This is not a tall tale: a statue in Pine Bluff was stolen, but after police located it, it has since been returned to the daycare it was stolen from. A giraffe statue was stolen from Klassic Kidz Academy on Cherry Street. Ronday Fininen was right across from there and said the news was awful to hear. Thats just sad that they did that, I mean, whatcha gonna do with that baby Zebra, I mean Giraffe, Fininen said. Advertisement Advertisement Texas family reunites with dog found in Cabot years after he was stolen Gregory Mattics and his wife, Rebecca, live just down the street from the daycare. I mean, its terrible, absolutely rotten, Mattics said. Authorities located the Giraffe and returned it within a few hours, but the community was still upset by the action and wondered, why? Why, why, why? Why are you doing that? Thats the question, Fininen said. She has a theory. They were doing some strange things, they needed it, they wanted it, Fininen said, Only God knows why they do what they do. For Mattics, the bigger question is, how do you hide it, especially if it was one of the bigger ones? Advertisement Advertisement Unless youre sticking it in your house and youve got 50-foot ceilings, youre gonna have a problem with a Giraffe, Mattics said. Fininen fears they might not be finished. Are they through? Is that the only one they needed? Fininen said. The Mattics say this isnt the first time a robbery has happened. December 13th, 2025, I moved that one to the back so it didnt get stolen, Mattics said. Dog-fighting ring in Arkansas busted; Shelter director bitten Just a block from Klassic Kidz Academy, a cherished statue from a trip to Wisconsin was also stolen. Who does that, who steals a giraffe, who steals a concrete statue? Mattics said. Advertisement Advertisement Fininen with a simple plea. Leave it alone, leave it alone, its a kids daycare, Fininen said. The Mattics said if anyone has seen a statue that looks like theirs, theyre still on the lookout, so please reach out to Pine Bluff police. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. Gisele Pelicot, the woman at the centre of France's largest rape trial, has told BBC Newsnight she was "crushed by horror" on discovering that, for years, her husband had repeatedly drugged her unconscious and invited dozens of men to rape her. "Something exploded inside me," says Ms Pelicot, 73, of the moment she realised the scale of her husband's crimes. "It was like a tsunami." In an extensive interview ahead of the publication of her memoir, A Hymn To Life, she describes how phoning her three children with the news of what she had discovered about their father was possibly the toughest experience of her life. 'Descent into hell' She recalls the moment she decided to waive her legal right to anonymity, and how she has never regretted that decision. She also reveals she still has unanswered questions she wants to ask her now ex-husband - the man she refers to as "Mr Pelicot" - in jail, where he is serving a 20-year term. Advertisement Advertisement Warning: This article contains accounts of rape and sexual abuse The Hotel de Ville in central Paris, with its ceiling frescoes and rich wood panelling, is a far cry from the drab courtrooms in which Ms Pelicot was last seen publicly, during the four-month trial that shook France. She describes the moment that marked the beginning of what she calls her "descent into hell". She had accompanied her husband, Dominique Pelicot, to a police station near their home in Mazan, southern France. He had been summoned for secretly filming underneath women's skirts in a supermarket. Ms Pelicot was taken aside by a policeman, who started asking her a series of increasingly probing questions. What kind of man was her husband? A great guy, she answered. Had they had ever engaged in swinging? No, of course not, she protested. Advertisement Advertisement "He told me: 'I am about to show you something you won't like.' I didn't understand right away." The officer showed her two photos of a lifeless woman lying on a bed. They were among thousands of pictures and videos her husband had taken of her while she was drugged. "I didn't recognise myself," she says. "This woman was lying on the bed as if she were dead. There are men next to her. I didn't understand who they were. I didn't know them. I'd never met them." She pauses, fiddling with her red-framed reading glasses. As she recounts the shock that engulfed her, her voice grows quieter but never falters. Advertisement Advertisement Police told Ms Pelicot that she had been repeatedly raped by dozens of men. Although her husband had recorded, labelled and neatly catalogued the videos of the rapes on a hard disk, many of the men could not be identified. She was advised by the police not to be alone after receiving this news. She went home in a daze and phoned a friend. "I told her: 'Dominique is in custody because he raped me and had me raped.' That's when I used the word rape. It was after five hours of questioning that I put words to Mr Pelicot's crime." Watch the Newsnight interview with Gisele Pelicot on YouTube Her three grown-up children - David, Caroline and Florian - also had to be told what their father had done. Advertisement Advertisement "I was well aware that for my children it was going to be immensely difficult," says Ms Pelicot. She now believes making those three phone calls was the hardest thing she has ever had to do. She remembers Caroline's reaction: "I heard my daughter scream. It was almost inhuman, that scream." She remembers David, her eldest, being in a state of shock, and Florian, the youngest, immediately asking how she was. "They realised I was alone, and that I might do something stupid. For them, too, it was like an explosion." Her children travelled to be with her in Mazan the following day. All three have since recalled destroying or throwing out the family's belongings - from furniture to photo albums - in an attempt to cancel their father's existence. Advertisement Advertisement Their mother stood by and watched. "I told myself that my life was in ruins, that I had nothing left apart from my children." "It took us a long time to rebuild ourselves": Ms Pelicot says the revelations took their toll on her children Florian (left), Caroline (centre) and David (far right) [CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP] Since David's birth, when Ms Pelicot was in her early 20s, her children had been the centre of her life. Motherhood became a way to leave behind a childhood steeped in sadness. "I lost my mother at a very young age, my brother and my father too," she recalls. "So I needed to rebuild everything I had lost." In the interview, Ms Pelicot talks of her beloved parents, whose marriage profoundly shaped her own understanding of love. She was nine when her mother died of cancer, plunging her father and the family into grief they never truly recovered from. Meeting Dominique Pelicot - 19 years old, handsome and just as bruised by a tough upbringing - had provided her with a chance to start anew. They married in 1973. Advertisement Advertisement "We were very in love, and we threw ourselves into life. And we started a family, because that was the main goal for me," she recalls in a steady voice. Inconceivable betrayal By 2011, Ms Pelicot had started suffering from memory loss. She attributed this to neurological problems, but she was also suffering from persistent gynaecological issues. These were later proven to have been caused by the sedatives she was plied with, and the strangers who came to rape her multiple times a week. She consulted a number of doctors. Her husband was by her side throughout the inconclusive examinations. He was also there every morning after the night-time assaults. "It was inconceivable that this man who shared my life could have committed these horrors," says Ms Pelicot. "I would get up and have breakfast, and he would look at me in the eye. And I don't know how he could have betrayed me for so many years." "It was inconceivable that this man who shared my life could have committed these horrors," says Ms Pelicot [BBC] She would later learn that, alongside the drugs, her husband had given her powerful muscle relaxants, so that the next day she would not feel any pain for what her body had been put through. Advertisement Advertisement She now believes her abused body was close to giving up, and that her survival was at risk. "It is hard for me to recognise that he had no mercy," she says. The revelations have taken their toll on the whole family, says Ms Pelicot. "It's wrong to think that such a tragedy brings a family together. It took us a long time to rebuild ourselves." Her daughter Caroline, in particular, has been condemned to a "perpetual torment", she says, as photos of her asleep in her underwear were found on her father's laptop. "The incestuous look he cast on his daughter, I found utterly unbearable." Advertisement Advertisement Ms Pelicot's ex-husband has given contradictory explanations for those photos. Caroline is convinced he drugged and raped her too, but lack of additional evidence means he has never been prosecuted. Relations between mother and daughter were strained during the trial, and Caroline said she felt like a "forgotten victim". At various times - both before and after the case Ms Pelicot lost touch with some of her children. "It took Caroline time, because she's filled with hatred and anger - feelings I don't have," Ms Pelicot says. "I have neither hatred, nor anger. I felt betrayed and outraged by Mr Pelicot, but that's just how I am." Ms Pelicot says she and her daughter are now repairing their relationship. Advertisement Advertisement "Each of us needed time to find our own path. Today, we're trying to bring each other peace, and I hope we're on the right road to healing." Further revelations Revelation was to follow revelation. In 2022, police informed Ms Pelicot that her husband had admitted to the attempted rape of a young woman. He was also being investigated for the killing of a 23-year-old estate agent in Paris in 1991 - an allegation he denies. That her husband could be a murderer as well as a serial rapist is almost too much for Ms Pelicot to contemplate. "I dare hope he is not the perpetrator of this heinous crime, because otherwise it would once again be a descent into hell, both for me and for his children." While the investigation was taking place, she relocated to the quiet Ile de Re, a small island off France's Atlantic coast. "I really wanted to stay in the shadows," she says. "I absolutely didn't want anyone to know who I was." While the investigation was taking place, Ms Pelicot says she "wanted to stay in the shadows" [BBC] As is the case for rape victims in France, Ms Pelicot was entitled to a closed-door trial - full anonymity, no media. She had pushed back on suggestions from her daughter to have an open hearing, worried about cementing her status as the victim of a heinous crime. Then, walking on the beach, four months before the case began, something within her shifted. A closed hearing would mean the men on trial would also benefit from anonymity, she realised. Moreover, it would leave her outnumbered - 51 men and 40 lawyers versus her, her small legal team, and her children. 'If I was able to do this, all victims can too' "For more than four years, I carried this shame," says Ms Pelicot. "And I felt that it was like a double punishment for victims, and a suffering we imposed on ourselves." Her lawyers gave her a week to decide whether she truly wanted to open the trial up to the public and the media. She only needed one night. "By the next morning, I knew," she says. It was an extraordinary choice. "I have never regretted my decision, not once," she says. "It was also a message to all victims who don't dare to do the same It could give them some of the strength I found in me. "Because," she says without hesitation, "within us we have resources that we don't even suspect. And if I was able to do this, all victims can too. I am convinced of this." In 2024, the Pelicot trial exploded into full view of France and the world. The ability to let the light shine through the depravity Ms Pelicot was subjected to - the "filth", as she repeatedly calls it - is a testament to her resilience. Every day, she held her head high as she walked into the Avignon courthouse. A throng of women assembled outside to show their support, and she acknowledged them with a slight nod and a hand on her heart. Surrounded by dozens of cameras, Ms Pelicot says they gave her "unbelievable strength". "For me, they soothed what was happening within the courtroom," she says. "On my own, I think it would have been difficult." Even Queen Camilla reached out from the UK to express her admiration with a personal letter, which surprised her. "I felt moved and very honoured... I am grateful to her," she says. Ms Pelicot pictured addressing the media after the verdict in December 2024 [Manon Cruz/REUTERS] Throughout the interview, Ms Pelicot is composed and assured. Then, she is shown videos of French women, filmed by Newsnight, thanking her for her choice to have an open hearing. "Thank you for being so brave," says one woman. "We are here to support you! Life is beautiful, madame!" says another. As one beaming face follows the next, Ms Pelicot, for the first time, wipes away a tear. "It touches me enormously because these are the faces I met during the trial," she says. "I saw them putting up posters, I saw their collages, I saw the banners." "They were truly exceptional," she smiles. In the courtroom, Ms Pelicot and her family sat through nearly four months of veiled insinuations and open accusations of complicity from both the defendants and their lawyers. "You go through hell in a courtroom. You're really humiliated," she says. At the time, this led her to label what was unfolding as the "trial of cowardice". Now, too, her voice rises slightly as she recalls those moments. "They didn't want to own up to what they had done," she says of the 50 men her husband had allowed to abuse her. She feels they acted as if they had committed a petty crime and refused to accept that she could not have given consent. Numerous demonstrations took place across France in support of Ms Pelicot [AFP/Anadolu/EPA/Getty Images/Reuters] "Then, the video attesting to the truth would be shown," she says. "We could see that man raping me. He'd be asked those questions again, and would reply: 'No, I didn't rape her, I didn't have any intention of raping her.' "So where are we supposed to go from there?" she wonders aloud, exasperated. "I think that as far as they're concerned, they couldn't have raped me because Mr Pelicot was there and had given his consent. Therefore, they didn't consider it rape," she concludes. The argument was rejected by the seven judges who oversaw the case. All the defendants were found guilty. Her former husband (their divorce was finalised shortly before his trial) was given a maximum sentence of 20 years. The other 50 men were jailed for terms between five and 15 years. Rebuilding her life As Ms Pelicot speaks, a tall bespectacled widower named Jean-Loup watches on discreetly. She met him on Ile de Re in 2023. "We had this stroke of luck," she says, her voice measured and warm. "We fell in love like teenagers, when neither of us was expecting it." They have been a couple ever since. "Life put a man on my path who has the same values, the same principles as me - and who has also been through many ordeals in his life." "So you see," she continues, her head tilting to one side, "life always holds beautiful surprises. It's brought a lot of colour into our lives." It has been almost six years since Ms Pelicot was shown the photos of a woman who looked "dead". The question of why her ex-husband subjected her to years of abuse still looms large. Dominique Pelicot admitted in court he wanted to "subdue an unbreakable woman". "He would have liked me to participate in swinging sessions and I always refused because I have a sense of modesty," she says. "I think he found a way around it by subduing me." But how he could have brought himself to do what he did is a different question. "I might ask myself this for the rest of my life," she says. Ms Pelicot says she intends to visit him in jail to ask him what he may have done to their daughter Caroline, and the murder case he has been linked to. "I need to meet him to have answers. I don't know if I will, but I need to look at him straight in the eye." Ms Pelicot says she was "touched enormously" by the support she received from French women thanking her for her choice to have an open hearing [Dmitry Kostykov/BBC] Meanwhile, the rebuilding of her life continues. "I am healing," she says. She resists the idea of entirely disavowing the life she led with her ex-husband. "In order to live, I have needed to think that the 50 years I spent with Mr Pelicot were not all just a lie. Because otherwise, it's as if I'd been dead. As if I no longer existed." During one of the rare times she took the stand in court, Ms Pelicot told her ex-husband that his betrayal had been "immeasurable". "I always tried to lead you towards the light, but you chose the depths of the human soul," she said. It is a sentiment she echoes now. In life, she says, "you always have to choose, to decide which path to follow. There is the good and the bad." "As for me," she concludes in her poised voice, "I have always chosen to walk toward the good." A list of organisations in the UK offering support and information with some of the issues in this story is available at BBC Action Line Read more Authorities have identified the shoplifting suspect who was fatally shot by Goodyear police after the department said he struggled with an officer. Dominic Diaz, 32, of Avondale, died in the Feb. 10 incident, according to Avondale police. Police are leading the investigation into the shooting. That afternoon, officers responded to a shoplifting call near Litchfield Road and Interstate 10, according to Goodyear police spokesperson Sgt. Mayra Reeson. An officer attempted to detain a person who matched the suspects description, but a struggle ensued during which the individual reached for the officers firearm, Reeson said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement A round discharged as the officer tried to retain control of the gun while both he and the suspect had their hands on it, Reeson said. After regaining control of the firearm, the officer shot the suspect, according to Reeson. She said this occurred after the suspect continued approaching the officer and reaching for his vest and firearm, even after distance had been created between them. Officers provided medical aid on Diaz, who was pronounced dead at the scene, Reeson said. An officer was hospitalized with injuries that were not life-threatening before being released, according to Reeson. As of Feb. 10, this marked at least the sixth fatal Maricopa County police shooting in 2026 and at least the 14th police shooting overall, according to data compiled by The Arizona Republic. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Avondale man identified in fatal shoplifting shooting Google has officially confirmed that its behind a future $10 billion data center complex in Kansas Citys Northland. The five-building, 500-acre hyperscale data center was listed under the codename Project Mica in planning documents. Port Authority of Kansas City approved incentives last year for the data center campus off Interstate 435 and State Highway 169. Google confirmed on Thursday that its behind Project Mica. It will be the companys second data center development in the Northland. Advertisement Advertisement We have been proud to call Missouri home since we broke ground on our first data center campus in the state in 2024, which is still under construction, Googles regional head of data center public affairs Trystine Payfer said in a statement. Were thrilled to confirm we are continuing our growth with another data center campus in Kansas City. This infrastructure will support economic growth for the area, power Google services that Missourians and local businesses use daily, and drive scientific breakthroughs that directly impact our communities. Payfer said, as part of Googles agreement with Evergy, Google will cover the full energy costs associated with both data center campuses. To realize these benefits, securing the energy needed to support these facilities while protecting affordability is critically important, Payfer said. Advertisement Advertisement Port KC approved 75%, 25-year property tax breaks and full tax breaks on sales taxes for construction materials for Project Mica last summer. The Port also approved issuing $10 billion in bonds, which are not taxpayer money, and that the developer is responsible for paying back. Even with the tax breaks, the development is still expected to generate millions of dollars in new revenue, Port KC officials have said, alongside hundreds of construction and trade jobs. The agreement also includes $1.5 million to support the Smithville School Districts workforce program and $250,000 to the Northland career center, both upfront. Growing opposition to data centers in Kansas City But since that approval last year, public opposition and community organizing efforts against data centers in Kansas City and beyond have grown. Those in opposition are concerned about the massive facilities use of electricity and water, and their impact on the environment, utility bills, surrounding neighborhoods, privacy, workers, tax revenues and beyond. In that time, the Kansas City City Council has tightened rules around zoning and approvals for new data centers. Evergy and public utility regulators have implemented new rate rules intended to protect regular consumers and ensure massive power users, like data centers, pay their fair share for energy. Advertisement Advertisement Nathan Willett, Kansas City City Council member for the First District, called for transparency going forward. I think we were giving out way too much incentives towards these data centers, and Id like to see more money going to the school districts in the Northland, he said. Many organizers have called for the city to go even further to regulate or stem future data center construction. The concern that data centers are raising individuals utility rates, its actually quickly becoming the opposite, Jon Stephens, president and CEO of Port KC, told The Star on Thursday. Stephens said Port KC has been cautious and conscious about where possible data centers would be located existing industrial zones to address the potential environmental impacts while making developers responsible for building out infrastructure that supports even more development in those areas, not just data centers. Advertisement Advertisement Those things have been valuable, he said. And then companies like Google, like the one announced, are some of the leaders globally in continuing to lower their water usage. Stephens also noted the millions of dollars expected to come to the local school district as a result of Googles new development. Further details, including a construction timeline, are yet to be announced. Data center growth continues in KC area Data center development has exploded across the country in line with the growth of the artificial intelligence industry. They come in all sizes and several are either under construction or being proposed elsewhere in the KC metro. Patmos is operating a new center in The Stars former printing press building in the Crossroads. Advertisement Advertisement And another project was recently proposed in Independence, where public opposition is mounting. Officials say the large new development will bring jobs and a windfall of new revenue. Clay County Commissioner Jason Withington said AI is going to change the world. Its exciting to see Clay County be part of that future, he said. This is a race for innovation, and Google choosing to invest here speaks to where our county is headed. It means jobs, opportunity, and real momentum and Im proud we get to play a role in whats coming next. Karrin Taylor Robson dropped out of the Arizona Republican gubernatorial primary despite being one of the two candidates in the race backed by President Donald Trump. "After deep reflection, prayer, and many conversations with my family, I have decided to suspend my campaign for Governor," Robson said in a statement posted to X on Thursday. She explained that she does not want to contribute to a contentious GOP primary. Advertisement Advertisement Hochul Primary Challenger Antonio Delgadoo Ends Campaign For New York Governor Republican gubernatorial candidate Karrin Taylor Robson speaks at a campaign rally on Aug. 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz. (Getty Images) "We cannot afford a divisive Republican primary that drains resources and turns into months of intraparty attacks. It only weakens our conservative cause and gives the left exactly what they want: a fractured Republican Party heading into November. With so much on the line in 2026, I am not willing to contribute to that outcome," she noted in the statement. Robson did not make an endorsement. Read On The Fox News App "I remain committed to helping Republicans win in 2026 and to ensuring Arizona remains strong, safe, and free for generations to come," she noted in the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Trump had pledged to support her for governor in 2024. "Are you running for governor? I think so, Karrin, cuz if you do, you're gonna have my support," Trump said at Turning Point USA's AmericaFest in December 2024. Adam Schiff Makes Endorsement In Calfornia Gubernatorial Race Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs gives a brief speech prior to then-President Joe Biden's remarks at the Tempe Center for the Arts on Sept. 28, 2023, in Tempe, Ariz. Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., launched a gubernatorial bid in January 2025, and Robson launched her bid in February 2025 but in April 2025, Trump made the unorthodox move of announcing that he endorsed both of them. "I like Karrin Taylor Robson of Arizona a lot, and when she asked me to Endorse her, with nobody else running, I Endorsed her, and was happy to do so. When Andy Biggs decided to run for Governor, quite unexpectedly, I had a problem Two fantastic candidates, two terrific people, two wonderful champions, and it is therefore my Great Honor TO GIVE MY COMPLETE AND TOTAL ENDORSEMENT TO BOTH. Either one will never let you down. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!" Trump declared in an April 2025 Truth Social post. Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, Robson lost the GOP gubernatorial primary in Arizona to Kari Lake, who went on to lose the general election to Democrat Katie Hobbs. Trump Backs Republican Rivals In Arizona Governor's Race After Rep. Biggs Enters Contest: I Had A Problem Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., arrives for a House Judiciary Committee member day hearing in the Rayburn Building on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. Hobbs is seeking re-election this year. Rep. David Schweikert, R-Arizona, is another Republican seeking the Grand Canyon State governorship. Original article source: GOP Arizona governor candidate drops out but doesn't endorse EAST LANSING The Beaumont Tower, an iconic Michigan State University landmark, lit up green while hundreds of people gathered at its base on Friday night. Some held green candles, flowers, and other peoples hands during the vigil. I almost lost one of my best friends, so its not easy for me to just forget and act as if Feb. 13 is a normal day each year it comes around, said Rosa Cruz, 23, a senior Interdisciplinary Studies student. I wanted to take today to remind everyone and myself that Arielle, Brian, Alexandria, and our Spartans who were injured that night are still with us and to keep their memory alive even after those who were students during that time are gone from campus. February 13 marked three years since the mass shooting at MSU, where three students were killed, Brian Fraser, Arielle Anderson, and Alexandria Verner, and five others were injured. During that chaotic and cold night, the gunman shot 18 times at a classroom in Berkey Hall and inside the MSU union building. Hours later, he died after shooting himself when confronted by police, four miles away from campus. For about an hour, no speeches were held during the vigil. The emotive music that came from the tower for almost 10 minutes unleashed sobs, tears, and crying, in that order, that joined the sound of the trees caressed by the wind. During that moment, the tower bells rang three times, corresponding to the time of the victims deaths: twice at 8:18 pm, honoring Anderson and Verner, and once more at 8:25 p.m for Fraser. Advertisement Advertisement Other important places on campus were also illuminated in green and received flowers, such as the Spartan statue, the MSU Union building, and the Rock. Among the crowd, some concerns were raised about maintaining remembrance of the shooting and the victims, or how it would change after the last four-year undergraduates who ran, hid, barricaded, and locked down during the shooting on campus graduate after this semester. For Eva Miranda, a 21-year-old psychology senior, the campus violence alert mistakenly sent by the university on Tuesday felt like a reminder. Before MSU sent another message notifying her of the error, hiding in the same spot where she hid three years ago, she called her sister, just like she did three years ago, and a question from her brought it all back to her. Dont you remember the shooting was in February? The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance I thought, Oh my God! Again. And that was a reminder; maybe we all needed that reminder of what happened. I mean, yeah, we have a lot of things going on day to day, but with this alert, it was a reminder that, yeah, its true I could be the next victim, Miranda mentioned. Advertisement Advertisement Miranda points out that in the three years following the shooting, the question Where were you when the shooting happened? was a common way for students to socialize and connect. But now its not seen as much because, for her, students who experienced it are now in other schools, other cities; their worlds have changed. Handing out flowers to passersby for almost three hours, just a few feet from the statue, John Woolfolk, a 20-year-old sophomore, shares that even though those who experienced the shooting eventually left the university, everybody should still remember. I just came out here to make sure that people dont forget. Even those who arent seniors like freshmen, sophomores, and juniors everybody we see walk by, we try to give them flowers so the memories arent forgotten, Woolfolk said. The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance Advertisement Advertisement The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance Advertisement Advertisement The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance Advertisement Advertisement The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance Advertisement Advertisement The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance The Spartan community held a remembrance vigil to commemorate the Feb. 13, 2023, shooting on campus. Feb. 13, 2026 | Photo by Erick Diaz Veliz/Michigan Advance When 14-year-old Lilia Tideman opened her eyes, she was splayed on the asphalt, the wheel of a Chevy Silverado inches from her skull. Her left femur was cracked in half. Nearby lay her scuffed gray e-bike. Moments earlier, the Los Gatos High freshman had been rushing to campus, her 88-pound Super73 e-bike reaching nearly 40 mph on a twisting downhill stretch of a one-lane, two-way road. As she rounded a corner, she saw the Chevy coming the other way and squeezed the brakes. Her bike wobbled and she tipped, skidding down the roadway and toward the wheel of the pickup that stopped just in time. Advertisement Advertisement Young people like Lilia have embraced e-bikes as a way to shed their reliance on a mom or dad for a ride to school, a pizza place or a friend's house. But with this new freedom has come a growing number of e-bike crashes involving young riders that is raising deep concern - and confusion - across the Bay Area. Minors have seen the fastest growth rate for e-bike injuries since 2022, according to federal figures. Data from Marin County shows e-bike crashes are concentrated among 10- to 15-year-olds, with that age group over five times more likely to be in an e-bike crash than any other. Bay Area trauma surgeons say their hospitals are fielding more and more e-bike-related injuries, which are also more severe, often appearing more like the result of a motorcycle wreck than a bicycle crash. Kacey Hansen, the executive director of trauma at John Muir Health, said the Walnut Creek hospital treated twice as many life-threatening injuries from e-bike crashes in 2025 as the year before, including cases of severe brain injuries, though she declined to provide exact numbers. "They're going to critical care," Hansen said. "They are sometimes altered forever." Advertisement Advertisement Lilia's crash last October helps reveal the complicated new frontier that e-bikes have opened up. Parents, educators, police and lawmakers are all grappling with questions of how to balance freedom, safety and punishment. But with the newness of the technology, these groups often operate under very different assumptions about what children are riding, what the rules are and who should enforce them. Instructor Natalie Leonard directs a group of cyclists onto a test track during a community e-bike test and ride event in Oakland in November. California divides e-bikes into three main categories, but in practice, many e-bikes on the road can be faster and more powerful, critics say. (Stephen Lam/S.F. Chronicle) "These motorcycles, I'm going to call them, are positioning themselves as e-bikes," said San Rafael police Lt. Scott Eberle, referring to the more powerful products that have grown in popularity. "They think they're buying an e-bike when they're not." California puts e-bikes in three categories. Class 1 e-bikes have pedal-assist motors that allow speeds up to 20 mph. Class 2 e-bikes - like Lilia's - operate with throttles to accelerate up to 20 mph without pedaling. Class 3 e-bikes have pedal-assist motors that top out at 28 mph and no throttles, and are restricted to riders age 16 and older. Advertisement Advertisement But to the untrained eye, it's nearly impossible to tell which is which. And in practice, these distinctions are blurry. Many e-bikes can go faster, or can be hacked to do so, leading critics and police to call them "e-motos." Manufacturers have been accused of bending categories, with Super73, one of the most popular brands, sued by parents for selling e-bikes that could be manipulated to go faster than state limits. The lawsuit is ongoing, and Super73 has denied wrongdoing. Partly as a result, separating legal e-bike crashes from those on e-motos is difficult. The Chronicle reviewed California Highway Patrol crash reports from each Bay Area county from Jan. 1, 2023, through the end of 2025 and found that dozens of children have crashed on what reports describe, though perhaps too broadly, as e-bikes. { "__type": "devHubFreeformEmbed", "__id": "AIHTML", "__fallbackImage": "https://files.sfchronicle.com/sfc-design/2026/e-bikes/ebikesclasses-fallback.png", "__data": { "html_url": "https://files.sfchronicle.com/sfc-design/2026/e-bikes/ebikesclasses.html" } } In some instances, children are getting hurt on actual electric motorcycles, legally speaking. That was the case this month in Half Moon Bay, where a 16-year-old boy died after colliding with a box truck on a highway shoulder. Police said he was on a vehicle of the type that requires a state motorcycle license, even as an increasing number of teenagers use them as if they are e-bikes. Advertisement Advertisement "We can't look away from this," San Mateo County Supervisor Jackie Speier said after the Half Moon Bay death. "This is a public health and safety crisis." The most painful experience' Lilia loved her e-bike. After her parents bought it for her last summer - her older brother already had one - she could visit friends or go for calming rides through the park. When school started, she biked to campus, saving her parents a trip. Her friends biked around town and to sleepovers. Across the country, e-bike sales were booming: up fourfold from 2019 to 2022, surpassing 1 million bikes sold, according to data from the Light Electric Vehicle Association, a trade group. Looking back, Lilia wishes that she better understood how dangerous it could be to go so fast, and that her friends and peers did, too. Advertisement Advertisement "It was great," she said, "and then I crashed." Lilia remembers little of the crash itself, which was documented in a CHP report. She was so badly hurt that first responders fitted her with a neck brace and gave her morphine before rushing her by ambulance to a hospital. There, a doctor drilled a hole in Lilia's shin, slid a metal bar through it, and attached ropes and weights to pull her leg back into alignment. "I think that's the most painful experience I've ever had," she recalled. Lilia Tideman, 15, holds up a pair of jeans she was wearing during an e-bike crash last year that resulted in a broken femur. Bay Area trauma surgeons have seen more and more e-bike crashes that look more like motorcycle wrecks than traditional bike crashes. (Bronte Wittpenn/S.F. Chronicle) Doctors told her family that a helmet probably spared her from a worse outcome. Still, guilt swept over Lilia's mother, Angela. When nurses asked whether she would let her daughter ride the bike again, she didn't know how to answer. Advertisement Advertisement Angela, 53, had been delighted that her daughter was spending time outdoors and staying active rather than looking at screens. "I'm torn because I understand that these things can be dangerous," she said recently. On the other hand, she said, "It gave a certain freedom that they were hanging out like we did in the '80s." Angela knew kids were using apps to reprogram e-bikes to go beyond their speed limits; her son had been one of them before his e-bike was stolen. But she was alarmed when Lilia told her she had been traveling close to 40 mph - even without pedaling or using the throttle. E-bikes are often twice as heavy as traditional bicycles. That means, as in Lilia's case, they build speed quickly on hills, are harder to suddenly brake and can crash with greater force. Crashes like these have led some doctors to demand change. Growing epidemic' John Maa is a trauma surgeon in Marin County, where wealth and enthusiasm for the outdoors have made e-bikes especially popular. He calls the injuries he and others are seeing a "growing epidemic." Advertisement Advertisement When he and local elected officials realized that patchwork state and federal laws were doing little to track or deter the crashes, they sought to step in, proposing an age requirement for some e-bikes. Experts worry that children lack the judgement and awareness needed to safely operate heavy e-bikes, and research shows that youths take longer to recognize traffic hazards and are less likely than adults to respond to them in time. Last July, under a trial program, Marin became the first county in California to ban kids under 16 from riding Class 2 e-bikes. The trial results, which officials plan to outline for state legislators by January 2028, aren't yet clear. Reported e-bike crashes rose slightly in Marin County last year, according to county figures, but that could reflect increased usage. In October, a 14-year-old riding an e-motorcycle in Novato crashed into a Ford Transit van and was hospitalized in critical condition. Advertisement Advertisement "It's tragic," Maa said. "Despite all of these efforts the message didn't get through." Bob Mittelstaedt, a retired lawyer turned safety advocate, said Marin County may not be seeing a meaningful reduction in injuries because legislators targeted the wrong problem. "We've got an ordinance that's addressed to Class 2, but most of these aren't Class 2," he said. "They're e-motorcycles." Partnering with Safe Routes to School, a Marin program promoting bicycle and pedestrian safety for kids, Mittelstaedt has been auditing school parking lots. Riding his Class 1 electric mountain bike, he visited 12 schools in the county in January 2025, finding 277 e-motos to 37 legal e-bikes. Mittelstaedt did a similar analysis in San Mateo County, where he found 151 e-motos to 22 e-bikes. Bob Mittelstaedt, an e-bike safety advocate, stands next to a bicycle rack at a Larkspur high school. Partnering with Safe Routes to School, a Marin program promoting bicycle and pedestrian safety for kids, Mittelstaedt has been auditing school parking lots and says he finds far more illegal e-motos than legal e-bikes. (Lea Suzuki/S.F. Chronicle) Alan Kalin, a 75-year-old retired Army colonel, has trained his sights on the middle school parking lots and bike corrals of the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. He said he counted 71 e-motos during a count last October at Stone Valley Middle School in Alamo - up from the 52 he counted last February - and asserted that school officials are reluctant to enforce existing laws. Advertisement Advertisement District Superintendent CJ Cammack disputed this, saying middle school students are only permitted to ride Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes to school. When staff members discover Class 3 e-bikes or electric motorcycles, he said, school officials work with parents to "remove" the bikes. One reason for the proliferation is that e-bikes, legal and otherwise, are getting less expensive. In 2022, consumers spent an average of $2,600 for commuter and leisure e-bikes, according to a white paper by researchers from Portland (Ore.) State University. But those costs went down as cheaper versions of e-bikes flooded Amazon. One best-selling electric bicycle with a 1,500-watt motor, and a vaunted top speed of 28 mph was selling recently for $800. "This used to be a rich kids problem," Mittelstaedt said, "and now it's not." Not the gestapo' Advocates like Mittelstaedt lament that, in their view, there's little appetite for a crackdown on kids pushing the limits on e-bikes. He shared an email exchange with Thomas Bertrand, the Central Marin Police Department's lawyer. "Parents are not enthusiastic about us going after their children," Bertrand wrote. "Nor are schools. We are not the gestapo." Bertrand told the Chronicle that police have worked collaboratively on the issue with schools, parents and students. Public safety officials acknowledge that enforcement is fraught. From his motorcycle in San Mateo, police officer Julio Jolivette has watched as more and more children ride e-bikes, sometimes rolling on sidewalks and weaving through traffic - and often without helmets. He first heard of an e-bike crash involving a minor in San Mateo two years ago. Now, he said, upward of 10% of his traffic stops involve kids as young as 11 on illegal bikes or unsafely riding legal bikes and scooters. While most youngsters riding e-bikes aren't reckless, what concerns him is how many of the vehicles are "flat-out motorcycles." If Jolivette pulls over a kid, it's generally because he recognizes an illegal e-bike. His department has launched a campaign to help parents distinguish between legal e-bikes and e-motos. Officers often avoid ticketing children at first, Jolivette said, instead giving warnings. Recently, he stopped four children - ages roughly 12 to 14 - doubled up on a pair of electric dirt bikes. He said enforcement can be uncomfortable. "It's an icky feeling," he said. "I know people see that and they think, oh, man, the police are out there, you know, they're hassling these juveniles." Jeremiah Amaku, right, test-rides an e-cargo bike in Oakland in November. As e-bikes surge in popularity, since 2022, minors have seen the fastest growth rate for e-bike injuries, according to federal figures. (Stephen Lam/S.F. Chronicle) And enforcement doesn't always go according to plan. In early January, Petaluma police reported that a minor on an e-motorcycle was trying to evade police when he narrowly avoided an oncoming car, then crashed after hitting a speed bump. The minor was ticketed, and the e-motorcycle was towed. In December, the Mineta Transportation Institute at San Jose State University issued a report, commissioned by the state Legislature, analyzing the e-bike problem with a focus on children. Its central finding was that "illegal, over-powered devices" were the "key problem." But Maa, the surgeon, disagrees: "Playing this game of saying it's just the illegal ones that are the problem and all the legal ones are safe," he said, "is a way of continuing their sales and not educating the public about the inherent features." He pointed to the European Union, which limits e-bike motors to 250 watts, compared with the 750-watt restriction for American e-bikes. In a loophole one Bay Area member of the Assembly is trying to close, many bikes use that wattage as a baseline, rather than a peak. Others, like Mittelstaedt, believe all throttle-powered e-bikes should be considered motor vehicles, leaving only pedal-assist e-bikes free from licensing and training requirements. Lilia doesn't believe kids should be banned from riding e-bikes outright. But she said she worries when she sees young people ride too fast. Nearly four months after her crash, her leg has healed with the help of a titanium rod. She sometimes misses the freedom her e-bike gave her, but she hasn't gotten back on since. These days, her mom drives her down that same twisting road to school. Now 15, she's looking forward to next year, when she can get her driver's license. This article originally published at Growing epidemic': Bay Area teen's 40-mph crash reveals overlooked dangers of e-bikes. From the bridge of their charter boat High Class Hooker, Susanna Pope and her husband can look out at the sparkling 65-degree saltwater off Key West, Florida, and envision customers fishing for marlin, wahoo and mahi mahi. Where will they take the tourists today? What fish will be biting? Will the blue skies and calm seas hold? And what the heck should they be calling the water they're fishing in? A year ago, President Donald Trump's edict to rename the Gulf of Mexico formally took effect, and the United States abruptly legally, anyway began referring to it as the Gulf of America. In Key West, Fort Myers, Naples, all along the coast, the reaction has been mixed. Hundreds of people enjoy the beach as temps hit the mid 70s after a cold snap at the southern beach access on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. A fisherman casts a line using shrimp for bait at the southern beach access on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. Beachgoers relax under umbrellas as temps climbed back into the mid 70s after a cold snap at the southern beach access on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. Beachgoers look for shells as a sailboat passes in the distance at the southern beach access on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. Boats are seen in the Gulf near the southern beach access on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. The southern beach access is seen on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. A boater stops near birds resting on rocks near the southern beach access on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. A fisherman casts a line using shrimp for bait at the southern beach access on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. The Gulf is seen from the southern beach access on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. A person uses the boardwalk to access the southern beach on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. Beachgoers enjoy temps in the mid 70s at the southern beach access on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. Hundreds flock to Marco Island beaches as weather warms back up 1 of 11 Hundreds of people enjoy the beach as temps hit the mid 70s after a cold snap at the southern beach access on Marco Island, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. But old habits do indeed die hard, and a USA TODAY Network survey of communities along the coastline from Florida's Key West, Destin and Panama City to Dulac, Louisiana, and Corpus Christi, Texas found there's little agreement about what, exactly, people are calling the body of water they live next to. In many cases, locals just call it the same thing they've always called it. Advertisement Advertisement "Down here, we just refer to it as the Gulf," Susanna Pope, 44, said. "It's like saying you're going into town. You don't have to say Key West. You just say town." In Fort Myers Beach, Florida, sailboat-dwelling Ian Wylie said he's pleased the president renamed the place he calls home. "I think people refuse to accept that the name has changed for several different reasons some political, some not but Im actually proud that we have a gulf now named after us," said Wylie, who rents beach umbrellas and chairs to tourists. What's in a name? Piloting a boat running supplies to an under-construction bridge at the south end of Fort Myers Beach, Mike "Popeye" Dearden says not only does the renaming make sense, but its part of a human tendency to change geographical names throughout history. He said he thinks opposition to the change comes from people disliking Trump, not the name itself. Advertisement Advertisement "Did you know the Gulf has enjoyed nine official names in its history? Gulf of Mexico may have been the longest, but its had nine in its history. They change the maps and get over it, the self-described history buff and trivia geek said. "William Shakespeare said, 'Whats in a name?'" What's it called in real life? In Corpus Christi, a vacationing Jeremiah Orta, 22, said he's only heard people who are being "edgy" online use the new name: "I don't think in real life I've ever heard anyone say Gulf of America." Although these coastal communities are home to some of Trump's strongest supporters, few people said they simply fell in line behind the president's declaration. Many locals interviewed by the USA TODAY Network declined to speak publicly, citing concerns about potential political retribution if they were quoted picking one name over the other. Afternoon clouds build over the Gulf of Mexico in this 2023 photo taken from near Fort Myers Beach, Florida. Place-naming experts say it's common for new names to take a long time to stick, particularly if the renaming was done abruptly and without public discussion. Advertisement Advertisement In Sarasota County, Lueanne Wood, who has been living on the Gulf for the past 41 years, says she sticks to tradition. "As someone in the real estate industry, most of the people that want to move here are older and it can get confusing to call it anything other than what theyve heard their whole lives, the Gulf of Mexico," she said. "Everyone in my life and almost everyone I know calls it the Gulf of Mexico, thats the only name for it." On Marco Island, Michigan tourist Annette Myers collected shells from what she called the Gulf of Mexico. "This is always going to be the Gulf of Mexico to me," she said. Captain Jared Theriot on the deck of his vessel "Captain Beb," says he will always consider the Gulf as the Gulf of Mexico, February 3. Theriot was offloading shrimp at David Chauvin's Seafood. In Dulac, Louisiana, shrimp boat Capt. Jared Theriot said he's not inclined to consider using the new name. More important to him, he said, was quickly unloading 318 100-pound boxes of frozen shrimp so he could get back onto the water while the fishing remained good. Advertisement Advertisement "I really dont give a f--- what they call it," he said. "Itll always be the Gulf of Mexico to me." Some take pride in the 'Gulf of America' name In Destin, Realtor Mary Anne Windes said most people just say the "Gulf," but aboard her husband's charter fishing boat Sunrise, it's most definitely the Gulf of America. "Weve got the Gulf of America [flag] flying on our boat," Windes said, and they wear Gulf of America T-shirts. "It's absolutely the Gulf of America." The company's Facebook page, however, advertises charter fishing trips on the Gulf of Mexico. In Panama City, Florida, Iowa tourist Jim Nelson said it's the Gulf of America as far as he's concerned. Trump changed the name, and Nelson feels it's justified. Advertisement Advertisement "Theres a lot more coastline, or beach line, for the United States than there is Mexico," Nelson said. Why the name change? In renaming the Gulf, Trump said the new name would better reflect the body of water's important role in fishing, shipping, and oil and gas extraction. Supporters of the change said they hoped it would bring new attention to the important body of water. But critics noted Trump's decision had more than a whiff of colonial imperialism, where White conquerors renamed places to reflect their worldview and minimize those of people who called it something else. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters after signing a proclamation renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, while flying over the gulf aboard Air Force One en route to New Orleans to attend the Super Bowl, on Feb. 9, 2025. "As my administration restores American pride in the history of American greatness, it is fitting and appropriate for our great nation to come together and commemorate this momentous occasion and the renaming of the Gulf of America," Trump said in declaring Feb. 9, 2025, as "Gulf of America Day." Advertisement Advertisement But what is in name? Plenty, said place-naming expert Derek H. Alderman, a chancellor's professor at the University of Tennessee. It's easy to dismiss the Gulf name change as a stunt, Alderman said, but Trump's decision served far deeper purposes than you might at first think. First, he said, it was an early shot at Mexico, a longtime Trump target. Second, Trump has long understood the power in branding and how names shape perception. And third, it allowed the president to set out very early in his term the kind of muscular, go-it-alone approach we've seen unfold over the past year, Alderman said. "The president recognizes the power of names, the power of brands. And he's extended that in a geopolitical sense, applied some of that same logic to the geopolitical realm," he said. "He was not simply changing the name. He was actually enacting a different worldview that said we're going to be signaling in a nationalistic, almost imperialistic way, America is absolutely first and it's all about American interests." Alderman, who served on the Federal Advisory Committee on Reconciliation in Place Names during the Biden administration, said he wonders what impact the name change will have on high school students learning about geography, history and social studies. Advertisement Advertisement For generations, America's borders have remained unchanged, but Trump has said he wants to expand the country's boundaries. Naming and claiming the Gulf is a step in that process, Alderman said. Captain Easton Rodrigue moors his vessel the "Ensliegh," after offloading shrimp at David Chauvin's Seafood in Dulac, February 3. "When you rename the Gulf, you're taking about extending territory in a symbolic sense," he said. "This idea that you simply and in a unilateral way rename a place, claim it, that is a pretty old process that's been going on since the days of colonializations. That worldview will ripple across classrooms and affect how students' worldviews form." Aboard the Louisiana-based shrimp boat Ensliegh, Capt. Easton Rodrigue said that no matter what people call the Gulf, he just wishes more Americans would buy from shrimpers like him, instead of buying cheaper imported shrimp often farmed under unhealthy and dangerous conditions internationally. "They have the guys who call it the Gulf of America, but it's not changin' nothin cuz they still buyin' imports," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Contributing: Colin Campo, Houma Courier-Thibodaux Daily Comet; Olivia Garrett, Corpus Christi Caller-Times; Francesca Abarca, Sarasota Herald-Tribune; Tyler Orsburn, Panama City News Herald; Tina Harbuck, The Destin Log This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Trump changed name of Gulf of Mexico. Has Gulf of America caught on? BEIRUT, Feb 14 (Reuters) - Former Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri, one of the country's best-known politicians, indicated on Saturday that his party would contest upcoming elections, four years after he stepped back from public office. In a speech marking the 21st anniversary of the assassination of his father Rafik, who was also prime minister, Saad told supporters in Beirut that others would hear our voice, and count our votes when elections take place. It was unclear whether Hariri plans to run himself, although his popularity amongst Lebanon's Sunni Muslims remains strong. Huge masses gathered in Beiruts Martyrs Square waving his party's flag and chanting his name. You're not a few, and you never were, Hariri told his supporters. Advertisement Advertisement Lebanese parliament speaker Nabih Berri said on Friday that elections will be held as scheduled on May 10, despite calls from some politicians to postpone the vote, due in part to security concerns in southern Lebanon, where Israel has carried out air strikes targeting militant group Hezbollah. Hariri, a three-time former premier, stepped back from politics in 2022 and blocked his Future Movement from running in a parliamentary vote that year, citing reasons including Iran's influence in the country - an indirect reference to Hezbollah. The Shi'ite Muslim Hezbollah had played a growing role in Lebanon's internal politics, but was severely weakened after a 2024 conflict with Israel. It is now under U.S.-backed pressure to disarm since a ceasefire in late 2024. Before stepping back from politics, Hariri led one of parliament's biggest factions after inheriting his father's mantle. Advertisement Advertisement His Future Movement's absence from Lebanon's 2022 parliamentary election resulted in fractured Sunni Muslim representation in parliament, where seats are divided according to a sectarian quota system. (Reporting by Laila Bassam and Mohamed Azakir; Writing by Feras Dalatey; Editing by Sharon Singleton) You love living in your planned development, and like all your neighbors. But then something changes. The couple down the street moves away, and their house is now rented by a half dozen people whose cars often block your driveway. They get loud, and you're never sure who really lives there. Would your homeowners association have the authority to intercede? Can an HOA prevent property owners from renting out their home? Advertisement Advertisement The short answer is maybe, according to Greenville attorney Robert Valihura. Subscribe to Whats Going There in Delaware "It's really problematic at the beach with the short-term rentals. It is a very contentious issue," Valihura said. "Homeowners who live there are now inundated with renters and they didn't buy into a hotel situation people coming in and out like it's a hotel." Peninsula Lakes on Bay Farm Road in Millsboro June 7, 2021. Valihura is a partner at Morton, Valihura & Zerbato and a former member of the Delaware House of Representatives, where he was chair of the Housing and Community Affairs Committee. He's an expert on HOA law, and when it comes to renting homes in an HOA, Valihura said, it all depends on governing documents. Advertisement Advertisement HOA 101: What is a homeowners association? Answers for homebuyers HOAs and your taxes: Can I deduct my HOA fees from my taxes? What to know in 2026 What are governing documents and where can I find them? Valihura called homeowners associations "the most basic form of government in Delaware." Much like Delawareans must abide by the Delaware code, members of a homeowners association must abide by their governing documents. These documents can be called declarations, master deeds, or covenants, conditions and restrictions (CCRs). There may be additional governing documents, as well, such as bylaws, articles of incorporation and resolutions. You should have received and reviewed these documents prior to purchasing your home. If you don't have them, many are available on HOA websites. If not, they can be found through your county's recorder of deeds and are often online. Can my HOA stop renters? Bottom line: If your HOA's governing documents prohibit rentals, your HOA can stop your neighbor from renting out their home. If your HOA's governing documents don't ban rentals, there are still steps you can take. Advertisement Advertisement "A homeowner could ask the board/council to adopt a rule to prohibit rentals or to prohibit certain types of rentals," Valihura said. And if your HOA's governing documents specifically permit rentals, you can ask your board or council to seek a homeowner vote to amend that rule. "All of this is couched by what is in the governing documents," Valihura said. "And while there is some similarity between and among such documents, each communitys governing documents must be consulted carefully to understand what, if any, ability a board/council or homeowner has to take any of (these) actions." Shannon Marvel McNaught reports on southern Delaware and beyond. Reach her at smcnaught@gannett.com or on Facebook. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Can my HOA stop my neighbors from renting out their home in Delaware? After initially raising questions about the plan, Premier Susan Holt has given her stamp of approval to a new company taking over New Brunswick' virtual primary care system in April. Controversy erupted earlier this month after the province opted to have Luxembourg-based Foundever take over the virtual care system from eVisitNB, a company based in Woodstock. I am still looking at this one and asking questions, Holt said in a Facebook comment at the time. Advertisement Advertisement She told CBC News on Thursday those questions have now been resolved. I went through with the team every step of the RFP process, the premier said in an interview in Shippagan. The Progressive Conservative opposition accused Holt of not putting New Brunswick first by issuing a request for proposals rather than renewing eVisitNBs contract. The premier said Foundevers own connection to New Brunswick can be traced back through a couple of corporate takeovers to Clinidata, a homegrown startup that began running the provincial 811 Telecare program in 1997. Foundever has 150 employees in New Brunswick. Advertisement Advertisement Holt said this, and the possibility of a partnership between Foundever and eVisitNB, left her convinced this is the best interests of New Brunswickers. The CEO of the Vitalite Health Network told the legislatures public accounts committee on Thursday that the health authority would have been able to operate the service without the province having to go with an outside private supplier. France Desrosiers said about 20 per cent of consults by Vitalites family health teams are virtual. We have the capacity to offer the entire service and at a lower cost, she said. No one asked us if we could do it. Dr. France Desrosiers, CEO of Vitalite Health Network, said they would have been able to operate the service without the province having to go with an outside private supplier. (Bader Ben Amara/Radio-Canada) The contract with Foundever had not been signed as of earlier this week. Advertisement Advertisement The switchover from eVisitNB to Foundever is set for April 1. Holt said Thursday there may be an opportunity for the two companies to develop a partnership and work together but she did not elaborate. EVisitNB CEO Dr. Hanif Chatur has not made himself available to CBC News for interviews and Foundever did not respond to an interview request. Chatur said in an email statement this week that he was disappointed the province opted for Foundever and surprised by its explanation that the Luxembourg companys bid was stronger on the provinces desire for greater integration with other health services. Advertisement Advertisement At no point did the Government of New Brunswick indicate that eVisitNB was failing to address its concerns, he wrote. We worked closely with the Department of Health to resolve issues as they came up and delivered measurable results. He said eVisitNB completed more than one million virtual visits in the last year, serving 325,000 patients with more than 165 nurse practitioners. A Saratoga, California, homeowner was left shaken up after her security camera recorded a mountain lion wandering onto her front porch. It's thought the mountain lion may have killed a neighbor's beloved 14-year-old mini horse, Seabiscuit. What happened? According to KTVU News, the horse went missing in late December, and when found near a creek days later, wildlife officials confirmed it had been mauled by a mountain lion. Advertisement Advertisement The sighting and attack have rattled a normally quiet neighborhood, leaving residents unnerved about wildlife roaming so close to homes. "We just live two doors down," Thamil Annamalai told the news outlet. "It is very scary to know that the mountain lion can come and take away the pony that we see every day, going up and down the street." Why is this mountain lion encounter concerning? This frightening encounter reflects the wider issue of human-wildlife conflict. As housing expands into previously wild areas, natural habitats are reduced, pushing predators like mountain lions closer to residential zones in search of food and territory. "There are lots of homes around here," Seabiscuit's owner, Tracy Lundmark, said. "Lots of dogs. I'm still in shock. It's a mystery why they are coming down so close." Advertisement Advertisement Habitat destruction and resource scarcity force animals to adapt by exploring new hunting grounds and places to shelter, sometimes placing them in direct contact with people and their pets. Researchers have noted that as humans expand urbanization into the wilderness, competition for space and resources increases, thus heightening the risk of wildlife encounters that can lead to livestock predation and community safety concerns. Although attacks on humans remain rare, attacks on domestic animals like Seabiscuit are a stark reminder that wildlife and people share an increasingly crowded environment. What can be done to avoid a mountain lion encounter? Wildlife officials often monitor mountain lion activity and advise residents to secure livestock, clear attractants, and remain vigilant, especially around times when animals are most active. Advertisement Advertisement Lundmark provided photos and videos to the Department of Fish and Wildlife and requested relocation of the specific mountain lion involved, but the county denied that appeal. Community members can take local action by supporting habitat conservation efforts that preserve wild spaces, reducing the likelihood of animals venturing into neighborhoods. Reporting sightings, maintaining secure animal enclosures, and educating the public on coexistence strategies can also help foster safer human-wildlife communities. Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. As little evidence has been made public in the abduction of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie's mother, a renowned Houston forensic artist says she felt compelled to attempt sketch a masked suspect at the center of the case. "It's the worst torture in the world," Lois Gibson said, recalling the stories families of kidnapping victims have told her over her career. Gibson is not associated with the Guthrie case, but with a long history of nailing suspect's likeness for some of Houston's most notorious crimes, she feels this guess is going to be a good one. Advertisement Advertisement "I'm brave, and I'll take the hit. If I messed up and he is way different and he has tattoos, yeah, oh well, you can criticize me," Gibson said. With nearly four decades of experience as a former forensic artist for the Houston Police Department, Gibson has spent countless hours talking to people who were in the same position as the Guthrie family. Those stories were all Gibson said she could think of when the Pima County Sheriff's Office in Tucson, Arizona, released video of a person of interest. In the doorbell video, we see a masked person on the front porch of Nancy Guthrie's home the night of her abduction. "I printed up the surveillance images, and I went to the easel, and I just drew it, something, just to get a ballpark," Gibson said. Advertisement Advertisement Nancy is the mother of "Today" show host, Savannah Guthrie. Police say she was kidnapped from her Tucson, Arizona, home on Feb. 1 in the middle of the night. Gibson said she decided she couldn't stand by and do nothing. "I went ahead and was brave, because I know what it feels like to be with people who have had a loved one kidnapped," Gibson said. Gibson put pen to paper and tried to look behind the mask. "And if you have this, you know how far down the nose is going to go, generic nose, and you can tell here, it's not a great big hook nose, it's slight, not a great big old nose, it doesn't stick out that far and it does not stick out that wide," she said. Advertisement Advertisement The latest official identifying information from the Pima County Sheriff's Office is that the masked suspect is a man between 5'9" and 10" tall. Law enforcement is looking for tips in the case from anyone who knows something. For more news updates, follow Lileana Pearson on Facebook, X and Instagram. Disgraced Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino has embarked on a bizarre social media charm offensive that almost immediately spiraled into a trainwreck. The 55-year-old had been shut out of his X account last month after President Donald Trump cast him out of Minnesota in the wake of 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Prettis killing by Border Patrol agents. He was reportedly muzzled at the time after Department of Homeland Security officials noticed he was publicly trolling and feuding with lawmakers over the shooting. This week, however, he finally got the keys back to his X profile and dove right in on attacking his critics, taunting Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker with a threat to bring his agents back to Chicago. But after lobbing a Trumpian weight jab at Pritzker, Bovino was promptly swarmed by commenters mocking his own physical appearance, calling him a fascist, and urging him to seek therapy. Bovino was rarely seen without a posse of CBP agents as he pounded sidewalks nationwide. / Anadolu / Anadolu via Getty Images Bizarrely, Bovino took the time to reply to each insult directed his way, albeit not in a particularly scathing manner, relying instead on Lol and cringe jokes about pie. Advertisement Advertisement The pile-on came after Bovino tried to push back against Pritzkers call for him to lose his job, along with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Trumps deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, who have all faced backlash over the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens. Bovino reshared the post, saying, Nah, gubner, too busy leading agents to arrest illegal aliens. Besides, Chicago may need another double-digit drop in a whole smorgasbord of violent crime, compliments of the Green Machine. Perhaps we could meet for a sugar-free slice of heirloom apple pie -on me! X/Gregory Bovino The Green Machine is what Bovino has frequently called his posse of masked border agents deployed around the nations interior as part of the administrations deportation drive. In a baffling reply to no one but himself, Bovino then said below, Carnivore Homesteadingheck yes!!!!!!! Smokehouses are a lost art for the ardent homesteader. So are deep root cellers. Advertisement Advertisement I nearly had a stroke reading that, one person responded to Bovinos original post. Are you tall enough to be on this app? another X user asked, referring to his widely-reported diminutive stature. Bovino had tried to attack Illinois governor JB Pritzker, but was soon trolled himself. / Daniel Boczarski / Getty Images for Vox Media Please slip back into the s--thole that [you] snuck out of? another begged. Hey Gestapo Greg!! Where have you been???? read another reply, apparently referencing Bovinos controversial trench coat that some say resembles attire worn by Nazis. Bovino's trenchcoat sparked conversation about his sense of style. / DHS Bovino became a MAGA social media star during his seven-month stint as the face of Trumps deportation drive, which often saw him surrounded by a squad of agents stomping around city sidewalks and yelling at protesters. Advertisement Advertisement Some commenters wished Bovino well on his return to the internet, however. One person even invited him and the boys around for some homemade pasta. Tom Homan was brought in to replace Bovino in Minnesota. / CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP via Getty Images Trumps border czar, Tom Homan, took over operations in Minnesota following Bovinos ouster, which came against the backdrop of mounting horror at the scenes emanating from immigration enforcement operations in the state. The Daily Beast did not immediately receive a response from DHS. NEED TO KNOW A criminal probe has been opened to determine whether two unnamed immigration officers lied under oath about the shooting of a man from Venezuela in Minneapolis last month. According to court documents reviewed by PEOPLE, the news comes after earlier on Friday, Feb. 13, U.S. District Court Judge Paul A. Magnuson dismissed with prejudice felony assault charges against Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna and Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis stemming from a Jan. 14 incident The immigration officers were not named A criminal probe has been opened to determine whether two unnamed immigration officers lied under oath about the shooting of a man from Venezuela in Minneapolis last month. "A joint review by ICE and the Department of Justice (DOJ) of video evidence has revealed that sworn testimony provided by two separate officers appears to have made untruthful statements," Tricia McLaughlin, the Department of Homeland Security's Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, said in a Friday, Feb. 13, statement obtained by PEOPLE. Advertisement Advertisement According to the statement, "Both officers have been immediately placed on administrative leave pending the completion of a thorough internal investigation. Lying under oath is a serious federal offense. The U.S. Attorney's Office is actively investigating these false statements." "The men and women of ICE are entrusted with upholding the rule of law and are held to the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct," the statement continued. "Violations of this sacred sworn oath will not be tolerated. ICE remains fully committed to transparency, accountability, and the fair enforcement of our nation's immigration laws." Earlier on Friday, Feb. 13, U.S. District Court Judge Paul A. Magnuson dismissed with prejudice felony assault charges against Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna and Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis stemming from a Jan. 14 incident, according to court documents reviewed by PEOPLE. A criminal complaint obtained by PEOPLE shows that the two men were accused of beating an ICE officer with a broom handle and a snow shovel in an effort to evade arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Sosa-Celis suffered a "non-life-threatening gunshot wound to his upper right thigh" as a result of the incident. U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota Daniel N. Rosen later filed a motion to dismiss, reviewed by PEOPLE, writing that "newly discovered evidence in this matter is materially inconsistent with the allegations in the Complaint Affidavit, filed on January 16, 2026, as ECF 1-1, as well as the preliminary-hearing testimony (ECF 18, 19) that was based on information presented to the Affiant." ICE agents in Minneapolis on Feb. 4 John Moore/Getty "Accordingly, dismissal with prejudice will serve the interests of justice," the document added. Attorney Brian D. Clark, the immigration lawyer representing Aljorna and Sosa-Celis, said in a statement with PEOPLE that his clients are overjoyed that all charges have been dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.rk. "The charges against them were based on lies by an ICE agent who recklessly shot into their home through a closed door," Clark's statement said. "They are so happy justice is being served by the government's request to dismiss all charges with prejudice. The identity of the ICE agent should be made public and he should be charged for his crime." Read the original article on People Concerns over Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions in Jackson County dominated a nearly hourlong engagement forum Thursday night with Sheriff Darryl Forte and Legislative Chair Manny Abarca IV. The discussion, held at Macedonia Baptist Church, focused on community members asking the pair about the presence of ICE officers, what residents rights are and whether those rights would be respected. We havent had the problem here yet, but it could be here tomorrow, Forte said. And thats why I think time is of the essence for us to do something and not just talk about doing. Advertisement Advertisement Multiple people cited concerns over the possibility of masked officers in the community, particularly over whether they are truly law enforcement or ICE. Ordinance 6050 would require any law enforcement working in Jackson County whether U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or KCPD officers to keep their faces and badge numbers visible while working. The ordinance is set to go up for a vote before the Jackson County Legislators in March. Forte said he does not oppose the ordinance, but is concerned it could limit his agencys discretion to use masks during intelligence operations. Forte said hes not sure whether the ordinance would help with ICE officers, though. Ive talked to some federal agents, Forte said. They dont care about an ordinance. Im not saying that we shouldnt go with that, because the way their standards policy is written, they dont have to identify themselves by name. Advertisement Advertisement Forte said he is trying to set up a meeting with the special agent in charge of ICE for the area to discuss how operations are handled locally, citing local law enforcements interactions with the agency in Minneapolis and its exclusion from investigations such as the death of Renee Good. Can we be a part of that investigation, at least be in the room to make our people feel a little safe and make it feel like its a fair investigation? Forte said. Abarca said that starting a series of forums to spread education to the community on knowing your rights was doable and something he would look into setting up. The forum took place on the same day that Kansas City company Platform Ventures announced that it is no longer negotiating with federal officials for an ICE detention facility in the city. Advertisement Advertisement Platform Ventures announced in a statement Thursday that it is no longer actively engaged with the U.S. Government or any other prospective purchaser of its 920,000-square-foot site at 14901 Botts Road. The company had previously announced that negotiations with the prospective buyer were complete. As negotiations concluded, we learned the purchasing party was the U.S. Government, the statement from the company read. Over the course of the building sale process, we determined that the terms no longer met our fiduciary requirements for a timely closing. Therefore, we chose not to move forward. On Thursday morning, with Minneapolis and St. Paul still reeling from weeks of federal occupation and violent crackdowns that have resulted in the arrest of 4,000 people, the Trump administration declared victory. The surge is leaving Minnesota safer, border czar Tom Homan said at a press conference. Ill say it again: Its less of a sanctuary state for criminals, maintaining the governments position despite many of those arrested having no criminal records, including 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos. Critics of the federal occupation assert that collective pressure by up to 100,000 Minnesotans was the real cause behind the withdrawal, while also remaining wary that a reduction in federal presence does not mean an absence of threats or the mitigation of damage. The withdrawal began in early February, when the Trump administration pulled 700 federal agents from Minneapolis, leaving thousands more still roaming the streets in armored vehicles and on foot. The announcement today left few real details about the logistics of ending the Department of Homeland Securitys so-called Operation Metro Surge and how many DHS personnel would remain in the long run, other than that a significant drawdown has already been underway this week and will continue into next week, as Homan put it. Advertisement Advertisement Minnesota state representative and former voting rights lawyer Emma Greenman, representing parts of Minneapolis, told Salon that neither she and nor her colleagues or indeed anyone in the state government had been apprised of federal plans all they had was what they were witnessing on the ground. After Tom Homan announced the withdrawal of 700 agents, we continued to see the same terror and harassment tactics, the same sort of violence and targeting of not what they call the worst of the worst, but, but everybody who is Black and brown, constitutional observers who are not protesters, people who are followed to their house, she said. Ending the paramilitary occupation does not end the lawlessness if they return to how it was before, with hundreds of people on the ground. Even in his speech on Thursday, Tom Homan was calling all of our residents in Minnesota agitators but not saying anything about lawless violence against American citizens [by DHS agents]. Its not the tone of someone whos going to pull the core group of federal agents out. At the start of Operation Metro Surge, at least 100 DHS agents were operating in the Twin Cities area, according to lawsuits. In the weeks after ICE officer Jonathan Ross killed Minneapolis resident Renee Nicole Good in December, that number surged to between 3,000 and 4,000 as the federal government sought to demonstrate a show of force against protesters. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection personnel, normally responsible for seizing and detaining immigrants, routinely took charge of anti-crowd violence during protests with pepper balls, flashbangs, tear gas and fatal gunshots, effectively under the guise of quelling domestic terrorism. Homans announcement is, apparently, a suggestion that such violence will be scaled back, if not completely ended. To some activists, the talk of withdrawal framed by declarations of victory appears less like a concession or closing the book and more like a calculating psychological tactic. Advertisement Advertisement My read is that the administration is continuing its tactics of whipsawing everybody back and forth to keep them in a state of uncertainty and anxiety, Julia Decker, policy director at the Immigration Law Center of Minnesota, told Salon. I think the one of the lessons learned for the community from 2020, and also out of previous histories, is that things dont change on a dime when it comes to state violence and the way that the state operates. And so this idea that somehow there could be a drawdown depending on certain contingencies has not been met with any sort complacency on the part of most of the community. I think there is a genuine understanding of continued caution and understanding that there is still a huge number of federal agents here. For all the defiance of protesters and citizens setting up networks to warn their neighbors of ICE presence, the effect of the federal crackdown, Decker added, has also been to frighten the most vulnerable members of the community, who are not going to work, not going to school, not going to medical appointments there are entire business corridors completely shut down across the city, and the human and economic impact of this will be staggering. In response to the occupation, several schools in the Minneapolis area began offering virtual learning a callback of sorts to the COVID-19 pandemic to accommodate students who would not step out of their homes and risk abduction by ICE officers. Start your day with essential news from Salon. Sign up for our free morning newsletter, Crash Course. Even if DHS presence was reverted back to pre-December levels, those are essentially the status quo conditions marked by mass arrests of people at schools, at workplaces, and on the street, as well as the killing of Good. And the three month federal escalation is not something that is just forgotten whenever its over. Minnesota lawmakers and officials have little idea of how many of the 4,000 people arrested by federal agents during the operation are still detained, and DHS appears to be trying to keep information hidden while transferring many of them to out-of-state facilities. Over the last several weeks, attorneys are fighting in court to get an exact roster of who is still held and where, while a federal judge ordered DHS to give detained immigrants access to attorneys, a right outlined in the U.S. Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Still more people have been surveilled and captured in DHS databases, with federal agents in some cases holding cellphones inches from their faces to scan their features, or else taking pictures of their license plates. Other times, they might cast a wider net, using AI-enabled tools to record the movements of large groups at protests and map out their personal networks and connections. One activist, who requested to remain anonymous, told Salon that an ICE officer followed them home and said that they would be put on a database of domestic terrorists. DHS did not respond to Salons request for comment. Homan, for his part, said that even as federal agents were being withdrawn, he was satisfied that local police would be cooperative, especially when it comes to keeping them informed on people of interest detained in jails. He added that state and local police have improved their response time to removing protest barricades and driving away protesters trying to disrupt DHS operations. While Trumps DHS used its three months of occupation to gain any leverage they possibly could, activists, politicians and volunteers opposed to the crackdown have also been preparing for long-term opposition. Democratic state lawmakers have been preparing a slew of legislation to fortify residents against continued state violence, including a bill to allow citizens to file lawsuits against the federal government for civil rights violations by federal agents. Advertisement Advertisement The Minnesota House is currently divided evenly between Democrats and Republicans, which means that at least one GOP vote is needed to pass those bills though Greenman noted that many of her colleagues across the aisle are feeling pressure from voters uneasy or outright furious about the crackdown. Furthermore, Greenman added, if the shocks of a federal occupation cant just be turned on and off like a switch, neither would the political tradition fueled by the protests that put Minneapolis at the center of national attention. People are looking and talking to their neighbors and to the members of their community, and to people in their city and to people in other cities that might be the administrations next target. The energy of facing down a federal occupation is not something that just goes away, she said. That is power that you build and maintain and sustain. And people are changed because of it. The post ICE cutting its losses in Minneapolis, leaving scars behind appeared first on Salon.com. A federal agency has signed a lease with a real estate agency to open a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in Southfield, city officials said. The move has sparked concern from immigrant advocates and some Democratic leaders who fear the site at One Towne Square near the M-10 and I-696 freeways could be used to target some communities and be used for voter suppression in Michigan in the November elections. In a statement, the city of Southfield said that the "U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has executed a lease for office space at One Towne Square to support administrative and legal functions associated with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)." Advertisement Advertisement "Based on information provided to the City, the leased space is intended for administrative and legal operations," the city said. "The City has been advised that ICE enforcement officers will not be operating out of this location." The real estate company that signed the lease, REDICO (Real Estate Development and Investment Company), confirmed in a statement to the Free Press on Friday, Feb. 13, sent through a public relations agency they have a lease with GSA, but added that "the lease explicitly prohibits any law enforcement, detention or similar activities to take place on the premises." REDICO said their lease was for general office use only. The city released the statement on its website on Feb. 11, but it no longer appeared the following day when the Free Press checked the website. Southfield Mayor Kenson Siver told the Free Press that "after hearing from (the) landlord," they "did not want to say what the use is." Advertisement Advertisement "We are told that it is a lease with the GSA for a legal office," Siver told the Free Press. "We did not want to say what the use is after hearing from (the) landlord. We only have the landlords statement. We have not heard from GSA or ICE. ... The city has no authority to get involved in landlord/tenant contracts for uses that are permitted by zoning." More: ICE agent impersonator at Dearborn grocery store concerns immigrants Immigrant advocates have expressed concern about the ICE office in online forums, urging people to contact REDICO and Southfield officials to voice their objections. U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Detroit, released a statement on Thursday, Feb. 12, objecting to the office and to reports of a possible ICE jail in Romulus. Kenson J. Siver the mayor of Southfield inside the old Northland Center on September 10, 2021. Siver has been working with David Dedvukaj of Contour Companies who bought the 100-acre site is in the beginning stages of redeveloping it all to transform it into office, retail and apartment spaces. "ICE is now attempting to expand its unwanted presence in Southeast Michigan, with a new office building lease with REDICO in Southfield to intensify their operations against our communities and a new warehouse jail in Romulus to cage hundreds of our neighbors in unsafe conditions," Tlaib said. "Across the country, people are coming together and fighting to prevent this massive expansion of ICEs network of abuse and cruelty." Advertisement Advertisement Mark Brewer, a Detroit attorney who is a former chair of the Michigan Democratic Party, said Friday he's concerned about the ICE office being used to target Democratic voters in November. "ICE isnt coming to Southfield because its a hotbed of illegal immigration (it aint) but to make Southfield its headquarters for voter suppression in the fall elections on behalf of Trump and the GOP," Brewer wrote in a post on X. "Its what I believe and predict," Brewer told the Free Press. ICE officials from the press office in the Midwest referred questions about the office to their national press office, which said someone from their office will reach out later. REDICO added that it "has a longstanding relationship with the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), which leases space in several of our Class-A commercial properties across the country for office and administrative use only." Advertisement Advertisement The city of Southfield acknowledged the concerns of some residents about the ICE office, saying it will provide updates. "The City recognizes that residents may have questions regarding this development," the city said. "The City of Southfield remains committed to transparency, factual communication, and ensuring the community understands the scope of municipal authority in matters involving private commercial property." The controversy in Southfield comes after a report said a site in Romulus is being considered for a 500-bed ICE warehouse jail. Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight said he was not able to confirm any plans and has strong objections to an ICE jail. "My administration takes this issue very seriously and is opposed to any such operation being located within the City of Romulus," McCraight said earlier this month. In other developments, a coalition of religious groups in Michigan announced Friday that more than 200 faith leaders and organizations in the state signed a letter condemning what it called "violent and dehumanizing immigration enforcement practices by" by agents, according to a press release from Bellwether Public Relations in Lansing. Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Feb. 16, the coalition plans to hold an online press conference featuring several religious leaders, including United Methodist Bishop David Bard, who leads Methodists in the state, that calls for for "transparency, accountability, and systemic reform," organizers said. Contact Niraj Warikoo: nwarikoo@freepress.com This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: ICE office in Southfield sparks concern from advocates, Democrats Immigration and Customs Enforcement has purchased a facility in Lebanon to house detained immigrants, an agency spokesperson said Friday. No details about the size, scope, purchase price or street address of the facility in Lebanon, about 30 miles east of Nashville, were immediately made available Friday, and news of the purchase took state and local officials by surprise. Wilson County Mayor Randall Hutto said he had heard no information about the plans to build a detention center in the county and asked for contact information to reach ICE in order to learn more. The Wilson County Assessor of Property has no record of a final purchase. Advertisement Advertisement State Sen. Mark Pody and state Rep. Clark Boyd, who represent the area, said they were unaware of the plans. The Lebanon facility will be part of the agencys now-expanding network of well-structured detention facilities meeting our regular detention standards, the ICE spokesperson said in an email to the Lookout. The facility will be Tennessees second detention center for immigrants. A once-shuttered federal prison in Mason, Tenn. was repurposed as the West Tennessee Detention Facility to house detained immigrants last fall. The Mason facility, operated by Nashville-based private prison contractor CoreCivic, housed a daily average of 243 men on non-criminal charges, 31 men with criminal charges and one female detainee facing no criminal charges between the facilitys reopening in fall 2025 and Jan. 22, according to rolling data maintained by ICE. The majority of detainees had no previous criminal convictions. In a nod to the potential size of the Lebanon facility, the ICE spokesperson provided estimates on economic benefits to the surrounding community: Advertisement Advertisement The Lebanon facility and its construction are expected to bring 7,216 jobs to the area and would contribute $829.5 million to GDP. Its also projected to bring in more than $167.8 million in tax revenue, the spokesperson wrote. ICE plans to spend $38.3 billion to acquire warehouses across the country and turn them into large-scale immigrant detention centers holding tens of thousands of people awaiting deportation or immigration hearings, the Washington Post reported Friday. Asked Friday about plans to house immigrants in former warehouses in Tennessee, the ICE spokesperson said these will not be warehouses. In addition to the jobs and taxes generated by the facility in Lebanon, the spokesperson said the economic benefits dont even take into account that removing criminals from the streets makes communities safe for businesses and customers. The spokesperson included a series of mug shots of immigrants accused of violent crimes who have been detained in Tennessee. Reporters Sam Stockard and Cassandra Stephenson contributed. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Donald Trumps administration intends to spend nearly $40 billion on a plan to detain tens of thousands of immigrants in retrofitted warehouses across the country, expanding the presidents mass deportation efforts into cities and towns that are increasingly urging officials to keep them out of their backyards. Documents published by officials in New Hampshire offer the clearest and most comprehensive picture yet of Immigration and Customs Enforcements nationwide plans to scale up the presidents campaign to quickly arrest, detain and deport people from the United States, which is already detaining more than 60,000 immigrants at any given time. ICE expects to spend more than $38 billion buying up 16 buildings it can convert into processing centers to temporarily detain up to 1,500 immigrants in each before theyre moved to larger facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Another eight larger warehouses would hold up to 10,000 people at a time, serving as primary locations for removal from the country, according to the documents. Those facilities add to an already-expansive immigration detention system of more than 200 jails, mostly operated by private firms, in a country with one of the highest incarceration rates on the planet. ICE spent nearly $130 million on a more than 1 million square foot warehouse roughly 50 miles outside of Atlanta to detain thousands of immigrants, part of a network of newly acquired and converted warehouse spaces across the country (Getty Images) The plans are meeting fierce resistance, including in states and counties that supported Trump and from Republican officials. Last week, Mississippi Senator Roger Wicker said he spoke with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem about a proposed facility in Marshall County. I relayed to her the opposition of local elected and zoning officials as well as economic development concerns. I appreciate her for agreeing to look elsewhere, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Democratic Senator Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire, whose state published documents about the warehouse expansion, grilled ICEs acting director Todd Lyons on whether he would similarly cancel a project in her state. No, maam, he said during his testimony to the Senate Homeland Security committee Thursday. The people of Merrimack, their leadership, do not want this ICE facility in their community. I have yet to find a Granite State community that does, she said. I would hope I get the same treatment that Senator Wicker got, which is that the town doesnt want the detention center, so please cancel it. ICEs acting director Todd Lyons is overseeing a plan that would buy up roughly two dozen large warehouses, previously used for industrial purposes, to be turned into massive jails to support the Trump administrations mass deportation efforts (AP) New Hampshires Republican Governor Kelly Ayotte said Homeland Security shared the documents with her office for the first time that same day, appearing to contradict Lyonss testimony that he spoke with the governor and provided her with an economic impact summary about the project. Advertisement Advertisement ICE plans to spend $158 million retrofitting a warehouse in Merrimack. Similar plans are underway across the country. ICE has already spent nearly $700 million acquiring warehouses in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Texas, according to public records and local reports. This week, ICE announced the purchase of a former warehouse in Chester, New York, which it plans to convert into a detention center, despite widespread, bipartisan opposition to the project from state and local officials That facility, roughly 60 miles outside of New York City could hold up to 1,500 people. I think every American should be alarmed, New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said this week. They are building and have built a black box system that disappears people, both immigrants and U.S. citizens alike. Advertisement Advertisement ICEs decision to move forward with the project despite clear local opposition underscore the urgent need for New York to be a bulwark against the Trump administrations mass deportation agenda, according to Murad Awawdeh, president of the New York Immigration Coalition. That kind of opposition is working in other states, even in deep-red districts. But ICE, flush with cash after a massive injection of taxpayer funds through Trumps One Big Beautiful Act domestic spending bill last year, intends to fully implement a new detention model by the end of Fiscal Year 2026, according to the documents. Last month, Homeland Security told officials in largely Republican-leaning Hanover County, Virginia, that ICE intends to build a facility on a former cattle farm that houses a 500,000-square-foot warehouse constructed by a company owned by Canadian billionaire Jim Pattison. Advertisement Advertisement Pattisons company reportedly intended to sell that warehouse to ICE, but after a threat of boycotts, in addition to business and union pressure and outrage from nearby residents, the countys board of supervisors announced plans to oppose the sale and called on federal, state and local leaders to do the same. Shortly after the boards vote, Pattisons company issued a one-line statement: The transaction to sell our industrial building in Ashland, Virginia will not be proceeding. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has faced urgent calls from federal, state and local officials from both parties across the country to pull ICE warehouses out of their states (AP) In Utah, local opposition forced a real estate group that owns a warehouse with plans for ICE conversion to issue a brief statement saying it has no plans to lease the property to any federal agency. In Oklahoma, officials passed a resolution to block any ICE facility there. And in Maryland, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball revoked the building permit for one. Advertisement Advertisement Similar resistance is underway across the country, though with mixed results; ICE spent nearly $130 million on a more than 1 million square foot warehouse roughly 50 miles outside of Atlanta, one of two new additions to Georgias already-sprawling immigration detention center network. Officials there already appear to be regretting it. This is not something, hands down, that the city can support, Social Circle City Manager Eric Taylor told Georgia Public Radio. More than 72 percent of residents in Walton County voted for Trump in 2024. The frustration here is that theyre looking at a building that was not built for human habitation, he said. There's nothing more than a shell of a building. In addition, IDF also stated it has begun striking Hezbollah terror targets in southern Lebanon on Saturday night, in response to "Hezbollahs repeated violations of the ceasefire agreement." A group of armed Gazans emerged from the ruins of a building on the Israeli side of the Yellow Line on Saturday, and at least two were subsequently killed, the IDF reported on Saturday evening. The group, spotted near an IDF post in Beit Hanoun, appeared to have entered the territory in the eastern section of the Gaza Strip via subterranean tunnels, the IDF stated. Advertisement Advertisement Beit Hanoun is approximately two kilometers from the Yellow Line. The IDF did not clarify whether the Gazans entered the tunnels on the Gazan side of the line or whether they crossed the line and then used the tunnels to draw closer to the IDF post. Israeli forces continued to patrol the area in case any further armed threats made themselves known, the IDF report added. The IDF characterized the incident as a "blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement." IDF soldiers operating in Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip, March 23, 2025. (credit: SCREENSHOT/IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT) In addition, IDF also stated it has begun striking Hezbollah terror targets in southern Lebanon on Saturday night, in response to Hezbollahs "repeated violations of the ceasefire agreement." Advertisement Advertisement The IDF struck weapons storage facilities and rocket launchers belonging to Hezbollah in several areas in southern Lebanon, according to a statement released in the early hours of Sunday morning. Drone smuggling attempt IDF observation troops and the Aerial Control Center intercepted a drone attempting to smuggle three M-16 rifles into Israel on Friday, the military announced on Saturday. The drone, which was identified as entering Israeli territory from the west, was located by troops and discovered to be carrying rifles. The weapons were transferred to security forces for processing, the IDF stated. IDF Chief of Staff conducts situational assessment Also on Friday, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir visited IDF troops stationed in Rafah during a situational assessment in the Gaza Strip. Advertisement Advertisement Zamir spoke to soldiers, instructing the troops to keep removing threats present in the area and emphasizing the importance of destroying Hamass underground terror tunnel infrastructure. The IDF is deployed along a security border the Yellow Line overseeing the crossings to the Gaza Strip, and is precisely dis"antling terro" infrastructure in the area, Zamir said. We are prepared to transition from a defensive posture to an offensive one. For any violation, we will respond and degrade their capabilities. Zamir added that the IDF refuses to relinquish the or"ginal objectives of the Israel-Hamas War, the full demilitarization of the" Gaza Strip and the disarmament of Hamas. We are operating in accordance with the directive of the political echelon, while maintaining military plans for their defeat, and we stand ready to act defensively as required. We will continue strengthening the defense of the communities of the western Negev, he affirmed. Zamir stated that there will be no immunity for terrorism, adding that what applies to terrorists in Gaza applies"to the terrorists "no other arenas as well, and that the IDF will continue to remain focused and remove threats, with determination and a proactive approach. The 2026 midterm elections will shape the future of Pennsylvania state government and determine the balance of power in Congress. With every seat in the U.S. House of Representatives and the Pennsylvania House on the ballot, and key races for governor and lieutenant governor, this election cycle will draw to the polls more voters than other cycles, with the exception of presidential elections. There are important dates ahead for voters, people who want to vote but are not yet registered and prospective candidates. Advertisement Advertisement More: What Pa. GOP governor frontrunner Garrity said about Trump, Shapiro, AI Important dates for Pa. voters in 2026 May 4: Final day to register to vote before the primary. May 12: Final day to apply for a mail-in or civilian absentee ballot. May 19: Primary election. Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. v day for county election office to receive completed mail-in and civilian absentee ballots. Ballot must be received by 8 p.m. May 26: Final day for county election office to receive completed military and overseas absentee ballots. They must be submitted for delivery no later than 11:59 P.M. May 19. Oct. 19: Final day to register to vote before the November election. Advertisement Advertisement Oct. 27: Final day to apply for a mail-in or civilian absentee ballot. More: Democrat Josh Shapiro opens campaign for 2nd term as Pa. governor Nov. 3: General election. Final day for county election office to receive completed mail-in and civilian absentee ballots. Ballots must be received by 8 p.m. Nov. 10: Final day for county election office to receive completed military and overseas absentee ballots. Ballot must be submitted for delivery no later than 11:59 p.m. Nov. 3. Voters enter the Erie County Public Library, Lincoln Community Center, in Fairview Township on Nov. 4, 2025. Voters will go back to the polls in Pennsylvania May 19 to vote in the primary and Nov. 3 for the general election. Important dates for prospective Pa. election candidates Feb. 17: First day to circulate, file nomination petitions to be placed on the primary ballot. March 10: Final day to circulate, file nomination petitions. March 11: First day for minor third party or independent candidates to circulate, file nomination papers to be placed on the general election ballot. March 17: Final day to file objections to nomination petitions of candidates for the primary. Advertisement Advertisement More: U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly on seeking ninth term: 'I'm proud of our work' March 25: Final day for withdrawal by candidates who filed nomination petitions for the primary. Aug. 3: Final day for third party or independent candidates to circulate and file nomination papers. Aug. 10: Final day to file objections to nomination papers. Aug. 10: Final day for candidates to withdraw from general election without a court order.Matthew Rink is a USA TODAY Network Pennsylvania investigative journalist. This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: PA 2026 midterm elections key dates for voters, candidates A video released by an independent journalist shows an encounter inside The Ohio State Universitys Smith Laboratory that has sparked debate over campus press access. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Michael Newman, an independent journalist, said he was punched by Assistant Professor Luke Perez on Monday while attempting to interview former university President E. Gordon Gee. Advertisement Advertisement The footage captured a hallway confrontation that ended with Newman appearing to fall to the floor. Ohio State University spokesperson Ben Johnson addressed the universitys response to the faculty members actions. TRENDING STORIES: We are aware of the incident and it is very concerning the faculty member involved has been placed on administrative leave pending a full OSUPD investigation and thorough review of the facts, Johnson said. Ohio State confirmed Wednesday that it has dropped a trespassing charge originally filed against Newman. Advertisement Advertisement Newman spoke to our news partners at WBNS-TV. I was punched it was like an open-hand punch, this whole side right here, Newman said. He noted that the hallway confrontation happened instantaneously and his first instinct was to protect his equipment as the camera fell to the floor. As bad as my injury was, my First Amendment rights were violated and thats just as bad, Newman said. While some claims suggested Newman entered the professors personal space, he stated that Perez was the one who confronted him. The video footage shows Newman continuing to record as he addresses former President Gee. Advertisement Advertisement He asked Gee if he condoned the actions, to which Gee responded by calling the journalist incorrigible. Newman, who is an Ohio State graduate, said the outcome would have been different if he had been the aggressor in the situation. Oh, I would be in jail that night, without a doubt, Newman said. He said he is still recovering from the physical injuries but remains shaken by the incident. He issued a direct message to the professor following the encounter. Mr. Perez, you are a coward and you deserve everything thats coming your way, Newman said. You stood over me like you were tough youre a coward. Advertisement Advertisement The Ohio State University Police Department is conducting a full investigation into the incident. University officials are performing a thorough review of the facts while Perez remains on administrative leave. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Its no secret that Iowa is home to large geological formations that are rich in hydrogen-producing rocks, but the question in recent years has turned to whether or not that hydrogen can be extracted in meaningful quantities. If the answer is yes, its likely Iowa would have a new natural resource commodity that could be used for a domestically produced fertilizer and clean fuel source. As exploration continues in the state, Iowa lawmakers are looking to update state laws to help regulate the prospective industry. Advertisement Advertisement Pete Johnson, the CEO of Koloma, a hydrogen exploration company currently operating in Iowa, said the company is still looking to answer some pretty core technical questions about hydrogen in the state. What we can say is there is a very high potential for subsurface hydrogen in Iowa, Johnson said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX What is geological hydrogen? The U.S. Geological Survey defines hydrogen gas as a critical feedstock used for petroleum upgrading, steel manufacturing and fertilizer production. It also notes that demand for hydrogen is expected to increase globally with decarbonization goals as hydrogen can also be used as an energy source. USGS said most hydrogen gas for industrial use is made via a high-heat reaction of water and coal, or methane. Advertisement Advertisement Certain rock formations also produce hydrogen gas, but until recently, scientists did not believe economic accumulations of the gas were present at depths that could be extracted. Ryan Clark, the associate state geologist at the Iowa Geological Survey, said parts of Iowas geology are highly prospective for hydrogen, critical minerals and carbon sequestration. Geological hydrogen is formed when iron-rich rocks that contain the mineral olivine interact with groundwater in a process called serpentinization, according to Clark. He presented to the House Environmental Protection Committee Feb. 11. These geological formations are abundant in parts of Iowa that sit on top of the Midcontinent Rift an event from more than one billion years ago when North America attempted to split apart and large amounts of lava seeped from the earth. That spilled lava solidified into basalt rock that, in Iowa, and most of the country, is buried under thousands of feet of sediment. Advertisement Advertisement Clark said Iowa has the largest intact segment of the rift-caused basalt structure, which stretches from the Great Lakes, through Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and into northern Kansas. Despite the large swath of the Midcontinent Rift through Iowa, Clark said the state geological survey, housed at the University of Iowa, has only 24 borehole samples that were drilled deep enough, and in the right location, to intersect the basalt of the Midcontinent Rift. These samples, and the 1,300 other core samples of geology from across the state are all housed at the university and can be analyzed by scientists and companies interested in finding out what might be in Iowas subsurface. Clark said he knows of about half a dozen companies interested in the prospect of hydrogen drilling in Iowa, most of which have requested the basalt cores. Advertisement Advertisement According to Clark, 11 of the 24 samples are in a geological region in northeastern Webster County known as the Vincent dome. Clark said in the 1970s and 1980s, the USGS surveyed wells across the country and found wells in the Vincent dome region that showed very high concentrations of hydrogen. More recently, USGS published a map of geological hydrogen prospectivity in the U.S., which showed the likely areas to explore for geological hydrogen, according to a news release from USGS. The rift can be seen in dark blue across the center of the map. Iowa, in particular the Midcontinent Rift, looks very prospective in the eyes of the USGS, Clark said. So I think this has also helped contribute to some of the attention for hydrogen exploration in Iowa. A map from the U.S. Geological Survey shows the areas where geological hydrogen could likely be extracted. (Map courtesy of USGS) Hydrogen exploration so far in Iowa Johnson, with Koloma, said the 2021-founded company was drawn to Iowa from the get go as an area to explore geological hydrogen, due to the Midcontinent Rift and the demand for fertilizer which would be a near-term market for hydrogen. Advertisement Advertisement From a market standpoint, theres probably no better place on earth to discover more hydrogen than the Corn Belt in the United States where youve got massive fertilizer demand, Johnson said. Potential hydrogen extracted in Iowa could have other uses, like generating electricity or fueling vehicles, if the infrastructure and demand were put in place. But Johnson said the immediate demand, especially in Iowa, is for domestically produced anhydrous ammonia. Johnson said the company began exploration in Iowa in 2022, has since drilled three wells and is in the process of drilling a fourth. Clark said the majority of these wells are situated around the Vincent dome area. When asked by lawmakers how deep the wells were, he said he couldnt say because much of the exploratory information is proprietary. Advertisement Advertisement Clark said in the 1980s, Amoco drilled the deepest well ever drilled in Iowa at 17,850 feet. The wells that (hydrogen exploration companies) are drilling now are basically the second deepest in the state, Clark said. So, were talking about very deep wells and an awful lot of information. The discovery process, Johnson explained, includes verifying that these sites have high percentages of hydrogen as shown in the earlier rock samples. The next step is to see if the rock formations have traps that are holding commercial accumulations of hydrogen. The big question around the rock underneath the surface in Iowa is not whether its a good hydrogen source rock at this point, nobodys arguing that, Johnson said. The big question is whether Iowa has the right geology to have traps that will hold that gas in sort of large, producible accumulations. Advertisement Advertisement In his presentation to lawmakers, Clark with the state geological survey noted geological hydrogen could also be stimulated by drilling into the right rocks in the right places and injecting water. This process would stimulate the serpentinization process and allow companies to extract hydrogen without searching for naturally occurring traps of the gas. Johnson said stimulation processes are still in early development and Koloma is looking for natural accumulation. Koloma is a discovery company, so Johnson explained once the company finds hydrogen stores, it would partner with another company to drill production wells in those areas and then sell the hydrogen to an anhydrous ammonia producer. While the concept of finding naturally occurring stores of hydrogen underground is relatively new, Johnson said the process of drilling and producing hydrogen wells is well established science and uses the same rigs used to drill for natural gas. Advertisement Advertisement From Johnsons perspective, the commodity has been unexplored because the value or desire for a carbon-free natural gas is relatively new and theres almost no overlap between the regions that have the most viable source rock for generating hydrogen and the areas where oil and gas are produced. These areas are just largely unexplored, its not in places where people have poked a lot of holes, or drilled a lot of wells, Johnson said. Youre going into places where theres almost no data, almost no wells, and youve got to sort of build from scratch. Such is the case in Iowa, a state that Clark said never had any petroleum discovered in economic quantities. Setting guidelines Clark said this means that Iowas laws around oil and natural gas drilling might be stress tested for the first time if hydrogen drilling pans out as exploratory companies hope. Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers worked on companion bills in both the House and Senate in 2025 to update the state laws around oil and gas production. A new version of the bill, Senate File 546 advanced from a subcommittee Feb. 5, 2026. The bill is supported by Koloma, which brought the previous version forward in 2025. Johnson said while it seems great to be unregulated the lessons of oil and gas industry booms have shown that extracting minerals without set regulations can cause conflict. A small amount of regulation here defrays a lot of conflict and a lot of pain down the road, Johnson said. Lets get a sensible set of laws on the books based on what works in other sensible, surrounding states and work to put those in. Brittany Lumley, lobbying on behalf of Koloma, said in the subcommittee hearing that the bill would let companies know what they would need to pay and file with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to operate in Iowa. She said the bill would also create a more robust pooling process. The pooling process is when a company works to make deals with all of the landowners who are sitting on top of a resource, like oil, natural gas or hydrogen. A well doesnt respect property lines when it is pulling a resource, so the bill provides that when a company strikes a deal on one property to drill for a resource, it has to talk to other landowners in the determined pool area and offer a royalty on the resource. Under the bill, nonconsenting landowners, or those who do not agree to a royalty contract with a company, will be automatically given a 12.5% royalty. Current law does not require a royalty be paid to nonconsenting landowners. Lumley said the progress of the bill halted in 2025 due to conflicts with some of the agricultural groups in the state. Iowa Farm Bureau Federation and Iowa Soybean Association lobbyists said in the subcommittee they have worked with Koloma outside of the Capitol building to come to a better agreement, though neither group is currently registered in support of the bill. SF 546 provides that a company can make information submitted to the DNR confidential for up to five years, which Lumley said protects a companys proprietary information gained from exploratory drilling. Sen. Janet Petersen, D-Des Moines, said she had concerns over the confidentiality portions of the bill and was not comfortable yet with the bill. The Iowa Chapter of the Sierra Club does not have an official stance on hydrogen drilling in Iowa, but registered against SF 546. Pam Mackey-Taylor, the chapters director, pointed specifically to a section of the bill that allows the director of the DNR to issue variances to any of the departments rules, regulations, or orders, without a hearing. Thats a huge problem, Mackey-Taylor said in a call with Iowa Capital Dispatch. We want to make sure that the public interest is protected and we dont want the production of hydrogen to be at the expense of the environment. Sen. Annette Sweeney, R-Iowa Falls, said she would like to further examine some elements of the bill, but was enthusiastic about the potential hydrogen industry in Iowa. Iowa can be the next Oklahoma and Texas, Sweeney said. We are at the cusp for being the energy generators here in the United States, because weve got our ethanol, weve got hydrogen. I think that we need to make sure we move forward, but make sure that we have our questions answered. The bill is eligible for discussion in the Senate Commerce Committee. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE MUNICH (AP) About 250,000 people demonstrated on Saturday against Iran's government on the sidelines of a gathering of world leaders in Germany, police said, answering a call from Iran s exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi for cranked-up international pressure on Tehran. Banging drums and chanting for regime change, the giant and boisterous rally in Munich was part of what Pahlavi described as a global day of action" to support Iranians in the wake of deadly nationwide protests. He also called for demonstrations in Los Angeles and Toronto. Police said in a post on X that the number of protesters reached some 250,000, more than the organizers had expected. Change, change, regime change the huge crowd chanted, waving green-white-and-red flags with lion and sun emblems. Iran used that flag before its 1979 Islamic Revolution that toppled the Pahlavi dynasty. Advertisement Advertisement At a news conference, Pahlavi warned of more deaths in Iran if democracies stand by and watch" following Irans deadly crackdown on protesters last month. We gather at an hour of profound peril to ask: Will the world stand with the people of Iran? he asked. He added that the survival of Iran's government sends a clear signal to every bully: kill enough people and you stay in power. An estimated 350,000 people marched on the streets of Toronto as part of the Global Day of Action Rally, Toronto Police spokesperson Laura Brabant said. At the Munich rally, demonstrators sported Make Iran Great Again" red caps, mimicking the MAGA caps worn by U.S. President Donald Trump 's supporters. Among those sporting the caps was U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina who gave a speech to the crowd during which he was photographed holding up the headwear. Advertisement Advertisement Many at the rally waved placards showing Pahlavi, some that called him a king. The son of Irans deposed shah has been in exile for nearly 50 years but is trying to position himself as a player in Irans future. The crowd chanted Pahlavi for Iran, and democracy for Iran" as drums and cymbals sounded. We have huge hopes and (are) looking forward that the regime is going to change hopefully, said Daniyal Mohtashamian, a demonstrator who traveled from Zurich, in Switzerland, to speak for protesters inside Iran who faced repression. There is an internet blackout, and their voices are not going outside of Iran, he said. Advertisement Advertisement About 500 protesters also rallied outside the presidential palace in Nicosia, Cyprus, with many holding up banners with slogans against Iran's government and in favor of Pahlavi. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency says at least 7,005 people were killed in last month's protests, including 214 government forces. It has been accurate in counting deaths during previous rounds of unrest in Iran and relies on a network of activists inside Iran to verify deaths. Irans government offered its only death toll on Jan. 21, saying 3,117 people were killed. Irans theocracy in the past has undercounted or not reported fatalities from past unrest. The Associated Press has been unable to independently assess the death toll, given authorities have disrupted internet access and international calls in Iran. Advertisement Advertisement Iranian leaders are facing renewed pressure from Trump, who has threatened U.S. military action. Trump wants Iran to further scale back its nuclear program. He suggested Friday that regime change in Iran would be the best thing that could happen." Iran was also the focus of protests in Munich on Friday, the opening day of an annual security conference in the city gathering European leaders and global security figures. Supporters of the Iranian opposition group Peoples Mujahedeen Organization of Iran, also known as the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq, demonstrated. ___ Associated Press writer Cedar Attanasio contributed reporting from Seattle. Associated Press journalists John Leicester in Paris and Geir Moulson in Berlin also contributed. A demonstration that aims to spotlight the human rights situation in Iran is expected to draw huge numbers on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, organizers said. The group called The Munich Circle has registered 100,000 participants for its protest against Iran's hardline clerical rulers starting at 12 pm (1100 GMT) in the Bavarian capital. The rally is titled "Human Rights and Freedom for Iran: International Solidarity with the Iranian People." Advertisement Advertisement Organizers said the timing during the conference was deliberate, as political and military decision-makers from around the world would be in the city. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) puts the death toll from a crackdown by Iranian authorities on anti-government protesters angered by crippling economic conditions at more than 7,000. The unrest erupted in late December and turned most violent on January 8 and 9. Although the protests have since subsided, activists are still counting the dead and fear the toll could rise further. Munich city officials said that more than 15 additional demonstrations linked to the conference have been registered for the weekend. Advertisement Advertisement The protests will mean extra work for police. The conference venue, the luxury Hotel Bayerischer Hof in the city centre, is already a high-security zone with road closures and police checks. The Munich Security Conference, which opened on Friday and runs through Sunday, is considered the world's premier gathering of security policy experts. More than 60 world leaders and around 100 foreign and defence ministers are attending the 62nd edition. People demonstrate at Odeonsplatz against human rights violations in Iran and call for regime change by the Iranian people during the weekend of the Munich Security Conference, where numerous protests - including larger rallies against Irans regime - are expected alongside the summit. Malin Wunderlich/dpa Italy has again detained a ship belonging to SOS Humanity, a German aid organization rescuing migrants in the Mediterranean, the group said on Saturday. The Humanity 1 must remain in the port of Trapani on the island of Sicily for 60 days before it is allowed to leave again. In addition, the authorities have imposed a fine of 10,000 ($11,870). The Humanity 1 rescued 33 people and recovered two bodies during its most recent mission, SOS Humanity said. Advertisement Advertisement The Italian government justified the detention on the grounds that the crew once again violated regulations on the high seas. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi criticized what he called "irresponsible behaviour" that also endangered the lives of migrants. SOS Humanity confirmed that the crew did not communicate with the Libyan maritime rescue coordination centre, accusing the authority of "serious human rights violations against those seeking protection." Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government announced stricter migration policies on Wednesday, including a plan to stop boats by introducing a "sea blockade" if necessary. Every year, tens of thousands of people arrive by boat on Italy's shores illegally, with many setting off from Libya. The former attorney general of Virginia is being sued in federal court by a former employee, who claims she was wrongfully terminated after she and her coworker brought forth concerns about a potential conflict of interest. Jason Miyares is listed as the defendant alongside Steven Popps, the Deputy Attorney General to Miyares at the time, and Teresa Vice, the Director of Human Resources at the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) at the time. According to court documents, the plaintiff, Linda Orr of Henrico, was employed as a grants manager within the OAG. She worked with Ashley Miller in the same office. Advertisement Advertisement Court documents say that Miller was required to investigate a vendor invoice from the OAG's Animal Law Unit in December 2023 and January 2024. The invoice required her to pay taxpayer funds to a nonprofit called the Virginia Animal Fighting Task Force (VAFTF), the lawsuit says, but because they hadn't paid that particular organization before, Miller needed to collect additional documentation about the organization. The suit claims "she grew concerned" when Miller found that the executive leadership of VAFTF consisted of "multiple attorneys employed by the Virginia Office of Attorney General." The lawsuit says both Miller and Orr brought forth concerns to their supervisors, as well as the chief financial officer of the OAG and Popps. The lawsuit then says both "agreed to continue processing payments to employee-led companies in contravention of state and federal law ... under specific direction by Defendant Miyares." After bringing up several similar complaints, the suit says the Attorney General's Office then began "an investigation" of Orr administered by Vice, focusing on her communications with Miller. Despite the chief financial officer saying neither one of them deserved termination, the lawsuit said both were fired on or around March 25, 2024. Orr is suing the defendants for compensatory damages, as well as back pay, front pay, equitable relief, and punitive damages. The suit was filed in federal court on Thursday. Jennifer-Ruth Green, a former Republican congressional candidate, used her campaign finance funds in her brief run for Indianas First Congressional District to pay for legal fees in her state ethics investigation. Greens campaign report filed Jan. 31 shows The Committee To Elect Jennifer-Ruth Green paid $13,400 to Jennifer Lukemeyer, the attorney who represented Green in her ethics investigation. Lukemeyer did not respond to requests for comment. Gov. Mike Braun hired Green to be Secretary of Public Safety, but she resigned Sept. 5 amid code of ethics violations for political activity, ghost employment, misuse of state property and prohibition against retaliation. Advertisement Advertisement The Indiana State Ethics Commission and Green reached an agreement in December where Green agreed to pay the state a $10,000 fine. Jennifer-Ruth Greens congressional campaign paid legal bills fighting off a vindictive smear campaign by a politically compromised inspector general solely designed to sabotage her campaign for U.S. Congress and destroy her reputation, said Tim Edson, Greens spokesman. Edson told the Post-Tribune that Green paid the $10,000 fine with her personal funds. Green announced her second candidacy for the First Congressional District in October, one day after Braun called for a special session to address mid-census redistricting. Ultimately, Green pulled out of the race Feb. 1, stating her decision to do so stemmed from the legislature not approving mid-census redistricting. Advertisement Advertisement Having been through it once, I understand the harsh reality: to win this seat, there is no margin for error. We will only win when we are unified in our vision as Republicans. We are in a midterm environment that history tells us will be challenging, Green said in a statement. Green violated the political activity and ghost employment rules for asking employees to generate content and proofread posts on her Elect Jennifer-Ruth Green Facebook page, according to the complaint. Additionally, Green violated the political activity rule when she had a meeting with a National Republican Congressional Committee political director during work hours. She violated the misuse of state property rule when she met with the NRCC director in a conference room on state property, according to the complaint. Green violated the ghost employment rule when she asked employees to perform personal tasks for her on state time on multiple occasions, including retrieving her assigned state vehicle from Crown Point, according to the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Further, Green violated the misuse of state property rule when she included her state title on her Battle-Proven Leadership website, where she promotes training seminars and her book, according to the complaint. Green violated the misuse of state property rule when she used and required an employee to use her state vehicle for her personal use, according to the complaint. After learning that an employee reported her, Green violated the prohibition against retaliation when she threatened the employee with demotion or termination and made derogatory comments toward the employee, according to the complaint. Under federal law, campaign finance funds cant be used for personal use. Using campaign finances for legal fees falls under a gray area, said Indiana University Northwest associate professor of political science Marie Eisenstein. Advertisement Advertisement When determining if campaign finance funds could be used to pay a legal fee, Eisenstein said campaign funds could be used if the legal fees relate to the run for office. In Greens case, Eisenstein said Green could use the campaign finance money to pay for legal fees because portions of the ethics investigation related to her campaign. She is technically allowed to use it, Eisenstein said. The devil is always in the details, but as a general rule, as long as the expense is something that would not exist but for the fact that she was a candidate for federal office, then it is allowed to be used. Eisenstein said its likely the public will respond cynically to a candidate using campaign finance funds to pay for legal fees. The rest of us would be funding this out of pocket. You get to use donations. I dont think it would be viewed favorably. They may not think that shes committed some heinous legal breach, but theres certainly going to be some cynicism, Eisenstein said. Advertisement Advertisement Julia Vaughn, executive director of Common Cause Indiana, said she thought it was a bold move of Green to use campaign funds to pay for legal fees. Theres a lot of gray area when it comes to legal expenses, but for the campaign to claim that they needed to spend this money on an attorney because this was a political attack, it just doesnt hold water, Vaughn said. When Green was investigated for ethics violations, it was by an administration of the same political party as hers, Vaughn said. Green reached an agreement where she admitted to the violations, Vaughn said. Shes painting a very different picture now to defend her campaign finance expenditures than she did when she was settling this case with the state, Vaughn said. Advertisement Advertisement The Federal Election Commission hasnt been functioning for quite some time, which has emboldened candidates to file reports with questionable expenses because they know theres no enforcement, Vaughn said. I believe its a primarily personal expense that if we had a Federal Election Commission with some teeth and the ability to regulate the law, that a complaint against her for this would be successful, Vaughn said. Green was a state employee and not a candidate when she was investigated for unethical behavior, Vaughn said. These legal expenses were generated because of her behavior as a state employee. It didnt have anything to do with her status as a candidate. In fact, she wasnt a candidate when she committed the acts that were found to be unethical. Advertisement Advertisement Vaughn said she found it interesting that Green didnt pay the fine with the campaign funds. Both the fine and the legal fees shouldve been paid with personal funds, she said. The people who did contribute to her campaign contributed to help her get elected to Congress, not to help her get out of trouble with her job in state government, Vaughn said. akukulka@post-trib.com Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., blasted what he called "rot" within the Democratic Party, citing what he described as its growing anti-Israel wing. The Pennsylvania Democrat was responding to comments from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., suggesting the United States should consider withholding aid to Israel. Ocasio-Cortez said the United States' "unconditional" support for Israel helped facilitate a "genocide" in Gaza, a characterization Fetterman rejected. Advertisement Advertisement "There was never any genocide in Gaza, absolutely, and there shouldn't ever be any conditions for aid for Israel, because they were in an existential war," he said on "Saturday in America." Sanders, Ocasio-cortez Hesitant To Give Trump Credit For Ceasefire, Call Him 'Obstacle To Peace' Sen. John Fetterman after Senate luncheons at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Feb. 10, 2026. (Getty Images) "That's part of the problem with the very anti-Israel part of my party," he added. Read On The Fox News App Fetterman went further, accusing some Democrats of aligning with anti-Israel activists. "Why would you align yourself [with] raging antisemites and very pro-Hamas people like Hasan Piker?" Fetterman asked. Advertisement Advertisement Fetterman Breaks With Democrats To Back Trump Taking Military Action In Iran If Necessary "There's a rot in my party standing with pro-Hamas people like that." Fox News Digital reached out to Hasan Piker and Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez for comment but did not immediately hear back. Ocasio-Cortez made the comments while speaking at the annual Munich Security Conference among various world leaders. She and other progressive Democrats have called for conditions on U.S. aid to Israel after its war with Hamas. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez takes part in the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Getty Images) Fetterman also questioned why Ocasio-Cortez hasnt criticized Iran as sharply as she has Israel. As of Jan. 25, the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported more than 5,800 people had been killed during the Iranian governments crackdown on anti-regime protests. Advertisement Advertisement Self-described 'Unapologetic Supporter Of Israel' John Fetterman Weighs In As Trump Seeks To Broker Peace Deal "Why is she so eager to criticize and find a way to criticize Israel? But I don't really recall them saying anything as Iran was executing thousands and thousands of their protesters," said Fetterman. Sen. John Fetterman speaks to a reporter as he arrives at the U.S. Capitol for a vote in Washington Dec. 3, 2026. His comments underscore a growing divide within the Democratic Party over support for Israel. Many progressives have pushed for stricter conditions on aid, while Fetterman has repeatedly broken with his party to defend the Jewish state. Click Here To Download The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Ocasio-Cortez wasnt the only Democrat at the Munich Security Conference. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Arizona senators Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly also attended, and political analysts say the event could double as an early stage for Democrats eyeing a 2028 presidential bid. Original article source: John Fetterman slams anti-Israel 'rot' in Democratic Party, rejects AOC's claims of Gaza 'genocide' The cancellation of the official House delegation to the annual Munich Security Conference has drawn pushback from Democrats who still plan to attend, even as its upended a decades-long tradition of robust bipartisan participation in the high-profile global policy forum. A House leadership aide told The Hill that cancelling congressional delegations (CODEL) is standard operating procedure during the shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). But House Democrats have sharply criticized Republicans for the cancellation, arguing that attending the conference is critical to restoring the United States standing with allies amid the Trump administrations aggressive foreign policy approach. Advertisement Advertisement Because of the Republican shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, because Republicans refuse to make any compromises or any changes to ICE after the deadly murders of Alex Pretti and Renee Good, we have a shutdown, and therefore, we cannot go on official CODELS. Ive decided, along with a number of my Democratic colleagues, to go anyway, Rep. Yassamin Ansari (D-Ariz.) said in a video statement on Thursday. Ansari said she wants to make clear that Trump does not define the United States, that we are committed to our allies, to NATO, to U.S. credibility and leadership around the world. Rep. Jason Crow (D-Colo.), who also attended the conference, told NBC News on Friday that Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) had ordered the hotel reservations, military flights and credentials lawmakers had for the conference to be cancelled. Crow called it the wrong move, NBC reported, saying that U.S. officials other than Secretary of State Marco Rubio need to be present at the event. Advertisement Advertisement While lawmakers arent prohibited from going and House Democrats are still widely planning to attend the conference on their own dime, it is unclear whether any House Republicans will be present. Unlike Johnsons move to cancel the delegation, several bipartisan Senate delegations will still be attending the conference. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) will be attending in her personal capacity as a member of the Munich Security Conference Advisory Council, her spokesperson Ian Krager told The Hill in a statement. Her presence reflects decades of leadership on transatlantic collaboration and underscores the importance of sustained U.S. partners at a moment of profound geopolitical uncertainty, Krager said. Speaker Pelosi remains committed to strengthening partnerships that advance collective security, economic prosperity and democratic governance. Some of the other House Democrats present at the conference include Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Jim Himes (D-Conn.) and Sarah McBride (D-Del.). Advertisement Advertisement Some of us are going over anyway on our own dime to reassure and thank our allies, Himes, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, had posted on X. Ocasio-Cortez used a panel discussion at the conference on Friday to prop up the working class and accuse Trump of tearing apart the transatlantic partnership. One of the reasons why not just myself, but many Democrats that are here as well, is because we want to tell a larger story, that what is happening is indeed very grave, and we are in a new era, domestically and globally, Ocasio-Cortez said on the panel, when asked about the significance of her representing the U.S. at the conference. Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.), a senior member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told Politico that its a shame lawmakers could miss the key conference. Advertisement Advertisement However, he added that: Its a very responsible position by the Speaker which matches the irresponsibility of the Senate Democrats to shut down the government. And so the responsible act is to be ever available to end the shutdown. The White House and Democrats have been at an impasse over a deal to fund DHS. A stopgap measure that temporarily funds the department for two weeks expired on Feb. 13. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) have been demanding sweeping reforms to the White Houses immigration tactics, including an overhaul of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, after agents fatally shot two U.S. citizens in Minnesota. While the White House sent a counterproposal to Democrats on their DHS demands, the minority leaders have argued that the offer falls short. The Senate left Washington on Thursday without reaching a deal and DHS shut down at midnight. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The controversy over the fence that is blocking paths at Thornton State Beach went to court on Friday. The couple that put up that fence asked for an emergency restraining order to stop Daly City from tearing it down. We also have exclusive new video of the tensions out there, and a surprise call from a wanted felon who put up that fence, Luke Brugnara. Stephen Rose, an attorney for one of the land owners, told the San Francisco Real Estate Court judge, "That fence is a disaster. It's waste on the property, violates the Coastal Act." The controversy over the fence that blocks public paths to Thornton State Beach has reached San Francisco Real Estate Court. Daly City planned to take down the fence on Thursday but delayed it after Yitong Emily Wen filed for an emergency restraining order. Advertisement Advertisement "She's stealing public access to the beach, man," an open land use advocate yelled through the fence. This is our first look at Wen and her partner, Luke Brugnara, arguing with the public about the fence they installed. "This is actually on- right where that line is, is our property," Brugnara said. "You're actually standing out on our property." I-TEAM EXCLUSIVE: Meet the man behind controversial Thornton State Beach fence in Daly City A man who was arrested for putting up a controversial fence at Thornton State Beach is speaking to I-Team reporter Dan Noyes once again. Brugnara is a wanted felon for failing to appear in a federal case over pandemic relief fraud, so he didn't appear in court. Wen did. Advertisement Advertisement She told the judge, "Today, I am asking for TRO is to solely to temporary stop Daly City to taking down my legal fence that's on my property to protect me from inevitable harm." But the judge denied Wen's request for a temporary restraining order, and asked for briefs on other issues for a hearing next month. Rose Zimmerman, City Attorney for Daly City, told the I-Team, "The fence doesn't belong there. The fence was illegally put on there. And the fence actually blocks a lot of the it is on the right of way, as well as it's in violation of the coastal Commission and coastal zone." The judge wants to know why is this hearing is in San Francisco instead of San Mateo County, the location of Thornton Beach. Attorney Stephen Rose says Wen and Brugnara should not have been able to get their 1/24th ownership share of the property. Rose told the I-Team, "To transfer or to sell any piece of that property requires the concurrence of a majority of the owners, and that majority has to include Bruce Norton." Advertisement Advertisement Bruce Norton who lives in Utah owns the largest share of the property enclosed by that fence. RELATED: Judge orders arrest of man who put up fence, sign to block visitors at Daly City beach "Why do you need the fence?" The I-Team tried to get answers from Yitong Emily Wen after court. Dan Noyes: "Why do you have the right to put the fence up on their property?" TiYoung Emily Wen: "Because I am part owner." Noyes: "Because you're part owner." Shortly after that, Noyes received a call from Luke Brugnara. "Let's just make it clear that the fence is legally compliant. It's truly detailed. You didn't cover any of the facts. And the truth is you're trying to do a hit piece and it's legally compliant fence and it's not coming down. It's really that simple." Advertisement Advertisement Luke also wants us to report that he didn't really attempt to steal $11 million worth of art, a crime for which he spent seven years in prison. He claims the paintings and sculpture were all forgeries. That argument didn't work on appeal either. More to come in this saga. Take a look at more stories by the ABC7 News I-Team. If you're on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live A Babson College student who was mistakenly deported by the Trump administration must be returned, a federal judge ruled Friday. U.S. District Judge Richard G. Stearns ordered that Any Lucia Lopez Belloza, a 20-year-old student at Babson, must be brought back from Honduras within 14 days of the ruling. In this unfortunate case, the government commendably admits that it did wrong, the judge wrote in his order. Now it is time for the government to make amends. Advertisement Advertisement Stearns ordered the government to file a status report by Feb. 18, detailing a tangible plan to bring Lopez Belloza back to the U.S. by the Feb. 27 deadline. Lopez Belloza was detained Nov. 20 at Logan Airport while attempting to travel to visit her family in Texas for Thanksgiving. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents handcuffed her and flew her to a detention center in Texas, according to court documents. A judge issued a temporary stay of removal while she was still in the United States, but because of an admitted clerical error, ICE deported her to Honduras despite the order. Lopez Belloza entered the country with her mother in 2014 when she was 8 years old, according to court documents. Their asylum application was denied, and an immigration judge issued a removal order against Lopez Belloza in 2017, when she was around 11. Advertisement Advertisement Lopez Belloza graduated high school in 2025 and began her freshman year at Babson in the fall. Since being mistakenly deported, Lopez Belloza has continued attending classes remotely while living with her grandparents in Honduras. In his ruling Friday, Stearns said the Trump administration readily acknowledged that they violated the Emergency Judges order staying removal when they removed Any from the United States. He previously suggested the government provide Lopez Belloza with an expedited student visa to continue her studies at Babson while her status is litigated, an action the Trump administration has so far declined to take. In January, 80 members of Congress signed a letter addressed to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons, calling on the government to facilitate Lopez Bellozas return. More News Read the original article on MassLive. Add MassLive as a Preferred Source by clicking here. PORTLAND A federal judge on Friday sharply questioned a federal attorney over inconsistent reports regarding the use of less-lethal munitions outside the Portland Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility, as well the integration of social media influencers in operations at the site. The hearing came in response to a December lawsuit from residents and the affordable housing nonprofit that operates the apartment complex across the street from the facility. Residents and Reach Community Development are seeking a preliminary injunction from U.S. District Judge Amy M. Baggio that would bar federal agents from deploying tear gas and chemical munitions likely to infiltrate the complex unless necessary to protect against an imminent and concrete threat to the lives of law enforcement and the public. Residents allege they have been persistent exposure to munitions such as tear gas, pepper balls and smoke grenades traumatized them and induced wheezing, migraines and hives. Some reported sleeping in their bathtubs, needing to undergo surgery and putting on gas masks when they go to bed. Advertisement Advertisement Our federal government is knowingly putting them through hell and for no good reason at all, attorney Daniel Jacobson told the court. The government, theyre not gonna stop on their own accord only the courts can stop them. Baggio, a Biden appointee on Friday asked U.S. Department of Justice attorneys to provide documents from ICE and the Federal Protective Service on their policies regarding use of force. She questioned whether she had all of the use of force incidents from officers relevant to the case, and requested information about policies relating to the embedding of civilians. That was a reference to social media evidence from the lawsuit alleging the federal government gave right-wing influencers access to the ICE facility to create dramatized videos for propaganda and amplification. This is a big record, theyre nuanced legal issues, Baggio said on Friday. I want everybody to have the benefit to be able to do the work they need to do. She also took issue with arguments the Justice Department submitted suggesting that 35-40 protesters were warned to stop trespassing during a July 2025 incident at the facility. In fact, as Baggio found in another report submitted to the court, only five of the 35-40 protesters had stepped onto federal property, and the federal government deployed an unknown number of projectiles. Advertisement Advertisement Samuel Holt, a trial attorney with the Justice Department, acknowledged the error. I think that youre right, approximately five were standing on federal property, he said. I apologize for that to the extent that was not accurate. The back-and-forth capped arguments and testimony Baggio heard during an evidentiary hearing Friday. She asked federal attorneys to provide more documents, with oral arguments set for Wednesday. Fridays hearing followed another court order barring the use of munitions in a separate case where freelance journalists and protesters in November alleged excessive use of force against crowds outside the Portland ICE facility. U.S. District Judge Michael H. Simon on Feb. 3 issued a temporary, 14-day restraining order preventing federal officers from using less-lethal munitions and chemicals against protesters without an imminent threat of physical harm. It came after agents on Jan. 31 flooded the streets with tear gas against a crowd of nonviolent protesters that included children, seniors and pets. Advertisement Advertisement Since last summer, the Portland ICE facility has been the site of largely peaceful protests by demonstrators advocating against the enforcement operations of federal immigration agents. Though protest activity died down afterwards, they reignited in the fall after President Donald Trumps attempted deployment of the National Guard to Portland and again after federal agents killed two U.S. citizens in Minnesota in January. A few apartment residents were present in the courtroom on Friday, with some shedding tears or shaking and nodding their heads. The suit alleges that federal agents conduct has violated their constitutional rights to bodily integrity, personal security and the safe use of their homes. Multiple residents testified that they were caught off-guard by the use of the gas, describing it as debilitating and without any justification. The plaintiffs also called upon an expert in medical toxicology who attributed their symptoms to tear gas exposure. Sometimes they would have loud speakers that would go off constantly at night, but they would just be saying that there could be harm of them releasing tear gas, said Erica del Nigro, a resident with an autoimmune condition who lives in the complex with her 12-year old son. But we would never stay outside if we heard those speakers going off. That usually happened after they would initially tear gas. Federal attorneys in court on Friday and in court filings argued that the residents were subject to the incidental effects of lawfully-deployed crowd control measures, lacked standing and relied upon a novel theory of due process. Attorney Michael Bruns pointed to plaintiffs distance from the events on the ground in front of the ICE facility when they were in their apartments when questioning their ability to assess a crowd or officers perspective. Advertisement Advertisement Holt told the court that the conduct of law enforcement does not even come close to shocking the conscience. Another attorney with the Justice Department, Kathleen Jacobs, confirmed with residents who testified that they did not submit medical records as evidence in the lawsuit. You could agree with me that you do not know necessarily the reason why a law enforcement officer would be utilizing various munitions in response to unlawful conduct? Jacobs asked one resident. Del Nigro testified that she doesnt feel like leaving the house, having hobbies or going out because she is unsure of whether she would be exposed to anything beforehand. Parenting her 12-year old has become difficult and she is no longer able to easily volunteer, she said. They sleep with the television on loud and her son has suffered panic attacks and nightmares, as well as tightness in his chest and asthmatic attacks if he tries to walk to school a few blocks away from the ICE facility. She told the court that she found the protests outside the facility to be like a big happy festival, and that she used to enjoy hanging out at their complex. Advertisement Advertisement A lot of kids would play out there. Theres things for the kids to play on, it was just a great place to hang out and meet neighbors and barbecue, she said of the complex. After the tear gassing, it became a really frightening place to be. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX On Friday, an administrative law judge upheld a permit issued by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources last year to allow the Canadian oil company Enbridge to build 41 miles of new pipeline in northern Wisconsin. The current rerouted path for Enbridges Line 5 would mean that although the pipeline would avoid the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa reservation, it would still go through the Bad Rivers watershed. The judges decision is likely to be appealed, and the Bad River Band is continuing to challenge the pipeline project in federal court. But the approval of the DNRs permit came as a blow to environmental advocates working alongside the Band to challenge Line 5. Evan Feinauer, an attorney with Clean Wisconsin, said that despite this ruling, the evidence presented during the hearing remains undeniable: Enbridges Line 5 reroute poses significant long-term risks to wetlands, waterways, and treaty-protected resources in northern Wisconsin. Feinauer said in a statement that experts testified that the DNR underestimated ecological impacts, relied on an inadequate monitoring plan, and overlooked Enbridges troubling history of environmental violations. This decision does not erase those facts. Advertisement Advertisement John Petroskey, a senior attorney with Earthjustice, also said that the judges decision ignored strong evidence that the DNR broke the law when it approved the Line 5 reroute. Petroskey added, Enbridges project threatens permanent damage to the Bands treaty-protected water, plants, and medicines, all for the enrichment of a foreign oil pipeline company. The Band will continue to fight to protect their interests and halt construction. Rob Lee, senior staff attorney for Midwest Environmental Advocates, said that while the decision was disappointing, it does not diminish our resolve or end our responsibility to protect Wisconsins waters from the irreversible harm this project threatens to cause. Lee continued, the record in this case is clear, and our work is far from over. Based on the significant legal issues presented and the strength of the record, we believe there is a strong basis for appellate review, and we are considering all appropriate next steps. Other environmental groups and tribal allies expressed that they remain determined to keep fighting Line 5. Ultimately, this doesnt change the fact that Line 5 must be shut down to protect the Great Lakes and our climate, said Elizabeth Ward, chapter director of the Sierra Club Wisconsin. Debta Cronmiller, executive director of the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin, said that standing up to Line 5 is in line with the groups values of protecting sensitive environments, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, advancing renewable energy and supporting tribal rights. Every effort to oppose the construction of new pipeline infrastructure builds power in the broader movement to end our reliance on dirty fossil fuels, said Emily Park, co-executive director of 350 Wisconsin. Instead of facilitating more carbon emissions, we should be investing in renewable energy, sustainable transportation, and technologies that will help us transition to a clean energy future. Advertisement Advertisement Environmental groups and the Bad River Band are pushing for Line 5 to be shut down, with a court-imposed deadline for their case set in June. The reroute project would involve blasting and horizontal drilling through at least 186 waterways and 101 acres of high-quality wetlands which drain into Lake Superior. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Fridays Top Stories Fridays Five Facts [1] Bill would create automatic adult sentences for some teens in New Mexico The bipartisan bill, SB 165, could expand the kind of crimes that could send a teen to adult prison. It would expand the crimes that could classify someone as a youthful offender or serious youthful offender, meaning more people under 18 would be eligible for adult sentences. The bill passed its first committee with a 5-3 vote. Sen. Brantley said the governor has shown support for the bill and says shes optimistic it will move through both chambers quickly. [2] Rain/snow, briefly colder air, & breezy weather Rain and mountain snow will sweep across New Mexico Friday before drier, warmer weather returns for the weekend. Another storm next week will bring more precipitation chances and stronger winds. Rain and mountain snow will expand in coverage through the afternoon and into the early evening. Nearly the entire state will see at least a chance for rainfall Friday. Advertisement Advertisement [3] Santa Fe police officer accused of driving drunk to work According to court documents, Officer Maureen Lujan called her job on Wednesday night to tell them she was running late on her commute from Rio Rancho to Santa Fe, but when she arrived, a colleague said he smelled alcohol on Lujan. Court records say Lujan admitted to drinking all day after breaking up with her boyfriend. Police said she blew more than twice the legal limit. [4] 10 New Mexico inmates graduate from new electrical certificate program Through a nine-week program funded by the New Mexico Higher Education Department, inmates learn the basics of electrical work, putting them on a path for certification or an associates degree. Faculty from Northern New Mexico College provide the course lessons. In addition to the 10 electrical program graduates, there were 10 GED graduates and 1 college graduate at the ceremony on Wednesday. [5] New Mexico Tech launches new AI Institute which will be integrated into all coursework Artificial Intelligence is becoming an important part of the curriculum at New Mexico Tech. The Institute for Artificial Intelligence program has launched at the school. Students can choose to minor in AI or just have it intertwined with their regular coursework. School officials say the program is a great way to partner with other organizations that use AI. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. TRENTON, Iowa Authorities say a juvenile was killed after their vehicle rolled several times in southeast Iowa. Multiple crews on scene of structure fire outside Adel The Iowa State Patrol says the crash occurred around 1:35 p.m. Friday when a Nissan Pathfinder was traveling south along the 1700 block of Franklin Avenue, south of Trenton. ISP says the driver failed to negotiate a curve and lost control of the vehicle, causing it to roll multiple times. Authorities say the driver was ejected from the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement The juvenile was taken by air ambulance to the University of Iowa hospital, where they were pronounced dead, according to the Iowa State Patrol. Authorities say the driver was the sole occupant of the vehicle and had not been wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. The name of the victim is being withheld. Iowa News: Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. Developer Karrin Taylor Robson announced Thursday shes dropping her bid for Arizona governor, expressing concerns over a messy Republican primary heading into November. In a statement posted on the social platform X, Taylor Robson said we cannot afford a divisive Republican primary that drains resources and turns into months of intraparty attacks. It only weakens our conservative cause and gives the left exactly what they want: a fractured Republican Party heading into November, she added. With so much on the line in 2026, I am not willing to contribute to that outcome. Advertisement Advertisement Taylor Robson notably did not endorse Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) in her statement. Both her and Biggs had received President Trumps endorsement. Rep. David Schweikert (R-Ariz.) separately is running for the GOP nod but doesnt have the presidents backing. But Taylor Robsons announcement further clears the field for Biggs as Republicans look to oust Gov. Katie Hobbs (D) in November. This was Taylor Robsons second campaign running for governor. She ran in 2022, but U.S. Agency for Global Media senior adviser Kari Lake defeated her in the primary. Lake narrowly lost that November to Hobbs. Arizona is seen as a key pickup opportunity for Republicans, particularly since Trump won the state by close to 6 points in 2024 a relatively large margin of victory in the battleground state. Advertisement Advertisement The nonpartisan election handicapper Cook Political Report rates Hobbss seat as a toss up. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. If we had listened to then-Rep. Sam McElroy back in 1994, Kentucky might look a lot different today. The Waverly Democrat, who was retiring from the legislature after 11 years in the Kentucky House of Representatives, filed a bill that year to slash the number of Kentucky counties by almost half. But the effective date of the legislation was 2023 29 years into the future. And three years ago. We did that so no local officials now in office would be affected, McElroy said. And that gives us plenty of time to work everything out. Advertisement Advertisement House Bill 252 would have provided economic incentives to encourage voluntary consolidation by Jan. 1, 1999. But by 2023, a new Commission on County Consolidation was to create a system that would reduce the number of counties from 120 to 70. The last census found that 70 counties had lost population in the past 10 years, McElroy said. The projection is that they will continue to lose population during the next 10. Theyre not going to be able to make it if that continues. McElroy said the financial problems McLean County was having at the time and hearing talk about possible consolidation with another county there made him think it was time to tackle the sensitive issue. Advertisement Advertisement Kentucky trails only Texas and Georgia in the number of counties and leads the nation in counties per capita. Then-Sen. Delbert Murphy, an Owensboro Democrat, attempted a similar bill in 1990 without the mandatory reduction clause. It passed the Senate but was gutted in the House and eventually died. McElroys bill called for the new commission to review the population and area of each county and its changes since 1900. The 33-member commission would be appointed by the governor. Its first report would have been due Sept. 1, 1995. The legislature would have to renew the commissions authority every two years. Advertisement Advertisement But House Bill 252 went nowhere that year. As recently as 2018, an attempt was made to reduce the number of counties to 54. It also went nowhere. Counties were formed in the 19th century when horse-and-buggy travel made it difficult to have large counties. But horse-and-buggy transportation ended more than a century ago. But we still cling to our 120 counties like theyre sacred. So, Kentucky will likely have 120 counties forever. ROCKCASTLE COUNTY, Ky. (FOX 56) The man accused of kidnapping 13-year-old Wynter Wagoner appeared before a Rockcastle County judge on Friday. Wagoner, 13, disappeared from her Rockcastle County foster home around Oct. 14, 2025. According to court documents, nobody saw her leave. Authorities combed through the surrounding area, but there was no trace of Wagoner until the day after Christmas. RELATED: Advertisement Advertisement She was found more than 500 miles away, two months after she disappeared from her Rockcastle County foster home. Shed called home from Maryland, where authorities found her living with 37-year-old Christian Delgado. A Kentucky arrest warrant states that Delgado told investigators that hed met Wagoner online and driven from Florida to pick her up. He allegedly took Wagoner back to Florida before the pair traveled to his Maryland home. Delgado faces numerous charges in two states and multiple counties. He was indicted by a federal and Rockcastle grand jury in January LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Advertisement Advertisement In total, Delgado faces the following charges: Federal: Transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity Tampering with a witness, victim, or informant State: Kidnapping of a minor Third-degree unlawful transaction with a minor Second-degree rape Delgado entered a not guilty plea on Friday, Feb. 13. His attorney requested that the pretrial conference be delayed 90 days to see how the federal case proceeds. The pretrial conference was scheduled for Friday, May. 8. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. In the early hours of 12 April last year, nine Japanese police officers quietly gathered outside a hotel room in Osaka. Inside and oblivious, 26-year-old Briton Izabel Rose was suffering the effects of a nasty hangover following a night out. Eventually, in need of the communal bathroom, Rose opened the door and the officers descended. Days prior, Rose had messaged a friend in the UK asking them to send her the class B drug ketamine. She had left London at the start of the month in the depths of her addiction to the drug, and hoped her travels would be an opportunity for her to get away from her usual environment. But almost as soon as she arrived, she found herself trying to source the illegal substance. Eventually, unable to find it elsewhere, she paid the friend 150 for 7g (0.25oz) of ketamine, which was sent to her in the post, concealed inside a birthday card. But the package was intercepted at the border, and shortly after, Rose was arrested in her hotel room. Rose was detained in Japan for five months after she paid someone to send her ketamine in the post (Izabel Rose) It was the start of what would become a five-month stint in a Japanese detention centre after she admitted to the importation of drugs. Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to The Independent, she said the experience is the most traumatic thing that ever happened to me, but she is sharing her story in hopes of raising awareness of what she called a crisis of ketamine addiction. A slippery slope Rose first remembers being introduced to ketamine at university. She said she didnt actually enjoy the drug the first time she took it, as it made her unwell, but it quickly became a frequent part of her life after moving in with a friend who was a regular user. She said she went from using the drug occasionally as part of the London rave scene to daily within a matter of months, describing how, eventually, the housemates would often take ketamine while watching a film on weekday evenings. That turned into me buying my own, and then that turned into me using on my own, she said. Rose in Japan before her arrest (Izabel Rose) My usage went from partying to daily very quickly, and it was a very slippery slope. Advertisement Advertisement Her body also began to suffer the consequences of her ketamine use. She began to get abdominal cramps known as K cramps, which even drove her to visit A&E. She had begun to recognise she was going down a dark path but said she was in denial over her addiction. I wanted to stop, and I couldnt stop, she said. In April 2025, she decided to take a trip to Japan somewhere she had always wanted to travel in the hope that time away from London would also help her get away from the temptation of taking the drug. My intention was never to import But before she had even passed through customs in Japan, Rose said she was on her phone trying to source drugs. Advertisement Advertisement Addiction doesnt understand geography, and the voice in my head took over, and within half an hour of landing, she confessed. She messaged a friend whom she believed might be able to find her a dealer on the ground, saying her intention was never to import. Instead, the friend suggested they mail her the ketamine in the post. Right there and then, I decided to send them the money, she said. The next day, they had gone to the post office and put the ketamine in a birthday card and sent it to me in the post. A week later, Rose was arrested at her hotel in Osaka. My life flashed in front of my eyes Rose said she initially naively believed she might be able to talk her way out of trouble. Ketamine is a powerful medical anaesthetic but can be dangerous when used recreationally (Alamy/PA) Despite Japans strict drug laws, she had also purchased marijuana while in the country and decided to hand this over to investigators in the hopes it would placate them. Advertisement Advertisement They very quickly said, well, thats not why were here my stomach dropped and my life flashed before my eyes. Over the next few days, she was questioned by investigators, who had seized her phone. After meeting with a lawyer, she decided to admit to importing ketamine into the country. Rose was then taken to Osaka Detention Centre, where she stayed for five months. Its the most traumatic thing that ever happened to me She described the first two months of her detention as the hardest, as she grappled with withdrawing from ketamine alongside coming to terms with her situation. There were moments where I was crying and so emotional, she said. Ketamine numbs your feelings so much that when you come off it, they all come rushing back. Advertisement Advertisement She added that the experience was very lonely and isolated, with most of her days spent alone with her thoughts. But despite these challenges, Rose said she was able to use the experience to form a routine of exercise, meditation, reading about addiction, and journaling. At first it was hard, it was a shock to the system, but having no phone and just time to reflect and journal really was beneficial for me, she said. After five isolated months spent almost exclusively in her small cell, Rose was given a suspended sentence, meaning she could go free but would be locked up again if she committed any offence in Japan. This is a crisis Rose was able to travel in Japan after her detention ended and is now sharing her story on her TikTok account @hyakuban7 (Izabel Rose) Rose is now back in the UK and in recovery. Advertisement Advertisement She is sharing her story on TikTok on her account to raise awareness of the dangers of ketamine addiction. I think theres such a stigma on what an addict looks like, but they are just normal people, she said. Ketamine addiction is a real crisis and we need to look at helping people in the best way possible. Recent government data published in December 2025 found the number of children aged 17 and under reporting problems with ketamine had doubled between 2021 and 2024. For under-17s in treatment, ketamine is the fourth most-used drug after cannabis, alcohol and nicotine. Grace Willsher, head of young peoples services in the North at drug and alcohol support charity WithYou, said the number of young people being supported for ketamine use across its services has more than doubled in the past five years. Advertisement Advertisement She told The Independent the charity is concerned that the risks associated with ketamine arent well understood, adding its easy availability and low cost mean many see it as a party drug and an alternative to alcohol. But she warned that in a very short period of time, ketamine can cause permanent damage to the body. This includes really horrible effects like bladder problems, changes in mental health and memory, and damage to your nose, liver and kidneys, she said. WithYou aims to encourage young people to seek early advice and support around drug and alcohol use, helping to prevent harm before problems escalate. Advertisement Advertisement Ms Willsher encouraged anyone worried about themselves or someone they know to reach out for support. If youre worried about yourself or someone you know whether thats a family member, a friend, a child, a work colleague, or a student contact WithYou for support Services are free and non-judgemental, and the website webchat staffed by trained recovery workers, not AI is available at wearewithyou.org.uk 9am-9pm on weekdays and 10am-4pm on the weekend A Kentucky man who prosecutors say had a torture chamber in his Laurel County home pleaded guilty Wednesday to federal charges, according to court records. Scottie Shelton, 54, was charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, firearm possession in furtherance of drug trafficking and possession of an unregistered, destructive device. Court documents say his guilty plea deal dropped the possession of an unregistered, destructive device and found him guilty of the other two counts. U.S. District Judge Robert Wier has not yet accepted Sheltons guilty plea to the methamphetamine possession and firearm possession charges. U.S. Magistrate Judge Hanly A. Ingram recommended Wier accept them. Only district judges can accept guilty plea deals. Advertisement Advertisement Only U.S. district judges can accept guilty plea deals. Wier has not yet accepted the deal, and a sentencing hearing has not been scheduled. Shelton faces between 10 years and life in prison for the methamphetamine possession, and between five years and life in prison for the firearm offense, according to court documents. Sentences for those counts would run consecutively. Shelton could also be fined a maximum $10.2 million, according to court documents. A sentencing hearing has not been set. Officers with the Drug Enforcement Administration visited Sheltons property on Southern Oakes Road in Laurel County on Aug. 12. Court documents say Shelton permitted officers to search the property, on which they found a cell-like room that appeared to be a torture chamber. Advertisement Advertisement There is no evidence the room was used to torture anyone, court documents say. However, an informant told local authorities and DEA agents they received photos from Shelton of a woman restrained inside the room around 2020. Additional searches of Sheltons property uncovered guns, drugs, poached wildlife and a human bone. Investigators found 73 loaded guns, thousands of rounds of ammunition, four homemade silencers, two ballistic vests and a destructive device described as a live 12-gauge shotgun shell concealed in a section of galvanized pipe, according to court documents. DEA Task Force Officer Jason Snelling testified Shelton had about 8 kilograms of methamphetamine he had been using or distributing, most of which was buried underground, according to court documents. About 6,000 pills of suspected oxycodone were also found on his property, along with drug paraphernalia. The perimeter of the metal shed where the evidence was found was protected with alarms and several booby traps armed with shotgun shells, according to court documents. EDITORS NOTE: The following story contains graphic content about an alleged sexual assault involving teens. To contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline, call 1-800-656-4673. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The victim of an alleged sexual assault by a group of eighth graders on a field trip to Costa Rica last April has filed a lawsuit against The Alexander School at Rainbow Mountain. The 8 News Now Investigators obtained the complaint filed by Jack Doe, and his parents, Jane Doe and John Doe, on Friday, which alleges major failures by school staff to address bullying, victim-blaming, and a boys being boys attitude, which led to a tragic outcome. By refusing to intervene, the school emboldened the bullies and allowed their behavior to intensify, the complaint states. The sexual assault that followed was tragically foreseeable. Advertisement Advertisement Attorneys for the plaintiffs allege gross negligence by school leaders and employees, including chaperones on the trip. Las Vegas Metro police identified four boys who they said committed a brutal sexual assault against the victim. One of the boys, Vaughn Griffith, recorded the incident, according to police. Griffith, now 15, is charged as an adult after prosecutors argued for his case to be moved to the adult system and Clark County District Court Judge Linda Marquis agreed, pointing to the brutality of the crime. Griffith was 14 at the time of the alleged attack. FBI confirms involvement in case of alleged sex assault by Las Vegas eighth graders School staffs failure to act, according to the complaint, culminated in a brutal and horrific sexual assault. Advertisement Advertisement Lawyers for the victim and his parents point to years of escalated, documented bullying that culminated in a brutal sexual assault, according to the complaint. The risk was clear and escalating. Yet the school minimized and/or dismissed the conduct as boys being boys, failed to invoke or enforce its own rules, policies, and procedures, and imposed no meaningful disciplinary actions on the perpetrators. The initials of the four boys identified by police are included in the civil complaint, as they are described as long-time bullies targeting both boys and girls between at least 2021 and spring 2025. The family alleges that they, along with other students and their parents, notified school staff, who repeatedly failed to act, despite witnessing some of the behavior themselves. The bullying was so bad that some families removed their children from the school, the plaintiffs allege. Download the 8 News Now streaming app School staff accused Jack Doe of being overly sensitive, the complaint alleges. Advertisement Advertisement Their bullying conduct included hostile, harassing, aggressive, combative, intimidating, threatening, belligerent, pugnacious, and even physically abusive conduct and assaults, according to the complaint. All of the boys involved were described as eighth graders at the time and would now be high school freshmen. The victim began attending the school, which includes kindergarten through the eighth grade, at the age of 10, the complaint states. The bullying began almost immediately after he first enrolled in the fourth grade, but he continued to maintain a straight-A grade average and participated and thrived in sports, according to the complaint. The victim learned that his reporting of the bullying would often lead to acts of retaliation, retribution and revenge if the bullies found out, the complaint states. Advertisement Advertisement The plaintiffs attorneys also refer to gaslighting by school staff, and they claim staff refuted that the victim was being bullied at all and responded, the bullying conduct was simply normal middle school horse play or rough housing, or that the victim should just get over it. 2 teens wont face charges in Las Vegas in alleged sex assault on 8th grade field trip The victim learned that he was better off being silent, and on some occasions, he refused to go to school, the complaint states. The only course of action was to stop reporting the torture and just try to endure it until he graduated from eighth grade, according to the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement In addition to suing the school, the victim and his family are suing five school employees listed as chaperones on the trip, including the principal. Each chaperone led a group of eight students; there was one hour per day with no supervision, four students shared a hotel room, and two students shared a bed, according to the complaint. One of the boys who police said participated in the sexual assault visited the victims room on the second night of the trip to say that two of the boys, also described as taking part in the assault, threatened to sexually assault him, according to the complaint. The victim had suggested telling a chaperone. The boy told the chaperone the boys scared him, the chaperone allowed the boy to stay in the victims room, and no disciplinary action was taken, according to the complaint. Las Vegas teen charged after alleged brutal group sexual assault on private school field trip caught on video The complaint also details the alleged sexual assault and a prior incident. Advertisement Advertisement On the fourth night of the trip, three of the boys came into the victims room, began roughhousing with him, knocked him onto the bed, forcibly removed his clothes, including his underwear, put them on the hotels balcony, ripped his towel off when he went to retrieve his clothes, and slammed the balcony door to force him to stand outside naked, according to the complaint. On the seventh day of the trip, the boys locked a door behind the victim in a hotel room, would not allow him to leave, pinned him down, pulled off his pants, and told him, They were going to rape him, the complaint states. Police said they obtained video where the victim is seen lying on a bed with his head lifted and his face showing tension/stress, as one boy said, Hey, hold him over. The victim screamed in pain and terror, according to the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Among other items, the sexual assault included the use of a flute, and one boy inserted his penis in the victim, police described in their report. The boys threatened to cut his [expletive] off' if the victim did not stop screaming, according to the complaint. The boys proceeded to beat, sexually assault, and rape the victim, the complaint states. The camera angle then reverses back to show Vaughn Griffith and the boys start laughing, police wrote in their report. Some of the last words heard are one boy stating, Its clearly sexual, and another boy saying, Assault,' according to police. The camera angle turns to the person recording, displaying Vaughn Griffiths face. The video, considered evidence in the case, is sealed, per a court order. Advertisement Advertisement One chaperone was staying in the room right next door but never came to Jacks aid during the beating and sexual assault despite Jacks screams, the plaintiffs attorneys wrote. Police began investigating the incident in May 2025 after one of the students, who now faces charges in juvenile court, showed the video to students at another private school, and one of those students was so upset that he told his parents about it, according to the complaint. That same student who had shown the video to others had previously told the victim that if he reported the sexual assault, he would show girl students and tell them the victim wanted to be sexually assaulted because he was gay, the complaint states. When school staff at The Alexander Dawson School were notified, they downplayed the incident and blamed the victim for the sexual assault, according to the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement The plaintiffs attorneys allege the school did not follow its own policy to address bullying. Only two of the boys, Griffith and the teen in juvenile court, appear to face charges in connection with the video of the alleged sexual assault. A Clark County grand jury indicted Griffith for possession of a visual presentation depicting sexual conduct of a child in January. Because the alleged sexual assault occurred in Costa Rica, Clark County prosecutors cannot pursue sexual assault charges. A representative for police, Delegacion Policial Quepos, in Costa Rica, told 8 News Now on Feb. 2 that law enforcement was unaware of an alleged sexual assault incident involving individuals from Las Vegas last year. The FBI confirmed its Las Vegas Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force has been involved in the case. It appears none of the teens face federal charges. Alleged sexual assault by Las Vegas eighth graders: What police in Costa Rica say A hearing for the teen facing charges in juvenile court is scheduled for Feb. 23. A hearing is scheduled for Griffith on June 23. A family member posted $20,000 bail for Griffith on Oct. 10, records show. Conditions include high-level electronic monitoring, no internet except for school purposes, staying away from minors other than a sibling, staying away from the victim, surrendering his passport, and staying out of trouble. Attorneys David Chesnoff, Richard Schonfeld, and J. Randall Jones, who are representing the victim and his family, previously sent the 8 News Now Investigators a statement on behalf of the victim: We represent the victim in this matter and appreciate the work that has been done by law enforcement, including the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the Clark County District Attorneys office. We are confident that the judicial system will render justice for our client. Jones and Eric Pepperman of Kemp Jones, LLP, are representing the plaintiffs in the civil lawsuit. Chesnoff and Schonfeld are assisting them through the criminal cases against the boys. Tuition for The Alexander Dawson School costs more than $30,000 per year. On the schools website, it is described as, a nurturing learning community for students in preschool through grade eight that challenges students to achieve excellence in mind, body and character. The 8 News Now Investigators reached out to an attorney for the school about the lawsuit on Friday evening. To reach investigative reporter Vanessa Murphy, email vmurphy@8newsnow.com. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. Heres the latest news on openings, closings and other developments involving Publix stores in St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Largo. Publix to close west St. Pete store, open new one in March Publix is preparing to make some big changes in west St. Petersburg next month as it will be closing one store and opening another three miles away. Publix confirmed it will close its Eagles Park Retail Center store at 5577 Park St. N. on March 7 at 7 p.m. The companys new location at 6605 38th Ave. N. will open March 12 at 7 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement The new store represents an $11 million investment by Publix, which owns the 38th Avenue property. Property records show the company demolished the existing building a renovated Albertsons in September 2024 and began construction on a new 57,658-square-foot supermarket in November 2024. The Eagles Park location, built in 1986, operates in a shopping center owned by Miami Lakes-based Gator Eagle Partners. The center already has at least 16 vacant storefronts. When Publix closes the store, the shopping centers vacancy rate will jump from roughly 43% to more than 60%. The only significant remaining tenant will be Truist Bank, one of the last financial institutions operating in west St. Petersburgs 33709 ZIP code after other banks closed in recent years. Publix spokesperson Lindsey Willis confirmed the closure and opening dates and said more details about the new store would be available soon. Advertisement Advertisement The new 38th Avenue location is approximately three miles from Eagles Park. While the distance is manageable for customers with cars, it eliminates walking access for two 55 and older communities near the closing store and residents of nearby mobile home parks. Clearwater Publix to reopen after renovation The Publix at 1295 S. Missouri Ave. will reopen March 5 after a renovation. A ribbon cutting will take place shortly before the 7 a.m. opening. Store No. 1329 anchors Clearwater Plaza along one of south Clearwaters main retail corridors. The location serves more than 107,000 residents within 3 miles. Publix converted the store from an Albertsons in 2009. It sits less than 2 miles from downtown Clearwater and Morton Plant Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Other retailers at the plaza include Bealls Outlet and Dollar Tree. Largo Mall Publix to close, new store to be built Publix plans to close its supermarket at Largo Mall on Feb. 28 for demolition and construction of a new store, Willis said. The project is expected to take more than a year to complete. The grocery chain will shutter the store at 10500 Ulmerton Road and replace it with a 51,908-square-foot facility, according to a building permit filed in June. The current building contains 78,984 square feet of heated space. The Largo Mall location was a renovated Albertsons that Publix acquired and is now tearing down continuing a trend across the Tampa Bay area as the company replaces converted stores with new construction. Advertisement Advertisement Publix converted the former Albertsons and Safeway location after purchasing it. Property records show the building was constructed in 1989. The property, listed as Largo Mall Lot 6, is owned by PSM Exchange Company I LLC, which purchased it in 2018 for $13 million. Publix has not announced a target opening date for the new Largo Mall store, according to Willis. Largo Mall, a major retail center along Ulmerton Road, includes about 60 tenants and is anchored by Target. When Fernando Telly moved his family to New Mexico, they chose Rio Rancho because theyd heard the schools there were the best in the state. After starting school, Telly said his children began testing below grade level. He switched the three of them to virtual education shortly thereafter, he said, and their test scores went back up. It has helped them tremendously, Telly said. Telly is one of many New Mexico parents whose children have transferred out of traditional schools and into online education. At a meeting of the House Education Committee last week at the state Legislature, parents packed the room, some testifying about children who were bullied in traditional school, who had to attend class at odd hours because they had to work to support their families, or who didnt get appropriate accommodations for their disabilities at school. Advertisement Advertisement Nearly 9,000 students across the state are full-time virtual learners, Rep. Joy Garratt, D-Albuquerque, told lawmakers. The committee was meeting to discuss a controversial bill that would have changed virtual learning across the state. House Bill 253 originally sought to create guardrails for online learning by placing enrollment caps and residency requirements on the programs to help resolve a multimillion dollar hole in the New Mexico Public Education Departments budget. The bill would have affected access to virtual learning for many students across the state. On Friday night, members of the House Appropriations and Finance Committee voted to pass an amended version of the bill without the changes to access for virtual education that would still solve the departments budgetary woes. A regulatory loophole meant that two New Mexico school districts would receive a combined $40 million in extra state funding because of an influx of virtual students who do not live in either district. Advertisement Advertisement When Gallup-McKinley County Schools terminated its contract with an online school provider, the approximately 3,000 students who attended classes virtually via Gallup-McKinley transferred to Santa Rosa Consolidated Schools and Chama Valley Independent School District, though they didnt live in either district. Per the state equalization guarantee the formula the PED uses to distribute funds to schools if a district grows by more than 1%, it receives more money from the state than other districts with the same population. The students who transferred to Chama and Santa Rosa to attend the online program account for an additional $40 million from the PED. At the same time, Gallup-McKinley would have received over $40 million in SEG funding for those students because the formula is still based on prioryear data. The dilemma created a $35 million shortfall in the PEDs budget. The idea of 3,000 students suddenly migrating across the district border overnight was never contemplated by the SEG, Sunny Liu, principal analyst for the Legislative Finance Committee, said at a hearing last week. Advertisement Advertisement Only $1 million each would have gone to the school districts, Rep. G. Andres Romero, D-Albuquerque, told the crowd, packed with parents and educators concerned about changes to virtual education. The remaining $38 million would go to the online education provider, Stride Inc. Im seeing some shocked faces, Romero said. I think thats definitely interesting. Stride spokesperson Brooke Gabbert said the framing around the issue is misleading. Districts routinely partner with external providers to deliver services including curriculum, technology, transportation, and other operational support. Virtual learning operates in the same way, with districts choosing partners to provide instruction and student services, Gabbert said. There is nothing unique about this structure. It is consistent with how districts across the country deliver virtual educational and operational services. Advertisement Advertisement The $35 million hole meant every district across the state would have received a smaller share of the $4.5 billion in the SEG. For small districts, the difference might be inconsequential, Liu said. For the states largest district, Albuquerque Public Schools, it meant a deficit of about $5 million by the end of the year. Any cuts to our district this late in our fiscal year will have a direct and unavoidable impact on the classroom, APS Superintendent Gabriella Blakey told the committee. After significant pushback from parents, advocates and virtual educators, lawmakers rewrote the bill to address the shortfall without adding the enrollment caps and residency requirements. My inbox is smoking, Rep. Harlan Vincent, R-Glencoe, said. I quit reading them, to be honest with you, because everybody is saying the same thing. Advertisement Advertisement The new version would create few changes to existing virtual education and would launch a comprehensive statewide study of online school. Virtual students will no longer generate extra rural population units in the SEG as they did before. Chama, Santa Rosa and Gallup-McKinley have agreed to give up their extra funds so no other schools across the state will lose money, Stan Rounds, executive director of the New Mexico Coalition of Educational Leaders told the House Appropriations and Finance Committee Friday night. Lawmakers are adding new reporting requirements for virtual learning to better understand the makeup of distance learning schools across the state in the hopes that a similar situation can be avoided in the future. Enrollment in distance learning programs has surged since the pandemic, and regulations have not kept pace, lawmakers said. I think this could have been better handled. This has been brought up for well over a decade, and Im glad that were dealing with it, of course, said Rep. Tara Lujan, D-Santa Fe. However, I do think were going to need better regulation and oversight for this in the future. Natalie Robbins covers education for the Journal. You can reach her at nrobbins@abqjournal.com. Pennsylvania ranks third in the nation for WARN notices formal filings companies submit when they plan large layoffs according to data highlighted by the Keystone Research Center. But the slowdown isnt universal. Stephen Herzenberg with Keystone Research told FOX43 the ranking is a reflection of both Pennsylvanias industrial mix and a cooling labor market. Ever since that database was created, Pennsylvania unfortunately tends to be fairly high on the list, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Herzenberg said WARN notices dont always mean layoffs will happen immediately, but they signal companies are anticipating cutbacks. On top of that, workers have less leverage than compared to a year ago. The Pennsylvania job market, like the national job market, is weaker than it was a year ago, Herzenberg said. There arent as many job openings relative to the number of unemployed workers." Meanwhile, homecare providers are struggling to hire even as demand climbs. By 2030, one in three Pennsylvanians will be over age 60, according to Cody Jones with the Pennsylvania Home Care Association. Jones told FOX43 that the workforce gap is already significant. "In 2026, we're going to be about 20,000 nurses short of what we really need to completely fulfill the need," Jones said. If we're not investing in these career paths to increase the bandwidth, we just can't handle the amount of people that need the level of care that they provide." Without more direct care workers and in-home nurses, industry leaders warn families may have limited options sometimes forcing loved ones into hospitals or nursing homes instead of allowing them to age at home. While parts of Pennsylvanias job market are slowing, home care agencies said opportunities remain available for those looking for work, and many agencies provide training. A bipartisan push to let voters amend the Illinois Constitution to reduce politics in drawing state legislative maps has been suspended, with organizers saying the timing is not ripe amid a polarized climate shaped by mid-decade congressional gerrymandering wars nationwide. In a statement released Friday, Bill Daley and Ray LaHood said that while the movement has been suspended, they have hopes of seeing it resurrected in 2028 and 2030 ahead of the once-per-decade remap of Illinois House and Senate district boundaries following the 2030 federal census. When organizers unveiled the effort on Aug. 19, they aimed to raise $5 million to promote and legally defend the initiative and to collect roughly twice the 328,171 valid signatures from registered voters needed by May 3 to secure a spot on the Nov. 3 general election ballot. But Fair Maps Illinois reported raising only $201,713 from 11 donors, according to reports from the Illinois State Board of Elections. Advertisement Advertisement The suspension marks the third time in just more than a decade that voters will not get a chance to cast a ballot on constitutional initiative to make the drawing of Illinois legislative maps more independent and reduce political gerrymandering of boundary lines. Similar proposals in 2014 and 2016 were struck down by the courts. The proposal would have affected only state legislative boundaries, not congressional districts. But Daley, former chief of staff to Democratic President Barack Obama and the brother and son of two Chicago mayors, said the initiative has been confused with the bitterly partisan national congressional gerrymandering in Texas, California, and elsewhere led by Republican President Donald Trumps efforts to try to keep a GOP majority in the U.S. House after the 2026 midterm elections. Unfortunately, the outrageous national gerrymandering battle initiated by President Trump has emboldened partisans to retreat to the extremes, but the vast majority of voters in Illinois and throughout the country know redistricting reform is desperately needed, Daley said. State legislative gerrymandering reform is deeply needed in Illinois, but the time is just not ripe for a successful effort. LaHood, who in Congress represented the Peoria area as a Republican before becoming Obamas transportation secretary, said extreme gerrymandering is wrong at the congressional level, and its wrong at the state legislative level. Advertisement Advertisement Redistricting reform is an essential step to making government more accountable and less captive to the extremism and polarization that defines our national politics, he said. Absurdly drawn districts deny voters a meaningful role in our democracy, and it deepens distrust in government to an increasingly existential level. With the state under one-party rule in the last two redistricting years of 2011 and 2021, Democratic legislative majorities in the House and Senate passed and sent to Democratic Govs. Pat Quinn and JB Pritzker map lines designed to favor Democratic candidates and reduce Republican representation. Pritzker, who is seeking a third term as governor, voiced support for an independent commission to draw legislative maps, but he signed the 2021 map. Saying he still supported an independent mapmaking process, Pritzker later said, Its not like I can force the legislature to do something like that. The current map adopted after the 2020 federal census has led to the election of overwhelming Democratic legislative majorities 78 in the 118-member House and 40 in the 59-member state Senate. Advertisement Advertisement The proposal pushed by Daley and LaHood would have stripped the legislature of its direct mapmaking duties for the General Assembly and instead given that power to a 12-member commission, with the four legislative leaders each appointing one member of their caucus and two people who arent members of the General Assembly. The Supreme Court would have submitted two names in a random draw to break a tie. The plan also would have prevented commissioners from considering voters past voting history. But map lines would have had to comply with federal laws, such as Voting Rights Act protections for racial and ethnic groups. Districts were to have been based more along geographic county, municipal and township boundaries with an emphasis on compactness. Because the state Supreme Court has previously limited citizen-initiated changes to the state constitution to issues that affect the structure and procedure of the legislature, the size of future General Assemblies would have been determined by a formula based on the states federal census population. Organizers said a statewide survey conducted on behalf of the effort by Change Research showed the proposed amendment with 75% support, with Democrats backing it 75% to 11%, Republicans 78% to 9% and independents 64% to 13%. Advertisement Advertisement Daley and LaHood said they hoped the states business and civic community would take up the cause in future years. Illinois voters overwhelmingly want redistricting reform because they know politicians should not be in charge of drawing their own districts, LaHood said, adding that it would pass if we could raise the resources to put it on the ballot and wage a campaign. Illinois and our country need gerrymandering reform now more than ever, and our hope is that enough fair-minded leaders will step up and demand change before its too late, LaHood said. Daley said, The business community and allied good government reform groups must lead the charge to fix the states problems, as they have done for generations. We cant give in to the cynicism that suggests Illinois and this country broadly is incapable of systemic reform, Daley said. SPRINGFIELD Since Illinois lawmakers got back to work in January, they began introducing legislation. We took a look at some of the bills that were filed recently. Here are a few to keep an eye on. 'Billionaire wealth tax in Illinois' State Sen. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, introduced legislation that would establish a "billionaire wealth tax in Illinois," according to a news release sent out by Villa. The bill aims to protect essential services from looming cuts in federal funding. Advertisement Advertisement Currently, the income tax system largely focuses on wages rather than overall change in financial resources, allowing the wealthiest individuals to avoid paying taxes on massive increases in wealth, according to the release. Senate Bill 3376 aims to address the inequality by applying Illinois personal income tax to the appreciation of billionaires assets. The bill is part of a series of initiatives backed by the Illinois Revenue Alliance, a coalition of labor unions, community-based organizations and legal advocacy centers. The measures seek to modernize Illinois tax code to create a fairer, more equitable system. Villa in the release cited the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, saying Illinois has the eighth most regressive tax system in the nation. More: Rockford furniture store pledges to fill open orders, plans to reopen ICE agents would not be able to become Illinois law enforcement officers State Sen. Laura Fine, D-Glenview, introduced a bill that would prevent newly hired U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement agents from serving as law enforcement officers in Illinois. Advertisement Advertisement The Prohibited Hiring of Federal Immigration Officers Act, or Senate Bill 2820, would prohibit police departments in Illinois from hiring anyone who was employed by ICE as a federal immigration officer between Jan. 20, 2025 and Jan. 20, 2029 as a law enforcement officer. Police officers occupy positions of public trust," Fine stated in a news release. My district is one of many communities across the state that has repeatedly voiced concerns about increased ICE activity in our neighborhoods, schools, shopping centers and public spaces, and its time we take action against threats to public safety. Fine takes issue with the amount of training ICE agents receive, which she said has dropped from 16 weeks of training to now less than seven weeks since President Donald Trump took office. Our state and local law enforcement in Illinois receive extensive training and hold themselves to a high standard. They are trained to de-escalate dangerous situations and build community trust. We would never let any one of them go into the field with only 47 days of training. This bill represents a vital step toward creating a safer, more just environment for everyone, regardless of immigration status, Fine wrote. Landlords would include all mandatory service fees in a propertys listed base rent State Sen. Rachel Ventura, D-Joliet, introduced a package of legislation aimed at addressing "the growing role of private equity firms in Illinois housing market, which has driven up home prices, reduced housing availability and turned residential properties into high-profit investment assets while many Illinois families struggle to find affordable places to live," according to a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Senate Bill 3363 would require landlords to include all mandatory service fees in a propertys listed base rent, preventing renters from being surprised by additional charges after signing a lease. The measure would ensure tenants have clear and transparent information about the true cost of housing before entering into rental agreements and bans predatory insurance requirements. Senate Bill 3674 would give tenants the right of first refusal when a property is put up for sale, allowing residents to purchase their building before it can be sold to outside investors, including private equity firms. The legislation would also allow tenants in multi-unit buildings to coordinate joint purchase offers, expanding opportunities for community ownership and long-term housing stability. Advertisement Advertisement Senate Bill 3501, known as Restock the Block, would establish a fee on private equity firms purchasing existing residential properties. Revenue generated from the fee would be directed toward grants for public and affordable housing development, helping rebuild housing supply and reinvest in communities impacted by corporate consolidation of housing. More: Rockford plans months of events for Americas 250th in 2026 Domestic violence amendment House Bill 4659 defines coercive control as, a pattern of behavior that interferes with a persons free will and personal liberty. It could look like isolating a household member from friends or family against their will, restricting access to finances, monitoring communications, using degrading language, making threats, or exerting control through intimidation or fear. With this legislation, Illinois will be taking a more proactive stance in addressing domestic violence before it escalates to physical violence, La Ha stated in a news release. This bill will bring Illinois law in line with federal standards that already recognize coercion in cases of human trafficking. We must recognize that many forms of nonphysical violence are just as harmful as physical, and we must protect all victims of domestic violence." Advertisement Advertisement Tom Ackerman covers breaking news and trending news along with general news for the Springfield State Journal-Register. He can be reached at tackerman@usatodayco.com. This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: 'Billionaire wealth tax' is among newly proposed Illinois legislation Feb. 13A 27-year-old Libby man charged with strangulation of a partner or family member after an alleged domestic assault last fall was sentenced recently. Immanuel Shammar Brown was arrested Oct. 20 after Libby police officers responded to a report of a domestic dispute on the 500 block of Utah Avenue, according to police reports. Brown was arraigned Nov. 3 on the charge and pleaded not guilty. He was released on his own recognizance Nov. 14. But Brown did an about-face Dec. 2 when he agreed to plead guilty to an amended charge of criminal endangerment. At a sentencing hearing Jan. 26, Lincoln County District Judge Matt Cuffe gave Brown a 3-year deferred term. He got credit for serving 26 days in custody. When officers arrived Oct. 20 at the residence, Brown answered the door. Another man at the home told police that Brown and his girlfriend had been arguing and that she was in the basement. According to court documents, officers found the woman downstairs, holding her 4-year-old son. Police reported she was crying, visibly distressed and told them Brown had grabbed her by the throat, pushed her to the ground and strangled her. According to the report, officers observed bruising on her neck and right arm, and noted that her eyes appeared bloodshot, consistent with her account of being choked. Brown was taken into custody at the scene. He originally faced up to five years in jail. Court records indicated Brown faced drug possession charges in 2019 in Sidney, Montana. Ultimately, they were dismissed. He has faced numerous charges in Lincoln County Justice Court since 2018. He pleaded guilty to careless driving, leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage, negligent endangerment, speeding, disorderly conduct, drug possession, driving on a suspended license and driving without insurance. NEED TO KNOW Lindsey Graham offered a blunt and dismissive message to Europeans worried about Donald Trump's vocal plans to take over Greenland Who gives a s--- who owns Greenland? I dont, the South Carolina senator said at POLITICOs 2026 Munich Security Conference Graham's message comes amid Trump's quest for full ownership of Greenland, which has strained U.S. relations with NATO allies Sen. Lindsey Graham dismissed worries about President Donald Trump's quest for full ownership of Greenland, including threats to acquire it by force. Graham's blunt message came at POLITICOs 2026 Munich Security Conference on Friday, Feb. 13, after journalist Jonathan Martin asked the South Carolina Republican, 70, if he has a message for Europeans in the audience who are obviously nervous about Trumps controversial plans for the NATO territory. Advertisement Advertisement Graham, a Trump ally, first joked about Martins question. Well, if you're nervous, have a beer, he said. Go see a doctor. Stop being nervous. Graham then downplayed the presidents bid to take over the territory, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and which has stressed the United States relations with Denmark and other NATO allies. Lindsey Graham Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Sharing his actual message to my European friends, Graham said, Greenland is behind us, but the goal is to get outcomes. Who gives a s--- who owns Greenland? I dont, the senator continued. So the point is Greenland is going to be more fortified because Donald Trump, once he feels like its his brand or his buy-in, is going to go big. Advertisement Advertisement When he was questioned about Denmarks relationship with the U.S. amid Trumps vocal plans to seize control of Greenland, Graham said, I think were good. I think everybody is hugging it out and, you know, well live to fight another day, he added. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Trump previously linked his loss of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to his desire to seize control of Greenland in a letter to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre. Advertisement Advertisement In his January letter to Stre, Trump urged the politician to give the U.S. Complete and Total Control of Greenland, despite the fact that Stre was not responsible for Trump's Nobel loss, nor does he control the fate of Greenland. Donald Trump SAUL LOEB / AFP via Getty "I have done more for NATO than any other person since its founding, and now, NATO should do something for the United States," Trump wrote in the letter. He later doubled down on his Greenland plans in a Truth Social post the same day, writing, "NATO has been telling Denmark, for 20 years, that 'you have to get the Russian threat away from Greenland.' Unfortunately, Denmark has been unable to do anything about it. Now it is time, and it will be done!!! President Donald J. Trump." In a January interview with The New York Times, Trump said his desire to have ownership of Greenland is "psychologically important to him. Advertisement Advertisement Still, reporters questioned why he wouldn't just send more American troops to Greenland if his goal was, as he previously stated, to fend off foreign threats from China and Russia. After Trump told the outlet that ownership of the NATO territory is what I feel is psychologically needed for success, the Times' White House correspondent Katie Rogers whom Trump recently called "ugly, both inside and out" for writing a story about his age asked him to clarify, "Psychologically important to you or to the United States?" Psychologically important for me," Trump replied to Rogers. "Now, maybe another president would feel differently, but so far Ive been right about everything." Read the original article on People A local group held a vigil on Saturday to honor four people who died in shootings over the last month. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] As reported on News Center 7 at 6:00, the Community Homicide Vigil said that hearing about a person being killed is heartbreaking. But when its four, they said thats way too many. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement A group of people gathered at the Oregon District on Saturday. By sharing this space with them, their spirit is with us, and we want to remember them and pray that nothing like that ever happens again, said Jane Bohman, volunteer coordinator for Community Homicide Vigil. Bohman told News Center 7s Malik Patterson that the founders had one thing in mind when they created this group 30 years ago. Monthly vigil to remember the victims of homicide in Montgomery County from the prior month and to pray for the end of violence in our community, she said. Bohman said they meet each month to pray and invite the families of each victim. Advertisement Advertisement Patterson said they invited the four families on Saturday. Its a terrible thing to lose a loved one to violence, and we want them to know that the community is praying for them as they go through their grief, she said. Bohman said that people have joined the group to help families through different stages of grief. We can never lose sight of the harm it does to us and the need for us all to act and pray for peace in our community, she said. Patterson said that the group hopes and prays that the number of shooting deaths reaches zero. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The Union Cabinet has approved a new Rs 10,000 crore fund to help Indian startups find the investment they need to grow. Known as the Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0, the money will specifically target deep tech, advanced manufacturing, and founders who are just starting out. The goal is to make sure innovative ideas do not fail simply because they cannot find early financial support. This new fund follows the first version of the scheme launched in 2016. The government noted that the original program successfully supported over 1,370 startups by committing its entire Rs 10,000 crore corpus to various investment funds. These funds then put more than Rs 25,500 crore into companies working in fields like artificial intelligence, healthcare, and space technology. The press release stated that the first phase "played a pivotal role in nurturing first-time founders" and helped build a "strong foundation for India's venture capital ecosystem." One of the main goals of the 2.0 version is to support high-tech areas that take a long time to develop. The government wants to provide "patient, long-term capital" for breakthroughs in deep tech and innovative manufacturing. By focusing on these difficult sectors, the scheme aims to address "high-risk capital gaps" that are often ignored by private investors but are necessary for the country to become more self-reliant. The fund is also intended to reach beyond big cities like Bengaluru or Delhi. The government wants to encourage investment in every part of the country so that innovation can thrive anywhere. According to the release, the scheme is "designed to accelerate the next phase of India's startup journey by mobilising long-term domestic capital" and reducing the country's dependence on foreign investment. Since 2016, the number of recognised startups in India has grown from fewer than 500 to more than 2 lakh. The government believes this new injection of capital will help maintain that momentum. The release concluded that the fund will contribute to "strengthening India's economic resilience, boosting manufacturing capabilities, and generating high-quality jobs" as part of the broader national goal to become a developed nation by 2047. (ANI) A Longmont man was sentenced Friday to eight years of sex offender probation for possessing child sexual abuse material. Robert Trujillo, 22, was sentenced to eight years of sex offender intensive supervision probation on one charge of sexual exploitation of a child possession with intent to distribute and five years of probation and 14 days of work crew for one charge of criminal mischief between $5,000 and $20,000, according to online court records. The sentences will run concurrently. Three counts of sexual exploitation of a child possession with intent to distribute, one count of sexual exploitation of a child possession, and one count of sexual exploitation of a child video were dismissed as part of a December plea deal. Advertisement Advertisement The court took into consideration Trujillos age, lack of criminal history and demonstrated need for treatment when imposing the probation sentence, according to Shannon Carbone, a spokesperson for the Boulder County District Attorneys Office. If Trujillo doesnt comply with the terms of his probation which include registering as a sex offender, having no contact with anyone under 18, no drugs or alcohol and psychological evaluation he faces time in state prison, Carbone said. Trujillo was arrested in May after the Colorado Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force linked his name and email address to a Dropbox account that contained 35 videos of child sexual abuse, most depicting children under the age of 12, according to an arrest affidavit. When law enforcement asked Trujillo about possessing the material, he said he was disappointed in himself and apologized, according to the affidavit. BATON ROGUE, La. (AP) Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana on Friday downplayed the impact of President Donald Trump backing a GOP rival in a race that will test whether the the two-term senator can survive the president's quest to rid the party of members who have crossed him. Cassidy expressed confidence about reelction after submitting his paperwork for Louisiana's May primary, formally thrusting him into a race that stands to be the toughest of his political career. His opponent, Republican Rep. Julia Letlow, was endorsed by Trump even before she officially declared her intentions to run. Cassidy, 68, is on the ballot for the first time since his vote to convict the president during Trump's 2021 impeachment trial after the Jan. 6. attack on the U.S. Capitol. He pointed to his work for Louisiana when asked if he regretted the vote from five years ago, a question that he says Trump has never asked him. Advertisement Advertisement The people of our state want safer streets, they want to be healthier, they want to have more money in their pocket. I have delivered that working with President Trump, over and over again, Cassidy said. "Thats what the race should be decided on. Cassidy was censured by Louisiana Republicans for joining six other Republicans in voting to convict Trump. He has sought to mend ties with Trump and his loyalists, including casting the decisive vote to advance Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s nomination as the nation's Health and Human Services secretary. Letlow, who also filed her candidate paperwork in Baton Rouge, said Trump's endorsement was a reflection that he needs someone he can depend on over in the Senate. Outside the Louisiana Secretary of State's Office, Cassidy's campaign parked a mobile billboard that displayed various attacks on Letlow, including one calling her a liberal." Advertisement Advertisement I can tell you this, President Trump would never endorse someone who is not a true America First conservative. He has chosen me to endorse and that should give the people peace of mind when they have to look at these negative, desperate ads, Letlow said. Louisiana State Treasurer John Fleming is also running in the Republican primary, along with a lesser-known Republican candidate, Mark Spencer. On the other side of the ballot, the filing deadline in Louisiana came and went with big-name Democrats choosing not to mount a Senate challenge. The last time the state had a Democrat in the Senate was Mary Landrieu, who served from 1997 to 2015. Former Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards, who served two terms in a typically red state, announced last year he would not seek the Senate seat. Randal Gaines, chair of the Louisiana Democratic Party, told The Associated Press the party had also approached Mitch Landrieu, Louisianas former lieutenant governor. He also served as a senior advisor to former President Joe Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Both decided the current political climate was not conducive for a Democrat winning a U.S. Senate seat in Louisiana, Gaines said. We are building for a transformative future. Successfully running for political office is about timing and opportunity. Our strategy is the long game, Gaines said. Gaines did not say whether the party would endorse any of the three other Democrats who qualified to run. Looking for a last-minute, unique Valentine's Day surprise for a former lover that you can't get out of your mind? The Bradenton Police Department would love for you to rat out your ex. "We can't fix your love life ... but we can help you move on in the sweetest way possible," the BPD posted on Facebook Friday, Feb. 13. "Help us keep our community safe while mending your broken heart. "If your ex has an active warrant, give us a call or send a crime tip through our website we'd love to hear from you," the department said, followed by its tips line information (call 941-932-9300 or visit bradentonpd.com/crimetips). The post included a romantic Valentine's Day card image of a police car with roses. Advertisement Advertisement "Love fades ... warrants don't," the card said. Reaction in the comments was largely positive. "Roses are red, violets are blue dispatch is ready and waiting for you," one person commented. Another added, "He said he needed space, hopefully the 6x8 will work!" BPD responded, "Dang, that's cold, Teresa! Well done!" The post started out as a joke, a BPD spokesperson told 10 Tampa Bay, but she said they're hoping to build up their online following so they can get important information out to the community. Is anyone taking them up on it? According to 10 Tampa Bay, the spokesperson said about 30 calls had come in already Friday but none of them were local. Advertisement Advertisement The BPD followed it up with another, friendlier Valentine's Day post. "You have the right to remain ... our Valentines. We heart you, Bradenton." It included an image of candy hearts with mottos such as "DO-NUT LEAVE ME," "YOU MAKE MY HEART GO WEE-OO-WEE-OO," and "DON'T STEAL MY HEART" with an image of a cartoon heart in handcuffs. The Sarasota Police Department also had some fun with Valentine's Day cards Friday, posting "Roses are red. Our lights are blue. City of Sarasota, Government, weve got heart and its all for you," with cards saying things like, "Sound the sirens, I think I love you," to "It's more than just puppy love," and "On patrol for someone like you." Not interested in Valentine's Day? 7 alternatives to Valentine's Day celebrate BFFs, singlehood or your pets Jacksonville Sheriff's officers in Florida celebrate first married Valentine's Day The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office in Florida went a different direction by showcasing officers Keirston Johnson and Tamiyah Prince, who are spending their first Valentines Day as a married couple. Naples, Florida, goes to the dogs The Naples Police Department in Florida on Friday sent out a Valentine's Day message from its K9 Tessa and Crisis Care Canine Max, complete with video of the two dogs together and their Valentine's Day cards to each other set to Taylor Swift's "Love Story." "Are you a K9?" a video card from Tessa to Max read. "Because you've tracked down my heart." Advertisement Advertisement "Roses are red, violets are blue. I've got a super sniffer and it led me to you," read the response. Palm Beach Sheriff's Office in Florida says 'Don't spend the night with us' The Palm Beach Sheriff's Office in Florida had more practical advice for Valentine's Day lovers. Messages posted to social media read, "This Valentine's Day, don't spend the night with us," featuring a photo of a jail cell decorated with roses and a candle. Other police departments happy to help with V-day arrests Many other police departments around the country also posted offers to arrest exes. Santa Maria Police, California: Officer Juan Robles holds out a red Valentine's chocolate box, contained handcuffs. Dowagiac Police Department, Michigan: "Don't worry about the bail money, their new situation-ship can take care of it." Greenville Police Department, Ohio: "Send us their whereabouts, we'll make sure they get a Valentine's Day visit." Walpole Police Department, Massachusetts: Offers a shiny new pair of bracelets, a weekend stay in our beautiful holding facility and a free booking photo for them to share. North Haven Police Department, Connecticut: "Instead of crying alone in the shower this morning listening to The Sign by Ace of Base or doom scrolling all the perfect relationships out there today, do something productive," the department posted. "Because remember, the best revenge is living well, but holding them accountable is a close second " Advertisement Advertisement C. A. Bridges is a journalist for the USA TODAY Network-Florida's service journalism Connect team. You can get all of Floridas best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY. This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Florida police make Valentine's Day offer to arrest exes with active warrants A 2026 Lunar New Year event was held in downtown Grand Rapids on Saturday to celebrate the upcoming start of the Year of the Horse. This year, the Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival, is on Tuesday, Feb. 17. The start of the Lunar New Year is based on the lunisolar calendar, and while it's said to be the most important holiday in China, it's also widely celebrated in Korea, Vietnam and countries with a significant overseas Chinese population. Advertisement Advertisement The celebration can last anywhere from three to 15 days, and often includes visiting with family and friends, feasts, fireworks, parties and parades. On Saturday, Feb. 14, the Grand Rapids Public Library partnered with the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Foundation (GRAPF) to host an event with hands-on activities and crafts honoring Lunar New Year traditions. The event ran from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Yankee Clipper Branch on Leonard Street NE. "I feel very proud. Very proud that people are willing to come out and learn," said Ian Varquez, the business and sponsorship development officer of the GRAPF. "And then not just that, just like, I see a lot of little Asian kids here who, they're learning about their culture as they grow up. And I think that's a great thing that they learn from the older people in the community, and we're able to help them out, learn about their culture." Advertisement Advertisement In addition to the crafts, organizers read Lunar New Year books to the children at the event and talked about their special family traditions. "I talked about what the Lunar New Year meant to my family. They came through Hong Kong and I was born here in Grand Rapids, and how we celebrated the Lunar New Year," said Johnny Liu, a volunteer with GRAPF. "It's nice to share our culture with everyone, stating with them that New Year's Eve, that the families have a great reunion dinner no matter where they are in the country, they travel, and they meet back at the parents' home, and they enjoy great feast with food and staying up overnight, sharing stories, playing games and just becoming a family again." Liu said he enjoyed talking about his special traditions with the community because of their eagerness to know more. "It's nice to share this because Grand Rapids is open to great culture," he said. "They want to learn. And so it's nice to share with them what the Asian culture can do to help out with this Grand Rapids community." Henry Tenon, the man who confessed to shooting and killing St. Johns County father Jared Bridegan in a murder-for-hire ' plot, is hoping to take back his guilty plea. Action News Jax reported in 2023 when Tenon pleaded guilty to Bridegans murder as part of a deal with prosecutors to take a 15-year prison sentence in exchange for his testimony against Shanna Gardner, Bridegans ex-wife, and her estranged husband, Mario Fernandez-Saldana, who have been charged with orchestrating Bridegans killing. On Friday morning, Tenons lawyer filed a motion to withdraw his guilty plea, effectively putting him at risk of spending life in prison if it is granted. The motion also says that Tenon would no longer end up testifying against Gardner and Fernandez-Saldana. Advertisement Advertisement Chris Carson, a criminal defense attorney who isnt associated with the case, said even if the judge in the case grants Tenons motion to switch his plea, prosecutors will still be able to use everything Tenon told them. Just because a witness is not cooperating does not mean you still cant take that individuals statements, testimony, forensic evidence, all that, Carson said, it does not fundamentally mean that the state is going to not be able to prove the charge. The motion filed by Tenons lawyer does not list the reason why Tenon decided to switch his plea. Carson said it could be for a number of reasons, including if Tenon became dissatisfied with his legal advice, if his attorney advised him to switch his plea, if Tenon simply changed his mind, or, in a more extreme scenario, if Tenon was given a terminal diagnosis and only had a short time left to live. Obviously something has changed from the time the plea was entered until today, said Carson. Advertisement Advertisement Carson said that Tenons lawyer will have to meet whats called a standard of good cause for the judge to allow the guilty plea to be withdrawn. Carson told us good cause means that Tenons lawyer will have to provide the judge with a good enough reason to allow his guilty plea to be taken back, which Carson said may be easy. Good cause can be hey, I thought about it or something new thats come out, or my attorney and I discussed things in a way that makes sense. It is a low standard and, because its a low standard, that does tend to make it more likely that it will be granted, Carson said. Carson believes that, if the judge allows the guilty plea to be taken back, this move could end up changing the timeline of the trial. Right now, the trials of Gardner and Fernandez-Saldana are scheduled to start on August 10th. Tenons hearing on this motion is scheduled for next Tuesday, February 17th. ' [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. A Kansas City man was charged with second-degree murder in Jackson County court on Friday following a fatal shooting earlier this week in Kansas Citys Citadel neighborhood . Lucas Willingham, 45, faces one count of second-degree murder and two counts of criminal action, according to a criminal complaint filed in Jackson County Court. On Wednesday, Feb. 11, Kansas City police officers were called to the 1500 block East 59th Terrace just after 8 p.m. on a report of a shooting, Capt. Jake Becchina, a spokesperson for the Kansas City Police Department, said in a press release Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement A probable cause statement in support of Willinghams arrest said call notes from the police department indicated Jamon Norfleet, 28 , knocked on the callers door and told them he had been shot by someone named Lucas Willingham. When officers arrived at the scene and began administering first aid, Norfleet told them he had been shot nearby, at an apartment complex in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road, Becchina said. Court documents indicated Norfleet told officers directly that Willingham shot him. Norfleet was transported to an area hospital, where he later died. Investigators arrived in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road, where they located a crime scene, the probable cause statement said. There, they found several bullet fragments, shell casings and a clear plastic bag containing a crystal-like substance. Advertisement Advertisement Detectives responded to an apartment associated with Willingham, where they interviewed individuals present in the residence, according to the probable cause statement. One individual told investigators they were sleeping in the apartment when they heard what they described as a possible physical altercation, the court document said. They heard two to three gunshots, a man screaming and footsteps running away. Minutes later, the individual said, Willingham came into the apartment acting odd, and appearing disheveled, the probable cause statement said. When people in the apartment asked Willingham if he heard the gunshots, the individual said, he allegedly said no. Willingham then went into the kitchen and scrambled around before leaving, the probable cause statement said. Advertisement Advertisement While executing a search warrant at the apartment, detectives found a spent shell casing with a headstamp matching shell casings found at the crime scene, the court document said. Video footage from the apartment complex showed a man matching Norfleets description running north through the apartment complex just after 8 p.m., according to the probable cause statement. A second man, who resembled Willingham, allegedly appeared to follow Norfleet before raising an object, believed to be a firearm, and firing it towards Norfleet. On Thursday, Willingham allegedly turned himself in to officers at the Kansas City Police Department headquarters, the statement said. He was placed on an investigative hold. At 8 a.m. Friday, Willingham reportedly agreed to speak with detectives, according to the probable cause statement. He told them he was under the influence of PCP around the time of the incident, and didnt know what happened, nor could he comprehend what was happening. Advertisement Advertisement The man then told investigators he wanted a lawyer present before speaking further, the court document said. Willingham is being held in the Jackson County Detention Center, according to the jails inmate roster. A press release announcing Willinghams charges from Jazzlyn Johnson, director of communications for the Jackson County Prosecutors Office, said the man is being held on a $150,000 cash-only bond. The Stars Laura Bauer contributed reporting. A former New York operations manager was sentenced in federal court in Boston for his role in a scheme to pay kickbacks to doctors in exchange for ordering medically unnecessary brain scans, the U.S. Attorney said Friday. The scheme resulted in fraudulent bills of approximately $70.6 million to Medicare. Timothy Doyle, 45, of Selden, New York, was sentenced to 14 months in prison, to be followed by one year of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said in a statement. U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel Gorton handed down his sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Doyle was also ordered to pay $27,225,434 in restitution and $1,102,725 in forfeiture. In January 2025, Doyle pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the anti-kickback statute. From at least June 2013 through at least September 2020, prosecutors said Doyle conspired with others, including two managers for a mobile medical diagnostics company that performed transcranial doppler (TCD) scans, to enter into kickback agreements with various doctors. TCD scans are brain scans that measure blood flow in parts of the brain. Prosecutors said Doyle and his alleged co-conspirators agreed to offer and pay doctors kickbacks, some in cash and others by check, based on the number of TCD ultrasounds the doctors ordered. Advertisement Advertisement Doyle and his alleged co-conspirators created purported rental and administrative service agreements, which, on paper, made it appear as if doctors were compensated for the TCD companys use of space and administrative resources of the ordering doctors practice based on fair market value and not based on the volume or value of referrals, Foley said in her statement. Prosecutors said these agreements were shams that hid the true nature of the arrangement of paying per test. Medicare paid approximately $27.2 million to the TCD company for the fraudulent claims, Foley said. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW One person was killed after shots were fired outside the Westfield Culver City mall Friday night. Culver City police responded to the shooting on the 6000 block of Sepulveda Boulevard just before 7:30 p.m. Detectives said an argument involving four men somehow escalated and two people were shot. One of the male victims was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds in the covered parking lot near Macys. He was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. A man was shot and killed outside the Westfield Culver City mall on Feb. 13, 2026. (TNLA) A man was shot and killed outside the Westfield Culver City mall on Feb. 13, 2026. (KTLA) A police perimeter was set up after a man was shot and killed outside the Westfield Culver City mall on Feb. 13, 2026. (TNLA) A man was hospitalized in critical condition after being shot outside the Westfield Culver City mall on Feb. 13, 2026. (TNLA) A police perimeter was set up after a man was shot and killed outside the Westfield Culver City mall on Feb. 13, 2026. (KTLA) A police perimeter was set up after a man was shot and killed outside the Westfield Culver City mall on Feb. 13, 2026. (KTLA) A police perimeter was set up after a man was shot and killed outside the Westfield Culver City mall on Feb. 13, 2026. (TNLA) A police perimeter was set up after a man was shot and killed outside the Westfield Culver City mall on Feb. 13, 2026. (Citizen App) A police perimeter was set up after a man was shot and killed outside the Westfield Culver City mall on Feb. 13, 2026. (Citizen App) A man was shot and killed outside the Westfield Culver City mall on Feb. 13, 2026. (KTLA) Two male suspects fled the scene before police arrived. A containment area was set up as officers search for them, described by authorities as two Black males. Advertisement Advertisement Authorities and personnel from multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the scene to assist, along with air support and K-9s. A police spokesperson confirmed two firearms were recovered at the scene. We did have several witnesses and several vehicles that were in that area that had to be secured for a portion of time and we really appreciate the cooperation we received from the public, said Culver City police spokesperson Jennifer Atenza. The identity of the victim who died was not released and he was only described as a man in his 20s or 30s. Sepulveda Boulevard was closed to traffic between Berryman and Centinela. The public was asked to avoid the area. Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information on the case is asked to call Lieutenant Ryan Thompson at 310-253-6302 or email ryan.thompson@culvercity.org. Anonymous tips can be submitted to tips@culvercity.org. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. A man was charged after allegedly grabbing a large knife and charging at police officers called to his Queens home in a police shooting last month - despite Mayor Zohran Mamdani's opinion that criminal charges were not warranted. Jabez Chakraborty was indicted on one count of first-degree attempted assault, and one count of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He was held on $50,000 cash bail. The incident happened on Jan. 26, when Chakraborty's sister called 911 for an involuntary transportation when he lunged at them a with a kitchen knife and was shot multiple times by police. Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors quoted his sister in court, telling police he "could have murdered" her, parents and grandparents. Prosecutors said they wanted him remanded and an order protection issued for the family, which was denied. Defense attorneys said says "his body was shredded" by police gunfire. He was shot twice in the abdomen, which is still open, twice in chest and twice in groin. "He cannot stand, he cannot walk. He is connected to tubes to keep him alive," defense attorneys said. Chakraborty sobbed in his hospital bed at Jamaica Hospital's ICU when the charges were read. He was visibly wiping his eyes, with someone comforting him. Advertisement Advertisement He was diagnosed with schizophrenia two years ago, according to the defense, and called the decision to charge him as "inhumane." After meeting with Chakraborty and his family in the hospital following the shooting, the mayor said he did not believe the 22-year-old man should be charged. Mamdani said Chakraborty "should not be prosecuted" and "his handcuffs should be removed." Mamdani questioned the protocols that led up to the shooting. He said Chakraborty needed "mental health treatment, not prosecution by a district attorney." "Moments like this lay bare what so many New Yorkers already know. Our city must build a mental health response that is rooted in prevention and compassion and crisis care," he said. "That is the focus of our administration and these are my thoughts of what Jabez needs at this moment." Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani said he has not spoken directly with the district attorney, but said, "no family should have to endure this kind of pain." Despite Mamdani's plea, the Queens District Attorney's Office moved forward with prosecution on Friday. Although Chakraborty was not immediately charged following the shooting, a police official at the time said body-worn camera appears to show officers followed their training and attempted assault of a police officer and menacing charges would be appropriate. Chakraborty faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted. ---------- * More Queens news * Send us a news tip * Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts * Follow us on YouTube Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply. A man wanted in connection with a double homicide in Brockton last year has been captured in Mexico, police announce. Davinci Leonard, 23, was taken into custody on Thursday, February 12, after authorities tracked him to Mexico. Members of the U.S. Marshals Service and Mexican authorities took Leonard into custody. Leonard is accused of the murders of 15-year-old Tymari Albertson and 18-year-old Cevannah Alvarez on Saturday, March 23, 2025, outside of Westgate Mall in Brockton. Advertisement Advertisement Leonard was transferred to San Diego, where he remains in custody before being extradited to Brockton, where he faces two counts of murder and firearm charges. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday reiterated that India too would get zero export duty access for garments for which cotton yarn is imported from the US, similar to Bangladesh. The Minister was speaking to ET NOW. The US and Bangladesh signed an agreement on February 9, reducing reciprocal tariffs to 19 per cent from 20 per cent previously announced. Alongside, zero-tariff access for special textile and apparel products made with US cotton and man-made fibre was provided under the arrangement. The Minister addressed concerns of many that the Indian textiles industry would be hit by duty differentials vis-a-vis Bangladesh after the neighbouring country signed a deal with the US. "The same concession is available to India also," he asserted, speaking to ET NOW. "It's called a yarn forward -- if you buy cotton or yarn from the US and process it and produce garment, you are able to export it to the US at zero duty. That's an established principle of theirs and India will be benefited from the same way of working," he said. This arrangement, he said, will not hurt Indian cotton producers noting that the volumes of cotton that the country will require will be huge. He cited the huge demand in the US for Indian textile products. "We will actually need to focus more on increasing productivity because there's tremendous demand coming in for cotton given the EU, FTA, given all the 38 countries whose markets we have opened up. So I can see before my eyes huge requirement for more cotton and a huge and a wonderful future for our country," he added. When the interim agreement is finalized with the US, one would get to see it in the fine print, Piyush Goyal had told reporters earlier. According to a report from SBI Research, US imports around USD 7.5 billion of textile imports from India and around the same quantity from Bangladesh. India and the US also have finalized an interim trade deal framework last week, whose fine print is expected sometime in March. Both countries decided to address non-tariff barriers affecting bilateral trade. On February 2, a phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump led to the announcement of the conclusion of negotiations on the much-awaited trade deal. The Trump administration had imposed tariffs on several countries, including India. There was a 50 per cent tariff on goods from India entering the United States since August 2025. The tariffs have now been reduced to 18 per cent following the leaders' recent phone call. The BTA, formally proposed in February 2025, seeks to more than double bilateral trade, from the current USD 191 billion to USD 500 billion by 2030. (ANI) The Marines have decided to stick with the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle instead of switching to the Armys M7 Next Generation Squad Weapon rifle, a Marine Corps spokesperson told Task & Purpose. The Marine Corps will retain the M27 for our close combat formations as it best aligns with our unique service requirements, amphibious doctrinal employment of weapons, and distinct modernization priorities, while ensuring seamless interoperability across the Joint force and with coalition partners, the spokesperson wrote in an email. No further information was immediately available about exactly why the Marines had opted not to replace the M27 with the M7. It is also unclear whether the Marine Corps might revisit the issue in the future. Top Stories This Week News Soldiers will get freedom dollars to spend at the Armys new dining halls By Patty Nieberg News Experts warn moving Marines away from Okinawa would play into Chinas hands By Jeff Schogol News The military really wants people to stop trespassing on its test range in the desert By Patty Nieberg Advertisement Advertisement We will continue to monitor development of the M7 [Next Generation Squad Weapon rifle] to inform future requirements, the Marine Corps spokesperson said. The spokesperson added that the Marine Corps constantly evaluates equipment to see whether it meets our unique expeditionary requirements. Marines first used the M27 in combat during a 2011 deployment to Afghanistan. The rifle was initially intended to replace the M249 machine gun, but the Corps ultimately decided not to do so. In May 2020, Marine Corps Systems Command had to correct a news release that erroneously claimed that the Marines had decided to replace the M27 with the Next Generation Squad Weapon. Advertisement Advertisement The Army is in the process of fielding the M7 along with the M250, a machine gun variant of the Next Generation Squad Weapon, to close combat forces, which include infantry, scouts, combat medics, forward observers, combat engineers, and special operations forces. A soldier fires the M7 during a week-long training event held at Fort Stewart, Georgia, June 20, 2024. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Turner Horton. Both the M7 and M250 chamber a 6.8mm round, which is designed to provide soldiers with greater range and accuracy than the 5.56mm ammunition that has been standard across the U.S. military for decades. Brig. Gen. Phil Kinniery, commandant for the Armys Infantry School and Maneuver Center of Excellence at Fort Benning, Georgia, told Task & Purpose in May that the 6.8mm round stops the enemy at one round versus having to shoot multiple rounds at the enemy to get them to stop. However, an Army officers presentation about the M7 then known as the XM7 during last years Modern Day Marine exhibition in Washington, D.C. raised questions about whether the new rifle was fit for combat. Including whether its 20-round magazine provides soldiers with enough ammunition in battle. Advertisement Advertisement Both the Army and Sig Sauer, which was selected in 2022 to build the Next Generation Squad Weapon rifle and machine gun, disputed the officers criticisms of the M7. We have a very large staff of individuals that work daily on that rifle to ensure that every aspect of its performance is scrutinized, every aspect of its safety is criticized, Jason St. John, the senior director of strategic products for Sig Sauer, told Task & Purpose in May. We are highly confident that we have provided the U.S. Army soldier with a very robust weapon system that is not only safe, but it performs at the highest levels. Interview w/ Marjorie Taylor Greene on the State of MAGA, Epstein Files, Corruption and More. pic.twitter.com/aU5H0GorrV Owen Shroyer (@OwenShroyer1776) February 14, 2026 Marjorie Taylor Greene pointed to President Donald Trump as the person who fought the hardest to block the Epstein files from being released. Greene joined former InfoWars host Owen Shroyer on his podcast on Friday where she argued Trumps biggest political miscalculation was ever referring to the Epstein files as a hoax. Trump repeatedly referred to talk of Epstein files, which are documents related to the case of convicted child sex predator Jeffrey Epstein, as a Democratic hoax. Greene was one of the Republicans to support legislation that forced a release of the files by the Department of Justice. She suggested Attorney General Pam Bondi is still under the direction of the president when it comes to the files and the DOJs handling of any potential criminal activity as they continue to release batches of files. Advertisement Advertisement Pam Bondi, she serves at the pleasure of the president and his administration and those there are telling her, heres who you can prosecute, no, dont do this. I mean, they told her that the Epstein files, that fight to release the Epstine files came directly from president Trump, she said. And I know a lot of people have a hard time with that, but that is the truth. He fought the hardest. To stop these files from being released. Greene grew far more critical of her party on issues like Epstein, healthcare, and more ahead of her announcement that she was resigning from Congress. The former lawmaker said at the time that she was stepping away to avoid an aggressive primary from the president, whom she was having growing tensions with despite being one of his most vocal supports in Washington, D.C. at one point. The only reason that [Trump] signed our bill that we passed in the House was because he had to. It became a massive political problem, she said. The biggest political miscalculation in Donald Trumps career was calling this a hoax, fighting the release of it, and having Mike Johnson, the speaker, refuse to bring the bill to the floor to the point where Thomas Massie, myself, Nancy Mace, Lauren Boebert, actually had to vote with all of the Democrats to get to get it released. Watch above via Owen Shroyer. The post Marjorie Taylor Greene Warns MAGA Trump Fought the Hardest To Block Epstein Files: A Lot of People Have a Hard Time With That first appeared on Mediaite. A huge demonstration against Iran's crackdown on protests has drawn some 200,000 people in Munich, according to police estimates on Saturday. The turnout was twice the number expected by organizers, a group known as the Munich Circle. Organizers said the timing was deliberate, as political and military decision-makers from around the world descended in the city for the Munich Security Conference. Advertisement Advertisement The demonstrators expressed support for Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran's last shah who was overthrown in 1979. By Saturday afternoon, however, Pahlavi had not yet addressed the crowd. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) says more than 7,000 people died in the crackdown by Iranian authorities on anti-government protests triggered by severe economic conditions. The unrest erupted in late December and turned most violent on January 8 and 9. Although the protests have since subsided, activists are still counting the dead and fear the toll could rise further. The Munich Security Conference, which opened on Friday and runs through Sunday, is considered the world's premier gathering of security policy experts, drawing more than 60 world leaders and around 100 foreign and defence ministers to its 62nd edition. Deposed shah's son urges Trump to act on Iran Pahlavi said on the fringes of the Munich Security Conference that more talks between Washington and Tehran could cost lives without offering a realistic solution to the country's crisis. Advertisement Advertisement "Every day that goes by, more Iranians are dying in Iran," he told reporters on Saturday, arguing that only a "rapid intervention" would help save lives and improve regional security. The ultimate goal, he said, should be to remove the government in Tehran from power as quickly as possible, adding that the leadership was using talks "to buy time." From exile, Pahlavi has sought to position himself as a leading opposition figure at a time when Iran lacks an organized political force to challenge the ruling establishment, though the extent of his influence remains unclear despite his rising profile. In Munich, he once again appealed to US President Donald Trump to follow up on his statement to the Iranian people last month that "help is on the way." Advertisement Advertisement "You deployed a massive armada and have signalled unmistakably that brutality's time is ending," Pahlavi said, adding that Iranians had heard Trump's words and trusted him. Trump could immortalize himself as one of "the world's greatest heroes" if he took decisive military action, he said. Pahlavi said protests in Iran were continuing despite the risks. "People are still out there resisting. The regime, unfortunately, continues its campaign of imprisonment," he said, adding that demonstrators would need support from abroad to return to the streets in large numbers. Advertisement Advertisement Trump has delivered mixed messages on Iran in recent weeks, offering varying justifications for a potential attack from responding to the government's brutal crackdown on protesters to inflicting damage on its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. He has deployed military assets to the region, including aircraft carriers, and said he would favour a change of power in Iran, calling it "the best thing that could happen." But he also said that Tehran could avoid a US attack by agreeing to a deal that significantly curbs Iran's nuclear programme, among other things. The United States and Iran held talks last year over Tehran's nuclear programme, but negotiations stalled. New talks began earlier this month in Oman and another round is anticipated. A huge demonstration against Iran's crackdown on protests has drawn some 250,000 people in Munich, according to police estimates on Saturday. The turnout was twice the number expected by organizers, a group known as the Munich Circle. Organizers said the timing was deliberate, as political and military decision-makers from around the world descended in the city for the Munich Security Conference. Demonstrations in support of Iran's pro-democracy movement were also reported from Toronto and Los Angeles. Advertisement Advertisement The demonstrators expressed support for Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran's last shah who was overthrown in 1979. He lives in exile in the United States. Pahlavi, 65, is the most prominent voice of the revolutionary movement in Iran. He addressed the crowd in person late in the day and reaffirmed his desire to lead Iran into a democratic future with free elections. He expressed his gratitude for the solidarity shown by many nations. "We are not alone," he added. Human rights watchdog cites 7,000 deaths in Iran The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) says more than 7,000 people died in the crackdown by Iranian authorities on anti-government protests triggered by severe economic conditions. Advertisement Advertisement The unrest erupted in late December and turned most violent on January 8 and 9. Although the protests have since subsided, activists are still counting the dead and fear the toll could rise further. The Munich Security Conference, which opened on Friday and runs through Sunday, is considered the world's premier gathering of security policy experts, drawing more than 60 world leaders and around 100 foreign and defence ministers to its 62nd edition. Deposed shah's son urges Trump to act on Iran On the fringes of the Munich Security Conference, Pahlavi said earlier that more talks between Washington and Tehran could cost lives without offering a realistic solution to the country's crisis. Advertisement Advertisement "Every day that goes by, more Iranians are dying in Iran," he told reporters on Saturday, arguing that only a "rapid intervention" would help save lives and improve regional security. The ultimate goal, he said, should be to remove the government in Tehran from power as quickly as possible, adding that the leadership was using talks "to buy time." Leading opposition figure From exile, Pahlavi has sought to position himself as a leading opposition figure at a time when Iran lacks an organized political force to challenge the ruling establishment, though the extent of his influence remains unclear despite his rising profile. Advertisement Advertisement In Munich, he once again appealed to US President Donald Trump to follow up on his statement to the Iranian people last month that "help is on the way." "You deployed a massive armada and have signalled unmistakably that brutality's time is ending," Pahlavi said, adding that Iranians had heard Trump's words and trusted him. Trump could immortalize himself as one of "the world's greatest heroes" if he took decisive military action, he said. Pahlavi said protests in Iran were continuing despite the risks. "People are still out there resisting. The regime, unfortunately, continues its campaign of imprisonment," he said, adding that demonstrators would need support from abroad to return to the streets in large numbers. Mixed messages from Washington Trump has delivered mixed messages on Iran in recent weeks, offering varying justifications for a potential attack from responding to the government's brutal crackdown on protesters to inflicting damage on its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. Advertisement Advertisement He has deployed military assets to the region, including aircraft carriers, and said he would favour a change of power in Iran, calling it "the best thing that could happen." But he also said that Tehran could avoid a US attack by agreeing to a deal that significantly curbs Iran's nuclear programme, among other things. The United States and Iran held talks last year over Tehran's nuclear programme, but negotiations stalled. New talks began earlier this month in Oman and another round is anticipated. Nearly 60 Menomonee Falls High School students walked out on Feb. 13 to protest ongoing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, operations nationwide some of which have turned deadly. During an afternoon pep rally at the school, the students left and met at the intersection of Woosencraft and Titan drives, in front of Menomonee Falls High School. Student organizer Claire Grandkoski said the walkout was not a sanctioned or affiliate school activity. The students walked toward downtown Menomonee Falls and back to the high school for about 45 minutes, occasionally chanting. Many held signs that included "Are we GREAT yet," "Stop kidnapping," "Immigrants built America," and "I don't even like ICE in my Dr Pepper." Advertisement Advertisement "We were protesting against ICE and the rise of fascism," said Madeline Rowe, one of the student protesters. Nearly 60 Menomonee Falls High School students protest on Feb. 13, about ongoing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and to support immigrants. She said even though the high school is diverse, a lot of conservative families are in the district. "So there is not a lot of political advocacy in our community." She said there are student groups that promote advocacy such as the Black Student Union and a new Asian student organization. "But a lot of them are scared to do that [advocate for themselves]," she said. "I am proud of ourselves," she said. One of the student protested inspired to organize the protest due what she learned in an AP class Grandkoski said she was inspired to form a protest after learning about Tinker vs. Des Moines in her AP Government class. This is a landmark Supreme Court case where three students in Des Moines, Iowa, were suspended for wearing black arm bands to school to protest against the United States involvement in the Vietnam War. Advertisement Advertisement The Supreme Court decided the students had the right to wear the armbands because they did not disrupt the educational mission of the school. Grandkoski, a junior, found this relevant as she wants to pursue political science. "I realized that change can happen at a local level; it starts with the youth," she said. She said she finds what is happening in the nation is sad. "We are a nation of immigrants, immigrants make our country great and no one is illegal on stolen ground," Grandkoski said. A reported online post deemed to be a not credible threat Andy Gus, co-lead of Grassroots Menomonee Falls, said one of the student organizers expressed concern about an online threat. Advertisement Advertisement However, Menomonee Falls Police Captain Jason Gruszynske told the Journal Sentinel the social media post was not deemed a credible threat. Gus said he was happy with how the protest went. "High school students who walk out to protest ICE in their communities are showing a powerful form of civic courage. Standing up for their friends, neighbors and families and reminding all of us that empathy, justice and human dignity are values worth defending, even when it's hard," Gus said. "It's important because it shows students are using their voices in a democracy, standing in solidarity with classmates and families affected by ICE, and learning that peaceful protest is a powerful way to speak up for safety, dignity and belonging," Gus added. Nearly 60 Menomonee Falls High School students walk out of school to protest ongoing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Feb. 13. Cathy Kozlowicz can be reached at 262-361-9132 or cathy.kozlowicz@jrn.com. Follow her on X at @kozlowicz_cathy. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Menomonee Falls students walk out of a pep rally to protest ICE Sara Jo Mathews and her family did their part to fight the wildfire that ravaged New Mexico. By the time it was over, her businesses had suffered substantial losses. Shes still waiting for a payment from the federal government to help her recover. The wait has been frustrating. But making matters worse: While shes in limbo, the government employee responsible for distributing payments to people whose homes and businesses were destroyed or damaged has already received a six-figure payment. They cannot figure out for the life of them how to pay us, said Mathews of Las Vegas, New Mexico, but they sure as hell figured out how to pay themselves. Swannanoa resident Lucy Bickers, who received assistance from FEMA after Hurricane Helene damaged her property, holds a sign in support of the government agency in Swannanoa, North Carolina, U.S., January 24, 2025. Drake Fowler, executive director of the North Carolina Arboretum, and Debra Morris, debris lead for FEMA, discuss how to clean up tree debris from Helene's aftermath at the arboretum on Nov. 16, 2024, Ryan Martin, Ryan Weaver and George Minges (background), with the US Army Corps of Engineers also are pictured.. People walk past a FEMA sign following a press conference at the Altadena Disaster Recovery Center on January 30, 2025 in Altadena, California. On Nov. 16, 2024, Drake Fowler, executive director of the North Carolina Arboretum, and Debra Morris, debris lead, for FEMA, discuss how to clean up tree debris at the Asheville attraction after Helene. Mayor Charles Lombardi of North Providence, Rhode Island, right, talks to Fire Chief John Silva while Federal Emergency Management Agency Division Supervisor Eric Pelletier, left, talks to a FEMA worker at a house on West River Parkway during a Jan. 13 tour of flood damage. John Bowlby, a volunteer from the Home Depot in Stuart, Florida, hands out bags of ice along side other volunteers at the FEMA distribution site at the City Center in Port St. Lucie for Hurricane Frances victims on Sept. 7, 2004. Ether Ashe, who says that he is currently homeless, speaks with a FEMA representative outside the Buncombe County Courthouse in Asheville, on N.C. Oct. 16, 2024. People look for work, Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024, during the final day of the three-day FEMA job fair at the Embassy Suites Hilton in Asheville. A man enters the FEMA-State Disaster Recovery Center in the Anderson Main Library Monday Oct. 14, 2024. Officials reported that FEMA has provided assistance for at least 311,000 people in South Carolina so far. Red Cross worker Kim Stevens, left, of Scottsdale, Arizona chats with FEMA talent recruiter Travis Carter on Dec. 18, 2024, during the final day of the three-day FEMA job fair at the Embassy Suites Hilton in Asheville. FEMA is looking to fill positions throughout Western North Carolina after Tropical Storm Helene. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper with FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell speaking with a restaurant worker at Flour in downtown Asheville Governor Roy Cooper greets FEMA disaster survivor assistance team members in Swannanoa, North Carolina on Oct. 15, 2024. United States Army Corps of Engineers Brig. General Daniel Hibner, South Atlantic Division Commander, left, meeting with MaryAnn Tierney, FEMA Regional 3 Administrator, at the FEMA operations center headquartered at the Hill Street Baptist Church parking lot in Asheville, NC, on October 7, 2024. Members of FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams Washington Task Force 1 and Nevada Task Force 1 continue searching through destroyed neighborhoods in the Maui city of Lahaina, Hawaii on August 13, 2023. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) Headquarters is seen in Washington, DC, on Feb. 11, 2025. FEMA disaster relief crews went door to door in some Lansing, Michigan neighborhoods to find people who had damage after the August 2023 tornadoes and storms. North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper greets National Guard officers working with the FEMA disaster survivor assistance team in Swannanoa, N.C., on Oct. 15, 2024. Adam Barnett, a disaster volunteer assistant with the Red Cross, hands out numbers to those seeking FEMA assistance at a center in Augusta, Georgia on Oct. 15, 2024. Less Feldser, whose house was destroyed by a fire speaks to a FEMA employee at a gas station after he was denied access to his neighborhood to survey his home on June 24, 2024 in the Village of Ruidoso, New Mexico FEMA officials wade through flood waters along St. Clair Street to assess damage in Frankfort, Kentucky. on Apr. 7, 2025. The community was bracing for an expected record level crest of the Kentucky River at 49.5 feet this week. FEMA officials wade through flood waters along St. Clair Street to assess damage in Frankfort, Kentucky on Apr. 7, 2025 after flooding on the Kentucky River. Two Democratic U.S. Senators, Alex Padilla (California) and Cory Booker (New Jersey) tour wildfire damage with representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and FEMA in Altadena, California, on March 21, 2025. Drake Fowler, executive director of the North Carolina Arboretum, takes a member of FEMA and a group from the US Army Corps of Engineers around the grounds at the Asheville attraction on Nov. 16, 2024 to look at the damage left by Helene. A resident enters a FEMA improvised station to attend claims by local residents affected by floods following the passing of Hurricane Helene, in Marion, North Carolina, U.S., October 5, 2024. From floods to fires: See FEMA respond to disasters across the US 1 of 24 Swannanoa resident Lucy Bickers, who received assistance from FEMA after Hurricane Helene damaged her property, holds a sign in support of the government agency in Swannanoa, North Carolina, U.S., January 24, 2025. Four years after the fire, the worst in New Mexicos history, the Federal Emergency Management Agency is facing questions about how it has administered a compensation fund set up by Congress to help the wildfire victims. Critics are demanding to know how the money has been distributed, who has received it and whether its going to the people who need it most. Advertisement Advertisement People who have filed claims complain that the review process has been complicated, frustrating and painstakingly slow and that cases are closed with no notice and no money awarded for their losses. Getting money from FEMA, thats like getting blood from a rock, Mathews said. Theyre not giving us anything. On Feb. 12, FEMA placed the director in charge of distributing the money and his deputy on administrative leave after revelations that each received a six-figure payout through the program while other victims are waiting for their claims to be processed. Jay Mitchell, who works out of the FEMA claims office in Santa Fe, and his wife, Lisa, a real-estate broker, were awarded $524,000 through the compensation fund last year, according to documents obtained by USA TODAY. The money was to be used to repair smoke and ash damage to the couples home in Angel Fire, New Mexico, and to cover Lisa Mitchells reported business losses, the documents say. Advertisement Advertisement An independent news outlet called Source New Mexico was the first to report the payments. Lisa Mitchell said in a brief phone interview with USA TODAY that she and her husband have been unfairly targeted. Were being harassed for absolutely no wrongdoing, she said, declining to respond to a reporters questions. Jay Mitchells deputy, Jennifer Carbajal, and a woman named Jennifer Sanchez, identified in local news reports as Carbajal's ex-wife, also received $267,000 for smoke and ash cleaning and for flooding at a consulting business in Pendaries, New Mexico, the records show. FEMA and Carbajal did not respond to requests for comment. But Paul Judson, a deputy assistant administrator in FEMAs headquarters in Washington, stressed in an email to staff of the Santa Fe office that the decision to place Mitchell and Carbajal on leave does not reflect a finding of wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement Judson did not say how long either would remain on leave or whether they will be paid while they are away. Juan Ayala, a senior FEMA official, will oversee the offices daily operations, he said. The Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon wildfire burns near Las Vegas, New Mexico, U.S. May 4, 2022. Criticism of FEMAs handling of the payments comes as the agency is already under intense scrutiny in Washington. President Donald Trumps administration has initiated a dramatic overhaul of the agency, which is responsible for coordinating the federal governments response to natural disasters. Trump has repeatedly characterized FEMA as ineffective and has pushed for states to have a larger role in disaster response. Hundreds of jobs at the agency have been eliminated since Trump began his second term last year. A lawsuit filed in January by employees unions and public interest groups says claims the Department of Homeland Security plans even deeper cuts, with more than 10,000 of the agencys roughly 20,000 employees expected to be terminated in the coming months. Questions about the agencys handling of the compensation fund for the wildfire victims and the disclosure that Mitchell and Carbajal each received large payments have infuriated several of the states elected leaders and families and business owners who are still waiting for their claims to be processed. Advertisement Advertisement Its a slap in the face that Mr. Mitchell and his wife got paid out, said Maria Lowe, a community activist who has been assisting people with their claims. He should be ashamed of himself. 'Disproportionately devastating': California to investigate if Eaton Fire response involved discrimination 'Like poking a rock with a stick' Mathews and her family did what they could to help friends and neighbors as the flames scorched and scarred just about everything in their path. They housed firefighter crews on their ranch. Her restaurant, the Prairie Hill Cafe, provided meals to neighbors whose homes or businesses were destroyed or heavily damaged. Her father, Oren Mathews, who owns a gravel and well-digging company, dispatched water trucks that helped save other peoples homes. Advertisement Advertisement Mathews vividly remembers riding in one of her fathers water trucks through thick smoke as black as the night to help family members and other ranchers save their homes. At one point, a state trooper who had blocked the road with his vehicle stopped them and said they would not be allowed to continue. It was too dangerous, he said. The truck driver, one of her fathers employees, told the officer to move his car and let them through or hed run over it. Youll have to shoot us to stop us, he said. Mathews father suffered smoke inhalation while helping battle the flames and had to be hospitalized. He now has permanent lung damage. But people like him werent willing to watch their homes and ranches go up in flames without a fight. Advertisement Advertisement Were stewards of our land, Sara Jo Mathews said. They were not going to abandon their ranch thats been here for generations and their sheep and their horses and their cows to let them burn. They stayed and fought. The destruction from the inferno, known as the Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, was surreal. More than 341,417 acres of rugged mountain terrain burned across three counties in northern New Mexico between early April and late June in 2022. The conflagration started as two separate fires one that resulted when the U.S. Forest Service lost control of a prescribed burn at the base of Hermits Peak in the Pecos Wilderness, the other when a holdover burn pile from the previous winter reignited near Gallinas Canyon. Heavy winds fanned the flames and merged the two fires into one. As many as 1,400 structures, including houses, were destroyed. Dozens of others were damaged. Advertisement Advertisement People lost homes, cars and trucks, businesses, livestock, pets, even their land. Buildings that were left standing suffered heavy smoke and ash damage. Flooding in the following weeks and months worsened the damage and the misery. To help with the recovery, Congress created a special fund in September 2022 and provided $5.4 billion to compensate those who suffered losses. The goal was to set up a simple, expedited process to submit a claim. Jay Mitchell, who had worked for the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, was hired in April 2024 to oversee the FEMA claims office responsible for distributing the money. But people who sought compensation say the process for filing claims was far from quick or easy. FEMA demanded detailed paperwork, such as insurance forms or payroll records, that many mom-and-pop businesses didnt have. Some people filing claims complained that they spent hours gathering the necessary documents only to have FEMA lose them and ask for them again. Advertisement Advertisement As of Feb. 4, FEMA had paid 23,549 proof of loss claims totaling $3.36 billion, according to the office of Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-New Mexico. How many claims are pending is unclear. FEMA did not respond to a request to provide those numbers. But community leaders say at least 73 people who suffered total losses to their homes or businesses are still waiting for their claims to be processed. The number of pending claims is likely significantly larger since people can file multiple claims. An inspector generals report issued on Feb. 24, 2025, found that 13% of claims already filed were overdue a response. Specifically, FEMA had not acknowledged 1,508 of 11,695 active claims more than six months after they were filed, the report said. Smoke casts an orange haze as firefighters hold a briefing in the Black Lake, New Mexico area north of the Calf Canyon Hermits Peak wildfire on May 11, 2022. Lowe said at least 20 of the 75 people she has helped with their claims are still waiting to hear how much money theyll receive, if any. One of them is El Rialto Restaurant, a small family-owned eatery in Las Vegas, New Mexico, that has been in business for more than half a century. The business was forced to shut down for extended periods during the fire and its aftermath, Lowe said. The owner filed a claim with FEMA in July 2024 to recover his losses, but nothing happened. Advertisement Advertisement Lowe got involved, helped the owner find the necessary documents and filed them with FEMA. The navigator, or FEMA employee assigned to the case, estimated the restaurants losses at $180,000. Lowe thought they were higher, but was still gathering paperwork to make her case. The navigator advised them to sign the paperwork and said the loss estimate could be adjusted later, Lowe said. Lowe was stunned when she discovered later that he had closed the case without telling them. The restaurant would get no money. When Lowe complained, the navigator suggested she should appeal and even said he thought she had a good case, she said. He just needed me to sign something so he could close out the case, a frustrated Lowe said. He never had any intention of allowing us to submit further documentation. Mathews said dealing with FEMA has been exasperating. Its like poking a rock with a stick and saying, Move! Move! Move! she said. Three members of New Mexicos congressional delegation Heinrich, Sen. Ben Ray Lujan and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez say they have been working with claimants to help them get the money they are due. In November, the three lawmakers, all Democrats, sent a letter to FEMA raising concerns about how the program had been administered, citing a lack of communication, trust and urgency by the agency. They demanded to know how many claims are outstanding, how many are tied up in appeals and how much of the funding has been spent on administrative costs. FEMA has yet to respond, Heinrichs office said. A firefighter conducts a prescribed burn to combat the Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon wildfires near Las Vegas, New Mexico on May 4, 2022. 'A big problem' The revelations that Mitchell and Carbajal had received six-figure payments added to the frustration. New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and the three members of Congress have called for Mitchells resignation. When the person in charge of claims moves himself to the front of the line and receives a half-million-dollar payout while thousands of others are still waiting to be made whole, thats a big problem, said the governors spokesman, Michael Coleman. If Mitchell refuses to resign, Coleman said, he should be fired immediately. State Rep. Joseph Sanchez, a Democrat whose district in northcentral New Mexico was the epicenter of the fires, said residents of the impacted areas deserve much better than how they have been treated by FEMA. Jay Mitchell must go, he said. Families and businesses affected by the fire are hurting, but theyll survive, Mathews said. New Mexicans are strong, she said. Some live in communities that were founded centuries ago and are among the oldest in the nation. Long after the federal government forgets us, well be here, pulling each other up, helping one another, Mathews said. We have survived because of our resilience and our close-knit communities. And were not going to give up. With or without the governments help. Michael Collins writes about the intersection of politics and culture. A veteran reporter, he has covered the White House and Congress. Follow him on X: @mcollinsNEWS This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: A FEMA director got wildfire payments while New Mexico victims wait After an overcast Feb. 13, Arizona residents can look forward to pleasant weather on Valentines Day. After northern Arizona received about 1 inch of snow Friday afternoon, with another inch expected overnight, Justin Johndrow, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, explained, "The system will be exiting late tonight, bringing in a cool and sunny day Saturday". Sunny skies are expected to create ideal conditions for outdoor activities, with temperatures in Flagstaff forecast to reach the low 50s. Farther south, communities such as Prescott and Sedona are anticipating highs in the low 60s. Advertisement Advertisement As a low-pressure system moves through southern Arizona, the Valley is expected to see dry conditions on Feb. 14. Clear skies will bring warmer-than-average temperatures for this time of year, with highs in the low to mid-70s. First bloom of the Desert Primrose with the Courthouse Butte in the distance Feb. 4, 2026. Send us your photos: Send an email to weatherpix@arizonarepublic.com, attach your photos and tell us all about what's pictured. They may appear in the newspaper. Clouds appear to form a craggy mountain range on Greenway Road looking east the morning of Jan. 5, 2026. A beautiful Arizona sunset seen from Moon Valley early January 2026. A beautiful winter morning in Surprise in January 2026. Another beautiful early morning in Fountain Hills, says the submitting photographer of this image in early January 2026. A beautiful morning at Alamo Lake. Beautiful snow-capped San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, Arizona, on Jan. 9, 2026. Beautiful snow-capped San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff on Jan. 9, 2026. A beautiful sunset is seen in Mesa in January 2026. Cloudy skies in Arizona are seen in January 2026. Cloudy skies in Arizona are seen in January 2026. Encouraging weather in the Southwest Valley in Laveen looking toward the Estrellas in January 2026. Fall and winter rains have produced robust sunflowers in bloom around Globe and Miami, Arizona, in early January 2026. "Glorious!" photographer Steve Ermel says of his photo of a sunset as seen in Sun City in early January 2026. Mexican gold poppies are seen roadside in Globe, Arizona, in January 2026. Perezia, also known as Brownfoot, are blooming just outside Globe, Ariz., in January of 2026. Red Mountain turned black as a storm hit on Jan. 8, 2026. A Space X launch leaves a trail in Flagstaff skies af its launch from Vandenberg airbase in California, on Jan 2, 2026. Space X launch is seen in Arizona skies as it launches from Vandenberg airbase in California on Jan. 2, 2026. Sunday morning sunrise in Tempe in early January 2026. Sunset in North Scottsdale on Jan. 8, 2026. The sky's the limit says photographer Anne Schneider in Phoenix in January 2026. "Where did the clouds go?" asks Steve Ermel, the photographer behind this image of blue skies on South Mountain in Laveen. Yellow bladderpod in January and photographer Paul Wolterbeek says, "Yes, much earlier than usual in Globe, Arizona, in January 2026. "Yes, the Valley of the Sun can have beautiful clouds" says photographer Larmon Haugen, of the image he captured in early January 2026. A snow moon photographed in North Scottsdale. A vintage day near St. David. Balloons glow over Waddell. A bright red sunset photograph taken from Mesa. Clouds "gobble up" the sunshine in Scottsdale. Drama in the Valley skies on Jan. 19, 2026. Fire in the Arizona morning sky to warm up the day. "How does Mother Nature provide such a painting to start our day?" the photographer says. "If turned upside down, it feels like looking at a sunrise over the ocean instead of over the mountains," the photographer says. "Light Fading On The Watchtower" is how the photographer describes this desert view of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Looking up at the Trails End Fest on Jan. 31, 2026. Majestic London Bridge at sunset in Lake Havasu on Feb. 1, 2026. The morning moon over Fountain Hills photographed on Feb. 2, 2026. Skies over Peoria. The calm before the storm over Red Mountain and Gunsight in Fountain Hills. The dawn of a new day in Arizona on Jan. 21, 2026. The sky seems to be on fire in Sun City. The snow moon over Lone Mountain in North Scottsdale on Jan. 31, 2026. The Snow Moon rises from the base of Lookout Mountain in north Phoenix on Feb. 2, 2026. The sun explodes in the east to start a new day in Arizona. The view from Bush Highway in early 2026. "We sure live in a beautiful place," says this Sun City photographer. A Wednesday morning sunrise on Jan. 18, 2026. "Words aren't adequate," the photographer says of this stunning Sun City image. Yet another beautiful sunset over South Mountain in early 2026. "Amber waves" in Goodyear. A cold winter morning in Waddell on Jan. 21, 2026. A fiery sky sets in the west. A hummingbird dinner guest in Fountain Hills. A golden moon photographed at 6:45 p.m. Feb. 1, 2026. A cloudy sunrise photographed in Fountain Hills. Beautiful morning clouds over Castle Rock. Skies over Phoenix area as seen from Sun City. "She loves the Courthouse Butte." "It's not often you see a roadrunner fly off your chimney much less photograph it," says the photographer. Balloons seen at sunrise from Waddell. A few early blooming poppies in the McDowell Mountain Preserve. A saguaro cohort in the McDowell Mountain Preserve. Fantastic crescent moon in a pink sunset sky in mid-January 2026. Beautiful reflections of the London Bridge in Lake Havasu on Feb. 1, 2026. A beautiful day for kayaking on the Verde River in January 2026. Dawn in Waddell. A saguaro cohort in the McDowell Mountain Preserve. A Pipevine Swallowtail butterfly enjoying dianthus. See the amazing imagery captured by Republic readers in 2026 1 of 69 First bloom of the Desert Primrose with the Courthouse Butte in the distance Feb. 4, 2026. Send us your photos: Send an email to weatherpix@arizonarepublic.com, attach your photos and tell us all about what's pictured. They may appear in the newspaper. Southern Arizona is expected to see weather conditions similar to the Phoenix area. Tucson is forecast to follow the same pattern as much of the state, with clear skies and temperatures in the low to mid-60s on Feb. 14. Whether youre planning a picnic, a walk in the park, or a date night at your favorite restaurant, Arizonas pleasant weather will have you feeling your best this Valentine's Day. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Here's what to expect for Valentine's Day weekend weather Action News Jax is investigating whether the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is ensuring local highways are properly maintained, specifically the poles lining the Interstate 295 express lanes in the Southside and Mandarin areas. Those poles, known as delineators, are designed to separate express lanes from regular traffic lanes. Under FDOTs own contract, they are supposed to be replaced within days if they are knocked down or go missing. If they arent, the maintenance contractor can face steep fines. But Action News Jaxs Ben Becker has learned that isnt happening. Missing poles, visible gaps Thousands of white delineators line I-295, creating a barrier meant to prevent drivers from weaving in and out of the tolled express lanes. Advertisement Advertisement If you drive the corridor regularly, youve likely noticed many are missing or lying broken along the roadway. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] During multiple visits over the course of a month, Action News Jax observed dozens of missing poles in the same locations. In some stretches, more than three consecutive delineators were gone -- leaving wide gaps between the express and regular lanes. Those gaps can create opportunity and temptation for drivers to illegally cross over and lane dive. Designed for safety, but do they create risk? Delineators are intended to create a fast, reliable, and safe driving experience in express lanes. But when theyre missing, safety concerns grow. Advertisement Advertisement Its dangerous, Stuart Ratzan, a South Florida trial lawyer who has represented families injured in highway crashes involving delineators, said. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] FDOTs own 2022 research found that approximately 7.9% of crashes involved vehicles crossing over the pylons. Ratzan said drivers frequently ignore or damage the flexible poles. People drive over them. They drive around them. They knock them over. They want to get in the other lane for all kinds of reasons, he said. They create an invitation for lane diving, and for years this has been a big problem and the problem has been exacerbated by a lack of maintenance. What the contract says According to FDOTs Scope of Services agreement with its contractor, if more than three consecutive delineators are missing within seven days -- or by the next scheduled repair, whichever comes first -- the contractor must pay $10,000 per location. Advertisement Advertisement Given the number of gaps observed on I-295 over several weeks, potential violations could total hundreds of thousands of dollars. FDOT responds In an emailed statement, FDOT said: Approximately 23,200 delineators are installed along the I-295 Express Lanes. About 175 delineators are replaced monthly on the East and West Beltways as part of regular maintenance cycles. However, when asked whether its contractor has received fines, penalties, or warnings related to missing delineators, FDOT said no, even though delineator replacement is included in performance-based contracts. Are repairs enough? Ratzan believes the problem goes beyond replacing broken poles. Advertisement Advertisement You have a bad problem to begin with, and you cant fix it by trying to repair every delineator. They dont have the manpower or the money to get it done, he said. He argues that a more permanent barrier and stronger enforcement may be needed to prevent dangerous lane changes. What drivers should know Drivers who intentionally drive through the plastic poles to enter or exit express lanes illegally can face a $179 fine and up to four points on their license. Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. KANSAS CITY, Mo. Five people were federally indicted on Wednesday, accused of participating in a $220 million nationwide cattle fraud scheme. Court records show that Joshua Link, of Strafford, Missouri, and Tia Link, of Smithton, Missouri, are charged with multiple counts of wire fraud, stemming from a scheme involving fraudulent cattle purchase contracts. Belton police officer arrested, charged following sexual assault investigation Advertisement Advertisement Joshua is being charged with 10 counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and two counts of money laundering. Tia is charged with three counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Records show that the money laundering charges stem from over $527,000 to purchase property. The indictment accuses all five defendants of being involved with Agridime LLC, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas that offered cattle sales, meat processing and retail services. Joshua, who remains at-large, served as the executive director and Tia served as the marketing director. Advertisement Advertisement The indictment also says that the five defendants falsely represented to cattle purchasers, ranchers and feedlots that Agridime would use their funds purchase cattle for them, raise the cattle and eventually sell the meat back to them for profit. However, according to the indictment, the defendants did not use the funds as they said they would, instead using those funds to cover Agridime operating expenses, personal expenses, debts and property. Kansas City police officer, subject of lawsuits, deadly shootings, resigns from department The indictment accuses the defendants of taking $220 million from over 2,200 people throughout the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement If convicted, each defendant will face up to twenty years in federal prison each wire fraud count, twenty years for the wire fraud conspiracy charges and up to ten years for each money laundering count. The three other defendants are Jed Wood of Fort Worth, Taylor Bang of Kildeer, North Dakota and Royana Thomas or Arlington, Texas. Tia Link and Taylor Bang appeared in court for araignment on Friday. Wood and Thomas are scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 25. Joshua Link remains a fugitive. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. By Kanishka Singh WASHINGTON, Feb 13 (Reuters) - A judge declared a mistrial on Friday in a case of five current and former Stanford University students related to the 2024 pro-Palestinian protests when demonstrators barricaded themselves inside the school president's office. Twelve protesters were initially charged last year with felony vandalism, according to prosecutors who said at least one suspect entered the building by breaking a window. Police arrested 13 people on June 5, 2024, in relation to the incident and the university said the building underwent "extensive" damage. Advertisement Advertisement The case was tried in Santa Clara County Superior Court against five defendants charged with felony vandalism and felony conspiracy to trespass. The rest previously accepted plea deals or diversion programs. The jury was deadlocked. It voted nine to three to convict on the felony charge of vandalism and eight to four to convict on the felony charge to trespass. Jurors failed to reach a verdict after deliberations. The charges were among the most serious against participants in the 2024 pro-Palestinian protest movement on U.S. colleges in which demonstrators demanded an end to Israel's war in Gaza and Washington's support for its ally along with a divestment of funds by their universities from companies supporting Israel. Prosecutors in the case said the defendants engaged in unlawful property destruction. Advertisement Advertisement "This case is about a group of people who destroyed someone else's property and caused hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage. That is against the law," Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen said in a statement, adding he sought a new trial. Anthony Brass, a lawyer for one of the protesters, told the New York Times his side was not defending lawlessness but "the concept of transparency and ethical investment." "This is a win for these young people of conscience and a win for free speech," Brass said, adding "humanitarian activism has no place in a criminal courtroom." Protesters had renamed the building "Dr. Adnan's Office" after Adnan Al-Bursh, a Palestinian doctor who died in an Israeli prison after months of detention. Advertisement Advertisement Over 3,000 were arrested during the 2024 U.S. pro-Palestinian protest movement, according to media tallies. Some students faced suspension, expulsion and degree revocation. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Lincoln Feast) The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the launch of the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) to modernise India's cities through a market-driven approach. The central government will provide Rs 1 lakh crore in assistance over the next five years to support large-scale urban infrastructure projects. This move is expected to trigger a total investment of Rs 4 lakh crore in the urban sector by 2031. The new fund signals a major change in how the government finances city development. Instead of relying solely on government grants, cities will now be encouraged to raise money from the market and private investors. The government stated that this represents a "paradigm shift in India's urban development approach from grant-based financing to market-linked, reform-driven and outcome-oriented infrastructure creation." Under the scheme, the central government will pay for 25 per cent of a project's cost. To get this money, cities must raise at least 50 per cent of the total project cost from market sources like bank loans, municipal bonds, or public-private partnerships. The remaining 25 per cent can be covered by state governments or the local city bodies themselves. The fund will be operational until the 2030-31 financial year, though it could be extended to 2034. The projects will be selected through a "challenge mode," meaning cities will compete for the funding based on the quality and impact of their proposals. The government wants to ensure the money goes towards "high-impact and reform-oriented proposals" that make cities more productive and resilient to climate change. Funding will be released in stages and will be strictly linked to whether the city meets specific reform goals and project milestones. To help smaller towns and cities in hilly or North-Eastern states, the government has set aside a special Rs 5,000 crore corpus. This will act as a credit guarantee for cities that are borrowing from the market for the first time. The goal is to make these local bodies more "bankable" so they can eventually fund their own growth. The government noted that this will "facilitate first-time access to market finance for all Cities/ULBs in Northeastern & Hilly States and smaller ULBs." The Urban Challenge Fund will focus on three main areas: turning cities into economic growth hubs, redeveloping old city centers or heritage sites, and improving water and sanitation systems. This includes upgrading sewage networks, managing solid waste, and creating better urban transport corridors. The government aims to use these projects to "leverage market finance, private participation and citizen-centric reforms for delivery of high-quality urban infrastructure." (ANI) Days after a New Smyrna Beach dairy farm asked a Seminole County judge to dismiss a lawsuit alleging raw milk caused the death of a fetus and hospitalization of a toddler last year, the plaintiff dropped the case. Keely Farms Dairy which was named as the source of raw milk that the Florida Department of Health said caused at least 21 people to get sick between January and August 2025 requested Judge Susan Stacy either dismiss the case or issue an order of summary judgment in its favor. Then, on Feb. 13, Rachel Maddox voluntarily dismissed the case. Keely Farms Dairy in New Smyrna Beach. Last August, Maddox, a Seminole County mom, sued the dairy and Nature's Natural Foods, LLC, which does business as the Wild Hare Natural Market in Longwood. She alleged she purchased raw milk from Wild Hare that had been produced at Keely Farms Dairy and gave it to her toddler, who was sickened enough to become hospitalized three times and found to have become infected with E. Coli and Campylobacter. Advertisement Advertisement While caring for her son, Maddox who was pregnant also became seriously ill and eventually lost the fetus she had been carrying for 19 or 20 weeks, her lawsuit claims. Maddox was seeking more than $50,000 in damages. Maddox's lawsuit cites the Florida Department of Health's Aug. 7 news release linking Keely Farms Dairy to illnesses contracted by at least 21 people in the state. Anthony Coveny of Houston-based Ron Simon & Associates, which represents Maddox, said the case was "likely to be non-suited at this time, with the option to refile" in a different jurisdiction. Non-suiting essentially means the case is being withdrawn without prejudice, meaning it can be refiled later. Advertisement Advertisement "At times that means the parties are going to work behind the scenes to resolve a matter, and at other times it means the matter is just set aside for the present moment," Coveny wrote in an email. Notice was filed with the court within three hours. Keely Farms Dairy's motion for summary judgment The dairy argued in a motion that it warns its customers against drinking its raw milk on its website, on its milk container labels and on a Facebook forum, "Florida Raw Milk," where it markets its products. "The State of Florida prohibits the sale of raw milk for human consumption," the forum states. Raw milk from Keely Farms Dairy sits inside a cooler at Wild Hare Natural Market in Longwood on Aug. 20, 2025. The milk's label includes the warning: "Not for human consumption." "The farm ensures that every container of raw milk it sells contains the following warning label: 'Due to the requirements of Florida Law and the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance, this product is labeled Feed for Calves -- Not for Human Consumption,'" the motion states. Advertisement Advertisement Keely Exum, principal officer of the dairy farm, said in an affidavit attached to the motion that the business has maintained a Feed Master Registration since opening in 2014, requiring it to affix the "not for human consumption" statement on its raw milk. She noted the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has confirmed the farm's compliance with the labeling requirements through periodic unscheduled inspections. The motion notes that Maddox saw the warning. "She specifically inquired about the label at the at the grocery. Plaintiff claims she purchased the product because a person in the grocery verbally described the label as a 'technical requirement' to sell 'farm milk.' This person at the grocery referring to 'farm milk,' was not the farm, nor any person affiliated with the farm," the motion states. New Smyrna Beach dairy says it had raw milk lab-tested A sign along South Glencoe Road in New Smyrna Beach advertises raw milk at Keely Farms Dairy, which is fighting a lawsuit alleging its milk contributed to the death of a fetus and the illness of a toddler. The motion notes that the state Health Department also issued a press release on Aug. 4 referring to "E. coli (STEC) infections linked to a particular farm." Advertisement Advertisement Keely Farms Dairy states that it extracted samples of milk to test for Campylobacter, Mastitis Culture and E. Coli. "The farm submitted these samples to independent laboratories under the auspices of the Florida Department of Health. The independent laboratories found no detectable levels of these pathogens," the motion states. The health department identified Keely Farms Dairy in the Aug. 7 press release as being "linked" to "continued severe cases of Campylobacter and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections." What evidence did Florida Department of Health have to link dairy with illnesses? The Florida Department of Health's Aug. 7 statement indicated the illnesses linked to Keely Farms Dairy dated back to January. The health department said it was working with the dairy "to ensure that effective sanitation practices are implemented consistently across every batch," its advisory states. Advertisement Advertisement However, the Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund issued a press release alleging that despite publicly accusing Keely Dairy Farms of producing illness-causing raw milk, the health department "did not take regulatory enforcement steps such as halting production or sales. Requests for evidence supporting the agency's claims have produced no substantiating documentation." The defense fund's press release also notes that the defendants were not served until Dec. 22 and 23, after the judge had warned Maddox's legal team to do so or the case would be dismissed. "All of this points to the Florida Department of Health attempting to shut down a family farming operation through a negative press campaign rather than taking appropriate regulatory action if such action were warranted," the release states. "The Department of Health significantly harmed Keely family farms without taking any formal action or providing any evidence that the farm's products caused harm." The News-Journal requested comment from the health department in August about its monitoring of the Keely Farms Dairy and when it first contacted the dairy about links to illnesses. The health department did not respond, and The News-Journal has reached out for comment again. This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Seminole mom drops raw milk lawsuit against Keely Farms Dairy OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) A call by Governor Kevin Stitt to send medicinal marijuana back to a vote of the people caused quite the stir. Folks are following some comments from other state officials and speaking out against the request made during the State of the State address. We have no idea where that came from, Jed Green with Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action said Friday. That was Greens reaction to Stitts call to put medicinal marijuana in the rearview mirror for Oklahoma. Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Stitt wants voters to shut down medical marijuana Send the marijuana issue back to a vote of the people and lets shut it down, Stitt said during his state of the state address in early Feb. Stitt argues that when Oklahomans passed it in 2018, they were sold a bill of goods. He said it is out of control and invites crime and chaos. This is just a direct spit in the face of voters, Ezra Marshall with the Sooner State Party said. We dont want this to go back to a vote. We want to see it be improved upon, Reagan Burns with the Sooner State Party said. Members of the Sooner State party shared their concerns at the state capitol on Friday. Some Oklahoma officials also pushed back against the governors idea. Advertisement Advertisement I dont think theres support in the legislature to make that happen, Senate Pro Tem. Lonnie Paxton said Thursday. Attorney General Gentner Drummond claimed erasing medical marijuana could cost the state. We would need to reimburse these individuals because it will effectively be a taking. As a lawyer, Im concerned about the taking, as a law enforcement officer, Id love for it to be gone, Drummon said at a press conference announcing a massive bust involving a drug kingpin in early February. State Senator Paxton pushes back on Stitt call to put medical marijuana back to a vote Were talking the state being on the hook for several billion dollars immediately, Green said. Advertisement Advertisement Green also argues that it would undo years of progress. This is a program that created 35,000 non-cartel jobs in the first 18 months, Green said. It has raised over $100 million for school building funds. 80% of that is gone to rural schools. There are about 1,500 legal grows in the state right now. Paxton mentioned that theyve made progress in cutting down illegal activity and should just continue to work on enforcement. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. "Patients and MSF personnel have seen armed men, some masked, in different areas of the large compound of the hospital," Doctors Without Borders said in a statement. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) announced the suspension of all noncritical medical operations in Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza after reports emerged of armed men using the facility to move weapons and interrogate patients on Saturday. In recent months, in Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, patients and MSF personnel have seen armed men, some masked, in different areas of the large compound of the hospital, the nonprofit organization said in a statement published on its website. Advertisement Advertisement It also specified that these situations occurred in parts of the medical compound where the MSF is not conducting activities. With an uptick since the ceasefire, MSF teams have reported a pattern of unacceptable acts including the presence of armed men, intimidation, arbitrary arrests of patients, and a recent situation of suspicion of movement of weapons, MSF said, adding that these incidents pose serious security threats to our teams and patients. The organization said that MSF formally expressed our strong concern to the relevant authorities, and emphasized the incompatibility of such violations with MSFs medical mission. Hospitals must remain neutral, civilian spaces, free from military presence or activity, to ensure the safe and impartial delivery of medical care. According to a Reuters report, this directive was also applied to several other hospitals in southern Gaza where armed men were spotted. Advertisement Advertisement The Reuters report included a statement by the Hamas-run Gaza Interior Ministry, which claimed that it was committed to preventing any armed presence inside hospitals, and that legal action would be taken against violators. Israel to terminate MSF activity in Gaza after org. fails to provide staff list MSF has been under scrutiny recently after failing to provide a staff list that would confirm it has no links to terrorist organizations. On January 30, the organization announced it would not provide the staff lists requested by Israel to maintain access to Gaza and the West Bank, citing the inability to secure assurances about the safety of its teams as the reason for its decision. As a result, Israel moved to terminate MSFs presence in Gaza, announcing that all operations would cease on February 28. Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, MSF is once again demonstrating a lack of transparency and acting out of irrelevant interests, said Diaspora Affairs and Combatting Antisemitism Minister Amichai Chikli. The organization abruptly changed its position after publicly committing to act according to procedure. Chikli went on to say that we are aware that MSF employs individuals who are active in terrorist organizations, which is why it hides its employee lists. The organization operates in coordination with the Hamas Health Ministry, and not by coincidence, its statements were published in proximity to similar statements from elements within the Gaza Strip, he said. Shoshana Baker and Jerusalem Post Staff contributed to this report. Feb 14 (Reuters) - Medecins Sans Frontieres has halted "non-critical" medical activities at a major hospital in southern Gaza following reports from patients and its own staff of armed men inside the facility and concerns over the movement of weapons within it. MSF's statement appeared to mark the first time that an international humanitarian group in Gaza has publicly reported the presence of armed men in a hospital or the possible use of such a facility for moving weapons. The Geneva-based medical charity said non-essential operations at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis were suspended on January 20 over concerns with the "management of the structure, the safeguarding of its neutrality, and security breaches." Advertisement Advertisement In recent months, patients and personnel had "seen armed men, some masked," in areas of the hospital compound, MSF said. The Hamas-run Interior Ministry said in a statement it was committed to preventing any armed presence inside hospitals, and that legal action would be taken against violators. It suggested that armed members of certain Gazan families had recently entered hospitals, but did not identify those involved. 'UNACCEPTABLE ACTS' REPORTED, INCLUDING WEAPONS MOVEMENTS Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire in October as part of a U.S. plan to end the war in Gaza. Both sides have repeatedly accused each other of violations. Advertisement Advertisement Since the ceasefire, "MSF teams have reported a pattern of unacceptable acts, including the presence of armed men, intimidation, arbitrary arrests of patients, and a recent situation of suspicion of movement of weapons," it said. According to Gaza's Health Ministry, more than 590 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli troops in the territory since the ceasefire began, while Palestinian militants have killed four Israeli soldiers in the same period. MSF, also known as Doctors Without Borders, disclosed the Nasser Hospital suspension in a "frequently asked questions" section on its website about its work in Gaza, last updated on February 11. The armed men had been seen in areas of the hospital compound where MSF does not carry out activities, but their presence, along with suspected weapons transfers, posed serious security risks to patients and personnel, MSF said. Advertisement Advertisement An MSF representative told Reuters the organisation continued to support some critical services at Nasser Hospital, including inpatient and surgical care for certain patients requiring lifesaving treatment. 'HOSPITALS MUST REMAIN NEUTRAL SPACES' MSF said it had expressed concern to the relevant authorities, without detailing whom the reports were submitted to. "Hospitals must remain neutral, civilian spaces, free from military presence or activity, to ensure the safe and impartial delivery of medical care," MSF said. Israel last month ordered MSF and 30 other international organisations to stop its work in Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank if they did not meet new rules, including sharing details about their staff. Advertisement Advertisement MSF on January 30 said it would not submit a staff list to Israel after failing to receive assurances over their safety. PARTS OF TUNNEL NETWORK FOUND UNDER HOSPITALS The Israeli military says it has targeted hospitals during the war because Hamas fighters were operating inside them, and parts of Hamas' tunnel network have been found running beneath medical facilities. The Palestinian Islamist group denies using hospitals for military purposes. Some Israeli hostages, taken during Hamas' October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel that ignited the war, have said they were held at Nasser Hospital, the largest in southern Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Hospitals are protected sites under international law. Both attacking hospitals and their use for military purposes are typically considered a breach of law. Although medical facilities can lose their protected status under certain conditions, rights groups say Israel has not shown sufficient evidence in many cases to justify its attacks on them during the war. (Reporting by Alexander Cornwell; Additional reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi in Cairo and Maayan Lubell in Jerusalem; Writing by Alexander Cornwell; Editing by Bernadette Baum) When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. (Main) illustration of a dimming event caused by a mystery object (Inset) A 'failed star' brown dwarf, one of the candidates for this object. | Credit: S. Shah et al./Robert Lea created with Canva Scientists investigating the puzzling, long-lasting, and extreme dimming of a distant star have narrowed the suspects down to either a so-called "failed star" brown dwarf or a truly massive super-Jupiter exoplanet. The dramatic fading of this star, located around 3,200 light-years away in the Monoceros constellation, was first spotted at the end of 2024. The dimming came as a surprise, as the star, designated ASASSN-24fw and measuring around twice the size of the sun, had previously been known to be stable. The stellar dimming was one of the longest ever observed, lasting for around 200 days. It was also extreme, with the brightness of ASASSN-24fw reduced by 97%. Such extreme and long-duration dimming events are incredibly rare. Astronomers deduced that this dimming was caused by the saucer-like rings extending out from 15.8 million miles (26 million kilometers), or about half the distance between the sun and its closest planet, Mercury. The big question is, what is this ring system looped around? The leading suspects have now emerged as a brown dwarf or a massive extrasolar planet, or exoplanet, many times the size of Jupiter, the solar system's largest planet. Advertisement Advertisement "Various models made by our group show that the most likely explanation for the dimming is a brown dwarf an object heavier than a planet but lighter than a star surrounded by a vast and dense ring system. It is orbiting the star at a farther distance with the ring," team leader Sarang Shah, of the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), India, said in a statement . "Long-lasting dimming events like this are exceptionally uncommon as they require very perfect line-ups. The dimming began gradually because the outer parts of the rings are thin, and only became obvious when the denser regions passed in front of the star." Small failed star or giant planet? Brown dwarfs get the unfortunate nickname "failed stars" because, like stars, they form from collapsing clouds of gas and dust, but fail to gather enough material from what remains of that natal cloud to pile on the mass needed to trigger the fusion of hydrogen to helium in their cores. That is the process that defines what a main-sequence star is. The dividing line between brown dwarfs and massive gas giant planets is a blurred one in terms of mass. The lower limit of brown dwarf mass is considered to be around 13 times the mass of Jupiter, with the upper limit dividing the heaviest brown dwarfs and the lightest stars being around 80 Jupiter masses, or around 0.08 times the mass of the sun. Currently, a ringed brown dwarf is the prime suspect for the ASASSN-24fw dimming event. However, because the team can't yet pin down the mass of the dimming body beyond determining it to be greater than three times the mass of Jupiter, they still can't rule out the possibility that the culprit is a super-Jupiter exoplanet. A diagram shows a brown dwarf in relation to Earth, Jupiter, a low-mass star and the sun. | Credit: NASA What is more certain is the fact that ASASSN-24fw itself is closely circled by gas and dust fragments, which seem to be the remains of previous planetary collisions. This is something that is common around young stars that have turbulent and violent environments, but is uncommon for stars as old as ASASSN-24fw, estimated to be around 1 billion years old. Advertisement Advertisement "Large ring systems are expected around massive objects, but they are very difficult to observe directly to determine their characteristics," team member Jonathan Marshall, an independent post-doctoral researcher affiliated with Academia Sinica, Taiwan, said. "This rare event allows us to study such a complex system in remarkable detail. In fact, while studying this dimming, we also serendipitously discovered that ASASSN-24fw also has a red dwarf star in its vicinity." The team now intends to measure the temperature, age, and chemical composition of ASASSN-24fw as well as determine the evolutionary stage it is in. Gathering further data about this star from the Very Large Telescope (VLT) in the Atacama Desert region of northern Chile and the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) should help to better reveal how planetary systems like this one evolve. Astronomers will have to wait a little longer to get another look at the extreme dimming of ASASSN-24fw, however. The team expects the mysterious object to once again impact the brightness of the star in between 42 and 43 years. The NAACP on Friday threatened to sue Elon Musks AI company xAI, claiming that gas turbines powering a company data center are polluting communities in Mississippi and Tennessee. Our communities are not playgrounds for corporations who are chasing profit over people. xAIs first data center is already creating pollution for Mississippis neighbors in Memphis a community already suffering from decades of disparity and now they are polluting in Southaven, Mississippi, NAACP Environmental and Climate Justice Director Abre Conner said in a statement. At issue are 27 gas turbines installed by xAI near its second data center Colossus 2 in Southaven, Miss. These turbines emit smog-forming pollution, fine particulate matter, and hazardous chemicals like formaldehyde, which can cause health problems including asthma, respiratory illness and certain cancers, the NAACP said. Advertisement Advertisement Together, xAIs 27 unpermitted turbines in Southaven have the potential to emit a staggering amount of smog-forming nitrogen oxides (NOx), likely making the facility the largest industrial source of NOx in the 11-county Memphis metropolitan area, the organization stated. Conner said the NAACP will not stand by idly. We cannot allow for companies to promise a better future while pumping harmful chemicals into the air we breathe, she added. We demand that xAI follow the Clean Air Act and stop operating these unpermitted turbines to protect the people of Southaven. The Hill reached out to xAI for comment about the latest threat to sue. An xAI spokesperson told The Hill in June that the companys turbines are operating in compliance with all applicable laws. Advertisement Advertisement We take our commitment to the community and environment seriously, the spokesperson said at the time. The Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) and environmental group Earthjustice sent on behalf of the NAACP a notice of intent to sue to xAI, accusing the company of violating the Clean Air Act by using the turbines without permits. The notice of intent was sent to Musk, Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves (R) and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin, among several others. Its the second threat of a lawsuit against the turbines in less than a year. The NAACP added that xAI plans to operate a third data center in the same area and that there is no information about how it will be powered or if what impact it will have on air quality and community members health. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A law enforcement operation took place near Nancy Guthrie's home on Friday night as the search for her intensifies. More than 12 vehicles, including SWAT, swarmed the area in an operation that lasted nearly four hours, according to CNN. Police reportedly questioned one man then released him after determining he was not the kidnapper. A law enforcement official told CNN "this particular lead is not going to go any further." While police didn't find the kidnapper Friday, it did make progress in its search. Investigators found DNA at Guthrie's home that did not belong to her or anyone close to her, and now it's being tested. Advertisement Advertisement Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today host Savannah Guthrie, has been missing for two weeks after an apparent abduction at her Catalina Foothills, Arizona home. Police have not named any suspects at this point of the search. The FBI is seeking a man between 5-foot-9 and 5-foot-10 with an average build and Ozark Trail hiker backpack, based on doorbell footage taken at Guthrie's home the night of her disappearance. This article originally appeared on For The Win: Nancy Guthrie update: Did police arrest suspect in SWAT raid? GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. Today, Feb. 14, 2026, Native News Online celebrates 15 years of reporting on Indian Country, marking a milestone for one of the most widely read Native American-focused digital news platforms in the United States. Founded in 2011 by journalist Levi Rickert, a tribal citizen of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, the publication launched with a mission to improve the lives of American Indians and Alaska Natives. At a time when mainstream media often overlooked or misrepresented Indigenous communities, Native News Online set out to fill a critical gap in coverage. Advertisement Advertisement Guided by its mantra Warrior Journalism: Defending Tribal Sovereignty the outlet has built its identity around holding institutions accountable while centering Indigenous voices. The phrase reflects its commitment to rigorous reporting rooted in tribal self-determination and Native nationhood. Over the past decade and a half, the outlet has grown from a startup into a national news source covering tribal sovereignty, federal Indian policy, health care, education, economic development and culture. Its reporting has examined major issues including land rights disputes, the federal Indian boarding school legacy, voting rights, COVID-19, environmental protection efforts at Standing Rock and the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR). Last year, with funding from the MacArthur Foundation and the Solutions Journalism Network, Native News Online began a three-year reportting project entitled, Cultivating Culture: Indigenous Food Sovereignty and Native Language Revitalization. Native News Online has earned recognition from journalism organizations and built partnerships with tribal nations and Native-led institutions. Its readership spans Indian Country and beyond, reaching policymakers, educators and community leaders. Advertisement Advertisement In addition to daily reporting, the publication has expanded into opinion coverage, multimedia storytelling and special projects focused on civic engagement and elections. Throughout its growth, it has maintained a clear editorial focus: amplifying Native perspectives and defending tribal sovereignty. As I look back over the past 15 years, I see a dramatically different world than the one we lived in when President Barack Obama was in the White House, Rickert said. Native News Online is not just relevant it is essential. It is needed now more than ever. Fifteen years after its founding, Native News Online stands as a testament to the enduring power of independent Native media. Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. " Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net BERLIN, Feb 14 (Reuters) - Russia is suffering "crazy losses" in Ukraine, tallying around 65,000 soldiers over the last two months, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said on Saturday at the Munich Security Conference. Separately, he told a media roundtable that the NATO alliance was strong enough that Russia would not currently try to attack it. "We will win every fight with Russia if they attack us now, and we have to make sure in two, four, six years that same is still the case," he said. (Reporting by Jonathan Landay; Writing by Sarah MarshEditing by Tomasz Janowski) Putin arch-rival Alexei Navalny died after being poisoned with a lethal toxin and Russia is to blame for the attack, Britain and its European allies have said. In a dramatic press conference held at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, the UK, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said that analysis of samples from Navalnys body had found the presence of epibatidine a deadly toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America. After the findings were announced by Navalnys widow Yulia Navalnaya, foreign secretary Yvette Cooper pinned the blame squarely on the Kremlin and said only Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to carry out such an attack. Advertisement Advertisement For the latest updates on the Munich Security Conference, read our live blog HERE Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny stands inside a glass cell during a court hearing at the Babushkinsky district court in Moscow on 20 February 2021 (AFP via Getty) She said: Today, beside his widow, the UK is shining a light on the Kremlins barbaric plot to silence his voice. Russia saw Navalny as a threat. By using this form of poison, the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition. The five countries said Russia had shown a repeated disregard for international law and that they had reported the poisoning to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. The Kremlin has rejected the claims, with Russian foreign ministry Maria Zakharova telling TASS: "When the test results are available and the formulas for the substances are disclosed, we will comment accordingly. Advertisement Advertisement Until then, all such assertions are merely propaganda aimed at diverting attention from pressing Western issues," the news agency cited her as saying. The report also said she described Navalny as a blogger "officially designated as a terrorist and extremist in Russia". Meanwhile, prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Navalny displayed huge courage in the face of tyranny. He added: His determination to expose the truth has left an enduring legacy, and my thoughts are with his family today. I am doing whatever it takes to defend our people, our values and our way of life from the threat of Russia and Putins murderous intent. After the press conference, Ms Navalnaya called for Vladimir Putin to be held accountable. She wrote: I was certain from the first day that my husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof: Putin killed Alexei with chemical weapon. Advertisement Advertisement Ms Navalnaya previously announced her husbands death at the same gathering, two years ago. The Kremlin has always denied any involvement. Russian president Vladimir Putin listens to the head of the North Ossetia-Alania Republic of Russia Sergei Menyailo, during their meeting at the Kremlin earlier this week (AP) Navalny, a thorn in the side of the Kremlin who crusaded against official corruption and staged massive anti-Putin protests, died in a penal colony in Siberia in February 2024, aged 47. The former lawyer had been serving a 19-year sentence on charges he believed to be politically motivated. It is not clear how the frog poison was allegedly administered to Navalny. But the allies also pointed to an attempt to poison Navalny with the nerve agent novichok in 2020, which followed the Salisbury poisonings in 2018. Ms Navalnaya said last year that two independent labs had found that her husband was poisoned shortly before his death. It had been widely assumed that Navalny had been poisoned by the Russian state, but evidence of the specific poison in his body, along with the statement by the European countries, is a new development. Advertisement Advertisement In her statement, she added: I am grateful to the European states for the meticulous work they carried out over two years, and for uncovering the truth. Vladimir Putin is a murderer. He must be held accountable for all his crimes. Yulia Navalnaya, widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, beside his picture in June 2024 (DPA) The Foreign Office said there can be no innocent explanation for the toxin having been found on Navalnys body. Ms Cooper added: Since Yulia Navalnaya announced the loss of her husband here in Munich two years ago, the UK has pursued the truth of Alexei Navalnys death with fierce determination. Only the Russian government had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin against Alexei Navalny during his imprisonment in Russia. Navalnys death came after Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were poisoned with novichok in July 2018. Last year, a major inquiry into the poisonings found that Putin had ordered the astonishingly reckless attempted assassination of Mr Skripal as a public demonstration of Russian power. Advertisement Advertisement The report also said the Russian president was morally responsible for the death of Dawn Sturgess, an innocent bystander who died after being exposed to the chemical weapon after it was left in a discarded perfume bottle. Prime minister Keir Starmer and foreign secretary Yvette Cooper arriving at the summit in Munich on Friday (Simon Dawson/No 10 Downing Street) Russia was also responsible for the assassination of former spy Alexander Litvinenko in the UK, according to the European Court of Human Rights. The 43-year-old, who had worked for the Russian security services before defecting to the UK, died after drinking green tea laced with poison in London in 2006. The joint statement by the five countries said they are confident that Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a lethal toxin. It added: This is the conclusion of our governments based on analyses of samples from Alexei Navalny. These analyses have conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine. Epibatidine is a toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America. It is not found naturally in Russia. Russia claimed that Navalny died of natural causes. But given the toxicity of epibatidine and reported symptoms, poisoning was highly likely the cause of his death. Navalny died while held in prison, meaning Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison to him. New Delhi [India], February 14: At a time when online matrimony platforms are under scrutiny for fake profiles, privacy breaches, and spam-driven engagement models, Dhol Matrimony is positioning itself as a next-generation, AI-powered matchmaking ecosystem built on trust, verification, and consent. Rather than chasing rapid scale with unfiltered onboarding, Dhol has quietly focused on building a structurally secure, fraud-resistant, and compatibility-led framework. With its core technology and safety architecture firmly in place, the platform is now entering an accelerated growth phase--inviting serious users who prioritise authenticity over algorithms that reward volume. AI-Led Matchmaking That Prioritises Compatibility Over ClutterAt the heart of Dhol's ecosystem is an advanced AI matchmaking engine designed to eliminate decision fatigue. Instead of encouraging endless scrolling across thousands of profiles, the platform curates a refined set of weekly matches tailored to each user. The AI analyses multi-dimensional compatibility parameters--preferences, lifestyle alignment, personal values, long-term relationship intent, and future expectations--delivering contextually relevant matches rather than superficial filters. This quality-over-quantity model marks a decisive shift from traditional matrimony portals that often prioritise engagement metrics over meaningful outcomes. Government-Backed Identity Verification via DigiLockerIn an industry often criticised for impersonation and fabricated details, Dhol integrates secure DigiLocker API verification, enabling government-backed identity authentication without manual document uploads. All identity data is encrypted and protected within a secure framework. Beyond automated verification, every profile undergoes a mandatory manual review process, adding a human validation layer to detect inconsistencies or suspicious patterns. This dual-layered verification system significantly reduces the risk of fake profiles and enhances platform credibility. Scam Prevention Engineered at the Entry LevelDhol treats safety as a product architecture decision--not a reactive moderation task. Through paid onboarding, identity verification, and human-led screening, the platform creates high entry barriers for fraudsters and bad actors who typically exploit open-access platforms. By embedding prevention mechanisms into the onboarding flow, Dhol reduces dependency on post-incident reporting and reactive enforcement, creating a more secure ecosystem from the outset. Privacy-First Design for Modern Indian UsersWith growing concerns around digital privacy--especially in the matrimonial context--Dhol introduces a privacy-first matchmaking architecture. Profiles are not openly searchable by default. Communication remains gated. Sensitive personal details are protected. Data is neither sold nor shared with third parties. This controlled discovery model is particularly appealing to professionals, women, and families who value discretion, safety, and reputational security over mass visibility. Two-Way Match System Eliminates Unsolicited MessagingDhol operates on a strict mutual-consent communication model, where interaction becomes possible only after both parties express interest. This eliminates spam messages, irrelevant outreach, and harassment--common pain points across legacy platforms. By embedding consent directly into its communication flow, Dhol fosters a respectful, intent-driven environment designed for serious matrimonial conversations. Built for Serious Long-Term IntentThe platform's structured engagement model--paid access, limited curated matches, and verification-led onboarding--naturally filters out casual participants. Dhol is intentionally built for individuals and families seeking committed, long-term relationships rather than passive browsing experiences. Its philosophy is clear: matrimony is not a volume game--it is a trust game. Scaling a Proven, Trust-Centric FrameworkHaving strengthened its technological backbone and security infrastructure, Dhol is now expanding its footprint across India. The focus remains consistent--verified identities, AI-driven compatibility, scam resistance, and user-controlled privacy. As digital matrimony evolves, Dhol represents a broader shift toward responsible matchmaking platforms that embed trust, transparency, and consent at the system level--not as afterthoughts. In a market crowded with scale-first platforms, Dhol is betting on credibility as its strongest differentiator. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.) Nearly 500 stuffed toys were donated to children in need in time for Valentines Day. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The National Council of Negro Womens Dayton Section (NCNW) donated nearly 500 stuffed toys to Montgomery County Childrens Services on Friday, Feb. 13. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Having the love and the support and having these teddy bears brings a bit of love and light into the life of these young people, Montgomery County Commissioner Mary McDonald said. The annual donation helps Children Services keep comfort items available for children during difficult moments and supports staff as they work to build trust and connection with children and families. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] TUPELO Three weeks after Winter Storm Fern tore its path through Northeast Mississippi, nearly all residents of the region have gotten power, though some in Lafayette County remain without utilities. As of Friday morning, just over 200 customers for Northeast Mississippi Electric Power Association remain without power, down significantly from the over 3,000 reported at the beginning of the week. Meanwhile, Tippah County, which was also rocked by the ice storm, is down to just 33 outages. Northeast EPA CEO and General Manager Keith Hayward estimated a majority of those without power in his system will be restored by the end of day Friday, adding that those without power should reach out to the system and make sure their outage is reported. Advertisement Advertisement "(We're) heavily in the clean up phase," he said, noting that much of next week will be fixing broken powerlines that were bypassed or less pressing. TW&L Director Johnny Timmons praised the officials in both power companies, noting that once Tupelo was stabilized, a majority of his crews went to the more affected areas. He said the companies ran a smooth and safe operation. Really and truly, it sounded bad in the news and media, but it really worked out well, he said. I wouldnt mind sending my men over to those operations again any time. Helping the effort were local and distant power cooperatives and companies that poured into the region. Much of the week, Tupelo Water & Light linemen were in Oxford and New Albany helping out. Advertisement Advertisement To restore so many houses takes a mammoth effort, Hayward said, noting that the behinds the scenes administration of so many workers is a headache in itself from getting laundry done and feeding workers to making sure information is flowing freely between linemen, the administration and the general public. In Lee County, the Board of Supervisors is expected to vote on contractors for debris removal and monitoring at the next meeting scheduled for Tuesday morning. This is the next step in a long process of returning to normal and falls in line with guidelines for federal and state reimbursement. Local municipalities, the state, and the federal government have now all declared a state of emergency, which opens the door for emergency spending and, later down the line, reimbursement of a percentage of the cost of cleanup. As of Friday, County Administrator Ronnie Bell said the county does not have an estimate on the damage and awaits both the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agencys responses on the reimbursement percentages being offered. LINCOLN After a national search that drew nearly 50 applicants, the Nebraska Tourism Commission chose an executive director who had worked for the agency for a decade. Jenn Gjerde was promoted following a unanimous 9-0 vote at a Feb. 12 commission meeting. Her appointment is effective immediately, according to a statement. Jenn Gjerde was appointed new executive director of the Nebraska Tourism Commission, also known as Visit Nebraska. (Courtesy of Visit Nebraska) Also known as Visit Nebraska, the commission, whose members are appointed by the governor, is funded by lodging taxes paid on motel and hotel bills. Advertisement Advertisement Gjerde joined the tourism commission in 2015 as a public information officer and helped expand the groups marketing reach. She supported growth of the Nebraska Passport program and most recently directed the launch of the states new tourism brand, Nebraska. All Heart. The campaign is rolling out across broadcast, digital, social and advertising this year. Prior to the commission, Gjerde was a television news reporter in Lincoln and North Platte. She said her statewide storytelling background shaped her approach to tourism marketing. Shell lead an agency of 10 staff and two interns. I began my career in Nebraska newsrooms, and even my very first job at Runza taught me what it means to represent something local with pride, Gjerde said in a statement. My focus is making sure we tell Nebraskas story in a way that connects with people and inspires them to visit. Commission Chair David Fudge called Gjerde a Nebraskan first and foremost. Advertisement Advertisement We are excited to work with her to move the agency and the tourism industry forward. Former state tourism director John Ricks resigned last September. He was paid $133,838, and had had deployed the edgy and controversial marketing pitch, Nebraska. Honestly its not for everyone. Some state leaders, including Gov. Jim Pillen and then Nebraska Department of Economic Development Director Tony Goins, criticized the message. State legislators passed a bill seeking to better coordinate marketing pitches between the independent commission and the DED. Gjerdes appointment comes as state leaders have discussed a possible merger between the Tourism Commission and the Economic Development Department. Advertisement Advertisement The subject came up during a Jan. 20 confirmation hearing for DED director Maureen Larsen, who was asked about the states lagging tourism revenues. She said that while national tourism levels had grown modestly over the last year, Nebraska remained relatively flat. Larsen argued that consolidation would provide tourism initiatives a larger budget. State Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte has introduced an interim study to examine the potential impacts of merging the agencies. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Law enforcement and the Cleveland County community are continuing to search for the Shelby girl who disappeared from her home on Valentines Day 26 years ago. Asha Degree disappeared on Feb. 14, 2000. She was last seen walking down the side of N.C. Highway 18 in the rain with a bookbag. The bookbag, with a book from her school library and a t-shirt that did not belong to her inside, was later found buried along that same highway. Advertisement Advertisement Law enforcement continued investigating in 2015 when a new lead turned up. Degree may have been seen getting into a dark green 1970s-model Lincoln Continental Mark IV or Ford Thunderbird with rust around the wheel wells. A car matching that description was towed in 2024, just miles away from where Degree disappeared. PREVIOUS COVERAGE In 2025, warrants revealed text messages sent right after a search at a Cleveland County home. A search warrant was executed a few months later, with authorities present at a property in Lincoln County. Advertisement Advertisement Since the girls disappearance, investigators have said they believe Degree was killed and concealed. Now, authorities continue to search. Between the FBI, local authorities, and the governor, the reward for information on Degrees disappearance has hit $100,000. On the 26th anniversary of her disappearance, the Cleveland County Sheriffs Office and the FBI posted on social media that they continue to search for information to find Degree. Anyone with information has been asked to contact the FBI at (704) 672-6100 or the Cleveland County Sheriffs Office at 704-484-4822. WATCH: Community holds vigil for 18-year-old woman who died during winter storm (The Center Square) Convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epsteins Zorro Ranch in New Mexico, where multiple alleged child sex crimes were committed, is now at the center of a state comptroller race in Texas. Former Republican state representative, business owner and gubernatorial candidate Don Huffines is running for comptroller to manage the states finances. The 8,000-acre property in Stanley, New Mexico, in southern Santa Fe County, was sold in 2023 to San Rafael Ranch, LLC, for an undisclosed amount, with the owners names kept confidential, KRQE News reported. Advertisement Advertisement It wasnt until a street name change and property taxes were contested that public records requests revealed the owner of San Rafael Ranch was Huffines. His wife, Mary Catherine, is listed as a trustee. His son, Colin Huffines, is listed as an LLC manager. A records request made public by the Santa Fe New Mexican, shows the estate was valued at $21.1 million in 2023 but after Huffines protests, the county tax assessor dropped the value to $13.4 million. Epstein was reported dead in August 2019 in the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York, one month after the first Trump administration charged him with sexually exploiting dozens of underage girls. Epsteins accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for her role in the sex trafficking scheme. Under the second Trump administration, more than three million files have been released related to Epstein allegations, with much of the documents redacted. Epsteins properties stretched from Paris to New Mexico, with combined real estate values totaling roughly $117 million, Forbes reported. From 2019 through 2025, Epsteins estate had distributed more than $160 million to survivors; in 2024, the estate received a $112 million IRS tax refund; last March, it still had $131 million in assets, Forbes reported. Advertisement Advertisement More than 4,200 records have been released by the Department of Justice about the Zorro Ranch. One details a Native American woman who was interviewed by the FBI and claimed her mother trafficked her and other children to the ranch, where Epstein held them in property bedrooms and forced them to perform sexual acts to high-prominent clients. Multiple documents describe gruesome sexual abuse of children at the mansion the Huffines purchased, referred to by victims as the house on the hill. The property is also connected to a murder-for-hire scheme and other crimes committed by a Florida nonprofit leader sentenced to more than 34 years in prison. He was convicted of a $2.7 million check kiting and money laundering scheme, Paycheck Protection fraud and filing $300 million worth of fraudulent warranty deeds for properties nationwide, including Zorro Ranch. Prior to the Huffines purchase, New Mexico State Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard canceled state cattle grazing licenses with the Epstein property in 2019. She also called for a state investigation into state land being used for criminal acts, including the burying of abused deceased children. Neither the state land nor Zorro Ranch had been searched as part of a criminal investigation, she said. After the Epstein Files were released, shes again calling for state and federal investigations, wanting to use radar and cadaver dogs to search for remains, Scripps News reported. Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Greg Abbotts campaign political consultant Dave Carney criticized what he called the sleaze ball secret land deal, noting that New Mexico officials wanted to search for buried bodies What kind of person thinks that's a good and decent investment? He also asked, Who would give Jeffery Epstein's estate millions of dollars? No wonder it was done in secret! Huffines has characterized his comptroller campaign as bringing accountability to managing state resources and championing conservative, Christian values. When asked how purchasing property used by convicted sex traffickers reflected these values, his attorney, Allen Blakemore, said in a statement, Four years after Mr. Epsteins death, the Huffines family purchased property in New Mexico listed at public auction whose proceeds benefited his victims. Prior to the auction listing, they had never visited the property. An attorney for Epstein's estate told KRQE News the proceeds of Zorro Ranch were used for estate administration, including payment of creditors. Lawmakers celebrated Black leaders and their contributions to New Mexico Friday as part of African American Day at the Roundhouse. Rep. Pamelya Herndon (D-Albuquerque) took the occasion to honor a group she dubbed the talented 10 10 Black women leaders in government and civic organizations whom she invited to the House floor. Each of these women represents a historic first in her community or in her field, and we honor those firsts, she said. We recognize what they truly mean progress that opens doors wider than they ever were before. Advertisement Advertisement Those women included Karla Causey, the CEO of the Black Chamber Of Commerce. Kausey told Source NM the chamber is working to expand beyond the Albuquerque metro area and become a statewide force. While we focus on the Black community, we help anyone who is underserved, underfunded and underengaged, thats our mission for New Mexico, Causey said. Earlier this week, the House unanimously passed Herndons memorial honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. The memorial designates the week of Jan. 12 as a commemoration of Kings life and legacy. The $64,000 question On the final Friday of the 2026 New Mexico legislative session, lawmakers took up the matter of whether to collect a salary for their work. Advertisement Advertisement On a 41-26 vote, the New Mexico House of Representatives passed a proposal that would pay state lawmakers about $64,000 annually for their work both during the legislative session and during interim committee meetings throughout the rest of the year. New Mexico state lawmakers are the only ones in the nation to not collect a salary, though they do receive per diems and mileage reimbursements. House Joint Resolution 5 would give voters the choice on whether to give lawmakers an annual salary equal to the median New Mexico household income. Some Republicans balked at the measure and said $64,000 for working a 30-day session was outrageous. Others, like Rep. John Block (R-Alamogordo), said it comes off as kind of hollow while residents across the state report high levels of poverty. Supporters, though, said it could only stand to improve the Legislature. Advertisement Advertisement When Rep. Susan Herrera (D-Embudo) first ran for office, she recalled, everyone said you had to be rich, retired or resourceful. Herrera, who on Thursday announced plans to retire, said its time for a change to the volunteer Legislature structure. The governor in this state has way too much power. The lobbyists have way too much power. State agencies have way too much power. The people who are elected every two years have very little power because we have to do this on a part-time basis, she said. You get what you pay for. Debate on one bill is limited to three hours on the House floor. The vote was forced after lawmakers hit the three-hour limit. At a $64,000 salary, each representative would have earned $92 and change for this debate. Housing hearing delayed A bipartisan bill that offers developers tax credits if they revitalize vacant properties into affordable housing did not get the Friday hearing its backers expected. But the expert shepherding the bill through the Legislature said it still has a chance. Advertisement Advertisement House Bill 77, sponsored by two Democrats and two Republicans, gives a tax credit worth 30% of the rehabilitation expenses for properties that have been vacant for two to five years, and 40% for properties that have been vacant five years or longer. The law caps the credit at $2 million for the first category and $4 million for the second. Roger Valdez, director of the Center for Housing Economics, told Source NM on Friday that the bill will come up again over the weekend, and he hopes it will be included in the Houses version of a tax package that cleared a Senate committee Friday. Speaking of the tax package The Legislature has handled the tax package in recent years by dividing the sum of surplus tax revenue in half. From there, leaders in each chamber decide what credits and deductions they want included in the final bill. This year, each chamber has $55 million. The Senates using most of its $55 million for gross receipts tax deductions for medical supplies and affordable housing construction and labor costs. It also has a $4 million tax credit for local news organizations. Advertisement Advertisement As for what the House might do with its half, Sen. Carrie Hamblen (D-Las Cruces) said Friday that shes had conversations with House counterparts suggesting that the members might seek to expand the states version of the federal Earned Income Tax Credit. Hamblen added that nothing is set in stone yet. The EITC aims to spur low-income workers to take on more hours or seek higher wages by offering tax credits for every dollar they earn. The state has its own version called the Working Families Tax Credit. Rep. Derrick Lente (D-Sandia Pueblo), chair of the House Taxation and Revenue Committee, has proposed doubling the amount the state pays in tax credits from 25% to 50% of the federal EITC. According to a fiscal analysis, the bill would mean a household with two kids that makes less than $30,000 a year would receive an additional $830 a month, on top of the $1,660 that household receives currently. Advertisement Advertisement Lente told Source NM that no decisions have been made as of Friday. His bill is being considered equally alongside other tax legislation, he said. The Legislatures tax committees dont vote on individual bills and instead table all of them for later consideration in an omnibus tax package. The House will get the tax package once it clears the Senate floor. Fort Defiance Agency Elderly Queen Esther Bodie, 78, is the Navajo Nations 77th Fort Defiance Agency Elderly Queen. Bodie visited the Roundhouse on Feb. 13, 2026 as a special guest for Senior Day. (Danielle Prokop/Source NM) Looking ahead Friday marked the end to the last full work week of the 30-day legislative session. Some lawmakers will report back to the Roundhouse on Saturday for committee hearings. The House Judiciary Committee is scheduled to review Senate Bill 40, which cleared the Senate floor on a 32-8 vote Thursday. The bill would ban New Mexico law enforcement from using automated license plate readers for general surveillance or civil traffic enforcement. The House Taxation and Revenue Committee is scheduled to discuss bonds for ongoing efforts to transform the state fairgrounds in Albuquerque. RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) As early voting is underway, the North Carolina State Board of Elections is investigating reports of people posing as state election officials and telling others to re-register to vote. According to the board, these incidents have happened throughout several election cycles, but a new wave of reports have been received as the March primary nears. While it is not a crime to for someone to go to your door to talk about voting or registering, it is illegal for them to misrepresent themselves as a state or county voter official. Were getting a lot from Buncombe, Onslow, and Wake counties, board Director of External Affairs Jason Tyson said. Its all over the place. There are people going door to door, pretending to be with the state or county elections board. We dont go door to door. Thats a big red flag. Over the last few years, weve received thousands of complaints in 30 different countries about this. Advertisement Advertisement It is also illegal to falsify a voter registration form. Were seeing a lot of false registrations with names that are crazy, like Jay-Z, or other names that are just made up, Tyson said. According to Tyson, the only time you need to update your registration is if you move to a new country. If you need to update your address or party affiliation, you can do that online. You can also update your name, address, or party affiliation by mail. Before providing information to a voter registration worker, ask them to verify their identity and organization. Anyone who fills out paperwork during a voter registration drive is advised to to keep it and deliver it to their local elections board or mail it themselves. Advertisement Advertisement According to Wake County Board of Elections Director Olivia McCall, a mailing or card is sent to a voter after a voter registration form is processed. One of the big things we want to make sure that voters know, especially with voter verification and fraudulent voter registration forums, is we verify by mailings, McCall said. If you get a voter card at your mailing address thats not addressed to you, put it back into the mail as return to sender. Get it back to us. The North Carolina State Board of Elections website has information on how to update your registration and information on how to register. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. The North Carolina State Board of Elections is investigating reports of misconduct by voter registration drive workers. In recent months, reports have come from Brunswick, Buncombe, Chowan, Haywood, Nash, Scotland and Wake counties. According to the NCSBE, complaints, similar to those raised in previous years, include the following: Those in voter registration drives are incorrectly telling voters they must re-register to vote for future elections, regardless of the situation. This is not true. Voters who are already registered do not need to re-register unless they move to a new county. Those who move within the same county, want to change their name or update their party affiliation should submit new voter registration application to update their record. Advertisement Advertisement There are also reports of people going door-to-door falsely claiming to be county or state election workers. Government election workers do not go door-to-door for any reason. Some voter registration applications submitted to county boards of elections are either missing required information or contain errors, such as incorrect date of birth or voter identification number that does not match state records. Falsifying a voter registration form is a Class I felony. "The State Board will investigate all credible allegations of voter registration fraud by individuals or organizations," State Board Executive Director Sam Hayes said. "When workers involved in voter drives falsify or alter information on registration forms, it can cause problems for innocent voters at the polls. This is unacceptable and hurts voter confidence." Could a North Dakota law that makes it illegal for people to conceal their identities in certain situations also apply to masked immigration agents? One University of North Dakota School of Law professor says yes though he noted part of the law presents serious First Amendment concerns. Steven Morrison, who teaches criminal law, said they could be charged with the crime if it were to be found that ICE agents are out there essentially intending to violate the law and wearing masks with the intent to conceal their identities. Advertisement Advertisement Under President Donald Trumps administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents have begun covering their faces on duty. The executive branch says it allows agents to choose to mask for safety reasons. Critics of the policy have argued that immigration agents could be using masks to avoid public accountability, and some states have weighed passing laws banning the practice. California recently passed such a law, though a federal judge temporarily blocked its enforcement. North Dakota lawmakers passed an anti-mask law in 2017 originally intended to apply to masked protesters, according to public hearings from the legislative session. It was proposed shortly after demonstrations against the Dakota Access Pipeline reached their zenith in 2016. Supporters of the proposed law pointed to DAPL protesters who they said were wearing masks while trespassing and vandalizing construction equipment. But the law didnt take effect in North Dakota until after those demonstrations. Advertisement Advertisement Under the statute, its a class A misdemeanor to wear a mask or conceal ones identity in the following circumstances: With the intent to intimidate, threaten, abuse, or harass any other individual For evading or escaping discovery, recognition, or identification while committing a crime For concealment, flight, or escape after being charged, arrested, or convicted of a crime A class A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 360 days in jail, a $3,000 fine or both. The North Dakota Legislature expanded the law in 2025 to not only apply to people who wear masks to harass people or flee authorities, but also those who conceal their identity while congregating in a public place with other individuals except during festivities like Halloween. Advertisement Advertisement Morrison said an immigration agent could hypothetically be charged under the statute, if a prosecutor believed the officer wore a mask to conceal themselves while committing a crime. He said prosecutors are generally very reluctant to file charges against law enforcement, in part because the law affords them certain protections. However, prosecutors may feel differently about ICE and CBP agents, he noted. Minnesotas attorney general has said state and county officials are investigating immigration agents following two deadly shootings, for example. Morrison cautioned that the clause added to the statute in 2025, which criminalizes congregating in public while wearing a mask, appears unconstitutional. Advertisement Advertisement One, we have the First Amendment right to assemble and to associate with others, he said. Two, we have the First Amendment right to speak anonymously. If someone tried to file charges against groups of people simply for wearing masks in public, the charges would likely be dismissed, Morrison said. Rep. Lawrence Klemin, who sponsored the 2025 amendment to the mask law, disagreed that the statute could ever apply to ICE. The Bismarck Republican and attorney said lawmakers and members of the public who weighed in on his proposal didnt ever say anything about applying it to law enforcement. He said he brought the amendment in response to college pro-Palestinian protests against Israels war against Hamas, which led to mass violence and starvation in Gaza. Some demonstrators who occupied college campuses during the protests wore masks to evade police, Klemin said in testimony submitted in favor of the bill. Advertisement Advertisement The American Civil Liberties Union of North Dakota opposes the states mask law on First Amendment grounds, said Advocacy Manager Cody Schuler. Still, Schuler said prosecutors have a duty to enforce laws equally. ICE and other law enforcement agents are not above the law, Schuler said in a statement to the North Dakota Monitor. Like anyone else, they have to comply with North Dakotas laws if they are operating in the state. State court data show that to date, North Dakotas law has only been used against people already being prosecuted for other crimes like theft, burglary and drug possession. Those additional charges usually included at least one felony. People have been charged under the statute 106 times since 2017, according to the data. North Dakota Monitor reporter Mary Steurer can be reached at msteurer@northdakotamonitor.com. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX An estimated 90 lives have been saved in North Dakota since a grant five years ago equipped law enforcement across North Dakota with modern life-saving equipment. Department of Health and Human Services officials gathered Wednesday in Bismarck to celebrate the success of a grant program that purchased 1,700 automated external defibrillators, often called AEDs. The defibrillators, which deliver an electric shock to the chest of a person suffering a heart attack, can be essential in rural areas, said Sherry Adams, North Dakotas state health officer. Advertisement Advertisement The devices, purchased through the $4.3 million grant from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, have been used about 1,000 times since 2021, according to state health officials. They were able to train these law enforcement personnel as well to be ready in the event they might have to use them, Adams said. One woman who credits law enforcement for saving her life is Patsy Hudkins of Velva. Hudkins suffered a heart attack while working at a local bar in February 2023. A nearby sheriffs deputy responded to the scene and used an AED from his patrol car to deliver the shock that saved her life. A lot of times the officers are the first ones on duty, said Hudkins, who shared her story during a news conference. She said rural ambulance services are always on call, but can take dozens of minutes to respond to depending on the location. Advertisement Advertisement More: The Good Buy Gals Shop in Watertown has western wear, vintage Having even that extra five minutes is huge, said Hudkins, who credits McHenry County Deputy Adam McTaggart for saving her life. McHenry County Sheriff Trey Skager said his department employs nine to 10 deputies to cover about 2,000 square miles. He said having deputies equipped and trained can save lives. The devices were distributed to local, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies in North Dakota. About 30 North Dakota towns and cities are also part of the states Cardiac Ready Community Program, said Christine Greff, stroke and cardiac systems coordinator for the Department of Health and Human Services. The program supports bystander, emergency responder and public-private partnerships to improve responses for cardiac events and strokes. Advertisement Advertisement Health officials urged more communities to get involved with the program by reaching out to the states Emergency Medical Systems Unit. More: In the next decade, the Midwest will see surge in obesity, study says Were calling on all of the communities of North Dakota to begin to prepare, to train, and ensure that AEDs are accessible, Adams said. We are really reminded today that action truly matters. North Dakota Monitor is part of States Newsroom, the nations largest state-focused nonprofit news organization. This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: North Dakota law enforcement says AEDs save lives Taking to Instagram, Triptii wrote, "Afshan isn't just a character, she's fire and fragility in the same breath. She feels deeply, loves fiercely and fights with everything she has. This role challenged me, demanded honesty & pushed me beyond my comfort zone for which I'll always be grateful.... Our film is built with immense passion, heart & belief. From @vishalrbhardwaj sir, I learned how to surrender to the character and truly live Afshan's truth." She described Shahid as "an incredibly hardworking" actor. "@shahidkapoor is an incredibly hardworking and supportive co-star .... I had a wonderful time sharing the screen with him...," Triptii added. She also heaped praise on Avinash Tiwary, Vikrant Massey, Farida Jalal, Nana Patekar and Tamannaah Bhatia. "@avinashtiwary15 from sharing a love story to standing as rivals, it's been such a beautiful journey... @vikrantmassey your sincerity and craft elevate every scene you step in...had an incredible time working with you. Working with the amazing #FareedaJalal, @iamnanapatekar , @tamannaahspeaks @dishapatani was truly special," her note read. "I've always believed that it takes a village to make a film and I'm so proud of our entire cast and crew for putting their heart and soul into this. O' Romeo is now in cinemas. Go watch it and let Afshan find a place in your heart too," Triptii concluded. 'O' Romeo' marks the fourth collaboration between Shahid and Vishal Bhardwaj after 'Kaminey', 'Haider', and 'Rangoon'. (ANI) Council tax bills in North Yorkshire are set to rise by 4.99% after the council approved its budget for 2026-27. The Conservative-led authority said the hike - which includes a 2% precept for adult social care - would add more than 95 to the annual bill for a Band D property. The council previously said the rise was necessary to help plug future funding gaps and the proposals were approved at a meeting on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Deputy leader Gareth Dadd, executive member for finance and resources, said: "We're living in the real world and you can only play with the cards you're dealt." Councillor Kevin Foster, leader of the Green Party and Independents on the council, said his group could not support the rise and criticised proposals in the budget to also impose a 4.8% increase on council house rents. "These are not abstract figures in a report; this is real money being taken from people who often have the least capacity to absorb extra costs," he said. Liberal Democrat councillor Matt Walker told the meeting the budget included a 1.1m upgrade for council-owned Filey Brigg Caravan and Camping Site, but a 500,000 cut to disabled children's services and 50,000 removed from public health community involvement. Advertisement Advertisement He also noted that the council would stop providing Christmas trees and hanging baskets in the former Harrogate and Scarborough districts and discontinue free newspapers in libraries, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service. Walker said: "We were promised that local government reorganisation would deliver efficiencies, but today's budget proves the opposite." Dadd responded: "Everything we've done over the last four or five years, and in fact before that, as a county councillor, has been prioritising those at what the layman would call bottom of the pile, those in need, those vulnerable people. "There's nothing in it for us politically, as you will know, but we've done it because it's the right thing to do, and as long as I'm here we'll continue to do it." Advertisement Advertisement Senior councillors previously blamed the government's fair funding settlement for the need to increase council tax. In response, a spokesperson for the government said it had committed 78bn for local authorities, with North Yorkshire Council set to receive 756m in 2026-27. Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North. More on this story Related internet links Former President Barack Obama called out MAGAs deeply troubling behavior in a measured response to the racist video shared by current President Donald Trump, which depicted the former president and wife Michelle Obama as apes. Obama sat for an interview, published Saturday, with liberal influencer Brian Tyler Cohen, in which he was asked to weigh in on conservatives saying things that would have been disqualifying just a few years ago now, but now not only feel acceptable, but are actually rewarded. He brought up instances such as Vice President JD Vance saying you dont have to apologize for being white anymore, as well as Trumps now-deleted infamous ape post on Truth Social. Advertisement Advertisement Like this article? Keep independent journalism alive. Support HuffPost. The video has been removed, but it received backlash from Democrats and Republicans. The president, however, refused to apologize for uploading the video in the first place. He instead claims the video was uploaded by a staffer, who did not have action taken against them, and that he hadnt seen the portion of the video featuring racist imagery. News: U.S. Reportedly Deports 9 People To Cameroon Despite Court Protections Its important to recognize that the majority of the American people find this behavior deeply troubling, Obama said. Advertisement Advertisement He added, Its true that its a distraction. But, you know, as Im traveling around the country, as youre traveling around the country, you meet people they still believe in decency, courtesy, kindness, and theres this sort of clown show thats happening in social media and on television. And what is true is that there doesnt seem to be any shame about this among people who used to feel like you had to have some sort of decorum and a sense of propriety and respect for the office, right? So thats been lost. However, the former president said he still believes a majority of Americans dont approve of the administrations behavior or values, pointing to protests in Minnesota in the wake of aggressive immigration crackdowns and the killings of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti. News: Teen Daughter Of Chicago Man Who Was Detained By ICE Dies From Rare Cancer He commended the outpouring of organizing and community building that has come out in response to Trumps immigration agenda. Advertisement Advertisement In a, you know, systematic, organized way, citizens saying this is not the America we believe in, and were going to fight back, Obama said. And were going to push back with the truth and with cameras and with peaceful protests and shining a light on the sort of behavior that in the past weve seen in authoritarian countries and weve seen in dictatorships, but we have not seen in America, and that kind of heroic sustained behavior in sub-zero weather by ordinary people is what should give us hope. Related... Read the original on HuffPost COVINGTON COUNTY, Miss. (WHLT) A suspect was killed during an officer-involved shooting in Collins, according to authorities. Bailey Martin, spokesperson for the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS), said the incident occurred near Pine Avenue on February 13, 2026. Man wanted for breaking into Barrontown water works According to Martin, Collins police responded to a call for service regarding a disturbance involving an armed person. When they arrived, Martin said the suspect approached the officers with the weapon, and the officers shot the suspect. Advertisement Advertisement The unidentified suspect died, and one officer received minor injuries. No other injuries were reported. Agents with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) are investigating the shooting and will share their findings with the Mississippi Attorney Generals Office. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. HOWLAND, Ohio (WKBN) Law enforcement is investigating an officer-involved shooting in Howland Township. State Route 46 between East Market and High Streets is back open tonight following an officer-involved shooting late this morning. According to information from the Howland Police Department, the shooting happened about 11:07 a.m. on State Route 46 in front of the Howland Township Police and Fire Station. Advertisement Advertisement Its very stomach-turning, especially for someone who hasnt seen nothing like this quite yet, said witness Chloe Rosenberry. Rosenberry was working in the area when she heard what officials have confirmed was an officer-involved shooting. The officers were yelling asking him to drop something, but I wasnt 100% sure and thats pretty much it. Next thing I know I heard the gunshots, said Rosenberry. One man was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Police are not releasing his condition at this time. He was taken away by ambulance; he was still alive, which is a blessing in some sort of way, said Rosenberry. Advertisement Advertisement No officers were injured. First News was first tipped off to the incident just before 11:15 a.m. Friday. When we arrived, police from both Howland and Weathersfield were taking pictures of an SUV parked in front of the former Wahaka Taco, which is across from the Howland Fire Department. State Route 46 between East Market and High Streets was shut down. Township Administrator James Pantalone provided some information on behalf of police Chief Nick Roberts. Currently under investigation is an officer-involved shooting, BCI has been notified. Our police department is working through their standard operating procedures and guidelines, said Pantalone. Advertisement Advertisement The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI&I) is currently processing the scene and conducting an independent investigation. Our police department is working through their standard operating procedures and guidelines, so we want to get out to the media and public that this roadway will be closed for a significant amount of time, said Howland Township Police Chief Nick Roberts. Once appropriate, Im sure information will be pushed ou,t but at this point in time thats the only comments we have, said Pantalone. The Howland Township Police Department will conduct an internal administrative review, including a review of department use-of-force protocols. Advertisement Advertisement Nick Rich contributed to this report. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. An Ohio police officer was arrested on rape and abduction charges Thursday night, according to the Marion County Sheriffs Office. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Sheriffs deputies arrested City of Marion Police Officer Brendan Damron, 24, after receiving reports of sexual assault against an adult female family member. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Damron was booked into the Morrow County Jail on two counts of rape and one count of abduction. The sheriffs office said these charges stem from an off-duty incident that took place at a private home on Feb. 11. My team and I learned of these allegations and immediately began gathering evidence and once we had enough to make an arrest, we took Damron into custody, Sheriff Matt Bayles said. My office is separate from and independent of the City of Marion Police Department and we will be the lead investigators in this matter. Marion Police Chief Jay McDonald told our media partner, WBNS-10, that Damron is on administrative leave from the department and an internal affairs investigation is ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement The credibility of police depends on holding ourselves to the same legal standards as everyone else. I have faith that County Sheriff Matt Bayles and the County Prosecutor Ray Grogan will complete their investigative and prosecution duties fairly and based on the law, McDonald said. Damron is being held on a $250,000 bond. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] An assistant professor has been issued a summons to appear in court after a video released showed an encounter with an independent journalist. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Luke Perez was issued a summons to appear in court for assault after an incident inside The Ohio State Universitys (OSU) Smith Laboratory, an OSU spokesperson told our news partner WBNS in Columbus. Advertisement Advertisement As previously reported by News Center 7, Michael Newman, an independent journalist, said he was punched by Assistant Professor Luke Perez on Monday while attempting to interview former OSU president E. Gordon Gee. The footage captured a hallway confrontation that ended with Newman appearing to fall to the floor. Perez was placed on leave on Tuesday. TRENDING STORIES: Ohio State University spokesperson Ben Johnson addressed the universitys response to the faculty members actions. Advertisement Advertisement We are aware of the incident, and it is very concerning that the faculty member involved has been placed on administrative leave pending a full OSUPD investigation and thorough review of the facts, Johnson said. Ohio State confirmed Wednesday that it has dropped a trespassing charge originally filed against Newman. Newman spoke to our news partners at WBNS-TV. I was punched it was like an open-hand punch, this whole side right here, Newman said. He noted that the hallway confrontation happened instantaneously, and his first instinct was to protect his equipment as the camera fell to the floor. Advertisement Advertisement As bad as my injury was, my First Amendment rights were violated and thats just as bad, Newman said. While some claims suggested Newman entered the professors personal space, he stated that Perez was the one who confronted him. The video footage shows Newman continuing to record as he addresses former President Gee. He asked Gee if he condoned the actions, to which Gee responded by calling the journalist incorrigible. Newman, who is an Ohio State graduate, said the outcome would have been different if he had been the aggressor in the situation. Oh, I would be in jail that night, without a doubt, Newman said. Advertisement Advertisement He said he is still recovering from the physical injuries but remains shaken by the incident. He issued a direct message to the professor following the encounter. Mr. Perez, you are a coward, and you deserve everything thats coming your way, Newman said. You stood over me like you were tough youre a coward. The Ohio State University Police Department is conducting a full investigation into the incident. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A gynecologist at Ohio State University whose name appeared in the Epstein files as having received thousands of dollars in payments from the convicted sex offender for consulting work is being investigated by the university, an official there confirmed Friday. Dr. Mark Landon is cooperating with the investigation, Serena Smith, a spokesperson for OSU's Wexner Medical Center, said in an email. Landon "has stated he had no knowledge of any criminal activities and his consulting work did not involve any patient care," Smith said. Advertisement Advertisement "We continue to review the situation and have received no information to date that contradicts Dr. Landons statement," Smith said. Landon, who chairs OSUs Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and specializes in high-risk pregnancies, released a statement on Monday after his name was found in the files. "I did not provide any clinical care for Jeffrey Epstein or any of his victims," it said. "I was a paid consultant for the New York Strategy Group regarding potential biotech investments from 2001 to 2005. I had no knowledge of any criminal activities; I find them reprehensible and I feel terrible for Epsteins victims." The New York Strategy Group was Epstein's money management firm, records show. Advertisement Advertisement Landon's consulting work for Epstein's firm was before the financier was branded a registered sex offender in 2008, following a conviction in Florida for procuring a child for prostitution and soliciting a prostitute. In the files, the doctor's name appears in a 2006 email written to Epstein by Darren Indyke, an attorney who worked for him. Are we still paying Mark Landon?" it began. Indyke wrote that "Landons agreement requires quarterly payments of $30k to be made to Landon on the 15th of January, April, July and October." "The previous payment made to Landon was for $25,000 and not $30,000. The contract is terminable at will on 15 days prior notice. Is NYSG to make payment to Landon by January 15th and if so for $25K or $30K? Please advise. Advertisement Advertisement 75 per year, Epstein responded. The email did not specify what work Landon was paid for. There are also multiple FedEx receipts in the files for packages sent to Landon at the Wexner Medical Center between 2001 and 2004. They do not indicate what was sent in the packages. NBC News has reached out to Indyke for comment. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A student assistant at Ohio State University has been charged with sex crimes that allegedly involved a 13-year-old victim. Anthony Bokar has been accused of sexually abusing a 13-year-old girl from Athens County in November 2025, according to Athens County Common Pleas court documents viewed by WBNS. Bokar, 21, was sexting with the girl, according to the court documents. Their exchanges allegedly included sending and receiving photos and videos. Bokar also reportedly told the girl to wipe her phone of all information and the messages they had shared with each other. Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, Bokar has been accused of purchasing and delivering marijuana to the girl. The pair allegedly came into contact for the first time when Bokar delivered the drugs to the minor. "He drove to her home and picked her up. Then, [he] drove her to the campus at Hocking College, in which he engaged in oral sex as well as vaginally penetrative sex with a 13-year-old girl," prosecutors said during a court hearing on Thursday, February 12, viewed by ABC 6. "He also solicited feet pictures from her in exchange for money." Monster Woman Accused of Exploiting Foster Teen and Forcing Her Into Prostitution in Ohio Prosecutors also said during the hearing that they had just been informed today that he was soliciting pictures from other juvenile females around the same age: a 13-year-old girl. Advertisement Advertisement Bokar has been charged with unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, corrupting another with drugs and tampering with evidence. A $500,000 bond has been set for Bokar, according to ABC 6. The Fairfield Police Department did not immediately respond to Us Weeklys request for comment regarding the arrest. It is not currently clear if Bokar has retained legal representation or entered any pleas. Following his arrest, Ohio State University confirmed that Bokar was a student assistant. The statement added that he has been put on interim suspension. These allegations are extremely concerning. The individual in question has been placed on interim suspension and is not currently allowed on campus or at university engagements, including student teaching assignments, Ohio State spokesperson Ben Johnson said, according to the outlet. Nothing is more important than the safety of our campus community, and we will assist law enforcement in any way needed. We are unable to comment further given the ongoing investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Witness Makes New Claims About Timothy Busfields Alleged Teenage Victim Amid Abuse Allegations ABC 6 also spoke to the victims father, who shared that his daughter had to be placed on suicide watch after she suffered a mental breakdown at school. Shortly after the breakdown, she revealed the alleged sexual abuse by Bokar to her family. "You got a little 13-year-old girl who's in cheerleading one of the captains of the middle school Buckeyes and here's this Buckeye, saying he loves her and giving her drugs and money," he said. "When she talks, you definitely know she's a little girl. The verbiage that she uses, the things she talks about, are all childish." The father added that he is mainly focused on getting his daughter counseling so that she can process the trauma that Bokar allegedly inflicted on her. "To say it loud, and to say it to everyone, gives us the power," he said. "It helps with our healing." Despite what state report says, Ohio's population is growing Recent headlines have suggested that Ohios population is destined for long-term decline, citing projections from a state Department of Development report that rely heavily on birth and death rates to forecast that our population will shrink from 11.8 million people in 2020 to 11.1 million people in 2050. While those demographic trends matter, they tell only part of the story and overlook one of the most important drivers of population growth: economic opportunity. The reality is that Ohio is growing, and its growing because people follow jobs. The analysis in question focuses on natural population change (births minus deaths) but does not fully account for domestic migration, particularly the influx of workers and families moving to Ohio as a result of unprecedented economic investment. That omission leads to a misleading conclusion at a moment when Ohios economy is doing exactly what strong economies do attract people. Steve Stivers, president and CEO of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce Recent national data from the U.S. Census Bureau show that while overall U.S. population growth slowed significantly in 2025, rising by just 0.5%, Ohio was one of the states with positive net domestic migration. Ohio recorded an 11,926 net domestic migration gain in 2025, a dramatic turnaround from a loss of more than 32,000 in 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Over the last several years, Ohio has secured some of the most significant economic development wins in the nation. Companies are choosing Ohio for large-scale manufacturing, technology, logistics and energy projects because of our workforce, infrastructure, location and business climate. Those investments are creating real jobs, in real communities, right now. Consider whats already underway. Andurils planned hyperscale manufacturing facility near Columbus, the states largest single job-creation project in history, is reinforcing Ohios position as a leader in advanced technology and national security. Hondas electric vehicle and battery investments are anchoring the next generation of automotive manufacturing. Major expansions in logistics, aerospace, health care and advanced manufacturing are happening across the state, from northwest Ohio to the Ohio River Valley. These projects require tens of thousands of workers, not just on construction sites, but in permanent, high-quality jobs. And those workers dont exist in a vacuum. They bring families, buy homes, enroll children in schools and become part of our communities. That is population growth driven by economic growth. Weve seen this story before. States and regions that successfully attract large employers and invest in workforce development consistently outperform demographic projections that fail to account for migration. Ohio is no exception, and in many ways, we are uniquely positioned to benefit from this moment. Advertisement Advertisement Ohio offers affordability that coastal states cant match, world-class higher education and training institutions, reliable energy and infrastructure, amenities that contribute to a vibrant culture and sense of community, and a quality of life that resonates with workers across the spectrum. As companies look to reshore manufacturing, strengthen supply chains and invest in emerging technologies, Ohio checks the boxes they prioritize most. Ohios economy is growing. Investment is accelerating. Jobs are being created. And people are moving here because of it. If we stay focused on policies that support business growth, workforce readiness, infrastructure investment, innovation and quality of life, Ohio will continue to attract talent from across the country. Growth is not something that happens by accident; its the result of intentional choices. Ohio is making those choices, and the results are already visible. Ohios future is not one of decline. Its one of opportunity, and that becomes clear when we examine the full picture. Steve Stivers is president and CEO of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Ohio's strong economy attracts people to jobs, raising population A fire at an oil refinery in Cuba has been brought under control quickly, as the country faces a deepening fuel crisis. Black smoke clouds could be seen billowing from the Nico Lopez Refinery in the capital, Havana, on Friday. No-one was injured and an investigation into the blaze has been established, Cuba's energy ministry said in a post on X. The fire occurred close to where two oil tankers had been moored in Havana Bay. Advertisement Advertisement A fuel shortage in Cuba has been worsened by the US blocking oil shipments from Venezuela, a long-standing ally in the region, to the island. Venezuela was previously believed to have sent it around 35,000 barrels of oil a day before the US military captured former president Nicolas Maduro in a raid on the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, on 3 January. The US also confiscated Venezuelan oil tankers, cutting off key supplies of fuel to Cuba, and pledged new tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba. US President Donald Trump has urged Cuban leaders to "make a deal" or face unspecified consequences, after flows of oil and money from Venezuela were cut off. Advertisement Advertisement Electricity cuts have impacted hospital emergency wards, dialysis patients and pumping stations amid the latest supply shortfalls. Cuba also has a shortage of aviation fuel, leading several airlines to suspend services to the Caribbean island nation, while some countries, including the UK, have warned against non-essential travel there. "Authorities have introduced fuel rationing, scaled back public services, and made temporary changes to healthcare, education, transport and tourism operations to conserve severely limited energy supplies," the UK Foreign Office warned recently. As the oil embargo continues to make life and access to essentials difficult in Cuba, two Mexican ships carrying 800 tonnes of humanitarian aid arrived in Havana Bay on Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement United Nations human rights experts have described Washington's restrictions on Cuba's oil imports as an "extreme form of unilateral economic coercion". UN human rights chief Volker Turk said he was "extremely concerned" about the worsening crisis in Cuba. The US and Cuba have had a strained relationship since the communist Fidel Castro overthrew a US-backed government in 1959. US economic and trade embargoes on Cuba have been in place since 1960. While steps were taken to improve diplomatic relations, particularly under former US President Barack Obama, the Trump administration has reversed many of these moves. Megastar Rajinikanth enjoys a massive fan following, and some admirers revere him almost like a god. Their devotion is so intense that a few have even built temples in honour of the 'Sivaji: The Boss' actor. As Maha Shivaratri is on Sunday, Karthik, a fan of Rajinikanth from Madurai, performed a special pooja in a unique way by offering prayers at a temple he built inside his residence in honour of the superstar. Speaking to ANI, Karthik said, "This was the third consecutive year that Shivaratri pooja was being performed. The image of Rajinikanth in Lord Shiva's appearance from the film Uzhaippali was used for the rituals and adorned with a garland made of 500 vadais to honour the actor's 50-year journey in cinema..." Rajinikanth, affectionately known as "Thalaiva" (leader) by his legion of fans, remains one of the most revered and influential figures in Indian cinema. With a career spanning over five decades, he has starred in numerous films across languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, and English. Some of his memorable movies include 'Shivaji: The Boss', Annaamalai, Thalapathi, Padaiyappa, Robot, Jailer, and others. (ANI) Oklahoma lawmakers will have $571 million less to disburse on state programs and agencies than in 2025. The smaller total left some Republican legislators who help craft the state budget urging caution. The Board of Equalization approved a final budget of $12.2 billion for the coming fiscal year on Friday, Feb. 13. The figure was approved by all seven members of the board: Gov. Kevin Stitt, Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell, Auditor Cindy Byrd, State schools Superintendent Lindel Fields, Treasurer Todd Russ, Attorney General Gentner Drummond and Agriculture Secretary Blayne Arthur. Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Chuck Hall, the Senate Appropriations chairman, said in a statement that it would be a "challenging budget year" as lawmakers have less money to work with. Hall, a Republican from Perry, noted that about 80% of executive branch agencies requested budget increases. Hall said lawmakers are also faced with big financial requests, including the need to cover up to $495 million in additional funding for the state's Medicaid agency, in part because costs escalated as the result of President Donald Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill passed in 2025. Hall also noted a $25 million increase in SNAP administrative costs. That change also came from the Big Beautiful Bill. The funding needs are coming after the state saw major one-time expenses in 2025 that drew down its cash reserves, Hall said. Advertisement Advertisement Drummond, who's running for governor, noted the state moved to purchase a private prison after the company pulled out of its contract. The state purchased the Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility for $312 million, ending the states use of private prison contracts in July. It is now known as the Red Rock Correctional Center. The State Board of Equalization meeting at the Oklahoma State Capitol in the Governor's Conference Room, Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, said in a statement it will be difficult to meet state agencies' needs with the tight budget. She said failures at the federal level have left Oklahomans without crucial funding and said statewide income tax cuts "do nothing to invest in core services for everyday folks." Drummond did say he has more faith in the budget numbers put forth this year by the Office of Management and Enterprise Services. In 2025, Drummond said he did not trust the estimates released by the Stitt-overseen agency. Advertisement Advertisement Drummond said he felt his previous concerns had been addressed. Theyve made changes in their protocol, so it is my opinion that the numbers are more robustly reviewed and accurate," Drummond said. Previous Coverage Oklahoma lawmakers eye $12B budget as estimated revenues increase This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Lawmakers fear difficulty in disbursing state funds with tight budget An Edwardsville man ripped out a window screen in an attempt to break into his ex-girlfriends Old Forge home Wednesday, police said. Cassidine Redd, 31, faces a felony charge of of criminal trespass and remains in jail on $20,000 bail. According to the criminal complaint, Old Forge police officers were called to 505 Kohler Ave. at about 2:40 a.m. for the report of a burglary. After arriving, officers spoke with Giovina Marie Martinelli, who said she had been downstairs making lunches for her children when she heard a commotion at the front door. Advertisement Advertisement When she went to investigate, she found Redd yelling profanities and threatening her. He then removed a window screen and tried climbing through a window that had inadvertently been unlocked. Martinelli told officers Redd damaged a curtain during his efforts to enter her residence. She told investigators she fled upstairs to be with her children and called 911. When officers provided her with information about obtaining a protection-from-abuse order, Martinelli said Redd was simply not allowed at her residence because they were no longer in a relationship. Redd, whom officers found nearby, admitted attempting to get into the residence to retrieve personal belongings and a television. Advertisement Advertisement Records indicate Redd had active warrants out of Wilkes-Barre and Luzerne County Domestic Relations. He was taken into custody. Police searched Redd and found a small amount of marijuana and paraphernalia. He claimed to have a medical marijuana card, but police could not verify that through a records check. In addition to a criminal trespass charge, he also faces charges of possession of a small amount of marijuana, prowling at night and possession of paraphernalia. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 9:45 a.m. Feb. 24 before Magisterial District Judge Alyce Farrell. The Brief A man and a woman were struck by a suspected trash truck at Upshur Street and Georgia Avenue in Petworth around 2 p.m. Friday. The truck fled the scene; police are searching for a white and green vehicle labeled "244" with "WB Waste Solutions LLC" on the side. Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis George said one of the victims has died. WASHINGTON - A man and a woman were hit by what officials believe is a trash truck Friday afternoon. What we know Officials say two pedestrians were struck at the intersection of Upshur Street and Georgia Ave in Petworth around 2:00 p.m. on Friday. The victims have been identified as two adult females. Both were on an electric bike together when they were struck. Advertisement Advertisement One man died at the scene, per officials. The vehicle fled the scene, per officials. Officials say they have located a white and green trash truck labeled "244" with "WB Waste Solutions LLC" on the side in connection with the crash. One of the most popular beaches in Peru's capital Lima will close for one day on Sunday, in a rare move by authorities who say that heaps of garbage left each weekend has made the cherished spot unusable. Agua Dulce, which stretches for about a kilometer (0.6 miles), hosts up to 70,000 visitors every weekend during the summer season from December to March. "This measure is a way to make vacationers aware of the pollution they are generating on the beaches," the mayor of Lima's Chorrillos district, Richard Cortez, told reporters. Advertisement Advertisement The brief closure will allow crews to clean up the sandy coastline. City officials say nearly 20 tons of trash -- from plastic and glass bottles to food waste -- is collected every week at Agua Dulce. This week, one cleaning crew cleared half of a roasted pig, buried in the sand. "This has been going on for years," said Cortez. "The best message we can send to visitors is to close the beach. We must not end up having to close it permanently." Lima is home to more than 10 million people. cm/gmo/sst/msp Doctors Without Borders, known by its French initials MSF, has suspended some operations at a Nasser Hospital in Gaza after its staff and patients saw armed men, some masked posing serious security threats inside the building. The Geneva-based medical charity reported on its website that non-essential work at the hospital in Khan Younis was halted on January 20 due to concerns with the management of the structure, the safeguarding of its neutrality, and security breaches. MSF teams have reported a pattern of unacceptable acts, including the presence of armed men, intimidation, arbitrary arrests of patients, and a recent situation of suspicion of movement of weapons, said the sites frequently asked questions section, last updated on February 11. Advertisement Advertisement Hospitals must remain neutral, civilian spaces, free from military presence or activity to ensure the safe and impartial delivery of medical care, it said, adding that the charity expressed concern to the relevant authorities. Under the suspension, MSF will continue supporting critical services, such as inpatient and surgical departments, but will end support to the paediatrics and maternity wards, including the neonatal intensive care unit, and will no longer offer a range of outpatient consultations and other services. The organisation was not able to indicate the armed mens affiliation, but said its concerns were heightened by previous, deliberate Israeli attacks on health facilities. Israel has decimated the enclaves health infrastructure and continues to hold captive 95 Palestinian doctors and medical workers, including 80 from Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Zaher al-Waheidi, the head of the records department at Gazas Ministry of Health, said that MSFs suspension will have a significant impact as hundreds of patients are admitted to the maternity and burn wards daily. He said the ministry would take over maternity patient care. Gazas Ministry of Interior said in a statement that it is committed to preventing any armed presence inside hospitals, and that legal action will be taken against violators. It suggested that armed members of certain families recently entered hospitals, but did not identify those involved. Israeli ban on aid organisations MSFs announcement comes after Israel recently ordered the charity and dozens of other international organisations to stop their work in Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank if they did not meet new rules, including sharing details about their staff. Advertisement Advertisement Two weeks ago, MSF which provides international staff for six hospitals, and operates two field hospitals and eight primary health centres, clinics and medical points said it would not submit a staff list to Israel after failing to receive assurances for their safety. Israel has repeatedly attacked hospitals and healthcare workers throughout its genocidal war on Gaza. In other developments on Saturday, Israels military said its troops eliminated a person in northern Gaza, alleging that the unidentified individual crossed the yellow line. The demarcation divides Gaza into an eastern area under Israeli military control and a western area where Palestinians face fewer movement restrictions but are under constant threat of air strikes and forced displacement. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas slammed Israel for violating the US-brokered ceasefire, during which Israel has killed nearly 600 Palestinians since October 10. Advertisement Advertisement In a speech by Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa at an African Union summit in Ethiopia, he called on Israel to remove all obstacles to implementing phase two of the truce deal, including the work of a technocratic committee that will oversee the daily governance of Gaza. More than 72,000 Palestinians have been killed and 171,000 wounded in attacks in Israels genocidal war on Gaza since October 2023. The first day of the sturgeon spearing season began Saturday, Feb. 14, on Lake Winnebago. The Lake Winnebago system is home to the world's largest freshwater sturgeon population. The Winnebago System supports an annual spearing season that runs for a maximum of 16 days or until any of the predetermined harvest caps have been met. The harvest caps are 350 juvenile females, 732 adult females or 1226 males. Sturgeon can grow to more than 200 pounds. Advertisement Advertisement According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, "This years assessments indicate excellent water clarity throughout Lake Winnebago, which is on track with other highly successful years." Wisconsin DNR biologist Drew Wallace weighs a sturgeon during the first day of the spearing season Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Linda's Supper Club on east shore of Lake Winnebago in Pipe, Wisconsin. The Lake Winnebago system is home to the world's largest freshwater sturgeon population. The Winnebago System supports an annual spearing season that runs for a maximum of 16 days (closing March 1, 2026) or until any of the predetermined harvest caps have been met. The harvest caps are 350 juvenile females, 732 adult females or 1226 males. According to the Wisconsin DNR, This years assessments indicate excellent water clarity throughout Lake Winnebago, which is on track with other highly successful years. Sturgeon can grow to more than 200 pounds. during the first day of the spearing season Saturday, February 14, 2026 on east shore of Lake Winnebago near Pipe, Wisconsin. The Lake Winnebago system is home to the world's largest freshwater sturgeon population. The Winnebago System supports an annual spearing season that runs for a maximum of 16 days (closing March 1, 2026) or until any of the predetermined harvest caps have been met. The harvest caps are 350 juvenile females, 732 adult females or 1226 males. According to the Wisconsin DNR, This years assessments indicate excellent water clarity throughout Lake Winnebago, which is on track with other highly successful years. Sturgeon can grow to more than 200 pounds. A sturgeon is shown during the first day of the spearing season Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Linda's Supper Club on east shore of Lake Winnebago in Pipe, Wisconsin. The Lake Winnebago system is home to the world's largest freshwater sturgeon population. The Winnebago System supports an annual spearing season that runs for a maximum of 16 days (closing March 1, 2026) or until any of the predetermined harvest caps have been met. The harvest caps are 350 juvenile females, 732 adult females or 1226 males. According to the Wisconsin DNR, This years assessments indicate excellent water clarity throughout Lake Winnebago, which is on track with other highly successful years. Sturgeon can grow to more than 200 pounds. Spearing shacks dot the ice during the first day of the spearing season Saturday, February 14, 2026 on east shore of Lake Winnebago near Pipe, Wisconsin. The Lake Winnebago system is home to the world's largest freshwater sturgeon population. The Winnebago System supports an annual spearing season that runs for a maximum of 16 days (closing March 1, 2026) or until any of the predetermined harvest caps have been met. The harvest caps are 350 juvenile females, 732 adult females or 1226 males. According to the Wisconsin DNR, This years assessments indicate excellent water clarity throughout Lake Winnebago, which is on track with other highly successful years. Sturgeon can grow to more than 200 pounds.\ Greg Guelig poses for a souvenir photo with his 53-pound sturgeon during the first day of the spearing season Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Linda's Supper Club on east shore of Lake Winnebago in Pipe, Wisconsin. The Lake Winnebago system is home to the world's largest freshwater sturgeon population. The Winnebago System supports an annual spearing season that runs for a maximum of 16 days (closing March 1, 2026) or until any of the predetermined harvest caps have been met. The harvest caps are 350 juvenile females, 732 adult females or 1226 males. According to the Wisconsin DNR, This years assessments indicate excellent water clarity throughout Lake Winnebago, which is on track with other highly successful years. Sturgeon can grow to more than 200 pounds. Sisters Devin and Scarlett Plonsky pull two sturgeon speared by their party during the first day of the spearing season Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Linda's Supper Club on east shore of Lake Winnebago in Pipe, Wisconsin. The Lake Winnebago system is home to the world's largest freshwater sturgeon population. The Winnebago System supports an annual spearing season that runs for a maximum of 16 days (closing March 1, 2026) or until any of the predetermined harvest caps have been met. The harvest caps are 350 juvenile females, 732 adult females or 1226 males. According to the Wisconsin DNR, This years assessments indicate excellent water clarity throughout Lake Winnebago, which is on track with other highly successful years." Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel A sign wishes good luck to spearers during the first day of the spearing season Saturday, February 14, 2026 on east shore of Lake Winnebago near Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The Lake Winnebago system is home to the world's largest freshwater sturgeon population. The Winnebago System supports an annual spearing season that runs for a maximum of 16 days (closing March 1, 2026) or until any of the predetermined harvest caps have been met. The harvest caps are 350 juvenile females, 732 adult females or 1226 males. According to the Wisconsin DNR, This years assessments indicate excellent water clarity throughout Lake Winnebago, which is on track with other highly successful years. Sturgeon can grow to more than 200 pounds. Opening day of sturgeon spearing season on Lake Winnebago 1 of 7 Wisconsin DNR biologist Drew Wallace weighs a sturgeon during the first day of the spearing season Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Linda's Supper Club on east shore of Lake Winnebago in Pipe, Wisconsin. The Lake Winnebago system is home to the world's largest freshwater sturgeon population. The Winnebago System supports an annual spearing season that runs for a maximum of 16 days (closing March 1, 2026) or until any of the predetermined harvest caps have been met. The harvest caps are 350 juvenile females, 732 adult females or 1226 males. According to the Wisconsin DNR, This years assessments indicate excellent water clarity throughout Lake Winnebago, which is on track with other highly successful years. Sturgeon can grow to more than 200 pounds. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Opening day of sturgeon spearing season on Lake Winnebago Negotiations between the U.S. and Iran are once again collapsing under the weight of their own contradictions. The diplomatic track that President Trump reopened in Oman was never built to succeed, and everyone involved knew it. Yet Washington is now drifting toward a confrontation the president insists he does not seek, a war produced not by intention, but by structural impossibility. At the heart of the deadlock are two immovable forces: the red lines of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and those of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Khamenei insists that uranium enrichment is a sovereign right guaranteed under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Yet he refuses to negotiate anything beyond the nuclear file. Although Irans atomic energy chief Mohammad Eslami says Tehran is open to diluting its 60 percent enriched uranium if the U.S. lifts all sanctions, even within that narrow space Khamenei has offered no indication of what concessions he might accept. Netanyahus minimum demand, in contrast, is the total dismantling of Irans nuclear program zero enrichment, zero stockpile, zero infrastructure. These positions do not overlap. There is no diplomatic middle ground. And Trump, committed to preventing Iran from reaching the nuclear threshold, stepped into talks knowing the gap could not be bridged. Advertisement Advertisement Trump agreed to exploratory discussions in Oman despite intelligence assessments from both governmental and nongovernmental experts showing that Irans nuclear breakout time has shrunk dramatically in recent years. He does not want war, but he is preparing for the possibility of one, as reflected in the broader U.S. military posture in the Gulf. Pressure from Netanyahu and regime change advocates in Washington continues to push the administration toward a harder line. Moreover, the talks do not touch Irans ballistic missile program or its network of militias stretching from Yemen to Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon. Yet these are not bargaining chips for Tehran; they are the pillars of the Islamic Republics power structure. Khamenei presides over a system held together by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its regional proxies, viewing missiles as the core of deterrence and militias as the engine of influence. To ask him to negotiate them away is to ask him to dismantle the revolutions very architecture. This is the real dilemma: the United States is trying to normalize a regime that does not want to be normal. For 47 years, every administration from Reagan to Obama has attempted to transform the Islamic Republic into a conventional state that plays by conventional rules. All have failed. Trump, by withdrawing from the nuclear agreement to satisfy Netanyahu and hardliners in Washington, helped entrench the very dynamics he now seeks to reverse. The result is a strategic paradox. Trump does not want war. Iran does not want war. Yet both sides are moving toward it, because diplomacy cannot deliver what each side demands. When negotiations are impossible and deterrence becomes the only language left, miscalculation becomes the most likely author of the next chapter. Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. must confront a difficult truth: it has failed not only to manage the Islamic Republic, but also to build any viable alternative to it. After nearly half a century of clerical rule, Washington still lacks a coherent strategy for dealing with a regime that is neither collapsing nor reforming, a regime that survives precisely because it refuses to become what American policy has long assumed it should be. The Middle East now stands on the edge of a prolonged and punishing conflict. The question is no longer whether diplomacy can prevent it, but whether Washington is prepared for the consequences of a war it never intended to fight. Charbel A. Antoun is a Washington-based journalist and writer specializing in U.S. foreign policy, with a focus on the Middle East and North Africa. He is passionate about global affairs, conflict resolution, human rights, and democratic governance, and explores the worlds complexities through in-depth reporting and analysis. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Budapest - Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has branded the opposition as a "creation" of foreign powers in his annual state-of-the-nation address on Saturday against the backdrop of upcoming parliamentary elections. Orban singled out German politicians in the European Parliament and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as the main driving forces behind the rising conservative opposition Respect and Freedom Party (Tisza). A new parliament is set to be elected in Hungary on April 12. For the first time in 16 years, the 63-year-old right-wing populist leader faces a serious challenge to his grip on power. Advertisement Advertisement "We already knew that our real opponents are not the Hungarian opposition parties. Our real opponents are their masters in Brussels," Orban told a hand-picked audience in Budapest. Led by Peter Magyar, Tisza has been polling as a potential winner in the upcoming elections. Orban claimed the party was "a creation of Brussels," orchestrated by German lawmaker Manfred Weber, president of the European People's Party (EPP), with von der Leyen as its "godmother." "The Germans know they need a Hungarian party," Orban added, linking Tisza's emergence to Fidesz's 2021 departure from the EPP over refugee policy disputes. Advertisement Advertisement In the June 2024 European elections, Tisza secured nearly 30% of the vote from scratch, and its MEPs now bolster the EPP group, which also includes Germany's conservative bloc. Magyar, 19 years younger than Orban, is a former member of the ruling Fidesz party and held relatively minor posts. For 17 years, he was married to former justice minister Judit Varga, a position that gave him insight into the inner workings of Orban's government. Magyar broke with Fidesz two years ago after a scandal involving the pardon of a paedophile volunteer ended Varga's political career. After leaving Fidesz, Magyar founded Tisza. Coming from a middle-class Budapest family, he emphasizes conservatism and patriotism without exclusivity. Advertisement Advertisement With a small team, Magyar has built a high-energy campaign, using humour and social media to challenge Orban's rule. Tisza has maintained an eight- to 10-point lead over Fidesz in polls for the past 18 months. Its election programme, published a week ago, pledges that Hungary will be "a credible, active, and constructive member of the EU and NATO." Under Orban, Hungary has blocked or diluted EU sanctions against Russia and limited support for Ukraine, reflecting his close relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Tisza promises to end this "see-saw" policy and firmly align Hungary with Western alliances. House Bill 4145, another contentious firearms bill being debated before the Oregon Legislature, aims to modify the firearm permit provisions of Ballot Measure 114. Measure 114 was narrowly approved by 50.65% of voters in 2022, but has since been embroiled in legal challenges over its constitutionality in both state and federal courts. The measure mandates a permit to purchase firearms, issued by local law enforcement within 30 days, and bans high-capacity magazines. The permit requires a background check, fingerprinting and safety training. Advertisement Advertisement Opponents believe such regulations infringe upon Second Amendment gun rights. The Oregon Supreme Court heard oral arguments on the case in November but has yet to issue a ruling. Tony Aiello Jr., a civil rights attorney representing gun owners before the court, told the House Committee on Judiciary during a Feb. 2 hearing on House Bill 4145 that a decision could take nine to 12 months. "I do not understand the rush from the Oregon Legislature to impose a law that we do not know is constitutional," Aiello Jr. said. Civil rights attorney Tony Aiello Jr. recommends the House Bill 4145 conversation wait until the Oregon Supreme Court rules whether Measure 114 is constitutional. The bill, whose chief sponsors are Rep. Jason Kropf, D-Bend, and Rep. Dacia Grayber, D-Portland, would modify the process outlined in Measure 114, including extending the permit timeframe from 30 to 60 days, and increasing the permit application fees from $65 to $150. Advertisement Advertisement The National Rifle Association referred to House Bill 4145 on its website as "the Ballot Measure 114 bait and switch implementation bill." "This bill overrides the will of the voters and is a substantial deviation from the ballot measure that was passed," the NRA's Aoibheann Cline said during the hearing, noting that "50.65% of the voters did not approve 60 days; they approved 30. Voters have approved a maximum (permit fee) of $65. This bill increases the fee to 130% of that." Supporters see permit-to-purchase as effective gun violence prevention In-person and online testimony during the hearing was relatively balanced, although written testimony logged into the Oregon Legislative Information System was overwhelmingly against House Bill 4145 (74% of 1,803 entries are opposed). Rep. Sarah Finger McDonald, D-Corvallis, testified that a permit-to-purchase system is one of the most effective gun violence prevention policies that can be enacted, citing how Connecticut's firearm homicide rate decreased 28% and firearm suicide rates decreased 33% when the state enacted a permitting law in 1995. Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Ed Diehl, R-Scio, refuted part of McDonald's claim, saying that Connecticut's overall suicide rate remained flat through the late 1990s. Monmouth's Angel Swanson, whose son is exposed to active shooter drills at school, testified in favor of House Bill 4145. "I think the least that I can do as a parent, and I think all of us can do as citizens regardless of where we are on the political spectrum, is to maybe prioritize the safety of my son over the convenience of gun ownership processing if gun ownership processing made a little bit less convenient means more safety," Swanson said. Erin Riley, state membership lead for Moms Demand Action, also testified in support of the bill on behalf of her son, who died by gun suicide 16 years ago. Advertisement Advertisement "The last 16 years, my mantra has been we need more barriers between troubled people and guns," she said. "A lot of suicides are impulsive acts, and this bill would put a barrier in that process. To take a class, to apply for a permit, gives people in these desperate situations time to think about it, to reconsider, to cool off." Handguns for sale displayed in March 2025 at Pewnitions Factory in Salem. Opponents say many can't afford higher permit fees of House Bill 4145 While opponents recognize the need to address the mental health crisis, they don't view a permit-to-purchase system as an effective solution. "Punishing law-abiding citizens with red tape does nothing for a person in a mental health crisis who already owns a firearm," Landon Treaner of Powell Butte said. "Let us stop targeting legal gunowners and start funding the mental health and prevention programs that actually save lives." Several people noted that House Bill 4145, with higher permit fees and renewal costs, would have the biggest burden on rural families, seniors and Oregonians living paycheck to paycheck. Advertisement Advertisement Some questioned which constitutional right might require a permit next if the bill passed. "I think 60 days and $150 is something we would never dream of applying to any other right that's guaranteed in our constitution," said Rep. Alek Skarlatos, R-Canyonville. "We can't charge people $150 to vote. You cant put a background check on them and wait 60 days to see if theyre approved to see if they want to vote or practice their freedom of speech." Those opposed to House Bill 4145 also chastised the Legislature for what they consider a lack of transparency in the process. The public hearing was held on the first day of the short session, and many people reported issues with registering online for public testimony. "This is a large and complex bill with significant legal and constitutional implications, yet it was scheduled with little notice, and public testimony did not open until late this morning," Diehl said during the hearing. "Thats not how we work, guys, that's not how we work. Advertisement Advertisement "People in Oregon already feel like their voice is not heard. We saw that on the (gas tax) referendum, and were doing it again right here, not giving them a chance to weigh in." The House Judiciary Committee rescheduled a Feb. 10 work session on House Bill 4145 to Feb. 16. Capi Lynn is a senior reporter for the Statesman Journal. Send comments, questions and tips to her at clynn@statesmanjournal.com. This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Oregon House Bill 4145 pitches higher gun permit fees, longer waits North Fox Island looks idyllic from the air shaped like a teardrop, dense with forest and edged with sandy shores. Its surrounded by the cold blue waters of Lake Michigan and located 19 miles off the coast of the Leelanau Peninsula. In the 1970s, the uninhabited island belonged to Francis Frank Shelden, a Detroit millionaire with a Yale degree, a prestigious family name, and a reputation as a philanthropist. Shelden bought the island from a widow for $20,000 and carved out an airstrip, dug miles of dirt trails, and built cabins deep into the woods. Transportation to and from the island was, and still is to this day, limited. The island - just two miles wide and one mile long - could have been considered paradise. Advertisement Advertisement But investigators later uncovered the islands disturbing purpose an elaborate child sexual abuse ring operating behind the front of a summer camp for disadvantaged boys. The only arrest was of Sheldens co-conspirator, Gerald Richards. Richards was a gym teacher who moonlighted as a magician. The operation on the island was exposed when one of his students told their mother about inappropriate conduct by Richards in gym class. The case of Frank Shelden and North Fox Island has haunting similarities to the Jeffrey Epstein saga which has come under renewed public scrutiny this year (AP) Richards pleaded guilty to charges of first-degree criminal sexual conduct and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. But Shelden, who reportedly got word from another co-conspirator that the police were investigating, fled the country. He was never caught. The secret operation, disguised as Brother Pauls Childrens Mission, was promoted as a retreat or summer camp for boys. But an investigation later uncovered evidence that these boys were transported to the island by private plane for depraved sex acts. The number of victims is unknown, but authorities believe there are at least dozens, if not hundreds. Advertisement Advertisement The case has haunting similarities to the Jeffrey Epstein saga, which has come under renewed public scrutiny this year. The Trump administration has released millions of files on the late financiers sex trafficking operations of underage girls and women, entangling dozens of rich and powerful people. Like Shelden, Epstein had an island of his own - Little St. James, which locals nicknamed Pedophile Island, is a private paradise in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Little St. James, which locals nicknamed Pedophile Island is a private paradise in the U.S. Virgin Islands (DOJ) And similar to Sheldens case, only Epsteins accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, has been convicted of a crime. She was sentenced to 20 years in prison on sex trafficking charges. Epstein died by suicide in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial. The similarities are not lost on Colin Browen, a documentary filmmaker and podcast host who is working on an investigative docuseries with author and investigative journalist J Ruben Appleman about Sheldens operation. Its set to be released later this year. Advertisement Advertisement Essentially, Frank Shelden was the Jeffrey Epstein of the 1970s, Browen told The Independent. Its as simple as that. Browen, who launched The Paranormal Files and Murder in America, began to look into the North Fox Island saga when he noticed there was a lack of coverage on organized pedophilia. Somewhere along the way, when we were doing these stories, I started noticing that there was a certain type of crime that wasnt being covered and that was organized pedophilia, Browen said. I found the story one day, he said about Sheldens case. And I couldnt believe what I was reading, and I just went on TikTok, made a video... and two years later, I found myself on North Fox Island actually investigating the crimes for myself. Colin Browen, a documentary filmmaker and podcast host, is working on an investigative docuseries about Frank Sheldens pedophila operation. Its set to be released later this year (Provided) Browens investigation has taken him outside of Michigan, as far as the Netherlands, Amsterdam, Germany and India, places where its believed Shelden continued to commit pedophilia crimes. He claims to have spoken to new victims of Shelden, along with alleged perpetrators. Advertisement Advertisement The project challenges how wealth, power, and institutional protection have historically shielded perpetrators from accountability and why these patterns continue today, he said. But Browen believes there is more information about Sheldens case that officials have not released. After multiple requests with the FBI and other agencies, he is now suing the FBI for access to more than 1,047 unreleased files in the Shelden case, after the bureau claimed that it would take more than six years to redact the documents. Brother Pauls Nature Camp: A Front for Abuse When Browen visited North Fox Island in 2024, he was reminded how eerily silent it was. Some of the cabins that were built for Sheldens camp were still standing, the same structures described by the boys in the files he had been examining for months. Advertisement Advertisement They described CSAM being recorded, torturous sexual abuse, horrific things happening on the Island, Browen said about what he had read in the files. CSAM (child sexual abuse material) is a term now used by Law enforcement and child protection organizations to accurately reflect crimes against children. Shelden was born into Michigan royalty a descendant of Russell Alger, a lumber baron and the states 20th governor who later served as President William McKinleys secretary of war. A 1975 Detroit Free Press profile described Shelden as a wealthy bachelor who had graduated from Yale University with a masters degree in geology from Wayne State University. He also served in the Michigan Air Guard and volunteered with the Big Brothers club. Shelden never married. Advertisement Advertisement In 1975, Shelden opened Brother Pauls Nature Camp, a tax-exempt charitable trust and a mission that promised tutoring, counseling, and outdoor experiences for troubled boys. His partner, Gerald Richards, was a Catholic school gym teacher and traveling magician who recruited children to the camp often his own students. Shelden was the figurehead in this operation, but he also had co-conspirators, Browen explained. And one of those was Richards. He was actually caught for this. He's kind of like Ghislaine Maxwell in this story in a way, Browen said. He would help get children. Mike Dunsmore, a fire chief in Greenwood Township, Michigan, was a former student of Richards. He told During a Click On Detroit interview in 2019, Dunsmore recalled a number of horrific stories from his time at the camp. Including a time in which Richards ordered other boys to bury him in the sand while he was naked. Escape from justice Shelden and Richards were not the only ones linked to the horrific crimes. Dyer Grossman and Adam Starchild were also named in both Detroit police reports and case files with the FBI. Advertisement Advertisement But when the investigation into the camp began in 1976, and Richards was arrested, both Shelden and Grossman evaded capture by fleeing the United States. Somehow, he was given enough time to go through all of his properties and destroy all the evidence, every file, everything, and thats officially where the trail ends on Sheldon, Browen claims about Shelden. Starchild was questioned about his alleged involvement in Sheldens operation, but there was not sufficient evidence to charge him. The US Attorneys Office in Detroit issued an arrest warrant charging Shelden with criminal sexual conduct, a felony in Michigan, involving the procurement and sexual activities involving young boys ages 8-14 in the Port Huron and Traverse City areas. Advertisement Advertisement Both Shelden and Grossman were declared fugitives of justice. Shelden fled to the Netherlands, eventually married a French woman to obtain citizenship, and reportedly continued abusing boys across Europe, according to Browen, who plans to chronicle the new findings in his docuseries. In the 1970s, Francis Frank Shelden, a Detroit millionaire, bought North Fox Island in Michigan and turned it into a place for a sex trafficking ring (Click On Detroit/Local 4/WDIV) There are reports that Shelden died in Amsterdam in 1996, but details are limited. Theres a marriage certificate for him, Browen said. And hes got a death certificate in Amsterdam, and that's it. Richards pleaded guilty to charges of first-degree criminal sexual conduct. On September 13, 1976, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison, according to a Michigan State Police report. Advertisement Advertisement He testified about his role in the pedophile ring at a congressional hearing on child abuse in 1977, stating that Brother Paul Nature Camp was designed to victimize children and evade taxes. Richards is reported to have died in 1998 by suicide. There is little information about Grossman and Starchild in the years after the ring was busted. Its unclear if either man is still alive. Is there a possible link to unsolved child murders? The abuse at North Fox Island was taking place at the same time as another notorious Michigan crime - the Oakland County child murders. Between February 1976 and March 1977, four children were abducted and murdered in Oakland County. Their killer, or killers, have never been arrested for their murders. The victims were Mark Stebbins, 12; Jill Robinson, 12; Kristine Mihelich, 10; and Timothy King, 11. Police believe only the boys had been sexually assaulted. The cause of death in three of the cases is listed as suffocation, but Jill Robinson was murdered with a shotgun. But there has been persistent speculation that the killings were linked to the child pornography ring on North Fox Island, which was investigated by police in 1977. Investigators do not believe Shelden or Richards could have been the Oakland County Child Killer, but one theory suggests the killer could be someone they victimized on the island, Click on Detroit reported. The victims of the Oakland County child murders are pictured left to right: Timothy King, Kristine Mihelich, Mark Stebbins, and Jill Robinson (Michigan State Police) We were the first to look at pornography and pornography rings and pedophilia as being a motive in this (Oakland County Child Killer) case, former Wayne County Detective Cory Williams told The Shattered podcast as reported by Click on Detroit. We put quite a bit of time and effort into that. Were these kids filmed? Pictures taken? Were they passed around? We dont know at this point, but we did put a lot of time and effort into that. Over the years, investigators had persons of interest in the case, many of whom were linked to or had been charged with crimes involving pedophilia. One of those individuals was Christopher Busch. He was a convicted pedophile who lived in Bloomfield Hills and came onto police radar in 1977. But in 2012, police said there was no evidence suggesting Busch was the killer. His DNA does not match the physical evidence investigators have. He died in 1978 in what was ruled a suicide. A suspect is not currently named in the Oakland County Child Killer case. New findings When Browen began investigating Shelden, it was an interview with Appelman that would shed new light on the case and bring Browen face-to-face with some of the victims. Appelmans book, The Kill Jar, chronicles both the North Fox Island sex trafficking ring and the Oakland County child murders after years of studying thousands of pages of local, state, and FBI case documents, including previously private witness statements, autopsy reports, catalogs of evidence, crime scene photos, interrogation transcription, polygraph results, and personal correspondences and interviews highlighted within piles of bankers boxers obtained through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, according to his bio. He wrote that the North Fox Island operation functioned essentially as a subscription service centered on the production of child pornography and the sexual abuse of boys ages 7 to 16. In exchange for their contributions, the camps sponsors could receive pornography that police said was produced on the island, or even visit the island themselves. But its what happened after the books release that inspired Browen to team up with Appelman for further investigation. Appelman told Browen that hundreds, if not thousands, of messages had been sent to him from people who claimed they were molested by Shelden after he fled to Europe. We have spoken with victims of his over there, and we also tracked him all the way to India We have photographs of him with children in an orphanage in the 1990s. Browen said. Like, this guy is single-handedly responsible for all these children who were molested or used for the production of the CSAM material, and what's shocking to me is, you know, in doing a series like this, not only do we want to track the crimes of Shelden and figure out who he victimized and where he was, because it's never been done, he added. The upcoming docuseries will also take a closer look at the crimes that Shelden reportedly committed in Europe and Asia. From the underbelly of the Netherlands, to orphanages in India, to the glitzy hills of Hollywood, and back to the place where it all started in North Fox Island, Browen said. Browen pointed out that this investigation feels particularly timely amid the ongoing release of the Epstein files. He added that hes hoping to raise awareness of the Shelden case and show what happens when the pressure is not applied. Shelden had a network of pedophiles he was sending that material to, Browen explained. Thousands of pedophiles on his mailing lists, thousands of pedophiles that were receiving CSAM materials through the mail, none of them ever arrested, none of the people that were producing the materials, none of them investigated or anything, and it all just went away. We're seeing the same thing with Epstein, he added. Coming forward Browen says his focus is on the survivors. If you actually look at these stories, and you read the facts and you go beyond the headlines and you watch interviews with survivors, and for me, you sit in a room with them, and you cry with them, and you hear stories that they've never been comfortable enough to share before," he said. It becomes so real that it consumes you, and for me, there's nothing else that I can even think about at this point other than trying to raise the alarm surrounding these historic rings because this is what happened. He recalled meeting a man in Amsterdam who said he had been sex trafficked to Shelden by his own grandfather. He had some absolutely horrific stories, and I mean, everybody's crying, Browen said. Like, there's a lot of crying and tears from our all-male production team, you know, it's really powerful stuff. Browen warned that without accountability, history repeats itself. If we dont do something about Epstein and find some sort of justice for all of the survivors and victims, the story is just going to die and go away. A pattern that never ended Like Epstein, Shelden was a bachelor who used his wealth, philanthropy and society connections to shield his crimes in plain sight. Thousands of men on Sheldens mailing lists were never charged. Names remain unknown. Browen has filed multiple Freedom of Information Act requests with the FBI with the aim of obtaining thousands of unreleased files on the case. But the FBI has told him it could take more than six years to redact and release the documents, he said. With my requests to the FBI theyve told me its going to take six plus years to send over a thousand, he said. Which makes no sense. The FBI did not respond to The Independents questions about the Shelden files. North Fox Island was bought by the state of Michigan in 2000. It sits quietly abandoned. But Browen refuses to let the horrific crimes that happened there fade into the past. His team has since returned to the island with cadaver dogs - and what they found was shocking, he said. Browen wouldnt reveal details, but said they are planning to go back and that they will continue to push for answers. You can see what happens when everything fails, he said. When people aren't brought to justice, and either someone escapes, someone dies ... well, the stories just fade away. We cant let that happen. Legendary actor Anupam Kher's film 'Tanvi The Great' was recently watched by the students and teachers of Jamnabai Narsee School at a special screening. On Saturday, Anupam took to Instagram and expressed his happiness on meeting "young minds" who "connected with the story." "We are deeply touched and truly grateful to the students, teachers, the respected Principal, and the Trustees #JamnabaiNarseeSchool for taking the time to watch Tanvi The Great.Your appreciation, your thoughtful responses, and the love you have shown the film mean more to us than words can express. When young minds and guiding mentors connect with a story, it gives the film a life far beyond the screen," Kher wrote. He added, "TANVI THE GREAT continues to grow because of hearts like yours -- hearts that believe in love, courage, kindness, and goodness. If the film has inspired even one student to stand taller, dream bigger, or be kinder, our purpose has been fulfilled. Thank you for embracing the film and for carrying its message forward. Jai Ho! #SchoolScreenings #MagicOfTanvi With gratitude and warmth,Team Tanvi The Great." https://www.instagram.com/p/DUuZ1-fgrlz/?hl=en 'Tanvi The Great,' directed by actor Anupam Kher, features Shubhangi Dutt in the lead role of Tanvi Raina. The film explores themes of autism and the Indian Army. Shubhangi plays a young girl inspired by her late father's army service, as she dreams of following in his footsteps. The film also stars Anupam Kher, Jackie Shroff, Boman Irani, and Karan Tacker in key roles. It has received praise internationally, having been screened at major festivals in Cannes, New York, Houston, and London. It also received standing ovations at special screenings at the National Defence Academy and Southern Command in Pune. (ANI) Tribes, Oklahoma leaders, friends and family are mourning former Osage Nation Principal Chief James Jim Roan Gray, 64, who died on Feb. 12 at his Skiatook home. Born in Pawhuska on June 11, 1961, Gray's family briefly lived in Colorado before returning to Pawhuska, where he graduated high school before going on to graduate from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah. Known as a media pioneer and for leading the reform and redesign of the Osage Nations government, Gray served two consecutive terms as Osage Nation principal chief from 2002 to 2010 and was the youngest leader elected in the nations modern history. Jim Gray is seen during his time as Osage Nation Principal Chief. Gray ushered in the tribes shift from a federal allotment system to a sovereign constitutional government, acting as a model for other tribes across the country. Advertisement Advertisement Under Gray's leadership the Osage Nation's government ratified its first constitution in 2006, securing equal voting rights for every member 18 years and older, when previously only those with shares in the tribes mineral estate could vote. His leadership, vision, and service were rooted in love for the Wahzhazhe people and our sovereignty. He did all this with immense generosity and kindness, reads a statement from current Osage leadership. We give thanks for the work he carried forward on behalf of our Nation and the path he strengthened for future generations. Flags have been lowered at Osage and Muscogee Nation tribal facilities to half staff to honor Gray. Communities mourn a mentor to many throughout Indian Country Ben Barnes, chairperson of the United Indian Nations of Oklahoma and Chief of the Shawnee Nation, shared condolences over the loss, describing Gray's most prized title to be that of a family man. Advertisement Advertisement Hailing from a large, traditional Osage family the youngest of seven children, Gray later became a father to seven children, and a grandfather to seven. He is remembered as quick-witted and having a booming, unmistakable laugh. He loved nothing more than a house full of children and grandchildren, the noise and chaos of holidays, and the comfort of having everyone home, read a memorial provided by his family. Gray co-owned and published the Native American Times (previously the Oklahoma Indian Times) with his late brother Louis Gray, which Barnes described as a trailblazing publication that championed independence, transparency and accountability in Indian Country." More: How COVID-19 prompted the Osage Nation to take more action against food insecurity Advertisement Advertisement Barnes described Gray as a visionary who ushered in a "new era of self-governance for the Osage Nation," acting as a model for tribes across the country striving for "true self-determination." Along with his efforts in voting reform, Gray replaced the nation's former tribal council structure imposed by the Indian Reorganization Act, creating a new tripartite system of governance. Throughout his decades of service, he also sat on numerous boards including the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), the Flower Hill Institute, and chairman of the Council of Energy Resource Tribes (CERT). Gray helped found the Tribal Energy Consortium and previously served as executive director of the Native American Contractors Association (NACA). Advertisement Advertisement Attorney General Gentner Drummond expressed his grief over Gray's passing. Jim was an extraordinary leader who leaves behind a legacy of generosity and service. His passing marks a profound loss for the Osage Nation and for Oklahoma, Drummond said. Also raised in Pawhuska, Drummond and his wife Wendy said they were "praying for Jims family and for all who are mourning his passing." Gov. Brad Henry, right, shakes hands with Jim Gray, principal chief of the Osage Nation, in 2003 at the end of a ceremony at the State Capitol where the governor and leaders from the Osage Nation and the Iowa Tribe signed tobacco compacts. In background is Phoebe O'Dell, chairman of the Iowa Tribe, who also signed the agreement. 'Never one to lead through fear or intimidation' Gray was an outspoken advocate for Indigenous voices, serving as a cultural consultant to center accurate portrayals of the Osage perspective to global audiences. I see the way the world treats Native people in this country. The misrepresentation of our images, our people, our rights, our lands, and our sovereignty drive to outright abuse of what we are as human beings," Gray said in a statement, crafted as a part of The Stillwater History Museum at the Sheerar's 2020-21 exhibition Savages and Princesses: The Persistence of Native American Stereotypes." Advertisement Advertisement More: Martin Scorsese movie 'Killers of the Flower Moon' delves into tragic Osage tribal history In a memorial, Grays wife Olivia described him as never one to lead through fear or intimidation. "He believed in investing in people and was known for surrounding himself with strong minds and strong voices," she said. During his service, Gray notably led a major legal battle over the mismanagement of Osage trust assets against the federal government, leading to a $380 million settlement in 2011. As a descendant of a Reign of Terror victim, he knew how much it meant for the Osage people to overcome and thrive in the wake of unimaginable heartbreak and tragedy, Muscogee Nation Principal Chief David Hill said. His legacy is secure as a staunch defender and restorative champion of Osage sovereignty. Journey well, Chief, and well see you again. Advertisement Advertisement Gray was the great-grandson of Henry Roan, one of the victims of the 1920s Osage Reign of Terror in which dozens of Osage citizens were killed for their oil wealth. Roans death was central to the Reign of Terror depicted in David Grann's novel "Killers of the Flower Moon," which was later adapted into film by Martin Scorsese. Gray is survived by his wife, Olivia Libbi Gray; sons Henry and James Gray; daughters Naomi and Annette Nettie Gray, Mary Hammer, Sarah Ramirez-Hernandez and Olivia Oli Ramirez; sisters Jacqueline Butler and Margo Gray; and seven grandchildren. There will be a special viewing from noon to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15, held at the Osage Mineral Council Chambers at 813 Grandview Ave. in Pawhuska. A dinner will follow at 5:30 p.m. at Wakon Iron community building with speeches from tribal leaders from 7 to 9 p.m. Osage funeral services will take place on Monday, Feb. 16, at the Wakon Iron Chapel at 8:30 a.m. with a burial following at the Osage National Cemetery. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Memorial set for Jim Gray, former Osage Nation principal chief More than 100 prominent artists including musicians, actors and writers have signed an open letter in support of the United Nations special rapporteur for occupied Palestinian territory who faces international calls to step down. In a letter from the group Artists for Palestine on Saturday, the signatories offered full support to Francesca Albanese, a defender of human rights and, therefore, also of the Palestinian peoples right to exist. There are infinitely more of us in every corner of the Earth who want force no longer to be the law. Who know what the word law truly means, the letter said. Advertisement Advertisement Among the supporters were actors Mark Ruffalo and Javier Bardem, Nobel Prize-winning author Annie Ernaux and British musician Annie Lennox. At last weeks Al Jazeera Forum, Albanese, an outspoken critic of Israels genocidal war on Gaza, said we as humanity have a common enemy, but a fake video that was later debunked had her accusing Israel of being the common enemy. She later explained in a social media post she was referencing the system that has enabled the genocide in Palestine as the common enemy. My full AJ Forum speech last week: the common enemy of humanity is THE SYSTEM that has enabled the genocide in Palestine, including the financial capital that funds it, the algorithms that obscure it and the weapons that enable it. pic.twitter.com/PzTQFFybsG Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur oPt (@FranceskAlbs) February 9, 2026 Crush any criticism of Israel Still, European countries, including France and Germany, continue to call for her removal. Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, a group of French lawmakers sent a letter to Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot condemning Albaneses remarks as anti-Semitic. A day later, Barrot called on her to step down, saying France unreservedly condemns the outrageous and reprehensible remarks. On Thursday, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called her position untenable. Frank Barat, an author and film producer, said French President Emmanuel Macron and Barrot have repeatedly said they support international law while the facts show the complete opposite. Albanese has highlighted for the past two years that under international law, states have a duty to act to prevent genocide, and theyve been failing completely in Gaza, Barat told Al Jazeera. Advertisement Advertisement Because Francesca has been highlighting this hypocrisy, shes been targeted by most Western governments. The political agenda of these governments is to crush any criticism of Israel. Weve seen it in the streets of Europe. Weve seen it in the streets of the US, he added. People who have spoken out against Israels war on Palestine are criminalised while the perpetrators of genocide continue to be let go, Barat said. Marta Hurtado, a spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said at a news briefing on Friday that her colleagues are very worried about the backlash against Albanese. We are concerned that UN officials, independent experts and judicial officials are increasingly subjected to personal attacks, threats and misinformation that distracts from the serious human rights issues, Hurtado said. Nearly 600 Palestinians have been killed by Israel in Gaza since an October 10 ceasefire alone. At least 72,000 Palestinians have been killed and 171,000 wounded in Israels war since October 2023 Every day for the last year, at least 300 immigrants have landed at La Lima Airport many without their children. Illustration: HuffPost; Photo: Getty Images A mother was forced to leave her 6-month-old with her sister when she was deported and flown to Honduras. By the time she landed, her sister had also been detained and she had no idea where her child was. A father begged immigration agents for one phone call when he was detained at work because his child was with a babysitter. He made the call, and the babysitter was able to stay a few extra days, but he was deported without his child. Politics: Trump Uses Jesse Jacksons Death To Land Yet Another Hit On Obama A 22-year-old pregnant woman in Florida was picked up by immigration agents while traveling in Louisiana and detained for a month before being deported without her 2-year-old daughter. They didnt ask me anything. They didnt talk to me, just to yell at me, to humiliate me. They never told me, You have a daughter, you can bring her, because I would have brought her to [Honduras], she is glued to me, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Another woman was detained while dropping off her son, who is disabled, at school. He doesnt even know that I was deported, she said, adding that she was never given the option to bring him with her. These are just some of the stories immigrants deported from the United States to Honduras told the Womens Refugee Commission, a nonprofit organization that interviewed people as they arrived. Every day for the last year, at least 300 immigrants have landed at La Lima airport, many without their children and without knowing where their kids are or who is taking care of them. Zain Lakhani, WRCs director of migrant rights and justice, estimates hundreds of parents deported to Honduras have been separated from their families. Immigration advocates say whats happening is tantamount to a new form of forcible family separation one that stands out because of the speed and scale at which its happening, and the particular way in which immigrants are being targeted. People are being picked up during routine traffic stops, apprehended outside of their kids schools or disappeared on their way to work, then forced out of the country within days, often leaving their children and loved ones completely unaware that they were taken. People stand by a U.S. Air Force plane as Honduran migrants land near La Lima, Honduras, on Jan. 31, 2025. Yoseph Amaya / Reuters I would say these are very different types of deportation, engineered to lead to family separation, said Michele Heisler, the medical director at Physicians for Human Rights, an international NGO that traveled to Honduras alongside WRC to document human rights abuses. Advertisement Advertisement Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, told HuffPost that Immigration and Customs Enforcement does not separate families when the agency deports a parent or primary caregiver. Parents are asked if they want to be removed with their children or ICE will place the children with a safe person the parent designates, she said. This is consistent with past administrations immigration enforcement. News: 'I Woke Up Very Scared': Immigrant Children Describe Trump Admin's Attempt To Deport Them DHS did not answer a question about whether it is currently tracking family separations. The White House referred HuffPost to DHS when reached for comment. This form of family separation is distinct from what happened during Trumps first term, when his administration notoriously separated families at the U.S.-Mexico border, holding kids and parents in different detention facilities upon arrival. Advertisement Advertisement But even during that time the most notorious and sweeping example of family separation in recent history there were more robust directives in place that were meant to minimize family separation. In 2013, then-President Barack Obama created a federal immigration policy called parental interest directives, which said ICE and Customs and Border Protection should not detain someone who identifies as a parent or a primary caregiver in hopes of keeping families together. The policy stayed largely the same through the Obama and Biden administrations (though both still separated many migrant families), and Trump adopted a somewhat weaker but overall similar policy during his first administration. Politics: Donald Trump And Epstein Get The Carnival Treatment In Germany. And Its Brutal. That changed last July, when Trump issued a new parental interest directive that contains only two mandatory requirements for immigration agents when detaining parents: They must ask people they detain whether they are parents, and they need to give detained immigrants the opportunity to decide if they want to be deported with their kids. Advertisement Advertisement But in practice, advocates say the Trump administration is not even complying with its own watered-down policy. Those are the only two ironclad obligations or requirements that remain and theyre not even doing that, Lakhani said. Like this article? Keep independent journalism alive. Support HuffPost. Protesters participate in a 2018 rally organized by Families Belong Together, speaking out against the first Trump administration's policies separating immigrant families. Michael Candelori/Pacific Press/LightRocket via Getty Images And because there has been so much focus from the administration on finding and detaining people who have been living in the U.S. for a long time, rather than stopping people as they attempt to enter the country, officials have been detaining more immigrants when they arent with their children. Advertisement Advertisement More than 30 children in seven states have entered foster care after their parents were deported, a NOTUS investigation found, and there are likely many more since theres no comprehensive national database that tracks where kids end up after their parents are deported. Politics: Homeland Security Flack Tricia McLaughlin Set To Leave Trump Administration The lack of data around how many families have been torn apart leaves advocates struggling to understand how to help, and could lead to families being separated for longer periods of time or never reunited at all. The number of children separated under the first Trump administration was unknown for years because there was no formal tracking system and a lack of coordination between relevant agencies. A 2020 government report revealed that at least 2,700 children were separated from their parents at the U.S. southern border between 2018 and 2019. During a six-day trip to Honduras, WRC and PHR advocates spoke to dozens of immigrants stepping off planes from the U.S. who were not given the option to either contact their children or bring their kids with them. Honduran service providers doing intake of immigrants at the airport and documenting cases of family separation said that they have seen hundreds of adults separated from their children, according to WRCs report. Service providers include social workers, physicians and psychologists doing intake as part of a Honduras government initiative to support people returning to the country. Advertisement Advertisement All one could see was women crying because their children were taken from them We were all crying on the plane, all of us, thinking about our children, a 38-year-old mother separated from her 5-year-old child told WRC and PHR. One service provider who works at La Limas reception area, interviewing recently deported immigrants, said that around 80% of the people they spoke to had similar stories of family separation, according to WRC. We didnt go in thinking we were going to find so many instances of really forcible family separation, Heisler said. Women would come in just sobbing, saying they werent even asked if they had kids. Politics: Marco Rubio And Trump's Border Czar Defend Deportation Of U.S. Citizen Children With at least 300 migrants being deported to La Lima every day, and Trumps deportation agenda accelerating in the last six months, the lowest estimate of how many people landed at La Lima airport since July is just over 54,000. This is a shocking and unprecedented number of people being removed from the U.S., advocates said. Advertisement Advertisement Its common for people to languish in detention centers for months after being apprehended by federal agents. Long detentions present their own problems, but, in theory, they give parents more time to advocate for themselves and alert ICE that they have children. But WRC and PHR spoke to dozens of parents who were detained and deported in four or five days, during which time they were moved around to multiple facilities. You have no opportunity to really advocate for yourself, or to be able to tell anyone: I have children. I want to bring my children with me, Lakhani said. Once someone is deported without their child, the process and possibility for reunification is extremely difficult. Of the 2,700 children who were separated from their parents under the first Trump administration, more than 1,300 have still not been reunited with their parents, according to a 2024 DHS report. Honduras doesnt have the infrastructure or resources to try to facilitate reunification of parents and children, advocates told HuffPost. Child welfare agencies in the U.S. do not have the resources needed to do this type of work, which often involves complicated third-country reunifications that take time. Advertisement Advertisement Trumps hard-line immigration enforcement is hurting families across the U.S., even those who are still together. Many parents have chosen to be detained with their children in order to give them the best chance of staying together. There are now six times as many children detained in ICE detention centers as there were at the beginning of 2025, according to The Marshall Project. Children as young as 18 months old are being detained in facilities like the one in Dilley, Texas, where 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos was held after ICE took the preschooler and his dad into custody in a Minneapolis suburb. Many of these children are being held far beyond the 20-day legal limit. The levels of psychological trauma that the children are facing and will face is really heartbreaking, Heisler said. Were going to have a generation of children who are deeply, deeply traumatized. Related... Read the original on HuffPost ANDERSON The son of the lead pastor of a local church has been sentenced to a six years in prison after entering guilty pleas to several charges involving sexual activities with children. Jonathan Peternel, 24, Pendleton, was arrested in October and entered pleas of guilty in Madison Circuit Court Division 6 to charges of child exploitation; two counts of possession of child sex abuse material; and one of possession of child sex abuse material. Peternel is the son of Nathan Peternel, the lead pastor of Life Church, an Assemblies of God-affiliated church with four campuses in Central Indiana, including one in Pendleton. Advertisement Advertisement Judge Mark Dudley sentenced the younger Peternel on Friday to a total of six years, with four years to be served with the Indiana Department of Corrections and two years on formal probation. Dudley said his hope was that Peternel would change his life in the future. There is accountability and responsibility for what you do wrong, he said. A serious crime has been committed. Dudley told Peternel to prepare himself during his years in prison for his eventual release and not to give up. In a statement to the court, Peternel apologized to the victims of the crimes, his family, friends and church family. Advertisement Advertisement I wish I could go back in time, he said. I was raised in church and taught right from wrong. According to a news release from the Hamilton County Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, an investigation into Peternel began after a cybertip was sent to the task force from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The tip, submitted by Snapchat, reportedly showed five files of suspected child sex abuse material involving prepubescent children. Law enforcement officials obtained a search warrant for the Snapchat account, which reportedly uncovered more child sex abuse material, as well as alleged evidence that Peternel was disseminating videos to other users. Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, Peternel belonged to a Snapchat group named Diddy disciples, and law enforcement officials found chat logs, allegedly between Peternel and another user, where alleged distribution of the files occurred. The release states that, during a search of Peternels home, further evidence was found in relation to the investigation, including more than 200 files of child sex abuse material. The material included photo-realistic AI-generated photos, along with other files. PRESTON, Conn. (WTNH) A pedestrian has serious injuries after police said they were struck by a vehicle on Friday evening in Preston. According to Connecticut State Police, the crash took place on Route 2 and the Collision, Analysis and Reconstruction Squad was on the scene to assist. Police did not share any other information. Police searching for suspect after stabbing at Meriden deli Route 2 is closed in both directions in the area of Route 164 due to the crash, according to the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story, stay with News 8 for updates. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. A missing Narragansett man died on a downtown Providence street, in freezing temperatures, in late January. Police had found his body under a blanket near Dunkin' and The Strand Ballroom & Theatre. Ryan Boisvert's death came during the first winter of "Operation No One Dies" a new effort by the Rhode Island State Council of Churches to provide beds to people who need them when the forecast calls for "real feel" temperatures of 22 degrees or below. Advertisement Advertisement The circumstances underscored a message expressed at the time by the council's warming center coordinator, Harrison Tuttle: Rhode Island must do a better job protecting vulnerable people from dangerous temperatures. Then, on Friday, Feb. 13, police announced two more wintertime deaths, both "weather-related with possible health complications," saying that investigators believe Stanislaw Kozav, 49, and his mother, Irina Kozav, 75, were living in the car where their bodies were found, which was in a lot at Miriam Hospital. Barriers to finding warm beds for homeless Rhode Islanders It wasn't clear, based on the information provided by police, if Boisvert or either one of the two Kozavs had tried and failed to find one of the beds offered by the council or any other bed that might have been available. Some beds at the Open Table of Christ at 1520 Broad St., which is participating in Operation No One Dies. The initiative aims to protect unhoused people from freezing winter temperatures. But Tuttle, who has some expertise, says he's often unable to hurdle the barriers he runs into when trying to find beds for people who need them. Advertisement Advertisement Such efforts tend to happen in situations where the 51 beds offered in three Providence churches, through the council's program, have already been taken, he says. Tuttle says he believes the right coordination between the right organizations can open up other resources. He says he doesn't want to lay blame on any particular entity or person. He just wants to sound an alarm that finding beds for people, even when the temperatures outside are below freezing, can be extraordinarily difficult. Not everyone meets the criteria for admittance to certain facilities. He emphasizes that Operation No One Dies has resources, including some transportation, for moving people to places with available beds, including facilities outside Providence. Advertisement Advertisement Some of these volunteer drivers are already patrolling local streets in search of people who need shelter on frigid nights. A call for collaboration to prevent cold-weather deaths The availability of the beds provided by the council is a new program, funded through a $200,000 grant from the Executive Office of Housing, and it's an accomplishment of sorts. But people are still freezing to death. And more beds are needed. Tuttle says he just wants more responsiveness from organizations that can help, that can "come together to have a conversation around solutions to prevent freezing deaths in the community." "Can we patch up a system here for the remainder of the winter?" he asks. Advertisement Advertisement Tuttle had made an appeal after Boisvert's death, calling for "immediate, concrete collaboration." "No single organization can solve this alone," he wrote. "It is only through committed partnership and shared accountability that we can build a system strong enough to prevent future deaths." On Feb. 10 and Feb. 11, each of the beds provided by Operation No One Dies were taken. The Kozavs were found at 6:28 p.m. on Feb. 11. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Spate of cold-weather deaths in RI prompts urgent call for action One person is dead after a brush fire in southern Ohio on Friday. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Around 4:30 p.m., crews responded to the area of Ronald Reagan Highway and the Colerain Ave eastbound exit ramp in Colerain Township on reports of a brush fire, our news partners WCPO-9 TV reported. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement When the fire was extinguished, police said a body was found in the open area of the exit ramp. Police told WCPO-9 TV that the identity of the person is unknown. The investigation is ongoing by the Colerain Township Police Criminal Investigative Unit. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A now-halted plan to run a hepatitis B vaccine trial involving thousands of newborns in Guinea-Bissau has been criticised by the World Health Organization as "unethical". The US-funded study had sought to give one set of babies the vaccine at birth, while another would have had the shot delayed until six weeks of age. The WHO said it had "significant concerns" about the plan, and described the birth-dose vaccine as "an effective and essential public health intervention, with a proven record". Advertisement Advertisement The US health department, headed by Robert F Kennedy Jr, who has questioned the effects of vaccines, had sought to use the trial to answer questions about the jab's broader health effects. The WHO said on Friday that its concerns regarded the study's scientific justification, ethical safeguards and consistency with established standards for research involving humans. It stressed that the jab had been used for more than three decades in more than 115 countries. The WHO said giving a proven life-saving intervention to some newborns but not others exposed them to "potentially irreversible harm". Advertisement Advertisement A sizeable portion of Guinea-Bissau's population is estimated to have hepatitis B, and the WHO says vaccination at birth prevents the virus being transmitted from mother to baby in 70-95% of cases. It argued that trials giving one group a placebo or not treating them were only acceptable when no proven treatment existed, something that was not the case with the hepatitis B birth dose vaccine. The WHO recommends that all newborns receive the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth. It says infection at birth is the most common way of having a lifelong infection, with 90% of infected newborns becoming chronic carriers. In Guinea-Bissau, the dose is currently given at six weeks, though authorities plan to introduce the birth dose nationwide by 2028 to align with global standards, something the WHO said it would help accelerate. Advertisement Advertisement A total of 14,000 babies in the West African country were due to be involved in the study funded by the US and led by Danish researchers. But public outrage at the project prompted the Guinea-Bissau government to suspend it last month. 'We are not guinea pigs' Critics have questioned why babies in the African country were being proposed for the trial. Two months ago, a panel of top advisers voted to stop recommending that all newborns in the US receive a hepatitis B vaccine. The panel was appointed by the US Health Secretary Kennedy, who had fired all members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (Acip) months earlier and replaced them with others critical of vaccines. Advertisement Advertisement Kennedy has on several occasions denied being against vaccinations and has said he and his children had been vaccinated, but has also repeatedly stated widely debunked claims about vaccine harms. Vocal opponents of the project in Guinea-Bissau include the country's former health minister, Magda Robalo. "It's not acceptable and it should not go on," she told the science journal Nature last month. "Guinea-Bissauans are not guinea pigs." More than 12% of the country's adult population has chronic Hepatitis B, according to the WHO. Smaller studies by other researchers have estimated the proportion could be as high as one in five. Advertisement Advertisement Most people with the virus do not have any symptoms, or have very mild symptoms. But some people can experience jaundice, dark urine, feeling very tired, nausea, vomiting and pain in the abdomen. The WHO says chronic patients have a high risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer. You may also be interested in: [Getty Images/BBC] Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent. Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica BBC Africa podcasts LOS ANGELES Shakespearean betrayal. Dramatic reversals of fortune. Breathless tabloid coverage. The Los Angeles mayors race, at last, has a Hollywood-worthy plotline. Progressive upstart Nithya Ramans bombshell decision to run against her purported ally, Mayor Karen Bass, has upended what once looked like a sluggish mayoral race. As Raman scrambles to build a campaign apparatus before the June election, Bass supporters have rallied around the embattled incumbent with fresh energy and barely-veiled fury. When an incumbents allies go this hard, this early, and frame the stakes this aggressively, it tells you they know theyve got a real race on their hands, said Jeremy Oberstein, a Los Angeles Democratic strategist. Advertisement Advertisement The sudden emergence of Raman, a telegenic 44-year-old councilmember with ties to the democratic socialist movement, sparked immediate comparisons to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who upended conventional wisdom to defeat an incumbent mayor and a former governor with an unabashedly leftist campaign. But the Los Angeles race offers its own cinematic narratives either an improbable comeback story or a generational revolt, set against the backdrop of a city reeling from natural disaster, financial precarity and incursion by a hostile federal government. In the days after Ramans abrupt announcement, many in Los Angeles political class were still wrapping their minds around the reality of a suddenly competitive mayoral showdown. Many thought we wouldnt have to deal with any sort of major fight in Los Angeles, especially given that we are trying to defend ourselves as a city against Trump, said Mark Gonzalez, a state lawmaker and former Los Angeles County Democratic Party chair. Advertisement Advertisement Bass reelection prospects have whipsawed over the past year. Once the most popular elected official in the Los Angeles area, the former congressmembers ratings took a nosedive during the citys devastating wildfires, both for a diplomatic trip to Ghana that coincided with the blazes outbreak and her unsteady handling of the crisis when she returned. Her missteps have made an enduring mark and continue to resurface in the media; some private polls now show her approval ratings in the 30s or lower. Serious potential challengers, including billionaire developer Rick Caruso and Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, noisily mulled mayoral runs. But both decided to stay out, leaving Bass for much of the last year without a major opponent, despite her political vulnerabilities. Some saw those decisions as an enormous stroke of luck for the mayor; people in Bass camp said it was testament to her political turnaround and inherent advantages as the incumbent. Theres a reason everyone took a look at it and blinked, said Doug Herman, the mayors campaign adviser. Then came Ramans last-minute plunge into the race, despite endorsing Bass less than two weeks earlier. While acknowledging she shared the same values and many of the same political positions as Bass, Raman said the city was at a breaking point under the mayors mismanagement and failure to address nuts-and-bolts issues such as fixing streetlights. Advertisement Advertisement Despite her new opponent, Bass team says it will not change its strategy of touting the citys progress on homelessness and crime. She has a really strong record to stand on. I don't think that she needs to pivot from that, said Jasmyne Cannick, a political strategist and activist who endorsed Bass. Instead of splintering the mayor's support in the political establishment, Ramans entry appears to have solidified it. Bass' campaign pointedly sent out a press release touting her endorsements from the majority of Ramans colleagues on the City Council. And her most stalwart backers doubled down this week, sprinkling their restated support with cutting digs at the insurgent council member. Now is not the time for distractions from a political opportunist especially one who backed the Mayor's re-election campaign just weeks ago, said Yvonne Wheeler, leader of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, in a fiery statement that redoubled the powerful labor groups commitment to Bass. Tina McKinnor, a state lawmaker who leads the citys legislative delegation in Sacramento, chalked Ramans decision up to selfish ambition and questioned her ability to run the nations second-largest city. Advertisement Advertisement I dont think shes ready, McKinnor said. Many Bass supporters painted Raman as disloyal, particularly after the mayor endorsed her in a tight 2024 reelection campaign. A scathing editorial in the L.A. Sentinel, the citys largest Black newspaper, blasted Raman as a traitor and concluded Nithya Raman is not with us. In Ramans first major television interview, veteran journalist Conan Nolan mused that Bass reaction was similar to Julius Caesars in Shakespeares drama after being stabbed in the back by a friend: Et tu, Brute? I don't think we should be talking about the future of Los Angeles in the context of friendships and betrayal, Raman said in response. We need to be talking about the issues that are facing us and how we can fix them and how we can overcome them. Depicting Raman as a turncoat may be cathartic even politicians close to Raman were clearly stung by her out-of-nowhere decision but some observers question it as a political strategy. Advertisement Advertisement I dont think Bass folks are serving her particularly well right now, said Mike Bonin, who served on the City Council and is close to both Bass and Raman. By rallying around her, theyre all talking about her, not talking about the voters. I dont know how you get above the 30 percent unless youre talking about what people want to hear about. The rallying around Bass is particularly striking because, as polls have shown, that enthusiasm is not shared by voters. The mayors supporters say the sour mood is not unique to Bass and more a reflection of Angelenos broader unhappiness with the national political landscape. But some of Bass woes are uniquely her own. Her handling of last years fires remains under close scrutiny, especially after an explosive Los Angeles Times story this month that Bass directed an after-action report on the Palisades Fire be watered down to protect the city from liability. Bass strenuously denied the allegation but the widespread attention to the story demonstrated how quickly the barely-healed wounds from the fire can be reopened with a bad headline. Now, the question for Raman is whether voters will turn to her to channel their frustration. Advertisement Advertisement The adjective Ive been using to describe this electorate is hangry, said Bonin, who now leads the Pat Brown Institute of Politics at Cal State LA. Theyre angry over a lot of shit but theyre hungry for something else. [Raman] might be able to appeal to voters hunger for something different. First, Raman must build a citywide campaign on the fly, launching with a bare-bones website. While she is better known than other contenders looking to oust Bass, she still must introduce herself to most of the sprawling city with just three months before primary ballots arrive in peoples mailboxes. The response since Saturday has been incredible, with hundreds of volunteers signing up within the first 24 hours. Its clear that many Angelenos want change, Raman said in a statement. Our campaign is about bringing new leadership to City Hall thats ready to take responsibility, build for the future, and deliver for the people who call this city home. It will not be easy to replicate her stunning 2020 City Council win, when she became the first candidate to oust an incumbent in nearly 20 years. She has since alienated leftist activists who helped propel her to victory six years ago by tacking to the center, most recently by saying the city should maintain the size of its police force. (Weeks before entering the race, she voted against hiring 170 additional officers.) Advertisement Advertisement Some on the left gave a cool reception to Ramans mayoral bid, preferring to back another democratic socialist candidate, Rae Huang, who has been in the race for longer but has struggled to gain traction. Raman has also been side-eyed from the right. Her profile in the city has been boosted for better or worse by the California Post, the recent East Coast export that is covering the council member with the same conservative-leaning gusto as its sister publication in New York treated its new mayor. The tabloid has played up her democratic socialist ties by sending journalists to stake out her multimillion-dollar home and plastering her photo on its cover with the sobriquet Red Raman. The Mamdani comparisons are irresistible their shared progressive politics, insurgent campaigns, even their South Asian backgrounds but Los Angeles political veterans say the analogy misses the mark. We're not in the same situation New York was in, Cannick said. We don't have a mayor that cozied up to Trump. We don't have a mayor that has turned her back on her democratic and progressive roots. Advertisement Advertisement Others say Raman, while a skilled candidate, does not have Mamdanis hard-to-replicate it factor. Still, Raman, whose husband is a television writer, is well-positioned to resonate with LAs creative class. There were glimmers of celebrity in her announcement post on Instagram, which got enthusiastic comments from stars like Mindy Kaling and Natalie Portman. Other crucial voting blocs remain up-for-grabs. Chief among them are Latinos, who comprise the majority of the citys population. Theres also the question of who will appeal to moderate Democrats, including voters who may have gravitated toward Caruso, a Republican-turned-centrist Democrat. Many had hoped for a viable alternative to Bass, but Ramans democratic socialist background may be too big of a turnoff. Adam Miller, a tech entrepreneur who lives on the citys affluent westside, could emerge as an option but he has virtually no political profile and faces a steep hill to introduce himself. Another X factor is how the candidates at the edges of the partisan spectrum will perform. If Huang holds onto the dedicated grassroots left, it may siphon progressive votes from Raman. And reality star Spencer Pratt, who lost his home in the Palisades Fire, is pummeling Bass from the right. He is building a sizable social media platform, boosted by conservative influencers and MAGA acolytes, as he tries to consolidate the citys vastly outnumbered Republican voters to secure a spot in the November runoff. (Bass could theoretically win reelection outright in June if she gets more than 50 percent of the vote, but with this number of candidates, a runoff is essentially guaranteed.) Advertisement Advertisement Those factors will play out over the course of the breakneck sprint to the June 2 election. But what this rollercoaster week has made clear is how Bass and Raman, friends turned rivals, are trying to cast the matchup. The mayors camp is clearly framing this as stability versus risk. Councilmember Raman wants urgency versus drift, said Oberstein, the Democratic strategist. In the end, its not about ideology. Its about whether voters feel like the city is actually moving or just treading water. Nicole Norman contributed to this report. A Wallingford man has been arrested after police say he stole nearly $3,000 in parts from heavy machinery, police said. Nicholas Sabo, 33, has been arrested and charged with third-degree larceny and criminal attempt at third-degree larceny, according to the Wallingford Police Department. The arrest comes after police say they conducted an extensive investigation into a series of thefts targeting heavy machinery that was stored at 970 North Colony Road. The investigation began on Dec. 22, 2025, when Wallingford police were assigned to investigate the theft of a door from a Bobcat S 650 skid steer loader. Police said it was reported that the incident followed a previous attempted theft of the same door just weeks earlier. The approximate value of the stolen equipment is $2,800. Advertisement Advertisement Police said Sabos arrest comes amid a rising trend of targeted, high-value theft involving Bobcat equipment across Connecticut and surrounding regions. Criminals are increasingly targeting construction sites, often during overnight hours, to disassemble and steal removable components such as glass door assemblies. To mitigate the risk of equipment tampering and theft, the Wallingford Police Department recommends: Install Surveillance Systems: High- definition cameras should be positioned to monitor equipment directly. Utilize Tracking Devices: Equipping machinery with GPS tracking can assist law enforcement in recovery efforts. Secure Storage: Whenever possible, store high-value machinery in well-lit, fenced- in, or locked areas to prevent unauthorized access to components. Sabo is currently being held at the Wallingford Police Department on a $15,000 bond and is due in court on Feb. 27, 2026, in Meriden. Stephen Underwood can be reached at sunderwood@courant.com Bhojpuri actress Akshara Singh has expressed deep concern and solidarity with actor Rajpal Yadav, days after he surrendered at the Tihar Jail for a series of cheque dishonour cases against him. Speaking to the media, Akshara urged people to come forward and support Rajpal Yadav. "Every artist is very saddened by this. His fans are also very saddened. I want those who are capable and can help at their level to provide help," she said. Akshara Singh also reacted to the financial assistance provided by National President of Janshakti Janta Dal, Tej Pratap Yadav and added, "Thank you very much to Tej Pratap Yadav, who helped them. They are very good people." Earlier this month, Tej Pratap Yadav announced financial assistance of Rs 11 lakh to the family of Rajpal Yadav, further expressing solidarity on the behalf of his party. In a post on X, Tej Pratap Yadav wrote, "I just received information about the pain of the family of the honorable Rajpal Yadav ji through the post of my elder brother Rao Inderjeet Yadav ji. In this extremely difficult time, I and my entire JJD (Jan Shakti Janata Dal) family stand in complete empathy and solidarity with their grieving family. With a spirit of human compassion and support, on behalf of the JJD family, I am providing financial assistance of 11,00,000 (eleven lakh rupees) to their family." Many celebrities have also come forward to share financial help for the actor, including the likes of Sonu Sood, Mika Singh, Guru Randhawa, and Gurmeet Choudhary, among others. The financial support comes after the Delhi High Court rejected Bollywood actor Rajpal Naurang Yadav's final attempt to avoid imprisonment in a series of cheque-dishonour cases and directed that he must surrender to the jail authorities before any further hearing could be held. The order came after Yadav failed to comply with the surrender deadline fixed by the Court, following repeated violations of undertakings regarding payment of settlement amounts to the complainant company. (ANI) The worst thing a parent can go through had already happened to Christine Durand. Her son Steven was missing, and she had no idea if he was even alive. But what Christine, who is now 70, didnt realise was that things were only going to get worse over the coming months and years. I just feel like theyve not cared at all, like Ive been left on the shelf, she tells The Independent. I used to have to go down to the police station every single day about my son, crying. They let me down on many occasions. Steven was meant to be travelling from his sisters flat to his home in Preston on the day he disappeared 19 October 2018. He had lost his phone, so all he had on him was his bus fare. Advertisement Advertisement After Christine reported Steven missing, Lancashire Constabulary put out public appeals for the 31-year-old, who Christine said was known to officers as he suffered from mental health issues. But they misidentified his ethnicity twice, describing him as white when he is mixed-race. Steven Durand went missing at the age of 31. Police misidentified his ethnicity twice, describing him as white when he is mixed-race (Christine Durand) Everything I asked the police to do, they did the opposite, says Christine, citing incidents such as the police breaking down the door of Stevens flat when she had told them she had a spare key. I think the police are racist I think they didnt care about my son because he was mixed-race. Christine, from Leyland, believes that her son, whom she describes as the kindest person you could meet, could have been found if the police had handled the investigation better. Only 31 per cent of missing Black people, and 35 per cent of missing Asian people, are found by police, compared with 39 per cent of white people who go missing, according to research carried out by the charity Missing People. Christine Durand believes that her son could have been found if the police had handled his case better (Christine Durand) That report also found that Black and Asian children are more likely to be missing for longer periods of time than white children. One in five missing person incidents relating to Black children lasted for longer than 48 hours, compared with 14 per cent of those involving Asian children, and 13 per cent for white children. Advertisement Advertisement Missing People has now launched its new SafeCall service, a national lifeline designed to support the 72,000 children who go missing in the UK every year. The Independent reached its 165,000 fundraising target last month, enabling the free, confidential, round-the-clock service to go live. Christine says police let me down on many occasions (Christine Durand) Evidence Joels experience echoes that of Christine. Her son Richard Okorogheye, then aged 19, went missing from Ladbroke Grove, London, on 22 March 2021. Evidence, 43, says she reported Richard as missing to police the following day, telling them he was away from home without his medication for sickle cell anaemia. But she claims that officers did not treat her concerns with urgency, and describes the investigation as a disaster, alleging that she was told: Dont worry, hell come back home, and even: If you cant find your son, how do you expect us to? Richard was found dead in Epping Forest two weeks later, on 5 April. Richard Okorogheye, then aged 19, went missing from Ladbroke Grove in March 2021. His body was found two weeks later (Evidence Joel) Evidence, a nurse, believes that her son might have been found alive if the investigation had been handled properly. I felt the whole thing was governed by discrimination and racism, she says. Every day I have to go through this agony in my heart, knowing something maybe couldve been done, but nothing was done. I remember having sleepless nights, walking barefoot from my house to Ladbroke Grove police station, crying, begging them to look for my child. Advertisement Advertisement The Metropolitan Police did apologise to Evidence for providing a level of service that was not at a level the public would expect of us, but it did not acknowledge any discriminatory treatment. An Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation identified several failures by police and described the level of service that Evidence received as unacceptable, but it found that the evidence did not indicate that any delay in upgrading Richards risk level was due to his or Ms Joels race. In Christines case, she made a complaint, and an internal investigation by Lancashire Constabulary found that there was insufficient evidence that Steven had been discriminated against on the basis of his race or mental health. The force declined to comment on this. Evidence Joel believes her son might have been found alive if police had acted properly (Evidence Joel) Lancashire Constabulary also disputed Christines claims about the door being broken down, but the IOPC upheld her allegation after a review of her complaint. It added that the constabulary had apologised for misidentifying his ethnicity. Josie Allan, head of policy and partnerships at Missing People, says the charity has heard from a number of families who have felt discriminated against because of their race. Explaining why investigations might be coming to competing conclusions, she says that underlying systemic bias will be affecting police responses, but that its insidious nature makes it difficult to pinpoint. Advertisement Advertisement There are inherent issues in being able to identify discrimination in the complaints process, says Allan. We know that data shows there are disparities for Black missing people, so theres a gap between the evidence about the disparities and the acknowledgement of them... The data and the sheer amount of families who are raising concerns should be raising very serious concerns within policing that there is a pattern. Evidence says I felt the whole thing was governed by discrimination and racism (Evidence Joel) She notes that the IOPC has recently revised its guidance in an effort to improve the problematic handling of discrimination complaints. In 2021, the home affairs select committees Macpherson: 20 Years On inquiry suggested that police services had largely failed to overcome perceptions of institutional racism following the initial inquiry into the murder of Stephen Lawrence, which found consistent evidence of over-policing and under-protection of Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. On the matter of Steven Durand, a spokesperson for Lancashire Constabulary said: Weve carried out extensive inquiries in relation to CCTV, telephony, searches of open land and waterways, inquiries with associates, witnesses, health agencies and financial checks and numerous media appeals, prior to the decision to archive the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement The force said that difficult decisions, such as archiving a case, sometimes have to be made, but that any new information will be fully investigated. On the case of Richard Okorogheye, a Met Police spokesperson said: When Richard went missing in 2021, hundreds of officers worked tirelessly over 15 days as part of the extensive search, which also included specialist search teams, dogs and horses, and colleagues from Essex Police, before his body was sadly found. They said that the force accepted all of the IOPCs recommendations from its 2022 investigation, and that it had made a significant number of changes to the way we respond from the moment a person is reported missing. They added: This includes putting more emphasis on engaging with the person who reports someone missing, so we can better understand the risks they face. Please donate now to The Independent and Missing Peoples SafeCall campaign, which has raised 165,000 to create a free, nationwide service helping vulnerable children find safety and support For advice, support and options if you or a child you love goes missing, contact safecall.org.uk A North Carolina man has been arrested by Florida authorities after picking up a pre-teen girl and taking her to a motel, where, police allege, he sexually assaulted her. The victim, who is only 12, was reported missing from her home in Osceola County on January 31. Police did not specify what town the girl was from in a statement issued Tuesday, February 10. The pre-teen had told her parents that she would be spending that night at a friend's house. However, in reality, she was planning to meet up with Edar Fabricio Dejesus-Matheu, 22. Advertisement Advertisement The worried parents called 911 the next morning when they were unable to get the girl to respond to calls and text messages, according to the statement. Investigators alleged that the two met while using a social media app months ago, and that ever since, they had been planning the illegal rendezvous. After picking up the child, police said Dejesus-Matheu took her to a hotel in a neighboring county. Long Island Man Arrested After Kidnapped 11-Year-Old Girl Found Undressed in His Bed As part of their search for the missing girl, detectives wound up tracking her cell phone to that hotel's parking lot, the statement claims. Advertisement Advertisement Investigators arrived on February 1 to find the girl inside a vehicle with Dejesus-Matheu, who was handcuffed on the spot. As police spoke to the girl, they learned Dejesus-Matheu had driven down from North Carolina, specifically to pick up the child and take her to the hotel, according to the police press release. The Osceola County Sheriffs Office's detectives eventually uncovered proof "that Dejesus-Matheu engaged in lewd and lascivious molestation within Orange County." As a result, the Orange County Sheriffs Office Criminal Investigations Division took over that portion of the ongoing probe. Advertisement Advertisement Dejesus-Matheu currently faces charges in Osceola County for traveling to meet a minor for unlawful sexual activity and the unlawful use of a two-way communication device. He was booked into the Orange County Jail on additional charges of lewd or lascivious molestation of a minor. Sheriffs officials said that the rescue of the 12-year-old happened on Safer Internet Day, which is a global initiative promoting safe and responsible use of digital technology, and said this case should serve as a reminder to parents to proactively monitor their children's online activities. They emphasized that online vigilance is often the only line of defense against predators who use social platforms to groom young victims. South Carolina Teen Mackenzie Dalton Found Safely, Mystery Man Busted for Lying Dejesus-Matheu remains in custody in Orange County while he awaits further legal proceedings in Osceola. It was unclear Thursday, February 12, if Dejesus-Matheu has an attorney or was asked to enter pleas to the charges against him. Advertisement Advertisement Local authorities are asking anyone who may have additional information regarding this suspect or similar incidents contact the Osceola County Sheriffs Office at (407) 348-2222. If you know of a young person who is being exploited or is the victim of a crime, you are urged to report it to your local FBI field office by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI. Tips can also be left at tips.fbi.gov Almost every forest bird species in Hawaii is spreading avian malaria, posing an increasing threat to wildlife in the popular honeymoon destination, according to a new study published in Nature Communications. The research revealed a potential explanation for why the disease shows up almost everywhere mosquitoes are found on the Hawaiian Islands. Scientists from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and the University of California analyzed blood samples from over 4,000 birds across 64 sites across the state, a press release revealed. Advertisement Advertisement Potentially Severe Mosquito-borne Virus Surges In Us Above Normal Levels Next, they conducted feeding trials where they allowed mosquitoes to feed on infected birds, and tracked whether those insects spread the disease at various temperatures. The team found that both native and "introduced" species of forest birds can infect mosquitoes when the insects feed on them. Even when the birds have only small amounts of the parasites, they can carry the disease for months or years. Read On The Fox News App The scientists conducted feeding trials where they allowed mosquitoes to feed on infected birds, and tracked whether those insects spread the disease at various temperatures. (iStock) "Avian malaria has taken a devastating toll on Hawaii's native forest birds, and this study shows why the disease has been so difficult to contain," Christa M. Seidl, who conducted the research as part of her PhD at the University of California, Santa Cruz, stated in the release. Advertisement Advertisement "When so many bird species can quietly sustain transmission, it narrows the options for protecting native birds and makes mosquito control not just helpful, but essential," she added. First-ever Human Case Of Rare Bird Flu Strain Confirmed In Western Us In many ecosystems, a disease continues circulating even if only a handful of animal species are spreading it, but this study found that avian malaria appears to spread more broadly across many bird species. Mosquitoes, which are not native to Hawaii, could increase the forest birds risk of extinction, says the National Park Service. The akikiki, a Hawaiian bird native to Kauai, is now considered extinct in the wild due to the disease. The Kauai creeper is considered critically endangered by some groups, while others consider it extinct in the wild. While avian malaria is from the same family of protozoa that causes malaria in humans, the bird-specific strains cannot be transmitted to people, according to the National Audubon Society. Advertisement Advertisement Click Here To Sign Up For Our Health Newsletter Even when avian malaria isnt fatal to birds, it can shorten their telomeres, an element of DNA that influences lifespan, the above source states. Click Here For More Health Stories In addition to affecting the infected birds, the altered DNA can be passed onto chicks, creating a new generation of birds with shorter lifespans. Researchers examined blood samples from more than 4,000 birds across Kauai, Oahu, Maui and Hawaii Island. The researchers noted a few caveats with the study. First, they primarily used lab-controlled canaries to determine transmission for different parasite levels, which may not be an exact match for every wild bird species. Click Here To Download The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement They also faced technical hurdles in measuring exactly how much malaria-carrying saliva a mosquito produces at various temperatures, though their models largely account for this, the study stated. Test Yourself With Our Latest Lifestyle Quiz Finally, as researchers cant realistically track every mosquito bite in the wild, they used infection patterns as an indirect way to estimate insects' feeding preferences. If a species is infected more often, that suggests mosquitoes are biting them more frequently. Original article source: Popular honeymoon destination faces avian malaria threat, spread by mosquitoes BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Port Panama City Authority board members held a special meeting Friday to decide their future. There was one item on their agenda: discussion and consideration of the executive director position. It took them just around 15 minutes to select Bay Countys County Manager, Bob Majka, as their top choice. But not everyones on board. Board member George Erwin Reiss voted for the other candidate being considered, saying he was a stronger choice because he had direct port experience. Advertisement Advertisement But the rest of the board believed Majka is the right choice. They say Majka impressed them during his interview, highlighting his years of overseeing a large public organization, managing substantial budgets and handling major county projects. Board members also noted his local ties. His deep local ties and established relationship at local state and federal levels position him immediately and effectively to advocate for the port and advance our capital and economic development priorities, said Port Panama City Chair Frank Hall. Majka did not directly indicate if hes taking the job. But he issued a statement leading most to believe he will, saying: Advertisement Advertisement I am humbled to have been selected as the new director of Port Panama City and remain committed to serving the residents of Bay County. That service began in 1988, when Majka was a firefighter. He joined Bay County in 1993 and ran the Hazardous Materials Program. He served as Bay Countys Emergency Operations director from the late 90s until he became assistant county manager in 2006. He became the city manager of Cocoa Beach in 2012 and was hired as Bay Countys county manager in 2015. If Majka accepts, hell replace Alex King, who stepped down last month to become the Assistant Port Director in Mobile, Alabama. Advertisement Advertisement Port board members will now begin negotiating a contract with Majka Bay County commissioners say theyll soon begin discussions about transitioning from Majka to his replacement. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. In their high-security base in the Wiltshire countryside, the scientists of Porton Down made an astonishing discovery. Tissue samples taken from the body of Alexei Navalny, the Russian opposition leader, and smuggled out of Russia showed he had been assassinated using the toxin produced by an Ecuadorian poison dart frog. Eight years ago, scientists at the Ministry of Defence research centre revealed that the nerve agent Novichok had been used in the attempted killing of KGB defector Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in Salisbury. Scientists at work in the Porton Down research facility which has exposed Russias use of deadly poisons on its enemies - Simon Townsley The finding was central to establishing that Russia was responsible for their failed assassination, which resulted in the death of innocent bystander Dawn Sturgess. Advertisement Advertisement It called into question whether Moscow had been telling the truth when it claimed in 2017 to have destroyed its chemical weapons in line with the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention, which bans them. But the British scientists have now left the Foreign Office convinced Vladimir Putin is indeed in possession of illegal chemical weapons made in secret laboratories for use against his enemies at home and abroad. Alexei Navalny appeared on video link from his Arctic prison a month before his death, appealing against restrictions on his reading material - Vera Savina/AFP via Getty Images Inside the cell where Alexei Navalny began vomiting before his death from the frog poison - X Navalny was 47 when he died at a high-security Arctic prison in February 2024 after years of accusing the Russian president and the Kremlin of corruption. He had fallen suddenly ill while exercising outside. Escorted back to his cell, the dissident began vomiting as he writhed in pain on the floor. His sudden collapse, loss of consciousness and the failure of resuscitation efforts aroused suspicions. Advertisement Advertisement State investigators, however, dismissed them, saying instead that his death was caused by arrhythmia, an abnormal heart rhythm, and another medical condition. His body was released to his family and he was buried after a Russian Orthodox funeral service. Mourners gather around the murdered dissidents coffin in Moscow. Tissue samples from his body confirmed how he was poisoned - Reuters It was then that his supporters embarked on a daring mission to show the world what really happened to a man who has been hailed as the fiercest advocate for Russian democracy. Tissue samples were surreptitiously taken, smuggled out of Russia and secretly transferred across Europe to Porton Down, one of the worlds leading centres of scientific research. The headquarters of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) hosts some of the UKs most advanced chemical laboratory capabilities, and researchers at the secretive base have a deep expertise in testing for chemical and biological weapons. Advertisement Advertisement Deploying newly discovered toxicology techniques, researchers concluded that Navalnys sudden collapse was caused by epibatidine, a toxin produced by the Ecuadorian poison dart frog. The results, confirmed through collaboration with Sweden, France, the Netherlands and Germany, were shocking. RIGHT frog that killed Navalny First discovered in the 1970s, the toxin is a fast-acting nicotinic receptor agonist which was first considered for use as a painkiller due to its numbing effects. Those efforts were abandoned because in large doses it can cause death within 30 minutes by triggering respiratory failure, convulsions and paralysis. Advertisement Advertisement There was no innocent explanation for the toxin which is 200 times more potent than morphine, not native to Russia and is only found in wild frogs being in Navalnys body, the Government said. Although a well-known poison, it does not appear to have ever been used in targeted killings before at least that the West knows of. There is a question mark over whether it was chosen for use because it is hard to detect, in which case Russia would not have expected the West to have the technical capabilities to identify that it had been used. It is not impossible, however, that it was chosen precisely so that it would be uncovered as a calling card a show of strength and ingenuity intended to signal Russian power. Advertisement Advertisement Col Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, the former commanding officer of the UKs Joint Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Regiment, said: This is a classic FSB/GRU [Russian security services] modus operandi, using deadly toxins and chemical weapons. But it also shows how leaky and pretty inept the Russian secret service is, that we know so much detail. Such a message would have been intended to intimidate the West and neighbouring former Soviet nations which Russia believes rightfully belong to its sphere of influence, as well as the Russian public amid rising discontent over the war in Ukraine and the flatlining economy. Yulia Navalnaya, Navalnys widow, met Yvette Cooper and the foreign ministers of the other European countries involved in the discovery at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday - Ben Dance/FCDO By using this form of poison, the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition, Yvette Cooper, the Foreign Secretary, said on Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement The toxins development in sufficient quantities for an assassination would have required serious technical capabilities most likely a special laboratory which put to bed the notion that Russia has abandoned its arsenal of chemical weapons. It has shed light on the breadth of the Kremlins chemical stockpile, and revealed the extent of their expertise in chemical weapons production. This is not something you order online, one specialist told Russian outlet The Insider. You would need a state-level chemical programme or access to an advanced research laboratory. The number of actors capable of synthesising and weaponising epibatidine is extremely small. The tightly controlled environment in the Arctic prison where Navalny was held gave the Russian state free rein over when it would attempt to kill him. Advertisement Advertisement In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden and Britain said Moscow had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison to him. Attention will now turn to the consequences Putin faces for his use of banned chemical weapons, which contradicts Russias claim that it had disposed of all 40,000 tonnes of toxins it inherited from the Soviet Union. Sergei and Yulia Skripal survived a Novichok attack, but the Russian nerve agent killed Salisbury resident Dawn Sturgess - Pixel8000 Since then, Moscow has used Novichok against the Skripals in 2018, as well as on Navalny on a flight to Munich in 2020. In addition to the use of ebipatidine to kill Navalny, it has also deployed chloropicrin, a potentially fatal First World War choking agent, during the war in Ukraine. Mr de Bretton-Gordon said: This confirms what we were all thinking, that Russias chemical weapons programme is almost certainly extant and of course they are using industrial amounts of chemical weapons in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement As well as the 1972 Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention, Russia is a signatory to the 1993 Chemical Weapons Convention, which also prohibits the use of such weapons. Russia is a signatory of both, so if it was behind the poisoning of Navalny it has broken treaties it has sworn to uphold, said Prof Alastair Hay, a British toxicology expert. The conventions do not include a system of sanctions for non-compliance, and instead direct complaints to the United Nations Security Council, of which Russia is a permanent member. The council can recommend the imposition of sanctions following an investigation. These latest findings once again underline the need to hold Russia accountable for its repeated violations of the Chemical Weapons Convention and, in this instance, the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention, the foreign ministers joint statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Our permanent representatives to the organisation for the prohibition of chemical weapons have written today to the director-general to inform him of this Russian breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. We are further concerned that Russia did not destroy all of its chemical weapons. We and our partners will make use of all policy levers at our disposal to continue to hold Russia to account. Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays. Presidents Day is a federal holiday observed each year in mid-February to honor past U.S. presidents. In many areas, it coincides with the next major school breakoften called Presidents Day break in some districts, midwinter recess in others, or simply February break by most students and teachers. Heres when we celebrate Presidents Day and why: When is Presidents Day? This year, Presidents Day falls on Monday, Feb. 16. Advertisement Advertisement The federal holiday is observed each year on the third Monday of February. What is Presidents Day? Officially known as Washington's Birthday, the first federal holiday of the year was originally meant to honor the country's first president, George Washington. Washington was born in Virginia on Feb. 11, 1731, according to the then-used Julian calendar. In 1752, however, Britain and all its colonies adopted the Gregorian calendar which moved his birthday a year and 11 days to Feb. 22, 1732. Eventually, the holiday included honoring President Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday is Feb. 12. The position of the holiday between the birthdays of Washington and Lincoln gave rise to the popular name of Presidents Day, according to the National Archives. Advertisement Advertisement In 1885, Congress designated Feb. 22 as a holiday for all federal workers. Nearly a century later, in 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Law changed the date to the third Monday in February, according to the National Archives. The Uniform Holiday Bill mandated that three holidays, including Presidents Day, occur on Mondays to prevent midweek shutdowns and add long weekends to the federal calendar. Why do we celebrate Presidents Day? Dean Malissa (R) portrays President George Washington as he talks with vistors at the Mount Vernon Estate February 22, 2017 in Mount Vernon, Virginia. The country celebrated the founding father's birthday long before Congress declared the day a federal holiday, which was the country's first federal holiday to honor an individual's birth date, according to the National Archives. Around the centennial of Washington's birthday, Congress established a joint committee to oversee festivities to honor the former president. Advertisement Advertisement On Feb. 22, 1832, the committee recommended Congress adjourn out of respect for Washington's memory and in commemoration of his birth. Prompted by a memorial from the mayor and other citizens of Philadelphia, the House and Senate commemorated the 130th anniversary of Washington's birth by reading aloud his farewell address, according to the National Archives. Eventually, this event became a tradition in the Senate that is still observed to this day. Washington's Birthday did not become a legal holiday until Jan. 31, 1879, when Congress added Feb. 22 to the list of holidays to be observed by federal employees in the District of Columbia. This did not become a paid holiday for all federal employees until 1885. What is open/closed on Presidents Day? The U.S. Postal Service, banks, the stock market and most schools will be closed on Presidents Day. Most retail and grocery stores remain open. Who is off for Presidents Day? Federal holidays are those observed by the federal government, so anyone who works for the federal government generally has the day off. Federal holidays may also be observed on Monday or Friday if they fall on a weekend. When are federal holidays in 2026? After Presidents Day, there are eight more days throughout 2026 designated as federal holidays. Here's a rundown of each one and when it is: Advertisement Advertisement Memorial Day: Monday, May 25 Juneteenth: Friday, June 19 Independence Day: Friday, July 3 (July 4 falls on a Saturday for the Semiquincentennial) Labor Day: Monday, Sept. 7 Columbus Day: Monday, Oct. 12 Veterans Day: Wednesday, Nov. 11 Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, Nov. 26 Christmas Day: Friday, Dec. 25 Contributing: USA Today network This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: When is Presidents Day 2026? What to know about the federal holiday Feb. 13City Engineer Carl Prewitt proposed this week hiring a consultant to redraw the "unusual" west side of the Sandlin Road-Beltline Road intersection. Prewitt proposed hiring Pugh Wright McAnally Inc. to provide professional services and create an engineering plan for $55,000 at the council work session. Prewitt said he wants to change this side of the intersection near Beltline Shell Liquor Store and Beltline Place Shopping Center. Advertisement Advertisement "If you're northbound on Sandlin Road and turning eastbound on the Beltline, there's not a right-turn lane," Prewitt said. Prewitt pointed out the intersection allows drivers to go straight, but they aren't supposed to turn right. Instead, they're supposed to go down the service road and then enter the Beltline. "A lot of people turn right anyway even though they're not supposed to," he said. Council President Kyle Pike asked how long he thinks it will take Pugh Wright McAnally to do the engineering design, and Prewitt estimated about six months. "Fortunately, we shouldn't have to worry about buying right of way, but it would take a little longer (getting permits from the Alabama Department of Transportation) because it's a state highway," Prewitt said. "We had to look at how the lane will fit in with utility poles and what do we do with the frontage road, so there's a lot of variables we will have to look at in this project." Advertisement Advertisement Prewitt said the engineering design will give the city an idea of how much to budget for the project. The intersection is in Councilwoman Pam Werstler's District 4. She said Thursday she needs to look more closely at the proposal "but it sounds pretty logical to me." In 2023, the city realigned Beltline Road's two left-turn lanes onto Sandlin Road as part of a $1.8 million project that also included realigning the intersection with Central Parkway/Central Avenue. Prewitt gave three other project updates: ALDOT now has all of the documentation on the Alabama 67-Country Club Road intersection widening, so the city is waiting on state approval of the project to get started. Advertisement Advertisement The city's preparing to put the widening of Bunny Lane Southwest out for bids. They are planning to widen the road from Shady Grove Lane to the new ball field complex that is between Bunny Lane and Modaus Road. He said the road will go from 16 to 20 feet, the width of a normal city street. The engineer submitted revisions on the widening of Church Street Northeast from Somerville Road to Sixth Avenue/U.S. 31 to ALDOT, so the city is now waiting for state approval. He said they expect to let bids in April, but that's subject to change. bayne.hughes@decaturdaily.com or 256-340-2432 Lifetouch, one of the most prominent school photography companies in the country, is facing district investigations and canceled school photo days. It's all because of an unsubstantiated rumor spreading online. It claims the former CEO of Lifetouch's ownership group - who is named in the Epstein files - may have accessed children's photos. The rumors have caused concern among parents around the country. Advertisement Advertisement From Texas to here in California. Just this week, a school district in Salinas, California sent a letter to families addressing the rumor and saying it was untrue. Lifetouch too has responded, releasing a statement, which reads in part: "Lifetouch is not named in the Epstein files. The documents contain no allegations that Lifetouch itself was involved in, or that student photos were used in, any illicit activities." Despite the pushback against the alleged Epstein connections, other concerns have emerged, too. Specifically, conversations around data privacy and how your information and photos might be used. Advertisement Advertisement "You want to know who owns those photos and that's typically done by contract. And what can be done with the photos later between you and the photographer," said Steven Clark. Clark is a South Bay-based attorney. He says it's important to read the fine print on consent forms for things like school photoshoots. Tech expert Ahmed Banafa agrees - especially given the chance of a data breach. "About 5 million pictures being sold on the dark web in 2023," said Banafa. Banafa says Lifetouch has taken important steps to ensure its data isn't shared with third parties. He also says in California, consumers are protected legally. Advertisement Advertisement "This privacy law in California is new. So it's really taking into consideration all the advancements in technology," said Banafa. Lifetouch says you can fill out a form to request to have your child's data deleted if you choose. If you're on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live This story has been updated to correct an error. See correction at bottom. If efforts to abolish property taxes in Ohio are successful, townships may have only one option to continue funding services: become cities. Townships are mostly funded by property taxes about 66% according to the Ohio Township Association. They use those taxes to pay for services like police and firefighters, road and cemetery maintenance, and waste disposal. Advertisement Advertisement As a city or municipality, those governments could impose income taxes on residents to fund those services instead. "This whole thing of just doing away with property taxes without (coming up with a way) to supplement what you're taking away is just insane," said Randy Gonzalez, a former longtime Jackson Township fiscal officer and trustee. "What would happen to these townships? They would literally have to file bankruptcy." Gonzalez was once a major proponent of Jackson Township a community of about 43,000 people becoming a city in the early 1990s when he was a township trustee so the community could adopt income taxes. But he now opposes incorporation because of the bureaucracy he believes it would create. A constitutional amendment to abolish property taxes could appear on the November ballot if the grassroots group pushing the effort collects the necessary 413,000 signatures. Advertisement Advertisement But the debate, spurred by soaring property taxes in recent years, has prompted fear for townships and schools, and a new bill from state Rep. David Thomas, R-Jefferson and state Rep. Adam Matthews, R-Lebanon. The legislation would eliminate the requirement that townships get the support of nearby cities to become cities and leave it solely for the township's voters to decide whether to incorporate. Townships are eligible to become cities if they meet certain population, density, size and property tax criteria set by the state. Under this bill, townships, of which there are about 1,308 statewide today, would need at least 5,000 residents to incorporate as a city, and at least 1,000 people per square mile. In the most recent example of a nearby township becoming a city, Green Township in southern Summit County, voted to merge with Green Village in 1991, and became the City of Green the following year. "Some townships may want to streamline and lower the threshold to incorporate into cities, especially in light of the proposed referendum to abolish property taxes," state Sen. Jane Timken, R-Jackson Township, said in a statement. "Incorporating to a city has challenges as well. In the legislature, we have to be willing to come up with solutions to help solve the problem. I am happy to work with our local townships on a solution." Advertisement Advertisement State Rep. Jim Thomas, R-Jackson Township, a former Jackson Township trustee, wrote in a text message that he is not familiar with the process by which townships can become cities. And that he would have to look into the proposed bill. "My hope is that the constitutional amendment to abolish property taxes in Ohio will fail," he wrote. "Many important items are funded by property taxes including schools, police and fire, libraries, etc." Trustee: Abolishing property tax would 'devastate' townships Jackson and Plain Township officials are not enthusiastic about their townships becoming cities. "Township form of government is the least expensive form of government to run," Jackson Township Trustee John Pizzino said. "... We have all these services that the city has other than trash pickup and water and sewer." Advertisement Advertisement Stark County has some of the most populous townships in the state in Plain, Jackson, Lake and Perry in some cases with many more people than existing cities. But Plain Township Trustee John Sabo said he doesn't believe becoming a city is a solution. Plain's population is about 35,000, according to the Ohio Township Association. "Township government is already the most efficient form of local government in Ohio," he wrote in an upcoming op-ed that will be published by the Canton Repository. "Our residents choose to live in Plain Township and not neighboring cities. Incorporation would dramatically increase costs and responsibilities." Township voters in Stark County have rejected proposals to become cities in the past. Perry voters defeated an issue in 1991, while Jackson and Plain voters rejected proposals in 1998 and 2010, respectively. Advertisement Advertisement If the townships became cities, they under state law would have to have a mayor, a city council with an elected council president, an elected law director, an elected auditor and an elected treasurer. And each of those city officials like in Canton would have a paid staff whose salaries are paid for by taxpayers. To deviate from that state-mandated form of government, the new cities would have to go through a multi-step process to establish a charter government. The new cities would have to take over the maintenance of several state and county routes, bridges and culverts. The police department of whatever city Jackson Township became would be responsible for policing the section of Interstate 77 going through its territory, an area now policed by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Sabo said complicating matters, all of Plain Township could not be incorporated as one city. Because not all of the township is connected due to decades of annexations by Canton and North Canton. The contiguous northeastern Plain Township could incorporate. But the southwestern part, which includes the Avondale neighborhood, could perhaps incorporate as a village. Jackson Township Administrator/Law Director Mike Vaccaro said property taxes, including a police levy, fire levy, road levy and park levy, fund about $35 million of the township's $78 million operating budget. The rest comes from state local government funding, gas tax, vehicle registration fees, fees and income tax revenue from joint economic development agreements with Canton. Advertisement Advertisement Sabo said about 40% of Plain Township's roughly $40 million annual budget is funded by property taxes, which pay for the township's contract for policing by the Stark County Sheriff's Office, the fire department, emergency medical services, the parks and maintenance of the roads. He wrote abolishing property taxes would "destabilize every essential service we provide" and would be a "gamble with public safety." Gonzalez, Vaccaro and Sabo said they were open to a different idea the state legislature could give townships, or at least large townships like theirs, the power to adopt income taxes with voter approval without requiring the townships to become cities. Reach Robert at robert.wang@cantonrep.com. Correction: The population of Plain Township is about 35,000, according to the Ohio Township Association. An earlier version of this story had an incorrect figure. This article originally appeared on The Repository: Jackson, Plain township leaders not interested in becoming cities Feb. 13WILKES-BARRE Two distinct legal theories were strenuously argued Friday related to homicide suspect William Hunter Snyder's cellular phone and social media records. Snyder's attorneys, Peter Paul Olszewski Jr. and Rachel D. Olszewski, contend an overzealous state police investigator unlawfully obtained without search warrants Snyder's cell records to pinpoint his locations through cellphone towers, while Assistant District Attorney Gerry Scott argued the information would have been discovered in due time. The legal clashes continued through much of a motions hearing before Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas Judge Joseph F. Sklarosky Jr., where Snyder's attorneys are seeking to exclude certain, if not all, evidence obtained during the state police investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Snyder, 28, of Milton, a state trooper until October 2023, was charged Jan. 22, 2025, for the shooting death of John "Johnny" Rabbitz Jr., 44, at Rabbitz's residence on Merry Lane Drive in Sugarloaf Township on Jan. 21, 2025. Investigators in court records allege the shooting was over Courtney Burgard, whom Snyder previously dated. Burgard was dating Rabbitz at the time of his death. Court records allege Snyder disguised himself with a wig when he knocked on the front door and shot Rabbitz three times. As an injured Rabbitz was on the floor of his home, state police Cpl. Jason Zoshak, who had his body camera recording, asked Rabbitz if he knew anyone who had beef with him. Rabbitz replied, "Hunter Snyder," and the shooting was over a girl before Rabbitz was transported to a hospital, where he died upon arrival. Hours after Rabbitz was fatally shot, investigators learned of Snyder having spoken to Burgard twice via phone as she was in Florida at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Snyder's attorneys, in seeking exclusion of evidence, argued investigators had already known Snyder's alleged involvement, his residence in Milton, and that Snyder was a former trooper. Despite knowing about Snyder, his attorneys claim Trooper Justin Leri provided false and misleading information to Snapchat for Snyder's social media account data, including text messages, and to Verizon to learn of Snyder's travels through cellular tower connections. Snyder's attorneys believe Leri obtained the information from Snapchat and Verizon without search warrants and in violation of Snyder's right to privacy. Information Leri obtained unlawfully and without search warrants, Snyder's attorneys argued, was used to coerce Snyder into giving a confession. Advertisement Advertisement Any evidence and information recovered after unlawfully obtaining Snyder's Snapchat and Verizon phone data would be thrown out under the "Fruit of the Poisonous Tree doctrine," Olszewski Jr. said. Scott, the assistant district attorney who is prosecuting along with Deputy Assistant District Attorney Daniel Zola and Assistant District Attorney Robert S. Walker, said Snyder's phone data would have been obtained through the normal course of the investigation, known as the Inevitable Discovery Rule. Lead investigator, state police Cpl. Bryan Noll said search warrants were being prepared for Snapchat and Verizon, but there was a need for "exigent circumstances" based on "concerning" text messages between Snyder and Burgard, and Snyder's previous profession being a state trooper who possibly had knowledge of properly discarding evidence. In one of many text messages between Snyder and Burgard, Snyder wrote, "Nothing is going to stop me from pursuing you." Advertisement Advertisement Noll said he took that message as a threat toward Burgard for the immediate need to know of Snyder's whereabouts through Snapchat and Verizon. "That one message certainly gives rise of concern," Noll testified Friday. Snyder is facing a single count of criminal homicide. Sklarosky is expected to make a ruling on the evidence at a later date. Shiv Sena (UBT) mouthpiece Saamana on Saturday criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for boasting about the election of a Muslim as Mayor of Parbhani, calling it a "total failure of their intelligence" and a distraction from Maharashtra's real issues. Shiv Sena (UBT)'s Muslim corporator, Syed Iqbal, was elected the new Mayor of Parbhani city on Thursday, with backing from the Congress. He becomes the first Muslim to serve as mayor for any Shiv Sena faction in Maharashtra. In the mayoral poll, Iqbal won with 39 votes, defeating his BJP opponent Tirumala Khillare by a 13-vote margin. Congress corporator Ganesh Deshmukh was chosen as Parbhani's Deputy Mayor. In an editorial, Saamana said, "While Maharashtra is in a state of turmoil over numerous issues, the Bharatiya Janata Party and its helpless wing are boasting that the Shiv Sena has appointed a Muslim as mayor in Parbhani. This is a total failure of their intelligence. They claim they installed a 'Khan' in Parbhani! This is like covering up your own affairs while gazing at others'. Hey Baba, forget about the 'Khan' of Parbhani, first explain why you installed a 'Khan' on the stage at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's centenary celebrations. It's okay to place a Khan in the lap of the Sarsanghchalak, but this is not right for the patriotic Khan, a Marathi-speaking staunch Shiv Sainik from Parbhani." They also slammed the BJP for trying to stir a Hindu-Muslim divide over the election of Iqbal, quoting RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's stance that Muslims who embrace local customs and culture "are our own" and questioning why BJP leaders are ignoring this guidance. "The world also saw Adnan Sami, son of Arshad Khan, who bombed Pathankot during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, sitting on the shoulders of the RSS chief. However, as soon as Marathi-speaking Shiv Sena official Syed Iqbal was appointed mayor, the BJP started a Hindu-Muslim conflict. The Sarsanghchalak clarified his stance on this issue at the centenary celebrations. He said, "Hindu-Muslim unity is often talked about. But this is completely wrong. Because we do not consider Hindus and Muslims as separate entities." What Bhagwat says next is significant... "Those Muslims who consider the customs, traditions, rituals, and culture here as their own are our own. We should accept them all as our own." If this is the Sarsanghchalak's guidance, then why are these BJP stooges indulging in "banggiri" in the name of Hindus and Muslims? Do they not agree with the Sarsanghchalak's views?" the editorial read. Saamana said the BJP is turning Hindutva into a "political business" while praising its own Muslims in key positions. The editorial highlighted that the BJP itself has appointed Muslims to top posts, yet objects when a loyal Marathi-speaking Muslim like Iqbal rises locally, framing it as a manufactured Hindu-Muslim conflict. "...It appears only those Hindus whose god is 'Modi' are in danger. All other Hindus are safe. Because for the BJP, Hindutva has become a political business rather than a religion. Now, how many examples of their hypocrisy can we give? When Operation Sindoor was launched against Pakistan, the Modi government, in order to show the world how secular our country was, put forward Colonel Sophia Qureshi and provided daily war updates through her. However, as soon as Sindoor was withdrawn, the BJP labelled Sophia the "sister of traitors," the editorial read. "The country's President, Governor, and Supreme Court Judges can all be Muslims. The BJP itself has given these positions, yet they oppose Syed, a patriotic Marathi speaker from Parbhani. This is hypocrisy. BJP members hate the freedom struggle and nationalism. In reality, if people from other regions and religions are raising the Marathi flag in Maharashtra, they should be welcomed. But the BJP's business is to incorporate Aurangzeb, Afzal Khan, and Jaichand into their party for profit and point fingers at others. A Muslim country like Iran refused to surrender to President Trump, but the world saw the world leader of the "divide and destroy" ideology surrender to President Trump," the editorial read. (ANI) Alexei Navalny, a thorn in the side of the Kremlin and Russias most prominent political dissident, died in prison after being poisoned by the Kremlin, the UK and its European allies have said. Navalny, a fierce critic of Russian president Vladimir Putin, died while serving a 19-year jail term in a penal colony around 40 miles of the Arctic Circle in charges widely thought to be politically motivated. He died in February 2024 after going for a walk at the jail and losing consciousness. Advertisement Advertisement The political agitator has been behind bars since January 2021, when he returned to Moscow after recuperating in Germany from nerve agent poisoning that he blamed on the Kremlin. Before his arrest, he campaigned against official corruption, organized major anti-Kremlin protests and ran for public office. Now, Britain, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands have said that he died after being poisoned with a lethal dart frog toxin - a development which has prompted his widow to call for Vladimir Putin to be held accountable. Here's a look at Navalnys life, political activism and the charges he has faced through the years: 1976 4 June 4 Navalny is born in a western part of the Moscow region. 1997 Graduates from Russias RUDN university, where he majored in law; earns a degree in economics in 2001 while working as a lawyer. 2004 Forms a movement against rampant overdevelopment in Moscow, according to his campaign website. Police officers detain Alexeo Navalny, at Moscow's Pushkinskaya Square, on March 5, 2012 (AFP via Getty Images) 2008 Gains notoriety for alleging corruption in state-run corporations, such as gas giant Gazprom and oil behemoth Rosneft, through his blogs and other posts. 2010 Founds RosPil, an anti-corruption project run by a team of lawyers that analyzes spending of state agencies and companies, exposing violations and contesting them in court. 2011 December- Participates in mass protests sparked by reports of widespread rigging of Russias parliamentary election, and is arrested and jailed for 15 days for defying a government official. 2012 March - Following Mr Putins reelection and inauguration, mass protests break out in Moscow and elsewhere. Navalny accuses key figures, including then-Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov and Chechnyas strongman leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, of corruption. Advertisement Advertisement July - Russias Investigative Committee charges Navalny with embezzlement involving Kirovles, a state-owned timber company in the Kirov region, while acting as an adviser to the local governor. Navalny rejects the allegations as politically motivated. December The Investigative Committee launches another probe into alleged embezzlement at a Navalny-linked Russian subsidiary of Yves Rocher, a French cosmetics company. Navalny again says the allegations are politically motivated. Navalny appears via a video link from the Arctic penal colony where he would later die (AP) 2013 Navalny runs for mayor in Moscow a move the authorities not only allow but encourage in an attempt to put a veneer of democracy on the race that is designed to boost the profile of the incumbent, Sergei Sobyanin. July - A court in Kirov convicts Navalny of embezzlement in the Kirovles case, sentencing him to five years in prison. The prosecution petitions to release Navalny from custody pending his appeal, and he resumes his campaign. Advertisement Advertisement September Official results show Navalny finishes second in the mayors race behind Sobyanin, with 27% of the vote, after a successful electoral and fundraising campaign collecting an unprecedented 97.3 million rubles ($2.9 million) from individual supporters. October A court hands Navalny a suspended sentence in the Kirovles case. February 2014 Navalny is placed under house arrest in connection with the Yves Rocher case and banned from using the internet. His blog continues to be updated regularly, presumably by his team, detailing alleged corruption by various Russian officials. December Navalny and his brother, Oleg, are found guilty of fraud in the Yves Rocher case. Navalny receives a 3 -year suspended sentence, while his brother is handed a prison term. Both appeal to the European Court of Human Rights. 2015 December Navalnys Foundation for Fighting Corruption releases its first long-form video a YouTube documentary called Chaika, which means seagull in Russian but is also the last name of then-Prosecutor General Yury Chaika. Advertisement Advertisement The 44-minute video accuses him of corruption and alleged ties to a notorious criminal group and has piled up 26 million views on YouTube. Chaika and other Russian officials deny the accusations. 2016 February The European Court of Human Rights rules that Russia violated Navalnys right to a fair trial in the Kirovles case, ordering the government to pay his legal costs and damages. November Russias Supreme Court overturns Navalnys sentence and sends the case back to the original court in the city of Kirov for review. December Navalny announces he will run in Russias 2018 presidential election. Navalny and his wife Yulia attend a hearing at the Lublinsky district court in Moscow, Russia, April 23, 2015 (REUTERS) 2017 February The Kirov court retries Navalny and upholds his five-year suspended sentence from 2013. Advertisement Advertisement March Navalny releases a YouTube documentary accusing then-Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev of corruption, getting over 7 million views in its first week. A series of anti-graft protests across Russia draw tens of thousands and there are mass arrests. Navalny tours the country to open campaign offices, holds big rallies and is jailed repeatedly for unauthorized demonstrations. 27 April Unidentified assailants throw a green disinfectant in his face, damaging his right eye. He blames the attack on the Kremlin. October The European Court of Human Rights finds Navalnys fraud conviction in the Yves Rocher case to be arbitrary and manifestly unreasonable. December Russias Central Electoral Commission bars him from running for president over his conviction in the Kirovles case, a move condemned by the EU as casting serious doubt on the election. 2019 July Members of Navalnys team, along with other opposition activists, are barred from running for Moscow city council, sparking protests that are violently dispersed, with thousands arrested. Navalnys team responds by promoting the Smart Voting strategy, encouraging the election of any candidate except those from the Kremlins United Russia party. The strategy works, with the party losing its majority. 2020 Navalny seeks to deploy the Smart Voting strategy during regional elections in September and tours Siberia as part of the effort. Advertisement Advertisement 20 August On a flight from the city of Tomsk, where he was working with local activists, Navalny falls ill and the plane makes an emergency landing in nearby Omsk. Hospitalized in a coma, Navalnys team suspects he was poisoned. 22 August A comatose Navalny is flown to a hospital in Berlin. 24 August German authorities confirm Navalny was poisoned with a Soviet-era nerve agent. After he recovers, he blames the Kremlin, an accusation denied by Russian officials. Navalny was a fierce critic of Vladimir Putin (AP) 2021 17 January After five months in Germany, Navalny is arrested upon his return to Russia, with authorities alleging his recuperation abroad violated the terms of his suspended sentence in the Yves Rocher case. His arrest triggers some of the biggest protests in Russia in years. Thousands are arrested. Advertisement Advertisement 2 February A Moscow court orders Navalny to serve 2 years in prison for his parole violation. While in prison, Navalny stages a three-week hunger strike to protest a lack of medical treatment and sleep deprivation. June A Moscow court outlaws Navalnys Foundation for Fighting Corruption and about 40 regional offices as extremist, shutting down his political network. Close associates and team members face prosecution and leave Russia under pressure. Navalny maintains contact with his lawyers and team from prison, and they update his social media accounts. 2022 24 February Russia invades Ukraine. Navalny condemns the war in social media posts from prison and during his court appearances. 22 March Navalny is sentenced to an additional nine-year term for embezzlement and contempt of court in a case his supporters rejected as fabricated. He is transferred to a maximum-security prison in Russias western Vladimir region. Advertisement Advertisement July Navalnys team announces the relaunch of the Anti-Corruption Foundation as an international organization with an advisory board including Francis Fukuyama, Anne Applebaum, and the European Parliament member and former Belgian Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt. Navalny continues to file lawsuits in prison and tries to form a labor union in the facility. In response, penitentiary officials start regularly placing him in solitary confinement over purported disciplinary violations such as failing to properly button his garment or to wash his face at a specified time. Navalny (second left) as he listens to his verdict over a series of extremism charges at the IK-6 penal colony (AFP via Getty Images) 2023 Over 400 Russian doctors sign an open letter to Mr Putin, urging an end to what it calls abuse of Navalny, following reports that he was denied basic medication after getting the flu. His team expresses concern about his health, saying in April he had acute stomach pain and suspected he was being slowly poisoned. 12 March Navalny, a film about the attempt on the opposition leaders life, wins the Oscar for best documentary feature. Advertisement Advertisement 26 April Appearing on a videolink from prison during a hearing, Navalny says he was facing new extremism and terrorism charges that could keep him behind bars for the rest of his life. He adds sardonically that the charges imply that Im conducting terror attacks while sitting in prison. 19 June The trial begins in a make-shift courtroom in the Penal Colony No. 6 where Navalny is being held. Soon after it starts, the judge closes the trial for the public and the media despite Navalnys demand to keep it open. 20 July The prosecution in its closing arguments asks the court to sentence Navalny to 20 years in prison, the politician's team reports. Navalny says in a subsequent statement that he expects his sentence to be huge a Stalinist term, referring to the Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. 4 August - Navalny is sentenced to 19 years in prison for extremism. He was accused by the Russian authorities of creating an extremist community, financing extremist activities and a number of other crimes. According to a message on Telegram, he said: I am serving a life sentence. Where life is measured by the duration of my life or the life of this regime. The number from verdict is not for me. It is for you. December - Navalny was transferred this month to a penal colony north of the Arctic Circle. His lawyer said Russian authorities wanted to isolate Navalny ahead of Russias March presidential election. Navalny pictured in hospital in 2020 (Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP) 2024 9 January - Navalny sarcastically heaped praise on the polar conditions at the prison north of the Arctic Circle where he was moved to shortly before Christmas. In a post on the Telegram messaging app Navalny said he had been put in a punishment cell for his attitude as soon as he left quarantine at the so-called Polar Wolf prison colony. He said that walking for half an hour in those temperatures you manage to grow a new nose, new ears and new fingers. 11 January - Navalny appeared before a Supreme Court judge by video link on Thursday to argue for the right to longer meal breaks and access to more books in prison. Wearing a black prison uniform and standing behind bars in a small, bare room, Navalny, 47, appeared gaunt but spoke animatedly, at length and without notes. 17 January - From his penal camp Navalny, said that Putins state would one day crumble along with the post-Soviet elite which he cast as venal, power-hungry and duplicitous. Lies, lies and nothing but lies. It will collapse and crumble. Putins state is not viable. One day we will look at his place and he wont be there. 23 January - Navalny was placed in solitary confinement for 10 days for incorrectly introducing himself to a guard, his spokesperson said. 16 February - Russias prison agency has said that imprisoned opposition leader Navalny has died. He was 47. 2026 14 February - The UK and its allies have pinned the blame for Navalnys death on the Russian state following analysis of poison developed from a dart frog toxin found in his body. Additional reporting by agencies After an unseasonably warm and dry Valentines Day, a storm system will settle across Idaho, meteorologists say. The Gem State will experience a brief dry period on Friday as a weak ridge moves overhead, the National Weather Service said in its latest Idaho State Forecast Discussion. A more significant weather pattern shift arrives over the weekend and persists through early next week as a series of Pacific storms move inland, the weather service said in the forecast, published Friday, Feb. 13. Advertisement Advertisement Heres what to expect: Snow covers the ground at Marianne Williams Park in Boise, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. (Sarah A. Miller/smiller@idahostatesman.com) When will Idaho see rain? Snow? Widespread precipitation is expected Presidents Day Monday, Feb. 16 through Wednesday, Feb. 18, according to the National Weather Services forecast. Snow levels will remain at elevations between 3,500 and 5,000 feet, which means most major valley locations will see rain or a rain-snow mix, according to the forecast. Central and North Idaho will likely see the heaviest mountain snow accumulation, the weather service said. According to National Weather Service meteorologist Les Colin, all of Idaho will have a chance for snow later in the week including the valleys. Advertisement Advertisement The mountains will get the most but even down in the valleys, I think its reasonable to expect at least an inch of snow late in the week, Colin told the Idaho Statesman via phone. Those flurries will primarily land Thursday, Feb. 19, through Friday, Feb. 20, he said. Temperatures will stay near or slightly above seasonal normals through the weekend before a cooling trend begins mid-week, the weather service said. Whats the weather forecast for Boise? The Boise area was expected to be mostly sunny on Friday, Feb. 13, according to the National Weather Services latest seven-day forecast. The high temperature will be near 47 degrees, and an overnight low temperature will hover around 37 degrees. Advertisement Advertisement Clouds will roll in on Saturday just in time for Valentines Day, which will have a high of 54 and a low of 38, the weather service said. Sunday will bring back sunshine to Boise. Temperatures will reach 56 during the day and drop down to 36 overnight. Boise residents can expect more sunny weather on Monday with a high around 58 before the rain rolls in around 11 p.m. Theres a 60% chance of precipitation Monday night, when the overnight low will be around 37. Throughout the rest of the week, highs are expected to drop gradually from the 50s into the low 30s, while lows will fall from the 30s to below 20 degrees. Snow falls in Boise at Julia Davis Park, Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025. (Sarah A. Miller/smiller@idahostatesman.com) How long will cold, wet weather last? According to Colin, Idaho will see rain and snow for most of the week. It will be drier heading into next weekend, and gradually warmer, but most of the precipitation is going to come during the week before the weekend, the meteorologist said. President Donald Trumps surprise endorsement of U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow in her bid to unseat fellow Republican U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy has set up a heated showdown, and the pair did not disappoint Friday as they traded barbs on the final day of candidate qualifying for the May 16 party primaries. Cassidy, who has held the seat since 2015, has come under heat from the conservative wing of the party since his vote to convict Trump in his 2021 impeachment trial following the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. A slew of Cassidy supporters accompanied the senator to the State Archives where he signed up for reelection, while a video billboard truck drove around the building with a display of Liberal Julia Letlow, showing her alongside former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and signs that read Black lives matter and defund the police. Though Cassidy has attempted to paint Letlow as a liberal, conservatives are coalescing around her. In addition to backing from the president, Letlow has earned support from Gov. Jeff Landry, according to the Shreveport Times. Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta, who had announced last year he would run against Cassidy, did not qualify and endorsed Letlow instead, according to WVLA-TV. Advertisement Advertisement Letlow appeared and qualified two hours before Cassidy and company arrived, but the billboard truck was already making its rounds when she was at the State Archives. I wish that we all could run positive campaigns on our records and our vision and our dreams for Louisiana Letlow told reporters. But you know, I can tell you this, President Trump would never endorse someone who is not a true America first conservative. And so that should give the people peace of mind when they have to look at these negative, desperate ads, Letlow said when asked about Cassidys attack ads that have aired in the weeks since she announced she would run against him. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Cassidy has sought to cast Letlow, a former administrator at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, as a pro-diversity, equity and inclusion advocate, claiming she held workshops to put woke content into the curriculum, joined an anti-racist organization and signed a statement in support of diversity in the wake of the murder of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police. That is absolutely false, that I would be a proponent of DEI, Letlow said. Do I know it exists on the university campuses? Absolutely, Im going to do everything I can to fight it. Treasurer John Fleming, who worked for Trump during his first administration and qualified for the U.S. Senate race Wednesday, described the presidents endorsement of Letlow as a scheme that the governor was behind. Jeff Landry has been working on this endorsement over a year, Fleming told reporters after he qualified. Ive heard about it from a number of people. Advertisement Advertisement The governor rejected Flemings claim Thursday, saying he might not be fit for office. Landrys former chief of staff, Kyle Ruckert, is advising Letlows campaign and was seen at the State Archives among her entourage. The governors office said earlier this month Ruckert stepped down to chair Protect Louisiana Values, an organization dedicated to Landrys agenda. Two more Democrats qualified Friday for the Senate race: Nick Albares, a New Orleans nonprofit executive and former aide to former Gov. John Bel Edwards; and Gary Crockett of New Orleans, who lists experience as a data scientist and political consultant. They join Union Parish farmer Jamie Davis, who qualified Wednesday. Why are we having party primaries? Whats different about the 2026 election is the introduction of closed party primaries. Advertisement Advertisement Landry supported legislation in 2024 to close Louisianas relatively unusual open jungle primaries. They forced candidates of all affiliations to face each other in an initial election, and the top two vote-getters, regardless of party and assuming no candidate gets more than 50% of the vote advanced to a runoff the following month. Louisianas new closed primaries apply to seats in Congress and on the Louisiana Supreme Court, Public Service Commission and Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. They are supposed to be held in March of each election year, with the majority vote-getter from each party advancing to a fall election. If no candidate receives more than 50% of the vote in the primary, a party runoff is held the following month between the top two candidates. This years party primaries were pushed to May back by legislators who hoped the U.S. Supreme Court would offer a ruling in a case on Louisianas congressional maps in time to adopt new maps for 2026. The court has not yet ruled in the case. In states with closed primaries, voters tend to be more polarized than in the general election, meaning a conservative Republican candidate could have a better chance in unseating a more moderate intra-party rival. Unopposed qualifiers advance In other notable news on the final day of qualifying, Associate Supreme Court Justices Cade Cole and Jay McCallum, both Republicans, secured reelection without opposition. Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Rep. Troy Carter of New Orleans faces one Democratic Party primary challenger, Renada Honey Collins of New Orleans. He will be heavily favored to keep his 2nd Congressional District seat after the May 16 election because no Republican entered the race. Incumbent U.S. Reps. Cleo Fields, D-Baton Rouge, and Clay Higgins, R-Lafayette, did not draw primary opponents from their respective parties, meaning they advanced directly to the Nov. 3 general election. The same situation applies to Democrat Connie Norris, a retired Slidell teacher running for the Public Service Commission in District 1, and Angela Hershey, a high school teacher from Madisonville, seeking the District 1 seat for the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. Michael Hollis qualified for the BESE District 1 seat on the Republican side to run for the seat vacated by his brother, Paul Hollis, the new U.S. Mint director. He will face fellow Republicans Joseph Cao and Ellie Schroder. Advertisement Advertisement John Young, the former president of Jefferson Parish, also signed up in the District 1 race for the Public Service Commission. Qualified candidates for the May 16 primaries incumbents are in bold U.S. Senate Democrat: Nick Albares, New Orleans; Gary Crockett, New Orleans; Jamie Davis, Ferriday Republican: U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, Baton Rouge; Treasurer John Fleming, Minden; U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow, Baton Rouge; Mark Spencer, Belle Chasse 1st Congressional District Democrat: Lauren Jewett, Metairie; Jim Long, Metairie Republican: Randall Arrington, Ponchatoula; U.S. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Jefferson 2nd Congressional District Democrat: U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, New Orleans; Renada Honey Collins, New Orleans 3rd Congressional District Democrat: John Day, Lake Charles; Tia LeBrun, Sulphur; Caleb Walker, Lafayette Republican: U.S. Rep. Clay Higgins, Lafayette 4th Congressional District Democrat: Conrad Cable, Farmerville; Matt Gromlich, Greenwood Republican: U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, Benton; Joshua Morott, Vernon Parish; Mike Nichols, Pitkin 5th Congressional District Democrat: Jessee Fleenor, Loranger; Larry Foy, Winnsboro; Lindsay Rubia Garcia, Walker; Dan McKay, Bunkie; Tania Nyman Republican: Misti Cordell, Wes Monroe; state Sen. Rick Edmonds, Baton Rouge, Austin Magee, Franklinton; Michael Mebruer, St. Francisville; state Sen. Blake Miguez, New Iberia; Sammy Wyatt, Denham Springs 6th Congressional District Democrat: U.S. Rep. Cleo Fields , Baton Rouge Republican: Monique Appeaning, St. George; Larry Davis, Denham Springs; Chris Johnson, Greenwell Springs; Peter Williams, Lettsworth Louisiana Supreme Court, 1st District Republican: Judge Billy Burris, Franklinton; Judge Blair Downing Edwards, Hammond Public Service Commission, District 1 Democrat: Connie Norris, Slidell Republican: Wallace Wayne Cooper II, Robert; state Rep. Stephanie Hilferty, New Orleans; Big John Mason, Metairie; state Rep. Mark Wright, Covington; John Young, Metairie Public Service Commission, District 5 Democrat: James Green, Shreveport; Austin Lawsom, Bossier City Republican: John Atkins, Shreveport; Aiden Joyner; West Monroe Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, District 1 Democrat: Angela Hershey, Madisonville Republican: Joseph Cao, Harvey; Michael Hollis, New Orleans; Ellie Schroder, Abita Springs SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The Lubbock County 2026 March primaries are just around the corner. Learn more about Justin Martin's platforms in the Republican Primary for Lubbock County Commissioner for Precinct 2. Note: The Lubbock Avalanche-Journal only edited the response to comply with journalistic standards and did not change any responses. Justin Martin is a 2026 Republican Primary candidate for Lubbock County Commissioner for Precinct 2. Q: Why are you running for County Commissioner for Precinct 2, and what specific experience or qualifications make you the right person for this position? A: I see a clear need for a united Commissioners Court with strong, effective leadership. Our community deserves to have its tax dollars allocated responsiblynot wasted on personal vendettas. I will strive to serve as a County Commissioner who is a strong voice for my constituents and for West Texas values. Advertisement Advertisement I make myself accessible by giving out my phone number and committing to always being a listening ear. Together, we can make our community safer, stronger, and more prosperous. I will advocate for efficient government and fiscally conservative principles. My qualifications for this role include proven leadership and a strong work ethic. I have served as a School Board member for 12 years, managed and overseen up to 80 subcontractors for more than 20 years, and served as the Lubbock County Republican Party Precinct 38 chair for six years. I have also built a successful business from the ground up at JM Martin Custom Homes, demonstrating my commitment to hard work, accountability, and results. I know a wide range of people throughout our community and will use my experience and networking skills to help bring stability, cooperation, and effectiveness to the Lubbock County Commissioners Court. Q: What do you see as the most pressing needs in Precinct 2 specifically whether that's roads, infrastructure, services, or other concernsand how would you address them? A: First and foremost, we must create a budget that balances critical community needs such as public safety and infrastructure. I want to get into the nitty-gritty of cutting wasteful spending so that our volunteer fire departments and the Sheriffs Office are properly funded and resources are allocated to the areas of greatest need. Advertisement Advertisement In Precinct 2 alone, there is a significant need for road construction at Horseshoe Bend due to improper engineering and short-term fixes. Roads must be built correctly the first time to save taxpayers' money in the long run. Without a clear vision and proper oversight, this will not happen. Lubbock County also needs a comprehensive plan to guide future growth. By partnering with city leaders, developers, and community stakeholders, we can create a structured and efficient plan that supports sustainable growth across the county. Q: County Commissioners vote on the county budget and major spending decisions that affect all of Lubbock County. What would guide your votes on county-wide issues, and what are your priorities for how county tax dollars should be spent? A: My priority for my constituents tax dollars is to keep more money in the pockets of taxpayers. That requires listening carefully to the true needs of our community and dedicating the time necessary to thoughtful, responsible budget planning. We need a common-sense approach that prioritizes public safety first and foremost. Advertisement Advertisement As a Commissioners Court, we must work together as a team for the greater good of Lubbock County. We should be advocates for our constituents focused on solutions, not personal drama. Q: The Lubbock County Expo Center remains a contentious issue, with bond money committed but private fundraising stalled and financial transparency lacking. How would you vote on moving forward with this project, and what accountability measures would you require? A: I would honor the vote of the taxpayers and move forward with the project. My primary goal throughout this process would be transparency. Taxpayers should never be left in the dark about how their money has been spent or how it will be allocated moving forward. This project needs to begin as soon as possible. Any necessary adjustments to ensure it is completed with the funds currently available must be made promptly. Taxpayers deserve to see measurable progress on this important asset for our community. Q: Lubbock County's property tax rate has been a concern for many residents. What is your philosophy on the county's tax rate and spending, and what would you do to keep the tax burden manageable while maintaining necessary services? A: My fiscally conservative values drive my commitment to keeping the tax rate at a level that meets essential county needsbecause you can spend your money more wisely than the government. We must strive to be efficient, innovative, and future-focused, making decisions that are right not only for today, but for generations to come. Advertisement Advertisement To responsibly manage the property tax rate, we must adequately fund public safety, infrastructure, and mandated services. However, over the past five years, appraisal creep has impacted every property owner in the county, driving property values up by as much as 25 to 50 percent in some cases. This increase has placed a significant and often crippling strain on taxpayers personal budgets. Q: How do you differ from the other candidates in this race in terms of your priorities, approach, or qualifications? What makes you the best choice for Precinct 2 voters? A: My opponents and I are all men who have entered this race to serve our community, and that principle is at the heart of my campaign. What I believe truly sets me apart is the level of accessibility I will provide to taxpayers. I will be available to take your call and will genuinely listen to your concerns. I am committed to addressing the needs of all my constituentsnot just a select few. The budget is the most critical responsibility of county government. Without the necessary funding, nothing can be accomplished. Budget decisions determine priorities and ultimately shape the effectiveness and direction of our county government. Advertisement Advertisement My approach is simple: be available and be accountable. Everyone has my cell phone number 806-778-9932 and I am ready to answer the call. I believe this level of openness and accessibility is essential to serving our community effectively. Our constitutional republic was founded on the principle of transparent, citizen-led government. Mateo Rosiles is a reporter for the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal and USA TODAY Network in Texas. Got a news tip for him? Email him: mrosiles@usatodayco.com. This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Justin Martin's GOP candidate questionnaire for Lubbock Commissioner P2 Relief is finally in sight for millions who have shivered for many weeks this winter from the Plains to the mid-Atlantic, as a major warmup pushes temperatures toward record levels in some areas. But the pattern flip won't come without potential hazards, AccuWeather forecasters caution. "For many areas in the mid-Atlantic, this will be the most sustained stretch of warmer weather since a string of abnormally warm days in early January," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Dan Pydynowski said. AccuWeather.com Warmth to build up in Plains first, enhancing fire danger Springlike air will expand to the north and east across the middle of the country through early week. During the peak of the warmup Monday and Tuesday, temperatures will rise 20-30 degrees above the historical average from Oklahoma City to Des Moines, Iowa. Advertisement Advertisement Widespread highs in the 60s and 70s are forecast across the Plains states Monday. By Tuesday, temperatures in the 80s will spread throughout western and central Texas and extend north into part of western Kansas. Dozens of record highs are likely to be tied or broken during the early spring preview. AccuWeather.com As the warmth builds, dry, gusty winds will sweep across the High Plains, increasing the risk of wildfire ignition and rapid spread. The greatest danger will target areas that were mostly missed by rainfall Saturday, including parts of the Texas Panhandle to western Nebraska. GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP Have the app? Unlock AccuWeather Alerts with Premium+ Advertisement Advertisement Farther to the north, there will be a dividing line separating the building warmth to the south and lingering chill across the northern tier. Areas of snow, ice and rain could traverse this boundary by the middle of the week. This sharp variation in temperatures may be just north of Chicago, where several days with highs in the 60s are expected this week. AccuWeather.com "Snow and ice will be confined to the northern Plains, Upper Midwest, Great Lakes and the interior Northeast. South of this area, temperatures will be well above historical averages with less precipitation," AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Expert Paul Pastelok said. 60-degree temperatures to reach Pittsburgh, DC by midweek Temperatures are poised to trend upward across the mid-Atlantic and Southeast, following a weekend storm that will bring a stripe of snow to parts of the Northeast and soaking rain and localized severe weather to the Southeast. Advertisement Advertisement "The surge of warmer air will bring temperatures as high as near 60 to places like Pittsburgh by midweek. If Pittsburgh indeed reaches 60, it will be the warmest day since Jan. 9, when the high hit 66," Pydynowski said. "Washington, D.C., could flirt with the 60-degree mark on Tuesday and Wednesday as well." AccuWeather.com The push of warm air will face resistance farther to the north. "The warmup will be blunted by a chilly air mass that will be stubborn and hanging tough across New England. While cities such as D.C. bask in a warmer week ahead, Boston will struggle to near the 40-degree mark as the warm air meets resistance," Pydynowski said. The fluctuating temperatures could increase the risk of ice jams and ice-jam flooding along many of the secondary rivers in the Midwest and Northeast. Advertisement Advertisement In the Southeast, many days with highs in the 70s to lower 80s will occur, with records likely to be challenged by late in the week. Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer. President Donald Trump is barreling ahead with the first State of the Union address of his second term, despite concerns among Republicans that its set to hit during a partial government shutdown. The speech, set for 11 days from now, is poised to land in the middle of a funding lapse at the Department of Homeland Security the product of a standoff with Democrats over immigration enforcement that the White House had hoped to avoid. Behind the scenes, some administration officials and senior Capitol Hill Republicans are quietly fretting about the optics, according to six people granted anonymity to describe private conversations. The concerned Republicans believe it would be less than ideal for Trump to stand in the well of the House and declare that the state of the union is strong when a critical part of the federal government remains shuttered. Advertisement Advertisement It doesn't exactly scream a functioning GOP trifecta, said one House Republican granted anonymity to speak candidly. Asked whether postponing the address was under discussion, a senior White House official said Friday, Not as of yet. Senior Hill Republicans believe the president is full steam ahead as well. In 2019, Trump publicly battled with then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi for more than a week over whether to delay his State of the Union address during an earlier government shutdown. He eventually relented. Republicans expect Speaker Mike Johnson, who is responsible for extending the formal invitation to the president to address a joint session of Congress, not to delay the speech unless the White House specifically asks. The latest shutdown, which will begin when DHS funding lapses overnight, is expected to drag on until at least the week of Trumps Feb. 24 State of the Union speech because the White House and Senate Democrats appear to be far apart on how far to rein in Trumps immigration enforcement activities as part of a funding agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Both sides are continuing to negotiate, but lawmakers left Washington Thursday for a week-long recess with little expectation they would be called back early. The address is scheduled for one day after lawmakers return to Capitol Hill. White House officials and senior Hill Republicans have been eager for Trump to use the prime time address to tamp down a swirl of negative headlines over the past few weeks, from the fatal shootings by federal immigration agents in Minnesota to the release of the files of the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. They instead want to focus on the GOPs economic messaging heading into the midterms. Some Republicans also see it as an opportunity to blame Democrats for the DHS funding lapse, which impacts TSA baggage screeners, who will work without pay, FEMA and the Coast Guard. President Trump has been, and always will be, on the side of the American people, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a Fox News interview Friday. He wants our government to remain open, and unfortunately, it appears that Democrats are barreling our government towards another shutdown for political and partisan reasons. Advertisement Advertisement Among the considerations for Republicans is how difficult Democrats plan to make things for Trump during the speech itself. Senate Democrats are having discussions about whether to boycott the event and talked it over during a closed-door lunch this week, according to two people granted anonymity to share details of the private conversations. Some members of the caucus are currently expected to attend, though a swath is undecided. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries on Friday declined to say whether he believed the speech should go forward during a DHS shutdown. That's an open question, he told reporters. We'll have more to say about that next week. Jeffries advised Democrats during a private leadership meeting earlier this week that his members should either sit in silent defiance or attend alternative programming, according to two people granted anonymity to describe his comments. Advertisement Advertisement Heckling has become increasingly common from a presidents political opponents during State of the Union speeches. Johnson pleaded with his own members to maintain decorum during former President Joe Bidens 2024 State of the Union appearance, only for several House GOP hard-liners to openly taunt him . During Trumps address to Congress last year, Democrats showed up with signage and jeers, with multiple members walking out either on their own accord or at the insistence of Capitol Police. Rep. Al Green (D-Texas), who stood up to yell at the president at the very beginning of Trumps speech last year, was later censured by the House for his actions. Asked Thursday whether he would attend this years State of the Union address, Green said, Im not making an announcement right now. Eli Stokols and Diana Nerozzi contributed to this report. With Antarctica added to the list, the bird flu has officially wreaked havoc on every continent but Oceania. That disturbing news was confirmed by a recent study led by Erasmus MC in the Netherlands and the University of California, Davis. What's happening? A team of researchers conclusively showed that over 50 skuas in Antarctica died off during the 2023 and 2024 summers due to the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1. They published the study in the Scientific Reports journal and contextualized its findings in a news release. Skuas are gull relatives and play an important role in frigid environments. They act as scavengers in the ecosystem, meaning that contagious skuas could spread bird flu far and wide. Advertisement Advertisement During an expedition to the South Shetland Islands, the northern Weddell Sea, and the Antarctic Peninsula, the team tested wildlife samples, confirming H5N1 at all sites. While the bird flu had previously been detected there, this study was the first to confirm the virus as the animals' cause of death. While other animals, like fur seals, had the virus, their deaths weren't chalked up to it. "As the expedition progressed, it became obvious quickly that skuas were a major victim," said UC Davis' co-senior author Ralph Vanstreels. Vanstreels painted a morbid picture of a "crisis in animal suffering" with the virus causing birds to fall out of the air, swim, and walk aimlessly as the virus attacks their brains. Why is the bird flu's spread important? H5N1 was first identified on a Chinese goose farm in 1996 and has since spread globally in a pattern that troubles the researchers. Advertisement Advertisement "We let the virus slip out through our fingers when it first emerged in the poultry industry," said corresponding senior author Thijs Kuiken of Erasmus MC. "Once it got into wild bird populations, we lost ability to control this virus." Bird flu has now hit nearly every corner of the globe with detrimental effects. In the U.S., mega-farms have been exposed to it, with impacts affecting humans and animals alike. The virus is showing itself to be very adaptive and able to change when its host is a human or cattle. There are also concerns that cats could spread the virus to humans on a large scale. Closer to the study, a decimation of the skua population could spell more trouble for the already threatened Antarctica region. There are concerns that it might infect penguins in the future. What's being done about bird flu in Antarctica? The researchers called for enhanced global surveillance and preventive measures to better track avian flu in Antarctica. Advertisement Advertisement "Everything points toward this virus spreading further," Kuiken concluded. "If nobody is watching, we won't know what is happening." Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club. NEED TO KNOW Daniel Kennedy, a 60-year-old retired firefighter, died nearly a week after he was hit by a police cruiser in Lowell, Mass., on Feb. 5 The dad had recently gone back to school to become a therapist to help other veterans "We are shocked and devastated, Gloucester Firefighters Local 762 wrote in a statement A retired lieutenant of a Massachusetts fire department died after being struck by a police cruiser on a university campus, where he had re-enrolled in college so he could help his fellow veterans. Daniel Kennedy, 60, was hit by a marked Lowell Police Cruiser near the campus of the University of Massachusetts Lowell on Thursday, Feb. 5, Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Kennedy, a student at the university, was walking north on Wilder Street around 6:23 p.m. local time when he was allegedly hit by a police vehicle as it was traveling in the same direction, officials said. He was transported to Lahey Hospital in Burlington, where he died nearly a week later on Wednesday, Feb. 11. The police officer, who had been driving the vehicle, was transported to a nearby hospital for minor injuries. Following Kennedys death, his former colleagues at the Gloucester Fire Department posted a tribute on social media. Dan had a huge heart and [was] truly committed to a life of service. We are shocked and devastated, wrote the Gloucester Firefighters Local 762. Our thoughts are with Christina, Grace and Laura. Advertisement Advertisement In addition to his time with the department, Kennedy proudly served in the Marines and was an Operation Desert Storm veteran. After his retirement, he decided to go back to college to help fellow veterans with their mental health. Specifically, he wanted to become a therapist to assist veterans and first responders struggling with PTSD, independent station WHDH reported. On the day of the crash, Kennedy had left class and was walking to his car when he was struck, according to the report. The firefighters friend and former colleague, former Gloucester Fire Deputy Chief Steve Aiello, told the outlet that Kennedy was larger than life. Advertisement Advertisement He was a firefighters firefighter. One of the bravest men Ive ever worked with, Aiello continued, according to WHDH. Loved his county, loved the community, loved his daughters, loved his family. The University of Massachusetts Lowell East Campus in Lowell, Mass. Blake Nissen for The Boston Globe via Getty Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. In a statement shared with the outlet, Kennedys family said they were heartbroken. We look forward to a thorough investigation by the Massachusetts State Police to determine who and what entities caused the events of February 5, his loved ones continued. We also urge City of Lowell officials and UMass representatives to fully investigate what occurred. Advertisement Advertisement An investigation is ongoing, and a spokesperson for the Middlesex County District Attorneys Office confirms to PEOPLE that no charges have been filed as of Friday, Feb. 13. Read the original article on People Retired doctors and nurses would be brought back into the NHS to form a reserve service under a Welsh Conservative government, the party has pledged. Senedd group leader Darren Millar said former workers, as well as newly-qualified and private clinicians, would be sent into health boards "at times of peak need" if the Tories win the Senedd election in May. One retired nurse told BBC Wales that while she would love to go back to work, she would have "real concerns" about how skills would be maintained after years away. Advertisement Advertisement The Tories said it would declare a "health emergency" if it was in power, and take immediate action to increase NHS capacity and boost patient safety. It also said a Tory Welsh government would immediately reopen closed wards in existing community hospitals across Wales, and boost spending on health and social care each year of the next Senedd term. The party pledged to clear the NHS waiting times backlog, so that by May 2030 "no-one has an unacceptable wait for treatment". Advertisement Advertisement Most recent waiting time figures showed the number of people waiting for treatment had fallen by the biggest figure on record, standing at just under 757,900. The Welsh Conservative health manifesto says the party would set up the NHS Wales Reserves Service, to give the health service a bank of staff that can be called up during periods of crisis. Millar told BBC Wales: "Staffing of the NHS is a disaster in Wales at the moment. There hasn't been effective workforce planning by the Labour government or indeed by their partners, so we need to make sure we've got a proper workforce plan. "There are doctors out there in Wales at the moment who have just qualified. There are nurses who have just qualified, who don't have a job, they don't have any employment. And that's ridiculous when you consider the situation that the NHS is in." Advertisement Advertisement He said the reservist plan "is to bring people back into the workforce at times of peak need, so that they can help us to get to grips with these challenges, that's our focus". It would include "people who might have retired, people who may have left health professions for other things, other people who might work in the private sector from time to time, but might want to make themselves available to the NHS in order to serve their country". Former nurse Jane Rowlands-Mellor says skillsets that haven't been maintained could affect patient safety [Jane Rowlands-Mellor] Retired NHS nurse Jane Rowlands-Mellor, 57, from Cardiff, said she would "love to be able to go back and help". But she said she would have "real concerns about how skillsets would be maintained". Advertisement Advertisement "This could ultimately affect quality of care and patient safety. The priority must be to safeguard our patients," she said. "Things advance very quickly in healthcare, even basic nursing care could be a challenge with technology changes, etcetera. "How would people keep their skills current?" Katherine Davies, from Pembrokeshire, retired from nursing nearly 30 years ago, but continued for some years as a bank nurse, "on a list to be called in to work on short notice". The 76 year-old has since had a knee replacement so is "in no fit state to go back to work" but said she felt there should be different priorities for strengthening the NHS in Wales. Advertisement Advertisement "What the NHS needs is for staff need to be paid more and better working conditions," she said. However, the British Medical Association (BMA) in Wales supported the proposal. Dr Iona Collins, chair of the BMA's Welsh Council said: "BMA Cymru Wales supports the use of retired doctors to bolster NHS capacity during periods of heightened demand and to address ongoing backlogs." But she stressed pension taxes would need to be looked at, as they currently "serve to push senior doctors out of the NHS prematurely" leading to the "unnecessary loss" of senior staff. Advertisement Advertisement "In order for senior doctors to voluntarily rejoin the NHS out of retirement at times of peak need, the punitive pension tax must be removed, which would not only keep the existing senior workforce within the NHS, but enable those who have retired to consider returning in times of surge demand." Associate director of the Royal College Nursing Wales, Sandy Harding, said: "As a qualified nurse you have to re-register every three years. You have to maintain your skills. "If you're a volunteer, how are you keeping yourself on the register? To be able to practice, you have to pay to be on the register - how is that going to be paid? Are there going to be training days? Who's going to pay for the training?" She welcomed the reservist plan but said there were "issues to be ironed out". Advertisement Advertisement The wide-ranging Tory health manifesto also promises to end corridor care in Wales and designate 12-hour waits for patients on chairs in emergency departments. It pledges to set up a dental school in north Wales, as well as a fund to build new hospitals and modernise the hospital and primary care estate in Wales. The party is holding the second day of its party conference in Llandudno as it reels from defections to Reform UK, while also struggling in opinion polls which have suggested the party could finish in fourth place. On Friday it emerged that two senior aides had quit the party to work for two Reform MSs who themselves were former Tories. More top stories COLORADO RIVER (ABC4) Ahead of the federal deadline for Colorado River negotiations, Utah officials are discussing the future of the operating agreement, as a deal has not been reached. On Friday afternoon, Utah River Commissioner Gene Shawcroft and Colorado River Authority of Utah Executive Director Amy Haas met with the media to discuss the future of an operations agreement. Shawcroft stated that the seven basin states were unable to reach an agreement on a post-2026 operations plan, despite almost nonstop negotiations. Utah will continue to engage in good faith with our sister states in the hope of reaching a deal, regardless of the deadlines the federal government has imposed upon us, but the river will not wait for politics to catch up, Shawcroft said. The hydrology demands that we act collectively and immediately to keep the Colorado River system from failing. Advertisement Advertisement Utah is ready for Colorado River deal, Gov. Cox says after meeting with other leaders Shawcroft explained that the upper basin states (Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico) are pivoting their focus from a post-2026 deal to focus on the river today and how they will operate in the upcoming year with the extremely low hydrology. However, he also clarified that they will continue to work on a post-2026 deal. He went on to say that the projections for Lake Powell are grim, saying that we have lost 1.5-million-acre feet of forecasted flow into Lake Powell over the last month, which is setting us up for one of the lowest inflow years in recent record. Additionally, a federal projection released Friday showed that Lake Powell could reach critical low levels by the end of 2026, which would threaten infrastructure and prevent power production. Utah will rise to that challenge while ensuring that Lake Powell, Flaming Gorge, and other facilities upon which Utahns rely are protected, he said. He added that in the long term, Utah is committed to a durable, basin-wide solution that protects critical infrastructure, respects state authorities, and reflects the realities of a shrinking river. Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Cox to attend high-stakes meeting on future of Colorado River While the lack of an agreement by the federal deadline could lead to litigation, Shawcroft said he is confident we will not have to go there. I am confident that we will find ways to work around those sticky issues so that we can manage the river rather than having it determined by the courts, which would take decades, probably, he said. Were trying to do everything we can to avoid litigation, but at the same time, we have to have a deal that works for the state of Utah, he added. In terms of concessions Utah was offering, Shawcroft said that Utah offered to make changes to the release curve of the river, to attempt to provide water to Lake Meade and operations there for five years. Advertisement Advertisement That was one of the things we couldnt come to an agreement on how much would we release from Powell at certain elevations to make deliveries to Lake Meade, he said. Amy Haas added that the Upper Basin states also discussed voluntary conservation activities and constrained releases from some upstream facilities, like Flaming Gorge, Blue Mesa in Colorado, and Navajo Reservoir in New Mexico. Shawcroft said the release of water from upstream facilities was an issue where there was a significant difference of opinion between upper and lower Basin states. Dry conditions and high usage lead to concerns about Colorado River water levels Our thought is that those can be used sporadically to help, but theyre not an ongoing, year-to-year available water supply for releases to Powell, which ultimately end up in a major part of them end up in Meade, he explained. You havent eliminated the problem, which is dealing with the supply rather than the demand. Advertisement Advertisement That demand, Shawcroft said, has been driven for generations by water use in the Lower Basin. However, at the same time, he said that he was extremely encouraged by the Lower Basins offer to reduce its water use by 1.5 million acre-feet of water, though he also said that its not enough. Lower Basin governors Additionally, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, and Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo released a joint statement on the rivers deadline: The federal deadline for a consensus agreement on managing the Colorado River after 2026 is passing for a second time without resolution. The stakes couldnt be higher for our Lower Basin states of Arizona, California, and Nevada. Approximately 75% of the population, employment, and agricultural crop sales of the Colorado River Basin are in our states. This also includes 25 of the 30 sovereign Tribal Nations that live within the Basin. How to make ABC4 your preferred news source on Google Advertisement Advertisement The governors said that the Colorado River is essential to communities and economies, as it provides water for drinking, power, and agriculture for roughly 40 million people across the West. In order to secure a seven-state agreement for post-2026 management of the river, the Lower Basin governors have offered to reduce their states Colorado River allocations Arizona by 27%, California by 10%, and Nevada by approximately 17%. Our future management of the Colorado River must be built on a foundation of shared contribution and innovation, with all Colorado River water users stretching to conserve water. Our commitment to a collaborative outcome is unwavering, and we will continue to pursue a negotiated resolution while protecting our water users. Utah Attorney General Derek Brown also issued a statement on the matter: Utahs priority is clear: securing a sustainable future for the Colorado River that fiercely defends our states interests. Although no agreement has yet been reached, we remain committed to relentless negotiations. The challenges facing the river are serious, and we will continue engaging with partner states in good faithand with unwavering resolve. Utah is prepared to defend our water rights vigorously and will ensure that any path forward strictly safeguards our communities and vital resources. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. The 6-lane extradosed Prestressed Concrete (PSC) bridge, built at a cost of around Rs 3,030 crore, connects Guwahati with North Guwahati and is the first extradosed bridge in Northeast India. It will cut travel time between Guwahati and North Guwahati to 7 minutes. Considering the high seismicity of the region, the bridge incorporates base isolation technology using friction pendulum bearings. High-performance stay cables have been used to ensure durability and long-term structural performance. A Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS) has also been incorporated for real-time condition monitoring, early damage detection and improved safety and service life of the extradosed bridge. The Prime Minister will also inaugurate the National Data Centre for North Eastern Region at Amingaon in Kamrup district of Assam. The state-of-the-art Data Centre, with a total sanctioned load of 8.5 MW and an average rack capacity of 10 kW per rack, will host mission-critical applications of various government departments and also function as a Disaster Recovery centre for other National Data Centres. This will enable governments in the Northeast to digitally facilitate the delivery of essential citizen-centric services. Aligned with the vision of Digital India, National Data Centre for North Eastern Region has been envisaged as a strategic intervention to strengthen the region's ICT backbone and ensure robust, secure and always-available digital infrastructure. The Prime Minister will also inaugurate the temporary campus of IIM Guwahati, which will give a major fillip to higher education and management education in the North-Eastern Region. The Prime Minister will also flag off 225 electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in Guwahati (100), Nagpur (50), Bhavnagar (50) and Chandigarh (25). With the launch of e-bus operations under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in these four cities, more than 50 lakh citizens are expected to benefit through access to clean, affordable and reliable public transport services, contributing to improved urban mobility and enhanced quality of life. (ANI) By Humeyra Pamuk, Jonathan Landay and Max Hunder MUNICH, Feb 14 (Reuters) - Secretary of State Marco Rubio cast the United States as the "child of Europe" in a message of unity on Saturday, offering some reassurance as well as levelling more criticism at allies after a year of turmoil in transatlantic relations. Rubio was addressing the annual Munich Security Conference, where Europe's leading powers have tried to project their own independence and strength while straining to keep an alliance with the U.S. under President Donald Trump alive. Advertisement Advertisement The speech delivered a degree of reassurance to European countries who fear being left in the lurch on anything from the war in Ukraine to international trade ructions in a rapidly shifting global order. But it was short on concrete commitments and made no mention of Russia, raising questions on whether Rubio's more emollient tone than that of Vice President JD Vance at the same event a year ago would change the underlying dynamics. "In a time of headlines heralding the end of the transatlantic era, let it be known and clear to all that this is neither our goal nor our wish, because for us Americans, our home may be in the Western Hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe," Rubio said. "For the United States and Europe, we belong together," he said in a speech that drew a standing ovation at the end. Advertisement Advertisement MIXED REACTIONS TO RUBIO'S SPEECH While European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was "very much reassured" by the speech and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called him a "true partner", others struck a more cautious tone. "I am not sure that Europeans see the announced civilisational decline, supposedly caused mainly by migration and deindustrialisation, as a core uniting interest. For most Europeans, the common interest is security," said Gabrielius Landsbergis, former foreign minister of NATO member Lithuania. "This was not a departure from the general position of the (Trump) administration. It was simply delivered in more polite terms," he said on X. Advertisement Advertisement One particular area of anxiety is Ukraine, where allies have long worried about Trump and Russia's Vladimir Putin trying to ram through a deal on Moscow's terms and force Kyiv to cede land to end Europe's deadliest conflict since World War Two. U.S.-brokered peace talks resume next week in Geneva after a sustained bombardment of Ukrainian cities during one of the coldest winters in years killed civilians and left hundreds of thousands of people without power and water. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed hope at the conference on Saturday, but worried that Ukraine was being asked "too often" to make concessions in the negotiations. "We truly hope that the trilateral meetings next week will be serious, substantive, helpful for all of us but honestly sometimes it feels like the sides are talking about completely different things," Zelenskiy said in a speech. Advertisement Advertisement The Ukrainian leader said he was feeling "a little bit" of pressure from Trump, who had said Zelenskiy should not miss the "opportunity" to make peace soon. "The Americans often return to the topic of concessions and too often those concessions are discussed only in the context of Ukraine, not Russia," Zelenskiy said. Asked about Russia after his speech, Rubio said the United States would not ditch its commitment to working on a peace deal but that it was not clear whether Moscow was serious about achieving this. NATO boss Mark Rutte, who has fronted efforts to keep Trump onside, said the U.S. was on the same page on the peace talks, adding that Russia was sustaining "crazy losses" of around 65,000 soldiers in total over the last two months. Reuters has not independently verified such figures. Advertisement Advertisement RUBIO HITS OUT AGAINST WEST'S 'MANAGED DECLINE' The Munich conference of top security leaders has been dominated this year by how countries are scrambling to adjust to a year of confrontations with Trump on issues from tariffs to his threat to wrest Greenland from fellow NATO member Denmark. Speaking directly after Rubio, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned against "knee-jerk" calls for the United States to distance itself from China and said that despite some positive recent signs from the White House, some U.S. voices were undermining the relationship. Vance's address last year dressed down European allies, arguing that the greatest danger to Europe came from censorship and democratic backsliding rather than external threats like Russia. Advertisement Advertisement While praising Europe's cultural achievements from the artist Michelangelo to the poet William Shakespeare, Rubio also touched on themes that have raised hackles, including criticism of mass migration and zealous action on climate change. "We do not want our allies to be weak, because that makes us weaker," he said. "For we in America have no interest in being polite and orderly caretakers of the West's managed decline, we do not seek to separate but to revitalise an old friendship and renew the greatest civilization in human history." French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said he could see why Rubio's appeal to a common legacy had drawn applause. Advertisement Advertisement "Is it going to change our strategy? Of course not. Because, you know, what we're hearing today, we heard already in the past," he said. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk, Gram Slattery, Andrew Gray, Sarah Marsh, James Mackenzie, John Irish, Jonathan Landay, Alistair Smout, Max Hunder; writing by Matthias Williams; editing by Mark Heinrich) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio sought to reassure a nervous Europe on Saturday, saying that Washington wanted to recharge the transatlantic alliance so that a strong Europe could help the US on its mission of global "renewal". Speaking at a security conference in Munich after months of turmoil in US-European relations sparked by US President Donald Trump's vows to seize Greenland and his often derisive remarks about US allies, Washington's top diplomat struck a markedly soothing tone. "We do not seek to separate, but to revitalise an old friendship and renew the greatest civilisation in human history," Rubio said, calling for "a reinvigorated alliance." Advertisement Advertisement "We want Europe to be strong," Rubio said, adding that the continent and the US "belong together." He echoed Trump administration's oft-stated assertion that immigration posed a threat, saying that "mass migration" was "a crisis which is transforming and destabilising societies all across the West." He said that Europe and the US were "heirs to the same great and noble civilisation" and that he hoped Europe "together with us are willing and able to defend it." - Change in tone - Aside from immigration, Rubio otherwise largely avoided the MAGA flashpoint and culture war issues that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Friday, had deepened a "rift" between US and Europe. Advertisement Advertisement Rubio's speech marked a sharp contrast to that of US Vice President JD Vance a year ago, when he used the same stage to attack European policies on a range of issues including free speech, shocking European allies. The Trump administration has also charged that Europe faced a "civilisational decline" and has courted far-right parties on the continent. Ties plunged last month when Trump stepped up threats to annex Greenland, an autonomous territory of NATO member Denmark, forcing European nations to stand firm in protest. Rubio was on Sunday due to travel to Slovakia and Hungary, European countries run by nationalist leaders endorsed by Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Some breathed a sigh of relief following Rubio's speech, with Estonia's Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur telling AFP "it was needed to show that we are still allies and partners." But others said they did not mark a shift in the US stance, with former Lithuanian foreign minister Gabrielius Landsbergis saying "it was simply delivered in more polite terms. I am not sure the white paint will hold." - Europe security -- European leaders at the Munich Security Conference have pledged to shoulder more of the burden of shared NATO defences, saying this was essential for Europe to counter a hostile Russia. Advertisement Advertisement European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen told the gathering on Saturday that "Europe needs to step up and has to take on its responsibility" for its security, including closer ties with Britain 10 years after Brexit. British leader Keir Starmer echoed the sentiment, saying "We must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age," calling for a building of "a shared industrial base across Europe which can turbocharge our defence production". NATO chief Mark Rutte told reporters that although France and Britain, Europe's only nuclear powers, have discussed greater cooperation to make their nuclear deterrence stronger, "nobody is arguing in Europe to do this as a sort of replacement of the nuclear umbrella of the United States." - Ukraine war - Advertisement Advertisement The high-powered Munich meeting of government leaders, diplomats, defence and intelligence chiefs comes shortly before Russia's full-scale war on Ukraine is set to enter its fifth gruelling year. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky decried that political efforts to end the war have not worked. "Weapons evolve faster than political decisions meant to stop them," he said, calling for speedier arms deliveries for Ukraine's Western-supplied air defence systems. He said that "there is not a single power plant in Ukraine that is not damaged by Russian strikes" after Russia stepped up its attacks on infrastructure over the past few months, as the coldest snap since the war started in February 2022 hit the country. Advertisement Advertisement "No one in Ukraine believes (Russian President Vladimir Putin) will ever let our people go, but he will not let other European nations go either, because he cannot let go of the very idea of war," Zelensky warned. At the White House on Friday, Trump urged Kyiv to "get moving" to end the war. "Russia wants to make a deal... He has to move," the US leader said. But Rubio said on Saturday that "We don't know if the Russians are serious about ending the war." burs/yad/gv Secretary of State Marco Rubio is leading the U.S. delegation to the high-profile Munich Security Conference one year after Vice President JD Vance took the German stage in a speech that stunned many in Europe and became one of the defining moments of Trumps early second term abroad. "President Trump has assembled the most talented team in history, including Vice President Vance and Secretary Rubio, who are working in lockstep to notch wins for the American people," White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales told Fox News Digital ahead of Rubio's speech. "The President and his team have flexed their foreign policy prowess to end decades-long wars, secure peace in the Middle East and restore American dominance in the Western Hemisphere. The entire administration is working together to restore peace through strength and put America First." Advertisement Advertisement The Munich Security Conference is an annual high-level forum in Germany that draws hundreds of senior decision-makers including heads of state, top ministers, military leaders and policy influencers for closed-door and public talks on global security crises. Vance, Rubio Cheer On Team Usa Women's Ice Hockey In Their Winter Olympics Opening Win Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, New York Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Gov. Gavin Newsom of California are among notable Democrats attending the conference, in addition to Rubio. Read On The Fox News App Vance became one of the central figures at the 2025 Munich gathering after a widely publicized speech that drew heavy attention and applause from conservatives following the Biden administration. It also sparked backlash among some European officials who viewed his remarks as confrontational. Advertisement Advertisement Rubio's attendance at the 2026 meeting follows a lengthy history of the State Department chief earning a series of different roles under the second administration, including acting national security advisor, secretary of state, acting archivist of the United States and acting administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development. Amid rising trans-Atlantic tension, the secretary of state issued a warning to Europe as he departed for his trip to Germany Thursday. Vance, Rubio Greet American Winter Olympians In Italy "The Old World is gone," Rubio told reporters as he departed for Europe Thursday. "Frankly, the world I grew up in, and we live in a new era in geopolitics, and it's going to require all of us to re-examine what that looks like and what our role is going to be." Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump and his administration repeatedly have put Europe on notice for allegedly devolving into a culture of political correctness, speech policing, and a security system that heavily relies on U.S. funding and military might. Amid the rhetoric on Europe, the administration has continued to underscore the importance of U.S.-Europe relations, including Rubio on Thursday. "Were very tightly linked together with Europe," he told reporters. "Most people in this country can trace both, either their cultural or their personal heritage, back to Europe. So, we just have to talk about that." Secretary of State Marco Rubio is leading the U.S. delegation to the high-profile Munich Security Conference. (AP Images) Vance used his Munich Security Conference speech to deliver a blunt warning to Europes political class 2025, arguing the continents biggest danger is not Moscow or Beijing, but what he described as internal democratic decay that has festered due to political correctness and censorship. Rubio Warns Nato Allies Us Is 'Not Simply Focused On Europe,' Doesn't Have Unlimited Resources Advertisement Advertisement He accused European governments and institutions of drifting toward censorship, citing policies he said police speech, curb religious expression and pressure online platforms. He also argued elites allegedly were trying to manage elections and debate by dismissing unwelcome outcomes and branding dissent as "misinformation" to sideline populists and blunt voter backlash. "What I worry about is the threat from within, the retreat of Europe from some of its most fundamental values values shared with the United States of America," Vance said in 2025 in the speech that left many European leaders stunned, according to reports at the time. Vance was also overseas this week, holding meetings with Armenia and Azerbaijan, including signing a peaceful nuclear cooperation with Armenia and a strategic partnership with Azerbaijan. That trip followed both Vance and Rubio joining a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni earlier in February in Italy, and Vance leading a delegation that included Rubio during the Olympics' opening ceremony in Milan. Advertisement Advertisement A source familiar told Fox News Digital that there were never plans for the vice president to attend the 2026 conference in Munich. Trump Hails Rubio As Diplomatic Mentor As Secretary Of State's Power Grows Vances foreign policy footprint became the subject of political media scrutiny earlier in 2026 when the U.S. military successfully captured Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro. Vance was not among high-profile U.S. leaders who joined Trump at his Mar-a-Lago, Florida, resort to monitor the operation, unlike Rubio, who was with the president. The VP's office brushed off media alarm over his absence, citing that Trump and Vance limit the "frequency and duration" of time they spend together outside the White House due to "increased security concerns." Advertisement Advertisement The vice president is by no means is expected to attend the Munich Security Conference each year, with former Vice President Mike Pence, for example, attending the conference twice under the first Trump administration, and former Vice President Kamala Harris attending three times under the Biden administration. Previous secretaries of state such as John Kerry, Antony Blinken and Clinton have attended and addressed the body in previous years. Vance additionally attended a separate Munich Security Conference event, the Leaders Conference, in Washington, D.C., in May 2025. Trump praised Vance's 2025 speech as "brilliant" in a statement to reporters at the time, remarking that "they're losing their wonderful right of freedom of speech" in Europe and that Vance made a strong case against much of Europe's lax immigration policies. Since then, Trumps team repeatedly has echoed the same critique in official channels, including a State Department push that has blasted European speech restrictions and targeted the European Unions Digital Services Act as "Orwellian" censorship, alongside new visa restrictions aimed at foreign officials accused of censoring Americans online. Just in December 2025, President Donald Trump blasted European nations for not being "recognizable" at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Just in December 2025, Trump blasted European nations for not being "recognizable" at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, teeing up what could be another fiery speech from Americans on European soil Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Click Here To Download The Fox News App "I don't want to insult anybody and say I don't recognize it," Trump said during his special address in Davos, Switzerland. "And that's not in a positive way. That's in a very negative way. And I love Europe and I want to see Europe do good, but it's not heading in the right direction." Fox News Digital reached out to the State Department for comment on the address Friday. Original article source: Rubio steps into Munich spotlight as Trump leans on him to carry Vances populist message abroad Munich Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a message of reassurance in remarks at the Munich Security Conference, calming some fears that months of sharp U.S. rhetoric and policy disputes had opened a lasting breach between Washington and its European allies. "We do not seek to separate, but to revitalize an old friendship and renew the greatest civilization in human history," he said. Though he admonished European nations for prioritizing welfare programs over self-defense and embracing migration policies that threatened their societal cohesion, he framed his critique as part of a shared reckoning. Advertisement Advertisement "We made these mistakes together, and now together, we owe it to our people to face those facts and to move forward to rebuild," he said. At last year's conference, Vice President JD Vance delivered a combative address that rattled European capitals and fueled fears of an accelerating trans-Atlantic split. In contrast, Rubio paired sharp criticism of the post-Cold War order with repeated affirmations of shared destiny. He argued that postwar "euphoria" had led the West into a "dangerous delusion" of borderless globalization and overreliance on international institutions. "This was a foolish idea that ignored both human nature and the lessons of 5,000 years of recorded human history. It has cost us dearly," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Still, Rubio paid homage to what he described as a civilizational bond between the continents. "In a time of headlines heralding the end of the transatlantic era, let it be known and clear to all that it is neither our goal nor our wish," Rubio said. "For us Americans, our home may be in the Western Hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe." The address drew a standing ovation. Conference chair Wolfgang Ischinger said afterward that the remarks were widely seen as reassuring. "Mr. Secretary, I'm not sure you heard the sigh of relief through this hall," he told Rubio. Advertisement Advertisement In a brief question-and-answer session, Rubio said efforts to broker an end to Russia's war in Ukraine were continuing, with another round of talks expected Tuesday. "We don't know if the Russians are serious about ending the war; they say they are," he said. "We're going to continue to test it." On China, Rubio said Washington has "an obligation to communicate" with Beijing, even as "fundamental challenges" remain, and stressed that any engagement must protect U.S. national interests. Since arriving in Munich, Rubio has met with senior European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, as well as officials from Denmark, Greenland, Poland, Croatia and Moldova. He also met with senior Syrian officials to discuss preserving a ceasefire and protecting minority communities, according to the State Department. Advertisement Advertisement A U.S. official said Rubio did not attend one meeting on Ukraine support due to scheduling conflicts, though he is expected to meet briefly on Saturday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. After Munich, Rubio is set to travel to Bratislava and Budapest, where he is expected to meet Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Europeans reassured but not complacent The president of the European Union's executive commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said Rubio's speech was "very reassuring" but noted that "in the administration, some have a harsher tone on these topics," according to the Associated Press. Advertisement Advertisement In her speech to the conference, she stressed that "Europe must become more independent," including on defense, and insisted upon "digital sovereignty" in the continent's approach to hate speech on social media. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that "we shouldn't get in the warm bath of complacency," the Associated Press reported. He said the U.K. must re-forge closer ties with Europe to help the continent "stand on our own two feet" in its own defense, and said there needs to be investment that "moves us from overdependence to interdependence." Shortly after Rubio's remarks, the United Kingdom said it would send its Carrier Strike Group, led by the largest warship in the Royal Navy and including fighter jets, across the North Atlantic and Arctic. The deployment will visit a U.S. port, and U.S. jets are expected to operate from the deck of the warship, the HMS Prince of Wales. Defense Secretary John Healey said the deployment "will help make Britain warfighting ready, boost our contribution to NATO, and strengthen our operations with key allies, keeping the UK secure at home and strong abroad." Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer takes part in a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, on Feb. 14, 2026. / Credit: Stefan Rousseau / AP The conference pointed to tensions beyond those in the trans-Atlantic alliance, the Associated Press reported. Advertisement Advertisement Speaking after Rubio, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Beijing felt "gratified" that President Trump respects President Xi Jinping and China, but warned that some voices in the U.S. are leery of China's rise. "We see that some forces and some people are still trying their best to suppress and contain China, and are still attacking and slandering China by any means," Wang said, according to the Associated Press. He cautioned that "law of the jungle and unilateralism have taken hold" and said some countries "even revive the Cold War mentality." New details from FBI on Nancy Guthrie kidnapping investigation Pool maintenance at Nancy Guthrie's home Investigators search second home in Nancy Guthrie case Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a bluntly worded, but ultimately conciliatory, speech Saturday to leaders of Western nations, saying the Trump administration does not want to dismantle its traditional alliances. However, during his speech at the Munich Security Conference, he called on European countries to adopt the administration's right-wing polices on mass migration and do more for their own defense. "Our destiny is and always will be intertwined with you," Rubio said to prolonged applause. "We do not seek to separate but to reinvigorate an old friendship." Thilo Schmuelgen/Reuters - PHOTO: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks during the Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Munich, Germany, Feb. 14, 2026. His speech's message appeared to be a greatly moderated version of the one given by Vice President JD Vance last year, where he attacked European countries as oppressive. Advertisement Advertisement Rubio rules out further military action in Venezuela ... for now Rubio repeated many of the same political criticisms that Vance made, telling European countries they and the United States previously had fallen victim to a liberal "dangerous delusion." He told them they must get control over mass migration, stop being ashamed of their colonial histories and give up on what he called a "climate cult." But he repeated the message that the U.S. wanted to reinvigorate the power of the West "together." "And while we are prepared, if necessary, to do this alone, it is our preference and it is our hope to do this together with you, our friends here in Europe," Rubio said. Advertisement Advertisement Rubio defended the administration as seeking to unapologetically reinvigorate the West, speaking nostalgically of "great western empires." Liesa Johannssen/Reuters - PHOTO: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks during the Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Munich, Germany, Feb. 14, 2026. "We do not want our allies to be weak, because that makes us weaker. We do not want our allies to be shackled by guilt and shame," he said. "We do not want allies to rationalize the broken status quo." He said the U.S. has "no interest in being the polite caretaker of managed decline." The chairman of the conference, Wolfgang Ischinger, later thanked Rubio for his "message of reassurance." "I'm not sure you heard the sigh of relief in this hall," Ischinger told Rubio on stage. Advertisement Advertisement During an interview with Bloomberg TV directly after the speech, Rubio said he thought he gave the "same message" that Vance delivered at the conference last year. Vance, Zelenskyy meet on ending Russia-Ukraine war as administration sends mixed messages "I think what the vice president said last year, very clearly, was that Europe had made a series of decisions internally that were threatening to the alliance and ultimately to themselves, not because we hate Europe or we don't like Europeans, but because, what is it that we fight for? What is it that binds us together?" Rubio said in the interview. Thilo Schmuelgen/Reuters - PHOTO: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks during the Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Munich, Germany, Feb. 14, 2026. "And ultimately, it's the fact that we are both heirs to the same civilization, and it's a great civilization, and it's one we should be proud of," Rubio added. The secretary continued to moderate that message, however, saying his own remarks were meant to explain that, "when we come off as urgent or even critical about decisions that Europe has failed to make or made, it is because we care." European countries gave a cautious welcome Saturday to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's more conciliatory tone at the Munich Security Conference but stressed that major differences remained with their traditional ally. In a keynote address to dozens of world leaders, foreign ministers and defence chiefs, Rubio declared that Europe and the United States "belong" together and focused heavily on shared history and heritage. "The fate of Europe will never be irrelevant to our own," he said in an address greeted by repeated rounds of applause, adding that "ultimately our destiny is, and will always be, intertwined with yours". Advertisement Advertisement All eyes had been on Rubio's speech, a year after US Vice President JD Vance used the same stage to deliver a withering attack on Europe's immigration policies and accused the continent's governments of curbing free speech. It also came after tensions soared recently over US President Donald Trump's ambitions to seize Greenland, an autonomous territory of EU and NATO member Denmark. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul praised the fact the top US diplomat had focused on what Europe and America had achieved together in the past and could do in future. "So he was looking forward -- this is good," Wadephul said, adding that it signalled the relationship could again be a "success story". Advertisement Advertisement But Wadephul also emphasised that many "uncertainties" remained. Rubio in his speech did not shy away from more controversial topics, criticising mass migration to the West and what he labelled its de-industrialisation, and attacking the United Nations for failing to resolve conflicts. He urged Europe to join Trump's drive for global "renewal", saying that acting together "will restore to us a clear sense of ourselves". "It will restore a place in the world, and in so doing, it will rebuke and deter the forces of civilisational erasure that today menace both America and Europe alike." Advertisement Advertisement - 'Bumpy days' - French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Rubio's speech had received a generally positive response as he had referred to the "common history" shared by the US and Europe, particularly when it came to democracy. But Barrot stressed his focus remained on forging "a strong and independent Europe... irrespective of the speeches that we hear at the Munich Security Conference". For Estonia's Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur, overall the address was a relief as it showed the US and Europe "are still allies and partners". "As it is in every marriage, you have some bumpy days and you have some bumpy roads, but you can always... smooth the road," he told AFP. Advertisement Advertisement Wadephul meanwhile also said that "for Germany and for Europe, it's absolutely clear we need new global partners". He was speaking on a panel alongside the foreign minister of India, with which the EU signed a mammoth trade deal last month. And he took a dig at Rubio's attack on the United Nations, saying that the world has to "stick to our international rules-based order". He called the United Nations "our Board of Peace," referring to Trump's recently established conflict resolution organisation that some view as a bid to rival the UN. Some were more openly critical of Rubio. Advertisement Advertisement Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuania's former foreign minister, said the US politician had brought a "lot of white paint to Munich to cover the cracks caused by the great rupture." "This was not a departure from the general position of the US administration," he posted on X. "It was simply delivered in more polite terms. I am not sure the white paint will hold." bur-sr/fz/db CHEYENNE On Thursday, a state legislative committee discussed two bills that allocate more than $1.06 billion for Wyoming construction and health care programs over the next several years. Both bills were initially part of Gov. Mark Gordons proposed 2027-28 biennium budget, but the funding was removed by the Joint Appropriations Committee to run as separate bills, primarily for the sake of legislative oversight. Rural Health Transformation Program Advertisement Advertisement Wyoming Department of Health Director Stefan Johansson gave lawmakers on the House Appropriations Committee another presentation regarding House Bill 122, a bill designed to manage the $205 million influx of federal funds from the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The legislation seeks to allocate funds for the states rural medical infrastructure by establishing a perpetuity fund, which would deposit 80% of the initial Rural Health Transformation Program funds to provide long-term revenue for decades after federal support ceases. This would support the programs and initiatives created by the RHTP beyond the five-year lifespan of the program. In subsequent years, the deposit to the perpetuity fund is slated to be reduced to 69.5% and 30.5% of funds sent to time-limited initiatives. This is truly a chance, in a few of these basic and core functions of the health care system, to do some things that weve all wanted to do for a long time, Johansson said, describing the bill as a tool to implement sustainable transformation and reform. He emphasized that the plan focuses on the basics that Wyomingites demand, according to WDH survey results: critical access hospitals, emergency medical services and workforce development. Advertisement Advertisement A significant portion of the discussion focused on maternity deserts, which are counties or areas without consistent labor and delivery services. Johansson noted that over the past six years, four or five maternity units have shut down across the state, forcing residents to travel to neighboring states for care. Access to that care can be so far away, often in peripheral states and larger markets, he said, adding that the new funding model would help offset high fixed costs for rural hospitals that a volume-based system cannot sustain. The program also creates a program aimed at attracting and retaining new medical professionals. The committee adopted a technical amendment proposed by WDH Deputy Director Franz Fuchs, which narrowed performance and accountability reporting requirements to recipients of perpetual funding, rather than one-off pilot projects. Advertisement Advertisement Because the bill covers fiscal years 2026, 2027 and 2028 with an estimated allocation of $205 million per year, which is subject to change based on federal awards in the future, the bill in total addresses $615 million in federal funds. The bill received a unanimous 7-0 vote in support, and will next be presented on the House floor for further consideration. Wyomings construction budget The committee spent most of its Thursday morning meeting discussing a bill allocating a total of $445.7 million in federal, state and private funds for state capital construction projects. The funds were initially included in Gordons budget, but were removed and reallocated HB 111, similar to the RHTP. Advertisement Advertisement Staff from the Legislative Service Office noted that it includes $232.9 million for major maintenance of state facilities, community colleges and the University of Wyoming. One of the most prominent projects in the bill is remodel of the Veterans Home of Wyoming in Buffalo, estimated to cost $87 million. Suzanne Norton, construction administrator for the State Construction Department, told lawmakers the project is shovel-ready and could start immediately after the session. The current folks that reside there will stay where theyre at. Its not just a great, big new building, its going to be phased, Norton said of the project plans. Representatives from Wyomings community colleges also testified to the urgency of funding. Joe Schaffer, president of Laramie County Community College, discussed an exterior renewal initiative to preserve aging concrete buildings. While some LCCC projects are moving forward with private funds, Schaffer expressed concern about those still awaiting a state match. Advertisement Advertisement That delay will not only have price escalations, but also just the challenges of moving contractors on and off campus, Schaffer said. Similarly, Walter Tribley, president of Sheridan College, spoke in support of a $15.2 million science center project. He described the current facility as having good bones but being clearly out of date, lacking modern fire suppression and adequate ventilation for labs. Before voting, the committee approved an amendment regarding the Wyoming State Fair. Rep. Trey Sherwood, D-Laramie, moved to add a footnote authorizing the spending of $2 million in private funds raised for the show center floor. Norton clarified that the concrete floor would actually reduce long-term costs by eliminating the need to treat a dirt floor for biohazards. A separate motion from Sherwood to add around $23 million worth of state matching funds for several LCCC buildings died for lack of a second. The committee voted 7-0 to recommend the construction bill as amended. Vice Chairman Rep. Ken Pendergraft, R-Sheridan, will present the bill to the full House for further consideration. According to several expert estimations, the Trump administrations gutting of the U.S. Agency for International Development has already caused hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide and its projected to lead to millions more in the years ahead. Its noteworthy that even conservative evangelical groups have opposed these cuts. Nonetheless, as Elon Musk and members of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency conveniently hacked away at organizations investigating his companies, Donald Trumps biggest campaign donor openly boasted about cutting off funding to USAID. At one point, he bragged about having spent a weekend feeding USAID into the wood chipper instead of partying. But as it turns out, all of USAIDs funds didnt make it into that wood chipper. According to a new report from Reuters, $15 million of USAIDs remaining money is being used this year for the security detail of Russell Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget and an architect of the Project 2025 far-right playbook who has said he wanted to put federal employees in trauma. Advertisement Advertisement Per Reuters: The White House budget office is using millions of dollars from the former U.S. foreign aid agency to pay for the security detail of Russell Vought, President Donald Trumps budget chief and an architect of the government overhaul that has cut thousands of federal jobs, according to three documents seen by Reuters. The White House Office of Management and Budget, which Vought leads, is allocating $15 million of what remains of USAID operating expenses to cover the costs of his protection by the U.S. Marshals Service through the end of 2026, the documents showed. MS NOW hasnt independently confirmed the documents. But when asked by Reuters, an OMB spokesperson certainly didnt offer a denial: Asked about the use of USAID funds, OMB spokesperson Rachel Cauley said in an email: We are going to continue to use available funds at the three agencies overseen by the director to protect him. She apparently was referring to OMB, USAID and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, of which Vought is the acting director. So if youre doing the Trumpian accounting at home, potentially millions of people worldwide will die in the name of efficiency and said efficiency also justifies repurposing some of that same money so a single government bureaucrat can pay for his security detail for the rest of the year. On top of the obvious moral implications, it may rack the brain why an OMB director would even need such a massive amount of money for his security detail, let alone for a single year. That said, my colleague Steve Benen has done a great job covering the trend of Trump officials with rather large security details that have raised eyebrows. Advertisement Advertisement Im reminded of what Musk said back in October 2024, when he predicted financial hardship for Americans if Trump won a second term and that he would need more security if allowed to gut federal programs. Ill probably need a lot of security, but its got to be done, Musk said. I think many people are fairly clueless about what USAID does, or falsely see it as something the U.S. invests in for purely charitable reasons. Trump certainly seems to think so, as evidenced by his weak attempt at comedy during last years joint address to Congress, in which he invited conservatives to bask in his ignorance about what the African nation of Lesotho is or why the country might receive USAID funds. In reality, USAID has been a strategic boon for the U.S. to exhibit what is often called soft power, which is basically influence nurtured through diplomacy and investment, rather than military force. Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, some of these projects have saved a lot of lives. But their supposed benefits to the U.S. have always been paramount. A prime example involves a topic I wrote about a few years back: climate change-induced migration and the occasionally violent conflicts that arise from it. The Trump administration gutted USAID programs designed to help countries fight against climate change, which will leave these countries more susceptible to climate disasters and cause people to have to move elsewhere. Its easy to see why this is being perceived as a crisis among people concerned about things such as humanity. But one might think a MAGA movement that spends virtually all of its time demonizing immigration and immigrants would see the value in such programs as well. But when it comes to USAID, some conservatives appear to be blinded by bigotry. And with their vision shrouded, the Trump administration apparently feels empowered to do as it pleases with the agencys money. The post Russ Vought helped gut USAID then reportedly used its money for his security appeared first on MS NOW. This article was originally published on ms.now Alexei Navalny was killed with a toxin developed from an Ecuadorian frog on the orders of Vladimir Putin, proving that Russia possesses illegal chemical weapons, the Government has revealed. An investigation, understood to have been led by Porton Down scientists, concluded that the Russian opposition leader was assassinated with a poison 200 times stronger than morphine. The 47-year-old was murdered while incarcerated in a Siberian prison following years of outspoken criticism of the Russian president. Advertisement Advertisement Shortly after his death, biological samples including human tissue were smuggled from his cell and sent for analysis to two specialist laboratories, including the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory in Wiltshire. After nearly two years of analysis, scientists have established that traces of epibatidine were found in the specimens. The poison, described as one of the deadliest on Earth, was first discovered in Ecuadorian dart frogs. However, the lethal chemical cannot be produced if the creatures are in captivity away from tropical and humid forests. Scientists involved in the painstaking research have concluded that it was made synthetically in a highly sophisticated laboratory that would have needed state sponsorship for such advanced chemistry. Certain species of the Ecuadorian dart frog can produce a toxin 200 times stronger than morphine In a joint statement issued by five European countries, the Kremlin was reported for being a blatant breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention and accused of committing Navalnys brutal and barbaric murder. Advertisement Advertisement The Foreign Office also criticised Russia for failing to honour a 2017 commitment to destroy all its chemical and biological weapons and renounce their use. The Kremlin believes that it can develop these weapons covertly and without consequences, the statement says. They are mistaken. The UK knows what Russia is doing, and will expose and combat this activity at every opportunity. The joint announcement was made as Sir Keir Starmer told the Munich Security Conference he wanted to forge stronger military and defensive links with Europe because Russia has proved its appetite for aggression. The Prime Minister announced that the Royal Navy will patrol Greenland as a deterrent in the High North. Advertisement Advertisement Referring to the investigations findings, he said: Alexei Navalny displayed huge courage in the face of tyranny. His determination to expose the truth has left an enduring legacy, and my thoughts are with his family today. I am doing whatever it takes to defend our people, our values and our way of life from the threat of Russia and Putins murderous intent. Navlany with his wife Yulia at an opposition rally in 2013 - Reuters The decision to issue the announcement about the poison came two days before the second anniversary of Navalnys death on Feb 16, 2024. Maria Zakharova, the Russian foreign ministrys spokeswoman, dismissed the claims Navalny had been poisoned as a hoax. Advertisement Advertisement All such assertions are merely propaganda aimed at diverting attention from pressing Western issues, she said, according to the Kremlin-run news agency Tass. Yvette Cooper, the Foreign Secretary, said: Since Yulia Navalnaya announced the loss of her husband here in Munich two years ago, the UK has pursued the truth of Alexei Navalnys death with fierce determination. Only the Russian government had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin against Alexei Navalny during his imprisonment in Russia. Today, beside his widow, the UK is shining a light on the Kremlins barbaric plot to silence his voice. Advertisement Advertisement Russia saw Navalny as a threat. By using this form of poison, the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition. She also quoted Navalny himself, who once said: We must do what they fear tell the truth, spread the truth and this is the most powerful weapon. Widow of Alexei Navalny claims he was 'poisoned in prison' | Credit: Yulia Navalnaya/X Dame Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, described the findings as appalling and said they confirm what we have long suspected: Alexei Navalny was murdered for daring to speak out against Putins barbaric regime. Advertisement Advertisement She added: This is a horrific reminder of the threat Russia poses to freedom and our way of life. Putin will stop at nothing to undermine our values and those who speak for freedom and democracy. Britain and our allies must stand firmly against Russias murderous authoritarianism and stark aggression. As we approach the fourth anniversary of Russias abhorrent invasion of Ukraine, we must show unity and resolve as we stand up for our shared democratic values. It is believed that because Navalny was in a Russian jail when he was killed, the use of a nerve agent ensured it sent a clear message that bore the hallmarks of a calling card from Putin, a former senior KGB agent. Referring to the discovery of epibatidine in the samples, the UK Government, in collaboration with Sweden, France, the Netherlands and Germany, said: There is no innocent explanation for its presence in Navalnys body. Advertisement Advertisement The chemical initially causes shortness of breath, then rapid intakes of air before acute convulsions, seizures and vomiting. A lethal dose takes 30 minutes to kill its victim. Photographs from the cell where Navalny was held show vomit on the floor, which corroborates the theory that he was poisoned. Photographs of Navalnys jail cell show vomit on the floor Navalnys supporters, along with his wife, have always insisted the Russian government was responsible for his death, despite the authorities insisting he died from natural causes. It remains unclear how the poison was administered. The use of nerve agents as a way to deliver an intimidating message from the Kremlin was highlighted in 2018 when Sergei Skripal, a former Russian spy, and his daughter Yulia Skripal were targeted with Novichok by Russian agents in Salisbury. Advertisement Advertisement The Foreign Office accused Russia of having brazenly developed and deployed the Epibatidine in direct violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention. The Kremlin has also been accused of using chloropicrin, a chemical weapon that causes death from choking, during its war with Ukraine. Russias egregious and irresponsible actions, including its barbaric full-scale invasion of Ukraine continue to threaten our shared security, the Foreign Office said. Time and again, the Russian state shows the depths it is willing to go to terrorise people and undermine democracy. The Organisation on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons will be informed of the scientists analysis, which is said to prove Russias blatant breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays. Five European countries, including the UK, France and Germany, accused Russia on Saturday of poisoning opposition politician Alexei Navalny in prison in 2024 using a rare toxin, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. "We know that the Russian state used this deadly toxin to target Navalny, fearing his opposition," the UK Foreign Office said in a joint statement with Sweden, France, the Netherlands and Germany on the eve of the second anniversary of the death of the fierce critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The UK also said it had referred Russia to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The foreign ministries of the UK, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said on Saturday that the analysis of samples taken from Navalny, who died two years ago, "conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine," which is a toxin found in South American dendrobatid frogs. Advertisement Advertisement These countries claimed that "only the Russian state had the means, the motive and the contempt for international law to carry out this attack." Navalny, who waged a fierce battle against corruption and organised large-scale anti-Kremlin protests as a fierce opponent of President Vladimir Putin, died in the Arctic prison colony in February 2024. He was serving a 19-year sentence that was believed to be politically motivated. Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnaya, said last year that two independent laboratories had concluded that he had been poisoned shortly before his death. She has repeatedly accused Putin of being responsible for Navalny's death, which the Russian authorities have categorically denied. Related Advertisement Advertisement Navalny's murder now a scientifically proven fact, says widow "The assassination of Russian opponent Alexei Navalny in an Arctic prison in 2024 is now a scientifically proven fact," his widow, Yulia Navalnaya, said on Saturday, after five European countries claimed that Moscow had used a lethal toxic agent against the Kremlin opponent. "Two years ago, I came here and said that Vladimir Putin had killed my husband," she said on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. "Of course, I was certain that it was murder... but at the time, they were just words. Today, those words have become scientifically proven facts," she added. The findings are based on independent laboratory analysis of biological samples that were secretly smuggled out of Russia. A public summary of the full technical report submitted to the OPCW is likely to be released on the OPCW official website. Chaos marked a protest called by Left backed student unions at the Delhi University on Friday evening. This after a protest called by the 'All India Forum for Equity' to observe 'All India Vanchit Adhikar Divas' at the Arts Faculty, Delhi University saw scenes of alleged violence. The students were demanding that the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations eliminate caste discrimination from campuses in India. A face-off between two student groups led to claims and counter-claims with the student groups accusing each other of indulging in violence and intimidation. According to left backed students union-AISA some of the students were allegedly threatened and subjected to casteist abuse and slurs by the rival student group. AISA activists say that they had gone to the local police station register an FIR against the alleged attackers. They claim that during this rival student group ABVP, which is affiliated to the BJP attacked their members. In its statement the AISA said, "Delhi Police repeatedly failed to disperse the attacking mob and even if they moved away this mob kept coming back. While the lawyer of the students inside was not allowed to enter the police station, the people against whom the complaint was being made entered and with them some goons even entered the station." "The mob at this time became even more agitated and tried to surround those who had come in solidarity against the mob attack in order to attack them. Instead of removing the violent crowd, the police stood by and watched as the mob raised slogans like "Desh ke gaddaron ko, goli maro salon ko" (Shoot the traitors of the country), "Brahmanwad Zindabad" (Long live Brahmanism) and other violent gestures aimed particularly women comrades," AISA alleged in its statement. Countering these allegations, ABVP alleged that a female journalist, associated with a YouTube channel was allegedly assaulted by Left backed student activists. ABVP said that the incident exposes the violent character of Left-affiliated student organisations, which otherwise claim to champion freedom of expression across universities in the country. ABVP Delhi State Secretary Sarthak Sharma said, "I would like to make a few things clear. The Left was protesting and a woman journalist, with a YouTube channel, was present there. She was covering the protest during which she asked them a few questions. Perhaps they didn't like those questions, or they didn't like the woman journalist, and they indulged in a flight...The videos show that even their male cadre was slapping her, that the crowd was gathering around her, and they were dragging her away. They have been exposed that how they misbehave with women. I have not met with the journalist so far, but I have come to know that she has filed a Police complaint. SFI, AISA and other Left student organisations have lost their relevance...So, they want to stay in the news by making false accusations. But the students of DU are intelligent enough." Delhi Police is probing the claims and counter claims made by the rival groups. (ANI) NEED TO KNOW Alexei Navalny died of poison epibatidine, which comes from a dart frog not native to Russia, according to a joint press release from five European governments Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison to him," the Feb. 14 press release from the countries alleged Nalany, a longtime critic and political opponent of Vladimir Putin, died in an Arctic penal colony on Feb. 16, 2024 Two years after Alexei Navalny's sudden death, several foreign governments are confident he died not of natural causes, but from poison. Nalany, a longtime critic and political opponent of Russian President Vladimir Putin, died in an Arctic penal colony on Feb. 16, 2024, at the age of 47. Advertisement Advertisement On Saturday, Feb. 14, the U.K. Foreign Office alleged in a joint press release with four other European countries that poisoning was highly likely the cause of his death. The U.K., Sweden, France, Germany and The Netherlands are confident that Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a lethal toxin, stated the press release from the U.K. Foreign Office and Yvette Cooper, the country's Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs. The Foreign Office said that epibatidine was found in samples taken from the late Russian opposition leader. It added that the use of the neurotoxin is a breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. Alexei Navalny in 2019 Sefa Karacan/Anadolu Agency via Getty Epibatidine is a toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America. It is not found naturally in Russia, the release said. Russia claimed that Navalny died of natural causes. But given the toxicity of epibatidine and reported symptoms, poisoning was highly likely the cause of his death. Advertisement Advertisement The Foreign Office also alleged that because Navalny died behind bars he was serving a 19-year sentence on extremism charges that many viewed as politically motivated Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison to him. It is not clear how exactly the toxin would have allegedly been administered to the then-prisoner. A spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment on Saturday, Feb. 14. Stock image of a poisonous frog Getty Russias repeated disregard for international law and the Chemical Weapons Convention is clear, the Foreign Office said. Advertisement Advertisement Citing other alleged instances of Russias use of nerve agent novichok, the government office added, These latest findings once again underline the need to hold Russia accountable for its repeated violations of the Chemical Weapons Convention and, in this instance, the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention. The U.K. has informed the Organization on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons of Russia's alleged breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention, according to the Feb. 14 release. We are further concerned that Russia did not destroy all of its chemical weapons, the Foreign Office concluded. We and our partners will make use of all policy levers at our disposal to continue to hold Russia to account. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Russian President Vladimir Putin Vyacheslav PROKOFYEV / POOL / AFP via Getty Nalanys wife, Yulia Navalnaya, who has long maintained that her husband was killed by poisoning, released a statement after the press release went public. Advertisement Advertisement I was certain from the first day that my husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof: Putin killed Alexei with chemical weapon, Navalnaya alleged, in part, in an X post translated from Russian. I am grateful to the European states for the meticulous work they carried out over two years and for uncovering the truth," the widow of the late opposition leader continued. Vladimir Putin is a murderer, she further alleged. He must be held accountable for all his crimes. Read the original article on People Russia's air defenses may now pose a greater threat to NATO, a leading air power analyst warned. Its experience fighting Ukraine has enhanced its capabilities, he said. Crews have more experience, systems have been upgraded, and there are still hundreds of batteries. Russia's air defenses may pose a more significant threat to NATO air forces than they would have before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a top air defense analyst warned in a recent report. Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine has been able to destroy numerous Russian air defense systems. Advertisement Advertisement Justin Bronk, an air power expert at the UK's Royal United Services Institute, warned that not only does Russia still maintain a large arsenal, but it is also still producing its most powerful systems. And its ability to use these weapons has improved through combat experience. Systems have been upgraded, crews have more experience, and Russia has become better at coordinating their use with surveillance aircraft to accurately extend their reach. Russia's surface-to-air missile systems, Bronk wrote, "not only remain numerous, but are also likely to perform better against NATO aircraft and munitions in a hypothetical direct conflict than they would have before 2022." Russia has a larger arsenal of ground-based air defenses than NATO members. Evgeny Biyatov - Host Photo Agency via Getty Images Facing this challenge, NATO could struggle to sweep aside Russian air defenses in a European war to achieve air superiority a cornerstone of Western airpower doctrine. Advertisement Advertisement He told Business Insider in an interview about the report that Russia's forces are "much more experienced" and have "learned quite a lot through trial and experimentation." A strictly air-to-air clash pitting Russian air forces against NATO aircraft likely wouldn't go well for Moscow, Bronk predicted, but a war wouldn't only take place in the air. Before Western jets could operate freely, European air forces would likely need to suppress or destroy Russia's dense network of ground-based air defenses. Their volume and improved coordination could pose a serious challenge. Russia still has a huge array of defenses Ukraine has been able to achieve a "steady drumbeat" of strikes against Russian defense systems with weaponry like drones, artillery, and missiles, Bronk said, but there are still "several hundred batteries" in service, with more modern variants continuing to roll off production lines. Advertisement Advertisement Bronk's analysis is based on interviews with Western air forces and ministries, data from Ukraine's armed forces, and open-source information. He said his findings indicate that Russia's array of ground-based integrated air defence systems "remains a highly potent threat to NATO air capabilities in a European context." The sheer volume is a problem for NATO in Europe. "The primary threat to NATO air power" is Russia's extensive ground-based surface-to-missile coverage, he said. NATO notably doesn't have a similar arsenal. The war in Ukraine has underscored how decisive ground-based air defenses can be. Russia began the war with the largest such arsenal in Europe, followed by Ukraine, and that scale has helped prevent either side from establishing air superiority. Advertisement Advertisement NATO has committed to increasing its arsenal of ground-based air defenses in response, with alliance defense spending soaring, but it's not a problem that can be quickly solved. Russia has experience and upgrades Both Russia's combat aircraft crews and surface-to-air missile system operators are "significantly more combat-experienced and more capable overall than they were prior to the start of the full-scale invasion," Bronk said. The increase in operator experience alongside hardware and software upgrades "a least partially offsets" some of the significant attrition that Russian SAM systems have suffered during the war against Ukraine. Improvements to the force include new tactics and procedures, software updates to improve the performance of radars, better resistance to electronic warfare, and bringing new pieces of hardware into service. Advertisement Advertisement New hardware includes the S-350 Vityaz, a medium-range surface-to-air missile system that first entered service in 2020. Russia is coordinating better Russia's forces are also getting better at working together, Bronk said. He said that in a direct conflict with NATO forces in Europe, the threat to NATO aircraft "would be far better coordinated today than they were prior to 2022." Russia's airborne early warning and control aircraft are working better with its air defenses and amplifying their power. ASSOCIATED PRESS Ukraine has reported that since mid-2023, Russia's long-range surface-to-air missiles have more frequently coordinated engagements with fighter jets near the front lines and A-50U airborne early warning and control aircraft, allowing them to fire at Ukrainian aircraft "at ranges that the surface-to-air systems could not have been able to directly observe by themselves." Advertisement Advertisement Russia could use similar strategies in a conflict with NATO, "to engage Western aircraft flying at low altitudes at longer ranges," Bronk said. In Ukraine, he said, the probability of scoring a kill with one of these shots "almost certainly remains low," as they require the missile seeker to find the target without mid-course guidance. But the evolved tactic points to how much more skilled Russia's air force and air defense crews have become, compared to their less coordinated tactics in the early months of the war. At the same time, NATO's air forces have "access to significantly more detailed and accurate data on the strengths, weaknesses, tactics and technical characteristics of Russian SAM systems than they had before 2022," Bronk said. That can't be understated. Advertisement Advertisement They understand the threat of Russia's ground-based air defenses better. And the weaponry and tactics to counter them do exist, Bronk said, "albeit not in sufficient numbers in Europe yet." Ultimately, Bronk said, "Russian air defence capabilities have been boosted by combat lessons over almost four years of operations," and that could require more from NATO to break through in a fight. Read the original article on Business Insider The Sacramento Police Department have released videos from a deadly officer-involved shooting that followed a bank robbery near a shopping plaza across from Cal Expo. The shooting happened on Jan. 29 after officers responded to the 1600 block of Response road for a report of a bank robbery in progress. Police said a man identified as 56-year-old Andrew Baima robbed a bank and ran off with cash. Officers said Baima had a gun and pointed it toward them. Thats when two officers fired, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said officers performed CPR and provided emergency medical aid until Sacramento Fire Department crews arrived. Once fire crews arrived, they took Baima to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead. After the shooting, police said they discovered the gun Baima pointed at officers was fake. The two officers involved in the shooting were not injured. The incident remains under investigation. Click here to watch the full video. (Warning: video is graphic). WATCH MORE ON ABC10 | Sacramento coroner identifies 3-year-old at center of suspicious death investigation In the heart of the Sahara, where the routes to Sudan and Libya cross, the Chadian city of Amdjarass has been transformed this week into an open-air celebration of desert culture. Until Friday, Amdjarass hosts dance troupes, musicians, traditional storytellers, craftspeople, cooks and nomadic camel drivers from across the vast region. Niger, the guest of honour at the sixth Amdjarass International Festival of Saharan Cultures (FICSA), hailed the event as a way to foster peace in a region beset by conflict and climate change. Advertisement Advertisement "In a world rife with tensions, crises and misunderstandings, culture remains a space for encounter and dialogue, enabling us to understand and respect each other and build together," Niger's crafts and tourism minister Aghaichata Guichene Atta told the opening ceremony on Saturday. "Our countries have everything to gain by joining forces to make culture a tool for peace, development and employment," she said, to cheers from the crowd. Atta highlighted the role of Saharan women in keeping desert cultures alive down the centuries. In a shapeshifting region where traditions are seldom archived on paper, the women "carry the living memory of Saharan societies through their songs, their stories, their hands that weave, shape, cook and educate." Advertisement Advertisement Amdjarass, which is home to several nomadic peoples, is located in far northeast of Chad, a vast, sparsely populated region renowned for its dramatic rock formations and desert landscapes. The once dusty village, now a grid-shaped city, derives its name from "djarass", the Arabic word for bell, in reference to a strange white rock that rings in the wind and was once used to warn locals of raids by rival tribes. - Spark interest in the desert - Local Issak Bassam, 27, said he was delighted the festival had returned to his hometown after a break of seven years due to the covid pandemic, the change of president in 2021 and organisational problems. Advertisement Advertisement "I haven't got the money to travel so this festival is a way for me to meet people from different horizons and celebrate Saharan culture in all its diversity," he told AFP. Amdjarass was the stronghold of late president Idriss Deby Itno, who hailed from the area and ruled Chad for 30 years until he was killed during clashes with rebels and his son was handed the reins of power. For current Prime Minister Allah Maye Halina and festival founder Issouf Elli Moussami, FICSA is not just an excuse for a week-long outdoor party. It is also a lever for encouraging tourism into an area far off the beaten track. Advertisement Advertisement Guitarist Omar "Bombino" Moctar from Niger, who played his blend of Tuareg blues-rock to a crowd gathered under the desert stars, said he hoped the festival would spark the world's interest in a region about which it knows little. "Through my music, I want to share happiness with all the peoples of the desert, bring them together and explain to the whole world the dangers we face," he said. jbo/gge/cpy/gil/kjm Para leer en espanol, haga clic aqui. WOODBURN Stopping overly aggressive immigration enforcement will take a groundswell of backlash from elected leaders and ordinary Americans, U.S. Rep. Andrea Salinas said Friday. Salinas, a Democrat who along with former GOP U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer made history as Oregons first Latina members of Congress in 2023, joined Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Oregon, and immigrants rights advocates at the Woodburn office of Oregons farmworkers union, Pineros Y Campesinos Unidos del Noroeste. Advertisement Advertisement They were promoting the ICE and CBP Accountability Act, a bill they introduced earlier this month to ensure people whose rights are violated by federal immigration officers can sue the federal government and that money for those lawsuits can be drawn out of last years congressional tax and spending megalaw that provided more than $150 million for immigration enforcement. Our community should not have to live in fear of the very people sworn to protect them, the very people who pledge an oath to the same constitution that we have, Salinas said. Families deserve safety, workers deserve dignity, and every single person deserves their constitutional rights. They introduced the bill, which they acknowledged has little hope of passing in a Republican-controlled Congress, shortly before the Department of Homeland Security announced it would end its large-scale deployment of immigration officers in Minneapolis. That months-long surge resulted in thousands of arrests, the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens by federal officers and massive protests. Other Democratic cities and states are bracing for the possibility of similar escalations. Advertisement Advertisement We keep hearing rumors that Oregon is high on the presidents list, Merkley said. So we dont know if those agents being drawn out of Minnesota are coming here, but we better prepare as if they are. Salinas said Oregonians troubled by the way the Trump administration is handling immigration enforcement need to continue speaking out through protests and writing to their members of Congress. A sign says Oregon is our home in Spanish in Woodburn on Feb. 13, 2026. (Photo by Julia Shumway/Oregon Capital Chronicle) This has to be from leaders, elected leaders at every level: local level, county level, state level, obviously the federal level, speaking up and saying, Not here. Not in my backyard. And if all 50 states do that, we will basically shut down what ICE is doing right now, Salinas said. Isa Pena, director of strategy at the Innovation Law Lab, said the Portland-based nonprofit focused on immigrant and refugee justice is seeing deeply troubling reports of warrantless arrests, denial of access to counsel, racial profiling and use of high-tech surveillance to target entire neighborhoods. Innovation Law Lab recently won a court victory when a federal judge in Eugene blocked warrantless immigration arrests in Oregon. Advertisement Advertisement Immigrant Oregonians are mothers, are fathers, Pena said. Theyre construction workers, theyre farm workers, doctors, students, and they are a critical fabric of Oregon. They have been terrorized by these violent actions. Salinas, Merkley and local advocates also sought to highlight the stories of Oregonians who have been victimized by federal agents and couldnt publicly speak for themselves because they fear retaliation. Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Oregon, holds up a copy of his pamphlet about the authoritarian playbook in Woodburn on Feb. 13, 2026. (Photo by Julia Shumway/Oregon Capital Chronicle) Nancy Flores Lopez, a regional director of Service Employees International Union Local 503, read a written statement from Maria, a union member and U.S. citizen who federal agents reportedly pulled from her car in Salem in late January while she was running errands. Maria, a home care worker, has declined to talk to the media and union representatives have used only a first name. Maria was driving down a quiet street in Salem on Jan. 29 on her way to cash a check and pick up a cake for her grandsons birthday when she noticed an unmarked black SUV tailing her, according to her statement. The SUV turned on flashing police lights to pull her over, then another vehicle pulled up to box her in. Advertisement Advertisement She reported being frozen in fear and too frightened to respond when agents started banging on her window, demanding papers. They bashed in her car window and pulled her out, injuring her shoulder and ribs and causing a concussion in the process, before rifling through her car and purse and finding her passport, the statement said. My family and I are afraid to go out to places we used to shop, even just driving down the street, the statement said. Im always looking over my shoulder to see if Im being followed again. I will feel that fear for a long time to come. Ximena Van Dyke, a McMinnville resident who works with the Yamhill County nonprofit Unidos Bridging Community, said she had to be careful about details she shared of immigration enforcement actions in Yamhill County, including the November 2025 detention of a teenage U.S. citizen during his lunch break. That teen, and other people arrested or targeted by immigration agents, are following legal advice not to speak publicly because theyre concerned about retaliation against themselves or their families, she said. That is a clear red flag warning that our constitutional rights are in danger, Van Dyke said. We cannot allow constitutional protections to become optional. Accountability does not weaken law enforcement. It strengthens democracy. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) Cardrooms in California could take a major hit come April 1, as new regulations will bar the establishments from offering blackjack-style games. Attorney General Rob Bontas Office announced the approval of the new rule on Monday, which prohibits person-versus-person card games like blackjack, which cardrooms offer, unlike tribal casinos, where players play against the house. That means casinos on tribal land will not be affected by the new regulation and will still be able to offer blackjack-style games, whereas cardrooms could lose half of their revenue. Advertisement Advertisement Local cardrooms are pushing back on the change, however, with owners saying tribal casinos are driving the entire battle. San Diego County has two legal cardrooms: Oceans Eleven Casino in Oceanside and Seven Mile Casino in Chula Vista. Local opponents say the new regulations could devastate the cardroom industry while further boosting the billion-dollar local tribal casino industry. Oceans Eleven Casino is one of two cardrooms located in San Diego County (FOX 5/KUSI). The Attorney General is massacring our business, said Marl Kelegian, the Managing Partner and President of Oceans 11 Casino. The Attorney General is basically working with the tribes to attack us, and close us, and put us out of business. This is their third attempt. In 1999, a proposition was passed that allows Californias Native American Tribes the exclusive right to blackjack-style games in which players play against the casino. Cardrooms, however, use player-dealers, in which a third-party player serves as the house. Seven Mile Casino is one of two cardrooms located in San Diego County (FOX 5/KUSI). Weve been playing these games for almost 30 years, and now all of a sudden they want us to stop playing them, Kelegian continued. Well, who wants us to stop playing them: The Tribes. The Attorney General is absolutely doing the bidding of the tribes. It comes as no surprise to us. Advertisement Advertisement Along with revenue taking a major hit with the new regulation, it could also jeopardize thousands of workers and harm California communities that rely on cardroom taxes to fund essential services. Meanwhile, more than 10,000 jobs statewide could reportedly be eliminated. In our casino alone, we have 300 employees. If this regulation were to go into effect, we would lose at least half of our employees, Kelegian said. All of them are residents of North County, primarily Oceanside and Vista. Rows of slot machines inside one of San Diegos Tribal-owned casinos (FOX 5/KUSI). The California Gaming Association recently sent a letter to Bontas office, stating that the announcement of the regulation lacks proper notice and transparency, ignores industry concerns, and will cause severe economic harm as a critical but overlooked impact. Kyle Kirkland, President of the California Gaming Association, issued the following: Advertisement Advertisement Attorney General Bonta and the Bureau have unilaterally implemented extreme regulatory changes that will harm thousands of working families and the dozens of California communities that depend on cardroom taxes. By the Bureaus own simplistic economic assessment, these unnecessary regulations will eliminate over half of all cardroom jobs and force many communities to cut police, fire, parks, senior and food programs when the long-standing tax base disappears. The second regulation, passed alongside the blackjack ban, involves new rules for player-dealer rotation. The regulations are slated to take effect on April 1, while the deadline for cardrooms to submit compliance plans is May 31. Advertisement Advertisement FOX 5 KUSI has reached out to several local casinos; one said it has no comment at this time, while the others have yet to respond. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. (FOX 5/KUSI) A woman from the Point Loma neighborhood of San Diego will spend time behind bars after she admitted embezzling and laundering millions of dollars from her employer. Ping Gao, who also goes by Jenny, worked for three aviation investment firms Nautical Hero Group, LLC, Axiom United Holdings, LLC and Vitality International Management, LLC. All three companies are owned by the same employer and based at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Field airport. According to a news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of California, Gao admitted to stealing more than $8.5 million from her employers bank accounts. Advertisement Advertisement Suspect in I-15 crash had outstanding warrant The 55-year-old Gao fraudulently created accounts and then funneled company funds into them before going on a spending spree. She also bought a $160,000 Porsche and a $2.9 million home with views of San Diego Bay and the downtown skyline with the stolen funds. After her employer learned of the theft and sued in San Diego Superior Court, authorities said Gao falsely claimed her actions were authorized by the real owner of the companies who was in China. She also used $100,000 of the embezzled funds to pay people in China to create false evidence and used it to oppose a motion for a preliminary injunction. Advertisement Advertisement SUV involved in fatal Pacific Beach hit-and-run found by police Gao disregarded the courts orders to stop spending or transferring the funds, and at some point, she wired $1.6 million overseas to a bank account in Hong Kong, China. She even sold the $160,000 Porsche for $75,000 from CarMax and exchanged a $70,000 cashiers check from the transaction to another individual for cash. Gao admitted that she transferred more than $1 million of the embezzled funds to her personal bank accounts and spent hundreds of thousands of dollars at high-end fashion stores. She has been ordered to pay over $3.2 million in restitution to the victims, Nautical Hero Group, LLC and Vitality International Management, LLC, as well as spend 63 months in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. When Anatoly Tony Ioffe moved to Sarasota from the Chicago area, he saw what he believed was a shortcoming in how people could seek medical care, so he asked his old friend David Mayer to help co-found a medical practice. That practice became Osprey PolyClinic that since they received a license to operate in December 2024 evolved into an efficient, collegial community that is still reeling following a Feb. 10 mass shooting. That shooting claimed the lives of Ioffe, 61, his wife Florita Rita Stolyar, her son Yaroslav Stan Blyudoy, 39, and Olga Greinert, 49, in Sarasota, as well as the lives of Stolyars daughter and grandson Larisa Blyudaya, 46, and her 18-year-old son, Ben Azizov in Fort Lauderdale. Advertisement Advertisement Law enforcement officials say the killer, 51-year-old Russell Kot, was among the people who died in Sarasota, bringing the Florida death toll in this tragedy to seven. Blyudaya and Blyudoy were Stolyars children from a previous marriage. The union between Ioffe and Stolyar was the second marriage for both. He was an amazing individual who cared about a lot of people Ioffe is remembered as a loving individual with a big heart. He was an amazing individual who cared about a lot of people, Mayer said. He was taking care of his mom, whos in her 90s and then his mother-in-law from his first marriage as well. You dont find, every day, a son-in-law who takes care of his mother-in-law from his first marriage, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Mayer said his friend was also super smart and observant traits that led to his decision to start Osprey PolyClinic. This is why he was able to see an unmet need in Sarasota, in this market, and saw ways of how problems could be solved, and how better patient care could be delivered, Mayer said. Neither man had experience in the medical field, though a third partner, Era Rubalsky, worked in medical equipment procurement and contracting since 2009. We met when Tony needed guidance and expertise in outfitting the clinic, she said. In truth, all three partners have ties through the Chicago area and roots in the former Soviet Union. Advertisement Advertisement Ioffe came to the United States from St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1989, said Mayer, who himself emigrated with his parents from Riga, Latvia, in 1980. Those were the common threads, Mayer said. Rubalsky, who was born in Ukraine, emigrated to Chicago with her parents in 1989. Stolyar was born in Ukraine and emigrated to the United States in 1989. That ethnic connection was partly the foundation of Mayers friendship with Ioffe. Our ethnic, cultural background played a role in finding that commonality, Mayer said. We were one way or another attached or involved in that community, in Chicago and those relationships extended far and wide. Advertisement Advertisement Mayer and Ioffe also traveled for work together while employed by Belmont Trading Company and eventually socialized together as well. After both were laid off because of COVID-19-era downsizing, Ioffe moved to Sarasota and saw an opportunity. He saw some gaps in the medical care space here and thought he could fill those gaps and just offer improvements in the healthcare space here, Mayer said. He reached out and said, Do you want to open up a medical practice in Sarasota? I said, Sure, lets go for it, he added with a laugh. We decided to start it, we met Era (Rubalsky) along the way and brought her into the business. She had that magic energy Greinert was not technically part of Ioffes and Stolyars extended family but she had formed a close bond with Stolyar. Advertisement Advertisement Rubalsky said Greinert left Ukraine for the Sarasota area two years ago with her son Elder Greinert, who is now 17. Julie Guseva, a PolyClinic employee who was friendly with Greinert, said she was a phenomenal mother. Her main goal here, as an immigrant parent, was to give a great life to her child, Guseva said. She did whatever she had to do to make his dreams come true. Thats the kind of person she was. Rubalsky said Greinert approached her job with diligence. Nothing was beneath her, Rubalsky said. Because she was such a great person, she and Rita became good friends. What she did here, she did it with pride, she did it well. She created a network of friends, Rubalsky added. She had that magic energy where it extended beyond the work that she was doing and so she attracted a lot of people. Advertisement Advertisement Its tragic, she said. Im talking to common friends and everyone is just devastated. She wasnt even there to work that day, on Tuesday, Rubalsky continued. She was there to help Rita with something. Whats next? Both Ioffes extended family and Greinerts family have established GoFundMe accounts to help with funeral and other ongoing expenses. The familys account can be found at: https://gofund.me/c5f172643. Funeral services have not yet been finalized, Mayer said, but he believed that they will be held in Fort Lauderdale.Greinerts account can be found at https://gofund.me/9479c1f39. Her funeral service is set for 11 a.m., Feb. 21, at Manasota Memorial Park, located at 53rd Avenue East & 301 Blvd E., Bradenton. Advertisement Advertisement Earle Kimel primarily covers south Sarasota County as well as land development and environmental issues for the Herald-Tribune. Follow him on Facebook, and X. He can be reached by email at earle.kimel@heraldtribune.com. Support local journalism by subscribing. This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Sarasota clinic owners remember colleagues slain in mass shooting The US House of Representatives this week passed legislation that would require voters to provide proof-of-citizenship as the midterm elections approach. The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility, or SAVE America Act, would require people to present a valid US passport or birth certificate when registering to vote. The proposal has raised concerns among some groups, including married individuals who have changed their names and may not have matching documents. Advertisement Advertisement In a post on his social media site Truth Social, Trump warned that there would "be Voter I.D. for the Midterm Elections, whether approved by Congress or not!" Democrats say the legislation disenfranchises eligible voters, while Republicans say it is necessary to prevent voter fraud. The bill faces an uphill battle in the Senate, where it does not have enough backers. Here's what to know about this legislation. What are the new requirements? The SAVE act would require Americans to prove they are US citizens when they register to vote. It would also require a valid photo identification before they cast their ballots. Advertisement Advertisement Some states already require voters to show valid photo identification at the polls. Federal law mandates that voters in national election be US citizens, but it does not require mandatory proof of citizenship, as the proposed legislation would. This bill - a renewed version of a legislation introduced last year that was stalled - establishes a process for people whose names have changed to submit additional documents to verify their identity. The provision has drawn particular concern for individuals who changed their names after marriage. Under the legislation, election officials who register a voter without obtaining the required proof of citizenship could face criminal penalties. Advertisement Advertisement An estimated 21 million Americans do not have documents proving their citizenship readily available, and 2.6 million lack any form of government-issued photo ID, according to the Brennan Center for Justice, a liberal-leaning think tank, and the University of Maryland's Center for Democracy and Civic Engagement. A Pew Research Center poll from last year found 83% of respondents favoured requiring all voters to show government-issued photo identification, including 71% of Democrat or Democratic-leaning voters and 95% of Republican or Republican-leaning voters. What does Trump say? President Donald Trump has repeatedly praised the legislation and encouraged his Republican party to push it through both chambers of Congress so he can sign it into law. While supporting the bill, Trump has also repeated his false claim that the 2020 election was stolen. The president says the SAVE Act could stop that from happening. Advertisement Advertisement "American citizens, and only American citizens, should decide American elections," the White House posted on social media, referencing a common talking point of the president's that there is widespread fraud in elections. There is no evidence to support this. This week in a post on Truth Social, Trump repeated false claims about election fraud and said he would be presenting an "irrefutable" legal argument in defence of the measure "in the very near future". Members of the president's party, by and large, support the legislation, too. Congressman Bryan Steil, a Wisconsin Republican, disputed Democrats' comments that the bill is "voter suppression". Advertisement Advertisement "Those allegations are false," he said, arguing that a bill is needed to enforce existing laws, especially those that prevent immigrants who are not citizens from voting. "The current law is not strong enough," Steil said. When does the Senate vote? It is unclear if and when the Senate may vote on the measure. The legislation passed the House, mostly along party lines, in a 218-213 vote. But Majority Leader John Thune does not have the 60 votes he needs to pass the bill in the Senate. Some have urged Thune to change the filibuster rules by lowering the threshold required to pass a bill. "There aren't anywhere close to the votes, not even close, to nuking the filibuster," Thune said at a news conference on Tuesday. "So that idea is something, although it continues to be put out there. That doesn't have a future." Advertisement Advertisement In addition, Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski said she would not back the measure if it came for a vote, which would make passage even more difficult. Democrats have also tried - unsuccessfully - to enact nationwide voting rules, as opposed to the current patchwork of state-by-state measures. But the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act did not make it through Congress under the Biden presidency. If you tracked a whale across the open ocean, this is what you'd see: They travel thousands of miles, burn through blubber, and in the form of pee leave behind a trail of nutrients that helps entire ocean ecosystems survive. Turns out, these bathroom breaks are doing a lot more than relieving pressure. A new study published in Nature Communications found that great whales including humpbacks, grays, and right whales are hauling thousands of tons of nitrogen from polar feeding zones to tropical waters every year, reported Popular Science. Along the way, they're quietly fertilizing coral reefs and coastal ecosystems that would otherwise run low on essential nutrients. Scientists have dubbed this process the "great whale pee funnel," and it's exactly what it sounds like: an ocean-wide transfer system that begins when whales bulk up in the Arctic and ends when they let loose in the tropics. The research team estimates they release over 4,000 tons of nitrogen annually, mostly in the form of urea-rich urine. Advertisement Advertisement This new insight builds on a 2010 discovery known as the "whale pump," a system in which whales feed in deep waters and then poop near the surface, pushing nutrients up toward plankton. "But we soon realized that was only part of the story," Joe Roman, a study co-author and conservation biologist at the University of Vermont, told Popular Science. "Baleen whales are 'capital breeders,' feeding for part of the year in high-latitude productive areas, such as Alaska, and having calves and nursing during the winter in areas like Hawaii, where [they] typically fast." While fasting, migrating whales burn through hundreds of pounds of fat each day. That metabolic breakdown results in large volumes of nitrogen-rich urine. Fin whales near Iceland, for example, can produce more than 250 gallons of pee daily, according to the Orkney Marine Mammal Research Initiative, compared to less than half a gallon for humans. All of that liquid gold ends up in the ocean, where it fuels the growth of algae, plankton, and coral, especially in places that struggle with nutrient shortages. Advertisement Advertisement Humpbacks migrating from Antarctica to Costa Rica leak urea the entire way, connecting ecosystems thousands of miles apart. In all, whales move more than 45,000 tons of biomass per year, a staggering figure that rivals some of the ocean's largest natural upwelling systems. In regions where they pass through, available nitrogen levels can more than double. Before commercial whaling slashed global populations, these cross-hemisphere nutrient flows may have been up to three times greater. Rebuilding whale numbers, Roman believes, is about more than conservation, it's about restoring a planetary system. "We often think of plants as the lungs of the planet," he said. "Animals are the circulatory system." Do you think America is in a housing crisis? Definitely Not sure No way Only in some cities Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday paid tribute to former Union Minister and Delhi Chief Minister Sushma Swaraj on her 74th birth anniversary, lauding her lifelong dedication to public service and national welfare. In a post shared on X, Shah said, "Sushma Swaraj ji, who made public welfare--from the organization to the government--the mission of her life, was known for her fearless stance on matters of national interest. Her work on the nation, culture, language, foreign policy, and women's empowerment will continue to inspire the countrymen for decades. I pay my respects to Sushma ji on her birth anniversary." https://x.com/AmitShah/status/2022505160480784712 Earlier in the day, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta paid heartfelt tribute to Sushma Swaraj, calling her a "guardian of parliamentary dignity and an inspiration in humane diplomacy". In a post shared on X, Delhi CM said, "On the birth anniversary of former Union Minister and former Chief Minister of Delhi, Padma Vibhushan, the revered Sushma Swaraj ji, I offer millions of salutations to her. Her persona as the guardian of parliamentary dignity in Indian politics and the unparalleled architect of humane diplomacy will forever remain an inspiration for all of us." She also lauded Swaraj's intellectual acumen and oratory skills, saying they enhanced India's standing on the global stage. "With her sharp intellect and resonant oratory, Sushma Didi enhanced India's pride on the global stage and established the highest ideals of public service," Gupta wrote. Emphasising Swaraj's dedication to the nation, she added, "Her unwavering dedication to the motherland and her maternal affection for one and all remain indelibly etched in our hearts even today. I pay my humble respects to the ideals of the honourable Sushma ji, the embodiment of simplicity, courage, and integrity." Sushma Swaraj (February 14, 1952 - August 6, 2019) was a prominent Indian politician and former Union Cabinet Minister. Born in Ambala, Haryana, she graduated from Sanatan Dharma College and earned a law degree from Punjab University, Chandigarh. She began her legal career in 1973 as an advocate at the Supreme Court of India. Swaraj had her formal entry into politics as she won the Haryana Legislative Assembly seat at 25, and served as Cabinet Minister for Labour and Employment. She later held portfolios in Education, Food, and Civil Supplies. She was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 1990 and the Lok Sabha in 1996, serving as Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Telecommunications, Health and Family Welfare, and Parliamentary Affairs. In 1998, she became the first woman Chief Minister of Delhi. She was Leader of Opposition in the 15th Lok Sabha (2009-2014) and served as Union Cabinet Minister for External Affairs from 2014 to 2019. (ANI) There is plenty to keep legislators busy in the current session in Pierre. They must find a way to overhaul the property tax system without bankrupting schools and counties. Some lawmakers have pledged to try to find money to boost funding for education, health care and state employee salaries. And, of course, theres always a budget to balance. In amongst the bills that might actually do South Dakotans some good, there are others that serve a more selfish purpose. They are not meant to govern but to goad. These bills are attempts to cast the prime sponsor and those who have signed on to the legislation as more conservative than their colleagues. They are determined to Make America Great Again no matter how silly or symbolic the cause. Among those are bills intent on re-litigating the COVID-19 pandemic. They seek to put a stamp of legality on the use of drugs backed by the kind of science that could only generously be described as sketchy. Searchlight Report podcast Voices from South Dakota politics and policy. Listen > Advertisement Advertisement Since state-sanctioned prayer is not allowed in schools, some lawmakers are again attempting to splash God all over the classroom walls. Its not enough that in 2019 lawmakers mandated putting In God We Trust on a prominent wall in each school. This year, House Bill 1243 unsuccessfully sought to put the South Dakota motto, Under God the People Rule, on school walls as well. If this keeps up, there wont be room for schools to display maps or the periodic tables. Then theres Senate Concurrent Resolution 604, which does its best to erase the line between church and state. It does this by telling South Dakotans to pray and fast. Seek the Lord Most High the legislation advises. Like most legislative attempts to drag religion into schools or other public places, this one doesnt take into account that some religious South Dakotans arent Christians and others dont believe in a God at all. The resolution admonishes South Dakotans to take the month of July to fast. Its notable that the bills sponsors didnt choose January or February for the fast, but that would have meant missing all those free meals from interest groups during the legislative session. If nothing else, the Legislatures endorsement of the resolution proves the spineless nature of the restaurant lobby as it allows a legislative seal of approval on a monthlong fast during barbecue season. In an election year, its easy to see how these bills garner sponsors and support. No one wants their failure to vote the right way splattered all over an opponents political advertising. So they go along to get reelected. Advertisement Advertisement Slogans on school walls? Well get God back into the schoolhouse somehow. Prayer and fasting? We cancelled our Fourth of July picnic. Theres a through line of bills this session that carry greater weight than just the topic in the title. What they basically say is My conservatism is bigger than yours. Vote against this bill and see what happens in the primary. This isnt legislation or leadership. It amounts to political bullying. None of it will make South Dakota a better place to live, and that should be the standard for everything coming out of Pierre. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX WASHINGTON, Feb 13 (Reuters) - Two Democratic members of the U.S. Senate Banking Committee on Friday asked Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to examine the potential national security implications of a reported purchase of a $500 million stake in the Trump familys cryptocurrency venture by the United Arab Emirates' national security adviser. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim asked Bessent, who heads the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, to determine whether a CFIUS review is required of the 49% UAE stake in World Liberty Financial and, if so, to conduct a comprehensive, thorough and unbiased investigation. In a letter viewed by Reuters, they asked Bessent to respond to several questions about the transaction by March 5, including whether CFIUS had reviewed the deal in any form, or submitted any recommendations to Republican President Donald Trump about it. Advertisement Advertisement The Treasury had no immediate comment on the letter. "The transaction raises significant national security concerns," the senators said in the letter. Warren and other Democratic senators have repeatedly raised questions about World Liberty Financial, which was founded two months before Trump's November 2024 victory in the U.S. presidential election, and potential conflicts of interest. The firm was announced by businessman Steve Witkoff, who is now a key Trump envoy. Trump's aides have said he has handed over control of his business ventures, which are being reviewed by outside ethics lawyers. Advertisement Advertisement CFIUS is a Treasury-led interagency committee that vets foreign investments for national security risks, including top officials from the Defense, State, Commerce, Homeland Security and Justice departments. Warren and Kim said CFIUS had a "clear mandate to address potential national security risks from foreign investments, including transactions that could allow foreign governments like China or the UAE to access critical technology or the sensitive personal data of U.S. citizens." They said the reported deal raised questions about whether the UAE or China might be able to access any of the sensitive personal information that World Liberty Financial says it collects, they wrote. The Wall Street Journal last month reported that G42, a company backed by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who manages the UAE's largest wealth fund and is a member of the Gulf nation's royal family, bought the stake in World Liberty Financial days before Trump began his second term in January 2025. Months later, the Trump administration approved the sale of advanced AI chips to the UAE. Advertisement Advertisement World Liberty is behind the stablecoin USD1, which is pegged to the U.S. dollar and backed by short-term U.S. government Treasuries, U.S. dollar deposits, and other cash equivalents. The company counts President Trump and Witkoff as co-founders emeritus, and is run by members of the Trump and Witkoff families. Warren and Kim noted that U.S. intelligence had long warned that G42 may have provided technology to assist China's military. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal) Washington The Department of Homeland Security remains officially shut down since funding ran out at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, after Congress failed to pass a bill to fund its operations before a stopgap measure lapsed. Without funding, some DHS functions will cease, although the impact will likely be more widely felt after President's Day weekend ends. DHS' website says that during a funding lapse, the department "may only continue 'exempt' activities such as law enforcement and maritime protection." Democrats in Congress had made a number of demands to restrain the government's immigration crackdown in exchange for their support of the funding measure but could not reach an agreement with the GOP. Advertisement Advertisement After the shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by immigration officers last month in Minneapolis, Democrats wanted a "masks off, body cameras on" policy for federal agents, new use-of-force standards, better identification of DHS officers and a requirement for judicial warrants before entering private property. They also pushed for an end to detaining people without verifying they aren't U.S. citizens first and to conducting searches based on a person's race, language, accent or job. Generally, those whose work is "necessary for safety of human life or protection of property" will be required to work "as necessary to continue even without funding." Federal employees whose jobs are "necessary to the discharge of the president's constitutional duties and powers" continue without funding, according to DHS' 2025 funding lapse plan. The shutdown will affect the Transportation Security Administration, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Coast Guard, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency and other agencies within DHS that safeguard national security. About 13% of the total federal civilian workforce is implicated, with most forced to work without pay, according to DHS and Office of Personnel Management data. Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought told DHS to "execute plans for an orderly shutdown" in a Friday evening letter. He said the Trump administration will "continue to seek good-faith, bipartisan solutions." Advertisement Advertisement "The president is the chief negotiator and is working directly with Senate Democrats," GOP Rep. Tom Emmer, the House majority whip, told "CBS Mornings" on Monday. "The House did our job. We have an agreement. My position is the Senate should pass the bill that we already passed," Emmer said, adding, "All the Democrats are doing right now is trying to shut down TSA, the Coast Guard, FEMA." On Sunday, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" that Democrats are "willing to have a good faith conversation about everything, but fundamentally we need change that is dramatic, that is bold, that is meaningful and that is transformational." Here is what will be affected in a DHS shutdown: Advertisement Advertisement Most DHS employees will continue to work The vast majority of DHS employees will be exempted meaning they're required to work according to the department's September 2025 funding lapse plan. They will not be paid during the shutdown but will receive backpay after it ends. In 2025, DHS estimated 249,065 of its 271,927 employees nearly 92% of its workforce would be exempt and continue to work during a funding lapse. But that number can dwindle as time goes on, as workers going without pay, take leave or do not show up for work. How would air travel be affected? Air traffic controllers fall under the Department of Transportation's budget, and that department's funding for this fiscal year has already been enacted. So, air traffic control operations will not be affected. Advertisement Advertisement But the Transportation Security Administration falls under DHS, so TSA workers will have to work without a paycheck. Eventually, TSA and airport security staffing levels may be affected, depending on the duration of the shutdown, so travelers could eventually see longer security lines. Immigration enforcement will continue The shutdown is not expected to affect the Trump administration's controversial immigration enforcement campaign, thanks to the $165 billion cash infusion from last year's One Big Beautiful Bill Act, including $75 billion for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and $65 billion for Customs and Border Protection. The funding goes well beyond the annual allotments that the agencies typically receive and means they will be able continue operations despite the shutdown. The DHS funding measure that failed in Congress would have provided $64 billion in discretionary funding for the fiscal year, including $10 billion for ICE. Advertisement Advertisement Vought said in his letter late Friday that "immigration enforcement and border security operations have ample funding." Secret Service Protective functions of the U.S. Secret Service, such as protection for the president and vice president, will continue. Other Secret Service functions at the White House are expected to continue, as well. Coast Guard The Coast Guard is the only military branch under the DHS umbrella. It will likely suspend functions like training, but search and rescue operations will continue. Counterterrorism Counterterrorism surveillance and intelligence gathering are not expected to face disruptions. Advertisement Advertisement Other law enforcement functions DHS' previous shutdown guidelines said federal law enforcement officers whose duties include protecting human life or property will continue their work, but those whose jobs are administrative and aren't directly involved in protecting life or property would be furloughed during the shutdown. Disaster zone help will continue, but shutdown would cause disruption for FEMA, one official said When funding has lapsed in the past, Federal Emergency Management Agency deployments to major disasters or emergencies have continued. But Gregg Phillips, associate FEMA director, testified before Congress Wednesday that a shutdown would mean a number of employees would be furloughed and it "would severely disrupt FEMA's ability to reimburse states for disaster relief costs and to support our recovery from disasters." Advertisement Advertisement DHS guidelines before the last shutdown at the end of 2025 said FEMA, as of May, had just under 25,000 employees, and about 21,000 would have exempt status and would work during a shutdown. Iranian foreign minister says they "have every right" to "nuclear energy, including enrichment" How safe is America from polio? Investigating Trump's claims that White South African farmers are victims of genocide Severe weather is headed to the deep South, from Texas to Mississippi, with damaging winds, possible tornadoes and some large hail forecast. A tornado watch is in effect for several counties in southeast Texas, including the area around Houston, until 9 p.m. CT. - PHOTO: A powerful storm system is bringing severe weather to the south. The powerful storm system is moving out of the Rockies on Saturday and bringing severe weather across the deep South. Storms were moving into Dallas, Texas, late Saturday morning, with some gusty winds and very heavy rain. ABC News - PHOTO: severe weather outlook map - Saturday The storms were on track to move through Houston between 7 and 9 p.m. Saturday with damaging winds, a threat for an isolated tornado and some heavy rain. Advertisement Advertisement New Orleans, Louisiana, and Jackson, Mississippi, will see storms moving through between midnight and 2 a.m. Damaging winds, isolated tornado and heavy rain is possible. David Radzieta/Getty Images - PHOTO: Thunderstorm and Lightning over Birmingham Alabama Storms move through Birmingham and Montgomery, Alabama, early Sunday morning from 5 to 8 a.m. with gusty winds and heavy rain. Nancy Guthrie abduction: The full timeline ABC News - PHOTO: weather outlook today - map Atlanta gets storms and heavy rain mid to late morning Sunday, but severe weather with tornado threat will stay south into Albany, Georgia, to Panama City, Tallahassee, Gainesville, Florida This same storm system with severe weather will also bring heavy rain from Texas all the way to the Carolinas with a chance for flash flooding. Advertisement Advertisement The highest threat for flash flooding will be from just east of Dallas, Texas, to Little Rock, Arkansas and into Memphis, Tennessee. ABC News - PHOTO: severe weather outlook Sunday map Locally some areas could get 2 to 4 inches of rain in a short period of time, causing flash flooding. After a very dry period for the entire western U.S., a very active storm track has its eyes set on the West. ABC News - PHOTO: severe weather outlook map - Sunday Starting Sunday afternoon, a series of storms will pound the West from California to Colorado with very heavy snow in the mountains and heavy rain and flooding for coastal California. The highest threat for flash flooding and debris flow will be from just south of the San Francisco Bay area down to Los Angeles. ABC News - PHOTO: rain snow potential map Sunday through Friday, some areas in California could see 3 to 6 inches of rain, which is expected to cause flash flooding and debris flow. The Sierra Nevada Mountains, in California, some areas could see 3 to 6 feet of snow. The Rockies could also see several feet of snow next week. WARNING: This story references sexual assault allegations and may affect those who have experienced sexual violence or know someone affected by it. One of seven complainants in the first sex assault trial for Frank Stronach, which started Thursday, told the court she recalls waking up in a downtown Toronto condo with the billionaire businessman on top of her. I realized Im being raped at that moment," she said. "I knew I hadn't consented to any of this." Advertisement Advertisement The woman, who had been employed by Stronach and whose identity is protected by a publication ban, alleged she was sexually assaulted by Stronach in 1981. Stronach, 93, faces a total of 12 charges, including sexual assault and forcible confinement. Two of the counts, rape and attempted rape, are considered historical charges as they were abolished when the Criminal Code was amended in 1983 to create the offence of sexual assault. The judge-alone trial is being overseen by Superior Court Justice Anne Molloy. He's also set to face a separate trial in Newmarket, Ont., later this year after the case was split into two proceedings. The allegations by seven women in Toronto span the period between 1977 and 1990, with one specified as having happened in suburban Scarborough. Advertisement Advertisement Stronach, who was in the courtroom wearing a black suit Thursday, has denied the allegations and has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Woman describes alleged assault Under questioning by assistant Crown attorney Jelena Vlacic, the woman told the court about the events that led up to the alleged attack. She said she met two other friends at Rooneys, a restaurant that Stronach owned, for her birthday celebration. When there, she said Stronach appeared with a bottle of champagne in his hands. She said she recalled telling Stronach that she doesnt drink but that she may have had a taste of the champagne. Advertisement Advertisement The next thing she recalled, she told the court, was being on the dance floor. She said her head was very woozy and that she had no control over he body, that she felt drunk and discombobulated. It was on the dance floor, she said, where Stronach then penetrated her vagina with his fingers. She said she was in pain, that he was holding her very closely, but that she was struggling against him and saying, "No, no. The woman told the court she was then taken off the dance floor and shoved into a booth by Stronach, who again penetrated her with his fingers. He seemed like an octopus," she said. "I wanted to crawl away ... my body wasn't working, nothing was working." Advertisement Advertisement Her next memory, she said, was waking up, lying on her back and seeing her face in a dimly lit mirror above her. She told the court that she also saw Stronach's naked back and bottom and that it felt like someone was having sex with her. She said she had no idea where she was, that she was trying to figure out what was going on and was "terrified at this point." She told the court that she realized she was being sexually assaulted, adding that she never would have slept with an old man, particularly an old, married man. She said Stronach rolled over and let her go to the washroom, and that she was "absolutely terrified" and "afraid for my life," all the while trying to figure how to escape. Advertisement Advertisement The woman said when she left washroom, Stronach was dressed, and that she then put on her clothes. She said Stronach led her upstairs to windows that were facing the Toronto Islands. Frank Stronach, pictured here in 2024, has denied all allegations and pleaded not guilty to all charges. (Frank Gunn/Canadian Press) Stronach, she told court, was just "chattering along," acting like they'd been on a date and "we'd had fun." She said he was blase about what had happened. "I was just horrified," she said, adding that she doesn't recall saying anything to him. She said they then walked out of the condo and got into Stronach's sportscar that was parked outside the building. She said Stronach then drove her to her car, that was still parked at his restaurant. Advertisement Advertisement The woman said she then drove to her parents' place in Mississauga, but stopped on Queen Street to "yell and scream" and get the adrenaline out over what had just happened. The woman said she didn't go to police immediately after the alleged attack because part of her wanted the whole thing to be done and over with. She also told court that she questioned who would believe her over Stronach. At the time, she said, it always seemed to be the victims fault." But she said she contacted police in 2015, in part, because she was inspired by other women who started coming forward saying they had been victims of sexual misconduct. Complainant cross-examined over previous statements But under cross-examination, Stronach's defence lawyer Leora Shemesh zeroed in on what she suggested were inconsistencies in the woman's story. Advertisement Advertisement Shemesh questioned why, in previous police statements, media interviews and legal proceedings the woman had said that the alleged attack occurred in 1980, not 1981. Shemesh suggested that the complainant changed the date to 1981 because during cross-examination in the preliminary hearing, Shemesh suggested that Stronach may not have been in the country for the 1980 date. The woman said she had told police it was either 1980 or 1981 but that she was now "90 per cent sure" the alleged attack occurred on 1981. The complainant acknowledged under cross-examination that she couldn't be certain if the dance floor where she said she was first attacked by Stronach was actually located in the restaurant Rooney's where she was celebrating her birthday. Advertisement Advertisement She agreed that it could have been located in another establishment as she had no idea what happened during the time she was at the restaurant table with her friends and then, on the dance floor with Stronach. Shemesh also questioned the woman about an interview she gave police at her home in 2015 about the alleged sexual assault. The woman told court that she couldn't recall that interview. But Shemesh pressed her on some of the details of that interview, including notes taken by the officer that stated the woman had told the officer that she didn't know if she had consented or not, due to alcohol. She said she never would have told the officer that, and that she "knew it was rape the second" she saw Stronach on top of her. She also insisted that she did not get drunk. Crown outlines allegations against Stronach Before the first complainant testified, assistant Crown attorney Julia Bellehumeur outlined the allegations against Stronach. Some involved a similar pattern, with Stronach allegedly taking women to a Toronto condo, then overpowering and sexually assaulting them, Bellehumeur said. Advertisement Advertisement Bellehumeur said that all the alleged incidents occurred without the consent of the complainant. She said that Stronach "knew or was willfully blind" to the fact that they were not consenting. A registered sex offender from Worcester who was arrested at Logan International Airport with kids clothing and candy has been sentenced to federal prison for having hundreds of files depicting child pornography. Andres DeJesus, 66, was sentenced to 12 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said in a statement on Friday. U.S. District Judge Richard Stearns handed down his sentence on Feb. 4. In October 2025, DeJesus pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography. Advertisement Advertisement On Aug. 8, 2025, DeJesus arrived at Logan Airport from the Dominican Republic. Prosecutors said DeJesus had been refused entry into the Dominican Republic because of his status as a registered sex offender. Upon his return to Logan Airport, a search was conducted of his luggage, when several articles of childrens clothing and a large amount of chocolate and other sweets were found, prosecutors said. A Zip file on DeJesus cell phone had three videos containing child sex abuse material. A later forensic examination of the cell phone revealed at least 600 images of child sex abuse material. In 2010, in the Middlesex County Superior Court, DeJesus was found guilty of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14, possession of child pornography and posing or exhibiting a child in a sexual act. Advertisement Advertisement DeJesus was sentenced to eight years to eight years and one day in state prison. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW (WHTM) The Shapiro administration warned the Department of Homeland Security it will not issue required permits for two immigration detention centers. In a Feb. 12 letter, Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) urged DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to reconsider converting properties in Berks and Schuylkill counties into detention facilities. The governor admonished the departments immigration raids, writing its record is reason enough to oppose your plan. Close Advertisement Advertisement Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now This Week in Pennsylvania Shapiro said DHS has not worked with state and local authorities on the project, leading them to gather information from public reporting. However, he zeroed in on what he said were environmental concerns the facilities would bring to the rural Pennsylvania communities hosting them. The facility in Tremont Township, Schuylkill County, would hold 7,500 detainees, and the one in Upper Bern Township, Berks County, would hold 1,500 detainees, according to reports cited in a separate letter by the state secretaries of environmental protection and health. Advertisement Advertisement The Upper Bern Township facility, near Hamburg, would likely result in more than 14 times the legally permitted amount of waste water, Shapiro said. In Tremont Township, he said, the facility could require up to 800,000 gallons of water each day, double the systems current capacity. These facilities will also jeopardize the health and safety of Pennsylvanians who live nearby, the governor said. Shapiro also shared concerns that the transfer of the properties would deprive the communities of property tax revenue. Before the purchase, the Upper Bern Township property was the Hamburg Logistics Center. The property in Tremont Township was previously a Big Lots distribution center. U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) criticized the projects after a Schuylkill County commissioner said the sale would cost the community $1 million each year in tax revenue. Advertisement Advertisement Fetterman sole Senate Democrat to support Homeland Security funding bill as shutdown looms Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary of public affairs for DHS, defended the purchases in a statement to abc27 News. She said the two facilities would bring in more than 10,000 jobs and add billions to the GDP and tax revenues while accomplishing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements goal to remove undocumented immigrants with criminal backgrounds. These will be very well-structured detention facilities meeting our regular detention standards, McLaughlin said. Sites will undergo community impact studies and a rigorous due diligence process to make sure there is no hardship on local utilities or infrastructure prior to purchase. Read the governors full letter below: 2.12.2026 Shapiro ICE Letter to Noem DHSDownload Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. Two men were taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries after a shooting early Saturday morning on College Street, according to the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office. Deputies say the incident happened around 2:08 a.m. when an argument between the two men escalated. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< The victim was sitting in his car when the suspect approached and fired multiple shots. Both the victim and his girlfriend returned fire, hitting the suspect. Advertisement Advertisement The victim was shot in the shoulder, while the suspect was struck in the abdomen and foot. Both were reported to be in stable condition. JSO asks anyone with information to contact the Sheriffs Office at 904-630-0500, email jsocrimetips@jaxsheriff.org, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. Feb. 13ARMOUR, S.D. A Sioux Falls attorney accused of defrauding a Corsica-area farm family out of approximately $15,000 has entered a no contest plea to felony theft and a misdemeanor misconduct charge. Michael Henderson, 53, entered the nolo contendere plea at the end of January meaning he does not admit guilt but accepts conviction and sentencing as if he had pleaded guilty to one count of grand theft, a Class 4 felony, and one count of misconduct by an attorney. He is scheduled to be sentenced March 12 in Douglas County. The criminal complaint alleges that between October 2019 and February 2025, Henderson committed grand theft by deception with the intent to defraud Keith Vanden Hoek in the amount of approximately $15,000. Court documents state that Henderson created the false impression that legal work had been performed in connection with a crop insurance dispute involving Vanden Hoek's farming operation when, in reality, no work had been completed. Advertisement Advertisement Authorities allege Henderson billed his client approximately $15,000 and received payment for legal services that were not performed. The misdemeanor charge alleges his actions were carried out with the intent to deceive his client. According to court documents, Henderson fabricated emails, legal filings and settlement letters including a false $365,000 award to make it appear the case was progressing. Court records further allege that Henderson later admitted in an email that he never contacted ARMtech, the insurance company involved in the dispute. The case came to the attention of authorities in April when the South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation received a thumb drive from attorney Zach Flood containing documents related to the matter. Flood represents the Vanden Hoek family in a civil lawsuit filed in Charles Mix County against Henderson and the Swier Law Firm shortly after the criminal case was initiated. According to a DCI report, Vanden Hoek initially hired Scott Swier of the Swier Law Firm in Avon in 2019 to assist with issues collecting on a crop insurance policy with ARMtech. The following year, Swier's license to practice law in South Dakota was suspended for approximately one year, and his cases were reassigned. Henderson then took over Vanden Hoek's case. Advertisement Advertisement Investigators reported that communications from Henderson updating Vanden Hoek on the case's progress were not supported by court records. The law firm's client file allegedly showed that no action had been taken on the case since Swier last handled it, according to court documents. The civil case remains pending in Charles Mix County, with a status hearing scheduled for March 2. However, the judge in that matter has granted Henderson's motion to stay proceedings until the criminal case is resolved. Such a stay is common in situations where civil and criminal cases are closely related, as it helps protect legal rights and may influence the outcome of both proceedings. Henderson is no longer employed by the Swier Law Firm, where he had worked for more than a decade. Patricia McConn stepped onto her porch Thursday and crinkled her nose. It was to look through binoculars she just bought on Amazon. Not in response to the pungent smell a neighbor anonymously reported nearby this past fall. Someone took a whiff of an odorous, slimy residue at the roughly 12-mile Elizabeth River tributary and called it in. The sticky stuff appeared white and gray by the waterway and, federal inspectors found, red and brown inside a suspected source of the problem, a produce company. Advertisement Advertisement It all came as news to McConn, a systems analyst in her 50s from Hillside, that the Environmental Protection Agency was in her neighborhood at all. Let alone investigating industrial pollution at the tributary. Thus far, federal officials have linked the discharge issue to the nearly century-old Gargiulo Produce. The company is one of the largest receivers of fresh fruits and vegetables on the East Coast, according to its website. It also got a $111M defense department contract four years ago to supply schools with goods, a news release showed. If its going to cause a health issue, then yes, it needs to be cited, McConn said of the food service distributor that regularly brings truck traffic to the area but otherwise is not a bother. But no, I didnt know. Advertisement Advertisement McConn hopes state and federal regulators keep her and others in the area informed of any important updates that may impact families health. As of now, only the EPAs probe which is still ongoing will make clear whether there should be reason for alarm, two experts told NJ.com. Its also not clear if the pollution could have other sources. After the compliance letter, Gargiulo Produce immediately stopped the discharge and is currently working on (a) longer-term plan, Nikita Joshi, an EPA spokesman, said Friday afternoon. Early findings and simply the fact four months have elapsed with no reports of impacts to people or animals are positive signs. Advertisement Advertisement More will be known soon, experts said. Gargiulo Produce this week did not respond to multiple requests for comment. The company has not been penalized financially but federal regulators asked it take steps to address issues that were flagged. Elizabeth River Discharge Elizabeth River tributary pollution report Crushed produce and particulate matter On a sunny day in October, the EPA visited Gargiulo Produces nine-acre Hillside facility following a residents complaint. It was a surprise inspection. Federal regulators said they were mindful that Gargiulos stormwater flows into the Hillside Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System discharging into the tributary. Samples were collected, a meeting was held with the owner and a walk-through then followed. Advertisement Advertisement Discharge flowing from an outfall pipe at the facility was observed to have residuals of crushed produce and particulate matter, according to a December 2025 letter and inspection summary sent by the EPA to Gargiulo Produce, obtained by NJ.com via a Freedom of Information Act request. In addition, inspectors said they smelled a strong odor. Images from the facility, and obtained by NJ.com, showed piles of vegetables, fruits and other unidentifiable gunk congealing on a drain and in the back of a truck. At the time of the inspection, the EPA said the produce company did not have a Basic Industrial Stormwater General permit or National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit. Both are standard, a health expert said. Advertisement Advertisement The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has not cited Gargiulo Produce for water violations in the past, state spokesman Larry Hajna said Friday afternoon. Gargiulo does not have a NJPDES stormwater permit. Under the regulations, it is a facilitys obligation to apply for necessary permits. The DEP is reviewing, he added. On Feb. 5, the EPA issued an administrative order requiring Gargiulo Produce to stop the unauthorized discharge immediately and obtain appropriate permits for industrial stormwater discharges. The produce company was also ordered to develop practices and control measures to ensure ongoing compliance with the Clean Water Act. Advertisement Advertisement Preliminary results from inspectors showed the non-stormwater discharge there had an ammonia level of 25.3 milligrams per litter. Ammonia at or above 17 mg/l for more than an hour can be detrimental for fish. No major impacts to marine life are known as of Friday. Luckily its not anything toxic for people, Alexis Mraz, a public health professor at The College of New Jersey, told NJ.com on the phone. The EPAs current track down study will reveal more on anything else detected or sampled, she noted. Based on preliminary information provided by federal investigators, its definitely not a sound the alarm situation, Mraz said. Nevertheless, she advised people in the area take notice and refrain from allowing their dogs to drink from the tributary. Advertisement Advertisement The Elizabeth River tributary is not a source for drinking water for residents in the state. From a public health point of view, its possible that there could be pathogens but vegetable waste in particular may be less likely to have pathogens in it, Robert Laumbach, a Rutgers University professor in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, said after reviewing EPAs preliminary findings. Like Mraz, Laumbach said more needs to be studied before saying anything too definitive. Elizabeth River Discharge Read the original article on NJ.com. Add NJ.com as a Preferred Source by clicking here. Ahead of the assembly polls in Assam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday will address a mega BJP party workers meeting, "Booth Sanmilan" at Veterinary College Field, Khanapara in Guwahati. More than 86,000 booth-level party workers will be present at the meeting. Tight security arrangements have been made in Guwahati ahead of the Prime Minister's visit. Assam is also set to witness a historic moment today as PM Modi will land at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh, where he will witness the aerial display of fighters, transports and helicopters. The ELF is the first of its kind in Northeast India. It has been specially designed and constructed in coordination with the Indian Air Force to support the landing and take-off of military and civil aircraft during emergencies. It will serve as a critical asset for emergency response, enabling quick deployment of rescue and relief operations during natural disasters or strategic requirements in the Northeast. Envisioned as dual-use infrastructure, the ELF is capable of handling fighter aircraft up to 40 tonnes and transport aircraft up to 74 tonnes maximum take-off weight. PM Modi will also inaugurate and flag off development projects worth over Rs 5,450 crore, aimed at strengthening connectivity, digital infrastructure, higher education and urban mobility in the North-Eastern Region. According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), around 10:30 AM, the PM will land at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh. At around 1 PM, the Prime Minister will inspect the newly built Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu across the River Brahmaputra. Later, at approximately 1:30 PM, he will inaugurate and flag off development projects valued at over Rs 5,450 crore at Lachit Ghat in Guwahati. Further, PM Modi will inaugurate Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu across the River Brahmaputra, built at a cost of around Rs 3,030 crore. The 6-lane extradosed Prestressed Concrete (PSC) bridge connects Guwahati with North Guwahati and is the first of its kind in Northeast India. It will cut travel time between Guwahati and North Guwahati to seven minutes. Given the region's high seismicity, the bridge incorporates base isolation using friction pendulum bearings. High-performance stay cables have been used to ensure durability and long-term structural performance. A Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS) has also been incorporated to enable real-time condition monitoring, early damage detection, and improved safety and service life of the extradosed bridge. According to the PMO, PM Modi will inaugurate the National Data Centre for the Northeastern region at Amingaon in Kamrup district of Assam. The state-of-the-art Data Centre, with a total sanctioned load of 8.5 MW and an average rack capacity of 10 kW, will host mission-critical applications for various government departments and serve as a Disaster Recovery centre for other National Data Centres. This will enable governments in the Northeast to digitally deliver essential citizen-centric services. Aligned with the vision of Digital India, the National Data Centre for the northeastern region has been envisioned as a strategic initiative to strengthen the region's ICT backbone and ensure robust, secure, and always-available digital infrastructure, according to the PMO's statement. The inauguration of the Indian Institute of Management is another highlight for the state, as the IIM Guwahati is set to provide a major boost to higher and management education in the North-Eastern Region. Over 225 electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in Guwahati (100), Nagpur (50), Bhavnagar (50), and Chandigarh (25) will also be flagged off. With the launch of e-bus operations under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in these four cities, more than 50 lakh citizens are expected to benefit from access to clean, affordable, and reliable public transport services, thereby improving urban mobility and enhancing quality of life. (ANI) The New Smyrna Beach Police Department apprehended two individuals, a 22-year-old man and a juvenile, after a series of vehicle break-ins in the Coastal Woods area. The investigation started when a resident observed suspicious activity on their home surveillance and contacted law enforcement. This See Something, Say Something report prompted officers to survey the area for more incidents and possible suspects. During the canvass, New Smyrna Beach Police Detective Hansen observed someone inside a vehicle on the 2700 block of Neverland Drive. When the person noticed the detective, they ran away on foot, jumped a fence, and headed into a wooded area between Neverland Drive and I-95. Advertisement Advertisement The Volusia Sheriffs Office, including the Air One aviation unit and the Edgewater Police Department, assisted in the search. Officers eventually located and apprehended two of the three involved individuals in the woods. Police recovered a firearm inside a backpack belonging to one of the suspects. Lorenzo McDonald, 22, was detained and is facing multiple charges. These include four counts of armed burglary, loitering and prowling, possession of a weapon by an in-state felon, contributing to delinquency of a minor, and possession of burglary tools. A juvenile male was also detained in connection with the incident. He is charged with four counts of burglary and one count of loitering and prowling. Advertisement Advertisement Police are investigating a series of vehicle burglaries that occurred overnight, impacting multiple neighborhoods in recent months. According to the New Smyrna Beach Police Department, almost all of these incidents involved vehicles that were left unlocked. Investigators stated the arrests are a step toward identifying the group responsible and disrupting the pattern of burglaries in the community. The investigation into the burglary series remains ongoing. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Oklahomans receiving food stamps will notice a big change on Feb. 15. SNAP recipients in the state will no longer be able to purchase candy or soft drinks with their EBT cards. Since Feb. 1, nearly 42 million low-income Americans on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) have noticed major changes, including new work requirements and product limitations. While the new work requirements started earlier this month, the candy and soft drink ban will start on Sunday. The United States' largest nutrition assistance program has been a funding flashpoint during the second Trump administration, taking center stage during the 43-day 2025 government shutdown when the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) said in October that it would not pay the following month's benefits. Advertisement Advertisement Funding was eventually restored after a series of lawsuits challenging payment pauses, eligibility requirements, and requests from the federal government for sensitive citizen data. Even so, Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill," which passed last summer, already included major changes to the program, including tightened work requirements and billions in funding cuts. As the most recent changes to SNAP take effect in Oklahoma, here's what to know. Why Oklahoma SNAP is banning candy, soda Starting Sunday, Feb. 15, Oklahoma will start banning the purchase of certain items with SNAP funds. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt submitted a request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees the program nationwide, for a waiver that lets Oklahoma make its own rules on how the funds are distributed and used. Advertisement Advertisement The new rules prohibit the use of SNAP funds on "candy," which includes but is not limited to chocolate bars, hard candies, gummies, caramels, taffy, licorice, mints and chewing gum. Baked goods and baking ingredients are not considered candy. It also bans purchases of soft drinks with food stamps. Soft drinks include carbonated soda, energy drinks, sweetened bottled or canned tea, sweetened bottled or canned lemonade and flavored, sweetened water. Milk, milk substitutes, plain bottled water, 100% juice, coffee, and drinks prepared at home are not considered soft drinks. SNAP benefits can be used to buy the following: Fruits and vegetables Meat, poultry and fish Dairy products Breads and cereals Other foods such as snack foods and nonalcoholic beverages Seeds and plants, which produce food for the household to eat What states are adhering to this ban? At least 18 states will implement changes to SNAP in 2026, according to the USDA. Advertisement Advertisement Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah and West Virginia were the first states to impose this limitation, starting on Thursday, Jan. 1, according to the USDA. The changes to SNAP largely prevent people from using the program to buy sodas, soft drinks and "sweetened beverages." Changes vary by state. Idaho, Oklahoma and Louisiana will change what SNAP recipients can buy in February; Colorado in March; Texas, Virginia and Florida in April; Arkansas and Tennessee in July; Hawaii and South Carolina in August; North Dakota in September; and Missouri in October. New SNAP work requirements started Feb. 1 Trumps Big Beautiful Bill, passed in July, cut an estimated $186 billion from SNAP funding through 2034, according to the Congressional Budget Office. It also added new restrictions to the program, including expanded work requirements, which went into effect on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Under the bill, able-bodied individuals between the ages of 18 and 65 without dependents must work or attend a work program, such as SNAP Employment and Training, at least 80 hours per month to receive benefits. Previously, the top age was 55. It also requires parents and household members to meet the additional work requirements if a dependent child is aged 14 or older. Previously, those with a child under 18 were exempt from the requirements. Veterans, people 24 and under who recently aged out of foster care, and unhoused people are no longer exempt from work requirements. It also restricted states ability to temporarily extend benefits beyond three months in areas where the number of jobs is insufficient. Now, they may only request a waiver if the unemployment rate in an area meets or exceeds 10%. Usually, SNAP can only be given to an individual or household for three out of 36 months unless the participant meets additional work-related expectations beyond the general requirements. Previously, states could more easily get temporary waivers based on employment rates to extend benefits. Additionally, the bill significantly restricts benefits to apply only to certain lawful permanent residents and U.S. citizens, and it eliminates eligibility for others legally present in the United States. This includes those who have qualified for conditional entry under the asylum and refugee laws or based on urgent humanitarian reasons, such as survivors of domestic violence or human trafficking. States are also now responsible for up to 15% of benefit costs, depending on the payment error rate, and are saddled with increased administrative costs from 50% to 75%. SNAP beneficiaries will have to fulfill new, stricter work requirements come Feb. 1. Tightened work requirements could weaken safety net The USDA has said the federal changes to SNAP requirements are intended to cut down on fraud, a point often cited by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. The USDA's SNAP webpage also says its rules "reflect the importance of work and responsibility." Advertisement Advertisement Rollins previously alleged that thousands of people who didn't qualify were receiving SNAP benefits, saying the Trump administration will make sure that everyone thats taking a taxpayer-funded benefit through ... food stamps, that they literally are vulnerable and they cant survive without it. The USDA has not provided evidence to back its claims of mass fraud. The U.S. Congressional Research Service described SNAP fraud as rare in an April 7, 2025, report, stating that available data and reports indicate that many overpayments may be attributed to unintentional errors. Who gets SNAP benefits? SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, provides what are known as Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards to approximately 12% of Americans for a limited time to help purchase basic food items. A large number of recipients are elderly, disabled or children. To qualify, households must be at or below 130% of the poverty line, meaning they earn no more than 30% more than the federal poverty guideline, which in 2026 was $15,960 for a single person, $27,320 for a three-person household, and $38,680 for a five-person household. Advertisement Advertisement A one-person household had a maximum monthly allotment of $298 in 2025, while a three-person household could get a maximum of $785 and a five-person household could receive $1,183, according to the USDA. There are special additional rules for households with elderly or disabled members. SNAP benefits are determined by states and funded by the USDA. Recipients must recertify regularly to maintain eligibility. Typically, benefits can only be provided for three months within 36 months, unless additional work-related requirements apply. Approved recipients are given a finite timeline to access their benefits. USA TODAY contributed to this story. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: New SNAP soda ban starts in Oklahoma this week. Here's what's changing. Home builders are warning President Donald Trump that his aggressive immigration enforcement efforts are hurting their industry. Theyre cautioning that Republican candidates could soon be hurt, too. Construction executives have held multiple meetings over the last month with the White House and Congress to discuss how immigration busts on job sites and in communities are scaring away employees, making it more expensive to build homes in a market desperate for new supply. Beyond the affordability issue, the executives made an electability argument, raising concerns to GOP leaders that support among Hispanic voters is eroding, particularly in regions that swung to Trump in 2024. Hill Republicans have held separate meetings with White House officials to share their own electoral concerns. Advertisement Advertisement This story is based on eight interviews with home builders, lawmakers and others familiar with the meetings. I told [lawmakers] straight up: South Texas will never be red again, said Mario Guerrero, the CEO of the South Texas Builders Association, a Trump voter who traveled to Washington last week. He urged the administration and lawmakers to ease up on enforcement at construction sites, warning that employees are afraid to go to work. The construction industry is one of the latest and clearest examples of how the presidents mass deportation agenda continues to clash with his economic goals of bringing down prices and political aims of keeping control of Congress. Even the presidents allies fear disruptions to labor-heavy industries will undermine the gains with Latino voters Republicans have made in recent years, in large part because of Trumps economic agenda. Advertisement Advertisement These concerns were the central focus of a White House meeting this week between chief of staff Susie Wiles, Speaker Mike Johnson, and a group of Republican lawmakers, according to three people with knowledge of the meeting, granted anonymity to discuss it. The group talked about growing concerns that Hispanic voters are abandoning the Republican Party in droves, as well as the policies driving these losses immigration and affordability concerns. Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-Texas) was among the lawmakers in attendance on Wednesday. She, alongside South Texas leaders, held two additional meetings this week , one with Johnson and another with the White House Office of Legislative Affairs, to discuss her proposals for new policies to address worker shortages, including legislation to streamline visa programs and address the need for workers in the agriculture and construction industries. I will continue to focus on what matters: delivering common-sense policy solutions for the hard-working immigrants who strengthen our communities and making homeownership affordable for all Americans, De La Cruz said in a statement to POLITICO, when asked about the meetings. The White House meeting with lawmakers followed others with builders and trade groups this month. A number of industry representatives met at the White House in early February, and the South Texas Builders Association traveled to Washington last week for meetings with lawmakers, including Reps. Mark Amodei (R-Nev.), Andy Harris (R-Md.) and Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), and an ICE official. All three sit on the House Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee, with Amodei and Cuellar the top Republican and Democrat on the panel. Advertisement Advertisement They started off with, hey, we were all Trump supporters, and we thought he was going to secure the border and then kick out criminals, we just never thought that they were going to be coming after our folks, our workers, on that, Cuellar said, recounting the message the builders shared the first time he met with them. Theyre builders, contractors, lumber companies, cement companies, in the finance part of it. That type of ripple effect has hurt their economy. Not only individuals, but their economy. Cuellar also said that he has asked acting ICE Director Todd Lyons to set up a business liaison to work with the builders, an idea he said the director was receptive to but stalled amid immigration-related clashes in Minnesota. A spokesperson for Amodei deferred to Cuellars office, while Harris spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the meeting. A White House official did not comment on the meetings, but pointed to the presidents efforts to establish and update programs to help Americans fill jobs in key sectors. The official also highlighted the Labor Departments Office of Immigration Policy, which was set up to help industries by streamlining the visa process for temporary workers. Advertisement Advertisement There is no shortage of American minds and hands to grow our labor force, and President Trumps agenda to create jobs for American workers represents this Administrations commitment to capitalizing on that untapped potential while delivering on our mandate to enforce our immigration laws, said White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson. RNC senior adviser Danielle Alvarez said Trump earned the support of Hispanic voters in 2024 because his policies are aligned with the priorities of our community. She pointed to a number of policies, including the elimination of tax on tips, as well as the presidents efforts to lower prices at the grocery store and the gas pump and bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. to create good-paying jobs and pathways to upward mobility. We see our priorities reflected in an agenda focused on higher wages, lower costs, and more opportunity, she said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement The meetings this month came after Democrats crushed a Republican in a special runoff election for a state senate seat in a Trump-friendly district in Tarrant County, which includes most of Fort Worth, rattling Republicans nationally. New research from the American Business Immigration Coalition and Comite de 100, first obtained by POLITICO, shows how slipping support among Latino voters could affect Republican-leaning districts in Texas, Pennsylvania, Florida and California. Trump, whose own businesses have relied on immigrant labor, has been sympathetic to some concerns from industry leaders, including in the hospitality and agriculture sectors. Last summer, the president shifted his immigration policy after raids hit meatpacking plants and dairy farms in rural communities. Still, Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner and congressional Republicans have blamed inflated housing prices on immigration. (An analysis from Harvard Universitys Joint Center on Housing Studies found that while immigrants do drive up housing demand, the surge in home prices and rents predate the recent surge in immigrants in 2022 and 2023.) Builders are continuing to push for targeted enforcement, and for the White House and lawmakers to look at policy solutions to help their industries find workers, including legislation that creates new temporary visa programs and offers pathways to citizenship. Advertisement Advertisement Guerrero, and others interviewed for this story, complained about what they described as former President Joe Bidens open border policies, and argue that they dont support amnesty for immigrants who enter the country illegally, a key reason many of them supported Trump. But they do want policies that will help them employ legal workers. In some of the meetings this month, attendees discussed the Dignity Act, a bipartisan bill spearheaded by Reps. Maria Salazar (R-Fla.) and Veronica Escobar (D-Texas), designed to strengthen border security but also modernize work visas and provide legal status to unauthorized immigrants who meet certain criteria. Another bill from Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-Pa.), backed by De La Cruz, would create a new visa program for certain industries, including construction and hospitality. Johnny Vasquez, executive officer of the Rio Grande Valley Builders Association, noted that Hidalgo County turned red for the president in 2024 an example of gains the GOP will lose if the policies dont shift, he argued. For me and for our association, we need workers, whether theyre American or not, he said. We just need workers. Mia McCarthy and Meredith Lee Hill contributed to this report. HURRICANE, Utah (ABC4) A Southern Utah rancher is speaking out after he says trash pollution and waste dumps have killed off cattle in the area. Earlier this week, Kelby Iverson took to social media with an earnest plea for members of the Hurricane, Utah community. He asked local residents to stop dumping plants or trash in the desert. Others echoed his sentiments online, describing the large amounts of trash they have to deal with in the area and poisonous Oleander plants. Advertisement Advertisement Did you feel it? 3.5 magnitude Earthquake shakes Wasatch Front Theres lots of recreationalists, and with the urban sprawl and everything growing, we have a lot of issues with people dumping trash, not only just trash, but a lot of poisonous plants, specifically oleander, Iverson noted. Oleander plants can be poisonous to cattle, horse, sheep, goats, llamas, and humans, according to Colorado State University, causing irregular heart activity and even death. Iverson says this has been a consistent danger in the area to his cattle, Weve had lots of cattle die over the years, not just me, but other ranchers from that very issue. Advertisement Advertisement He added that he and other ranchers have been trying to petition the Farm Bureau to outlaw Oleander in the area, but those efforts have reportedly not come to fruition yet. In the meantime, Iverson and others have had to take to burning the piles of trash and oleander, after acquiring permission. How to make ABC4 your preferred news source on Google Additionally, the Division of Wildlife Resources says they responded to the Dammeron Valley area in February 2025 after reports of a large oleander plant pile. DWR said, Our biologist responded and removed the pile and transported it to the dump. Several deer were eating the plants when the biologist arrived. In addition to working to dispose of the plants and trash, Iverson says local ranchers are trying to raise awareness. Advertisement Advertisement We mostly want the public and the citizens to be aware that, number one, dont dump your trash anywhere, and two, itll kill animals, itll kill people, itll kill dogs. Iverson said. So, we want to address that and just hopefully people will be a little bit wiser and smarter. Latest headlines: Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. By the time Operation Desert Storm ended in 1991, it had blown the Soviet Unions communist collective mind. Soviet planners watched the precise, overwhelming, systematic destruction of an Iraqi army that was fighting with Soviet doctrine: Soviet gear, Soviet training, and a Soviet-style air defense concept. The Russians had expected Baghdad to be a stress test for U.S. air power and its all-volunteer force. It hoped for a preview of how a U.S. coalition (like NATO) might be bled in a big, messy land war. They wanted to see how a war between East and West in Europe might go, and they wanted Iraq to make the U.S. pay a heavy price to liberate Kuwait. Also Read: 21 Facts about the First Gulf War Instead, the Coalition launched a massive, sustained air campaign and then wrapped the ground war up in about 100 hours. To the Soviet military, it wasnt just that their client state got a beatdown. The USSRs whole model of modern war got exposed for the entire world to see. The U.S.-led coalition didnt just beat Saddam Husseins army. It made a public demonstration of how wars would be fought after the Cold War. The Soviets didnt see Iraqi conscripts in burning tanks, they saw what could have been Russian conscripts in burning tanks during a war against NATO. And the Soviet general staff, already dealing with a collapsing economy and a dying political system, had nothing to do but sit and take notes. The Meat Grinder Never Materialized On paper, Iraq appeared to be a formidable opponent. It had a large army (the fourth-largest in the world), extensive armor, robust air defenses, and years of experience fighting Iran. Much of its gear and training had Soviet fingerprints all over it. The generals watching from Moscow could reasonably believe this would turn into a long, bloody grind once the ground war started. To the Soviets, the war to oust Iraq from Kuwait couldve taken weeks. Maybe months. Nope. (AFP via Getty) Russian thinking contended that air power could hurt or slow down an army, and generally make an enemy rethink strategy, but it couldnt decide the entire war by itself. The decisive moment would have to come in a ground war, and that campaign (the Russians believed) would punish an all-volunteer American force. Advertisement Advertisement That belief was a doctrine rooted in how the Red Army was designed to fight NATO. The model was a system of armor and infantry massed and protected by air defenses, backed by artillery, with enough depth to take punishment and keep moving. So when early reports suggested Iraqi formations were unraveling fast, it was easy to dismiss them as confusion, exaggeration, or wishful thinking. And in a fast-moving conflict, both sides always claim the other one is panicking. Like a plan not surviving first contact with the enemy, Moscows long-standing theory didnt survive first contact with the reality of modern combat. The ground war began on Feb. 24, 1991, and it was essentially over by the 28th. The famous 100 hours number wasmore than just a headline. Soviet observers watched Iraqi air defenses get blinded and dismantled. They saw armored formations get shredded (sometimes literally), sometimes without ever seeing what hit them. And they watched a massive Coalition force move fast through open desert, at night, in bad weather, then show up on Iraqs flank as if it had teleported. The Left Hook Landed (Department of Defense) The Coalitions main ground move shouldve looked familiar to Soviet planners and obvious to the Iraqis. It was a huge left hook through the desert, a deep envelopment that punished an opponent who expected the main blow to land elsewhere. It happened with a tempo and coordination that Iraq didnt match (and couldnt match) for many reasons. U.S. forces pushed wide, moved quickly, and kept units aligned across featureless terrain in bad visibility, operating at night and in poor weather (which is why the Battle of 73 Easting is named after coordinates, and not a city). The Iraqis didnt respond like a force built and trained to fight a mobile, combined-arms campaign. They reacted late, inconsistently, or not at all, and by the time they realized where the main threat actually was, the Coalition was already inflicting casualties. For Soviet observers, the shock wasnt that a left hook happened. It was that it worked so well, so quickly, and alongside an air campaign that had already dismantled the opponents ability to see, communicate, and coordinate. Soviet doctrine was comfortable with a certain kind of war. It assumed time, mass, and a hierarchy that could grind its way through an enemy. Operation Desert Storm was a style of fighting that prevented an opponent from ever getting organized enough to hit back. For a general staff whose fundamental beliefs relied on artillery shells and tank counts, it caused an existential crisis. The Highway of Death Demolished vehicles line Highway 80, also known as the Highway of Death, the route fleeing Iraqi forces took as they retreated from Kuwait during Operation Desert Storm. (U.S. Air Force/Tech. Sgt. Joe Coleman) Desert Storm basically showed the Soviet Union that the Cold War wasnt a stalemate, and the USSR was lucky to avoid a head-on conflict. Nowhere was that more apparent than in the Iraqi retreat. As Iraqi troops and vehicles fled Kuwait City north on Highway 80, American airpower hit the retreating column for hours with surgical precision. When imagery filtered back to Moscow, Soviet analysts saw a massive number of vehicles jammed and incinerated, tanks with turrets blown off, and trucks melted into the road. Western media called it the Highway of Death. Moscow saw what happens when one side can find, track, and hit what it wants, while the other side cant do anything about it. The Coalition turned a large movement of units, even those in full retreat, into what looked like a conveyor belt of destruction. Coalition air forces consistently detected movement, shared targeting information quickly, and struck with precision. The old Red Army strategy of massing a large force of armor was suddenly a huge liability. Hunting Ghosts Initially, Moscows copium was to blame the Iraqis. Iraq must have been incompetent. Iraqi troops were undisciplined. They misused Soviet doctrine. They didnt fight the way they were supposed to fight. And thats not entirely wrong. Iraq had major problems in basically everything. Training, leadership, morale, logistics, and initiative. But that assessment misses what Desert Storm showed the world, and the one thing the USSR didnt want to accept: This wasnt just a mismatch on the ground, the Iraqis didnt realize the full scope of the enemy they were fighting. Advertisement Advertisement At first, Soviet analysts looked for a single decisive American advantage: one technology, one superweapon, one electronic trick that blinded radar, one wonder weapon that explained the whole lopsided victory. But if there was one thing that made the swift destruction of the Iraqi Army possible, it was one thing that was actually many things. Iraq was actually fighting a network and didnt know it. Victory in the Gulf began with something that might have sounded like science fiction in 1991, but is used today to deliver Chinese food: the Global Positioning System. GPS wasnt just navigation. It was an enabler that let U.S. forces maneuver at speed, at night, in sandstorms, and hit with accuracy that made older platforms perform like something new. Its how the Coalition managed to swing through the desert and hit the Iraqis through sandstorms and the black desert night. The real gut punch for the USSR was discovering Americas all-seeing eye, the E-8 JSTARS, a radar and battle management platform that could scan large swaths of ground and track moving vehicles, then send that data across the force. The Americans could fuse sensors, shooters, and communications into a single integrated system. JSTARS has since been replaced, but 30-some years ago, it was cutting-edge: it saw movement, then passed targets on digitally. AWACS sorted it all out, and attack aircraft arrived on the scene already knowing where to find their targets. Soviet doctrine was the reverse. Reports went up the chain of command, orders came down the chain, and time lag was baked into the assessments. The Americans were operating a network in which sensor platforms were tools and speed was the real weapon. In a European war, Eastern Bloc units would be destroyed while waiting for orders. JSTARS prepares to take off for a mission in support of Operation Desert Storm. (Col. (Ret.) Martin Kleiner) What the Russians Learned A RAND assessment published in 1992 laid out how Russian military thinkers digested Desert Storm, and the lessons were anything but subtle. First and foremost, they saw Desert Storm as proof that modern war had changed dramatically from the model theyd expected. It didnt change bits and pieces here and there, the Gulf War changed the foundation of Soviet military thinking. Although the air war came first chronologically, the USSR saw air power as the main event, not an opening act. The idea that air forces could create victory conditions with relatively low friendly losses hit hard for a military culture raised on mass and attrition. The Soviets also had to confront an ugly truth about tanks and armies that dont have air superiority. If the other side controls the air, armor becomes an endangered species. Advertisement Advertisement Soviet-style command-and-control was also too rigid for the American optempo. Centralized control might maintain order (which was pretty important to the Red Army), but it also slowed adaptation. Desert Storm highlighted speed, flexibility, and coordination across services and among allies. Most notably, fixed defenses werent the comfort blanket they used to be, either. Hardened shelters, static nodes, and predictable infrastructure became targets. Stealth and precision made it harder to hide from the enemy. And then there was coalition warfare. Soviet analysts noted the Coalition and how it functioned. They saw victory tied not only to weapon performance, but also to a command system that could coordinate air, land, maritime forces, national goals, and political will. This is why the U.S. military still focuses on interoperability with its allies, decades later. The Fall of the Evil Empire Demonstrators display a giant Russian flag in Red Square after Soviet hardliners attempted to overthrow leaders Mikhail Gorbachev and President Boris Yeltsin. (Alain Nogues/Sygma via Getty Images) By late 1991, the Soviet Union was nearing its end for reasons bigger than anything that happened on a far-flung battlefield. Desert Storm delivered a clear warning to Russia long before the hammer and sickle flag came down: if you cant keep up with the pace of information, your armored force is just a list of targets waiting for the enemy network to find them and point them out to an A-10. But many of those lessons were (apparently) lost in the fall of the Soviet Union. The USSR used similar hardware as the Iraqis did in Kuwait (and had the receipts to prove it), and used some similar concepts of command, some of which the Russians still use today. Victory on the battlefield would henceforth be determined by who sees first, who shares fastest, who decides quickest, and who can keep operating when their networks go down. The Red Armys old method of overwhelming an enemy with masses of armor, troops, and firepower (think World War IIs Eastern Front) was just not the way warfare worked anymore. Moscow has been fighting against that reality ever since. Dont Miss the Best of We Are The Mighty The Coalition destroyed the entire Iraqi Navy in four days How the Marines ripped through the Iraqis in Operation Desert Storm Navy battleships pulled off the biggest military deception of Desert Storm Air Force The Chopper Popper scored the A-10s first air-to-air kill against an Iraqi helicopter By Blake Stilwell Gulf War at 35 Desert Storm Desert Shield at 35: Why the Gulf War Still Matters By Robert Billard Fixed Wing How Navy SEALs captured the first POWs of Desert Storm By Miguel Ortiz Battleships helped pull off the biggest military deception of Desert Storm Advertisement Advertisement Desert Storm Battleships helped pull off the biggest military deception of Desert Storm By Blake Stilwell Who's up for a middle-of-the-night launch? A rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, which was previously scheduled to lift off on Valentine's Day, is now scheduled for the early hours of Monday morning. SpaceX plans to send a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 29 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit on Monday, Feb. 16. Though rockets here launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Center or Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, people from Volusia County can sometimes see this phenomenon. Advertisement Advertisement Weather permitting and depending on cloud cover and trajectory, a rocket launch from Floridas Space Coast could be visible as far north as Jacksonville Beach and as far south as West Palm Beach. When theres a launch window in the middle of the night or very early morning, theres an opportunity for unique photos the rocket lights up the dark sky, and the contrail after makes for a great photo. Below is more information on the next rocket launch from Florida and suggestions on where to watch it from the Fun Coast. Is there a launch today? Upcoming SpaceX rocket launch schedule in Florida For questions or comments, email USA TODAY Network Space Reporters Rick Neale at rneale@floridatoday.com, Brooke Edwards at bedwards@floridatoday.com or Eric Lagatta at elagatta@usatoday.com. For more space news from the USA TODAY Network, visit floridatoday.com/space. When is the next SpaceX rocket launch in Florida? Monday, February 16, SpaceX Starlink 6-103 Mission: A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch 29 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. Launch window : 12 a.m. to 4 a.m. ET Monday, Feb. 16, 2026 Launch trajectory: Southeast Location: Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida Sonic booms: No Live coverage starts 90 minutes before liftoff at floridatoday.com/space: You can watch live rocket launch coverage from USA TODAY Networks Space Team, which consists of FLORIDA TODAY space reporters Rick Neale and Brooke Edwards and visuals journalists Craig Bailey, Malcolm Denemark and Tim Shortt. Our Space Team will provide up-to-the-minute updates in a mobile-friendly live blog, complete with a countdown clock, at floridatoday.com/space, starting 90 minutes before liftoff. You can download the free FLORIDA TODAY app, which is available in the App Store or Google Play, or type floridatoday.com/space into your browser. Where to see a Florida rocket launch from Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach area In Volusia County, immediately north of Brevard County home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station you can get a great view of a SpaceX, NASA or United Launch Alliance rocket launch. The best views to watch a rocket launch from here are along the beach. Look due south. Recommended spots: Advertisement Advertisement South New Smyrna Beach (Canaveral National Seashore) Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park, 6656 S. Atlantic Ave., New Smyrna Beach. Bethune Beach is 3.5 miles south of New Smyrna Beach and one mile north of the Apollo Beach entrance to Canaveral National Seashore Park. Apollo Beach at Canaveral National Seashore (south of New Smyrna Beach). Canaveral National Seashore runs along Florida's East Coast in Volusia County and Brevard County. To access Apollo Beach, take Interstate 95 to exit 249, then travel east until it turns into State Road A1A. Follow SR A1A south to the park entrance. Oak Hill riverfront is the southernmost city in South Volusia County. Advertisement Advertisement Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill Goodrich's Seafood and Oyster House back deck, 253 River Road, Oak Hill Seminole Rest national historic site, 211 River Road, Oak Hill Riverbreeze Park, 250 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill Mary Dewees Park, 178 N. Gaines St., Oak Hill Nancy Cummings Park, 232 Cummings St., Oak Hill Jimmie Vann Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill A.C. Delbert Dewees Municipal Pier, 243 River Road, Oak Hill Bird Observation Pier on River Road across from A.C. Delbert Municipal Pier (see above) Rose Bay in Port Orange, Florida beaches along New Smyrna Beach, Florida Advertisement Advertisement New Smyrna Beach Inlet, New Smyrna Beach lifeguard station Halifax Harbor Marina in Daytona Beach, Florida Ormond-by-the-Sea in Ormond Beach, Florida George R. Kennedy Memorial Park in Edgewater, Florida This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: SpaceX Florida rocket launch. Best places to watch from Volusia County Love won't be the only thing in the air this Valentine's Day in California a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket may be as well. Catching an afternoon rocket launch from the Vandenberg Space Force Base may be the perfect pre-dinner date for couples looking to celebrate their love on the February holiday. If that's something that intrigues you and your partner, you're in luck, as plenty of places near and far from the Santa Barbara County launch site are well-known among spectators. Or, if you're cozying up at home, you can just watch a SpaceX livestream of the mission. Advertisement Advertisement Once again, SpaceX will launch its 230-foot rocket on a mission to deploy the spaceflight company's commercial Starlink internet satellites. Here's everything to know about the latest SpaceX mission, and how to watch a webcast of the Falcon 9 launching in Santa Barbara County. California rocket launches: California ends 2025 with record number of rocket launches. What's next? Is there a rocket launch today? Next liftoff from California SpaceX is working toward a Saturday, Feb. 14, Valentines Day launch from Southern California, with a four-hour launch window opening at 2 p.m. PT, according to a launch alert. The launch will take place from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County. Advertisement Advertisement A Federal Aviation Administration operations plan advisory suggests a backup opportunity is available the next day if the launch were to be postponed. What is launching from Vandenberg? Falcon 9 to deploy Starlink satellites SpaceX will launch its famous two-stage 230-foot Falcon 9 rocket, one of the world's most active, to deliver 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit, an altitude nearer Earth's atmosphere where they're able to circle the planet quickly. How to watch SpaceX launch livestream Californians, of course, have plenty of opportunities to see a rocket in person both near the launch site as it lifts off, and further away as it soars overhead. But SpaceX also provides a live webcast of its missions for those who prefer to watch from home or for those viewing the launch locally and looking for updates in real-time. Advertisement Advertisement As with most SpaceX missions, the launch will be available to stream on the company's website and its new X TV mobile app, beginning about five minutes before liftoff. SpaceX may also provide updates on social media site X. What is SpaceX? SpaceX is the commercial spaceflight company that billionaire Elon Musk, the world's richest man, founded in 2002 and leads as the CEO. The commercial spaceflight company is headquartered at Starbase in South Texas near the U.S.-Mexico border. The site, which is where SpaceX has been conducting routine flight tests of its 400-foot megarocket known as Starship, was recently voted by residents to become its own city. SpaceX conducts many of its own rocket launches, most using the Falcon 9 rocket, from California and Florida. That includes a regular cadence of deliveries of Starlink internet satellites into orbit, and occasional privately funded commercial crewed missions on the Dragon the only U.S vehicle capable of carrying astronauts to the International Space Station. Advertisement Advertisement SpaceX additionally benefits from billions of dollars in contracts from NASA and the Department of Defense by providing launch services for classified satellites and other payloads. What is Starlink? Starlink is SpaceX's lucrative satellite internet business. Owned by Musk, Starlink has grown into a constellation of nearly 9,000 satellites that provide internet service to customers around the world. SpaceX has spent more than six years delivering the satellites to orbit with a regular cadence of rocket launches from both Florida and California. Eric Lagatta is the Space Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at elagatta@gannett.com This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Valentine's Day rocket launch on tap in California. How to watch House Speaker Mike Johnson accused Democrats of turning congressional hearings into a "circus" this week, arguing their conduct reflects a far-left shift in the party and will pave the way for Republican gains in the midterm elections. "These are unserious people, and they demonstrate that with their antics in the committee hearings now, which have really turned into theatrics," Johnson said Wednesday on "Hannity." The Speaker's remarks came after Democrats overwhelmingly voted against the SAVE America Act, a Trump-backed election bill that would strengthen ID requirements for voting. Advertisement Advertisement They also came after Attorney General Pam Bondi clashed with Democrats during testimony before the House Judiciary Committee. Mike Johnson Says House Gop Working Full Steam Ahead On Trump's 'Affordability Agenda' House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., briefs the media on the timeline to possibly end the government shutdown in the Capitol Visitor Center in Washington, Nov. 10, 2025. (Getty Images) Bondi, during questioning from Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif., said, "This isn't a circus, this is a hearing." Read On The Fox News App Johnson said the behaviors exhibited during hearings are emblematic of what he described as a broader pattern reflected in Democrats voting record, one he believes will become a central issue in November. "Thats one of the reasons were so confident about this midterm election coming up," Johnson said. Advertisement Advertisement "We are going to make history. Were going to grow the majority for the Republican Party because we have an extraordinary record to run on, and they [Democrats] have an outrageous record that they have produced with their votes." Gop Seizes On Dem Civil War As Progressives Jump Into Key 2026 Senate Races: They're In Shambles Attorney General Pam Bondi is sworn in before a House Judiciary Committee oversight hearing on Capitol Hill on Wednesday. The speaker argued that Republicans will highlight that record heading into the midterms, framing Democrats as aligned with what he called an "insurgent left party." "Were going to continue to put them on record, and make sure the people know exactly what they stand for . . . ," Johnson said. Advertisement Advertisement Click Here To Download The Fox News App "This is not your father's Democrat Party anymore," he added. "They're not serious people. They have an absolute Marxist, far-left, socialist ideology and that is what you will get if you elect Democrats to Congress." Original article source: Speaker Johnson blasts Dems theatrics' in Bondi, ICE hearings, calls them 'unserious people' Neighbors and lawmakers are condemning the arrest and detention of a Springdale man. An ICE spokesperson says he illegally immigrated from Peru and was arrested after a traffic violation. Randy Ralphy Cordova Flores is now in custody across the state line in Moundsville, WV and has been since February 10. He has no criminal record and his family...theyre in fear right now, Dani Jameson said. Her kids go to school with Flores and she set up a GoFundMe to help pay for bills and legal fees. Advertisement Advertisement [The kids] came home from school and their dad was just gone, and they dont know when theyre going to see him again. Its horrible, she said. According to a statement by an ICE spokesperson, and shared to the Springdale Borough Facebook page, Flores illegally immigrated from Peru and first came into contact with border patrol agents in 2023. He was arrested for failing to report to his immigration proceedings as ordered by a judge. The statement the borough put out contradicts everything we know to be true and we stand with all of our neighbors and the Cordova Flores family, Jameson said. Advertisement Advertisement The issue is getting the attention of lawmakers, including Congressman Chris Deluzio. Deluzio saying we need answers to basic questions about the reason for his arrest and why our government is seeking to remove him from the country. Deluzio said Flores has a pending asylum determination and a valid work authorization. The next step is a public demonstration. Itll be held Saturday, February 14th at the corner of Pittsburgh Street and School Street from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Jameson says the rally will be peaceful and a show of love. She also hopes itll send a message to ICE, the borough and the Flores family. Advertisement Advertisement You dont deserve this. We want to do everything we can to bring dad home. You can find the rest of ICEs statement here: Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the United Kingdom will deploy its aircraft carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and the High North later this year, marking a show of force as security tensions escalate across Europe. Speaking on Saturday at the annual Munich Security Conference in Germany, Starmer said the mission would be led by HMS Prince of Wales and carried out alongside the U.S., Canada and other NATO allies. "I can announce today that the U.K. will deploy our carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and the High North this year, led by HMS Prince of Wales, operating alongside the U.S., Canada and other NATO allies, in a powerful show of our commitment to Euro-atlantic security," Starmer told the high-profile forum aimed at strengthening European defense and diplomatic ties. Advertisement Advertisement Nato Launches Arctic Security Push As Trump Eyes Greenland Takeover British Prime Minister Keir Starmer takes part in a panel discussion with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen during the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 14, 2026. (Reuters) The High North a term referring to the Arctic and surrounding regions has become increasingly strategic amid growing Russian military activity. The deployment is intended to bolster security against potential Russian threats, according to BBC News. Read On The Fox News App The announcement comes as President Donald Trump has repeatedly reiterated interest in the U.S. acquiring Greenland, citing national security concerns in the Arctic regarding Russia and China. Starmer warned that Moscows military buildup could intensify even if a peace agreement is reached in Ukraine, arguing that Russian rearmament would "only accelerate." Advertisement Advertisement Uk Prime Minister Outraged After Manchester United Co-owner Warns Country Is Being 'Colonized' By Migrants People with umbrellas walk past a pedestrian bridge with the logo of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, southern Germany on Feb. 12, 2026. Europe, he said, must be prepared to "deter aggression" and, if necessary, be ready to fight. "We must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age," he said. The carrier strike group is an international naval task force led by the Royal Navy. It consists of one aircraft carrier, about 40 aircraft, a frigate, a destroyer, a submarine and a supply ship, according to BBC News. HMS Prince of Wales, a roughly $3.5 billion aircraft carrier, serves as the Royal Navys flagship, BBC News reported. Advertisement Advertisement Troops From Europe Deploy To Greenland In Rapid 2-Day Mission As Trump Eyes Us Takeover Trump has previously threatened tariffs on Britain and other European countries unless an agreement is reached allowing the U.S. to take control of the Danish territory. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer takes part in a panel discussion with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen during the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, on Feb. 14, 2026. After meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in late January, Trump announced that he would not impose tariffs that were set to take effect Feb. 1 given they formed the "framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland and, in fact, the entire Arctic Region." Trump told reporters outside the White House on Friday that the administration is "negotiating right now for Greenland," adding that, "We get along very well with Europe." Advertisement Advertisement The president was also asked about the Munich Security Conference. "If it wasn't for me, they'd be paying 2% and not paying," Trump said of NATO allies. "They're paying 5% and they're paying. We have a very good relationship with NATO." Click Here To Download The Fox News App The three-day Munich conference brings together world leaders, defense chiefs and security officials. Starmer did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. Original article source: Starmer sends UK strike group to Arctic, cites rising Russia threat as Trump pushes Greenland deal The Communist Party of India (CPI) called for urgent measures to curb "exploitative and unethical practices" in the healthcare sector, warning that it cannot be treated as a profit-driven enterprise. In a statement on Saturday, CPI leader K Narayana said, "The increasing prevalence of unethical and exploitative practices in the healthcare sector has become a serious issue affecting millions of ordinary citizens. Incidents of unnecessary diagnostic tests, excessive treatment costs, inflated billing, and commission-based referrals point toward a disturbing commercialisation of medical services." He emphasised that healthcare is a basic social obligation, not a profit-driven enterprise, and said, "What is widely described as a 'medical mafia' erodes public trust, places unbearable financial burdens on families, and violates the ethical foundations of the medical profession." Narayana demanded stringent regulation and periodic audits of private hospitals and diagnostic centres; transparent, standardised pricing for treatments, procedures, and medical devices; firm action against kickbacks and commission networks; effective protection of patient rights; and independent grievance redressal systems. He also called for strengthening public healthcare services to prevent commercial exploitation, and urged regulatory authorities, including the National Medical Commission (NMC), to enforce ethical standards without compromise and take decisive action against violators. He added, "No patient should be reduced to a revenue source. The government must act urgently to safeguard affordability, ethics, and accessibility in healthcare." Meanwhile, an economic evaluation published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research has shown that shorter, six-month all-oral treatment regimens for multidrug-resistant and rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (MDR/RR-TB) are cost-effective and yield improved health outcomes compared with currently used longer regimens in India, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. According to a press release, the study was conducted by ICMR-National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis (ICMR-NIRT). It assessed the cost-effectiveness of bedaquiline-based regimens BPaL (bedaquiline, pretomanid, and linezolid) and BPaLM (with moxifloxacin) compared with existing bedaquiline-containing shorter (9-11 months) and longer (18-20 months) treatment regimens used under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP). According to the release, the analysis found that the BPaL regimen is both more effective and cost-saving. For each additional Quality-Adjusted Life Year (QALY) gained, the health system spends INR 379 less per patient than with the standard regimen, indicating better health outcomes at lower cost. (ANI) A settlement has been reached in a federal lawsuit alleging that the Connecticut State Police violated the First Amendment when troopers broke up multiple anti-Trump protests on highway overpasses and bridges last year. The settlement was part of an agreement revealed between state police and the American Civil Liberties Union of Connecticut, which will see troopers receive new guidance on how to handle protests on highway overpasses. Part of the deal included state police agreeing to stop breaking up highway overpass demonstrations, the ACLU wrote in a statement. We are glad that the state police will now stop breaking up demonstrations based on claims of driver distraction, Dan Barrett, legal director of the ACLU Foundation of Connecticut, said in a statement. This is an important win for protest rights at a critical time when such freedoms are under increasing pressure across the country. Advertisement Advertisement Charges against CT activist that sparked debate on free speech dismissed in court The agreement came at the behest of the federal judge overseeing the lawsuit, Stefan Underhill, who recognized that the positions of both sides were not that far apart and directed them to work together to finalize a deal, according to the ACLU. The agreement includes safeguards for protestors that prohibit state police from using trespassing, breach of peace, disorderly conduct or similar charges to disrupt a peaceful assembly taking place on a sidewalk. It also prohibits troopers from using the charges to identify, threaten or detain demonstrators. The agreement does not protect protestors who incite imminent unlawful action or those who engage in fighting words. It also precludes protections to individuals who affix a sign to an overpass fence, those who drop an item from an overpass onto a highway or anyone who stands in a road, according to the ACLU. We will be issuing additional guidance to our state troopers so they can continue to (safely) and effectively do their jobs, state police said in a statement following news of the agreement. Advertisement Advertisement State police said the agreement will help keep motorists safe while protecting citizens First Amendment rights. We would like to thank the ACLU for working with us on these important issues, the agencys statement said. The lawsuit was filed last September on behalf of Connecticut residents Erin Quinn and Robert Marra, who identified themselves as activists with Visibility Brigade, after protestors holding signs over Interstate 91 against President Donald Trump and Elon Musk who headed up the presidents controversial Department of Government Efficiency alleged that they were harassed by state troopers and threatened with prosecution. Visibility Brigade has more than a dozen local groups in towns and cities across Connecticut and hundreds across the country, according to its website. ACLU files lawsuit after series of controversial arrests stemming from protests over CT highways Advertisement Advertisement We are very pleased with this outcome and hoping that this upholding of our First Amendment rights serves as an important precedent nationwide, a spokesperson for Visibility Brigade said Friday. The lawsuit, brought by lawyers for the ACLU, alleged that more than half a dozen protestors were ticketed by state troopers and told they were not allowed to hold signs over highway overpasses. State police, the lawsuit said, cited driver distraction concerns and insisted that demonstrators were trespassing on private property of the state, while protestors maintained that they used public sidewalks of the overpasses. The civil action was brought against the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection which oversees state police after the arrests of 72-year-old Katherine Hinds served as the last straw following months of rising tensions, the lawsuit states. Hinds was arrested in July and again at her home the following month for participating in protests. The charges against her, including those of placing unauthorized signs on a highway, breach of peace and trespassing, were later dismissed in court. Advertisement Advertisement Relieved, excited, grateful, Hinds said when reached for comment and asked for her reaction to the agreement. Im mostly thrilled that, in the Constitution State, that a ruling came down where both sides agreed that our First Amendment rights are paramount, Hinds said. As the OG protester and on behalf of all the other brigades were all relieved and happy and so grateful to the system. Its a rare win, and well take it. According to Hinds, her complaint remains pending against the trooper who arrested her. Barrett added that the agreement helps ensure that state officials respect the fundamental constitutional protections that allow individuals to peacefully protest. Advertisement Advertisement This settlement is an important win for the right to protest at a time when we have witnessed that freedom comes under attack across the country, David McGuire, executive director of the ACLU of Connecticut, said in a statement. Our legal team moved swiftly to defend core First Amendment rights and make clear that people in Connecticut can speak out without fear of retaliation. State police have asked demonstrators to limit protests to sidewalk areas and to stay safe as they do. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill arrived at the Supreme Court shortly before 10 a.m. on January 9 and took a seat in the spectator section of the columned courtroom. When US Solicitor General John Sauer, the Trump administrations top courtroom lawyer, entered a few minutes later, he cut across the room to warmly greet her. Murrill was waiting for ruling in a redistricting case that could unwind protections for Blacks and Latinos under the 1965 Voting Rights Act. The decision could simultaneously boost the GOPs chances in the US House of Representatives this year. Louisiana, backed by the Trump administration and several other Republican-controlled states, has its eye on the upcoming midterm elections and told the justices it wanted a decision by early January as it seeks to replace its current congressional map which includes two court-ordered majority Black districts with a new map for this years midterm elections. Advertisement Advertisement But it did not take long after the justices ascended the bench that day for the gavel to fall. There was no decision in Louisiana v. Callais. Nor has one come since. Speculation has only grown about the case and its consequences for voters and control of the US House, where the GOP holds a slim margin. (The justices announced on Friday that they will be issuing more opinions later this month.) The case tests the Voting Rights Acts Section 2, which prohibits race discrimination, and a remedy that judges have often required when they find that maps have diluted the voting power of Blacks or Hispanics. Such majority-minority districts are intended to give them a chance to elect a candidate of choice. States have been closely watching for Supreme Court action, some of them anticipating an opportunity for relief from earlier court orders and a chance to redistrict before Novembers midterm elections. Each week that passes, however, makes it harder for some places to consider such an option. In Louisiana, where primary deadlines were pushed back last year to potentially take advantage of a Supreme Court ruling, deadlines are closing. Advertisement Advertisement Irrespective of what happens in the current cycle, the eventual Supreme Court decision is certain to give states more latitude for 2028 and future elections. Thats because over the past two decades the conservative court has been steadily erasing the racial remedies of the Voting Rights Act and deferring to state legislatures. So far, the courts actions in the Louisiana dispute suggest the majority will make it more difficult to bring Section 2 claims. The only question is to what degree. At the most extreme, the court could outright invalidate Section 2s protection for minorities in the redistricting process. After a round of oral arguments in an earlier court session, the justices suddenly scheduled a second hearing in Louisiana v. Callais and broadened their review of the Voting Rights Act. Based on that second round of arguments, held last October, the justices appear ready to further limit the protections of the law considered an exemplar of the nations civil rights era. The VRA was passed after the March 7, 1965, Bloody Sunday attack on marchers as they crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Alabama. Yet the court majority may be more apt to adopt the Trump administrations argument for scaling back coverage, rather than accept Louisianas move for fully dismantling the VRA provision intended to protect against race discrimination. Even that approach, however, could diminish Black representation in public office. Advertisement Advertisement The justices have splintered so deeply on past voting-rights controversies that the case may produce a series of separate writings, from both the majority and dissenting camps. The final ruling may not come until later in the spring. President Donald Trump greets Chief Justice of the United States John G. Roberts, Jr as he arrives to deliver an address to a joint session of Congress at the U.S. Capitol on March 04, 2025 in Washington, DC. - Win McNamee/Getty Images A court aligned with Trump The court under Chief Justice John Roberts and the Trump administration have aligned in their antagonism to race-based measures and interest in lifting federal election regulations. Within days of taking office last year, Trumps lawyers retracted the Biden Justice Department brief in the Louisiana case that sought to preserve the Voting Rights Act. Well before Trump first came to office, the Roberts Court had begun retrenching on the VRA. William and Mary law professor Rebecca Green, an election-law expert, attributes its pattern to the current majoritys colorblind approach, attempting to eliminate racial remedies across the board. That was seen in its 2023 decision forbidding colleges and universities from considering students race in admissions. Advertisement Advertisement In the context of redistricting, some justices similarly are trying to keep race from ever being a factor in drawing legislative lines. But, Green said, Congress has prohibited minority vote dilution. And theres really no way to comply with the Voting Rights Act or provide a remedy for a violation without taking race into account. Green also noted that the court has doubled down on the idea that state legislatures are acting in good faith, for example, with its December order to leave in place a new Texas congressional map challenged as a racial gerrymander. The map, with potentially five new Republican seats, arose from President Donald Trumps 2025 push for off-year redistricting to potentially increase the number of Republicans in the US House; California responded with a new map that could add five additional Democratic seats. The Supreme Court recently allowed that map to stand, too. In the high courts more consequential pattern favoring states and localities, Chief Justice Roberts in 2013 led the court to a 5-4 decision, in Shelby County v. Holder, that gutted a VRA provision (known as Section 5) requiring states with a history of discrimination to obtain approval from the US Justice Department before making electoral changes. Advertisement Advertisement Then, in 2021, the majority diminished the reach of Section 2 for certain challenges to state practices. That Arizona case, Brnovich v. Democratic National Committee, concerned requirements that ballots cast at the wrong precinct be discarded and criminalized the third-party collection of absentee ballots (such as were sometimes used in remote tribal areas of the state). Now Section 2s coverage for redistricting practices hangs in the balance. Conflicts among the justices in the Louisiana case were evident from the start. The dispute was first heard in March 2025, but then in June the justices issued the unusual order calling for re-argument. Justice Clarence Thomas dissented from the order, making clear he wanted the court to avoid any delay in finding that Section 2 violates the Constitution as it takes voters race into account. I am hopeful, Thomas wrote then, that this Court will soon realize that the conflict its Section 2 jurisprudence has sown with the Constitution is too severe to ignore. Thomas has yet to claim a majority for his view that Section 2 clashes with the constitutional guarantee of equal protection. And as recently as a 2023 case from Alabama, Allen v. Milligan, the justices said the awareness and use of race was not only permissible but might be required, to compensate for a prior map that, for example, was the result of legislative cracking and packing techniques that is, dispersing or concentrating Blacks among districts. US Associate Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas attends inauguration ceremonies in the Rotunda of the US Capitol on January 20, 2025 in Washington, DC. - Chip Somodevilla/AFP/Getty Images/File Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who was the key fifth vote in that Alabama case, has suggested that Section 2s race-based safeguard may no longer be needed some 60 years after passage of the VRA and that, as the court found in the context of higher education, it may violate the Constitutions guarantee of equal protection of the law. Kavanaugh appears positioned to be a decisive justice here. Advertisement Advertisement Lower court judges who heard the Louisiana controversy had ordered the second majority-Black district after finding that the state legislature had, in an atmosphere of racially polarized voting, divided Black voters across districts in a way that diluted their electoral power. A group of mainly White residents subsequently sued, contending that the revised map was an unconstitutional racial gerrymander. The state initially defended the revised map, but Attorney General Murrill and her legal team argued more recently, once the justices reframed the case, that race-based redistricting is fundamentally contrary to our Constitution. The US solicitor generals office does not go that far. It instead focuses on how lower court judges assess a VRA violation in the first place and whether a legislatures map might be driven by politics rather than by race. In short, Sauer wrote in the federal governments brief, this Courts Section 2 jurisprudence should account for the fact that, today, a States failure to create a compact majority-minority district, even where demographically possible, is far more likely to reflect political motives than racial ones. Advertisement Advertisement Kavanaugh latched on to the option regarding a states political objectives. He called it a real innovation. Under the US solicitor generals approach, challengers trying to succeed on a VRA Section 2 claim would have to separate party from race and show that the states failure to create a majority-minority district reflected racial motives rather than political ones. Critics, including Harvard University law professor Nicholas Stephanopoulos, say that could extinguish Section 2 claims, particularly in the South, where Blacks overwhelmingly vote Democratic and Whites overwhelmingly vote Republican. Legislators could assert that arguably discriminatory maps protected incumbents and preserved a partisan balance. (T)he SGs position would render Section 2 a dead letter in the southern jurisdictions where the provision has historically had its greatest impact, Stephanopoulos said of the solicitor generals position, noting that an additional minority district can usually be drawn only at the cost of an existing Republican district. This swap of an old Republican district for a new minority-opportunity district, however, is exactly what the SGs proposal would prevent. Advertisement Advertisement During Octobers oral arguments, Janai Nelson, NAACP Legal Defense Fund director-counsel, told Kavanaugh that requiring new scrutiny of partisanship could undercut state responsibility to ensure that all voters have an equally open electoral process. The fact that Black voters may correlate with voting Democrat or White voters may correlate with voting Republican does not deny the fact that there is racially polarized voting, Nelson said. And the totality of the circumstances, including the inability to elect Black candidates in Louisiana on a statewide basis for a number of offices theres never been a Black person in Louisiana elected statewide is additional indicia that race is playing an outsized role in the electoral process in Louisiana. The state legislature, meanwhile, postponed filing deadlines for the midterm elections, as Murrill and other Louisiana officials anticipated a high court ruling and possible opportunity to change the current map with two Black-majority districts. But the filing period for the general primary now is upon candidates. A deadline was Friday, and the justices are not scheduled to return to their courtroom until February 20. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com STEVENS POINT The Common Council will consider Feb. 16 two items to address ongoing issues related to unhoused individuals. The Council will consider for final approval both a grant to establish a year-round residential shelter for unhoused individuals and an anti-camping ordinance, according to the meeting agenda. First the Council will consider an award of a $150,000 grant to fund the purchase of the property located at 2854 Church St. If approved, the coalition of organizations known as Partnering Together of Portage County Inc. (PTPC) will agree to operate the shelter indefinitely in exchange for the city funds, according to the grant agreement. The city will retain a variety of rights on the property, including an ability to retake ownership if PTPC ceases operations for more than 12 months. Advertisement Advertisement Following a decision on the grant, the Council will then consider adoption of an ordinance prohibiting camping on city-owned properties under penalty of a $100 fine issued after a 48-hour notice, according to the ordinance language. Members of the Common Council previously considered a similar ordinance in a May 12, 2025, Public Policy and General Government Committee meeting but the ordinance language was tabled until further progress was made on the establishment of a year-round shelter facility in the city, according to discussion during the meeting. The Common Council is scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. Feb. 16 in the Community Room at 933 Michigan Ave. in Stevens Point. Erik Pfantz covers local government and education in central Wisconsin for USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin and values his background as a rural Wisconsinite. Contact him at epfantz@usatodayco.com. This article originally appeared on Stevens Point Journal: Stevens Point Council to consider homeless shelter grant & camping ban Southern California will enjoy one more day of sunny, ideal weather conditions before the next storm arrives, trading sunshine for clouds, cooler temperatures and rain. Meteorologists expect a Pacific storm system to sweep into the region late Sunday, bringing light to moderate rain across Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange and San Bernardino counties. The latest ensemble solutions are converging on at least 1 to 3 inches of rain for the coast and valleys with the first system Monday and 2 to 5 inches in the mountains, the National Weather Service said. Road ponding and flooding is possible. Advertisement Advertisement Light showers are likely to begin in northwest San Luis Obispo County by Sunday afternoon, spreading into SoCal by the evening. Highs will cool into the 60s across the region. Forecasters say two upper-level low pressure systems will move through region in the first part of the week. The first will produce the highest rainfall totals, with hourly rainfall rates possibly reaching 1 inch. Rain intensity will ease Monday night into Tuesday, though scattered showers will continue. Meteorologists expect the wettest window to stretch from Sunday night through Monday morning, with showers lingering well into midweek. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. JACKSON The Mississippi Supreme Court has agreed to take another look at the case of a New Albany man set to be retried for a crime which he was acquitted of three years ago. The states highest court in a 4-3 decision this week granted a writ of certiorari for Lane Douglas Mitchell, whose case has been filled with twists and turns. During the 2023 attempted first degree murder trial, the victim refused to show up for court. The trial judge dismissed the charge and acquitted Mitchell. The state appealed and last summer, the Mississippi Court of Appeals reversed the acquittal and ordered the case back to circuit court for a new trial. Advertisement Advertisement Mitchell appealed that ruling to the supreme court, which has now agreed to listen to his arguments and make a ruling by this summer. The Supreme Court will review the documents previously filed with the Court of Appeals to make its decision. Both sides can also file a supplemental brief within 10 days. The court then has 180 days (6 months) to make a decision. The case dates back to an incident at a New Albany restaurant seven years ago. Mitchell was indicted for attempted first-degree murder for stabbing Russell Rogers in the neck at the Tallahatchie Gourmet restaurant in downtown New Albany. Rogers and his father, who also serves as his conservator, refused to talk to New Albany police investigators following the February 2019 incident. Rogers refused to show up during the four-day trial in May 2023, despite being subpoenaed to appear as a witness by both the defense and the Mississippi Attorney Generals Office, which was called in to prosecute the case. Advertisement Advertisement With Mitchell unable to confront his accuser, Circuit Judge Kent Smith dismissed the charge and acquitted Mitchell, citing violations of three Constitutional amendments. The Fifth and 14th amendments deal with due process, the right of the defendant to call whomever they want to testify. The 6th amendment says the defendant can compel witnesses to show up and testify. The Mississippi Attorney Generals Office appealed the ruling months later, and it was placed on the docket of the Court of Appeals. That court looked at two issues whether the state had the right to appeal and whether Judge Smith was right in dismissing the charge and granting the acquittal. In a 5-4 decision in July 2025, the appellate justices said they had jurisdiction to hear the appeal and reversed the lower courts judgment of acquittal. They also sent the case back to Union County Circuit Court for a new trial. That move was part of Mitchells legal teams argument asking the supreme court to hear their appeal. The defense argued that the state had no right to appeal and Mitchell cannot be retried without violating double jeopardy. As millions of anguished Americans demand the government to do something anything to protect their communities from unchecked violence, a majority in the House of Representatives decided to help the billion dollar weapons industry instead. To make matters worse, the weapon industry executives are hiding their true motivation money by feigning concern for preventing police shootings. I became an advocate for gun violence prevention in 2018 at 16 years old after surviving the mass shooting at my high school in Parkland, Florida, on Valentines Day. My classmate Nicholas Dworet is the only reason I am alive today. His body protected me, as bullets continued to riddle my classmates, and the perpetrator would go on to kill 17 members of our community and injure another 17. But I am not the first in my family to be affected by gun violence, which disproportionately impacts Black and Brown communities, and Parkland was not my only direct experience being touched by gun violence. Aalayah Eastmond, a 2019 graduate of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, who survived the 2018 mass shooting there, holds images of the shooting victims in front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC. My uncle Patrick was gunned down in the streets of Brooklyn, New York, when he was 18 years old. Just a few summers ago, my cousin was shot and injured. And in 2020, I was hospitalized after I was shot with rubber bullets while peacefully protesting the police killing of Breonna Taylor. Advertisement Advertisement Americas saturation with firearms and a weapons industry that faces no accountability for the harm their products inflict on us have profoundly shaped my life. Thats why I was devastated when the House recently passed a bill that would undermine all federal firearms laws. They deceptively named the bill the Law-Enforcement Innovate to De-escalate Act, and it includes the Innovate Less Lethal to De-Escalate Tax Modernization Act. It now awaits Senate action. Opinion: A shooter terrorized my university. This is the cost of inaction. 'Less-than-lethal' weapons laws aren't the answer to gun violence or police killings Protesters at the March for Our Lives rally against gun violence on March 24, 2018, in Washington, DC. Supporters argue that their legislation is necessary because federal law supposedly keeps some state law enforcement agencies from accessing less-than-lethal weapons that are now classified as firearms, including certain models of Tasers and bola devices. Reducing the number of civilians killed by guns used by police, they argue, is within reach, but only if Congress can pass this legislation promoting less-lethal weapons. Advertisement Advertisement In reality, this bill is not designed to stop fatal police violence. It is shameful to use the horror of Americans killed by police like Breonna Taylor, Michael Brown, Walter Scott and Philando Castile to justify legislation written to deregulate all of these products, especially when it would undoubtedly lead to an increase in gun violence in Black and Brown communities. Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store. The truth is, this bill, other than the title, doesnt even mention law enforcement in any way, and there are already zero barriers for law enforcement to access and use less-than-lethal weapons. A quick look at the news makes that clear. Across the country, countless states, counties, cities, towns, townships, villages, correctional departments and even campus police already deploy these devices, which can actually be deadly. This corporate-sponsored bill would change the definition of firearm in our oldest federal firearm laws, so that any weapon that falls under the vague definition of "less-than-lethal projectile devices would no longer be considered a firearm. Advertisement Advertisement As a result, the manufacturers of so-called less-lethal weapons would not be required to follow responsible firearms sales and manufacturing practices, such as serializing products, record keeping or running background checks on buyers. If this new class of weapons is no longer considered firearms under federal law, then anyone including domestic abusers, White supremacists, gun traffickers and even children could be free to buy them. In most states, they could be shipped straight to your front doorstep. And the danger doesnt stop there. The most alarming consequence is that the gun industry could exploit this redefinition to produce weapons that can be easily modified into traditional firearms, turning a newly unregulated weapon into a fully lethal, untraceable ghost gun. This would be a huge and deadly error, making everyone in America at risk of increased gun violence. Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg: We must confront deadly threat of 3D printed guns | Opinion Ghost guns are on a terrifying rise Ghost guns are the perfect weapon for crime and murder. Between 2016 and 2021, law enforcement saw a 1,000% increase in recoveries and traces of ghost guns, with over 45,000 ghost guns recovered at crime scenes, including many linked to homicide. Advertisement Advertisement This dangerous uptick has stalled, thanks to policy solutions under the Biden-Harris administration and through 20 state legislatures. But this bill could open a new pathway for manufacturers to skirt the law and produce unregulated, untraceable ghost guns. Because Black Americans experience 12 times more gun homicides than White Americans, a ghost gun market would disproportionately endanger the Black community. So contrary to the weapons industrys claims that this bill would protect Black and Brown communities from gun violence, it may do just the opposite. Unfortunately, many well-meaning members of Congress, who care deeply about reducing police violence, were apparently deceived into signing on as cosponsors to these bills and voting for them. Just one less-lethal weapons manufacturer spent nearly $2.5 million in congressional lobbying in 2025 alone. Its lobbyists have blitzed Capitol Hill with dangerous, self-serving misinformation. But heres the plain truth: This legislation would not decrease police violence or help Black communities, but it could increase crime and gun violence nationwide. The only people who would benefit from these bills becoming law are weapons industry executives and people intent on causing harm. Advertisement Advertisement Instead of advancing legislation crafted solely to increase corporate profits, our leaders should be focusing on real solutions that will make us safer. This bill moves us in the opposite direction and the Senate must reject it before Americans pay the price with their lives. Aalayah Eastmond is a cofounder of Team ENOUGH, the youth arm of Brady: United Against Gun Violence. You can read diverse opinions from our USA TODAY columnists and other writers on the Opinion front page, on X, formerly Twitter, @usatodayopinion and in our Opinion newsletter. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: I survived Parkland. Congress is about to make gun law worse | Opinion Feb. 13A woman accused of drunkenly leading police on a chase after a night out in Whitefish earlier this month is facing multiple charges in Flathead County District Court. Prosecutors brought Stephanie Deeann Cardenas, 43, up on felony counts of fleeing from a peace officer and criminal endangerment as well as misdemeanor driving under the influence, first offense, following her Feb. 1 arrest. Scheduled to appear before Judge Danni Coffman on Feb. 26 for her arraignment, Cardenas was released from custody after posting a $150,000 surety bond. Whitefish Police officers arrested Cardenas after she crashed into a wooden privacy fence in a residential neighborhood following a pursuit through the city, according to court documents. Officers initiated the chase after spotting Cardenas' vehicle driving 35 to 40 mph in a 25 mph zone about 1:30 a.m., court documents alleged. As officers activated their lights, Cardenas' vehicle allegedly left downtown and headed north on Baker and then Wisconsin avenues. Catching up to Cardenas at the intersection of Wisconsin Avenue and Edgewood Place, officers hit their sirens, court documents said. Cardenas' vehicle allegedly sped off, hitting speeds of between 50 and 60 mph, narrowly missing parked cars and running stop signs in a residential neighborhood. She turned down an alley and pulled into a resident parking area where she smashed into the privacy fence, court documents said. Fleeing on foot into the yard, Cardenas eventually doubled back to the vehicle. Officers described her as smelling of an alcoholic beverage in court documents. She allegedly slurred her speech and was incoherent at times, sporting soiled pants and bloodshot and watery eyes. Officers described seeing her adorned with both a bar stamp and a bar bracelet. After receiving a warrant for a blood draw, officers took Cardenas first to Logan Health Whitefish and then to the county jail. Felony fleeing a peace officer is punishable by up to five years imprisonment and a $5,000 fine while felony criminal endangerment carries a maximum penalty of 10 years behind bars and a $50,000 fine. News Editor Derrick Perkins can be reached at 758-4430 or [email protected]. A serial cat killer is suspected to be on the loose after three cats were reportedly killed in the town of Hughson, the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office told KCRA-TV. The deaths occurred in the Riverview Mobile Home Park, where a 9-year-old cat named L was reportedly shot dead on Feb. 8. According to KCRA-TV, the suspect appears on video, wearing a mask, shorts, black socks and black flip-flops. Advertisement Advertisement "They're just evil. And there's no other way to describe it," L's owner told KCRA-TV. "... She was just the neighborhood cat that everybody loved. And I think, I don't know who did this, but I'm going to find out who did it." Doorbell video captured the suspect walking up, picking up the dead cat's body and placing it in a plastic bag before walking off. According to KCRA-TV, another resident in the neighborhood reported finding his cat and another dead on his property, but the time and manner in which the deaths happened remains unclear. "We didn't know what to think because they were just dead," the resident told KCRA-TV. "... Now we know, now it all ties together." Advertisement Advertisement The sheriff's office confirmed to KCRA-TV that they are investigating. "We're all terrified, all of my neighbors are scared," L's owner told KCRA. "We have children walking down the street from school, we have people walking around at night, walking their dogs at night. This is terrifying." More News - La Nina is fading as El Nino appears: Here's what Calif. can expect - California skier dies at Tahoe ski resort - Calif. college's foundation admits unauthorized use of $20M gift - Locals outraged as court OKs Skunk Train's eminent domain request Sign up for daily SFGATE breaking news alerts here. This article originally published at Suspected serial cat killer feared in California's Central Valley. A doorbell surveillance camera recorded the moments after a beloved pet was killed, and now investigators in Central California fear a serial cat killer may be on the loose after two more cats were found dead in the same neighborhood, according to KCRA-TV. The deaths were reported in and around the Riverview Mobile Home Park in the San Joaquin Valley town of Hughson, where surveillance video captured a masked suspect in connection with at least one of the incidents. Here's what to know about the case. One cat shot, then taken, owner says One of the cats, a 9-year-old named L, was reportedly shot during the night of Sunday, Feb. 8, and the incident was discovered the following day, according to KCRA-TV. Advertisement Advertisement Ls owner, who asked to remain anonymous out of fear, told KCRA her cat was well known and loved throughout the neighborhood. Theyre just evil. And theres no other way to describe it, she told KCRA-TV. She was just the neighborhood cat that everybody loved. And I dont know who did this, but Im going to find out who did it. Doorbell video captured moments after the shooting shows a person walking up to the cats body, placing it into a plastic bag, and walking away, according to KCRA-TV. I have nothing. I cant bury her. I cant do anything, the owner said. She just was taken. Surveillance video shows masked suspect According to KCRA-TV, surveillance footage shows a suspect wearing a face covering, shorts, black socks and black flip-flops. In one clip, the person is seen approaching the driveway where the cat was last seen before being shot. Advertisement Advertisement In another video taken approximately 13 minutes later, the suspect is seen returning to the scene, picking up the cats body and placing it into a plastic bag before leaving the area, KCRA reported. The sheriffs office confirmed to KCRA that investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and witness statements as part of an ongoing investigation. Two more cats found dead nearby KCRA-TV reported that another resident in the neighborhood later found his own cat dead in his backyard, along with a second dead cat near his back porch. We didnt know what to think because they were just dead, the resident told KCRA-TV. I didnt want to inspect it. But now we know, now it all ties together. Advertisement Advertisement Authorities have not confirmed how the other two cats died, and investigators said the motive behind the incidents remains unclear, according to KCRA. Neighbors fear for safety Residents told KCRA-TV that fear is spreading through the community, with concerns extending beyond pets to personal safety. Were all terrified, Ls owner said. All of my neighbors are scared. We have children walking down the street from school. We have people walking around at night, walking their dogs at night. This is terrifying. The Stanislaus County Sheriffs Office confirmed to KCRA-TV that the cases remain under investigation and that deputies are continuing to gather evidence. This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: California cat killer: Masked suspect caught on camera, 3 cats dead TUCSON Authorities conducted two raids Feb. 13 in neighborhoods about 2 miles north of Nancy Guthrie's home in the Catalina Foothills as the hunt for those responsible for her disappearance intensified. Sheriff's vehicles blocked the intersection of Placita De Graciela and Camino de Michael after entering a home in a neighborhood very similar to Guthrie's. Authorities would not immediately confirm the target of the operation, whether anyone was detained or what was found at the residence. Advertisement Advertisement Shortly before midnight, deputies and FBI agents converged at a Culver's parking lot about 2 1/2 miles away, near River Road and First Avenue. They examined a gray Range Rover before towing it away. A Marana police squad car was also at the scene before departing. Officials had not yet confirmed whether the search was connected to Guthrie's disappearance. The Pima County Sheriff's Department confirmed that "law enforcement activity" at a residence near Orange Grove Road and First Avenue was connected to the Guthrie investigation, according to a post on X. The area was roughly a half-mile from Placita De Graciela and Camino de Michael, where reporters observed several law enforcement vehicles, including armored trucks belonging to the Sheriff's Department's SWAT team, enter and leave the area. Advertisement Advertisement "Because this is a joint investigation, at the request of the FBI no additional information is currently available," the Sheriff's Department said on X. The scene at East Placita De Graciela and Camino de Michael in the Catalina Foothills on Feb. 13, 2026. Officials try to match unknown DNA found at Nancy Guthrie's house: Latest updates A Pima County sheriffs deputy maintains a roadblock in the Catalina Foothills as a suspected raid regarding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of U.S. journalist and television host Savannah Guthrie, takes place on a residential street in the Catalina Foothills outside Tucson on Feb. 13, 2026. A Pima County sheriffs deputy maintains a roadblock in the Catalina Foothills as a suspected raid regarding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of U.S. journalist and television host Savannah Guthrie, takes place on a residential street in the Catalina Foothills outside Tucson on Feb. 13, 2026. A Pima County sheriffs deputy maintains a roadblock as a suspected raid on North Placita de Rojelio regarding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of U.S. journalist and television host Savannah Guthrie, takes place in the Catalina Foothills outside Tucson on Feb. 13, 2026. A Pima County sheriffs deputy maintains a roadblock as a suspected raid regarding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of U.S. journalist and television host Savannah Guthrie, takes place on a residential street in Catalina Foothills outside Tucson on Feb. 13, 2026. A Pima County sheriffs deputy maintains a roadblock in the Catalina Foothills as a suspected raid regarding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of U.S. journalist and television host Savannah Guthrie, takes place on a residential street in the Catalina Foothills outside Tucson on Feb. 13, 2026. A Pima County sheriffs deputy maintains a roadblock as a suspected raid regarding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of U.S. journalist and television host Savannah Guthrie, takes place on a residential street in Catalina Foothills outside Tucson on Feb. 13, 2026. A Pima County sheriffs deputy maintains a roadblock in the Catalina Foothills as a suspected raid regarding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of U.S. journalist and television host Savannah Guthrie, takes place on a residential street in the Catalina Foothills outside Tucson on Feb. 13, 2026. A Pima County sheriffs deputy maintains a roadblock as a suspected raid regarding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of U.S. journalist and television host Savannah Guthrie, takes place on a residential street in Catalina Foothills outside Tucson on Feb. 13, 2026. A Pima County sheriffs deputy maintains a roadblock as a suspected raid regarding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of U.S. journalist and television host Savannah Guthrie, takes place on a residential street in Catalina Foothills outside Tucson on Feb. 13, 2026. SWAT team conducts raid 2 miles from Nancy Guthrie's house 1 of 10 The scene at East Placita De Graciela and Camino de Michael in the Catalina Foothills on Feb. 13, 2026. Officials try to match unknown DNA found at Nancy Guthrie's house: Latest updates Catalina Foothills residents Marla Handler and Summer Stricklin said they saw FBI investigators walking around the house and carrying out evidence. The past two weeks have left them shaken, they said. "We have never experienced something like this before a disappearance or kidnapping. There's been no proof of life. It's been 13 days. So we're worried. Everyone is worried," Handler said. Handler said their HOA is beefing up security with more sensors, motion detectors, smart locks and street-facing cameras. Advertisement Advertisement "We ... are being more vigilant than ever before," she said. FBI agents and Pima County sheriff's deputies investigate a vehicle at a Culver's parking lot near midnight on Feb. 13, 2026, in the Tucson area. FBI agents and Pima County sheriff's deputies investigate a vehicle at a Culver's parking lot near midnight on Feb. 13, 2026, in the Tucson area. FBI agents and Pima County sheriff's deputies investigate a vehicle at a Culver's parking lot near midnight on Feb. 13, 2026, in the Tucson area. FBI agents and Pima County sheriff's deputies investigate a vehicle at a Culver's parking lot near midnight on Feb. 13, 2026, in the Tucson area. FBI agents and Pima County sheriff's deputies investigate a vehicle at a Culver's parking lot near midnight on Feb. 13, 2026, in the Tucson area. Law enforcement officers investigate vehicle in Tucson area 1 of 5 FBI agents and Pima County sheriff's deputies investigate a vehicle at a Culver's parking lot near midnight on Feb. 13, 2026, in the Tucson area. This was the second time in the past week authorities had conducted a tactical operation. On Feb. 10, investigators detained a man after a traffic stop in Rio Rico and conducted a court-authorized search of his home. The man ultimately was released. (This story has been updated to add a map.) This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: SWAT team conducts raid near Nancy Guthrie neighborhood Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday paid heartfelt homage to the soldiers killed during the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. Taking it to X, Kharge remembered their courage, dedication to service, and patriotism. Recalling their valour and devotion, he wrote, "We pay our deepest homage to the brave martyrs of Bharat Mata, who laid down their lives in Pulwama. Their indomitable courage and unflinching devotion to the nation will forever be etched in our collective memory. Their supreme sacrifice remains eternal. We shall never forget." Earlier today, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also paid tribute to the soldiers. In an X post, he wrote, "My heartfelt tributes to our brave soldiers who were martyred in the daring terrorist attack in Pulwama in 2019. The nation will forever remain indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice in the defence of Mother India." Prime Minister Narendra Modi said their courage continues to inspire every Indian. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Remembering the brave heroes who laid down their lives in Pulwama on this day in 2019. Their devotion, resolve and service to the nation remain forever etched in our collective consciousness. Every Indian draws strength from their enduring courage." Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district witnessed one of the deadliest terror attacks when as many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed when their convoy was targeted on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway on February 14, 2019. The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was caused by a suicide bomber, according to a local news agency. However, India launched a series of counter-terror operations, including airstrikes at terror camps in Pakistan, marking a significant escalation. The Pulwama terror attack not only triggered heightened tensions between India and Pakistan but also led to global discussions about cross-border terrorism and security in Jammu and Kashmir. It is marked as the 'Black Day' to remember the 40 brave CRPF soldiers who laid down their lives in the attack. (ANI) Switzerland said Saturday that Oman would host talks between the United States and Iran in Geneva next week, with Washington pushing Tehran to make a deal to limit its nuclear programme. "Switzerland stands ready at all times to offer its good offices to facilitate dialogue between the United States and Iran," a Swiss foreign ministry spokesman told AFP. On February 6, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held talks in Oman with US envoy Steve Witkoff and US President Donald Trump's influential son-in-law Jared Kushner. Advertisement Advertisement The talks were indirect, with the Omanis acting as mediators. Trump has recently focused his military threats on Tehran's nuclear programme, which US forces struck last June during Israel's unprecedented 12-day war with Iran. Trump said Friday that a change of government in Iran would be the "best thing that could happen", as he sent a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, ratcheting up military pressure on the Islamic republic. - Go-between - Switzerland has played a key role in diplomatic relations between Iran and the United States for decades. Renowned for its neutrality, Switzerland has been representing US interests in Iran since Washington broke off relations with Tehran after the 1980 hostage crisis, a year after the Iranian revolution. Advertisement Advertisement In its role as the so-called protecting power, Switzerland has for decades allowed the two feuding nations to maintain a minimum of diplomatic and consular relations. The Swiss embassy in Tehran handles all consular affairs between the United States and Iran, including passport requests, altering civil status and consular protection for US citizens in Iran. Under the protecting power mandate, "Switzerland can either offer to act as a go-between on its own initiative or can fulfil this function at the request of the parties concerned, provided that all those involved agree," the foreign ministry says on its website. The United States will be holding separate talks, also in Geneva next week, between Russia and Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Moscow and Kyiv will hold US-brokered talks on Tuesday and Wednesday in the Swiss city, both countries have said, announcing the next leg in fraught negotiations seeking to end the four-year war. Trump is pushing to halt the conflict, but two previous rounds of US-mediated talks in Abu Dhabi have not yielded signs of a breakthrough. rjm/jhb/db The Kansas City, Kansas Police Department has identified a 17-year-old who was shot and killed in the citys Victory Hills neighborhood Tuesday afternoon . The department was called to an apartment complex in the 7400 block of Armstrong Avenue around 2:45 p.m. Feb. 10 on reports of a shooting, Nancy Chartrand, a media relations specialist for the department, said in a news release Tuesday. There, detectives found Jai Barnes Jr., 17, suffering from gunshot wounds, Chartrand said. He was taken to a hospital, where he died from his injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Chartrand previously told The Star investigators believe the parties involved in the shooting knew each other. In an updated news release Friday, Chartrand said the department does not have any suspect information to release at this time. Barnes was exiting school bus when he was killed, family says In a GoFundMe fundraiser posted Friday , Barnes family members said the teen, to whom they referred as Baby Jai, was exiting a school bus in front of his residence when he was shot. This unimaginable loss has left our family heartbroken, the family wrote. From the moment he was born, the family said, Barnes brought so much joy to everyone around him. A son, brother, grandson and nephew, Barnes had a smile that could light up any room, and his presence brought happiness to family and friends, according to the GoFundMe. Advertisement Advertisement The teen had to figure out his own path, the family said, after the death of his father when Barnes was 9. Despite this, Barnes had a goal to graduate high school, wanting to make his family proud, the fundraiser said. Donations to the GoFundMe will go toward Barnes funeral expenses and honoring the teens memory, the family said. As of Friday evening, the fundraiser had raised $1,480 of its $3,000 goal. Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to call the anonymous Crime Stoppers TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). Tips may qualify for a reward. Philadelphia police are investigating after a teen boy was shot in the leg on Friday night. It happened around 5:40 p.m. along the 5700 block of Ardleigh Street in the city's Germantown section. Police say the victim was taken to an area hospital, where he's listed in stable condition. There was no word on what sparked the shooting or whether any arrests were made. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 215-686-TIPS. OLIVER SPRING, Tenn. (WATE) Local Black history does not always make its way into textbooks or onto library shelves. In many families, those stories are passed down through generations, shared at kitchen tables, in churches, and at community gatherings. Now, a museum in East Tennessee is working to ensure those stories are preserved and shared more broadly. Located in Oliver Springs, the Tri-County African American Museum focuses on documenting and celebrating the lives and contributions of Black families in Anderson, Roane, and Morgan counties. The museum opened last year with a clear mission: to preserve local history that might otherwise be lost. More than just a haircut: Inside Bates Barber and Beauty Salon in Knoxville Advertisement Advertisement In every county, there are stories to be told, said Julia Hopper Daniel, the driving force behind the museum. Daniel has been involved in historical work for nearly 50 years and recognized a need for a dedicated space to collect and share these narratives. Our history is so rich, Daniel said. Its hard to share. So the vision was here. Inside a modest strip mall storefront, carefully curated display cases weave together generations of family histories. Photographs, documents, and memorabilia highlight the deep roots of Black families in the region. Daniels own family story is part of that tapestry. Her relatives have lived in the area for nearly seven generations. She traces her lineage back to a great-great-grandmother who was brought to Oliver Springs as an enslaved woman. From those beginnings, her familys legacy evolved to include educators, college students, and even a Tuskegee Airman. Advertisement Advertisement She also points to connections that stretch far beyond East Tennessee. One exhibit highlights her cousin, the late actor Cameron Boyce, known for his roles in Walt Disney productions. Boyces grandmother, Joanne, one of the Clinton 12 who integrated Clinton High School in 1956, also hailed from Oliver Springs. Uncovering Knoxvilles Black history: Landmarks of resilience and change Visitors to the museum often find more than artifacts, they find living history. Community members frequently stop by to share their own stories. Charlene Webster, recognized as one of the first Black beauty salon owners in Oak Ridge, proudly displays a metal proclamation honoring her achievement. For Webster, the recognition reflects decades of perseverance. Advertisement Advertisement The museum also preserves stories tied to coal mining, a central part of the regions economic foundation. Ronolda Dooley shared how generations of coal miners built legacies that extended far beyond the mines. All of these coal miners have stories of their ancestors, Dooley said. And then their kids have evolved. She points to her own family, noting that her grandfathers great-granddaughter now serves as a medical director at Wake Forest University, an example of how far those roots have grown. Knoxville realtors push to build generational wealth through homeownership The exhibits do not shy away from the painful chapters of history, including enslavement and the Jim Crow era. Instead, they place those hardships alongside stories of resilience, education, entrepreneurship, and achievement. Advertisement Advertisement Museum leaders say they are only getting started. New artifacts and stories are added regularly, expanding the narrative and ensuring future generations understand the depth of their heritage. We need to tell more about our story, Dooley said. Basically, what were doing is standing on the shoulders of the people that were here. The museum is about honoring that foundation, recognizing that the strength of the community today is built on the sacrifices and determination of those who came before. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side. A Tennessee bill that has sparked debate at the State Capitol is now one step closer to becoming law. Lawmakers in the Tennessee House approved legislation Thursday, Feb. 12, that would allow public schools to display the Ten Commandments and other historic documents inside school buildings. Some state lawmakers believe the measure blurs the constitutional line between church and state, while supporters said it provides historical and moral context for students. House Bill 47 passed by a 7517 vote. The bill gives local boards of education and public charter school governing bodies the option to display historically significant documents in prominent areas of school buildings. According to lawmakers, the approved materials include the Ten Commandments, the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, the Tennessee Constitution, the Bill of Rights and resolutions honoring a schools history. Advertisement Advertisement Among those who voted in favor was Democratic state Rep. Antonio Parkinson (District 98), who said the legislation allows schools to present the Ten Commandments from a broader historical and moral perspective. Our children need to be able to see everything from a holistic view, Parkinson said. Im one of the Democrats that feel like prayer should be back in school and opportunities for kids to pray should be in school. Parkinson added that families seeking a religious-focused education already have alternatives, including private and faith-based schools. He stressed that posting documents alone does not instill values without personal accountability. It doesnt matter if you post the Ten Commandments or if you post the Three Stooges, Parkinson said. If youre not living by what God said to live by then its all in vain anyway. Advertisement Advertisement Some parents support the measure, saying it could help reinforce principles taught at home. Shelby County resident Cicilia Gonzalez said displaying the Ten Commandments could provide students with a moral foundation. The Ten Commandments of God [are] the primary baseline; the fundamental. And if we teach our kids the fundamentals of the word of God, they will have a prosperous life, Gonzalez said. Others, however, oppose the bill, arguing religion should remain a family matter rather than a classroom lesson. Shelby County parent Lovie Robinson said schools should avoid teaching religious beliefs that may not reflect every students background. Advertisement Advertisement All religions, its just not the same, Robinson said. Just like our skin, were not all the same. Opposition also came from the House floor. State Rep. Justin Pearson, who voted against the bill, released a statement calling the measure unconstitutional: "I am a baptized Christian believer, a preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, a son and grandson of Christian preachers, and an elected Representative of people of many different faith traditions or none at all. The government cannot lift up one faith over other faiths, regardless of our personal beliefs. Allowing school districts to place the Ten Commandments in schools without allowing any other religions holy texts is anti-constitutional. This law establishes a preference for Christianity in spaces where people of all faiths or no faith pay tax dollars. Advertisement Advertisement "Not all children come from the Christian faith. They have a right to learn in environments that do not place one faith above theirs or anyone else's. If you want to have religion in schools, there are private schools where parents can send their kids. In fact, our state now provides private school vouchers funded with public money to allow parents to do so; although I believe this is wrong, too. "The Founders wrote clearly in the First Amendments Establishment Clause that 'Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion' and neither should the state of Tennessee." House Bill 47 now moves forward as part of Tennessees broader education policy framework, where it will continue through the legislative process. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's speech on the state of the trans-Atlantic alliance in Munich on Saturday drew a cautious, but broadly positive, response from top German politicians. Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil said Rubio's speech at the Munich Security Conference was "very conciliatory" and "very diplomatic," but stressed that deep differences persisted. "We simply have to recognize that we currently have many issues in the trans-Atlantic relationship that aren't working well together," he told dpa. Advertisement Advertisement "Therefore, the worst thing that could happen now would be for the Europeans to sit back and say: 'Everything's fine again now.'" Klingbeil said the shift in tone from Washington reflected Europe's firmer stance toward the United States, pointing in particular to its united pushback against President Donald Trump's bid to take control of Greenland. Germany's top diplomat, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, said he felt relief after the speech. "That was the speech I expected," he said, calling Rubio "a true partner" whom he had known for some time. Advertisement Advertisement He added that the presence of a large bipartisan congressional delegation at the conference showed that, despite tensions, Europe and Germany "have partners in the US." Norbert Rottgen, a senior member of Chancellor Friedrich Merz's conservative CDU party, said Rubio had set out a framework "within which the differences of opinion in the trans-Atlantic relationship can be discussed," although he noted that it lacked concrete policy details, including on stopping Russia's war against Ukraine. In his speech, Rubio said that Europe and the United States "belong together," but that the decades-old alliance must be revitalized. The message, while at times highly critical of Europe on issues such as migration, was received with relief in the conference hall and greeted with applause. MUNICH (AP) German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called on Friday for the United States and Europe to repair and revive trans-Atlantic trust together, saying that even the U.S. isn't powerful enough to go it alone in an world whose old order has withered. Merz called for a new trans-Atlantic partnership, acknowledging that a divide, a deep rift has opened up across the Atlantic as he opened the Munich Security Conference, an annual gathering of top global security figures, including many European leaders and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Merz said that the post-World War II world order, as imperfect as it was at its best times, no longer exists today. Hours later, French President Emmanuel Macron said that Europe has to become a geopolitical power. He said that it's ongoing, but we have to accelerate in areas such as defense, technology and derisking vis-a-vis all the big powers in order to be much more independent. Advertisement Advertisement At last year's conference, a few weeks into U.S. President Donald Trump's second term, U.S. Vice President JD Vance stunned European leaders by lecturing them about the state of democracy and freedom of speech on the continent a moment that set the tone for the last year. A series of statements and moves from the Trump administration targeting allies followed, including Trump's threat last month to impose new tariffs on several European countries in a bid to secure U.S. control of Greenland, a semiautonomous territory of NATO ally Denmark. The president later dropped that threat. Stronger together The culture war of the MAGA movement in the U.S. is not ours, Merz said. The freedom of the word ends here when this word is turned against human dignity and the constitution. And we don't believe in tariffs and protectionism, but in free trade. He said that Europe would stand by climate agreements and the World Health Organization. Advertisement Advertisement But Merz said that Europe and the U.S. should conclude that we are stronger together" in today's world. In the era of great-power rivalry, even the United States will not be powerful enough to go it alone, he said. Dear friends, being a part of NATO is not only Europe's competitive advantage. It's also the United States' competitive advantage, so let's repair and revive trans-Atlantic trust together. The Europeans, Merz said, are doing their part. Shift in mindset in Europe Since last years Munich conference, NATO allies have agreed under pressure from Trump to a large increase in their defense spending target. Advertisement Advertisement NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said that there has been a shift in mindset, with Europe really stepping up, Europe taking more of a leadership role within NATO, Europe also taking more care of its own defense. With Rubio heading the U.S. delegation this year, European leaders can hope for a less contentious approach more focused on traditional global security concerns. Before departing for Germany, Rubio had some reassuring words as he described Europe as important for Americans. Were very tightly linked together with Europe, he told reporters. Most people in this country can trace both, either their cultural or their personal heritage, back to Europe. So, we just have to talk about that. But Rubio made clear that it wouldnt be business as usual, saying: We live in a new era in geopolitics, and its going to require all of us to reexamine what that looks like. Advertisement Advertisement Mike Waltz, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, told the conference that the U.S. had been sustaining the financial burden of multilateralism for too long and Europeans need to do more. There is a cost to the status quo and the status quo was not sustainable any more, Waltz said. Merz said that Europe's excessive dependency on the U.S. was its own fault, but it's leaving that behind. We won't do this by writing off NATO we will do it by building a strong, self-supporting European pillar in the alliance, in our own interest, he said. He acknowledged that Europe and the U.S. will likely have to bridge more disagreements in the future than in the past, but if we do this with new strength, respect and self-respect, that is to the advantage of both sides. Advertisement Advertisement Macron, who emphasized the priority of supporting Ukraine and called for greater regulation of social media, also stressed the importance of respect. This is the right time for a strong Europe, he said. This Europe will be a good ally and partner for the United States of America, because it will be a partner taking its fair share of the burden. It will be a partner being respected and we have to be respected. Rubio arrived in Munich on Friday. He met with Merz, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and others separately on the sidelines of the conference. He is due to address the conference on Saturday morning. The German chancellor, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and several other European leaders met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Munich, before another round of U.S-brokered talks between envoys from Russia and Ukraine in Geneva next week. Advertisement Advertisement Rubio wasn't participating in the meeting as his schedule was packed with separate bilateral meetings with European officials, including one with the leaders of Denmark and Greenland, a U.S. official said. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because neither the meeting nor Rubios attendance had been announced, said that Rubio was and would be discussing Russias war with Ukraine in other formats. Ukraines Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha played down the fact that Rubio didnt attend the meeting, saying that, from Ukraines perspective, the important meeting with the Secretary of State would take place on Saturday. Sybiha said security guarantees from the U.S. for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire were almost ready, and that Ukraine had more clarity on what the U.S. was ready to provide following meetings in Abu Dhabi. He declined to give details of the guarantees but said they must be legally binding and include intelligence data, of course, support in air, and other important elements which could be provided only by the USA. Advertisement Advertisement When asked by AP if discussions had taken place over what the U.S. would do about a physical or hybrid attack by Russia in the event of a ceasefire, Sybiha said the U.S. and Ukraine probably have this understanding," without elaborating. ___ Geir Moulson reported from Berlin. Claudia Ciobanu contributed to this report from Warsaw, Poland. The Brief Southern California will experience a mild, sunny warming trend through Sunday before a series of three cold storm systems arrive starting Monday. Coasts and valleys will reach the low 70s this weekend; Mondays storm could drop up to 2 inches of rain in lower elevations and 4 inches in mountains. Meteorologists are still determining the exact moisture levels of the third potential system expected to hit the region on Thursday. LOS ANGELES - Southern California is bracing for a significant shift in weather as three powerful storm systems are forecast to end a warm dry spell, bringing heavy precipitation and hazardous conditions through late next week. What we know A warming trend fueled by light offshore winds will occur from Friday through Sunday, according to the latest NWS forecast. Advertisement Advertisement During this window, coastal areas and valleys should see highs in the upper 60s to low 70s, while mountain and inland areas will remain in the 50s and 60s. The NWS has identified Sunday as a "transition day" before the first and strongest of two storm systems arrives from the northwest. This initial wave is expected to deliver the heaviest rainfall on Monday, with 1 to 3 inches forecast for coastal and valley regions and 2 to 5 inches in the mountains. The storm will also bring a risk of thunderstorms, strong winds, and high surf. Snow levels will initially sit around 6,500 feet but are expected to tumble as colder air moves in. Advertisement Advertisement A second storm is slated for Tuesday into Wednesday, followed by a third on Thursday. Timeline Friday Sunday: Mild warming trend with peak temperatures on Saturday and Sunday. Sunday Night: The first storm system reaches the Central Coast. Monday: Widespread heavy rain and the start of the "wettest" period of the week. Tuesday Wednesday: The second storm arrives; snow levels begin to drop significantly. Thursday: A third system may impact the region, though moisture levels are unconfirmed. What we don't know While the timing for the first storm is relatively certain, the NWS notes that "its always difficult to time these features 4 or more days out," particularly regarding the exact end of the second system. Advertisement Advertisement While debris flows are a major concern, the precise locations of the most intense rain rates within burn scars remain difficult to pinpoint until the storm is closer. What's next Snow levels are expected to undergo a dramatic change as the week progresses. While the snow level will start near 6,000 feet on Monday, it is forecast to fall to between 3,000 and 3,500 feet by Wednesday. This could lead to significant snowfall in lower mountain passes and potentially hazardous driving conditions. What you can do Clear drainage: Ensure gutters and storm drains are clear of debris to prevent localized flooding. Monitor burn scars: Residents near recent burn areas should stay alert for weather updates and be prepared to evacuate if debris flow warnings are issued. Avoid the surf: Stay away from rock jetties and the water, as large breaking waves and dangerous rip currents are expected. Prep for snow: If traveling through mountain passes Tuesday or Wednesday, carry tire chains and an emergency kit. The Source This report is based on information from the National Weather Service. President Trump went after former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper (D), whos running for Senate, and hyped up his opponent, Republican Michael Whatley, during his Friday speech at the Fort Bragg military base in North Carolina. We want to keep this area safe, and we cant do that without the leaders. And your ex-governor is not one of them. Would be a disaster if he got in one of the things that I just mentioned and saw, you saw the monster that killed an innocent young Ukrainian girl a couple of months ago, slitting her throat from behind, the president said, referring to the August stabbing death of Iryna Zarutska. And this was the man, the governor that allowed this man to get out and to do that. We dont do that, Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement The president has often gone after his political opponents during campaign rallies and has hammered foes during speeches to the military since coming back to office. After slamming Cooper, Trump praised Whatley, the former chair of the Republican National Committee. Thats not going to happen with Michael Whatley, that I can tell you, the president said. Coopers campaign panned Trumps attacks as false. Roy Cooper is the only candidate who spent his career prosecuting violent criminals and keeping thousands of them behind bars as attorney general, and signing tough on crime laws and stricter pretrial release bail policy as governor, the spokesperson said in a statement to The Hill. Advertisement Advertisement DC insider and Big Oil lobbyist Michael Whatley is desperate to distract from his support for cuts to law enforcement that make North Carolinians less safe. Cooper is seen as the front-runner in the Democratic primary, while Whatley, who was endorsed by Trump, is running in a crowded GOP primary. Early voting is underway in North Carolina for the primaries. During his speech, the president also announced that the U.S. is buying 30 Abrams tanks, 48 King Stallion, Chinook and Black Hawk helicopters and 86 armored multipurpose fighting vehicles. Were going to be doing many other things that nobody thought was even possible, Trump said. Were actually using that strength to defend the core, vital interests of the United States, and very simply, put America first. Advertisement Advertisement Updated: 6:48 p.m. EST Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Over the years, President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump have attended the Daytona 500. Will they do so again in 2026? As of Feb. 13, 2026, or Friday the 13th, it was not known whether the Trumps would make an appearance at the Great American Race in their home state. The president did, however, attend the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida, on Feb. 16, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Some members of the Trump family even accompanied him to the track. The couples previous visits include the signature NASCAR races in February 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001 when they were dating and later engaged. (Donald and Melania Trump married Jan. 22, 2005.) In February 2020, during his first presidential term, Donald Trump was the Grand Marshal for the 62nd annual Daytona 500. It was months before the 2020 presidential election, in which he lost to President Joe Biden. Donald Trump typically visits his private club and primary residence, Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, every Presidents' Day weekend, which coincides with the Daytona 500. The Palm Beach Post, which is part of the USA TODAY Network, reported Donald Trump will be back in Florida this week. His February 2025 return to Daytona International Speedway marked his second as commander-in-chief, when he was sworn in as the 47th president of the U.S. on Inauguration Day, Jan. 20, 2025. Trump attended 2025 Daytona 500 in Daytona Beach, Florida A week after Donald Trump made history on Super Bowl Sunday 2025 with his appearance at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans the president made another trip a week later to a premiere NASCAR event the Daytona 500 in Daytona Beach, Florida. Advertisement Advertisement It's one of many visits to the Great American Race from the commander-in-chief and his second as president of the U.S. In 2020, Trump was the grand marshal for the 62nd annual Daytona 500, and First Lady Melania Trump accompanied him. Five years later, Donald Trump arrived at the 67th annual Daytona 500 without his wife. Melania Trump sent good wishes, however. On Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, Donald Trump was spotted next to his daughter, Ivanka Trump, at Super Bowl LIX. The father-daughter duo were seen clapping as they looked down at the field with her youngest son Theodore "Theo" Kushner. Donald Trump Jr., his girlfriend Bettina Anderson, and three of his five children with ex-wife Vanessa Trump also attended. Eric and Lara Trump were at the Super Bowl without their two children. On Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025, Donald Trump arrived at the Daytona Beach International Airport, which is next door to Daytona International Speedway, for the Great American Race. Advertisement Advertisement Which members of the Trump family and inner circle celebrated with him at the 2025 Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida? Here's what we know. Which Trump family members attended 2025 Daytona 500 in Daytona Beach, Florida? Donald Trump arrived at the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida, ahead of the green flag. With him was his granddaughter, Carolina Trump, daughter of his son Eric Trump and his wife, Lara Trump. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday strongly continued his attack on Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over a now-deleted video allegedly showing violence against Muslims, describing it as "genocidal." Speaking to ANI, Owaisi said that had he made such a video, the reaction would have been very different. He questioned why the video was deleted if the Assam Chief Minister had nothing to hide and objected to remarks about paying an auto driver less if he is a 'Miyan', asking whether such language was appropriate for a Chief Minister. "That video is genocidal...If I had made that video, imagine what would have happened in the nation...No one is questioning him...He is asking to pay Rs 2 less to an auto driver if he is a 'Miyan'...Does this kind of language suit the Chief Minister of a state?... Why was that video deleted if you (Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma) were honest?," Owaisi said. Owaisi on Monday lodged an official complaint with Hyderabad City Police seeking criminal action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over a "now-deleted video" allegedly depicting violence against Muslims, describing it as "genocidal hate speech." The Hyderabad MP also commented on the controversy surrounding the national song Vande Mataram, saying it should not be used as a test of loyalty. He alleged that the approach of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh could push the country towards becoming a theocratic state. "This should not be made a test of loyalty...The way the BJP and RSS are taking forward the nation, it will become a theocratic nation," he said. On repeated disruptions in Parliament, Owaisi said the ruling party gains when Parliament does not function. He added that the document quoted by the Leader of the Opposition was a public record and noted that the government had not denied what former Army chief General MM Naravane (Retd) had written. "The ruling party benefits only if Parliament does not function...The document the leader of the opposition quoted was a public document...The government is not even denying what the former Army chief General MM Naravane (Retd) has written," Owaisi said. A political row erupted after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi sought to quote from the "pre-print book" version of Naravane's memoir during his speech in the Lok Sabha on the motion of thanks to the President's Address last week, with the treasury benches strongly opposing his remarks. The Speaker passed a ruling, asking the LoP not to quote unpublished literature. The first phase of the Budget Session of Parliament concluded on February 13, while the second phase is scheduled to begin on March 9. (ANI) President Donald Trump Friday sharply criticized former President Joe Bidens handling of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, calling it an "embarrassment" and arguing his administration would not have left military equipment behind. "You remember that where they left all the military equipment behind? We didn't. We wouldn't have left anything," Trump said while speaking at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. "We were going to get out with dignity and strength, respect. We looked like we were running. We don't run from anybody. That was a Biden embarrassment." Trump also questioned why aircraft were not flown out of the country. Advertisement Advertisement "We don't leave equipment behind. We don't leave jets behind," he said. "I said, why do you leave those jets behind, sir? I thought it was cheaper to leave it behind. You know, $150 million plane. All they had to do is put a little jet fuel in there and fly it to wherever they want to fly it." He said the U.S. military had been rebuilt during his first term and is now stronger than ever. "So with the help of everyone in this room, America is the strongest military on the face of the earth. We rebuilt it. We really did," Trump said. "We rebuilt it in my first term." Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Four Years After Abbey Gate, Veterans Who Saved Civilians Demand Accountability A gate is seen at the Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, Friday, June 25, 2021. The U.S. evacuated the base in August. (AP Newsroom) Inside Abbey Gate, British and American security forces maintain order amongst the Afghan evacuees waiting to leave, in Kabul, Aug. 25, 2021. Trump Hails 'Great And Very Brave' Uk Soldiers After Slamming Nato Allies' Afghanistan Service His remarks came during a visit that honored the special operators involved in the operation to capture former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, which he contrasted as an "extraordinary military operation." The U.S. completed its withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021 after nearly 20 years of war. The evacuation followed a February 2020 agreement negotiated during Trumps first term that set a timeline for U.S. forces to leave the country. Advertisement Advertisement Click Here To Download The Fox News App Biden oversaw the final withdrawal as Taliban forces rapidly seized control of Afghanistan, culminating in a suicide bombing at Kabuls airport that killed 13 U.S. service members and roughly 170 Afghan civilians. Biden has argued that he was bound by the withdrawal agreement negotiated during Trumps first term and faced the choice of completing the pullout or sending more U.S. troops back into combat. Trump has rejected that claim, saying his deal with the Taliban was "conditions-based" and that he would not have withdrawn if the Taliban failed to meet its commitments. Fox News Digital reached out to Biden Friday for comment and has yet to receive a reply. Original article source: Trump: We dont run from anybody in blasting Biden over Afghanistan withdrawal PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: And he was responsible, along with Laura Trump. Laura is fantastic. Born here and loves the area, but they work together. But Michael Watley, if hes here, I dont know. Michael, Michael. Michael, will you come here for a second, please? Hes running for the Senate. And if he gets in, youre going to be taken care of. If he doesnt get in, were going to be stripping the military like they always do, the Democrats. This is a man who was the head of North Carolina. And so he did so well that I said. Who was that guy that did so well? Because when it came time to picking the head of the Republican Party, I picked him. And you saw what happened in the last election. We won at a landslide. We won every swing state, all seven swing states. We won by millions of votes, the popular vote. You know, the first time I won, but they say I didnt win the popular vote, you know I did. I won it by a lot, but they said I didnt. So every time theyd introduce Donald Trump, who didnt won the popular vote, but he, you know, whatever. This I was always I said, I dont ever want that to happen again. But we did. We won everything. And this is a man that was in charge of this state. He did so well here. There was nobody else that I even considered to run the RNC. Thats the whole country. And we had a big, big victory just recently that you know very well a victory like theyve never seen. So Id just like you to say a couple of words, Michael. Congratulations. As Louisiana seeks to have 60% of its adults hold a college degree or credential, President Donald Trumps administration is investigating the states effort to increase the number of minority residents who reach that goal. The U.S. Department of Education announced in a news release Friday that the Louisiana Board of Regents, which oversees higher education in the state, is the subject of a probe into an objective in its 2019 strategic plan. It called for improvements in the numbers of Black and Hispanic students who receive diplomas and certifications from a baseline of 14,579 in 202021 to 16,000 in academic year 202526. Louisianas colleges and universities crossed that line early in 2023-24. Advertisement Advertisement The Regents plan is just one of many seeking to address significant higher education attainment gaps in Louisiana, with comparable goals existing for non-traditional adult students, those from rural areas, students who are parents, as well as veterans and active duty military But the Trump administration alleges the objectives for Black and Hispanic students are discriminatory. The Louisiana Board of Regents objective to prioritize recruitment and graduation efforts for all races other than white [and] Asian appears to blatantly violate not only Americas antidiscrimination laws, but our nations core principles, said Kimberly Richey, assistant secretary for the the Education Departments Office of Civil Rights. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration claims Louisianas policy violates Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color or national origin in education or any program that receives federal financial assistance. Title VI guarantees all students equal access to educational programs and opportunities regardless of race and [the Office of Civil Rights] is committed to preserving these rights, Richey added. OCR will fully enforce Title VI to ensure our education programs are defined by equality, not exclusion. Richey did not say what consequences Louisiana would face if the investigation finds a civil rights violation, but Title VI infractions can result in the loss or suspension of federal dollars and possibly a lawsuit from the Department of Justice. Misti Cordell, chair of the Board of Regents, confirmed the notice from the Education Department had been received. Advertisement Advertisement We will provide all requested information as it relates to our Master Plan and the state budget. We are committed to being aligned with Governor Landrys and President Trumps administrations, Cordell said in a statement. Though Cordell is on a leave of absence from the Board of Regents to run as a Republican in the 5th Congressional District, she remains chairwoman under state law. In a social media post Friday, Gov. Jeff Landry said the Education Department investigation complements his efforts to remove diversity, equity and inclusion from all realms of state policy. Over the last 2 years, my administration has taken steps to eradicate unfair and harmful DEI practices from Louisianas higher education system, Landry wrote. We welcome the investigation to shed light on any areas where DEI is still seeping into our systems. Advertisement Advertisement The objective Richey mentioned has been a subject of controversy in Louisiana since it was publicized in a series of blog posts on the far-right blog, The Hayride, in September and October. The Board of Regents has since faced questions from House Appropriations Chairman Rep. Jack McFarland, R-Jonesboro, and House Education Chairwoman Laurie Schlegel, R-Metairie, about the policys purpose and whether it was being used in a discriminatory fashion. The pair asked for a written response to questions from the education committees. Read the Regents full response below. The plan does not contain any prohibited DEI preferences, but instead reflects the Regents goal to improve the educational attainment levels of ALL Louisiana citizens, including underrepresented minorities as demonstrated in the overwhelming number of objective applying to growth across all student populations in Louisiana, Regents staff wrote in response to the lawmakers. Commissioner of Administration Taylor Barras, who is Gov. Jeff Landrys budget chief, also addressed the lawmakers concerns in an email in October. While the minority student objective is listed in supporting documents for Landrys budget, it is not tied to any funding, Barras said. Advertisement Advertisement The Board of Regents provided its response to the lawmakers and Barras email Friday when asked questions about the Department of Education investigation. McFarland has yet to respond to a request for comment for this report. Schlegel referred questions to state Rep. Charles Owen, R-Rosepine, who also serves on the House Education Committee. I dont see any harm with working toward improvement where improvement is needed, but lets make sure that we help group X, that we dont accidentally pursue actions against group A and group B, Owen said when reached by phone. We really need to work toward higher and better education for everyone who embraces Louisiana public education. I am for equal treatment for all, Owen added. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE On Wednesday, Gallup announced that after 88 years, it will no longer be tracking presidential approval ratings. The organization that began asking Americans a simple question in 1938 Do you approve or disapprove today of Franklin Roosevelts job as President? now believes the very premise of the poll and the results it provided no longer represent an area where Gallup can make its most distinctive contribution. A spokesperson for the organization characterized the decision as part of a broader, ongoing effort to align all of Gallups public work with its mission and denied that it came in response to pressure from the Trump administration. But the sudden change, coming at a time when reports have circulated about Donald Trumps anger at his historically-low approval ratings, is suspect. In a recent video, Democratic strategist James Carville suggested that Gallups move was a strategic decision. Im going to tell you right now, Gallup, I dont believe you, he said. I believe you were pressured. I believe this story needs to be explored, because the surrender and capitulation we are seeing at a time of need for the United States is unbelievable. Advertisement Advertisement Multiple polls have captured an undeniable truth: Trumps approval ratings are weak. Two months ago, a Gallup poll showed that Trump had a 36% approval rating, which is a low point for his second term and is among the lowest approval ratings recorded for a president at this stage of a term. In a healthy democracy, political leaders typically respond by adjusting their policies or message in an effort to regain the approval of voters. But Trump is doing the opposite. With his ongoing mass deportation campaign, the arrests of journalists Don Lemon and Georgia Fort, and the FBIs raid on election offices in Fulton County, Georgia, the president is escalating his efforts to silence his critics and weaken Americas democratic institutions. All the while, he is raging at the polls, claiming that unfavorable surveys are part of a vast left-wing conspiracy against him and threatening to take legal action. On Jan. 22, when the results of the New York Times/Siena poll showed him with low approval ratings, he vented on Truth Social about the fake results and threatened to add the poll to his defamation suit against the outlet. There is precedent for such a threat. In December 2024, Trump sued pollster Ann Selzer and the Des Moines Register for a poll released just before Election Day that showed him losing Iowa. (He went on to win the state.) The case remains in litigation. This is Orwellian behavior. Like other authoritarians, Trump does not like the facts and attempts to avoid reality, so he tries to twist them to fit his will. Advertisement Advertisement Autocrats use the power of the state to silence dissent and suffocate democratic life. But even that power requires public cooperation, taking the form of what historian Timothy Snyder, a leading authority on authoritarianism, describes as anticipatory obedience. Most of the power of authoritarianism is freely given, Snyder explains in his book On Tyranny. In times like these, individuals think ahead about what a more repressive government will want, and then offer themselves without being asked. A citizen who adapts in this way is teaching power what it can do. Anticipatory obedience is a political tragedy. Perhaps rulers did not initially know that citizens were willing to compromise this value or that principle. Similar patterns have emerged as news organizations, law firms, universities and other institutions have bent the knee often unsuccessfully in attempts to placate Trump and his allies. When leading institutions surrender to an autocrat, it normalizes the behavior and sets a precedent that others will follow. This is especially true of a highly-respected organization such as Gallup, which has, for almost nine decades, occupied an outsized role in American political life. Advertisement Advertisement Henry E. Brady, the former president of the American Political Science Association who now serves as dean of the Goldman School of Public Policy and professor of political science and public policy at the University of California, Berkeley, noted the historical context of Gallups announcement. The organizations founder, George Gallup, he said, argued that public opinion polls could provide information that elections could not give us. Elections only tell us about public opinion every two to four years, and they do not tell us much about the opinions that lead to one candidate being elected over another, Brady said, summarizing Gallups thinking. They do not tell us why people voted as they did. They tell us only whether the public prefers one candidate to another, and the reasons are often hard to decipher leading to the contentious debates about electoral mandates. Public opinion polls, though, which include the measure of presidential approval, could tell us what elections mean. They would provide a barometer of public opinion. Over the years, surveys charting presidential approval ratings from Roosevelt to Trump have contributed to democracy, Brady argued. It is the longest-running time series that we have on politics, and it allows us to compare presidential performance across presidents and political eras. Advertisement Advertisement Opinion polls also allow us to do something else: combat misinformation and disinformation on what people think, said Andrew J. Seligsohn, the president of Public Agenda, a nonpartisan, nonprofit research-to-action organization. Its easy to conclude that we know what everyone believes based on what we see on social media or in partisan news sources. But these conclusions are often false. If we dont have reliable, methodologically sound, independent evidence from credible sources about what members of the public believe, we can be misled as can legislators, courts, and leaders of other powerful institutions. All presidents have been concerned about their approval ratings. But Trump is uniquely fixated on them. Want more sharp takes on politics? Sign up for our free newsletter, Standing Room Only, written by Amanda Marcotte, now also a weekly show on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. Despite that, Marc Farinella, the executive director of the Center for Survey Methodology at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, expressed skepticism that Gallups shift came in response to pressure from Trump. Instead, he said that the move reflects a changed political landscape one in which methodology matters less to consumers than topline results: There are now numerous polling firms that use less rigorous, and arguably less accurate, methodologies to track presidential approval and take other simple measurements that political junkies like to read about. News consumers arent focused on the limits and potential pitfalls of various methodologies; they are just focused on the results. Advertisement Advertisement Farinella explained that the polls presidents and presidential candidates really care about are much more detailed, more extensive, more sophisticated and more methodologically rigorous than the publicly available polls we all see and hear about. But context and appearance matter, as Seligsohn said. Gallup says this was a genuine strategic decision unrelated to external pressure, and I have no basis for doubting that. In the current climate, though, appearing to capitulate can matter if it normalizes that behavior, even if the decision was based on unrelated business factors. Trumps threats and lawsuits against media outlets, and his legal action against Selzer, are among the behavior that is being normalized. Then there is the presidents desire, part of a years-long quest, to make America and reality itself an extension of his mind and ego. Even if Trumps face were carved into Mount Rushmore and his name placed on currency and public polls declared a 110% approval rating, it would not change the underlying fact that a majority of Americans disapprove of him as president. Advertisement Advertisement From the No Kings protests and strikes to the slew of recent Republican losses in elections across the country, public opposition to the president and his agenda is growing and Trump is not amused. Empirical facts have the power to puncture partisan echo chambers and other closed-off belief systems. In a country experiencing democratic backsliding, this function becomes essential, providing what Seligsohn called a corrective function that is especially important right now, as democratic norms are violated in new ways nearly every day. If we think that everyone else accepts that as normal, we might be inclined to do so ourselves, he said. If we learn that many people do not, we might be more inclined to ask questions. Public opinion research gets us outside of our echo chambers and confronts us with the fact that Americans have ideas, including ideas that are very different from what we might assume to be the case based on our own experience. However Gallup explains it, the decision to stop tracking presidential approval numbers is a significant loss for democratic accountability. Advertisement Advertisement For almost nine decades, Gallup helped shine that light. Now it has chosen to dim it at a moment when American democracy requires more illumination, not less. The post Trump gets help ignoring public opinion voters should worry appeared first on Salon.com. A bipartisan group of lawmakers is pushing to give special visas to construction workers, given that the Trump administrations deportation campaign is reportedly causing a labor shortage on construction sites in states like Texas. The Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act, introduced in September, would offer non-citizens temporary, renewable visas for up to nine years to work in key industries where employers are struggling to hire. That would help us protect and get immigrants legally for those in the construction industry, Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-TX) told Nexstar. Advertisement Advertisement De La Cruz was part of a group of South Texas leaders who met with House Speaker Mike Johnson this week to discuss the proposal, as home builders in the state warn of slowing construction times and difficulty hiring over fears of immigration raids. They hear Monte Cielo and say, No, no. You can pay me whatever you want, but Im not going to go work there, Alejandro Garcia, a home builder at work on a development in Weslaco, Texas, that has been raided multiple times, told The Wall Street Journal last week. A bipartisan group of lawmakers is pushing for a program offering temporary visas to construction workers, as home builders struggle with shortages in the face of Trump administration immigration raids (Getty Images) A concrete supplier in the region, meanwhile, told the paper that concrete use fell 60 percent between May and November, as builders lost workers and projects stalled. A project that was taking maybe four to five months on an average, starter-type home is now taking eight, nine, 10 months, just because of the delays, Efrain Gomez, treasurer of the South Texas Builders Association, told NewsNation. Its a huge ripple effect. Advertisement Advertisement Immigrants, legal and otherwise, make up more than half the construction workforce in states like Texas, California, Florida, and New York, according to the National Association of Home Builders. The Trump administrations immigration campaign has butted up against key industries like agriculture, hospitality, and construction that rely heavily on the labor of immigrants and undocumented people. The Trump administration has faced tension over its immigration goals and the high proportion of migrant labor in key industries like agriculture (AFP via Getty Images) The administration has pushed to expand the H-2A visa for farm workers, and last year, Trump toyed with a pause on raids on hotels, restaurants, and agriculture, only for the administration to insist days later there would be no safe spaces for industries who harbor violent criminals or purposely try to undermine ICE's efforts." The administration has faced similar tensions over the H-1B specialist visa program, which is heavily in use by the presidents allies in the tech industry but undercuts his emphasis on hiring American workers. Donald Trump said regime change in Iran would be the best thing that could happen, marking one of his strongest endorsements yet for replacing the countrys clerical leadership. The US president, speaking at Fort Bragg military base in North Carolina, accused Tehran of prolonged aggression, with years of discussions but no end to violence. He said: For 47 years, theyve been talking and talking and talking. In the meantime, weve lost a lot of lives. Legs blown off, arms blown off, faces blown off. Weve been going on for a long time. Advertisement Advertisement Asked whether he supported regime change in Iran, Mr Trump replied that it seems like that would be the best thing that could happen. He declined to say who should replace the current leadership but said: There are people. The US has sent a second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R Ford, to the Middle East, increasing pressure on Tehran amid stalled nuclear negotiations. The USs military presence in the Middle East includes the USS Gerald R Ford the largest aircraft carrier in the world Mr Trump said tremendous power would soon be positioned in the region and shared an aerial photograph of the carrier on social media, showing it in transit. An official said the carrier would take a week to reach the Middle East. Asked why a second aircraft carrier was being sent, he said: In case we dont make a deal, well need it ... if we need it, well have it ready. Advertisement Advertisement The first carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln, was sent to the region in January. The deployment followed US threats to strike Iran over the governments crackdown on protests, which left thousands of civilians dead. The US military is preparing for the possibility of a sustained, weeks-long operation against Tehran if Mr Trump orders an attack, two officials told Reuters on Saturday, raising the stakes for negotiations between the two nations. Asked about preparations for a potentially sustained military action, Anna Kelly, the White House spokesman, said: President Trump has all options on the table with regard to Iran. He listens to a variety of perspectives on any given issue, but makes the final decision based on what is best for our country and national security. The US is pushing Iran to halt uranium enrichment, and wants renewed nuclear talks to address Tehrans ballistic missile programme and its support for armed groups across the region. Advertisement Advertisement Mr Trump withdrew the US from the Obama-era nuclear deal during his first term and reinstated sweeping sanctions. Iran has said it is willing to discuss limitations on its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief, but has ruled out linking the issue to non-nuclear missiles. Masoud Pezeshkian, the Iranian president, warned that his country would not yield to their excessive demands. Mr Trump has repeatedly threatened military strikes if no agreement is reached, while Tehran has vowed to retaliate, raising fears of a wider regional conflict. The US carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June, when two aircraft carriers were deployed to nearby waters. Advertisement Advertisement The demonstrations in Iran were among the largest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which established the countrys clerical system under a supreme leader currently Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei. Thousands of protesters were killed and tens of thousands detained. US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to hold talks with Iranian representatives on Tuesday in Geneva, with Oman acting as mediator. Asked what was left to be targeted at the nuclear sites, Mr Trump said dust before adding: If we do it, that would be the least of the mission, but we probably grab whatever is left. Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays. A week after he shared a video on social media post depicting former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as apes in a jungle, President Donald Trump has nominated a South Carolina Black woman to be a U.S. District judge. Trump nominated Sheria Clarke, a former assistant U.S. Attorney and currently a partner with the top tier Nelson Mullins law firm, for the prestigious judges post, according to a social media post by the president. Of some 40 attorneys nominated during Trumps second administration, Clarke is the first African American, said Carl Tobias, a University of Richmond Law School professor who tracks the federal judiciary and the Department of Justice. Advertisement Advertisement This woman looks quite good. She has a lot of relevant experience, said Tobias. Most of Trumps nominees for federal judge posts so far are young white guys, he said. Clarkes experience includes being a former assistant U.S. Attorney from 2021-2024, which will help since many cases that come before federal judges involve prosecutions by federal prosecutors. As a federal prosecutor, she handled False Claims Act litigation, whistleblower investigations, as well as a variety of criminal matters, according to her bio on Nelson Mullins internet page. Clarke also worked from 2009 to 2019 on various committees in the U.S. House of Representatives as a director and investigative lawyer. The committees included Ethics, Oversight and the Select Committee on the Events in Benghazi, Libya, which held high-profile hearings on the 2012 deadly terrorist attack on a U.S. consulate in Libya that killed Americans. The Benghazi committee was chaired by former U.S. Rep. Trey Gowdy, R-Greenville. She is just the most ethical, even-keeled, smart person and is the one you want in the role of a federal judge, said Cindy Crick, the current 13th Judicial Circuit Solicitor and former longtime chief of staff for Gowdy. Shes incredibly intelligent. People go to her for advice. Her ethics are unimpeachable. You just could not pick a better person. Advertisement Advertisement South Carolinas two U.S. senators, Lindsey Graham and Tim Scott, made congratulatory public statements. It is difficult for a federal judge to be appointed without the approval of both home state senators. Scott, who last week criticized Trump for his ape post of the Obamas, posted on social media about Clarke, Thrilled to see Sheria Clarke nominated to the U.S. District Court for South Carolina! Her career reflects integrity, excellence, and a deep commitment to the Constitution. South Carolina will be well served. Congratulations, Sheria. Graham said in a press release,In choosing Sheria Clarke to be a federal district court judge, President Trump has done an outstanding job for the people of South Carolina. She is one of the most highly qualified candidates Ive ever seen to be a federal district court judge. Sheria is academically gifted and has the depth of knowledge and real-world experience to be exceptional in this role. She has the right demeanor to be a fair judge. I look forward to giving her my complete and total support, Graham said. Advertisement Advertisement Clarke graduated in 2003 from Virginias Liberty University, which bills itself as a Christian university training champions for Christ, with a major in psychology. In 2006, she graduated from University of North Carolina School of Law. Clarke is also an adjunct professor of government at Wofford College in Spartanburg. Clarke will take of the place of U.S. Judge Bryan Harwell, who s now on senior status. She is expected to be based in Florence. To become a federal judge, Clarke must first be approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee, then by U.S. Senate. District federal judges earn more than $240,00 a year. US President Donald Trump says regime change in Iran is "the best thing that could happen", signifying one of his clearest endorsements for replacing the clerical establishment. "For 47 years, they've been talking and talking and talking. In the meantime, we've lost a lot of lives," he said on Friday. Trump declined to specify who he wants to lead Iran, but noted "there are people" who could take over. Iran's clerical ruler Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has not yet responded to Trump's latest remarks. Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the US sent a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East to add pressure on Iran to secure a nuclear deal. The USS Gerald R Ford, the world's largest warship and the newest US aircraft carrier, is set to relocate "very soon" from the Caribbean to the Middle East, Trump said. On his Truth Social platform, Trump shared an aerial photograph of the carrier, which appears in transit on its way to join a second US vessel the USS Abraham Lincoln already stationed in the Middle East. The Pentagon sent the aircraft carrier in January after the US threatened to strike Iran to stop a government crackdown on mass protests in which thousands of people were killed. Advertisement Advertisement The wave of demonstrations marked some of the most dramatic upheavals in Iran since the 1979 Islamic revolution, which installed the clerical system led by a Supreme Leader. While Trump has threatened strikes on Iran if no nuclear agreement can be reached, he insisted after talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday at the White House that talks with Tehran would continue. Speaking at Fort Bragg on Friday evening, Trump said Iran should "give us a deal that they should have given us the first time" when asked what the Middle East country should do to avoid an attack. The US has pushed for Iran to halt its uranium enrichment, while Netanyahu's government has insisted Tehran should cut its ballistic missiles programme and support for proxy groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Advertisement Advertisement Iran has so far suggested it is ready to limit its nuclear programme in return for sanctions relief, but the country's President Masoud Pezeshkian warned it would "not yield to their excessive demands". Trump withdrew the US from an Obama-era nuclear deal with Iran in his first term in office and reinstated sanctions that have severely strained its economy. The administration restarted talks last year to reach a new deal before the 12-day war between Israel and Iran. President Donald Trump says that he is sending a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East as the United States increases pressure on Iran over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. Speaking at the White House on Friday, Trump confirmed that the USS Gerald R Ford would be leaving the Caribbean for the Middle East very soon as tensions remain high following indirect talks in Oman last week. If we need it, well have it ready, a very big force, said Trump, adding that he believed negotiations would be successful while warning it would be a bad day for Iran if the country failed to make a deal. Advertisement Advertisement Later, Trump said a change of government in Iran would be the best thing that could happen. For 47 years, theyve been talking and talking and talking. In the meantime, weve lost a lot of lives, he said, in an apparent reference to Tehrans crackdown on recent antigovernment protests that left thousands dead. The imminent departure of the Gerald R Ford is part of an ongoing buildup of military hardware in the region, with the Abraham Lincoln carrier, several guided-missile destroyers, fighter jets and surveillance aircraft sent in recent weeks. Trumps comments come days after he met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington, with the latter saying a good deal was expected while voicing reservations if any agreement did not also curb Irans ballistic missile programme. Tehran has publicly rejected US pressure to discuss the missiles. Advertisement Advertisement Netanyahu has repeatedly called for further military action since Israels 12-day war against Iran in June, which the US briefly joined by attacking three Iranian nuclear sites, in a military operation dubbed Midnight Hammer. Trump at the time said the US attacks had totally obliterated the nuclear facilities. The indirect US-Iran talks were the first to be held since the June conflict, which halted previous rounds of negotiations between Tehran and Washington over potentially replacing the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which Trump ditched during his first term in office. Risk of escalation The JCPOA, a deal reached between Iran, the US and several European powers, saw Tehran curtail its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief. Advertisement Advertisement Following Trumps unilateral withdrawal in 2018, Tehran subsequently began enriching uranium beyond the limits set out in the agreement, though it has repeatedly denied Western claims it is seeking a nuclear weapon. Upon taking office for a second time in January, Trump initially sought a new nuclear deal with Iran, but soon adopted a zero-enrichment policy long dismissed by Iranian negotiators as a non-starter. As the latest attempts at negotiations continue, United Nations nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi has had trouble getting Iran to agree on inspections of sites targeted in the 12-day war. Grossi, who heads the International Atomic Energy Agency, told the Munich Security Conference that inspectors had returned to Iran after the 12-day war but had not been able to visit any of the sites targeted. Advertisement Advertisement Grossi said dialogue with Iran since the inspectors return last year had been imperfect and complicated and extremely difficult, but its there. The US presidents comments on Friday confirm his earlier indication that he was considering sending the Gerald R Ford, which has a nuclear reactor on board and can hold more than 75 military aircraft, to the region. Gulf Arab nations have warned any attack could escalate into another regional conflict in a region still reeling from Israels genocidal war on Gaza. President Donald Trump said Friday that he is planning to make an official visit to Venezuela, signaling deepening ties with the countrys interim government following the January capture by U.S. forces of strongman Nicolas Maduro. I think I am going to make a visit to Venezuela. We havent decided [when], Trump told reporters on the South Lawn of the White House before boarding Marine One. Trumps possible visit would mark the first trip by a sitting U.S. president to Venezuela in years and symbolize a dramatic shift in bilateral relations after a prolonged period of hostility. Advertisement Advertisement The announcement underscores Washingtons formal recognition of interim President Delcy Rodriguez as Venezuelas legitimate authority and highlights the increasingly close coordination between the two governments during the countrys U.S.-backed transition. Asked whether his Cabinet recognizes Rodriguezs government as his official counterpart in Venezuela, Trump replied: At this moment, we have already done that. We are dealing with them. Delcy has done a very, very good, excellent job. And the relationship is solid, he added, repeating praise he has offered in recent weeks. Following Maduros capture in a U.S. raid on Caracas on Jan. 3, the Trump administration transferred control of Venezuelas transition to Rodriguez, the former Chavista vice president, and has said the White House is supervising the process as the country moves toward stabilization and economic recovery. Advertisement Advertisement Trump also emphasized progress in reopening Venezuelas oil sector under a framework negotiated between Washington and Caracas, describing the revival of crude production as central to the transition strategy. The oil is flowing, and other nations are paying a lot of money for it, and we are handling it. We are refining it, and we are the only ones with the capacity to refine it, Trump said. His comments referred to U.S. refineries along the Gulf of Mexico that are configured to process heavy crude, the type predominantly produced in Venezuela. Once pumping more than three. million barrels per day, Venezuelas output had collapsed in recent years due to mismanagement, corruption and U.S. sanctions. The administration is now working to boost production while maintaining strict U.S. oversight of foreign participation in the oil sector. Officials say the goal is to stabilize Venezuelas economy, reduce migration pressures and counter the influence of geopolitical rivals in Latin America. Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright traveled to Caracas this week for meetings with Rodriguez and senior officials, reinforcing high-level engagement between the two governments. On Friday, the U.S. Treasury Department approved new licenses, further easing restrictions to allow non-Venezuelan oil companies to resume operations in the country under defined compliance conditions. The move expands authorized activities in Venezuelas oil sector and reflects a broader recalibration of sanctions policy. While the Trump administration previously championed a maximum pressure strategy, officials now argue that targeted relief tied to oversight mechanisms can accelerate economic recovery while preserving leverage. Some major energy companies, however, remain cautious, citing ongoing political and legal uncertainties. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav attended the Saptam Kanya Vivah Mahotsav at Bageshwar Dham Sarkar in Gadha, Chhatarpur. Bageshwar Dham Peethadheesh Dhirendra Krishna Shastri was also present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri said, "This is a very unprecedented example being presented in the whole of India. This seventh grand festival of Kanya Mahotsav is a unique initiative through which poor girls are settled, with donations received through the donation boxes of the Bageshwar Dham temple." He further said, "This is an unprecedented work in itself, setting an example in the country. Bageshwar Dham is becoming a wonderful centre of faith and the world's Sanatan culture..." The Saptam Kanya Vivah Mahotsav is organised to solemnise the marriages of underprivileged girls, with financial support provided through temple donations. Earlier, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Wednesday laid the foundation stone of the Hariyakhedi Water Augmentation Project, being constructed at a cost of Rs 1,133.67 crore to ensure adequate drinking water supply for the upcoming Simhastha-2028 in Ujjain. Simhastha is a Hindu religious festival held every 12 years in the Ujjain district of Madhya Pradesh. Also known as the Ujjain Simhastha Kumbh, the previous Simhastha was held in 2016. The Chief Minister also inaugurated and performed bhoomi-pujan of 11 development works worth approximately Rs 47.23 crore, according to an official release. Speaking on the occasion, CM Yadav said, "With the blessings of Mokshadayini Maa Shipra, Ujjain is now preparing for Simhastha-2028. With the blessings of Lord Mahakal, the Bhoomi-Pujan of the Hariyakhedi Water Augmentation Project, being constructed at a cost of Rs 1,133.67 crore for the preparations of Simhastha, has been performed." He added, "This project will ensure the availability of pure drinking water for devotees and citizens during Simhastha-2028, while also guaranteeing long-term water supply to every household in the city. The efficient management of Simhastha in Ujjain will enhance the pride of the entire state." The Chief Minister also announced the establishment of a Dhanvantari Institute of Ayurveda in Ujjain. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would soon announce a major initiative in Ayurveda education and treatment. CM Yadav appreciated Akashvani Ujjain for broadcasting programmes related to Baba Mahakal and said it is a matter of pride that local youth are showcasing their talent through Akashvani. He added that news related to Simhastha would also reach the masses through this medium. (ANI) California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez were among the high-profile Democrats looking to counter President Donald Trump at the Munich Security Conference this week as they outlined their foreign policy visions and what could come next. Donald Trump is temporary. Hell be gone in three years, said Newsom during a panel on climate change. California is a stable and reliable partner in this space. And its important for folks to understand the temporary nature of this current administration in relationship to the issue. Ocasio-Cortez, who spoke on a panel about the rise of populism, said We are ready for the next chapter, not to have the world turn to isolation, but to deepen our partnership on, on greater and increased commitment to integrity to our values. Advertisement Advertisement Roughly half a dozen Democrats with potential presidential ambitions in 2028 are descending on the annual Munich conference, a frequent stop for politicians to test the foreign policy waters and elevate their own profiles on the international stage ahead of White House runs. Other possible 2028 hopefuls participating in the weekend events include Arizona Sens. Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego, Sen. Elissa Slotkin and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy and former Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. Democrats traveled to Munich one year after Vice President JD Vance, a potential 2028 contender, chastised European leaders at the conference, accusing them of suppressing free speech, losing control of immigration and refusing to work with hard-right parties in government. While Vance is not in attendance this year, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is often included in chatter about 2028, was set to represent the Trump administration. As he departed for Munich, Rubio told reporters the old world is gone, frankly and we live in a new era of geopolitics. Advertisement Advertisement Its going to require all of us to sort of re-examine what that looks like and what our role is going to be, Rubio added, also noting that Europe is important to the US. I think they want honesty. They want to know where were going, where wed like to go, where wed like to go with them. But many Democrats in attendance sought to assure European leaders of their commitment. In an interview with CNNs Kasie Hunt, Kelly pushed back on Rubios comments, saying, The old world is gone because Donald Trump blew it up. What Im hearing now is, even if we are able to repair these relationships, its going to take generations before they feel comfortable, Kelly said. I think we can fix this. I think we can get past this. Its going to take a new president, a new administration. Advertisement Advertisement Ocasio-Cortez said Democrats are seeking a return to a rules-based order and warned against an age of authoritarianism, accusing Trump of turning the Western Hemisphere into his personal sandbox. During the panel on populism, the progressive rising star also pitched working class centered politics to stave off the scourges of authoritarianism. Asked if she would impose a wealth tax when you run for president, Ocasio-Cortez responded, We dont have to wait for any one president to impose a wealth tax. I think that it needs to be done expeditiously. The New York Democrat also appeared on a panel with Whitmer on the future of foreign policy later in the day. In the lead-up to her appearance at Munich, Ocasio-Cortez was advised by Matt Duss, a former foreign policy adviser to independent Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders. Countering Trump In an interview with CNNs Kasie Hunt, Newsom warned of the damage Trump has caused with traditional US allies. Advertisement Advertisement They see us as a wrecking ball. They see us as unreliable and a lot of them think irrevocable. They dont think well ever come back to our original form, Newsom said. Im not as convinced of that. Whatever happens, we can undo, we can shape-shift, we can fix. And while trust is difficult to reestablish, theres too much at stake in a multinational from a multi-international perspective, that we have a lot of work to do once Trumps done, Newsom added. California Gov. Gavin Newsom attends a panel discussion on climate change at the 62nd Munich Security Conference on February 13, 2026 in Munich, Germany. - Johannes Simon/Getty Images For Newsom, the Munich appearance marked his second turn on the international stage within the past month. He was on hand at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in January and emerged as a focal point in Trumps own speech at the summit. Last year, Newsom traveled to Brazil for COP 30, an international climate conference to which the Trump administration declined to send an official delegation. Advertisement Advertisement The United States was a footnote. China sent close to 800 delegates. The United States didnt even send a stenographer. They sent nobody, Newsom said Friday. Theyve completely walked away, abdicated any role in relationship to the issue of low carbon green growth. Asked what he would do to restore trust in the US on climate issues if he were to become president, maybe the next president, Newsom turned to talking about my day job as governor of California and the work his state has done on the issue. We have long moved beyond the partisanship on this issue, because there is no Republican thermometer, theres no Democratic thermometer, theres just reality. And people in my state have been mugged by reality, he said. Newsom was also set to meet with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and sign a memorandum of understanding relating to a new partnership with Ukraine while in Munich, his office said. Advertisement Advertisement Speaking during a panel on Gaza, Murphy argued Trump has engaged in a consistent campaign to alienate our friends in Europe and said he must use leverage with the Israeli government to ensure the next steps of plan for Gaza are implemented. The humanitarian situation continues to be morally unacceptable, he said I really worry about the long term health of the US-Israel relationship, if we dont see real, meaningful progress in the clearing of rubble, in the delivery of humanitarian and medical aid, the construction of actual, real, permanent shelters in which people can live. Raimondo, a former commerce secretary under President Joe Biden and governor of Rhode Island, was also on hand to moderate a panel on economic security and emerging technology. Slotkin is scheduled to participate in a panel conversation Saturday about defending Europe and supporting Ukraine while Gallego is slated to speak on a panel about security for the Western Hemisphere. This story has been updated with additional details. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Denmark's prime minister has said Donald Trump is still "serious" about the US's claim to Greenland despite continuing talks. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, Mette Frederiksen said Trump's wish to own the semiautonomous region of Denmark remained "exactly the same" despite a cooling in the US president's rhetoric over his claims on the Arctic island. Denmark and Greenland began technical talks on an Arctic security deal in the wake of Trump's repeated designs on the region. Advertisement Advertisement In January, Trump went so far as to threaten tariffs on Denmark and seven other allies, including the UK, unless they negotiate a transfer of Greenland to the US for national security purposes. But days later, President Trump rowed back on his threats and said he and Nato's Mark Rutte have agreed "the framework of a future deal" on the Arctic. US President Donald Trump has threatened countries opposing his Greenland plans. Credit: AP Greenland is the largest island in the world, with 80% covered by an ice sheet. The mineral-rich island is home to the largest and most northern US Space Base above the Arctic Circle and sits in an area of strategic military importance for the US, China, and Russia. In December 2024, the then president-elect made headlines when he said that it was an absolute necessity that the US own and control Greenland for purposes of national security and freedom throughout the world". Since taking office, Trump has ramped up his rhetoric, insisting that the United States will take over the island by any means and sending Vance on a visit there. Advertisement Advertisement Why does Trump have his eye on Greenland? Starmer warns Europe 'must be ready to fight' as Russia threat grows While his rhetoric around his claim to Greenland has simmered down in recent weeks, Frederiksen said she does not believe his threats to annex the island have gone away and remains wary. "I think the desire from the US president is exactly the same," she told a panel discussion. "He is very serious about this theme. And as you know, I disagree with him. And we disagree, of course, as a kingdom of Denmark. And by the way Europe disagree because we have received a lot of support and help. And I know some American friends do disagree as well." People march during a pro- Greenlanders demonstration, in Copenhagen, Denmark, Saturday. Credit: AP Commenting on whether she can put a price on Greenland, she said of course not, adding that we have to respect sovereign states... and we have to respect peoples right for self-determination". Advertisement Advertisement "Can you, can you put a price on a part of Spain or a part of the US or a part of anywhere else in the world?" "We have to respect sovereign states. The kingdom of Denmark is a sovereign state, of course. And we have to respect people's right for self-determination, and the Greenlandic people have been very clear they don't want to become Americans." Subscribe free to our weekly newsletter for exclusive and original coverage from ITV News. Direct to your inbox every Friday morning. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Danish and Greenlandic leaders had a "constructive" meeting in Munich on Friday, Frederiksen said. Advertisement Advertisement During his speech at the conference on Saturday, Rubio didn't mention Greenland. Rubio offered a reassuring message to Americas allies. He struck a less aggressive but still firm tone about the Trump administrations intent to reshape the Nato alliance and push its priorities after more than a year of Trumps often hostile rhetoric toward traditional allies. Rubio addressed the Munich Security Conference a year after Vice President JD Vance stunned the same audience with a harsh critique of European values. From Westminster to Washington DC - our political experts are across all the latest key talking points. Listen to the latest episode below... WESTBROOK - A person was injured Friday afternoon in a two-car crash on Interstate 95 south in Westbrook, according to Connecticut State Police. State police said extrication was needed, but the occupant was conscious and alert. Life Star, an emergency medical helicopter, responded to airlift a patient to a hospital. The state Department of Transportation reported the crash around 1:30 p.m. The agency said the highway was initially closed between exits 65 and 64, but was later reopened. This article originally published at I-95 south in Westbrook reopened after two-car crash causes injuries, officials say. Two men were sentenced to prison this week for fraudulently depositing checks stolen from the mail, the U.S. Attorney said Friday. Imanol Rios-Franco, 26, of Canton, was sentenced Feb. 10 to 35 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said in a statement. Senior District Court Judge Patti Saris handed down his sentence. Rios-Franco was also ordered to pay $12,528 in restitution. He pleaded guilty in November to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to steal and possess stolen mail. Advertisement Advertisement Brandon Baez, 23, of North Attleboro, was sentenced Feb. 12 to two years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, Foley said. Saris handed down his sentence. Baez was also ordered to pay $10,285 in restitution. Baez pleaded guilty in November to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to steal and possess stolen mail. From at least June 2023 until February 2024, prosecutors said Rios-Franco and Baez and their co-conspirators stole mail from USPS collection boxes, looking to steal checks. After they stole these checks, they washed the hand-written ink from the checks using commercially available chemicals, prosecutors said. The checks were then reissued to the co-conspirators or other bank accounts that they controlled. Advertisement Advertisement After the checks were fraudulently deposited, prosecutors said Rios-Franco and Baez and their co-conspirators withdrew money from ATMs or bought money orders with those fraudulently obtained funds. Investigators reviewed their cell phones, which showed that they had collaborated in the criminal scheme, prosecutors said. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW (The Center Square) American colleges and universities have received $5.2 billion in foreign gifts and contracts in 2025, according to data from the U.S. Department of Education. The department released data compiled from foreign funding disclosures submitted by American colleges and universities, documenting over 8,300 transactions worth more than $5.2 billion in reportable foreign gifts and contracts. Education Secretary Linda McMahon said the disclosures provide unprecedented visibility into foreign funding, including from countries that may pose national security risks. Advertisement Advertisement Under Section 117 of the Higher Education Act, colleges must disclose foreign gifts or contracts exceeding $250,000. Republicans have long argued that some institutions dont report such funding and have called for stricter oversight. Qatar was the largest source of foreign funding in 2025, accounting for about $1.1 billion. Other top sources included the United Kingdom, China, Switzerland and Japan. The website also highlights funding from what McMahon called countries of concern, including China, Russia and Iran. Harvard, Carnegie Mellon University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology received the most money from those countries. Between 1986 and 2025, Harvard received more foreign funding than any of the 555 institutions reporting data to the Education Department, totaling about $610 million. Advertisement Advertisement "MIT research on campus, regardless of funding source, is open and publishable, with the results available to scientists worldwide and not only in a particular country or countries," a MIT spokesperson told Inside Higher Ed. "We follow all federal laws in accepting and reporting any such gifts or contracts." The released data is part of the Trump administrations broader effort to reshape higher education and increase scrutiny of foreign influence on college campuses. In April 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled Transparency Regarding Foreign Influence at American Universities, calling for an end to secrecy around foreign funding and stronger safeguards against foreign exploitation of U.S. research and students. Student journalists at Stanford University, which has received more than $775 million in foreign funding, have reported on what they describe as growing influence by the Chinese Communist Party on the campus near San Francisco. Advertisement Advertisement The CCP is orchestrating a widespread intelligence-gathering campaign at Stanford," a Stanford Review article said. In short, there are Chinese spies at Stanford. Since the start of Trumps second term, the administration has also investigated other universities, including Harvard and the University of California, Berkeley, over alleged undeclared foreign funds. The Center Square reached out to Harvard, Carnegie Mellon University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology for a comment but has not received a response. Ten U.S. military strikes in Syria hit more than 30 Islamic State targets in Syria earlier this month, as it continues "relentless military pressure" on the terrorist network there, U.S. Central Command announced Saturday. CENTCOM, which oversees U.S. military operations in the Middle East, said U.S. forces hit ISIS infrastructures and weapons storage targets between Feb. 3 and Feb. 12. U.S. forces continued strikes on Islamic State targets in Syria. / Credit: U.S. Central Command (U.S. Central Command) The strikes were part of Operation Hawkeye Strike, which was launched in retaliation for an ISIS ambush that killed Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard and an interpreter in Palmyra, Syria, on Dec. 13. Advertisement Advertisement President Trump vowed "very serious retaliation" in a Truth Social post after the ambush. On Dec. 19, the U.S. launched airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria in retaliation. More than 70 targets were hit in those strikes, a U.S. official told CBS News at the time. In January, U.S. forces killed Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, who authorities said was a leader affiliated with Al-Qaeda, allegedly directly connected with the ISIS gunman accused of the deadly ambush. "The death of a terrorist operative linked to the deaths of three Americans demonstrates our resolve in pursuing terrorists who attack our forces," Central Command Commander Adm. Brad Cooper said in a statement at the time. "There is no safe place for those who conduct, plot, or inspire attacks on American citizens and our warfighters. We will find you." Advertisement Advertisement More than 50 ISIS terrorists have been killed or captured and more than 100 ISIS infrastructure targets have been hit during the operation, CENTCOM said on Saturday. On Friday, U.S. military forces completed the transfer of thousands of ISIS detainees from Syria to Iraq, where they are expected to stand trial in the future. CENTCOM said that the transfer that began on Jan. 21 saw U.S. forces transporting more than 5,700 adult male ISIS suspects from detention facilities in Syria to Iraqi custody. The prisoners were transferred to Iraq at the request of Baghdad a move welcomed by the U.S.-led coalition that had for years fought against ISIS. Advertisement Advertisement "We appreciate Iraq's leadership and recognition that transferring the detainees is essential to regional security," Cooper said. It's not clear if any of the prisoners have been charged with specific crimes or even been confirmed as ISIS members. New details from FBI on Nancy Guthrie kidnapping investigation Pool maintenance at Nancy Guthrie's home Gov. Moore dismisses Trump's "not worthy" snub: "I will bow down to no one" University College London (UCL) says it has reached a settlement with graduates and students who launched legal action over teaching quality during strikes and Covid lockdowns. The university said it admitted no liability and had "worked diligently to deliver teaching and student support in unprecedented circumstances". A lawyer representing the students said he was "delighted" and would "continue to represent tens of thousands of students who were at other universities during Covid". Advertisement Advertisement The details of the settlement are confidential and have not been shared with the BBC. The students and graduates who brought claims against UCL signed up to be part of the legal action via a website called Student Group Claim. The two law firms representing them argued that cancelled and online teaching restricted access to facilities and damaged the quality of teaching. UCL argued that it prioritised students' wellbeing and "educational achievements". It is not clear how many students were part of the claim at the time of settlement, but 5,000 had brought claims against UCL when the BBC reported on the case in July 2024. Advertisement Advertisement David Hamon, the lead claimant in the cases against UCL, said members of the Student Group Claim had settled their claims on "confidential terms with no admission of liability or wrongdoing by any party". "The parties are pleased that this dispute has now been resolved by agreement without the need for the trial to go ahead," he added. Adam Zoubir, partner at Harcus Parker solicitors, said he was "delighted that this settlement provides a resolution for our clients", adding: "This is the end of the claim against UCL, but we continue to represent tens of thousands of students who were at other universities during Covid." Shimon Goldwater, partner at Asserson solicitors, said he was "very pleased" and Student Group Claim would "now turn its attention to claimants who attended other universities during the pandemic". Advertisement Advertisement Michael Spence, UCL president and provost, said he recognised that the Covid pandemic had been "incredibly difficult for students" and the university's response was "responsible and robust". "Staff acted quickly, strictly following government guidance, and worked diligently to deliver teaching and student support in unprecedented circumstances," he said. "Every decision was made to safeguard health while preserving the highest possible academic standards." He said UCL had "never disputed the principle that individuals may seek legal remedies" and added: "This resolution enables us to focus on our core mission of delivering world-leading research and education." Ukraine's internal security agency used drones to strike a Russian oil refinery on Thursday. The drones traveled nearly 1,100 miles across Ukraine's border into Russia. It's one of Ukraine's longest-range drone attacks. Ukrainian long-range drones struck an oil refinery nearly 1,100 miles into Russia, marking one of Kyiv's deepest strikes of the war, a security official told Business Insider on Thursday. The drones struck the Ukhta refinery in Russia's Komi Republic, a source in the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said. They were only authorized to speak on the condition of anonymity to discuss military developments. Advertisement Advertisement The source said the targeted refinery is located 1,750 kilometers (1,087 miles) from the Ukrainian border, in what was Kyiv's latest strike on Russian energy infrastructure. The attack on Thursday triggered a fire at the refinery. Plumes of smoke are visible in footage of the facility shared by the SBU source. One video shows what appears to be a large Ukrainian drone streaming across the sky. Business Insider could not independently verify the imagery. The refinery is part of Russia's state-owned PJSC Lukoil Oil Company, and it processes about 4 million tons of oil annually. The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, which confirmed the attack, said the facility supplies Moscow's military. The General Staff wrote on the Telegram messaging platform that "other components" of Ukraine's defense forces were involved in the attack. The aftermath of a Ukrainian attack on the Ukhta refinery in 2024. Russian Emergency Ministry Press Service via AP "The SBU continues to carry out targeted strikes on the enterprises of the Russian oil refining complex, which ensure the functioning of the military machine of the aggressor country," the security service source said in a translated statement. Advertisement Advertisement Hitting such targets "reduces the enemy's ability to provide their troops with fuel, complicates logistics, and reduces financial revenues that go to the war against Ukraine," they said. Russia's defense ministry said that it shot down 211 fixed-wing Ukrainian drones over the past 24 hours, but it did not specify where. Neither the ministry nor the country's embassy in the US immediately responded to a request for comment. Since August, Ukraine has intensified its long-range drone attacks on Russian energy facilities, hitting oil and gas infrastructure on land, such as refineries and ports, as well as tankers and platforms in the Black, Caspian, and Mediterranean seas. Ukrainian officials have described the campaign targeting Russia's energy sector as "long-range" sanctions on Moscow, which uses the revenue from this industry to fuel its full-scale invasion. Ukraine has used long-range drones to carry out strikes against Russian energy infrastructure. Valentyn Ogirenko/REUTERS Yehor Cherniev, deputy chairman of the Ukrainian parliamentary committee on national security, defense, and intelligence, told Business Insider earlier this week that striking the Russian energy sector has been "one of the best decisions" because "it is painful for them." Advertisement Advertisement "I think that's why they have a problem in their economy and with the financing of the war, actually, of their armed forces," he said. "We have to continue to do this." The Ukrainian deep strikes have affected Russia's oil sector. Refining has declined over the past year; Moscow processed 5.3 million barrels a day last month, compared with the 5.6 million barrels it usually processes in January, according to a Bloomberg report. Meanwhile, Russia has stepped up its missile and drone barrages on Ukrainian energy infrastructure this winter, causing blackouts in cities around the country and leaving civilians without heat, electricity, and water. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Thursday that Russia used 219 drones and 25 missiles to attack the country during the previous night, killing multiple people in an attack primarily aimed at energy infrastructure in Kyiv and other cities. United Nations officials have called this winter Ukraine's coldest in over a decade. Read the original article on Business Insider University of Maryland, Baltimore County officials say they have addressed all the violations issued by Maryland Department of the Environment inspectors in their work at Spring Grove in Catonsville. Environmental experts, however, say the real damage more than 1,000 trees clear-cut and bulldozed in the Herbert Run streambed wont be made right for decades. In the meantime, the deforestation of what was known as the Spring Grove Arboretum will increase one of the biggest threats to the Chesapeake Bay, stormwater runoff and erosion, said Gussie Maguire, the Chesapeake Bay Foundations Maryland staff scientist. Advertisement Advertisement Stormwater runoff is the fastest growing source of pollution in Maryland and is getting worse from rapid development and more intense weather from climate change, Maguire told The Baltimore Sun [The Maryland Department of the Environment] not only needs to better enforce its own regulations but also reform its stormwater management to prioritize trees and other green infrastructure that protect our communities and our waterways. MDE inspectors visited the Spring Grove site three times in December and January, issuing more than 30 violations to the contractor according to inspection documents reviewed by The Sun. Violations included damage to silt and border fencing, lack of erosion control and storage of materials within the streambed. UMBC officials said their contractor addressed those violations and is awaiting confirmation and a follow-up visit from the department. Whiting-Turner, the current contractor for the work at Spring Grove, has confirmed that all site violations have been corrected, and following Maryland Department of the Environment procedures, they have submitted photos of the corrections to the MDE inspector, The university told The Sun in an emailed statement. This winter, the university cut or bulldozed more than three acres of forest as well as 1,000 newly planted trees along the Herbert Run streambed on the old Spring Grove Hospital campus in Catonsville. Advertisement Advertisement Community advocates and environmentalists called the $27 million, state-funded capital project a waste of taxpayer money to fix a stream that wasnt broken. UMBC, however, said the work was necessary to stabilize Herbert Run and repair street and sewer utilities on the campus. Del. Sheila Ruth, D-Catonsville, helped plant some of the trees that were plowed under. What happened at Spring Grove is devastating and is really horrible, Ruth told The Sun. These so-called streambed restorations are going on all over the state. They cut down more trees than they need to, and its a problem. Advertisement Advertisement She helped pass the Whole Watershed Act of 2024 to prevent ill-informed streambed work like Spring Grove from damaging critical Chesapeake Bay ecosystems. In part, the act requires public notice and community engagement. It also requires a more complete analysis of the benefits of these projects and five years of post-construction monitoring and reporting. The Watershed Act took effect July 1, 2025, just months after the Maryland Department of Natural Resources approved UMBCs project plans. Ruth said the act should help prevent future situations like the destruction at Spring Grove, but it wont completely solve the problem. Not just UMBC, but local governments rely on the contractor to know what the rules are, but often thats not the case, Ruth said. Im not making any excuses for UMBC, because theyre supposed to do their homework. Advertisement Advertisement Another part of the Whole Watershed Act requires applicants to review applicable state laws. The forest, wetland and stream areas affected by the project were identified in detail by two environmental scientists with qualified professional, certified arborist, and licensed tree expert credentials, university officials said in an email to The Sun. Certified foresters, who complete a bachelors degree in forest and ecosystem health, told The Sun that these lesser credentials do not provide the expertise needed to evaluate and protect sensitive ecosystems. UMBC bought the Spring Grove Hospital from the State of Maryland for $1 in 2022, one year after volunteers planted thousands of tree seedlings in the arboretum. The current $27 million project is intended to stabilize the stream and repair Elm Street and sewer utilities along 4,500 feet of Herbert Run and two unnamed tributaries, university officials told The Sun. While UMBC does not have plans to develop the campus, the project includes replacing cut trees and additional plantings. Advertisement Advertisement Forestry experts told The Sun that no amount of tree-planting could effectively replace the value of the destroyed streambed forest. Catonsville resident and retired forester William Rees said the original Herbert Run ecosystem, called a riparian forest, controlled stormwater and protected the Bay. Parts of that intact forest can be found upstream and downstream of the ongoing project. The mature forest that was destroyed had a very healthy organic layer that would typically support a robust ecosystem within, containing insects, reptiles, amphibians, and others, along with sustaining nutrients accumulated over the last century or so, Rees told The Sun. Moreover, this organic layer also provided a thick sponge to help rainwater percolate slowly into the soil and inhibit large amounts of water from going into the stream. The trees intercepted rainfall and diffused its energy before it hit the organic layer, where it was then absorbed, to be parceled out in a controlled flow. The tree canopy and organic layer work in concert as a water control system. The Spring Grove project removed both canopy and ground cover, he said. UMBC cut acres of mature trees and bulldozed parts of the streambed to bedrock. Based on the lack of expertise in the universitys project planning documents, as well as its execution, Rees said he doubts UMBC can effectively rebuild what it demolished. Advertisement Advertisement How long will it take to begin to replicate the complex ecosystem that was in place a short few months ago with the multi-level canopy and deep organic layer below? he asked. It will take many decades to have even a fraction of the same ecosystem services that were destroyed. In addition to state-funded plantings, the Patapsco Heritage Greenway provided mini-grants supporting plantings along Spring Groves lanes from 2016 to 2019. They chose tree species to complement street names, said Catonsville resident and retired forester Jim Himel: Locust, Hickory, Maple, Chestnut, and Elm streets. Elm St was significantly impacted by the UMBC project, losing over 50 Princeton American Elms in the environmentally sensitive riparian areas adjacent to Herbert Run, he said. Plantings along Maple and Poplar streets were bulldozed for equipment and material storage, Himel said. The contractor also did not leave enough buffer space to protect mature Oaks in the project area. Equipment tracks pass right next to tree trunks, he said, where their treads inevitably crushed shallow roots underground. Within five years, theyll all be dead, he said. Have a news tip? Contact Karl Hille at 443-900-7891 or khille@baltsun.com. United States forces have carried out a series of strikes against ISIL (ISIS) targets in Syria in retaliation for last years killing of two of its soldiers and an interpreter. US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement on Saturday that it attacked more than 30 ISIL targets in Syria between February 3 and 12, hitting the armed groups infrastructure and weapons storage facilities with precision munitions. CENTCOM said it launched the most recent attacks to sustain relentless military pressure on remnants from the terrorist network. Advertisement Advertisement ISIL attacked US and Syrian forces near the historic city of Palmyra in December, killing Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard, and Ayad Mansoor Sakat, identified as an American civilian interpreter. Launched after the killings, Operation Hawkeye has killed and captured more than 50 fighters and hit about 100 ISIL infrastructure targets over the past two months, said CENTCOM. The US military on Friday completed the transfer of thousands of ISIL detainees from Syria to Iraq, where they are expected to stand trial. The prisoners were sent to Iraq at the request of Baghdad in a move welcomed by the US-led coalition that had for years fought against the armed group. Advertisement Advertisement In other developments, the Syrian Ministry of Defence confirmed that government forces took control of the al-Tanf military base in the east of the country, which was run for years by US troops fighting ISIL. The US-led coalition worked alongside the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the battle that led to ISILs territorial defeat in Syria in 2019. However, Washington has now drawn close to Syrias new authorities, recently saying that the purpose of its alliance with the SDF was largely over. The US withdrawal from al-Tanf comes as Damascus seeks to extend its control over all of Syria. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday defended his remark that a woman wearing a hijab could become the Prime Minister of India, calling it his "dream" and a reflection of the country's inclusivity and pluralism. In an interview with ANI, Owaisi said there was nothing wrong with such a vision. "What is wrong with it? I am promoting the nation's inclusivity and pluralism...It is my dream (that a hijab-clad woman become India's PM)...", he said. Earlier this year, while campaigning in Solapur during the Maharashtra local body elections, Owaisi had said that one day a woman wearing a hijab would become the Prime Minister. His remark triggered a political row in Maharashtra and drew criticism. In response to Owaisi's remarks Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis had said in response to Fadnavis asserting that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) mayor will be "from Mahayuti, will be a Hindu, and a Marathi". The Maharashtra CM had made these remarks while addressing a gathering in Worli during the election campaign for the recently concluded BMC polls. On the Babri Masjid issue in Murshidabad, Owaisi reiterated that he believes the Supreme Court of India's verdict was wrong. He said disputes had now been raised in places such as Sambhal, Kashi and Mathura, and cited former Chief Justice JS Verma's observation that the Supreme Court is supreme but not infallible. "I still believe that the verdict of the Supreme Court on Babri Masjid was wrong...Now Sambhal, Kashi, Mathura, Madhya Pradesh has also been opened up...Justice J. S. Verma rightly said that the Supreme Court is supreme but not infallible," Owaisi said. Responding to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's "qayamat" remarks on Babri mosque, Asaduddin Owaisi said that at least the CM had to use an Urdu word, and asked what the Hindi word for "qayamat" would be. "At least he had to speak an Urdu word, what would be a hindi word for 'qayamat'. Ask him," he said. (ANI) The United States government has ended the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Yemen, ordering the more than 1,000 Yemeni refugees and asylum seekers living in the country to leave within 60 days or face arrest and deportation. The action on Friday came as part of US President Donald Trumps broad immigration crackdown, which is impacting those who fled perilous lives in war-torn countries. It will terminate TPS for roughly 1,400 Yemeni nationals who have had access to the legal status since September 2015 because of armed conflict in their country, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement After reviewing conditions in the country and consulting with appropriate US government agencies, I determined that Yemen no longer meets the laws requirements to be designated for Temporary Protected Status, Noem said in a statement. Allowing TPS Yemen beneficiaries to remain temporarily in the United States is contrary to our national interest, she said, describing the revocation as an act of putting America first. Contrary to Noems determination, Yemen continues to be riven by years-long conflict in one of the worlds poorest nations. The State Department currently advises against travel to Yemen, citing terrorism, unrest, crime, health risks, kidnapping, and landmines. TPS allows narrow groups of people in the US to live and work in the country if theyre deemed to be in danger if they return to their home nations, because of war, natural disaster or other extraordinary circumstances. Advertisement Advertisement While the protections are technically temporary, historically, presidents have continued to renew TPS statuses for refugees and asylum seekers rather than revoking them and rendering them undocumented. The TPS for Yemen was last extended in 2024 and was set to expire on March 3 of this year. Yemeni beneficiaries with no other lawful basis for remaining in the US have 60 days to voluntarily depart the country or face arrest, the statement said, offering a complimentary plane ticket and a $2,600 exit bonus for those who self-deport. Since coming to office last year, Trump has ended the status for Venezuelans, Hondurans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, Somalis, Ukrainians and thousands of others. Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration has also expanded its travel restrictions since returning to power, imposing a total ban on citizens of 19 countries from entering the US, primarily targeting Muslim-majority and African nations, including Yemen, Somalia and South Sudan. Citizens from a further 29 countries, including Nigeria and Senegal, are subject to partial bans. "Sometimes you have to have fear. That's the only thing that really will get the situation taken care of," Trump said. The US military is preparing for the possibility of sustained, weeks-long operations against Iran if President Donald Trump orders an attack, two US officials told Reuters, in what could become a far more serious conflict than previously seen between the countries. The disclosure by officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the planning, raises the stakes for the ongoing diplomacy between the United States and Iran. Advertisement Advertisement US and Iranian diplomats held talks in Oman last week in an effort to revive diplomacy over Tehran's nuclear program, after Trump amassed military forces in the region, raising fears of new military action. US officials said on Friday that the Pentagon was sending an additional aircraft carrier to the Middle East, adding thousands more troops, fighter aircraft, guided-missile destroyers, and other firepower capable of conducting attacks and defending against them. Trump, speaking to US troops on Friday at a base in North Carolina, said it had "been difficult to make a deal" with Iran. "Sometimes you have to have fear. That's the only thing that really will get the situation taken care of," Trump said. US President Donald Trump makes an announcement at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., February 12, 2026. (credit: REUTERS/JONATHAN ERNST) Asked for comment on the preparations for a potentially sustained US military operation, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said: "President Trump has all options on the table with regard to Iran." Advertisement Advertisement "He listens to a variety of perspectives on any given issue, but makes the final decision based on what is best for our country and national security," Kelly said. The Pentagon declined to comment. The United States sent two aircraft carriers to the region last year when it carried out strikes against Iranian nuclear sites. However, June's "Midnight Hammer" operation was essentially a one-off US attack, with stealth bombers flying from the United States to strike Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran staged a very limited retaliatory strike on a US base in Qatar. Risks increasing The planning underway this time is more complex, the officials said. Advertisement Advertisement In a sustained campaign, the US military could hit Iranian state and security facilities, not just nuclear infrastructure, one of the officials said. The official declined to provide specific details. Experts say the risks to US forces would be far greater in such an operation against Iran, which boasts a formidable arsenal of missiles. Retaliatory Iranian strikes also increase the risk of a regional conflict. The same official said the United States fully expected Iran to retaliate, leading to back-and-forth strikes and reprisals over a period of time. The White House and Pentagon did not respond to questions about the risks of retaliation or regional conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Trump has repeatedly threatened to bomb Iran over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and crushing of internal dissent. On Thursday, he warned the alternative to a diplomatic solution would "be very traumatic, very traumatic." Iran's Revolutionary Guards have warned that in case of strikes on Iranian territory, they could retaliate against any US military base. The US maintains bases throughout the Middle East, including in Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met Trump for talks in Washington on Wednesday, saying that if an agreement with Iran were reached, "it must include the elements that are vital to Israel." Iran has said it is prepared to discuss curbs on its nuclear program in exchange for lifting sanctions, but has ruled out linking the issue to missiles. Two rounds of diplomatic talks on Ukraine and on Iran are scheduled to take place in Geneva on 17 February. Source: Reuters, citing informed sources Details: The US delegation is expected to include special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. They are due to meet Iranian representatives on Tuesday 17 February. Omani officials will also attend, acting as mediators at these meetings. Following those meetings, Witkoff and Kushner are set to take part in trilateral talks with representatives of Russia and Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Reuters noted that US President Donald Trump has stepped up pressure on the Iranian authorities after a harsh crackdown on protests in the country. Meanwhile, the US has deployed significant naval forces to the region. In parallel, Trump is seeking to push Ukraine and Russia towards signing an agreement to end the war. Background: Dmytro Lytvyn, an advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, confirmed to journalists that the next round of negotiations between Ukraine, Russia and the US will take place on 17-18 February in Geneva. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! By John Kruzel WASHINGTON, Feb 14 (Reuters) - Recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings allowing starkly partisan voting maps to be used in the November midterm elections crucial to Donald Trump's presidency highlight how a 2019 decision by the justices helped supercharge a political practice that polling shows most Americans oppose. The ruling by the justices in a 2019 case called Rucho v. Common Cause stripped federal courts of their power to police a practice known as partisan gerrymandering. It involves states redrawing the boundaries of electoral districts based on the partisan leanings of voters to boost a political party's candidates. Advertisement Advertisement The Rucho decision, according to legal experts, set the stage for the current gerrymandering arms race that began with Texas and California, whose skewed maps were preserved by the Supreme Court. It has since unfolded around the country ahead of the midterms in which Trump's fellow Republicans are fighting to retain control of both chambers of Congress. TEXAS AND CALIFORNIA MAPS The Texas legislature, at Trump's urging, drew a new map of the state's U.S. House of Representatives districts last year that aims to flip up to five currently Democratic-held seats to Republicans. That led California's legislature to redraw its voting map, aiming to flip up to five Republican-held seats to the Democrats. Those two states are the most populous in the country and, thus, have the most House seats. Advertisement Advertisement Heavily skewed maps also have been pursued this election cycle by Democrats in Virginia, Maryland and New York, and by Republicans in Missouri, Ohio, North Carolina and Florida. "Rucho absolutely paved the way for the current gerrymandering-fest around the country," said Harvard Law School professor Nick Stephanopoulos, a critic of the court's 2019 ruling that was decided with five conservative justices in the majority and four liberal justices dissenting. "If there were a consistent, enforceable federal limit on gerrymandering, we'd see much less - maybe close to none - of this activity," Stephanopoulos said. The court in Rucho said partisan gerrymandering is not reviewable by federal courts. Mapmaking driven primarily by race, such as voting maps intended to reduce the power of Black voters, remains illegal under Supreme Court precedent, though the justices recently made it harder to prove such claims. Advertisement Advertisement Republicans hold a narrow 218-214 House majority, raising the stakes for every seat in the midterms. Ceding control of either the House or Senate to the Democrats would imperil Trump's legislative agenda and open the door to Democratic-led congressional investigations targeting him and his administration. It remains to be seen whether Democrats or Republicans will prevail in the tit-for-tat fight to design a more favorable electoral landscape for their party. But public polling already suggests a clear loser: U.S. democracy. The practice of redrawing the boundaries of electoral districts is called redistricting. In an October Reuters/Ipsos poll, 61% of Americans, including 75% of Democrats and 55% of Republicans, agreed with a statement that recent redistricting plans, such as those by Texas and California, were "bad for democracy." "Voters fervently hate this," said Justin Levitt, a law professor at Loyola Marymount University in California and former White House adviser on democracy and voting rights under Democratic former President Joe Biden. "And they're right to hate it." Advertisement Advertisement 'POLITICIANS CHOOSING THEIR VOTERS' Although partisan gerrymandering is not new, the timing of the current battle is. Redistricting typically is carried out after the once-per-decade national census, when states are required by law to redraw districts to account for population shifts. The kind of mid-decade mapmaking happening now - not tied to a census tally - has been extremely rare since the 1960s, when the Supreme Court ruled in several major redistricting cases, University of Kentucky law professor Joshua Douglas said. "This is unprecedented in the modern era," Douglas said. Advertisement Advertisement The Rucho decision, Douglas added, has combined with partisan politics to produce "this race to the bottom that we're seeing today." "It's the old adage of the politicians choosing their voters, instead of the other way around," Douglas said. Stephanopoulos said, "I think extreme gerrymandering is the most anti-democratic practice in modern American politics. Fundamentally, it yields legislatures - which then enact policies - that don't reflect what the people want." Supporters of the Rucho decision hailed the justices for keeping federal courts from being thrust into the highly politicized role of picking winners and losers in redistricting fights. Advertisement Advertisement In most states, the legislature controls redistricting. Technological advancements over recent decades have enabled mapmakers to more precisely configure congressional districts for partisan advantage. "Gerrymandering became sort of a 'scientific' thing in the 1990s, when it could be done using computer software that enabled mappers to sort voters down to the census block level," said elections analyst J. Miles Coleman of the University of Virginia's Center for Politics. Coleman added, "I think the Supreme Court taking such a 'hands-off' approach has given partisan mappers, on both sides, even more of a mentality of 'if we can get away with pushing the envelope, why not try it?'" In the years before Rucho, federal courts struck down egregious partisan gerrymanders as so politically biased that they violated rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement In the Rucho decision, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that the court was not condoning excessive gerrymandering, which can yield election results that "seem unjust" and are "incompatible with democratic principles." Still, partisan gerrymandering is an inherently political act reserved for legislatures, not courts, whose review would appear political, Roberts said. The ruling did not apply to state courts. But while some state courts have struck down gerrymanders since Rucho, "many more state courts haven't lifted a finger," Stephanopoulos said. 'PARTISAN ADVANTAGE PURE AND SIMPLE' The Supreme Court ruled in favor of the pro-Republican Texas voting map in December and the pro-Democratic redistricting plan in California this month. Advertisement Advertisement In those decisions, partisanship and race were deeply intertwined. Both rulings came in cases in which challengers accused the states of using race illegally in redrawing House districts. Texas and California, in response, cited partisan motives, not racial ones. "Overwhelming evidence shows that each of California's new districts was motivated by partisanship, not race," lawyers for California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, told the justices in court papers defending the state's map. Black and Latino voters have supported Democratic candidates at significantly higher rates than Republican candidates in U.S. elections. The Supreme Court, which has a 6-3 conservative majority, revived the Texas map after a lower court found it was likely an unlawful racial gerrymander and blocked its use. The three liberal justices dissented from the Supreme Court's action. Advertisement Advertisement Justice Samuel Alito, in a concurring opinion joined by fellow conservative Justices Clarence Thomas and Neil Gorsuch, wrote that the challengers to the Texas map had failed to show that race, not political advantage, was the new map's main driver. Alito suggested that they should have produced an alternative map capable of achieving the legislature's partisan aims but with greater racial balance, citing a 2024 redistricting ruling he authored. Alito, addressing the dissenting liberal justices, wrote that "the dissent does not dispute - because it is indisputable - that the impetus for the adoption of the Texas - like the map subsequently adopted in California - was partisan advantage pure and simple." Liberal Justice Elena Kagan, sounding a wistful note in her dissent, referenced "those innocent days - prior to Texas's redistricting - when partisan gerrymanders seemed undemocratic or at least unsavory, rather than a mark of political conviction or loyalty." (Reporting by John Kruzel; Editing by Will Dunham) Feb 13 (Reuters) - Anthropic's artificial-intelligence model Claude was used in the U.S. military's operation to capture former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday, citing people familiar with the matter. Claude's deployment came via Anthropic's partnership with data firm Palantir Technologies , whose platforms are widely used by the Defense Department and federal law enforcement, the report added. Reuters could not immediately verify the report. The U.S. Defense Department, the White House, Anthropic and Palantir did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment. Advertisement Advertisement The Pentagon is pushing top AI companies, including OpenAI and Anthropic, to make their artificial-intelligence tools available on classified networks without many of the standard restrictions that the firms apply to users, Reuters exclusively reported on Wednesday. Many AI companies are building custom tools for the U.S. military, most of which are available only on unclassified networks typically used for military administration. Anthropic is the only one that is available in classified settings through third parties, but the government is still bound by the company's usage policies. The usage policies of Anthropic, which raised $30 billion in its latest funding round and is now valued at $380 billion, forbid using Claude to support violence, design weapons or carry out surveillance. The United States captured President Nicolas Maduro in an audacious raid and whisked him to New York to face drug-trafficking charges early in January. (Reporting by Carlos Mendez and Juby Babu in Mexico City; Editing by Chris Reese and Alan Barona) Lawmakers expressed concerns with a bill that would make major changes to judicial transparency in Utah, but ultimately passed it through a House committee on Friday. Before the bill was passed, a number of legislators expressed concerns about how it would impact victims who testify, and members of the public shared concerns about how the information might be misused. The House Judiciary Committee originally voted to hold the bill, HB540, and wait for some changes to be made. Then, 20 minutes later, Rep. Jason Thompson, R-River Heights, made a motion for the committee to reconsider its actions and pass the bill forward with a favorable recommendation. Advertisement Advertisement I am confident in the sponsors ability to work with stakeholders to get this bill to where it needs to be, and if not, well, well be able to determine that on the floor, Thompson said. The bill passed through the committee by a vote of 6 to 5. After the vote, the bills sponsor, Rep. Logan Monson, R-Blanding, said, I hear and understand the concerns there. I am committed to making sure that we find a good place on this, working with each of you that have expressed concerns specifically as well, to make sure that those things are incorporated and part of what were working on. What would this judicial transparency bill do? The people of Utah deserve transparency and accountability from all branches of government, Monson said as he presented his bill to the committee. Advertisement Advertisement HB540 is part of a broader judicial reform effort by Republicans during this years legislative session. Some provisions of the bill would put requirements for transparency and public access on the judiciary that are similar to the requirements for the states legislative branch. First, HB540 would require the judiciary to create and maintain a single online access point for all public records that is free for up to 50 searches and easy to navigate. It would also make court audio recordings accessible and free to the public. The bill would require judges and justices to disclose potential conflicts of interest related to employment, ownership and other finances. It would follow the same requirements as candidates for elected office. Advertisement Advertisement In response to high-profile legal battles, HB540 would prevent former Utah Supreme Court justices from immediately joining law firms that are suing the state. The bill would ban firms from hiring a judge for two years after the judge leaves office if the firm represents an individual suing the state government. A similar cooling off period exists to prevent lawmakers from lobbying on behalf of others for one year after leaving office. As previously reported by the Deseret News, Fix the Court, a court reform advocacy group, published a report last year that found that Utah tied for last in its ranking of all 50 states on metrics of disclosure for state judges and justices. An independent judiciary and the rule of law are essential, and this matters deeply to the people of Utah, Monson said. I also think its our shared responsibility to improve transparency, accountability and public confidence to the people that we serve. What concerns were expressed over this judicial transparency bill? One of the major concerns expressed about the bill was about the public access to court records and audio recordings. Advertisement Advertisement My concern would be the victim and witness privacy, particularly for child victims and victims of sex crimes, I think there could be a significant privacy concern with hearing those very hard details, said Rep. Tyler Clancy, R-Provo. Monson said that he understands those concerns and he is working with stakeholders to see what can be done to provide those protections. A similar concern was expressed during public comment by Kim Cordoba, president of the Utah State Bar Association. She said that when people come to court, it is often one of the biggest days of their lives whether thats dealing with divorce, employment issues, child custody, evictions, being accused of a crime, being a witness to a crime or being a victim of a crime. These are vulnerable people, she said. This is a vulnerable time in their lives, and for it to be livestreamed, especially when were dealing with very serious and private issues, then that is a concern for lawyers in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Steve Burton of the Utah Defense Attorney Association expressed concerns about how court information and details could be misinterpreted or misused by members of the public. He added that often cases are spread out over a long period of time and so there will only be pieces of information available at different times and those could be misinterpreted as the whole story. When those things become accessible, there may be lots of cases for everyone, that people can look up just on a whim and then misunderstand it and publish it as truth, or as meaning something that it doesnt mean, Burton said. So Im very concerned that there may be a use of that information in inappropriate and incorrect ways. There were also concerns over the restrictions of where judges can work after they leave the bench, what the motivation behind that provision is and how it can be enforced. These concerns, especially over the privacy of victims and other vulnerable individuals, are expected to be addressed by the sponsor as the bill moves forward. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) The flu appears to be surging again across Tennessee. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Volunteer States flu activity level was in the very high category for the week ending Jan. 31, but for the week ending Feb. 7, it was in the high category. Were not finished with the flu season yet, Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, said. Last year, we had a very big flu season, and we didnt initially anticipate two back-to-back fairly severe flu seasons. Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS: Tennessee in CDCs very high tier for flu as influenza B spreads State data shows flu-related doctor visits jumped to 6.9% in the last week of January. Schaffner told News 2 one potential reason for the spike is a mutation in the influenza A strain. Its very contagious, Schaffner said. Its not more severe, but it is spreading widely, and its spreading among children at the moment. Districts like Coffee County Schools and Manchester City Schools closed their doors on Friday, Feb. 13, following an increase in illness-related absences. Weve seen a lot of flu, some COVID, and a lot of strep throat, said Holly Matthews, a member of the Coffee County Board of Education. Advertisement Advertisement TDOE grants waivers for missed school days after winter storm Mainly last week, our attendance numbers really took a fairly rapid decline, Matthews explained. We got down in most schools below that 90% for the ADA, which is average daily attendance, and we kind of factor those numbers in with staff members and how quickly were losing staff and availability and substitutes. Meanwhile, Warren County Schools will be closed on Tuesday, Feb. 17 and Wednesday, Feb. 18, extending the Presidents Day holiday in order to slow the spread of sickness among students, staff, and families. The district said healthcare professionals have described the current outbreak as experiencing exponential growth in the community. Dr. Kyle Kakac, an emergency medicine specialist with TriStar Health, told News 2 that another factor in the illness rates could be students and staff coming back after being home for days following last months ice storm. Advertisement Advertisement Anytime you get kids back into school, we see upticks in our departments with influenza, other infectious respiratory and GI illnesses, Kakac said. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Beyond the flu vaccine, health experts say there are a couple of ways to stay healthy during the surge. I dont want people to feel paranoid about illnesses, Kakac said. I think using precautions such as washing hands and trying not to cough on to other people, trying to cough into your sleeve. Kakac expects flu season to last at least through March. However, Matthews said she feels Coffee County Schools is well-prepared in its use of built-in weather or illness days. Advertisement Advertisement Its been a challenging time, but hopefully with the long weekend, with us being out on Monday for Presidents Day, plus the couple of days weve had this week, well give everybody a chance to get rested up, Matthews said. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. MUNICH, Germany The leaders of Denmark and Greenland do not think the crisis over the Arctic territory has ended and believe President Donald Trump is still "very serious" about acquiring the territory. Mette Frederiksen, Denmark's prime minister, and her Greenlandic counterpart Jens-Frederik Nielsen, made the comment about the semi-autonomous Danish island while appearing at the Munich Security Conference on Feb 14. "I think the desire from the U.S. president is exactly the same," said Frederiksen, when asked during a panel how to describe the situation now that formal talks over the issue have begun. "Hes very serious about this," she said. Advertisement Advertisement 'Europe will never be irrelevant.' Rubio mends fences after Vance bombshell Responding to the same question about whether the talks would appease Trump, Nielsen said "we cannot lower our shoulders." He said that Trump's desire to acquire Greenland was "still there." Their lingering anxiety over Trump's interest in Greenland comes even though both leaders said they held constructive talks with Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the conference. The United States, Denmark and Greenland launched talks in late January to resolve the diplomatic crisis. But virtually no details about the discussion have been made public beyond a statement from Trump while he was attending the World Economic Forum last month, when he said the "framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland" had been reached. Advertisement Advertisement 'Y'all belong in Louisiana.' The strange case of Trump's missing Greenland envoy Greenland and Denmark caught by suprise That announcement appeared to catch Denmark and Greenland by surprise. And NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte later clarified that he did not discuss Greenland's sovereignty with Trump. People attend a protest against President Donald Trump's demand that the Arctic island be ceded to the U.S., calling for it to be allowed to determine its own future, in front of the U.S. consulate in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 17, 2026. People bear Greenlandic flags as they march to protest against President Donald Trump and his announced intent to acquire Greenland on Jan. 17, 2026 in Nuuk, Greenland. Greenlandic, Danish and other European leaders are hoping they can still avert an intervention by the United States to forcefully acquire the island as Trump continues to insist the U.S. must have Greenland, suggesting even by military means if necessary. Protesters take part in a demonstration to show support for Greenland in Copenhagen, Denmark on Jan. 17, 2026. Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen walks with people during a protest against President Donald Trumps demand that the Arctic island be ceded to the U.S., calling for it to be allowed to determine its own future, in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 17, 2026. People attend a protest against President Donald Trumps demand that the Arctic island be ceded to the U.S., calling for it to be allowed to determine its own future, in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 17, 2026. A child is wrapped in Greenlandic flag as people attend a protest against President Donald Trumps demand that the Arctic island be ceded to the U.S., calling for it to be allowed to determine its own future, in front of the U.S. consulate in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 17, 2026. Jens Kjeldsen, a 70-year-old carpenter and former judge from Greenland, paces with flags of Denmark, the Faroe Islands and Greenland (Kingdom of Denmark) protesting outside the US consulate's wooden cabin in Nuuk, Greenland, on Jan. 20, 2026. The 70-year-old carpenter and former judge from Greenland is holding daily early morning protests outside the US consulate this week in hopes of getting his message across to US officials. People attend a protest against President Donald Trumps demand that the Arctic island be ceded to the U.S., calling for it to be allowed to determine its own future, in front of the U.S. consulate in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 17, 2026. People attend a protest against President Donald Trumps demand that the Arctic island be ceded to the U.S., calling for it to be allowed to determine its own future, in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 17, 2026. People attend a protest against President Donald Trumps demand that the Arctic island be ceded to the U.S., calling for it to be allowed to determine its own future, in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 17, 2026. Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen waves a flag during a protest against President Donald Trump's demand that the Arctic island be ceded to the U.S., calling for it to be allowed to determine its own future, in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 17, 2026. People attend a protest against President Donald Trump's demand that the Arctic island be ceded to the U.S., calling for it to be allowed to determine its own future, in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 17, 2026. People attend a protest against President Donald Trumps demand that the Arctic island be ceded to the U.S., calling for it to be allowed to determine its own future, in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 17, 2026. People wave Greenlandic flags as they take part in a demonstration that gathered almost a third of the city population to protest against President Donald Trumps plans to take Greenland, on Jan. 17, 2026, in Nuuk, Greenland. Trump escalated his quest to acquire Greenland, threatening multiple European nations with tariffs of up to 25 percent until his purchase of the Danish territory is achieved. Trump's threats came as thousands of people protested in the capital of Greenland against his wish to acquire the mineral-rich island at the gateway to the Arctic. People wave Greenlandic flags as they take part in a demonstration that gathered almost a third of the city population to protest against President Donald Trumps plans to take Greenland, on Jan. 17, 2026 in Nuuk, Greenland. Trump escalated his quest to acquire Greenland, threatening multiple European nations with tariffs of up to 25 percent until his purchase of the Danish territory is achieved. Trump's threats came as thousands of people protested in the capital of Greenland against his wish to acquire the mineral-rich island at the gateway to the Arctic. People wave Greenlandic flags as they take part in a demonstration that gathered almost a third of the city population to protest against President Donald Trumps plans to take Greenland, on Jan. 17, 2026 in Nuuk, Greenland. Trump escalated his quest to acquire Greenland, threatening multiple European nations with tariffs of up to 25 percent until his purchase of the Danish territory is achieved. Trump's threats came as thousands of people protested in the capital of Greenland against his wish to acquire the mineral-rich island at the gateway to the Arctic. A mother and daughter with their faces painted with the Greenlandic flag stand on a street after they participated in a march to protest against President Donald Trump and his announced intent to acquire Greenland on Jan. 17, 2026 in Nuuk, Greenland. Greenlandic, Danish and other European leaders are hoping they can still avert an intervention by the United States to forcefully acquire the island as U.S. President Donald Trump continues to insist the U.S. must have Greenland, suggesting even by military means if necessary. People bear Greenlandic flags as they march to protest against President Donald Trump and his announced intent to acquire Greenland on Jan. 17, 2026 in Nuuk, Greenland. Greenlandic, Danish and other European leaders are hoping they can still avert an intervention by the United States to forcefully acquire the island as Trump continues to insist the U.S. must have Greenland, suggesting even by military means if necessary. A couple depart after they participated in a march to protest against President Donald Trump and his announced intent to acquire Greenland on Jan. 17, 2026 in Nuuk, Greenland. Greenlandic, Danish and other European leaders are hoping they can still avert an intervention by the United States to forcefully acquire the island as Trump continues to insist the U.S. must have Greenland, suggesting even by military means if necessary. Protesters on City Square during a protest in support of Greenland on Jan. 17, 2026 in Copenhagen, Denmark. The United States president continues to insist the U.S. must have Greenland, even by military means if necessary. Greenland is a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, which has forcefully pushed back on the U.S. threats, saying they jeopardize the future of NATO. Greenlanders march in defiance of Trumps efforts to claim the island 1 of 20 People attend a protest against President Donald Trump's demand that the Arctic island be ceded to the U.S., calling for it to be allowed to determine its own future, in front of the U.S. consulate in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 17, 2026. US official: Greenland action could come within 'weeks or months' "I hope we can find a solution to all this," Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Lkke Rasmussen told reporters, including USA TODAY, on the sidelines of the conference in Germany's Bavarian capital. Nielsen said the saga was taking a toll on the Greenlandic people, who have repeatedly expressed in polls that while they want eventually to become independent of Denmark, they have no interest at all in becoming American. Advertisement Advertisement Invasion, coercion, purchase. How Trump's Greenland episode could end "If I think about my people, we are so proud. We live in a harsh environment, we are resilient, we live in a land where nobody was able to live for many, many, many years. Theres a reason why we are the ones left," Nielsen joked during a discussion about Arctic security. His statement drew laughter from the audience. "The paradox," he added, "is that the Greenlandic people have never felt threatened, and now [for] the first time they feel unsafe for real, [it is] with an ally who is talking about acquiring them, buying them and so on. It's outrageous." Underdog Denmark: USA's depth wins out in men's hockey comeback Advertisement Advertisement 'Red line.' Greenland shuts down Trump on sovereignty for US bases Frederiksen said Denmark is willing to work with the Trump administration to find a solution but "there are of course things you cannot compromise on." She named a state's sovereignty and territorial integrity as two of those things. A senior Greenlandic official previously told USA TODAY that an idea floated by Trump that the United States could effectively take ownership of American military bases in Greenland also marked a "red line." Frederiksen said that revising a 1951 defense agreement between Denmark and the United States likely offers a "very easy" way for Washington to "have a stronger footprint in Greenland." Trump has said his desire to acquire Greenland is driven by a combination of national security strategy and access to natural resources. Advertisement Advertisement Kremlin on Greenland: Russia warns of response to any US weapons deployment NATO said on Feb. 11 that it had launched a mission to strengthen its presence in the Arctic, part of an effort to defuse tensions within the alliance prompted by Trump's push to acquire Greenland from Denmark. "We dont think its over," said Frederiksen in Munich. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Denmark, Greenland worry Trump still wants to take control Vietnams national airline will launch a new route to Europe this year. Hanoi-based Vietnam Airlines will start nonstop service to Amsterdam on June 16, officials said on Monday. Flights will operate three times per week between the Dutch capital and Hanoi, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, using an Airbus A350-900 aircraft. The carrier currently flies to various European destinations, including Paris, Frankfurt, London, Munich, Milan, and Copenhagen. Advertisement Advertisement Vietnam Airlines will operate a same-day turnaround on this route. Both Hanoi and Amsterdam are SkyTeam hubs, but they are not connected with nonstop service. Flying between the two cities currently requires connecting in Paris. Vietnam Airlines flies between Charles de Gaulle and Hanoi. A young woman who died less than two weeks ago was bright and had a promising future ahead of her, family members said at a rememberance ceremony Friday night in Concord. READ MORE: Concord family grieves after 18-year-old found dead Yadira Hernandez Castro, 18, of Concord, vanished the night of the Jan. 31 after going for a walk with her friend while there was a major winterstorm. Temperatures in the Concord area between 10:35 p.m. on Jan. 31 and 1:55 a.m. on Feb. 1 averaged 19.4 degrees with strong winds, according to the National Weather Service. Advertisement Advertisement She never returned home, so Castros family and the community searched her. Castro was reported missing the next day, and Castros father found her body the day after that between two cars in a wrecker yard. She was outside for several hours, according to the investigation. I know my dad. He wasnt sleeping. He wasnt eating but as one of the oldest daughters, I told him, Youre going to have to be strong. Nearly two weeks later, a candlelight vigil for Yadira was held along Academy Avenue Northwest. She was such a curious little soul, and she was just full of energy and everyone around her will continue to tell you the same thing, said Castros sister, Laura Hernandez, on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement More than 100 family and friends were at the vigil and balloon release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Afterward, family members returned to the spot where Castros body was discovered. It was heavy, again. Its not a situation you expect yourself to be in, Hernandez said. Wanted to travel Yadira Castro was an honors student and graduated early from high school. She had dreams of working in the medical field but was helping her mother with her food truck in the meantime. I know she wanted to start a clothing line, her sister said. She wanted to travel to Mexico. She wanted to visit me in California. She wanted to travel. More focused Family members were upset at the police department officials, because they said they found the body, not the father. Advertisement Advertisement The department apologized and the family is no longer distraught over the claim. But, I know, right now, my family is more focused on healing more than anything and its not like a matter of us versus them, Hernandez said. Cause of death The medical examiners preliminary report. The cause of death was exposure to extreme cold conditions with alcohol listed as a contributing circumstance, according to the medical examiners preliminary report. There were no signs of physical assault or trauma VIDEO: Authorities release preliminary findings in death of Concord teen found after winter storm Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Saturday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government of misleading the country over tariff provisions in the India-US interim trade agreement, alleging that the deal would adversely impact India's cotton farmers and textile exporters. Gandhi said that while Indian garments face an 18 per cent tariff in the United States, Bangladesh is being given a zero per cent tariff benefit on garment exports on the condition that it imports American cotton. Questioning the policy framework, he alleged that importing American cotton would harm domestic farmers, while not importing it would harm the textile industry. He further claimed that Bangladesh was signalling a possible reduction or halt in cotton imports from India, which, he said, could worsen the situation for Indian producers. https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/2022537545276703098?s=20 In a post on X, the Congress MP wrote, "18% Tariff vs 0% -- Let me explain how the expert liar Prime Minister and his cabinet are spreading confusion on this issue. And how they are cheating India's cotton farmers and textile exporters through the India-US trade deal. Bangladesh is being given 0% tariff benefit on garment exports to the US -- the only condition is that they import American cotton. After the announcement of 18% tariff on Indian garments, when I raised the question in Parliament about the special concession being given to Bangladesh, the reply from a minister of the Modi government was: "If we also want the same benefit, we will have to import cotton from America." Why was this fact hidden from the country till now?" He said that the agreement would push millions towards unemployment and economic distress. He also criticised the government's handling of the negotiations, stating that a deal in the national interest should have safeguarded both cotton farmers and textile exporters. "And what kind of policy is this? Is this really any kind of choice -- or is it a trap designed to push us into a "well in front, ditch behind" situation? If we import American cotton, our own farmers will be ruined. If we don't import it, our textile industry will lag behind and get destroyed. And now Bangladesh is also giving signals that it may reduce or even stop importing cotton from India," the post read. "The textile industry and cotton farming are the backbone of livelihood in India. Crores of people's daily bread depend on these very sectors. Attacking these sectors means pushing millions of families into the pit of unemployment and economic crisis. A visionary government that thinks in the national interest would have negotiated a deal that protects and ensures the prosperity of both cotton farmers and textile exporters. But exactly the opposite has happened -- Narendra "Surrender" Modi and his ministers have made an agreement that is likely to inflict deep damage on both sectors," the post further read. The India-US Interim Agreement, announced last week, is intended as a framework for a reciprocal and mutually beneficial trade pact between the two countries. The agreement will involve the elimination or reduction of tariffs on US industrial goods and a wide range of food and agricultural products, including dried distillers' grains, red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, soybean oil, wine and spirits, and additional products. In return, the United States will apply a reciprocal tariff of 18 per cent on selected Indian goods, including textiles, apparel, leather, footwear, plastics, rubber, organic chemicals, home decor, artisanal products, and certain machinery. Upon full implementation, US tariffs on items such as generic pharmaceuticals, gems and diamonds, and aircraft parts will be removed. (ANI) Two members of the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission are pushing back on newly surfaced allegations that they shunned government transparency laws and appeared to have colluded with the leader of a wildlife advocacy group on policy matters. A scathing 10-page memo says the behavior of commissioners Lorna Smith and Melanie Rowland posed serious risks to the state Department of Fish and Wildlife, especially when it comes to avoiding a conflict of interest and favoritism. The report also scrutinizes a former commissioner Gov. Bob Ferguson chose to replace on the panel last year. It is the latest twist in a multi-year drama involving the commission, which is often a battleground for groups fighting over how far the state should go in protecting wildlife or allowing for hunting or fishing of various species. A separate probe ordered by the governor, looking at whether commissioners violated open meetings and public records laws, remains underway. Advertisement Advertisement Department of Fish and Wildlife Director Kelly Susewind had a top staffer prepare the newly released memo in May 2025. It was shared that month with Fergusons chief of staff and only became public this week through a records request by the Standard. Susewinds move was unusual, as the commissioners oversee his department and he answers to the panel. The report flags concerns about the named commissioners tight relationship with attorney Claire Davis, the president and chief executive officer of Washington Wildlife First. While there are no transcripts of their frequent private meetings, the memos author said it looks like they may have been propagating an agenda in line with the advocacy groups policy priorities. Davis group, meanwhile, has been calling for Susewind to be removed from his job. Rowland, Smith and Davis are blasting the memo, saying it is riddled with false and defamatory statements that harm their reputations. The commissioners worry it could unfairly influence the ongoing investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Smith and Rowland each said they first saw the document Feb. 2 when told it would soon be released as part of a public records request. It is replete with assumptions, inferences, unsupported accusatory opinions, and incorrect conclusions, Rowland wrote Susewind on Feb. 9. Davis said Knoll recklessly makes allegations of misconduct against me without any evidence of wrongdoing. Kelly Susewind, director of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. (Courtesy photo) Francisco Santiago-Avila, Washington Wildlife Firsts science and advocacy director, said they are poring through a trove of documents received from the department that will help expose the selective, vindictive, and defamatory nature of this campaign to oust pro-wildlife commissioners. You will be hearing a lot more about this from us in the coming days and weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Smith said in a statement Friday that when she first read the memo, I was shocked to see the false and outrageous claims it contained, and even more so when I found out that it was written by an attorney. But after I reviewed it more carefully and compared it to other documents, the pieces began to fall together, and I realized that it reveals a lot about what department management has been doing behind closed doors over the past year, she said. I am not going to comment further until I consult with my attorneys and decide upon my next course of action. A serious soap opera Much of the commissions strife can be traced to its controversial decision in November 2022 to stop recreational hunting of black bears in the spring. Sportsmens Alliance, an Ohio-based organization, opposed the decision. Convinced commissioners misbehaved throughout the process, it sought their emails, texts and other communications to figure out if, in fact, they had failed to follow state law concerning the conduct of public meetings and preserving public records. Advertisement Advertisement It took a lawsuit, but the group eventually received thousands of records in 2025. On May 16, 2025, the group filed a petition asking Ferguson to remove commissioners Smith, Rowland, Barbara Baker, and John Lehmkuhl, alleging misconduct and malfeasance. They included some of the obtained records. Ferguson has not commented or acted on the petition. Ten days earlier, Susewind had two boxes of records generated from the hunters groups request delivered to Thomas Knoll Jr., the agencys criminal justice legal liaison for law enforcement. Initial review of these documents raises concern regarding potential inappropriate conduct by several Fish and Wildlife Commissioners, Susewind wrote Knoll on May 8. I would like your independent assessment of the materials provided including a written opinion on whether the records indicate inappropriate conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Knoll submitted his memo on May 16 and Susewind shared a copy with Fergusons staff. On June 20, the Office of Financial Management signed a contract with Chiedza Nziramasanga of Transformative Workplace Investigations to provide a comprehensive investigation of a reported experience in a work unit to allow leadership to determine if any discrimination, retaliation and/or other policy violations occurred as alleged. It would not be until mid-August before Ferguson publicly acknowledged this investigation into the commission. He waited to do so until after Susewind formally asked him to look into the situation on Aug. 5. The Knoll memo, along with the Sportsmens Alliance petition, was in the initial batch of documents provided to the investigator. Advertisement Advertisement This can be a good starting point to understand the issues that DFW had flagged, Franklin Plaistowe, chief operations officer for Ferguson, wrote in an email to Nziramasanga. Transformative Workplace Investigations was to turn in its final report on Friday, Feb. 13, but has received a one-month extension. Commissioners Lorna Smith (from left), Woody Myers and Melanie Rowland listen to public comments at the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting on Feb. 13, 2026. (Photo by Jerry Cornfield/Washington State Standard) Susewind said he didnt make the memo public last year because he did not want to inadvertently bias that investigation. He said commissioners could have seen it and all the other records generated from the Sportsmens Alliance request if they wanted. We did offer to go over documents with all commissioners both before and after the Thomas Knoll memo, he said this week. Advertisement Advertisement Commission chair Jim Anderson agreed. I was aware of it. I think we all had an opportunity to know whats there, he said Thursday. Rowland and Smith said they dont recall such an offer. I most definitely did not see it, Smith said. Have each other on speed dial Soon after taking office, Ferguson withdrew two Inslee administration appointments to the commission. Materials obtained from the computer of one of those appointees, former commission vice chair Tim Ragen, steered Knolls attention to commissioners Smith and Rowland and Washington Wildlife Firsts Davis. Knoll contends the commissioners failed to recognize the importance of retaining records and did not promptly respond to records requests, including those involving commission-related communications made on personal devices. Advertisement Advertisement Some of his sharpest critiques are directed at the relationship between Davis and Smith, Rowland and Ragen. He said they appeared to have each other on speed dial. They met regularly, often before commission meetings, and Davis corresponded directly with each, he noted, raising the spectre of potential conflicts of interest. When Ferguson walked back Ragens appointment, Washington Wildlife First was among the groups that pressed the governor to keep him on the commission. Knoll cited one email from 2023 where Davis invited commissioners to ask questions about a lawsuit she filed against the state agency on behalf of two clients. The record does not show what was discussed about the pending lawsuit, but this type of communication is clearly inconsistent, with the commission rule to not engage in any activity which gives rise to the appearance of a conflict of interest, he wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Rowland, an attorney, flatly denied discussing litigation against the department with Davis or any other attorney for a party in litigation with the agency. Davis, in her statement, said her discussions with commissioners were an appropriate, ethical, and protected exercise of my First Amendment right to speak to government officials on matters of public importance. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. HEBER CITY, Utah (ABC4) The Wasatch County Republican Party Chair who was accused of waterboarding his 16-year-old relative has been released on bail. David Nephi Johnson, 54, was arrested and charged with intentional or knowing aggravated child abuse, a first-degree felony. Allegedly, Johnson waterboarded his relative, and police observed visible bruising on the 16-year-old from being backhanded on the torso. Advertisement Advertisement When Johnson was arrested, he was being held without bail, but during his initial court appearance on Thursday, his bail was changed to $10,000, and he was released from jail after posting bail. Wasatch County GOP Chair arrested for waterboarding 16-year-old relative, police say At the same time, Johnson was found to be a credible threat to the physical safety of the alleged victim, and because of that, a pre-trial protective order was issued. That protective order requires no contact with the alleged victim, and he also cannot live with the alleged victim pre-trial. Additionally, Johnson must stay away from the alleged victims home and school, and he is ordered against committing domestic violence or abuse against any household members. Advertisement Advertisement Immediately following his arrest, the victim was temporarily placed with a different adult relative once the Utah Division of Child and Family Services responded to the incident. Additionally, the other children reportedly have a safety plan in place that no physical discipline may be used. Wasatch County Republican party releases statement after chair arrested for allegedly waterboarding 16-year-old Allegedly, the incident happened after the victim returned from spending time with friends, and Johnson became upset because her room was not completely clean. The 16-year-old victim also reportedly told police that there was abuse involving other younger family members, including a similar incident of waterboarding several years ago involving a now-8-year-old. In the day following Johnsons arrest, the Wasatch County Republican Party released a statement where they said that they are deeply concerned and troubled by the allegations against Johnson. However, they also asked the public to refrain from judgement and stated that all individuals are innocent until proven guilty. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. By Trevor Hunnicutt WASHINGTON, Feb 13 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump's White House ballroom project may get a blessing from Washington planning authorities as soon as next month. Trump razed the White House's East Wing in October to make way for a $400 million, 90,000-square-foot (8,400-square-meter) addition that he says will be privately financed. The administration planned the neoclassical building's ribbon-cutting for summer 2028 as part of the most extensive remaking of the U.S. capital's landscape in decades. Advertisement Advertisement The National Capital Planning Commission said it would consider "approval of preliminary and final site and building plans" on March 5, according to a tentative meeting agenda posted online. The commission is one of two federal bodies, along with the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, assigned a role in overseeing key D.C.-area building projects. Neither group is expected to block or delay Trump's plans. Trump picked several members of both groups, and his former personal lawyer Will Scharf chairs the National Capital Planning Commission. But federal courts are scrutinizing the project. A judge last month expressed skepticism about whether the administration had authority to proceed with construction after a demolition that Congress didn't approve. Advertisement Advertisement The National Trust for Historic Preservation sued in December, arguing that the project lacked the required approvals and environmental review. In documents supporting its proposal and posted online by the commission, the Trump administration said it concluded that demolition of the East Wing was "the most effective solution to many longstanding issues affecting the White House" in light of the 120-year-old structure's limitations, poor energy efficiency and limited accessibility for people with disabilities. The White House's disclosures were the most extensive description of the project to date, including illustrations by architect Shalom Baranes. In those disclosures, the White House said the administration planned to incorporate some preserved items from the East Wing, such as its cornerstone and a pergola designed by the Chinese-American architect I.M. Pei. (Reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) Feb. 14GRAND FORKS Water pipe inspectors will be visiting more than 3,600 customers of the East Central Regional Water District and Agassiz Water Users District throughout the first half of 2026. The engineering firm AE2S is working with local water districts to update service line inventories by sending staff members to do door-to-door inspections of service lines that are currently listed as "unknown" in those inventories. The lines will need to be identified as copper, plastic, galvanized steel or lead. Inspections will begin mid-February, and AE2S employees will have photo identifications with their name, title and logos for AE2S and either ECRWD or Agassiz WUD. Letters are also being sent to customers with unknown water lines. Advertisement Advertisement "We thank everyone who previously completed the survey to help us make progress on the pipe inventory," John Eaton, Agassiz WUD general manager, said in a news release. "We still have a lot of progress to make, and we need property owners' participation to ensure we have the most accurate information to provide to the state of North Dakota later this year." "The inspections may continue into July and August," ECRWD System Manager Neil Breidenbach said. "If your service line has already been confirmed, inspectors will not need to come to your property in 2026, unless they need to confirm a lead or galvanized steel service line." The inventory process started in 2024; ECRWD still has 2,390 properties with unknown service lines, while Agassiz WUD has 1,267 service lines still marked unknown. The inspections are part of the state of North Dakota and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency initiative to remove lead from drinking water pipes. Advertisement Advertisement For property owners who would rather identify their own service lines, a short online survey will be included in the letters. Property owners will be asked to locate their water service line, which is attached to the water meter and water shutoff valve in the home or business and is usually located on the lowest floor of the building, coming from the basement or through the wall. A photo of the pipe must be uploaded to the online survey to confirm its identification. MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) The Public Service Commission of West Virginia has received an application from both the Monongahela Power Company and The Potomac Edison Company to construct a new natural gas plant, along with three solar generation facilities. An email from the Public Service Commission states that the two companies are seeking approval to build a 1,200-megawatt (MW) combined cycle natural gas plant, which as proposed would cost $2.84 billion and would be built at the Fort Martin Power Station in Monongalia County. If approved, the plant would open in late 2031, construction would bring in roughly $258.5 million in tax revenue, and would contribute $51.1K annually after. Advertisement Advertisement West Virginia Democrats seek to put cannabis legalization on public ballot In addition to the plant, the companies are also asking to build three solar facilities, one at the Wylie Ridge site in Weirton, one at the Davis site in Davis, and one at the Valley Point site near Albright. Those facilities plan to be functional by 2027, 2028, and 2030. According to the filing, the companies state the combined projects are intended to address energy deficits and reduce potential capacity shortfalls while supporting reliable electric service, the Public Service Commission states in the email. More information on the proposed plant and solar facilities can be found here under case number 26-0108-E-CN. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. Federal fishery managers have approved the first-ever mandatory caps on at-sea interception of chum salmon, a fish species critical to Indigenous communities along Alaskas river systems. The North Pacific Fishery Management Council on Wednesday voted in favor of new limits for the pollock fleet to reduce the amount of chum salmon accidentally caught in trawl nets, a phenomenon known as bycatch. North Pacific Fishery Management Council member Nate Pamplin, Diana Evans, the councils executive director, and council chair Angel Drobnica listen to testimony on Feb. 7, 2026, at the February meeting in Anchorage. (Photo byYereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) The compromise, approved at the end of a 10-day council meeting, addresses a yearslong conflict that pitted the in-river salmon fishermen and their Indigenous cultures against the economically important harvesters of Alaska pollock, the top-volume U.S. commercial seafood. Advertisement Advertisement Achieving effective safeguards for Western Alaska chum salmon while balancing needs of all parties amid environmental factors that are out of managers control was difficult, Angel Drobnica, the councils chair, said just before the vote was taken. This is the most challenging issue Ive worked on during my time in this process, she said, referring to her three years on the full council and six years on the groups advisory panel. I believe this motion is durable and enforceable and reflective of input from both sides and has maintained a clear focus on Western Alaska salmon. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Salmon bycatch is a hot-button issue in Alaska fisheries. Total amounts of chum salmon accidentally caught in the trawl nets used by the pollock fleet can number in the hundreds of thousands though the vast majority of the chum salmon intercepted in the Bering Sea in this manner is not of Alaska origin, according to council data. Advertisement Advertisement While bycatch limits have been in place for several years for Chinook salmon, this is the first time managers have imposed limits for chum salmon. Both Pacific salmon species are important to the Yukon and Kuskokwim river system communities, and both have collapsed in recent years, at times prompting complete fishing closures all the way into Canadas Yukon Territory. The measure imposing chum bycatch limits, years in the making, included several elements: A list of people signed up to testify at the February meeting of the North Pacific Fishery Management Council is taped to a William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center room door on Feb. 9, 2026, The room, down the hall from the rooms where the council was convened, was reserved and used for the duration of the meeting by tribal oroganizations, including the Kuskokwim River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission and the Tanana Chiefs Conference. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) It sets an annual bycatch cap of 45,000 Western Alaska chum salmon. It apportions the cap among the different pollock-fishing sectors: at-sea processors, catcher ships that deliver to onshore plants, catcher vessels that deliver to motherships, which are vessels that collects harvests; and Community Development Quota organizations, which represent rural and Indigenous communities have invested in the fisheries and are assigned shares of annual groundfish harvests. It applies the cap to corridors in the Bering Sea that are known to be used by migrating Western Alaska chum salmon and to the summer months when bycatch of Western Alaska chum is concentrated, then when Alaskans are most affected. The use of corridors is intended to address the fact that the vast majority of chum salmon netted as bycatch in the Bering Sea are fish from Asian hatcheries rather than fish that swim though and spawn in Alaska rivers. The approved measure contains triggers that would enforce area-specific pollock trawling shutdowns if bycatch levels are reached. The approved measure mandates the use of bycatch-reduction technology and practices that are currently voluntary in the industry. Those include employment of salmon-excluding devices that allow salmon to swim free of nets holding pollock and enhanced communication and record-keeping to broaden knowledge among the fleet, tribal organiziation and members and the general public about potential bycatch hotspots and how to avoid them. Signs seen Feb. 7, 2026, at a room in the William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center used by tribal organizations attending the North Pacific Fishery Management Council meeting. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) The measure is set to go into effect in 2028. Advertisement Advertisement Managers approved it by an 8-3 vote. One of the dissenters, Seattle-based Jamie Goen, executive director of Alaska Bering Sea Crabbers, said the cap was too high. This motion is a license to kill 45,000 Western Alaska chum when we have information showing that every salmon that comes back to Western Alaska rivers counts, she said Wednesday just before the vote was taken. Every female salmon holds the potential to release thousands of eggs that can grow exponentially to feed in-river communities and keep their cultures alive. The reduction in pollock harvesting that would result from a lower cap would be negligible, compared to the losses suffered by river communities, she said. Goens comments mirrored a slogan imprinted on wristbands, buttons and other items distributed by tribal groups attending the meeting: Every Salmon Counts. Advertisement Advertisement Council member Jon Kurland, who is also director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations Alaska fisheries service, said that while the salmon crash has had devastating effects in Western Alaska with details that are heartbreaking, the socioeconomic benefits of the pollock harvests also need to be considered. Wristbands and buttons bearing the slogan EVERY SALMON COUNTS are displayed on a table on Feb. 9, 2026. The wristbands and buttons were being distributed by tribal organizations attenting the North Pacific Fishery Management Council meeting in Anchorage. The slogan references the argument that every salmon that avoids bycatch and is able to swim to river spawning grounds is important to the population and to the people who depend on salmon runs. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) Those include the family businesses that operate catcher boats, the seafood processing capacity in many remote areas that really needs a steady flow of pollock to process other species for smaller-scale fisheries and the ways that the community development quotas improve peoples lives in 65 Bering Sea communities, he said. After the vote, tribal representatives attending the meeting had mixed reactions to the councils action. In some ways, it was a positive movement, they said. Its a start, said Charlie Wright, secretary and treasurer of the Tanana Chiefs Conference. Advertisement Advertisement The pressure is on, said Eva Burk of Nenana, a tribal representative on the councils advisory panel. But Wright, from the Yukon River village of Rampart, and Burk said they were disappointed that the numerical cap was not lower and that the geographic area to which it will apply was not broader. An organization representing the pollock industry said the councils action was fair, decision was fair, even though it puts some more burden on pollock harvesters. The Councils decision reflects the seriousness of the challenges facing Western Alaska chum salmon and the complexity of managing a dynamic fishery, said a statement released by the Alaska Pollock Fishery Alliance. The pollock industry respects the Council process and remains committed to working within this new framework while continuing to invest in science-based, real-time avoidance tools that have already delivered meaningful reductions in Western Alaska chum bycatch. Advertisement Advertisement Alaska pollock, shown here from a harvest, make up the nations top-volume single-species commercial seafood catch. Alaska pollock, harvested mostly in the Bering Sea but also in the Gulf of Alaska, are processed into fish sticks, fish burgers, imitation crab meat and other common fish products. (Photo provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Wednesdays vote came after four days of often impassioned public testimony sessions that started on Saturday and ran through Tuesday afternoon. An estimated 170 people attending the meeting addressed the council during those days. They included subsistence fishers and leaders of tribal originations along the Yukon and Kuskokwim basins, small-scale pollock harvesters, representatives of fishing companies, Indigenous organizations with investments in the pollock fishery and others. One of the tribal leaders testifying was Brian Ridley, chief executive of the Tanana Chiefs Conference, an organization of Interior Alaska Athabascan tribal government. TCC and other tribal groups have been seeking the strictest limits possible, he told the council. Advertisement Advertisement For Yukon River communities, salmon fishing closures over the past years have resulted in food insecurity, starvation, diabetes, cancer and cultural loss, he said in testimony Saturday. Let me be clear: Were not asking to shut down the pollock fishery. Were asking for the first real step in sharing the burden of conservation, the same step Yukon fishers began taking decades ago. Our communities have carried the burden alone for more than 20 years. Today, were asking the pollock fleet to finally share the burden, Ridley said. There were more personal accounts, like one delivered Saturday by Julia Dorris of Kalskag, a village on the middle section of the Kuskokwim River. My dad had a dog team. Because of less chum and the restrictions, he no longer had his team. And had to get rid of all the dogs. It was heartbreaking to see a strong person quietly fading, Dorris said. Advertisement Advertisement The pollock trawl fleet had its defenders as well. Those included Frank Kelty, a former mayor of Unalaska, and Victor Tutiakoff Sr., the Aleutian Island citys current mayor. Tutiakoff mentioned that he himself is a subsistence fisher, so he understands subsistence needs. Kelty mentioned the Community Development Quota groups that, under a program established in 1992, comprise villages in different Western Alaska regions that have banded together to invest in Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands fisheries. The pollock fishery, as we all know, is the economic engine of Unalaska and other fishery-dependent communities in the Bering Sea region, including the six CDQ groups. A closed or reduced pollock season is devastating, Kelty told the council. Unalaska is a one-horse town completely dependent on commercial fishing, with the local government highly dependent on fishing-related taxes, he said. If you have reduced or closed seasons, you see impacts throughout the community. The population reduces, employment at the plants goes away, the school population drops, clinic its just a bad situation, Kelty said. A poster explaining the increasing abundance in the Bering Sea of Asian hatchery chum salmon is seen on Feb. 6, 2026, in a room reserved by Community Development Quota organizations involved in the pollock harvest. The CDQ qroups are owned by residents of dozens of rural Alaska and Indigenous villages. In the room they reserved at the Egan Center, near to the larger space being used by the North Pacific Fishery Management Council for that groups February meeting, the CDQ groups displayed several posters describing the roles that climate change and harchery fish are playing in Alaska salmon problems. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) Defenders of the pollock industry included Native organizations. One was the Qawalangin Tribe of Unalaska, which presented a recently passed resolution warning that hard caps on chum bycatch could cause significant economic risk for Tribal members and for fishery-dependent communities. Advertisement Advertisement Although they sometimes disagreed about the role of bycatch, speakers on both sides of the debate agreed that the problems facing Western Alaska chum salmon, as well as the faltering runs of Chinook salmon, are myriad. Climate change, with effects in both the ocean and in freshwater systems, is a major factor, speakers said. For example, Jacob Ivanoff of Unalakleet, representing the Nome Eskimo Community tribal government, described the masses of fish found dead of heat stroke in rivers in 2019, along with water temperatures that ranged up to 85 degrees during that years marine heatwave. The growing presence of Asian hatchery chum salmon in the Bering Sea is a complicating factor. The flood of new fish, aside from competing with Alaska fish for food and potentially crowding Alaska fish out of the habitat, are dominant in the bycatch numbers. In past years, genetic testing shows that only about a fifth of the chum salmon netted as bycatch by the Bering Sea pollock fleet has been from Western Alaska, council members said. Most of the rest is from Asian hatcheries, including hatcheries in Russia, though a small portion has also been composed of chum salmon from the states more southern Gulf of Alaska waters or from the Pacific Northwest region even farther south. The total chum salmon bycatch in the pollock fishery in 2025 was about 151,000 fish, according to a report presented to the council early in the meeting. Most of that was hatchery fish. The percentage of bycatch that was fish from Western Alaska rivers was low, but it fluctuates from year to year and even from week to week during harvest seasons, according to genetics information presented by the Bristol Bay Science and Research Institute. Bycatch concerns go beyond salmon. The term refers to any accidental netting, hooking, entaglement or crushing of an untargeted species. Several types of fish, birds and marine mammals are killed or injured through bycatch in different fisheries. NOAA keeps track of annual bycatch totals. Eva Burk, Jessica and Rory Black, Ariella Bradley, Fatima Lord-Minano and Charlie Wright cut salmon during an August 2025 cultural camp held in Nenana. The youth and adults in the camp were able to harvest and process a few chum salmon in 2025, for the first time in several years. Burk, who is from Nenana, is a tribal representative on the North Pacific Fishery Management Councils advisory panel. Wright is secretary and treasurer of the Tanana Chiefs Council. Both have argued for tighter restrictions on at-sea interception of Western Alaska chum salmon. (Photo provided by Eva Burk) SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX When a door closes, another one opens. Or, like the situation happening on West Seventh Avenue in Eugene, when a car dealership closes, an office space opens after months of remodeling work is completed. The former Sheppard Motors car dealership, located at 2300 W. Seventh Ave., is being transformed into a hub of offices for Zip-O-Log Mills. Heres what to know about whats happening to the old Sheppard Motors on West Seventh Avenue and how this change supports expansion of a long-established local family business. Whats happening at the former Sheppard Motors dealership on W. 7th Avenue? Zip-O-Log Mills has been producing timber goods since Al Hallstrom and George Campbell started the business in Coburg in 1944. More than 80 years later, Als great-granddaughter, KayCee Hallstrom, is leading the companys largest expansion in her role as vice president. Advertisement Advertisement Zip-O-Log Mills is in the midst of a multi-phase expansion to increase mill production capacity and improve efficiency, reduce labor challenges and expand planning and sorting capabilities at the companys Goshen facility. The former Sheppard Motors building at 2300 W. Seventh Ave. in Eugene, photographed Feb. 9, 2026, is undergoing alterations. New tenant Zip-O-Log Mills plans to move its company offices there this summer. Part of this expansion includes the companys move into larger offices. According to Lane County property records, the former Sheppard Motors location sits on almost 2.5 acres. The space is less than a quarter-mile from the current Zip-O-Log Mills site at 2235 W. Sixth Ave. in Eugene, where a maze of hallways and small offices make up the headquarters. Zip-O-Log Mills has operated out of its current location since 1951. Constructed in 1965, the former Sheppard Motors facility included a showroom, an office, a parts department, an auto body shop, a service and repair shop, a paint booth and a wash area. Advertisement Advertisement To turn this space into offices for Zip-O-Log Mills, an underground storage tank had to be decommissioned. A partial demolition took place to make room for an addition. KayCee Hallstrom, vice president of Zip-O-Log Mills, said the current office building houses seven enclosed offices one of which is a converted closet she and her sister share four cubicles and a break room. She said the plan is to remodel the current office building into a lunchroom. "A building is just a place," Halltrom said. "Its like, hey, no one expects glamor, but times are changing, not only because were growing as a company and dont have space but we need to move forward and have it be a flagship of sorts." Hallstrom said acquiring the former Sheppard building cost around $8 million and the remodel will cost about another $10 million. Advertisement Advertisement The renovations are expected to be completed in October or November. Hallstrom said the project is behind schedule, but Zip-O-Log's staff is excited to move in once it's finished. Its been my sisters and my dream to have collaboration to this extent and its really amazing to see it finally," Hallstrom said. "All this stuff in planning has been happening and nothings happening to the building, so its nice to finally see things physically happening. Hannarose McGuinness is The Register-Guards growth and development reporter. See a development in Lane County that makes you wonder, Whats that? Send inquiries to hmcguinness@registerguard.com. This article originally appeared on Register-Guard: What's taking over the former Sheppard Motors building? [Watch Whole Hog Politics live: Join us today at 9 a.m. ET at TheHill.com as Chris Stirewalt and host Bill Sammon break down this weeks political news and answer questions from a live online audience.] We know that President Trump doesnt like pollsters, or at least not the ones that produce unfavorable results about him. But it is also true that polls dont really like him either. Right now, that means that each week, Trump is plumbing new depths of unpopularity as voters recoil from his personality and policies. Even low-quality pollsters with high degrees of pro-Trump lean in their past surveys show the president underwater with voters. When not even Rasmussen Reports can get him over 45 percent approval, you know Trump is in the soup. Advertisement Advertisement But it is also true that in each of his three presidential campaigns, the best national pollsters have significantly understated his share of the vote. In 2016, Trump won when everyone including him thought he would lose. In 2020, what was forecast to be a 10-point blowout for Joe Biden ended up being less than 5 points. And in 2024, the campaign closed with Trump trailing by less than 2 points, but he won the national popular vote by a point and a half. The debate has raged over why, at a time when pollsters have had a good record in midterms and have been pretty much on the nose with the Democrats share of the presidential vote, Trump keeps beating expectations. Republicans like the idea of the shy Trump voter, which is akin to another piece of favored right-wing lore: the Bradley Effect. This is the idea that voters who felt pressure to vote against the socially undesirable Trump, lied to pollsters rather than admit their preference. This is the silent majority in action. Maybe there are instances of this taking place. Certainly the pro-Kamala Harris spot telling women to lie to their Republican husbands about voting for the then-vice president suggests this kind of thinking has a home in both parties. But a better explanation is that voters who favored Trump were just harder for pollsters to find. The largest bloc of Trumps support in all of his elections came from white, working-class voters. We have lots of evidence to suggest that this is also one of the groups most unlikely to participate in surveys, some probably by choice or because of suspicion and others because theyre just too busy. By the time youve found enough of these voters to make up the 40 percent or so you need for a polling sample, youve scraped down to get an unrepresentative sample. Advertisement Advertisement If only rabbits with bent ears like purple carrots, you wont catch many straight-eared bunnies in a purple-carrot trap. One of the best pieces of evidence for the purple carrot theory of the missing Trump voter came from before Trump was ever on a ballot. The biggest polling miss in the modern era until 2020 was in 2012, when an average of high-quality polls showed incumbent Barack Obama ahead of Republican nominee Mitt Romney by 0.6 points at the end of the campaign. Obama went on to win the national popular vote by about 4 points. I doubt many of those missing voters were lying to pollsters to say they were voting for the white businessman instead of Americas first African American president. More likely was that Obama did the best among the voters who are the hardest to poll: working-class Americans. The 2012 miss didnt get nearly the attention as the Trump-era errors, which is understandable since it was a matter of degree, not outcome. The expected result an Obama victory occurred, so whether it was narrow or comfortable was just for style points. But the error still sent a jolt through the world of public opinion research. One of those shook loose was the Gallup organization, which had been one of the only pollsters in the closing days of the 2012 campaign to show a lead albeit a narrow 1-point advantage for Romney. Gallup wasnt any kind of a wild outlier. The difference between Gallup and contemporaneous polls was statistically insignificant. But it was obviously enough of an embarrassment that Gallup announced in 2015 that it would, for the first time since the 1940s, not release polls on the upcoming presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement That decision made good business sense because while an election poll can be wrong, a poll for a corporate client really cant be. You can draw the wrong conclusion from a small sample of respondents about how the electorate is going to vote, but not about how people feel about the new packaging on Post Toasties or what attributes are most important to consumers in purchasing a new vacuum cleaner. Except for in very extreme cases, market research is unfalsifiable. Measuring subjective preferences and attitudes is very different from trying to forecast an actual election that will be contested, tabulated and reported. A horse race poll can be accurate without being predictive, which is to say that races change in the closing days and margins of error sometimes overlap. But getting it wrong makes the people who sell breakfast cereal and vacuum cleaners wonder if your high-priced consulting services are all theyre cracked up to be. So Gallup, the firm that had essentially created the polling industry as we know it when George Gallup started doing public polls in the mid-1930s, got out of the horse race. That was no great loss, since we have lots of good polling on presidential elections, much of it superior to Gallups offerings. But what Gallup kept was the jewel in its crown: its more than eight-decade long effort to track public opinion on presidential job performance until this week. The company announced an evolution in how Gallup focuses its public research and thought leadership that would no longer include assessing presidential job approval, as it had for presidents going back to Franklin Roosevelt. It was not lost on anyone that this announcement followed Gallup giving Trump a scorchingly bad score for the final quarter of 2025. Some Democrats cried foul and suggested Trump had pressured the company to stop. Advertisement Advertisement Thats not a crazy suggestion, given how heavy-handed Trump is with corporate entities that displease him. With lots of money and free legal services from friendly firms, Trump has a long record of harassing lawsuits like the one he filed against Iowa pollster Ann Selzer and the Des Moines Register. Targets often prefer to make a deal rather than endure the cost and trouble of endless litigation. But it is also possible that Gallup just wanted to get out of the business of doing politically problematic polls for public consumption. Like the horse-race decision of a decade ago, the presidential approval decision may have just been that juice wasnt worth the squeeze anymore. Whatever the reason, its too bad. There are other pollsters that do better, more detailed public opinion research, but one thing you cant buy is history. Gallups public service was that it provided stable, comparable data for 15 presidencies so we could reliably compare American voters attitudes at different times. That helped us put things in perspective and gave us a better sense of ourselves. Its a shame that didnt fit Gallups idea of thought leadership anymore. Advertisement Advertisement [Programming alert: Watch The Hill Sunday with Chris Stirewalt From your local city hall to the halls of Congress, well cover the big political stories of the day and the ones that might have been missed. And, as always, well have expert analysis from our best-in-the-business panel of journalists. Be sure to catch us on NewsNation at 10 a.m. ET / 9 a.m. CT or your local CW station.] Holy croakano! We welcome your feedback, so please email us with your tips, corrections, reactions, amplifications, etc. at WholeHogPolitics@TheHill.com. If youd like to be considered for publication, please include your real name and hometown. If you dont want your comments to be made public, please specify. NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION Trump Job Performance Average Approval: 39.6 percent Advertisement Advertisement Average Disapproval: 57.6 percent Net Score: -18 points Change from one week ago: 0.4 points (-17.6 points) Change from one month ago: 1 point ( -19 points) [Average includes: AP/NORC 36 percent approve 62 percent disapprove Quinnipiac University 37 percent approve 56 percent disapprove; Marist College 39 percent approve 56 percent disapprove; Marquette University Law School 42 percent approve 58 percent disapprove; Fox News 44 percent approve 56 percent disapprove] Trump favorability sinks below post-Jan. 6 depths Please indicate if you have an unfavorable or favorable impression of Donald Trump. Now vs. January 2021 Very/somewhat favorable: 34 percent; 36 percent Advertisement Advertisement Very/somewhat unfavorable: 61 percent; 61 percent [National Opinion Research Center survey of 1,156 adults.] Texas Republican Senate primary (March 3) Ken Paxton: 38 percent John Cornyn: 31 percent Wesley Hunt: 17 percent Other/unsure: 14 percent [University of Houston survey of 550 likely Republican primary voters] Texas Democratic Senate primary (March 3) Jasmine Crockett: 47 percent James Talarico: 39 percent Other/unsure: 12 percent [University of Houston survey of 550 likely Democratic primary voters] ON THE SIDE: INSIDE THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF ASSAD The Atlantic: Some dictators go down fighting. Some are lynched and strung up for their victims to spit on. Some die in bed. Bashar al-Assad, who oversaw the torture and murder of hundreds of thousands of his fellow Syrians during a quarter century in power, may have achieved something new in the annals of tyranny. As the rebels closed in on Damascus on December 7, 2024, Assad reassured his aides and subordinates that victory was near, and then fled in the night on a Russian jet, telling almost no one. Assads betrayal was so breathtakingly craven that some people had trouble believing it at first. When the facts became impossible to deny, the loyalty of thousands of people curdled almost instantly into fury. Many swore that they had always secretly hated him. There is an expression in Arabic for this kind of revisionist memory: When the cow falls, the butchers multiply. PRIME CUTS Shapiro-Fetterman feud carries consequences for 2028: The New York Times: For years, [Pennsylvanias Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro] and [Democratic Sen. John Fetterman] climbed their way through the ranks of state politics, rising from local office on opposite sides of the state to become national political stars with egos to match. Both were talked about as potential presidential candidates despite their radically different profiles. Mr. Shapiro, a buttoned-up, bespectacled state legislator from the Philadelphia suburbs, emerged as a political moderate and a master of the insiders game. Mr. Fetterman, the towering, tattooed mayor of a struggling old steel town near Pittsburgh, was a lone-wolf politician who disdained the party establishment but excited the liberal grass-roots. Yet in recent years, their trajectories have sharply diverged: While private animosity is common between politicians, Mr. Fetterman has propelled their long-fraught relationship to the public eye, broadcasting his resentments toward a sitting governor of his own party in a way that Pennsylvania political veterans say has little modern precedent. Advertisement Advertisement Mark Leibovich: Do Democrats really want to win? The Atlantic: [Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin] had been dealing with a staff revolt following his November 12 announcement that the DNC would be ending its generous work-from-home guidelines. Everyone would be expected to return to headquarters full-time, Martin told his staff, starting in February. This did not go over well. Thumbs-down emoji filled the Zoom screen. Employees pelted Martin with questions. He told me that he sympathized, but observed that most major public- and private-sector organizations had long since compelled their employees to return to their offices. If its unbearable and its a quality-of-life thing for you, Im happy to help you find another job, Martin said he told his staff. The complaints persisted. Shocking and callous, the DNCs employee union said of the chairmans directive in a statement to The New York Times. The squabble underscored how the Democrats cant help but keep playing to a stubborn stereotypea soft and pampered bunch, unwilling to make the gritty sacrifices (such as getting dressed) necessary to prevail in their existential campaign to save democracy. SHORT ORDER GOP advantage over Dems on immigration drops to 4 points, a steep decline from autumn The New York Times Trump upbraids National Governors Association Chair Kevin Stitt for including Democrats The Wall Street Journal Advertisement Advertisement Republicans swamp Dems on midterm fundraising The New York Times Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) makes reelection bid official, and it wont be easy The Hill Super Bowl ads kick California governors race into gear The Sacramento Bee AIPAC sinks comeback bid for former Rep. Tom Malinowski (D-N.J.) Punchbowl News TABLE TALK: ARTICLE I, ARTICLE NONE Weve gotten everything passed that we need for four years. President Trump in an interview with Fox Business declaring no additional legislative priorities for the remainder of his term. MAILBAG I wanted to add one more thing that I believe steers people with college educations towards the Democrats. If you grow up believing things about different demographics, and then you go to a university, you meet people from these demographics, and you realize that they arent as scary as you were originally led to believe. I think this is a large reason for many people changing how they vote once theyre going to a university or a college. Its not just being educated, its meeting so many different types of people. Maygin Elizabeth-Ann McEwen-Eiferman, Tarzana, Calif. Ms. McEwen-Eiferman, I think thats a positive way of looking at what a number of Republicans believe happens at Americas colleges, which is that sound, right-minded young people go off to be indoctrinated by radical professors and immersed in left-wing campus culture. A good bit of the current administrations campaign against higher education is rooted in that belief that has been common on the American right since the campus revolts of the 1960s and 1970s. The positive and negative versions of that story probably hold some truths. But Im skeptical that the effects of a college education are as powerful as other factors. Fewer than a third of the enrollees at four-year colleges in America are first-generation college students. At elite institutions, the number might be as low as 6 percent. I dont have a poll to back it up, but I would bet that the parents of college students and college-educated adults are also more Democratic than their non-college counterparts. Charles Murrays masterful book, Coming Apart, looks at how American society has fractured along lines between a broad, self-isolating elite and a culturally deteriorating underclass. Being a member of the correct party for your class is a big part of group identity. We Americans are an egalitarian bunch, and we dont like to think about class the way Europeans do, but that doesnt mean we dont have the problem. Murray talks about college as a giant sorting machine that divides Americans into these two groups, with dire effects on our ability to work together to form a more perfect union. The resentments between the two groups is in its starkest relief in our crummy political discourse. Lets hope we can do better. All best, c You should email us! Write to WholeHogPolitics@TheHill.com with your tips, kudos, criticisms, insights, rediscovered words, wonderful names, recipes, and, always, good jokes. Please include your real name at least first and last and hometown. Make sure to let us know in the email if you want to keep your submission private. My colleague, Meera Sehgal, and I will look for your emails and then share the most interesting ones and my responses here. Clickety clack! FOR DESSERT: HOSE OFF, YOU HOSERS DurhamRegion: Something smells rotten in the bowels of the Tribute Community Centre these days. If you said the Oshawa [Canada] Generals hockey team, well, you might not be wrong. The club, with just 27 points in 50 games, is last in the Ontario Hockey League. But, no, it appears some of the fans stink, too. That comes straight from a memo sent from Jason Hickman, the Generals longtime director of ticket sales and service. In a memo sent out to season ticket holders, Hickman advised fans, among other things, to please shower before attending the game. He said to do this especially if you went to the gym or did something that produced body odour. There are also references to personal hygiene stations, hand-sanitizing locations, cover coughs and sneezes and be mindful of personal cleanliness while sharing our space with fellow fans. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Californias community colleges were created to expand opportunity to meet students where they are and help them build better futures. Today, that mission calls on us to do more. As workforce needs grow more complex and traditional pathways remain out of reach for many Californians, community colleges offering bachelors degrees is not a departure from our purpose. It is a fulfillment of it. At Moorpark College, we hear directly from students, veterans, educators, and working professionals across Ventura County. Their message is consistent and clear: too many capable, motivated students lack a realistic path to a four-year degree. This is not because they arent qualified, but because existing options do not align with the circumstances of their lives. That reality is confirmed by an independent WestEd report commissioned by the California Community Colleges system, which found that bachelors degrees at community colleges should be evaluated based on access and regional need, not simply on whether similar coursework exists elsewhere. In higher education, location matters. A degree that exists somewhere else is not the same as a degree that students can realistically complete where they live. Advertisement Advertisement This distinction is central to Assembly Bill 927, the legislation that permanently authorized community college baccalaureate degrees. The law was explicitly designed to serve students who cannot leave their communities to attend a traditional university. That is exactly who Moorpark College serves. Our students are working 30, 40, even 50 hours a week. They are parents and caregivers. They are veterans transitioning to civilian careers. They are mid-career professionals seeking advancement without stepping away from their livelihoods. Relocating to a university campus or commuting hours each day is not an option. Programs that require daytime, in-person attendance are functionally out of reach, even if they exist in the region. What matters most is this: when community colleges offer bachelors degrees, students succeed. Advertisement Advertisement Research demonstrates the effectiveness of this model. A study from UCLAs Institute for Research on Labor and Employment shows that 56% of students enrolled in community college bachelors programs would not have pursued a four-year degree if it were not offered locally. Once enrolled, students thrive. About 67% graduate within two years, and nearly 80% within three outcomes that rival those at four-year institutions. Graduates also experience significant income gains, validating that these programs deliver economic mobility. These are not abstract statistics. They represent lives transformed. Students who once believed a bachelors degree was out of reach are earning credentials that lead to family-supporting careers. By those measures, Moorpark Colleges newly approved Bachelor of Science in Applied Cyberdefense and Network Operations (ACNO) is exactly the kind of program California needs. This degree was developed in collaboration with regional employers and public-sector partners to address the growing demand for skilled cybersecurity and network operations professionals. Graduates will be prepared for high-wage, high-demand roles supporting critical infrastructure, defense, healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and emerging technologies across Ventura and Los Angeles counties. Advertisement Advertisement Moorpark College is already a National Security Agency-designated Center of Academic Excellence in Cyberdefense, with hands-on labs, a nationally competitive cyber team, and strong partnerships with industry and government. Our students are already being trained for this field. What they lack is a four-year pathway that allows them to complete their education without losing credits, taking on unsustainable debt, or stepping away from the workforce. The ACNO program builds directly on Moorpark Colleges existing associate degree in cybersecurity, creating a seamless and affordable on-ramp to a bachelors degree. Students gain applied experience in cyberdefense, secure network design, threat detection, and incident response, skills employers increasingly require at the bachelors level. The new ACNO degree joins Moorpark Colleges existing bachelors degree in Applied Biomanufacturing, further expanding workforce pathways on campus. Together with bachelors degrees offered at Oxnard College (Dental Hygiene) and Ventura College (Automotive Career Education), the program reflects the Ventura County Community College Districts growing portfolio of local and affordable baccalaureate degrees designed to meet regional workforce needs. The urgency is clear. Cybersecurity threats affect every sector of our economy. At the same time, employers face a growing shortage of professionals who are educated and operationally prepared. Advertisement Advertisement This is not about competition between public systems. It is about coherence and responsiveness. California needs a higher-education ecosystem that reflects how people actually live and work today. Moorpark Colleges bachelors degree in Applied Cyberdefense and Network Operations will strengthen Ventura Countys workforce, support critical infrastructure, and most importantly, give working students a fair chance to earn a bachelors degree where they live. Dr. Julius Sokenu Dr. Julius Sokenu is the President of Moorpark College. To learn more about Moorpark College, visit MoorparkCollege.edu. This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Why community colleges should offer bachelors degrees | Your Turn The unexpected and ultimately short-lived flight ban near El Paso this week stemmed from disagreements within the federal government over the use of a high-energy laser weapon system to take down drones, multiple sources told CBS News. After training by the U.S. military, Customs and Border Protection used a palletized high-energy laser system earlier this week, even though the Federal Aviation Administration still has safety concerns, according to sources who were granted anonymity because they are not authorized to speak on the matter. The system CBP used has been deployed overseas, according to two of the sources, but had not been considered for regular domestic use until recently. The system works by detecting an aerial threat, emitting a laser beam that can quickly zero in on the target, like a drone, and the beam's heat damages or disables the object. Advertisement Advertisement High-energy lasers are one of several systems the government could use to counter drones. "The laser, of course, is essentially instantaneous, and so it's relatively easy for something that's doing the speed of light to hit exactly the point on the object that it wants to do," said Tom Karako, a senior fellow and the director of the Missile Defense Project at the Center for International and Strategic Studies. After Wednesday's flight restriction was lifted, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said "the threat has been neutralized" by the FAA and praised the Pentagon, which he said "acted swiftly to address a cartel incursion." But the Pentagon said it had nothing to add when asked when or how the threat was eliminated. While CBP thought it was targeting foreign drones with the high-energy laser, it turned out to have taken down at least one party balloon, multiple sources told CBS News. Advertisement Advertisement Drones near the border are not new and have been a steady problem over several years, particularly those used by cartels. "The cartel drone problem is pervasive across the U.S. southern border," according to Austin Doctor, who is an associate professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and the director of strategic initiatives at the National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education Center. The cartels and affiliates are primarily using drones for surveillance purposes "to support their other illegal criminal activities, including smuggling of narcotics, smuggling of persons, firearms, and other illicit goods," Doctor told CBS News. They have not used weaponized drones inside the U.S., he said, but are using them inside of Mexico to target rival cartels, prompting fears they could eventually start to use the drones to threaten U.S. personnel or infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement The activity near the border, combined with the mysterious sightings near military installations, like Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia in 2023 and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey in 2024, contributed to the Pentagon's establishment of a joint task force to counter drones. The task force coordinates between federal agencies on what authorities to use in specific scenarios and how to mitigate any threat from drones. The task force is "doing great things," said retired Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck, who served as the commander of U.S. Northern Command and NORAD from 2020 to 2024. "But there's so much more to be done," VanHerck said in a phone interview. "They need to be empowered to get the right policy in place for who defends what specific critical infrastructure with what specific capability," he said. "And the challenges become ensuring you're able to defend while also maintaining safety of flight for general and aviation aircraft and the public in general, depending on what capability you utilize to engage the threat." Advertisement Advertisement There are a variety of capabilities "but no silver bullet for countering drones," VanHerck added. He favors a layered system of defense with a foundation of radio frequency cyber techniques that can disrupt and take over the drone to bring it down safely. According to VanHerck, field experience from around the world shows that over 80% of drones encountered are commercial and can be brought down with this type of technology. Other layers would rely on different systems that could include high-energy lasers. Karako of CSIS said defending the southern border from drones is one piece of the larger puzzle that President Trump's Golden Dome initiative is about to defend the homeland from all air and missile threats. Advertisement Advertisement "Maybe the lesson here ought to be that this big effort, this big initiative coming down the pipe that is called Golden Dome will require and force us out of necessity to have better communication and better coordination between the very necessary FAA function for air traffic control and air traffic management, the coordination between the FAA function and the DOD national security function," Karako said. White tent set up on Nancy Guthrie's front porch New details from FBI on Nancy Guthrie kidnapping investigation More potential evidence in Nancy Guthrie case discovered Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Saturday applauded Mutharasan for voicing the rights of the general public on screen at the trailer and audio launch of his film "Arisi" at Valluvar Kottam. Speaking at the event, he said that the Tamil Nadu government has presented film awards which were not presented for at least ten years. "Yesterday, the Tamil Nadu government presented film awards that had not been given for several years. During the AIADMK regime, these awards were not presented for ten years. Our Chief Minister had the opportunity to present the awards for the period from 2017 to 2022. I have stepped away from the film industry and am now engaged in public service. But brother Mutharasan, who belongs to the Communist movement, has entered cinema from public life..." he said. He hailed Mutharasan, asserting that public welfare will always remain his top-most priority, regardless of any success or failure of a film. "No matter how great a success this film achieves, there is no doubt that public service will always remain his priority. Even if he reaches the pinnacle of cinema or upholds the lofty ideals of Periyar, the people of Tamil Nadu know well that he always prefers to live among the people as one of them..." he added. Dy CM Stalin congratulated Mutharasan for entering the cinema industry after standing firm on the political ground, saying that he is voicing the rights of common men. "As someone who has worked in the film industry, I extend my heartfelt wishes to my brother Mutharasan, who has come from politics into cinema. A man who has fought for the people is now voicing the rights of the people on screen as well. In this film, rather than saying he has acted as a farmer, it would be more appropriate to say that he has truly lived as a farmer..." he stated. Further, he said that communists have fought for the farmers' rights time and again and have achieved victories several times. He also recalled how former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi implemented schemes to ensure that every household gets rice for Rs. 1 only. The scheme was wholeheartedly welcomed by the people. "Communists have always stood in the field fighting for the rights of farmers and have achieved many victories. I am confident that this film too will become a success in the same spirit. There is a long history of struggles carried out by Communists for the rights of agricultural labourers who once worked in the fields all their lives, yet struggled to secure even a single meal. Karunanidhi implemented several schemes to ensure that rice reached the poor and underprivileged. The scheme of providing one kilogram of rice for one rupee received tremendous response from the people. It was Karunanidhi who made that dream a reality. Later, the price was further reduced, and today rice continues to be distributed through various welfare schemes..." he stated. The Deputy CM concluded, exuding confidence in the success of the film, saying, "I firmly believe that this film, centred on the rights of farmers, will certainly succeed. I wish that brother Mutharasan's political service and artistic endeavours continue to flourish and grow. With my heartfelt congratulations to all the artists and technicians who have participated in this event, I conclude by expressing my gratitude to my brother Mutharasan for giving me this special opportunity." (ANI) PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A 35-year-old woman who caused a fatal crash on Hwy 97 in 2024 was taken into custody in Florida by U.S. Marshals on Friday, Oregon State Police announced. Desiree Johnson, who is from Florida, had a nationwide warrant out for her arrest after she failed to appear in court in 2024. She has been charged with criminally negligent homicide, second-degree assault and reckless driving. The crash took place on Feb. 29, 2024, near milepost 174 in Klamath County. Advertisement Advertisement Johnson was driving a semi-truck and trailer on the highway when she lost control of the vehicle, causing it to jackknife in the roadway. The truck swerved into the path of a Honda Pilot, driven by 37-year-old Elise Farrens, which struck the trailer, according to OSP. Farrens was declared dead at the scene. A passenger in the Honda, Daviana Trussell, 23, was critically injured in the crash. Trussell, who was pregnant, tragically suffered the loss of her child due to injuries sustained during the crash, officials said. Johnson is being held at the Pinellas County Jail in Florida, where she awaits extradition to Oregon. Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. CHEYENNE As gambling facilities continue to pop up across the state, lawmakers advanced a bill Thursday that would grant cities and towns greater authority in allowing the businesses to set up shop at new locations. The conversation has been ongoing for several years as elected officials, gambling industry representatives, lawmakers and Wyomingites all seek to find common ground on when government can intervene in the free market. If approved, Senate File 45, Local approval for simulcasting, would represent a shift in how Wyoming regulates the expanding industry of historic horse racing (HHR) and off-track betting (OTB). Currently, while the vast majority of gambling facilities are located within municipal limits, the authority to approve these permits rests solely with the Wyoming Gaming Commission and county commissioners, often leaving city leaders and residents as bystanders to the growth of gambling in their own neighborhoods. Advertisement Advertisement Sen. John Kolb, R-Rock Springs, who introduced the bill to the Senate Judiciary Committee, explained that the legislation is the result of interim of collaborative work between the gambling industry, local governments and the Wyoming Gaming Commission. He noted that the current process lacks a mechanism for municipalities to say no to a facility, even if the community has concerns. This will give them a local voice, and then itll be up to our local leaders and elected officials to have a path that works with our community, Kolb said. Every community is different in the state of Wyoming. We have lots of different situations, even within a county, and this allows that to happen. Nick Larramendy, executive director of the Wyoming Gaming Commission, said that of the 43 active off-track wagering locations in Wyoming, 42 are located within municipal boundaries. Despite this, city councils and mayors have historically had no formal input. Our office has fielded the calls from local elected people wanting to know how this new location popped up on Main Street in their town, Larramendy testified. And thats because the county gave their approval and the city didnt have to. Advertisement Advertisement For municipal leaders, SF 45 is seen as a vital tool for managing public safety and community character. Ashley Harpstreith, executive director of the Wyoming Association of Municipalities, said the current reliance on zoning laws is insufficient. Zoning alone cannot control social and welfare issues that we deal with in this industry, she said. She argued that the bill allows local governments to define their own landscapes, noting that different towns have different cultural attitudes toward gambling. Jerimiah Rieman, executive director of the Wyoming County Commissioners Association, echoed these sentiments, highlighting that even after a county grants approval, they currently have no additional authority over the activity. He noted that some commissioners in counties without existing operations might be tempted to never say yes to a first operator if they fear they cannot limit the number of future entrants to the market. The bill creates a process modeled after state liquor licenses, allowing local authorities to impose reasonable conditions on permits, such as operating hours. Most significantly, it grants the power to revoke approval for good cause, specifically if the welfare of residents in the vicinity of the premises is adversely and seriously affected, factors that would be subject to the judgment of local elected officials. Advertisement Advertisement While local officials praised the bill, representatives of the gambling industry expressed cautious support, tempered by concerns over due process and business certainty. Affie Ellis, an attorney for Cowboy Racing, the company behind the new Thunder Plains Park live racing track being built east of Cheyenne, warned against creating a system that could unfairly target new market entrants. While she and other industry representatives have never expressed opposition to granting more local control over these facilities, there are other aspects of the bill that have prompted Ellis and others to call for caution. In particular, she said the timing of this legislation would unfairly impact the newcomer in the industry. Cowboy Racings existing competitors currently operate thousands of machines and are permitted for hundreds more than they currently operate. However, Ellis said Cowboy Racing is concerned the bill would allow cities and counties to deny the companys application for fewer than 300 machines. Will Edwards of Cowboy Racing has previously said the multimillion-dollar investment in the company and mile-long track was rooted in the business risk that the machines would eventually pay off the investment and support future expansion. Advertisement Advertisement We are very concerned that a county commission or a city council may feel like there are too many gaming facilities in their community, Ellis said. The easy answer, if they wanted to control the growth, would be to say no to the newcomer because they could deny our approvals, and wed have no right of appeal. To address these concerns, the bill includes a right of appeal to the district court for existing permit holders facing a denial of renewal or a revocation. For new applicants, the right to appeal is more limited, only applying if the local authority has previously approved a simulcasting permit in that jurisdiction. Another continued point of contention was the 100-mile rule, which protects the revenue of live tracks by restricting OTBs within a 100-mile radius during live race times. While some operators find the rule antiquated, Cowboy Racing argued it was essential for the survival of their $7 million investment in a new live track. Competitors have previously opposed this rule, saying it has harmed their business. If maintained, it would impact businesses around Cheyenne on live race days. Advertisement Advertisement Recently, Kyle Ridgeway, president of both 307 Horse Racing and Wyoming Downs, has taken a more neutral stance on the issue. For purposes of this bill ... you can put it in, you can take it out, it does not matter to us, he said. Laurie Urbigkit, representing Wyoming Horse Racing LLC, stated clearly that the company will always oppose the 100-mile rule. However, during the committee meeting, she noted that the company was willing to set aside that specific debate for another day in order to allow SF 45 to advance. Amendments The committee adopted several amendments brought forward by a working group of local officials and industry stakeholders. These included: Advertisement Advertisement * Site clarity: Refining the definition of local approving authority to ensure it applies to specific sites, preventing a problem at one location from automatically jeopardizing an operators other permits in the same town. * Permit lifespan: Extending the grandfathered authorization for current permit holders through Dec. 31, 2027. * Enforcement language: Changing the threshold for permit revocation from acted in violation of gaming laws to been found in violation, so that allegations must be proven before a permit is pulled. * Judicial discretion: Removing language that would have automatically allowed a facility to stay open during a court appeal, instead leaving that decision to a judges discretion. The committee passed SF 45 on a 5-0 vote. The bill now moves to the full Senate for further debate. If passed, it is set to take effect on July 1. CHEYENNE In Wyoming, there is currently no formal process to recall municipal mayors and council members. A proposed law is looking to change that. House Bill 22, sponsored by Rep. Scott Heiner, R-Green River, received an 8-1 committee vote Wednesday to advance after a lengthy discussion centered on how to balance voter accountability with the administrative complexities of the Wyoming Election Code. Advertisement Advertisement Heiner is the chair of the House Minerals, Business and Economic Development Committee, which discussed the bill Wednesday. He opened by pointing to a cautionary tale from Illinois involving former Mayor Tiffany Henyard, who allegedly used public funds for personal luxuries while residents had no immediate recourse. Heiner explained that while Wyomings original statutes provided for recalls under the commission form of government, the states shift to mayor-council systems a century ago left a statutory gap. If theres an issue with any of these electeds, theres nothing (voters) can do to recall them, Heiner said. The bill aims to move the recall mechanism into a broader section of the law, making it available for all municipal officers. As introduced, it requires a petition signed by 25% of registered electors to trigger a special removal election. Advertisement Advertisement The committee heard from Mayor Leah Juarez of Mills, who testified online about the fallout of a previous administrations decisions. She described a 2019 situation where the citys firefighters were given less than three weeks notice that their contracts would not be renewed, leaving the city without fire or EMS services. The residents must have the ability to protect their community when an elected official is causing demonstrable harm, Juarez said, noting that residents felt they had no meaningful recourse at the time. Despite support for the bills intent, experts warned of significant administrative hurdles. Laramie County Clerk Debra Lee, representing the Wyoming County Clerks Association, urged the committee to refer the bill to an interim study. She highlighted a critical flaw: town clerks, who would be tasked with verifying recall petitions under the bill, do not have access to the states voter registration system. Its a bit like pulling a string out of a sweater, and before you know it, it can be unraveled, Lee said. There are a lot of complexities and things that we may not be aware of. Advertisement Advertisement She raised concerns that the bills timelines might conflict with the existing election code, potentially unraveling the integrity of local elections. Ashley Harpstreith, executive director of the Wyoming Association of Municipalities(WAM), echoed these concerns, proposing a series of amendments designed to prevent retaliatory recalls. WAM proposed raising the signature threshold from 25% to 40% and implementing grace periods. Mayor Matt Murdock of Pinedale, serving as current WAM board president, warned that in very small towns, a 25% threshold could represent as few as eight voters. That petition could be a very small number ... and that could turn into a clan fight instead of an actual political issue, Murdock said. Advertisement Advertisement He also argued that a recall should only remove an official, with the resulting vacancy filled via existing statutory procedures, rather than an immediate free-for-all election. Otherwise, it could become really competitive, and it just turns into the wrong model of democracy, he added. The potential for administrative chaos led Rep. Martha Lawley, R-Worland, to move to table the bill, arguing that the committee was not there yet in resolving the conflicts between municipal and county election rules. I guess I want to make sure that we dont create ambiguities, Lawley said. However, the motion to table failed to gain enough support. Rep. J.T. Larson, R-Rock Springs, successfully moved several amendments to address the testimony concerns. The committee ultimately adopted changes that: Advertisement Advertisement Increased the signature requirement to 40% of registered electors. Prohibited a recall petition from being filed during an officials first nine months in office. Prohibited petitions from being filed within six months of the next general election. Limited recalls to once per person per term. Lawley cast the lone dissenting vote, maintaining that the unresolved administrative issues would burden rural counties. Having passed the Minerals Committee, HB 22 now moves to the House floor for its first reading. If it passes three readings in the House, it will head to the Senate for further consideration. For the past several weeks, community members have fought against the Cheyenne City Council's administrative inspection warrants ordinance, which allow certain city officials to enter a property for safety or code-enforcement inspections when they are unable to get the property owner's permission. This week, WTE local government and business reporter Alyssa Tolman sat down with Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins and Cheyenne resident Patricia McCoy to discuss the issue. Stick around until the end for a roundup of upcoming events in the area and a recap of the top stories from the WTE newsroom over the past week. Advertisement Advertisement Mayor and Cheyenne resident discuss admin inspection warrants For the past several weeks, community members have fought against the Cheyenne City Council's administrative inspection warrants ordinance, which allow certain city officials to enter a property for safety or code-enforcement inspections when they are unable to get the property owner's permission. This week, WTE local government and business reporter Alyssa Tolman sat down with Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins and Cheyenne resident Patricia McCoy to discuss the issue. Stick around until the end for a roundup of upcoming events in the area and a recap of the top stories from the WTE newsroom over the past week. New episodes every Friday. Provide feedback or suggestions to news@wyomingnews.com. New York City this week filed a lawsuit against Utah-based storage giant Extra Space Storage, accusing the company of operating a classic bait-and-switch scheme that traps customers through predatory business practices. The lawsuit, filed in a New York state court in Manhattan, seeks full restitution and more than $5 million in civil penalties. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani posted on social media on Wednesday, saying, New Yorkers are being squeezed everywhere, even just to store their stuff. New Yorkers are being squeezed everywhere, even just to store their stuff. This week, we sued Extra Space Storage for bait-and-switch pricing and illegal rent hikes. The self-storage Wild West ends now. https://t.co/UfeOEa6WLY Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) February 11, 2026 The self-storage Wild West ends now, he declared. Advertisement Advertisement The citys Department of Consumer and Worker Protection alleges Extra Space would quickly and often dramatically increase the prices of rental units after consumers moved their belongings into a unit, often without notice. Queens consumer Jean Kellman began renting an Extra Space self-storage unit for $290 per month in early 2025. She specifically chose Extra Space because of their advertised competitive, low cost. However, within just three months, Extra Space raised her rent to $479 (an increase of 165%), without any notice whatsoever, the lawsuit alleges. The company is also accused of changing locks and threatening to auction belongings to extort consumers into paying higher rent prices or undisclosed late fees. Extra Space also often failed to maintain the advertised cleanliness standard of their facilities, leading to widespread vermin infestations, water damage and mold, according to the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement In a statement provided to KSL, Extra Space Storage said it is aware of the complaint but disagrees with the claims being made. We have begun reviewing the 117 complaints submitted. These are from the approximately 60 properties in New York City that have served over 100,000 customers in that time. We are confident that we operate fully within the bounds of the law and remain committed to continuing to do so, the company said. The lawsuit further alleges that, along with unanticipated rent hikes, the poor conditions have cost consumers significant sums in estimated property damage, sometimes exceeding $100,000. One example of this, the lawsuit says, is Alex Rodriguez, who began renting a Bronx unit from Extra Space in October 2021 to store items he sold through his online business, along with personal belongings. Advertisement Advertisement It wasnt long before he began to see rats in his unit both dead and alive when he went to check on his belongings, and noticed that all his belongings seemed to have developed an unpleasant odor, as they were covered in rat feces and urine, said the lawsuit. Furthermore, he discovered that rats had ripped through all of his boxes and even the items inside the boxes, including his childrens toys and clothes, and his own clothing, including expensive hats and shoes. In 2023, Extra Space Storage completed the largest business acquisition ever by a Utah company, merging with its rival, New York-based Life Storage, in an approximately $12-billion transaction. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky denounced Russia's Vladimir Putin as a "slave to war" in a speech to the Munich Security Conference Saturday, adding that Russia's attacks had damaged every power plant in the country. Zelensky also drew parallels between the current Russia-Ukraine talks over territorial concessions and the 1938 Munich Agreement, when Hitler forced territorial concessions from the European powers -- a year before World War II. Zelensky was speaking days before the fourth anniversary of Moscow's invasion, which has killed hundreds of thousands, decimated eastern Ukraine and forced millions to flee. Advertisement Advertisement Kyiv and its Western allies have accused Moscow of deliberately freezing Ukraine's population with its attacks on the energy grid. "There is not a single power plant left in Ukraine that has not been damaged by Russian attacks," Zelensky said. "Not one." "But we still generate electricity," he added, praising the thousands of workers repairing the plants. Once again, he appealed to the West to deliver air-defence systems to Ukraine more quickly. Of Putin, who launched the war in February 2022, Zelensky said: "He may see himself as a tsar, but in reality he is a slave to war." Advertisement Advertisement Russia and Ukraine will hold US-brokered talks next week, and Zelensky said Kyiv was doing "everything" to end the war. - Security guarantees - Zelensky also met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the Munich conference. Russia has demanded that Ukraine withdraw from its Donetsk region and wants Kyiv to recognise its claim to the swathes of Ukraine that it occupies. Ukraine has ruled out surrendering its eastern regions. Of the talks so far, Zelensky said: "The Americans often return to the topic of concessions, and too often those concessions are discussed in the context only of Ukraine." Advertisement Advertisement He also drew parallels between the current talks and the 1938 Munich Agreement, when European powers let Hitler take part of Czechoslovakia only for the Second World War to break out the following year. "It would be an illusion to believe that this war can now be reliably ended by dividing Ukraine -- just as it was an illusion to believe that sacrificing Czechoslovakia would save Europe from a great war," he warned. Kyiv was doing "everything" to end the war, he said, insisting that viable security guarantees were the only way to get to a deal and prevent future Russian aggression. "With Russia, you cannot leave a single loophole Russians can use to start a war," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky again argued that there would be more chance of ending the war if European countries had a seat at the negotiating table -- something Russia has opposed. Next week's talks in Geneva between the two sides will come after two rounds of US-Russia-Ukraine negotiations in Abu Dhabi. In a social media post Zelensky said he had spoken by phone to US envoy Steve Witkoff and Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner ahead of the talks. "We count on the meetings being truly productive," he added. But with no diplomatic breakthrough so far, the Ukrainian leader has called on his Western allies to make faster political decisions. Advertisement Advertisement "Weapons evolve faster than political decisions meant to stop them," Zelensky said. The Iranian-designed Shahed drones that Russia was using had become much more deadly, he noted. Returning to the question of elections in Ukraine, Zelensky said they would be held once Kyiv received security guarantees and a ceasefire had been agreed. bur-oc/jj/db Support Local News Reporting in the Yakima Valley To support timely fact-based Yakima Herald-Republic reporting like the piece above, you can use one of the convenient options below. Donations through this system are tax deductible. Amidst the recent cases of violence within Manipur, Congress leader Pawan Khera on Saturday stressed that PM Narendra Modi should visit the state while on a visit to Assam for other events today. In an 'X' post, Khera sarcastically shared air tickets booked for PM Modi, stating that Manipur, which has been "burning" since 2023, should not be abandoned, and added that the presence of Prime Minister would leave a long impact towards the people of the state. "Dear PM Narendra Modi, We understand that poll-bound states are always your top priority. But Manipur should not be abandoned. The state has been burning since 2023 - and it is burning again. You are already in Assam today. Manipur is just an hour away. Please go there as well. The presence of the Prime Minister can go a long way in reassuring our people in Manipur. To make it easier for you, we have even booked your flight from Guwahati to Imphal - you just have to get on the plane. As I do not have your number, I am sharing your flight ticket here. Kindly use it and show that the "PM CARES"," Khera wrote on 'X'. On February 6, a protest against the swearing-in of Manipur's new Deputy Chief Ministers, Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikho, turned violent as security forces clashed with the mob in Churachandpur district. The unrest reportedly began on Thursday at around 6 pm in the Tuibong Main Market area, where hundreds of young protesters attempted to push security forces back to their barracks. Earlier this week, miscreants set fire to several houses overnight in villages around Litan in Ukhrul district, Manipur Police said on Monday. According to the press note, while the situation in the affected areas remains tense, it has largely been brought under control. A Joint Control Room has been set up at Litan Police Station to coordinate urgent security measures, and senior officers are camping in the area to closely monitor the situation on the ground. The police added that the overall law-and-order situation in the state during the last 24 hours remained normal. (ANI) Washington state legislators assemble after a Friday news conference aimed at helping survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. (Sophia Sostrin / The Seattle Times) Joe Palaggi is a writer and historian whose work sits at the crossroads of theology, politics, and American civic culture. He writes about the moral and historical forces that shape our national identity and the challenges of a polarized age. All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday took a jibe at Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for using the word "qayamat" (doomsday) while asserting that the Babri Masjid would never be rebuilt. In an interview with ANI, Owaisi said, "At least he had to speak an Urdu word, what would be a hindi word for 'qayamat'. Ask him." His remarks come after CM Yogi Adityanath, while addressing a gathering in Barabanki, said, "The day of 'Qayamat' (doomsday) will never come, and hence the Babri structure will never be rebuilt. Those who are dreaming of the day of 'Qayamat' will rot away; that day will never come." Furthe he denied any role in the no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and the motion against Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. "Neither was I asked nor did I sign the no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker...There is nothing in the privilege motion and nothing will happen," Owaisi said. A day earlier, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey moved a substantive motion in the Lok Sabha against Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, while the Congress submitted a notice of no-confidence against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. He also responded to Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's remarks, saying the BJP repeatedly mentioned his name during the Telangana Municipal Elections and joked that "it seems like they are fond of me." "During the campaign for the Telangana Municipal Elections, in every speech of the BJP leader, they take my name three times in every 5 minutes. I said that it seems like they are fond of me. Revanth Reddy took that statement to another level...We are playing the role of a constructive opposition," Owaisi said. This comes after Revanth Reddy targeted the BJP, saying it prioritises AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi over Lord Rama and treats him as a "lifeline" to win votes. He criticised the BJP's repeated portrayal of Owaisi as a villain while questioning why the party cannot curb his influence. (ANI) Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Saturday thanked the people of Telangana for giving the Congress party a win in the recent state municipal corporation elections, stating that the mandate is a reflection of "people-first policies rooted in social justice, dignity, and inclusive growth." In an 'X' post, Gandhi expressed thanks to all the Congress leaders and workers in the state, who worked hard for party's success in the elections. "The Telangana local body polls win is a clear endorsement of Congress govt's people-first policies rooted in social justice, dignity, and inclusive growth. Heartfelt thanks to every Congress karyakarta and leader. This victory belongs to you and to the people of Telangana. Our vision of a Prajala Telangana - where progress reaches every family remains unwavering," Rahul Gandhi said. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge also expressed happiness over party's success in Telangana local body polls, asserting that the mandate reflects the trust of the people. "My gratitude to the committed grassroots workers of Telangana Congress for their commendable victory in the Telangana local body elections. This mandate reflects the trust of the people. The Congress government remains resolute to our solemn affirmation of a "Prajala Telangana" - a state where social justice, economic empowerment, and continuous progress are assured for all its 3.8 crore people," said the 'X' post. On Wednesday, elections were held in seven Municipal Corporations and 116 Municipalities across the state, covering 414 wards in the Corporations of Kothagudem, Karimnagar, Mahabubnagar, Mancherial, Nizamabad, Nalgonda and Ramagundam, and 2,582 wards in the 116 municipalities. Congress MP Manickam Tagore on Saturday welcomed the party's performance in the Telangana Municipal Elections, saying the results signal a clear mandate and a genuine comeback for the Congress. In a post on X, Tagore compared the outcome with the party's 2020 showing and described the turnaround as a journey "from disappointment to dominance." He recalled Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's assurance after the 2020 setback that the Congress would rise again with public support, adding that the promise has now been fulfilled. "Telangana Municipal Elections - A Historic Comeback! From disappointment to dominance -- that's the journey of Congress in Telangana. I still remember what Revanth bhai said after the 2020 setback. He promised that Congress would rise again with the blessings of the people -- and today, that promise stands fulfilled. The comeback is real. The mandate is clear. Telangana has chosen development, stability, and Congress once again," Tagore said. He attributed the victory to the leadership of Revanth Reddy, the coordination of the Congress state chief, Bomma Mahesh Kumar Goud, and other ministers, and the sustained efforts of grassroots workers who stood firm during difficult times. Tagore said the result was not just an electoral success but a reaffirmation of public faith in progressive and inclusive governance. "This remarkable victory reflects the strong leadership of Revanth bhai, the effective coordination of Maheshji and fellow ministers, and above all, the tireless efforts of every grassroots Congress worker who stood firm during tough times. This is not just an electoral win -- it is the people of Telangana reaffirming their faith in progressive governance and inclusive development. It is a tribute to Telangana Thalli and a step closer to the dream envisioned by Sonia Gandhi for a progressive, people-centric Telangana," he added. According to Tagore, in the final results across 116 municipalities in Telangana, the Congress secured control of 64, while the BRS won 15. As many as 36 municipalities saw a hung verdict, and one went to the opposition, with the BJP failing to win any municipality. In the ward-wise results, Congress emerged ahead with 1,346 wards, followed by BRS with 723. BJP managed to win 261 wards, while other parties and independents together accounted for 252 wards. (ANI) Maha Shivratri 2026 bhog to offer Lord Shiva: Maha Shivratri, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, will be celebrated tomorrow, Sunday, February 15, 2026. This auspicious night honors Lord Shivas divine dance, symbolizing the victory over ignorance and darkness. Devotees fast, meditate, and offer prayers, seeking blessings for spiritual growth, prosperity, and inner peace. Maha Shivratri not only commemorates Lord Shivas cosmic dance but also celebrates his sacred union with Goddess Parvati. Devotees observe strict fasts and prepare special offerings (bhogs) as a form of devotion. It is believed that presenting pure and simple foods to Lord Shiva during Mahashivratri can attract his blessings and fulfill wishes. Here are easy-to-make bhogs that you can offer to Lord Shiva on this auspicious day: Add Zee News as a Preferred Source 1. Sabudana Khichdi A popular fasting dish, Sabudana Khichdi is made with soaked tapioca pearls, peanuts, and mild spices. Its light, nutritious, and perfect as a Mahashivratri bhog. Ingredients: Sabudana, peanuts, cumin seeds, green chilies, rock salt, and ghee. Why Offer: Sabudana is considered pure and energy-boosting, making it an ideal offering. 2. Bhang or Thandai Bhang or Thandai is one of the festival's most well-liked beverages. Cashews, almonds, fennel, poppy seeds, pistachios, cardamom, saffron, and milk are the main ingredients used to prepare bhang. In addition to offering Lord Shiva thandai as bhog on Maha Shivratri, devotees enjoy this beverage as Bhole Baba's prasad. Ingredients: Milk, almonds, cashews, fennel seeds, poppy seeds, pistachios, cardamom, saffron, sugar, and bhang (optional). Why Offer: Bhang holds cultural significance as it is believed to be Lord Shivas favorite, symbolizing bliss and devotion. 3. Banana and Coconut Ladoo A simple yet delicious sweet made using mashed bananas, grated coconut, and jaggery, these ladoos are easy to prepare and perfect for bhog. Ingredients: Ripe bananas, grated coconut, jaggery, and cardamom. Why Offer: Both banana and coconut hold religious significance and are considered pure offerings. 4. Vrat Wale Aloo A light potato curry made without onion and garlic, seasoned with rock salt and mild spices, often paired with kuttu or singhare ke atta puris. Ingredients: Boiled potatoes, cumin seeds, green chilies, rock salt, and coriander leaves. Why Offer: Potatoes are filling and easy to digest, making them ideal for fasting. 5. Kheer (Rice Pudding) Kheer is a classic Indian dessert made with rice, milk, and sugar, flavored with cardamom and garnished with dry fruits. Ingredients: Basmati rice, milk, sugar, cardamom, almonds, and cashews. Why Offer: Known for its simplicity and purity, Kheer is often offered in rituals as a symbol of devotion. 6. Makhana Kheer Makhana kheer is a popular sweet dessert pudding made with foxnuts, sugar, milk, ghee, and lots of dry fruits. It is easy to make and delicious in taste. Ingredients: Makhana (foxnuts), milk, sugar, ghee, cardamom, and dry fruits. Why Offer: Makhana is rich in nutrients and is considered sattvic, making it an ideal fasting dish. 7. Malpua Maida, semolina, ghee, milk, and sugar are the main ingredients of malpua, a sweet dessert. It can be offered to God as bhog as it is thought to be one of Lord Shiva's favorite foods. Ingredients: Maida, semolina, milk, sugar, ghee, and cardamom. Why Offer: Malpua is a festive delicacy that is believed to please Lord Shiva. 8. Halwa (Buckwheat/Semolina/Besan) A simple and quick halwa made with buckwheat or semolina can be served with dried fruits and offered to Lord Shiva before being eaten. You can also prepare besan halwa and offer it to Lord Shiva. Ingredients: Buckwheat flour/semolina/besan, ghee, sugar, cardamom, and dry fruits. Why Offer: Halwa is a classic offering that is easy to make and holds spiritual significance. 9. Bael Fruit (Wood Apple) Bael leaves and fruits are considered highly auspicious in Lord Shivas worship. Simply offering fresh bael fruits is seen as a pure act of devotion. Why Offer: Bael is believed to be Lord Shivas favorite, and offering it invites his blessings. Tips for Preparing Bhog: Always use pure, sattvic (non-tamasic) ingredients. Avoid garlic, onions, and processed foods. Maintain cleanliness and prepare food with devotion. This Mahashivratri, offer these simple and wholesome bhogs to Lord Shiva and invite peace, prosperity, and divine blessings into your life. Om Namah Shivaya! (This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.) New Delhi: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday said India will also get zero export-duty access to the US market for garments made using cotton yarn imported from the United States, similar to the arrangement offered to Bangladesh. Speaking to ET NOW, the minister sought to address concerns that the Indian textile sector could face disadvantages after Bangladesh secured tariff concessions from the US. Earlier this month, the US and Bangladesh signed an agreement on February 9, reducing reciprocal tariffs to 19 percent from the earlier 20 percent. The deal also provided zero-tariff access for select textile and apparel products made using US cotton and man-made fibre. Goyal clarified that the same yarn-forward principle applies to India, allowing exporters to ship garments to the US at zero duty if cotton or yarn is sourced from the US and processed into finished products. The minister said the arrangement would not harm Indian cotton farmers, noting that global demand for cotton and textile products is expected to remain strong. He highlighted opportunities arising from free-trade agreements with the European Union and access to markets across 38 countries, adding that India must focus on increasing productivity to meet rising demand. According to SBI Research, the US imports about USD 7.5 billion worth of textiles from India annually, roughly similar to imports from Bangladesh. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source India and the United States have also finalised the framework of an interim trade agreement, with detailed provisions expected by March. The two countries have agreed to address non-tariff barriers affecting bilateral trade. Following a February 2 phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, both sides announced progress in negotiations. The US tariff on Indian goods, which had been raised to 50 percent in August 2025, has now been reduced to 18 percent. The proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), first discussed in February 2025, aims to more than double India-US trade from USD 191 billion to USD 500 billion by 2030. Bangladesh has delivered a political earthquake. The sweeping victory of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) ends nearly two decades of one-sided rule and opens the door to a new era in Dhaka, one that could redraw the diplomatic map of South Asia. With power shifting after years of dominance by Sheikh Hasina, the region is watching closely. India, Pakistan and China all have deep stakes in Bangladeshs future. The question now is whether Tarique Rahmans rise signals not just a change of government, but a reset of alliances across the Bay of Bengal. A decisive mandate Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The Election Commission formally sealed the outcome on Saturday by publishing the official gazette of elected members. Preliminary results showed the BNP and its allies securing at least 212 of 299 parliamentary seats. The opposition Jamaat-e-Islami and its partners won 77. For many observers, this was Bangladeshs first genuinely competitive election in almost twenty years. It marked a clean break from the Hasina era, which ended after a mass uprising in 2024 forced her into exile in India. The victory hands 60-year-old Tarique Rahman a powerful mandate and a difficult foreign policy landscape. Soon after the results were announced, the prime ministers of both India and Pakistan extended congratulations, signalling how closely the region is tracking Dhakas next steps. The outcome is widely described as a new turning point in crafting bilateral relations with India and Pakistan. Resetting ties with India? Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi moved swiftly. Posting on X, he wrote that India would continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh, adding that Rahmans win shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership. He later spoke to Rahman by phone. As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed Indias continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples, Modi said. New Delhi had cultivated especially close ties with Hasina, seeing Bangladesh as central to its rivalry with China in South Asia. But relations soured sharply after her fall. Indias refusal to extradite Hasina, sentenced to death by Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal over her handling of the deadly 2024 protests, deepened tensions. Yet India has begun adjusting to the new reality. Earlier this year, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar attended the funeral of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, Rahmans mother, signalling an openness to engage with a future BNP government. Still, difficult issues remain. Water-sharing disputes over rivers such as the Teesta are unresolved. Border shootings by Indian forces continue to stir anger. Bangladesh also runs a significant trade deficit with India. Domestically, Rahman faces pressure to adopt a firmer tone. Many young Bangladeshis accuse India of excessive interference in their countrys affairs. Any reset with New Delhi will need to navigate both strategic necessity and public sentiment. A Pakistan opening Where India faces uncertainty, Pakistan sees opportunity. Under the interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, Dhaka and Islamabad restored direct flights, eased visa rules and exchanged high-level civilian and military visits. According to reports, analysts say that progress may accelerate under the BNP. The election, one observer noted, marks the end of Awami Leagues long dalliance with India and a reopening of close relations with Pakistan. Bangladesh does not have to balance its relations with India and Pakistan, the analyst argued, as per the reports. Ties with Pakistan have improved. Pakistan should persist with its present policy of giving priority to its relations with Dhaka. Last month, Pakistans military announced discussions with Bangladesh over the possible sale of JF-17 fighter jets, a sign that defence cooperation may expand. For Islamabad, this is a chance to rebuild a relationship that has been fragile since 1971. For Dhaka, it offers leverage in dealing with India. Deepening links with China Perhaps the most significant relationship, however, will be with Beijing. Under Hasina, China strengthened its economic footprint in Bangladesh through infrastructure projects and defence cooperation linked to the Belt and Road Initiative. At the same time, Beijing cultivated ties across the political spectrum. The interim government that followed Hasina secured around $2.1 billion in Chinese investments, loans and grants. Senior Bangladeshi figures, including Yunus, visited Beijing during this period. On Friday, the Chinese embassy congratulated the BNP and said it was ready to work with the new government on writing new chapters of China-Bangladesh relations. According to the reports, the BNP is likely to further deepen its relations with China, hearkening back to the past experience of friendly ties during earlier BNP administrations. Yet they also warn of growing American opposition to Chinas increased presence in the region, another factor Rahman must weigh. A delicate balancing act Bangladesh now finds itself at the centre of an intensifying rivalry in the Bay of Bengal. India and China are locked in a strategic competition. India and Pakistan remain hostile. The United States is watching Chinas rise with suspicion. Rahman has pledged a Bangladesh First approach, promising that all foreign relations will serve national sovereignty, security and public welfare. That principle will soon be tested. With a strong parliamentary majority behind him, Rahman has room to act. But every move, towards Delhi, Islamabad or Beijing, will carry consequences. Bangladeshs voters have delivered change at home. Whether that change reshapes the region will depend on how boldly and how carefully the new government charts its course. A 20-year-old woman narrowly escaped a devastating tragedy in East Delhis Farsh Bazar on Friday afternoon after jumping from a hotel window during a dispute with her partner. A local electronics shop employee's quick thinking saved her life by cushioning her fall with cardboard boxes. The incident occurred around 1:00 PM at Hotel Santosh Residency on 60 Feet Road. A video of the woman precariously sitting on the fourth-floor ledge quickly went viral, capturing the tense moments before she jumped. Marriage dispute leads to drastic step Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Delhi Police say the woman, a resident of Sunder Nagri, checked into the hotel earlier that day with a 22-year-old man from Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh. Preliminary investigations indicate that a heated argument broke out between them inside their room. Reports suggest that the argument focused on the man's refusal to marry her. In a moment of rage and distress, the woman locked herself in the room and moved toward the window to jump. Trigger warning - Disturbing Visual A girl who was staying with her friend in a hotel in Delhi attempted to take her life by jumping from the fourth floor. pic.twitter.com/pn32Z1pa85 Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) February 13, 2026 Heroic intervention by local staff As a crowd gathered on the busy road below, Ashish, an employee at a nearby electronics shop, noticed the woman on the ledge and sensed her intentions. Swift action: Ashish quickly collected large empty cardboard boxestypically used for refrigerators and washing machinesand stacked them right beneath her. The fall: When the woman eventually jumped, the boxes softened the impact of her fall from the fourth floor, preventing her from hitting the hard pavement directly. "I looked up and saw her at the window; it was clear she was about to jump," Ashish said to reporters. "I just wanted to cushion the fall." Current medical status and investigation Passersby and hotel staff rushed the woman to a nearby hospital. Medical officials reported that while she lost consciousness upon impact and suffered serious injuries, her condition is currently critical but stable, and her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. The Farsh Bazar Police have begun a formal inquiry into the incident. Questioning: The 22-year-old companion and hotel staff are being questioned to clarify the exact sequence of events. Forensics: A forensic team has examined the hotel room to find out if any foul play occurred before the jump. Authorities confirmed that appropriate legal action will be taken based on the investigation findings and the victim's statement once she is able to provide one. ALSO READ | 'Angel Nuzhat' viral MMS: Fact-check on the 12-minute video scam trending in 2026 In a historic first for Northeast India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed on Saturday at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on Moran Bypass in Dibrugarh, Assam, becoming the first PM to land on a highway airstrip. The dual-use airstrip, developed in coordination with the Indian Air Force, is located on NH-37 (now part of NH-02) in Dibrugarh district. Designed for both military and civilian use during emergencies, it can handle fighter aircraft weighing up to 40 tonnes and transport aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of 74 tonnes. The facility is expected to enhance disaster response and strengthen strategic preparedness in the Northeast. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Development projects worth Rs 5,450 crore During his visit to Assam, Prime Minister Modi is set to inaugurate and flag off development projects worth over Rs 5,450 crore, aimed at boosting connectivity, digital infrastructure, higher education, and urban mobility in the region. Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu: Key connectivity boost At around 1 PM, Prime Minister Modi will inspect the newly constructed Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu over the Brahmaputra River. Later, at approximately 1:30 PM, PM Modi will formally inaugurate and launch multiple development initiatives at Lachit Ghat in Guwahati. Built at an estimated cost of Rs 3,030 crore, the six-lane Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu is an extradosed prestressed concrete bridge connecting Guwahati with North Guwahati. The bridge is expected to reduce travel time between the two areas to about seven minutes. Given the regions high seismic vulnerability, the structure incorporates base isolation technology using friction pendulum bearings. High-performance stay cables have been installed to enhance durability and long-term structural stability. Additionally, a Bridge Health Monitoring System has been integrated to enable real-time structural assessment and early detection of potential damage. National data centre to strengthen digital infrastructure According to the Prime Ministers Office (PMO), PM Modi will also inaugurate the National Data Centre for the Northeastern region at Amingaon in Kamrup district. The facility, with a sanctioned load of 8.5 MW and an average rack capacity of 10 kW, will host critical government applications and function as a disaster recovery centre for other National Data Centres. The initiative is intended to strengthen the regions digital infrastructure and support secure, reliable delivery of citizen services in line with the Digital India vision. IIM Guwahati and PM-eBus Sewa Scheme Prime Minister Modi will also inaugurate IIM Guwahati and flag off more than 225 electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme across four cities: Guwahati (100), Nagpur (50), Bhavnagar (50), and Chandigarh (25). The rollout of e-bus services is projected to benefit over 50 lakh people by providing cleaner, affordable, and dependable public transport, thereby improving urban mobility and quality of life. (With ANI inputs) After seven years of the Pulwama terror attack, the way security forces challenged terrorism inside and outside Jammu and Kashmir has given birth to a new, developing, and peaceful Kashmir. CRPF said we are committed to eradicating terrorism from Kashmir, and the BJP says terrorism is taking its last breath in Jammu and Kashmir. On the seventh anniversary of the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, India came together from Delhi to Kashmir to honor the 40 CRPF personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The Pulwama attack was the last big attack on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir. After that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, terrorism was dealt with iron hands, be it inside Jammu and Kashmir or the answer to Pakistan. After the Pulwama attack, India launched Operation Balakot and punished Pakistan, and then, after the Pahalgam attack, in Operation Sindoor Jaish base was destroyed along with Pakistani airbases and terror shelters. Hundreds of terrorists were killed by Indian forces inside Pakistan. On the other hand, a decisive fight was launched against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The ecosystem of terrorists was targeted and destroyed from OGWs to terror shelters; hideouts and active terrorists were targeted, and today's result is that in the last year, only one local youth has joined terror ranks, while only 7 local terrorists are active in terror ranks, and the number of terrorists operating in Jammu Kashmir is at an all-time low. The Kashmir situation has undergone a drastic change from terror and separatism to development and nationalism. The place where 7 years back Jaish terror outfit carried out the biggest attack of JK terror history, today people were seen unfurling the tricolor and chanting Bharat Mata ki Jai. Among the hundreds of people gathered at the Pulwama attack spot were local Kashmiris, political party supporters, and tourists. A major wreath-laying ceremony was also held at the CRPF Lethpora camp, where a permanent memorial featuring the names and photographs of the 40 martyrs stands, and the slogan Seva and Nishtha (Service and Loyalty) is raised. The important thing is that there is also a kalash kept, which contains all 40 martyred soldiers' ashes, which were collected after the martyrdom of soldiers from their respective homes. CRPF, which in these last 7 years had taken all possible steps to help the martyrs' families, at the same time, had pledged to eradicate terrorism from the country. Director General of the CRPF G. P Singh said, Today is an extremely emotional moment for the CRPF family, as well as the entire country. On this day in 2019, we lost 40 of our brave soldiers. We have gathered here today to pay tribute to them. I want to inform everyone that the CRPF family and the CRPF Family Welfare Society are standing with the families of the martyrs. We have provided various types of assistance to the families, including allocating quarters in local centers wherever they have expressed a need. So far, 19 families have been allocated homes, and several families have been allocated land in collaboration with local governments. An average of 2-3 crores has been given to each family by the government. Last year, in 2025, we lost eight of our colleagues in operations, and we are standing with their families too. In a strong message, he said, On behalf of CRPF, I want to assure that CRPF is committed to eradicating all forms of terrorism from the country. Thank you, Jai Hind, Jai CRPF. Apart from DG CRPF, IGP JKP, GOC 15 Corps Army, and other ranks of belt forces, intelligence wings, and civil administration visited the memorial in Pulwama to pay a solemn tribute to the 40 brave-hearts who made the supreme sacrifice in 2019. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, in a message, described the martyrs' sacrifice as a source of eternal inspiration for the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first who paid homage to the "brave heroes," stating their devotion and service remain forever etched in the nation's collective consciousness. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and senior leaders across party lines issued messages of gratitude, describing the sacrifice as a symbol of indomitable courage. Besides, the Alliance of All Ex Para-Military Forces Welfare Association (AAPWA) held a dedicated memorial event at the Constitution Club in New Delhi to pay respects. Millions of citizens observed the day as Black Day using social media to share tributes, images of the martyrs to ensure their legacy remains in the public consciousness. Meanwhile, in Jammu Kashmir, security forces had sounded a high alert and conducted searches in sensitive areas like Lal Chowk and local hotels to ensure safety during the commemorations. A Shillong-bound IndiGo flight was grounded at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Saturday morning due to a bomb threat. The emergency started when a crew member found a handwritten note claiming that an explosive was on board. This incident involved Flight 6E 7304, which was set to depart for Shillong at 9:15 AM. Emergency evacuation at Kolkata Airport The threat was identified during the boarding process. The Airport Director stated that a cabin crew member discovered the note inside the aircraft's lavatory. Following standard security measures, the aircraft was quickly moved to an isolation bay. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source As a precaution, all passengers who had already boarded were deplaned and taken to a safe area. Security Sweep: Specialized units, including the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) and CISF security personnel, carried out a thorough inspection of the cabin and cargo hold. IndiGo issues official statement In an official statement, IndiGo confirmed the security alert: "A security threat was found on IndiGo flight 6E 7304 operating from Kolkata to Shillong on 14 February 2026. Following our procedures, we immediately informed the relevant authorities and are fully cooperating with them." The airline expressed regret for the inconvenience and emphasized that the safety of customers and crew is their top priority. After a complete search, authorities reported no suspicious items were found, and the aircraft was later cleared for operation. Rising trend of hoax threats This incident comes after a series of recent scares involving Indian carriers. Just two weeks ago, an IndiGo flight from Kuwait City to Delhi was diverted to Ahmedabad for a similar reason after a "hijack and bomb threat" was discovered on a tissue paper. Also, in late January, another flight from Delhi to Pune was searched in an isolation bay after a handwritten note was found. While many of these incidents have been hoaxes, aviation authorities are staying alert since each threat requires a full emergency response and causes significant disruption. Current flight status After the security clearance, the flight to Shillong was allowed to proceed. Airport officials and local police have started an investigation to find the person responsible for leaving the note. ALSO READ | 'Pathetic' or 'Bold': White House Valentine's post on Maduro capture and Greenland sparks global backlash In a move signaling a significant change in diplomacy in South Asia, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has announced it will invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the upcoming oath-taking ceremony of Tarique Rahman. The invitation, confirmed by the party's top foreign policy advisor, shows a major shift from years of tense relations and comes after the BNP's decisive win in the February 2026 parliamentary elections. VIDEO | Dhaka: Humayun Kabir, Adviser to BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on how the party wants to reset ties with India, says, "It's not for the party, it's for the governments of both countries, for the government of India as well as the new elected government of Bangladesh... to pic.twitter.com/7kjqS5HpTY Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 14, 2026 Add Zee News as a Preferred Source A goodwill gesture for regional priority Humayun Kabir, Joint Secretary General (International Affairs) and advisor to Tarique Rahman, shared the plans in an exclusive interview with WION. He pointed out that the invitation is key to the new administration's goal of making the region a strong global player. Political vision: Kabir stated that Rahman's foreign policy focuses on regional cooperation. "You give an invitation for people to attend, you will have expectations that they attend. It is a goodwill gesture," Kabir said. Multilateral focus: The new government plans to revitalize platforms like SAARC and BIMSTEC to balance regional power dynamics and encourage economic growth. Thank you very much, Honourable @narendramodi. We greatly appreciate your kind acknowledgment of Mr. Tarique Rahmans leadership in securing the BNPs decisive win in the national elections. This outcome reflects the trust and confidence the people of Bangladesh have placed in https://t.co/hJAOguIvKZ Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP (@bdbnp78) February 14, 2026 Modi-Rahman outreach: The first steps This announcement follows a high-level phone call on Friday, February 13. During the call, Prime Minister Modi congratulated Tarique Rahman on his "remarkable victory." Modi reaffirmed Indias commitment to a "democratic, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh." Analysts see this early outreach as a smart move by New Delhi to protect its interests after the 2024 removal of the Awami League government. Challenges to the 'reset': The Hasina factor While the BNP seeks a "reset," Kabir acknowledged that some challenges remainmost notably the situation surrounding former PM Sheikh Hasina in India. The BNP leadership has hinted that her ongoing "exile" in Delhi may create issues in future extradition or diplomatic discussions. Timeline for transition After the February 11 elections, where the BNP alliance reportedly won over 200 seats, the official transition is progressing quickly: February 15-16: Newly elected MPs are expected to take their parliamentary oaths. February 17-18: Tarique Rahman, returning to power after nearly two decades in exile, is expected to be sworn in as the 14th Prime Minister of Bangladesh. The ceremony will occur at the Bangabhaban, with several regional leaders expected to be on the guest list along with PM Modi. ALSO READ | 'Pathetic' or 'Bold': White House Valentine's post on Maduro capture and Greenland sparks global backlash Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday said that this is the last media briefing of the Union Cabinet that Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the "Seva Teerth" complex to the nation, which was inaugurated earlier on Friday. Seva Teerth houses the Prime Minister's Office, the National Security Council Secretariat, and the Cabinet Secretariat, all of which were previously located across different locations. Vaishnaw added that the South and North Blocks were built by the British to maintain colonial rule in India, and that we are happy that today marked the last Union Cabinet meeting to be held in the South Block. During the media briefing on Union Cabinet decisions, which was held for the last time in the previously known South block building, Vaishnaw said, "On 13th February 2026, PM Narendra Modi dedicated the new PMO office, 'Seva Teerth', to the nation. The South and North blocks were built by the British to maintain colonial rule in India. In 1947, India attained freedom, but the then-government continued using these buildings for its work." "Ever since independence, PMO has been working from the office in South Block. We are happy that today, union cabinet meeting is being held in this office of the South Block for the very last time," he said. A day earlier, PM Modi inaugurated Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan-1 and 2 in the national capital and said these buildings have been built to fulfil the aspirations of the people of the country. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that a new history is being made and the day has become a witness to a new beginning in India's development journey. He said that as the country moves towards a Viksit Bharat, it is vital that India sheds every trace of a colonial mindset. The Prime Minister emphasised that in the scriptures, Vijaya Ekadashi has held great significance, as the resolve taken on this day always leads to victory. He said that with the resolve of a developed India, all are entering the Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan. He underlined that the divine blessings for victory in this goal are with them. He extended congratulations to everyone, including the PMO team, the Cabinet Secretariat, and employees of various departments, on Seva Teerth and the new buildings. He expressed gratitude to all engineers and worker colleagues associated with their construction. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially inaugurated Seva Teerth, the new complex for the Prime Ministers Office (PMO). This transition signals the PMO's move from South Block on Raisina Hill, a sandstone building that has been central to Indian governance for nearly 80 years. As the government shifts to a modern facility, North and South Block will be transformed into the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum. Covering 155,000 square meters, it is set to become the largest museum in the world, dedicated to Indias 5,000-year history. A legacy in sandstone: The Baker-Lutyens era Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The story of the Secretariat began in 1911 when the British Crown moved India's capital from Calcutta to Delhi. Herbert Baker, a contemporary of Edwin Lutyens, designed the North and South Blocks, which were completed in 1931. Baker used an Indo-Saracenic Revival style, blending classical European architecture with traditional Indian elements. The buildings feature: - Dholpur Sandstone: Distinctive red-and-cream colors. - Indian Motifs: Intricate jaalis (lattice screens), jharokhas (overhanging balconies), and chajjas (stone eaves). - Imperial Grandeur: Symmetrical towers inspired by Baker's earlier work on the Union Buildings in Pretoria, South Africa. The construction was notably marked by a disagreement; Lutyens argued unsuccessfully that Baker's Secretariat buildings were too tall and would block the view of the Viceroys House (now Rashtrapati Bhavan). From imperial hub to the crucible of democracy Initially seen by the Indian public and press in 1931 as a symbol of "White Mans supremacy," these buildings experienced a major change after Independence in 1947. The corridors of South Block became the office of Indias first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. At the same time, the North Block was home to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as he integrated 562 princely states. Over the years, these walls witnessed the drafting of Five-Year Plans, managing national security crises, and implementing major economic reforms. Experts note that during the tenures of Lal Bahadur Shastri and Indira Gandhi, the PMO became a powerful institution within these walls. The building's impressive architecture added to the "aura of power" surrounding the office. The need for modernity: Why the shift? Despite South Block's historical significance, former officials point out major logistical issues within the colonial-era structure. Space limits and outdated facilities, famously exemplified by the building's small lifts, became less suitable for a 21st-century administration. "The move to Seva Teerth reflects the 'New India,'" said Sharat Chander, a former PMO information officer. "While South Block has a rich history, the country needs a modern, efficient workspace for the Prime Minister's team." Decolonising the landscape Political analysts and historians see this move as part of a wider effort to distance the Indian state from colonial-era symbols. "This is an important step in embracing our own culture and identity," stated Sangit K. Ragi, a professor at Delhi University. By moving the seat of power to a new Indian facility and turning the British-built Secretariat into a national museum, the government aims to reframe Raisina Hill as a site of heritage, not imperial administration. ALSO READ | East Delhi hotel jump: How a shop employee used cardboard boxes to save a woman's life | SHOCKING VIDEO Mumbai: Filmmaker Karan Johar can't stop praising Shanaya Kapoor and Adarsh Gourav's survival thriller 'Tu Yaa Main'. Taking to his Instagram handle, Karan Johar posted a long note, describing the film as "traumatising (in the best way possible)". "NO CARDIO NEEDED! You will physically jump out of your seats right through the second half of this traumatising (in the best way possible) survival croc edge of the seater! Swimming pools will never be the same for me again.... NEVER! And if you happen to have a partner this Valentine.. take them to watch #tuyamain and tell them to wear armour because you will clutch onto them in FEAR!!!! Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Noting that he was left in "stress" after watching the film, Karan added, "I am still stressed and the film got over 30 minutes ago! I feel like a crocodile may appear even in the middle of Mumbai traffic and attack me (I am dramatic I know but this film has made me take an extra dose of my BP meds)" The filmmaker went on to give a shoutout to director Bejoy Nambiar, producer Aanand L Rai, and the lead actors Shanaya and Gourav. Also Read | Tu yaa main movie X review: Shanaya Kapoor-Adarsh Gourav`s thriller yay or nay? "Kudos to @bejoynambiar for keeping the tension alive with solid craft and technical excellence.... @shanayakapoor02 so proud of your choices and for your assured, hugely convincing performance and playing Miss Vanity and Miss Insanity ( when the going gets scary and relentless) to perfection! Love you! @gouravadarsh you are JUST BRILLIANT as the Gullly boy and as the traumatised victim of the croc attack! I felt every inch of your FEAR!!!" he continued. Directed by Bejoy Nambiar, 'Tu Yaa Main' is produced by Aanand L Rai and Himanshu Sharma under the banner of Colour Yellow, along with Vinod Bhanushali and Kamlesh Bhanushali of Bhanushali Studios Limited. The film opened in theatres on February 13. Mumbai: Actor Sunny Deol, who is basking in the success of 'Border 2', has loads of other projects lined up this year. One of them is Rajkumar Santoshi's 'Lahore 1947'. However, the film's title could be changed. Sunny, in an interview with ANI, hinted at this possibility. " Meri dher saari films aane wali hai. Unme se ek Lahore 1947 hai.. Shayad title change ho sakta hai shayad wohi rakhe. Film ek famous play pe based. 15 August ke time cinema halls me lagegi. (I have several films in the pipeline. One of them is Lahore 1947...though the title may change, or it might ultimately stay the same. The film is an adaptation of a celebrated stage play and is slated for a theatrical release in August.)," Sunny shared. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source According to the latest information from the film's production team, Lahore 1947 will hit theatres on August 13, 2026, during Independence Day week. The makers are aiming for a big festive release across India. The upcoming period drama also brings together Sunny Deol, director Rajkumar Santoshi and producer Aamir Khan for the first time. Also Read | `Papa ki blessings hai...Waheguru Di Meher`: Sunny Deol reacts after Border 2 success Aamir Khan is producing the film under his banner, Aamir Khan Productions. Talking about the project, Aamir, as per a release, said, "This was one of the favourite scripts of Dharamji, and I am so glad he could see the film." The film stars Sunny Deol alongside Shabana Azmi, Preity Zinta, Ali Fazal, and Karan Deol in key roles. Music for the film is by AR Rahman, with lyrics by Javed Akhtar New Delhi: Ramayana producer Namit Malhotra recently opened up about the making of the film, describing it as a product of years of frustration with how Indian cinema and history are represented in Hollywood. In an conversation with ET Now, he highlighted the lack of appreciation in the West for Indian films, culture, and heritage, saying there is hardly any authentic presence of Indian history on the global screen. Elaborating further, Namit Malhotra said that even globally acclaimed films such as Slumdog Millionaire portray India largely through the lens of victimhood. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source When I went to Hollywood, I saw that we had no real presence. There was no representation of our history or culture. Ive spent the last two decades trying to establish a foothold there, and unlike other American industries like finance and medicine, where Indians have had success, they didnt have an appreciation for our industry, our history, or our culture, he said. It kept frustrating me through this lens of an emerging country. Whether it was Slumdog Millionaire, we were always shown as the victim. That always troubled me. I felt we needed to show who we are, where we come from, and the richness of our history in a way the world has never seen before. That became the genesis of why Ramayana is the perfect story of our heritage that can be presented to the world with pride, Malhotra added. About Ramayana Director Nitesh Tiwaris Ramayana is one of the most anticipated films of the year. The project boasts a massive budget and a star-studded cast, including Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, and Yash as Ravana. The supporting cast also features Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, along with Lara Dutta, Rakul Preet Singh, and Arun Govil in key roles. Ramayana is being developed as a two-part live-action epic inspired by ancient Indian mythology. The first installment is scheduled to release on Diwali 2026, followed by the second part on Diwali 2027. The film is reportedly being made on a budget of Rs 4,000 crore, with music composed by Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman. New Delhi: Actor Rajpal Yadav has landed in trouble over the non-payment of settlement amounts in a cheque-bounce case. He surrendered before the Tihar Jail authorities in Delhi, and his bail hearing on Thursday was adjourned. Priyadarshan Breaks Silence, Offers Support Filmmaker Priyadarshan has now reacted to the development, saying he has tried to arrange higher remuneration for the actor in his upcoming film. The director has previously collaborated with Rajpal in several films, including Bhagam Bhaag, Chup Chup Ke, and De Dana Dan. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Also Read | Rajpal Yadav bail plea adjourned: When will Hera Pheri actor be released? - All you need to know Priyadarshan is currently busy with the post-production of his film Bhooth Bangla. Speaking to Midday, he said, I have known Rajpal for over 20 years. I saw him for the first time in Jungle [2000] and was surprised by his performance. My first film with him was Malamaal Weekly [2006], and after that, he has starred in most of my films. I told the producers [Jubilee Films] of my next to pay Rajpal more than what he charges because of his situation. We want to save him. The producers have agreed. Rajpal plays the villain in my movie. Court Proceedings and Repayment Plan On February 6, 2026, senior advocate Abhijat appeared on behalf of Rajpal Yadav and informed the court that the actor would deposit Rs 25 lakh immediately, along with a tentative repayment schedule for the remaining dues. However, Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma observed that Rajpal had been required to surrender a day earlier and would be heard only after complying with that direction. According to ANI, the Delhi High Court had earlier withdrawn the leniency granted to Rajpal Yadav and directed him to surrender before the concerned jail superintendent by February 4, 2026, citing repeated violations of undertakings to clear settlement dues. The sentence imposed by the trial court had been suspended in June 2024 to facilitate an amicable settlement between the parties. However, the High Court noted that even partial payments promised through demand drafts and instalment schedules were not made within the stipulated time. The Court also rejected explanations citing technical or typographical errors, stating that they failed to inspire confidence given the consistent pattern of default. New Delhi: IT services major Wipro will begin implementing salary hikes for employees from March 1, 2026, ending a delay in increments that had been expected earlier. The decision was communicated internally to employees and is expected to bring relief to the companys workforce. The salary revision had earlier been deferred from September, reflecting the cautious approach taken by many companies in the Indian IT sector amid uncertain global demand and geopolitical challenges. While the company confirmed that all employees will receive the salary increase, the exact percentage of the hike has not been disclosed yet. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The move comes at a time when several IT firms have been careful about compensation decisions due to slower business growth and pressure on margins. For instance, some companies postponed appraisal cycles or implemented modest increments as they navigated market uncertainty. Overall, Wipros decision to resume increments signals a gradual return to the normal appraisal cycle in the IT industry, even as companies continue to monitor global economic conditions and client spending trends. New Delhi: Employees enrolled with the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) are automatically covered under the Employees Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI) scheme, which provides life insurance coverage of up to Rs 7 lakh to nominees in case of the members death during service. The scheme works alongside the EPF and EPS benefits and does not require any separate premium payment from employees. The EDLI scheme is available to all employees who are active EPF members in establishments registered with EPFO. Since the employer contributes to the scheme, employees receive insurance protection without making any additional financial contribution. The benefit is designed to provide financial support to families of salaried workers, especially in the private sector. The insurance payout amount depends on the employees last drawn salary and the balance in the provident fund account, subject to the maximum limit of Rs 7 lakh. Even if an employee changes jobs, the EDLI coverage continues as long as the EPF account remains active without a long break in contribution. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source To claim the EDLI benefit, the nominee or legal heir must submit Form 5 IF along with required documents, such as the death certificate, bank details, and identity proof, through the employer or directly to the EPFO office. Once verified, the EPFO processes the claim and releases the insurance amount to the nominee. The EDLI scheme remains one of the less-known but important social security benefits available to EPF members, providing financial protection to families without any extra cost to employees. New Delhi: A technology professional recently shared frustration online after their company reportedly skipped annual salary increments while introducing employee-monitoring software that captures screenshots every 10 minutes. The post, shared on social media, quickly gained attention and sparked debate about workplace surveillance and employee morale. According to the employee, the company described the monitoring tool as a productivity-tracking measure, designed to ensure that employees remain focused during working hours. The software allegedly records screen activity at regular intervals, allowing managers to review how time is spent on work tasks. The incident triggered strong reactions online, with many users questioning whether constant digital monitoring could undermine trust between employers and employees, especially in remote or hybrid work environments. Some commenters argued that productivity should be measured by output rather than continuous surveillance, while others said companies are increasingly adopting such tools to manage distributed teams. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Employee-monitoring software has become more common in recent years as organisations try to track productivity, improve compliance, and reduce data-security risks. However, the growing use of such tools has also raised concerns about privacy, workplace culture, and job satisfaction in the evolving post-pandemic work environment. Overall, the viral post reflects a broader conversation about how far companies should go in monitoring employees, particularly when compensation growth slows and workplace expectations continue to shift. The governor of the Lombardy region, Attilio Fontana, recently addressed the necessity of these supplies, defending the practice as a vital public health initiative. Beyond the current shortage, the Milan-Cortina athletes' village offers a variety of amenities designed to help competitors relax between events. Prime Minister Narendra Modi renamed the PMO complex Seva Teerth and inaugurated new administrative buildings aimed at modernising governance. On his first day in the new office, he approved key decisions including the PM RAHAT Scheme, an expanded Lakhpati Didis target, a higher agriculture fund outlay and Startup India FoF 2.0. On February 13, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev was interviewed by France 24 in Munich. AzerNEWS presents the interview, citing Azertag. Correspondent: Hello and welcome to Tete a tete, France 24s flagship interview show. Our guest today is the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev. Thank you very much, Mr. President. President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you. Correspondent: On August 8, there was a trilateral summit at the White House with you, Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, and U.S. President Donald Trump, and a declaration to end the conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia was signed, with promises to reopen transportation routes and normalize relations. Can you tell us whether total peace and full normalization are now coming soon? President Ilham Aliyev: I think so, because the signing of this historic document at the White House, in the presence of the President of the United States, who, by the way, also signed the Joint Declaration as a witness, means that the conflict is over and that we have entered a period of peace, which I hope will last forever. Since that time, more than six months have passed, and we have a very quiet situation on the border with Armenia. No more shootings, no victims, no wounded. Azerbaijan unilaterally lifted the restrictions on the transit of goods to Armenia, and we also started supplying critical oil products to Armenia, which actually marks the beginning of our trade relations. So we can see that peace has already been achieved. There are certain formalities in order to sign a final peace agreement, but along with the declaration, which you mentioned, the foreign ministers of both countries in Washington also initialed the text of the peace agreement. So for me, it is done. I think the Prime Minister of Armenia shares the same opinion. We are just learning to live in peace, and it's a very good feeling. Correspondent: It's a very good feeling. However, what's missing for full normalization? I understand that for Azerbaijan there is an issue with Armenia's constitution and language pertaining to territorial claims on Garabagh. Is this an absolute red line for you? Without this being changed, there will be no normalization? President Ilham Aliyev: Yes, you're right. There will be no signing of a peace agreement. I would divide normalization from a formal peace agreement because normalization is already taking place. As I said, all these positive developments show that. But the Armenian constitution, which was adopted a long time ago during the times of the occupation of Garabagh, contains the reference to the Declaration of Independence of Armenia, which contains the paragraph that so-called Nagorno-Karabakh and Armenia should unite. So this is a territorial claim to Azerbaijan. Our position for many years, since the end of the Second Garabagh War, has been very clear: this should be changed. And as far as I know, Armenia is planning to hold a referendum. And as soon as it is done, there will be no obstacles to the formal signing of a peace agreement. But again, I'd like to underline that for Azerbaijan, peace has been achieved. The normalization process is moving successfully, and I hope that as soon as these legal formalities are done, we will have formal peace. Correspondent: This year? President Ilham Aliyev: Definitely. Correspondent: JD Vance, the Vice President, visited both countries. There were announcements of a strategic partnership, where the U.S. would sell all kinds of weapons now to Azerbaijan. There is also this so-called TRIPP project, the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, a road and rail link through Armenia to your exclave of Nakhchivan. Is this a pie in the sky, or is this really going to happen and change the dynamics? President Ilham Aliyev: I have no doubt that it will happen. One of the reasons is that, again, the United States played a crucial role in this process. The route, which will connect two parts of Azerbaijan through Armenia and even stretch to the European continent, carries the name of President Trump. It's the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity. And I think that this very personal commitment of the U.S. President and also the agenda of the U.S. government shows that the TRIPP will be built. It's not a big distance; it's only 40-plus kilometers. By the way, I'd like to say that the railroad which Azerbaijan is now building to the Armenian border from the capital is about 400 kilometers, plus almost 200 kilometers in our Nakhchivan exclave to be rehabilitated. So the Armenian segment of the Zangezur Corridor, as we call it, is very short. And I'm sure that it will be done. And coming to the question about Vice President Vance's visit, yes, it was a very important visit. The visit in itself of the Vice President of the United States is important for any country. In this case, it was marked with the signing of the Charter on Strategic Partnership between the governments of the United States and Azerbaijan. Thus, we became an official strategic partner of the most powerful country in the world, and we consider it a big success for our country. And this Strategic Charter, it was published in the press, so it contains different segments. One of them was defense sales, but not only that. It's energy, connectivity, AI, investment, and trade, and also all the restrictions on the arms supplies to Azerbaijan have been lifted. Correspondent: I want to get to a decision by the military court in your country that handed out harsh prison sentences to 13 officials of the Nagorno-Karabakh region, including life imprisonment for the former leader. There were reports that the U.S. Vice President talked about the issue and asked you maybe to grant them a pardon as a way to seek peace in the region. Did he do this, and will you do this? President Ilham Aliyev: During the interaction with the Vice President, which lasted for several hours, among other issues, this issue was also raised by him, and I expressed Azerbaijan's position on this issue, and that was it. We mainly discussed bilateral relations, regional development, TRIPP, and prospects for formal peace with Armenia. With respect to these people whom you mentioned, these are the leaders of the illegal separatist regime, which illegally functioned on our territory, on the territory of the sovereign Azerbaijani state, recognized as such by the entire international community, including Armenia. For many years, these people were masterminds of all the war crimes against Azerbaijanis and Azerbaijan, and they were brought to justice. They were detained in Garabagh as a result of our military operation and brought to justice. They were provided with lawyers. The trial was absolutely transparent. Their crimes were proven by the testimonies of witnesses, numerous testimonies, and there is no question about suspicion of wrongdoing. Correspondent: But could you do something about this, Mr. President? President Ilham Aliyev: What do you mean? Correspondent: Turn the page and grant them clemency or something. You could make a gesture. This is within your powers. President Ilham Aliyev: You know, these people committed serious crimes against humanity. Imagine after the Second World War, the Nuremberg trials, and all those Nazi leaders, who were sentenced to death, in two months some would come and say, please release them. Correspondent: It's the same for you? President Ilham Aliyev: Yes, absolutely. It's even worse, even worse. Their crimes were even worse than what the Nazis did during World War II. Correspondent: But in terms of turning the page, do you also maybe have some compassion for the Armenians who had to leave Garabagh as a result of the latest war? President Ilham Aliyev: Our position on that issue was very clear. It was articulated many times, including publishing on the website that we offered all Armenians who lived in Garabagh to apply for citizenship or to apply for a work permit. We had several rounds of interactions with the representatives of Garabagh Armenians, but they preferred to choose to leave for Armenia. We have hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis who have been deported and ethnically cleansed from the territory of today's Armenia, but never did the Armenian government offer any kind of proposals for them to come back. I think we need to treat this issue from a reciprocal point of view. The right of return is a universal right, and, of course, Azerbaijan will definitely observe this right if we have such an application. But at the same time, taking into account that we were at war with Armenia for 30 years, and for 30 years they were occupying our territory, we expect the same attitude toward hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis, who we call Western Azerbaijanis, to be able to return to today's Armenia. Correspondent: I want to quickly get to the relation with France. It was very bad, especially during the last war. You criticized France for being a colonial power in New Caledonia and in Corsica very harsh words. A few months ago, a French citizen, Theo Clerc, was freed. There's another one who's currently on trial. You met the French President briefly on the sidelines of a European summit. Would you say that the relation is back on track, or that there are still problems between Azerbaijan and France? President Ilham Aliyev: You know, we were not the source of the problems with France. We had very good relations with France before the Second Garabagh War. There have been visits of presidents, of President Sarkozy, President Hollande, and my official visits to France. Also, I visited France during the term of President Macron. We had very friendly relations, a lot of business activity, more than a dozen sister cities. But when the Second Garabagh War started, and we started to restore our territorial integrity, unfortunately, the position of France was absolutely incomprehensible, because France is defending the territorial integrity of countries. It tries to defend its own territorial integrity. Now it defends the territorial integrity of Denmark. They defend the territorial integrity of Ukraine, but unfortunately, they supported separatists. More than 10 resolutions of the National Assembly and Senate were aimed at supporting separatists, and even your parliament recognized so-called Nagorno-Karabakh, though even Armenia did not recognize it. Also, relations with the government were tense, but again, we were not the source of this tension. We only wanted our sovereignty to be respected. Correspondent: But you used very harsh words President Ilham Aliyev: Well, I did not start to use the harsh words. What was done on behalf of Azerbaijan, I want you to be absolutely sure, was only a response. We have a catalog of harsh words which were used by the French President and many French officials, chairman of your Senate, chairman of your National Assembly, your famous personalities, which used words that insulted our state and me personally. Moreover, after the Second Garabagh War of 2020, before the anti-terror operation of 2023, very famous French personalities like Madame Pecresse, Monsieur Barnier, Monsieur Retailleau, all the names are familiar to the audience, illegally visited Garabagh and supported the separatists. So that was an open insult to Azerbaijans statehood and a total sign of disrespect. All that has been said or done by us was done and said in response. Maybe it was harsh. It's difficult to measure. But I think what is important is, as you mentioned, my meeting with President Macron at the end of last year, which was very positive, and we agreed to put a restart button. We are ready for that. The last thing we need is to have problems with any country, including France. Again, it was not our initiative, but now I think both sides are more ready for normal relations, especially after Armenia and Azerbaijan have already achieved peace. Correspondent: So as a conclusion, we can expect maybe you to meet the French President in the near future. President Ilham Aliyev: Yes, definitely. By the way, our meeting in Copenhagen was very friendly. And, of course, since the meeting took place several months ago, there has been a lot of interaction between our teams. They regularly contact each other. There have been several meetings. Yes, there are still some issues which President Macron and I underlined to be settled by both sides. But again, it's important to understand that it's a road with both directions. And as two sovereign countries, we need to respect each other, respect each other's legal systems, and also not interfere in each other's affairs. We were not the first, if I may use your word, to talk about Caledonia, etc. It was France who started to interfere in our internal affairs about Garabagh, and not only that, even into our political agenda. So this should be stopped. And I think both sides know how to do it. Correspondent: President Aliyev, thank you very much for being our guest. And thank you all for watching this edition of Tete a tete here on France 24. President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday launched a scathing attack on the Congress and the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), saying that during their tenure terrorist attacks took place without strong retaliation by their ministers, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi established a "new tradition" of strong retaliation, citing the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. Addressing a BJP public meeting in Karaikal in the Union Territory of Puducherry, Shah paid tribute to the 40 CRPF personnel killed in the Pulwama attack on February 14, 2019. "On 14 February 2019, our 40 CRPF jawans were martyred in Pulwama. I wholeheartedly want to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the country," Shah said. He alleged that during the UPA regime, Pakistani terrorists carried out attacks on Indian soldiers without facing strong consequences. "During the Congress regime, Pakistani terrorists carried out attacks on our soldiers. During the UPA period, neither the Prime Minister nor the Defence Minister used to give any reaction. But PM Modi created a new tradition. In 2019, an airstrike was carried out, entering their territory and eliminating the terrorists in Pakistan," he said, referring to India's retaliatory Balakot airstrikes. Shah said the rally had two main objectives: to present the report card of the "double-engine government" under the leadership of PM Modi at the Centre and Chief Minister N Rangaswamy in Puducherry, and to "expose and unmask'" what he described as the "trinity power" of the UPA and the INDIA alliance. "Today, this grand assembly has two objectives. The first objective is to present before you the report of the work accomplished by the double-engine government under the leadership of PM Modi ji and Rangaswamy ji. The second objective is precisely to expose and unmask the trinity power of the UPA and INDIA alliance," the Home Minister said. Beginning his speech by bowing to the "great land of Puducherry," Shah sought forgiveness for not speaking in Tamil and expressed respect for the region's cultural heritage. Highlighting the NDA government's performance in the Union Territory over the past five years, he said the administration had achieved three major goals: eradicating corruption, ensuring political stability, and strengthening Puducherry's autonomy. "Five years ago, the people of Puducherry formed an NDA government here under the leadership of PM Modi ji and Rangaswamy ji. And this government has accomplished three things: First, it has eradicated corruption here. Second, the previous Congress government here had turned Puducherry into an ATM for its masters in Delhi. Whereas we have worked to make Puducherry an autonomous UT. The third thing we have done is to bring political stability to Puducherry," Shah said. The Home Minister will formally launch the BJP's election campaign in Karaikal with a public meeting ahead of the assembly polls. (ANI) Nokia keypad phone: A viral video featuring a Nokia phone from the 2000s has taken social media users on a nostalgic trip. The 17-second clip on X shows a man typing http://google.com on a Nokia feature phone, after which the simple Google homepage loads on the tiny screen. For many users, the video brought back memories of a time when mobile internet was slow, costly, and far less common than today. How we browsed the internet in 2000s. pic.twitter.com/wo2PneUWrY February 13, 2026 Add Zee News as a Preferred Source In the early 2000s, Nokia feature phones were among the most popular devices worldwide. Models such as the Nokia 3310 and later internet-enabled versions came with small colour or monochrome screens, physical keypads, and basic web browsers based on WAP (Wireless Application Protocol). Browsing the internet on these phones was very different from todays smartphones. Users had to type full web addresses using number keys. Pages loaded slowly and appeared in a simplified format. Images were limited, and most websites were text-heavy to reduce data usage. These phones were also known for their strong battery life, durable build, and iconic games like Snake. Some models offered basic features such as SMS, MMS, FM radio, a calculator, an alarm clock, and simple cameras. However, internet access was considered a premium feature and often came with extra charges from telecom operators. (Also Read: Smartphone fell in water? 5 easy tips to save your wet phone before its too late) Nostalgic social media reaction The viral video quickly sparked thousands of reactions online. One user commented, We browsed the internet on these phones only; seeing this feels nostalgic. Another wrote, The sheer anxiety of accidentally clicking the Internet button and trying to close it before it charged you $2. Many users remembered how expensive mobile data used to be. Accidental clicks could lead to unexpected deductions from prepaid balances. A third comment read, Seeing this triggers my mind to imagine how insanely wild and easy the future is gonna be. From keypads to touchscreens The video highlights how far technology has come. What once required patience, careful typing, and costly data is now available instantly with high-speed internet and touchscreen smartphones. The Union Cabinet has approved a new Rs 10,000 crore fund to help Indian startups secure the investment they need to grow. Known as the Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0, the money will specifically target deep tech, advanced manufacturing, and early-stage founders. The goal is to ensure that innovative ideas do not fail simply because they cannot access early financial support. This new fund follows the first version of the scheme launched in 2016. The government noted that the original programme successfully supported over 1,370 startups by committing its entire Rs 10,000 crore corpus to various investment funds. These funds, in turn, invested more than Rs 25,500 crore in companies working in fields such as artificial intelligence, healthcare, and space technology. The press release stated that the first phase played a pivotal role in nurturing first-time founders and helped build a strong foundation for Indias venture capital ecosystem. One of the main objectives of the 2.0 version is to support high-tech sectors that take a long time to develop. The government aims to provide patient, long-term capital for breakthroughs in deep tech and innovative manufacturing. By focusing on these challenging sectors, the scheme seeks to address high-risk capital gaps that are often overlooked by private investors but are essential for the country to become more self-reliant. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The fund is also intended to extend beyond major cities such as Bengaluru and Delhi. The government wants to encourage investment across the country so that innovation can thrive everywhere. According to the release, the scheme is designed to accelerate the next phase of Indias startup journey by mobilising long-term domestic capital and reducing the countrys dependence on foreign investment. Since 2016, the number of recognised startups in India has grown from fewer than 500 to more than 2 lakh. The government believes this new injection of capital will help sustain that momentum. The release concluded that the fund will contribute to strengthening Indias economic resilience, boosting manufacturing capabilities, and generating high-quality jobs as part of the broader national goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. India AI Impact Summit 2026 Registration: New Delhi is set to host the India AI Impact Summit 2026 next week, marking the first time a global AI summit of this scale is being held in the Global South. The mega-event is scheduled from February 16 to 20, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The five-day event is among the largest global gatherings on artificial intelligence, bringing world leaders, top tech CEOs and thousands of delegates to the capital amid unprecedented security and logistical arrangements. According to the official details, the AI India Impact summit will see participation from 15 to 20 heads of government, over 50 ministers, and more than 40 Indian and international CEOs. With over 700 sessions planned, discussions will span AI safety, governance, ethical deployment, data protection, and Indias roadmap for sovereign AI. With 1.5 lakh registrations, including 10,000 foreign delegates from over 30 countries, the summit ranks among the largest international events Delhi has hosted in recent years. In this article, we will guide you through the registration process, event timings, and other key details. India AI Impact Summit 2026: How to make the registration Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Step 1: Go to the summits official website to begin the registration process. Step 2: Submit your personal and professional information in the online registration form. Step 3: If you want to showcase products or solutions, enrol through the dedicated Impact Expo registration portal. Step 4: Journalists and media professionals must apply separately via the official media accreditation platform. Step 5: Submit the form and wait for confirmation via email with further event details and entry guidelines. The entry to the venue will be allowed only through QR-code passes. A dedicated AI Impact Summit Cell has been created to manage coordination, intelligence sharing, and real-time response. Ambulances will be stationed along VVIP routes as a precaution. The IT Ministry has also confirmed that the summit will be completely plastic-free and paperless. Registration will be digital, signage will be eco-friendly, food waste will be composted, surplus food will be distributed through NGOs, and special accessibility support will be provided for attendees. (Also Read: India AI Impact Summit 2026: What are seven Chakras that will shape future of global AI) India AI Impact Summit 2026: Dates, venue, fees and timings The summit will be held from February 16 to February 20 at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. According to the organisers, sessions will take place each day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The registration for the India AI Impact Summit 2026 is completely free of charge. Interested participants can sign up through the official website by submitting their details and completing the online registration process. India AI Impact Summit 2026: Top tech giants to participate Several top global technology leaders are expected to attend the summit, highlighting its importance as a major global AI platform. These include Google CEO Sundar Pichai, OpenAIs Sam Altman, Anthropics Dario Amodei, Google DeepMinds Demis Hassabis, Microsofts Brad Smith, Scale AIs Alexandr Wang, and Qualcomms Cristiano Amon. (Also Read: AI Impact Summit 2026: 100 Countries, 15 Heads of State, 100+ CEOs to attend; Top global leaders, Check Delhi hotel rates) India AI Impact Summit 2026: Event Timeline February 16 The summit will begin with keynote addresses, expert roundtables, and policy-focused panel discussions. The India AI Expo will also be officially inaugurated on the same day. February 17 Sector-specific discussions will take centre stage, along with the launch of Knowledge Compendiums covering AI in health, education, energy, agriculture, gender empowerment, and disabilities. February 18 A dedicated Research Symposium will be held, where academics and think tanks will present cutting-edge research findings and policy insights. February 19 The formal opening ceremony will be led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, followed by a high-level CEO roundtable on responsible AI and investment pathways. February 20 GPAI Council meetings will review progress and conclude with the adoption of a Leaders Declaration. Ai.com Domain Sale Price: In the early days of the internet, buying a website name did not seem very important. Domain names were cheap, and most people did not understand how valuable they could become in the future. In 1993, a 10-year-old boy named Arsyan Ismail bought a simple domain name for just Rs 300. At that time, it felt like a small and fun purchase. More than 30 years later, that same domain has turned into a huge deal worth $70 million, which is around Rs 634 crore. His childhood decision has now become one of the biggest digital success stories linked to the artificial intelligence boom. AI.com Domain: Bought using mother's credit card Add Zee News as a Preferred Source In 1993, a 10-year-old boy from Malaysia named Arsyan Ismail registered the domain AI.com. He is said to have used his mothers credit card to pay about $100 at that time, which was roughly Rs 300, according to Fintech Malaysia. He did not buy it for business. He simply liked the name because the letters AI were the same as his own initials. (Also Read: India AI Impact Summit 2026: Google, Nvidia, and Anthropic CEOs to Join; How to make registration; Check dates, venue, timings, fees, and event timeline) The story became popular again when the domain was relaunched during Super Bowl LX. Crypto.com used it for a new platform focused on agentic AI. The domain was first registered on May 4, 1993, just five days after the World Wide Web became public. Online credit card payments were officially approved later in 1996. Today, in the 2020s, artificial intelligence has become a major part of technology. From chatbots to smart assistants and advanced software, AI is now used almost everywhere. AI.com Domain sold to CEO Kris Marszalek In April 2025, Ismail sold the domain to Crypto.com CEO Kris Marszalek for $70 million, which is around Rs 634 crore. Reports say the full payment was made in cryptocurrency. Many media reports have confirmed this amount, making it the most expensive domain name sale ever made public. Before this, the record was set in 2010 when CarInsurance.com was sold for $49.7 million. Arsyan Ismail early supporter of Bitcoin and digital assets Ismail has worked in Malaysias tech industry for many years. He was involved in early social networking projects and worked with companies like Nuffnang and Friendster. Later, he started his own company called 1337 Tech. He also supported Bitcoin and other digital assets at an early stage. When he decided to sell the domain in 2025, reports say he received offers close to $100 million. However, he agreed to sell it for $70 million. After the deal, he advised people not to over-negotiate with a billionaire. (Also Read: UIDAIs new Aadhaar app features: How to change name, mobile number and home address without sharing photocopies) Arsyan Ismail's career journey in Malaysias tech Industry According to his LinkedIn profile, Ismail started his career as a Senior Programmer at Nuffnang from 2005 to 2006. He then worked as a Software Engineer at Packet One Networks between 2006 and 2008. From 2008 to 2010, he was a Senior Web Developer at Friendster, and later joined YTL Communications as an Application Developer from 2010 to 2012. His profile also shows that he has been working independently with OpenAI since January 2025. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Net Worth: Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang will not be traveling to India next week for the India AI Impact Summit, the company confirmed on Saturday. He was expected to be one of the main speakers at the summit, which PM Modi will inaugurate on Thursday and which will host global technology leaders and policymakers. Jensen Huang was also scheduled to speak to the media in New Delhi on Wednesday. However, Nvidias media agency in India, MSL, said in an email that he will skip the trip due to unforeseen circumstances. Notably, the India AI Impact Summit 2026 will run from February 16 to 20 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The five-day event is among the largest global gatherings on artificial intelligence, bringing world leaders, top tech CEOs and thousands of delegates to the capital amid unprecedented security and logistical arrangements. In a statement, Nvidia said, "Due to unforeseen circumstances, Jensen Huang is unable to travel to India at this time. NVIDIA remains deeply committed to the AI Impact Summit and to Indias rapidly advancing AI ecosystem." Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang net worth Jensen Huang was born in Taiwan and grew up in Thailand. He has been the president and CEO of Nvidia since the company was founded in 1993. Nvidia went public in 1999. As of early 2026, Huangs net worth is estimated at over $100 billion. According to Forbes, it was around $164.1 billion in January 2026, making him one of the worlds richest people. Most of his wealth comes from his large stake in Nvidia, which has grown immensely thanks to the AI boom. (Also Read: Meet man who bought AI.com domain for Rs 300 and sold it for Rs 6,340,000,000; He is not from US, China, or India; Know about his tech career) India AI Impact Summit 2026: Seven Chakras and benefits One of the major part of the Summit are seven Chakras, or thematic working groups, designed to translate the Sutras into practical policy and real-world applications. These Chakras focus on different areas where AI can create meaningful impact and encourage multilateral collaboration. 1. Human capital: Advancing equitable skilling and inclusive workforce transitions for an AI-enabled future of work. 2. Inclusion for social empowerment: Advancing AI systems that are inclusive by design, empowering diverse communities, and ensuring equitable representation. 3. Safe and trusted AI: Building globally trusted AI systems anchored in transparency, accountability, and shared safeguards for innovation. 4. Science: Harnessing AI to accelerate frontier science, foster scientific collaboration, and translate breakthroughs into shared global progress. 5. Resilience, innovation, and efficiency: Driving sustainable, resource-efficient AI systems that strengthen climate resilience and sustainability. 6. Democratising AI resources: Promoting equitable access to foundational AI resources for inclusive innovation and sustainable development worldwide. 7. AI for economic development and social good: Leveraging AI to enhance productivity, innovation, and inclusive development across economies and societies. (Also Read: India AI Impact Summit 2026: Google, Nvidia, and Anthropic CEOs to Join; How to make registration; Check dates, venue, timings, fees, and event timeline) India AI Impact Summit 2026: Top tech giants to participate Several top global technology leaders are expected to attend the summit, highlighting its importance as a major global AI platform. These include Google CEO Sundar Pichai, OpenAIs Sam Altman, Anthropics Dario Amodei, Google DeepMinds Demis Hassabis, Microsofts Brad Smith, Scale AIs Alexandr Wang, and Qualcomms Cristiano Amon. Valentines Day is all about love, warmth, and thoughtful gestures and this year, Google marked the occasion with a charming and creative doodle that perfectly captured the emotions of the day. The special artwork reminded users that love doesnt always need grand gestures; sometimes, its the small, heartfelt efforts that matter the most. A closer look at Googles Valentines Day doodle On Saturday, Google unveiled an innovative Valentines Day doodle designed with love-themed elements. The doodle featured an envelope filled with personal notes, handmade chocolates, and a bracelet decorated with XOXO (hugs and kisses). All these items were creatively arranged to spell out the word Google, giving the logo a warm and romantic touch. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source What happens when you click the doodle When users clicked on the Valentines Day doodle, they were redirected to Googles official Doodle page. The page explained the meaning and the importance of the Valentine's Day. The message highlighted how Valentines Day is a perfect time to write heartfelt notes, bake something special, or prepare a meaningful meal for loved onessimple gestures that make the day truly special. Where the doodle was rolled out Google also shared that this Valentines Day doodle was made available in several countries across the world. These included parts of the UK, India, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific region, allowing people globally to join in the celebration of love. Why February is called the month of love February is often known as the most romantic month of the year. Its a time when couples express their feelings through gifts, promises, and quality time together. For many, its also a period when friendships turn into relationships, marking new beginnings filled with hope and affection. Valentines week and its significance The celebration of love begins with Valentines Week, observed from February 7 to February 14. The week includes Rose Day, Propose Day, Chocolate Day, Teddy Day, Promise Day, Hug Day, and Kiss Day, finally leading up to Valentines Day. Each day represents a different expression of love and togetherness. Googles Valentines Day special doodle beautifully reflected the true essence of the occasion celebrating love through simple, meaningful gestures. By highlighting handmade gifts and personal efforts, the doodle served as a gentle reminder that love is best expressed from the heart, making Valentines Day even more special for people around the world. A blazer is not just a garment but a symbol of a statement of confidence and personality. There are a variety of black blazers available to men on Amazon, which can be worn in a formal, business, and casual style. Blazers, especially slim-fit blazers, have been popular due to their sharp appearance and contemporary appeal. This article features four stylish blazers for men that are well designed, comfortable and versatile; hence, they can be worn at the office meetings, weddings and in normal smart dresses. Image Source- Amazon.in Order Now The MANQ Men Single Breasted Blazer Slim Fit is designed to suit men who are fond of a clean and smooth look. Being very slim in shape and minimal in its design, this blazer can be worn to formal meetings and other smart casual occasions. Key Features Slim fit design for a sharp body-hugging look Single-breasted style for classic appeal Lightweight fabric for comfortable wear Easy to pair with formal and casual outfits Suitable for office and evening occasions The slim cut may feel restrictive for men who prefer a relaxed or loose fit. Image Source- Amazon.in Order Now The SaintX Men Formal Blazer is a business outfit and a dress-up blazer. This blazer is slim fit and is fully lined, provide high-quality business appearance. It is an office wear, formal, and wedding attire with a sophisticated finish. Key Features Fully lined interior for a premium feel Slim fit cut for a professional appearance Designed for office, business, and weddings High-quality tailoring for long-term use Clean and formal design suitable for suits The formal structure may feel slightly heavy for all-day casual wear. Image Source- Amazon.in Order Now Zero Calorie Slim Fit Textured Blazer is designed to suit the men who like fashionable details. Its puffed texture enriches and gives the traditional black blazer a flair. This blazer fits well during parties and social gatherings as well as semi-casual events. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Key Features Slim fit for a stylish and modern silhouette Textured fabric for a unique appearance Lightweight and comfortable material Ideal for parties and smart casual events Easy to style with jeans or formal trousers The textured design may not suit men looking for a strictly formal or plain blazer. Image Source- Amazon.in Order Now Men's Classic Slim Fit Blazer is a wardrobe classic that will never become outdated. It is single-breasted and is slim-fitting, which makes it acceptable on both formal and casual events. This blazer is ideal for men who like clean lines and classic fashion that can be worn over the years. Key Features Slim fit for a neat look Single-breasted classic construction Black color for maximum versatility Suitable for formal and casual wear Easy to match with different outfits The basic design may feel too simple for men who prefer bold or trendy styles. These blazers are of different style purposes with the elegance of a black slim fit design. The MANQ blazer can be used in a minimal and modern style. The SaintX formal blazer is a suit that suits professionals who require a professional look in their businesses. Zero Calorie blazer is a textured blazer that males who prefer fashionable touches will want to wear, whereas the classic slim fit blazer is a sure thing to use in storey dressing. These blazers are available on Amazon and are suitable for various requirements, events, and personal preferences. Men have the ability to step up their wardrobe by picking the best fit and design to be able to wear a blazer that brings confidence, versatility, and style. Disclaimer: At IDPL, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. IDPL may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article. Following a landslide victory in the 13th National Parliamentary Elections, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) held a press conference post-elections and its chief, Tarique Rahman, on Saturday, emphasised that Bangladesh's foreign policy will prioritise the nation's interests, stating "people come first," including in relations with India. Speaking at a post-election press conference at the ballroom of Hotel Intercontinental in the capital, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman stressed that Bangladesh's foreign policy prioritises national interest and people's welfare. "We have cleared ourselves regarding the foreign policy, which is in the interest of Bangladesh, and the interest of the Bangladeshi people comes first. By protecting the interests of Bangladesh and the Bangladeshi people, we will decide our foreign policy," Rahman said in response to a question on the party's diplomatic priorities. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Rahman's "Bangladesh First" policy aims to balance ties with regional powers such as India, China, and Pakistan while addressing domestic challenges, including economic pressures and governance. Journalists from various countries attended the press conference, where one question focused on how the BNP government would approach international relations following its electoral victory. Elaborating on the party's diplomatic framework, senior BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said the party adheres to multilateralism and does not pursue a country-centric approach. "Bangladesh Nationalist Party follows the principle of multilateralism. We don't have any country-centric policy as such. Our policy applies worldwide, grounded in mutual respect, mutual interest, non-interference, and strategic autonomy. For Bangladesh, these are the fundamentals of Bangladesh's foreign policy, and it applies to all countries around the world," he said. The BNP leadership indicated that safeguarding sovereignty, ensuring strategic autonomy, and promoting mutual respect in international partnerships would shape Bangladesh's foreign relations under its tenure. Meanwhile, India has expressed willingness to strengthen ties with the BNP-led government, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulating Rahman on his victory and affirming India's support for a democratic Bangladesh. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote: "I convey my warm congratulations to Mr Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership." He added, "I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals." PM Modi also spoke with Rahman and reaffirmed India's commitment to close bilateral ties. In a post on X, PM said, "Delighted to speak with Mr. Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections." He added, "I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh." The BNP, in turn, thanked India for recognising the electoral verdict and expressed hope that relations would strengthen under the new government. Tarique Rahman's return to Bangladesh marks a significant shift in Dhaka's politics. After 17 years in exile, the 60-year-old leader is poised to become the next prime minister, following his BNP party's landslide victory. His leadership is expected to recalibrate India-Bangladesh relations, which had grown close under Sheikh Hasina's tenure but saw strains after her ouster. Rahman has signalled a pragmatic approach, emphasising "mutual respect and understanding" in ties with India. Key issues expected to shape bilateral relations include border security, concerns about alleged illegal migration and insurgent groups operating from Bangladeshi territory; water-sharing, transboundary rivers like Teesta and Padma; minority safety, protection of Hindus and other minorities, particularly after recent attacks; and economic cooperation, potential for increased trade and investment. In his first remarks after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party's (BNP) decisive victory in the parliamentary elections, BNP chief Tarique Rahman called for national cohesion, framing the outcome as a renewed mandate for democratic values. Addressing the nation following the announcement of results, Rahman appealed for reconciliation across political divides. "Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united," he said, underscoring the need for collective purpose. Emphasising the broader significance of unity, he added, "I firmly believe that national unity is a collective strength, while division is a weakness," linking his message directly to the responsibilities facing the country after the polls. His appeal came as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party registered a sweeping performance in elections held on Thursday, the first national vote since the violent 2024 uprising that led to the removal of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Reflecting the scale of the mandate, figures released by the Election Commission showed the BNP-led alliance securing 212 seats, while the Jamaat-e-Islami-led bloc won 77. Hasina's Bangladesh Awami League was barred from taking part in the elections. Against this backdrop, Rahman opened his speech by thanking supporters and describing the verdict as an endorsement of democratic aspirations. "Freedom-loving pro-democracy people of the country have once again brought victory to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party," he said. He further stated, "This victory belongs to Bangladesh, belongs to democracy, this victory belongs to people who aspired to and have sacrificed for democracy," connecting the electoral outcome with what he characterised as a collective struggle for democratic restoration. The outcome represents a notable political resurgence for the 60-year-old leader, who returned to Bangladesh in December after 17 years in exile in Britain and re-entered national politics at a critical juncture. Rahman is the son of former president Ziaur Rahman, who was assassinated in 1981, and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, a three-time officeholder and longstanding figure in Bangladesh's political landscape. As US-Iran negotiations are set for a second round in Geneva, after Oman talks, while back in Washington, President Trump sends two massive aircraft carriersthe USS Gerald Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln, like floating cities loaded with jets and missiles, ready to strike if talks flop. It all kicked off last month when Trump's 60-day deadline for Iran to ditch its nuclear program came and went with no deal. That's when the first carrier showed up, with thousands of soldiers, anti-missile gear, and warships to block Iran's rockets, Houthi rebels, and uranium tricks. Things heated up fast, talks shifted to Oman after Turkey talks failed, zeroing in on bombs while Iran demands to keep enriching uranium. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Then boom, the US shoots down an Iranian drone near USS Abraham Lincoln, warns ships away from the Strait of Hormuz. By February 13, carrier number two, the USS Gerald Ford, comes into the picture. Irans Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, says Oman talks are a promising start but full of threats. Trump fires back, saying, "Fear is a powerful motivator in difficult Iran talks." The Pentagon warns of "offensive and defensive actions," and Trump hints at "something very tough" unless Iran drops missiles and rebel support. Does US pressure help in negotiations? Or a sneaky trap leading to war? With ships surrounding the Middle East, one wrong step could light the whole region on fire. A time bomb waiting to explode? Why line up warships now? It's Trump's classic peace through strength, flexing muscle to scare Iran into a deal. With the classic US move of power flex, the US surged the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier first, now joined by the USS Gerald R. Ford, turning the Arabian Sea into a show of force with jets, destroyers, and weeks-long strike power. It's not war prep for fun, it's leverage to make Tehran sweat over its missiles, Houthi buddies, and uranium games. Iran-US talks roundup US-Iran indirect talks restarted, in Muscat, Oman, mediated by Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, eight months after the US Operation Midnight Hammer crippled Iran's nuclear progress. Iran limited the agenda to nuclear issues, rejecting US demands to address ballistic missiles, proxy support like Hezbollah and Houthis, or dissident killings, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called it a "good start" with more rounds likely. President Trump labeled the session "very good" but pushed for a deal within a month, warning of traumatic consequences otherwise, as Secretary Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance voiced doubts over Iran's Supreme Leader's non-involvement and stalled progress. A second round of talks in Geneva, amid Iran's insistence on uranium enrichment rights and missile defensiveness, contrasting US calls for full dismantlement. No major breakthroughs yet, deep rifts persist despite eased tensions. Whats next for Iran? With the next round of negotiations around the corner, US negotiator Steve Witkoff will keep pressing Iran to drop nuclear work, stop enriching uranium, and cut missiles, but Iran's Abbas Araghchi won't budge on their right to defend. US Marco Rubio wants a deal in a month, or things get "traumatic," backing it with those two big carriers in the Arabian Sea. Will the world witness another ship clash in the Strait of Hormuz, Houthi attacks, or bigger protests in Iran? Bangladesh held its general elections on February 12, 2026, with the results announced on Friday, marking a significant shift in the political landscape of the neighbouring country. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, secured a landslide victory, winning well over the 151 seats required to form a government in the 300-member Parliament. With this decisive mandate, Rahman is set to become the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. The Jamaat-e-Islami alliance emerged as the principal opposition, and the outcome of the election has drawn reactions from political circles both within the country and internationally. Also read- EXPLAINED | A new power in Dhaka: Will BNP's win take Bangladesh into a new geopolitical era? Add Zee News as a Preferred Source BangladeshPakistan ties With Tarique Rahman poised to lead the government, attention is now turning to the future of Bangladesh-Pakistan relations. During Muhammad Yunuss tenure as head of the interim government, ties between Dhaka and Islamabad showed improvement. But whether the BNP government will maintain that trajectory or recalibrate the relationship is significant to understand. Economic cooperation Dr. Aparaajita Pandey, Assistant Professor at Amity Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies, Amity University, said there is potential for renewed economic cooperation under the new government. I feel there is potential for this, mostly because it is going to be a new government in Bangladesh and they will want to recover or try and reconstruct their economy, she said. Pakistan and Bangladesh, it would be a cautious sort of beginning to things, but no way is any of the countries shunning each other out. So, yes, there is a potential for economic growth through trade, she noted. Tarique Rahman's foreign policy On whether Rahman would recalibrate ties with Pakistan, Pandey suggested a gradual shift rather than a dramatic departure from the interim governments approach. I think Tarique Rahman would try to do something new. He would recalibrate a little bit, mostly because he would want to show that he is somebody who is new and has more energy and has his thoughts of his own, she said. As a new leader, it is very important to show your people. However, she added that any change would likely be gradual. It would again be a very slow, gradual shift away from the previous governments trajectory, mostly because they will need to figure out what their relationship with Pakistan can look like. They dont know how much Pakistan would favour them, and how bigger countries like the US or China would react. So, they have a lot of dynamics to take care of. South Asian geopolitics While the BNP may not drastically alter the overall dynamic with Pakistan, Bangladesh will also need to prioritise strengthening its relationship with India, given the broader regional context. Foreign policy is expected to be a key priority for Rahman. Domestically, however, the BNP faces significant challenges, including restoring stability in violence-affected regions and ensuring protection and support for minority communities. When asked, how might improved Bangladesh-Pakistan ties affect regional security dynamics in South Asia, Pandey replied, "I feel like South Asian political, military dynamics are going to become more difficult to deal with, more tense. There's going to be a lot of stress on South Asia, and India will have to be careful because after such violence and such stress and such, you know, lack of trust, it leaks in through borders." IndiaBangladesh ties On Saturday, the BNP expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modis congratulatory message following the partys sweeping electoral victory. While relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan are bilateral matters, the international community is closely observing developments. Rahmans policy choices could directly or indirectly influence the geopolitical balance in South Asia, making the direction of Dhakas foreign relations a matter of regional significance. A women Journalist, Ruchi Tiwari, who was reportedly assaulted during a protest at Delhi University's North Campus on Friday, has alleged that she was targeted by a mob of nearly 500 people. The victim claimed that the crowd turned violent after inquiring about her caste and identity while she was discharging her professional duties. Speaking to ANI, the woman journalist Ruchi Tiwari said, "Video is everywhere, people can judge by themselves as to who provoked whom...I am a journalist who was there to cover the protest. One of the media personnel said my name to draw my attention. I went up to them, they then asked my full name and caste." "The entire crowd came towards me and attacked me. This is clear in the video. About 500 people attacked me. They just have fake narrations and fake allegations. The girls around me whispered rape threats in my ears just because I am a Brahmin; "aaj tu chal, tera nanga parade niklega," is what they said. The men around me were saying that they would teach me a lesson. The girls had held me by the arms and neck. This is an attempt to murder. I had fallen unconscious, but the Police did nothing, " she further claimed. Ruchi Tiwari alleged that the reason the mob targeted her for her caste and that she was now registered an FIR in the case. "A boy there was signalling to others to take me away. Did they want to kidnap me?... My clothes were being torn...I was being improperly touched. They were goons, they cannot be students...I was attacked due to my caste. Nobody supported me, only a few Law Faculties showed humanity, and I came out with their help as well as with that of a few women Police personnel...FIR has been registered, I trust the law...The incident occurred for about half an hour...There was mob lynching there, I escaped somehow is a big deal for me." she claimed. On the other hand, Prasenjeet Kumar, AISA National General Secretary alleged that Tiwari had pushed another YouTuber and that caused the fracas. "Students had gathered in support of UGC...It was a peaceful program. But amid all this, a YouTuber pushed another YouTuber who hails from the Bahujan community and attempted to disturb our program. They started manhandling our people; in turn, our people tried to push them to the side. There has been no fight or manhandling as such," Prasenjit said. He further said that a deliberate attempt is being made to create such an atmosphere. "Not just in DU, we have seen this happen in Allahabad - how the people of ABVP beat up the students there. Yesterday in DU, a YouTuber was placed at the front, and we saw the kind of slogans that were raised in front ofthe Police Station. This is a laughable situation. Police are not taking any action. They want to provoke people into ending the demonstration. They can see that people across the country are standing in support of UGC regulations...No manhandling had occurred. Several such YouTubers come to pro-UGC programs and raise such slogans and push people. The right-wing YouTubers come with their agenda; this is an attempt to disturb our program. ABVP is complicit in this...This was premeditated by the people of ABVP, Prasenjit Kumar added. ABVP Delhi State Secretary Sarthak Sharma said, "An attack on the media, which is considered to be the fourth pillar of democracy, is highly unfortunate. The history of Left-wing politics has been marked by the encouragement of violence, and students of the University of Delhi have decisively rejected such ideologies. Frustrated by their declining relevance, these groups are resorting to new tactics to remain in the media spotlight. The cowardly act of manhandling a woman journalist reflects their true character." The ABVP has demanded strict action from the Delhi Police and the university administration against those responsible.Meanwhile, the All India Students' Association (AISA) issued a counterstatement, alleging that it was their members who were targeted during the protest. (ANI) US President Donald Trump has announced that a second aircraft carrier group will soon head to the Middle East, significantly escalating military pressure on Iran amid ongoing negotiations over its nuclear program. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Trump confirmed that the USS Gerald R. Ford would be redeployed from the Caribbean to the Middle East. "It'll be leaving very shortly," Trump said when asked about the reports. He added a pointed warning: "In case we don't make a deal, we'll need it." Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Earlier in the day, after visiting troops at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, Trump went further, suggesting that a change in leadership in Iran would be the best thing that could happen, as his administration considers whether military action may become necessary. Military pressure amid nuclear negotiations The move comes as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to rise. Trump suggested that military strength was being positioned as leverage while diplomatic efforts continue. Trump also said the situation must be resolved decisively, adding, Well get it settled for once and for all, and that'll be good." "For 47 years, they've been talking and talking and talking. In the meantime, we've lost a lot of lives while they talk," Trump said. "Let's see what happens. In the meantime, tremendous power has arrived and additional power, as you know, and other carriers are going out shortly. So we'll see it out. Get it settled for once and for all, and that'll be good." Trump also referenced the deployment of what he described as "a very big carrier group" to the region, underscoring the scale of the buildup. "We have a situation right now where we have sent a very big carrier group to Iran. I would love to see if we could make a deal. They've been difficult to make a deal with. I thought we would have had a deal last time. They wish they did, and that's what we did, Midnight Hammer," he said, without elaborating further. Heavy US military deployment near Iran The USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, along with guided-missile destroyers, is already operating in the Arabian Sea. Last week, US forces shot down an Iranian drone that approached the carrier, further heightening tensions. Tensions escalate between US and Iran following Tehran crackdown Strained relations have worsened following Irans deadly crackdown on protesters last month, which reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths. The United States has warned Tehran of traumatic consequences if it fails to agree to a deal limiting its nuclear program. Despite the escalating rhetoric, both sides held indirect talks in Oman last week. (With ANI Inputs) Renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden has formally renewed his challenge to the official ruling on Jeffrey Epsteins death. This move has reignited one of the most persistent controversies in recent American history. In a detailed interview with The Telegraph on February 14, 2026, Dr. Baden, who observed the 2019 autopsy for the Epstein family, stated that new evidence from a large Department of Justice (DOJ) file release supports his original belief: Epstein died from homicidal strangulation, not suicide. The Autopsy Dispute: "Inconclusive" to "Homicide" While the New York Medical Examiners Office and then-Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Barbara Sampson ruled Epsteins death a suicide by hanging within five days, Dr. Baden claims the initial examination was not definitive. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Dr. Baden alleges that during the post-mortem, the medical examiner initially agreed that more information was necessary. Baden noted that Dr. Sampson was not present during the physical autopsy but issued the "suicide" ruling shortly after. He described this move as premature for such a high-profile, suspicious case. The "Red Flag" Fractures Central to Dr. Badens argument are three distinct fractures found in Epsteins neck: one on the hyoid bone and two on the thyroid cartilage. "In my 50-year career reviewing inmate deaths across New York, I have never seen three neck fractures in a suicide by hanging," Baden stated. Forensic experts mention that while hyoid fractures can occur in hangings, particularly with older individuals, having multiple fractures is statistically more likely with manual strangulation. The "Orange Flash": New Video Discrepancies The 2026 renewal of this investigation is fueled by the recent release of 3 million pages of Epstein-related files under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Key findings include: Timeline Gaps: Video logs from the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) show a "flash of orange" moving toward Epsteins tier at 10:39 PM on August 9, 2019the night before his body was found. Conflicting IDs: While an FBI memo suggested the figure was an inmate, and the Inspector General labeled it a guard with linens, independent video analysis by CBS indicates the movement is consistent with an inmate in a standard orange uniform. Security Lapses: The files confirm that Epsteins cellmate was moved out just 24 hours before, and required 30-minute wellness checks were falsely logged by guards who were later charged. Political Fallout and the "Cooperation" Bombshell The 2026 documents also show that just days before his death, Epsteins lawyers were in talks with federal prosecutors about his possible cooperation. This "Significant Case Notification" implies Epstein may have been ready to name associates in exchange for a resolution, providing a possible motive for foul play. As Rep. Ro Khanna and other lawmakers continue to release unredacted names from the files, Dr. Badens call for a reopened death investigation adds a new layer of legal pressure on the Justice Department. ALSO READ | Why Jamaat failed: How Tarique Rahman's BNP crushed the Islamist surge in 2026 Tensions in the Middle East have escalated sharply amid reports that US President Donald Trump is preparing what is being described as Operation AI, allegedly targeting Irans Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to American media reports cited in the broadcast, advanced artificial intelligence tools, including Anthropic AI, are being linked to US strategic military planning. The developments come at a time of heightened military mobilization in the region. In todays episode of DNA, Rahul Sinha, Managing Editor of Zee News, conducted a detailed analysis of these claims, examining the reported use of artificial intelligence in modern warfare and its alleged connection to past US operations. The program discussed media reports claiming that AI tools were previously used in operations involving former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. According to those reports, AI-assisted satellite image analysis and target identification were used to study sensitive locations in Caracas and assess security vulnerabilities. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The broadcast further connected these claims to earlier remarks by Trump, in which he said he possessed detailed knowledge about Irans Supreme Leader. The analysis suggested that AI-driven intelligence systems could be playing a role in gathering and evaluating strategic information. It also highlighted reports that the US special forces unit Delta Force, allegedly involved in the Maduro operation, has been reactivated and is preparing for a potential two-week military campaign. International news agencies have reported that US forces are identifying targets inside Iran, including nuclear facilities and military bases. Military deployments in the region have intensified. The USS Abraham Lincoln strike group is already positioned near Iran, while the USS Gerald R. Ford has been directed to move forward and join it. Combined, the two carrier strike groups reportedly include around 12,000 personnel, nearly 180 fighter jets and attack helicopters, and a missile capacity of approximately 1,500. Such force concentration is typically associated with high-alert or wartime scenarios. Trump also recently visited Fort Bragg, one of the largest US military bases, where he delivered a strong message directed at Iran. The move is being viewed as part of broader military preparedness alongside ongoing diplomatic engagements. Meanwhile, Iran-backed Houthi group Ansarullah has issued warnings, declaring loyalty to Irans leadership and threatening to disrupt Red Sea shipping if Iran is attacked. In previous incidents, Houthi actions targeting vessels in the Red Sea led to significant economic consequences. Egypt reportedly faced losses of $9 billion, ship traffic at Israels Eilat port declined by 85 percent, and rerouted vessels incurred additional costs of about $1 million per trip. The combination of US military buildup and proxy threats from Iran-aligned groups has raised concerns about potential supply chain disruptions and renewed economic instability should the situation escalate into open conflict. Ukrainian officials have reaffirmed their support for the Iranian people following Volodymyr Zelenskyy's meeting in Munich with exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, underscoring shared concerns about authoritarian regimes and regional security threats. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference 2026 in the German city, focused on the political situation in Iran, the needs of the Iranian people, and the broader implications of cooperation between Tehran and Moscow. According to a statement released after the talks, Ukraine emphasized its solidarity with the citizens of Iran who are advocating for democratic change and greater freedoms. "I met with exiled Crown Prince of Iran Pahlavi Reza in Munich. Ukraine supports the Iranian people as they fight for their future; we also express our sympathy to all the victims of the Iranian regime," the statement read. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source During their conversation, the two sides examined areas where the Iranian people require international backing. Particular attention was given to the importance of coordinated global pressure on Tehran. "During our conversation, we focused on the situation in Iran and the areas where the Iranian people need support. We discussed the importance of strengthening sanctions against the Iranian regime and other dictatorial regimes," the statement continued. A central theme of the meeting was the growing military cooperation between Russia and Iran. Kyiv has repeatedly accused Tehran of supplying unmanned aerial vehiclescommonly known as "shaheds"to Moscow for use in its war against Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities say these drones have been deployed in attacks on civilian infrastructure, contributing to casualties and widespread damage. "We condemned the cooperation between Russia and Iran, in particular the supply of 'shaheds' by the Iranian regime to Russia and the granting of licenses for their production. Such a partnership poses a real threat not only to Ukraine but to the entire region," the statement said. Ukraine has argued that Iran's involvement in supporting Russia's military campaign extends the conflict's impact beyond Eastern Europe and raises broader security concerns. Officials maintain that closer coordination among democratic nations is necessary to counter such alliances. The meeting concluded with expressions of mutual support. "I thank the Crown Prince of Iran for supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity. It is vital to make every effort to protect human lives. Ukraine is ready to help on its part," the statement added. Reza Pahlavi, who has lived in exile for decades following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, has been an outspoken critic of the current Iranian government and has voiced support for democratic movements inside the country. The Munich talks signal Kyiv's intent to build bridges with opposition figures abroad while reinforcing its stance against regimes it views as complicit in aggression. As the war in Ukraine continues and unrest periodically surfaces in Iran, the meeting highlights the increasingly interconnected nature of geopolitical struggles and the alliances forming in response. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday criticized the United Nations for failing to address pressing global conflicts, citing the wars in Ukraine and Gaza. He praised American leadership for problem-solving, stating that the US has played a key role in resolving issues, unlike the UN. "We cannot ignore that today, on the most pressing matters before us, it has no answers and has played virtually no role." He added that "it has not solved the war in Ukraine," and that it was the US that was able to bring the two sides to the table to discuss a peace deal. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source He highlighted that it was the United States, rather than international bodies, that successfully brought Russia and Ukraine to the table for high-stakes peace negotiations in late 2025 and early 2026. Rubio said that it was also unable to resolve the war in Gaza; instead, it was the US that "freed captives from barbarians." While acknowledging that the UN has "tremendous potential to be a tool for good," Rubio asserted that on the world's most urgent issues, it has "no answers and has played virtually no role." "The United Nations still has tremendous potential to be a tool for good in the world," Rubio told the Munich Security Conference. Rubio's remarks came amid wider discussions on the future of multilateral cooperation and the evolving role of global governance bodies. Diplomats have expressed concerns over US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace initiative aimed at resolving conflicts globally, saying it could harm the work of the United Nations, The Times of Israel reported. Referring to the 12-day conflict with Iran in June 2026, he said the UN was "powerless to constrain the nuclear program of the radical Shia clerics of Tehran." "That required 14 bombs dropped with precision by American B-2 bombers," Rubio said. He also highlighted the United States' involvement in negotiations related to the Ukraine-Russia war and the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro. "We cannot allow those who blatantly threaten our citizens and endanger our global stability to shield themselves behind abstractions of international law, which they themselves routinely violate," he added. Rubio also delivered a strong message of unity with Europe, reaffirming that Washington's future remains closely linked with the continent and that the United States has no intention of stepping away from the transatlantic alliance. His keynote address contrasted sharply with the 2025 Munich Security Conference speech by Vice President JD Vance, who had criticized European leaders over issues including free speech and immigration. "In a time of headlines heralding the end of the Transatlantic era, let it be known and clear to all that this is neither our goal nor our wish, because for us Americans, our home may be in the Western Hemisphere, but we will always be a child of Europe," Rubio said. In his first remarks after the Bangladesh Nationalist Partys (BNP) landmark win in the Bangladesh national elections. BNP chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday called for unity. The PM-in-waiting also dedicated the party's victory to those who "sacrificed for democracy." This victory belongs to Bangladesh, to democracy, and to the people who aspired for it and sacrificed for it. From today, we are all free, with the true essence of freedom and rights restored, Rahman said at a press conference on Saturday. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The BNP secured a landslide victory in Bangladesh's 13th national elections on February 12, with results declared on Friday. Tarique Rahman won from Dhaka and Bogura, as the party claimed 209 seats, well above the majority mark to form the government. With your spontaneous participation, after more than one and a half decades, a parliament and government accountable to the people through direct voting are being re-established in the country, Rahman said, urging unity to ensure no evil force re-establishes autocracy or turns the nation into a subservient state. The elections were crucial for Bangladesh, marking the first polls since former premier Sheikh Hasina's ouster in the July 2024 student-led uprising. Hasina fled to India, where she has lived in exile since; her Awami League party was barred from participating. The Bangladesh elections were the first since Sheikh Hasina's ouster in the July 2024 student-led uprising that forced her to flee to India. BNP chairman Tarique Rahman, returning from 17 years of London exile after corruption charges were quashed, won decisively, securing 209 seats for BNP. The polls followed Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus's interim government, which released political prisoners, banned the Awami League, and held a concurrent National Referendum overwhelmingly backing July National Charter reforms. Rahman dedicated the win to "those who sacrificed" and vowed to prevent any "evil force" from restoring subservience. Bangladesh is also set to implement constitutional reforms proposed in the July National Charter, backed by the maximum votes in the National Referendum held alongside the general elections. In a dramatic break from diplomatic norms, the White House celebrated Valentines Day 2026 with a set of geopolitical "cards" that have sparked intense reactions on social media. The digital campaign mixes holiday greetings with the administration's most aggressive foreign policy actions, including the January 2026 capture of former Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. The posts, captioned "Made just for you," have left the internet divided. Users are arguing about whether the move showcases modern political communication or represents a "crass" decline of the executive office. 'You captured my heart': Celebrating operation absolute resolve Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The most controversial card shows a photo of a blindfolded Nicolas Madurocaptured by U.S. forces in Operation Absolute Resolve just last monthalongside the playful pun: You captured my heart. The administration presented the image as a Valentines gift to the American people, celebrating the extradition of the former leader to New York to face narco-terrorism charges. Supporters praised the "bold transparency" and the use of humour to highlight national security achievements. Defining the Greenland 'situationship' A second visual features a map of Greenland enclosed in a heart, with the text: Its time we define our situationship. This card refers to President Trumps renewed effort for the annexation of the Arctic territory, a topic that received much attention at Davos 2026. While the administration claims the acquisition is crucial for national security to counter Russian and Chinese influence, critics have called the Valentine's card "predatory" and disrespectful to Danish and Greenlandic sovereignty. The internet reacts: Political masterstroke or 'pathetic' joke? The White Houses official Instagram and X accounts have turned into digital battlegrounds, with the campaign splitting the public into two vocal groups: The Pro-Administration Camp: Supporters applauded the humour and "real-world" relevance. "Greenland, baby! We want your heart, not only your land!" one user wrote, while others labelled it the "best sense of humour" ever seen in the White House. The Critical Camp: Critics condemned the posts as "unbecoming" and a "disturbing departure from international norms." Comments like "This is f**king pathetic. Grow up" and "Were a joke" expressed the view that military intervention and territorial ambitions should not be material for holiday jokes. A Pattern of 'meme diplomacy' This isnt the first time the 2026 administration has used holidays for policy messaging. The campaign follows a controversial 2025 Valentines post that included a rhyme about illegal immigration. Analysts suggest this "meme diplomacy" is a strategic move to connect with a younger, "Gen-Z" audience, even at the expense of traditional diplomatic decorum. ALSO READ | Shocking 'BJP' victory in Bangladesh: How a single seat stunned the border; Tarique Rahman set for Sunday oath Saketh Sreenivasaiah, a 22-year-old Indian student from Karnataka studying in the United States, was reported missing since February 9, 2026, but has now been found deceased. Authorities recovered his body on February 14 from Lake Anza in Tilden Regional Park near UC Berkeley, six days after he vanished; the cause of death remains under investigation. Originally from Karnataka, Sreenivasaiah was pursuing a Masters degree in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at UC Berkeley (MS PDP 26 programme). He had graduated with a BTech in Chemical Engineering from IIT Madras in 2025, boasting an 8.41 CGPA, and was passionate about deep-tech innovations in semiconductors and advanced materials, per his LinkedIn profile. "I'm a Master's student in the Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering department at UC Berkeley, with an undergraduate degree from IIT Madras. I'm passionate about deep-tech innovations in soft and active materials, semiconductors, and advanced materials, Saketh wrote on his LinkedIn profile. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Indian govt reacts The Consulate General of India expressed profound grief over the death of 22-year-old IIT Madras graduate Saketh Sreenivasaiah and extended full support to the family of the deceased. "The Consulate deeply regrets to inform that local police have confirmed the recovery of the body of the missing Indian student, Saketh Sreenivasaiah. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this profoundly difficult time," the post read. "The Consulate stands ready to provide all necessary assistance to the family, including coordination with local authorities and arrangements for the repatriation of mortal remains to India at the earliest. Our consular officers are in direct contact with the family and will support them with all required formalities and services," it added. Earlier, the Berkeley Police Department had sought the publics assistance in locating Saketh, who had been missing since Tuesday. Police described Sreenivasaiah as 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing approximately 160 pounds, with short black hair and brown eyes. While authorities have not disclosed further details about the circumstances surrounding his disappearance, they stated that he was considered at risk. His roommate, Baneet Singh, also took to social media to appeal for information. Singh said Saketh had been missing since Monday, the 9th, and was last seen near Lake Anza in the Berkeley Hills. In a post on LinkedIn, he wrote that anyone who may have seen Saketh or has information about his whereabouts should reach out. "Hey all, my roommate, Saketh Sreenivasaiah, has been missing since Monday, the 9th. He was last seen near Lake Anza in the Berkeley Hills. If anyone in my network knows people in the area who may have seen him recently, please reach out to me with any information. I'm working with the police department to make sure we find him. It's a hard time for us right now please provide any information that could help. Thank you," Baneet Singh wrote in a LinkedIn post. The Consulate General of India in San Francisco had earlier expressed concern over the case. In a statement posted on X, the Consulate said it was deeply concerned about the disappearance of Saketh and added that officials were in touch with his family and coordinating with local authorities to help locate him. In a post on X, the Consulate stated: "The Consulate General of India in San Francisco is deeply concerned about the disappearance of Saketh Sreenivasaiah, an Indian postgraduate student at UC Berkeley, hailing from the state of Karnataka. The Consulate is in touch with the family and is also in contact with the concerned local authorities to locate the student." Shimla Police have arrested six persons in connection with a heroin (chitta) trafficking racket in Rohru and apprehended the alleged main distributor from the Indo-Nepal border, Shimla Additional SP Abhishek said on Saturday. Speaking to ANI, he said the district police were continuing their comprehensive crackdown against drug traffickers and were working to dismantle the entire supply chain. "The Shimla Police's comprehensive action against drug traffickers is continuing, and we are dismantling the entire supply network step by step," he said. He said that Rohru Police Station registered FIR No. 5/26 on February 2, after arresting two residents of Punjab, Jashandeep Singh and Dharampreet Singh, near Mehandli Bridge in Rohru with 83 grams of heroin. Following their arrest, police carried out a detailed examination of digital evidence and analysed the bank accounts of the accused to trace the supply chain. The investigation revealed the involvement of several other individuals in the network. Acting on the leads, Rohru Police arrested three more accused on February 10. The arrested persons were identified as Ashish Chauhan (24), a resident of Khashdhar in Chirgaon; Naveen Shitta (31), a resident of Goksawari in Chirgaon; and Diwan Chand (39), a resident of Sundha in Chirgaon. All three were taken on police remand and are being interrogated. During further investigation, police found that Jashandeep Singh was supplying heroin in various parts of Shimla district, particularly in Rohru and Chirgaon. His key associate and a major distributor in the Chirgaon region was identified as Vijender Singh Mehta, also known as Chotu. According to police, Vijender used to procure heroin from Jashandeep Singh and distribute it locally with the help of associates, thereby drawing youth into drug abuse. On February 1, police also revealed that Jashandeep Singh had allegedly brought around 120 grams of heroin from Moga in Punjab to Rohru. Out of this consignment, approximately 37 grams were supplied to Vijender Mehta, who was operating as a principal distributor in the Chirgaon area. To evade arrest, Vijender Singh Mehta fled the area and reportedly took shelter in Nepal. On February 13, after sustained technical surveillance and investigation, Rohru Police conducted a joint operation with Uttarakhand Police and Nepal Police and arrested him within 48 hours from Banbasa, located along the Indo-Nepal border. The accused has been identified as Vijender Singh alias Chotu (35), son of Padam Sain, a resident of village Sundha Bhonda in Chirgaon tehsil of Shimla district. Police records indicate that three cases under the NDPS Act are already registered against him. One case was registered on July 27, 2018, under Section 21 of the NDPS Act at the Chirgaon Police Station, District Shimla. Another case was registered on February 23, 2019, under Sections 21 and 29 of the NDPS Act at the same police station. A third case was registered on February 2 under Sections 21 and 29 of the NDPS Act at the Rohru Police Station, District Shimla. In these earlier cases, a total of 63 grams of heroin had been recovered from him. "In this case, six accused have been arrested so far, and the investigation is continuing from every angle. We are identifying the main source of supply and will dismantle the entire network," Abhishek said. He further stated that, so far this year, Shimla Police have registered 48 NDPS Act cases and arrested 94 accused persons. "We are also conducting financial investigations in parallel in all chitta cases. The illegal assets earned through drug trafficking will be identified and attached as per the law," he added. Police said the drive against narcotics trafficking would continue with focused efforts to break both the operational chain and the financial backbone of drug networks operating in the district. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused Congress of "neglecting" the Northeast during its rule and said that the BJP-led NDA government considers the region as "Ashtalakshmi". Addressing a rally here, PM Modi said his government is giving strong emphasis to boosting infrastructure in Assam. The Prime Minister said this is his first visit to Assam after the Union Budget was presented in Parliament. "A few days ago, the Union Budget was presented. This is my first visit to the Northeast after the Budget. The Northeast, which was neglected by Congress, is our priority and we are devoted to its development. For us, the Northeast is our Ashtalakshmi. We have given strong focus to the Northeast to make it economically independent," he said. "Congress even refuses to consider India as a nation. Those who do not show even the slightest respect towards Mother India can never work for the country's welfare," he alleged. The Prime Minister said that whenever the Northeast was mentioned earlier, it reminded people of poor infrastructure. "And today, such highways are being built here where not only vehicles run, but even aircraft can land. This is a moment of pride. This is the changing spirit of Assam." The Prime Minister said the greatest honour of his life is being a BJP worker. "Today, whatever heights the BJP has reached, the credit goes to our party workers. Our faith lies in the organisation. That is why it is a privilege to honour such a large number of karyakartas. We are united by one mantra, and that mantra is: Bharat Mata Ki Jai," he said. "I say with pride that the greatest honour of my life is that Narendra Modi is a karyakarta of BJP. As a BJP worker, I bow my head and pay my respects to the strength of our karyakartas and the organisation in Assam. I also offer my countless salutations to Maa Adi Shakti and Maa Kamakhya," he added. PM Modi also paid tributes to security personnel who lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack. "Today is the anniversary of the Pulwama attack. I bow to the brave sons of Mother India who lost their lives in this attack. After this terrorist attack, the way India punished the terrorists was witnessed by the entire world. Some people are still trembling even today. You have seen India's strength in Operation Sindoor," he said. Assam will go to the polls in the first half of this year. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the new Prime Minister's Office to the nation, which will now be known as 'Seva Teerth'. The North and South Blocks were constructed by the British to keep India under colonial rule. Although India attained independence from colonial rule in 1947, these buildings were retained by the then-government for the discharge of its functions. Since Independence, the Prime Minister's Office has been located in this building in South Block. We feel happy that the meeting of the Union Cabinet is being held for the last time in this chamber of South Block. This is not merely a moment of place change; it is also a confluence of history and the future. This complex has witnessed and shaped many historic events from slavery to freedom and then to independent India. This complex has witnessed important decisions made by Cabinets led by 16 Prime Ministers of the country. From Nehru Ji to Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, their footprints are on the stairs. The steps climbed on the stairs of this building have made an important contribution to taking the country to new heights. In recent decades, during Cabinet meetings held here, inspired by the ideals of the Constitution, the mandate received from the people, and the nation's aspirations, many important decisions have been made. Here, India's successes were celebrated, failures were assessed, and major decisions were made to address crises and challenges. The rooms of South Block have witnessed the horror of Partition, the challenges of war and the Emergency, and deliberations on peacetime policy. They have experienced the long leap of technology from typewriters to digital governance. Sitting here, several generations of officials made decisions that immediately after Independence brought India out of uncertainty and moved it toward stability. It is the result of everyone's efforts that, despite economic challenges and crises, India stands today as a confident nation. Today's India is one of the world's leading economies. India has emerged as a secure and capable nation and is presenting its clear and effective voice on global platforms. In the past decade, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, South Block has been the centre of many historic national decisions. This place became the inspiration for "Minimum Government, Maximum Governance." From here, the reform express gained momentum nationwide. From here, wide-ranging reforms such as DBT, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, welfare campaigns for the poor, Digital India, and GST took shape. From here, courageous and sensitive social justice decisions, such as abrogating Article 370 and enacting a law against triple talaq, were made. From here, we also took the decisions on the surgical strike, air strike, and Operation Sindoor, through which India conveyed a clear message of its firm and confident security policy to the world. Today, the country is moving forward with the resolve of a developed future. For this, a modern, technologically advanced, and environmentally friendly office was needed. A workspace that increases the productivity of every karmayogi working here and encourages their resolve for service. With this spirit, nearly 95 years after the inauguration of South Block, on 13 February 2026, the Government of India vacated these buildings and relocated to 'Seva Teerth' and 'Kartavya Bhavans'. Symbolically, this is another step of the country from the past of slavery towards the future of 'Developed India'. In recent years, the culture of 'service' has been strengthened in the country, rather than the culture of 'power'. Today's transition will further strengthen these values. The Cabinet also resolves that North and South Blocks be made part of the "Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum," which will continue to inspire generations from our thousands of years old civilisation. This museum will celebrate our timeless and eternal cultural heritage and connect our glorious past with a prosperous future. The Union Cabinet expresses gratitude towards the Prime Minister's visionary leadership for transforming the centre of governance from a colonial past into the 'Seva Teerth' of new India. (ANI) Malegaon Municipal Corporation Deputy Mayor, Shan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed, on Saturday, stated that the portrait of 18th-century Mysuru ruler Tipu Sultan will remain in her office, firmly dismissing the opposition. Describing her ideology as "socialist," she expressed her belief in displaying images of great personalities who represent their ideals." "It is our right to decide which photos are displayed in our office... If the workers have posted a photo, there is nothing wrong with it. We are people of socialist ideology; therefore, we will display photos of the great personalities who represent our ideals... Despite the opposition to Tipu Sultan's portrait, it was displayed in my office...," she told ANI. Speaking about the temporary removal of Tipu Sultan's portrait, the Deputy Mayor said the photo was taken down solely for office renovations and repairs and will be reinstalled once the work is complete. "However, it has been temporarily removed due to office renovations... Once the renovation is complete, that photo will be reinstalled in the office...," she emphasised. Addressing the absence of other mandatory portraits, she noted that it was "essential" to display Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's photo first, but shifted responsibility to the Municipal Administration for failing to provide and install official portraits of national icons. "The responsibility of installing photos of other great personalities lies with the Municipal Administration... It was essential that the photo of the architect of the Constitution, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, be installed first... Ask the Municipal Administration why the photos of these great leaders have not been put up yet," she said. Tipu Sultan, the 18th-century ruler of Mysore, is a complex figure with a legacy of bravery and controversy. He fought four Anglo-Mysore Wars against the British, earning the title "Sher-e-Mysore". However, his treatment of Hindus and other communities in South India has sparked debate, making him a polarising historical figure. (ANI) Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals and Fertilisers JP Nadda and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the 8th Convocation Ceremony of Swami Rama Himalayan University, Jolly Grant, as the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour, respectively. The Union Minister congratulated 1,001 students who received degrees across various faculties and said that a convocation is not just an academic milestone but the beginning of a new journey in life. He emphasised that, along with a degree, comes the responsibility for human development and service to society. He said that the next 25 years of Amrit Kaal will be decisive for building a developed India, where today's youth will not only be witnesses but also key contributors. He urged students to use their education for the welfare of humanity, the poor and the last person standing in society. The Union Minister commended the leadership of University Chairman Vijay Dhasmana, noting that the institution is setting new benchmarks in human services, healthcare, and education. He also highlighted India's strong and stable economy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, achievements in the healthcare sector, the Ayushman Bharat scheme, improvements in maternal and child mortality rates, progress in eliminating TB, malaria, and diarrhoea and initiatives such as early cancer detection. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, in his address, congratulated all degree recipients. He said that the youth of Uttarakhand are the state's greatest strength and that Swami Rama Himalayan University has established a distinct identity in education, healthcare, and public service. He stated that the state has been receiving remarkable support from the Central Government and the Union Health Minister in implementing the Ayushman Bharat scheme, telemedicine, and expanding healthcare services in hilly regions. He said that development works in Uttarakhand are being carried out in line with the concept of "Prime Minister Modi's Third Decade of Uttarakhand." He highlighted initiatives including reverse migration, decisive measures to protect the state's water and forests, improved roads, electricity, and internet connectivity in remote areas, tourism development, progress on SDG rankings, fisheries development, and positive changes in the rural economy. The Chief Minister urged students to apply their knowledge, skills, and sensitivity to nation-building, ensuring compassion, humanity, and service are clearly reflected in their work. State Education and Health Minister Dhan Singh Rawat said that Uttarakhand is performing better at all levels in the healthcare sector, from human resources to infrastructure, and the state has continuously received exemplary support from the Central Government for healthcare development. He also appreciated the contribution of the Swami Rama Himalayan Institute in strengthening healthcare in Uttarakhand. Institute Chairman Vijay Dhasmana described education not just as a degree but as a medium for self-realisation, empowerment, and transformation. He said the institution primarily focuses on providing better healthcare services through human services and ethics. During the convocation ceremony, 1,001 students from Medical, Allied Health, Nursing, Management, Engineering, Yoga Science, and Biosciences faculties were awarded degrees. A total of 31 students received academic awards, 2 students received the Swami Rama Best Graduate Award, and 14 research scholars were awarded PhD degrees. On this occasion, the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) was also launched online. The university has received an A+ grade from NAAC, and courses conducted under CDOE are recognised by UGC, ensuring students receive recognised and quality online education. The program also showcased the rich cultural heritage of Uttarakhand. (ANI) Accusing that the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi wants to mislead the country's farmers, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday defended the free trade agreements (FTAs) signed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, added that these agreements will significantly benefit India's fishermen. Shah took aim at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, saying that the Rae Bareli PM spread false claims about the impact of these trade deals on farmers. During a public address in Karaikal, Shah said, "The free trade agreements signed by PM Narendra Modi with the European Union and England, and the trade deal with the United States, are going to be of great benefit to our country's fishermen." Shah alleged that the Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition (LoP) made statements designed to confuse the public. "Rahul Gandhi wants to mislead the country's fishermen and farmers. He wants to spread confusion by telling lies," he added. Shah called on Rae Bareli MP to examine the specifics of the trade deal and FTAs before making such statements. The Home Minister highlighted PM Modi's commitment to protecting farmers. "PM Narendra Modi has worked to provide 100 per cent protection to our farmers and livestock owners. Farmers were harmed during your Manmohan Singh government. Many such global agreements were signed in which farmers' interests were sold," Shah remarked, emphasising the differences in policy between the current government and the previous Congress-led administration. Shah also criticised Gandhi's approach to politics, saying, "Rahul Gandhi's policy is to lie, speak loudly and publicly, and repeat the lie repeatedly. But the people of this country have now recognised your lie-manufacturing factory." In a bold prediction, Shah asserted that the people would reject Gandhi's narrative in the upcoming elections. "In 2029, an NDA-led BJP government will be formed under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi; your turn will not come," he declared. Meanwhile, at a press conference on the Viksit Bharat Budget, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said that nearly 70 per cent of global trade markets are open to India, with preferential access secured through Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). This means India now receives special advantages compared to other countries. Goyal highlighted that India has concluded 9 FTAs with 38 developed countries. These agreements are a key part of the plan to make India self-reliant and a developed nation by 2047. Minister Goyal explained that India has been very careful while signing these deals to protect local interests. He noted that sensitive areas such as dairy, farming, and GM foods are protected. At the same time, sectors that employ large numbers of people, such as textiles, leather, and electronics, are gaining access to new markets. Goyal said that these deals will help businesses grow and create many new jobs. However, Opposition MPs continued to protest in Parliament against the India-US interim trade agreement, calling it a "trap deal" during the Budget session, which concluded its first phase on February 13. (ANI) Each of the new Panther tenders is powered by a 700 HP engine and can accelerate from 0 to 80 km/h in under 30 seconds, ensuring swift action during critical situations. The vehicles are equipped with 12,500 litres of water, 1,500 litres of foam, and 250 kg of dry chemical powder, significantly strengthening on-site firefighting capability. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport shared the update on its official X handle, stating, "#ThiruvananthapuramAirport has strengthened its ARFF capabilities with the induction of three Rosenbauer Panther Crash Fire Tenders." https://x.com/TRV_Airport_Off/status/2022590819858104368?s=20 Earlier in October last year, Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, operated by TRV (Kerala) International Airport Limited, announced its Winter Schedule 2025, marking a significant 22 per cent increase in weekly flight operations compared to the Summer Schedule of 2025. The new schedule, effective from October 26, 2025, to March 28, 2026, reflects the airport's growing connectivity and rising preference among domestic and international airlines. According to TIAL PRO, under the new schedule, the TRV airport will handle 732 weekly Air Traffic Movements (ATMs), up from 600 in the Summer 2025 schedule. This expansion underscores the airport's growing connectivity and its increasing preference among domestic and international airlines. TIAL said that the airport would handle a total of 732 weekly ATMs, reflecting a 22 per cent increase from the Summer 2025 schedule. New destinations added include Navi Mumbai, Mangaluru, and Trichy. Enhanced domestic connectivity will cover key cities such as Kannur, Kochi, Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai, while international connections will include Dammam, Riyadh, Kuwait, Kuala Lumpur, and Male. According to TIAL, international flight operations are set to grow by 9 per cent, increasing from 300 weekly ATMs to 326. (ANI) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday expressed grief and ordered an immediate inquiry over the metro pillar that collapsed during the construction work, resulting in the death of one person and leaving several others injured. The state government has announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh for the deceased's family and will bear the treatment costs of the injured. CM Fadnavis also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. In a post on X, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) of Maharashtra wrote, "In the Mulund area of Mumbai, a slab from the metro construction collapsed, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to several others. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed grief over this incident and has ordered an inquiry into the matter. The state government will provide financial assistance of 5 lakh rupees to the deceased's heirs, and the cost of treatment for the injured will be borne by the state government. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured." https://x.com/CMOMaharashtra/status/2022601079985442925 Speaking to ANI, Mumbai Deputy Mayor Sanjay Ghadi also addressed the situation, confirming that four people had been injured, one of whom lost their life. "Two people are in critical condition and have been admitted to the ICU for treatment. Eknath Shinde has taken cognisance of this incident. He will order an inquiry regarding this incident, and whoever is found guilty will definitely face legal action." The authorities are investigating the cause of the collapse. The incident occurred after a section of a cement metro pillar collapsed during construction and fell on an auto-rickshaw near Johnson & Johnson Company in Maharashtra's Mulund. The deceased has been identified as Ramdhan Yadav, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. Other injured individuals have been identified as Rajkumar Indrajeet Yadav (45), who is in a critical condition, Mahendra Pratap Yadav (52), and Deepa Ruhiya (40), who are in stable conditions. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) on Saturday said the Metro project team is at the site of the pillar collapse, conducting relief operations in close coordination with the BMC and disaster management authorities. "Today, around 12:15 PM, an accident occurred near pier number P196 during the construction of the ongoing Metro line in the RAJV (Milan) area close to the Mulund Fire Station. A section of the parapet fell from a height and struck an auto-rickshaw passing by. In this incident, two people were injured and were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital. Considering their condition, all necessary medical assistance is being provided. The Metro project team is present at the site, and rescue operations are underway at a war footing in coordination with BMC, Mumbai Fire Brigade, Mumbai Traffic Police, and the Disaster Management Authority," MMRDA wrote on X. "Part of the metro pillar collapsed near Johnson & Johnson Company, LBS Road, Mulund (W) today at 12.20 pm. During construction, a part of the cement metro pillar collapsed and fell onto a rickshaw. Mumbai Fire Brigade, Police, Metro staff, Ward staff, and 108 Ambulance services are present at the spot. 3-4 people in an auto-rickshaw likely injured..." the BMC stated. (ANI) I think what is important is my meeting with President Macron at the end of last year, which was very positive, and we agreed to put a restart button. We are ready for that, said President Ilham Aliyev during his interview with a correspondent from France 24 TV channel. The last thing we need is to have problems with any country, including France, the head of state emphasized. Delhi University Vice Chancellor Yogesh Singh on Saturday urged students and teachers to maintain harmony and not engage in any activity that "increases mutual discord." This comes after chaos erupted at a protest demanding implementation of the new University Grants Commission (UGC) equity guidelines, which the Supreme Court put on hold, citing "complete vagueness" in the rules and potential misuse. Delhi University Vice Chancellor expressed concern and said that it is the duty of everyone to maintain harmony. "I request all teachers and students of Delhi University to maintain harmony among themselves. Do not engage in any activity that increases mutual discord and harms the image of the nation and the university. The incident at Delhi University yesterday is a cause for concern. Students from all states in India and from all communities study at the university. Social harmony is the greatest thing, and maintaining it is the duty of all of us," Yogesh Singh said in a statement shared from Delhi University's X handle. https://x.com/UnivofDelhi/status/2022633934669123653?s=20 The Vice Chancellor stressed that the equity rules are under consideration by the Supreme Court and appealed to students and teachers to await the decision. "The new rules of the UGC that have come are currently under consideration in the Hon'ble Supreme Court. I appeal to all teachers and students of the university to maintain their trust in the Government of India and await the decision of the Hon'ble Supreme Court," he said. On Friday, a face-off between two student groups led to claims and counterclaims, with the groups accusing each other of violence and intimidation. According to left backed students union-AISA some of the students were allegedly threatened and subjected to casteist abuse and slurs by the rival student group. AISA activists say that they had gone to the local police station register an FIR against the alleged attackers. They claim that during this rival student group ABVP, which is affiliated to the BJP, attacked their members. In its statement, the AISA said, "Delhi Police repeatedly failed to disperse the attacking mob, and even if they moved away, this mob kept coming back. While the lawyer of the students inside was not allowed to enter the police station, the people against whom the complaint was being made entered and with them, some goons even entered the station." Countering these allegations, ABVP alleged that a female journalist, associated with a YouTube channel, was allegedly assaulted by Left-backed student activists. ABVP said that the incident exposes the violent character of Left-affiliated student organisations, which otherwise claim to champion freedom of expression across universities in the country. ABVP Delhi State Secretary Sarthak Sharma said, "I would like to make a few things clear. The Left was protesting, and a woman journalist with a YouTube channel was present there. She was covering the protest and asked them a few questions. Perhaps they didn't like those questions, or they didn't like the woman journalist, and they indulged in a flight...The videos show that even their male cadre was slapping her, that the crowd was gathering around her, and they were dragging her away. Women Journalist, Ruchi Tiwari, alleged that she was targeted by a mob of nearly 500 people. She claimed that the crowd turned violent after inquiring about her caste and identity while she was discharging her professional duties. Speaking to ANI, the woman journalist Ruchi Tiwari said, "Video is everywhere, people can judge by themselves as to who provoked whom...I am a journalist who was covering the protest. One of the media personnel called out my name to get my attention. I went up to them, and they then asked my full name and caste." "The entire crowd came towards me and attacked me. This is clear in the video. About 500 people attacked me. They only have fabricated narratives and allegations. The girls around me whispered rape threats in my ears just because I am a Brahmin; "aaj tu chal, tera nanga parade niklega," is what they said. The men around me said they would teach me a lesson. The girls had held me by the arms and neck. This is an attempt to murder. I had fallen unconscious, but the Police did nothing, " she further claimed. On January 29, the SC stayed the University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026, following nationwide uproar over alleged "discrimination" against the General Category in the regulations. The Top Court said that, for now, the 2012 UGC regulations will continue to apply. The Court opined that there is complete vagueness in Regulation 3 (C) (which defines caste-based discrimination), and it can be misused. "The language needs to be re-modified," the Court said. After 75 years of trying to make a caste-less society, whether the direction of policy-making is progressive or tending towards a regressive approach, it asked. The new regulations, introduced to curb caste-based discrimination in colleges and universities, require institutions to establish special committees and helplines to address complaints from students in the Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Other Backwards Classes (OBC) categories. (ANI) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Saturday penned a letter to Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar, urging for immediate action to facilitate the return of Tamil Nadu fishermen released by the Sri Lankan court to their homeland, stating that they The letter detailed the Jaffna Court proceedings against the Tamil Nadu fishermen apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy, seeking to draw attention to a judgment delivered by the Sri Lankan Court in the case. "The Jaffna Court tried a total of twelve fishermen on 03.02.2026 - three from Mandapam, who were taken into custody on 28.12.2025, and nine from Mayiladuthurai, apprehended on 03.01.2026. Following the proceedings, three boat drivers were sentenced to six months' rigorous imprisonment and were each imposed a fine of LKR 11.60 lakh, with an additional three months' imprisonment in the event of default. The remaining nine fishermen were ordered to be released and were subsequently transferred to the Minihana Detention Centre on 05.02.2026." the letter read. The letter further highlighted that due to delays in completing the repatriation formalities, the released fishermen remain in custody. Highlighting the immense hardships endured by the detained fishermen and the resulting distress of their families, the letter urged, "I request that urgent steps may kindly be taken to expedite the repatriation of the released fishermen at the earliest." Earlier on January 21, CM MK Stalin also wrote to EAM Dr S Jaishankar to highlight the "severe hardship on the coastal fishing communities of Tamil Nadu" inflicted by the recurring arrests. "It is a matter of deep and continuing concem that the repeated apprehension of Tamil Nadu fishermen and the seizure of their fishing vessels by Sri Lankan authorities continue unabated. As on date, a total of 254 fishing boats belonging to Tamil Nadu and 90 fishermen, including those detained in the most recent incident, remain in Sri Lankan custody. These frequent and recurring arrests have inflicted severe hardship on the coastal fishing communities of Tamil Nadu. The prolonged detention of fishermen and confiscation of their boats have caused chronic economic distress, emotional trauma and sustained anxiety among their families. The cumulative impact of these incidents has deeply disrupted the social and economic fabric of these vulnerable coastal regions." the letter read. (ANI) Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of attempting to retain power by relying on the votes of infiltrators, amid the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in the state. Responding to petitions filed by the Chief Minister alleging irregularities in the SIR exercise before the Supreme Court, Pradhan said the people of West Bengal will deliver a "befitting reply" to Mamata Banerjee in the forthcoming 2026 Assembly elections. "Mamata Banerjee wants to return to power on the strength of infiltrators' votes. The people of Bengal will give her a befitting reply this time. The youth of Bengal, the women of Bengal, and the common people of Bengal will bring change in Bengal," Pradhan said. Earlier, the Supreme Court heard a batch of pleas filed by various petitioners, including Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, alleging irregularities in the SIR exercise carried out by the ECI in West Bengal. Banerjee has alleged that voters' names were placed on the Logical Discrepancy list due to minor dialectal spelling differences and that objection notices were issued without reasons. The state Chief Minister also appeared in person before the Court and submitted that the State was being selectively targeted by the ECI to delete voters rather than to include them or correct errors. Following the hearing, the Supreme Court extended the deadline for the publication of the final electoral roll under the Election Commission of India's (ECI) Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in West Bengal by one week. Additionally, the Court issued a show-cause notice to the West Bengal Director General of Police (DGP) regarding allegations of violence during the revision process. In response to these developments, the Union Minister stated that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee must comply with the Supreme Court's orders, asserting that the country must be governed by the rule of law. "The state government here, Mamata ji, herself approached the Supreme Court. They should obey the Supreme Court's orders. The country will run on the basis of law, not under anyone's pressure," added Pradhan. Meanwhile, following a Supreme Court order, the ECI announced a revised schedule for the ongoing SIR process in the state on February 10. In its statement, the WB Chief Electoral Officer said the hearing of notices will be completed by February 14. The review of the documents and disposal of the claim will be completed by February 21. The statement also said that the rationalisation of polling stations will be completed by February 25. The health parameter checks are to be conducted by February 27. The final electoral roll will be published on February 28. (ANI) A three-day-old baby boy was abducted from the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital in Tiruchirappalli on Saturday morning after a woman posing as a patient gained the mother's trust and disappeared with the infant under the pretext of taking him for vaccination. Sukanya, wife of Vignesh from Thuraiyur in Tiruchirappalli district, was admitted to the hospital on the 11th for delivery. She gave birth to a baby boy on the same day. Her relative Prema was assisting her at the hospital. During her stay, a woman who had come to the same ward for treatment befriended Sukanya, introducing herself as Meenakshi. She frequently interacted with Sukanya and even helped her occasionally. This morning, when Sukanya mentioned that the newborn needed to be taken for vaccination, the woman offered to take the baby herself, saying she would get the vaccination done and return. Trusting her, Sukanya handed over the baby. However, when the woman did not return for a long time, Sukanya grew suspicious and began searching for her within the hospital premises. Both the woman and the baby were missing. Sukanya immediately informed her parents, and the family searched extensively but could not locate them. A complaint was subsequently lodged at the Government Hospital Police Station regarding the missing baby. Based on the complaint, police have launched an intensive investigation. Along with Sukanya's relatives, the police conducted a thorough search across the hospital premises. They are also examining CCTV footage to determine whether the abduction was captured on camera. Hospital authorities stated that no patient had been admitted under the name Meenakshi in the past three days. Police suspect that the woman may have used a fake identity and deliberately befriended Sukanya with the intention of kidnapping the newborn. Police investigations are ongoing. Further details are awaited. (ANI) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Saturday said that engineers are an important partner in the overall development of the state. According to the Chief Minister's office, the CM said that in addition to performing their respective duties with dedication, they are also actively involved in various social activities, and the government's development projects are implemented based on the work of engineers. Saha said this while inaugurating the voluntary blood donation camp organised on the occasion of the sixth biennial conference of the Association of Service Engineers of Tripura at the Sukanta Academy auditorium in Agartala today. Speaking at the event, Saha said, "There is no religion in work. There is no party in work. And that is how it should be. Trust in each other is created through organisation. Earlier, a huge list was prepared for the transfer of employees. That list was prepared after selection. That is why the state had not developed so far. But after our government came to power, we have given priority to work. In just one year, various projects worth about Rs 1,300 crore have been inaugurated and their foundation stones laid. Such activities are being carried out every day. These works are implemented based on engineers because everything depends on technology now. Engineers will have to emphasise more on state-of-the-art technology." The CM added that it is also necessary to give importance to increasing the skills of engineers. "Along with this, innovative thinking will have to be encouraged. In this case, the state government will also extend the necessary support. Today, be it the Jal Jeevan Mission, PM Suryaghar, National Hydrology Mission, the PRASAD Project, or road construction - it is not possible without engineers in all fields. It should be remembered that all work has to be done within the time limit. And do such work that people remember for the rest of their lives," he said. Saha also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is repeatedly talking about New India. "In that case, it will be possible to build New India only if there is a New Tripura. The government has a lot of hope in engineers standing at that place. The implementation of the government's developmental work is possible based on your efforts. You are the craftsmen of building the country and the craftsmen of building the future," he added. Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharya, General Secretary of the organising Engineers' Organisation Sona Ranjan Debbarma, Chairman of the organising committee Laxman Sarkar, and other members and leaders were present as distinguished guests at the event, the CMO stated. (ANI) Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) President Aryan Maan on Saturday condemned the attack on female journalist Ruchi Tiwari, who was allegedly targeted by a mob of nearly 500 people while covering a pro-UGC protest. "The Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) strongly condemns the reported assault on journalist Ruchi Tiwari of the YouTube channel Breaking Opinion at the Faculty of Arts, University of Delhi," said Maan in a statement. In its statement, Maan asserted that violence and coercion have no place in campus politics. He declared that disagreement must be addressed through dialogue, not disruption or force. "The Delhi University Students' Union firmly believes that disagreement must be addressed through dialogue, not disruption or force. Violence and coercion have no place in campus politics," said Maan. Referring to the assault on journalist Ruchi Tiwari, the DUSU President asserted that such incidents severely damage the reputation of the University of Delhi. "Universities are meant to be spaces of dialogue, debate, and democratic engagement. Any act of intimidation, manhandling, or violenceespecially against a member of the media performing her professional duty, stands in direct contradiction to the values that academic institutions are meant to uphold. It is deeply concerning that during an ongoing protest at the Faculty of Arts, a journalist was allegedly targeted while questioning certain protesting students. Such incidents damage the reputation of the University of Delhi and undermine the spirit of free expression that student organisations often claim to defend," added Maan. While condemning the attack, Maan called for a thorough investigation and demanded strict action against those responsible. "DUSU calls upon the University administration and Delhi Police to conduct a fair and impartial inquiry into the matter and to take strict action against those found responsible. Ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals on campus, including journalists, is of utmost importance," added Maan. Meanwhile, DUSU Joint Secretary Deepika Jha also condemned the incident, alleging that the Left is trying to destabilise the university, and said that appropriate measures, such as installing CCTV cameras and taking action against the involved professors, will be taken by DU authorities. "UGC is giving commendation to the left and this is causing a lot of wrong actions. We will take appropriate action based on this. The Left is trying to break the backbone of Delhi University. But we will not let them succeed... They have always tried to divide the nation and continue to do so... Soon CCTV cameras will be installed in the campus premises, pink booth is already there... Appropriate action will be taken based... The professors, reportedly present there, will be subjected to appropriate action by the DU authorities...," she added. Earlier, chaos broke out during a protest backed by Left-backed student unions at Delhi University, which resulted in a face-off between two student groups and scenes of alleged violence. The protesters demanded that the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations be amended to eliminate caste discrimination on campuses across India. A face-off between two student groups led to claims and counterclaims, with each side accusing the other of violence and intimidation. According to left backed students union-AISA some of the students were allegedly threatened and subjected to casteist abuse and slurs by the rival student group. Countering these allegations, ABVP alleged that a female journalist, associated with a YouTube channel was allegedly assaulted by Left-backed student activists. ABVP said that the incident exposes the violent character of Left-affiliated student organisations, which otherwise claim to champion freedom of expression across universities in the country. Amidst all this, Women Journalist, Ruchi Tiwari, alleged that she was targeted by a mob of nearly 500 people. She claimed that the crowd turned violent after inquiring about her caste and identity while she was discharging her professional duties. Speaking to ANI, the woman journalist Ruchi Tiwari said, "Video is everywhere, people can judge by themselves as to who provoked whom...I am a journalist who was covering the protest. One of the media personnel called out my name to get my attention. I went up to them, and they then asked my full name and caste." "The entire crowd came towards me and attacked me. This is clear in the video. About 500 people attacked me. They only have fabricated narratives and allegations. The girls around me whispered rape threats in my ears just because I am a Brahmin; "aaj tu chal, tera nanga parade niklega," is what they said. The men around me said they would teach me a lesson. The girls had held me by the arms and neck. This is an attempt to murder. I had fallen unconscious, but the Police did nothing, " she further claimed. On January 29, the SC stayed the University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026, following nationwide uproar over alleged "discrimination" against the General Category in the regulations. The top Court said that, for now, the 2012 UGC regulations will continue to apply. The Court opined that there is complete vagueness in Regulation 3 (C) (which defines caste-based discrimination), and it can be misused. "The language needs to be re-modified," the Court said. (ANI) In a major breakthrough, the Chandigarh Police have arrested a 26-year-old auto-rickshaw driver in connection with a murder case registered at Police Station Industrial Area. The arrest was made under the direction of Kanwardeep Kaur, SSP UT Chandigarh, and under the close supervision of Charanjit Singh Virk, SDPO/East. The operation was conducted by a team from the Police Station Industrial Area, led by Inspector Satnam Singh, SHO, and other police officials. According to police, the case pertains to FIR, dated January 29, 2026, registered under Section 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The FIR was lodged on the complaint of Prem Parkash Tiwari, a resident of Village Dariya, Chandigarh. In his statement, he said that his younger brother, Arun Kumar (31), who also worked as an auto-rickshaw driver at the Railway Station in Chandigarh, was involved in a dispute with the accused, Vishal, on January 28, around 8 pm. The complainant said he had intervened and pacified both men at that time. He further stated that Arun had earlier informed him that Vishal had previously quarrelled with him and had even threatened to kill him. On January 28, both Arun and Vishal reportedly arrived separately, each with passengers, at the GP Royal Hotel in Village Dariya. Police said the two men later went to the hotel's top floor, where another argument broke out. During the altercation, Vishal allegedly picked up a knife from the hotel kitchen and repeatedly attacked Arun with the intention to kill him. Arun Kumar was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries on the way. Following the investigation, the accused, identified as Vishal Mishra, son of Daya Shankar Mishra, a resident of Saini Vihar Phase 3, Baltana, Zirakpur in SAS Nagar district of Punjab, was arrested. He was produced before the court, which granted two days of police remand for further interrogation. Police said the accused is an auto-rickshaw driver by occupation and was previously involved in FIR No. 193/2024 registered at Police Station Sector 31, Chandigarh, under various sections of the BNS. Further investigation into the case is ongoing. (ANI) Congress leaders on Saturday staged a protest in Jammu district against the end of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), calling it a "BJP conspiracy." The demonstration was led by Congress MP Dr Syed Naseer, who accused the ruling party of undermining the employment rights of rural workers. Heavy deployment of security personnel was reported as large crowds gathered, holding posters of Mahatma Gandhi and chanting slogans condemning the government's decision. The Jammu and Kashmir Police intervened to manage the situation and detained several protestors to prevent escalation. Speaking to the media, Naseer emphasised that the protest is to safeguard the right to work of labourers. "This protest is being held against the BJP's conspiracy of ending the MGNREGA and to protect the right to work given to the labourers," he stated. He emphasised that the demonstration aimed to safeguard the livelihoods of rural residents who depend on guaranteed employment. The row began after the Parliament passed the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, which replaced the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act as India's flagship rural employment guarantee scheme during the Winter Session. While the new legislation increases the guaranteed workdays from 100 to 125, the Opposition has criticised the move for removing Mahatma Gandhi's name from the scheme and altering the 60:40 funding share between the Centre and states. Congress has been organising protests nationwide against the change. On February 5, Congress party members in Ariyalur district in Tamil Nadu also staged a protest, condemning the removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name from the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA). The protestors, carrying tools used under the 100-day employment scheme, laid siege to the Ariyalur District Collectorate to protest the Centre's decision to rename the scheme after removing Mahatma Gandhi's name. The demonstration was organised by the Ariyalur District Congress Committee under the leadership of district president Mariyammal. Addressing the protest, Congress leaders said the rural employment scheme was introduced during the Congress regime in the name of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, and removing his name from a central government scheme was unacceptable. Following the siege at the Collectorate, the protestors held a demonstration near the Anna statue in Ariyalur, demanding that the Union government restore Mahatma Gandhi's name and continue the 100-day employment scheme under its original name. (ANI) A fierce political row erupted between BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday over the India-US interim trade agreement. The row centres on the agreement's impact on India's massive textile sector and its millions of cotton farmers. Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government of misleading the country over tariff provisions in the India-US interim trade agreement, alleging that the deal would adversely impact India's cotton farmers and textile exporters. This prompted a response from the BJP leader, who said Gandhi's claims about cotton production and textile mills are false and challenged him to a debate on any forum. Later, he spoke to ANI, where he further criticised Gandhi, calling him a "mahamurkh" LoP, and defended the Centre's approach to safeguarding farmers and boosting exports. The row was sparked when Rahul Gandhi, in a video message on X, said that while Indian garments face an 18 per cent tariff in the United States, Bangladesh is being given a zero per cent tariff benefit on garment exports on the condition that it imports American cotton. Questioning the policy framework, he alleged that importing American cotton would harm domestic farmers, while not importing it would harm the textile industry. He further claimed that Bangladesh was signalling a possible reduction or halt to cotton imports from India, which he said could worsen the situation for Indian producers. In a post on X, the Congress MP wrote, "18% Tariff vs 0% -- Let me explain how the expert liar Prime Minister and his cabinet are spreading confusion on this issue. And how they are cheating India's cotton farmers and textile exporters through the India-US trade deal. Bangladesh is being granted a 0% tariff benefit on garment exports to the US -- the only condition is that it imports American cotton. After the announcement of an 18% tariff on Indian garments, when I raised the question in Parliament about the special concession being given to Bangladesh, a minister from the Modi government replied: "If we also want the same benefit, we will have to import cotton from America." Why was this fact hidden from the country till now?" "...The textile industry and cotton farming are the backbone of livelihood in India. Crores of people's daily bread depends on these very sectors. Attacking these sectors means pushing millions of families into unemployment and economic crisis. A visionary government that thinks in the national interest would have negotiated a deal that protects and ensures the prosperity of both cotton farmers and textile exporters. But exactly the opposite has happened -- Narendra "Surrender" Modi and his ministers have made an agreement that is likely to inflict deep damage on both sectors," the post read. In a counterattack, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey dismissed these claims and challenged Gandhi to an open public debate "on any forum". In a post on X, Dubey wrote, "Compass farming, how much is needed for textiles, how much production. The condition of the textile mill and Rahul Gandhi ji's Naxalite movement with Soros. How big a lie, I challenge you to a debate on any forum." While speaking to ANI, he intensified his attack, saying, "I have never seen such a 'mahamurkh' LoP in this country. To protect cotton farmers, for the last 8 years, PM Modi has put in place 11% import duty. After the farmers are safeguarded, how the textile sector is to be freed and made competitive because we are competing with Vietnam - incentive is being given for this." Dubey said small-scale exporters will have zero tariff under the India-US interim trade agreement and added that Rahul Gandhi sets an example in spreading nonsense and instigating others. "Even in the India-US Trade deal, our exporters who run small-scale industry and export the most, there will be zero per cent tariff on it. If someone wants to learn to say nonsense, instigate others and indulge in treason, they should learn from Rahul Gandhi," he further said. He posted a series of posts attacking the LoP and Congress, including one that mentioned the former Army chief's book controversy. Dubey compared the blank pages of Naravane's unpublished book to Gandhi's intellect, stating, "Much like General Naravane's blank and unpublished manuscript, it seems Rahul Gandhi's intellect is equally empty." Furthermore, Dubey counterattacked Gandhi's "surrender" comment about PM Modi by digging into what he calls the Congress party's history of selling out national interests. He alleges that the Nehru-led government succumbed to intense pressure from the United States in 1962 to remove then-Defense Minister V.K. Krishna Menon from the cabinet. https://x.com/nishikant_dubey/status/2022702277283451286?s=20 "Nehru-Gandhi's surrender to America. In 1962, then Prime Minister Nehru Ji removed Defense Minister Krishna Menon from the cabinet under pressure from then US President Kennedy Ji. This was the outcome of a conversation in October 1962 between President Kennedy and then Ambassador BK Nehru Ji. The history of the @INCIndia party, which sells out the country," he wrote on X. The India-US Interim Agreement, announced last week, is intended as a framework for a reciprocal and mutually beneficial trade pact between the two countries. The agreement will involve the elimination or reduction of tariffs on US industrial goods and a wide range of food and agricultural products, including dried distillers' grains, red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, soybean oil, wine and spirits, and additional products. In return, the United States will apply a reciprocal tariff of 18 per cent on selected Indian goods, including textiles, apparel, leather, footwear, plastics, rubber, organic chemicals, home decor, artisanal products, and certain machinery. Upon full implementation, US tariffs on items such as generic pharmaceuticals, gems and diamonds, and aircraft parts will be removed. Tensions between the two have been high since Thursday, after Nishikant Dubey proposed a substantive motion in the Lok Sabha against Rahul Gandhi. Dubey called for the termination of Gandhi's parliamentary membership and a lifetime ban on his contesting elections. "He behaves like an urban naxal. He travels to foreign nations only to meet with traitors. He questions the country's constitutional institutions, including the Election Commission, the House Speaker, the Constitution, and the Supreme Court. I request that you discuss the substantive motion so that he can be barred from the House and can never contest elections," Dubey accused. As a response, Gandhi strongly criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming that he "has a chokehold around his neck" and sold "the country and farmers", asserting that he will not "step back even an inch" even if a Privilege Motion is filed against him. (ANI) Shafqat Munir, Senior Fellow at Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies, described the victory of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the 13th National Parliamentary Election as marking a "new chapter," highlighting that a democratically elected government will now shape the country's foreign policy. Speaking on the potential for revitalising India-Bangladesh ties, Munir said the relationship has experienced "quite a few ups and downs in recent times," but expressed optimism about the future. "This indeed marks a new chapter because we will now have a democratically elected political government with a very resounding mandate. Together, we will be able to repair and revitalise the relationship as it has gone through quite a few ups and downs in recent times. But to do that, the first task for both sides would be to rebuild trust and address the trust deficit that has developed. The messages emanating from the Indian leadership are indeed steps in the right direction," he told ANI. On PM Modi congratulating BNP chairman Tarique Rahman on the party's landslide win, Munir described the Prime Minister's outreach as "a very important gesture." He said, "This is a very important gesture by Prime Minister Modi. Resetting the ties with India and revitalising our relationship with India will be a key priority for the new government. That will have to be done by both sides, by rebuilding trust and confidence." Munir described the recent election as "a great day for Bangladesh" and called it a "resounding victory for BNP." He further highlighted that the elections were peaceful, with minimal violence, and that voter turnout was high. "This is a great day for Bangladesh. It is a resounding victory for BNP. It was a very peaceful election with very little violence and people came out in large numbers to vote. It's a great beginning for Bangladesh, but the real journey lies ahead. The new government's first priority would be to ensure stability. The nation comes together once again because significant healing and reconciliation are required. The key operational task for the new government would be to reset the economy and set all the economic priorities right," he told ANI. The message comes amid a wave of international acknowledgements following the BNP-led alliance's landslide success in Thursday's polls, alongside the official declaration of results for 297 parliamentary constituencies by Bangladesh's Election Commission (EC). Results for Chattogram-2 and Chattogram-4 remain suspended and will be announced later, while the outcome of one other constituency was deferred earlier, as reported by Prothom Alo. In the parliamentary results for these 297 seats, the BNP and its allies secured a decisive 212 seats, marking a landslide victory. (ANI) Elnur Enveroglu President Ilham Aliyevs presence at the Munich Security Conference this February carried a symbolism that extended well beyond diplomatic routine. Munich has obviously long been a political arena for strategic recalibration, a stage where global powers test narratives and regional leaders present their case to a sceptical international audience. This year, Azerbaijan's leader arrived not as the head of a country locked in frozen conflict, but as the president of a state declaring that its decades-long confrontation with Armenia is over. His interview with France 24 in Munich was therefore not simply a media appearance. It was an assertion: that the South Caucasus has entered a post-conflict era, and that Azerbaijan considers the peace process effectively complete. In tone and substance, Aliyev projected confidence. The war, in his telling, is finished; normalization is underway; what remains are technicalities. That message, delivered at Europes premier security forum, was aimed not only at Armenia but at Washington, Brussels and Paris. The geopolitical contest over narratives continues, but Bakus argument is clear: a new regional order has already been established. For me, it is done President Aliyevs most striking formulation in the interview was his unequivocal claim that peace has already been achieved. Referring to the White House summit of 8 August, which was held in the presence of US President Donald Trump and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, he described the declaration as historic and final in political substance. Six months without border shootings, unilateral easing of transit restrictions, and even the supply of critical oil products to Armenia were presented as tangible evidence that normalization is not theoretical. In Azerbaijani President's framing, the absence of violence is itself proof of structural change. This is a subtle but significant shift. For years, the international community defined the ArmeniaAzerbaijan file through the lens of unresolved status and mediation formats. In Munich, President Aliyev effectively inverted that paradigm: peace is not something to be negotiated into existence; it is something already achieved and awaiting formal codification. The remaining obstacle, he argued, lies in Armenias constitution, specifically references tied to territorial claims on Qarabag. Here, the Azerbaijan's leader drew a clear red line. Without constitutional amendment, there will be no signed peace treaty. Yet even this was framed not as confrontation but as legal hygiene. Remove the outdated claim, and formal peace follows. He predicted it could happen within the year. TRIPP and the strategic corridor Perhaps the most geopolitically consequential segment of the interview concerned connectivity. The proposed Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, or TRIPP, linking mainland Azerbaijan to Nakhchivan through Armenian territory, was described by Aliyev as inevitable. The symbolism is unmistakable. A corridor once associated with zero-sum rhetoric is now branded as an international infrastructure project backed by Washington. The United States strategic partnership charter with Azerbaijan, signed during Vice President JD Vances visit, further anchors this transformation. President Aliyev highlighted defence cooperation, energy, AI and trade, signalling that Azerbaijans post-war strategy is not confined to regional consolidation. It is global positioning. By emphasising that the Armenian segment of the corridor is short compared to Azerbaijans own extensive railway construction, he reframed the debate: the bottleneck is political, not logistical. For Europe, the implications are profound. A functioning corridor across the South Caucasus could reinforce east-west connectivity at a time when traditional routes are strained. Aliyevs certainty in Munich suggested that Baku sees this as not merely a transport link, but a structural reordering of the regions economic geography. Justice without clemency The most controversial moment in the interview concerned the sentencing of former leaders of the self-proclaimed Qarabag entity. When pressed about the possibility of clemency, Aliyev invoked the precedent of the Nuremberg trials. His comparison was uncompromising. To many Western ears, the analogy will appear stark. However, domestically, it aligns with Azerbaijans longstanding narrative: that the conflict was marked by war crimes against its population and that accountability is non-negotiable. The Azerbaijani President insisted the trials were transparent, legally grounded and evidence-based. Here lies the moral tension of post-conflict politics. Can reconciliation coexist with punitive justice? The answer of Azerbaijan's leader is unambiguous: justice is not an obstacle to peace; it is a prerequisite. Clemency, in his view, would undermine the moral foundation of the new order. The Armenian question and reciprocity On the departure of Armenians from Qarabag, President Ilham Aliyev reiterated that citizenship and residency options had been offered. He counterbalanced humanitarian concerns with the unresolved issue of Azerbaijani returnees displaced from what he terms Western Azerbaijan. The principle he advanced was reciprocity. If the right of return is universal, it must apply equally. This framing attempts to shift the discourse from unilateral grievance to symmetrical rights. Whether that argument gains traction internationally remains to be seen, but it is consistent with Bakus diplomatic messaging. Resetting France Eventually, relations with France formed the final arc of the interview. President Aliyev portrayed Azerbaijan as reactive rather than provocative, arguing that Pariss parliamentary resolutions and political statements during the war period constituted interference. His acknowledgement of a restart button with President Emmanuel Macron was notable. The tone was pragmatic rather than confrontational. In Munich and beyond, President Aliyev appears keen to signal that Azerbaijans disputes are issue-based, not ideological. For Europe, this matters. A stable South Caucasus requires functional relations among its external stakeholders. President Ilham Aliyevs readiness to re-engage suggests that Baku sees strategic benefit in de-escalating rhetorical tensions with Paris, even while defending its narrative of sovereignty. A new reality Taken together, President Ilham Aliyevs Munich interview conveyed a clear thesis: the era of ambiguity in the South Caucasus is over. Territorial integrity has been restored, connectivity is advancing, and geopolitical alignments are expanding. Sceptics will question whether peace can be declared unilaterally. Supporters will argue that facts on the ground speak louder than diplomatic hesitations. What is undeniable is that Azerbaijans leadership now speaks from a position of consolidated power. Munich has often been a forum for warnings about instability. This time, Azerbaijans president delivered a different message: that the South Caucasus has entered a phase of irreversible transformation. Whether history will confirm that confidence remains to be seen. But in Munich, Ilham Aliyev left little doubt that he believes the page has already been turned. --- About the author: Elnur Enveroglu is an Azerbaijani journalist and geopolitical analyst who currently serves as the Deputy Editor-in-Chief of AzerNEWS, Azerbaijan's first English-language weekly newspaper. Kwatra praised the company's interest in the Indian market and its commitment to expanding investments. In a post on X, Ambassador said, "Following our meeting last year, had a very productive discussion with Stephane de La Faverie, President & CEO of Estee Lauder. Welcomed their strong interest in the Indian market and commitment to expanding investments here. FDI inflows strengthen our economy and enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities." https://x.com/AmbVMKwatra/status/2022348483672355208?s=20 Earlier, on October 3, 2025, Kwatra met the team. In a post on X, he said, "Had a wonderful meeting with Stephane de La Faverie, President and CEO of the Estee Lauder companies along with his team last week. Discussed their investments in the Indian market and the immense growth taking place in the personal care market space in India." https://x.com/AmbVMKwatra/status/1974120462759440465?s=20 Earlier on February 2, Kwatra participated in a Pre-AI Summit panel discussion titled "Reflections on Paris and Prospects for New Delhi", organised by Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), alongside the Ambassador of France. Sharing details of the engagement on X, Kwatra emphasised "Impact" as a core driver of the upcoming AI Summit in India. https://x.com/AmbVMKwatra/status/2018118134109004158?s=20 He also outlined India's approach to artificial intelligence, sharing the country's perspective on "democratisation of AI" around people, planet and progress with the participating audience. The discussion focused on advancing global dialogue on AI, with India underscoring impact-led innovation and inclusive growth as key pillars of its engagement ahead of the summit. All these developments stem from engagements held on January 31, during which Kwatra also detailed India's people-first approach to artificial intelligence and the structure of the upcoming AI Impact Summit, noting that it is built around three core pillars focused on people, planet and progress. (ANI) The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is sending a mission named Artemis II to the Moon and has recently run the vehicle's confidence test. In a post on X, NASA wrote, "Update on our Moon mission: Following a Feb. 12 confidence test, teams are reviewing data and will examine findings before setting a timeline for the next test, a second @NASAArtemis wet dress rehearsal this month. March remains the earliest potential launch window." In a statement released by the American space agency, relevant details about the test were released. The statement read, "As part of robustly testing the vehicle prior to flight, NASA engineers are reviewing data after a confidence test Feb. 12, in which operators partially filled the SLS (Space Launch System) core stage liquid hydrogen tank to assess newly replaced seals in an area used to fill the rocket with propellant." "During the test, teams encountered an issue with ground support equipment that reduced the flow of liquid hydrogen into the rocket. Teams were able to gain confidence in several key objectives of the test, and data was obtained at the core stage interfaces, taken at the same time in the test where they encountered a leak during the previous wet dress rehearsal. Engineers will purge the line over the weekend to ensure proper environmental conditions and inspect the ground support equipment before replacing a filter suspected to be the cause of the reduced flow," it read further. "Engineers will examine findings before setting a timeline for the next test, a second wet dress rehearsal this month. March remains the earliest potential launch window for Artemis II," the statement concluded. NASA's Artemis II is the first crewed mission of the Artemis program and a major step toward returning humans to the Moon. Using the powerful Space Launch System and the Orion spacecraft, four astronauts will travel around the Moon and back to Earth. Unlike Artemis I, which was uncrewed, Artemis II will test life-support systems and deep-space operations with astronauts on board. The mission will pave the way for Artemis III, which aims to land astronauts on the lunar surface and support future long-term exploration. (ANI) US-India Business Council (USIBC) President Ambassador Atul Keshap has authored a new blog titled "Advancing Sound AI Leadership Through US-India Ties," underscoring the importance of deeper technological collaboration between the United States and India to ensure responsible and democratic leadership in artificial intelligence (AI). From launching the US-India TRUST initiative to leading a US Chamber & USIBC delegation to the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, he outlines in the blog why deeper tech convergence is key to responsible, democratic AI leadership. "In 2023, the US Chamber helped launch US-India AI technology cooperation when we hosted the first bilateral talks that led to the formation of the US-India TRUST initiative." He added, "Now, the US Chamber and our US-India Business Council (USIBC) are preparing to lead a delegation of American business leaders - ably helmed by the Chamber's Jordan Crenshaw and Jay Gullish - to the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, India, next week." "Among the most important convenings on AI taking place anywhere in the world this year, the summit represents a unique opportunity to deepen US-India technological convergence, critical to ensuring that the transformative power of AI is guided by democratic and market-oriented principles." He also highlighted that the US business chamber is bringing the voice of the American private sector to the forefront. "As an official partner of the Summit, the US Chamber is bringing the voice of the American private sector straight to the forefront of these ground breaking discussions. Our delegation, comprised of US Chamber experts and business leaders, will lend expertise building upon the US Chamber's leadership role at previous AI summits in France, the UK, and beyond." "As AI rewires every sector of the global economy, the collaboration between the US and India-two of the world's most dynamic innovation ecosystems-is increasingly essential to driving responsible innovation. Together, our companies and entrepreneurs are pioneering AI applications across healthcare, agriculture, financial services, and more." "Our delegation will engage top US and Indian officials, as well as those from other international governments, several Indian ministers, and some of the world's leading executives. These conversations will promote thoughtful AI leadership, sound governance, and strategic technology and business partnerships--from AI and critical minerals to quantum computing." "Our US Chamber and USIBC delegation looks forward to a productive week in India and to continuing our work with government and industry leaders from both countries to unlock the full potential of public-private collaboration on AI--and to ensuring that responsible innovation and investment will keep America, India and like-minded nations at the forefront of global AI competitiveness." India is set to host the India AI Impact Summit from February 16-20 at Bharat Mandapam, bringing together governments, industry leaders, researchers, startups, students, and citizens from across the world. The Summit serves as a pivotal global platform to develop a future-oriented agenda for inclusive, responsible, and impactful AI. It moves beyond high-level discussions to deliver tangible outcomes that drive economic growth, social development, and sustainable AI use. Structured around three core pillars -- People, Planet, and Progress -- the event will feature focused discussions on employment and skilling, sustainable and energy-efficient AI, and broader economic and social progress. Seven thematic working groups, co-chaired by representatives from the Global North and Global South, will present concrete deliverables, including proposals for AI Commons, trusted AI tools, shared compute infrastructure, and sector-specific compendiums of AI use cases. Participants will explore AI's effects on professions and industries, emerging skill needs in the job market, startup engagement opportunities with investors and partners, and AI's role in supporting farmers, small businesses, and service providers. Sessions will cover AI safety, governance, ethical use, data protection, and India's approach to sovereign AI, including indigenous foundation models for strategic sectors. A major highlight is the AI Impact Expo, showcasing practical AI applications in healthcare, agriculture, education, climate action, energy efficiency, and accessibility -- demonstrations designed to illustrate how AI addresses real-world challenges and enhances service delivery. The Summit will also spotlight national skilling efforts, such as "Yuva AI for All", a free and accessible course to build basic AI awareness among students and professionals. (ANI) Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio while they both were attending the Munich Security Conference 2026. Official Spokesperson of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, Lin Jian posted on X about their meeting. He wrote, "Chinese FM Wang Yi met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference." "Both sides should jointly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and make 2026 a year in which China and the U.S. advance toward mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation," he wrote further. "As long as both sides uphold the principles of equality, respect and mutual benefit, China and the U.S. will be able to find ways to address each other's concerns and properly manage differences," he concluded. This meeting came on the heels of US President Donald Trump's recent announcement that he will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in April, with Xi expected to visit the United States later this year. While addressing reporters, Trump said, " I'll be visiting President Xi Jinping in April. He's coming here later in the year, and I look forward to it. Our relationship with China is very good right now." However, the US President did not mention the exact dates of the travel. In a recent interview with NBC News' Tom Llamas, Trump said that he would visit China in April. "I'm gonna be going there in April then he's coming here toward the end of the year," Trump said. When asked further on his China visit, the US President in the NBC News interview taped on February 4 said, "He's coming to the White House, toward the end of the year. We have a very good relationship. And, you know, it's important that I have a good relationship and for him, that he has a good relationship with me. We have to have a good -- these are the two most powerful countries in the world and we have a very good relationship." Incidentally, Trump and Xi had a 90-minute telephonic conversation on February 4. (ANI) The India AI Impact Summit being held at the Bharat Mandapam from February 16-20 puts India front and centre as a key player in Artificial Intelligence. It showcases India's role in global AI governance and demonstrates how India is prioritizing on deployment of AI and its measurable impact on citizens. The summit brings together global leaders, policymakers, technology companies, innovators, and experts to showcase and deliberate on the transformative potential of AI for inclusive growth, governance, and sustainable development. The AI Summit's deliberations are being organised through Chakras structured around interconnected thematic areas. --Human Capital: Advancing equitable skilling and inclusive workforce transitions for an AI-enabled future of work --Inclusion for Social Empowerment: Advancing AI systems that are inclusive by design, empowering diverse communities and ensuring equitable representation --Safe and Trusted AI: Building globally trusted AI systems anchored in transparency, accountability, and shared safeguards for innovation --Science: Harnessing AI to accelerate frontier science, foster scientific collaboration, and translate breakthroughs into shared global progress --Resilience, Innovation, and Efficiency: Driving sustainable, resource-efficient AI systems that strengthen climate resilience and sustainability --Democratizing AI Resources: Promoting equitable access to foundational AI resources for inclusive innovation and sustainable development worldwide --AI for Economic Development & Social Good: Leveraging AI to enhance productivity, innovation, and inclusive development across economies and societies. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a central pillar of India's development journey. It is strengthening governance, improving public service delivery, and enabling solutions that can reach citizens at scale. India is one of the fastest-growing Artificial Intelligence (AI) markets worldwide, projected to exceed USD 17 billion by 2027 according to a Boston Consulting Group report. It is backed by government support, around 800 million internet users, a strong STEM Education policy and scalable public digital infrastructure. AI creates value only when it reaches people at scale. India's approach focuses on practical deployment across sectors so that AI improves everyday life and public services. Just as the internet and mobile phones transformed society through widespread use, AI is now following the same path. By prioritising applications that are easy to use and widely accessible, India is ensuring that AI delivers inclusive and measurable public impact. In agriculture, AI supports farmers by predicting weather, identifying pest risks, and guiding irrigation and sowing decisions. AI has become a top priority on policy agendas worldwide, as it has the power to foster innovation, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to the growth of the country. Over the past several years, the Government of India has taken concrete steps to encourage the adoption of AI in a responsible manner and build public trust in its use, placing the idea of 'AI for All' at its very core. Favourable policies and continuous interventions strive to harness the potential of AI for social development and inclusive growth. At the AI Action Summit in Paris in 2025, PM Modi underlined the need to democratise technology. "AI can help transform millions of lives by improving health, education, agriculture and so much more. It can help create a world in which the journey to Sustainable Development Goals becomes easier and faster. To do this, we must pool together resources and talent. We must develop open-source systems that enhance trust and transparency. We must build quality data sets, free from biases. We must democratise technology and create people-centric applications," the Prime Minister had said. "We are at the dawn of the AI age that will shape the course of humanity. Some people worry about machines becoming superior in intelligence to humans. But, no one holds the key to our collective future and shared destiny other than us humans," he had further stated. India today leads the world in digital public infrastructure from identity systems to payment platforms. Its transformative experience has shown how institutional capacity in democratising technology can lead to soceital wins. India's approach to the democratisation of AI shows that scale, inclusion, and innovation can progress together. A focus on affordability and openness ensures that benefits of AI reach all citizens from farmers to students, startups, and public institutions. In March 2024, the Government of India launched IndiaAI mission with outlay of Rs 10,372 Cr for development of the overall AI ecosystem in the country. The IndiaAI Innovation Centre aims to develop India's own large multimodal models trained on Indian datasets and languages to ensure sovereign capability and global competitiveness in generative AI. Twelve organisations and consortia, including startups, industry players and academic institutions have been selected for developing Large and Small Language Models based on Indian datasets. The resulting AI models will contribute to the open-source ecosystem and be available for use by Government organizations and support innovation across India's startup and research community. From code to creativity, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rewriting the rules of growth, powering industries, transforming jobs, and propelling India into the future. AI is becoming a kinetic enabler for the growth of India's digital economy, investments, and jobs. According to a NASSCOM report published in August 2024, AI talent in India is expected to grow from 600,000-650,000 professionals to more than 1.25 million by 2027, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15 per cent. India's global AI readiness is backed by a unique combination of a young, digitally skilled population, robust digital public infrastructure, and a fast-growing startup ecosystem. These foundational strengths provide India with a durable strategic edge in developing, deploying, and governing AI at scale. India is in the first group of AI-ready nations, with systematic progress across all five layers of the AI architecture applications, models, chips, infrastructure, and energy. India is at the forefront of an AI-led transformation, where technology is driving productivity, innovation, and job creation. With robust digital infrastructure, a young workforce, and progressive policies, the nation is well-positioned to leverage AI for inclusive growth. This integrated approach of government ensures that AI enhances employability and bridges skill gaps across sectors. (ANI) Dinesh Patnaik, Indian High Commissioner to Canada on Friday expressed optimism as the negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement are underway and said that the negotiations would start by late February to early March. He made the remarks in an interview to Canada's Financial Post. Noting that the negotiations for the trade talks between India and Canada were launched at the sidelines of the G20 Meeting in Johannesburg, High Commissioner Patnaik said that the two countries are working on the terms of reference. "The deal would should be not difficult at all. Both the Prime Ministers at the G20 in Johannesburg decided to launch negotiations towards a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Now we have been talking about a free trade agreement since the last many years and which was kept on pause because of a certain reason between our two sides, and the pause had been lifted, so Prime Minister Carney's team has given notice to Parliament, which is a notice of 90 days. So the negotiation should now start at the end of February, beginning March. Now what we are working out are the terms of reference", he told the Financial Post. High Commissioner Patnaik highlighted the latest negotiations the two countries have signed and the change in several positions such as the rise of Indian economy and the signing of several trade agreements by Canada and India separately, which would now shape the trade talks. "I'm confident, given the intent on both sides, that we will be able to do it very soon", he said. When asked what the biggest component of the agreement would be, the High Commissioner listed defence, aerospace, mining and energy among the several areas where as large economies, the economic partnership between India and Canada would address all issues of all sectors to ensure streamlined working. "Lower tariffs, lesser documentation, lesser customs documentation, less sanitary, phytosanitary problems, less non-tariff barriers, more cooperation on financial instruments, on investment, on research, innovation, on AI, on mining, on energy, on defence, on aerospace, you name it. We have all the sectors that we want to address, and all the sectors we have enough capacity to be able to work together. What we are going to address is how do we make it easy for both sides to work together, easier ease of logistics, ease of communication, ease of moving things from one point to another, ease of investments in each other's countries, ease of trade where paperwork doesn't hold you up and that non-tariff barriers don't hold you up. That is the essence of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement. It's like having a marriage where you take out all the issues that create a problem and make it easier for both sides to work together", he said. The Ministry of External Affairs in an official brief noted how the trade and investment linkages between India and Canada form an integral component of the multi-faceted partnership between the two countries. India's exports to Canada in 2024 were worth CAD 8.02 billion and imports from Canada were CAD 5.30 billion. He added that while the comprehensive economic partnership will be at the centre, but will not be the centrepiece as the two countries have several other areas of focus and mentioned that India and Canada are looking to start a friendship society to connect both parliaments. "We are looking at starting the Canada India Friendship Society, both in the Canadian Parliament here as well as in the Indian Parliament. We want MPs to meet each other. We want civil society to meet each other. We want democratic institutions to meet with each other. We want all these things to happen between our two countries. They have been happening for a long time. Despite the blip of the last two years, our people-to-people relation did not suffer a bit. Trade went up. Financial institutions worked well, academic institutions worked well, universities, students, research, innovation, nothing stopped. This shows the strength of the relationship between both countries", High Commissioner Patnaik said. In his interview he said that the current status of the ties between New Delhi and Ottawa is doing extremely well despite the blip in the last two years and expressed confidence ahead of the visit of Canadian PM Mark Carney to India. He said that the two countries have shared values across areas and that minor irritants should not affect the ties. (ANI) President of the Republic of Slovakia Peter Pellegrini will be attending the AI Impact Summit 2026, to be held in New Delhi from 16 to 20 February 2026, informed Robert Maxian, Slovak's Ambassador to India. In a post on X, he wrote, "President Peter Pellegrini will be part of AI Impact Summit. He will meet PM @narendramodi and other global leaders. Historic engagement will give new momentum to SK-IN relations & strengthen our partnership in innovation&responsible AI." According to TASR news agency, Pellegrini will meet several world leaders during the summit. Quoting the President's office TASR reported that Pellegrini's itinerary will include a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the further strengthening of political and economic relations between the two countries, as well as the development of cooperation in innovation, industry and modern technology. He's also scheduled to meet Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. According to the communications department, the Slovakian President's participation represents a clear signal that Pellegrini considers technological sovereignty, the safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence and support for innovation to be strategic priorities. For Slovakia, it will also be an opportunity to support investments and promote its political visibility within the EU and in relation to India. Earlier, Emirates News Agency WAM reported that on behalf of the UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, will be leading the UAE delegation to the India AI Impact Summit, The Summit will bring together global leaders, policymakers, innovators, and experts from across the world to deliberate on the way forward for AI. At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leaders from 20 countries are scheduled to attend the AI Impact Summit. Bhutan, Bolivia, Brazil, Croatia, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Guyana, Kazakhstan, Liechtenstein, Mauritius, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Switzerland, Netherlands and UAE. In addition, Ministerial delegations from over 45 countries would be participating in the Summit. The UN Secretary General and Senior Officials from several International Organizations will also join the deliberations. India is set to host the India AI Impact Summit from February 16-20 at Bharat Mandapam, bringing together governments, industry leaders, researchers, startups, students, and citizens from across the world. The Summit serves as a pivotal global platform to develop a future-oriented agenda for inclusive, responsible, and impactful AI. It moves beyond high-level discussions to deliver tangible outcomes that drive economic growth, social development, and sustainable AI use. Structured around three core pillars -- People, Planet, and Progress -- the event will feature focused discussions on employment and skilling, sustainable and energy-efficient AI, and broader economic and social progress. Seven thematic working groups, co-chaired by representatives from the Global North and Global South, will present concrete deliverables, including proposals for AI Commons, trusted AI tools, shared compute infrastructure, and sector-specific compendiums of AI use cases. (ANI) The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Saturday (local time) acknowledged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulatory message following the party's sweeping victory in Bangladesh's parliamentary elections earlier this month. In a post on X, the BNP expressed appreciation for Modi's message and recognition of its leadership. "Thank you very much, Honourable @narendramodi. We greatly appreciate your kind acknowledgment of Mr. Tarique Rahman's leadership in securing the BNP's decisive win in the national elections. This outcome reflects the trust and confidence the people of Bangladesh have placed in our leadership and in the democratic process." The party further underscored its commitment to democratic governance and national development. "Bangladesh remains committed to upholding democratic values, inclusivity, and progressive development for all its citizens." Highlighting the importance of bilateral ties, the BNP signaled its intent to work closely with New Delhi in the coming years. "We look forward to engaging constructively with India to advance our multifaceted relationship, guided by mutual respect, sensitivity to each other's concerns, and a shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in our region." Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had extended his warm wishes to Tarique Rahman following the BNP's electoral triumph, which marked a significant political shift in Bangladesh's leadership landscape. In his message posted on X, Modi congratulated Rahman on steering the party to a decisive mandate. "I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership. India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals. @trahmanbnp @bdbnp78" The 2026 Bangladeshi general election, held on 12 February 2026, marked a major political shift. It was the first election after the 2024 mass protests that ousted long-time leader Sheikh Hasina. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, won a landslide majority in the 300-seat parliament, securing well over the 151 seats needed to form government and positioning Rahman as prime minister-designate. The Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami alliance emerged as the main opposition. Voter turnout was around 59%, and a constitutional referendum on governance reforms passed. Results triggered reactions across Bangladesh's political spectrum and internationally amid hopes for democratic renewal. (ANI) The 13th edition of the India - Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR is currently underway at Missamari in Assam, strengthening defence cooperation, interoperability and tactical synergy between the elite forces of both nations. The exercise commenced on 4 February 2026 and is scheduled to conclude on 17 February 2026 as per the Indian Army. Exercise KHANJAR is an annual bilateral military engagement conducted alternately between India and Kyrgyzstan since its inception in 2011. It brings together specialised contingents from both countries to train collectively in counter-terrorism operations and special forces tactics under a United Nations mandate framework. As per the Indian Army, the ongoing drills encompass simulated scenarios in urban and rugged terrain, promoting tactical coordination and mutual understanding between the participating forces. The rigorous training modules aim to improve responsiveness across multiple operational environments and enhance joint operational readiness. This edition reaffirms the shared commitment of India and Kyrgyzstan to address evolving security challenges, notably international terrorism and extremism, while strengthening mutual trust, defence ties and regional stability. The exercise further contributes to deepening the long-standing strategic partnership and defence collaboration between the two nations. Since its initiation, Exercise KHANJAR has evolved into a cornerstone of India - Kyrgyzstan defence cooperation, symbolising mutual commitment to peace, security and professional camaraderie between the Indian Armed Forces and Kyrgyz military forces. The alternating venues between India and Kyrgyzstan reflect the unique dimension of the thriving strategic relationship. India and Kyrgyzstan have warm and friendly ties. They are also strategic partners. In recent times, India-Kyrgyz relations have expanded in several areas of bilateral engagement, including defence, security, trade and investment. Both countries also share common concerns on threat of terrorism, extremism and drug-trafficking, the Ministry of External Affairs noted in a statement. Important facets of bilateral defence cooperation between India and the Kyrgyz Republic include training Kyrgyz personnel in Indian defence establishments, joint exercises, conduct of exchange programmes and joint research at the Kyrgyz-India Mountain Bio Medical Research Centre (KIMBMRC), Bishkek, MEA further noted. (ANI) Tensions flared at Abbottabad University of Science and Technology after the fatal shooting of a student leader forced authorities to abruptly halt examinations. The suspension came amid mounting anger over what many demonstrators described as administrative paralysis and a flawed security response, as reported by The Express Tribune. According to The Express Tribune, invigilators had already handed out question papers in several rooms when an announcement ordered the exams to be cancelled. Staff moved swiftly to gather the papers back, while anxiety spread among students aware that protests were swelling at the main entrance. The university soon declared an indefinite closure as crowds intensified their chants against police and campus officials. Protesters argued that the killing of Abdullah Khan, a figure associated with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf had shattered any sense of safety within the institution. Witnesses said the young man was shot during a clash between rival groups, leaving two others wounded. By the time people grasped what had happened, the attackers had reportedly fled. The grief quickly turned into fury, with classmates, townspeople and members of the bereaved family occupying the gate and refusing to disperse. Local political figures joined the gathering, including the Havelian tehsil chairman, who accused law-enforcement agencies of acting with what he called visible bias. Standing beside the registrar, he warned that if key suspects, whom protesters claim include relatives of an influential lawmaker, were not detained within 24 hours, major arteries such as the Karakoram Highway and Hazara Motorway would be blocked, as cited by The Express Tribune. University representatives attempted to calm the situation, promising cooperation and support for legal proceedings. Yet many students remained unconvinced, arguing that assurances have followed previous episodes of campus violence without delivering accountability, as reported by The Express Tribune. (ANI) On February 14, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with President of the Republic of Bulgaria Iliana Iotova in Munich, AzerNEWS reports. President Iliana Iotova noted that she had participated in the Forum on Intercultural Dialogue held in Azerbaijan and had become closely acquainted with the countrys culture, emphasizing that the traditions of Novruz and the art of mugham had left a deep impression on her. Iliana Iotova also recalled the support provided by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation for the restoration of the Trapezitsa Architectural Museum-Reserve in Bulgaria and expressed her gratitude for this assistance. She thanked President Ilham Aliyev for the teaching of the Bulgarian language at higher education institutions in Azerbaijan and for the attention shown to Bulgarian culture. During the meeting, the sides expressed satisfaction with the signing, a few days earlier, of the Agreement on Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Government of the Republic of Bulgaria, and the Municipality of Veliko Tarnovo on the establishment and reconstruction of the Shusha Park in the city of Veliko Tarnovo. The parties discussed cooperation in the fields of energy, electricity exports, agriculture, tourism, and other areas, as well as collaboration within international organizations. Bulgarias support for the development of AzerbaijanEuropean Union relations was highly appreciated. It was also noted that Azerbaijan will host the World Urban Forum in May this year, and that Bulgaria will be represented at a high level at the event. Ukrainian officials have reaffirmed their support for the Iranian people following Volodymyr Zelenskyy's meeting in Munich with exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, underscoring shared concerns about authoritarian regimes and regional security threats. The meeting, held on the sidelines of Munich Security Conference 2026 in the German city, focused on the political situation in Iran, the needs of the Iranian people, and the broader implications of cooperation between Tehran and Moscow. According to a statement released after the talks, Ukraine emphasized its solidarity with citizens of Iran who are advocating for democratic change and greater freedoms. "I met with exiled Crown Prince of Iran @PahlaviReza in Munich. Ukraine supports the Iranian people as they are fighting for their future; we also express our sympathy to all the victims of the Iranian regime," the statement read. During their conversation, the two sides examined areas where the Iranian people require international backing. Particular attention was given to the importance of coordinated global pressure on Tehran. "During our conversation, we focused on the situation in Iran and the areas where the Iranian people need support. We discussed the importance of strengthening sanctions against the Iranian regime and any other dictatorial regimes," the statement continued. A central theme of the meeting was the growing military cooperation between Russia and Iran. Kyiv has repeatedly accused Tehran of supplying unmanned aerial vehicles -- commonly known as "shaheds" -- to Moscow for use in its war against Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities say these drones have been deployed in attacks on civilian infrastructure, contributing to casualties and widespread damage. "We condemned the cooperation between Russia and Iran, in particular the supply of 'shaheds' by the Iranian regime to Russia and the granting of licenses for their production. Such a partnership poses a real threat not only to Ukraine but to the entire region," the statement said. Ukraine has argued that Iran's involvement in supporting Russia's military campaign extends the conflict's impact beyond Eastern Europe and raises broader security concerns. Officials maintain that closer coordination among democratic nations is necessary to counteract such alliances. The meeting concluded with expressions of mutual support. "I thank the Crown Prince of Iran for supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity. It is vital to make every effort to protect human lives. Ukraine is ready to help on its part," the statement added. Reza Pahlavi, who has lived in exile for decades following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, has been an outspoken critic of the current Iranian government and has voiced support for democratic movements inside the country. The Munich talks signal Kyiv's intent to build bridges with opposition figures abroad while reinforcing its stance against regimes it views as complicit in aggression. As the war in Ukraine continues and unrest periodically surfaces in Iran, the meeting highlights the increasingly interconnected nature of geopolitical struggles and the alliances forming in response. (ANI) In his first remarks after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party's (BNP) decisive victory in the parliamentary elections, BNP chief Tarique Rahman called for national cohesion, framing the outcome as a renewed mandate for democratic values. Addressing the nation following the announcement of results, Rahman appealed for reconciliation across political divides. "Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united," he said, underscoring the need for collective purpose. Emphasising the broader significance of unity, he added, "I firmly believe that national unity is a collective strength, while division is a weakness," linking his message directly to the responsibilities facing the country after the polls. His appeal came as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party registered a sweeping performance in elections held on Thursday, the first national vote since the violent 2024 uprising that led to the removal of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Reflecting the scale of the mandate, figures released by the Election Commission showed the BNP-led alliance securing 212 seats, while the Jamaat-e-Islami-led bloc won 77. Hasina's Bangladesh Awami League was barred from taking part in the elections. Against this backdrop, Rahman opened his speech by thanking supporters and describing the verdict as an endorsement of democratic aspirations. "Freedom loving pro-democracy people of the country have once again brought victory to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party," he said. He further stated, "This victory belongs to Bangladesh, belongs to democracy, this victory belongs to people who aspired to and have sacrificed for democracy," connecting the electoral outcome with what he characterised as a collective struggle for democratic restoration. Even as he welcomed the results, Rahman cautioned that the incoming administration would face serious challenges. "We have paved the way for the establishment of democracy in the country," he said. Highlighting the difficulties ahead, he added, "We are about to begin our journey in a situation marked by a fragile economy left behind by an authoritarian regime, weakening constitutional and structural institutions and destroying law and order." The outcome represents a notable political resurgence for the 60-year-old leader, who returned to Bangladesh in December after 17 years in exile in Britain and re-entered national politics at a critical juncture. Rahman is the son of former president Ziaur Rahman, who was assassinated in 1981, and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, a three-time officeholder and longstanding figure in Bangladesh's political landscape. (ANI) Following a landslide victory in the 13th National Parliamentary Elections, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) held a press conference post-elections and its chief, Tarique Rahman, on Saturday, emphasised that Bangladesh's foreign policy will prioritise the nation's interests, stating "people come first," including in relations with India. Speaking at a post-election press conference at the ballroom of Hotel Intercontinental in the capital, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman stressed that Bangladesh's foreign policy prioritises national interest and people's welfare "We have cleared ourselves regarding the foreign policy which is in the interest of Bangladesh, and the interest of the Bangladeshi people comes first. By protecting the interest of Bangladesh and the Bangladeshi people, we will decide our foreign policy," Rahman said in response to a question on the party's diplomatic priorities. Rahman's "Bangladesh First" policy aims to balance ties with regional powers such as India, China, and Pakistan while addressing domestic challenges, including economic pressures and governance. Journalists from various countries attended the press conference, where one question focused on how the BNP government would approach international relations following its electoral victory. Elaborating on the party's diplomatic framework, senior BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said the party adheres to multilateralism and does not pursue a country-centric approach. "Bangladesh Nationalist Party follows the principle of multilateralism. We don't have any country-centric policy as such. Our policy applies worldwide, grounded in mutual respect, mutual interest, non-interference, and strategic autonomy. For Bangladesh, these are the fundamentals of Bangladesh's foreign policy, and it applies to all countries around the world," he said. The BNP leadership indicated that safeguarding sovereignty, ensuring strategic autonomy, and promoting mutual respect in international partnerships would shape Bangladesh's foreign relations under its tenure. Meanwhile, India has expressed willingness to strengthen ties with the BNP-led government, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulating Rahman on his victory and affirming India's support for a democratic Bangladesh. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote: "I convey my warm congratulations to Mr Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership." He added, "I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals." PM Modi also spoke with Rahman and reaffirmed India's commitment to close bilateral ties. In a post on X, PM said, "Delighted to speak with Mr. Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections." He added, "I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh." The BNP, in turn, thanked India for recognising the electoral verdict and expressed hope that relations would strengthen under the new government. Tarique Rahman's return to Bangladesh marks a significant shift in Dhaka's politics. After 17 years in exile, the 60-year-old leader is poised to become the next prime minister, following his BNP party's landslide victory. His leadership is expected to recalibrate India-Bangladesh relations, which had grown close under Sheikh Hasina's tenure but saw strains after her ouster. Rahman has signalled a pragmatic approach, emphasising "mutual respect and understanding" in ties with India. Key issues expected to shape bilateral relations include border security, concerns about alleged illegal migration and insurgent groups operating from Bangladeshi territory; water-sharing, transboundary rivers like Teesta and Padma; minority safety, protection of Hindus and other minorities, particularly after recent attacks and economic cooperation, potential for increased trade and investment. In his first remarks after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party's (BNP) decisive victory in the parliamentary elections, BNP chief Tarique Rahman called for national cohesion, framing the outcome as a renewed mandate for democratic values. Addressing the nation following the announcement of results, Rahman appealed for reconciliation across political divides. "Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united," he said, underscoring the need for collective purpose. Emphasising the broader significance of unity, he added, "I firmly believe that national unity is a collective strength, while division is a weakness," linking his message directly to the responsibilities facing the country after the polls. His appeal came as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party registered a sweeping performance in elections held on Thursday, the first national vote since the violent 2024 uprising that led to the removal of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Reflecting the scale of the mandate, figures released by the Election Commission showed the BNP-led alliance securing 212 seats, while the Jamaat-e-Islami-led bloc won 77. Hasina's Bangladesh Awami League was barred from taking part in the elections. Against this backdrop, Rahman opened his speech by thanking supporters and describing the verdict as an endorsement of democratic aspirations. "Freedom-loving pro-democracy people of the country have once again brought victory to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party," he said. He further stated, "This victory belongs to Bangladesh, belongs to democracy, this victory belongs to people who aspired to and have sacrificed for democracy," connecting the electoral outcome with what he characterised as a collective struggle for democratic restoration. The outcome represents a notable political resurgence for the 60-year-old leader, who returned to Bangladesh in December after 17 years in exile in Britain and re-entered national politics at a critical juncture. Rahman is the son of former president Ziaur Rahman, who was assassinated in 1981, and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, a three-time officeholder and longstanding figure in Bangladesh's political landscape. (ANI) The Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Upendra Dwivedi, is set to embark on an official visit to Australia from 16 to 19 February 2026. The visit aims to further strengthen India-Australia defence cooperation and reinforce the growing convergence between the two nations. As part of his visit, the COAS will hold wide-ranging discussions with senior leadership of the Australian Defence Forces to enhance army-to-army engagements, including training, joint exercises, professional exchanges, and capacity building, according to a release. In Sydney, the COAS will engage with the senior hierarchy of Forces Command (FORCOMD), Special Operations Command (SOCOMD) and 2nd Division. It is noteworthy that the troops of the 2nd Division participate in the bilateral Army Exercise AUSTRAHIND, the next edition of which is scheduled to take place in India in 2026. Upon arrival in Canberra, the day will begin with a ceremonial welcome and a Guard of Honour, followed by a meeting with Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, Chief of the Australian Army. The Chief of the Australian Army and General Upendra Dwivedi are alumni of the US Army War College Class of 2015 and share a strong professional bond. The meeting will be followed by a comprehensive roundtable discussion at the Australian Defence Forces Headquarters on defence cooperation, modernisation, and future operations. The COAS will also interact with the Commander of the Australian Defence College and address the officers at the Australian Command and Staff College, according to the release. In a series of high-level meetings, the COAS will call-on Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and the Secretary of the Department of Defence. Furthermore, he will visit Headquarters Joint Operations Command (HQJOC), where he will meet the Commander Joint Operations and will be briefed on operational dynamics of the Australian Defence Forces, including integrated and multi-domain operations. The COAS will lay a wreath at the Australian War Memorial to pay homage to the fallen soldiers and honour the shared legacy of sacrifice and service. He will also meet the Indian Defence Veterans residing in Australia, underscoring the enduring bond between the Indian Armed Forces and its veterans. The visit reaffirms the shared commitment of both nations to further enhance defence cooperation and to jointly contribute to peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region. (ANI) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday reaffirmed America's commitment to strengthening the transatlantic alliance, declaring that the United States "will always be a child of Europe" and that the two sides "belong together" during his keynote speech at the Munich Security Conference. Reflecting on the broader geopolitical context, Rubio observed that the "euphoria" following the West's Cold War victory had bred a false sense of lasting triumph, now jeopardising the very institutions that defeated the Nazi regime and the Soviet Union. Emphasising shared values, he underscored the profound foundations linking the United States and Europe, stating, "We are bound to one another by the deepest bonds that nations could share, forged by centuries of shared history, Christian faith, culture, heritage, language, ancestry and the sacrifices our forefathers made together." While calling for unity, Rubio criticised aspects of globalisation, including open borders, unfettered free trade, "deindustrialisation", and mass migration. He also voiced opposition to carbon emission reduction measures and defended unilateral US military interventions in Latin America and the Middle East. On the United Nations, he said, "On the most pressing matters before us, [the U.N.] has no answers and has played virtually no role." Rubio's address stood in contrast to Vice President JD Vance's more confrontational remarks at the same event a year earlier. Moderator Wolfgang Ischinger welcomed the speech as a "sigh of relief", conveying "reassurance" and "partnership." European leaders attending the conference, however, stressed the necessity for greater autonomy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen asserted, "In today's fractured world, Europe must become more independent -- there is no other choice." Echoing concerns over Europe's position, French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking the previous evening, rejected negative characterisations of Europe, saying it had been "unjustly vilified." He urged, "Everyone should take their cue from us, instead of criticising us or trying to divide us," and advocated "derisking vis-a-vis all the big powers" in defence, the economy, and technology. He further stated, "Europe is rearming, but we must now go beyond," and "Europe has to learn to become a geopolitical power." German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in his opening comments on Friday, remarked, "The culture wars of MAGA in the U.S. are not ours." He cautioned that American global leadership was under pressure amid intensifying great power competition, including from China, and declared, "Even the United States will not be powerful enough to go it alone." He added, "Dear friends, being a part of NATO is not only Europe's competitive advantage. It is also the United States' competitive advantage." (ANI) BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday called for calm across the country, asserting that peace and the rule of law must be upheld at any cost in post-election Bangladesh. In his victory speech, Rahman said the time had come to rebuild the nation and urged party leaders, activists, and citizens to act responsibly. "Now it is time to build the nation. In this journey of rebuilding the country, each of us must play a responsible role. We have celebrated this victory of democracy and human rights peacefully and with dignity," he said. Emphasising the need to prevent unrest, Rahman said he had directed BNP and allied party leaders and activists not to organise victory processions despite the landslide win. "To ensure that no unpleasant incidents occur anywhere in post-election Bangladesh, despite many provocations, I call upon all BNP leaders and activists across the country to remain calm and vigilant, so that no malicious force can exploit the situation to create unrest. Even after achieving a landslide victory, I instructed BNP and allied party leaders and activists not to hold victory processions," he said. Stressing zero tolerance for violence or unlawful acts, Rahman said," Peace and order must be maintained at any cost. No wrongdoing or unlawful activity will be tolerated. Regardless of party, religion, race, or differing opinions, under no circumstances will attacks by the strong against the weak be accepted." Highlighting the centrality of justice and accountability, the BNP leader underscored the importance of equal application of the law. "Justice will be our guiding principle. If the rule of law is not established, all our efforts will be in vain. In upholding the rule of law, whether in government or opposition, regardless of differing views, the law must be equal for every citizen of Bangladesh," he said. Rahman also urged party workers and supporters to avoid turning electoral rivalries into personal vendettas. "During the election, while competing against one another, misunderstandings or discord may have arisen in some places. I urge everyone to ensure that such disputes do not turn into revenge or retaliation", he said. Calling upon democracy-loving citizens to contribute to nation-building, Rahman appealed for collective efforts to combat corruption, maintain law and order, and ensure accountability. "On the journey toward building a safe, humane, and democratic Bangladesh, I seek the cooperation of all, regardless of party or opinion," he said, concluding his speech. In his first remarks after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party's (BNP) decisive victory in the parliamentary elections, BNP chief Tarique Rahman called for national cohesion, framing the outcome as a renewed mandate for democratic values. Addressing the nation following the announcement of results, Rahman appealed for reconciliation across political divides. "Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united," he said, underscoring the need for collective purpose. Emphasising the broader significance of unity, he added, "I firmly believe that national unity is a collective strength, while division is a weakness," linking his message directly to the responsibilities facing the country after the polls. His appeal came as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party registered a sweeping performance in elections held on Thursday, the first national vote since the violent 2024 uprising that led to the removal of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Reflecting the scale of the mandate, figures released by the Election Commission showed the BNP-led alliance securing 212 seats, while the Jamaat-e-Islami-led bloc won 77. Hasina's Bangladesh Awami League was barred from taking part in the elections. Against this backdrop, Rahman opened his speech by thanking supporters and describing the verdict as an endorsement of democratic aspirations. "Freedom-loving pro-democracy people of the country have once again brought victory to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party," he said. He further stated, "This victory belongs to Bangladesh, belongs to democracy, this victory belongs to people who aspired to and have sacrificed for democracy," connecting the electoral outcome with what he characterised as a collective struggle for democratic restoration. The outcome represents a notable political resurgence for the 60-year-old leader, who returned to Bangladesh in December after 17 years in exile in Britain and re-entered national politics at a critical juncture. Rahman is the son of former president Ziaur Rahman, who was assassinated in 1981, and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, a three-time officeholder and longstanding figure in Bangladesh's political landscape. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday met with G7 Foreign Ministers and their global counterparts at the Munich Security Conference 2026, reiterating India's support for the UN80 agenda and underscoring New Delhi's role in safeguarding global security. The UN@80 agenda focuses on transforming the organisation to be more "agile, integrated, and equipped" for modern challenges. Key pillars include structural/financial overhauls, strengthening multilateralism, advancing the SDGs, and addressing AI governance and climate change. The initiative emphasises "Better Together" to enhance efficiency, with 90+ actions focusing on mandate implementation and program realignment. In a post on X, Jaishankar said, "Pleased to engage with G7 Foreign Ministers today at @MunSecConf. Reiterated India's support of the UN@80 agenda, particularly meaningful reform of the UN Security Council." https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2022640228389781696 He added, "Emphasised our role in safeguarding sea lines of communication, serving as a first responder, strengthening port security, and contributing to resilient submarine cable infrastructure." He also emphasised India's role in safeguarding the sea lines of communication, acting as a first responder in crises, strengthening port security, and contributing to resilient submarine cable infrastructure. "Our conversation brought out the many convergences and shared interests between India and the G7", he said further. Jaishankar began his Munich Security Conference 2026 engagements with a roundtable hosted by the Ananta Aspen Centre titled 'Delhi Decides: Mapping India's Policy Calculus'. In an X post, Jaishankar said, "Started my @MunSecConf 2026 engagements with @AnantaAspen's Roundtable 'Delhi Decides: Mapping India's Policy Calculus.' Highlighted the importance of a nimble and dynamic foreign policy to meet the demands of multipolarity.Noted the significance of the India-EU FTA and the India-US trade deal in that regard." https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2022642226010947618 He highlighted the importance of a nimble, dynamic foreign policy to address the demands of an increasingly multipolar world, noting the significance of the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement and the India-US trade deal. On the sidelines of the conference, Jaishankar met with Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, and French Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Nol Barrot, describing his interaction with the latter as a "great catch-up" at the start of the conference. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2022649989303013570 https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2022649221728604423 https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2022643082819440951 According to the MSC official website, the 62nd Munich Security Conference will be held from February 13 to 15, 2026, at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof and the Rosewood Munich. Led by MSC Chairman Wolfgang Ischinger, the conference brings together hundreds of decision-makers and opinion leaders from around the world to deliberate on pressing security challenges. Nearly 50 Heads of State and Government have confirmed participation at MSC 2026, including leaders from most European countries and a large delegation from the German Federal Government led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz. According to the MSC website, discussions this year are taking place against the backdrop of mounting instability, questions over longstanding alliances, and an erosion of the rules-based international order. Key topics include European security and defence, the future of the transatlantic relationship, revitalisation of multilateralism, competing visions of global order, regional conflicts, and the security implications of technological advances. The conference continues to operate under the "Munich Rule," which encourages constructive engagement and dialogue on global security issues. According to the UN official website, in March 2025, the Secretary-General launched the UN80 Initiative to transform how the UN works - identifying efficiencies, reviewing how mandates are implemented, and examining potential structural changes and programme realignment within the United Nations system. The UN80 initiative is the United Nations' ambitious, system-wide reform effort, launched by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in March 2025 as the UN marked its 80th anniversary. UN80 builds on previous reforms, including the UN development system repositioning, peace and security reform, management reform, and UN 2.0, but takes them further. It aims to make the United Nations more responsive and resilient; better equipped to serve the people whose lives depend on it; more accountable to taxpayers who underwrite its work; and more supportive of staff in their critical roles. It's about doing more, more effectively, and with fewer bureaucratic burdens, ensuring the UN system is better aligned to meet rising global needs with unity, agility, and purpose. UN80 is a system-wide initiative. While the UN Secretariat represents roughly one quarter of total UN system resources, the majority of delivery is handled by funds, programmes, and specialised agencies. The initiative therefore proposes changes that affect the entire UN system, from mandate creation to delivery and review. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said that the India Europe Middle East Corridor (IMEC) was progressing but not at the pace that was initially expected due to the conflict in West Asia. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference 2026, Jaishankar in response to a question on the progress of the project, which noted that US President Donald Trump had expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, said that the answer was "kind of yes," though at a slower pace than initially anticipated. He attributed the delay to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which shifted regional and international attention toward immediate security concerns. "It's understandable because there was a big conflict going on in the Middle East and everybody's attention was on that conflict," Jaishankar said. The External Affairs minister underscored sustained interest in the corridor from both India and Europe. He pointed to conversations with governments, leaders, and businesses from Mediterranean countries as well as Germany and France, describing "a big European interest" matched by "a big Indian interest." Further he framed the project as a revival of historic trade linkages between India and Europe. "There's a big European interest in the IMEC, there's a big Indian interest in the IMEC. We are the two ends of it. remember this is the historical trade route of hundreds if not thousands of years so we are trying..."Jaishankar said. He alluded to German Chancellor Freidrich Merz remarks at the Munich Security Conference "coming back from a vacation from history" to explain the importance of IMEC at a time when global politics becomes more competitive, countries are rediscovering the importance of old trade geographies -- and reinventing them for the 21st century. "You know yesterday I think Chancellor Merz used this 'coming back from a vacation from history' I think when you come back from the vacation you'll discover IMEC is also part of history which you need to reinvent," Jaishankar said Suggesting that Europe is now re-entering a phase of strategic competition and geopolitical realism - shaped by war in Ukraine and intensifying global rivalries, Jaishankar argued that IMEC too is "part of history which you need to reinvent." The phrase "vacation from history" is often used to describe Europe's post-Cold War period -- a time when many European states assumed major geopolitical conflict and power competition were largely over. Jaishankar was in conversation with his German counterpart Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul in a discussion on the topic: "Navigating Uncertainty: India and Germany in a World in Disarray." Responding to a question by a audience member who asked how the IMEC would contribute to regional stability in a manner consistent with international law and the two-state solution, Jaishankar clarified that the proposed corridor is primarily an economic and connectivity project and should not be viewed as a mechanism to resolve the Israel-Palestinian issue. The External Affairs Minister reiterated that India maintains a longstanding and well-known position on Palestine and cautioned against conflating political disputes with economic initiatives. "When we embarked with a set of partners on the IMEC, the purpose is really to address connectivity and logistics issues and improve the economy," he said. "I would be careful mixing up the two issues. The purpose of IMEC is not to solve the Palestinian issue." He stressed that while both regional stability and Palestinian rights are important matters, the economic corridor was not designed as a substitute for political negotiations. "Each of those issues is important, but I would not take one as the solution for the other," he added. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), unveiled in 2013, comprises of an Eastern Corridor connecting India to the Gulf region and a Northern Corridor connecting the Gulf region to Europe. It will include a railway and ship-rail transit network and road transport routes. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri while addressing a special Briefing on the State visit to India of the President of EU Council Antonio Costa and the President of EU Commission to Ursula von der Leyen in January touched up on the consensus in the Inida-EU FTA on the fact that the IMEC initiative is one that should be taken forward. Stating that "Connectivity is a very important thread in the agenda between India and the EU," Misri said that IMEC "was on the agenda, and there was consensus on the fact that the IMEC initiative is one that should be taken forward." "And we should now graduate from the working-level meetings that have taken place to higher-level meetings, culminating in a summit of the IMEC member countries. So between Europe and India, we are united on this, and we will take this forward with the other collaborators within IMEC," Misri had said in the special briefing. The IMEC was proposed during the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi. Along with India and the United States, Saudi Arabia, the European Union, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, and Italy signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the project. (ANI) This improvement marks a climb of 10 spots, reflecting enhanced global mobility for Indian citizens, who can now access 56 countries visa-free or with a visa-on-arrival. Gulf News highlighted that Indian passport holders gained one additional destination in February compared to January's total of 55, with The Gambia being added back to the list. The January dip to 55 destinations resulted from policy changes in Iran and Bolivia, which removed them from India's visa-free or visa-on-arrival categories. Iran suspended visa-free entry for Indians in November 2025 amid concerns over fraud and trafficking, requiring prior approval instead. Bolivia shifted to an e-visa system requiring online pre-approval. Despite a slight reduction from 2025's total of 57 accessible countries, India's ranking improved because the Henley Passport Index compares passports relative to one another, and other nations saw steeper declines in their access scores. The index assesses nearly 200 passports against 227 destinations, awarding points only for true visa-free travel, visa-on-arrival, visitor permits, or basic eTAs, while pre-approved visas or full e-visas score zero. Singapore leads the 2026 rankings with access to 192 countries, followed by Japan and South Korea at 187, Sweden and the UAE at 186, and several European nations in the 185-184 range. The United States stands at 10th with 179 destinations. Gulf News noted that India's current position represents steady progress, building on its historical peak of 71st in 2006 and demonstrating incremental gains in travel freedom amid evolving international visa policies. This positive development underscores India's growing diplomatic and economic influence, creating greater opportunities for tourism, business, and cultural exchange for its citizens. (ANI) Tariq Rahman will take the oath as Prime Minister of Bangladesh on Monday. South Asian leaders have been invited to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Tariq Rahman and his cabinet. "As the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Tariq Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), will take the oath on Monday alongside his cabinet. South Asian leaders have been invited to the ceremony, and several invitations have already been sent. However, due to weekend holidays in those countries, it may take some time, and the attendance of the leaders, especially the Prime Ministers, will depend on their availability at that time," a reliable source told ANI on Saturday night. The new Prime Minister and the other members of his cabinet usually take the oath in the Durbar Hall of Bangladesh's Presidential Palace, Bangabhaban. However, this time, the oath ceremony will be held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhavan. A senior official of the Bangladesh government told ANI that, because many more guests have been invited to the ceremony, the Durbar Hall could not accommodate the large number, so the ceremony is being held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhavan. "Invitations have been sent to the Prime Ministers of the South Asian countries, but they will confirm by Sunday who will actually attend. They mentioned that they will inform us of their schedules and whether the Prime Minister can come on Monday. However, each country will send a representative at some level, and if a Prime Minister cannot attend, the Foreign Minister will definitely come -- this was indicated," the source added. Meanwhile, party sources indicate that Tarique Rahman has begun forming his cabinet. However, this cabinet will be very small initially. It may expand later, but at the outset, it will not be large. Therefore, the cabinet taking the oath on Monday is expected to be small. (ANI) Armenias Security Council Secretary Armen Grigoryan has met with representatives of Azerbaijani civil society visiting the country under the framework of the Peace Bridge initiative, AzerNEWS reports, citing Armenian media outlets. Armenias Security Council stated that Grigoryan welcomed the visit of the Azerbaijani civil society delegation and emphasized the importance of dialogue in this format. Bilateral contacts, he noted, play a significant role in strengthening mutual trust and fostering good-neighborly relations between the two countries. The sides discussed the ongoing peace process, the economic opportunities that could arise from the unblocking of regional transport routes, as well as the current dynamics of ArmeniaAzerbaijan relations. The meeting marks another step in broader efforts to sustain dialogue at various levels, as both countries continue negotiations aimed at stabilizing relations and opening new avenues for regional cooperation. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday met with G7 Foreign Ministers at the Munich Security Conference 2026, reiterating India's support for the UN80 agenda and underscoring New Delhi's role in safeguarding global security. On the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Jaishankar held a series of bilateral meetings with counterparts, discussing economic cooperation, defence ties, and regional security challenges. In a post on X, Jaishankar said, "Pleased to engage with G7 Foreign Ministers today at @MunSecConf. Reiterated India's support of the UN@80 agenda, particularly meaningful reform of the UN Security Council." He also emphasised India's role in safeguarding the sea lines of communication, acting as a first responder in crises, strengthening port security, and contributing to resilient submarine cable infrastructure. "Emphasised our role in safeguarding sea lines of communication, serving as a first responder, strengthening port security, and contributing to resilient submarine cable infrastructure. Our conversation brought out the many convergences and shared interests between India and the G7", the post read. In a post on X, Jaishankar said he was "glad to meet" Petr Macinka, the new Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the Czech Republic. He said the two leaders discussed strengthening economic and defence cooperation and expressed hope of welcoming him to India soon. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2022709710663954792 Jaishankar also met German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, describing the interaction as a "productive bilateral meeting." He said both sides assessed progress across various domains of cooperation and exchanged views on regional hotspots. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2022709281334992975 In another engagement, Jaishankar met Canada's Foreign Minister Anita Anand. "Was great to sit down and catch up," he said, adding in a separate post that India-Canada ties continue their steady progress. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2022706406282203443 The External Affairs Minister also met French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot at the conference, calling it a "great catch-up" as MSC 2026 commenced. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2022643082819440951 Among other key meetings, Jaishankar spoke with the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas; Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Toshimitsu Motegi; Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlic-Radman; and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He also met Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper. The UN@80 agenda focuses on transforming the organisation to be more "agile, integrated, and equipped" for modern challenges. Key pillars include structural/financial overhauls, strengthening multilateralism, advancing the SDGs, and addressing AI governance and climate change. The initiative emphasises "Better Together" to enhance efficiency, with 90+ actions focusing on mandate implementation and program realignment. Jaishankar began his Munich Security Conference 2026 engagements with a roundtable hosted by the Ananta Aspen Centre titled 'Delhi Decides: Mapping India's Policy Calculus'. In an X post, Jaishankar said, "Started my @MunSecConf 2026 engagements with @AnantaAspen's Roundtable 'Delhi Decides: Mapping India's Policy Calculus.' Highlighted the importance of a nimble and dynamic foreign policy to meet the demands of multipolarity.Noted the significance of the India-EU FTA and the India-US trade deal in that regard." He highlighted the importance of a nimble, dynamic foreign policy to address the demands of an increasingly multipolar world, noting the significance of the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement and the India-US trade deal. According to the MSC official website, the 62nd Munich Security Conference will be held from February 13 to 15, 2026, at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof and the Rosewood Munich. Led by MSC Chairman Wolfgang Ischinger, the conference brings together hundreds of decision-makers and opinion leaders from around the world to deliberate on pressing security challenges. Nearly 50 Heads of State and Government have confirmed participation at MSC 2026, including leaders from most European countries and a large delegation from the German Federal Government led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz. (ANI) French President Emmanuel Macron will arrive in Mumbai, Maharashtra, on February 16 during his upcoming visit, where he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 17, the External Affairs Ministry said. Following their meeting, PM Modi and the French President will travel to New Delhi to attend the AI Impact Summit 2026. According to the MEA, in Mumbai, the two leaders will exchange MOUs followed by a press statement. The Hotel Taj Mahal Palace will host an India-France Innovation Forum, followed by the India-France Year of Innovation and Cultural Commemoration at the Gateway of India. Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Madame Brigitte Macron will visit Mumbai and Delhi during their visit to India from February 16-19, the ministry said. The Year of Innovation 2026 initiative will be celebrated throughout the year in both countries and aims to deepen collaboration in innovation, technology, research, and people-to-people exchanges. This will mark French President Macron's fourth visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, signalling sustained momentum in the India-France strategic partnership, with a particular focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) cooperation and emerging technologies. In a post on X on Friday, the French Embassy in India said that President Macron will visit India for bilateral engagements and attend the AI Impact Summit, marking another significant chapter in the expanding ties between New Delhi and Paris. Macron's upcoming visit comes against the backdrop of a steadily deepening partnership between India and France across defence, space, civil nuclear energy, climate action, education and people-to-people exchanges. According to the French Embassy in India, President Macron's first visit to India in 2018 marked a new chapter in France-India relations. Meanwhile, the upcoming India-AI Impact Summit, the first-ever global AI Summit to be hosted in the Global South, from February 16 to 20, will be anchored in three guiding "sutras" of People, Planet and Progress and structured around seven key "chakras," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. (ANI) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday (local time) discussed the upcoming trilateral meetings in Geneva with United States envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, stating that Kyiv expects the peace talks to be "truly productive." According to the Russian news agency TASS, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced the trilateral meetings between Ukraine, Russia, and the US would be held in Geneva on February 17-18. Volodymyr Zelenskyy also discussed with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio the impact of Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy resources. In an X post, the Ukrainian President wrote, "I had a conversation with envoys of President Trump, @SteveWitkoff and @JaredKushner, ahead of the trilateral meetings in Geneva. We count on the meetings being truly productive. We also discussed some developments following the meetings in Abu Dhabi. Not everything can be shared over the phone, and our negotiating team will present Ukraine's position next week." "I also spoke about our meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. We greatly appreciate that America consistently maintains a constructive approach and is ready to assist in protecting lives. I thank President Trump, his team, and the people of the United States for their support," he added. In a separate X post, Zelenskyy stated that he briefed Rubio on Ukraine's situation amid the ongoing war, ahead of the peace talks. "During the meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio @SecRubio, I briefed him on the situation at the front, Russian strikes, and the impact of attacks on Ukraine's energy system. We discussed how to help Ukraine protect lives during the winter cold and strengthen our resilience. We also had a detailed discussion about the diplomatic process and trilateral meetings. It is crucial that the talks planned in Geneva be productive, and I thank the United States for their constructive approach. We also addressed the matter of sequencing steps. It is important to make progress on the issues of security guarantees and economic recovery. I am grateful to the United States and to every American heart for the substantial support provided to Ukraine," the Ukrainian premier wrote on X. Earlier, the US, Russia and Ukraine held trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi, UAE, in January 2026. As reported by TASS, the Russian delegation will be headed by Presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky for the fresh rounds of talks on February 17 and 18. (ANI) A passenger plane slid off the runway at Kazan Airport in Russia. The aircraft, scheduled to fly the Kazan-Moscow route, was carrying 158 people on board, AzerNEWS reports. All passengers and crew members were safely evacuated following the incident. After several hours, the passengers were sent to the Russian capital on a replacement flight. Local prosecutors have launched an investigation into the event. The airline reported that the incident occurred due to slippery asphalt on the runway. Currently, the Republic of Tatarstan is experiencing adverse weather conditions caused by heavy rainfall, contributing to the unsafe conditions. Ive never been a fan of mee siam, I mean it literally tells you to go away.. ba dum tss. On a serious note, I cant even remember the last time I had one. I took that long lapse of mee siam in my life as a sign to head over to Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food, which is located at Chinatown Complex. They are known for their mee siam and have been around since 1968. Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food - Exterior Shot Whilst Chinatown MRT station is the nearest stop, Outram Park MRT station is a good alternative for those staying in the North-East side of Singapore, requiring only a few minutes of walking before reaching Chinatown Complex. Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food is one of the few Muslim-friendly foods available there. What I tried at Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food - Mee Siam & Lontong The food choices at Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food were equivalent to a Malay food starter pack. It had almost every classic Malay dish, like Nasi Lemak (S$3.50), Mee Rebus (S$3.50), Nasi Sambal Goreng (S$6) and of course, Mee Siam (S$3.50). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It even serves nasi padang with different lauk (side dishes) such as Asam Pedas (S$3.50), Sambal Fish (S$3.50) and Ayam Merah (S$3.50). But my mind was already set on the Mee Siam and got myself an additional order of Lontong. Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food - Mee Siam The Mee Siam was served with bee hoon noodles covered in a watery reddish gravy. It was topped with cubes of fried tofu, chopped chives and of course, a boiled egg. There was also sambal and lime on the side. Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food - Mee Siam It only took me one spoonful of Mee Siam to remind me why Ive never been a big fan of it in the first place. It had this savoury and spicy taste that I really couldnt put my finger on. A quick search online will tell you that its supposed to taste sour and spicy, but I thought there was more sweetness than tanginess. Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food - Mee Siam Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the spoonfuls grew, I became more accustomed to its flavours. That, coupled with the well-cooked noodles and extra chewy tofu bits, made it surprisingly easy to eat. The spiciness, despite being moderate at best, was enough to offset the sweetness of the gravy. It never came to the point where I felt jelak. However, even as I finished my plate, I still couldnt pinpoint the exact flavours of what I ate, which bugged me. Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food - Lontong Having eaten at Queenstown Lontong, my expectation for Aziz Jaffar Muslim Foods rendition of this popular dish was high. And I think this was possibly better than what I had. There was no subtlety to its creaminess and I appreciated it for that. You can clearly taste the coconut milk at work, full-time. Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food - Lontong The cabbages were also cooked to near melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Unlike, Queenstown Lontong, there werent any sweet undertones which made it a perfect dish to have after my Mee Siam. Unfortunately, I wasnt a big fan of the sambal as it was a little too tangy for me and didnt go well with the overall creaminess of the dish. Final thoughts I think its a great injustice to recommend Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food solely for its Mee Siam as their delicious Lontong means the other dishes are probably good as well. I mean, they have been around for 58 years after all! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This a definite must-try especially when youre around Chinatown and have had one too many mee pok or roasted duck rice dishes. Im glad that I chose this spot to end my decades-long of ghosting mee siam and admittedly, it will probably be a few years time before I have mee siam again, but at least I know where to do so. People also read: Where are the best mee siam spots in Singapore? Which stall in Chinatown Complex is great to check out? The post Aziz Jaffar Muslim Food: Super yummy mee siam with even nicer lontong at Chinatown appeared first on SETHLUI.com. The love for Korean beauty products goes beyond its innovative, high-quality and very reasonably priced skin care. K-beautymakeup is also equally fantastic, high-performing, and, in this instance, just as viral. The TirTir long-lasting Mask Fit Red cushion foundation is currently one of the most talked about Korean cosmetics right now and is being touted for outperforming luxury formulas and making skin of all ages look flawless all for as little as $15. I had first heard of the TirTir foundation when I saw it in action on TikTok. Users appeared to press just a small amount of the product into their skin and blemishes disappeared, irregular texture became even and skin took on a perfected airbrushed finish. Im over 40, and was expecting this to sink in and show my pores, then wear off easily, one Amazon reviewer wrote. When I tell you that I was shocked at how airbrushed my skin looked once I applied this, you could have knocked me over with a feather! Advertisement Advertisement Another TirTir cushion foundation reviewer said that it didnt shift or settle into their fine lines, which can be a common concern with foundations that have a more radiant finish. Similar to other cushion foundations of this ilk, the viscosity is very thin, lightweight and super breathable. Once applied, it quickly dries down to a smooth, satin finish that claims to be incredibly long-lasting and transfer-proof. It might be helpful to imagine it as a foundation ink, rather than conventional cream or liquid formulas. With a setting spray, this foundation lasted 24 hours. I fell asleep after a long night and woke up looking fabulous and glowing, an Amazon customer claimed, while another agreed that it still looked amazing after a full day spent at Disneyland and was both sweat- and waterproof. This also wouldnt be a true K-beauty product if it werent infused with ingredients that were actually good for your skin. The hydrating formula contains hibiscus and red propolis extracts to offer antioxidant protection and potentially boost skins elasticity. In terms of coverage, the brand claims its medium to full, however, based on both reviews and what Ive seen from videos online, this is much closer to a full coverage foundation, as it takes very, very little to completely cover common skin imperfections such as acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation and more. Advertisement Advertisement During my TirTir cushion foundation research, I also learned that knowing the correct way to apply this product to your skin is crucial to getting the most flawless and patch-free result as possible. For instance, according to one TikToker, the sponge should be held with two fingers rather than one, so that the whole surface area of the sponge is being used for a more even application. You should also dab some of the excess foundation off before applying it on the skin. According to one Amazon shopper who claims to be a makeup artist, it blends like a dream. Inside this shiny red egg-shaped compact lives the hygienic application sponge and a cushion pre-loaded with foundation thats hidden behind a plastic cover to keep the product from drying out (this little door also doubles as a great place to dab some of that excess product off your makeup sponge). As some reviewers have pointed out, this packaging design makes this an easy foundation to travel with or apply on the go. Its available in 40 shades, which, though it isnt as large a range as what you might find on American markets, its pretty expansive for Korean beauty brands. You can find some helpful shade-matching tips as well as try a shade-matcher tool directly on the TirTir website. There is also a mini size available on Amazon for $15, just in case you want to experiment with shades or the formula itself before committing to a full-size compact. Advertisement Advertisement Keep reading to see why other TirTir cushion foundation users have made this their new go-to formula, even over high-end luxury options. Promising Amazon reviews: This cushion foundation has completely won me overits hands down my favorite! The coverage is flawless without feeling heavy, and it blends so smoothly into the skin. It gives me a natural, radiant finish that lasts all day without caking or settling into fine lines. The compact packaging makes it super easy to take on the go, and the cushion applicator applies the product evenly every time. I also love that it doesnt feel greasy, yet still gives my skin a healthy glow. It works beautifully whether Im wearing a full face of makeup or just keeping it simple. If youre looking for a foundation that delivers amazing coverage, stays put, and makes your skin look incredible, this one is a must-have. Ill definitely be repurchasingcant recommend it enough. Alyssa Worth the hype!! This stuff is chefs kiss! As a makeup artist, I am so impressed with this foundation! The consistency is so thin, buildable and very full coverage. It looks pretty natural for a fuller cover foundation and very smooth! It blends like a dream It hold up for a super long time and is sweat and water resistant. I just wore it on a trip to Disney and still looked amazing at the end of the day. Aimee Kerry I should have ordered this foundation as soon as I saw it on TikTok!! I waited months because Ive bought viral foundation before and it wasnt any good. This, however, is perfection! It is the perfect shade match for my skin and goes on so smooth. The tiniest bit covered my entire face. I did a wear test without powder or setting spray and it stayed on amazingly. It didnt rub off when I touched my face like other foundations do. Also, it didnt settle into my fine lines. This is my new go to foundation! Stephanie D. I was introduced to this foundation after completing a friend on how flawless her skin always looks. Im very skeptical about my foundations because Ive used a very high end foundation for years. And the one I love was recently discontinued. When I tell you that I was shocked at how airbrushed my skin looked once I applied this, you could have knocked me over with a feather! Im over 40, and was expecting this to sink in and show my pores, then wear off easily. With a setting spray, this foundation lasted 24 hours. I fell asleep after a long night and woke up looking fabulous and glowing. Katrina Rhodes If you want to shop for even more foundation, take a look at these formulas from our previous coverage that dermatologists said wont break you out. Ulta A medicated and redness-neutralizing foundation Board-certified California-based dermatologist Dr. Divya Shokeen suggested the non-irritating and medicated formula of Clinique's Acne Solutions liquid makeup, which she said treats acne while you wear it. This is because it contains salicylic acid to help reduce buildup in pores as well as glycerin to help maintain hydration and laminaria saccharina extract for reducing redness and inflammation caused by acne. $39 at Nordstrom $39 at Ulta Tarte An Amazonian clay powder foundation According to dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, this loose powder foundation by Tarte is great for oily complexions because it offers mattifying ingredients like oil-absorbing kaolin clay. The full-coverage formula, which comes in 12 long-wearing shades, also contains nourishing ruby powder and skin-brightening tourmaline. "It also has a mousse-like, matte texture to help camouflage active breakouts while controlling oil and blurring the appearance of pores," Shirazi said. Advertisement Advertisement $42 at Tarte Advertisement Advertisement Ulta A long-wearing full-coverage foundation "This is a terrific all-around balanced formulation for acne-prone skin," said nurse practitioner and med spa owner Vanessa Coppola of Estee Lauder's Double Wear foundation. According to her, the oil-free composition and matte finish provide a good, lasting coverage that works even in humid months, and she appreciates the extensive 56-shade range. "It's a silicone in water formulation that is buffered with hydrating ingredients that are noncomedogenic and is free from parabens, sulfates, drying alcohols and synthetic fragrances," she said. $52 at Sephora $52 at Nordstrom Advertisement Advertisement $52 at Ulta Sephora A mattifying CC cream with SPF 40 If you want fuller coverage from your foundation, board-certified Toronto-based dermatologist Dr. Geeta Yadav likes the mattifying formula of the It Cosmetics' color correction cream, which also contains ingredients like peptides to support skin elasticity and natural collagen production. "It's an oil-free skin care-like formula that contains SPF 40, charcoal to help purify the skin, clay to absorb oil and tea tree to help fight bacteria," Yadav said. The matte-finish cream is available in 12 shades. $38 at Amazon $47 at Sephora $47 at It Cosmetics Amazon A blemish-fighting liquid foundation This lightweight Neutrogena foundation made specifically for acne-prone skin was recommended by nearly all of our experts. Coppola said that she really loves this product, both for its formulation as well as its price. "It contains 0.5% salicylic acid, a known acne-fighting ingredient, which is formulated in a silicone and water formulation allowing for a smooth glide in your application and it has a balanced profile of nonirritating hydration and oil control agents that help to break out excess oil on the skin," Coppola said. Advertisement Advertisement $14 at Amazon $15 at Target Sephora A luminous finish oil-free foundation The famed Luminous Silk foundation by Armani Beauty was also suggested by almost every one of the skin experts we spoke to, with many claiming it's a good foundation alternative for those who want a more radiant finish, more than a completely mattifying one. "It never feels dry or cakey and it really does give your skin a glowy, dewy look," Coppola said. The wildly popular, oil-free and hydrating formula, which is available in 40 shades, claims to blur imperfections and offer the perfect level of seamless coverage and allowing color pigments to lay flat for blending and layering and won't pill or separate. Advertisement Advertisement $69 at Sephora $48+ at Nordstrom Advertisement Advertisement Sephora A natural-finish buildable coverage foundation Shirazi also chose Nars' Sheer Glow foundation, which she said is a lightweight liquid containing antioxidants like vitamin C and turmeric to help brighten the complexion and protect skin against damaging free radicals. It promises a natural-like skin finish, buildable coverage and non-drying wear thanks to the addition of glycerin. $47 at Sephora $49 at Nordstrom $49 at Nars Dermstore A breathable foundation with salicylic acid This clinical foundation, developed specifically for acne-prone patients, made it onto Shirazi's list because of its highly breathable wear and the inclusion of salicylic acid to dissolve oil and reduce breakouts. The unique complex is meant to help conceal everything from breakouts to rosacea, while helping to speed up the healing process and offering sun protection up to SPF 25. "It has a light texture with aloe vera to help hydrate and soothe the skin," Shirazi added. $66 at Amazon $66 at Dermstore $66 at Lovely Skin Related... HuffPost and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Sign up for the Surge, the newsletter that covers most important political nonsense of the week, delivered to your inbox every Saturday. Welcome to this weeks edition of the Surge, a newsletter that never once had lunch on Jeffrey Epsteins island. [Epstein file comes out.] Oh, come on, that was a brunch. Weve got it all this week: Epstein. The Kennedys. Bridge scandals involving new bridges and rival bridge owners. Democratic mega-gerrymanders. TARIFF VOTES. But the concept of this editionin the Sgt. Peppers sense of a concept, in that it ends after a couple of tracksis the audience of one, and how some Trump administration appointees will almost intentionally do their jobs badly to stay in the bosss good graces. Unusual dynamic. Cheers! 1. Jeanine Pirro Getting no-hit by a federal grand jury. On Tuesday, prosecutors with the U.S. attorneys office in the District of Columbia, led by Jeanine Pirro, sought and failed to indict six Democratic lawmakersfour House members and two senatorswho recorded a social media video last year in which they reminded service members of their obligation to refuse illegal orders. What were the exact charges? Who knows. Whatever they were, the grand jury in D.C. didnt just reject them as a body. As NBC News reported, zero members of the grand jury found the charges up to snuff. Separately, a judge this week smacked down Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths attempt to punish Sen. Mark Kelly, a veteran and one of the six who made the video, saying that Hegseths targeting of Kelly had trampled on Senator Kellys First Amendment freedoms. Advertisement Why would Pirro and Hegseth subject themselves to such total humiliation and stark legal rebuke? Dont they realize that a neutral observer would consider them historically bad at their jobs? Their audience of one, though, is not a neutral observer. The November video that those six Democrats released incensed Donald Trump, who posted on social media at the time that it was SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL and punishable by DEATH! There seems to be an understanding among Trumps political appointees now that not doing the illegal actionrefusing an illegal order, as one might put itisnt an option. Instead, its better to humor him by pursuing it and letting some element of the legal systema judge, a grand jurydo the dirty work of keeping the rule of law at least somewhat intact. And while its nice when the legal system does its job, the Surge still believes that the best course of action is for government officials not to violate the constitutional rights of Trumps enemies in the first place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2. Pam Bondi No law when the stock markets good. We must still allow ourselves to be shocked from time to time, and Attorney General Pam Bondis performance before the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday ably did the job. She shouted and yelled and acted as if she were the one who was being shouted and yelled at, responded to various questions from Democratic members with unrelated oppo her staff had googled about them, suggested that members needed to apologize to Trump for having impeached him, and otherwise made a fool of herself. After Rep. Jerry Nadler asked how many Epstein co-conspirators she had indicted, she went on a rant about how great the stock market is doing under Trump. She called the Democratic ranking member of the committee, Rep. Jamie Raskin, a washed-up loser lawyer! (Raskin, in a fortunate bit of scheduling, was able to discuss his day with Bondi later that evening at a live taping of Slates Political Gabfest.) Advertisement Is there one person to whom this deeply embarrassing performance would have appealed? Someone who thinks talking about stock-market gains under Trump in response to unrelated questions is a winning strategy, who believes that those asking difficult questions suffer from Trump derangement syndrome, who thinks lawmakers should apologize to Donald Trump for having investigated and impeached him? Exactly. This was the most degrading congressional performance for the audience of one in recent memory. AG Pam Bondi, under intense fire from the Trump Deranged Radical Left Lunatics, was fantastic at yesterdays Hearing, Trump posted Thursday. Bondi had been successful in saving her job, at great expense to her personal and our national dignity, for another few days. 3. Mike Johnson Finally, some votes on Trumps tariffs. Speaker Mike Johnson, at the White Houses request, tried to pass a rule this week preventing Democrats from forcing votes to repeal Trumps tariffs. Republicans had been successful in passing such rules last year, and the vote this week was to extend the blockade through the summer. This time, however, it didnt work: The rule vote failed, 217214, as three Republicans joined all Democrats in voting against it. Its now open season on Trumps tariffs, as House Democrats will repeatedly force their GOP counterparts to choose between a president who expects loyalty and bad policy (and politics). Within a day of the failed rule vote, the House voted to nix Trumps Canada tariffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like clockwork, Trump issued a threat, warning that any Republican, in the House or the Senate, that votes against TARIFFS will seriously suffer the consequences come Election time, and that includes Primaries! But what does this pocket of members voting against tariffs care? Nebraska GOP Rep. Don Bacon, a regularly targeted swing-district member, is retiring this cycle. He voted against the rule, then left the premises so leaders couldnt twist his arm. So, too, did California Rep. Kevin Kiley, whos been redistricted off the planet in the Redistricting Wars (that Trump started). The last GOP member to vote against the rule was Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie, whos solidly in Trump enemy territory at this point. The House GOPs margin is tight enough that it takes only a couple of House members to upend Johnsons, and the White Houses, plans. And the ranks of GOP defectors may swell once primary season is over too. Advertisement 4. Howard Lutnick Ah, yes, forgot about that time he took his family to Epsteins island. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Jeffrey Epstein were next-door neighbors on Manhattans Upper East Side. According to Lutnick, though, they barely knew each other. In a story Lutnick told on a podcast last year, he and his wife went in Epsteins house once in 2005, got a house tour, and decided that I will never be in the room with that disgusting person ever again, adding, I was never in the room with him socially, for business or even philanthropy. As the Epstein files revealed, though, that wasnt true. Lutnick and his family visited Epstein on his island in 2012, and the two were in business and otherwise corresponding sporadically over the years; at least one email suggests they had scheduled drinks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So does lying about having not been to the Epstein island constitute a firing from Trumps Cabinet? Not as of yet. Trump likes having Good-Time Howie around, for one, and if he starts doling out consequences to people for their associations with Epstein, well, that would put Trump himself in quite a corner. That Lutnicks future in the Cabinet has been a live question all week speaks mostly to the number of enemies hes made in Congress and the administration for his sycophancy on behalf of Trumps worst impulses. Advertisement 5. Louise Lucas No room for tears in the redistricting wars. Virginia state Democrats proposed mid-decade gerrymander of their state is an assault on the eyes. The new mapif it skirts legal challenges and is approved by voters in an April referendumcould net Democrats four new congressional seats this year, converting its current delegation, six Democrats and five Republicans, into a 101 split. It achieves this in part by divvying up the trove of Democratic votes in dense Northern Virginia suburbs across the state, with narrow arms slinking south and west to rural communities that have very little in common with Arlington or Fairfax County. Its some filthy, filthy stuff that will make for incoherent districts and stifle Republican congressional representation in a merely lean-blue state. All of which is to say: wompand again, womp. The move was a political necessity for Democrats, and the great many Virginia-based Republican operatives and pundits grousing about it should blame their president. Trump made a conscious move to kick off the mid-decade redistricting fight by urging Texas, Ohio, Missouri, Indiana, North Carolina, Florida, and anywhere else where Republicans could squeeze out a seat or five to redraw their maps. Retaliation happens. The Surge is all for a federal remedy, or a network of interstate compacts, to address this absurd trend of hyper-gerrymandering everywhere, but until then: no crying. As Virginia state Sen. Pro Tempore Louise Lucas, a fascinating 82-year-old edgelord who pushed for the new maps, replied to a griping Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, You all started it and we fucking finished it. (Although, honestly, the Supreme Court may be the ones who fucking finish it, sooner or later.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 6. Matthew Moroun A bridge scandal? Sure, why not. On Monday, Trump posted that he would block the opening of a new U.S.Canada bridge between Detroit and Windsor until the United States is fully compensated for everything we have given them. All right. Hes still mad at Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for cutting a trade deal with China and for generallyhere we go, were going to deploy this stupid word and see what happensmogging him at Davos. So he wont let Canada open a bridge that would ease congestion at a major international commercial crossing, which speaks to Carneys general point about how the United States has become too irrational an actor to lead the global order. But theres more! Matthew Moroun, the billionaire owner of an existing, rival bridgethe Ambassador Bridgehas for years fought against the creation of the new bridge. And as the New York Times reported, Moroun met with the one and only Howard Lutnick on Monday, hours before Trumps post, after which Lutnick spoke to Trump by phone. Trumps post came after that telephone conversation. And with that, another episodes worth of major investigation that wouldve done meaningful damage to any previous administration is added to the mountainous pile. Advertisement 7. Jack Schlossberg A major, out-of-nowhere endorsement. One of the most coveted congressional seats in the country is up for grabs now that longtime Rep. Jerry Nadler is retiring. New Yorks 12th Congressional District covers the heart of Manhattan, and theres an unsurprisingly long list of candidates. Theres Micah Lasher, a New York state Assembly member and former aide to Gov. Kathy Hochul, former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and Nadler, who has endorsed him. Theres Alex Bores, another Assembly member whos being targeted by corporate A.I. money after supporting an A.I. safety bill. There is George Conway, the conservative lawyer turned anti-Trumper and #Resistance celebrity. And many more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And then there is Jack Schlossberg, JFKs 33-year-old grandkid who didnt do much of anything until he started posting weird stuff online a few years ago and briefly pretended to work as a reporter in 2024, deciding hed like a congressional seat. It wasnt taken all that seriously. And then, this week, he earned the endorsement of none other than former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, in what the Times described as the most high-profile endorsement so far, of any candidate. In a statement, Pelosi said, This moment calls for leaders who understand the stakes and how to deliver for the people they serve. And thats Jack Schlossberg, is it? Huh. The Kennedy mystique is strong in this one. On Thursday, February 5, 2026, Carolyn Marie Douglas, 82, of Charlotte Hall, MD, passed away peacefully surrounded by love. Carolyn was born on September 29, 1943, to the late James and Eva Latham in Washington, DC. Carolyn is survived by her loving son, David, and Son-in-Law John, whom she adored; in addition to Sister-in-Laws Johnna Latham and Linda Mills (Bubby), Brother-in-Law Richie Douglas, many nieces and nephews, four great grandchildren, and two very special people in her life, Shannon Johnson and Brandon Miller, whom she thought of as her own children. She also had the pleasure of 50-year friendships with several of her neighbors. In her younger years, Carolyn developed a huge love for the four-legged furry friends. Dogs were always a big part of her life; she could remember the name of every dog she ever met before she could remember the owner. She had a special place in her heart for the mutts and the bullies. As a teen, Carolyn was a supporter of the Hillside Volunteer Fire Department, where she joined the majorettes performing with a fire baton that she still has to this day. In 1958, while playing softball for Hillside, she met "Doug" and, according to him, "she chased me until I asked her out on a date". On May 25, 1963, they married. Carolyn was baptized and confirmed into the Catholic faith and attended Catholic School at St. Frances in Washington, D.C. She attended mass at Mt. Calvary Catholic Church in Forestville, MD, where she later married the love of her life, Arthur H. Douglas, Jr. They were blessed with two sons, David A. Douglas of Brandywine, MD, and Brian J. Douglas. Carolyn worked for the government for over 25 years. She started at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and later transferred to the U.S. Department of Energy until she retired in 2008. Carolyn enjoyed her family, going to Ocean City, and attending classic car/street rod shows around Southern Maryland, winning many trophies and plaques. She loved to be on the go, from going to events or shopping with her son to going to the Senior Center with her neighbor; she was always up for a new adventure. Her favorite thing to do was attending a family event that included friends, where she generously gave away her special "Aunt Carolyn Hugs". Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, cherished husband Doug, youngest son Brian, Grandson Brian II, and her siblings, Barbara Thompson and James Latham. On Saturday, February 21, 2026, family and friends are invited to gather for the visitation from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, with the funeral service beginning at 12:00 pm with Father Bob Golas at Brinsfield Funeral Home, 30195 Three Notch Road, Charlotte Hall, MD 20622. On Thursday, March 26, 2026, friends and family are welcome to meet at the funeral home at 11:30 am to process to Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery, 11301 Crain Hwy, Cheltenham, MD 20623, for interment at 1:00 pm. In Carolyn's memory, donations may be made to the Charles County Animal Care Center (formerly known as Tri County Animal Shelter), 6707 Animal Shelter Road, Hughesville, Md 20637. 301-932-1713 /Animalshelter@charlescountymd.gov. Condolences may be made to the family at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com. Arrangements by Brinsfield Funeral Home & Crematory, P.A., Charlotte Hall, MD. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on Saturday discussed advancing mutually beneficial cooperation between his country and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during a meeting with the blocs chief, AzerNEWS reports, citing Anadolu Agency. Following a meeting with ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Sybiha said through US social media company X that they discussed advancing cooperation, as well as deepening dialogue and expanding practical engagement, particularly in food security, energy, and digitalization. ASEAN is an important partner of Ukraine in todays international architecture. Ukraine reiterates its intention to become an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner, Sybiha further said. He added that he also invited the secretary-general to visit Ukraine. Both sides discussed ways to promote cooperation between ASEAN and Ukraine, among others, the bloc said in a separate statement on X following the meeting. Ukraine signed the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, one of ASEAN's founding documents, in November 2022. Last month, the Philippine News Agency quoted Ukrainian Ambassador to the Philippines Yuliia Fediv as saying that Kyiv is seeking to become an official dialogue partner of ASEAN by the end of this year. One week after tasting defeat despite receiving what was a perfect second-over trip as the 2-5 favourite, High Speed Swan had much to prove on Friday, Feb. 13 at The Meadowlands in the featured $34,247 Winners Over Trot, and prove much he did, scoring in remarkably determined fashion in a lifetime-best 1:52.3. He grabbed the right line pretty good in the stretch last week, said winning driver Colin Kelly. It was a bad drive by me; I gave up my spot. While Kelly was a little tough on himself, there was no doubt he was going to try things differently this time around. The action was hot at the start, as High Speed Swan was away quickly from the rail while Finite (Joe Bongiorno), after a hard-luck loss last week, was first-over, and Bestfriend Volo (Ridge Warren) was stacked up at the quarter three-wide with a narrow edge as he reached that beam in :27.1. Bestfriend Volo was on the lead at the half in a taxing :54.4 with Finite in the pocket. Kelly went into attack mode with High Speed Swan, vacating the three-hole and moving quickly to the top as 3-5 favourite Super Duper Cooper (Brett Beckwith) was a menacing presence alongside as three-quarters went in 1:23.3. It looked like Super Duper Cooper had things under control, but High Speed Swan wasnt having any of it. The duo were on even terms shortly after straightening away in the lane, and High Speed Swan, displaying grit and determination, found more with just over a sixteenth of a mile to go and went on to record a three-quarter-length victory over the favourite. Longshot Aquarius Face S (Bradley Chisholm) was third. Hes such a high-speed horse, said Kelly of High Speed Swan. Hes such fun to drive. I released Finite pretty cheap last week [when Finite was a good second], and we got back to the lead pretty easy tonight. I wasnt sure I was going to hold on. Super Duper Cooper is an awesome horse. My horse went a tough trip and I hope hes just as good again next week. High Speed Swan returned $7.20 to his backers as the 5-2 second choice in the wagering. Doug Dilloian Jr. trains the winner for owners David Linker of Delray Beach, Florida, Brian Loman of Champaign, Illinois and Robert Venable of Noblesville, Indiana. The four-year-old gelding by Swan For All out of Aunt Susie has now won seven of 34 lifetime outings, good for earnings over $230,000. Kelly, Brett Beckwith and Mark Herschberger all won three races to tie atop the driver leaderboard on Friday's 15-race card. Per Engblom paced the trainers with three jaunts down victory lane. Two shrewd players took down some big green by having the only winning tickets on The Big Ms new $1 Pick 8. After $14,604 of new money was poured into the hat on top of the carryover of $40,684, the two tickets with eight correct were exchanged for $26,543.90. Once players got past the first leg, where the winner went off at odds of 10-1, a very havable sequence with winners sent to the gate at 2-1, 4-5, 1-2, 2-1, 5-2, 1-5 and 9-2 followed. The $1 Pick 8 will resume on Saturday with $50,000 in seeded money from wager sponsor Peter Kleinhans serving as the fuel to entice players. The bet is offered on races three through 10. All-source handle on Friday's program totalled $2,829,403 USD. Racing resumes Saturday at 6 p.m. The new 6 p.m. post time will stay in effect until April 25. (With files from Meadowlands Racetrack) Harness Racing British Columbia (HRBC) recently released details for a proposed harness racing meet in the fall of 2026 at Osoyoos Desert Park, postponing the Town of Osoyoos decision to permanently close the complex. According to a Kelowna news report on castanet.net, Town Council postponed making a decision on the demolition of the weathered Desert Park to a March 10 session, citing an upcoming meeting between the Desert Park Exhibition Society and HRBC that could impact operations and finances after a structural assessment of the building put required operational repairs in the $2 million range. "There could be some potential infrastructure money from the province," Gerald Davis, Director, Community Services at Town of Osoyoos, was quoted as saying in the article. "Depending on how much we can do with what we have now, and that funding if there was a way to meet the needs, not just for the Harness Racing B.C. or Desert Park Exhibition Society but the community to have this facility use it that would be a really good thing." HRBC recently shared a Letter of Intent for a fall harness racing meet at Osoyoos Desert Park with its members, proposing an initial schedule consisting of 10-plus race days with racing two days per week for a period of five to six consecutive weeks. According to the letter from HRBC President Kelly MacMillan, purses are expected to be very competitive with Alberta and will also include some stakes races. The letter also indicated that the barns are in good shape with about 100 stalls and an additional 50-plus new stalls planned for opening, plus reasonable accommodations in Osoyoos, located about 365 km east of the province's former racetrack Fraser Downs in Surrey. (Standardbred Canada) China's Spring Festival holiday outbound travel boom to gallop Asia-Pacific tourism Xinhua) 08:11, February 14, 2026 Passengers are seen at Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport in Shijiazhuang City, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 2, 2026. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua) HONG KONG, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- As the 2026 Chinese New Year, the Year of the Horse, approaches, China's outbound tourism market is poised for a boom driven by an unusually long holiday and growing demand for cross-border travel, while the Asia-Pacific region, from Southeast Asian hubs like Thailand and Cambodia to Australia's sun-soaked shores, stands to reap huge rewards. China's National Immigration Administration predicted that the average daily number of inbound and outbound passengers at ports across the country during the nine-day Spring Festival holiday period beginning Sunday will exceed 2.05 million, a 14.1-percent increase compared with the same period last year. The country's civil aviation authorities have signaled the scale of the upcoming travel wave. Wang Weijun, deputy director of the Transport Department of the Civil Aviation Administration of China, said the number of air passengers during the country's Spring Festival travel rush is expected to hit an all-time high, with both outbound and inbound routes set for a new peak. The uptick in travel is evident in visa data, too. VFS Global, a leading global visa services provider, reported a double-digit year-on-year increase in China's outbound visa applications from December 2025 to January 2026, a testament to the enduring vitality of the country's holiday travel market. A confluence of factors is fueling the surge. This year's Chinese New Year brings what travel analysts have dubbed the "longest Spring Festival holiday ever," and a popular strategy of taking five additional days of leave to create a 15-day break has sent outbound travel demand soaring, according to a travel trend report released by online travel agency Tongcheng Travel. This photo taken on Feb. 12, 2026 shows the Opera House lit up in red to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year in Sydney, Australia. (Xinhua/Ma Ping) For Chinese travelers, the Asia-Pacific region is the primary choice thanks to geographical proximity, close cultural ties and enhanced travel convenience, with Southeast Asia standing out for its moderate flight distances, vibrant holiday atmosphere and visa-free convenience. Southeast Asian destinations hold half of the spots on the list of China's top 10 most popular outbound Spring Festival holiday destinations, Tongcheng's report found, including Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City and Bali. Seoul ranks first overall, with Bangkok second. Qunar, another major Chinese travel platform, named Thailand, South Korea and Malaysia among the most cost-effective hotspots for the holiday, while flight data from Flight Manager confirmed sharp increases in flight volumes to and from Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Laos and other Southeast Asian nations. The influx of Chinese tourists is breathing fresh momentum into the aviation and tourism sectors across the Asia-Pacific, with countries forecasting striking growth in arrivals and travel-related activities. People take a selfie in front of a horse decoration for the upcoming Chinese New Year at a mall in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Jan. 30, 2026. (Photo by Chong Voon Chung/Xinhua) In Thailand, Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited said traffic on China-related routes is on a steady upward trend, with an estimated 679,259 passengers traveling these routes -- an 8.1 percent year-on-year increase. Australia, too, is reaping the benefits of a rebounding Chinese tourism market. Robin Mack, the newly appointed managing director of Tourism Australia, said that the Chinese market is "very important" to Australia's tourism industry and that its recovery is "very strong," noting that Australia's summer, from December to February, is the peak season for Chinese visitors, with the Chinese New Year holiday being particularly important. Countries across the Asia-Pacific are embracing the Spring Festival with a rich tapestry of cultural celebrations, blending local traditions with Chinese holiday customs to create a warm atmosphere for visitors. In Vietnam, the Year of the Horse has taken center stage, with horse imagery adorning streets, art galleries and public spaces across the country. In Laos, an array of Spring Festival celebrations was highlighted in a cross-border event on the China-Laos Railway, where trains were turned into "mobile stages" with performances, storytelling and traditional activities. Cambodia has also embraced the Spring Festival as a shared celebration, with a three-day China-Cambodia cultural exhibition held in Phnom Penh. Thong Mengdavid, deputy director at the China-ASEAN Studies Center of the Cambodia University of Technology and Science, said the Chinese New Year has become a "shared festival" in Cambodia, a symbol of the deep cultural and fraternal ties between the two countries. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The international livestock forum Dala.Camp Forum 2026 has brought together 250 representatives from 11 countries in Kazakhstans Akmola region, underscoring the growing strategic importance of animal husbandry in global food systems. AzerNEWS reports that participants include delegates from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, the United States, Brazil, the Netherlands, France, the United Arab Emirates and Turkiye. Speaking at the forum, Turan Janibek Kenjebayev, Chairman of the Board of the Kazakhstan Livestock Association, highlighted the scale of the countrys agricultural resources. With 8.6 million head of cattle, Kazakhstan ranks 39th globally in livestock numbers, he noted. Livestock farming is no longer merely a traditional way of life, Kenjebayev said. It is a vital sector of the economy directly linked to national food security, regional development and export potential. The forums agenda focuses on the practical dimensions of developing beef cattle farming. Discussions include farm financial models, cost management strategies, attracting investment and ensuring compliance with export requirements. As global demand for protein continues to rise and supply chains face mounting pressure, the gathering in Akmola reflects a broader effort by regional and international stakeholders to modernize livestock production and strengthen cross-border cooperation in the agricultural sector. Assyrian Church of the East Inaugurates New Patriarchate in Baghdad Baghdad -- The Ancient Church of the East formally inaugurated its new patriarchal headquarters in Iraq's capital on Saturday, 14 February 2026, in a ceremony that blended ecclesiastical tradition with state participation and underscored the enduring presence of one of the country's most historical Christian communities. The inauguration was led by Patriarch Mar Gewargis III Younan and attended by Member of Parliament Evan Jabro and Dr. Rami Joseph Aghajan, president of the Diwan of Christian, Yazidi and Mandaean Endowments. The government office oversaw the construction and full furnishing of the new headquarters, officials said, as part of its mandate to support Iraq's recognized religious communities. The event drew senior clergy from various Christian denominations, priests, and representatives of Iraq's presidency, parliament and cabinet, as well as diplomats and cultural figures. The gathering reflected both the ecclesiastical significance of the occasion and its broader national symbolism. In remarks delivered during the ceremony, Dr. Aghajan said the Diwan's support for the project stemmed from its national responsibility to care for all religious communities without discrimination. He described the new patriarchate as an expression of the state's commitment to equality, justice and peaceful coexistence among Iraq's diverse components. Patriarch Mar Gewargis III Younan expressed gratitude for the government's backing, calling the new headquarters a spiritual and administrative center that would serve the faithful of the Ancient Church of the East in Iraq and throughout the diaspora. He said the building would strengthen the Church's pastoral mission and institutional work, both domestically and abroad. Senior officials from the Diwan, including Wameed Jirjis Naji, director general of the engineering department, and Balsam Amer Mikhael, assistant director general for Christian affairs, accompanied Dr. Aghajan during a tour of the premises, where they reviewed the architectural and administrative features of the complex. The Ancient Church of the East, which follows the Assyrian Rite, has its origins in the Church of the East. The original Church of the East now consists of three churches of the Assyrian Rite: The Ancient Church of the East, headquartered in Baghdad; the Assyrian Church of the East, headquartered in Arba'ilo (Erbil); and the Chaldean Catholic Church, headquartered in Baghdad. Saturday's inauguration was presented by organizers as more than the mere opening of a building. It was, they said, a reaffirmation of continuity, a signal that Iraq's historic churches intend to maintain their spiritual, cultural and national role in the land long known as the cradle of Eastern Christianity. A security lapse by one of Indias largest pharmacy chains allowed outsiders to gain full administrative control of its platform, exposing customer order data and sensitive drug-control functions, TechCrunch has exclusively learned. The issue affected DavaIndia Pharmacy, the pharmacy arm of Zota Healthcare, which operates a large network of retail outlets across India. Security researcher Eaton Zveare told TechCrunch that he discovered the flaw after identifying insecure super admin application programming interfaces on DavaIndias website and privately shared details with Indian cybersecurity authorities. The bug is now fixed, and Zveare disclosed his findings. Advertisement Advertisement The exposure comes as Zota Healthcare rapidly scales DavaIndia Pharmacys retail business. The Gujarat-headquartered company operates more than 2,300 DavaIndia stores across India, including 276 new outlets announced in January, and plans to add another 1,200 to 1,500 over the next two years. Zveare told TechCrunch that the flaw stemmed from insecure admin interfaces, which allowed unauthenticated users to create super admin accounts with high privileges. With that level of access, an attacker could view thousands of online orders containing customer information, modify product listings and prices, create discount coupons, and change settings governing whether certain medicines required a prescription, the researcher said. Based on system timestamps, Zveare said the vulnerable administrative interfaces appeared to have been live since late 2024. The access exposed nearly 17,000 online orders and administrative controls spanning 883 stores, he said, allowing changes to product pricing, prescription requirements, and promotional discounts. Zveare said the access allowed edits to website content that could have been used for defacement or disruption. Advertisement Advertisement Pharmacy order data can be particularly sensitive, as it may reveal information about a persons health conditions, medications or other private purchases. Exposure of such data, even without evidence of misuse, carries heightened privacy and patient-safety risks compared with other consumer information. Customer information was linked to their orders, said Zveare. This includes name, phone numbers, email IDs, mailing addresses, total amount paid, and the products purchased. Since this is a pharmacy, the products being purchased could be considered private and even embarrassing for some people. Zveare said he reported the issue to CERT-In, Indias national cyber emergency response agency, in August 2025. The vulnerability was fixed within weeks, though confirmation from the company took longer and was provided to the cyber authorities in late November, he said. Sujit Paul, chief executive of Zota Healthcare, did not respond to emails sent by TechCrunch last month. The researcher said there was no indication the flaw had been exploited before it was patched. Amazon's Ring unit has ended its deal with security technology company Flock Safety after backlash over a Super Bowl commercial for the retail giant's smart doorbell sparked concerns about unwanted surveillance. The Ring Super Bowl ad portrayed a family's search for their lost dog, with the manufacturer's internet-enabled doorbell coming to the rescue by showing additional smart doorbells around the neighborhood scanning for the pet and using AI to identify the lost animal. The service, called "Search Party," wasn't related to Flock, but Amazon last year said it planned to work with the company to give Ring owners the option of sharing video with law enforcement through Ring's "Community Requests" service. Advertisement Advertisement Surveillance "nightmare"? While Search Party was framed in the Super Bowl ad as a helpful option for Ring doorbell owners, the spot sparked concerns from some critics that the tech could be used for nefarious purposes. The Electronic Frontier Foundation, a nonprofit that focuses on civil liberties related to digital technology, declared that "no one ... will be safer in Ring's surveillance nightmare." "[T]he company previewed future surveillance of our streets: a world where biometric identification could be unleashed from consumer devices to identify, track and locate anything human, pet, and otherwise," the group said in a Feb. 10 blog post. In a statement on Thursday, Ring said that it opted to end the partnership because integrating Flock's technology "would require significantly more time and resources than anticipated." The statement didn't mention the Super Bowl commercial or cite it as a reason for ending the agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Amazon also said the integration between Ring and Flock was never completed, noting that "no videos were ever shared between these services." Flock confirmed that it never received any videos from Ring customers. Company founder Jamie Siminoff told CBS News on Thursday that the company protects privacy. "The backlash has been a little bit around this concept of, 'Is this surveillance?'" he said. "It's actually not. It's allowing your camera to be an intelligent assistant for you and then allowing you to be a great neighbor." When asked by CBS News chief correspondent Matt Gutman if there's an inherent tension between the public's desire for privacy and law enforcement's desire to crack a case, Siminoff responded: "I think you can have both," adding: "We built the system based on our customers asking us. They want to help out." Advertisement Advertisement Beryl Lipton, a senior investigative researcher at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, told CBS News: "There is still a strong, reasonable expectation of privacy that people have a sense of, even if it is not strongly protected by the legal system at the moment." Smart doorbells in the spotlight The focus on Ring comes amid another high-profile use of a smart doorbell, with investigators in recent days saying they had recovered footage from a Google Nest camera outside the Arizona home of Nancy Guthrie the missing mother of "Today" co-host Savannah Guthrie. Investigators said they were able to extract "residual data" from the Google equipment, raising questions about how it was possible to retain the video. Officials had said the doorbell was disconnected, with no active subscription for storing video. Advertisement Advertisement In its Thursday statement, Ring said its Community Requests feature remains "core" to its mission. The service is optional and voluntary, it added. Community Requests was also used during the Brown University shooting in December, when the Providence Police Department used the service to ask for video footage, Ring noted. "Within hours, seven neighbors responded, sharing 168 videos that captured critical moments from the incident," Ring said. "One video identified a new key witness, helping lead police to identify the suspect's vehicle and solve the case." New details from FBI on Nancy Guthrie kidnapping investigation Pool maintenance at Nancy Guthrie's home Investigators search second home in Nancy Guthrie case The Pima County Sheriff's Department said Friday that DNA other than Nancy Guthries and those in close contact to her has been collected from her property. "Investigators are working to identify who it belongs to. We are not disclosing where that DNA was located," the department's written statement said, adding that "all collected evidence has been submitted for laboratory analysis." The statement also said that of several gloves found during the investigation into Guthrie's disappearance, the closest were about 2 miles from her home. "Reports that a glove was found inside the residence or on the property are inaccurate," it said. Without mentioning a Reuters report Thursday that cited an anonymous source in alleging friction between the FBI and Sheriff's Department on the investigation, particularly over which lab to use for DNA testing, the department emphasized: "The Pima County Sheriffs Department and the FBI continue to work jointly on this case. Our strong partnership is critical, and we remain fully committed to this collaborative investigation. "To ensure consistency and streamline testing, evidence requiring forensic analysis is being sent to the same out-of-state lab that has been utilized since the beginning of this case. This decision was discussed with and agreed upon by local FBI leadership." The statement from Sheriff Chris Nanos' office also said: "Investigators continue to follow up on all leads. The suspect description released by the FBI this week remains a key focus; however, investigators are not ruling out any individuals or possibilities. No suspect vehicles have been identified. We ask the public to continue submitting actionable tips. All submitted videos are being reviewed." The department sent out an additional message to the Guthrie neighborhood, via the Neighbors App, Friday afternoon requesting any surveillance camera video from Jan. 1 through Feb. 2, "including any suspicious activity involving people or vehicles." And as media and onlookers continue to widely report and dissect everything they can see happening around the home the department also reported that at the request of the Guthrie family, routine pool maintenance was conducted at the home Friday. Investigators believe Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie, was abducted from her home near North Campbell Avenue and East Skyline Drive in the early morning hours of Feb. 1. A 42-year-old man facing federal charges in connection with a bogus ransom demand sent to members of Nancy Guthries family had his initial court appearance Thursday in Tucson. Derrick Callella, 42, of Hawthorne, California, is accused of sending demands via two text messages sent to members of Nancy Guthries family. Guthrie disappeared from her Tucson home Jan. 31. On Feb. 4, Callella is suspected of sending demands via two text messages to the Guthrie family. He is also alleged to have made a nine-second phone call to a family member, the U.S. Attorneys Office in Arizona said in a news release. Callella faces federal charges of transmitting an anonymous demand for ransom in interstate commerce and using a telecommunications device with intent to abuse, threaten or harass a person, the release said. "Through the course of the investigation, it was found that Callella was acting as an imposter, trying to take advantage of the ongoing situation." Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, was reported missing by her family on Feb. 1. The disappearance prompted a massive response by local and federal authorities. It has continued as the case nears its second week. While the ransom demand allegedly made by Callella has been deemed bogus, investigators say a separate ransom continues to be investigated. A deadline to pay that ransom passed earlier this week. Two pedestrians were killed in unrelated hit-and-run crashes Friday night in midtown, Tucson police say. About 7:15 p.m., Dennis Tsosie, 35, was found severely injured in the street in the 2100 block of North Country Club Road, south of East Grant Road. He died at the hospital, Tucson police said in a news release. The driver fled after the crash. However, "damaged vehicle parts were found in the roadway belonging to what is believed to be a Nissan," the release said. Tsosie was struck in the northbound lanes of traffic, though his exact position had not yet been determined, the release said. In an unrelated crash about the same time Friday night, an unidentified pedestrian was struck and killed while crossing North Alvernon Way near East Pima Street, police said in a separate news release. About 7:15 p.m., the person was crossing in the 1700 block of North Alvernon Way and was struck by what is believed to be a dark blue 2011-14 Hyundai Sonata traveling northbound, the release said. The driver of the Hyundai fled. The pedestrian was then struck by a second northbound vehicle, the release said. "The driver of that vehicle remained on scene and was cooperative with the investigation," the release said. "The pedestrians fatal injuries were not believed to be caused by the second vehicle." The name of the pedestrian in the Alvernon crash is being withheld pending family notification, the release said. In both crashes, detectives are checking the area for video surveillance that might have captured the collision or vehicles in the area prior to and after the crashes. There have been six pedestrians killed in Tucson crashes so far this year, police say. Anyone with information about either crash is asked to call 88-CRIME, the anonymous tip line. Chiricahua National Monument is up for a promotion once again, thanks to a bipartisan push from Arizonas congressional delegation. The roughly 12,000-acre monument in Southeastern Arizona would be upgraded to a national park under a bill from Sens. Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego. The two Democrats sponsored the Chiricahua National Park Act in the Senate late last month as companion legislation for an identical measure that was introduced by Tucson Republican Rep. Juan Ciscomani on Dec. 3 and advanced by the House Committee on Natural Resources on Wednesday. Chiricahua is one of Arizonas true gems a place with incredible natural beauty, rich cultural history and deep meaning for the communities surrounding it, Ciscomani said. Upgrading the monument to a national park will strengthen its national profile, support local jobs, and bring even more visitors to Cochise County and the surrounding region. Gallego said the goal of the measure is to bring even more tourism to the area and create new economic opportunity in Cochise County. Kelly called Chiricahua a one-of-a-kind landscape, where national park status could provide a win for southeastern Arizonas recreation economy. This is about keeping this place special and making sure nearby communities and small businesses benefit even more from it, he said. This marks the latest of several attempts by Kelly, Ciscomani and others to elevate the monument to a national park. At least five similar measures have been introduced, dating back to a bill from then-Rep. Martha McSally in 2016, but none advanced to a vote of the full House or Senate. If approved, Chiricahua would join Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest and Saguaro as Arizonas fourth national park. Beyond the name, though, little else would change. The monument 120 miles southeast of Tucson is already managed by the National Park Service, along with about 20 other sites in Arizona. The proposed legislation preserves Chiricahuas existing boundaries and land uses, but does not direct any additional funds or staffing to the park. President Calvin Coolidge used his authority under the Antiquities Act to establish Chiricahua National Monument on less than 4,300 acres on April 18, 1924. President Franklin Roosevelt expanded the monument by another 6,407 acres on June 10, 1938. It has seen several smaller additions since then, including the acquisition of the historic 440-acre Faraway Ranch in 1978. Today, the monument includes just over 12,000 acres of the Chiricahua Mountains, known for balanced boulders, rhyolite pinnacles, dark night skies and unique, sky-island wildlife. The so-called Wonderland of Rocks also harbors traces left behind by prehistoric people, Apaches, Buffalo Soldiers, ranchers, homesteaders and laborers from the Civilian Conservation Corps. Most of the monument land is already protected as wilderness and as a national historic district. The national park legislation would reinforce protections for cultural and religious sites, requiring consultation with tribes and continued access for traditional tribal uses. Cicscomani, Gallego and Kelly introduced their bills with support from city and county governments, tribes and outdoor groups in southeastern Arizona that are banking on a tourism boost from Chiricahuas increased status. The monument currently averages about 57,000 visitors a year. This change is long overdue, and its an exciting opportunity to spotlight southeastern Arizona on a national stage, Ciscomani said. National parks are designated by Congress and tend to be larger, with a wider range of resources under their protection. National monuments are generally smaller in size and scope and can be created by presidential decree to preserve a single nationally significant resource. The push to raise Chiricahuas profile comes as Park Service sites in Arizona and across the country continue to feel the effects from Trump administration budget cuts, staff reductions, a record-long government shutdown and controversial policy directives targeting negative or corrosive interpretive signs and historical material. At Coronado National Memorial near Sierra Vista, about 90 miles southwest of Chiricahua, government contractors are in the process of blasting hillsides and carving a path across Park Service land to erect more barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border. Thats why the independent, nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association is expressing support for the Chiricahua proposal, but not without voicing concern about the state of the nations parks overall. Celebrating what makes Chiricahua so special to Arizonans also means confronting a harder truth. National parks across the country are being dismantled, and weve seen the devastating impacts here in Arizonas 22 National Park Service sites, said Sanober Mirza, Arizona program manager for the association. In addition to this legislation, if we want our newest national park to truly thrive, we need Congress to restore funding and staffing needed to care for these landscapes and their visitors. Airdate: Spider-Noir Nicolas Cage series to premiere in May, choose your own style, colour or black and white. We now have a May premiere and teaser for Spider-Noir, starring Nicolas Cage in his first leading television role. Spider-Noir is a live-action series based on the Marvel comic Spider-Man Noir. Spider-Noir tells the story of Ben Reilly (Nicolas Cage), a seasoned, down on his luck private investigator in 1930s New York, who is forced to grapple with his past life, following a deeply personal tragedy, as the citys one and only superhero. Produced by Sony Pictures Television exclusively for MGM+ and Prime Video, the series will be available to stream two ways, in Authentic Black & White and True-Hue Full Colour for audiences to choose their own journey to watch. You can also view the teaser in either mode Characters are as follows: Ben Reilly (Nicolas Cage) Back in the day, Ben Reilly was the superhero known as The Spider. After a personal tragedy, he stepped away from his heroic alter ego. Only an extraordinary case could call this down-on-his-luck private investigator to drop the ordinary man act and put his mask back on. Robbie Robertson (Lamorne Morris) A dedicated journalist trying to make it in 1930s New York with the odds stacked against him. He is willing to do whatever is necessary for his career as well as his best friend, Ben. Cat Hardy (Li Jun Li) The star attraction at the premiere nightclub in New York. It may seem like she is always looking out for herself, but the truth is more complex than meets the eye. Janet (Karen Rodriguez) Smart, scrappy, and loyal secretary to Ben Reilly. She wants to help her boss and his small business become successful, and she has zero problem speaking truth to power. Full cast includes Academy Award-winning actor Nicolas Cage (Adaptation, Pig), Emmy Award-winning actor Lamorne Morris (Fargo, New Girl)), Li Jun Li (Sinners, Babylon), Karen Rodriguez (The Hunting Wives, Acapulco), Abraham Popoola (Atlas, Slow Horses), with SAG Award-winning actor Jack Huston (Boardwalk Empire, Day of The Fight), and Emmy Award-winning and Academy Award-nominated actor Brendan Gleeson (The Banshees of Inisherin, Harry Potter). Guest star cast includes Lukas Haas, Cameron Britton, Cary Christopher, Michael Kostroff, Scott MacArthur, Joe Massingill, Whitney Rice, Amanda Schull, Andrew Caldwell, Amy Aquino, Andrew Robinson, and Kai Caster. Spider-Noir is produced by Sony Pictures Television exclusively for MGM+ and Prime Video. Emmy Award-winning director Harry Bradbeer (Fleabag, Killing Eve) directed and executive produced the first two episodes. Oren Uziel (The Lost City, 22 Jump Street) and Steve Lightfoot (Marvels The Punisher, Shantaram) serve as co-showrunners and executive producers. Uziel and Lightfoot developed the series with the Academy Award-winning team behind Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse: Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Amy Pascal. Lord and Miller executive produce for their shingle Lord Miller along with Aditya Sood and Dan Shear. Amy Pascal also serves as an executive producer via Pascal Pictures. Cage and Pavlina Hatoupis also serve as executive producers. May 27 on Prime Video By Muvija M LONDON, Feb 14 (Reuters) - Five European allies on Saturday blamed Russia for killing late Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny using toxin from poison dart frogs while he was held in an Arctic penal colony two years ago, a claim Moscow rejected as propaganda. In a joint statement, Britain, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said analyses of samples from Navalny's body "conclusively" confirmed the presence of epibatidine, a toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America and not found naturally in Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Russian government, which has repeatedly denied any responsibility for Navalny's death, dismissed the latest allegations as "a Western propaganda hoax", according to the Russian state's TASS news agency. Britain on Saturday said the poisoning demonstrated "an alarming pattern of behaviour". The country held a public inquiry into the poisoning in Britain of Russian double agent Sergei Skripal in 2018. It concluded last year Russian President Vladimir Putin must have ordered the Novichok nerve agent attack. "When the test results are available and the formulas for the substances are disclosed, we will comment accordingly," Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by TASS. "Until then, all such assertions are merely propaganda aimed at diverting attention from pressing Western issues," the news agency cited her as saying. The report also said she described Navalny as a blogger "officially designated as a terrorist and extremist in Russia". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The British government did not respond to a Reuters query about how the samples from Navalny's body were obtained or where they were assessed. Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper told reporters that "UK scientists worked with our European partners to pursue the truth" on Navalny's death. SECOND ANNIVERSARY OF NAVALNY'S DEATH Russian opposition leader Navalny died in an Arctic prison colony in February 2024, after being convicted of extremism and other charges, all of which he denied. His death was announced minutes before the opening of the Munich Security Conference in 2024. In response, the conference made a rare schedule adjustment to allow his widow, Yulia Navalnaya, to address the conference and she called for Putin to be held accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I was certain from the first day that my husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof ... I am grateful to the European states for the meticulous work they carried out over two years and for uncovering the truth," she said on social media while attending this year's Munich conference on Saturday. Saturday's statement from the European allies, almost exactly two years after Navalny's death, said Moscow had the means, motive and opportunity to administer the poison as Navalny died in prison. "Russia claimed that Navalny died of natural causes. But given the toxicity of epibatidine and reported symptoms, poisoning was highly likely the cause of his death," the joint statement said. His death was followed by memorial gatherings and protests across Europe, with demonstrators in cities including London, Berlin, Vilnius and Rome condemning the Kremlin and demanding accountability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The joint statement added that the latest findings underlined the need for Russia to be held accountable for "its repeated violations of the Chemical Weapons Convention and, in this instance, the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention." (Reporting by Muvija M; Additional reporting by James Mackenzie in Munich; editing by Mark Heinrich, Bernadette Baum and Barbara Lewis) Global share of active mobile devices as of 2025. Photo: Counterpoint According to Counterpoint Research, 2025 marks a significant milestone for the global smartphone market, as the top eight original equipment manufacturers now each boast an active installed base of more than 200 million devices. Notably, nearly one in four active smartphones worldwide is an iPhone, while Samsung accounts for close to one fifth. In a report released on February 10, Counterpoint said the global active smartphone base grew 2 percent in 2025. The main drivers were an extended replacement cycle of nearly four years and the continued expansion of the used device market. Rather than merely reflecting new shipments, the active installed base is considered a long-term measure of competitiveness, capturing user retention, product durability and ecosystem strength. Within the 200 million club, clear divergence has emerged. Research Director Tarun Pathak noted: The top eight brands account for more than 80 percent of the global active installed base. He added that these companies can be divided into three main groups. The billion-plus group consists of Apple and Samsung, which lead thanks to premium positioning and tightly integrated ecosystems. They are also the only two brands to surpass one billion active devices in 2025. The challenger group includes Xiaomi, OPPO and vivo, which have built large user bases in the mid-range and upper mid-range segments, competing through diverse portfolios and flexible pricing strategies. The standout growth group is Transsion Group, including brands such as Tecno and Infinix, which focus on price-sensitive markets in the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia. HONOR is the latest name to cross the 200 million active device threshold, while Motorola and realme are approaching the milestone. At the top of the table, Apple holds around 25 percent of the global active smartphone base. Senior analyst Karn Chauhan observed: In 2025, Apple added more new users than the combined total of the next seven brands. Samsung ranks second with roughly 20 percent market share, supported by a product lineup spanning entry-level to premium devices and a long-standing presence across multiple markets. Combined, Apple and Samsung account for 44 percent of the global active smartphone base. Their advantage stems from longer replacement cycles, extended software support, higher durability and stronger resale value - factors that are increasingly important as users keep their devices for longer. On the other hand, the premium segment, defined as wholesale prices above US$600, remains a major barrier for the rest of the market. The six brands outside Apple and Samsung each hold only single-digit shares in this category. Rising component costs and memory constraints are also putting pressure on premiumization strategies. As artificial intelligence becomes the industrys new focal point, competition is shifting from hardware specifications to software and ecosystem integration. On-device AI processing, productivity-enhancing features and seamless cross-device integration are seen as key tools for retaining users. Counterpoint believes Apple is currently the only brand effectively leveraging its massive installed base to generate steady services revenue, turning each iPhone into a long-term monetization platform. With replacement cycles lengthening and the market increasingly saturated, the global smartphone race is no longer about how many units are sold, but how many users are retained. In this long game, the gap between the leaders and the rest remains substantial. Du Lam The Yen Xa Wastewater Treatment Plant in Thanh Tri District is expected to treat To Lich River water by 2025. Photo: Ngoc Thanh/Nhan Dan Although the number of environmental violations and fines has increased in recent years, river pollution has barely improved. While authorities continue to treat the symptoms, several initiatives are now tackling the root causes. The endless cycle of punishment Across provinces, hundreds of cases of illegal wastewater discharge have been fined. The Phu Yen Cassava Starch Joint Stock Company was fined VND3.4 billion (approximately US$139,000); Thai Nguyen Environmental JSC was fined more than VND900 million (US$37,000); Vu Bang Textile Company in Ha Nam faced a VND2.6 billion (US$106,000) fine; and Sinh Loc Production & Trading Co. in Quang Ngai was fined VND330 million (US$13,500). In Tay Ninh, ten cassava-processing firms were fined a total of VND3.3 billion (US$135,000) for repeated violations. In Hanoi, 2022 inspections covered 3,298 facilities, with 2,009 fined a total of VND21 billion (US$860,000). In 2023, joint inspections by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and the citys police led to 1,657 fines totaling VND14 billion (US$573,000). Yet, according to Associate Professor Dao Trong Tu, despite tighter enforcement, the actual number of violations is likely far greater. Its nearly impossible to monitor businesses that dump waste at night or during rainstorms, he said. We must impose harsher penalties. Allowing rivers to be poisoned day and night is a national disgrace. Setting priorities and resources At the 7th National Assembly session (15th tenure), river restoration drew special attention. Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Dang Quoc Khanh proposed establishing a River Basin Management Committee to coordinate responsibilities across ministries and provinces. He emphasized the need to prioritize funding for polluted rivers between 2026 and 2030. Associate Professor Truong Manh Tien, Chairman of the Vietnam Association for Environmental Economics, argued that cleanup must be interprovincial and regional. Environmental scientist Phung Chi Sy added that dredging and embankments merely treat the surface; only centralized wastewater collection and treatment plants can deliver real results. From a local perspective, Ngo Thai Nam, Deputy Head of Hanois Environmental Protection Agency, urged continued investment in wastewater systems for industrial clusters lacking centralized treatment. He called for prioritizing budget allocations for urgent environmental projects, increasing city-level funding each year, and ensuring that current treatment plants are maintained and operated effectively. Hanois Department of Natural Resources and Environment also pressed for faster completion of key projects: the Yen Xa wastewater treatment system (scheduled for 2025), the Yen Nghia pumping station project in western Hanoi, and the restoration of the Tich River. New projects are also being planned under the citys mid-term public investment program. To revive river flows, Hanoi is studying the construction of Xuan Quan Dam on the Red River and Long Tuu Dam on the Duong River. The goal is to raise water levels and improve irrigation capacity for the Day, Nhue, and To Lich rivers. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyen Hoang Hiep noted that raising the Red Rivers level would help maintain continuous flow in these tributaries, allowing them to self-purify once again. A glimmer of renewal In Ho Chi Minh City, about 1.5 million cubic meters of urban wastewater is generated daily-but only 12.6% is treated. The rest flows untreated into rivers and canals. Former Deputy Director of the citys Biotechnology Center Nguyen Quoc Binh stressed that wastewater treatment requires massive funding and public-private partnerships. Currently, the city operates only three main treatment plants: Tham LuongBen Cat (131,000 m/day), Binh Hung (141,000 m/day), and Binh Hung Hoa (30,000 m/day), supplemented by small neighborhood facilities. By 2025, the city plans to expand to 12 plants with a total capacity exceeding 3 million m per day. The long-delayed Yen Xa Wastewater Treatment Plant in Hanois Thanh Tri District, expected to begin operations in 2025, is seen as key to cleansing the To Lich River. Still, examples of success do exist. The Nhieu LocThi Nghe Canal in Ho Chi Minh City stands as a symbol of what determined governance can achieve. Once a fetid, black channel, it is now a clean, flowing waterway lined with parks and public spaces. The Nhieu LocThi Nghe project was executed systematically and scientifically, said Associate Professor Dao Trong Tu. Fish and shrimp have returned, and the people can finally enjoy the river again. Other localities should take note. In Bac Ninh, authorities are moving to relocate the notorious paper-production facilities of Phong Khe Village-long blamed for polluting the Cau River. Under a new plan, all paper workshops within residential areas must relocate by December 31, 2024, and those in the Phong Khe I and II industrial clusters must cease operations by the end of 2029. Provincial Party Secretary Nguyen Anh Tuan directed the city to provide retraining and job transition support for affected workers and enterprises. According to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the revised Water Resources Law (2023) now includes incentives for private investment in water protection and restoration. The ministry is developing a national plan to rehabilitate degraded, depleted, and polluted water sources. Current pilot studies are focusing on the heavily contaminated rivers of Bac Hung Hai, NhueDay, and Ngu Huyen Khe, alongside new frameworks for maintaining minimum ecological flows in rivers and streams. Nhan Dan Amid a volatile global landscape and unprecedented natural disasters at home, Vietnams economic diplomacy affirmed its role as a central driving force, helping not only to turn the tide but also to create sustainable value for the future. The insights were shared by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Hang while talking to the press on this breakthrough journey. According to her, in 2025, the world continued to experience rapid, profound, and unpredictable changes. Global economic growth slowed, instability risks increased, strategic competition intensified, and tariff policies and trade protectionism expanded. The restructuring of supply chains and value chains, along with fragmentation trends in trade, technology, and green and digital development standards, became increasingly evident. Domestically, unprecedented natural disasters and floods caused severe damage, making development challenges demand stronger governance capacity and adaptability than ever before. In that context, Hang said that economic diplomacy closely followed the leadership of the Party, the State, and the Government, and was implemented in a synchronised, methodical, and decisive manner both in breadth and depth achieving many important results described by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the conference reviewing economic diplomacy in 2025 on January 10, 2026 as a process of transforming the state of play and turning the tide. Last year, economic diplomacy maintained proactive positioning amid volatility, generated momentum amid difficulties, and laid the groundwork for breakthroughs, she said, adding it contributed effectively to growth objectives, strengthened confidence, and expanded development space. Economic diplomacy shifted its mindset from accompanying growth to pioneering the creation of development opportunities, generating strategic space, mobilising resources, and laying the foundation for deeper integration into global value chains, she held. The most notable imprint, Hang noted, was the elevation of Vietnams strategic position, creating political and diplomatic leverage and opening up new cooperation opportunities. Over the past year, 75 foreign activities by key leaders were carried out, relations with 17 countries were upgraded, and a record 350 cooperation agreements were signed 2.5 times higher than in 2024, focusing on economic, trade, investment, science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation. These were not merely documents, but the establishment of unprecedented favourable political-economic space with leading partners, providing a critical basis for attracting high-quality investment, expanding sustainable markets, improving access to and ownership of technology, and enhancing the economys capacity and competitiveness. Second, she said economic diplomacy contributed breakthroughs to strengthening domestic economic capacity. In 2025, Vietnam officially entered the group of the worlds 15 largest trading nations, with total import-export turnover exceeding 930 billion USD. Diplomacy played a path-opening role in enabling key agricultural exports such as durian, edible birds nest, and passion fruit to penetrate deeply into the Chinese market; addressing tariff issues with the United States; placing Vietnam in a priority group for negotiating fair trade agreements; expanding into promising new markets such as Latin America, the Middle East Africa, Central Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, and Halal markets. It also advocated for the opening of numerous new international direct air routes despite complex geopolitical conditions, contributing to a record 21.5 million international tourist arrivals, the highest ever. Officials launch the Gulf of Tonkin Hai Phong Port Kolkata Port shipping route on February 18, 2025. (Photo: VNA) Third, an important state transformation highlight was science and technology diplomacy, promoted across multiple dimensions from policy formulation and framework establishment to business and investment connectivity both domestically and internationally, multilateral cooperation enhancement, and mobilisation of knowledge networks. This contributed to building 11 strategic technology groups and substantively implementing Politburo Resolution 57. According to the Deputy FM, economic and science-technology content became central to foreign affairs activities, especially high-level diplomacy, generating strong momentum for Vietnams economic, trade, and technological relations with partners. As a result, Vietnam has gradually forged strategic linkages in future-oriented technology sectors. The establishment of AI and semiconductor R&D centres in Vietnam by corporations such as NVIDIA, Qualcomm, and Samsung; Dassault Systemes launching its R&D Centre and Centre of Excellence for digital twin and AI; ASML considering opening a representative office and committing to support semiconductor training and development; and Viettel commencing construction of Vietnams first high-tech semiconductor chip manufacturing plant all demonstrate recognition of Vietnams potential and new standing in the global value chain, she stressed. Institutionally and strategically, Hang stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an Action Plan for science and technology diplomacy through 2030 and is submitting to the Government a strategy for international cooperation on strategic technologies to 2030, with a vision to 2045. The overarching spirit is to make science, technology, and innovation diplomacy a priority pillar of foreign affairs in service of development. She said that economic diplomacy has become more substantive in supporting and connecting localities and businesses. Efforts to promote the Vietnamese brand have seen clear progress. In 2025, Vietnams overseas representative missions organised nearly 500 trade, investment, and tourism promotion activities; supported localities in hosting over 150 events; and facilitated the signing of around 100 cooperation agreements between localities and international partners. Diplomacy has accompanied local authorities and enterprises in removing bottlenecks, opening access channels, and bringing Vietnamese goods, brands, and products closer to key and emerging markets, she added. Predicting some major international trends in 2026, Hang pointed out growth slowdown, potential instability triggered by conflicts, tariff policies, policy adjustments by various countries, and competition for resources, markets, technology, and high-quality human resources. She also mentioned rapid technological innovation and the trend of technological decoupling, which concurrently facilitate accelerated development and make it difficult for countries to access advanced technologies, posing a significant risk of lagging behind. Globalisation and international integration continue, but protectionism, fragmentation, clustering, and inequality are growing while geoeconomic and political competition becomes increasingly fierce, especially in the Asia-Pacific and Southeast Asia, heaping pressure on small and medium-sized countries. Besides, traditional and non-traditional security issues have an increasingly profound impact on the security and development of many countries, she noted. The official described 2026 as a strategically significant year for Vietnam as it marks the first year of implementing the Resolution of the 14th National Party Congress and the 20262030 socio-economic development plan, initially establishing a long-term development model and growth trajectory for the country on the path towards the two strategic centenary goals. The Resolution of the 14th National Party Congress states that foreign affairs and international integration must play a pioneering and creative role and, alongside national defence and security safeguarding, serve as a "key and regular" task. It says a comprehensive foreign affairs strategy must be strongly implemented at a new level, contributing to the world economy, global politics, and human civilisation. Quy Nhon Port, a national general facility located in Quy Nhon Bay, boasts favourable conditions for vessels to dock and load goods all year round. (Photo: VNA) The new context, new potential, and new expectations present new tasks and requirements, demanding that economic diplomacy or, more broadly, foreign affairs serving development must constantly reform thinking, be sharp and decisive in implementation, be creative and groundbreaking in approach, and remain consistent with the principle of placing national interests first and above all else, with businesses and people at the centre of service. Given this, Hang said, the guiding principle for economic diplomacy in 2026 is to create new development spaces; connect strategic resources and verify them through implementation effectiveness; resolutely accelerate the realisation of the Partys new viewpoints and guidelines and the States policies, especially the orientations set at the 14th National Party Congress and the resolutions of the Party, National Assembly and Government, the Politburos Resolution No. 59, and the National Assemblys Resolution No. 250 on international integration; and transform strategic orientations into concrete, substantive, and measurable results. Highlighting five priorities of economic diplomacy in 2026 and the following years, she said that first, new growth drivers will be promoted, with science technology diplomacy, semiconductor diplomacy, and digital economy diplomacy as central and breakthrough drivers of economic diplomacy in the new era. Vietnamese businesses capabilities of researching, accessing, and mastering technology will be enhanced while support given to the formation of R&D clusters, innovation centres, high-tech human resources training cooperation programmes, and digital ecosystem connectivity. Vietnamese technology companies will also receive assistance in expanding to foreign markets, seeking opportunities for mergers and acquisitions, and connecting with multinationals, especially large technology corporations worldwide. Efforts will also be made to attract overseas Vietnamese scientists. Second, the Deputy Minister went on, breakthroughs will be made in expanding markets and supply chains with potential partners in the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia. At the same time, cooperation with major and traditional partners will be consolidated and expanded, and new cooperation frameworks leveraged to broaden development opportunities. Vietnamese-branded products will be further promoted and marketed abroad. Negotiations on free trade agreements (FTA) with Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members, African countries such as Egypt and Algeria, and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) are set to gain speed, and the signing of an FTA with the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR) expedited. Third, priority will be given to supporting localities and businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, to enhance the effectiveness of international economic integration and leverage commitments. Businesses will be helped to expand investment and operations in international markets and participate more deeply in global value chains. The potential, strengths, and new development spaces of localities will be maximised following the launch of the two-tiered local administrative system, according to Hang. Fourth, the quality and practicality of research will be further improved to stay connected with real-life situations and promptly propose "accurate" and "correct" policies, simultaneously creating strategic space and promoting the pillars of domestic development. Fifth, she added, Vietnam will strengthen and elevate multilateral diplomacy and international economic integration, proactively engage in the shaping of new rules and norms and, at the same time, prepare well to chair important multilateral mechanisms, with high priority given to completing all-round preparations for APEC Year 2027. The Deputy Minister said that 2026 will be the year when economic diplomacy shifts sharply from "paving the way" to "facilitating development", from "connecting opportunities" to "connecting strategic resources", and from "making commitments" to "verifying effectiveness". She underlined the network of 17 free trade agreements and diplomatic relations with 194 countries, including comprehensive or higher-level partnerships with 42 countries, 17 of which are G20 members, and comprehensive strategic partnerships with all five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. However, she perceived that this foundation is only meaningful when it is transformed into concrete values, high-quality investment projects, sustainable export markets, technology and knowledge to support innovation, secure supply chains, enhance Vietnamese businesses competitiveness, and improve the countrys stature in the region and the world. The official expressed her belief that with the attention, leadership, and guidance from the Party, State, and Government, together with solidarity, concerted efforts, the determination to innovate and the strong involvement of the entire political system, economic diplomacy in 2026 will create new impetus for Vietnam to accelerate, break through, and advance quickly, strongly, and steadily in the era of the nations rise, contributing to the realisation of the aspiration for a strong and prosperous Vietnam./. VNA From early in the 12th lunar month, the booking rate for Tet rentals had already reached 70-80%. Photo: Ngo Minh The nine-day Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday will begin on February 14, corresponding to the 26th day of the lunar month. At this time, many families have already made plans to return to their hometowns or travel for the holiday. As a result, the self-drive car rental market always enters its busiest period of the year during Tet. Contrary to earlier predictions that the rapid rise in private car ownership would cool demand for rentals, the reality shows the opposite. Demand remains strong and even hotter in certain segments, particularly high-clearance five- to seven-seat vehicles. From early in the 12th lunar month, the booking rate for Tet rentals had already reached 70-80%, according to VietNamNets survey of major rental providers in Hanoi and online car-sharing platforms. Many newer MPV and SUV models are almost fully booked for the period from the 26th day of the lunar year to the sixth day of Tet. Rental companies typically require early deposits and a minimum rental period of nine to ten days during the holiday, with some asking for bookings of up to 15 days. Clear price divergence across segments Unlike previous years, when Tet rental prices rose across the board, this years market shows a clear divergence between segments. The first factor is the rapid expansion of electric and hybrid vehicles. In 2026, the number of green cars entering the rental market has increased significantly, especially from individual car owners. Thanks to lower operating costs, these vehicles create competitive pressure, preventing older gasoline models from raising prices as steeply as before. The second factor is the growing trend of experiential travel. Instead of simply renting cars to return home, many families now opt for newer high-clearance vehicles for long-distance trips. This has created excess demand in the SUV and MPV segments, driving prices up, while compact cars and mainstream sedans remain relatively stable due to abundant supply. According to Nguyen Bac Thai, owner of a self-drive rental service on Lang Street in Hanoi, Tet rental prices are typically 30-50% higher than on normal days, depending on the model and rental duration. Holiday rates are usually calculated as a package for nine to ten days, inclusive of festive surcharges. Models such as the Hyundai Grand i10, Kia Morning and mini urban electric cars currently offer the most affordable rates, ranging from VND800,000 to VND1 million per day (approximately US$32 to US$40). Compared to regular days, the increase is modest at around 20%. These cars are a budget-friendly choice for small families or short-distance travel, though they are less favored for long journeys due to limited space. Five-seat sedans remain a core segment, with familiar names such as the Toyota Vios, Honda City, Hyundai Accent and Mazda3. Rental prices range from VND1.2 million to VND1.6 million per day (approximately US$48 to US$64), marking a 40-50% increase. They are relatively easy to book, even at short notice, but customers may find it difficult to secure newer models with higher specifications. High-clearance five- to seven-seat vehicles, including MPVs, SUVs and crossovers, are the true hot spot of this years market. Popular models such as the Mitsubishi Xpander, Toyota Veloz Cross, Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V and especially electric vehicles like the VinFast VF 8 and VF 9 are consistently sold out. Rental prices for this segment range from VND1.8 million to VND2.5 million per day (US$72 to US$100), with some models reaching VND3 million per day (US$120). Compared to regular days, rates can double, reflecting the clear imbalance between supply and demand. Important notes for Tet rentals Experts advise that although rental procedures in 2026 have become more digitalized and streamlined, customers should carefully read contracts, especially insurance coverage, daily mileage limits - typically around 300 kilometers - and any additional surcharges. For electric vehicles, renters should clarify charging policies, battery levels at handover and return, and proactively plan charging stations along their routes to avoid unnecessary complications during the holiday. With demand remaining high and high-clearance vehicles continuing to sell out, the general advice is to book as early as possible and choose reputable, transparent rental providers to ensure a smooth and worry-free Tet behind the wheel. Ngo Minh Technology enterprises have voiced concern that the Ministry of Industry and Trades decision to apply commercial electricity tariffs to data centers could significantly affect the development of digital infrastructure and national digital transformation. Technology firms say applying commercial electricity tariffs to data centers could add VND1,000 billion (US$40.5 million) in annual costs. Under Circular No. 60/2025/TT-BCT dated December 2, 2025, the Ministry of Industry and Trade stipulates that electricity sold to data centers will be charged under commercial pricing instead of production pricing. Following the implementation of the circular, major firms including Viettel, VNPT, FPT Telecom, CMC and VNG Data Center sent formal petitions to the ministry regarding the revised pricing framework. These companies reported that local power utilities have notified them of the new tariff structure. A representative of CMC Telecom said that after three billing cycles under the new rate, electricity costs - already the largest component of data center operating expenses - have risen by more than 50 percent compared to previous levels. Such a sharp increase, the company noted, is exerting substantial pressure on financial plans, service pricing structures and the ability to maintain stable operations and expand investment. Ngo Trong Hieu, General Director of CMC Telecom, estimated that Vietnamese technology enterprises operating data centers would collectively pay an additional VND1,000 billion per year, approximately US$40.5 million, to Vietnam Electricity. This immediate cost surge places many data centers at risk of losses, he said. It could also affect foreign investment at a time when Vietnam seeks to attract major semiconductor and AI corporations in line with the Party and States policies. The move runs counter to Resolution 57 of the Politburo, which promotes high technology and digital infrastructure development. Sharing similar concerns with VietNamNet, Le Ba Tan, General Director of Viettel IDC, said the shift from production to commercial electricity rates would significantly increase operational costs. The new framework alone is expected to raise immediate expenses by around VND1,000 billion (US$40.5 million). In several provinces, we have already received notices of the new tariff application, he said. Service providers cannot immediately pass these higher costs on to customers because contracts were signed earlier. Around 20,000 of our clients could be affected by increased pricing. The policy may also have a substantial impact on national digital transformation in the spirit of Resolution 57 and on Vietnams attractiveness as an investment destination. An industry expert told VietNamNet that in many countries, electricity consumption by data centers accounts for roughly 2 to 3 percent of national power usage. In Vietnam, however, the figure remains below 2 percent. Globally, data centers are increasingly viewed as digital infrastructure - even infrastructure of infrastructure - and are supported by strategic policies and incentives. Data centers currently serve as the backbone of digital transformation, the digital economy, digital government and digital society. According to the expert, imposing higher electricity tariffs may dampen investment appetite among technology firms, thereby weakening Vietnams digital infrastructure and competitiveness. In their petition to the ministry, Viettel, VNPT, FPT Telecom, CMC and VNG Data Center argued that data center operations should be classified as production rather than commercial activities. They noted that data centers operate as specialized industrial-technical facilities with characteristics similar to manufacturing plants: stable base load, high electricity consumption, continuous 24/7 operations without interruption and complex multilayered technical systems for power supply, cooling, safety, backup and monitoring. Electricity in data centers is a direct, indispensable input used to produce computing capacity, storage, connectivity and secure operational environments for government agencies, enterprises and organizations. It is not electricity consumed for retail, commercial or on-site consumer purposes. Instead, data centers form foundational infrastructure enabling other sectors to function, comparable to electricity, water supply or industrial park infrastructure in the traditional economy. They are a cross-sector production input and a critical component of digital infrastructure, linking physical infrastructure, digital platforms, IT industries, IT applications and cybersecurity. Data centers ensure continuous and reliable data flows, forming digital ecosystems and knowledge streams that reach every organization and citizen, closely tied to cybersecurity and national digital sovereignty. Moreover, they serve as production inputs for numerous sectors including digital government, finance and banking, industry, logistics, energy, e-commerce, healthcare, education and artificial intelligence. For that reason, technology enterprises maintain that electricity used by data centers should be recognized as production input for digital infrastructure rather than as commercial service consumption. VietNamNet has contacted the Ministry of Industry and Trade for further clarification on the matter. Thai Khang The Investigation Police Agency of Thanh Hoa Provincial Police has initiated criminal proceedings, prosecuted the accused and ordered the temporary detention of Hoang Dinh Dat and Nguyen Doan Son for illegally trading tigers. The tiger specimen seized by authorities. Photo: CACC According to Thanh Hoa Provincial Police, through intelligence gathering, the Economic Police Division discovered signs that Hoang Dinh Dat, born in 1974 and residing in Village 7, Xuan Lap Commune, Thanh Hoa Province, had violated laws on wildlife protection involving endangered and rare species prioritized for conservation. Initial investigations determined that Dat had regularly purchased wild animals, including tigers, before organizing the cooking of tiger glue for sale to obtain illicit profits. To conceal his activities, the suspect built a secret underground bunker beneath his house, installing reinforced iron doors and a surveillance camera system to monitor and keep watch. A search of the bunker area revealed that Dat was storing two frozen tiger carcasses along with various tools and equipment used for processing the glue. At the investigation agency, Dat confessed that he had used the social media platform Zalo to contact Nguyen Doan Son, born in 1995 and residing in Village 2, Thieu Trung Commune, Thanh Hoa Province, to purchase two tiger carcasses that had been eviscerated, with a combined weight of nearly 400kg, for nearly VND2 billion (approximately US$80,000). Expanding the investigation, the Investigation Police Agency summoned Nguyen Doan Son for questioning. Son admitted that he had purchased the two tiger carcasses from a Lao individual in the Ha Tinh area before transporting them to Thanh Hoa to resell to Hoang Dinh Dat for illegal profit. Based on the collected documents and evidence, the Investigation Police Agency of Thanh Hoa Provincial Police has formally initiated criminal proceedings, prosecuted the accused and ordered the temporary detention of Hoang Dinh Dat and Nguyen Doan Son for the offense of violating regulations on the protection of endangered, precious and rare animals. Le Duong Vietnam is converging at a point of opportunity and aspiration. A new growth model is taking shape; a Vietnamese value system - resilience, prosperity and happiness - is gradually becoming a guiding compass for development. As the world enters a period of profound transformation, from geopolitics and economic restructuring to supply chain shifts and new green and sustainable standards, Vietnam faces a rare opportunity to assert its national image: a resilient, innovative and prosperous country oriented toward the well-being of every citizen. A pivotal moment The world of 2025 no longer resembles that of just a few years ago. Global growth is forecast at around 2.5 - 2.7 percent, a prolonged low since the pandemic. The US and the EU are accelerating industrial policies and green standards. China is recalibrating its growth model toward consumption and high technology. Nearly 3,000 trade-restrictive measures have been introduced in the past two years alone. Global supply chains are undergoing deep restructuring as multinational corporations speed up their diversification away from China. In this geoeconomic movement, nations no longer compete solely on GDP, but on image, technological capability, institutional quality, living environment and national values. This is a new race - more intense, more profound and defining in the long term. For Vietnam - a nation of 100 million people with a strategic position at the heart of Southeast Asia and a growth rate outperforming much of the world - this is not merely a challenge. It is an opportunity for transformation, provided the country adopts the right approach, leverages its internal strengths and seizes the opportunities at hand. Existing foundations Over four decades of renovation, Vietnam has ranked among the fastest-growing economies in the world. GDP per capita has increased more than 6.6 times since 1985. The economy now stands at US$485 billion, according to the IMF, ranking 34th globally. Exports have surpassed US$450 billion, placing Vietnam 23rd worldwide. Disbursed FDI in 2025 could reach a record US$25 billion, reflecting the economys strong appeal. High-tech industries are poised to become new growth engines. Vietnam has become a strategic base for Samsung, LG, Intel, Apples supply chain partners, Amkor and others. A young, sizable workforce that rapidly adapts to new technologies provides a meaningful competitive edge. The digital economy continues to accelerate. According to Google and Temasek, Vietnams digital economy reached US$30 billion in 2023 and could rise to US$55 billion by 2025, among the fastest growth rates in Southeast Asia. A dynamic, integrated and creative Vietnam is clearly taking shape. Leveraging strategic pillars Draft documents for the 14th National Party Congress set an ambitious target of double-digit GDP growth and GDP per capita of US$8,500 by 2030, lifting Vietnam into the upper middle-income group. These goals reflect a national aspiration to rise, and achieving them will require strengthening several key pillars. First, the strongest wave of FDI relocation in three decades. UNCTAD reports that more than 50 percent of major multinational corporations are shifting part of their production out of China. Vietnam ranks among the top three attractive destinations, alongside India and Mexico. If Vietnam can attract US$35 - 40 billion in FDI annually from 2026 to 2030, the processing and manufacturing sector could achieve annual growth of 12 - 14 percent. Second, accelerating digital transformation. Internet penetration has reached 78 percent, and e-commerce is growing at 25 - 30 percent per year. With the right strategy, Vietnam has the opportunity to become a digital economy hub of ASEAN. Third, national infrastructure as a new growth impulse. More than VND2.87 quadrillion (approximately US$117 billion) in public investment for 2021 - 2025 - the largest sum ever - is gradually shaping new connectivity networks: the North - South expressway, Long Thanh International Airport, ring roads in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and national digital infrastructure. These are the foundations for achieving high growth if the development model is renewed. Challenges demanding repositioning The new context and mounting challenges require a recalibrated mindset and prudent steps. First, competition for FDI is intensifying. India, Indonesia and Malaysia are offering superior tax incentives and infrastructure packages to attract semiconductor and electronics industries. Vietnam can no longer rely solely on low labor costs. Second, green standards have become a trade passport. The EU is implementing the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, while the US, Japan and South Korea are setting carbon roadmaps. Vietnams steel, cement, textile and chemical industries face significant pressure if they fail to transition. Third, labor productivity remains a bottleneck. Vietnams productivity lags far behind many competitors. Without productivity gains, high growth will not be sustainable. Fourth, environmental and urbanization risks loom large. An ADB analysis suggests climate change could cost Vietnam 12 - 14 percent of GDP by 2050. Air quality in major cities has become a strategic issue directly linked to national image. An image for the new decade To position Vietnam on the world map, a consistent, modern and era-appropriate national image must be built. A resilient and stable nation, where political stability, crisis response capacity and long-term growth form the backbone of national branding. A high-tech manufacturing hub in Asia, moving beyond a factory floor to become a center for R&D, design and innovation in global technology chains. A fast-digitizing and creative nation, harnessing its young population and vibrant startup ecosystem to build a large-scale digital economy. A green and livable country, greening production, enhancing urban quality and protecting the environment to attract talent and investment. A nation of 100 million driven by aspiration. Aspiration shapes identity. A people willing to think big, move fast and innovate boldly will create the strongest magnetism of all. Strategic solutions Vietnam must renew its growth model based on productivity and technology, raising total factor productivity to 2 - 2.5 percent annually, building ecosystems in semiconductors, AI and biotechnology, and fostering large-scale private enterprises. It must develop high-quality human capital, training 50,000 semiconductor and AI engineers by 2030, standardizing vocational training to OECD benchmarks and adopting special mechanisms to attract global experts. It must build a green and circular economy, develop a domestic carbon market, increase renewable energy share and support enterprises in meeting CBAM standards. Institutional reform must place Vietnam at the regional forefront, shortening investment licensing time to six to nine months, fully digitizing administrative procedures and ensuring transparency in public investment. Finally, Vietnam must maximize the advantages of its 100 million-strong domestic market by developing creative services, a night-time economy and modern commerce. A journey of aspiration As a new year begins, looking back and ahead, it is clear that Vietnam stands at the intersection of opportunity and aspiration. A new growth model is emerging; a Vietnamese value system - resilient, prosperous, happy - is gradually becoming the compass of development. Positioning Vietnam is not only a strategic undertaking, but also a story of confidence grounded in reality and lessons drawn from the journey toward the future. Confidence that a nation of 100 million can rise to new heights and assert an important role regionally and globally. Confidence that every citizen will share in the fruits of development. Confidence that a modern - green - prosperous - happy Vietnam is an achievable goal. Yet such confidence must rest on a clear-eyed assessment of opportunities and challenges alike, and on prudent management of the risks that accompany them. Huynh The Du Born in 1962, Thanh holds a PhD in computational chemistry, awarded by the University of Minnesota in 1990. That same year, he received an award from the US National Science Council. He later continued postdoctoral research in the field of physiological structure simulation. In 1992, he became a full professor, teaching quantum chemistry at the University of Utah in the US. A year later, he was recognized as one of Americas most promising young scientists.In 2002, at the age of just 41, he was promoted to senior professor, one of the highest academic ranks in the US university system. The scientific path of Truong Nguyen Thanh is associated with laboratories, lecture halls, and rigorous academic standards. Yet running parallel to that journey has always been an unbroken cultural thread: Tet. In 2007, at the invitation of the then Vice Chair of HCMC People's Committee, Professor Nguyen Thien Nhan, he returned to the country to lecture on the role of computational science and technology, and was tasked with developing a project to establish the HCMC Institute of Computational Science and Technology. However, it was not until 2017, when he held the position of Executive Vice President of Hoa Sen University, that he had the opportunity to celebrate a full Tet in Vietnam. At that time, Thanh drew public attention when he appeared before students in shorts and a T-shirt during a lecture on creativity. Facing mixed opinions, Thanh stated that it was not an act of rebellion but a pedagogical intent. To unleash creativity, we must remove prejudices and the mental limits we have long imposed on ourselves. I first lectured in my usual suit, then asked students to wait a minute while I changed clothes. When I returned in shorts and a T-shirt, the whole class reacted with surprise. That reaction itself was a vivid lesson in how strongly we are influenced by stereotypes, he shared. Tet is time of connection That same year, for the first time after 37 years away from home, Professor Thanh celebrated Tet in Vietnam, the place of his birth. He said that during many years living and working as a professor in the US, Tet often fell in the middle of the academic semester, leaving him no opportunity to return. Celebrating Tet in the homeland was not merely a trip home, but a compensatory experience. However, that first Tet took place when he was quite busy with work at Hoa Sen University, especially during the enrollment season considered vital after the schools internal upheavals. His wife returned to Vietnam, and she took care of all the Tet shopping. According to Thanh, the Tet atmosphere is strongest from the 23rd day of the 12th lunar month to the 1st day of the 1st lunar month. In the days leading up to Tet, coming home from work and seeing crowded streets, bustling shops, everyone excited to shop, employees preparing to go home, I felt happy and remembered the excitement of celebrating Tet in my youth, he said. Celebrating Tet in his homeland, on the first day, he maintained the tradition of ancestral offerings. In the US, every Tet, he usually drove his wife to the pagoda while maintaining the habit of wrapping Banh Tet, a way to keep Tet alive amid Western life. His familys Tet feast at home, like many other Vietnamese families, includes Banh Tet eaten with pickled vegetables, leek bulbs, dried shrimp, and century eggs. After deciding to retire in Vietnam, he has more opportunities to celebrate Tet in his homeland. During Tet, he often chooses to cycle through many provinces instead of staying in one place. One year, he was in Da Lat on the first day and continued his journey from the second day. Thanh perceives Tet not only as a cultural ritual but also as a problem of the integration era. If a Vietnamese company has a contract to provide services to foreign countries, while employees go home for Tet and 90 percent of the world still works normally, how will the business solve it? Every choice has gains and losses. There are values that cannot be measured, he said. Thanh Hung Guests attend the Community Tet celebration for the Year of the Horse 2026 in Berlin, Germany. Photo: Quang Chi Recently, at the Cultural House of Dong Xuan Center in Berlin, the Vietnamese Embassy in Germany coordinated with the Vietnamese community to solemnly host the 2026 Lunar New Year (Tet) celebration, in an atmosphere both dignified and rich in national identity. Among those attending were Ambassador Nguyen Dac Thanh and his spouse, along with representatives of various embassy departments; Bodo Ramelow, Vice President of the German Bundestag; Martin Schaefer, Head of Lichtenberg district; representatives from more than 20 embassies and foreign diplomatic missions; officials from the German Federal Foreign Office, Berlin city authorities and Lichtenberg district; and around 700 Vietnamese residents representing associations, businesses and media outlets. In his remarks, Ambassador Nguyen Dac Thanh affirmed that the Vietnamese community in Germany continues to serve as an effective bridge of friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and the Federal Republic of Germany. He noted that the community has left a strong mark as a dynamic and well-integrated group, making positive contributions to local socio-economic life and thereby building a solid social foundation for bilateral relations. The ambassador particularly emphasized Berlin and Lichtenberg districts decision to rename a dock Dong Xuan as recognition of the role and successful integration of the Vietnamese community. Photo: Quang Chi On the occasion of the New Year, he expressed sincere gratitude and respectfully called on the German Federal Government, ministries and Berlin authorities to continue supporting the communitys deeper integration and greater contributions. In the warmth of spring, the ambassador wished for Vietnam - Germany relations to continue flourishing; extended New Year wishes of health, happiness and success to all guests; and conveyed hopes for a united and prosperous Vietnamese community in Germany, with every family enjoying peace and well-being. Vice President of the German Bundestag Bodo Ramelow praised the Vietnamese community in Germany as ambassadors of cooperation and friendship. He shared that the Year of the Horse also symbolizes Niedersachsen state, his birthplace, and expressed his delight at joining the community Tet celebration, wishing everyone a joyful and auspicious New Year. Nguyen Xuan Thinh, Acting President of the Union of Vietnamese Associations in Germany, affirmed that the Vietnamese community remains united, proactive in integration and respectful of local laws. Special performance at the celebration program. Photo: Quang Chi He acknowledged the attention and support of German authorities toward the communitys life and integration process, while also appreciating the role of the Vietnamese Embassy and the close coordination of member associations in building an increasingly strong community. On the occasion of the New Year, he extended wishes of peace and prosperity to Vietnamese people across Germany. Outstanding cultural performances and a traditional feast featuring dishes imbued with the flavors of Tet from home created a lively and meaningful atmosphere for the celebration. The Community Tet Binh Ngo 2026 was not only an occasion to welcome the New Year, but also a vivid testament to the cohesion, maturity and deep integration of the Vietnamese community in the Federal Republic of Germany, contributing to the strengthening and development of the ever-closer Vietnam - Germany friendship. Hung Ly Green banana prices soar ahead of Tet 2026. Photo: TA At the Tet (Lunar New Year) 2026 markets, northern green bananas are in such high demand that their prices have skyrocketed. In some cases, a bunch with just one extra banana costs three to four times more, jumping from VND550,000 to over VND1 million (approximately US$23-41) per bunch. On the morning of the 26th day of the lunar month, green bananas filled both traditional and online markets, as the fruit is a must-have in the five-fruit tray for ancestral worship during Tet. Prices of green bananas have risen steeply compared to normal days. Odd-numbered bunches, believed to bring good fortune, are particularly prized, selling for up to four times the price of even-numbered ones. After buying a perfect bunch of 29 green bananas for VND1 million at a local market in Dinh Cong, Hanoi, Dao Thi Lien shared her experience: I had to check with six vendors before finding a bunch with 29 bananas. The others only had bunches with 28. According to her, a 28-banana bunch costs less than VND350,000, while one with 29 bananas jumps to VND1 million. Its just one extra banana, but the difference is huge, she said, noting that the bunch she bought was large, evenly shaped, with bright green skin and no scratches. At Dai Tu Market, banana vendor Vu Ngoc Ngan confirmed that odd-numbered bunches usually cost two to four times more. The price also depends on the appearance of the bunch. A perfect odd-numbered bunch with large, unblemished bananas can easily sell for over VND1 million, she said. At her stall, even-numbered bunches range from VND100,000 to 250,000 each, nearly double the usual price. Odd-numbered bunches with 15, 17, or 19 bananas sell for VND300,000-400,000; those with 25 bananas cost around VND550,000; 27-bananas bunches go for VND600,000; and 29-bananas ones reach VND700,000. All her bananas are locally grown in the North, not imported from southern provinces. The number of bananas matters, but so does the look. Families buy them for altar offerings, so they want odd numbers and beautiful, spotless fruit to wish for luck and smooth sailing in the new year, Ngan explained. In contrast, southern green bananas sold online are priced by weight rather than by the number of bananas. At her shop in Tu Liem District, Hanoi, trader Bui Thi Linh was busy packing Tet orders. Our premium southern bananas cost VND55,000 per kilogram (about US$2.25), she said. A bunch weighs around three kilograms, so one costs about VND165,000. Southern bananas are grown for export to Japan, China, and Europe, with evenly sized, flawless fruit. Customers who buy whole boxes of three to four bunches (9-10 kilograms) pay only VND400,000 per box-roughly the same price as one odd-numbered northern bunch. Thanks to the more affordable pricing, Linhs sales have surged. Between the 25th and 27th days of the lunar month, she shipped around 300 boxes, and by midday on the 26th, she expected to stop taking orders with only 40 boxes left in stock. Some online sellers offer bulk discounts as low as VND35,000 per kilogram for full boxes, but most stop taking orders by the 27th day of the lunar calendar. Despite the high prices, northern green bananas remain one of the most sought-after items at Tet markets, as people continue to believe that a beautiful, odd-numbered bunch on the family altar will bring good fortune and prosperity for the year ahead. Tam An Located along the gentle Cai Lach river, Phu Son bougainvillea village in Vinh Thanh commune, Vinh Long province - formerly Phu Son commune, Cho Lach district, Ben Tre province - has emerged as a compelling destination for travelers from near and far. As Tet approaches, the village becomes even more lively, welcoming tourists and photographers eager to take in the scenery and feel the festive rhythm of the Mekong Delta preparing for the new year. Photographer Nguyen Khanh Vu Khoa, 41, from Ho Chi Minh City, visited the village a few days ago. Although it was his third visit, he said he was still impressed and overwhelmed by the riot of natural colors. According to Khoa, bougainvillea in Phu Son is planted most densely along both sides of the road near the embankment by Bao Vang canal bridge. The variety grown here is salt-tolerant, with thick clusters of blossoms in vivid hues that last for a long time. Bougainvillea is often seen as a symbol of peace and elegance, yet also resilience. For that reason, during Tet many families in the Mekong Delta choose the flower to decorate their courtyards or homes. The flowers here vary in shape, color and leaf type, ranging from pink, red, orange, yellow and white to purple, as well as green or variegated leaves. Among them, the most popular are medium and small potted bougainvillea shaped into distinctive forms, typically aged two to three years. Khoa suggests that the ideal time to visit and capture beautiful photographs at Phu Son bougainvillea village is in the morning or early afternoon, around 9am to 10am or 2pm to 3pm. During these hours, the weather is pleasant and the sunlight soft, making it perfect for outdoor sightseeing, experiences and check-ins. Phu Son bougainvillea village in Vinh Long glows with color ahead of Lunar New Year 2026. Photo: Nguyen Khanh Vu Khoa Bougainvillea blooms line the embankment near Bao Vang canal bridge. Photo: Nguyen Khanh Vu Khoa Visitors pose for photos amid vibrant blossoms in the days before Tet. Photo: Nguyen Khanh Vu Khoa Thao Trinh The Vietnam Organic Agriculture Association (VOAA) organised a Vietnam pavilion featuring seven leading organic enterprises at the worlds premier trade fair for organic food Biofach 2026, held from February 11 to 13 in Nurnberg, Germany. The participation formed part of the national trade promotion programme of the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade. The Vietnamese business delegation included familiar participants that have attended Biofach for many years, such as Vinasamex, Hiep Thanh, FNB, Long Son and Hanfimex, alongside a newcomer, Sen Capital. The companies showcased a wide range of products, including cashew kernels and roasted cashews, pepper, cinnamon, star anise, tea, spices, essential oils and organic cleaning products. Pham Minh Duc, a member of the VOAA Party Committees standing board, said this marked the ninth time the association had organised Vietnamese enterprises participation in Biofach, noting that the German organic agriculture fair is the largest and most prestigious of its kind in the world. Europes organic standards are widely regarded as among the most rigorous; and the fact that enterprises obtain European certification, participate in the fair and gain access to European customers demonstrates that Vietnamese organic products are capable of entering most global markets. He added that Vietnamese organic firms attending the fair have so far shown encouraging progress. Instead of primarily exporting raw materials as in the past, many are now developing their own brands and investing in deeper processing. During the fair, Vietnamese Trade Counsellor in Germany Dang Thi Thanh Phuong, together with Duc, held discussions with Thomas Derstadt, head of the spice procurement section at the Import Promotion Desk (IPD) under Germanys Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). They exchanged views on ways to make Vietnam a partner country of the IPD and an important channel for helping Vietnamese exports reach a broad customer base in Germany. Biofach 2026 attracted around 35,000 trade visitors and more than 2,200 exhibitors from nearly 90 countries, presenting a diverse range of organic food products across the entire value chain, from advanced agricultural production to retail and consumption./. VNA Gordon Ramsay has insisted Victoria Beckham did not behave inappropriately at her sons wedding. Gordon Ramsay: 'There was nothing inappropriate at Brooklyn Beckham's wedding' After Brooklyn Peltz Beckham alleged in a fiery Instagram message that his mother Victoria left his Transformers actress bride Nicola Peltz Beckham in tears by replacing her during a wedding dance at their lavish reception, close family friend Gordon refuted the claims. He told The Sun: "We [Gordon and his wife Tana Ramsay] were there at the wedding. There was nothing salacious. There was nothing inappropriate. Everyone was having fun, having a dance. No! Nothing of the sort. It was fun. I havent seen any of the memes, I heard about them of course Gordon, 59, also insisted that he and Brooklyn, 26, are still close and he hopes the chef will reconcile with his family. However, he accused Brooklyn of being infatuated with Nicola, 31, and getting carried away in his feud with his parents Victoria and Sir David Beckham. He said: Brooklyn and I have messaged a little bit, our relationship is solid. I love him his heart is incredible But its hard, isnt it, when youre infatuated? Love is blind. Its easy to get up on that rollercoaster, and get carried away. But it will come back. Ive seen first-hand just how good parents they are. David as a dad is just incredible. Theyve both put so much energy into their kids, and I know just how many times theyve got Brooklyn out of the s***. I think its going to be a matter of time before Brooklyn takes a good look at himself and understands just what his parents mean to him. Times going to be the best healer, and David will absolutely get that relationship back on track. Victoria and Tana have spoken a lot. They are probably closer than ever theyre like two peas in a pod, those two. She has offered lots of support. And, he advised Brooklyn that while trying to forge his own path away from the Beckham family name was admirable, it is important to remember where he came from. He said: Hes desperate to forge his own way, and I respect that from him. Its such a good thing to do. But remember where you came from. And honestly, one day youre not going to have your mum and dad, and you need to understand that. 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11 Jan (23) 28 Dec - 4 Jan (27) 21 Dec - 28 Dec (28) 14 Dec - 21 Dec (23) 7 Dec - 14 Dec (22) 30 Nov - 7 Dec (19) 23 Nov - 30 Nov (22) 16 Nov - 23 Nov (19) 9 Nov - 16 Nov (15) 2 Nov - 9 Nov (17) 26 Oct - 2 Nov (10) 19 Oct - 26 Oct (12) 12 Oct - 19 Oct (13) 5 Oct - 12 Oct (19) 28 Sep - 5 Oct (14) 21 Sep - 28 Sep (17) 14 Sep - 21 Sep (19) 7 Sep - 14 Sep (22) 31 Aug - 7 Sep (15) 24 Aug - 31 Aug (14) 17 Aug - 24 Aug (9) 10 Aug - 17 Aug (5) Wales will take part in a UK-wide National Year of Reading campaign aimed at boosting literacy levels and inspiring a lifelong love of reading. The bilingual initiative Go all in/ Ymgolli will build on work already underway to support schools, learners and families, to improve literacy standards and nurture a lasting habit of enjoying reading. Schools, local authorities, libraries, and community groups will also play a vital role and take part in events across the year to showcase the joy of reading to people of all ages. The campaign also aligns with Estyns enhanced focus on reading, which will see the inspectorate working with all education providers to prioritise improving the reading skills of all learners in Wales. Cabinet Secretary for Education said, Lynne Neagle said: Wales is renowned for its rich literacy history, inspiring many writers and poets. The aim of this campaign is to encourage and cultivate a love of reading. Reading is not only a lifelong skill, but we want it to be a lifelong passion. I am delighted to join all UK nations in the National Year of Reading; literacy is central to improving standards and attainment in our schools and this campaign will help support our continued focus on this key priority area. Working with partners and organisations across Wales the campaign will highlight the excellent work that is already happening and support future initiatives. A study carried out by the National Literacy Trust in summer 2025 found that the number of children and young people who enjoy reading was at its lowest for 20 years, with just one in three aged between eight to 18 saying that they enjoyed reading in their free time. The research showed the decline was particularly steep among primary-aged children, especially boys. Loss of motivation was cited as the biggest factor in the decline in reading for enjoyment. The new campaign aims to encourage people to read into topics that interest them whether thats sport, fashion, music or other passions as a gateway into reading. Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant, said: Libraries are at the heart of our communities, and the National Year of Reading is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the role they play every day. Whether its helping children discover the joy of books, supporting adults to build confidence with reading, or providing welcoming spaces for people to learn and connect, libraries make reading accessible to everyone. Their involvement isnt just valuable its essential to ensuring this National Year of Reading reaches every corner of Wales. Further information about the National Year of Reading is available here, featuring resources and Wales-specific content. Hwb will also host a calendar of activities throughout the year to help schools and communities keep up to date with the campaign. Spotted something? Got a story? email us at Got a story? email us at news@wrexham.com Barristers on the Wales and Chester Circuit have met local MPs at Cardiff Crown Court and Swansea Crown Court to oppose Government proposals to restrict jury trials. The meetings formed part of the Justice needs juries campaign, led by barristers who argue that court delays are caused by chronic under-investment rather than the use of juries. Under the proposals, the right to elect a jury trial would be removed in cases where the sentence may be up to three years. At Cardiff Crown Court, Circuit Leader Christopher Rees KC met Stephen Doughty MP, Labour member for Cardiff South and Penarth, and Alex Barros-Curtis MP, Labour member for Cardiff West. At Swansea Crown Court, barrister Craig Jones met Carolyn Harris MP, Labour member for Neath and Swansea East, Tonia Antoniazzi MP, Labour member for Gower, and representatives for Sir Chris Bryant MP, Labour member for Rhondda. The constituency court day took place across England and Wales, with around 20 MPs visiting 10 Crown Courts, at least one in each of the six circuits. Backlog figures were raised during the discussions. Between 2024 and 2025, the overall backlog in England and Wales increased by 9.3% to 79,619 cases. Over the same period, the backlog at Cardiff Crown Court increased by 0.8%. In Swansea, it increased by 9%. Barristers from the circuit also travelled to Westminster alongside the Bar Council, which represents 18,000 barristers across England and Wales, and the Criminal Bar Association, to meet MPs. Christopher Rees KC said: The strength of feeling among barristers across the whole of Wales and Chester and indeed the country is clear: we oppose plans to restrict jury trials for both principled and practical reasons. We all want to see the backlog in the courts brought down for the sake of complainants, witnesses and defendants, as well as those working in the system. But juries did not cause the backlog and research shows that reducing them is not the answer. In Wales and Chester, the backlog is not nearly as great as in parts of England. We need greater investment across the system to tackle the issues that cause delays including defendants being repeatedly brought late to court. At Cardiff Crown Court, barristers told us that a whole week of their trial had been lost due to this very reason. Not only that but on another occasion, the cells were understaffed so all trials had to stop that day these issues have nothing to do with jury trials. Im proud that barristers practising in Wales and Chester have taken the time to meet with their MPs both in the region and in London to set out our argument that justice needs juries. The Governments proposals relate to jury trials in cases where the maximum sentence is up to three years. Spotted something? Got a story? email us at Got a story? email us at news@wrexham.com The Welsh Ambulance Service has pledged to become an Endometriosis Friendly Employer. The Trust has signed up to a scheme run by Endometriosis UK, committing to support staff with the condition and to challenge taboos around menstrual health in the workplace. Endometriosis is a condition where cells similar to those in the lining of the womb grow in other parts of the body. It affects one in 10 women and those assigned female at birth from puberty to menopause, although the impact may be felt for life. Symptoms vary and can include pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, painful bowel movements and fatigue. Many people with endometriosis also experience significant bloating around the time of their period. Kathryn Cobley, the Trusts Head of Inclusion and Engagement, said: Endometriosis can have a profound impact on daily life, yet it is often misunderstood or not talked about openly. By signing up to the Endometriosis UK scheme, were committing to breaking down taboos around menstrual health, raising awareness and ensuring colleagues affected by the condition feel listened to and supported in a meaningful way. Becoming an Endometriosis Friendly Employer is an important step in making sure our people feel understood, supported and able to thrive at work. Emma Cox, Chief Executive of Endometriosis UK, added: Im delighted to welcome the Welsh Ambulance Service to the diverse range of organisations tackling taboos around menstrual health and endometriosis through the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme. By showing its team that they are valued and can expect support and reasonable adjustments to help those with endometriosis and menstrual conditions to succeed at work, they will be increasing engagement across the whole of their workforce, ultimately making the organisation more successful. As part of the scheme, the Trust will appoint Endometriosis Champions who will receive training from Endometriosis UK to provide support and information to staff. Spotted something? Got a story? email us at Got a story? email us at news@wrexham.com Jessica Alba and Cash Warren have finally agreed divorce terms. Jessica Alba and Cash Warren agree divorce deal The former couple first separated in 2024 with Jessica filing for divorce in January 2025 and now Cash has filed his own papers with the court, seeking approval for the deal he and Jessica have agreed. According to TMZ, Jessica, 44, and Cash, 46, will share joint custody of daughters Honor, 17, and Haven, 14, and son Hayes, eight. The pair did not have a prenuptial agreement when they got married in 2008 and have agreed not to pay each other alimony. Instead, Cash will receive a $3 million payout, which will be paid in two non-taxable payments of $1.5 million each, one this year and the second one next year. He will also get the $10 million Beverly Hills mansion they bought in 2017, while Jessicas legal last name is officially restored to Alba. According to PEOPLE, the divorce is uncontested. Jessica and Cash first met in Vancouver in 2004 on the set of the superhero film Fantastic Four. She was playing Sue Storm, while he worked as a director's assistant. Meanwhile, Jessica who has been dating Danny Ramirez for the past few months previously insisted she is learning to "let life happen" after her split from Cash. Reflecting on her life since the split, she told Extra: "I think everybody can relate to, you try to plan so much, especially as a mom, youre always trying to plan, plan, and control things. "And I think you just see, especially as time goes by, that whats meant for you is actually whats going to show up and whats going to happen. Sometimes, you just have to let life happen and enjoy yourself and things will fall into place. Trust the process. Around six months after confirming her breakup from film producer Cash, she was seen on vacation with Marvel star Ramirez, 33, in Cancun, Mexico. Cash is pleased for his ex and told TMZ: Im happy for her. I dont know him, but he seems like a good guy. Asked whether he is seeing anyone, he replied: No, not yet. Let me know if you got anybody. The Honey actress first announced her split from Cash via an Instagram post. She wrote: "I've been on a journey of self realization and transformation for years - both as an individual and in partnership with Cash. "I'm proud of how we've grown as a couple and in our marriage over the last 20 years and it's now time for us to embark on a new chapter of growth and evolution as individuals. "We are moving forward with love and kindness and respect for each other and will forever be family. Our children remain our highest priority and we request privacy at this time. (sic)" The Nevada Health Authority has opened the application period for new state funding through Nevada's Graduate Medical Education Grant Program. They say the grant funding is in support of initiatives that "create, expand or strengthen programs for residency training and postdoctoral fellowships in Nevada." More than $15 million in grant funding was made available during the last legislative session. In a statement, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo said, Expanding residency training is one of the most effective ways we can bolster our healthcare workforce and attract top talent to Nevada. Doctors overwhelmingly choose to practice where they complete their residency, and by investing in residency and fellowship programs here at home, we are keeping Nevada-trained, Nevada-educated physicians in our communities, creating a stable, long-term pipeline of medical professionals to serve Nevada families for years to come. To apply or learn more visit the GME Grant Program website. The Storey County Sheriff's Office is warning of a phone scam that has been encountered by people in the community. People have received phone calls from someone claiming to be a Storey County deputy demanding bitcoin to pay off a federal warrant, according to a post from the SCSO on Facebook. The caller threatens arrest if their demands are not met. In its post, the Sheriff's Office reminds people that they will never ask for payment over the phone, and will never ask for payment in bitcoin. If you are ever in doubt about a call purporting to be from the Sheriff's Office, you can call them at (775) 847-0959. KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked his international allies for their support but suggested there was still questions remaining over the future security guarantees for his country. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, Zelenskyy repeatedly thanked American and European allies for helping Ukraine by providing air defense systems that protect infrastructure like power plants and save lives. Previous U.S.-led efforts to find consensus on ending the war, most recently two rounds of talks in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, have failed to resolve difficult issues, such as the future of Ukraines Donbas industrial heartland that is largely occupied by Russian forces. Later with reporters, Zelenskyy questioned how the concept of a free trade zone proposed by the U.S. would work in the Donbas region which Russia insists Kyiv must give up in order to get peace. He also said the Americans want peace as quickly as possible and that U.S. team wants to sign all the agreements on Ukraine at the same time whereas Ukraine wants guarantees over the country's future security signed first. European nations, including the U.K. and France, have already said they will commit troops to Ukraine to guarantee its future security. The U.S. is also expected to be involved and discussions are currently ongoing about the nature of America's support. Russian officials are opposed to any foreign troop presence in Ukraine, Zelenskyy suggested, because Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to have the opportunity to attack Ukraine again. Zelenskyy also said he was surprised that Moscow had replaced the head of its negotiating team before another round of U.S.-brokered talks and suggested the move was deliberately aimed at delaying negotiations. The talks take place against a backdrop of continued fighting along the roughly 1,250-kilometer (750-mile) front line, relentless Russian bombardment of civilian areas of Ukraine and the countrys power grid, and Kyivs almost daily long-range drone attacks on war-related assets on Russian soil. During negotiations, Russian officials have insisted Ukraine give up more territory in the east of the country to end the war. But Zelenskyy told The Associated Press that it was a little bit crazy to suggest Ukraine withdraw from its own territory or exchange it. Thousands of Ukrainians have been killed defending the country's Donbas region, he said, pointing out that 200,000 people also live there and it would not be acceptable to effectively hand them over to Russia. Zelenskyy also questioned how the concept of a free economic zone would work. Imagine, he said, if foreign soldiers patrolled the zone and Putin provoked them and they left. In that case, he said, there could be a big occupation of Ukraine and a lot of losses. If Putin is given any opportunity for victory we dont know what he will do next, Zelenskyy said. Such a model, Zelenskyy told the AP, would have big risks for Ukraine and for any country which committed to guaranteeing Ukraine's security. But he said he was ready to discuss it as it could be important as a compromise in exchange for securing support to reconstruct Ukraine. During negotiations, Moscow has to accept monitoring of a ceasefire and return some 7,000 Ukrainian prisoners of war in exchange for more than 4,000 Russian prisoners held by Ukraine, Zelenskyy said. Earlier on Saturday, drone strikes killed one person in Ukraine and another in Russia, Ukrainian officials said, ahead of fresh talks next week in Geneva aimed at ending the war. An elderly woman died when a Russian drone hit a residential building in the Black Sea port city of Odesa, Ukraines State Emergency Service said. In Russia, a civilian was killed in a Ukrainian drone strike on a car in the border region of Bryansk, regional Gov. Alexander Bogomaz said. Russia-installed authorities said a Ukrainian airstrike on a village Saturday wounded 15 people in Ukraines partially occupied Luhansk region. The attacks came a day after a Ukrainian missile strike on the Russian border city of Belgorod killed two people and wounded five, according to regional Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov. ___ Burrows reported from Munich, Germany and Morton reported from London. Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine AceShowbiz - Marc Anthony is set to launch his very first Las Vegas residency on Friday, February 13, promising fans an unprecedented live experience. The acclaimed Latin music superstar reveals he will be performing songs hes never performed live before, including duets, English tracks, ballads, and salsa hitsall of which have been chart-toppers embraced by audiences over the years. Its a mix of styles, a collection of No. 1 hits that I havent had the chance to perform live until now, Marc Anthony shares with Billboard. This show is more intimate, focusing on storytelling and connection with the audience. Over his career, Marc Anthony has played more than 10,000 concerts worldwide. Yet, this upcoming residency represents a fresh challenge for the artist. Im putting together a show unlike anything Ive done before, combining songs in a new way. Its exciting to create something so unique, he says. The residency, titled Marc Anthony: VegasMy Way!, will take place at the BleauLive Theater inside the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. It will initially run for five days in February, with an additional three-day engagement planned for the summer. This series of shows serves as a warm-up for a much larger 100-date residency set for 2027. Marc Anthony is one of the most successful touring artists in Latin music history, but this marks his first residency in any city. The shows setlist will spotlight many duets, featuring collaborations with artists who have recorded exclusive videos tailored specifically for this residency. He mentions collaborators like Maluma, India, and Gente De Zona, noting iconic tracks such as La Gozadera. There will also be English-language songs like You Sang to Me and I Need to Know, Marc Anthony explains. I included everything Ive always wanted to perform live but never had the chance to. Though long courted to take up a Las Vegas residency due to his immense star power and deep Latin music legacy, Marc Anthony only seriously considered it after meeting Jeffrey Soffer, chairman and CEO of Fontainebleau Development. Soffer personally invited him to stay at the hotel, showcasing the brand-new, six-star venue and theater. When I saw what Jeff Soffer created here, it felt like the ideal Vegas experience, Marc Anthony remarks. The theater is state-of-the-art, and knowing his father was friends with Frank Sinatra made it feel very special. This is what Las Vegas should be. Fans accustomed to seeing Marc Anthony in large arenas and stadiums will now experience him in a more intimate setting, where his powerful voice and tight band take center stage. The artist also admits that his band is so well-rehearsed that he often skips traditional warm-ups, a testament to their professionalism and chemistry. AceShowbiz - Dave Mustaine is celebrating a triumphant moment as Megadeths latest self-titled album climbs to the top of global charts, marking a significant milestone for the thrash metal legends. The bands 17th studio release, which Mustaine has described as their final album, debuted at No. 1 on several charts worldwide, including the Billboard 200a first in the bands prolific career. The albums singles have also performed strongly, with Tipping Point reaching No. 1 on the Hard Rock Digital Song Sales chart last October, I Dont Care hitting No. 5 in November, and Puppet Parade entering the Hard Rock Songs chart at No. 9 earlier this year. Speaking from his home office in Franklin, Tennessee, where his Grammy Award for Dystopia is prominently displayed, Mustaine shared mixed feelings about their recent success. Its been like a really big chubby, he joked with a smirk via Zoom, quickly adding that the achievement felt rewarding and meaningful to the band and their fans. It is gratifying, Mustaine said. I hope the fans will fall in love with this album and keep it on the charts. Ever since we started getting those No. 1 tracks, this has had a really profound effect on everybody around us. Theyre all feeling vindicated because of their belief and their hard work to make this happen, cause this was a bona fide team to make this record. Despite the excitement, the experience carries a bittersweet note. Megadeth is gearing up for a 12-date Canadian tour starting February 15 in Victoria, British Columbia, to support the album. This tour will feature Swedish guitarist Teemu Mantysaari, marking his debut with the band on a record. However, during the albums production, Mustaine faced increasingly severe health challenges. Approaching 65 years old, he revealed the physical toll that years of intense touring and medical issues have taken on him. I said to [my son and co-manager] Justis, I dont know how much longer I can do this. My hands are killing me, he recalled. Mustaine has battled cancer, undergone spinal fusion surgery, and dealt with arthritis, stenosis, bulging discs, fractured vertebrae, and Saturday night palsy. These conditions have made performing and recording increasingly difficult. He also mentioned concerns about overusing aspirin to manage pain, which could damage his kidneys. Despite these hurdles, Mustaine and the entire Megadeth team remain committed to their music and fans. The bands dedication and teamwork were critical to completing the album and achieving its historic success. We were all talking about it, and everybody said they understood and th he began, underscoring the collective effort behind the project. As Megadeth embarks on their upcoming tour, Mustaines openness about his health struggles adds a poignant dimension to the bands latest chapter, underscoring the resilience behind their enduring legacy in metal music. AceShowbiz - The era of exclusive streaming content is evolving rapidly. In recent years, streaming platforms aggressively pursued original shows and movies, investing heavily to outpace competitors. However, this approach proved financially unsustainable, leading many services to license their content to rivals for additional revenue. Paramount+ is now making a bold move by licensing some of its prized properties to Netflix, marking one of the most surprising and potentially profitable deals to date. According to Netflixs latest quarterly earnings report, the streaming giant acquired licenses for several Paramount titles, including popular CBS series like Watson and SEAL Team. However, the standout acquisition is the series Mayor of Kingstown , created by acclaimed filmmaker. The crime drama starringhas been a significant success on Paramount+, earning critical praise and securing a renewal through a fifth and final season. Until now, Mayor of Kingstown and most of Taylor Sheridans projects have been exclusive to Paramounts platforms. This licensing deal will bring the series to Netflix, exposing it to a much broader audience and signaling a shift in how streaming services handle premium content. The allure of Taylor Sheridans work has been a cornerstone of Paramount+s identity. His breakout hit, Yellowstone, shattered records and helped establish Paramount as a major player in television. Although Yellowstone originally aired on the Paramount Network cable channel, its streaming rights were exclusively licensed to Peacock, a decision that Paramount has since reconsidered. Learning from past experiences, Paramount is now opting to broaden the reach of Sheridans subsequent projects by partnering with Netflix. This strategy not only enhances visibility for Sheridans content but also opens new revenue streams for Paramount through licensing agreements. This partnership could mark the beginning of more collaborative content sharing between streaming platforms, especially for high-profile creators like Taylor Sheridan. As the streaming landscape continues to shift, such deals may become a model for balancing exclusivity with audience expansion. For fans of crime dramas and Sheridans gritty storytelling, the arrival of Mayor of Kingstown on Netflix is a welcome development. It promises to introduce the series to viewers who may have missed it on Paramount+ and underscores the growing trend of cross-platform content accessibility in the streaming era. AceShowbiz - MJ Lenderman showcased fresh material during his recent appearance at the HeAthens Homecoming festival in Athens, Georgia. The event, hosted by Drive-By Truckers, featured a unique set where he unveiled two unreleased songs alongside a selection of covers. Taking the stage on Wednesday, February 11, MJ Lenderman departed from his usual live band, the Wind. Instead, he was accompanied by Snocaps bassist Brad Cook and Twin Peaks drummer Colin Croom. This new lineup brought a distinct energy to the performance, which included a total of eleven songs. Among the covers performed were heartfelt renditions of Vic Chesnutts Gravity Of The Situation, Neil Youngs Separate Ways, and Warren Zevons Hasten Down The Wind. The set also featured Pink Floyds classic Wish You Were Here, highlighting MJ Lendermans wide-ranging influences. A surprise moment came when Drive-By Truckers frontman Patterson Hood joined the stage to perform his solo track Uncle Disney and the band's song Bob alongside MJ Lenderman, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans in attendance. The full setlist from MJ Lendermans HeAthens Homecoming performance included: Gravity of the Situation (Vic Chesnutt cover) Separate Ways (Neil Young cover) Hasten Down the Wind (Warren Zevon cover) Unreleased song Uncle Disney (with Patterson Hood) Bob (Drive-By Truckers cover with Patterson Hood) Catholic Priest Pick Up The Pieces Unreleased song Wish You Were Here (Pink Floyd cover) Knockin' Fans are eagerly speculating that the two new songs could be part of an upcoming album, potentially following 2024s critically acclaimed Manning Fireworks. That album earned a spot on NMEs list of the 50 best albums of 2024 and featured the track Shes Leaving You, which was also recognized among NMEs top songs of the year. MJ Lenderman received a four-star review from NME for Manning Fireworks, with praise describing him as Americanas golden boy and highlighting the albums empathetic storytelling for its cast of freaks and losers. Since releasing Manning Fireworks, MJ Lenderman has remained active, collaborating with Nate Amos from This Is Lorelei on the song Dancing In The Club, contributing to the new Snocaps album, and supporting relief efforts for those affected by Hurricane Helene. Looking ahead, MJ Lenderman recently announced a North American co-headline tour with Waxahatchee, set to begin in April. Fans interested in attending can still find remaining tickets for the tour. AceShowbiz - Lara Croft remains a legendary figure in pop culture, and now a fresh comic series is reigniting interest in the iconic adventurer. Dark Horses Tomb Raider: Sacred Artifacts arrives amid growing anticipation for upcoming screen adaptations, including Sophie Turners eagerly awaited portrayal of Lara Croft. The new series strikes a careful balance, blending thrilling action sequences with thoughtful character development, according to AIPT Comics. As the worlds of gaming, comics, and film continue to intersect around Laras legacy, each new project carries significant expectations. Tomb Raider: Sacred Artifacts aims to appeal to both veteran fans and newcomers by tapping into nostalgia while still feeling fresh. The story is set after the dramatic events of Tomb Raider: Underworld, where Lara faces a moment of reflection and uncertainty. Rather than diving straight into nonstop action, the series uses an interview framework to explore Laras internal struggles and emotional scars, giving readers insight into her mindset. This pacing allows quieter moments to build tension before launching into daring exploits, emphasizing that for Lara, exploration is more than a profession its where she truly thrives. This nuanced portrayal deepens the familiar thrills of ancient ruins and dangerous climbs, presenting Laras resilience as hard-earned rather than taken for granted. Her vulnerabilities add new meaning to every daring leap and confrontation with unseen enemies, grounding the story even when the stakes feel enormous. Artist Antonio Di Caprios visuals enhance this duality, capturing the contrast between Laras tough exterior and her more reflective side. As fans await Sophie Turners debut as Lara Croft in upcoming film projects, Tomb Raider: Sacred Artifacts sets an important tone. It serves as a bridge connecting the characters rich history with fresh storytelling directions, potentially influencing how future adaptations approach the adventurous heroine. This new chapter in Laras saga highlights the enduring appeal of a character who continues to evolve while honoring her past. Rupert Grint has been able to "pick and choose" his roles thanks to the success of Harry Potter. Rupert Grint picks and chooses his roles The 37-year-old actor shot to international stardom as a child, as he played Ron Weasley in all eight Harry Potter films between 2001 and 2011, and Rupert now admits that the franchise changed his life and his career. The actor - who starred in the film franchise alongside Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson - told Variety: "Im very aware of that privilege. "It was hard work, but those movies have allowed us to pick and choose, which is just such a gift. Obviously it doesnt mean youre always going to choose the right thing. But I do feel very lucky for that." Rupert feels fortunate that he doesn't face financial pressures to accept work. The movie star also confessed that he's "not ridiculously ambitious". Rupert - who has Wednesday, five, and Goldie, ten months, with his partner Georga Groome - shared: "I love working, but I also just love being at home, hanging out and being a dad. Im not ridiculously ambitious." Meanwhile, Rupert previously admitted to feeling jealous of the Gallagher brothers. The actor loves the "attitude" and "confidence" of Noel and Liam Gallagher, and he wishes he also had the ability to "just not care". Rupert explained to NME: "I wish I was a Gallagher. I actually wish I was a Gallagher more than I wish I was in a band. I love their attitude. I wish I had that confidence. That ability to just not care. "Ive never met them. I was supposed to the day they split up. I think I live close to one of them so Ive probably seen the back of Liam Gallaghers head or something." Rupert went to his first-ever music gig alongside Emma Watson, when he was just 11 years old. The actor watched Shakira at Wembley Arena in London, and he even got the chance to meet the chart-topping pop star. He said: "I went with Emma. Id never been to a gig like that. Id been to, like, banger racing previously. Thats the only time I think Id seen any sort of mass gathering of people there just to watch one thing." AceShowbiz - Cailin Russo gained significant attention this year when her 2018 track Bad Things was featured during the closing credits of Season 1 of the popular Crave drama series Heated Rivalry. This exposure introduced her music to a worldwide television audience, marking a pivotal moment in her career. However, her rise has been a gradual journey shaped by diverse creative endeavors across music, visuals, and major collaborations. Fresh off the momentum from Heated Rivalry, Cailin Russo is set to release a new EP titled DONT on March 11, accompanied by a new single, I Cant Help You Now, her first original music since the success of Bad Things. Adding to the excitement, she will embark on the Bad Things Tour this spring. Ill perform old and new music, Russo shared about the upcoming tour. I will definitely perform Bad Things. I have to give the people what they want! The artist first caught public attention in 2013 through her appearance in Justin Biebers All That Matters music video, which showcased her compelling on-screen presence. She expanded her reach with the anthemic song Phoenix, created for the popular game League of Legends, further bridging the worlds of music and gaming. Beyond performing, Russo has earned acclaim as a songwriter. Notably, her work on Kanye Wests DONDA contributed to the albums nomination for Album of the Year at the 2022 Grammy Awards. These achievements highlight her evolving career shaped by strategic collaborations and genre-spanning projects that have broadened her cultural influence. Born and raised in San Diego, Russo grew up surrounded by music, influenced by her fathers involvement in a pop-punk band. This early exposure to live instrumentation and creative collaboration helped shape her artistic vision. Rooted in rock, her sound draws inspiration from iconic acts like No Doubt and The Rolling Stones while maintaining a distinct personal style. I get a lot of inspiration from growing up around music and the vibrant Los Angeles scene, she has noted, emphasizing the blend of classic rock influences with her unique voice. With her new EP, single, and upcoming tour, Cailin Russo is poised to define a new chapter in her career, reflecting the growth and maturity she describes as a marked difference between her early twenties and now. The values of faith, family, and freedom were on full display during the Celebration of Life for the late Congressman Doug LaMalfa (CA-1) who passed away unexpectedly in early January, just before he was to return to Washington, D.C. after the December recess. Advertisement On January 24th, I was privileged to join over 3,000 constituents and state, local, and federal officials who gathered at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds in Chico to remember him as a trusted leader, valued friend, and a follower of Christ. A fourth generation farmer from Italian and Swedish heritage, Doug agreed to run for an open seat in the State Assembly after helping elect other candidates in his native Butte County, where, among GOP circles, he was known as the sign guy for his desire and ability to install large campaign signs along roads and highways in Californias North State, which spans nearly 200 miles from just above Sacramento to the Oregon and Nevada borders. Advertisement Doug won that race for the State Assembly in 2002 and was later elected to the State Senate in 2008 and Congress in 2012. Doug valued the opportunity to represent his constituents in the North State to colleagues in Sacramento and in Washington, D.C. The two-hour program was led off by current speaker of the House of Representatives, Mike Johnson, who informed the audience that the bipartisan delegation of House Members was flown from D.C. to Northern California in Air Force II, loaned to the group by Vice President JD Vance, due to the severe weather experienced in the eastern part of the nation. Advertisement Johnson reminded the gathering that Doug took the opportunity at each State of the Union Address to greet the president as he entered and exited the House Chambers. Doug wasnt hanging over the railing to get a selfie or have something signed by the presidenthe was there to represent you, to advance your cause, and champion your priorities. Doug believed that everyone deserves to be represented well. Former speaker of the House, Kevin McCarthy, who met Doug when they were both elected to the state assembly, told the gathering that Doug taught me how to be a better friend and a better leader noting that Doug would risk his reputation to help a friend and serve his constituents. Advertisement Illustrating Congressman LaMalfas ability and intent to work with colleagues from all political stripes, McCarthy pointed to the dozens of Republicans and Democrats from Congress and the state legislature who were present at the memorial, including Democrat members John Garamendi, Mike Thompson, U.S. Senator Adam Schiff, and Governor Gavin Newsom. Mark Spannagel, Dougs chief of staff in the state senate and in Congress, told the story of Doug inviting one of his colleagues, Congresswoman Jill Tokuda of Hawaii, to Paradise to witness the process of rebuilding a community from a devastating wildfire and discuss how to leverage FEMA when her Maui constituents were no longer in the news. Doug guided and helped her through the process of rebuilding and persevering after such tragic loss because he know what that looked like and felt like due to losing many communities to devastating wildfire throughout the years. Spannagel told how Dougs bipartisanship was sincere and intimate, conducted privately, without fanfare and away from the cameras. Doug was authentic. He was the same in Happy Camp as he was in Washington, D.C. Advertisement Noting that when Doug was unanimously elected as chairman the Congressional Western Caucus, Spannagel said Doug advocated for freedom from an uncaring government. Doug fought for a rural America that felt unseen and unheard. Steve Crowder, the mayor of Paradise, which was tragically destroyed during the 2018 Camp Fire, noted how Doug made his work personal and led with actions and persistence, not merely words. Doug was a true servant leader. He worked, he listened, he showed up. Doug was determined to always be on the side of the people. Advertisement James Gallagher, who represents Californias 3rd District in the state assembly and recently completed his tenure as the chambers minority leader, was a close friend and a strong political ally of Doug. Gallagher quoted Ecclesiastes 1:7, All rivers run into the sea, yet the sea is not full; unto the place from whence the rivers come, there they will return again, which illustrates that as a farmer and as a leader, Doug lived with uncertainty, only to do it all again during another season or yet another campaign. Gallagher told the group that Dougs Christian faith, while not outspoken, was lived through his actions as a friend and a leader. If you, your family or your community benefitted from Dougs help or encouragement, you experienced Christbecause the Holy Spirit was alive in Doug. While Dougs servant leadership and bipartisan approach was a method to advancing his policy priorities on behalf of the North State, including water resources, flood protection, forest health, wildfire prevention and economic competitiveness, politics was not absent from the gathering. At the conclusion of his remarks, LaMalfas original chief of staff in the state assembly, David Reade, made a point of noting his friend and former boss strenuous opposition to Proposition 50, the partisan redistricting initiative championed by Governor Newsom and state and national Democrat leaders. Directly calling out the elephant in the room, Reade said Even in the face of a grotesque, racial gerrymander perpetrated in California by unscrupulous politicians, Doug was undaunted and ready to run the race of his life. Dougs wife Jill, concluded the remembrance with their four children and granddaughter, joining her on stage. Jill spoke of Dougs devotion as a husband, father, friend and fellow Christian and challenged those in attendance to be legacy carriers, carrying on Dougs legacy of service in their respective families and communities. Jill said that, as much as she would like to, I wouldnt ask for Doug to be back here with us, because I know, and my faith teaches me, that Doug is in the best place in all of Creation to be. She then invited all in attendance to accept Christ if we hadnt yet done so and affirm our faith as a community of believers. As for me, I knew Doug from my perch as a legislative staffer, association executive and a local elected official. Doug showed us that it was an honor, privilege, and responsibility to represent people to their government, not the other way around. He displayed the type of consistent, persistent advocacy on behalf of his constituents that, over time, affects real, long-lasting change. As a northern Californian, I valued his leadership on issues of critical importance to the North State, like water, forest health, economic opportunity and working against a bureaucracy that doesnt value or appreciate hard working, independent people who want to be left alone by their government, not regulated into dependency or poverty. We lost a champion in Dougs all too soon passing, but those of us who remain on this side of heaven can take up his mantle, honor his legacy and fight for our shared freedom and way of life. We can only hope and pray that the days messages of faith, family and the freedom ensured by our representative democracy and guaranteed by our Constitution, were heard and felt by the many leaders in the room and they too dedicate themselves to honor the legacy of Congressman Doug LaMalfa, truly a good and faithful servant. If you would like to view the entire event, you can do so here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZP_1rNWwkM. Image from YouTube. Yesterday, two things happened. First, Sen. Susan Collins (R(ish)-Maine) agreed to support the SAVE Act, which would require identification and proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections and which brings the Senate to 50 yes votes. Second, recognizing that even with the votes to win, Republicans might not override a filibuster, Trump announced that he would make elections honest through executive action, if necessary. Advertisement The SAVE Act is not complicated. As Rep. Marlin Stutzman (R-Indiana) explained in a poster, it does not require people to bring mountains of documentation with them when they register to vote, nor will married women need to change their birth certificates. Instead, Democrats have the SAVE America Act wrong. Heres why: pic.twitter.com/j98RgMjOTo Advertisement February 12, 2026 This simplicity does not comfort Democrats, who have long claimed that millions of people will instantly be disenfranchised if they are required to provide identification. My personal favorite is probably a 2021 Kamala Harris interview that is gaining new traction. In it, she insists that the benighted people in rural communities will be unable to find a photocopier and undoubtedly lack access to printers, rendering them unable to comply with Voter ID requirements: Never forget Kamala Harris opposed voter ID because she said its almost impossible for rural Americans to make photocopies. Thats what todays Democrat Party thinks of hardworking Americans. Completely out of touch. pic.twitter.com/Jrt8oiK1Cb Christian Collins (@CollinsforTX) February 6, 2026 This simplicity does not comfort Democrats, who have long claimed that millions of people will instantly be disenfranchised if they are required to provide identification. My personal favorite is probably a 2021 Kamala Harris interview that is gaining new traction. In it, she insists that the benighted people in rural communities will be unable to find a photocopier and undoubtedly lack access to printers, rendering them unable to comply with Voter ID requirements: You can see the thought process behind that condescending idiocy: Most rural voters are conservatives. I have just struck panic into Republican hearts by pointing out this sad reality about their base. Republicans, fortunately, know that rural voters are not morons and are very likely to have access to proof of their citizenship bona fides, which is why, despite Kamalas words, theyve stuck to their Voter ID guns. More recently, weve had other, increasingly panicked leftist claims insisting that Americans are utterly incapable of getting ID: Advertisement Republicans are still trying to pass the SAVE Acta bill that would make it harder to vote and disenfranchise millions of Americans. Join @RedistrictAct and tell your member of Congress to vote no: https://t.co/Cc4JHKr73Q pic.twitter.com/tUyxEbYJ0y Barack Obama (@BarackObama) February 11, 2026 Never forget Kamala Harris opposed voter ID because she said its almost impossible for rural Americans to make photocopies. Thats what todays Democrat Party thinks of hardworking Americans. Completely out of touch. pic.twitter.com/Jrt8oiK1Cb Christian Collins (@CollinsforTX) February 6, 2026 Most of us use our driver's license as IDs to votethese rarely show one's citizenship. Under SAVE, you would need a passport (which many don't have) or birth certificate (which many don't have easy access to). This isn't about election integrity - it's about voter suppression. Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (@RepJasmine) September 18, 2024 Crocketts little gloss about drivers licenses and citizenship is an attempt to hide the fact that, while one once needed a birth certificate to get a drivers license (voila! citizenship), 38% of states, plus D.C., now give drivers licenses to illegal aliens. This is why the federal government needs Americans to go through more hoops to prove citizenship. Advertisement Its obvious that Democrats are terrified of honest voting, which will clearly cut into their gains with voters who are dead, imaginary, or illegal aliens. Weirdly, a lot of Republicans were hostile to it, too, which is why it took such an extraordinary effort to corral 50 votes in the Senate. Indeed, when you look at the polls, Congress is the only group of people in America that does not enthusiastically support Voter ID: NEW: CNN's Harry Enten: "A photo ID to vote is not controversial in this country. It is not controversial by party and it is not controversial by race. The vast majority of Americans agree with @NICKIMINAJ." @DailyCaller https://t.co/IGtKg3lsmo pic.twitter.com/9QteRAeLmn Advertisement February 3, 2026 But, as noted, with Collins over the finish line, Senate Republicans, with Vances help, can theoretically pass the SAVE Act. Except... Democrats have threatened a filibuster. This leaves Republicans with three choices: blow up the filibuster entirely, which is dangerous; cave; or force a speaking, Mr. Smith Goes To Washington-style filibuster. I vote for the latter. I want to see Democrats in diapers and catheters standing there defending their defiant stance against the overwhelming majority of Americans. I also disagree with John Thune that anything else the Senate does right now is even remotely as important. Without honest elections, nothing else matters. Advertisement Meanwhile, though, Donald Trump is taking no chances. Yesterday, he sent out two Truths. The first explained briefly that Democrats plan to cheat, and that he will act: The second expanded on the first. In it, Trump called out the Democrats intransigence and their other crazy policies, warned against their most extreme plans (e.g., ending the filibuster, adding two states, packing the courts), and, again, promised executive action: All I can say is that Trump had better act fast. Democrats will make sure this issue is mired in the Courts with a series of carefully chosen leftist judges issuing instant injunctions, followed by foot-dragging in left-leaning appellate courts, and then the slow process of the Supremes. By the time the issue is resolved, the election will be over, with no Voter ID in sight. I try not to criticize Trump because hes climbing a glass mountain with weights on his ankles, but he should have taken care of this last year. Lets hope that he and the Republicans can coalesce to take care of it this year, and in a timely fashion, too. Header image created using AI. To read the international news coverage of President Trump's embargo of oil on Cuba which is now on its last legs, you'd think the communist island were just a sweet little mild-mannered nation minding its own business when Big Bad Trump came along and took away its oil, following the U.S.'s extraction of Cuba's supplier of oil, Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro, who had been handing it to them for free. Advertisement It's garbage. Cuba is one of the world's most repressive communist hellholes that imprisons disssidents, runs torture chambers, exports torturers to the world's rogue regimes, spies on the U.S., infamously harms U.S. government personnel through electromagnetic attacks (Havana Syndrome), trains radical leftists both here and in Latin America in the antifa tactics we see in Los Angeles and Minneapolis, ships illegal migrants to the states by the millions, and leverages its geography to help states such as Russia, China and Iran to spy on, microwave on, and gather intelligence about the U.S. No, it's not a friend. It's an enemy, and with Maduro gone, President Trump is right to shut it down. Advertisement That's too much for some Democrats in Congress, who bizarrely consider Trump, not Cuba, the bad guy and are stepping up to the plate to defend the monstrous regime. One of them was Rep. Ilhan Omar, the world's most ungrateful migrant, whom I wrote about here. A third is jurassic Democrat Rep. Nydia Velazquez of New York. Now there's an even more disgusting one. Advertisement According to Latin Times on MSN.com: Democratic Rep. Jim McGovern introduced a bill to "repeal the U.S. embargo against Cuba," saying that the country should change its "failed, obsolete, Cold-War thinking towards" the country. Advertisement "Our 60+ year embargo has been ineffective and counterproductiveit hurts the Cuban people, it strengthens hardliners, it gives rise to more refugees, and it undercuts our standing in the world," McGovern said in a social media publication. NEWS: today I introduced a bill to repeal the U.S. embargo against Cuba. For over six decades, the U.S. has embraced failed, obsolete, Cold-War thinking towards Cuba. Our 60+ year embargo has been ineffective and counterproductiveit hurts the Cuban people, it strengthens Rep. Jim McGovern (@RepMcGovern) February 13, 2026 Why are they doing this? There's nothing worth saving in that den of killers. There isn't even much prestige in radical chic circles for saving this hellhole left. There's just hatred of Trump and too bad if the Cubans have to live under repression for another seventy years or whatever. But given their records, it's probably a soft spot for Cuba, too. Advertisement McGovern is using his typical tactics, claiming to care about "the people" when he's really just gaming for the regime, or any leftist whose first crime is to oppress "the people." He's the American whose name turned up in the captured computer files of FARC chieftain Raul Reyes, who was blown away by the Colombian army in Ecuador in 2006. He was helping FARC'S terrorists out with some of their 'messaging' problems: Advertisement According to the Wall Street Journal in 2008: A military strike three weeks ago killed Raul Reyes, No. 2 in command of the FARC, Colombia's most notorious terrorist group. The Reyes hard drive reveals an ardent effort to do business directly with the FARC by Congressman James McGovern (D., Mass.), a leading opponent of the free-trade deal. Mr. McGovern has been working with an American go-between, who has been offering the rebels help in undermining Colombia's elected and popular government. Mr. McGovern's press office says the Congressman is merely working at the behest of families whose relatives are held as FARC kidnap hostages. However, his go-between's letters reveal more than routine intervention. The intervenor with the FARC is James C. Jones, who the Congressman's office says is a "development expert and a former consultant to the United Nations." ... "Receive my warm greetings, as always, from Washington," Mr. Jones began in a letter to the rebels last fall. "The big news is that I spoke for several hours with the Democratic Congressman James McGovern. In the meeting we had the opportunity to exchange some ideas that will be, I believe, of interest to the FARC-EP [popular army]." Mr. Jones added that "a fundamental problem is that the FARC does not have, strategically, a spokesman that can communicate directly with persons of influence in my country like Mr. McGovern." Semana reports that in the documents Mr. Jones "rules himself out as the spokesman but offers himself as a 'bridge' of communication between the FARC and the congressman." McGovern's out bleating for the Cuban regime now, claiming Trump is punishing it and the people are suffering. And all he cares about are 'the people.' It's a familiar tactic from him, according to this follow-on letter to the Journal from a Massachusetts college professor, (who also noted that the guy had a lot of campaign money): The information discovered on the hard drive belonging to the late second-in-command of Colombia's FARC terrorists implicating U.S. Rep. James McGovern, a leading opponent of the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement ("A FARC Fan's Notes," Review & Outlook," March 25), is not the first evidence of Rep. McGovern's apparent sympathy for FARC. Back in 2003, he sought to cut more than half of U.S. aid for the Uribe government's battle against FARC, lamely dismissing the government's efforts to provide Colombians with security against the guerrillas by saying that people also need to feed their children (as if leaving them at the mercy of Marxist terror groups reduces hunger). So now Trump's initiated an embargo on shipping what is usually 'free' oil to Cuba, which the latter typically sells on the open markets in exchange for hard cash to bolster the repressive organs of the regime as well as line the nomenklatura's bankbooks. McGovern says the people are suffering, as if Cuba's billionaire elites had nothing to do with the absence of fuel for the people. Fact is, they hog the oil, sell it abroad, and allow only the scraps to make it to the people to run public transport and the like. Naturally, the scraps are being hit first now that there is the Trump embargo, not the nomenklatura bankbooks, and especially not the goons holding the state together, even though money is fungible. Priorities, priorities ... we know what the priorities are with a communist regime -- power forever, not feeding the people. For Cuba's beleaguered democratic opposition, it's a rare glimmer of light, and with the squeeze on the regime creating an opening for democratic change, they are losing their fear of the monsters serving as their dungeon-keepers. The embargo keeps the regime from financing their repression: Sixty years didnt fail because of pressure, they failed because the regime survives on concessions. Every time Washington opens up, Havana closes its fist tighter around the Cuban people. May God bless America and all who stand firmly for freedom in Cuba VIVA CUBA LIBRE pic.twitter.com/cerkd6a9AC Mr. Virus (@a_artnez5) February 13, 2026 The Wall Street Journal writes of the island's misery as if Trump, not the regime, were the problem. They interviewed a furloughed bureaucrat on a ten-dollar-a-month salary who worked for the Department of Agriculture as one of the sob stories. Somehow they couldn't find a laid off torturer. I'd like to read about one of those, but apparently they haven't been laid off because nobody in that regime is freeing political prisoners. And you can bet these henchmen make more than $10 a month for their 'labors.' Fact is, Cuba has done this for years, using the embargo as a dinner triangle to obtain more free stuff until the free stuff runs out, and with Maduro out, they're now down to the world's most gullible leftists, such as greenie Greta Thunberg, who, up until she set sail to deliver oil for Cuba, didn't like oil. But they've also got creeps like McGovern in their tree, using the levers of state in the U.S. to stop Trump from getting rid of the heinous regime and allowing it to stay in power forever. For the children, for the people, blah, blah, blah. In reality, it's for the regime. He does it time and again and every single time is proven wrong, but he never retreats. It kind of makes one wonder how he got such a big campaign cash stash with this bizarre pattern of supporting every enemy the U.S. has ever had in this hemisphere. Image: X screenshot America, from its foundation and until 1965, was a European diaspora, and immigration, once regulated, prioritized homogeneitya trait which essentially all Republican theorists through the ages, as far back as Aristotle in ancient Greece, argued was the pillar upon which self-government is built. Advertisement Yet in 1965, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Hart-Celler Act, which opened the doors to all the third world when it abolished longstanding quotas of European petitioners; this change led to a major demographic shift, one that continues still todaywhich is why its past time to repeal it and restore the national origins system. Third world cultures do not allow for assimilation, and all that diversity has only destroyed societal cohesion. The left loves to spew catchy phrases, one of which is their this nation was built by immigrants line. Yes, thats true, but lets not forget which kind of immigrantsEuropean immigrants. It wasnt Somalians, Bangladeshis, or Sudanese immigrantsit was the English, the Scots, the Irishmen, the Nords, etc. Advertisement Contrary to what Vivek Ramaswamy or Dinesh DSouza say, Americans are in fact an ethnic people, bound closely together by our European roots. We speak English as a common language; we share a Christian heritage, a faith and morality which formed the basis of our government and laws; were largely united by a common culture and ideals, and the majority of us are racially and ethnically the same with our European ancestry. Ironically, the American-born exceptions to the above statements arelefists, but why? Well, what binds leftists together? Their virulent anti-Americanism of course. They hate what makes AmericaAmerica. Being an American is not a matter of paperworkor perhaps it is, but it wasnt meant to be, and shouldnt be again. Consider what Thomas Jefferson had to say on the matter of immigration: Advertisement They [immigrants] will bring with them the principles of the governments they leave, imbibed in their early youth; or, if able to throw them off, it will be in exchange for an unbounded licentiousness, passing, as is usual, from one extreme to another. It would be a miracle were they to stop precisely at the point of temperate liberty. These principles, with their language, they will transmit to their children. In proportion to their numbers, they will share with us the legislation. They will infuse into it their spirit, warp and bias its directions, and render it a heterogeneous, incoherent, distracted mass. Time has only proven him to be exactly right. And, the only logical deduction to make from Jeffersons own words is that immigrants to America must have the same political appetites for democracy, inalienable rights, and limited government that Americans did. That excludes a vast majority of the world, which Im okay with. Life in America is a privilege, not a right. Advertisement America is not a GDP, its not a melting pot, and its not a welfare state for all the huddled masses of the globe. Or again, it wasnt intended to be, a rectification that must be made. As someone who grew up in the 90s, I long for a world I barely experienced: A high-trust society where Americans shared values, heritage, beliefs, and culture, which led to an organic peaceful coexistence. Sure, people were still individuals with varying opinions and it wasnt perfect, but it was recognizably America. Advertisement Which way Western man? Advertisement Image: Drbdlynch, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons, unaltered. Could election-stealing become a thing of the past? Advertisement It may be, at least some kinds of it, if Congress succeeds in passing the SAVE America Act, requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote, and photo identification to cast a ballot, or to obtain an absentee mail-in ballot. Not surprisingly 80% of the public, including a majority of Democrats, supports it. With that kind of broad consensus of support, it's not surprising that it passed 216-213 in the House and is now very close to passage in the Senate, which with President Trump's signature, will make it the law. Advertisement Im thrilled to receive the news that Senator Susan Collins has announced her support for the SAVE America Act! This is huge! pic.twitter.com/PxAvRD2C5N Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) February 13, 2026 After all, when you've got Sen. Susan Collins onboard, who could be opposed? The total now in favor is reportedly 50, a number that can be taken to 51 with the casting of a vice presidential tie-breaking vote on what's known as a talk filibuster, meaning, the Senate does not have to change rules for passage, which concerned some. Advertisement Enforcing the Talking Filibuster is NOT eliminating the filibuster Its just enforcing the Senates rules and making Democrats opposed to the SAVE America Act actually *speak* if they want to filibuster If we dont do this now, we might as well prepare to lose MAKE https://t.co/n0MGYXVsUb pic.twitter.com/SVxnzu8aEt Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) February 14, 2026 Democrats, of course, do oppose it, vehemently, with Sen. Chuck Schumer yelling "Jim Crow 2.0" as if to patronizingly say that black people are incapable of securing ID -- but of course, are fully fit to vote in elections. It's garbage. The real reason is that many Democrats benefit from cheating in their elections. Advertisement Lee, the Utah Republican senator who seems to be very behind this, (as well as another measure on his X feed that curbs runaway judicial power) outlines why it's so necessary: Requiring people to show ID is often a good ideaand even necessary Democrats know this and require photo ID at their own political rallies and conventions Yet they oppose Voter ID It makes no sense Until it does and then its just plain scarypic.twitter.com/McYGseU0q8 Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) February 13, 2026 Fact is, confidence in our elections has fallen, as one electoral specter after another of 'found' ballots, late-counted ballots, illegals voting, junk-mail ballots, duplicate ballots, and intentional voting machine disfunction mars our elections. Advertisement This won't solve every problem and Democrats will continue to try to cheat in other ways. But it takes a big tool of theirs off the table and might just force them to try to win elections honestly with moderate, reasonable stances instead of the extremism that has taken over their party in the wake of zero electoral consequences. If this passes, there may be hope for the GOP at midterms. Advertisement Image: X screenshot Im old enough to remember the original gay liberation movement, which pushed back against genuine oppression before lapsing into deadly hedonism, which was very tragic for those who experienced it. Its returned in the 21st century as a second, very aggressive youd better admire us and teach your children about us revolution. However, this second revolution, as Marx would have recognized, isnt a tragedy; its a farce. Advertisement (Note: This essay is not intended to touch upon whether a society should encourage homosexuality or not, and whether virtue lies more with the old laws or with the new liberation. Im just pointing out a trend.) I was born in 1961, when 49 states still had laws on the books criminalizing sodomy or crimes against nature. Most of the laws targeted only male homosexual acts, but women did occasionally get swept up in the laws, depending on how broadly those laws described illegal sexual conduct. Advertisement Anti-sodomy laws had a long history in America, with colonial Virginia enacting the first in 1610. Homosexuality was believed to be both biblically immoral (the Bible really hates male homosexuality) and a threat to good order and societal growth. Same sex couples do not create babies, no matter how much the left denies this through the fiction of transgenderism, which is a problem for people struggling to create communities in a wilderness. Advertisement X screen grab (cropped). The laws meant that people engaged in homosexual relationships could be arrested and imprisoned. More commonly, they were subject to police harassment, harassment by others that the police then ignored, and job loss. Advertisement However, the womens liberation movement, combined with a general relaxing (collapse?) of societal norms in the 1960s, led gays to decide that it was time to have their own liberation movement. This was sparked by the 1969 Stonewall riots and then spread to different communities across America. (My natal city of San Francisco was in the lead.) At the time, in a choice that reflected both the hippies obsession with bright colors and rainbows and the gay liberation movements effort to present homosexuality as friendly and harmless, not sinister and dangerous, gays opted to present themselves as marvels of prettinessbright colors, fanciful costumes, etc. Advertisement Of course, underlying all the sparkles were always two things. The first was a decided and dangerous perversion (check this link at your own risk). The secondand this one gets to my main pointwas that it was a genuine revolution of people who had decided that they wouldnt live in the closet anymore, afraid of the authorities and of the worlds opprobrium. In many ways, the gay liberation movement was a tragic revolution. Yes, gays were out of the closet and, while the last anti-sodomy law only vanished in 2003, eventually no states enforced it. Indeed, by 2015, the Supreme Court found a purely imaginary right to same-sex marriage in the United States Constitution. Advertisement However, thanks to the unbridled hedonism that swiftly followed the Revolution, AIDS was unleashed on society, killing an estimated 300,000 men. I knew many who died of AIDS (again, San Francisco), and they were truly struck down in the prime of life. It was a miserable way to go. In addition, the gay liberation movement birthed the transgender movement, which is a terrible tragedy. When we look back on the lives destroyedthe brains warped, the bodies permanently mutilated, and the mass killingswe will recognize the sheer horror of this moment. But the revolution is also living on as farce. And to demonstrate that point, I give you this video from the Brave Trails summer camp, a place where LGBTQ+ youth find their people, place, & passion. This is Camp Brave Trails, an LGBTQ camp in California for CHILDREN. Would you send your kids here? pic.twitter.com/rhgmpeVYp2 Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) February 13, 2026 The movement that came to life in an explosion of resentment against a society that (rightly or wrongly) criminalized and harassed a behavior that has been around as long as human society has existed has now become a grotesque parody of itself. These are not serious people, although the destruction that the second iteration of the gay revolution has wrought on society demonstrates that these silly peoples power brokers can still do some seriously bad things. It seems that the gay rights movement has hit a wall. Transgenderism (thank God) is collapsing, as demonstrated by a jury verdict and what may be growing concerns within medical societies; corporations are tired of it; and the whole radical gay movement has become so ludicrous that its unlikely to have staying power. Perhaps well finally revert to what Normals in the 1970s once thought would be the result of the gay liberation movement: Family members and friends who had same sex attractions would live staid, normal, productive lives, with the only difference being that their life partners would be same-sex. No Scout troops, no adoption, no GenderQueer books and drag queens in the childrens library, no men, women, and children cutting off parts of themselves to societal applause...just a quiet retreat into a different version of normalcy. On February 12, the New York Post published a Douglas Murray piece entitled Following the law is the only sensible way to address the illegal immigration mess. Toward the end, he opined: Advertisement The [Biden] administration set up a huge problem and its supporters now criticize all efforts to address it. But why shouldnt there be more criticism of people who caused the mess than there is for the people who are trying to clean it up? Advertisement Why shouldnt the people who flooded this country with illegals be the ones who are protested peacefully by people who care about this country? Why not indeed? Lets remember that Alejandro Mayorkas, who oversaw immigration under Biden, was also in charge under Obama, first at USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), then at DHS (Department of Homeland Security). Advertisement Mayorkas was a bad dude from way back. He got caught in July of 2010, when he was in charge of Obamas USCIS, because of a memo on how to do an end-run around Congress. Remember when they used to talk about end-runs so casually? And the press just went along? No yipping dogs in the press room? Check out this headline; no outrage detected. Its an A.P. article published in the Seattle Times: Agency Weighs Skirting Congress on Immigration Advertisement How nice for them. From the article, published July 30, 2010: The Obama administration, unable to push an immigration overhaul through Congress, is considering ways it could go around lawmakers to let undocumented immigrants stay in the United States, according to an agency memo. Advertisement The internal draft written by officials at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services outlines ways the government could provide relief to illegal immigrants including delaying deportation for some, perhaps indefinitely, or granting green cards to others in the absence of legislation revamping the system. (Emphasis mine.) According to The New York Times at the time, administration officials conceded that the memos title, Administrative Alternatives to Comprehensive Immigration Reform, was provocative, but sought to play down the memo going to so far as to lie and deny that they were pursuing any plan to legalize millions of illegal immigrants by fiat. Further, Advertisement They said the proposals were largely notional and most had not been approved as policy by Alejandro Mayorkas, the director of Citizenship and Immigration Services. However, the memo is signed by some of the highest officials in the agency, including Roxana Bacon, the general counsel, and Denise Vanison, the chief of the office of policy and strategy. (Emphasis mine.) Most had not been approved as policy is doing a lot of heavy lifting here. Most most assuredly means all actually had been approved as policy but just because it wasnt official policy yet, doesnt mean the administration wasnt well on its waywhich we now know from history, it wasvia DACA, just two short years later. And where did all the applications for deferred removal go? Thats right: USCIS, the agency circulating the memo. Image created using AI. Weasels. Mayorkas had this worked out from way back. Way before Obama spoke DACA into being. And way, way before Mayorkas abandoned any notion of even an administrative end-run and just opened the southern border wholesale under Biden. So, yes, Mr. Murray, thats a fair question: why isnt Alejandro Mayorkas home being surrounded by mobs of angry Americans doing what the left did in Minneapolis outside the hotels of ICE agents by creating a racket so they couldnt sleep? Indeed, how Mayorkas sleeps at night, given what he did to this country, is a wonder to me. He should be up all night. And what about border czar Kamala Harris? Or even old Joe himself? Not that he was aware. He probably wasnt, to be perfectly fair. His brain was applesauce. But I dont see mobs outside their homes either, and they were the ones ostensibly in charge of Mayorkas. No, the answer to why we arent clanging pots and pans outside their homes is obvious: were civilized. We have jobs. Families. Lives. But count me among those who would smile if a noisy mob did show up. M. Walter blogs at www.mwalterwriter.com What is it with anti-American Democrat insurrectionists and dildos? Advertisement In 2015, the University of Texas at Austin was up in arms because next semester, students would be able to carry armsconcealed weaponson campus. A professor who was already retiring announced he was double retiring in protest and campus radicals came up with a brilliant plan to combat those finally able to exercise their Second Amendment rights on campus: they would carry and display dildos. We are strapping gigantic swinging dildos to our backpacks in protest of campus carry, wrote student Jessica Jin, who created the Facebook event Campus DILDO Carry. Advertisement I ended a brief article on that topic thus: In any case, Im looking forward to August in Austin when lissome young women affix colorful dildos to their backpacks and get the college mating season off to a bang. The photos should be grand. Perhaps a new song for the occasion? Love is a many dildoed thing Advertisement Those campus radicals came up with a slogan--cocks, not Glocksthat had the sole benefit of barely rhyming. Hysterical predications of a campus running knee deep in blood never materialized, just as similar predications of unrealized carnage were made in every state that passed a concealed carry law, and later, Constitutional Carry laws. Glocks, and other brands, proliferated, and presumably, so did dildos, but they quickly found their way back to bedroom nightstands as students asked radicals why they were carrying dildos and they had no sane, coherent response. Advertisement Now, 11 years later across the nation in Minneapolis, Democrat insurrectionists have again taken dildo in hand: Advertisement Graphic: Social Media Post Protesters continue to impede law enforcement in Minneapolis, in violation of federal law. They are brazen, and ICE officers and others have shown almost unbelievable restraint in dealing with them. Here, a group of thugs throw dildos at a vehicle. What is with the dildos? Beats me. I guess liberals must have a lot of them on hand Advertisement Graphic: Social Media Post They brandished dildos, used them to penetrate chain link fences and threw them at passing government vehicles Graphic: Social Media Post And stuck them to vehicles. Its reminiscent of that seminal moment in Animal House: Otter: I think that this situation absolutely requires a really futile and stupid gesture be done on somebody's part. Bluto: And we're just the guys to do it. The Minneapolis insurrectionists have tried pretty much everything else. Theyve thrown things at ICE, screamed obscenities at everyone, destroyed property, blocked intersections, and ICE has still managed to deport more than 4000 illegals, mostly violent criminals. Theyve disrupted worship services and Tom Homan now has the Minneapolis PD and the State Police cooperating and arresting people for protesting. Illegals are still being arrested and deported. It looks like the rule of law is gradually, but inexorably, returning to the Twin Cities. One can only imagine the revolutionary council meeting where someone came up with the idea of brandishing, wearing and flinging dildos, and the rest of the comrades thought it a brilliant idea. Some of the comrades might have made the ultimate sacrifice and used their personal dildos, but video and photos of dildo bombardment suggest the same make, length and modelthough in various colors--were purchased in substantial quantities. I suspect the local politburo is still struggling to identify where in the history of Soviet, Chinese, North Korean, Cuban or any communist movement the dildo played so much as a symbolic role. Dildos tend to diminish the seriousness of any symbolism, which is why the Soviet flag did not feature a hammer and dildo nor a dildo and sickle. One can only imagine the surprise of ICE agents under dildo bombardment:theyre throwing what at us?! Certainly, some of the expended, flaccid projectiles will be suitably mounted and displayed at ICE offices around the nation. Dildos accomplished nothing in Austin in 2015. Dildos accomplished nothing in Minneapolis in 2026. What dark, demented facet of the Democrat mind imagined they would? Perhaps the most effective weapon against self-important insurrectionistsother than arrest, imprisonment, and obliterationis mockery. These are people, fully backed by the National Democrat Party, fighting to eliminate the rule of law, tear down Americas borders, establish anarchy and keep violent illegal alien criminals in the country. In this case, the insurrectionists are mocking themselves. Thanks to Tom Homan, ICE can now pick up illegal criminals at Minnesota jails, and most ICE agents are leaving. The Minneapolis insurrection is dying not with a whimper, but with a dildo. Become a subscriber and get our weekly, Friday newsletter with unique content from our editors. These essays alone are worth the cost of the subscription. Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor. Tyler Perry broke his collarbone in a "terrible" bike fall. Tyler Perry underwent surgery following the accident The 56-year-old filmmaker flew over the handlebars as he cycled around Elba, Italy, last year, which caused him to undergo surgery. During Thursday's (12.02.26) episode of ABC's Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Tyler - who was in Lake Como, Italy, shooting part three of his Why Did I Get Married Again? film series - recalled: "I went for a bike ride in Elba, and I flipped over the handlebars, broke my collarbone, and had to have surgery. "It was terrible." Tyler branded being treated in an Italian hospital as the "worst mistake in my life". He urged the programme's viewers: "If you're ever in Italy - God, I love my Italian people, but don't go to the hospital there." Tyler - whose Why Did I Get Married Again? series sees four couples on vacation, who ask themselves the titular question, whilst their relationship secrets are spilled - then detailed the excruciating pain he endured after a medical worker put him in a clavicle brace to stabilise his injury. The star remembered: "This guy, he looks at me, he says, 'I can fix. I can fix.' "And he puts the strap on me, pulls ... I screamed so loud, man, I think I woke up everybody in the whole country. It was awful. "I didn't know it was broken, and it separated in two places, and he was trying to pull it together with no pain meds. Nothing! "So I got drunk as hell, got on the plane, and came back to America and had surgery. It was pretty bad." Jimmy - who comes "from an Italian family" - was shocked that Tyler was no fan of the country's healthcare system. The 58-year-old host quipped: "We never went to the doctor. Maybe that's why!" Amid laughter from the show's studio audience, Tyler chimed in: "Yeah, but you don't want to go to the doctor in Italy, that's the thing. "That's a whole different [thing]." Jimmy then challenged Tyler's negativity: "I feel like there must be some good doctors in Italy." Tyler then joked as he doubled down on his bad experience: "No. There's good alcohol to make you think there's good doctors in Italy." 41 DUI arrests made by Tennessee trooper tossed with over half of the cases involving sober drivers, report says Forty-one DUI arrests made by a single Tennessee Highway Patrol trooper in Bedford County have been dismissed by prosecutors, an investigative report shows, with more than half involving drivers later found to be sober. The dismissals stem from arrests made between 2021 and 2024 by former Trooper Asa Pearl, according to records obtained by WSMV4. Of those 41 cases, a Bedford County District Attorneys office spreadsheet shows that 22 incidents involving drivers who either had no drugs or alcohol in their system or whose blood alcohol was within legal limits at the time of testing, the local news outlet found. One of those drivers, Ron LaFlamme, said he was pulled over and asked to perform a sobriety test despite having neither alcohol nor drugs in his system. I was surprised when he started asking me to do a sobriety test, LaFlamme told WSMV4 in an interview that aired Tuesday. It was wrongful arrest. Former Tennessee Highway Patrol trooper Asa Pearl reportedly arrested 22 drivers between 2021 and 2024 for DUI, even though they had no drugs or alcohol in their system or were within the legal limit (Getty Images) The remaining 19 dismissals were attributed to procedural issues, including the arresting troopers unavailability for court or inability to recall specifics of the stop, officials said. Attorney David McKenzie, representing LaFlamme, told the outlet that word of the dismissals spread among local defense attorneys and raised concerns about enforcement practices. I know that during the time that Rons case was making its way through the court, Rons case was not the only one with this particular trooper, where blood results were coming back negative, McKenzie said. He added: This could happen to your child. This could happen to your parent. This could happen to your coworker. Pearl resigned from the Tennessee Highway Patrol in 2024, and his personnel file offers no explanation for his departure and makes no mention of the dozens of DUI cases that were later thrown out, according to the report. Pearl did not respond to WSMV4s requests for comment. The Tennessee Highway Patrol also declined the outlets request to comment on the matter. The Independent has contacted the Tennessee Highway Patrol for comment. This latest report is part of WSMV4s Sobering Problem series, which investigates Tennessees troubling pattern of sober drivers being wrongly arrested for DUI and left waiting months for blood test results to prove their innocence. Last month, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation acknowledged it had undercounted DUI cases involving people who had no drugs or alcohol in their system. New data shows that from 2017 to 2024, more than 2,500 drivers in Tennessee were sober at the time of their DUI arrest, which is more than double the number the TBI previously reported, according to WSMV4. The new leader of Catholics in England and Wales, Archbishop Richard Moth, has directly addressed the Church's past failures, particularly the abuse of vulnerable individuals, during his installation ceremony. Archbishop Moth was formally installed as the 12th Archbishop of Westminster on Saturday, before a congregation of 2,000. The cleric knelt at the Great West Door of central Londons Westminster Cathedral shortly after midday, blessing a line of people with holy water before processing down the nave. Addressing the approximately four million Catholics in England and Wales, Archbishop Moth acknowledged the Churchs "vital" evangelical work as "fragile and adversely impacted by our failures in love, power and self-control". He continued: "Here, I am most aware of every occasion on which members of the Church, or the Church as a whole, have failed most especially when the vulnerable have been abused." Bishop Richard Moth (centre) arriving for his installation (PA Wire) He stressed that "Such failure calls for listening to, and learning from, those who have suffered so grievously and a continuing commitment to ensuring that our communities are places where all are safe in their encounter with Christ and with one another." Having indicated when appointed in December that he would speak out on societal issues, including migration, he told the faithful: "We need not fear the great questions of our time: the need for all peoples to live in peace; the value and dignity of every person; the right to life at every stage; the protection of the vulnerable; the plight of the refugee and the dispossessed; and the protection of our common home." The new Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, also delivered a homily, commending Archbishop Moths "deep concern for the dignity of every person". Representing Churches Together in England, she stated: "Your service as priest and bishop has been marked by a faithful pastoral care, a commitment to justice and a deep concern for the dignity of every person made in the image of God." The installation mass for the 12th Archbishop of Westminster (PA Wire) Dame Sarah highlighted their future collaboration, adding: "In the months ahead, you and I will share a particular responsibility as presidents of the Churches Together in England, and I very much look forward to working with you to deepen our relationships and to strengthen our shared Christian witness." Archbishop Moth succeeds Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who retired from the Westminster role after 16 years, now moving "to slightly more restful pastures", according to his successor. The new Archbishop departed the cathedral to applause around 2.15pm, following Fridays service of solemn vespers. Huda Ammori said her lawyers would resist Shabana Mahmoods attempts to retain the ban while the home secretary tried to appeal against the judgment. Photograph: Abdullah Bailey/Alamy (Photograph: Abdullah Bailey/Alamy) The co-founder of Palestine Action has said the ban on the group massively backfired and called for its proscription to be suspended after the high court found it to be unlawful. Three senior judges ruled on Friday that the ban was disproportionate and constituted very serious interference with the rights to protest and free speech. But the proscription order remains in place pending arguments from lawyers for the home secretary, Shabana Mahmood, on why it should not be lifted, meaning the fate of more than 2,500 people remains in limbo. Huda Ammori, who co-founded Palestine Action in 2020 and brought the successful legal challenge, said her lawyers would resist Mahmoods attempts to retain the ban while the home secretary tried to appeal against the judgment. Ammori said: Considering the thousands of people who are going through the criminal justice system are being prosecuted for holding up signs saying: I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action and the chaos thats created, its ridiculous to even try and maintain an unlawful ban. The logical next step is for either the [proscription] order to be quashed, and, if not quashed completely, for the effect of the proscription to be stopped whilst the government attempts an appeal. This is a huge, huge step forward, and were closer than ever to getting the ban lifted. So even though it didnt happen immediately, I have faith that its going to happen quite soon. The ban has been proven unlawful from its inception so the fact that we havent been de-proscribed immediately we can wait a little bit longer. Saying that the government would appeal on Friday, Mahmood added: The proscription of Palestine Action followed a rigorous and evidence-based decision-making process, endorsed by parliament. More than 500 of the 2,500-plus placard-holders have been charged under section 13 of the Terrorism Act but their cases have been delayed while the outcome of the judicial review was awaited. They took part in a civil disobedience campaign of mass protests defying the ban and earned a glowing tribute from Ammori. She said: Its just been incredible, its been so inspiring and moving to see how many people have been inspired to resist this ban, to defy it. When I first heard about the proscription going through, its just like a ton of bricks, and then when you see the amount of solidarity and support its incredibly uplifting. And I wont say I think I know this victory is in huge part thanks to them. The judges described Palestine Action as an organisation that promotes its political cause through criminality and encouragement of criminality, a definition seized on by Mahmood. But they found that, as such, most of its activities could be dealt with by criminal law, and did not amount to terrorism meaning that proscribing the group could not be justified given the interference with protected rights. Ammori said winning on the free speech and right to protest ground one of two on which she was successful was important. If she had succeeded only on a procedural ground, such as the failure to consult Palestine Action before the ban, which was rejected by the judges, it would have been open to Mahmood to consult and still reach the same decision to proscribe. Related: Owen Jones on Palestine Action high court win The Latest But the result was an emphatic one after months that Ammori said had taken a personal toll on her. Its not easy to be labelled or smeared as a terrorist, to see that something that was made and founded in order to disrupt the Israeli weapons industry, to stop the greatest crimes happening against the Palestinian people, can be labelled as a terrorist organisation, she said. I think with my background being Palestinian and Iraqi, its not the first time I would have had the kind of slur but I remember the first month or two, every time I heard the words terrorist organisation on a news programme, you cant connect with that. It just makes you feel sick to your stomach to hear thats how they describe Palestine Action. Ultimately, she believes it was an own goal for a Labour government bent on destroying the organisation. This has made Palestine Action a household name, she said. It has sparked outrage among thousands, if not tens or hundreds of thousands of people across the country and across the world and it has increased the support for direct action massively. Its now proven that they did all this unlawfully, did all those arrests unlawfully. Thats a huge attack on peoples rights and I think that has massively backfired on them. The brother of Simone White has slammed the punishment given to those involved in the Laos methanol poisoning which killed his sister (PA Media) The brother of a British woman who died after drinking methanol-laced shots in Laos has slammed the punishment as an absolute joke. Simone White, 28, was one of six people who tragically died after drinking free shots at the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng, Laos, in November 2024. Ms Whites family was recently told by the UK government that 10 people charged with destruction of evidence had been given suspended sentences and fines of $185 (135) each. There are currently no further plans of action to be taken against them. Her brother, Zak White, told BBC Newsbeat: "I don't think we're ever going to get to the bottom of what happened and get a fair punishment." Simone White was one of 100 guests who were given the free shots at the hostel in Vang Vieng, Laos (Facebook) At the time of the poisoning, Ms White, her childhood friend, Bethany Clarke, and around 100 guests were given free shots at the hostel in Laos. It was believed that the drinks were laced with methanol, a poisonous substance usually found in paint thinner, and sometimes used to illegally save on costs. The next day, both friends felt ill and were eventually taken to the hospital, where Ms White, a trainee lawyer, was put on life support and later died. In the time following her death, Ms Whites family and Ms Clarke have been campaigning for answers from authorities in Laos, as well as spreading awareness of the dangers of methanol. The UK Foreign Office has now confirmed that 13 suspects were initially arrested, BBC Newsbeat reported. Of those, 10 people attached to the Nana Hostel were convicted for destruction of evidence. Ms White was killed while staying at the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng (AP) The owner of the distillery, who is thought to have supplied the methanol, is believed to be awaiting trial. Nanas Backpacker Hostel was told by Laos' Ministry of Public Security that it could not reopen until court proceedings concluded, the Foreign Office said. However, BBC Newsbeat reported that listings for a rebranded Paradise Hostel are still available on Booking.com and Agoda. Newsbeat was told that the hostel was now under new ownership, but reported that the listing disappeared from Booking.com after "unusual activity" in its reviews. According to a spokesperson, it had suspended the listing temporarily for breaching its terms and conditions. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and the countrys main opposition leader held hands Friday as they paid tribute to the victims of one of the worst mass shootings in the countrys history at a vigil in a devastated British Columbia town. Carney and Opposition Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre joined hands as an Indigenous leader sang a prayer outside the town hall in Tumbler Ridge. Carney and Poilievre also spoke. The prime minister named each of the six people killed at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and said the mother and brother of the shooter who were killed also deserve to be mourned. Authorities said the 18-year-old alleged shooter, identified as Jesse Van Rootselaar, killed her 39-year-old mother, Jennifer Jacobs, and 11-year-old stepbrother, Emmett Jacobs, in their home on Tuesday before heading to the nearby Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and opening fire, killing five children and an educator before killing herself. From left to right, Leader of the Official Opposition of Canada Pierre Poilievre, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Governor General of Canada, Mary Simon join hands while attending a vigil for the victims of a mass shooting, in Tumbler Ridge, BC (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press via AP) Carney said he sat with people who are living through something no one should ever have to endure. When you wake up tomorrow, and the world feels impossible, know that millions of Canadians are with you. When the cameras leave and the quiet sets in know that we will still be here, Carney said. A crowd of hundreds attended the vigil. Some held photos of loved ones they lost. Carney said the community has always been defined by people caring for each other. And when the unimaginable happened on Tuesday, you were there again. First responders at the school within two minutes. Teachers shielding their children, he said. Poilievre commended Carney for his tremendous grace. Canadas political leaders flew from Ottawa together. British Columbia Premier David Eby said the students of the school wont ever have to return to the building if they dont want to. People comfort each other at the vigil (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press via AP) I will promise that not one of you will ever be forced to go back to that school. We will provide a safe place for you to go back to school, Eby said. Authorities on Thursday identified those killed at the school as Kylie Smith, Abel Mwansa, Zoey Benoit and Ticaria Lampert, all age 12, as well as 13-year-old Ezekiel Schofield and assistant teacher Shannda Aviugana-Durand, 39. Maya Gebala, 12, who was wounded in the head and neck, and Paige Hoekstra, 19, who also suffered bullet wounds, remain hospitalized in Vancouver. Dwayne McDonald, the deputy commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in British Columbia, said earlier Friday that the alleged shooter did not appear to be searching for a specific target at the school. This suspect was, for lack of a better term, hunting, McDonald said. They were prepared and engaging anybody and everybody they could come in contact with. McDonald described a chaotic scene at the school when police arrived, with fire alarms sounding and a person yelling out a window that the suspect was upstairs. They entered the school, proceeded to go up the stairwell, and were met with gunfire, he said. It was a matter of seconds after that there was more gunfire, not as we know now, having reviewed video, directed at any persons. Then the suspect took their life. People hold photos of victims at a vigil for the victims of the mass shooting (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press via AP) McDonald said from the time the suspect encountered police there were no further injuries to students at the school. Four guns were seized, two from the family home and two from the school, he said. The attack was Canadas deadliest since 2020, when a gunman in Nova Scotia killed 13 people and set fires that left another nine dead. School shootings are rare in Canada, which has strict gun-control laws. The government has responded to previous mass shootings with gun-control measures, including a recently broadened ban on all guns it considers assault weapons. Health professionals are urging parents to get their children vaccinated for better herd immunity (Getty Images) Measles infections have been confirmed across at least seven schools in north London as the NHS has warned parents to immunise their children. Cases were confirmed across several schools in Enfield and Haringey, according to a warning issued by Evergreen GP Surgery in Edmonton, who said that the infection was spreading. More than 60 measles cases were reported in London since January, and labs have confirmed 34 cases of measles in Enfield since 12 January, with one in five of these children being admitted to hospital with the infection. All of those affected had not been fully immunised, according to the GP surgery. Evergreen Surgery in Edmonton issued a warning to its patients (Google Street Maps) There is no treatment for measles, only the vaccination to prevent catching it, which is part of the Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella (MMRV) injection, the surgery said on the website. Parents should ensure that their children are up-to-date with all their immunisations. This can be done by checking the childs immunisations red book or contacting the practice nurse here at the GP practice. The MMR vaccine has been updated to also protect against chicken pox. The outbreak comes after recent UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) figures showed that not a single childhood vaccine in England last year met the target needed to ensure diseases cannot spread among youngsters. The MMR vaccine has been updated to also protect against chicken pox (Getty/iStock) The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends at least 95 per cent of children should receive vaccine doses for each illness to achieve herd immunity. Some 91.9 per cent of five-year-olds had received one dose of the MMR (measles, mumps & rubella) vaccine, unchanged from 2023-24 and the lowest level since 2010-11, while just 83.7 per cent of five-year-olds had received both MMR doses, the lowest level since 2009-10. Uptake of the first MMR dose at 24 months stood at 88.9 per cent in 2024-25 unchanged on the previous year, but again the lowest figure since 2009-10. Recent UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) figures showed that not a single childhood vaccine in England last year met the target needed to ensure diseases cannot spread among youngsters (PA Media) Last month, the WHO confirmed that measles is re-established in the UK following a plateau in vaccination coverage and a surge in cases in 2024. Coverage for the Hib/MenC vaccine, which protects against haemophilus influenzae type B and meningitis C, stood at 88.9 per cent for children aged five, the lowest level since 2011-12. Meanwhile, uptake of the four-in-one pre-school booster vaccine which protects against polio, whooping cough, tetanus and diphtheria stood at just 81.4 per cent among five-year-olds, the lowest since current data began in 2009-10. A number of children have been hospitalised (Alamy/PA) Elsewhere, health chiefs could not give MPs on the committee a target for meeting 95 per cent coverage on vaccines or regaining measles elimination status. Dr Mary Ramsay, director of public health programmes at UKHSA, said high vaccine coverage is one of the main indicators of regaining measles elimination status, but its not the only one. Its largely related to how many cases of measles you have, she said. We are now having lower levels, but were still seeing circulation of measles. So until we stop circulating measles, were not going to get back to elimination. She added that when we have had low coverage, its often taken many years to get back. Costco hit with new lawsuit over popular item due to alleged salmonella outbreak at processing plant Costcos rotisserie chickenis at the center of a new class action lawsuit, with an animal rights nonprofit alleging that the retailers Nebraska processing plant is contaminated with Salmonella. Filed Thursday in Seattle federal court by plaintiff Lisa Taylor, of Affton, Missouri, the proposed suit cites a December Farm Forward study criticizing safety conditions at Costcos Lincoln Premium Poultry plant, which opened in 2019 and processes over 100 million chickens annually, Reuters reports. The complaint alleges that the Fremont plant, which is not named as a defendant, consistently violates U.S. Department of Agriculture safety standards, with over 9.8 percent of whole chickens and 15.4 percent of chicken parts testing positive for salmonella, according to the outlet. Taylor reportedly claims she regularly purchased one or two Costco rotisserie chickens per month at St. Louis-area warehouses and believes she overpaid because the retailer failed to disclose a salmonella contamination risk. Costcos failure to control salmonella in its chicken supply is not a harmless technicalityit poses a real danger to consumers and violates their trust, the complaint states. Costcos rotisserie chicken faces a class-action suit over alleged salmonella at its Fremont, Nebraska, plant, citing a December Farm Forward safety study (Getty Images) Taylor is pursuing compensatory and triple damages for shoppers who purchased Kirkland Signature rotisserie chickens and raw chicken parts since January 1, 2019, claiming that Costco violated Washington consumer protection laws and broke an implied promise that its chickens are safe to eat. The Independent has contacted Costco for comment. Costco famously sells its Kirkland Signature rotisserie chicken for just $4.99, with global sales of more than 157 million birds in 2025, the company reported at last months annual meeting, according to Reuters. The latest lawsuit follows a similar class-action filed by two customers in California last month, claiming Costco falsely advertised the Kirkland Signature rotisserie chickens as preservative-free. "The presence of sodium phosphate and carrageenan, added preservatives which function as such in the Rotisserie Chicken, contradict the overall net impression that Costcos No Preservatives representations and advertising create," the lawsuit states. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration deems sodium phosphate generally safe for healthy individuals when consumed in food, but it may pose risks for people with kidney disease, potentially causing mineral imbalances, bone issues and heart problems. Carrageenan, derived from red seaweed, is used to thicken and preserve processed foods. While the FDA considers food-grade carrageenan safe, some studies link it to digestive issues and inflammation, though its degraded form, poligeenan, is known to increase cancer risk. A Costco spokesperson responded to The Independents request for comment at the time with the following statement: To maintain consistency among the labeling on our rotisserie chickens and the signs in our warehouses/online presentations, we have removed statements concerning preservatives from the signs and online presentations. We use carrageenan and sodium phosphate to support moisture retention, texture, and product consistency during cooking. Both ingredients are approved by food safety authorities, the statement concluded. Protesters gather outside the US embassy in Copenhagen at a demonstration in January over Greenland. Photograph: Johan Nilsson/TT/Shutterstock (Photograph: Johan Nilsson/TT/Shutterstock) Denmark could face legal action over an agreement that gives the US sweeping powers on Danish soil, over claims it is unconstitutional and could pose problems in talks with Washington over Greenland. The agreement, which was signed under the Biden administration in 2023 and was passed by the Danish parliament last year, gives the US unhindered access to its airbases and powers over its civilians. Since then, Donald Trump has made threats to invade Greenland, part of the kingdom of Denmark, resulting in a diplomatic crisis between the longtime allies and a deployment of soldiers to Greenland by a number of European countries. Theresa Scavenius, an independent MP, plans to sue the Danish state over the agreement on the basis that she believes it to be unconstitutional. The Danish constitution states that its sovereignty can be transferred to international authorities but only with a constitutional amendment that requires the support of five-sixths of parliament, which the defence agreement does not have. The law is unconstitutional because it delegates authority to the US governmental bodies or soldiers on Danish territory over Danish civilians. That is explicitly not allowed in our constitution, Scavenius told the Guardian. While the agreement does not apply to Greenland, critics claim the Trump administrations statements on Greenland show the US could be willing to use force on civilians. Related: Canada and France open Greenland consulates in show of Denmark support It was essential that any constitutional matters be resolved urgently before beginning negotiations over Greenland, said Scavenius. Despite strong criticism from politicians and human rights experts and heightened tensions between the US and Denmark after Trumps previous push to acquire Greenland MPs voted overwhelmingly in favour of the defence agreement in June 2025. The agreement keeps US soldiers in Denmark under US jurisdiction, gives them access to Danish airbases in the Danish cities of Karup, Skrydstrup and Aalborg, and grants American soldiers and military police powers over Danish civilians at these locations and outside them. At the time, the government said it did not have the potential to surrender Danish sovereignty and was not a violation of the Danish constitution. The prime minister, Mette Frederiksen, said tensions between Denmark and the US made it even more necessary to maintain close ties. The problem is not too much involvement from the US in Europe, she said at the time. On the contrary, the risk is that the US will withdraw and move troops away or stop donations to Ukraine. Scavenius has submitted a request for free legal aid, a process that is expected to take several weeks, after which she plans to sue the Danish state. The Danish Institute for Human Rights has said the agreement risks giving US soldiers the right to stop demonstrations outside their bases and would prevent Denmark from prosecuting them if they used excessive force. Peter Vedel Kessing, a senior researcher at the Danish Institute for Human Rights, told the Guardian in May: If the bill is passed and American soldiers carry out illegal acts in Denmark, it will be beyond Danish control and outside the reach of the Danish legal system to prosecute such actions. The Danish defence ministry said it had noted that a claim was expected to be filed but declined to comment further. A spokesperson said: As the ministry has not received such a claim at this time, the ministry has no comment. Deep Monster completed a notable week for Japanese racing when gamely landing the H.H The Amir Trophy under Tom Marquand at Al Rayyan racecourse in Doha. At eight he was the eldest member of the seven-horse field, but the son of Deep Impact staved off the persistent challenge of 2024 King George hero Goliath by a neck, with Marco Bottis Giavellotto staying on from off the pace into third a further length back. It was a race the first and second dominated throughout, with Goliath and Christophe Soumillon leading until Deep Monster took his measure a furlong out. Race favourite Byzantine Dream was held up by Cristian Demuro but failed to menace. El Cordobes, who attempted to give Godolphin a third success in the Group Two race in as many years, was also settled off the early pace but could not pick up for William Buick in the straight. Strauss gave Japan its first winner in Abu Dhabi when claiming the inaugural Abu Dhabi Gold Cup the previous Saturday, and this triumph proved once again what a threat Japan is on the global scene Winning trainer Yasutoshi Ikee said: His condition was perfect and Tom rode the perfect race. Im so proud because my father trained Deep Impact and it was always my dream to win a big race overseas with a son of that great horse. Today that dream has come true. Marquand said: Its a big win for Mr Ikee and all credit to him, because although this horse didnt win a Group race until recently he was absolutely on it today. I decided to follow Goliath and when we sprinted off the turn my horse just kept finding, he was so game all the way to the line. Francis-Henri Graffard said of Goliath: The Japanese horse was inside us and it didnt help my horse to relax. We were being pressured around the last bend, but I was proud of his performance. The heat has been on the horses through the week and he will now be given a well-earned break. Thady Gosden has Lions Pride, who weakened into sixth, carded for another important Middle Eastern race and said: He ran a nice race in a strong field and will head for the Kings Cup in Bahrain on March 6. The many who expected Al Ghadeer to end his career in glory with another success in the $2.5million Amir Sword did not take account Lippo De Carrere, who under Maxime Guyon swooped on the Arabian superstar a furlong out and readily held him at bay to the line. It was the concluding leg of a double for the French jockey who said: That was amazing, the horse was in tremendous shape. When we reached the last 200 metres he was very strong. Bangladesh Nationalist Party wins 209 seats in national parliament election: election commission Xinhua) 08:53, February 14, 2026 People read newspapers carrying headlines on the national parliament election on a street in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Feb. 13, 2026. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, secured 209 out of 299 seats in the parliament following Thursday's general election, a senior official said Friday. The Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islam party was second with 68 seats, while 20 seats were bagged by independent candidates and other small parties. (Photo by Habibur Rahman/Xinhua) DHAKA, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, secured 209 out of 299 seats in the parliament following Thursday's general election, a senior official said Friday. Akhtar Ahmed, senior secretary of the Election Commission (EC), told journalists that the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islam party was second with 68 seats, while 20 seats were bagged by independent candidates and other small parties. In Bangladesh, the party that gets the majority of seats can form the government, he added. Out of 300 seats, the results of two constituencies have been postponed. Meanwhile, polling in one constituency was postponed following the death of an independent candidate. Ahmed said that voter turnout in Bangladesh's 13th parliament polls reached 59.44 percent of the total, more than 127 million eligible voters. Bangladeshi interim government's Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Asif Nazrul had earlier said that power will be handed over to the new elected administration before the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan, which is set to begin here on or around Feb. 19. "Following the publication of the official gazette notification of the results, arrangements will be made as quickly as possible for the swearing-in of the newly elected Members of Parliament. The new government will then take the oath," said Asif Nazrul. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Sharon Osbourne has marked her first Valentine's Day without Ozzy Osbourne. Sharon Osbourne holding Ozzy's Osbourne's hand / Instagram The former America's Got Talent judge lost the Black Sabbath frontman on July 22, 2025, aged 76, and Sharon posted an emotional shot of her holding Ozzy's hand to Instagram on Saturday (14.02.26). She captioned the heartbreaking upload: "Forever Valentine." Sharon - who married Ozzy in 1982 - was inundated with love from her fans in the post's comments section. One supporter penned: "What a beautiful and unique love you two shared. It will never be replicated. Sending so much love to you this valentines. (sic)" A second user wrote: "You two are the perfect example of true love. Bless you + yours (sic)." And a third person typed: "Beautiful. Ur love will be forever. He is with you always hugs u. (sic)" According to Ozzy's death certificate, he passed away from "cardiac arrest, acute myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease and Parkinsons disease with autonomic dysfunction (Joint Causes)" on July 22 at his and Sharon's Buckinghamshire home. His funeral procession through Birmingham took place on July 30, and Ozzy's private funeral was held at the Osbournes' estate the next day, where he was laid to rest next to a lake on the property. Months after, Sharon, 73, recalled her final evening with the Prince of Darkness and revealed his final words. The star - who insisted she will "never, ever" remarry - told close pal, 60-year-old broadcaster Piers Morgan on his Uncensored YouTube show: "He was up and down to the bathroom all night, and it was like 4.30, and he said, 'Wake up.' "I said, 'Im already bloody awake, youve woken me up.' And he said, 'Kiss me.' And then he said, 'Hug me tight.' "I cant help wondering if I should have, could I have? If only Id have told him I loved him more. If only Id have held him tighter. And he went downstairs, worked out for 20 minutes and passed away." Ozzy had a heart attack, and Sharon - who credited their three children, Aimee Osbourne, 42, Kelly Osbourne, 41, and Jack Osbourne, 40, for helping her through the terrible time following his death - "knew instantly" that her husband had passed away. Sharon - who "would have just gone with Ozzy" if it was not for their children's support - recalled: "I ran downstairs, and there he was, and they were trying to resuscitate him, and Im like, 'Dont - just leave him. Leave him. You cant. Hes gone.' "I knew instantly hed gone. And they tried and tried, and then they took him by helicopter to the hospital, and they tried, and its like, 'Hes gone. Just leave him.'" Donald Trumps administration intends to spend nearly $40 billion on a plan to detain tens of thousands of immigrants in retrofitted warehouses across the country, expanding the presidents mass deportation efforts into cities and towns that are increasingly urging officials to keep them out of their backyards. Documents published by officials in New Hampshire offer the clearest and most comprehensive picture yet of Immigration and Customs Enforcements nationwide plans to scale up the presidents campaign to quickly arrest, detain and deport people from the United States, which is already detaining more than 60,000 immigrants at any given time. ICE expects to spend more than $38 billion buying up 16 buildings it can convert into processing centers to temporarily detain up to 1,500 immigrants in each before theyre moved to larger facilities. Another eight larger warehouses would hold up to 10,000 people at a time, serving as primary locations for removal from the country, according to the documents. Those facilities add to an already-expansive immigration detention system of more than 200 jails, mostly operated by private firms, in a country with one of the highest incarceration rates on the planet. ICE spent nearly $130 million on a more than 1 million square foot warehouse roughly 50 miles outside of Atlanta to detain thousands of immigrants, part of a network of newly acquired and converted warehouse spaces across the country (Getty Images) The plans are meeting fierce resistance, including in states and counties that supported Trump and from Republican officials. Last week, Mississippi Senator Roger Wicker (R) said he spoke with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem about a proposed facility in Marshall County. I relayed to her the opposition of local elected and zoning officials as well as economic development concerns. I appreciate her for agreeing to look elsewhere, he said. Democratic Senator Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire, whose state published documents about the warehouse expansion, grilled ICEs acting director Todd Lyons on whether he would similarly cancel a project in her state. No, maam, he said during his testimony to the Senate Homeland Security committee Thursday. The people of Merrimack, their leadership, do not want this ICE facility in their community. I have yet to find a Granite State community that does, she said. I would hope I get the same treatment that Senator Wicker got, which is that the town doesnt want the detention center, so please cancel it. ICEs acting director Todd Lyons is overseeing a plan that would buy up roughly two dozen large warehouses, previously used for industrial purposes, to be turned into massive jails to support the Trump administrations mass deportation efforts (AP) New Hampshires Republican Governor Kelly Ayotte said Homeland Security shared the documents with her office for the first time that same day, appearing to contradict Lyonss testimony that he spoke with the governor and provided her with an economic impact summary about the project. ICE plans to spend $158 million retrofitting a warehouse in Merrimack. Similar plans are underway across the country. ICE has already spent nearly $700 million acquiring warehouses in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Texas, according to public records and local reports. This week, ICE announced the purchase of a former warehouse in Chester, New York, which it plans to convert into a detention center, despite widespread, bipartisan opposition to the project from state and local officials That facility, roughly 60 miles outside of New York City could hold up to 1,500 people. I think every American should be alarmed, New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said this week. They are building and have built a black box system that disappears people, both immigrants and U.S. citizens alike. ICEs decision to move forward with the project despite clear local opposition underscore the urgent need for New York to be a bulwark against the Trump administrations mass deportation agenda, according to Murad Awawdeh, president of the New York Immigration Coalition. That kind of opposition is working in other states, even in deep-red districts. But ICE, flush with cash after a massive injection of taxpayer funds through Trumps One Big Beautiful Act domestic spending bill last year, intends to fully implement a new detention model by the end of Fiscal Year 2026, according to the documents. Last month, Homeland Security told officials in largely Republican-leaning Hanover County, Virginia, that ICE intends to build a facility on a former cattle farm that houses a 500,000-square-foot warehouse constructed by a company owned by Canadian billionaire Jim Pattison. Pattisons company reportedly intended to sell that warehouse to ICE, but after a threat of boycotts, in addition to business and union pressure and outrage from nearby residents, the countys board of supervisors announced plans to oppose the sale and called on federal, state and local leaders to do the same. Shortly after the boards vote, Pattisons company issued a one-line statement: The transaction to sell our industrial building in Ashland, Virginia will not be proceeding. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has faced urgent calls from federal, state and local officials from both parties across the country to pull ICE warehouses out of their states (AP) In Utah, local opposition forced a real estate group that owns a warehouse with plans for ICE conversion to issue a brief statement saying it has no plans to lease the property to any federal agency. In Oklahoma, officials passed a resolution to block any ICE facility there. And in Maryland, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball revoked the building permit for one. Similar resistance is underway across the country, though with mixed results; ICE spent nearly $130 million on a more than 1 million square foot warehouse roughly 50 miles outside of Atlanta, one of two new additions to Georgias already-sprawling immigration detention center network. Officials there already appear to be regretting it. This is not something, hands down, that the city can support, Social Circle City Manager Eric Taylor told Georgia Public Radio. More than 72 percent of residents in Walton County voted for Trump in 2024. The frustration here is that theyre looking at a building that was not built for human habitation, he said. There's nothing more than a shell of a building. Ben Paulings fine season continued at Ascot on Saturday, where The Jukebox Kid starred in a treble for the trainer with victory in the Injured Jockeys Fund Ambassadors Programme Reynoldstown Novices Chase. It was the King George VI triumph of The Jukebox Man that is the highlight of Paulings season so far, but his younger stablemate, who was sent off the 4-9 favourite, put in an assured display of jumping in the Grade Two contest to come home a cosy five and a half lengths clear in the hands of Ben Jones. The Jukebox Kid could now swerve an outing at the Cheltenham Festival, with the Naunton Downs handler eyeing a trip to Ireland to take on the old enemy in their own back yard at Fairyhouse over Easter. Pauling said: His jumping is his asset and this horse can be cold early so I was really pleased to see him jump off and attack his fences. I was a bit concerned with it being a three-runner race that it could be a muddling affair, but Ben set out to make it and he keeps getting stronger and stronger as the race goes on. I dont think he will go to Cheltenham and maybe a tilt at the Irish National could be on the cards. I think hes improving, at the right end of the handicap and I think he would stay every yard of the trip. As time goes on the more novices take on the more senior handicappers as they are unexposed. The Nationals used to be won by whichever experienced handicapper was right on the day, but now they are won by novices more and its certainly a race we will look at. He doesnt always come out of his races brilliantly, hell get an entry in the National Hunt Chase, but I wouldnt be certain he goes to Cheltenham. Pauling and Jones had earlier taken the opening Betfair Novices Hurdle with exciting prospect Mondouiboy, who could now be set for his own high-ranking assignments having obliged as the 8-11 favourite. He had to take a step forward today and he was very quick in and out, added Pauling. Ben has just got off and said hes a lovely horse for the future. Cheltenham is three weeks on Tuesday so well only go there if we think its genuinely an option. Ben did get off and say he wouldnt be going back in trip as he was flat out early doors so I would be leaning towards the three mile rather than the two and a half. Trouble is I can also be stubborn in that I like to keep horses to the shorter trip as long as I can, so well see. He finished like a fresh horse and doesnt look tired now, but well see how he comes out of it. Aintree would be perfect timing, Cheltenham is a question mark and he will tell us when we know how he comes out of this. If we went Aintree on a flat track he would definitely go three miles, I think. It was course regular Fiercely Proud (8-1) who brought up the hat-trick in the Betfair Exchange Handicap Hurdle under Kielan Woods, with Pauling delighted not only to eclipse his achievement on this very day two years ago, but also erase the memory of last weekend where he suffered some gut-wrenching reversals. He said: Its great last Saturday was one of the worst days of my racing career. Everything we ran didnt enjoy it, it was a disaster on bottomless ground. Were not a yard who operates on desperate ground and they are trained to be classy, quick horses, not sloggers, and last Saturday I was gutted. I purposely didnt run anything this week because the ground has been desperate and we just had to take the opportunities this weekend for the prize-money, so Im delighted. Sir Keir Starmer told Europe it has to be ready to fight Russian aggression as he announced that the UK would deploy warships and fighter jets to the Arctic later this year. The move, announced at the Munich Security Conference, will be seen as a bid to appease Donald Trump after he threatened to annex Greenland, citing security concerns in the region. But even as the PM hailed what he said would be a demonstration of the transatlantic relationship, US secretary of state Marco Rubio warned the continents leaders over their malaise of hopelessness and said that the US needed a partner with the will to survive. It came as Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky hit out at the United States, saying his country was being asked to make concessions to Russia too often in US-brokered peace talks and that Europe was being sidelined. Keir Starmer announced that British warships are set to patrol the Arctic (AP) During an eventful day at the summit: Sir Keir rebuked President Trump, saying he should be in no doubt if called on, the UK would come to your aid today The PM said the UK should align more closely with the EU on the economy as well as on defence, and received a round of applause as he said: We are not the Britain of the Brexit years any more He attacked Reform as pro-Putin as he said Nigel Farages party and the Greens were offering a future of division and then capitulation that would see the the lamps go out across Europe once again Sir Keir denied that he had narrowly missed being toppled and said he had ended this week much stronger than I started it, and thats a very good place to be Addressing the event on Saturday morning, Sir Keir said leaders must not dither, because Russia has proved its appetite for aggression. He warned that, even if there were a peace deal for Ukraine, Russias rearmament would only accelerate. We must answer this threat in full, he said. The road ahead is straight and it is clear. We must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age. We must be able to deter aggression, and yes, if necessary, we must be ready to fight. Announcing the planned deployment of the warships, the prime minister said that the US, Canada and other Nato allies would join Britain in bolstering security across what is known as the Nigh North. Mr Trump has claimed that Europe does not do enough to defend Greenland, which is strategically important to the US, amid threats from Russia and China. Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Europe is being sidelined in peace talks over Ukraine (EPA) During his address, Sir Keir also hit out at Mr Trumps claims that he is unsure whether other Nato allies would come to the USs defence. One of the alliances founding principles, Article 5, is that an attack on one Nato member is regarded as an attack on all. It has only been invoked once, after the 9/11 terror attacks in New York. Be in no doubt, if called on, the UK would come to your aid today, he told the US president. As the world approaches the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine later this month, Sir Keir said the UK recognised the urgency of the need to establish closer defence ties with the EU. In a move that will infuriate Brexiteers at home, he also said that Britain should move towards deeper economic integration with the EU, aiming to move closer to the single market in various sectors. He insisted his cabinet was in full agreement as he attempted to brush off the Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwars bid last week to oust him from office, saying he had ended the week much stronger than I started it. His speech came less than an hour after an address by Mr Rubio, who warned Europe that the US did not want to be caretakers of Western decline. The US secretary of state criticised countries he said had spent not enough on defence and too much on welfare, had appeased a climate cult to their own economic detriment, had allowed too much immigration, and had not defended their history, as he hit out at what he said was a malaise of hopelessness and complacency. But Mr Zelensky in turn attacked the US, saying: The Americans often return to the topic of concessions, and too often those concessions are discussed only in the context of Ukraine, not Russia. Mr Zelensky said he hoped that the US would stay involved in the negotiations, and that there would be an opportunity for Europe to play a larger role. Europe is practically not present at the table. Its a big mistake, to my mind, he said. Kim Ju-ae watches an air show to celebrate North Koreas air forces 80th anniversary at her fathers side in November last year - KCNA/Reuters Kim Jong-uns decision to name his daughter as his heir will probably trigger a power struggle within his family, a former intelligence official has warned. The North Korean leader, who succeeded his father and grandfather, has chosen Kim Ju-ae, believed to be 13, to take power when he dies, South Koreas spy agency told its parliament this week. Rah Jong-yil, the former South Korean ambassador to the UK and deputy director of Seouls intelligence service, told The Telegraph that Ju-ae could face opposition from Kim Yo-jong, her ambitious and ruthless aunt. Yo-jong, 38, is said to be planning to seize power should the dictator die or be incapacitated. This does not bode well for Ju-ae in a dynasty that has never been shy about assassinating its political rivals, according to Mr Jong-yil. Ju-ae, the only known child of Kim and his wife Ri Sol-ju, has become an increasingly present figure in official appearances, provoking speculation that she is being groomed to succeed her father. But her aunt, Kims sister, has significant political and military support within the Workers Party of Korea and is widely seen as the second most powerful person in the country. Yo-jong, 38, is said to be planning to seize power should her brother die or be incapacitated - Jorge Silva It depends on the timing, but I believe if Kim Yo-jong believed that she had a chance of becoming the top leader then she would take it, Mr Jong-yil said. For her, there are no reasons to refrain from putting into effect her own political project, he said, adding that a power struggle is probable. Given the familys track record, any such in-fighting probably would not be bloodless. Two years after Kim took over from his father in December 2011, he had Jang Song-thaek, his uncle and mentor, arrested on charges of committing anti-party, counter-revolutionary, factional acts. After a perfunctory trial, he was executed by firing squad on Dec 12, 2013. Kim Jong-nam, his older half-brother, who was once seen as a potential future leader, was assassinated in Kuala Lumpur airport in February 2017 when VX nerve agent was smeared in his face. He had been living in Macao after being exiled in 2003. Ju-ae has appeared next to her father at events such as test launches of new ballistic missiles and diplomatic events, which included the military parade in Beijing in September to mark Japans defeat in the Second World War. South Koreas National Intelligence Service (NIS) said it took a range of circumstances into account when they claimed that Ju-ae had been selected as his successor, including her increasingly prominent public presence at official events. They said it would be notable if she attended North Koreas party congress later this month Pyongyangs largest political event that takes place every five years. The North Korean dictator and his daughter inspecting the training of soldiers in the Korean Peoples Army - AFP There has been widespread speculation over why Kim feels the need to anoint a successor at the age of 42, with rumours that he suffers from a range of medical complaints. He is reported to be a heavy drinker and smoker, and have diabetes and high blood pressure. He was estimated to weigh around 140kg (22 stones) in 2024. His own father, Kim Jong-il, suffered from a similar set of illnesses and died of a heart attack aged 70. The pair directed the testing of a large-caliber rocket launch system in an undisclosed location at the end of last month - Reuters A report, published in December on 38 North, the website of the US-based think tank Stimson Centre, warned of turbulence in the event of Kims sudden demise when laying out possible succession scenarios. It also highlighted the high likelihood of a power struggle emerging between Kim Jong-un and his potential successor candidates. In the immediate term, more politically established candidates, like Kim Yo-jong, are more likely to succeed in the event of Kim Jong-uns sudden death or serious illness, the report stated. Other candidates, such as Kim Ju-ae or her siblings, believed to be two boys, are still too young and unestablished to realistically be considered for succession in the coming five to 15 years, it added. Kim Yo-jong, for example, will be able to immediately outmanoeuvre the others due to the political and military support she has garnered within the [Workers Party of Korea], it concluded. Homeland Security Kristi Noem abruptly ended a press conference in Arizona on Friday after being asked about a bizarre incident in which federal officials closed the airspace above El Paso this week after border officials reportedly used a laser to shoot down a party balloon they mistook for a cartel drone. During the press conference in Phoenix, a journalist asked if the reports were true, and if so, why border officials did not appear to coordinate with the Federal Aviation Administration. You know, this was a joint agency task force mission that was undertaken and were continuing to work on the communication through that but recognize were grateful for the partnership of the Department of War and FAA as we go forward, said Noem, who then walked away from her microphone. Following the abrupt airspace closure and reopening, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the FAA and Defense Department had acted swiftly to address a cartel drone incursion. The threat has been neutralized, and there is no danger to commercial travel in the region, he wrote on X, in a post that is still public. Homeland Security Kristi Noem provided a vague answer then left the stage on Friday when asked about the alleged mix-up that led to El Pasos airspace being closed (AP) However, reporting suggests that the incident occurred when officials at U.S. Customs and Border Protection, with military officials present, used a new Defense Department anti-drone energy weapon this week on a flying object that in fact appeared to be a party balloon, The New York Times reported. The FAA, which hadnt been briefed on the technology, shut down the El Paso airspace out of safety concerns, according to the paper. The apparent inter-agency confusion alarmed elected leaders. "The information coming from the administration does not add up," U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, Democrat of Texas, said after the incident in a press conference. "This should have never happened. You cannot restrict airspace over a major city without coordinating with the city, the airport, the hospitals, the community leadership," El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson told reporters after the closure. "This was a major and unnecessary disruption, one that has not occurred since 9/11." Border officials reportedly used an energy weapon to shoot what they thought was a drone but turned out to be a party balloon, alarming regulators who shut down the airspace above El Paso (Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) The closure comes at a sensitive time for both Noem and the U.S. transit system. Noems agency, the Department of Homeland Security, is under heavy scrutiny after agents carrying out the administrations military-style crackdown on illegal immigration shot and killed two Americans last month during their deployment in the Minneapolis area. A recent Wall Street Journal expose, meanwhile, alleges that Noems department has been in a state of internal chaos, with the secretary chasing made-for-TV moments dressing up in agency-branded flak jackets while carrying on an alleged extramarital affair with a deputy, which they both strongly deny. There have been multiple high-profile incidents in U.S. airspace under the Trump administration, including a crash last January near Reagan airport in Washington, D.C., between a civilian airliner and a military helicopter, which killed 67 people. A federal agent points pepper spray at observers while conducting immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis on 5 February. Photograph: Ryan Murphy/AP (Photograph: Ryan Murphy/AP) Since the federal immigration surge began late last year, Minnesotans have offered varying theories for why their state was targeted by the Trump administration. Its a midwestern state that hasnt voted for a Republican presidential candidate since 1972, including the three times it voted against Donald Trump. A strong and growing Scandinavian-style social safety net and welcoming culture to immigrants has attracted populations from around the world over the last few generations, including the largest Somali population outside Somalia. The state is a refuge for trans people and abortion access. It has high levels of civic engagement, regularly ranking at or near the top for voter turnout. It is a donor state, sending more money to the federal government than it receives. It has higher organized labor participation rates than the national average. Minneapolis, its largest city, ignited the nationwide 2020 protests over police brutality and racism after a police officer killed George Floyd. What many explanations boil down to is that Minnesota serves as anathema to the Trump administration. Hes attacking Minnesota because of Minnesotas virtue, said Keith Ellison, the states attorney general. Were not perfect. You know, we got problems to solve, but the people admit that. Whens the last time you ever heard Trump say that he needed to improve on anything? The Minneapolis mayor, Jacob Frey, put it bluntly: Its political retribution, he told the Guardian. It is going after a Democratically run city and a Democratically run state, trying to paint Minneapolis as a place of chaos, when in fact, its these ICE agents that have caused it. They hate us because we dont hate each other, said Marcia Howard, an English teacher and president of the teacher chapter of the Minneapolis Federation of Educators. Tina Smith, a US senator from Minnesota, said: They decided that they could use Minnesota as a proving ground for the worst of their anti-democratic strategies, and so they came at us. Before the US border czar, Tom Homan, said on Thursday that the operation would wind down, the onslaught on the state not only featured thousands of federal agents but multiple investigations into the states government and attempts to withhold several streams of federal funding. Two US citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, were killed by agents in the streets, and many more have been injured or hit with chemicals. Thousands of immigrants, including small children, have been detained. Protesters and journalists have been arrested and charged, with one protester then mocked by the White House in a digitally altered photo. The justice department issued subpoenas to several high-ranking officials in the state, suggesting they could face prosecution, while members of Congress have brought some in for questioning. Multiple lawsuits allege systemic violations of due process and constitutional rights for immigrants and people protesting against agents. The economy, especially businesses run by immigrants, has been hit hard. Of course its an authoritarian effort, said Jason Stanley, a professor at the University of Toronto who left his university in the US because of what he saw as rising fascism. Theyre trying to completely smash the state Its not random, but it is a brutal example to the rest of the United States, saying, we can completely have a military occupation of your city. We can kill your citizens, and theres nothing you can do about it. When asked why the administration chose to go after Minnesota, the White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said: The Trump Administration is enforcing federal immigration law around the country with surge operations having occurred in various cities and sanctuary cities. In Minnesota alone, heroic ICE officers removed over 4,000 dangerous criminal illegal aliens from communities. Everyone should be thankful for their work. The White Houses numbers have not been independently verified. According to the Guardians data, the majority of people in immigration detention nationwide do not have a criminal history. *** The Trump administrations desire for retribution against Minnesota has been clear from the beginning of the surge, local residents and officials said. Though Trump never formally challenged the results of his three losses in Minnesota, he has frequently claimed, without evidence, that he actually won the state each time. The numbers are very clear that he has not won Minnesota in any of the three times that hes run, Minnesotas secretary of state, Steve Simon, told the Guardian. Thats not a partisan statement. Thats just what the results show clearly in Minnesota. The states governor, Democrat Tim Walz, ran for vice-president against Trump, who has called Walz either the most CORRUPT government official in history, or the most INCOMPETENT. Much of Minneapolis is represented by Ilhan Omar, a refugee Somali American congresswoman, and Trump has called her a scammer who should be denaturalized and deported. Trumps attention was also brought to Minnesota because of fraud scandals, after rightwing media, including a 23-year-old YouTuber, distorted and expanded on allegations of widespread fraud. Dozens of people who stole from state programs have been convicted, and other prosecutions are still under way. The administration was also probably thinking about the optics. While other blue cities saw surges of agents before Minnesota, the influx of thousands of agents could have a much bigger footprint in a smaller, dense urban area like Minneapolis, offering plenty of imagery to an administration focused on flashy videos of deportations with agents roaming the streets in military-style gear. They wanted the image of angry Black people, cowering brown people, and all they got were multicultural hordes of folks with whistles and phones, Howard, the teacher, said. They got Presbyterians singing. The Department of Homeland Security assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin blamed local policies that prevented jails from coordinating with immigration enforcement for the agencys significant footprint in Minnesota and called the operation in the state a HUGE victory for public safety. She also cited the fraud scandals in the state. Our Homeland Security Investigators are on the ground in Minneapolis conducting wide scale investigations to get justice for the American people who have been robbed blind, she said. Ellison, who has sued the Trump administration more than 50 times since the start of Trumps second term, said some Democratic states have bigger populations and larger law enforcement apparatuses, making them harder targets. But the surge into Minnesota wasnt just about immigration or fraud. We are a successful, multiracial, multicultural state that has one of the highest standards of living, that values our people, Walz offered as a reason why Minnesota became a target at a recent press conference. Minnesotans are decent, caring, loving neighbors, and theyre also some of the toughest damn people youll ever find. Walzs national reputation grew after 2023, when he and the Democratic-led legislature pushed through a long list of progressive reforms, including a statewide paid leave program, protections for reproductive healthcare and stricter gun laws. In a letter to Walz on 24 January, the attorney general, Pam Bondi, laid out three demands to the state to bring back law and order to Minnesota: turning over records on social programs including Medicaid and food assistance so the federal government can investigate, ending any policies that prevent local officials from coordinating with immigration enforcement agents, and handing over the states voter rolls to the federal government for inspection. Local officials called the letter an attempt to coerce and extort them into falling in line with the federal government, and the letter revealed that the federal governments interest in the state went well beyond immigration enforcement procedures. Ive called that letter a ransom note, Simon said. As to whether it would work whether local officials would give in to these demands in order to get federal agents off the streets? Thats a hell no, Ellison said. Now in the next election, if Minnesotans want somebody to capitulate, they can get them. But I will never quit. *** The administrations choice of a smaller city, with a population ready to activate in response, may have backfired, many residents said. Larry Jacobs, a political science professor at the University of Minnesota, said the administration probably underestimated the state, but they should have known how its people would respond. The state has high social capital, a measure of community engagement and connection, Jacobs said, which helps explain high voter turnout, high levels of donating and volunteering. Tens of thousands of Minnesotans learned how to track and observe federal agents. Broad networks helped people throughout the state stay home to avoid interacting with agents, delivering groceries and supplies, dropping off homework for kids attending school virtually, helping with medical needs. They stood outside schools and daycares at drop-offs and dismissals after ICE sightings near these locations. They contributed to rent funds for people who hadnt worked in months for fear of ICE persecution. One of the things that we woke up to is how strong and proud Minnesotans are of their neighbors, said Nadia Mohamed, the mayor of St Louis Park, a suburb of Minneapolis. That is one thing I stand 10 toes behind, regardless of what rhetoric that is passed around: Minnesotans are strong, and Im extremely proud to be Minnesotan. Omar told the Guardian that the Trump administration was threatened by communities that refuse to be divided, silenced, or turned against each other. While Operation Metro Surge showed just how far the administration was willing to go to terrorize Black, brown and immigrant communities in our state, Minnesotans did not back down in the fight against authoritarianism, she said. Frey, the Minneapolis mayor, recently addressed the US Conference of Mayors, warning other cities that what happened to Minnesota could come for them, but that they couldnt avoid it by cowering from the federal government. You cant bow your head in despair, hoping that you wont attract attention, thinking that if you simply dont speak out or dont speak up, then you can avoid some sort of federal action that creates chaos on your streets, Frey told the Guardian. Still, as much as the surge served as a way for anti-ICE protesters and rapid responders to build up processes and networks, it served as a training ground for ICE and the federal government, warned Stanley, the professor who studies fascism. Agents may leave Minnesota, but they will go elsewhere. This is the beginning, he said. Its so shocking in the beginning, but everyone then gets used to the shocking. David Smith contributed to this report Mohamed Salah scored one goal and assisted another (Liverpool FC via Getty Images) Mohamed Salah patted the badge on his chest as the Kop chorused his song. It was a rare feat, even by his standards: just the third time in his Liverpool career he had scored, assisted and won a penalty in the same game. As Salah was able to celebrate with his public again after scoring, his 252nd goal for Liverpool was only his second since his incendiary interview at Leeds. The process of reintegration began with a cameo against Brighton in December. It accelerated with a spot-kick against Albion in February. He won it and scored it, tripped by Pascal Gross, rifling his shot into the roof of the net. He had only struck once in his previous 12 games for Liverpool, and that was against Qarabag. He had not found the net against a Premier League club since Aston Villas visit at the start of November. This meant a lot. It was very big for the confidence, said Salah. It was very big, for sure. It felt like another step in the healing process. It is very nice to have him on the scoresheet again but what I like is that he is helping the team defensively, said Arne Slot. Whatever the summer holds for him, Liverpool could enjoy the sight of Salah looking irrepressible. Perhaps, too, they could be grateful that what looked a crisis was defused. That may reflect well on Slot and if the Dutchman has had too few games this season when every decision he has made has brought a rich reward, this victory came with sweet vindication. As the Liverpool manager fielded his latest line-up without a specialist right-back, the assumption might have been that Dominik Szoboszlai was in the back four and Curtis Jones in midfield. Instead, it was the other way around. Each was on the scoresheet, and in a way that reflected the role Slot had given him. Jones scored for the first time since 2024 by materialising at the far post. Szoboszlai used his running power to burst through the inside-right channel and unleash his second unstoppable shot in as many weeks at Anfield. Dominik Szoboszlai thundered home Liverpools second goal (PA) Mohamed Salahs penalty was his first goal against an English club since 1 Novemebr (PA) In the process, Slot may have learned a lesson from a game when his choices backfired. At the corresponding stage of the FA Cup a year ago, he selected too much of a weakened side and suffered the embarrassment of defeat to Plymouth. Twelve months on, he started with nine of his strongest available 11 and, while Hugo Ekitike and Ryan Gravenberch began on the bench, the Dutchmans rest permitted Joness return and allowed Szoboszlai to play in midfield. The context has changed from Slots first taste of the FA Cup, which ended so ignominiously in Devon. Now it is Liverpools most realistic chance of silverware this season, and they swept into the fifth round. Their league position remains unsatisfactory but they have only been beaten twice in 18 outings in all competitions and, after the frustration of last weeks loss to Manchester City, they have conjured a response by beating Sunderland and Brighton. Their season has been a story of makeshift right-backs and, for all the issues injuries have posed, they have added some productivity. Szoboszlai has twin spectacular free kicks against Arsenal and City when deployed as a defender. Jones ended a lengthy drought when in theory, anyway stationed further from the Brighton goal. There have been times Ive scored more but not played as well as I am now, he said after getting a first goal in 58 games. The Liverpudlian had come agonisingly close with a left-footed shot from 20 yards. Then, meeting Milos Kerkezs inviting cross on the half-volley, he crashed in a shot off the underside of the bar. It was very pleasing the first goal was an assist from the left-back to the right-back, Slot said. Kerkez ended up being overshadowed not least by his fellow Hungairan but he was terrific. He married deft skill with dynamic runs. He had drawn a fine save from Jason Steele with a rising, rasping half-volley. Then came his assist. Curtis Jones produced a lovely finish for his first Liverpool goal in 57 games (Getty) The second goal was even nicer than the first one, Slot said. Salah cushioned a pass into the path of the surging Szoboszlai and, without breaking stride, he drove a shot past Steele. He is one of the best players in the world right now, said Salah. Szoboszlai earned a fourth assist for the Egyptian since his return from the African Cup of Nations. When the 33-year-old then scored himself from the penalty spot, it was cue for Slot to substitute him, to a rousing ovation. His replacement Rio Ngumoha had a goal ruled out for offside; there was no VAR to prove he was onside. Meanwhile, Brighton objected to Salahs spot kick. Poor decision, said Fabian Hurzeler. Never a penalty. Salah received a standing ovation as he exited stage left (Liverpool FC via Getty Images) He could also lament moments either side of the interval. We had enough chances to score a goal, added Hurzeler. But Alisson saved from Diego Gomez, coming to Joness rescue after he slipped. He clawed away Lewis Dunks header. After his error against City, it was a redemptive return to Anfield for Alisson, and justification for Slot in selecting him, rather than Giorgi Mamardashvili. So there was no seismic double for Brighton, conquerors of Manchester United at Old Trafford in the third round, no cup run deflect from underachievement in the Premier League. We are not in a good moment, Hurzeler said. But now Salah is. NATO chief explains his odd nickname for Trump: Do you have some daddy issues? NATOs Secretary General has explained the origin story behind the bizarre daddy nickname he bestowed upon Donald Trump, which the president awkwardly took ownership of last month. Speaking to Politicos Dasha Burns, Mark Rutte admitted that it was his insufficient command of the English language, that had led to the amusing name for Trump and that he realized only later that the word had a lot of connotations. I have to ask: where did daddy come from? Do you have some daddy issues, Mr Rutte? Burns joked to Rutte, at the tail end of a sit-down interview at the Munich Security Conference Friday. Rutte, who is Dutch, explained that the nickname had risen out of a meeting with Trump last summer, in which they had spoken of the U.S. bombing of Iran and the presidents ongoing negotiations with Israel. NATOs Secretary General has explained the origin story behind the bizarre daddy nickname he bestowed upon Donald Trump last year (AFP/Getty) And then I said and here is my insufficient command of the English language I said, Daddy sometimes has to be tough. And of course, later realizing that the word daddy has a lot of connotations, he said. Then what he did and this is to his credit because he is a fun guy and he has a lot of humor the American side then put this on T-shirts. There was a video when he came back from the Hague Summit where he said, Daddy is home. So there it was born, and it was never intended. Trump unashamedly owned the nickname during a cringe-inducing speech at the National Economic Forum in Davos last month, amid European criticism of his apparent attempts to annex Greenland. During his speech the president claimed hed been helping Europe and NATO, before veering off topic, claiming they loved me until he tried to claim the Danish territory, which he then incorrectly named as Iceland. Donald Trump awkwardly owned the nickname 'Daddy' while giving remarks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, last month (PA Media) Referring to Ruttes offhand remark, which had taken place six months prior, he went on: They called me Daddy, right? The last time? [A] very smart man said: Hes our Daddy. Hes running it. He went on: I was, like, running it. I went from running it to being a terrible human being. Rutte now appeared to find the interaction with Trump comical, telling Burns: Im now carrying it, living with it. Its a fact of life. Now hes Daddy. Elsewhere at the Conference, others were not so positive, with New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez telling attendees that Trumps administration was tearing apart the transatlantic partnership. Putin arch-rival Alexei Navalny died after being poisoned with a lethal toxin and Russia is to blame for the attack, Britain and its European allies have said. In a dramatic press conference held at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, the UK, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said that analysis of samples from Navalnys body had found the presence of epibatidine a deadly toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America. After the findings were announced by Navalnys widow Yulia Navalnaya, foreign secretary Yvette Cooper pinned the blame squarely on the Kremlin and said only Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to carry out such an attack. For the latest updates on the Munich Security Conference, read our live blog HERE Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny stands inside a glass cell during a court hearing at the Babushkinsky district court in Moscow on 20 February 2021 (AFP via Getty) She said: Today, beside his widow, the UK is shining a light on the Kremlins barbaric plot to silence his voice. Russia saw Navalny as a threat. By using this form of poison, the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition. The five countries said Russia had shown a repeated disregard for international law and that they had reported the poisoning to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. The Kremlin has rejected the claims, with Russian foreign ministry Maria Zakharova telling TASS: "When the test results are available and the formulas for the substances are disclosed, we will comment accordingly. Until then, all such assertions are merely propaganda aimed at diverting attention from pressing Western issues," the news agency cited her as saying. The report also said she described Navalny as a blogger "officially designated as a terrorist and extremist in Russia". Meanwhile, prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Navalny displayed huge courage in the face of tyranny. He added: His determination to expose the truth has left an enduring legacy, and my thoughts are with his family today. I am doing whatever it takes to defend our people, our values and our way of life from the threat of Russia and Putins murderous intent. After the press conference, Ms Navalnaya called for Vladimir Putin to be held accountable. She wrote: I was certain from the first day that my husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof: Putin killed Alexei with chemical weapon. Ms Navalnaya previously announced her husbands death at the same gathering, two years ago. The Kremlin has always denied any involvement. Russian president Vladimir Putin listens to the head of the North Ossetia-Alania Republic of Russia Sergei Menyailo, during their meeting at the Kremlin earlier this week (AP) Navalny, a thorn in the side of the Kremlin who crusaded against official corruption and staged massive anti-Putin protests, died in a penal colony in Siberia in February 2024, aged 47. The former lawyer had been serving a 19-year sentence on charges he believed to be politically motivated. It is not clear how the frog poison was allegedly administered to Navalny. But the allies also pointed to an attempt to poison Navalny with the nerve agent novichok in 2020, which followed the Salisbury poisonings in 2018. Ms Navalnaya said last year that two independent labs had found that her husband was poisoned shortly before his death. It had been widely assumed that Navalny had been poisoned by the Russian state, but evidence of the specific poison in his body, along with the statement by the European countries, is a new development. In her statement, she added: I am grateful to the European states for the meticulous work they carried out over two years, and for uncovering the truth. Vladimir Putin is a murderer. He must be held accountable for all his crimes. Yulia Navalnaya, widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, beside his picture in June 2024 (DPA) The Foreign Office said there can be no innocent explanation for the toxin having been found on Navalnys body. Ms Cooper added: Since Yulia Navalnaya announced the loss of her husband here in Munich two years ago, the UK has pursued the truth of Alexei Navalnys death with fierce determination. Only the Russian government had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin against Alexei Navalny during his imprisonment in Russia. Navalnys death came after Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were poisoned with novichok in July 2018. Last year, a major inquiry into the poisonings found that Putin had ordered the astonishingly reckless attempted assassination of Mr Skripal as a public demonstration of Russian power. The report also said the Russian president was morally responsible for the death of Dawn Sturgess, an innocent bystander who died after being exposed to the chemical weapon after it was left in a discarded perfume bottle. Prime minister Keir Starmer and foreign secretary Yvette Cooper arriving at the summit in Munich on Friday (Simon Dawson/No 10 Downing Street) Russia was also responsible for the assassination of former spy Alexander Litvinenko in the UK, according to the European Court of Human Rights. The 43-year-old, who had worked for the Russian security services before defecting to the UK, died after drinking green tea laced with poison in London in 2006. The joint statement by the five countries said they are confident that Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a lethal toxin. It added: This is the conclusion of our governments based on analyses of samples from Alexei Navalny. These analyses have conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine. Epibatidine is a toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America. It is not found naturally in Russia. Russia claimed that Navalny died of natural causes. But given the toxicity of epibatidine and reported symptoms, poisoning was highly likely the cause of his death. Navalny died while held in prison, meaning Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison to him. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez speaks at a panel on populism at the 62nd Munich Security Conference on in Munich, Germany, on Friday. Photograph: Sean Gallup/Getty Images (Photograph: Sean Gallup/Getty Images) Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said during a Munich security conference panel on Friday on the future of foreign policy that the Democratic partys next presidential nominee should reconsider the countrys military aid to Israel. Hagar Shezaf of the Israeli newspaper Haaretz asked the US congresswoman if she thought the Democratic presidential candidate in the 2028 elections should re-evaluate military aid to Israel. To me this isnt just about a presidential election, Ocasio-Cortez replied, personally, I think that the United States has an obligation to uphold its own laws, particularly the Leahy laws. I think that, personally, the idea of completely unconditional aid, no matter what one does, does not make sense, she added. I think it enabled a genocide in Gaza, and I think that we have thousands of women and children dead that was completely avoidable. So I believe that enforcement of our own laws, through the Leahy laws, which requires conditioning aid in any circumstance when you see gross human rights violations is appropriate, Ocasio-Cortez concluded. The Leahy laws are two statutory provisions, named for the former senator Patrick Leahy who introduced them in the 1990s, which prohibit the US defense department and state department from providing funds to units of foreign security forces where there is credible information implicating that unit in the commission of gross violations of human rights. But, according to Charles Blaha, the former director of the state department office that leads Leahy vetting of foreign security units, while state department officials insist that Israeli units are subject to the same vetting standards as units from any other country. Maybe in theory. But in practice, thats simply not true. Matt Whitaker, the US ambassador to Nato, declined to directly answer the question, saying Israel is one of our closest allies. Related: US violating law to fund Israel despite alleged human rights abuses, lawsuit says Earlier in the day, Ocasio-Cortez had accused Donald Trump of seeking to introduce an age of authoritarianism and condemning his foreign policy in front of its allies top policymakers. In her remarks, Ocasio-Cortez said Trump and Marco Rubio, the secretary of state, were looking to withdraw the United States from the entire world so that we can turn into an age of authoritarianism, as they sought to carve out a world where Donald Trump can command the western hemisphere and Latin America as his personal sandbox, where Putin can saber rattle around Europe and try to bully our own allies there. She went on further to outline what she called an alternative vision for a leftwing US foreign policy, saying that she and her fellow Democrats were calling for a return to a rules-based order without the hypocrisies of US foreign policy that have dominated the past and current administrations. It remains unclear how big a role Democrats positions on the Israel-Gaza conflict will play in the 2028 presidential race. Some of the Democrats viewed as likely contenders have already faced questions on the issue, with some staking out a more critical stance than Kamala Harris or Joe Biden did in the 2024 race. Andrew Roth contributed reporting Anthea Turner doesnt want a flashy wedding with fiance Mark Armstrong. Anthea Turner rules out flashy wedding The 65-year-old TV presenter has delayed getting hitched to her 59-year-old businessman lover multiple times after Mark popped the question during a romantic getaway to Italy in 2019 - just months after they met in a London nightclub in July that year. And, reflecting on her wedding with former husband Grant Bovey in 2000, which saw the couple pose with Cadbury's Snowflake bars in a promotional tie-in, Anthea admitted she wants something completely different for her third trip down the aisle. Anthea who was also married to Radio 1 DJ Peter Powell from 1990 to 1998 told Vanessa Feltz on her Channel 5 show: It was so extravagant, really when I think back now, I do remember thinking this is not me, I don't really want it to be so big, this was nowhere near what I wanted;. But I sort of got bamboozled into the whole thing, and it got bigger and bigger and bigger, and then of course, a chocolate bar was stuffed in my face, and then that was the end of everything. But I also think the tanker has turned around with these big flash weddings that we don't think oh how amazing now, it's like when people have big flash cars, it's like, people with flashiness is actually going out. Anthea previously insisted the special occasion will now take place "in the UK". Anthea - who lives with Mark - told Bella magazine: "We haven't sorted out the wedding - we have to get our act together. "I don't want the faff of organising anything abroad, so it will be in the UK. "God knows how many bridesmaids I'm going to have!" Anthea and Grant initially split in 2012 due his infidelity, and after reconciling they split for good in 2013 and were legally separated in 2015. The star has now found her happily ever after with Mark and feels "really lucky" to be with a man who is very romantic and always trying to surprise her. Anthea said: "I'm really lucky that Mark is a real romantic. "For Easter, he woke me up in the morning and said, 'Get ready for an Easter egg hunt around the house,' you're never too old for an egg hunt! "I love stuff like that. It's spontaneous and fun. I feel like a lucky lady." The Pentagon used artificial intelligence during its operation to capture Venezuelas president Nicolas Maduro, sources have claimed. Anthropics AI model Claude was used by the US military, although its precise role in the mission was not disclosed. While it has previously been used by the military to analyse satellite imagery and intelligence, sources told the Wall Street Journal that Claude was deployed during the live operation and not just in planning. The mission to capture Mr Maduro and his wife involved bombing several sites in Caracas, which left dozens of Cubans and Venezuelans dead. No Americans were killed in the raid. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is pushing for rapid AI adoption across the US military to stay ahead of China - The White House We cannot comment on whether Claude, or any other AI model, was used for any specific operation, classified or otherwise, said an Anthropic spokesman. Any use of Claude whether in the private sector or across government is required to comply with our Usage Policies, which govern how Claude can be deployed. We work closely with our partners to ensure compliance. Anthropics usage guidelines prohibit Claude from being used to facilitate violence, develop weapons or conduct surveillance. Anthropic has positioned itself as a safety-first AI company, saying on its website that it puts safety at the frontier. It also says that it builds AI to service humanitys long-term wellbeing. The Wall Street Journal reported that Anthropics concerns about how Claude can be used by the Pentagon have pushed administration officials to consider cancelling its contract worth up to $200m. Anthropic is also seeking assurances that its technology will not be used for mass surveillance of Americans or to operate fully autonomous weapons, Axios reported, and is reportedly negotiating with the Pentagon over its terms of use. Pete Hegseth, the defence secretary, has embraced AI and wants it rapidly integrated across the military to maintain an edge over China. On Thursday it was reported that the Pentagon is pushing the top AI companies including OpenAI and Anthropic to make their artificial-intelligence tools available on classified networks without many of the standard restrictions that the companies apply to users. The Pentagon is moving to deploy frontier AI capabilities across all classification levels, an official who requested anonymity told Reuters. The worst thing a parent can go through had already happened to Christine Durand. Her son Steven was missing, and she had no idea if he was even alive. But what Christine, who is now 70, didnt realise was that things were only going to get worse over the coming months and years. I just feel like theyve not cared at all, like Ive been left on the shelf, she tells The Independent. I used to have to go down to the police station every single day about my son, crying. They let me down on many occasions. Steven was meant to be travelling from his sisters flat to his home in Preston on the day he disappeared 19 October 2018. He had lost his phone, so all he had on him was his bus fare. After Christine reported Steven missing, Lancashire Constabulary put out public appeals for the 31-year-old, who Christine said was known to officers as he suffered from mental health issues. But they misidentified his ethnicity twice, describing him as white when he is mixed-race. Steven Durand went missing at the age of 31. Police misidentified his ethnicity twice, describing him as white when he is mixed-race (Christine Durand) Everything I asked the police to do, they did the opposite, says Christine, citing incidents such as the police breaking down the door of Stevens flat when she had told them she had a spare key. I think the police are racist I think they didnt care about my son because he was mixed-race. Christine, from Leyland, believes that her son, whom she describes as the kindest person you could meet, could have been found if the police had handled the investigation better. Only 31 per cent of missing Black people, and 35 per cent of missing Asian people, are found by police, compared with 39 per cent of white people who go missing, according to research carried out by the charity Missing People. Christine Durand believes that her son could have been found if the police had handled his case better (Christine Durand) That report also found that Black and Asian children are more likely to be missing for longer periods of time than white children. One in five missing person incidents relating to Black children lasted for longer than 48 hours, compared with 14 per cent of those involving Asian children, and 13 per cent for white children. Missing People has now launched its new SafeCall service, a national lifeline designed to support the 72,000 children who go missing in the UK every year. The Independent reached its 165,000 fundraising target last month, enabling the free, confidential, round-the-clock service to go live. Christine says police let me down on many occasions (Christine Durand) Evidence Joels experience echoes that of Christine. Her son Richard Okorogheye, then aged 19, went missing from Ladbroke Grove, London, on 22 March 2021. Evidence, 43, says she reported Richard as missing to police the following day, telling them he was away from home without his medication for sickle cell anaemia. But she claims that officers did not treat her concerns with urgency, and describes the investigation as a disaster, alleging that she was told: Dont worry, hell come back home, and even: If you cant find your son, how do you expect us to? Richard was found dead in Epping Forest two weeks later, on 5 April. Richard Okorogheye, then aged 19, went missing from Ladbroke Grove in March 2021. His body was found two weeks later (Evidence Joel) Evidence, a nurse, believes that her son might have been found alive if the investigation had been handled properly. I felt the whole thing was governed by discrimination and racism, she says. Every day I have to go through this agony in my heart, knowing something maybe couldve been done, but nothing was done. I remember having sleepless nights, walking barefoot from my house to Ladbroke Grove police station, crying, begging them to look for my child. The Metropolitan Police did apologise to Evidence for providing a level of service that was not at a level the public would expect of us, but it did not acknowledge any discriminatory treatment. An Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation identified several failures by police and described the level of service that Evidence received as unacceptable, but it found that the evidence did not indicate that any delay in upgrading Richards risk level was due to his or Ms Joels race. In Christines case, she made a complaint, and an internal investigation by Lancashire Constabulary found that there was insufficient evidence that Steven had been discriminated against on the basis of his race or mental health. The force declined to comment on this. Evidence Joel believes her son might have been found alive if police had acted properly (Evidence Joel) Lancashire Constabulary also disputed Christines claims about the door being broken down, but the IOPC upheld her allegation after a review of her complaint. It added that the constabulary had apologised for misidentifying his ethnicity. Josie Allan, head of policy and partnerships at Missing People, says the charity has heard from a number of families who have felt discriminated against because of their race. Explaining why investigations might be coming to competing conclusions, she says that underlying systemic bias will be affecting police responses, but that its insidious nature makes it difficult to pinpoint. There are inherent issues in being able to identify discrimination in the complaints process, says Allan. We know that data shows there are disparities for Black missing people, so theres a gap between the evidence about the disparities and the acknowledgement of them... The data and the sheer amount of families who are raising concerns should be raising very serious concerns within policing that there is a pattern. Evidence says I felt the whole thing was governed by discrimination and racism (Evidence Joel) She notes that the IOPC has recently revised its guidance in an effort to improve the problematic handling of discrimination complaints. In 2021, the home affairs select committees Macpherson: 20 Years On inquiry suggested that police services had largely failed to overcome perceptions of institutional racism following the initial inquiry into the murder of Stephen Lawrence, which found consistent evidence of over-policing and under-protection of Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. On the matter of Steven Durand, a spokesperson for Lancashire Constabulary said: Weve carried out extensive inquiries in relation to CCTV, telephony, searches of open land and waterways, inquiries with associates, witnesses, health agencies and financial checks and numerous media appeals, prior to the decision to archive the investigation. The force said that difficult decisions, such as archiving a case, sometimes have to be made, but that any new information will be fully investigated. On the case of Richard Okorogheye, a Met Police spokesperson said: When Richard went missing in 2021, hundreds of officers worked tirelessly over 15 days as part of the extensive search, which also included specialist search teams, dogs and horses, and colleagues from Essex Police, before his body was sadly found. They said that the force accepted all of the IOPCs recommendations from its 2022 investigation, and that it had made a significant number of changes to the way we respond from the moment a person is reported missing. They added: This includes putting more emphasis on engaging with the person who reports someone missing, so we can better understand the risks they face. Please donate now to The Independent and Missing Peoples SafeCall campaign, which has raised 165,000 to create a free, nationwide service helping vulnerable children find safety and support For advice, support and options if you or a child you love goes missing, contact safecall.org.uk Prince William demanded that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor be forced out of the royal family before the rot set in, following his disastrous Newsnight interview in 2019, a new biography has claimed. After further details of Andrews relationship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, the Prince of Wales was said to have viewed the then-prince as a serious threat to the royal familys survival. The revelations are in an upcoming book about the Prince and Princess of Wales, written by the Mirrors royal editor, Russell Myers. A palace source in the book said: The Prince of Wales was adamant the whole episode would never go away and, despite how others may have felt, there was absolutely no upside in Andrew being protected. (BBC Newsnight) William had urged action from Charles and Queen Elizabeth, who were in favour of protecting him, which provoked a furious reaction from his father, who put him in his place, the book claims. The new biography alleges Charles was engaged in a full-scale fire fight, and William feared the Epstein scandal would pose a threat to the royal familys survival. A palace source in the book, said: His view was crystal clear, Andrew shouldnt be anywhere near the family under any circumstances, not by association, not at family functions, anywhere. Every single time there was a new revelation, which no one knew when it was coming or what the next one would be, it was a stain on all of the family. In a now infamous interview with BBC Newsnight in 2019, Andrew was asked about sexual abuse allegations made by the late Virginia Giuffre. Andrew has always denied any wrongdoing. William and Kate said they were deeply concerned over the ongoing revelations surrounding Andrew (PA Wire) He claimed he had no recollection of ever meeting Ms Giuffre and said it was not possible he could have had sex with her in March 2001, as he was at a Pizza Express in Woking with his daughter. Andrew also failed to apologise for his relationship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. The Prince and Princess of Wales publicly addressed the Epstein scandal for the first time this week, saying they have been deeply concerned over the ongoing revelations surrounding Andrew. Another source in the book said: Once you understand the fact that everything that happens in the here and now, affects everything in the future, Williams future, it is very easy to put yourself in his shoes. He never much liked his uncle and wanted him out of the picture immediately before the rot further set in. Williams view was that he [Andrew] got himself into the whole mess, so he should be left to his own devices to sort it out away from the family. Virginia Giuffre accused Andrew of abusing her in 2001 (US Department of Justice) A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said the King had profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsors conduct. US Congress members have urged the King to answer what he knew about his brothers ties to Epstein and compel him to testify in the US. Andrew suffered a fall from grace following the release of Epstein files in October, which saw him stripped of all his titles, including the Duke of York. In the latest tranche of documents released, Andrew is alleged to have shared confidential reports with Epstein that he had access to in his role as a UK trade envoy. The Independent has contacted Buckingham Palace and Andrews representatives. Alexei Navalny, a thorn in the side of the Kremlin and Russias most prominent political dissident, died in prison after being poisoned by the Kremlin, the UK and its European allies have said. Navalny, a fierce critic of Russian president Vladimir Putin, died while serving a 19-year jail term in a penal colony around 40 miles of the Arctic Circle in charges widely thought to be politically motivated. He died in February 2024 after going for a walk at the jail and losing consciousness. The political agitator has been behind bars since January 2021, when he returned to Moscow after recuperating in Germany from nerve agent poisoning that he blamed on the Kremlin. Before his arrest, he campaigned against official corruption, organized major anti-Kremlin protests and ran for public office. Now, Britain, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands have said that he died after being poisoned with a lethal dart frog toxin - a development which has prompted his widow to call for Vladimir Putin to be held accountable. Here's a look at Navalnys life, political activism and the charges he has faced through the years: 1976 4 June 4 Navalny is born in a western part of the Moscow region. 1997 Graduates from Russias RUDN university, where he majored in law; earns a degree in economics in 2001 while working as a lawyer. 2004 Forms a movement against rampant overdevelopment in Moscow, according to his campaign website. Police officers detain Alexeo Navalny, at Moscow's Pushkinskaya Square, on March 5, 2012 (AFP via Getty Images) 2008 Gains notoriety for alleging corruption in state-run corporations, such as gas giant Gazprom and oil behemoth Rosneft, through his blogs and other posts. 2010 Founds RosPil, an anti-corruption project run by a team of lawyers that analyzes spending of state agencies and companies, exposing violations and contesting them in court. 2011 December- Participates in mass protests sparked by reports of widespread rigging of Russias parliamentary election, and is arrested and jailed for 15 days for defying a government official. 2012 March - Following Mr Putins reelection and inauguration, mass protests break out in Moscow and elsewhere. Navalny accuses key figures, including then-Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov and Chechnyas strongman leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, of corruption. July - Russias Investigative Committee charges Navalny with embezzlement involving Kirovles, a state-owned timber company in the Kirov region, while acting as an adviser to the local governor. Navalny rejects the allegations as politically motivated. December The Investigative Committee launches another probe into alleged embezzlement at a Navalny-linked Russian subsidiary of Yves Rocher, a French cosmetics company. Navalny again says the allegations are politically motivated. Navalny appears via a video link from the Arctic penal colony where he would later die (AP) 2013 Navalny runs for mayor in Moscow a move the authorities not only allow but encourage in an attempt to put a veneer of democracy on the race that is designed to boost the profile of the incumbent, Sergei Sobyanin. July - A court in Kirov convicts Navalny of embezzlement in the Kirovles case, sentencing him to five years in prison. The prosecution petitions to release Navalny from custody pending his appeal, and he resumes his campaign. September Official results show Navalny finishes second in the mayors race behind Sobyanin, with 27% of the vote, after a successful electoral and fundraising campaign collecting an unprecedented 97.3 million rubles ($2.9 million) from individual supporters. October A court hands Navalny a suspended sentence in the Kirovles case. February 2014 Navalny is placed under house arrest in connection with the Yves Rocher case and banned from using the internet. His blog continues to be updated regularly, presumably by his team, detailing alleged corruption by various Russian officials. December Navalny and his brother, Oleg, are found guilty of fraud in the Yves Rocher case. Navalny receives a 3 -year suspended sentence, while his brother is handed a prison term. Both appeal to the European Court of Human Rights. 2015 December Navalnys Foundation for Fighting Corruption releases its first long-form video a YouTube documentary called Chaika, which means seagull in Russian but is also the last name of then-Prosecutor General Yury Chaika. The 44-minute video accuses him of corruption and alleged ties to a notorious criminal group and has piled up 26 million views on YouTube. Chaika and other Russian officials deny the accusations. 2016 February The European Court of Human Rights rules that Russia violated Navalnys right to a fair trial in the Kirovles case, ordering the government to pay his legal costs and damages. November Russias Supreme Court overturns Navalnys sentence and sends the case back to the original court in the city of Kirov for review. December Navalny announces he will run in Russias 2018 presidential election. Navalny and his wife Yulia attend a hearing at the Lublinsky district court in Moscow, Russia, April 23, 2015 (REUTERS) 2017 February The Kirov court retries Navalny and upholds his five-year suspended sentence from 2013. March Navalny releases a YouTube documentary accusing then-Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev of corruption, getting over 7 million views in its first week. A series of anti-graft protests across Russia draw tens of thousands and there are mass arrests. Navalny tours the country to open campaign offices, holds big rallies and is jailed repeatedly for unauthorized demonstrations. 27 April Unidentified assailants throw a green disinfectant in his face, damaging his right eye. He blames the attack on the Kremlin. October The European Court of Human Rights finds Navalnys fraud conviction in the Yves Rocher case to be arbitrary and manifestly unreasonable. December Russias Central Electoral Commission bars him from running for president over his conviction in the Kirovles case, a move condemned by the EU as casting serious doubt on the election. 2019 July Members of Navalnys team, along with other opposition activists, are barred from running for Moscow city council, sparking protests that are violently dispersed, with thousands arrested. Navalnys team responds by promoting the Smart Voting strategy, encouraging the election of any candidate except those from the Kremlins United Russia party. The strategy works, with the party losing its majority. 2020 Navalny seeks to deploy the Smart Voting strategy during regional elections in September and tours Siberia as part of the effort. 20 August On a flight from the city of Tomsk, where he was working with local activists, Navalny falls ill and the plane makes an emergency landing in nearby Omsk. Hospitalized in a coma, Navalnys team suspects he was poisoned. 22 August A comatose Navalny is flown to a hospital in Berlin. 24 August German authorities confirm Navalny was poisoned with a Soviet-era nerve agent. After he recovers, he blames the Kremlin, an accusation denied by Russian officials. Navalny was a fierce critic of Vladimir Putin (AP) 2021 17 January After five months in Germany, Navalny is arrested upon his return to Russia, with authorities alleging his recuperation abroad violated the terms of his suspended sentence in the Yves Rocher case. His arrest triggers some of the biggest protests in Russia in years. Thousands are arrested. 2 February A Moscow court orders Navalny to serve 2 years in prison for his parole violation. While in prison, Navalny stages a three-week hunger strike to protest a lack of medical treatment and sleep deprivation. June A Moscow court outlaws Navalnys Foundation for Fighting Corruption and about 40 regional offices as extremist, shutting down his political network. Close associates and team members face prosecution and leave Russia under pressure. Navalny maintains contact with his lawyers and team from prison, and they update his social media accounts. 2022 24 February Russia invades Ukraine. Navalny condemns the war in social media posts from prison and during his court appearances. 22 March Navalny is sentenced to an additional nine-year term for embezzlement and contempt of court in a case his supporters rejected as fabricated. He is transferred to a maximum-security prison in Russias western Vladimir region. July Navalnys team announces the relaunch of the Anti-Corruption Foundation as an international organization with an advisory board including Francis Fukuyama, Anne Applebaum, and the European Parliament member and former Belgian Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt. Navalny continues to file lawsuits in prison and tries to form a labor union in the facility. In response, penitentiary officials start regularly placing him in solitary confinement over purported disciplinary violations such as failing to properly button his garment or to wash his face at a specified time. Navalny (second left) as he listens to his verdict over a series of extremism charges at the IK-6 penal colony (AFP via Getty Images) 2023 Over 400 Russian doctors sign an open letter to Mr Putin, urging an end to what it calls abuse of Navalny, following reports that he was denied basic medication after getting the flu. His team expresses concern about his health, saying in April he had acute stomach pain and suspected he was being slowly poisoned. 12 March Navalny, a film about the attempt on the opposition leaders life, wins the Oscar for best documentary feature. 26 April Appearing on a videolink from prison during a hearing, Navalny says he was facing new extremism and terrorism charges that could keep him behind bars for the rest of his life. He adds sardonically that the charges imply that Im conducting terror attacks while sitting in prison. 19 June The trial begins in a make-shift courtroom in the Penal Colony No. 6 where Navalny is being held. Soon after it starts, the judge closes the trial for the public and the media despite Navalnys demand to keep it open. 20 July The prosecution in its closing arguments asks the court to sentence Navalny to 20 years in prison, the politician's team reports. Navalny says in a subsequent statement that he expects his sentence to be huge a Stalinist term, referring to the Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. 4 August - Navalny is sentenced to 19 years in prison for extremism. He was accused by the Russian authorities of creating an extremist community, financing extremist activities and a number of other crimes. According to a message on Telegram, he said: I am serving a life sentence. Where life is measured by the duration of my life or the life of this regime. The number from verdict is not for me. It is for you. December - Navalny was transferred this month to a penal colony north of the Arctic Circle. His lawyer said Russian authorities wanted to isolate Navalny ahead of Russias March presidential election. Navalny pictured in hospital in 2020 (Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP) 2024 9 January - Navalny sarcastically heaped praise on the polar conditions at the prison north of the Arctic Circle where he was moved to shortly before Christmas. In a post on the Telegram messaging app Navalny said he had been put in a punishment cell for his attitude as soon as he left quarantine at the so-called Polar Wolf prison colony. He said that walking for half an hour in those temperatures you manage to grow a new nose, new ears and new fingers. 11 January - Navalny appeared before a Supreme Court judge by video link on Thursday to argue for the right to longer meal breaks and access to more books in prison. Wearing a black prison uniform and standing behind bars in a small, bare room, Navalny, 47, appeared gaunt but spoke animatedly, at length and without notes. 17 January - From his penal camp Navalny, said that Putins state would one day crumble along with the post-Soviet elite which he cast as venal, power-hungry and duplicitous. Lies, lies and nothing but lies. It will collapse and crumble. Putins state is not viable. One day we will look at his place and he wont be there. 23 January - Navalny was placed in solitary confinement for 10 days for incorrectly introducing himself to a guard, his spokesperson said. 16 February - Russias prison agency has said that imprisoned opposition leader Navalny has died. He was 47. 2026 14 February - The UK and its allies have pinned the blame for Navalnys death on the Russian state following analysis of poison developed from a dart frog toxin found in his body. Additional reporting by agencies This weekend marks 20 years since chip and pin fully replaced signatures for in-store card purchases, with the initiative transforming how people make day-to-day transactions long before people started digging out their mobile phone to pay. The move enhanced security around card payments as customers put their four-digit personal identification number (pin) into a keypad to authorise a purchase, moving away from the traditional signature authorisation. Banking and finance industry body UK Finance said that one of the key reasons for the introduction of chip and pin was to reduce card-present fraud, and magnetic stripe cloning or counterfeit card fraud. It said the initiative worked, with a 95% reduction in losses to counterfeit card fraud over the past 20 years. The UKs love for chip and pin started when the deadline for full implementation of the scheme passed on Valentines Day (February 14) in 2006, with full implementation in place from February 15. At that time, 99% of cardholders were thought to have at least one chip and pin-enabled card in their wallet. Some security concerns were voiced around the time that the scheme was initially introduced, including that criminals may watch someone inputting their pin and then steal their card, and that some people could become a fraud target by carrying their pin details around with their card. However, there were also significant concerns about the opportunities for fraudsters from using the old-style payment. Banks and payment providers with strong fraud controls will be able to set their own limit on contactless payments from March 2026. We want to make sure our rules provide flexibility for the future, and choice for both firms and consumers.https://t.co/LKQDtoMqwr pic.twitter.com/r7do46uyiO Financial Conduct Authority (@TheFCA) December 19, 2025 Ways to pay have transformed in the past 20 years, along with criminals tactics. UK Finance said there are more than 25 million additional cards now in circulation compared with two decades ago. Contactless payments were also introduced in 2007, initially with a limit of 10. The current contactless card payment limit is 100 and in March the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) will make changes to enable banks and payment providers with strong fraud controls to set their own limits in future, if they choose to. Criminals will try to impersonate your bank They might call you out of the blue, saying your bank account is at risk and you need to move your money to a safe account. Hang up and call your bank back on a number you know is correct #TakeFive pic.twitter.com/ysR5n0scu4 Take Five (@TakeFive) November 20, 2025 Currently, contactless accounts for two-thirds (66%) of all credit card and three-quarters (76%) of UK debit card transactions, according to UK Finance. Mobile payments have also grown rapidly, UK Finance said, with about half of people using mobile contactless payments at least once a month. Despite the evolving way that people pay, UK Finance said that chip and pin remains important for higher value transactions, accounting for 30% of credit and debit card payments by value. As a result, the average chip and pin transaction is 93 compared with an average of 17 for a contactless payment. As criminals tactics have changed, there has been a rise in remote purchase fraud, with 215 million stolen in the first half of 2025, UK Finance said. Fraudsters will use social engineering techniques to trick people into handing over their one-time passcodes, enabling criminals to make fraudulent online card transactions or fraudulently register digital wallets. UK Finance is urging people to follow the advice of the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign, which encourages people to pause to consider whether something could be a scam, before acting on a request. Jana Mackintosh, managing director of payments at UK Finance said: The evolution of payments is remarkable and will continue to be so as the needs of consumers and businesses change. In 2006 the iPhone hadnt yet been launched, and you couldnt tap your card to pay for something, whereas today these are the most popular payment methods for UK consumers and many people are happy to only carry their phone rather than a bank card. The industry will continue to support and drive innovation and change, like the introduction of chip and pin, which gives consumers the confidence to safely buy things in shops and drive growth across the economy. Nick Quin, chief corporate affairs officer at ATM and cash access network Link, said: The anniversary highlights how things change quickly in payments and banking. In the past 20 years weve seen people increasingly shift from cash to card and now increasingly digital wallets. Our research shows that half of people are happy to leave the house without a physical wallet but cash still plays role in everyday spending for millions. As we embrace the next generation of payments technology, we need to make sure it serves everyone, from cash users to digital natives. Simon Forbes, division president, UK and Ireland at Mastercard, said: Chip and pin and more recently contactless have played a pivotal role in the evolution of payments. Today, online innovation is driving the next leap forward, moving us away from manually entering long card numbers when shopping online and towards oneclick payments, such as click to pay, that are safer, faster and more convenient. Cops and SWAT teams swarm area near Nancy Guthries home as sheriff says investigators wont quit even if search takes years Law enforcement agencies carried out a late-night operation Friday at a residence about two miles from 84-year-old Nancy Guthries home as part of the investigation into her disappearance, but did not make any arrests. More than a dozen law enforcement vehicles, including SWAT and forensic teams, reportedly descended on a residence around two miles from Guthries Arizona home. Several roads were closed for about four hours, but later reopened, according to CNN. The 84-year-old mother of Today show anchor Savannah Guthrie was last seen at her home on January 31 and was reported missing the next day. Police believe she was abducted. A Pima County Sheriffs Department spokesperson confirmed no arrests were made during Fridays search. Last night, a federal court-ordered search warrant was executed at a residence near E. Orange Grove Rd. and N. First Ave. in connection with the Guthrie case, the spokesperson said Saturday. The warrant was based on a lead we received. The Pima County Sheriffs Department has revealed DNA that doesnt belong to anyone in 'close contact' with Nancy Guthrie was found at the missing 84-year-olds home (FBI) Separately, Friday night at a Culvers restaurant in Tucson, also about two miles from Guthries home, police searched and towed a silver or gray Range Rover following a traffic stop, Fox News Digital reported. The Pima County Sheriffs Department spokesperson confirmed one person was questioned after a traffic stop Friday evening, but provided few other details. A traffic stop was also conducted, and a person was questioned but no arrests resulted from that incident. There are no further details available at this time, the spokesperson said. Investigators wont quit their efforts to find Guthrie, even if it takes years, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told The New York Times on Friday. Maybe its an hour from now, he said. Maybe its weeks or months or years from now. But we wont quit. Were going to find Nancy. Were going to find this guy." FBI and SWAT conducted operations in a Tucson neighborhood two miles from Nancy Guthries home late Friday night (Getty Images) Also Friday, law enforcement searched and ultimately towed a Range Rover stopped at a Culvers just two miles from Guthries home (Getty Images) Police have yet to find Guthrie or her alleged abductor, but have been releasing new information about the case as the days go on. Earlier Friday, the Pima County Sheriffs Department revealed that DNA that doesnt belong to anyone in close contact with Guthrie was found at her home. In a statement shared with The Independent Friday, the sheriffs department said, DNA other than Nancy Guthries and those in close contact to her has been collected from the property. Guthrie lives in the affluent and secluded Catalina Foothills just outside of Tucson. The sheriffs department said investigators are working to identify whose DNA was discovered. Police are not currently disclosing where exactly on the property the DNA was found. In its statement, the sheriffs department also refuted any reports that a glove was found inside Guthries home or on her property. Several gloves have been located during the investigation. The closest gloves were found approximately two miles from the home, the department said. Authorities have shown video of the suspect in Nancys disappearance, taken from a doorbell camera at the front of her house on the morning police believe she was abducted (FBI) Early this week, authorities shared photos and video of a suspect in Guthries disappearance, taken from a doorbell camera at the front of her house on the morning police believe she may have been taken. The FBI Phoenix Field Office announced Tuesday that the previously inaccessible video shows an armed individual appearing to have tampered with the camera at Nancy Guthrie's front door the morning of her disappearance. The suspect, who is yet to be identified, was wearing a ski mask and gloves. Its unclear whether the gloves the suspect was wearing in the video match the gloves authorities found. On Thursday, the FBI increased its reward to $100,000 for information leading to the location of Nancy Guthrie and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance. The FBI has also shared a detailed description of the suspect, including the type of backpack he was wearing in the doorbell video. The suspect is described as a male, approximately 59 - 510 tall, with an average build. In the video, he is wearing a black, 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack, the agency wrote on X. Nancy Guthrie lives in the affluent and secluded Catalina Foothills, just outside of Tucson (Reuters) People have created a makeshift memorial outside Nancy Guthries Tucson home amid her disapperance (Getty Images) On Thursday, Reuters reported, citing a law enforcement official with knowledge of Guthries case, that Nanos was blocking the FBI from examining evidence. The official claimed the FBI requested DNA and a glove to be processed at the agency's national crime lab in Virginia, but Nanos insisted on using a private Florida lab. Nanos refuted the idea that he wouldnt collaborate with the FBI, telling CNNs Ed Lavandera his department and the bureau are joined at the hip. We want to find Nancy, the sheriff added. The sheriffs department also said gloves were found about two miles from Nancy Guthries home (FBI) The FBI has also shared a detailed description of the suspect, including the type of backpack he was wearing in the doorbell video (FBI) Savannah Guthrie and her siblings are desperate to find their beloved mother, offering to pay for her safe return. There have been reports of ransom notes demanding millions of dollars in Bitcoin, but none have been verified by police. "We received your message, and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us, so that we can celebrate with her," Savannah Guthrie said in a video posted Saturday, February 7, alongside her siblings, Annie and Camron Guthrie. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay. Savannah Guthrie and her siblings are desperate to find their beloved mother, offering to pay for Nancy Guthries safe return (Instagram/Savannah Guthrie) Earlier this week, the sheriffs department said a person was detained in connection with Nancy Guthries disappearance. He was later released without charges. A man named Carlos told local outlet ABC15 he was stopped by deputies for kidnapping Guthrie. They told me I was being detained for kidnapping, and I asked them, Kidnapping of who? Carlos said. As the investigation into Guthries suspected kidnapping continues, Nanos holds out hope that she will be found. I believe shell be found, the sheriff told Lavandera. We are working hard. Shocking Ring doorbell camera footage appears to shows the moment scared New Jersey schoolchildren ran from their bus stop as federal ICE agents carried out an operation nearby. Lindenwold School District families were notified Thursday about a federal immigration enforcement operation that occurred around 8 a.m. at the Woodland Village Apartments. The district said 4th and 5th-grade students waiting for their buses were frightened and confused by the presence of multiple immigration enforcement vehicles and agents, causing some children to run from the bus stop, according to NBC10. Students in the footage, posted to the public Hispanos Unidos en NJ Lindenwold Facebook page, can be heard yelling, ICE, ICE. In another video obtained by NBC10, one student alerts the others in Spanish, ICE is there. Our bus driver acted quickly and responsibly, circling back multiple times to ensure as many children as possible were safely transported to school. I would like to sincerely thank him for caring for our children and putting their safety first, a school official said in a letter to parents also shared on the districts Facebook page. Hugo Cuello, 10, told NBC10, with his mothers permission, that federal immigration agents were looking for his father and that he was at the bus stop with his mother when multiple vehicles arrived, prompting him to warn other children that ICE officers were present. Frightened 4th and 5th-grade students were captured on Ring doorbell video running from ICE agents while waiting for the school bus (Facebook/Hispanos Unidos en NJ Lindenwold) The outlet did not report what became of the alleged search for Cuellos father, but obtained a separate video that appears to show several federal agents knocking on a door and waiting for someone to answer. Fellow student Valery Pachecho Nunez claimed that ICE agents chased the fleeing students, and that she ran to a neighbors house because her mother was at work. "It makes me feel sad because some people are leaving this country without their parents," she told NBC10. Support was provided to upset students at the bilingual school, with counselors on hand to help, according to the report. Federal agents were not present at any Lindenwold School District facilities and staff said they would closely supervise dismissal and bus loading. If your child is experiencing anxiety or distress related to this morning's events, I encourage you to reach out to your building principal so we can provide additional support, school officials said. In response to the incident, district officials reported reaching out to county and state representatives to advocate for protocols that prioritize the safety of children during any future enforcement operations. The Independent has contacted the Lindenwold School District, Lindenwold Police Department and ICE for further comment. The widespread footage prompted Lindenwold residents to protest Friday near the Woodland Village Apartments, WPVI reports. The crowd carried signs, played music and honked horns to show support for the local immigrant community. U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross, a Democrat from New Jersey, joined the protest and said the video footage troubled him. "What I saw in that video, children running away scared, this is how bad ICE is. That as soon as they heard, they ran home to their parents to see if they're OK," Norcross told the outlet. The Silence of the Lambs star Ted Levine has addressed the films complicated legacy surrounding its themes of gender. The 1991 Oscar-winning horror classic starred Jodie Foster as young FBI student Clarice, who seeks the insight of brilliant psychiatrist Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins), imprisoned for violent murders. She consults him regarding the case of Buffalo Bill (Levine), a prolific serial killer who lures and skins women to create a woman suit in pursuit of female transformation. Reflecting on the films relevance 35 years later, Levine, 68, acknowledged in a new interview with The Hollywood Reporter: There are certain aspects of the movie that dont hold up too well. We all know more, and Im a lot wiser about transgender issues. There are some lines in that script and movie that are unfortunate, he added. Among the lines most often cited as transphobic is Hannibals attempt to characterize Buffalo Bills crimes: Billy hates his own identity, he tells Clarice, and he thinks that makes him a transsexual, but his pathology is a thousand times more savage and more terrifying. Ted Levine starred in 'The Silence of the Lambs' as serial killer Buffalo Bill, who lures and skins women to make a 'woman suit' to fulfill his desire of female transformation (Getty Images) Jodie Foster won the Best Actress Oscar for her performance as Clarice in 'The Silence of the Lambs' (Getty Images) Levine said that at the time of filming, he had no concerns. However, over the years, after having worked with trans people, hes become more understanding of the culture and the reality of the meaning of gender. Its unfortunate that the film vilified that, and its f***ing wrong, the actor said, later, clarifying, I didnt play him as being gay or trans. I think he was just a f***ed-up heterosexual man. Thats what I was doing. Edward Saxon, one of the films producers, also spoke about the character of Buffalo Bill, insisting: As we made the film, there was just no question in our minds that Buffalo Bill was a completely aberrant personality that he wasnt gay or trans. He was sick. However, he acknowledged: To that extent, we missed it. From my point of view, we werent sensitive enough to the legacy of a lot of stereotypes and their ability to harm. The character of Buffalo Bill is based on infamous murderer and grave robber Ed Gein, known for killing at least two women and exhuming the graves of women who reminded him of his dead mother to collect human remains to fashion into various furniture and clothing. Directed by Jonathan Demme, The Silence of the Lambs went on to make Oscar history as the first horror film, and third film overall, to sweep the Big Five categories: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Hopkins), Best Actress (Foster), and Best Adapted Screenplay (Ted Tally). It still remains the only horror film to ever win Best Picture. Cash payments to terrorists are now disguised as wages for fake jobs or pensions, says a new report - Marco Longari/AFP Sir Keir Starmer has been accused of failing to stop Palestinian officials from handing salaries to terrorists. Last year, the Prime Minister told leaders in the occupied territories that they had to stop paying the families of terrorists before Britain could open full diplomatic relations. He issued the demands to the Palestinian Authority (PA), which controls parts of the West Bank, amid a backlash against his decision to recognise Palestine as a state. Mahmoud Abbas, the PA president, previously said that the long-standing policy of granting stipends to the relatives of terrorists killed during violence towards Israelis, or those subsequently imprisoned, had been terminated. But such pay to slay cash bonuses to terrorists and their families continue to be made under a different guise, a new report has found. The report, which has been sent to Yvette Cooper, the Foreign Secretary, and Hamish Falconer, a Middle East minister, alleges that payments to the terrorists continue and are now being disguised as civil service salaries for fictitious jobs or as pensions. Sir Keir Starmer issued the demands to Mahmoud Abbas as a condition of British recognition a Palestinian state - Tolga Akmen/Shutterstock David Taylor, a Labour MP, said he was deeply upset by the claims in the report. Pay to slay is completely unacceptable, and the UK Government must now push for clarity from the Palestinian Authority, including hard evidence that this practice has ended, he added. There is no country in the world that should have convicted militants, assassins, and terrorists in fake civil service jobs on full government salaries. Funding sent as aid should be used to help those who really need it, not to fund more killing. I urge the Government to scrutinise their relationship with the Palestinian Authority in the hope that we can bring long-lasting peace to the region. Mark Sewards, a Labour MP and honorary chairman of Labour Friends of Israel, said: Despite successive commitments to end this long-standing policy, this deeply troubling report suggests the PAs appalling practice of pay-cheques for terror is continuing clandestinely. Britain should lead a drive by donors to unequivocally demand that the PA lives up to its promises. It should also consider targeted sanctions against those who incite and promote violence in the West Bank. Last September, Sir Keir insisted that the PA must end the policy. At the time, British officials presented a series of financial and political demands to the authority as part of the wider work on a two-state solution. Top of the list was the abolition of the pay to slay scheme. Critics claim it provided an incentive for Palestinians to take up arms against Israel. Payments are impossible to monitor The report by Palestinian Media Watch, an NGO, said that in the first week of February alone, the PA camouflaged the files of 6,000 pay for slay recipients. It added: The PA turned some of those terrorists into pensioners, and others are now being paid salaries in the civil service for fictitious jobs, so the payments are obscured and impossible to monitor. Dame Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, said: The continuation of pay to slay is a disgrace. Terrorists should never be rewarded for their shocking crimes, and every penny paid to them is an insult to their victims. Keir Starmer and the Labour Government have been bankrolling the Palestinian Authority and enabling this to happen, but are doing nothing to end these shocking practices. Its time the Government showed some backbone, cut funding to the PA and demanded action to ensure this horrific practice ends. The Palestinian Authority and the Foreign Office declined to comment. Tara Reid has reflected on an incident that took place a few months ago when she claimed she was drugged in a hotel bar in Chicago. In November 2025, the American Pie actor, 50, was seen being removed from the lobby of the DoubleTree hotel at Chicago OHare Airport. She later claimed she had been drugged, with a representative for the actor tellingThe Independent that she had filed a police report. Speaking to People in an interview published Friday, Reid said that she is currently trying to keep going after the incident. It was a very unfortunate thing that happened, but I'm just trying to get by and put it behind me because it's just devastating in so many different ways, she said. I try not to talk about it that much and just live my life and live forward. The actor also advised people to be better about watching their drinks in public. I'm just trying to get by and put it behind me, Reid said of the incident (Getty Images for Jane Owen Publi) You got to really just check your glasses. You just don't know. You have to not let your drink out of your hand, she said. [But] I'm fine. I'm good. Moving on. Better, bigger things ahead of me now. In a police report seen by People, Reid claimed that she passed out after ordering a glass of wine from the hotel. According to the report, Reid said that she remembered speaking to a man who had introduced himself as a YouTuber. She also alleged that the pair swapped phone numbers shortly before she stepped out of the bar with him to smoke a cigarette. Reid claimed that, when she returned, a napkin had been placed over her drink. Despite a video from TMZ showing Reid slurring her words before being pushed out of the hotel in a wheelchair at the time of the incident, the police found no evidence that she was drugged. While video surveillance showed Tara Reid at the hotel bar, at no time did video show anyone tampering with or adding something to her drink, Rosemont Police said in a statement given to People in December. We can confirm that a bartender covered her drink when she left the bar which is standard practice for bartenders to do. Authorities added that they were working to obtain any chemical tests conducted by the unnamed hospital that treated her. Pending those results or further information coming forward, our detectives will follow up on those leads accordingly, the statement continued. At this time there is no criminal act that has been committed and there is no one we are currently investigating. Isabel Hodgins has given birth to a baby girl. Isabel Hodgins has welcomed a baby girl The 32-year-old actress - who is best known for playing Victoria Sugden in Emmerdale - has announced the birth of her first child via a social media post, which opens with a video of Isabel during her pregnancy. The Instagram post then reads: "On the 11th of February at 1:02am... "Georgie Grace Whitehead "11.02.26 "8lbs5oz "[heart emojis] (sic)" The Instagram post then cuts to the sound of Georgie crying and an image of Isabel holding her baby girl in her arms. Isabel tied the knot with PE teacher Adam Whitehead in April 2025, and the actress previously opened up about their romance, revealing that she developed a "crush" on him after seeing Adam at her gym. The soap star told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "I had a crush on Adam at the gym. "I thought he was younger than me, which was an issue. I train with my dad and I said I wanted to know how old he was. My dad went over and asked him! Adam added: Her dad was her wingman. I said that in my speech. He came up to me on that Monday morning and said, How old are you? And when I answered he said Thanks and walked off. There was no small talk. The day after, Isabel requested to follow me on Instagram and it started to make sense. We were born in the same hospital, went to the same school, went to the same gym. We have so much in common." The couple also discussed their wedding day, with Adam revealing that he felt particularly nervous. He shared: "That was the worst part, the vows. I was so nervous. Im not a big fan of public speaking. Im a teacher and do it front of kids, but when its in front of people your age, its different. I was sweating." Donald Trump spoke of legs blown off, arms blown off, faces blown off as he spoke about Iran at Fort Bragg army base - Getty Donald Trump said regime change in Iran would be the best thing that could happen, marking one of his strongest endorsements yet for replacing the countrys clerical leadership. The US president, speaking at Fort Bragg military base in North Carolina, accused Tehran of prolonged aggression, with years of discussions but no end to violence. He said: For 47 years, theyve been talking and talking and talking. In the meantime, weve lost a lot of lives. Legs blown off, arms blown off, faces blown off. Weve been going on for a long time. Asked whether he supported regime change in Iran, Mr Trump replied that it seems like that would be the best thing that could happen. He declined to say who should replace the current leadership but said: There are people. The US has sent a second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R Ford, to the Middle East, increasing pressure on Tehran amid stalled nuclear negotiations. The USs military presence in the Middle East includes the USS Gerald R Ford the largest aircraft carrier in the world Mr Trump said tremendous power would soon be positioned in the region and shared an aerial photograph of the carrier on social media, showing it in transit. An official said the carrier would take a week to reach the Middle East. Asked why a second aircraft carrier was being sent, he said: In case we dont make a deal, well need it ... if we need it, well have it ready. The first carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln, was sent to the region in January. The deployment followed US threats to strike Iran over the governments crackdown on protests, which left thousands of civilians dead. The US military is preparing for the possibility of a sustained, weeks-long operation against Tehran if Mr Trump orders an attack, two officials told Reuters on Saturday, raising the stakes for negotiations between the two nations. Asked about preparations for a potentially sustained military action, Anna Kelly, the White House spokesman, said: President Trump has all options on the table with regard to Iran. He listens to a variety of perspectives on any given issue, but makes the final decision based on what is best for our country and national security. The US is pushing Iran to halt uranium enrichment, and wants renewed nuclear talks to address Tehrans ballistic missile programme and its support for armed groups across the region. Mr Trump withdrew the US from the Obama-era nuclear deal during his first term and reinstated sweeping sanctions. Iran has said it is willing to discuss limitations on its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief, but has ruled out linking the issue to non-nuclear missiles. Masoud Pezeshkian, the Iranian president, warned that his country would not yield to their excessive demands. Mr Trump has repeatedly threatened military strikes if no agreement is reached, while Tehran has vowed to retaliate, raising fears of a wider regional conflict. The US carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June, when two aircraft carriers were deployed to nearby waters. The demonstrations in Iran were among the largest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which established the countrys clerical system under a supreme leader currently Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei. Thousands of protesters were killed and tens of thousands detained. US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to hold talks with Iranian representatives on Tuesday in Geneva, with Oman acting as mediator. Asked what was left to be targeted at the nuclear sites, Mr Trump said dust before adding: If we do it, that would be the least of the mission, but we probably grab whatever is left. People cast ballots at an early voting polling location for the 2020 presidential elections in Iowa. Photograph: Bloomberg/Getty Images (Photograph: Bloomberg/Getty Images) Donald Trump threatened on Friday to impose a requirement that US voters present photo identification before being allowed to cast ballots in the upcoming midterm elections. Trump insisted he will push for the change even if Congress fails to pass the Save America act, which cleared the House earlier this week but faces an uphill battle in the Senate. The bill would impose a national photo identification requirement to vote, in addition to requiring proof of citizenship to register and drastically limiting mail-in voting. There will be Voter I.D. for the Midterm Elections, whether approved by Congress or not! Trump posted while onboard Air Force One on Friday afternoon after speaking to troops at Fort Bragg. Related: Trump sends second aircraft carrier to Middle East in effort to increase pressure on Iran Also, the People of our Country are insisting on Citizenship, and No Mail-In Ballots, with exceptions for Military, Disability, Illness, or Travel, the president added, falsely, since there is no popular majority for banning vote by mail. In fact, polling conducted last year showed the exact opposite: 58% of Americans favor allowing any voter to cast their ballot by mail if they want to. Trumps efforts to impose voter ID requirements are likely to face immediate legal challenges, as the US constitution leaves the conduct of elections to the states. The president, however, claimed to have searched the depths of Legal Arguments not yet articulated or vetted on this subject, and will be presenting an irrefutable one that would allow the federal government to take unprecedented control of elections run by the states. But in a second post during his flight to his Palm Beach resort, he offered more hyperbole than facts, in a long diatribe punctuated with all-caps words. We cannot let the Democrats get away with NO VOTER I.D. any longer. These are horrible, disingenuous CHEATERS, Trump wrote. If we cant get it through Congress, there are Legal reasons why this SCAM is not permitted. I will be presenting them shortly, in the form of an Executive Order, Trump added. I hope the Supreme Court realizes, as they painstakingly review the very simple topic of Country Saving Tariffs that these Corrupt and Deranged Democrats, if they ever gain power, will not only be adding two States to our roster of 50, with all of the baggage thereto, but will also PACK THE COURT, the president posted. Trump has long alleged systemic voter fraud contributed to his 2020 presidential election loss, despite no evidence to back up that claim. Trump signed an executive order last year requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote and blocking states from accepting mail-in ballots received after election day, even if they were postmarked before then. A federal judge blocked the citizenship requirement in October, saying the president lacks the authority to direct such changes. Springwatch presenter Chris Packham has said he has similarities with Jeremy Clarkson, despite the former Top Gear presenter mocking him on social media. The 64-year-old naturalist has often been a target for jokes by Clarkson, who last year posted on X that he was only on the social media platform because I know itll wind up Packham. Speaking to the Telegraph, Packham said: Everybody expects me to hate Jeremy, but we worked together and he was extraordinarily hospitable. And hes like myself, he sometimes sees the need to antagonise a situation to promote a conversation. Jeremy Clarkson has often taken to social media to mock Packham (Andrew Matthews/PA) (Andrew Matthews) In recent times, weve seen him swinging more in my direction. He made the comment last August about the badger cull being ineffective, which as a farmer is very valid, and for him to have said that is great. Elsewhere in the interview, Packham added that criticism does not bother him and added that he felt people and newspapers had the right to oppose his views. He added: People think that I should, but I dont. If people print things in the paper and have opposing views, thats freedom of the press, frankly. I dont hold grudges. Its just the way the world works. The newspapers have a job to do and so do I. We dont have to see eye to eye. I dont imagine my names on a board at the office with others that have to be demonised. It doesnt work like that. Along with presenting Springwatch since 2009, Packham also hosts the BBCs Autumnwatch and Winterwatch, having also presented the childrens nature series The Really Wild Show from 1986 to 1995. Packham is also known for his wildlife conservation and environmental activism. Clarkson presented BBC motoring show Top Gear from 2002 to 2015, before going on to work on Prime Videos The Grand Tour from 2016 to 2024. He now presents ITV game show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? and Clarksons Farm on Prime Video. Britain will deploy a group of warships to patrol the Arctic, Sir Keir Starmer has announced, as he warned Europe must be ready to fight against a growing threat from Russia. The Prime Minister revealed the military deployment at the Munich Security Conference following Donald Trump's threats to annex Greenland over security concerns. Sir Keir said the US, Canada and other Nato allies would join the initiative in the so-called High North. During his speech, he told the conference hall: "Now we feel the solidity of peace, the very ground that we stand on softening under our feet. "It's the job of leaders to be ahead of these seismic shapes, yet that is against the grain of history." He said leaders must not dither as "Russia has proved its appetite for aggression". He continued that after a peace deal for Ukraine, "Russia's rearmament would only accelerate" and "we must answer this threat in full". "To break the convention of a thousand speeches, we are not at a crossroads. The road ahead is straight and it is clear. We must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age. "We must be able to deter aggression, and, yes, if necessary, we must be ready to fight." The Prime Minister said: "I can announce today that the UK will deploy our carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and the High North this year, led by HMS Prince of Wales, operating alongside the US, Canada and other Nato allies in a powerful show of our commitment to Euro-Atlantic security." The announcement came in apparent response to Mr Trump's assertion earlier this year that he wants to take over Greenland, sparking a divide between the US and its traditional European allies. Mr Trump has claimed he does not believe Denmark does enough to defend the territory from threats by Russia and China. In another likely nod to Mr Trump, the Prime Minister also insisted the UK would honour the Nato commitment to defend its allies if called upon. One of the alliance's founding principles, Article 5, is that an attack on one Nato member is an attack on all. The US President has questioned whether the US's European partners would answer this call if it were made. But Sir Keir insisted all allies should "be in no doubt, if called on, the UK would come to your aid today". Sir Keir also announced Britain will seek "deeper economic integration" with the European Union and to "move closer to the single market" in more sectors during his speech. He insisted the EU-UK "status quo is not fit for purpose", but he acknowledged there would be "trade-offs" as a result of the move. Amid ongoing domestic political strife, Sir Keir also claimed he "ended the week much stronger than I started it". Sir Keir's speech at the major security gathering followed an address by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who hit out at the mistakes of Western nations over the past 40 years, but sought to reconcile ties between the US and Europe after recent turmoil in the transatlantic relationship. Mr Rubio snubbed a Ukraine meeting at the conference on Friday, where allies rallied around the war-torn country as the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion nears. US officials reportedly blamed scheduling conflicts but his absence may have been seen by Europeans as a sign of the White House's dwindling interest in including them in its bid to end the conflict. Mr Rubio has met with the prime minister of Denmark, of which Greenland is a territory, during the conference and has discussed the island's future. Elsewhere, Sir Keir spoke of "closer economic alignment" between the EU and UK as he shared the stage with Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission. Sir Keir said: "So we must look at where we could move closer to the single market in other sectors as well, where that would work for both sides. "The prize here is greater security, stronger growth for the United Kingdom and the EU, which will fuel increased defence spending, and the chance to place the UK at the centre of a wave of European industrial renewal." He added: "I understand the politics very well. It will mean trade-offs. "But the status quo is not fit for purpose, and to me there's no question where the national interest lies, and I will always fight for what's best for my country." At home the Prime Minister has faced questions about his judgment in appointing Lord Peter Mandelson as US ambassador, due to his close links with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Some senior Labour figures, including Scottish leader Anas Sarwar, have called for Sir Keir to resign over the scandal. Asked whether his domestic challenges left him vulnerable, the Prime Minister told the Munich conference: "No, I reject that. "I ended the week much stronger than I started it. "And that's a very good place to be, and my party and my Government is completely united on the question of Ukraine and defence and security and the need for stronger relations with Europe on defence, on security and on economy as well. "And so I think that there is real strength in the position I've now set out." A group of British warships will patrol the Arctic, Sir Keir Starmer has said, following Donald Trumps threats to annex Greenland after he cited concerns about its security. The Prime Minister announced the British efforts to bolster security in the so-called High North at the Munich Security Conference, and said the US, Canada and other Nato allies would join the initiative. Sir Keir also announced Britain will seek deeper economic integration with the European Union and to move closer to the single market in more sectors during his speech. He insisted the EU-UK status quo is not fit for purpose, but he acknowledged there would be trade-offs as a result of the move. Amid ongoing domestic political strife, Sir Keir also claimed he ended the week much stronger than I started it. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a panel discussion with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen (right) and moderated by Christine Amanpour during the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany (Stefan Rousseau/PA) (PA Wire) Sir Keirs speech at the major security gathering followed an address by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who hit out at the mistakes of Western nations over the past 40 years, but sought to reconcile ties between the US and Europe after recent turmoil in the transatlantic relationship. Mr Rubio snubbed a Ukraine meeting at the conference on Friday, where allies rallied around the war-torn country as the fourth anniversary of Russias full-scale invasion nears. US officials reportedly blamed scheduling conflicts but his absence may have been seen by Europeans as a sign of the White Houses dwindling interest in including them in its bid to end the conflict. Mr Rubio has met with the prime minister of Denmark, of which Greenland is a territory, during the conference and has discussed the islands future, according to reports. Mr Trump earlier this year asserted that he wants to take over the territory, sparking a divide between the US and its traditional European allies. Mr Trump has claimed he does not believe Denmark does enough to defend it from threats by Russia and China. In an apparent attempt to address these concerns, Sir Keir said during his speech: I can announce today that the UK will deploy our carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and the High North this year, led by HMS Prince of Wales, operating alongside the US, Canada and other Nato allies in a powerful show of our commitment to Euro-Atlantic security. In another likely nod to Mr Trump, the Prime Minister also insisted the UK would honour the Nato commitment to defend its allies if called upon. One of the alliances founding principles, Article 5, is that an attack on one Nato member is an attack on all. The US President has questioned whether the USs European partners would answer this call if it were made. But Sir Keir insisted all allies should be in no doubt, if called on, the UK would come to your aid today. Elsewhere, he spoke of closer economic alignment between the EU and UK as he shared the stage with Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission. Sir Keir said: So we must look at where we could move closer to the single market in other sectors as well, where that would work for both sides. The prize here is greater security, stronger growth for the United Kingdom and the EU, which will fuel increased defence spending, and the chance to place the UK at the centre of a wave of European industrial renewal. He added: I understand the politics very well. It will mean trade-offs. But the status quo is not fit for purpose, and to me theres no question where the national interest lies, and I will always fight for whats best for my country. At home the Prime Minister has faced questions about his judgment in appointing Lord Peter Mandelson as US ambassador, due to his close links with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Some senior Labour figures, including Scottish leader Anas Sarwar, have called for Sir Keir to resign over the scandal. Asked whether his domestic challenges left him vulnerable, the Prime Minister told the Munich conference: No, I reject that. I ended the week much stronger than I started it. And thats a very good place to be, and my party and my Government is completely united on the question of Ukraine and defence and security and the need for stronger relations with Europe on defence, on security and on economy as well. And so I think that there is real strength in the position Ive now set out. Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said he feared the Russians were playing for time by changing the head of its negotiation delegation. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images (Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images) Ukraine wants security guarantees for a minimum of 20 years from the US before it can sign a peace deal with dignity, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said ahead of talks with Russia and the US scheduled for next week. Speaking in Munich on Saturday, he also called for a clear date for Ukraine to be allowed to join the EU. Some EU officials have put the date as early as 2027. Speaking to the annual Munich security summit, Ukraines president said he hoped the trilateral meetings next week will be serious, substantive, helpful for all of us but, honestly, sometimes it feels like the sides are talking about completely different things. The Americans often return to the topic of concessions and too often those concessions are discussed only in the context of Ukraine, not Russia, he added. The issue of Europes frustration with a perceived US reluctance to spell out the security guarantees it is prepared to offer Ukraine in the event of a peace deal, and the need for the guarantees to be spelled out before an agreement is signed, likely remains the biggest wound in the badly fractured relationship between the US and Europe. In a speech that was welcomed by European leaders keen to see any sign of a thaw in the relationship, the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, put forward an offer to work in partnership with Europe. However, this proposition, he stressed, was highly conditional and the US would go it alone if Washingtons highly Trumpian conditions were not met on climate, migration and tariffs. Using a diplomatic tone that the US vice-president, JD Vance, shunned in his speech at the conference a year ago, Rubio said Europe and the US belong together. He added that the US was ready to undertake the task of rebuilding the world order alone if necessary, but we prefer it and hope to do it together with you, our friends in Europe. He made almost no reference to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, besides claiming that the US had pressed India to stop importing Russian oil, a claim Russia disputes. At a press conference in Munich, Zelenskyy said the US had told him that if Ukraine withdrew from the Donbas, peace would come as quickly as possible, but he insisted this concession was not possible since Ukrainians live there. He disclosed that the US had so far offered a 15-year security guarantee, but Ukraine wanted a minimum 20-year, legally water-tight agreement, setting out the specific help the US would provide to a planned European reassurance force due to be put inside Ukraine in the event of a peace deal. Related: How a Soviet-era heating system exposes Ukraine to Russian attack a visual guide Details of a so-called prosperity plan whereby the US would have access to Ukrainian mineral resources had not yet been exchanged, Zelenskyy said. He also queried why the head of the Russian negotiation delegation had been changed, saying he feared it meant the Russians were playing for time, rather than shifting strategy. Zelenskyy also complained about Europe having been practically absent from the table. Thats a big mistake, in my opinion, he said, a view that was shared by the Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi. On Friday, Donald Trump called on Zelenskyy to get moving to reach an agreement with Russia. Zelenskyy insisted that the elections that the US has pressed Ukraine to hold by 15 May can only take place two months after a ceasefire is declared, to ensure voters have adequate security. Trump has been trying to put pressure on Zelenskyy to agree a deal within months, but has not spelled out the consequences if Ukraine is not sufficiently flexible for the US. Zelenskyy also said the Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy plants would be raised in the talks in Geneva, adding that not a single energy plant inside Ukraine had now been left unscathed. European leaders appear gloomy that a diplomatic breakthrough will be secured, with the consensus being that Vladimir Putin is not yet economically or militarily exhausted. Zelenskyy said his ambition was to lift the number of Russians killed or seriously injured to 50,000 a month. One European leader predicted at least another two years of war, and insisted Europe had the resources to sustain Ukraine for that long. Zelenskyy also mounted a fierce attack on the Iranian regime for providing the Shahed drones that had caused so much damage inside Ukraine. With as many as 200,000 protesters attending a demonstration in Munich calling for the Iranian regime to be toppled, Zelenskyy said: We have never had a conflict of interests with the Iranian regime. But the Iranian Shahed drones they sold to Russia are killing our people and destroying our infrastructure. He argued that if Iran is given time, it will cause more destruction. Regimes like the one in Iran must not be given time. When they have time, they only kill more. They must be stopped immediately, and this is exactly what should have happened with the Ayatollah after all the wars his regime unleashed and all the lives it took. Several top European leaders were scheduled to meet at the conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday for talks about the conflict, the French presidency said. Macron said any peace deal between Ukraine and Russia had to involve Europe. I want to be very clear: you can negotiate without the Europeans, if you prefer, but it will not bring a peace at the table. A US official said secretary of state Marco Rubio was not attending those talks because of a packed schedule, but was engaging on Russia-Ukraine in many of his meetings in Munich. Ukraines foreign minister Andriy Sybiga said he discussed ending the Russian invasion of Ukraine with Chinas foreign minister, Wang Yi, whose country is a close partner of Moscow. Wang told Sybiga Beijing was willing to provide Ukraine with new humanitarian aid, according to a Chinese foreign ministry readout. The leaders of some of the UKs largest unions have delivered a new ultimatum to Sir Keir Starmer, just days after he survived an attempt to oust him from power. Demanding he change course or risk electoral disaster, Unite and Unison have warned that the partys current trajectory undermines its ability to win both peoples trust and elections. They say they will band with concerned MPs to reverse this damaging behaviour. The unions, which between them donate millions of pounds to the party, also hit out at Sir Keirs decision to block his rival Andy Burnhams return to Westminster in a by-election this month. The warning comes just hours after Sir Keir was forced to deny he was almost toppled by his own MPs this week in a failed coup. His government was plunged into crisis a fortnight ago when the extent of the contact between the UKs former ambassador to Washington Peter Mandelson and the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein was revealed. Since then, the PM has lost three of his most senior staff and faced a battle to stay in post himself. On Saturday, he insisted he had finished last week stronger than he started, during an appearance alongside other world leaders at the Munich Security Conference. PM told the Munich Security Conference he ended the week much stronger than he started it (Getty) But now trade union leaders and Labour MPs have written to the partys deputy leader Lucy Powell to demand a change of direction. As well as Mr Burnham, they hit out at Sir Keirs decision to suspend Labour MPs for standing up for their constituents. Labour have in the past stripped the party whip from MPs for voting to scrap the two-child benefit cap and opposing other policies, such as welfare cuts. Andrea Egan, Unison general secretary, said: Shutting down party democracy has contributed to the governments unpopularity and its failure to improve living standards. Rebuilding the coalition necessary to stop Reform must start with a more open and democratic culture in the party. Richard Burgon, a Labour MP and one of the coordinators of the statement, said:Under Keir Starmer and (his now departed chief of staff) Morgan McSweeney, there has been a clampdown on the democratic rights of Labour members. This has led to a small clique making out-of-touch decisions that have left the prime minister and the government deeply unpopular from the mess over winter fuel payments to the appalling decision to make Peter Mandelson the US Ambassador. We need an urgent end to this nasty factionalism coming from the top of the party where the views of Labour members and trade unionists are treated with contempt. FBU general secretary Steve Wright (FBU) Steve Wright, FBU general secretary, said: Firefighters know what happens when decisions are made without listening to those on the frontline. Restoring democracy in the Labour Party is essential if it is to reconnect with its members, its unions and the communities it exists to serve. In a statement the group, which includes more than 25 Labour MPs, said: Its increasingly clear that a narrow, factional agenda is being imposed upon the Party and that this is increasingly unpopular with the public. This approach is wrong in principle and damaging in practice. When the Labour Party sidelines its members, it weakens Labours roots in our communities, alienates voters, and undermines Labours ability to win both peoples trust and elections. We will work together to strengthen our democracy and reverse this damaging behaviour. A Labour Party spokesperson said: The Labour Party is proud to be powered by our brilliant party members as we work to bring about the vital change we were elected to deliver. Our Labour government is delivering for families across the country, including tackling the cost of living, cutting NHS waiting lists and restoring pride in local communities. An immigration raid in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in January. Photograph: Leah Millis/Reuters (Photograph: Leah Millis/Reuters) The Department of Homeland Security has begun a partial shutdown, after funding for the much-criticized agency expired, with a range of services, including domestic flights and the US Coastguard, now vulnerable to disruption. The shutdown was all but confirmed on Thursday, after the Senate failed to clear the 60-vote threshold needed to pass the DHS appropriations bill and lawmakers left Washington for a long weekend without resolving the impasse. Democrats say they wont help approve more funding until new restrictions are placed on federal immigration operations after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis last month. Democrats demanded radical reforms of how agents with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) which both fall under DHSs remit operate. It is, however, unlikely the shutdown will affect ICE and CBP operations, which are deemed vital and already have extensive funding thanks to Donald Trumps big beautiful bill, passed last summer. Instead, disruption is likely to fall on services such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the Secret Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (Fema). TSA workers, who include airport security staff and baggage handlers, are expected to continue working over the weekend without pay, to minimize the travel disruption that marked last years 43-day government shutdown, the longest in US history. Many Fema workers are expected to be furloughed without pay, limiting its ability to work with local and state partners. Officials have warned that the funding lapse could impede the agencys ability to respond to natural disasters. Thursdays Senate vote fell almost entirely along party lines in a 52-47 vote on the legislation, with John Fetterman of Pennsylvania being the sole Democratic exception in backing the bill. Democrats also blocked an attempt to temporarily extend funding for two weeks at current levels. While agreeing to agents wearing body cameras, Republicans have resisted other proposals, including demands that agents obtain judicial warrants, signed by a judge, before entering private property. Chuck Schumer, the Democrats leader in the Senate, accused the Republicans of choosing chaos. They need to negotiate in good faith, produce legislation that actually reins in ICE and stops the violence, he said on Thursday. Before Thursdays vote, Tom Homan, the US border czar, announced that the administration was winding down Operation Metro Surge and that the number of ICE agents in Minnesota would return to normal levels. Homan recently took over leadership of the operation from Greg Bovino, a senior border patrol official who was in charge when federal agents killed Good and Pretti. Although senators were reported to be on standby to return to vote if agreement is reached, a weekend resolution seemed unlikely, as several members have left the US to attend the Munich security conference in Germany. Both the Senate and the House of Representatives which passed the appropriations bill on 22 January and another short-term continuing resolution on 3 February to keep the DHS funded and avert a partial shutdown are scheduled to be in recess for the next 10 days to coincide with Presidents Day next Monday, making an extended shutdown likely. The shutdown will be the second partial government shutdown this month. At the end of January, Congress failed to pass a package of five appropriations bills, triggering a four-day shutdown that ended when lawmakers agreed to fund every agency until the end of the fiscal year except DHS, which they extended for two weeks. Sara Braun contributed reporting Luis Munoz poses for a portrait in downtown Bogota, Colombia, on 4 February 2026. Photograph: Nathalia Angarita/The Guardian (Photograph: Nathalia Angarita/The Guardian) A US federal judges order that some of the Venezuelan men sent by the Trump administration to a notorious prison in El Salvador must be allowed to return to the United States to fight their cases has been greeted with hope and a sense of vindication but also fear by one of the deportees. US district judge James Boasberg ruled on Thursday in Washington DC that the Trump administration should facilitate the return of deportees who are currently in countries outside Venezuela, saying they must be given the opportunity to seek the due process they were denied after being illegally expelled from the US last March. Boasberg added that the US government should cover the travel costs of those who wish to come to the US to argue their immigration cases. Luis Munoz Pinto, 27, is one of the men affected and he spoke exclusively to the Guardian on Thursday by telephone from Bogota, the capital of Colombia, where he has lived since being released from detention in El Salvador. I would like to go back to the US to defend myself in court and prove that I am not a member of the Tren de Aragua [gang] but what happens if they detain me and I have to live through another nightmare? Munoz Pinto said. He has no criminal record in any country. He was an engineering student in Venezuela and fled in 2024 after being beaten by police while protesting against the dictatorship there, first to Colombia and then north. He had an appointment in the US to request asylum under the Biden administration but instead was arrested and accused of being a member of the dangerous Venezuelan criminal gang Tren de Aragua because he had some tattoos, despite no evidence being presented of actual gang connections. The judge acknowledged that if any of the men return to the US to argue in court, it was his understanding that they will be detained upon their arrival. Munoz Pinto said: Do you have any idea what my family went through after finding out I was sent to that prison in El Salvador? I went from chasing a dream to work and support my family to being humiliated by guards beating me in the face and my entire body. On the night of Saturday 15 March last year, the Trump administration abruptly deported more than 250 Venezuelan men to El Salvador, defying a court block and orders that any such flights should turn around. Images then emerged of the men shackled held bent over by baton-wielding Salvadoran police, before their heads were shaved and they were imprisoned at the notorious Cecot mega-prison. Former detainees said they were told they would die there, and had no outside communications with lawyers or family. Then last July they were returned to Venezuela in a US-brokered prisoner swap. Related: Venezuelans sent by Trump to El Salvador endured systematic torture, report finds Boasberg on Thursday told the Trump administration to prioritize the deportees currently living in third countries but also explain the feasibility of returning plaintiffs still in Venezuela, while US-Venezuela relations remain vexed. A White House spokesperson, Abigail Jackson, blasted Boasbergs ruling, saying in a statement it was an absurd, unlawful ruling from a far-left judicial activist trying to undermine the presidents lawful authority to carry out deportations. She added: Americans elected President Trump based on his promise to deport criminal illegal aliens and Make America Safe Again. Boasberg has no right to stop the will of the American people, and this will not be the final say on the matter. Lee Gelernt, the lead ACLU attorney in the case, said he was aware of only a small group of the deportees living outside Venezuela. Boasbergs order in principle applies to the 137 men deported to El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act invoked by Donald Trump, when the US president made an unprecedented claim that the US was being invaded by gang members allegedly with ties to the Venezuelan state. The others sent to Cecot last year were deported under regular US immigration law and are not covered by the current case. It is worth emphasizing that this situation would never have arisen had the government simply afforded plaintiffs their constitutional rights before initially deporting them, Boasberg said on Thursday. However, he added that the number of men who may seek to return to the US would be likely very small if not zero. Munoz Pinto is torn. I know Trump deported me to Cecot and Im not over that nightmare yet, but the US is still the land of opportunities, he said. He was deported under the Alien Enemies Act, he said, a fact which the Guardian verified via sources familiar with the case, who were not authorized to speak openly on the matter. Before Boasbergs latest order, the ACLU had argued in court that the men should have the right to either return to the US or have a remote hearing to challenge their deportation. In January, lawyers for the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, argued in a court filing that bringing the 137 men back into the US would risk material damage to the US foreign policy interests in Venezuela. Even remote hearings, lawyers for Rubio added, also present a serious risk of intentional interference by anti-American elements in Venezuela that would undermine the interests of justice. Human rights investigators found that Cecot guards dished out beatings, torture, denial of food and alleged sexual assault. Lawyers for some of the Venezuelans said they endured state-sanctioned torture. El Salvadors government does not make efforts to publicly rebut allegations of violence and deprivation amounting to torture. The president, Nayib Bukele, responded sarcastically to allegations of cruelty at Cecot made by Hillary Clinton last year. Some online influencers are invited in to make videos of the harsh conditions. Before Boasbergs latest ruling, Munoz Pinto had also spoken to the Guardian in person, in Bogota, in his first non-TV interview. He was briefly featured on CBSs 60 Minutes show, aired in the US last month. Munoz Pinto recounted that on arrival at Cecot: Three guards threw me to the ground and kicked me in the face so badly that it caused me a nosebleed and all my gums bled too. He added: I started to cry because I didnt know what to do, I had tried to be a good man since I was little, I had gone to college, I had tried to help my parents, who are still sick in Venezuela, and I was then in the worst prison on the entire planet and I had not committed a crime. Old friends in Colombia helped him find work delivering food across Bogota, arguing it was a better opportunity to support his family financially than he could get in Venezuela. Munoz Pinto said: This court decision is devastating because I want to go back [to the US], yes, but why do they want me detained again? How many months this time? I am not sure if I can do it again. Additional reporting by the Associated Press Donald Trump's fury erupted on Truth Social after six House Republicans voted to scrap his Canada tariffs, warning they will 'seriously suffer the consequences' come election time. The rebellion exposed cracks in GOP unity and revealed the personal stakes for some members. The vote wasn't just another procedural tally. It was a rare moment where a handful of GOP representatives chose to side with Democrats against Trump's trade policies. Reps. Thomas Massie, Don Bacon, Kevin Kiley, Jeff Hurd, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Dan Newhouse voted to cancel the tariffs that had been a focal point of Trump's trade agenda during his presidency. Party leadership had tried to prevent the vote altogether. Speaker Mike Johnson initially dismissed concerns, telling reporters that the President is not upset. 'I just left the White House. He understands what's going on. It's not going to affect or change his policy. He can veto these things if they come to it,' he said. Trump's vicious warning to GOP rebels 'Any Republican, in the House or the Senate, that votes against TARIFFS will seriously suffer the consequences come Election time, and that includes Primaries!' Trump posted on Truth Social. His words cut deep, signalling he intends to punish those who challenge his authority. The language was unmistakably personal, laced with threats that could ripple through the upcoming election cycle. While the rebellion was small in numbers, it was significant in tone. Some GOP members voiced their concerns about how the tariffs are affecting their districts, especially farmers and manufacturers who rely on trade with Canada. 'It's not easy' the human cost of tariffs Rep. Jeff Hurd explained that back home, farmers and steelworkers are feeling the pinch. 'At the end of the day, I looked at the Constitution, I looked at what was in the best interest of my district, and I took the vote. It's not easy, but it's the right thing and I stand by it,' he said, acknowledging the personal and political risks. Hurd admitted he fears retaliation from Trump but believed standing up was necessary. 'I do the right thing, and what the consequences are, we'll have to see,' he added. Rep. Dan Newhouse highlighted the economic toll, noting that tariffs have driven up costs for key agricultural inputs. Todays vote is grounded first and foremost in the Constitution. Article I gives Congress the authority to regulate commerce with foreign nations and to levy tariffs. Over time, Congress has delegated limited authority to the Executive Branch, particularly in matters involving Rep. Jeff Hurd (@RepJeffHurd) February 11, 2026 The politics of authority and veto power Rep. Don Bacon framed his vote as a matter of congressional independence. 'He needs to know that we're not a rubberstamp,' he explained. Many Republicans privately agree with the tariffs but hesitate to oppose Trump outright. 'People feel like they're in between a rock or a hard place because they don't want to get on the bad side of the president,' Bacon said. The Senate had already passed a similar measure to cancel the tariffs, needing only a simple majority. Yet, Trump retains veto power. Even if both chambers agree, he can block it, and the House lacks the two-thirds majority to override his veto. Johnson dismissed the effort as 'a fruitless exercise,' expressing disappointment but asserting it wouldn't change policy. 'It's not going to change the policy in the end anyway,' he said. Dividing lines in the GOP The vote exposed a stark divide. For some Republicans, standing against the tariffs was about representing their constituents' economic realities. For others, it was a gamble, risking Trump's wrath for the chance to assert independence. The rebellion may have been small, but it hit a nerve. It forced members to choose between loyalty to Trump and the needs of their districts. The coming months will reveal how deep these divisions run, and whether Trump's threats will shape upcoming primaries. In the end, the episode underscores the fragile balance within the Republican Party. Trump's influence remains potent, but cracks are beginning to show. The fight over tariffs is just a glimpse into a broader struggle for control and direction. Originally published on IBTimes UK Albanian criminal Dorian Puka has twice been deported but managed to return to the UK on each occasion to continue burgling houses - Instagram An Albanian criminal has held a champagne-fuelled party to celebrate still being in Britain 10 years after he was ordered to leave. Dorian Puka, 29, who has twice been jailed and deported for burglaries before sneaking back into the country, marked the milestone with a VIP party at a club, surrounded by burlesque dancers and thousands of pounds worth of champagne. The convicted burglar could be seen dancing with a person with dwarfism, singing and smoking from a shisha pipe on Wednesday night. Puka hired a VIP section of Cirque le Soir, a favourite haunt of A-list celebrities and then posted footage on his Instagram page. Over the past year, Puka has used social media to taunt the Home Office with videos of his lavish lifestyle, including flaunting his six Rolex watches and top-of-the-range luxury cars such as Ferraris and a 2022 Lamborghini URUS V8 valued at 180,000. Dorian Puka celebrated his 10th anniversary of a life of crime in the UK at Cirque le Soir nightclub - Instagram The Home Office has admitted it is powerless to remove Puka again until his asylum claim has been fully heard, but has warned that foreign criminals should be in no doubt of the law being enforced. Puka was originally jailed on Feb 17, 2015, after being caught burgling a house in Twickenham, south-west London, while the owner was on holiday in France. The owner watched the crime unfold on a webcam and called the police. The burglar was jailed for nine months and agreed to be removed from Britain upon his release. But within a year, he had managed to evade border controls and return to the UK to carry out a string of further burglaries in suburban London. Puka was eventually caught by plain-clothes officers patrolling Surbiton, also in the south-west of the capital, after an increase in local burglaries had been reported. He was wearing an expensive watch he had stolen. The Albanian was jailed for three-and-a-half years and then deported in March 2020. Puka has used social media to flaunt his lifestyle, which includes driving top-of-the-range luxury cars in London During his time in a UK prison, Puka earned notoriety for using an illegal mobile phone smuggled into the jail to post Instagram pictures of himself. He posed alongside the leader of an organised crime group who was serving a 12-year sentence for conspiracy to supply cocaine and money laundering. After returning to Albania for several months, he travelled through Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands before beating border checks to enter Britain again in Dec 2020, according to his Instagram account. Faced with deportation, he lodged an asylum application, and has been on immigration bail and subject to an electronic tag since 2023 while he awaits a tribunal to decide on his claim. A Home Office spokesman said: This Government will not allow foreign criminals and illegal migrants to exploit our laws, which is why we are reforming human rights laws and replacing the broken appeals system, allowing us to scale up deportations. The Home Secretary announced the most sweeping reforms to tackle illegal migration in modern times, which will make Britain a less attractive destination for illegal migrants and will make it easier to remove and deport them. Sir Keir Starmer has been accused of running scared of the electorate as polls signal bleak prospects for Labour in Mays local elections - Anthony Devlin/Getty Images Sir Keir Starmers decision to cancel local elections is an abuse of power that threatens the foundations of British democracy, the High Court will hear. In a legal challenge to the decision to cancel some of Mays elections, lawyers acting for Reform UK will argue that Labour acted out of political interest to deny 4.6 million people the right to vote. In court documents seen by The Telegraph, they claim it is patently irrational to postpone elections in peacetime and that it stands in contradiction to the basis of the country, namely democratic rights and the basis of individual rights. Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, is expected to appear at the High Court for both days of the hearing next Thursday and Friday. Writing for The Telegraph on Saturday, Mr Farage accuses Sir Keir Starmer of running scared from voters who are being denied a chance to send a message to Westminster, saying that voice is being silenced. He says cancelled elections are the stuff of banana republics and that local polls are central to the very heartbeat of grassroots democracy, adding that they are not some minor administrative inconvenience. Mr Farage writes: Doubtless this Government hoped this row would fade. They may calculate that constitutional propriety doesnt stoke up public rage in the same way tax hikes or migration do. But they underestimate the quiet British instinct for fairness. In cancelling local elections, they are setting a chilling precedent for the future of our democracy which will not go unnoticed. The Government is reliant on section 87 of the Local Government Act 2000 for its decision to cancel 30 local elections that were scheduled to take place on May 7. This obscure clause gives Steve Reed, the Local Government Secretary, the power to change the years in which elections take place for any local authority. The purpose of this provision was to change the specific timing of election cycles without changing the scheme or frequency of elections. It was intended to increase the number of elections so as to promote local accountability. The legal challenge will argue Mr Reed has no concern about election cycles or schemes and has acted entirely outside the framework of section 87. Lawyers for Reform will also argue that council concerns about the capacity to hold elections while preparing for local government reorganisation should not be used to determine the right to vote. They contend that, using this metric, councils that are efficient and well-run will hold elections, but in areas where councils are wasteful and least efficient and therefore arguably where accountability is most important they are able to deny taxpayers the right to vote because of capacity concerns. Concerns will also be raised about the lack of transparency over how councils have proved to the Government that they lack the capacity to hold elections. The Electoral Commission has previously claimed that there is a clear conflict of interest in asking councils to decide how long it will be before they are answerable to voters. In an interview with The Telegraph on Friday, Vijay Rangarajan, the commissions chief executive, reiterated its criticism that capacity constraint was not a sufficient reason for postponing elections. He said: We would hope that no government would go and say that somehow, elections are fungible with other parts of council money. Its a fundamental point that they have to run elections on those timescales, and we would put the bar very high for postponement. At the court hearing, the judge will be asked to consider: Where is the rationality in a democracy to deny elections? Reforms lawyers are expected to say: In an irrational world, of which examples might be world wars and coronavirus, there may be limited rationality to postpone elections, but in peacetime, free of world crisis, it is patently irrational. It stands in contradiction to the basis of the country, namely democratic rights and the basis of individual rights within the country. They will add: There is no reason, other than politics, why reorganisation could not be planned without sacrificing elections; on the contrary, postponement or cancellation of elections in the circumstances of local government reorganisation is to remove accountability when it is most needed. Vijay Rangarajan, chief executive of the Electoral Commission, criticised the decision to allow 30 local authorities to postpone elections The Telegraph has launched a Campaign for Democracy, which calls for ministers to be stripped of their legal powers to cancel local elections without a full vote in Parliament. Opposition leaders have backed the campaign for a change in the law to prevent ministers from being able to cancel local votes at the stroke of a pen. The legal challenge is the latest headache for the beleaguered Prime Minister, who has endured the worst week of his premiership after the Mandelson scandal saw him lose his chief of staff and director of communications, and face calls to resign from Anas Sarwar, Labours Scottish leader. Labour is widely expected to perform poorly at this Mays elections, given its dire national poll ratings, and faces losing seats to Reform on the Right and the Greens on its Left. Allies of Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary and Angela Rayner, the former deputy prime minister, say both are preparing for a potential leadership challenge after the local elections, when Sir Keir could face fresh calls to resign. The Telegraph is aware of a string of councillors who are awaiting the outcome of Reforms judicial review before deciding whether to step down in protest against the Governments decision to cancel elections. Some voters have also withheld their council tax payments, arguing that there should be no taxation without the chance to elect representatives. Sir Keir Starmers decision to cancel local elections is an abuse of power that threatens the foundations of British democracy, the High Court will hear. In a legal challenge to the decision to cancel some of Mays elections, lawyers acting for Reform UK will argue that Labour acted out of political interest to deny 4.6 million people the right to vote. In court documents seen by The Telegraph, they claim it is patently irrational to postpone elections in peacetime and that it stands in contradiction to the basis of the country, namely democratic rights and the basis of individual rights. Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, is expected to appear at the High Court for both days of the hearing next Thursday and Friday. Writing for The Telegraph on Saturday, Mr Farage accuses Sir Keir Starmer of running scared from voters who are being denied a chance to send a message to Westminster, saying that voice is being silenced. He says cancelled elections are the stuff of banana republics and that local polls are central to the very heartbeat of grassroots democracy, adding that they are not some minor administrative inconvenience. Mr Farage writes: Doubtless this Government hoped this row would fade. They may calculate that constitutional propriety doesnt stoke up public rage in the same way tax hikes or migration do. But they underestimate the quiet British instinct for fairness. In cancelling local elections, they are setting a chilling precedent for the future of our democracy which will not go unnoticed. The Government is reliant on section 87 of the Local Government Act 2000 for its decision to cancel 30 local elections that were scheduled to take place on May 7. This obscure clause gives Steve Reed, the Local Government Secretary, the power to change the years in which elections take place for any local authority. The purpose of this provision was to change the specific timing of election cycles without changing the scheme or frequency of elections. It was intended to increase the number of elections so as to promote local accountability. The legal challenge will argue Mr Reed has no concern about election cycles or schemes and has acted entirely outside the framework of section 87. Lawyers for Reform will also argue that council concerns about the capacity to hold elections while preparing for local government reorganisation should not be used to determine the right to vote. They contend that, using this metric, councils that are efficient and well-run will hold elections, but in areas where councils are wasteful and least efficient and therefore arguably where accountability is most important they are able to deny taxpayers the right to vote because of capacity concerns. Concerns will also be raised about the lack of transparency over how councils have proved to the Government that they lack the capacity to hold elections. The Electoral Commission has previously claimed that there is a clear conflict of interest in asking councils to decide how long it will be before they are answerable to voters. In an interview with The Telegraph on Friday, Vijay Rangarajan, the commissions chief executive, reiterated its criticism that capacity constraint was not a sufficient reason for postponing elections. He said: We would hope that no government would go and say that somehow, elections are fungible with other parts of council money. Its a fundamental point that they have to run elections on those timescales, and we would put the bar very high for postponement. At the court hearing, the judge will be asked to consider: Where is the rationality in a democracy to deny elections? Reforms lawyers are expected to say: In an irrational world, of which examples might be world wars and coronavirus, there may be limited rationality to postpone elections, but in peacetime, free of world crisis, it is patently irrational. It stands in contradiction to the basis of the country, namely democratic rights and the basis of individual rights within the country. They will add: There is no reason, other than politics, why reorganisation could not be planned without sacrificing elections; on the contrary, postponement or cancellation of elections in the circumstances of local government reorganisation is to remove accountability when it is most needed. A spokesman for the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government said: There is a clear precedent for postponing local elections where local government reorganisation is in progress, as happened between 2019 and 2021. They added that there were exceptional circumstances because some councils that had been preparing for resource-intensive elections would soon be abolished. Alexei Navalny died after collapsing while taking a walk at a Siberian prison - Moscow City Court/via AP Alexei Navalny was killed with a toxin developed from an Ecuadorian frog on the orders of Vladimir Putin, proving that Russia possesses illegal chemical weapons, the Government has revealed. An investigation, understood to have been led by Porton Down scientists, concluded that the Russian opposition leader was assassinated with a poison 200 times stronger than morphine. The 47-year-old was murdered while incarcerated in a Siberian prison following years of outspoken criticism of the Russian president. Shortly after his death, biological samples including human tissue were smuggled from his cell and sent for analysis to two specialist laboratories, including the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory in Wiltshire. After nearly two years of analysis, scientists have established that traces of epibatidine were found in the specimens. The poison, described as one of the deadliest on Earth, was first discovered in Ecuadorian dart frogs. However, the lethal chemical cannot be produced if the creatures are in captivity away from tropical and humid forests. Scientists involved in the painstaking research have concluded that it was made synthetically in a highly sophisticated laboratory that would have needed state sponsorship for such advanced chemistry. Certain species of the Ecuadorian dart frog can produce a toxin 200 times stronger than morphine In a joint statement issued by five European countries, the Kremlin was reported for being a blatant breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention and accused of committing Navalnys brutal and barbaric murder. The Foreign Office also criticised Russia for failing to honour a 2017 commitment to destroy all its chemical and biological weapons and renounce their use. The Kremlin believes that it can develop these weapons covertly and without consequences, the statement says. They are mistaken. The UK knows what Russia is doing, and will expose and combat this activity at every opportunity. The joint announcement was made as Sir Keir Starmer told the Munich Security Conference he wanted to forge stronger military and defensive links with Europe because Russia has proved its appetite for aggression. The Prime Minister announced that the Royal Navy will patrol Greenland as a deterrent in the High North. Referring to the investigations findings, he said: Alexei Navalny displayed huge courage in the face of tyranny. His determination to expose the truth has left an enduring legacy, and my thoughts are with his family today. I am doing whatever it takes to defend our people, our values and our way of life from the threat of Russia and Putins murderous intent. Navlany with his wife Yulia at an opposition rally in 2013 - Reuters The decision to issue the announcement about the poison came two days before the second anniversary of Navalnys death on Feb 16, 2024. Maria Zakharova, the Russian foreign ministrys spokeswoman, dismissed the claims Navalny had been poisoned as a hoax. All such assertions are merely propaganda aimed at diverting attention from pressing Western issues, she said, according to the Kremlin-run news agency Tass. Yvette Cooper, the Foreign Secretary, said: Since Yulia Navalnaya announced the loss of her husband here in Munich two years ago, the UK has pursued the truth of Alexei Navalnys death with fierce determination. Only the Russian government had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin against Alexei Navalny during his imprisonment in Russia. Today, beside his widow, the UK is shining a light on the Kremlins barbaric plot to silence his voice. Russia saw Navalny as a threat. By using this form of poison, the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition. She also quoted Navalny himself, who once said: We must do what they fear tell the truth, spread the truth and this is the most powerful weapon. Widow of Alexei Navalny claims he was 'poisoned in prison' | Credit: Yulia Navalnaya/X Dame Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, described the findings as appalling and said they confirm what we have long suspected: Alexei Navalny was murdered for daring to speak out against Putins barbaric regime. She added: This is a horrific reminder of the threat Russia poses to freedom and our way of life. Putin will stop at nothing to undermine our values and those who speak for freedom and democracy. Britain and our allies must stand firmly against Russias murderous authoritarianism and stark aggression. As we approach the fourth anniversary of Russias abhorrent invasion of Ukraine, we must show unity and resolve as we stand up for our shared democratic values. It is believed that because Navalny was in a Russian jail when he was killed, the use of a nerve agent ensured it sent a clear message that bore the hallmarks of a calling card from Putin, a former senior KGB agent. Referring to the discovery of epibatidine in the samples, the UK Government, in collaboration with Sweden, France, the Netherlands and Germany, said: There is no innocent explanation for its presence in Navalnys body. The chemical initially causes shortness of breath, then rapid intakes of air before acute convulsions, seizures and vomiting. A lethal dose takes 30 minutes to kill its victim. Photographs from the cell where Navalny was held show vomit on the floor, which corroborates the theory that he was poisoned. Photographs of Navalnys jail cell show vomit on the floor Navalnys supporters, along with his wife, have always insisted the Russian government was responsible for his death, despite the authorities insisting he died from natural causes. It remains unclear how the poison was administered. The use of nerve agents as a way to deliver an intimidating message from the Kremlin was highlighted in 2018 when Sergei Skripal, a former Russian spy, and his daughter Yulia Skripal were targeted with Novichok by Russian agents in Salisbury. The Foreign Office accused Russia of having brazenly developed and deployed the Epibatidine in direct violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention. The Kremlin has also been accused of using chloropicrin, a chemical weapon that causes death from choking, during its war with Ukraine. Russias egregious and irresponsible actions, including its barbaric full-scale invasion of Ukraine continue to threaten our shared security, the Foreign Office said. Time and again, the Russian state shows the depths it is willing to go to terrorise people and undermine democracy. The Organisation on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons will be informed of the scientists analysis, which is said to prove Russias blatant breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. US congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has said that President Donald Trumps administration is tearing apart the transatlantic partnership as its relationship with Europe remains strained. The New York Democrat, who is a potential 2028 presidential candidate, told the Munich Security Conference: President Trump has withdrawn from and is looking to withdraw the US from the entire world and turn into an age of authoritarianism to carve out a world where Donald Trump can command the western world and Latin America as his personal sandbox." Speaking alongside other world leaders, including Czech president Petr Pavel, Ms Ocasio-Cortez called for a return to rules-based order and to address hypocrises. She said: I think this is a moment where we are seeing our presidential administration tear apart the transatlantic partnership, rip up every democratic norm, and really calling into question, as was mentioned by Mark Carney at the World Economic Forum, the rules based order that we have, or, question mark, do we have? But that does not mean that the majority of Americans are ready to walk away from a rules-based order and that were ready to walk away from our commitment to democracy. Relations between Donald Trump and European leaders have come under increasing pressure over the last year (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) I think what we identify is that in a rules-based order, hypocrisy is vulnerability. Taking direct aim at Trumps record during his first year in office of his second term, she referenced his threats to Denmark and his recent capturing of Venezuelas president Nicolas Maduro. She said: And so I think what we are seeking is a return to a rules-based order that eliminates the hypocrisies when, too often, in the West, wed look the other way for inconvenient populations to act out these paradoxes, whether it is kidnapping a foreign head of state, whether it is threatening our allies to colonise Greenland, whether it is looking the other way in a genocide. Hypocrisies are our vulnerabilities and they threaten democracies. And so I think many of us are here to say we are here and we are ready for the next chapter, not to have the world turn to isolation, but to deepen our partnership on greater and increase commitment to integrity to our values. Advertisement Europe has been left reeling from Trumps more aggressive foreign policy in his second term, forcing a reassessment of global alliances. This has included threats of annexing Greenland, the resource-rich island which is part of Denmark (a Nato member), while his representative at peace talks between Ukraine and Russia Steve Witkoff has consistently taken Moscows side. California governor Gavin Newsom said there has never been a more destructive president than Trump (Getty) US vice-president JD Vances criticism of European countries, including the UK, over free speech and immigration last year set the tone for a dramatic deterioration in relations, which has also seen multiple threats of tariffs on the EU bloc. It follows comments from Californias Democrat governor Gavin Newsom earlier on Friday, who told the conference that Trump is doubling down on stupid. Mr Newsom, who is also said to have presidential ambitions and has been in a long-lasting dispute with Mr Trump, said: Never in the history of the United States of America has there been a more destructive president than the current occupant in the White House in Washington, DC. In a conversation that was largely focused on climate change, he said that Trump is trying to recreate the 19 century. Were proving at scale that we can implement, we can compete and we can dominate, but Donald Trump is trying to turn back the clock. He added:I hope, if theres nothing else I can communicate today, Donald Trump is temporary. Hell be gone in three years. He also called on other world and corporate leaders to call out the U.S. president, stating: Were all becoming Chamberlains in this place, corporate leaders have to stand up. Sir Keir Starmer will address the conference on Saturday morning and take part in a moderated conversation titled Principled and pragmatic: wielding power in a world in disarray with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. He is expected to call for the bloc to move away from its over-dependence on Washington, while his German counterpart, Freidrick Merz, said that the United States claim to leadership is disputed, perhaps squandered. An Arizona sheriff defended sending evidence in the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie, to a lab in Florida for DNA testing over the FBI's lab in Quantico, Virginia. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos also said the results that investigators have received from DNA testing so far haven't led to a suspect. Authorities believe Nancy Guthrie was forcibly taken from her Tucson home during the middle of the night nearly two weeks ago. Nanos told CBS News correspondent Jonathan Vigliotti in an interview Friday that his agency has been sending evidence to a Florida lab for years, and he doesn't want samples sent to two different facilities. "It adds a step that's not needed," Nanos said. "If you have two labs you're looking at, and one's bad or one's better, that's fine. That's not the case here, nobody's saying that." Nanos said the Florida lab has samples taken from the Guthrie family and people who have worked at Nancy Guthrie's home to compare against the evidence that has been gathered during the investigation. "Let's just use one lab, they have it all, the reports are generated, those reports are shared between both agencies, and we keep moving," Nanos said. The sheriff didn't provide details about what results investigators have gotten back from the lab amid the ongoing investigation. "We did get some DNA back, and we are looking at all those things," Nanos said. Asked if the results have led to a suspect, Nanos said, "Boy, I wish it did. Not yet. We've got DNA, and it's still working, that's all I can tell you." DNA that wasn't Nancy Guthrie's or that of those in close contact with her was collected from the property, the Pima County Sheriff's Department said in an update Friday afternoon. Investigators are working to identify who it belongs to. The department isn't disclosing where the DNA was found on the property. Meanwhile, while Nanos said they haven't received proof of life, he also added that "there has been no sign of death." When asked if the suspect should be afraid, he responded: "I think the suspect should be afraid every night. We're going to find you." Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos exits the press room past a missing person poster after giving an update on the investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie in Tucson, Arizona, Feb. 5, 2026. / Credit: Reuters/Rebecca Noble The FBI released a description Thursday of a person it referred to as a suspect who was seen on video footage from Nancy Guthrie's Nest home security camera on the morning of her disappearance. Advertisement The bureau described the individual as a male who is about 5 feet, 9 inches to 5 feet, 10 inches tall with an average build. In the footage, the person is wearing a ski mask, gloves and what the FBI said was a black, 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack. Suspect's backpack sold exclusively by Walmart CBS News has learned the backpack is sold exclusively at Walmart. Sources with knowledge of the investigation told CBS News that law enforcement officials reviewed video at one Walmart location in Tucson. CBS News reached out to Walmart corporate offices, but a spokesperson declined to comment. The FBI says the masked figure seen on Nancy Guthrie's Nest doorbell camera was carrying a black 25-liter In addition to the description, the FBI doubled its reward to up to $100,000 for information leading to Guthrie's location or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance. Guthrie was also added to the bureau's list of its most wanted missing persons. Investigators have issued a wider call for video footage from Guthrie's neighbors. The Pima County Sheriff's Department asked people who live within 2 miles of her home to provide authorities with all footage of vehicles, people or anything that seems out of the ordinary from New Year's Day to Feb. 2, the day after Guthrie was reported missing. Investigators recently found a pair of black gloves that are being tested for DNA, sources close to the investigation confirmed to CBS News. Nanos told CBS News on Friday that the gloves have been sent out for testing. In its update Friday, the sheriff's department said "several" gloves have been found during the investigation, and that the closest gloves were found about 2 miles from Nancy Guthrie's home. A glove seen in images from the New York Post resembles those seen in the security camera footage authorities released earlier this week. The FBI said Wednesday that agents were conducting an "extensive search" along multiple roadways in the Catalina Foothills area where Guthrie lives. On Thursday, Savannah Guthrie posted a message to social media featuring clips of a family home movie when her mom was younger, writing, "We will never give up on her." Investigators reviewing retail sales records for clues in Nancy Guthrie case Investigators chase critical leads as Nancy Guthrie search enters third week Miracle babies of Mauthausen find each other decades after the Holocaust | 60 Minutes Andrew MountbattenWindsor is being accused of sharing confidential government documents with Jeffrey Epstein.MEGA Andrew MountbattenWindsor is set to flee Britain "any day" after police confirmed they were assessing explosive claims the former Duke of York shared confidential government documents with Jeffrey Epstein while serving as the United Kingdom's trade envoy, RadarOnline.com can reveal. According to emails released by the U.S. Department of Justice earlier this month, the 65yearold shamed ex-royal is alleged to have forwarded sensitive trade reports to his pedophile pal Epstein, including details of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore. Ex-Prince Andrew is now facing police scrutiny over alleged document sharing.MEGA One message, dated November 2010, is understood to have been sent to Epstein five minutes after being circulated internally by Andrew's advisor, Amir Patel. Another, sent on Christmas Eve that year, appears to include information about investment opportunities in reconstruction projects in Afghanistan's Helmand Province. Epstein is believed to have received messages while Andrew MountbattenWindsor served as trade envoy.mega Graham Smith, chief executive of the anti-monarchy pressure group Republic, confirmed he had referred the matter to Thames Valley Police. In a post on X, he said: "I have now reported Andrew to the (Thames Valley Police) for suspected misconduct in public office and breach of official secrets in relation to these specific allegations. I cannot see any significant difference between these allegations and those against Peter Mandelson." Shamed British politician Mandelson is accused of passing confidential, market-moving information to Epstein while serving as Business Secretary in Gordon Brown's U.K. government. The information is said to include advance notice of a 500billion (nearly $600billion) EU bailout to save the Euro, plans for a one-off tax on bankers' bonuses, and sensitive British Treasury documents regarding government asset sales worth 20billion ($28billion). Thames Valley Police have since acknowledged receipt of the complaint. A spokesperson said: "We can confirm receipt of this report and are assessing the information in line with our established procedures." Campaign to 'Humiliate' Andrew? Andrew MountbattenWindsor denied wrongdoing but has kept a low public profile.MEGA While Andrew has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein, he has not publicly addressed the latest claims. Advertisement A source described the former duke as "distressed but defiant," adding: "He sees this as a campaign to humiliate him further. But the reality is the pressure has never been greater the scrutiny, the press, all of it - and he's been advised to keep a very low profile. There's real talk that he could leave for somewhere quieter overseas, and probably the Middle East, within days to escape the prospect of being brought in for questioning by police." The latest Epstein document dump reveals exchanges between Windsor and Epstein at a time when the serial s-- predator was already a convicted s-- offender. In February 2011, Andrew wrote to Epstein after visiting a private equity firm, saying he had "thought of you," referring to Epstein's search for new investment vehicles. Former business secretary Vince Cable, who oversaw trade policy at the time, said: "I was unaware of Andrew sharing information about investment opportunities (in Afghanistan) before - this is the first I've heard of it." Official Secrets Concerns and Renewed Scrutiny The claims have intensified fallout from Andrew MountbattenWindsors ties to Epstein.MEGA Government guidance makes clear trade envoys must uphold strict confidentiality both during and after their term in office, including compliance with the Official Secrets Acts of 1911 and 1989. "If the emails are genuine and the information was passed on as claimed, it could represent a serious lapse in judgment and be regarded as spying," a senior U.K. government source said. "Sharing internal trade briefs with a private citizen - let alone one with Epstein's criminal record - cuts straight to the issue of trust at the highest levels of public service. Even the perception that confidential material was circulating outside official channels would alarm people inside government. It raises uncomfortable questions about how information was handled and whether proper oversight was ever in place." The controversy comes after Windsor recently vacated Royal Lodge and temporarily moved to Wood Farm Cottage on the King's Sandringham estate. He is expected to relocate permanently to a second Norfolk property, Marsh Farm, once renovations are completed this spring. Images included among the latest U.S. files on Epstein also show Windsor crouching over a woman on all fours as she lies splayed on the floor beneath him. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) A state lawmaker has introduced legislation that would establish a framework for veterinary telemedicine in Rhode Island. Rep. Jon Briens proposal would allow veterinarians to assess pets remotely and determine whether an in-person visit is necessary. Telemedicine has been a tremendous success story in health care, Brien said. Theres no reason we cant extend that success to animal care. Its time to modernize Rhode Islands veterinary laws to enable state-licensed veterinarians to use proven, convenient, safe telehealth technology for pet patients, he continued. The legislation would also require the veterinarian to be licensed in Rhode Island. Veterinarians must get the owners consent for telemedicine appointments prior to scheduling. Each telemedicine provider would have to provide a description of services and standard charges thats easily accessible online. Many pet owners will tell you one of the most difficult and unpleasant experiences is going to the vet, Brien said. It can be a half-day commitment and taking time off work can be challenging for many. Brien said this would also prevent pet owners from struggling to pay exorbitant veterinary bills. The only current option for accessing vet care on evenings and weekends is an expensive and stressful trip to the emergency animal hospital, he explained. The legislation has been referred to the Rhode Island House Committee on Corporations. Advertisement Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the free WPRI 12+ TV app. Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Senator John Fetterman, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, speaks during a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026. Credit - Graeme SloanBloomberg/Getty Images With a shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) fast approaching, all but one Democratic Senator voted against advancing an appropriations bill to fund the department. Congressional Democrats have refused to pass an annual DHS funding bill without new restrictions on federal immigration enforcement as President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown draws widespread outcry. But Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, a long-standing opponent of government shutdowns, on Thursday broke with his party and voted to advance a yearlong spending bill for the department that didn't include such reforms. Fetterman warned that declining to fund DHS would have zero impact on ICE functionality but would impact other agencies housed under the department. Shutting DHS down has zero impact and zero changes for ICE. ICE already has $75B in funding from the BBB that I did not vote for, Fetterman said in a video posted to his X account, referencing TrumpsBig, Beautiful Bill. The massive domestic policy bill included a hefty supplement to ICEs base budget that the agency could tap amid the looming lapse in appropriations. But it will hit FEMA, Coast Guard, TSA and our Cybersecurity Agency, Fetterman continued., As a Democrat, I cant vote to shut down critical parts of our government. Read more: Looming Shutdown Could Mean Airport Delays as TSA Agents Face Work Without Pay DHS is set to shut down at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday without a clear end in sight after lawmakers left Washington for a scheduled week-long recess on Thursday still unable to come to an agreement. Advertisement Amid the negotiations over funding for the department in recent weeks, anti-ICE activists have protested outside of Fettermans office in Philadelphia, where video showed them chanting "ICE out" and holding signs bearing messages including FETTERMAN VOTE NO on DHS BILL. But Fetterman has never supported a halt in government funding since he took office in 2023, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. And this time around is no different, though the Pennsylvania Senator has joined many of his colleagues from both sides of the aisle in raising concerns about the tactics used in the immigration crackdown in Minneapolis, where federal agents fatally shot two residents within less than three weeks last month. Democrats have outlined demands for additional guardrails for immigration officers including requirements for agents to obtain court-issued warrants before entering private property and to clearly display their identification and badge numbers; limits on agents use of masks; increased use of body cameras; updated guidelines governing federal agents use of force; and measures to ensure that independent investigations be carried out in the case of shootings. Read more: How a Partial Government Shutdown Over ICE Would Impact Immigration Enforcement The White House and many Republicans have argued that such restrictions would prevent agents from carrying out the Presidents immigration agenda. Were talking, but we have to protect law enforcement, Trump said to reporters on Friday. I know what they want, I know what they can live with. The Democrats have gone crazy. A recent survey by Hart Research for a Senate Democrat-aligned group showed that 54% of likely midterm voters supported blocking DHS funding without reforms to ICE. A separate poll by Data for Progress showed that 56% of voters support funding the TSA, FEMA, and the Coast Guard while making additional funding for ICE conditional on reforms. Country over party is refusing to hit the entire Department of Homeland Security, Fetterman argued in a post on X on Friday. Democracy demands a way forward to reform ICE without damaging our critical national security agencies. Contact us at letters@time.com. Sara Jo Mathews and her family did their part to fight the wildfire that ravaged New Mexico. By the time it was over, her businesses had suffered substantial losses. Shes still waiting for a payment from the federal government to help her recover. The wait has been frustrating. But making matters worse: While shes in limbo, the government employee responsible for distributing payments to people whose homes and businesses were destroyed or damaged has already received a six-figure payment. They cannot figure out for the life of them how to pay us, said Mathews of Las Vegas, New Mexico, but they sure as hell figured out how to pay themselves. 1 / 0 From floods to fires: See FEMA respond to disasters across the US Swannanoa resident Lucy Bickers, who received assistance from FEMA after Hurricane Helene damaged her property, holds a sign in support of the government agency in Swannanoa, North Carolina, U.S., January 24, 2025. Four years after the fire, the worst in New Mexicos history, the Federal Emergency Management Agency is facing questions about how it has administered a compensation fund set up by Congress to help the wildfire victims. Critics are demanding to know how the money has been distributed, who has received it and whether its going to the people who need it most. People who have filed claims complain that the review process has been complicated, frustrating and painstakingly slow and that cases are closed with no notice and no money awarded for their losses. Getting money from FEMA, thats like getting blood from a rock, Mathews said. Theyre not giving us anything. On Feb. 12, FEMA placed the director in charge of distributing the money and his deputy on administrative leave after revelations that each received a six-figure payout through the program while other victims are waiting for their claims to be processed. Jay Mitchell, who works out of the FEMA claims office in Santa Fe, and his wife, Lisa, a real-estate broker, were awarded $524,000 through the compensation fund last year, according to documents obtained by USA TODAY. The money was to be used to repair smoke and ash damage to the couples home in Angel Fire, New Mexico, and to cover Lisa Mitchells reported business losses, the documents say. An independent news outlet called Source New Mexico was the first to report the payments. Lisa Mitchell said in a brief phone interview with USA TODAY that she and her husband have been unfairly targeted. Were being harassed for absolutely no wrongdoing, she said, declining to respond to a reporters questions. Jay Mitchells deputy, Jennifer Carbajal, and a woman named Jennifer Sanchez, identified in local news reports as Carbajal's ex-wife, also received $267,000 for smoke and ash cleaning and for flooding at a consulting business in Pendaries, New Mexico, the records show. FEMA and Carbajal did not respond to requests for comment. But Paul Judson, a deputy assistant administrator in FEMAs headquarters in Washington, stressed in an email to staff of the Santa Fe office that the decision to place Mitchell and Carbajal on leave does not reflect a finding of wrongdoing. Judson did not say how long either would remain on leave or whether they will be paid while they are away. Juan Ayala, a senior FEMA official, will oversee the offices daily operations, he said. The Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon wildfire burns near Las Vegas, New Mexico, U.S. May 4, 2022. Criticism of FEMAs handling of the payments comes as the agency is already under intense scrutiny in Washington. President Donald Trumps administration has initiated a dramatic overhaul of the agency, which is responsible for coordinating the federal governments response to natural disasters. Trump has repeatedly characterized FEMA as ineffective and has pushed for states to have a larger role in disaster response. Hundreds of jobs at the agency have been eliminated since Trump began his second term last year. A lawsuit filed in January by employees unions and public interest groups says claims the Department of Homeland Security plans even deeper cuts, with more than 10,000 of the agencys roughly 20,000 employees expected to be terminated in the coming months. Questions about the agencys handling of the compensation fund for the wildfire victims and the disclosure that Mitchell and Carbajal each received large payments have infuriated several of the states elected leaders and families and business owners who are still waiting for their claims to be processed. Its a slap in the face that Mr. Mitchell and his wife got paid out, said Maria Lowe, a community activist who has been assisting people with their claims. He should be ashamed of himself. 'Disproportionately devastating': California to investigate if Eaton Fire response involved discrimination 'Like poking a rock with a stick' Mathews and her family did what they could to help friends and neighbors as the flames scorched and scarred just about everything in their path. They housed firefighter crews on their ranch. Her restaurant, the Prairie Hill Cafe, provided meals to neighbors whose homes or businesses were destroyed or heavily damaged. Her father, Oren Mathews, who owns a gravel and well-digging company, dispatched water trucks that helped save other peoples homes. Mathews vividly remembers riding in one of her fathers water trucks through thick smoke as black as the night to help family members and other ranchers save their homes. At one point, a state trooper who had blocked the road with his vehicle stopped them and said they would not be allowed to continue. It was too dangerous, he said. The truck driver, one of her fathers employees, told the officer to move his car and let them through or hed run over it. Youll have to shoot us to stop us, he said. Mathews father suffered smoke inhalation while helping battle the flames and had to be hospitalized. He now has permanent lung damage. But people like him werent willing to watch their homes and ranches go up in flames without a fight. Were stewards of our land, Sara Jo Mathews said. They were not going to abandon their ranch thats been here for generations and their sheep and their horses and their cows to let them burn. They stayed and fought. The destruction from the inferno, known as the Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, was surreal. Advertisement More than 341,417 acres of rugged mountain terrain burned across three counties in northern New Mexico between early April and late June in 2022. The conflagration started as two separate fires one that resulted when the U.S. Forest Service lost control of a prescribed burn at the base of Hermits Peak in the Pecos Wilderness, the other when a holdover burn pile from the previous winter reignited near Gallinas Canyon. Heavy winds fanned the flames and merged the two fires into one. As many as 1,400 structures, including houses, were destroyed. Dozens of others were damaged. People lost homes, cars and trucks, businesses, livestock, pets, even their land. Buildings that were left standing suffered heavy smoke and ash damage. Flooding in the following weeks and months worsened the damage and the misery. To help with the recovery, Congress created a special fund in September 2022 and provided $5.4 billion to compensate those who suffered losses. The goal was to set up a simple, expedited process to submit a claim. Jay Mitchell, who had worked for the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, was hired in April 2024 to oversee the FEMA claims office responsible for distributing the money. But people who sought compensation say the process for filing claims was far from quick or easy. FEMA demanded detailed paperwork, such as insurance forms or payroll records, that many mom-and-pop businesses didnt have. Some people filing claims complained that they spent hours gathering the necessary documents only to have FEMA lose them and ask for them again. As of Feb. 4, FEMA had paid 23,549 proof of loss claims totaling $3.36 billion, according to the office of Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-New Mexico. How many claims are pending is unclear. FEMA did not respond to a request to provide those numbers. But community leaders say at least 73 people who suffered total losses to their homes or businesses are still waiting for their claims to be processed. The number of pending claims is likely significantly larger since people can file multiple claims. An inspector generals report issued on Feb. 24, 2025, found that 13% of claims already filed were overdue a response. Specifically, FEMA had not acknowledged 1,508 of 11,695 active claims more than six months after they were filed, the report said. Smoke casts an orange haze as firefighters hold a briefing in the Black Lake, New Mexico area north of the Calf Canyon Hermits Peak wildfire on May 11, 2022. Lowe said at least 20 of the 75 people she has helped with their claims are still waiting to hear how much money theyll receive, if any. One of them is El Rialto Restaurant, a small family-owned eatery in Las Vegas, New Mexico, that has been in business for more than half a century. The business was forced to shut down for extended periods during the fire and its aftermath, Lowe said. The owner filed a claim with FEMA in July 2024 to recover his losses, but nothing happened. Lowe got involved, helped the owner find the necessary documents and filed them with FEMA. The navigator, or FEMA employee assigned to the case, estimated the restaurants losses at $180,000. Lowe thought they were higher, but was still gathering paperwork to make her case. The navigator advised them to sign the paperwork and said the loss estimate could be adjusted later, Lowe said. Lowe was stunned when she discovered later that he had closed the case without telling them. The restaurant would get no money. When Lowe complained, the navigator suggested she should appeal and even said he thought she had a good case, she said. He just needed me to sign something so he could close out the case, a frustrated Lowe said. He never had any intention of allowing us to submit further documentation. Mathews said dealing with FEMA has been exasperating. Its like poking a rock with a stick and saying, Move! Move! Move! she said. Three members of New Mexicos congressional delegation Heinrich, Sen. Ben Ray Lujan and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez say they have been working with claimants to help them get the money they are due. In November, the three lawmakers, all Democrats, sent a letter to FEMA raising concerns about how the program had been administered, citing a lack of communication, trust and urgency by the agency. They demanded to know how many claims are outstanding, how many are tied up in appeals and how much of the funding has been spent on administrative costs. FEMA has yet to respond, Heinrichs office said. A firefighter conducts a prescribed burn to combat the Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon wildfires near Las Vegas, New Mexico on May 4, 2022. 'A big problem' The revelations that Mitchell and Carbajal had received six-figure payments added to the frustration. New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and the three members of Congress have called for Mitchells resignation. When the person in charge of claims moves himself to the front of the line and receives a half-million-dollar payout while thousands of others are still waiting to be made whole, thats a big problem, said the governors spokesman, Michael Coleman. If Mitchell refuses to resign, Coleman said, he should be fired immediately. State Rep. Joseph Sanchez, a Democrat whose district in northcentral New Mexico was the epicenter of the fires, said residents of the impacted areas deserve much better than how they have been treated by FEMA. Jay Mitchell must go, he said. Families and businesses affected by the fire are hurting, but theyll survive, Mathews said. New Mexicans are strong, she said. Some live in communities that were founded centuries ago and are among the oldest in the nation. Long after the federal government forgets us, well be here, pulling each other up, helping one another, Mathews said. We have survived because of our resilience and our close-knit communities. And were not going to give up. With or without the governments help. Michael Collins writes about the intersection of politics and culture. A veteran reporter, he has covered the White House and Congress. Follow him on X: @mcollinsNEWS This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: A FEMA director got wildfire payments while New Mexico victims wait Black smoke billows from a fire at the Nico Lopes oil refinery in Havana A fire at an oil refinery in Cuba has been brought under control quickly, as the country faces a deepening fuel crisis. Black smoke clouds could be seen billowing from the Nico Lopez Refinery in the capital, Havana, on Friday. No-one was injured and an investigation into the blaze has been established, Cuba's energy ministry said in a post on X. The fire occurred close to where two oil tankers had been moored in Havana Bay. A fuel shortage in Cuba has been worsened by the US blocking oil shipments from Venezuela, a long-standing ally in the region, to the island. Venezuela was previously believed to have sent it around 35,000 barrels of oil a day before the US military captured former president Nicolas Maduro in a raid on the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, on 3 January. The US also confiscated Venezuelan oil tankers, cutting off key supplies of fuel to Cuba, and pledged new tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba. US President Donald Trump has urged Cuban leaders to "make a deal" or face unspecified consequences, after flows of oil and money from Venezuela were cut off. Advertisement Electricity cuts have impacted hospital emergency wards, dialysis patients and pumping stations amid the latest supply shortfalls. Cuba also has a shortage of aviation fuel, leading several airlines to suspend services to the Caribbean island nation, while some countries, including the UK, have warned against non-essential travel there. "Authorities have introduced fuel rationing, scaled back public services, and made temporary changes to healthcare, education, transport and tourism operations to conserve severely limited energy supplies," the UK Foreign Office warned recently. As the oil embargo continues to make life and access to essentials difficult in Cuba, two Mexican ships carrying 800 tonnes of humanitarian aid arrived in Havana Bay on Thursday. United Nations human rights experts have described Washington's restrictions on Cuba's oil imports as an "extreme form of unilateral economic coercion". UN human rights chief Volker Turk said he was "extremely concerned" about the worsening crisis in Cuba. The US and Cuba have had a strained relationship since the communist Fidel Castro overthrew a US-backed government in 1959. US economic and trade embargoes on Cuba have been in place since 1960. While steps were taken to improve diplomatic relations, particularly under former US President Barack Obama, the Trump administration has reversed many of these moves. In a dramatic expansion of its crackdown following deadly January protests, Iran has arrested at least seven prominent reformist politicians and summoned seven others to court, marking a significant escalation that targets figures who have operated within the Islamic Republic's legal framework for decades while seeking gradual reform. The arrests of leaders from the Reformists Fronta coalition that has sought to change but not overthrow Iran's clerical systemsignal that the regime is now eliminating even moderate opposition voices after violently suppressing street protests that killed thousands. The move has shocked observers who viewed reformists as loyal to the Islamic Republic despite their criticism of specific policies. "Having bludgeoned the streets into silence with exemplary cruelty, the regime has shifted its attention inward, fixing its stare on its loyal opposition," wrote Ali Vaez, senior Iran analyst at the International Crisis Group. "The reformists, sensing the ground move beneath them, had begun to driftand power, ever paranoid, is now determined to cauterize dissent before it learns to walk." The Arrested Leaders Among those detained are some of Iran's most prominent reformist figures, including: Azar Mansouri, head of the Reformists Front and secretary-general of the coalition representing multiple reform-oriented political groups. Security forces from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' intelligence unit arrested her "from the door of her home under a judicial order," according to the Reformists Front. Mohsen Aminzadeh, a former deputy foreign minister who served under reformist President Mohammad Khatami from 1997 to 2005. As a diplomat, Aminzadeh was part of the reformist administration that attempted to improve Iran's relations with the West. Ebrahim Asgharzadeh, a former member of parliament who, ironically, led the 1979 student occupation of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran that resulted in the 444-day hostage crisis. His participation in that defining moment of the Islamic Revolution makes his arrest particularly symbolic of how far the crackdown has extended. Javad Emam, spokesman for the Reformists Front, was taken from his home by security forces on February 9, one day after the initial wave of arrests. Additionally, authorities detained Hossein Karroubi, son of reformist leader and former prime minister Mehdi Karroubi, who has been under house arrest for 14 years. The younger Karroubi was accused of being the "instigator, drafter and publisher" of his father's recent statement calling for an independent inquiry into the protest crackdown and a public referendum on Iran's governance. The Charges: Accused of Supporting U.S. and Israel Iran's judiciary accused the detained reformists of "organizing and leading extensive activities aimed at disrupting the political and social situation" at a time when the country faced "military threats" from Israel and the United States. According to the official Mizan news agency, authorities claimed the individuals had done their utmost "to justify the actions of the terrorist foot soldiers on the streets." Iran's head of the judiciary, Gholam Hossein Ejei, said Monday he had instructed prosecutors to "pre-emptively" deal with individuals deemed a threat to national security. While he did not name the reformist politicians directly, he appeared to allude to them by saying some arrested individuals "are saying exactly what the United States and the Israeli regime are saying." The judiciary's media outlet described the detainees as "four important political elements supporting the Zionist regime and the United States," though it provided no evidence for these allegations. These charges represent a familiar pattern in Iranian politics: labeling domestic critics as foreign agents to delegitimize their concerns and justify repression. The accusations are particularly ironic given that many of these reformists have spent decades working within the Islamic Republic's system and have repeatedly affirmed their loyalty to it, even while calling for modifications to its policies. What the Reformists Actually Said The arrests followed public statements by the Reformist Front and individual members sharply condemning the government's deadly violence toward protesters during the nationwide uprising in January. The coalition had become increasingly vocal in criticizing the massive death toll and demanding accountability. On January 26, Mansouri released a statement addressing protesters and their families: "We will not allow the blood of these loved ones to be forgotten or the truth to be lost in obscurity. No power, no justification, and no passage of time can cleanse this great tragedy." During the state crackdown on mass protests, the Reformists Front issued a statement saying that "a large segment of Iranian citizens have lost their trust in all the institutions and capacities that were supposed to protect, represent, and pursue their demands." After the 12-day war with Israel in June 2025, the coalition warned that "incremental collapse" awaited Iran if the country did not adopt fundamental reformsa prescient prediction given the massive protests that erupted six months later. Perhaps most significantly, the group was reportedly drawing up a statement calling for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to step down and relinquish power to President Masoud Pezeshkian, preparing Iran for a transition period, according to three party members and leaked audio from a meeting of senior figures circulating on social media. This represented a dramatic escalation in reformist criticism, crossing a red line by directly challenging Khamenei's authority. The Historical Context of Iranian Reformism Iran's reformist political faction is a legal and organized movement that has been a force in Iranian politics for three decades. President Mohammad Khatami, considered the father and founder of the party, served two consecutive four-year terms from 1997 to 2005. Other prominent reformists have served as parliament members, ministers, and political advisers. The current first vice president of Iran, Mohammad Reza Aref, hails from the reformist camp, and the coalition played an instrumental role in helping current President Pezeshkian win election in 2024. The party's endorsement convinced many Iranians to vote for Pezeshkian despite widespread disillusionment with the political system. However, reformists have also been repeatedly targeted by hardline rivals seeking to sideline them and consolidate power. The most notable previous crackdown came in 2009, when a contested presidential election sparked the Green Movement protests. Authorities arrested numerous reformist politicians, and two reformist leadersMehdi Karroubi and Mir Hossein Mousaviwere placed under house arrest, where they remain today, 17 years later. The 2009 repression significantly weakened the reformist movement, but it survived and gradually rebuilt influence. The current crackdown appears aimed at more comprehensively eliminating reformism as a viable political force within Iran. The Death Toll Dispute The arrests occurred against the backdrop of ongoing disputes about how many people died during the January protests. The Iranian government acknowledged on February 8 that 3,117 people were killed, publishing a list of 2,986 namesmost of whom authorities claim were security forces members and "innocent bystanders." However, human rights organizations dispute this characterization dramatically. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) said it has verified 6,961 deaths and is investigating 11,730 additional cases. This would put the actual death toll potentially above 18,000making it by far the deadliest period of civil unrest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The discrepancy in numbers reflects fundamentally different narratives about what happened. The government portrays the protests as violent riots instigated by foreign powers, with security forces defending themselves and innocent bystanders caught in crossfire. Human rights groups describe a massacre in which security forces deliberately fired on largely peaceful protesters with live ammunition. Most deaths occurred during the nights of January 8-9, when authorities launched a coordinated nationwide crackdown that appears to have involved shoot-to-kill orders. The government's subsequent internet blackout made documenting casualties extremely difficult and continues to hamper verification efforts. International Context: Simultaneous Nuclear Talks The timing of the arrests is particularly notable as they occurred just days after Iranian and U.S. officials held talks in Oman that both sides described as positive. President Donald Trump had threatened military action against Iran during the peak of the protests but later said he believed Tehran would be open to a deal. The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and accompanying naval and air forces remain positioned in the Middle East, maintaining both pressure on Tehran and strike capability should Trump order military action. Trump has repeatedly declared Iran must not obtain nuclear weapons and has demanded a comprehensive deal addressing not only the nuclear program but also Iran's ballistic missiles and support for regional militant groups. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was scheduled to visit Washington for discussions expected to focus heavily on Iran, with military options reportedly on the table if negotiations fail. Analysts interpret the arrests as a message not just to Iranians but to the outside world as these negotiations proceed. "This is clearly a regime that has now demonstrated that it is willing to fight for its survival at any cost," Vaez said, suggesting the crackdown shows Iran will not liberalize under external pressure. Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, said Sunday that Iran could envision "a series of confidence-building measures concerning the nuclear program" in exchange for the United States lifting sanctions. However, he insisted on Iran's right to continue enriching uraniuma position unlikely to satisfy U.S. and Israeli demands. Challenge for President Pezeshkian The arrests present a significant challenge for President Pezeshkian, who campaigned as a candidate closely affiliated with the Reformist Front. The party's endorsement played an instrumental role in convincing many Iranians to vote for him despite widespread political apathy and distrust of the system. Pezeshkian has not publicly commented on the arrests, placing him in an impossible position. Defending the arrested reformists would put him at odds with Khamenei and hardline elements that control the security apparatus. Remaining silent makes him appear either powerless or complicit in the repression of his own political allies. The situation illustrates the fundamental limitation of reform within Iran's political system: elected officials like the president serve at the pleasure of the unelected supreme leader, who controls the military, security services, and judiciary. When Khamenei and the IRGC decide to eliminate reformists, the reformist president has no mechanism to stop them. Additional Repressions: Narges Mohammadi and Filmmakers The crackdown extends beyond politicians. Narges Mohammadi, the imprisoned Nobel Peace Prize laureate, received an additional prison sentence exceeding seven years, demonstrating authorities' determination to silence even internationally recognized critics of the protest response. Filmmaker Mehdi Mahmoudian, co-screenwriter of "It Was Just an Accident," which won the Palme d'Or at Cannes in 2025, was also arrested for contributing to statements critical of authorities written after the January crackdown. The detention of cultural figures signals that no category of public intellectual or artist is safe from repression. These arrests follow a pattern of targeting anyone with public influence who expressed sympathy for protesters or criticized the government's violent response, regardless of their field or international standing. The Reformists' Dilemma and Public Support Whether reformists retain significant public support remains uncertain and was a subject of debate even before the arrests. During the January protests, many demonstrators chanted "Death to Khamenei" and expressed support for Iran's exiled crown prince, appearing to reject all politicians working within the Islamic Republic's frameworkincluding reformists. Political activist and former political prisoner Hossein Razzaq told Radio Farda that authorities are cracking down on any form of dissent, including reformists who "see themselves as loyal to the Islamic republic." This characterization captures the tragic irony: reformists spent decades affirming their loyalty to the system while advocating for changes within it, but the system has now decided even that qualified loyalty represents an unacceptable threat. The large death toll from the protests deepened longstanding tensions between reformist leaders and their base, which has grown increasingly disillusioned with the Islamic Republic and sought a tougher stance toward the country's rulers. Many younger Iranians, in particular, view reformism as a failed project that legitimized an unreformable system. Long-Term Risks for the Regime By pursuing such a forceful crackdown against reformists, Iranian authorities face a significant long-term risk: they may push these figures to eventually take a stronger oppositional stance, according to Sanam Vakil, director of the Middle East and North Africa program at Chatham House. "This is a signal things are going to get worse before they get better," Vakil said. "This is not going to be a snap back to life as normal." Sina Azodi, director of the Middle East Studies programme at George Washington University, characterized the arrests as indicating the Islamic Republic "has decided to close any avenues for political dissent and, rather, to rule with an iron fist, through crackdowns and more fear-mongering among any political dissidents." Historically, authoritarian regimes that eliminate all channels for peaceful political opposition and reform risk pushing dissidents toward more radical positions and tactics. If reformists conclude that working within the system is impossible because the system will imprison them anyway, they may eventually embrace more fundamental opposition to the regime itself. Looking Forward As the arrested reformists face prosecution on charges of supporting Israel and the United Statesallegations that may carry severe penalties including potential death sentencesthe future of political reform in Iran appears bleaker than at any point since the 1979 revolution. The arrests eliminate a safety valve that previously allowed some expression of dissent within controlled channels. Whether this makes the system more stable by eliminating potential internal subversion, or less stable by foreclosing all peaceful paths for change, remains to be seen. What is clear is that Iran's political landscape has fundamentally shifted. The space for legal opposition has collapsed. The question now is whether Iranians will accept living under increasingly authoritarian rule, or whether eliminating all peaceful alternatives for change will ultimately produce more radical forms of resistance. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth attends a cabinet meeting at the White House on January 29, 2026. - Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images/File Military officers could soon find dozens of top colleges and universities across the United States abruptly off limits for tuition assistance as part of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths campaign against schools he describes as being biased against the US military and sponsoring troublesome partnerships with foreign adversaries. The uncertainty about tuition assistance and eligible programs for Defense Department funding has led to confusion and concern amongst service members who have already applied or been accepted to these schools. Officials also said they were concerned it amounted to an attempt to purge diversity of thought from the military. The policy was rolled out in a memo signed by Hegseth last week saying that beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, the Pentagon would be severing its relationship with Harvard University and discontinuing all graduate-level professional military education, fellowships and certificate programs there for active-duty service members. Hegseth ordered the military services to evaluate all existing graduate programs for active-duty members at Ivy League universities and any other universities that similarly diminish critical thinking and have significant adversary involvement, and determine whether they deliver cost-effective, strategic education for future senior leaders when compared to public universities and military masters programs, according to a source familiar with the memo. The guidances broad terminology has injected confusion and concern into the military branches, who have begun to compile lists of colleges and universities that may have a moderate to high risk of being impacted, meaning the Pentagon wouldnt fund any service members higher education there. A preliminary list of at-risk schools compiled by the Army for troops enrolling in law school and reviewed by CNN characterizes the following schools as being at moderate to high risk of being banned: American University, Boston College, Boston University, Brown University, Carnegie Mellon, Case Western University, Columbia University, College of William and Mary, Cornell University, Duke, Emory, Florida Institute of Technology, Fordham, Georgetown, George Washington University, Harvard, Hawaii Pacific University, Johns Hopkins University, the London School of Economics and Political Science, MIT, Northeastern University, Northwestern University, New York University, Pepperdine, Princeton, Stanford, Tufts, University of Miami, University of Pennsylvania, University of Southern California, Vanderbilt, Wake Forest, Washington University in St Louis, and Yale. A source familiar with Hegseths guidance told CNN that the implication is that graduate programs for highest performing officers and non-commissioned officers are almost certainly at risk. This source and a military official added that it has created extensive uncertainty within the services about how to proceed with applying for advanced civil schooling, including top law programs, medical programs, and nuclear engineering programs. The Office of the Secretary of Defense referred CNN to the services for comment. The Army did not respond to a request for comment. Several top political appointees at the Pentagon, including Hegseth himself, are graduates of Ivy League schools or other top universities. Hegseth attended Princeton and Harvard; Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg attended Princeton; Army Secretary Dan Driscoll obtained his law degree from Yale; Navy Secretary John Phelan holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and completed a general course degree in economics and international relations at the London School of Economics The guidance was first mentioned publicly in a video Hegseth posted on social media last week, in which he bashed Harvard and other American universities that have pervasive institutional bias saying they no longer live up to their founding principles, as bastions of free speech, open inquiry, and committed to the American values that make our country great. Advertisement In two weeks time, components of all of our departments Army, Navy, and Air Force will evaluate all existing graduate programs for active duty service members at all Ivy League universities, and other civilian universities, Hegseth said. Educational programs and opportunities are a key recruiting and retention tool for the military services, often exchanging mandatory years in uniform for tuition assistance to top schools in the country. Graduate programs have been lauded as a way to academically sharpen US military personnel, keeping the best and brightest in uniform, while also allowing them to invest in their futures after theyve left military service. Eligible schools are often those accredited by the major associations for those specialties. For qualifying service members who wish to go to law school, for example, schools are typically considered eligible for the Army to pay for them if they are accredited by the American Bar Association. The Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program covers tuition for medical, dental, nursing, and psychology students in return for one year of active-duty service for each year of support. For medical programs, the military typically requires that the school is accredited by the American Medical Association or American Osteopathic Association. The vagueness of the memo has also raised concern that tuition assistance could be impacted, which active-duty service members can use for other graduate or certification programs in their off-duty time that are not necessarily related to their day-to-day jobs. Service members can enroll in business administration courses, for example, or communication and marketing. But the military also has extensive partnerships with various universities and colleges for professional military education opportunities. The Space Force, for example, announced in 2023 a partnership with Johns Hopkins, which was included on the Armys tentative list of universities that are considered at risk. The military official said the guidance was akin to prohibiting officers from obtaining a top tier education, and said it amounted to the Pentagon attempting to purge intellect, diversity of thinking, and critical thought from the military. The overall concern is that we want military officers and non-commissioned officers to have the ability to critically think and challenge ideas and some of these institutions are great places to do that whether you agree with liberal or conservative thought or not, said the source familiar with the matter. It seems both very delicate oh these words and ideas scare me, so Ill preclude people from engaging but also short-sighted and is generating confusion. Hegseth has been intensely focused on reshaping the culture of the military since taking office last year, which has involved everything from adding a secondary title for the Department of Defense as the Department of War to policy shifts that have deeply impacted servicemembers, like a ban on transgender troops and an evaluation of whether women should service in combat roles. Last year, he also ordered all military academies to identify and remove books from their libraries that deal with issues such as race, gender ideology, and other divisive concepts that are now considered incompatible with the departments core mission, according to a memo he signed at the time. Hegseths latest war on Harvard and other top universities has also mirrored one waged by President Donald Trump, who over the last year has targeted federal funding, research grants, and student visas at elite universities across the country beginning with Harvard unless they comply with his demands to dismantle Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs and crackdown on pro-Palestine student protesters and antisemitism on campuses. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Secretary of State Marco Rubio is leading the U.S. delegation to the high-profile Munich Security Conference one year after Vice President JD Vance took the German stage in a speech that stunned many in Europe and became one of the defining moments of Trumps early second term abroad. "President Trump has assembled the most talented team in history, including Vice President Vance and Secretary Rubio, who are working in lockstep to notch wins for the American people," White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales told Fox News Digital ahead of Rubio's speech. "The President and his team have flexed their foreign policy prowess to end decades-long wars, secure peace in the Middle East, and restore American dominance in the Western Hemisphere. The entire administration is working together to restore peace through strength and put America First." The Munich Security Conference is an annual high-level forum in Germany that draws hundreds of senior decision-makers including heads of state, top ministers, military leaders and policy influencers for closed-door and public talks on global security crises. Vance, Rubio Cheer On Team Usa Women's Ice Hockey In Their Winter Olympics Opening Win Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, New York Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Gov. Gavin Newsom of California are among notable Democrats attending the conference, in addition to Rubio. Read On The Fox News App Vance became one of the central figures at the 2025 Munich gathering after a widely publicized speech that drew heavy attention and applause from conservatives following the Biden administration. It also sparked backlash among some European officials who viewed his remarks as confrontational. Rubio's attendance at the 2026 meeting follows a lengthy history of the State Department chief earning a series of different roles under the second administration, including acting national security advisor, secretary of state, acting archivist of the United States and acting administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development. Amid rising trans-Atlantic tension, the secretary of state issued a warning to Europe as he departed for his trip to Germany Thursday. Vance, Rubio Greet American Winter Olympians In Italy "The Old World is gone," Rubio told reporters as he departed for Europe Thursday. "Frankly, the world I grew up in, and we live in a new era in geopolitics, and it's going to require all of us to re-examine what that looks like and what our role is going to be." President Donald Trump and his administration repeatedly have put Europe on notice for allegedly devolving into a culture of political correctness, speech policing, and a security system that heavily relies on U.S. funding and military might. Amid the rhetoric on Europe, the administration has continued to underscore the importance of U.S.-Europe relations, including Rubio on Thursday. "Were very tightly linked together with Europe," he told reporters. "Most people in this country can trace both, either their cultural or their personal heritage, back to Europe. So, we just have to talk about that." Secretary of State Marco Rubio is leading the U.S. delegation to the high-profile Munich Security Conference. (AP Images) Vance used his Munich Security Conference speech to deliver a blunt warning to Europes political class 2025, arguing the continents biggest danger is not Moscow or Beijing, but what he described as internal democratic decay that has festered due to political correctness and censorship. Rubio Warns Nato Allies Us Is 'Not Simply Focused On Europe,' Doesn't Have Unlimited Resources He accused European governments and institutions of drifting toward censorship, citing policies he said police speech, curb religious expression and pressure online platforms. He also argued elites allegedly were trying to manage elections and debate by dismissing unwelcome outcomes and branding dissent as "misinformation" to sideline populists and blunt voter backlash. Advertisement "What I worry about is the threat from within, the retreat of Europe from some of its most fundamental values values shared with the United States of America," Vance said in 2025 in the speech that left many European leaders stunned, according to reports at the time. Vance was also overseas this week, holding meetings with Armenia and Azerbaijan, including signing a peaceful nuclear cooperation with Armenia and a strategic partnership with Azerbaijan. That trip followed both Vance and Rubio joining a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni earlier in February in Italy, and Vance leading a delegation that included Rubio during the Olympics' opening ceremony in Milan. A source familiar told Fox News Digital that there were never plans for the vice president to attend the 2026 conference in Munich. Trump Hails Rubio As Diplomatic Mentor As Secretary Of State's Power Grows Vances foreign policy footprint became subject of political media scrutiny earlier in 2026 when the U.S. military successfully captured Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro. Vance was not among high-profile U.S. leaders who joined Trump at his Mar-a-Lago, Florida, resort to monitor the operation, unlike Rubio who was with the president. The VP's office brushed off media alarm over his absence, citing that Trump and Vance limit the "frequency and duration" of time they spend together outside the White House due to "increased security concerns." The vice president is by no means is expected to attend the Munich Security Conference each year, with former Vice President Mike Pence, for example, attending the conference twice under the first Trump administration, and former Vice President Kamala Harris attending three times under the Biden administration. Previous secretaries of state such as John Kerry, Antony Blinken and Clinton have attended and addressed the body in previous years. Vance additionally attended a separate Munich Security Conference event, the Leaders Conference, in Washington, D.C., in May 2025. Trump praised Vance's 2025 speech as "brilliant" in a statement to reporters at the time, remarking that "they're losing their wonderful right of freedom of speech" in Europe and that Vance made a strong case against much of Europe's lax immigration polices. Since then, Trumps team repeatedly has echoed the same critique in official channels, including a State Department push that has blasted European speech restrictions and targeted the European Unions Digital Services Act as "Orwellian" censorship, alongside new visa restrictions aimed at foreign officials accused of censoring Americans online. Just in December 2025, President Donald Trump blasted European nations for not being "recognizable" at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Just in December 2025, Trump blasted European nations for not being "recognizable" at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, teeing up what could be another fiery speech from Americans on European soil Saturday. Click Here To Download The Fox News App "I don't want to insult anybody and say I don't recognize it," Trump said during his special address in Davos, Switzerland. "And that's not in a positive way. That's in a very negative way. And I love Europe and I want to see Europe do good, but it's not heading in the right direction." Fox News Digital reached out to the State Department for comment on the address Friday. Original article source: Rubio steps into Munich spotlight as Trump leans on him to carry Vances populist message abroad Senators Speak To Reporters Following Weekly Policy Luncheons (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Republican Maine Sen. Susan Collins came out in support of the House-passed SAVE America Act Friday while drawing a red line on preserving the upper chambers filibuster. Collins said the bills altered language requiring photo ID at the polls rather than proof of citizenship was key to getting her support, according to The Maine Wire. She also said the filibuster is necessary and added that its elimination would allow a Democrat-led Congress to pass provisions on anything they want. (RELATED: Just One Democrat Votes For Trump-Backed Election Integrity Bill) The law is clear that in this country only American citizens are eligible to vote in federal elections, she told the outlet. In addition, having people provide an ID at the polls, just as they have to do before boarding an airplane, checking into a hotel, or buying an alcoholic beverage, is a simple reform that will improve the security of our federal elections and will help give people more confidence in the results. Collins on Wednesday declined to tell the Daily Caller News Foundation how she would vote. The legislation passed the House later that day, 218-213, gaining support from only one Democrat, Texas Rep. Henry Cuellar. Advertisement Collins, a moderate Republican who frequently breaks from her party, hinged her support for the bill on protecting the Senate rules enforcing a 60-vote threshold. Some Republicans, such as Sens. John Cornyn of Texas and Mitch McConnell) of Kentucky, say their Democratic colleagues will abolish the filibuster when they come into power. However, Republican Utah Sen. Mike Lee the bills sponsor in the Senate and other lawmakers are pushing to use the Senates existing rule of a talking filibuster that makes senators actually talk to hold up a bill, only theres no set clock. Senate rules do not place time frames on speeches, and the procedural tactic could easily last days as senators take up time on the floor debating every amendment and motion of the bill. The bill is still facing challenges among Republicans as Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski said she would not vote for the legislation. Collins is facing a primary election this fall against the Pine Tree States incumbent Democratic Gov. Janet Mills and controversy-ridden Democrat Graham Platner. All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporters byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org. The late Pope Francis, left, and former White House adviser Steve Bannon. - AP, Getty Images Steve Bannon, a former White House adviser to US President Donald Trump, discussed opposition strategies with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein against Pope Francis, with Bannon saying he hoped to take down the pontiff, according to newly released files from the US Department of Justice. Messages sent between the pair in 2019, released in the massive document dump last month, reveal Bannon courted the late financier in his attempts to undermine the former pontiff after leaving the first Trump administration. Bannon had been highly critical of Francis whom he saw as an opponent to his sovereigntist vision, a brand of nationalist populism which swept through Europe in 2018 and 2019. The released documents from the DOJ appear to show that Epstein had been helping Bannon to build his movement. Will take down (Pope) Francis, Bannon wrote to Epstein in June 2019. The Clintons, Xi, Francis, EU come on brother. Pope Francis was a significant obstacle to Bannons brand of nationalist populism. In 2018, the former Trump aide described Francis to The Spectator as beneath contempt, accusing him of siding with globalist elites and, according to SourceMaterial, urged Matteo Salvini, now Italys deputy prime minister, to attack the pontiff. For his part, Salvini has used Christian iconography and language when pursuing his anti-immigrant agenda. Rome and the Vatican have been important for Bannon. He set up a Rome bureau when he ran Breitbart News and has been involved in trying to establish a political training gladiator school to defend Judeo-Christian values not far from the Eternal City. Former White House Chief Strategist Steve Bannon speaks at Atreju 2018, a conference of right wing activists, on September 22, 2018, in Rome, Italy. Bannon was in Rome to drum up support for The Movement, his organization designed to help right-wing political parties in Europe. - Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post/Getty Images Former White House Chief Strategist Steve Bannon talks with Giorgia Meloni, leader of the Brothers of Italy, before speaking at Atreju 2018, a conference of right wing activists, as aids block cameras from viewing through the bushes behind on September 22, 2018 in Rome, Italy. Meloni, known for her conservative ideals, is now prime minister of Italy. - Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post/Getty Images Francis, meanwhile, was a counterweight to the Trumpian worldview, strongly critiquing nationalism and making advocacy for migrants a hallmark of his pontificate. The recently released DOJ files reveal Bannon messaged Epstein on several occasions in his efforts to undermine the late pope. In his messages with Epstein, Bannon references In the Closet of the Vatican, a 2019 book by French journalist Frederic Martel that lifted a lid on secrecy and hypocrisy at high levels of the church. Martel created a storm with his book by claiming 80% of the clergy working in the Vatican are gay, while exploring how they keep their sexuality secret. The whole question of homosexuality in the church has been a lightning rod for some conservatives, who see it as evidence of a deeper, systemic crisis in the church, with some linking it to the wider sexual abuse scandals. Most experts and researchers view any conflating of sexual orientation with abuse as scientifically inaccurate. Bannon showed an interest in turning Martels book into a film after meeting the author in Paris at a five-star hotel. In the messages, Bannon appears to suggest that Epstein could be the films executive producer. You are now exec producer of ITCOTV (In the closet of the Vatican), Bannon wrote. It is not clear how serious the proposal from Bannon to Epstein was, and, in the exchange, Epstein doesnt mention the offer and asks about Bannon filming Noam Chomsky, the philosopher and public intellectual. Martel said when he met Bannon at the Hotel Le Bristol he told him that he could not agree to any film deal as his publishers controlled the film rights and had already signed a deal with another corporation. He told CNN that he thinks Bannon wanted to instrumentalize the book in his efforts against Pope Francis. Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein in a handout image from the estate of the late financier and convicted sex offender, released by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee in Washington, DC, on December 12, 2025. - House Oversight Committee Democrats/Handout/Reuters The Epstein files show Epstein, on April 1, 2019, emailed himself in the closet of the vatican, and later sent Bannon an article titled Pope Francis or Steve Bannon? Catholics must choose to which Bannon replies easy choice. Austen Ivereigh, a biographer of the late pope, said Bannon thought he could use Martels book to embarrass and damage Pope Francis, while claiming to purify the church. I think he badly misjudged the nature of the book and Pope Francis, Ivereigh told CNN. Advertisement Yet, as it now turns out, it appears that Bannon was messaging Epstein several years after his 2008 conviction for child sex offenses and just before he was arrested for the sex trafficking of minors. Rev. Antonio Spadaro, a Vatican official who collaborated closely with Pope Francis, told CNN Bannons messages show a desire to fuse spiritual authority with political power for strategic ends. The late pope, Spadaro explains, resisted such a link: What those messages reveal is not merely hostility toward a pontiff, but a deeper attempt to instrumentalize faith as a weapon precisely the temptation he sought to disarm. The period of 2018 to 2019 saw intense opposition to Francis, which culminated in an August 2018 dossier released by Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, the former papal ambassador to the US, accusing him of failing to deal with abuse committed by Cardinal Theodore McCarrick. A Vatican inquiry later cleared Francis. But Bannons desire to make a film out of Martels book saw him lose an ally in the Vatican. Cardinal Raymond Burke, a prominent conservative critic of Francis, said: I am not at all of the mind that the book should be made into a film. Former White House Chief Strategist Steve Bannon makes his way through crowds surrounded by his entourage after speaking at Atreju 2018. - Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post/Getty Images Burke was also portrayed in an unflattering way in Martels book. Burkes split with Bannon came when he cut ties with Dignitatis Humanae, a conservative institute founded by Benjamin Harnwell, a British political adviser and a close associate of Bannons based in Italy. Harnwell had been working with Bannon to set up an academy to train nationalist-populist leaders in an 800-year-old former monastery called Certosa di Trisulti in the province of Frosinone, 47 miles south-east of Rome. Harnwell is engaged in an ongoing legal battle with Italys culture ministry over the monasterys conversion, with a hearing taking place on February 11. In 2019, the Italian government revoked a lease given to Harnwells institute for the monastery, stating irregularities, non-payments and misrepresentations by Harnwell. In 2024, however, a Roman court cleared him, and he is seeking to win back the lease. The Epstein files also reveal that Bannon forwarded an email to Epstein in July 2018 with an article from Italian newspaper La Repubblica headlined Bannon the European: Hes opening the populist fort in Brussels. Bannon was forwarding an English translation of the article, which had originally been sent by Harnwell. Harnwell told CNN that Epstein was not involved in Trisulti. Director of the Dignitatis Humanae Institute Benjamin Harnwell at the Trisulti Monastery Certosa di Trisulti in Collepardo on May 2, 2019. Harnwell was behind a would-be "gladiator school" for populists in Italy. - Alberto Pizzoli/AFP/Getty Images The Trisulti Monastery Certosa di Trisulti in Collepardo on May 2, 2019. - Alberto Pizzoli/AFP/Getty Images Elsewhere in the files, Epstein jokes with his brother, Mark, about inviting Pope Francis to his residence for a massage during the US papal visit in 2015. Three years later, he messages Bannon to say hes trying to organize a trip for the pope to the Midde East, adding headline tolerance. When Bannon shares with Epstein an article about the Vatican condemning populist nationalism, Epstein quotes John Miltons biblical poem Paradise Lost, when Satan has been cast out of heaven. Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heaven, Epstein tells Bannon. CNN has contacted a representative of Bannon for comment. Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein or any allegation of sexual misconduct. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Assemblymember James Gallagher, R-Chico, talks to The Center Square at his Capitol office about his bill to limit the governor's powers during a state of emergency, Feb. 12, 2026. Photo: Madeline Shannon / The Center Square (The Center Square) The governors ability to act unilaterally during states of emergency would be limited, if a new California bill becomes law. Assembly Bill 1835, introduced by Assemblymember James Gallagher, R-Chico, would limit a state of emergency that a governor can declare to 90 days, unless the Legislature votes to extend it. Theres definitely times during an emergency when a governor, an executive, needs to act to protect life and property, Gallagher told The Center Square in an exclusive interview this week. However, there also needs to be some checks and balances on that. Gallagher aims to do what he said is a similar process in local governments throughout the state, as well as the legislatures of other states. That gives the ability to the Legislature to review the emergency, whats going on, and then have some say in whether those emergency powers continue, Gallagher said. We think its a good reform. Advertisement The bill was born out of a response to the state of emergency in California during the COVID-19, pandemic, when Gov. Gavin Newsom, then in his early tenure as governor, declared a state of emergency in the state that lasted for years. Newsom declared the state of emergency on March, 4, 2020, at the outset of the pandemic. The Democratic governor declared the state of emergency over on Feb. 28, 2023. We did see, I think, pretty gross abuses of executive power, Gallagher told The Center Square. Hes shutting down churches, shutting down restaurants, literally changing election law with an executive order rather than through the policy-making body. Those were all things that I think were pretty gross overreaches. While the Legislature already has the power to convene to vote to end a state of emergency declared by the governor, no law in the state currently automatically ends a state of emergency, allowing it to last for as long as the governor wants it to, Gallagher said. That puts the onus back onto the policy-making body to review that and see if were moving in the right direction or if theres changes that need to be made, Gallagher said. The California Emergency Services Act allows the governor to declare a state of emergency if the local emergency authority in one community is unable to respond adequately to an emerging threat on its own. This law also gives the governor complete authority over state agencies and police power to respond to the emergency. Other lawmakers were unavailable to respond to The Center Squares request for comment on the legislation. The governors office said through a spokesperson on Friday that the governors office does not typically comment on pending legislation. Choosing the right college town can shape not only your education, but also your future lifestyle, so you should make the most out of those student loans. From lively university communities to charming smalltown campuses, the best college towns in America offer a unique balance of academics and affordability. However, with rising rents and shifty economic turmoil, students and families are paying closer attention to the cost of living in each location. MoneyLion has given it the old college try to break down the 20 best college towns in the U.S. and what it actually costs to live there, including average rent prices, household incomes and monthly expenses. Discover which college towns offer the best options to get an A in economics so you can choose a place that fits both your goals and your wallet. Also See: Income Needed To Crack the Top 10% in Every State Advertisement Check Out: This One Low-Effort Money Move Could Change Your Finances in 2026 Key Findings The two biggest college towns based on the population of people aged 20 to 24 are Ann Arbor (38,641) and Provo (45,082). Moscow, Idaho, may be ranked 17th on this list, but it has the overall lowest cost of living per month, with an average of about $3,128. Ames, Iowa, has the lowest average rent at $1,175 per month. Every city on this list has average monthly expenses below $2,200. 1. Lynchburg, Virginia Local college(s): Liberty University, University of Lynchburg, Randolph College Population: 79,255 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 24.5% Median household income: $59,808 Average monthly rent: $1,288 Average monthly expenses: $1,908 Annual cost of living: $38,353 2. Ames, Iowa Local college(s): Iowa State University Population: 66,112 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 42.9% Median household income: $60,102 Average monthly rent: $1,175 Average monthly expenses: $1,970 Annual cost of living: $37,732 3. West Lafayette, Indiana Local college(s): Purdue University Population: 44,802 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 61.1% Median household income: $33,497 Average monthly rent: $1,868 Average monthly expenses: $1,842 Annual cost of living: $44,517 4. Ann Arbor, Michigan Local college(s): University of Michigan Population: 121,179 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 31.9% Median household income: $81,089 Average monthly rent: $2,289 Average monthly expenses: $1,990 Annual cost of living: $51,344 5. Blacksburg, Virginia Local college(s): Virginia Tech Population: 45,288 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 53.5% Median household income: $48,070 Average monthly rent: $1,876 Average monthly expenses: $1,991 Annual cost of living: $46,401 6. Oxford, Mississippi Local college(s): University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) Population: 26,086 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 22.0% Median household income: $59,901 Average monthly rent: $2,560 Average monthly expenses: $1,838 Annual cost of living: $52,779 7. Lawrence, Kansas Local college(s): University of Kansas Population: 95,459 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 26.6% Median household income: $62,838 Average monthly rent: $1,652 Average monthly expenses: $2,037 Annual cost of living: $44,276 8. Kent, Ohio Local college(s): Kent State University Population: 27,190 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 38.6% Median household income: $42,524 Average monthly rent: $1,518 Average monthly expenses: $1,826 Annual cost of living: $40,127 9. Logan, Utah Local college(s): Utah State University, Bridgerland Technical College Population: 53,923 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 32.6% Median household income: $56,764 Average monthly rent: $1,389 Average monthly expenses: $1,898 Annual cost of living: $39,447 10. Bozeman, Montana Local college(s): Montana State University Population: 55,042 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 27.9% Median household income: $79,903 Average monthly rent: $2,148 Average monthly expenses: $1,906 Annual cost of living: $48,653 11. Chapel Hill, North Carolina Local college(s): University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Population: 59,889 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 32.8% Median household income: $85,825 Average monthly rent: $1,910 Average monthly expenses: $2,001 Annual cost of living: $46,938 12. Lexington, Kentucky Local college(s): University of Kentucky, Transylvania University Population: 321,122 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 13.7% Median household income: $67,631 Average monthly rent: $1,613 Average monthly expenses: $1,926 Annual cost of living: $42,465 13. Cambridge, Massachusetts Local college(s): Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Population: 117,794 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 20.3% Median household income: $126,469 Average monthly rent: $3,238 Average monthly expenses: $2,190 Annual cost of living: $65,142 14. State College, Pennsylvania Local college(s): Penn State University Population: 40,669 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 64.2% Median household income: $47,132 Average monthly rent: $2,068 Average monthly expenses: $2,059 Annual cost of living: $49,524 15. Pullman, Washington Local college(s): Washington State University Population: 31,939 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 45.7% Median household income: $45,097 Average monthly rent: $1,618 Average monthly expenses: $1,773 Annual cost of living: $40,692 16. Normal, Illinois Local college(s): Illinois State University Population: 52,908 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 32.9% Median household income: $66,350 Average monthly rent: $1,444 Average monthly expenses: $1,944 Annual cost of living: $40,661 17. Moscow, Idaho Local college(s): University of Idaho Population: 25,868 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 32.5% Median household income: $56,497 Average monthly rent: $1,297 Average monthly expenses: $1,831 Annual cost of living: $37,536 18. Iowa City, Iowa Local college(s): University of Iowa Population: 75,264 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 33.8% Median household income: $57,533 Average monthly rent: $1,795 Average monthly expenses: $1,888 Annual cost of living: $44,199 19. Tallahassee, Florida Local college(s): Florida State University, Tallahassee State College, Florida A&M University Population: 199,696 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 28.1% Median household income: $55,931 Average monthly rent: $1,460 Average monthly expenses: $2,018 Annual cost of living: $41,737 20. Provo, Utah Local college(s): Brigham Young University, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions Population: 114,303 Percentage of population aged 20 to 24: 39.4% Median household income: $62,800 Average monthly rent: $1,517 Average monthly expenses: $1,932 Annual cost of living: $41,389 Methodology: Locations were selected using BestCollegeReviews and CollegeTransitions. Locations were also selected by identifying the highest percentage of population using the U.S. Census ACS. Locations with a total population under 5,000 were removed from this study. For each location, the cost-of-living indexes were sourced from Sperling's BestPlaces. Using the national average expenditure cost for all households from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey for all consumer units, the average expenditure cost was calculated for each location. The average rental cost was sourced from Zillow Observed Rental Index and added to the expenditure costs to get the total cost of living. The cities were sorted by their livability index, with ties being determined by the highest cost of living. All data was up to date as of Jan. 8, 2026. This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice. More From MoneyLion: The Ramsey Show Cohosts George Kamel and Rachel Cruze were confused as to whether a caller's situation was real or a scam. A Michigan woman recently called into The Ramsey Show because she found out a shocking secret her husband had been spending money on a woman he had been communicating with in prison. Caroline from Detroit said that her husband had been using his fun money on a prison pen pal, and that the secret relationship had been going on for three years (1). Must Read Cohosts George Kamel and Rachel Cruze were confused as to whether this was real or a scam. Caroline explained that her husband told her he came across a website, and thats how he started communicating with the woman, and he was sending her money for use in the commissary, or who knows what else. Kamel asked Caroline how she found out, and she said that she had noticed suspicious phone numbers on their phone bill, and that her husband was broke all the time and always waiting for the next allocation of his fun money. Now, Caroline wants to know how she can move on from her husbands financial and emotional infidelity, and rebuild trust. Signs of financial infidelity Financial infidelity is when someone in a relationship intentionally lies about money. This can look like buying things without telling your partner, or having accounts, credit cards or investments that you keep secret. In an article that Cruze penned for Ramsey Solutions, she distinguishes between financial irresponsibility and financial infidelity (2). Financial irresponsibility, she explains, might look like a partner eating out for lunch frequently because they always forget to pack a lunch. But financial infidelity would be a partner who has promised that they will stick to a budget when it comes to food spending, and then repeatedly eats lunch out, and hides it from their partner. While Carolines husband was spending money that they had decided as a couple was fun money, to use on whatever they wished, he was using it to secretly carry on an emotional affair. And the fact that he was always broke means he may have been spending more than fun money on this person. The fact that he hid all this from Caroline is what seals this as financial infidelity. A case like Carolines highlights how important financial transparency, compatibility and trust are to relationships. If you find that you and your partner argue about spending, and it pushes you to simply hide your purchases or financial decisions, youre committing financial infidelity and it could break up your relationship. It's a sign that its time to take steps as a couple to build communication around finances, so that you can learn to find compromise instead of lying and hiding things. Financial infidelity is a serious breach of trust and it can do a lot of damage to a relationship and a couples finances. Caroline told Cruze and Kamel that she had been at a point where she was ready to get divorced, but the fact that her husband agreed to seek help together through their church had kept her from ending the relationship. Cruze writes that being honest about mistakes you have made, learning to develop better communication and working on a shared budget as a couple are all ways to help rebuild after financial infidelity (2). She also recommends seeking out counseling. Advertisement Read More: 92% of surveyed retirees say higher costs are eating into their savings. What can you do? 4 ways to protect your money in 2026 Theres a lot of repair that has to happen, regardless if the marriage survives," Cruze told Caroline. "To be two healthy people is what you guys need. Protect yourself The situation that Caroline described, of a long infidelity with financial implications, is a serious case of financial infidelity. Both cohosts agree that Caroline should take significant measures now to protect herself financially. Cruze recommended that she separate her finances from her husbands, in order to protect herself. Kamel said Caroline should also pull credit reports to make sure there is no other financial infidelity going on. We want to pull the credit report to make sure theres no outstanding debts that maybe you dont know about and to get a clear picture of whats out there, Kamel said, and then freeze his credit so he cant open any new accounts. The cohosts also recommend, in order to help build trust back and to keep her finances safe, Caroline should ask for notifications to be set up on her husbands accounts. I would have transaction alerts set up so you get a text message every time a cent comes out of that bank account [...] even if its just his account right now, Kamel said. The second priority, after protecting herself financially, is rebuilding trust. In order to do this, the cohosts said Carolines husband needs to come clean about everything that happened with his infidelity. If you guys are going to move forward, everything needs to come into the light, Kamel said. Yeah. Its a full-disclosure situation, that you guys need to sit down with a counselor to even move forward. Theres no way you can move forward with half the truth with your marriage, Cruze added. Cruze also said that both Caroline and her husband should seek out individual counseling as well, to work on their own issues. While separating your finances might feel scary or extreme to some people, if you are dealing with a serious case of financial infidelity, its wise to take serious steps to protect yourself. What To Read Next Join 200,000+ readers and get Moneywises best stories and exclusive interviews first clear insights curated and delivered weekly. Subscribe now. Article sources We rely only on vetted sources and credible third-party reporting. For details, see our editorial ethics and guidelines. The Ramsey Show Highlights/YouTube (1); Ramsey Solutions (2) This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor tried to arrange a meeting for Jeffrey Epstein with Colonel Gaddafi in Tripoli, Libya, emails appear to show. Messages within the latest release of the US Department of Justices Epstein files, from the autumn of 2010, show the disgraced financier contacted royal aide David Stern. He said: i want to go to tripoli lets organize with pa. The paedophile then sent another email to Mr Stern, which said: people that have seen the father, have asked me if i want to meet him as he does not know where to put his money as opposed to what to do with it, currencies etc, I wondered if Pa should make the intro instead. Epstein wanted to meet Gaddafi, emails appear to show (Department of Justice) The emails were first unearthed from the Epstein files by Channel 4 News, which reported the father refers to the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to distinguish him from his well-known son Saif. It appears Mr Stern then consulted Andrew, in a reply dated the following day, October 8 2010, writing: He is thinking about the best approach and will discuss with me when I see him next on 17th Oct in Hong Kong (he is leaving today for Asia). Advertisement Andrew then spoke to a Libyan contact in an attempt to facilitate the meeting. The former Duke of York made an official visit to China in October 2010 and was the UKs trade envoy at the time. Colonel Gaddafi (AP) Later emails from The Duke, signed A, to Epsteins address say I will call you later this evening after I have had my chat with my Libyan contact to see what we can arrange for you in Tripoli. The same day, November 4 2010, A follows up to Epstein writing Libya fixed. Call me whenever. The emails come as Thames Valley Police on Wednesday said it had held discussions with specialists from the Crown Prosecution Service about allegations that Andrew shared confidential reports from his role as the UKs trade envoy with Epstein. It appears the planned meeting did not go ahead, as Epstein did not end up flying to the Libyan capital, Channel 4 News reported. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been contacted for comment. Law enforcement agencies carried out a late-night operation Friday at a residence about two miles from 84-year-old Nancy Guthries home as part of the investigation into her disappearance, but did not make any arrests. More than a dozen law enforcement vehicles, including SWAT and forensic teams, reportedly descended on a residence around two miles from Guthries Arizona home. Several roads were closed for about four hours, but later reopened, according to CNN. The 84-year-old mother of Today show anchor Savannah Guthrie was last seen at her home on January 31 and was reported missing the next day. Police believe she was abducted. A Pima County Sheriffs Department spokesperson confirmed no arrests were made during Fridays search. Last night, a federal court-ordered search warrant was executed at a residence near E. Orange Grove Rd. and N. First Ave. in connection with the Guthrie case, the spokesperson said Saturday. The warrant was based on a lead we received. The Pima County Sheriffs Department has revealed DNA that doesnt belong to anyone in 'close contact' with Nancy Guthrie was found at the missing 84-year-olds home (FBI) Separately, Friday night at a Culvers restaurant in Tucson, also about two miles from Guthries home, police searched and towed a silver or gray Range Rover following a traffic stop, Fox News Digital reported. The Pima County Sheriffs Department spokesperson confirmed one person was questioned after a traffic stop Friday evening, but provided few other details. A traffic stop was also conducted, and a person was questioned but no arrests resulted from that incident. There are no further details available at this time, the spokesperson said. Investigators wont quit their efforts to find Guthrie, even if it takes years, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told The New York Times on Friday. Maybe its an hour from now, he said. Maybe its weeks or months or years from now. But we wont quit. Were going to find Nancy. Were going to find this guy." FBI and SWAT conducted operations in a Tucson neighborhood two miles from Nancy Guthries home late Friday night (Getty Images) Also Friday, law enforcement searched and ultimately towed a Range Rover stopped at a Culvers just two miles from Guthries home (Getty Images) Police have yet to find Guthrie or her alleged abductor, but have been releasing new information about the case as the days go on. Earlier Friday, the Pima County Sheriffs Department revealed that DNA that doesnt belong to anyone in close contact with Guthrie was found at her home. In a statement shared with The Independent Friday, the sheriffs department said, DNA other than Nancy Guthries and those in close contact to her has been collected from the property. Guthrie lives in the affluent and secluded Catalina Foothills just outside of Tucson. The sheriffs department said investigators are working to identify whose DNA was discovered. Police are not currently disclosing where exactly on the property the DNA was found. In its statement, the sheriffs department also refuted any reports that a glove was found inside Guthries home or on her property. Several gloves have been located during the investigation. The closest gloves were found approximately two miles from the home, the department said. Authorities have shown video of the suspect in Nancys disappearance, taken from a doorbell camera at the front of her house on the morning police believe she was abducted (FBI) Early this week, authorities shared photos and video of a suspect in Guthries disappearance, taken from a doorbell camera at the front of her house on the morning police believe she may have been taken. Advertisement The FBI Phoenix Field Office announced Tuesday that the previously inaccessible video shows an armed individual appearing to have tampered with the camera at Nancy Guthrie's front door the morning of her disappearance. The suspect, who is yet to be identified, was wearing a ski mask and gloves. Its unclear whether the gloves the suspect was wearing in the video match the gloves authorities found. On Thursday, the FBI increased its reward to $100,000 for information leading to the location of Nancy Guthrie and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance. The FBI has also shared a detailed description of the suspect, including the type of backpack he was wearing in the doorbell video. The suspect is described as a male, approximately 59 - 510 tall, with an average build. In the video, he is wearing a black, 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack, the agency wrote on X. Nancy Guthrie lives in the affluent and secluded Catalina Foothills, just outside of Tucson (Reuters) People have created a makeshift memorial outside Nancy Guthries Tucson home amid her disapperance (Getty Images) On Thursday, Reuters reported, citing a law enforcement official with knowledge of Guthries case, that Nanos was blocking the FBI from examining evidence. The official claimed the FBI requested DNA and a glove to be processed at the agency's national crime lab in Virginia, but Nanos insisted on using a private Florida lab. Nanos refuted the idea that he wouldnt collaborate with the FBI, telling CNNs Ed Lavandera his department and the bureau are joined at the hip. We want to find Nancy, the sheriff added. The sheriffs department also said gloves were found about two miles from Nancy Guthries home (FBI) The FBI has also shared a detailed description of the suspect, including the type of backpack he was wearing in the doorbell video (FBI) Savannah Guthrie and her siblings are desperate to find their beloved mother, offering to pay for her safe return. There have been reports of ransom notes demanding millions of dollars in Bitcoin, but none have been verified by police. "We received your message, and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us, so that we can celebrate with her," Savannah Guthrie said in a video posted Saturday, February 7, alongside her siblings, Annie and Camron Guthrie. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay. Savannah Guthrie and her siblings are desperate to find their beloved mother, offering to pay for Nancy Guthries safe return (Instagram/Savannah Guthrie) Earlier this week, the sheriffs department said a person was detained in connection with Nancy Guthries disappearance. He was later released without charges. A man named Carlos told local outlet ABC15 he was stopped by deputies for kidnapping Guthrie. They told me I was being detained for kidnapping, and I asked them, Kidnapping of who? Carlos said. As the investigation into Guthries suspected kidnapping continues, Nanos holds out hope that she will be found. I believe shell be found, the sheriff told Lavandera. We are working hard. Donald Trump has declared that a change in power in Iran "would be the best thing that could happen," as his administration considers military action against Tehran amidst the deployment of a second aircraft carrier group to the Middle East. The comments were made shortly after Trump visited troops at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, and confirmed the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford. When asked about pressing for the ousting of Iran's Islamic clerical rule, Trump stated, "It seems like that would be the best thing that could happen. For 47 years, theyve been talking and talking and talking." While the president had recently prioritized Iran scaling back its nuclear program, he indicated on Friday that this was only one aspect of the concessions the US demands. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who recently met Trump in Washington, has advocated for any deal to include steps to neutralize Iran's ballistic missile program and end its funding for proxy groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Trump remarked that targeting Tehran's nuclear program, which suffered setbacks in US military strikes last year, "If we do it, that would be the least of the mission." Iran maintains its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, though it had been enriching uranium up to 60 per cent purity before a conflict in June. The USS Gerald R. Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, is being dispatched from the Caribbean Sea to the Middle East to bolster other warships and military assets already in the region. This deployment follows days after Trump hinted at another round of talks with Iran, which did not materialise despite Tehran's security officials exchanging messages with US intermediaries in Oman and Qatar. "In case we dont make a deal, well need it," Trump told reporters regarding the second carrier, adding, "Itll be leaving very soon." Advertisement Gulf Arab nations have cautioned that any attack could ignite another regional conflict in a Middle East still grappling with the Israel-Hamas war. Internally, Iranians are observing 40-day mourning ceremonies for those killed in a bloody crackdown on nationwide protests last month, intensifying pressure on the sanctions-battered Islamic Republic. The USS Gerald R. Ford is the world's largest aircraft carrier (US Navy) The Ford will join the USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying guided-missile destroyers, which have been in the region for over two weeks. US forces recently shot down an Iranian drone that approached the Lincoln, on the same day Iran attempted to stop a US-flagged ship in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the military build-up, Trump offered measured hope for a deal, stating: "Give us the deal that they should have given us the first time. If they give us the right deal, we wont do that." The Ford's new assignment marks a swift turnaround, having been sent from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean last October as part of a military presence leading to the capture of then-Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. This move appears to contradict the administrations national security strategy, which emphasises the Western Hemisphere. US Southern Command affirmed its forces would continue to "counter illicit activities and malign actors in the Western Hemisphere," with spokesperson Col. Emanuel Ortiz stating, "While force posture evolves, our operational capability does not." The Ford strike group will add over 5,000 troops to the Middle East, effectively doubling the available aircraft and munitions for military planners. Given its current position, it will likely take weeks for the Ford to reach the coast of Iran. Mr Trump has repeatedly threatened force to compel Iran to constrain its nuclear programme and over its crackdown on protests. Indirect talks in Oman a week ago failed, with Mr Trump warning Tehran that failure to agree would be "very traumatic." Similar talks last year broke down, leading to a 12-day war and US bombing of Iranian nuclear sites. Asked about new negotiations, Trump said: "I think theyll be successful. And if theyre not, its going to be a bad day for Iran, very bad." The USS Ford, which first set sail in late June 2025, means its crew will soon have been deployed for eight months. While the duration of its Middle East stay is unclear, this move suggests an unusually long deployment. The Navys top officer, Adm. Daryl Caudle, previously stated that extending the Fords time at sea would be "highly disruptive" and that he was "a big non-fan of extensions." Carriers typically deploy for six or seven months. Adm. Caudle noted that exceeding this "disrupts lives, it disrupts things ... funerals that were planned, marriages that were planned, babies that were planned." He added that extending the Ford would complicate maintenance and upkeep, disrupting repair schedules and increasing wear and tear. For comparison, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhowers nine-month deployment to the Middle East in 2023 and 2024, engaging Houthi rebels, led to it blowing past its scheduled maintenance completion date. Adm. Caudle has expressed a preference for deploying smaller, newer ships over consistently relying on large aircraft carriers. A British woman who was fatally shot while visiting her father in Texas had argued with him earlier that day about U.S. President Donald Trump, according to testimony heard at an inquest in England. According to the BBC, Lucy Harrison, a 23-year-old woman from England, was shot in the chest on January 10, 2025, at her father's home in Prosper, a suburb north of Dallas. Local authorities in Texas investigated her death as possible manslaughter, but a grand jury in Collin County later declined to indict her father, Kris Harrison. At the time, The Sun reported that Dallas authorities revealed a suspect had been identified and that the case was being probed as "criminally negligent homicide." Later, Collin County District Attorney's Office confirmed that a grand jury had issued a 'no-bill' in the case, meaning criminal charges would not be brought. This week, an inquest into the woman's death opened this week at Cheshire Coroner's Court, where her boyfriend, Sam Littler, described a "big argument" between Lucy and her father about Trump, who was preparing to be inaugurated for his second presidential term later that month. Littler told the court that political discussions had frequently caused tension between Lucy and her father, particularly when he spoke about gun ownership. He said Lucy often became distressed when the topic arose, especially in the context of gun violence in the United States. According to Littler, on the morning of the shooting, Lucy challenged her father during the argument, asking how he would feel if she were the victim of sexual assault in a scenario linked to gun crime. Littler said Kris Harrison responded that he had two other daughters living with him and that it would not upset him significantly. Lucy became visibly upset and ran upstairs, Littler testified. Later that day, about 30 minutes before Lucy and Littler were due to leave for the airport, Lucy was in the kitchen when her father took her by the hand and led her into his ground-floor bedroom, Littler said. Roughly 15 seconds later, he heard a loud bang. Littler told the court he ran into the room to find Lucy lying on the floor near the bathroom entrance, while her father was screaming. In a written statement submitted to the court, Kris Harrison said the shooting was accidental. He stated that he and his daughter had been watching a news item about gun crime when he mentioned owning a firearm and asked if she wanted to see it. He said he retrieved a Glock 9mm semi-automatic handgun from his bedside cabinet and that it discharged as he lifted it to show her. Harrison said he did not recall whether his finger was on the trigger at the time. He acknowledged a history of alcohol addiction and admitted he had relapsed on the day of the shooting, consuming approximately 500 milliliters of white wine because he was emotional about his daughter leaving. The inquest heard evidence from a police officer who attended the scene and noted the smell of alcohol on Harrison's breath. CCTV footage also showed Harrison purchasing two 500 milliliter cartons of Chardonnay from a 7-Eleven store earlier that day. Lucy Harrison had traveled to Texas for the holiday with Littler. She worked as a buyer for the fashion retailer Boohoo and was described by her family as passionate, outspoken, and deeply engaged with social and political issues. Kris Harrison did not attend the inquest but said in a statement issued through his lawyers that he fully accepted responsibility for what happened. He said he felt the weight of his daughter's death every day and would carry that loss for the rest of his life. Lucy's mother, Jane Coates, told the court her daughter was "a real force of life," adding that she cared deeply about the world around her and was unafraid to debate issues that mattered to her. The coroner rejected an application from Kris Harrison's legal team requesting that she step aside from the case. The inquest has been adjourned until Wednesday, when formal conclusions are expected. Originally published on Latin Times by Mathias Hariyadi A small Smart Air plane was hit by gunfire after landing on a remote airstrip in Indonesian Papua. The two pilots, wounded while attempting to escape into the forest, died. The incident rekindles concerns over air travel security in the "red zones" of the regions interior, where armed separatist groups operate. Jayapura (AsiaNews) The spotlight is back on security in the interior of Indonesian Papua after two pilots were killed in an armed attack on a small civilian plane. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday at the Korowai Batu airstrip, has revived concerns over air travel in the region's most isolated areas, often designated as "red zones" due to the presence of armed separatist groups seeking West Papua's independence from Indonesia. According to local authorities, a Smart Air aircraft was hit by gunfire shortly after landing. The plane was flying from Tanah Merah Airport in Boven Digoel Regency, South Papua Province. Two crew members and 13 passengers, including a newborn, were on board. Boven Digoel Police Chief AKBP Wisnu Perdana confirmed the incident. It is true that around 11:00 am local time, the plane carrying 13 passengers was hit by gunfire, killing both the pilot and co-pilot, he said. Captain Egon Erawan and co-pilot Baskoro reportedly attempted to flee into the forest after the plane became the target of what Indonesian authorities called an "armed criminal group" (KKB). Both later died from their wounds. The pilot had managed to send an emergency message via GPS to flight operators, indicating that the plane was under attack and that the crew was fleeing into the forest for safety. The message was sent immediately after landing said Inspector General Johnny Eddizon Isir, head of the National Police Public Relations Division. The situation immediately became chaotic. The pilot, co-pilot, and passengers attempted to disembark and escape, he told reporters. On Thursday morning, security forces launched a joint operation to evacuate the bodies from the area around the runway, considered high-risk. The plane sustained extensive damage: the door was found open and three windows were broken. The bodies were transferred to the Mimika Regional General Hospital (RSUD Mimika), Mimika Regency, for identification and autopsy procedures before being transferred to Jakarta. This morning, both victims were evacuated from the Korowai airstrip to RSUD Mimika," said Kombes Yusuf Sutejo, public affairs officer for the Damai Cartenz security operation. Security measures were taken to ensure the perimeter was protected from any remaining members of the group responsible for the attack. The dedication of these two pilots in servicing difficult inland routes is a true form of service, Yusuf said. The incident highlights the challenges of air travel in the remotest parts of Indonesian Papua, where small civilian aircraft are often the only means of transportation for isolated communities, but operate amid poor security and tensions linked to the separatist conflict in the territory. by Steve Suwannarat Last year, the economy expanded by 5 per cent, far more than official government forecasts. In the budget, Prime Minister Wong calls for cooperation to ensure greater benefits and rights. Growth forecast this year is 2 to 4 per cent. Artificial intelligence is seen as a booster for employment and well-being. Singapore (AsiaNews) Singapore is not slowing down, with a 5 per cent increase in GDP last year, far better than the cautious official forecasts (of 2 per cent) that took into account a possible, albeit moderate, growth slump, partly due to US tariffs. The new budget, however, presented on Thursday by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, aims above all to ensure stability, calling on all parties to cooperate to guarantee benefits and greater rights for workers, who are the driving force behind the Singapore model. The local situation offers a delicate balance of possibilities, potential, diversity, and needs to be met, which the government is called upon to consider and include in its programmes, from trade and development to housing and employment. The economy of the city-state on the Strait of Malacca largely depends on a regional and global context that is more uncertain than ever. It is no coincidence that projections for growth this year range from 2 to 4 per cent. An additional challenge is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to support employment and well-being. On the plus side, Singapore scrupulously manages its infrastructure and potential, enjoys relatively low social tensions, is strategically located, and, in some respects, benefits from mainland Chinas total takeover of Hong Kong, once its main rival. Added to this is the search, especially in the financial and insurance sectors, for a more favourable, cosmopolitan, and less restrictive environment. This is evinced by the volume of investments and the flow of capital to the region, but also by one of the highest costs of living in the world. For many (despite an average per capita income of nearly US$ 100,000 a year), this cost is becoming increasingly unsustainable, even more so for a portion of the significant immigrant workforce (1.6 million, or about 40 per cent of the total). This is why Prime Minister Wong, who is also finance minister, is committed to supporting workers who, in turn, have clearly expressed concerns about keeping up and maintaining adequate income levels amid rapid technological change and in a situation of uncertainty. For this reason, he reiterated the government's role in supporting the transition of the labour market, ensuring adequate tools to maintain competitiveness and guarantee adequate jobs and higher wages. Three main lines of action are outlined in the new budget. The first one is embracing technological development fuelled by AIs economic and employment potential. The second is targeting support for small and medium-sized businesses (with a 40 per cent tax cut up to a maximum of S$ 30,000, around US$ 23,750), seniors, skilled workers, immigration, and housing (which is increasingly gaining traction as a major source of hardship). The third is the reduction of incentives (for example, for vehicle fleet renewal) and lower-impact benefits. Market Oracle Authors Archive Methodology - Per author - Total reads of the Top 10 Articles published to the site during the preceding 6 months. Last updated 2nd May 2013. Regular Contributors of analysis to the Market Oracle out of a pool of more than 600. Adam_Brochert Markets and cycles are my new hobby Adam Oliensis Editor The Agile Trader Options Newsletter Aden_Forecast Mary Anne & Pamela Aden are well known analysts and editors of The Aden Forecast Adrian Ash City correspondent for The Daily Reckoning in London and a regular contributor to MoneyWeek magazine, editor of Gold News and head of research at Bullion Vault Alex_Wallenwein MBA Holder and Editor of Euro vs Dollar Monitor Anthony Cherniawski a State Registered Investment Advisor, The Practical Investor (TPI) manages private client investment portfolios using a proprietary investment strategy. 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Brady Willett Editor of FallStreet Brian_Bloom Author of "Beyond Neanderthal" provides a roughly quantified strategic plan to commercialise at least two of these technologies within a decade Casey Research Casey Research has been making money for subscribers for 30 years. We do it by spotting trends in a market or the economy early way ahead of the crowd. Captain Hook Treasure Chests is a market timing service specializing in value-based position trading in the precious metals and equity markets with an orientation geared to identifying intermediate-term swing trading opportunities Chris_Blasi Neptune Global Holdings LLC is a boutique precious metals research and trading firm headquartered in Wilmington, DE USA Chris Ciovacco Chris Ciovacco is the Chief Investment Officer for Ciovacco Capital Management, Chris_Kitze A long career in digital media led to Before It's News, the People Powered News site that is quickly becoming a leading source for alternative news. 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Then sell when people are willing to pay any price. Dal LaMagna Is running as a Democrat in the 2008 Presidential Primaries and author of several books Dan_Steinbock Dr. Dan Steinbock is an internationally recognised expert of the nascent multipolar world. He is the CEO of Difference Group and has served as Research Director at the India, China and America Institute (USA) and visiting fellow at the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies (China) and the EU Centre (Singapore). For more, see www.differencegroup.net Dan Stinson Editor of Elliott Wave Theory Analysis site E-Waves Darryl R Schoon Author of How to Survive the Crisis and Prosper In The Process. David Haas I assist business owners and professionals in several critical areas ranging from business start-up, marketing, operational challenges, employee retention, and strategic planning to personal asset protection, financial, and retirement income planning. Danny_Schechter Edits Mediachannel.org. 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Or simply keep up to date with plenty of public content at NFTRH.com and Biiwii.com. Gary North He is also the author of a free 20-volume series, An Economic Commentary on the Bible . Garry_Abeshouse I have been practicing Technical Analysis since 1969, learning the hard way during the Australian Mining Boom. I was Head Chartist with Bain & Co, George Kleinman Is the President of the successful futures advisory and trading firm Commodity Resource Corp 14 February 2026 08:30 (UTC+04:00) Elnur Enveroglu Read more President Ilham Aliyevs presence at the Munich Security Conference this February carried a symbolism that extended well beyond diplomatic routine. Munich has obviously long been a political arena for strategic recalibration, a stage where global powers test narratives and regional leaders present their case to a sceptical international audience. This year, Azerbaijan's leader arrived not as the head of a country locked in frozen conflict, but as the president of a state declaring that its decades-long confrontation with Armenia is over. His interview with France 24 in Munich was therefore not simply a media appearance. It was an assertion: that the South Caucasus has entered a post-conflict era, and that Azerbaijan considers the peace process effectively complete. In tone and substance, Aliyev projected confidence. The war, in his telling, is finished; normalization is underway; what remains are technicalities. That message, delivered at Europes premier security forum, was aimed not only at Armenia but at Washington, Brussels and Paris. The geopolitical contest over narratives continues, but Bakus argument is clear: a new regional order has already been established. For me, it is done President Aliyevs most striking formulation in the interview was his unequivocal claim that peace has already been achieved. Referring to the White House summit of 8 August, which was held in the presence of US President Donald Trump and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, he described the declaration as historic and final in political substance. Six months without border shootings, unilateral easing of transit restrictions, and even the supply of critical oil products to Armenia were presented as tangible evidence that normalization is not theoretical. In Azerbaijani President's framing, the absence of violence is itself proof of structural change. This is a subtle but significant shift. For years, the international community defined the ArmeniaAzerbaijan file through the lens of unresolved status and mediation formats. In Munich, President Aliyev effectively inverted that paradigm: peace is not something to be negotiated into existence; it is something already achieved and awaiting formal codification. The remaining obstacle, he argued, lies in Armenias constitution, specifically references tied to territorial claims on Qarabag. Here, the Azerbaijan's leader drew a clear red line. Without constitutional amendment, there will be no signed peace treaty. Yet even this was framed not as confrontation but as legal hygiene. Remove the outdated claim, and formal peace follows. He predicted it could happen within the year. TRIPP and the strategic corridor Perhaps the most geopolitically consequential segment of the interview concerned connectivity. The proposed Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, or TRIPP, linking mainland Azerbaijan to Nakhchivan through Armenian territory, was described by Aliyev as inevitable. The symbolism is unmistakable. A corridor once associated with zero-sum rhetoric is now branded as an international infrastructure project backed by Washington. The United States strategic partnership charter with Azerbaijan, signed during Vice President JD Vances visit, further anchors this transformation. President Aliyev highlighted defence cooperation, energy, AI and trade, signalling that Azerbaijans post-war strategy is not confined to regional consolidation. It is global positioning. By emphasising that the Armenian segment of the corridor is short compared to Azerbaijans own extensive railway construction, he reframed the debate: the bottleneck is political, not logistical. For Europe, the implications are profound. A functioning corridor across the South Caucasus could reinforce east-west connectivity at a time when traditional routes are strained. Aliyevs certainty in Munich suggested that Baku sees this as not merely a transport link, but a structural reordering of the regions economic geography. Justice without clemency The most controversial moment in the interview concerned the sentencing of former leaders of the self-proclaimed Qarabag entity. When pressed about the possibility of clemency, Aliyev invoked the precedent of the Nuremberg trials. His comparison was uncompromising. To many Western ears, the analogy will appear stark. However, domestically, it aligns with Azerbaijans longstanding narrative: that the conflict was marked by war crimes against its population and that accountability is non-negotiable. The Azerbaijani President insisted the trials were transparent, legally grounded and evidence-based. Here lies the moral tension of post-conflict politics. Can reconciliation coexist with punitive justice? The answer of Azerbaijan's leader is unambiguous: justice is not an obstacle to peace; it is a prerequisite. Clemency, in his view, would undermine the moral foundation of the new order. The Armenian question and reciprocity On the departure of Armenians from Qarabag, President Ilham Aliyev reiterated that citizenship and residency options had been offered. He counterbalanced humanitarian concerns with the unresolved issue of Azerbaijani returnees displaced from what he terms Western Azerbaijan. The principle he advanced was reciprocity. If the right of return is universal, it must apply equally. This framing attempts to shift the discourse from unilateral grievance to symmetrical rights. Whether that argument gains traction internationally remains to be seen, but it is consistent with Bakus diplomatic messaging. Resetting France Eventually, relations with France formed the final arc of the interview. President Aliyev portrayed Azerbaijan as reactive rather than provocative, arguing that Pariss parliamentary resolutions and political statements during the war period constituted interference. His acknowledgement of a restart button with President Emmanuel Macron was notable. The tone was pragmatic rather than confrontational. In Munich and beyond, President Aliyev appears keen to signal that Azerbaijans disputes are issue-based, not ideological. For Europe, this matters. A stable South Caucasus requires functional relations among its external stakeholders. President Ilham Aliyevs readiness to re-engage suggests that Baku sees strategic benefit in de-escalating rhetorical tensions with Paris, even while defending its narrative of sovereignty. A new reality Taken together, President Ilham Aliyevs Munich interview conveyed a clear thesis: the era of ambiguity in the South Caucasus is over. Territorial integrity has been restored, connectivity is advancing, and geopolitical alignments are expanding. Sceptics will question whether peace can be declared unilaterally. Supporters will argue that facts on the ground speak louder than diplomatic hesitations. What is undeniable is that Azerbaijans leadership now speaks from a position of consolidated power. Munich has often been a forum for warnings about instability. This time, Azerbaijans president delivered a different message: that the South Caucasus has entered a phase of irreversible transformation. Whether history will confirm that confidence remains to be seen. But in Munich, Ilham Aliyev left little doubt that he believes the page has already been turned. --- About the author: Elnur Enveroglu is an Azerbaijani journalist and geopolitical analyst who currently serves as the Deputy Editor-in-Chief of AzerNEWS, Azerbaijan's first English-language weekly newspaper. 14 February 2026 15:25 (UTC+04:00) Full digital access to all news for 1 year Full digital access to all news for 6 months Full digital access to all news for 3 months Full digital access to all news for 1 month Find the plan that suits you best. When Keir Starmer addressed the Munich Security Conference, asserting that European countries must reduce their dependence on the United States in defense matters, his words carried more weight than a routine diplomatic remark. Starmer was not the only leader to voice this view at Munich; similar sentiments were echoed by other European figures, reflecting a growing consensus that Europe can no longer rely solely on external guarantees. Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention. Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis. By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more. Subscribe You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper Thank you! 14 February 2026 19:40 (UTC+04:00) Qabil Ashirov Read more The Munich Security Conference once again confirmed its role as one of the most influential platforms shaping the global security agenda. For the South Caucasus, however, one of the most significant discussions was Defining Eurasias Strategic Order: The Middle Corridor that carried special weight. In the platform, Azerbaijans Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramovs remarks made clear that Baku is no longer simply a regional actor. It has become a strategic hub, systematically shaping Eurasian connectivity and positioning itself as a central player in the emerging order. The transformation of the South Caucasus in recent years is not a coincidence. Since 2020, Azerbaijan has emerged as the decisive force reshaping the regions security architecture. The message from Munich went beyond the post-conflict period and pointed to the contours of a new regional orderone that is pragmatic, interconnected, and increasingly defined by economic logic rather than geopolitical rivalry. This shift is not only about peace agreements or ceasefires; it is about building a sustainable framework where cooperation replaces confrontation. One of the most striking developments involves Armenia. The removal of transit restrictions on cargo bound for Armenia and the start of oil product sales from Azerbaijan to Armenia are unprecedented steps in the history of the South Caucasus. These moves are about pragmatic politics. If stability is built on economic interdependence, Azerbaijan is demonstrating how this model can work in practice. By fostering trade and connectivity, Baku is signaling that the path to peace lies in shared interests rather than entrenched hostility. At the same time, Azerbaijans position is unambiguous: sustainable peace requires the removal of legal obstacles. Armenias constitution still contains territorial claims against Azerbaijan, undermining normalization. For a peace treaty to be signed, these contradictions must be resolved. Without legal clarity, political agreements remain fragile, and the risk of renewed instability persists. The insistence on legal alignment is not a technicality; it is a recognition that durable peace must rest on solid foundations. The Munich discussions also highlighted the TRIPP initiativethe Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, aligned with the Washington Declaration. This project is not merely about transport lines. Its ambition is to transform the South Caucasus from a zone of geopolitical competition into a space of economic integration. Such a vision resonates with Azerbaijans broader strategy: preventing the region from becoming a battleground for great powers and instead building a cooperation-based model. President Ilham Aliyevs policy has consistently emphasized this approach, and Munich provided an international stage to articulate it clearly. The Middle Corridor itself is no longer seen as an alternative route but as a geoeconomic necessity. Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Turkiye, and Georgia have already adopted a roadmap that simplifies transit procedures, reduces transport times, and increases cargo volumes. These practical steps demonstrate that the Middle Corridor rests on real economic foundations, not abstract geopolitical aspirations. The corridor is becoming a backbone of Eurasian trade, linking Europe and Asia through a reliable and efficient route. The European Unions growing involvement in the process adds further weight. At a time when energy security and supply chain diversification are top priorities for Europe, routes passing through Azerbaijan acquire strategic value. Turkiye and Georgia play complementary roles, reinforcing the corridors resilience and ensuring that it is not dependent on a single actor. This collective effort underscores the fact that the Middle Corridor is not just a regional project but a continental one, with implications for global trade and energy security. The thesis voiced in Munich was profound: the South Caucasus will either remain a zone of competition or evolve into a space of connectivity. Azerbaijan is demonstrating that it has chosen the second path. This choice reflects political will, strategic vision, and a sense of regional responsibility. The message from Munich was clear: the Middle Corridor is the cornerstone of a new regional order, one that promises stability, prosperity, and integration in a region long defined by conflict. 14 February 2026 13:15 (UTC+04:00) Full digital access to all news for 1 year Full digital access to all news for 6 months Full digital access to all news for 3 months Full digital access to all news for 1 month Find the plan that suits you best. Irans non-oil exports to Azerbaijan fell in both value and volume during the first 10 months of the current Iranian year (March 21, 2025January 20, 2026) compared to the same period last year (March 20, 2024January 19, 2025), AzerNEWS reports, citing Irans Customs Administration. Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention. Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis. By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more. Subscribe You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper Thank you! 14 February 2026 15:55 (UTC+04:00) A bilateral roundtable bringing together representatives of Azerbaijani and Armenian civil societies is continuing in Armenia as part of the Bridge of Peace initiative. AzerNEWS reports that the two-day roundtable in Yerevan involves public activists and civil society representatives from both Azerbaijan and Armenia. The discussions are being held within the framework of efforts aimed at fostering dialogue between the two societies. The meeting follows earlier exchanges between civil society groups from the two countries. On October 22 last year, a bilateral roundtable with the participation of Armenian and Azerbaijani civil society representatives was held in Yerevan. Subsequently, on November 21, 2025, a delegation of Armenian civil society representatives visited the Azerbaijani capital, Baku. The ongoing discussions in Yerevan mark another step in continued engagement between non-governmental actors from the two neighboring countries amid broader regional dialogue efforts. 14 February 2026 17:00 (UTC+04:00) Armenias Security Council Secretary Armen Grigoryan has met with representatives of Azerbaijani civil society visiting the country under the framework of the Peace Bridge initiative, AzerNEWS reports, citing Armenian media outlets. Armenias Security Council stated that Grigoryan welcomed the visit of the Azerbaijani civil society delegation and emphasized the importance of dialogue in this format. Bilateral contacts, he noted, play a significant role in strengthening mutual trust and fostering good-neighborly relations between the two countries. The sides discussed the ongoing peace process, the economic opportunities that could arise from the unblocking of regional transport routes, as well as the current dynamics of ArmeniaAzerbaijan relations. The meeting marks another step in broader efforts to sustain dialogue at various levels, as both countries continue negotiations aimed at stabilizing relations and opening new avenues for regional cooperation. 14 February 2026 17:35 (UTC+04:00) A press conference was held on February 14 in Armenia following a roundtable discussion between representatives of Azerbaijani and Armenian civil society under the framework of the Peace Bridge initiative. AzerNEWS reports that the event brought together expanded delegations from both sides for in-depth bilateral talks. The Azerbaijani delegation had arrived in Armenia on February 13 to take part in the roundtable discussions aimed at fostering dialogue and confidence-building between the two societies. The meeting follows earlier exchanges between civil society groups from the two countries. On October 22 last year, a bilateral roundtable with the participation of Armenian and Azerbaijani civil society representatives was held in Yerevan. Subsequently, on November 21, 2025, a delegation of Armenian civil society representatives visited the Azerbaijani capital, Baku. The meeting forms part of broader civil society engagement efforts designed to support the normalization process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as the two countries continue discussions on peace and regional cooperation. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Kaja Kallas, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, in Munich on February 14, AzerNEWS reports. They fondly recalled Kaja Kallass visit to Azerbaijan last year and her meeting with the head of state. The meeting underlined the European Unions interest in further developing relations with Azerbaijan. They highlighted the successful cooperation between Azerbaijan and the European Union in the energy sector, and in this regard, touched upon the significant contributions Azerbaijan has made to ensuring Europes energy security. They emphasized that, in addition to the energy sector, there are broad opportunities for cooperation in the field of transport between Azerbaijan and the European Union. The meeting also discussed the prospects for AzerbaijanEuropean Union cooperation, ensuring lasting peace and stability in the South Caucasus region, as well as other issues of mutual interest. 14 February 2026 21:44 (UTC+04:00) On February 14, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Jared Cohen, President of Global Affairs at The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., in Munich. During the meeting, the parties discussed the successful partnership between Azerbaijan and the company, which has been ongoing since 2010, and assessed the current state of relations. The discussion also focused on prospects for cooperation between Azerbaijan and The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. across various sectors of the countrys economy. The importance of the partnership between the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan and The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. was particularly emphasized. Headquartered in New York City, The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., founded in 1869, is one of the worlds leading global financial institutions. It operates in investment and consumer banking, securities, and asset management, and currently manages assets worth $2.8 trillion across more than 40 countries. 14 February 2026 11:36 (UTC+04:00) Two people have been killed and seven others injured as a result of renewed Russian attacks on southern Ukraine, AzerNEWS reports, citing Ukrainian media outlets. According to Ukraines Kherson regional military administration head, Oleksandr Prokudin, one person was killed and four were injured in strikes on the Kherson region. He added that the attacks targeted residential areas, and details of the damage are still being assessed. The Zaporizhzhia region has also come under heavy assault. The head of the Zaporizhzhia regional military administration, Ivan Fedorov, reported that Russian forces carried out 655 strikes on 41 settlements in the region over the past 24 hours. Due to enemy attacks on the Polohy and Zaporizhzhia districts, one person was killed and three others injured, Fedorov wrote on his Telegram channel. 14 February 2026 18:05 (UTC+04:00) The United Nations (UN) holds enormous potential but currently lacks answers on the most pressing global issues and, in practice, plays little to no role, AzerNEWS reports, citing U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Rubio stressed that while the UN remains a powerful instrument, it cannot be overlooked that it fails to address todays most critical challenges. The UN still has great potential as a tool, but we cannot ignore the fact that it has no answers to the most important issues before us today and, in reality, plays virtually no role, the diplomat said. Rubio specifically cited the UNs inability to mediate conflicts in the Gaza Strip and Ukraine. He added that any progress toward negotiations on the Ukraine crisis has occurred thanks largely to U.S. efforts. 14 February 2026 21:50 (UTC+04:00) Three people were killed and three others injured in violent clashes between rival political groups following the announcement of parliamentary election results in Bangladesh, AzerNEWS reports. An explosion occurred early on February 14 in a village house in Chapainawabganj district while improvised explosives were being assembled. The blast caused the brick walls of the house to collapse and tore off its tin roof. Rescue teams recovered the bodies of two individuals from the rubble, while three injured persons were hospitalized. In a separate incident in Munshiganj district, located about 30 kilometers from the capital, Dhaka, a young man died after sustaining fatal injuries during clashes between opposing political supporters. The violence erupted after preliminary results were announced for the February 12 parliamentary elections. According to initial vote counts from 297 constituencies, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured 209 seats, surpassing the 151-seat threshold required to command a majority in the 300-member parliament. The BNPs main rival, the Jamaat-e-Islami Party, won 68 seats, according to the preliminary results. The outcome marks the BNPs return to power after a 20-year absence. Alongside the parliamentary vote, a referendum on constitutional reforms was also held. Official figures indicate that 68 percent of voters supported the proposed amendments. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the incidents, and investigations into the clashes and explosion are ongoing. 14 February 2026 22:55 (UTC+04:00) Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on Saturday discussed advancing mutually beneficial cooperation between his country and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during a meeting with the blocs chief, AzerNEWS reports, citing Anadolu Agency. Following a meeting with ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Sybiha said through US social media company X that they discussed advancing cooperation, as well as deepening dialogue and expanding practical engagement, particularly in food security, energy, and digitalization. ASEAN is an important partner of Ukraine in todays international architecture. Ukraine reiterates its intention to become an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner, Sybiha further said. He added that he also invited the secretary-general to visit Ukraine. Both sides discussed ways to promote cooperation between ASEAN and Ukraine, among others, the bloc said in a separate statement on X following the meeting. Ukraine signed the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, one of ASEAN's founding documents, in November 2022. Last month, the Philippine News Agency quoted Ukrainian Ambassador to the Philippines Yuliia Fediv as saying that Kyiv is seeking to become an official dialogue partner of ASEAN by the end of this year. New York, US (PANA) - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged people worldwide to embrace the spirit of peace, compassion and solidarity as Muslims prepare to observe the holy month of Ramadan Ghost-Like Trees on Central Oregon Coast Somehow Upright in Sand - and Geologic Tales Published 02/13/26 at 6:55 a.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff (Newport, Oregon) Up and down the coast, ghost forests of all kinds are actually fairly common. They're on the beaches to some degree, and definitely just inland in little inlets and saltwater marshes (the ghost forests on beaches are not from the 1700 quake and tsunami, as is often in media). (Photo Jaimie Bourbon) Every once in awhile, a new ghost forest patch is discovered. But then there are ghosts of forests: stands of dead trees that are still upright for some weird reason like those silver, eerie figures in the wetlands immediately south of Lincoln City. It turns out, there's been another set of these ghost-like trees lurking in a remote part of the central Oregon coast. They've died fairly recently perhaps just within the last 15 years. And they are a spooky-looking bunch, and definitely a little unusual. Most remarkable is that they're standing in sand. Somehow. Exactly how is part of the mystery here. Experts are if you'll excuse the pun a little stumped. Central coast photographer Jaimie Bourbon recently showed off some of these shots. You see a handful of scraggly trunks and branches with roots in the sand. Some have fallen over; many haven't. Photo Jaimie Bourbon Their background story paints a surprising tale of geology: for one thing they've been around for a long, long time. Newport's Charlie Plybon with the Surfrider Foundation said they've been there for as long as he could remember. They could well go back as far as the '40s. Newport geologist Jonathan Allan (with Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries) said it's part of a landslide area that really fell apart before 1939. The area has receded an insane amount since then, with the largest chunk of some 150 feet disappearing since 1998. Photo Jaimie Bourbon Allan told Oregon Coast Beach Connection this is part of what's called the Schooner landslide complex, a landslide that's extremely active. Photo Jonathan Allan - 2016 The area in question likely failed decades ago (certainly before 1939) with the landslide debris having extended well out onto the beach today, he said. Over time, waves have been eroding into its toe removing the material. Lidar and other aerial photographs done over the decades show a lot of contour chanbes of the cliffs. Documentation goes back to the 1930s aerial shot. Courtesy DOGAMI - the dotted line in the 2020 shot is the contour from 1998. Ground based laser scanning I have been doing just north of here (basically in line with the Schooner RV park) indicates the erosion is continuing, Allan said. Allan snapped his photos of the area ten years ago, in 2016. Those trees you see in Bourbon's current photographs are likely in there, but now they are five to ten feet away from the rubbly rock material they were in a decade ago. It's also of note there were no trees back then that were standing in the sand as they are now, and all but a couple still had leaves / needles up top (or at least the dead remnants of needles). Bourbon's trees transformed into this look within the last ten years. But the biggest mystery here is: how these are still standing while only grounded in sand? Photo Jonathan Allan - 2016 Erick Finnell is a forester with the Tillamook District of Oregon Department of Forestry. He knows trees. He hasn't been to the spot so all he could do was guess by the photographs of Bourbon's. First, he noted, these are called snags. All dead trees are referred to as snags. All the trees in the photo look to be dead, he told Oregon Coast Beach Connection. There's two scenarios possible, he said. These snags may just be rooted in sand and nothing else, or there's actually still some earth beneath them that hasn't gone away and is still keeping them upright. Scenario 1: The movement of the ocean surf and tides could continue to move sand from around the snags roots, Finnell said. Once enough earth material (sand) has been moved from around the roots the snag no longer has anything to anchor itself to. At that point, the snag will probably fall over. Scenario 2: If the earth around the snags roots stays intact and is not washed away, the snag could stand for an undetermined length of time, Finnell said. Dead trees (snags) begin to decay (rot). Snags will probably stay standing like that until the roots decay enough to where wind and/or ocean surf might push three completely over. Some of Bourbon's photos show one tree that appears to be balancing right on the sand with exposed roots. Finnell said nope, there is some sort of root system below anchoring it. These trees have quite a long tale to tell. Oregon Coast Beach Connection is not disclosing the exact location. Hotels in Newport - Where to eat - Newport Maps and Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW OREGON COAST HOTEL REVIEWS (hit refresh to see different reviews) Sweeping Designs, Sights of N. Oregon Coast's Arch Cape, Away At Last Rental A mere 200 steps from the beach, near Cannon Beach. hotel reviews, lodging Off The Beaten Path In Lincoln City, View to Gnarly or Nice on Oregon Coast Nothing but surf and lovely amenities in a hidden part of Lincoln City. Lincoln City hotel reviews. Pelican Shores Inn April Gets Even Cheaper Midweek at Depoe Bay, Lincoln City: Oregon Coast Deals Off-season rates plus more at Keystone Vacation Rentals. Depoe Bay lodging specials, Lincoln City hotel reviews, Newport hotel reviews Depoe Bay Hotels - Incredible Views, Wild Tides Depoe Bay Hotels, Depoe Bay hotel reviews, outstanding places to stay More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Washington Coast / Oregon Coast Articles (stories are random: hit reload to see different articles) Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Monks and a Mandala - An Extraordinary Weekend at Central Oregon Coast's Yachats Published 02/12/26 at 7:55 a.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff (Yachats, Oregon) The little town of Yachats and those visiting will get to dive into an extraordinary kind of peace this month. Tibetan monks from Gaden Shartse Phukhang Monastery will return to the Oregon coast this month for a week of public ceremonies, workshops, and cultural programs in Yachats. The residency, hosted by the Yachats Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Lincoln County Friends of Tibet, runs Tuesday, February 17, through Sunday, February 22, at the Yachats Commons (441 Highway 101 North). The visit centers on the creation of an Avalokiteshvara Sand Mandala, a sacred artwork representing the celestial realm of the bodhisattva of compassion - a lineage Tibetans associate with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Using metal funnels, the monks place individual grains of colored sand into intricate geometric patterns. Those partaking can visit the mandala daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This stunning and esoteric residency coincides with Losar, the Tibetan Lunar New Year, observed February 18 - 20. Evening ceremonies include the Sand Mandala Opening and Heart Sutra Puja on Tuesday at 6 p.m., a Tsok Offering on Wednesday at 6 p.m., and the Green Tara Puja on Thursday at 6 p.m. Workshops and cultural programs fill the weekend. Friday features a 10 a.m. Lojong (mind training) workshop and a 6:30 p.m. Avalokiteshvara Empowerment Ceremony for Great Compassion. Saturday includes a Butter Sculpture Workshop, Tibetan Calligraphy Demonstration, and a Tibetan Cultural Night with chant, music, a Chod ceremony, monastic debate, and Q&A. On Sunday, February 22, St. Luke by the Sea Episcopal Church in Waldport will host Lunch with the Monks and a Meditation on Peace and Compassion at 12:30 p.m. The visit concludes at 4 p.m. at Yachats Commons with the Sand Mandala Dissolution Ceremony, a ritual emphasizing impermanence. Attendees will receive small packets of sand as blessings. Arch at Neptune Beach Near Yachats: Rising and Falling of Oregon Coast Landmark - A little beauty that changes height on occasion, between Florence, Yachats All events are open to the public with suggested donations supporting education, housing, medical care, and sanitation at the monastery in southern India. Details are available at LCFriendsofTibet.org or by contacting LincolnCountyTibet@gmail.com or 530-748-9365. The Yachats residency is part of a three-week Oregon Coast tour that also includes programs in Lincoln City and Newport. Hotels in Yachats - Where to eat - Yachats Maps and Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW OREGON COAST HOTEL REVIEWS (hit refresh to see different reviews) New to Oregon Coast Vacation Home Scene: Latest Finds in Neskowin, Pacific City Four new vacation rentals in Neskowin and Pacific City. Pacific City hotel reviews, Neskowin hotel reviews Retro Beach Rental in Newport a Tiny, Cozy Oregon Coast Gem A little vacation rental called View House Cottage. Hotel reviews, Newport lodging, Newport hotel reviews, Lincoln City hotel reviews, Newport vacation rentals What's Old Is New Again: N. Oregon Coast's Tolovana Inn Redecorates, Winter B... New decor at the hotel hotspot, winter brings drama below. Cannon Beach hotel reviews Early September and Oregon Coast's Second Summer: Rentals That Are Still Open... Still a couple vacation rentals with availability but getting thin. Cannon Beach hotel reviews, hotel availability More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Washington Coast / Oregon Coast Articles (stories are random: hit reload to see different articles) Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted We are living in a moment when the lines between faith, freedom, and public life are being tested as never before. Decisions made in legislative halls, courtrooms, and voting booths increasingly reflect deeper moral commitments, whether acknowledged or not. For Christians, disengagement is not neutrality; it is abdication. This weeks Truth for Our Times brings together three pieces that, taken as a whole, ask a single, pressing question: What kind of nation will we be, and what kind of people must we therefore become? From civic engagement here in North Carolina, to the quiet expansion of modern forms of bondage, to the sobering reassessment of marijuana legalization, even by its most prominent champions, each article invites reflection, discernment, and action. Return America Hosts Get to Know the Candidates Forum in Thomasville Blending Faith, Leadership, and Civic Responsibility Return America For the hundreds of people who attended, the Finch auditorium in Thomasville offered a vivid reminder that faith still has a voice in public life. Organized and moderated by Dr. Ron Baity, Return Americas Get to Know the Candidates forum brought together pastors, candidates, officeholders, and citizens for a Christ-centered examination of leadership and civic duty. Speakers repeatedly emphasized that political engagement is not optional for believers, drawing on Scripture to frame Christians as watchmen on the wall - called to remain alert, speak truth, and pray faithfully. From legislative perspectives in Raleigh to law-enforcement testimony on protecting communities, the forum underscored a consistent message: faith must come first, but it must also inform how we vote, govern, and serve. Outlawing Slavery, Licensing Bondage How Vice Profits from the Erosion of Freedom by Rev. Mark Creech RevMarkCreech.org America abolished slavery in law more than 150 years ago, but have we fully understood what slavery truly is? This essay examines how modern vice industries, alcohol, gambling, tobacco, and increasingly recreational marijuana, profit not from freedom but from dependency. While participation is labeled voluntary, the predictable erosion of self-government through addiction raises troubling moral questions. When the state licenses, taxes, and depends on revenues generated from human weakness, it becomes complicit in a quieter form of bondage. True freedom, this article argues, is not the right to be exploited, but the capacity to govern oneself, and the moral resolve of a society to protect that capacity, especially in the vulnerable. Even the New York Times Now Admits It: America Has a Marijuana Problem by Rev. Mark Creech RevMarkCreech.org When The New York Times reverses itself, the nation should take notice. After years of championing marijuana legalization, the Times now concedes that the experiment has gone too far, fueling addiction, mental-health crises, and emergency-room overcrowding. Daily marijuana use now exceeds daily alcohol use, THC potency has skyrocketed, and the promise of widespread medical benefit is collapsing under scientific scrutiny. This article examines the mounting evidence, from psychiatric wards to ERs to peer-reviewed studies, and asks whether North Carolina should follow a path that even legalizations most influential advocates are beginning to regret. The issues before us are not abstract. They touch families, churches, communities, and the moral health of our state and nation. Scripture reminds us that when the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice - but righteousness does not happen by accident, and freedom does not sustain itself. May these reflections sharpen our discernment, strengthen our resolve, and move us to faithful action, in prayer, in public witness, and at the ballot box. As always, thank you for reading Truth for Our Times, and for standing where faith and truth still matter. Did You Miss These from Last Week? When State Lines Decide Life and Death Peace: What Marching Buddhist Monks Get Wrong Holy Terror: Protesters Desecrate Church in Anti-ICE Rampage A Powerful Voice at the Intersection of Faith and Freedom Churches, ministries, civic groups, and organizations are invited to prayerfully consider Rev. Mark Creech as a speaker for worship services, revival meetings, conferences, and special events. Rev. Creech is available to preach in Sunday services, lead revival gatherings, serve as an interim pastor, address missions groups and mens or womens ministries, speak at conferences on cultural and social issues, engage small groups on focused biblical topics, and rally believers at patriotic events or public policy gatherings. He also speaks effectively to pastors fellowships, Christian schools, campus ministries, prayer breakfasts, banquets, and legislative or civic assemblies. Rev. Creech delivers compelling messages rooted in a strong Christian worldview, with an unwavering commitment to the Gospel and its transformative power in the lives of individuals, churches, and nations. Endorsed by pastors, legislators, and respected Christian leaders, his preaching is known to be faithful, thought-provoking, profoundly relevant, and courageously challenging. To inquire about scheduling Rev. Creech for your next event, please visit: https://revmarkcreech.org/booking/ You can also phone at 919.915.3033 or send an email to mark@revmarkcreech.org Log on if you are already subscribed or Subscribe... PITTSFIELD Police have released images of a vehicle they believe was involved with Tuesday's fatal hit-and-run crash in the city. The vehicle, which appears to be blue with black wheels, is of unknown make but is believed to be similar to a Honda or Toyota, according to a statement released Friday evening by the Pittsfield Police Department. The driver is believed to have struck a man, later identified as William "Billy" Colbert, 69, at the intersection of Francis Avenue and Linden Street about 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, police said. The victim apparently became lodged beneath the vehicle and was dragged more than 3 miles. The exact route remains unclear, but police believe it may have included Linden Street, Robbins Avenue, Daniels Avenue, Columbus Avenue, Onota Street, South Merriam Street and West Housatonic Street, where his body was found near the Best Western Plus hotel. The driver did not stop, and remains wanted by police. Pittsfield Police are asking for assistance from the public in identifying the vehicle, which was last seen heading west toward New York about 11:40 p.m. Tuesday on the 1300 block of West Housatonic Street. Information can be provided to Officer Anthony Dayton at adayton@cityofpittsfield.org or 413-448-9700, Ext. 543, or Sgt. David Hallas at dhallas@cityofpittsfield.org, Ext. 560. Tips also can be submitted through Report a Crime on the department's website or by texting PITTIP and a message to TIP411 (847411). He considers his pizza, with sauce and cheese out to the edge, a cross between New Haven and Neapolitan style. Hes going with a thin crust and a slight burn to at the outer edge on the pies. Quality local journalism needs your support Access this story and all of our stories with 24/7 unlimited access. Subscribe today. Cancel anytime. Subscribe now for 99 Subscriber Sign In | Return Home Access this story and all of our stories with 24/7 unlimited access. Dalton Delan can be reached at berkshireeaglereels@gmail.com and @UnspinRoom on X. His Eagle Reels conversations can be found on YouTube. Its been a long haul since weve seen normal, much less above-normal temperatures in the Berkshires. But some relief is on the way nothing to get too excited about, but certainly welcome anyway. Day by day ... Saturday: Partly sunny, low 30s, light winds. Partly cloudy at night, low near 10, calm winds. Sunday: Mostly sunny, mid-30s, calm wind. Mostly cloudy at night, low in the upper teens, 20 percent chance of light snow. Monday: Mostly cloudy, upper 30s, nighttime low near 25. Tuesday: Partly sunny, mid-40s; increasing cloudiness at night, low around 30. Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, low 40s, 50 percent chance of rain; Rain and snow likely at night, mid-20s. Thursday: Partly cloudy, mid-30s, a 40 percent chance of rain and snow, overnight low near 20. Friday: Cloudy, mix of freezing rain, sleet and snow possible, upper 20s; cloudy at night, around 20. Saturday (Feb. 21): Clearing, near 30, dropping to around 20 overnight. Sources: National Weather Service and AccuWeather.com. Western New England wont be setting any new record highs, but this thaw will be a welcome reprieve for many New Englanders tired of the sub-freezing temperatures and below-zero wind chills, Boston Globe meteorologist Ken Mahan pointed out in a Friday online outlook. Dont get too comfortable with the warmer weather because signals still support more bitter cold spells are headed our way to close out meteorological winter at the end of this month and kick off March, Mahan cautioned. Good advice, since our staff-compiled history of the top 25 major snowstorms in the Berkshires shows eight occurred in March notably, March 13-15, 2023 2 to 3 feet, with several hill towns topping out up to 44 inches. But for now, well take what we can get, considering that after 19 days of far below normal temperatures, starting Jan. 23, this past Wednesdays average of 26 actually was 3 degrees above normal. According to the National Weather Service in Albany, N.Y., a tranquil weekend is expected, followed by a very slight (20 percent) chance of light snow late Sunday night into Monday Confidence continues to increase in a storm system tracking eastward off the Southeast and mid-Atlantic coast, remaining too far south/east for any impacts in our area, according to an online forecast. Later next week looks more uncertain because even with above normal temperatures on Wednesday and Thursday, theres a potential for a wintry mix and/or some rain. But as of Friday afternoon, confidence is low, the government forecasters acknowledged. The bottom line is an unsettled pattern looking more likely toward mid- to late next week. Its worth emphasizing that the last thing we should want is a dramatic warmup. Given the snowpack and the massive mounds of snowbanks on roadsides and parking lots, a surge of springlike 50s and higher would risk flooding, especially with the ice clogging rivers, lakes, ponds and streams. The way it looks now, a gradual, though frustrating, slow melt would be best. That said, heres a prediction that the last remnants of this frigid winter wont disappear until April 15, at the earliest. The Climate Prediction Centers extended outlook for Feb. 21-27 indicates near normal temperatures and slightly above average precipitation. The long-term average for that week, based on National Weather Service records at Pittsfield Municipal Airport, ranges from a predawn low in the mid- to upper teens and a daytime high in the mid-30s. In case you missed it In a devastating blow to efforts to combat climate change, the Trump administration has repealed an EPA rule that classified carbon dioxide and five other greenhouse gases as a threat to public health. It is the most significant action taken yet to dismantle U.S. regulations that address climate change, NBC News reported. It sets aside the landmark settled science finding that serves as the legal foundation for federal regulations to limit greenhouse gas emissions. The Environmental Protection Agencys endangerment finding, established under President Barack Obama in 2009, classified carbon dioxide, methane and four other greenhouse gases as a threat to public health and welfare. It underpins Clean Air Act emissions standards and rules for cars and light trucks, power plants, and oil and gas industry facilities. The endangerment finding emerged from a Supreme Court decision in 2007 that greenhouse gases are air pollutants under the Clean Air Act and the EPA must determine whether they pose a threat to public health. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin described the repeal as the largest deregulatory action in American history. In a social media post, Obama said that the Trump administrations action makes the U.S. less safe, less healthy and less able to fight climate change all so the fossil fuel industry can make even more money. The Sierra Club, the largest environmental group in the U.S., said Trump has formalized climate denialism as official government policy. By the way, its worth remembering that global warming is an incomplete description of climate changes impact. The actual result is climate extremes, including heat waves, cold outbreaks, snow droughts such as the Rockies are currently experiencing, floods and wildfires, to cite a few examples. Day by day ... Saturday: Partly sunny, low 30s, light winds. Partly cloudy at night, low near 10, calm winds. Sunday: Mostly sunny, mid-30s, calm wind. Mostly cloudy at night, low in the upper teens, 20 percent chance of light snow. Monday: Mostly cloudy, upper 30s, nighttime low near 25. Tuesday: Partly sunny, mid-40s; increasing cloudiness at night, low around 30. Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, low 40s, 50 percent chance of rain; Rain and snow likely at night, mid-20s. Thursday: Partly cloudy, mid-30s, a 40 percent chance of rain and snow, overnight low near 20. Friday: Cloudy, mix of freezing rain, sleet and snow possible, upper 20s; cloudy at night, around 20. Saturday (Feb. 21): Clearing, near 30, dropping to around 20 overnight. Sources: National Weather Service and AccuWeather.com. China demonstrates AI computing power in outer space with satellite network breakthrough Xinhua) 09:12, February 14, 2026 HANGZHOU, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- China has taken a major step toward building an AI-powered space infrastructure, with a satellite constellation deploying 10 AI models in orbit and establishing inter-satellite networking. The deployment demonstrates AI applications in deep space exploration, smart city development and natural resource surveys, according to Zhejiang Lab, which developed the constellation with global partners. China placed 12 satellites, the first group of the space computing constellation called "Three-Body Computing Constellation," into orbit in May 2025. After nearly nine months of in-orbit testing, the constellation has demonstrated core capabilities including networking, computing, model deployment and scientific payload verification. Among the space-based models are an 8-billion-parameter remote sensing model and an 8-billion-parameter astronomical time-domain model. These rank among the largest parameter AI models operating in orbit globally. In November 2025, the remote sensing model conducted an infrastructure census across 189 square kilometers in northwest China, automatically identifying stadiums and bridges despite heavy snow cover. For astronomical research, two satellites equipped with cosmic X-ray polarization detectors deployed an AI model that rapidly classifies gamma-ray bursts in orbit with 99 percent accuracy while dramatically reducing data transmission and processing times. The team also achieved inter-satellite links among six satellites, a crucial step toward space networking. Once its planned 1,000-plus satellites are in orbit, the constellation will crunch 100 quintillion operations per second, according to the lab. "With a computing constellation, part of the data can be processed in space and delivered straight to users," said Li Chao from Zhejiang Lab. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The Sherwin-Williams Company allegedly failed to provide employees with all legally required meal and rest breaks. The lawsuit alleges this resulted in employees not receiving their complete wages due to the errors of time not being accurately recorded from the missed meal and rest breaks. **THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT** SAN JOAQUIN, Calif., Feb. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The San Francisco employment law attorneys, at Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP, filed a class action complaint alleging that The Sherwin-Williams Company violated the California Labor Code. The Sherwin-Williams Company class action lawsuit, Case No. STK-CV-UOE-2026-137, is currently pending in the San Joaquin County Superior Court of the State of California. A copy of the Complaint can be read here. The Law Office of Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP Speed Speed According to the lawsuit filed, The Sherwin-Williams Company allegedly (a) failed to pay minimum wages, (b) failed to pay overtime wages, (c) failed to provide legally required meal and rest periods, (d) failed to provide accurate itemized wage statements, (e) failed to reimburse for required expenses, (f) failed to pay sick wages, and (g) failed to provide wages when due, all in violation of the applicable Labor Code sections listed in California Labor Code Sections 201-203, 226, 226.7, 233, 246, 510, 512, 1194, 1197, 1197.1, 2802, and the applicable Wage Order(s), and thereby gives rise to civil penalties as a result of such alleged conduct. The Sherwin-Williams Company allegedly required Plaintiffs to work on their meal and break periods which should have been Plaintiffs' off-duty meal breaks. This resulted in Defendant rounding the meal period time to avoid paying penalties to Plaintiff. As a result of their rigorous work schedules, employees were allegedly required from time to time to perform work as ordered by Defendant for more than five (5) hours during some shifts without receiving a meal break. Defendant violated Cal. Lab. Code 1194, 1197, and 1197.1. For more information about the class action lawsuit against The Sherwin-Williams Company, call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today. Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP is an employment law firm with offices located in San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Riverside and Chicago that dedicates its practice to helping employees, investors and consumers fight back against unfair business practices, including violations of the California Labor Code and Fair Labor Standards Act. If you need help in collecting unpaid overtime wages, unpaid commissions, being wrongfully terminated from work, and other employment law claims, contact one of their attorneys today. **THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT** Media Contact Nicholas De Blouw Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP (800) 568-8020 [email protected] https://www.bamlawca.com/ SOURCE Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP Most flood defence works deemed critical to protecting homes and properties have still not entered the planning stage after eight years, according to The Irish Times. Out of 54 large projects where some work has begun since they were prioritised for development in 2018, the majority, 31, remain at the preliminary design stage. Target completion times for many of them run well into the 2030s. 13 others are at planning or detailed-design phase and will also take years to complete, while just 10 are under construction. An additional 12 projects deemed necessary in 2018 are at an early stage of consideration and have yet to reach preliminary design, The Irish Times reported. Dozens more deemed important but less urgent are on a future list to be considered further down the line. The slow progress in delivering flood schemes comes to light amid growing frustration in communities experiencing recurring flooding, with long-promised protection works nowhere in sight. Numerous politicians have blamed planning delays, judicial reviews, and environmental legislation. Plans have been lodged to revamp a four-storey property owned by the co-founders of Riverdance, John McColgan and Moya Doherty, in the heart of Georgian Dublin into a comfortable and sustainable home. In the application lodged with Dublin City Council for McColgan/Doherty property at Merrion Street Upper, Dublin 2, a Planning Design Report drawn up by Paul Keogh Architects states that the project brief is to restore and sensitively adapt the protected structure from its existing office use to a single-family residence, ensuring its long-term viability as a comfortable and sustainable home. Keogh states that the works "will prioritise the conservation of the buildings architectural character and significant historic fabric, while upgrading the buildings internal layout, service installations, and thermal performance to meet modern living standards. He says that the adaptation will provide high-quality, functional domestic accommodation suitable for long-term occupation, including contemporary requirements for comfort, safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility where appropriate". Advertisement Keogh states that all interventions will be carefully considered, reversible where feasible, and carried out in accordance with best conservation practice, ensuring that the protected status of the structure is respected while securing its future through active residential use. The application is in the name of David Orr who is a director at the Riverdance firm, Abhann Productions Ltd, along with McColgan and Doherty. The planning documentation lodged with the application includes a letter of consent signed by the property owners, McColgan and Doherty giving their consent for Orr to lodge the planning application. A Conservation Report and Planning Report lodged with the application reveals that along with owning the subject property at Merrion Street Upper, McColgan and Doherty also own the three adjoining Georgian terrace buildings presently in commercial use. The property at Merrion Street Upper was built between 1780 and the early 19th century. However, in a third party submission lodged with the Council, planning consultant, Kevin Hughes has told the Council that although the development is described as a "4-storey own-door residential unit", the scale of the accommodation, the extent of internal subdivision, the provision of a lift core, comprehensive fire safety measures and the overall building configuration give rise to concern that the premises could be capable of functioning in a manner other than as a conventional private dwelling house. Hughes contends that if not appropriately controlled, the building could be utilised for non-traditional residential purposes, including emergency, temporary, or institutional accommodation. Hughes requests that should permission be granted, clear and enforceable conditions be attached by the Council to ensure that the development is restricted to use as a single private residential dwelling house only and that the premises shall not be used for emergency accommodation, temporary accommodation, institutional residential use, short-term letting, or any similar non-traditional or quasi-commercial residential use, without the benefit of a separate grant of planning permission. Hughes states that the imposition of such conditions would ensure certainty, safeguard residential amenity, and secure that the reinstatement of residential use is achieved in accordance with planning and conservation objectives. A spokesman for McColgan and Doherty has confirmed that the planning application is for a private dwelling only. A decision is due on the application next month. Minister of State Neale Richmond has accused Sinn Fein of "abandoning Ukraine" after its MEPs voted against a 90 billion loan to the country amid the ongoing Russian war. The loan involved 30 billion of financial support and 60 billion for military equipment. Sinn Fein MEPs Kathleen Funchion and Lynn Boylan voted against the measure, which was passed by the European Parliament, arguing that it undermined Ireland's neutrality. In heated Dail exchanges, Donegal TD Pearse Doherty also argued the money should be spent elsewhere. In an interview with BreakingNews.ie, Neale Richmond said: "It wasnt too long ago that I stood outside the Russian embassy with Sinn Fein representatives opposed to Russias brutal full scale invasion of Ukraine, the same party made a series of speeches in solidarity and demanded more action from the Government here, the Sinn Fein leader was happy to pose with the visiting Ukrainian President weeks ago and pledge her support. Advertisement But all has changed. Over the past fortnight, Sinn Fein have abandoned Ukraine, abandoned European solidarity and shown their utter ignorance of the root causes of the challenges Irish people face due to the actions of Russia." Richmond also argued that Russia's invasion of Ukraine is directly linked to soaring energy prices. In one Dail speech, Sinn Fein demand the Government intervene and provide energy credits in the face of rising bills and in the next they refuse to back the people of Ukraine. All the while blissfully unaware that the main reason for rising energy prices is the actions of Russia that have limited gas supplies, destroyed energy infrastructure and upended the European energy sector. In the Dail and now in the European Parliament, Sinn Fein representatives have abandoned Ukraine, this move should be seen for the craven and illogical act that is. Britain has blamed the Kremlin for killing opposition leader Alexei Navalny, which it said was likely done using a poison developed from a dart frog toxin. Two years on from the death of Navalny at a Siberian penal colony, the UK and its allies have pinned the blame on the Russian state following analysis of material samples found on his body. The Russian authorities have previously strenuously denied any involvement in his death. There is no innocent explanation for the toxin Epibatidine being found on Navalnys body, the UK Foreign Office said. The UK has blamed the Kremlin for Alexei Navalnys death (Ian Nicholson/PA) Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has met with Navalnys widow Yulia Navalnaya at the Munich Security Conference this weekend. Navalnaya announced her husbands death at the gathering in 2024. Cooper said: Since Yulia Navalnaya announced the loss of her husband here in Munich two years ago, the UK has pursued the truth of Alexei Navalnys death with fierce determination Only the Russian Government had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin against Alexei Navalny during his imprisonment in Russia. Today, beside his widow, the UK is shining a light on the Kremlins barbaric plot to silence his voice. Russia saw Navalny as a threat. By using this form of poison the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition. Keir Starmer has insisted he ended the week much stronger than he started it after a period of political turbulence. His premiership was rocked by the controversies surrounding the appointments of Peter Mandelson and Matthew Doyle despite their association with sex offenders, three departures from Downing Street, and a call from the Scottish Labour leader for him to resign. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, the British Prime Minister said his party and government was completely united on issues including defence and closer ties to the European Union. He was asked in a panel discussion after his speech whether the turmoil left him vulnerable to challenges from Reform UK and the Tories. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for closer ties with the EU in his speech to the Munich Security Conference (Stefan Rousseau/PA) The Labour leader replied: No, I reject that. I ended the week much stronger than I started it. Advertisement And thats a very good place to be, and my party and my Government is completely united on the question of Ukraine and defence and security and the need for stronger relations with Europe on defence, on security and on economy as well. And so I think that there is real strength in the position Ive now set out. Attacking Nigel Farages pro-Putin party, Starmer suggested it was the only faction in the House of Commons not behind the UKs support for Ukraine. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar launched an unsuccessful attempt to unseat Keir Starmer after the Mandelson scandal (Lesley Martin/PA) Imagine if they were in government in the United Kingdom. The Coalition of the Willing could not exist with UK participation in it. We would not be seen as a leader on the European or international stage. We would be seen as a country that people couldnt do business with. So its not universal across our Parliament, but theres a very strong feeling amongst right-minded politicians that we stick together on Ukraine. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar had said on Monday that the British Prime Minister should quit in the wake of the scandal around the appointment of Mandelson as British ambassador to Washington despite his links to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. But the attempt to oust Starmerfailed, with members of the Cabinet publicly backing the British Prime Minister in the hours after Mr Sarwars statement. Further questions about Starmer's judgment were thrown up later in the week in a row over the appointment of his former spin doctor Doyle to the House of Lords after the aide campaigned for a paedophile councillor. The departure of the head of the civil service Chris Wormald prompted criticism of negative briefings in government, while senior Labour women suggested the string of scandals had exposed a boys club within Downing Street. Wormald was the third senior figure to quit the government in the past week, following Starmer's chief of staff Morgan McSweeney and communications director Tim Allan. In the news release, Maruchan Unveils Saucy Noods: Creamy, Spicy, and Seriously Saucy Stir-Fry Style Noodles, issued 15-Jan-2026 by Maruchan over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that changes have been made. The complete, corrected release follows: Maruchan Unveils Saucy Noods: Creamy, Spicy, and Seriously Saucy Stir-Fry Style Noodles The brand's new product line debuts with Valentine's activations, availability on Amazon and TikTok Shop IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Maruchan, America's trusted leader in convenient and delicious meal solutions, announced the launch of Saucy Noods Stir-Fry Style Noodles, a bold, new product line designed for noodle lovers who crave rich, sauce-forward flavor. Maruchan Launches New Product Line (PRNewsfoto/Maruchan) Designed to deliver big taste in minutes, Saucy Noods offers a quick, satisfying meal or snack coated in craveable, spicy sauces. The launch includes two on-trend flavors made for heat seekers, Spicy Creamy Chicken and Spicy Chicken. Spicy Creamy Chicken features a cheesy, creamy sauce that complements extreme spice, delivering a rich and indulgent experience. Spicy Chicken is packed with chili and habanero, offering a spicy sauce that brings a fiery kick of flavor to every bite. Inspired by popular, on-trend flavors, Saucy Noods is designed for consumers who crave bold, intense flavors. The product comes together in minutes, making it a quick and easy choice for an instant meal, snack, or late-night craving. With a sauce-forward approach, every bite delivers a rich, spicy, and craveable flavor. "At Maruchan, we believe food should be fun. Whatever your mood, there is a flavor to play along," said Katelyn Stokes, Marketing Director at Maruchan. "This belief is what guided us to create Saucy Noods stir fry noodles coated in delicious, on-trend flavors. Feeling saucy? In the mood for spicy? We are here for you." To promote the new product during the Valentine's Day season, Maruchan is asking fans to send a box of Saucy Noods to their crush, situationship, or Valentine, complete with free shipping through Maruchan's new TikTok. The campaign goes beyond TikTok, with dating app users able to swipe right on Saucy Noods and receive flirty encouragement (plus actual "noods") in their DMs. On Snapchat, Maruchan will drop Sponsored DMs with links showing fans how to send Saucy Noods to their longest streaks. "Dating culture already lives in DMs, and so do late-night cravingsso we decided that's where Maruchan should show up," said Margaret Johnson, Chief Creative Officer, Goodby Silverstein & Partners, the agency behind the campaign. "Saucy Noods turns a familiar Valentine's trope into something playful, a little chaotic, and genuinely useful. It's a legacy brand behaving like the internet behaves today: irreverent, self-aware, and built to be sharednot just seen." Both Saucy Noods Spicy Creamy Chicken flavor and Saucy Noods Spicy Chicken flavor Stir-Fry Style Noodles are available on Amazon, TikTok Shop, and through select retailers, including WinCo, Grocery Outlet, and DoorDash. Both flavors will also expand into retail stores nationwide this year. For more information, visit the Maruchan website or find the brand on Instagram or Threads . About Maruchan Maruchan Inc ., established in 1953 by Japanese visionary Kazuo Mori, revolutionized the instant ramen industry with a mission to create convenient, affordable noodles for everyone. After success in Japan, Maruchan began U.S. production in Irvine, California in 1977, where they perfected classics like Chicken Ramen Noodle Soup and Instant Lunch. Today, Maruchan operates manufacturing facilities across America, continuously expanding their lineup with innovative flavors and product offerings that inspire ramen recipes. Maruchan believes in bringing people together through the joy of noodles, creating moments where families and friends can share a warm, satisfying meal. Their commitment to quality ensures every bowl delivers the same delicious experience. In the U.S., Maruchan Inc. develops and markets a variety of products, including Maruchan Ramen Noodle Soup, Maruchan Ramen Bowls, Maruchan Yakisoba, Maruchan Instant Lunch, Maruchan Rice Bowls, Maruchan Wonton Ramen Noodle Soup Bowls, Maruchan GOLD and Maruchan Saucy Noods. Media Contact: Sarah Seventko [email protected] SOURCE Maruchan Bangladeshs incoming leader said on Saturday that he would work to build a more democratic country, overcoming challenges related to weak institutions after his party secured an election victory. Tarique Rahmans Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) won a majority in Thursdays election in the 350-member Parliament. An 11-member alliance led by the Jamaat-e-Islami party, the countrys largest Islamist party, is poised to form the opposition. It was the first election since the ousting of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina in a mass uprising in 2024. Tarique Rahman won a landslide win in the countrys election (Anupam Nath/AP) An interim government headed by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus oversaw the largely peaceful election. The voting marked a significant political shift in the South Asian nation of more than 170 million people. Advertisement The new government is expected to take the oath in days. In his first press meeting in the capital, Dhaka, Mr Rahman said that his priorities would be to improve law and order and handle a fragile economy. We are about to begin our journey in a situation marked by a fragile economy left behind by the authoritarian regime, weakened constitutional and statutory institutions, and a deteriorating law and order situation, he told reporters. Mr Rahman, son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, who died in December, also urged unity, promising that he would not undermine the country. To ensure that no evil force can re-establish autocracy in the country, and to ensure that the nation is not turned into a subservient state, we must remain united and uphold the will of the people, he said. The BNP is one of the countrys longstanding political forces alongside Ms Hasinas now-banned Awami League party. Ms Hasina has been accused of increasingly becoming authoritarian during her 15-year rule. In recent years, the BNP refused to take part in the election under Ms Hasina. She has been in exile in India since her deposal and has been convicted of crimes against humanity involving hundreds of deaths during the weeks-long uprising. Marco Rubio has hit out at the mistakes of Western nations over the past 40 years, but sought to reconcile ties between the US and Europe after recent turmoil in the transatlantic relationship. The US Secretary of States address at the Munich Security Conference was a drastic contrast with that made by vice president JD Vance who, in 2025, launched a blistering attack on Americas European allies. Mr Rubio, instead, insisted the fate of the United States and Europe will always be intertwined, as he said that Donald Trump demands seriousness and reciprocity from our friends here in Europe because we care deeply about your future and ours. He also, however, hit out at the United Nations, and warned that the rules-based global order which grew out of the end of the Cold War had been a dangerous delusion. European defence and the future of the transatlantic relationship are on the agenda at the conference, at a time when Americas commitment to Nato has been called into question. Keir Starmer is expected to call for European powers to step up their defence spending and no longer rely on America for their security in his speech on Saturday. Advertisement Ukraines allies held a meeting at the conference on Friday as they continue to rally around the war-torn country while the fourth anniversary of Russias full-scale invasion nears. Mr Rubio failed to attend the meeting. Keir Starmer sitting with Emmanuel Macron at the Munich Security Conference (Stefan Rousseau/PA) US officials reportedly blamed scheduling conflicts but his absence may have been seen by Europeans as a sign of the White Houses dwindling interest in including them in its bid to end the conflict. In his speech to the conference, Mr Rubio said: We want Europe to be strong. We believe that Europe must survive because the two great wars of the last century serve for us as historys constant reminder that, ultimately, our destiny is and will always be intertwined with yours. Because we know that the fate of Europe will never be irrelevant to our own. Elsewhere, he suggested the Western victory in the Cold War had led to complacency, telling the conference: The euphoria of this triumph led us to a dangerous delusion that we had entered, quote, The End of History, that every nation would now be a liberal democracy, that the ties formed by trade and by commerce alone would now replace nationhood, that the rules-based global order an overused term would now replace the national interest, and that we would now live in a world without borders, where everyone became a citizen of the world. Advertisement Mr Rubio acknowledged that we made these mistakes together, and now together, we owe it to our people to face those facts and to move forward to rebuild. He also claimed that the UN was among the global institutions which need to be rebuilt and reformed, adding: We cannot ignore that today, on the most pressing matters before us, it has no answers and has played virtually no role. Wolfgang Ischinger, the chairman of the Munich Security Conference who acted as a moderator for Mr Rubio as he took questions, claimed there had been a sigh of relief through this hall during the speech, in reference to its contrast with the address by Mr Vance in 2025. Keir Starmer will tell the summit that Europe must relinquish its overdependence on the United States in his speech on Saturday morning. The British Prime Minister will also argue for the UK to move closer to the European Union, saying turning inwards such as in the Brexit years would amount to a surrender of control in a perilous era for geopolitics. He is also expected to hit out at the Green Party and Reform UK in the speech, claiming either party would be bad for the UKs national security should they win power. Keir Starmer is rubbing shoulders with about 50 world leaders at the Munich Security Conference, where he has already met with Germanys Friedrich Merz, Frances Emmanuel Macron, and joined the Ukraine meeting alongside its president, Volodymyr Zelensky. Alexei Navalny died in a Siberian penal colony after becoming the most prominent and persistent critic of Vladimir Putin. Navalny, who campaigned against official corruption and organised major anti-government protests, had been behind bars since January 2021 before his death in February 2024 aged 47. He founded the Anti-Corruption Foundation in 2011, which published investigations detailing alleged corruption by high-ranking Russian officials and their associates, and was later awarded the Sakharov Prize for his work on human rights. In a 2011 interview, Navalny described Russias ruling party United Russia as a party of crooks and thieves. If they decided to kill me, it means we are incredibly strong. We need to utilise this power to not give up Alexei Navalny He was subsequently the target of criminal prosecutions by the Russian state that were widely considered to be politically motivated in order to bar him from running in future elections. When Putin spoke about Navalny, he made it a point not to mention the activist by name, referring to him only as that person or similar in an apparent effort to diminish his importance. Advertisement Navalny was convicted in 2013 of embezzlement, but later the prosecutors office surprisingly demanded his release pending appeal, after which a higher court gave him a suspended sentence. Many observers attributed his release to a desire by authorities to add a tinge of legitimacy to the mayoral election in Moscow, in which he had registered as a candidate. Navalny ultimately finished second in the contest, which was seen as an impressive outcome as the incumbent had the backing of Putins political machine. After being barred from running in the 2018 presidential election, Navalny was hospitalised after being poisoned with a Novichok nerve agent in August 2020 and medically evacuated to Berlin. Navalny accused Putin of being responsible for his poisoning, and an investigation implicated agents from Russias Federal Security Service. A documentary film, Navalny, about the poisoning won the Oscar for best documentary at the 2023 Academy Awards. In the film, Navalny says: If they decided to kill me, it means we are incredibly strong. We need to utilise this power to not give up. The opposition leader was immediately arrested on his return from Germany in January 2021 on charges of violating parole conditions while hospitalised in Berlin. Mass protests erupted in Russia following his arrest and, despite being jailed, Navalny remained a thorn in the side of Putin launching scathing attacks his associates posted to social media. Recognised by Amnesty International as a prisoner of conscience, Navalny rejected all charges against him as being part of a politically motivated vendetta, with his organisations also being designated as extremist and liquidated. Advertisement In March 2022, he was jailed for nine years after being found guilty in a fraud trial described as a sham by Amnesty International. This jail term was then extended in August 2023 to 19 years on alleged extremism charges. In December 2023, he was moved from his former prison in the Vladimir region of central Russia to a special regime penal colony, the highest security level of prisons in Russia, above the Arctic Circle. His allies decried the transfer to the town of Kharp, in the remote Yamalo-Nenets region notorious for its long and severe winters, as yet another attempt to silence Navalny before his death in February 2024. Two years on, the UK and its allies have pinned the blame on the Russian state following analysis of poison developed from a dart frog toxin found on Navalnys body. Advertisement Analysis BusinessCompaniesTourism Aussie travel investors get a European tour from hell Colin Kruger February 14, 2026 4:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition! was the famous Monty Python cry. That was certainly the case for one of Australias most successful tourism businesses: ASX-listed Web Travel Group. It all sounded pedestrian enough last Friday when the group informed the ASX that the Special Delegation of the Balearic Islands of the Spanish Tax Agency has commenced an audit of its Spanish subsidiary in respect of direct taxes, dating back three years. Web Travel Group investors got spooked when the company revealed it faces an audit by Spanish tax authorities. Monique Westermann A dusty little Web Travel office in Mallorca, the port city that was once a byword for British package-tour hell, and one-time refuge of the late Australian businessman fugitive, Christopher Skase. Whats the big deal, right? Advertisement What followed was a level of market mayhem worthy of a Monty Python skit. Web Travel shares crashed 41 per cent to an 11-year low, wiping hundreds of millions of dollars off its market valuation in the process. It was the sort of reaction you would expect for an extinction level event, not a standard audit by tax authorities. Web Travel boss John Guscic says the Spanish tax inquiry is a routine audit, not an existential crisis. Arsineh Houspian As a shell-shocked boss John Guscic told investors on Monday, having signed off on the announcement while in Tunisia for work: I went to bed on Thursday night as the market was about to open with a view that we just signed off on a straightforward, non market sensitive ASX release to keep the market appropriately informed. He woke up to a CEOs worst nightmare. Advertisement The market had obviously drawn a much broader and inaccurate conclusion about the content of the release than we could have ever anticipated, it would appear the assumption is we are facing an existential crisis, Guscic said. But the Web Travel team should have known better with investors still reeling from the unfolding disaster at one of Australias other globally successful travel operators, Corporate Travel Management. As one analyst pointed out: The revelation could not have come at a worse time. Investors in the Australian travel intermediary industry are still dazed over Corporate Travels accounting irregularities and customer overcharging in Europe/the UK a saga that has frozen Corporate Travel shares since August 2025. Corporate Travel needs to restate its financial accounts going back years and determine if it overcharged clients, including the British government, more than the $160 million it has uncovered to date. Its lucrative Australian government business is undergoing an independent audit and company founder Jamie Pherous stepped away this month with no clarity on if its shares would trade again. There is no suggestion Pherous was personally involved in or aware of the overcharging. Advertisement Its a long way from Web Travels Balaeric concerns, but there is good reason for market caution as shown by the fact that its stock trades at a significant discount to where it was before the Spanish inquisition kicked off. Spains Balaeric islands have not attracted this much Australian interest since it was home to the late corporate fugitive Christopher Skase. AP But Web Travels management were always going to be caught between a rock and a hard place on this issue. The reason they took the unusual step of announcing this audit was that the the Special Delegation of the Balearic Islands of the Spanish Tax Agency didnt just send a letter through the post. It showed up at the companys office with around 12 agents. We know this because local media just happened to witness and photograph the entire operation with reporting that included alarming phrases such as alleged tax fraud. Advertisement Related Article Updated Executive shake-up CTM ran asylum seeker barges for the UK. Now its CEO has quit Web Travel is understandably commenting as little as possible. Anything they say would only antagonise the authorities. A little bit of research indicates Spanish tax authorities are not to be messed with. Late last year, Robert Amsterdam, founder of US law firm Amsterdam & Partners, warned of a rule of law crisis within Spains tax system which some describe as a hangover from the countrys days under the Franco dictatorship. Spain hasnt passed a new national budget since 2022 and is using the Spanish Tax Authority to shore up the countrys finances by incentivising tax collectors through a shady bonus system. Its not only unethical, but illegal in our view, he said in a widely reported interview on the matter. Web Travel has not said how much of its European revenue, which generates one-third of its overall business, is channelled through Spain. Advertisement The company, which used to own Web Jet, acts as an accommodation-selling middleman between hotels and travel agents, which means it is also facing AI concerns and the threat of disintermediation by its partners in this travel eco-system. But thats a story for another day. Right now, Web Travel just needs to deliver on the promise that there is no change to its financial outlook and avoid the kind of rolling disaster at Corporate Travel that might cost its investors billions. The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning. Advertisement BusinessEntrepreneurshipSmall business El Jannahs cousin has entered Sydneys chicken shop wars Jessica Yun February 15, 2026 4:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A James Estephans new Lebanese charcoal chicken shop, nestled on the single shopping strip of Belfield in Sydneys south-west, is surrounded. There are two El Jannah outlets in the neighbouring suburbs of Punchbowl and Burwood. Then there is Anar in Croydon and Awafy in Belmore, not to be confused with Awafi (named for an Arabic saying that loosely means good health), which has locations in Punchbowl and Revesby. This area actually knows what good charcoal chicken is supposed to taste like, Estephan says. James Estephan at his newly opened Chard Lebanese chicken shop in Belfield, Sydney. Sitthixay Ditthavong Then come the fighting words. But like, tasting good charcoal chicken with heaps of flavour I just think thats missing, he says. Advertisement The success of his new chicken shop Chard will come down to its rivals, Estephan believes, not despite them. This is a baptism of fire: the suburbs of western Sydney are full of residents of Lebanese heritage, the top nominated ancestry that comprises 14-17 per cent of the local population on Australian Bureau of Statistics figures. It is the same hotspot that gave rise to national chain El Jannah, which was founded in 1998, already has 50 locations and is rapidly expanding towards a goal of 500, aided by an $800 million injection last year from US investment giant General Atlantic. James Estephan serves customers at his newly opened Chard Lebanese chicken shop in Belfield, Sydney. Sitthixay Ditthavong El Jannahs undeniable role in introducing thousands of Australians to Lebanese charcoal chicken for the first time and proving its broad appeal across mainstream Australia has meant it is the standard against which Chard (and any other Lebanese charcoal chicken merchant) will be measured. Then theres the family name: James Estephans grandfather is a cousin of the father of Andre Estephan, co-founder of El Jannah. That makes the two men second cousins once removed. Lineage aside, their respective families have lived largely separate lives. Advertisement I just want to set a new standard, Estephan says. But if the standard is El Jannah and everyone compares me to them, thats pretty fine. Related Article Entrepreneur From Granville to the Australian Open: Inside El Jannahs ascent to cult chicken chain If you cant join em, beat em Prowess with poultry seems to run in the family. After starting his working life at McDonalds at the age of 14, James Estephan spent three years in the digital marketing and brand management team of Red Rooster, one of four chicken chains run by Craveable Brands. At the time, Craveable was headed by chief executive Brett Houldin, who had attempted to acquire El Jannah before he jumped ship to lead the Lebanese chicken shops national rollout. Estephan had in early 2020 tried, at first, to join the family business, and had explored the option of owning an El Jannah franchise, but found the cost (about $1 million) too steep for his budget. In mid-2021, he took over a chicken shop in western Sydneys Eastern Creek called Paradise and another in St Clair that he rebranded to Chard two years later. Advertisement As he eyes expansion, Estephan has little room for error. He is wary of falling into the same pitfalls that some former El Jannah fans often early adopters, or of Lebanese descent are now criticising the growing franchise for, including poorer quality control, often attributed to rapid expansion, accusations of selling out, and dry chicken. Ive [built] the whole brand on the negatives of other places that Ive heard, the 30-year-old says. You jump on Google reviews, Facebook, Instagram, you read comments, and you see what people are lacking, and then you do the opposite. Chard will get compared to El Jannah whether Estephan likes it or not so hes leaned into it. Sitthixay Ditthavong When this masthead visited ahead of the Chard Belfield branchs soft launch last Thursday, at least half a dozen curious passers-by stopped to inquire whether it was open for business. Advertisement El Jannah chief executive Brett Houldin wasnt one of them. Houldin says he hadnt heard of Chard until asked about it by this masthead, but he wishes Estephan well and says that more players will raise awareness of Lebanese cuisine. There [are] copycats in every industry, Houldin says. I think smaller brands are trying to look at how weve done things and why weve been successful, and thats great. The imitation is flattering. Houldin says he is confident of the consistency and quality of El Jannahs product and service standards. All roads dont mean that everyones going to be the best, he says. We have the highest performing fast food brand in the country, and that means there will be others that want to see if they can try and get a piece of that. Advertisement Tim Fawaz, interim chief executive of Craveable Brands, the parent company that operates Oporto, Red Rooster, Chargrill Charlies and Chicken Treat, says the brands are constantly innovating their menus as customers become more adventurous with flavours and range. Competition is healthy, its a sign the category is growing and Australians continue to love chicken, which after a period of uncertainty for the [quickservice restaurant] industry in the years following COVID, is a good thing, Fawaz says. The company, which acquired Chargrill Charlies in May 2023, is not looking at any other acquisitions. Estephan, for his part, is toeing a similar line. He has plenty of praise for what El Jannah has done to expand the appeal of Lebanese cuisine. Honestly, I look up to them. What theyve done is great, he says. [But] our food is 100 per cent better. The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning. Advertisement Review Eating outTaren Point Find some of Sydneys best barbecued brisket at this suburban car wash Good Food heads to the Sutherland Shire to try Texas barbecue with Greek flair (hello, smoked lamb shoulder gyros). Bianca Hrovat February 15, 2026 Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A 1 / 7 Smoked wagyu brisket. Sitthixay Ditthavong 2 / 7 Hatz Off BBQ, Taren Point. Sitthixay Ditthavong 3 / 7 George Hatzigeorgiou is the owner-cook at Hatz Off BBQ. Sitthixay Ditthavong 4 / 7 The brisket toastie became so popular, sale had to be limited to lunchtime service. Sitthixay Ditthavong 5 / 7 The smoker exclusively uses Queensland Ironbark. Sitthixay Ditthavong 6 / 7 The brisket box with slaw, cheesy corn and house-made BBQ sauce on the side. Sitthixay Ditthavong 7 / 7 Lamb and beef short ribs. Sitthixay Ditthavong Previous Slide Next Slide American$$$$ The video showed a juicy slab of smoke-stained brisket so tender it fell apart at the first stab of a flimsy cardboard fork. Im not usually drawn to American barbecue, but damn. The social media footage, filmed at Hatz Off BBQ in Taren Point, activated something in the neanderthal depths of my brain remnants of a long-lost survival instinct, screeching at me to drive south to the Shire and devour the flesh of three animals in a single seating. You can smell Hatz Off before you see it charred fat, smouldering ironbark and caramelised onions. A carnivorous smoke signal barrelling out of an almost six-metre-long, solid steel barbecue pit in the car park of a Star Car Wash. Its manned by owner George Hatzigeorgiou, a local man who has been cooking Texan-style barbecue for more than 10 years. First, as a hobbyist, then as a bona fide pitmaster, walking away from a corporate career to pursue his dream in 2023. Advertisement The brisket box at Hatz Off BBQ, Taren Point. Sitthixay Ditthavong Theres a caveman appeal to Texan barbecue, he says. Cooking with firewood, no electronics, manually controlling the airflow through your chimneys and the temperature over many hours the longer you do it, the more you appreciate the skill and the art in it. You can taste Hatzigeorgious skill in his signature brisket, served straight up with slaw (made by his mum, Xan), cheesy corn kernels and a bread roll. Brisket is a tough cut of meat, taken from the collagen-rich lower-chest of a cow, but here its transformed rubbed with a secret combination of salt, spice and sweetness; smoked for up to 12 hours over Queensland ironbark, and rested for a further 10. It emerges with a blackened crust, a literal melt-in-your-mouth softness, and just the right amount of chew. It helps, of course, that this particular brisket comes from Australian-bred wagyu with the highest score of marbled, intramuscular fat. George Hatzigeorgiou with his slow-cooked brisket. Sitthixay Ditthavong Advertisement From the beginning, we said, Look, if were going to do this, were jumping in with both feet. Were not taking any shortcuts, were not pre-cooking anything the week before, and were doing everything from scratch, he says. And if it works, fantastic. If it doesnt, then we sleep well knowing we didnt cut any corners. That philosophy extends throughout the menu. Hatzigeorgiou makes all of his sauces from scratch in his home kitchen, slowly cooking down big pots of barbecue sauce (sweet, with subtle heat, always served on the side), blending a house sauce that sits somewhere between ranch and garlic, and using his Greek great-grandmothers recipe for a creamy tzatziki. Philly cheesesteak. Sitthixay Ditthavong We wanted to make sure there was a Greek twist on things, he says. That means theres gyros on the eight-item (plus sides) menu served with brisket, chicken or (the obvious choice) smoked lamb shoulder. Generous serves of meat are shredded into a thick grilled pita and wrapped with tzatziki, sliced red onion and fries. The whole thing is as thick as my forearm. It disappears fast. Advertisement Theres also a snack pack, smoked chicken wings, beef short ribs, and the best-selling brisket cheese toastie (only available at lunchtime). But its the $22 Philly cheesesteak that stands out: brisket piled onto soft white bread, sweetened with grilled green peppers and caramelised brown onions. Its finished with a molten cheese blend of cheddar, asadero and Monterey Jack. It looks like a heart attack, says a reformed vegan (my husband). He still fights for the last bite. Its a family-run operation. Sitthixay Ditthavong This is a sometimes-food, admits Hatzigeorgiou. But its only available twice a week, on Fridays and Saturdays, when he sets up shop with sister Anna on the grill and wife Kali taking orders from a fold-out table. We planned to eat there, but the air-conditioned dining room (available at night, after the car wash closes) was nearly empty, the outdoor chairs were stacked, and most customers opted for takeaway. He wants the business to grow into a warehouse one day, with the smoker out front and a bit of atmosphere inside. Until that happens, theres a pretty good alternative we enjoyed our feast with a waterfront view on the Woolooware Bay boardwalk, a three-minute drive away. Advertisement Three more places to try American-style barbecue Smoke Shack BBQ, Mount Colah Theres a true Texan feel to Smoke Shack BBQ. Its in a repurposed 70s era Pizza Hut, kitted out with hardwood picnic tables, piles of chopped wood in the counters and a barbecue pit out front. The restaurant specialises in low-and-slow barbecue, serving pork belly, wagyu brisket and jalapeno cheese hot links (sausages) across a selection of burgers, platters and boxes. Order ahead for wagyu ribs, smoked for 10 hours on the bone and served with chimichurri sauce. 527-531 Pacific Highway, Mount Colah, smokeshack-bbq.com.au 2 Smokin Arabs, Belmore 2 Smokin Arabs started as a market stall and quickly developed a reputation for its barbecued brisket, wagyu ribs and burgers. Theyve since moved into a three-month residency at the Canterbury Leagues Club, while continuing to operate a food truck (usually stationed somewhere in Sydneys west, check Instagram for updates). 26 Bridge Road, Belmore, instagram.com/2smokinarabs_aus Brisket Boys, Penrith The Penrith pitmasters have expanded to a second location, partnering with local NRL team the Panthers to open in their downstairs Basement Sports Bar. There are all the low-and-slow barbecue classics like brisket and pork, as well as Philly cheesesteak and Reuben sandwiches. Their original HQ in North Penrith now sells smoked brisket feast kits so you can learn to prepare your own at home. Tenancy 25/2115 Castlereagh Road, Penrith and 123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith, brisketboys.com.au Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant cant pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide. Advertisement NationalAntisemitism Opinion How Zionist became a safe word for hate Danny Berkovic Campaigner February 14, 2026 6:30pm February 14, 2026 6:30pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A At protests against Israeli President Isaac Herzogs visit to Australia, some demonstrators directed their anger not only at Israels policies but at Zionists themselves accusing them of malign influence in the media and government. At other recent rallies, Zionism has been equated to Nazism and terrorism. A sign juxtaposing Zionism and Nazism is displayed at a pro-Palestinian rally last May in Melbourne. Luis Enrique Ascui Victor Klemperer, a Jewish academic who survived Nazi Germany, warned that words can act like tiny doses of arsenic swallowed unnoticed, accumulating slowly, until their poison takes hold. His insight was not about shouted slogans, but about respectable language that can normalise contempt. Zionist has entered this territory over the past two years. In the wake of the Bondi attack, I was involved in a public campaign for a federal royal commission into antisemitism. My role prompted a message from someone I have known for more than 20 years. Had I been paid by Israel for my advocacy, he asked. It was an offensive question. The answer was no. What followed was more revealing. Zionists have always been morally bankrupt with a superiority complex, he told me. Advertisement I asked him two simple questions. Did he believe the state of Israel should continue to exist? Yes. Did he believe it should exist as a Jewish state, provided Jews, Christians, Muslims and others were given equal rights? Yes. By the standard definition, he qualified as a Zionist. He either did not understand the term or he was deliberately repurposing it. People hold signs at a vigil outside the Australian consulate in New York City after the Bondi massacre. Getty Images That exchange mattered not because it was especially aggressive, but because it was ordinary. It was delivered calmly, with moral certainty, and without any sense of contradiction. It revealed something that has become increasingly common: the use of the word Zionist not to describe a belief, but to impugn a target. Zionism, properly understood, is not complicated. It is the belief that the Jewish people have the right to self-determination in their ancestral homeland. In practical terms, it is the idea that Israel should exist as a Jewish state. In Australia, Zionism has long been openly supported by mainstream leaders from across the political spectrum as a legitimate expression of Jewish self-determination. Advertisement Zionism does not dictate borders. It does not prescribe military policy. It does not require allegiance to any government, leader or political party. It does not exclude any race or religion from Israeli citizenship. It does not preclude criticism of Israel and nor does it demand support for all actions taken by the Israeli state. Expansionism is not intrinsic to it, and nor does it require opposition to a two-state solution. To be clear, criticism of Israel that is similar to that levelled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic. Related Article Exclusive Investigations Insults and arson: How one mans chants could define free speech Like any national movement, Zionism contains a wide spectrum of political views. Many Zionists oppose Israels current government. Many Israelis have protested against it for years. Some of the fiercest critics of Israeli policy are Israeli citizens, who nonetheless consider themselves proudly Zionist. This clarity matters because once a words meaning is hijacked, it becomes available for misuse or abuse. In recent years, Zionist has increasingly been deployed as an insult. The term Zionist is no longer used to identify an idea, but it is spat to assign blame. Zionists are held responsible for a wide range of evils, often without definition or limitation. In many instances, Zionist is used synonymously with Jew, while maintaining just enough ambiguity to deny that Jews are being targeted at all. So why does this substitution occur? Advertisement Because openly targeting Jews is no longer socially acceptable. Zionist becomes the workaround broad enough to encompass most Jews, yet elastic enough to provide moral cover. It allows hostility to be expressed while preserving plausible deniability. Related Article Israeli-Palestinian conflict Herzog declares Australia a serious partner, rebukes protesters on final day of visit We are repeatedly told that hostility toward Zionists is merely political critique. But if that were true, the criticism would be of policy. Instead, Zionists are accused of supremacy, immorality, or inherent evil. That is not political criticism. It is collective character assassination. This matters because Zionism is not an abstract ideology for most Jews. It is bound up with history, vulnerability and survival. For many Jews including those deeply critical of Israel Zionism represents the belief that Jews should not again be stateless, dependent on the goodwill of others for protection. To insist that anti-Zionism has nothing to do with Jews while knowing that the overwhelming majority of Jews identify in some way with Zionism is disingenuous. At best, it ignores how the word is actually used. At worst, the ambiguity is used intentionally as cover. This is why the definitional battle matters. Hijacking the meaning of Zionism allows hatred to masquerade as politics. The federal royal commission into antisemitism must grapple with these subtleties if it is to understand Jew hatred in Australia. Advertisement Existing legal frameworks are poorly equipped to deal with language that is technically deniable yet socially corrosive. They miss the cumulative effect of rhetoric that repeatedly singles out a group under a different name. Related Article Opinion Israeli-Palestinian conflict Im Jewish. I live in Bondi. But I take no comfort from Herzogs visit David Leser Senior freelance writer If the commission is to be meaningful, it must confront this linguistic sleight of hand directly. It must be willing to ask whether Zionist has become a socially acceptable stand-in for Jew a way to legitimise hostility while denying responsibility for its impact. Because when words are repurposed to disguise prejudice, history suggests the damage rarely stops with words. Danny Berkovic is a Sydney businessman and an organiser of the bondiresponse.com petition, which pushed the Albanese government to announce a royal commission into antisemitism. Advertisement NationalNSWCity life An incredibly rare proposition: Sydney Harbour island up for sale David Barwell February 14, 2026 11:59am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A An Aboriginal land council is leading a push for a small but historically significant island in Sydney Harbour to be returned to traditional custodians after the site was listed for sale as part of a sweeping $3 billion sell-off of surplus defence land. Spectacle Island is at the centre of a growing debate about whether prominent public assets with deep historical value should be sold to private interests after the two-hectare former naval outpost was included in a list of 67 defence properties set to be divested by the federal government to fund modern defence priorities. Naval Historical Society president David Michael, pictured with Spectacle Island in the distance, believes the sites heritage should be maintained. Sitthixay Ditthavong Vacant since 2023, Spectacle Island has played a quiet but consequential role in Australias defence history first as a gunpowder store established in 1865, later as a naval munitions depot, and more recently as a storage base for the Royal Australian Navys heritage collection. The island contains about 40 heritage buildings, including 19th-century powder magazines and laboratories. Advertisement Its listing has ignited discussion about whether surplus defence sites should be sold off or repurposed for public uses such as open space, cultural facilities or social and affordable housing. While the NSW Government has confirmed it is considering housing options for another defence site, Victoria Barracks in Paddington, Planning Minister Paul Scully was less specific about Spectacle Island, saying NSW would engage constructively with the federal government as opportunities arose. Spectacle Island on the Parramatta River section of Sydney Harbour, with Cockatoo Island in the background. Getty Images The Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council is preparing a formal request to the federal government for Aboriginal ownership. Metro LALC chief executive Nathan Moran said the proposed sale was an opportunity to address historic land dispossession. More than 99 per cent of our backyard has been taken from us and rather than being sold off to private interests for the highest price, this is a rare opportunity for the federal government to help correct past injustices while creating new economic and cultural pathways for our people, he said. Advertisement Moran said Spectacle Island, together with nearby Goat Island which remains subject to final transfer negotiations with the NSW government could support Indigenous-led tourism, education programs and cultural events. Spectacle Island is one of 67 defence sites set to be fully or partially divested by the federal government. Fairfax Media Over 70 per cent of visitors to Sydney seek an Aboriginal cultural tourism experience, and right now theres nowhere to deliver it at scale within the harbour, he said. The listing has also sparked speculation that the island could be sold to private buyers and repurposed for uses such as boutique accommodation, hospitality or events. That would align with recent changes to the management of other islands within Sydney Harbour, including the NSW government awarding a tender for a hospitality venue to operate on Fort Denison and the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust expanding public access and commercial activity on Cockatoo Island. Advertisement Property Council of Australia policy executive Matthew Kandelaars said hospitality and premium tourism were the most plausible commercial options for Spectacle Island, given constraints including water-only access and strict heritage controls. Resort Brokers director Tim Crooks said the island could attract interest from high-net-worth individuals, investors or hospitality groups, with its value potentially reaching tens of millions of dollars depending on permitted uses. The sale of an island in Sydney Harbour is an incredibly rare proposition and it will generate a lot of interest, particularly among buyers looking at adaptive reuse options, such as luxury accommodation, events or destination hospitality, Crooks said. Defence audit documents describe many of the islands structures as significantly degraded due to water ingress, lead paint and decades of limited maintenance. Advertisement Defence Minister Richard Marles, pictured at Victoria Barracks in Paddington, said Spectacle Island is costing millions of dollars to maintain. Peter Rae The buildings are listed on the Commonwealth Heritage Register under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, meaning any buyer would face strict conservation and environmental remediation requirements. Related Article NSW State Parliament Not surplus land or disposable asset: Labor MP says Victoria Barracks should be saved UNSW City Futures Research Centre professor Chris Pettit said that while housing had been discussed as an option for other defence sites, Spectacle Island was unlikely to play a meaningful role in easing the housing crisis due to its small size and limited transport access. He said the island had significant international tourism appeal and suggested it would be better managed by a public authority or Aboriginal organisation rather than a private owner. Advertisement The only other option is a multimillionaire buying it as a trophy asset for prestige, but that would not be an equitable use of what has long been a publicly owned site, he said. Heritage advocates have warned that private ownership could jeopardise the preservation of the islands historic buildings and military artefacts, including gun turrets and ship bells. Spectacle Island has been included in a divestment program of defence assets. Australian Defence Force David Michael, president of the Naval Historical Society, said preserving the islands buildings would require significant investment. It is Australias oldest naval explosives manufacturing and storage site, he said. Drummoyne state Liberal MP Stephanie Di Pasqua said the proposed sale had come as a shock to many in the community and called for the site to remain in public hands. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. New protest laws designed to foster unity failed miserably this week as the city was gripped by violent clashes between police and protesters. Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A Advertisement Social cohesion isnt just a buzzword; its essential to a flourishing democracy. Anthea Hancocks, chief executive of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute, describes it as the glue that holds society together; a mix of the things that make people feel part of their community, like their sense of connection and belonging, their trust in institutions, and their involvement in local organisations. A society with strong cohesion is brought together by a sense of common good, a tolerance of diversity, and shared values. The stronger the social cohesion, the greater the resilience against external shocks. Im here for Palestine and because of the police brutality last night, Boomie, who only gave one name, said at a protest on Tuesday. Audrey Richardson Frayed social cohesion can cause serious problems. A UK review which highlighted how globalisation is increasingly fanning different countries internal issues borders, such as the way George Floyds death in the United States became the international Black Lives Matter movement found that while damage to cohesion tends to bubble under the surface, its a serious national security issue because it erodes democratic rights and freedoms, and can be manipulated by those who want to undermine democracy. A particular problem was the rise in freedom-restricting harassment (where people experience or witness threats or abuse intended to make them self-censor out of fear). External events can damage cohesion. Financial stress is a big one; Australias took a dip during the Global Financial Crisis. Uncertainty is challenging, too. Mondays violence in Sydney a city still reeling from the December attack that killed 15 residents would have left many of those who watched it feeling unsettled, regardless of which version of events they believed; it was frightening if that level of police force was required, and frightening if it wasnt. This insecurity can make people question whether those who are in a position to create some level of safety and security arent necessarily able to do it, Hancocks says. The good news is that were not as divided as it seems. While Australias social cohesion declined from 2020 to 2023, according to the institutes annual measure of 8000 Australians, its still pretty strong it has fallen to 78 from a high of 92 in 2020 and has stayed relatively stable since. Hancocks puts this down to personal connections within neighbourhoods. Even multiculturalism, a concept under attack from some quarters, has widespread support (although of the main religious groups, Muslims are by far the least supported). People see multiculturalism as an innate part of who we are as Australians, and theyre proud of that, Hancocks says. Advertisement In NSW, Minns concerns about social cohesion prompted his government to pass laws 10 days after the Bondi attack, which gave the police commissioner the power to temporarily declare public areas restricted from assemblies after a terrorist event. Theyve applied to sections of the city ever since. In early January, Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said protests would heighten tension and present a risk to community safety. He said that police would ensure the restrictions were carried out in a way that strengthens safety and unity across our state. The laws are controversial; the United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights and counter-terrorism, Ben Saul, argues that they have made NSW one of the most draconian anti-protest jurisdictions in the democratic world. Hannah Thomas addresses the crowd in Harmony Park next to the Surry Hills Police Station. Kate Geraghty Mondays rally (or as Minns later described it, riot) against Herzogs visit was their first test; the first time protesters decided to openly flout them, and the first time police had to defend them. The laws dont prevent protesters from gathering, but they allow police to exercise powers to move them on if theyre deemed to be causing harassment, intimidation or traffic obstruction. Protesters accused police of using disproportionate violence when they tried to march to Parliament. Minns said police acted with restraint and had no alternative to force because they wanted to stop protesters from coming into contact with Jewish mourners gathered at the nearby convention centre with Herzog (there was no indication from organisers that this was their intention, and the ICC was in a different direction to parliament, but authorities worried that the two groups would mingle at Town Hall station). Related Article Protests Police watchdog to investigate actions of officers at Sydney Town Hall rally When asked for his view on social cohesion, Minns says it doesnt require complex academic theories. It just means living with people who look different, who think differently, who have different views on the big topics. The good news is, nearly every Australian will happily sign up to this principle. For most people in this country, politics isnt the most important thing in their lives. They reject having their communities riven down the middle by foreign wars or even national elections. Advertisement Right now, we all need to take responsibility for lowering the temperature. And on Monday night, that meant avoiding a direct clash between mourners and protesters. I cant think of anything that would have more effectively aggravated the community than that. Emeritus Professor Simon Rice from the law school at the University of Sydney is an expert in protest. His view is that targeting rallies is not a strategy to improve social cohesion, but rather a way to stop behaviour thats undermining social cohesion. Loading Its not social cohesion to demonise public assembly, public expression and to criminalise it, he says. Yes, its a sensitive issue, but not one in which opposing views should be suppressed. [Existing vilification laws] draw a line that cant be crossed, but the fact that they leave room for opposing views has to be respected [on Monday] the policing wasnt respectful of freedom of speech it was violent, it was unprovoked, it was wildly disproportionate to what was being done. Federal Coalition MP for Berowra Julian Leeser, who is Jewish, has a different view. He believes an element of social cohesion is obeying the law, and protesters refused to do so in this instance. Whats slipped is weve increasingly got people in this country who dont think the law applies to them, he says. The protesters were welcome to protest in Hyde Park, yet they chose to go ahead [at Town Hall] anyway. They were deliberately trying to test the authority of police. Theres a radical element among this group. Research over decades has shown that the best way to repair social cohesion is to bring opposite sides together to find commonality. Northern Ireland spent decades building bridges between Catholic and Protestant communities after the Troubles by committing to shared education, shared spaces, educating children and building positive relations. Reflecting on Northern Irelands experience, Queens University professor and former UN Special Rapporteur on counter-terrorism and human rights Fionnuala Ni Aolain told Rethinking Security that many states consolidate authority by leaning into a security lens and this usually makes insecurity worse. Northern Ireland was unique in being an exception to this trend. There were some kinetic elements, but it was clearly a more human security-centred approach. Advertisement Applying the empathy model, Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett has recently announced a Social Cohesion Consultative Board to deal with crimes that threaten national security, to bring together people who are generally not in the same room as each other. Rice says its the harder but more constructive approach to social cohesion. Its a long, slow road that gets led by politicians and leaders who engage in reflective and respectful dialogue, he says. It doesnt deliver a headline tomorrow, which is what politicians want. It requires a public patience and a tolerance that were not seeing at the moment. Palestine Action Group members and supporters hold a protest and eventually clash with police near Town Hall during the Israeli presidents visit to Sydney. Wolter Peeters On this, Leeser agrees. You make societies stronger when you have different groups working together on mutual projects, he says. He also believes the education system is key, and has failed when it comes to teaching young people about antisemitism. Josh Szeps is a Jewish Australian broadcaster who believes so strongly in dialogue over silencing that he runs a podcast called Uncomfortable Conversations. He finds pro-Palestinian protesters chants such as Globalise the Intifada deeply offensive It has overtones of buses blowing up in the street and cafes exploding, he says but he doesnt believe in outlawing them, as has happened in Queensland and is proposed in NSW. You might like Chris Minns and think hes banning the right things, he says. But history is long, and at some point its not inconceivable that NSW will be governed by a MAGA-style, family values, nationalist government that will be enforcing its own speech codes, which you may not agree with. The long-term survival of democracy and the flourishing of civilisation depends upon our having thick skin and warm hearts and cool heads. He understands passions run high over whats going on in Israel and Gaza, and that simplistic positions are attractive in times that feel chaotic, but he despairs over the lack of nuance and the binary nature of the debate. On one side, Palestinians are terrorists and Israel is an upstanding Western democracy, and on the other Israel is a genocidal apartheid state and the Arab world is blameless for the plight of the Palestinian people, he says. It goes without saying that neither of these touches the reality on the ground when you talk to Jews and Muslims, Arabs and Israelis who actually live there and have been wrestling in the mud and the blood of this stuff for longer than many people at Mondays protest have been alive. Advertisement Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Police say a trio of kidnappers took the wrong person and are appealing for the return of an elderly man who was abducted from his bedroom in northern Sydney. Police are asking for help to find 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian, who may have been kidnapped from his home in North Ryde on Friday. NSW Police Officers have called on the kidnappers to relinquish Chris Baghsarian, who they fear may be hurt and who needs daily medication. They said the widower and grandfather was not the intended target, and lives alone at his North Ryde home. You have the wrong person, said Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks, in a direct appeal to the abductors. If theres a member of the kidnap crew who has any common decency, tell us where he is and well do the rest. Baghsarians neighbours called police at 5am on Friday, after hearing a commotion. One witness, Felix Cho, told Channel 9 he heard glass smashing, the screaming that just kept going and dogs barking before a car took off down the street. 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The elusive thief raided affluent homes in Sydney and Melbourne over eight years. A decade later, hes been at it again. Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A A single swipe card inside a former promising lawyers wallet unlocked the largest burglary investigation its lead detective had faced, having baffled police for years. Phillip See, the wallets owner and one-time paralegal at the Crown Solicitors Office in Sydney, was a suspect in more than 100 burglaries across affluent suburbs in the harbour city and Melbourne. Serial fraudster and burglar Phillip See leaves John Maddison Tower District Court in Sydney after avoiding jail in January. Louise Kennerley The card discovered by the cases lead investigator, Victoria Polices Detective acting Sergeant Cliff Pickett became the smoking gun. It opened a Sydney storage unit hiding a $5.5 million treasure trove linked to about 150 robberies over eight years. An Olympian and war veteran were among the victims. Phillip See was sentenced to 12 years jail for these crimes a decade ago, with a non-parole period of 7 years. The sheer volume of robberies, coupled with the amounts of money that he stole, made it the largest burglary investigation Pickett had confronted. To this day, he wonders how some sophisticated thefts were executed, and what motivated a man who rarely spent his dirty cash. Advertisement Ive never, ever found someone as invested in researching different ways to commit crime, he said. Phillip See was captured on CCTV at Melbourne Airport on the day of a Melbourne warehouse burglary in December 2011. I couldnt really get inside his head as to why he was doing the things he was doing. It wasnt to lead an extravagant lifestyle maybe it was the challenge of doing things and the thrill of getting away with it. Pickett can recall the elation he felt when he and his Victorian and NSW colleagues finally cracked the case mainly because it was unique and bizarre. Now, the 47-year-old has quietly avoided prison after returning to his old tricks and stealing tens of thousands of dollars worth of valuables from Sydneys north shore and northern beaches. Robbery manuals replace legal books As a young adult, the future looked bright for the quick-witted law and economics graduate. Advertisement But as Phillip See fell into drug use and mental health challenges, he began committing petty thefts and trespasses. He spent the next decades visiting courtrooms, but not for reasons hed hoped. Ive never, ever found someone as invested in researching different ways to commit crime. Victoria Polices Detective acting Sergeant Cliff Pickett After his first jail stint in the early 2000s, his crimes and ability to evade capture escalated. From 2010 to 2011, Victorian and NSW Police noticed similarities in many unsolved and sophisticated burglaries. Families in wealthy areas were targeted while on holiday. Fleeing without a trace, the culprit would even repair and repaint damaged window frames, often leaving victims unaware of the intrusion until police returned their valuables. A lot of the time the safe would be removed and not located, Pickett said. Now, these were quite heavy safes How he did that, I dont know. Advertisement A breakthrough came when NSW detectives traced jewellery, stolen from Sydney and sold at a Melbourne auction under a fake name, to Phillip See. He was a prime suspect, using fake IDs, names and credit cards. Investigations uncovered that he and his father, Christopher See, committed a daring $900,000 heist in a Melbourne warehouse in late 2011. Christopher See leaves the Melbourne County Court in 2018. Jason South Court documents state they remained on a police-tapped call throughout the burglary. Christopher See kept watch from a nearby church, while his son scaled and cut a tall barbed wire fence. Inside, Phillip See used a portable power saw to slice a timber door that protected a safe deposit box room and would only spark an alarm if opened. He covered a CCTV camera and cut the locks of dozens of security boxes while his father removed valuables. Wait till you see it, Dad, Phillip See told his father on the phone. Upon his arrest in Sydney, the pair were extradited to Melbourne. While searching Phillip See, Pickett found the swipe card. His NSW counterparts tracked down the Sydney storage unit. The $5.5 million stash contained valuables from the Melbourne warehouse and auction thefts. Police uncovered more than $2.3 million in Australian and foreign currency, 145 kilograms of silver bars, 100 ounces of gold, several firearms, 8500 pieces of jewellery and hundreds of bottles of expensive wine. Advertisement Police uncovered a $5.5 million treasure trove hidden inside the Sydney storage unit. At a See family members Bellevue Hill home in Sydneys east, police found piles of how to books, including those titled How to Crack Safes, Locks, Safes and Security and Understanding and Servicing Alarm Systems. This masthead earlier reported that lower north shore resident, Trish Howman-Giles, burst into tears when her wedding and engagement rings, anniversary gifts and family heirlooms were recovered. A victim of one of Phillip Sees older crimes, Trish Howman-Giles, at her home. Edwina Pickles Busted with gold tucked under pillow By dealing with so much cash and stealing any valuable item you could think of, Phillip See could have lived in a luxury penthouse, taken lavish holidays and dressed in designer clothing. But when he was caught, he was found living in a crappy boarding house, owning only casual clothes. The sole sign of his newfound wealth? A gold bar hidden under his pillow. Advertisement Remove items from your saved list to add more. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Save this video for later Add videos to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Australias unique reptiles are the most frequently targeted species, particularly bluetongue skinks, shinglebacks and rare snakes. Hong Kong continues to be the top destination for illegal exports, with most leaving the country via New South Wales. Despite the surge in enforcement, wildlife crime experts mapping the illegal trade have found nine out of 10 animal-smuggling attempts in and out of Australia are successful, earning millions of dollars each year for crime gangs, decimating animal populations and risking the nations biosecurity. Snakes like this one, seized as part of Operatino Django, are being smuggled out of Australia in droves Victorias Conservation Regulator has recorded a 254 per cent rise in wildlife-related crime reports over the past five years, including instances of trafficking and cruelty. A crackdown on wildlife trafficking syndicates has caused the number of smuggled animal seizures to more than double in the past two years. Federal authorities stopped more than 1100 trafficked native animals at the border last year. Australian reptiles worth up to $100,000 each on international black markets are being intercepted in the $32 billion annual global trade the worlds fourth-largest illegal market behind drugs, counterfeiting and human trafficking. Crime gangs are being caught in record numbers smuggling rare Australian animals for global underground networks, but experts say its just the tip of the iceberg in an illegal trade worth billions. Following one of Australias largest animal-smuggling busts, the ringleader of a Sydney-based syndicate on Friday received a record jail sentence. This work is delivering results seizures, prosecutions and deterrence and strengthening Australias broader biosecurity and conservation outcomes by making it harder for offenders to profit from the illegal wildlife trade. Through targeted intelligence analysis, on-ground investigations, and close collaboration with partner agencies, were detecting the methods used to traffic native species and closing the gaps criminals rely on. Illegal trafficking and wildlife crime is fast becoming a threat for many of our species that are already at risk of extinction, Watt said. The growing global trade in native plants and animals is illegal, cruel and threatens the future of many of our beloved plants and animals. Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt said the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water had set up specialist environmental crime units in Sydney and Melbourne over the past two years as part of an effort to tackle the growing barbaric trade. During a January 22 raid on a Melbourne apartment, federal environmental crime investigators uncovered 800 cartons of illicit tobacco along with native reptiles allegedly being prepared for trafficking. An investigation by this masthead can also reveal that recent busts have shown an overlap with other forms of organised crime. On Friday, the Sydney Downing Centre District Court sentenced Simpson to eight years in jail with a non-parole period of five years and four months. Three lower-level syndicate members were previously convicted for their roles. Under Operations Buckland and Pandora, Commonwealth and NSW investigators teamed up with Australia Post and university-based wildlife crime researchers to track down the traffickers, leading to search warrants that uncovered several hundred more live reptiles shingleback lizards, western blue-tongue lizards, Centralian blue-tongue lizards, bearded dragons, southern pygmy spiny-tail skinks, Eastern Pilbara spiny-tailed skinks, desert skinks, narrow-banded sand swimmers and major skinks as well as the ringleader, Neil Simpson, 61. Between 2018 and 2023, authorities intercepted 15 packages bound for Hong Kong, Romania, South Korea and Sri Lanka, which contained a total of 101 native reptiles hidden in bags of popcorn, biscuit tins and a handbag. But those convicted are often low-level mules, including international students recruited on Chinese e-commerce and social media sites to conceal live animals in everyday goods and send them through the post and courier channels. The Australian convictions include people from China, Hong Kong, Thailand and Malaysia, while there have also been a handful of convictions in the United States, Hong Kong and Germany over the past six years for smugglers in possession of Australian rusty monitors, spiny-tailed skinks and earless monitor lizards. They follow at least 14 major operations in Australia since 2020, which have brought together a range of agencies including the Australian Federal Police, Australian Border Force, the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry, state and territory police services and environment agencies, as well as international agencies including Interpol and ended with about 30 people convicted of charges connected to the illegal wildlife trade. This masthead is aware of at least nine alleged wildlife traffickers slated to face courts in Victoria, NSW, Queensland and Tasmania in the next three months after being identified through a series of ongoing investigations. A 26-year-old Chinese national was arrested and charged with three counts of attempting to export specimens. The raid, codenamed Operation Sam, was launched late last year after 24 live reptiles including 14 shingleback skinks, three eastern bluetongue skinks, three lace monitors and four childrens pythons were uncovered stuffed into toys, table lamps, clothing bags, socks and plastic tubs bound for Hong Kong. Twenty-four reptiles including 14 shingleback skinks, three eastern blue-tongues, three lace monitors, and four childrens pythons were found hidden in toy containers. We are working more closely than ever with national and state agencies to disrupt the illegal trafficking of both protected native species and exotic pest animals, he said. Like counterpart agencies around the country, the Victorian authority had detected high demand in Australia and internationally for native species as pets, and reports of illegal wildlife trafficking were rising, Heppell said. In February 2025, the syndicates ringleader, Zehong Zheng, 21, was fined $30,000 after pleading guilty to 67 charges including importing and exporting wildlife without a permit, while two women in their 20s were also fined for their roles. After raiding properties in Noble Park North and Caroline Springs, the Conservation Regulator and Victoria Police seized dozens of illegally sourced native reptiles, including shingleback lizards, blue-tongued lizards and various species of geckos, as part of Operation Pike, which targeted an illegal Victorian syndicate operating with links to other states. Cal Heppell, the director of regulatory operations at the Conservation Regulator, said the Victorian agency was seeing more reptiles being taken from the wild, with shingleback and bluetongue lizards often targeted, driven by their high value in the illicit overseas pet trade. The series of complex operations involving informants, data scraping, postal X-ray and organic scanning has intercepted hundreds of shipments that often include dozens of animals cruelly stuffed into hollowed-out electrical equipment, toys, socks, boots, music boxes, rice cookers and other packages bound for underground markets, most commonly in Hong Kong and Germany. Organisations including Rapiscan technologies, Taronga Zoo and the Australian Museum have also been called in to develop world-leading scanning technology capable of detecting live animals at Australias borders. As a result, the federal wildlife watchdog last year seized 1118 specimens being smuggled out of Australia a huge increase on the 331 live specimens seized in 2024, and the 584 specimens seized in 2023. While the crackdown has made it more difficult for organised criminals to operate, intelligence gathered by the federal wildlife watchdog reveals syndicates are adapting to the increased focus and have moved towards higherrisk, highervolume shipments. This shift is also apparent in detection figures, provided to this masthead, which reveal a decline in the number of illegal parcels detected last year from 151 in 2023 to 75 in 2024, and 102 in 2025 despite a near tripling in the overall number of animals they contained. In response, authorities are undertaking lengthy investigations to trace the source of the shipments. The number of warrants executed by federal Environment Department officials at smuggling headquarters has risen from 11 in 2023 to 16 in 2025. Pet peeves Wildlife Crime Research Hub manager Katie Smith and her colleagues are using wildlife forensics and cyber-crime tracking technology to not only research the illegal markets in Australia, but to uncover those operating within them. Although they have recorded a significant increase in detections, Smith said only 10 per cent of animals being illegally traded were being detected. Since COVID, were seeing almost an exponential increase again in the number of seizures being made, Smith said. Australia, because of its geographic positioning, has a whole heap of unique species found nowhere else. The exotic pet trade, which is the biggest place we see Australian species being laundered into, is driven by rarity. Theyre really highly sought after in the international markets. The scale(s) of the problem Based at the University of Adelaide and backed by the Australian Research Council, the research hub has worked with state and federal agencies to co-ordinate seizures across the country including Operations Buckland and Pandora by tracking poachers in the wild, as well as the networks they use to ship animals out of the country. Using data-scraping technology, the units researchers are tracing purchasing orders, sale offers and smuggler recruitment advertisements on social media, wildlife chat groups and in e-commerce sites dating back to 2019. The results not only provide a map of the illegal international trades, but uncover those who are still operating within it for authorities to target with detections and covert operations. The intelligence also reveals two realities: the escalating prices driving the market, and the fact detection operations are barely making a dent. Illegal sales data shows that a shingleback sold domestically in Australia for $200 to $300 fetches an average $11,000 in Hong Kong. A bearded dragon seized as part of Operation Pike. The reptiles can sell for $5000 on the black market. Conservation Regulator Rarer species, such as the Oenpelli python, found only in Arnhem Land, sell for $100,000. Escalating demand for the snakes from 2017 caused them to become the first species to be listed as vulnerable due to the impact of illegal trade rather than conservation issues. Once out of their native Australia, where they can be laundered and passed off as captive-bred, an animals price jumps further for seemingly legal sales into Asia, Europe and North America. It shows that Australian native species that should never have been leaving the country are everywhere, Smith said. There are huge markets in North America, there are huge markets in Europe Its an exponential price increase. Weve got cases of national movement in Australia where people are moving 90 shinglebacks at once. In Adelaide, you can go on a hike on a sunny day and pick up 10 species, and were then talking $100,000 in Hong Kong, if you can get them there. And the maximum you could be fined for something like this is $3000, so if you can get just one out of the country, youve already covered your costs. Thats just the cost of doing business. Global wildlife trade expert Professor Alice Hughes, of the University of Melbourne, said that once an animal was smuggled out of its native country, a system similar to money laundering made it difficult, or nearly impossible, to track from there. No one cares about lizards The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species or CITES is the global tool to combat wildlife trafficking. It requires nations to list native animals that are targets of wildlife traffickers, so they can then only be traded under a regulated licensing system. But Hughes points to huge gaps in the international treaty, such as the fact only 9.5 per cent of reptile species are listed on CITES despite 45 per cent of species being detected in illegal trade. She said these gaps were being exploited and even promoted on wildlife trading chat pages and social media sites. Crime networks can then smuggle a native species to regional hubs, such as Hong Kong or Germanys massive Hamm reptile market, where they can be recorded as being bred in captivity to sidestep the regulations. Were actually doing another assessment at the moment, which is quite terrifying, just the volumes of species that were finding in trade, Hughes said. When you talk about illegal trade, people talk about ivory, or maybe theyll talk about rhino horn, and then theyll talk about pangolins we never talk about exotic animal trade in the context of the pet trade, and it is booming. They will put radioactive material in rhino horns so they can trace it and so on. There have been all these sting operations, but they have been solely focused on a very small subset of species. Theyre not going to put effort into tracing down your lizard dealer. No one, sadly, cares about it. The whole hedgehog The impact of the gaps in international regulations is clear in the intelligence gathered by the Wildlife Crime Research Hub. As well as monitoring animals being smuggled out, the hub is also scraping data to see what is for sale within our shores, and building a species accumulation curve to plot the number detected in Australia over time. After four years of scraping, the curve is still climbing because the number of species detected as having already been smuggled into the country keeps rising, including animals that are illegal to keep as pets, such as hedgehogs. An African pygmy hedgehog seized during Operation Django coming into Australia. Conservation Regulator Even more concerning, it shows that the global trade moves so fast and wide that one in four of the exotic animals being sold within Australia is not even officially recorded yet by science. When a new species is identified in the wild, it is typically analysed by scientists to confirm its origins before being officially recognised and recorded. But illegal market tracing shows demand to own the rarest animals means species are now being smuggled and sold to pet collectors long before they can even be published in scientific journals. This is not only dangerous for the animals, but fuels organised crime and could be catastrophic for Australias environment and native species. Twenty-five per cent of the species identified are actually not described to science so we know nothing about their potential environmental risk to Australia, or the biosecurity implications, Smith said. TikTok traffic Influencers are one of the biggest drivers of the rare animal market, and the impact of social media is changing the nature of markets that have existed for hundreds of years, according to Hughes. Wildlife investigators cite the impact of a single US-based reptile influencer as almost wiping out a newly detected species of New Caledonia skinks. Although the mans posts focus on captive breeding, investigators believe his huge reach fuelled subsistence poaching for New Caledonians desperate to make a living from collectors who may have no idea where their new pets came from. When jumping spiders began to trend on TikTok in 2021, the tiny and previously unheralded big-eyed creatures suddenly became the second most traded arachnid on the global market, behind ever-popular tarantulas. The increasing lust for rare and small pets has meant space-limited Japan has emerged as a rapidly increasing market for species that have not previously been traded elsewhere, including small and rare Australian reptiles that can be easily housed in small indoor enclosures. While Chinas traditional medicine market has long fuelled the underground trade, Hughes said it was rapidly being overtaken by illegally sourced pets for a new generation. These are tiny little things, but yet, theres this massive diverse market for them, Hughes said. The market in China is growing, and its not regulated at all for these things. These animals are very compatible with the modern lifestyle because they are low maintenance, because they take up less space, because they dont eat as much, and a lot of people will have them just because its easier. In the last month, there have been so many seizures in places like Hong Kong, where theyre starting to check a bit more, because wildlife trade for pets is absolutely huge, and it is under-regulated and totally neglected. Get to the heart of whats happening with climate change and the environment. Sign up for our fortnightly Environment newsletter. Advertisement PoliticsFederalLiberal Party Opinion New Liberal leader has twin challenges. Fail either of them and hes toast too Parnell Palme McGuinness Columnist and communications adviser February 15, 2026 4:00am February 15, 2026 4:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A This weeks ballot between outgoing opposition leader Sussan Ley and incoming leader Angus Taylor has been like watching the servers at a food court McDonalds franchise fighting over the leadership of the multinational juggernaut. Nobody believes they have a say in corporate strategy. They wear a uniform which is supposed to signify a good standard of product and a reliable experience, regardless of who wears the little grey cap. Yet instead of serving up a decent McFlurry, theyve been arguing with one another about who should be Employee of the Week. No wonder Australians have been taking their custom elsewhere. A competitor chain has been doing very well out of the messy front of house. Wholl get the last laugh? Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and his deputy Jane Hume at their press conference after the leadership spill on Friday. Dominic Lorrimer Its going to be a slog to win back those punters. Angus Taylor and new deputy leader Jane Hume might have the restaurant back on track, but theyre going to need to demonstrate therell be no more patchy service before voters will return. It doesnt help that there have been conflicting strategies. This week, two suits from corporate, Tony Abbott and Malcolm Turnbull, popped up with different versions. Ex-prime ministers carry significant weight when they comment on the strategy their party should pursue. Advertisement Turnbull stood up in the Parliament House courtyard, looking like he might want to run the show again. But he wasnt there to help he was there to point out that there are more restaurants around. Deposing Ley was a vulnerable moment for a party which has been haemorrhaging female voters. One of Canberras worst-kept secrets is that theres a clique of disaffected or would-have-been Liberals looking to form a new party to occupy the urban centre ground and, as revealed by Peter Hartcher in this masthead on Saturday, Turnbull is encouraging them. Related Article Opinion Liberal Party Taylor-made Libs have three possible futures. Only one will save them Peter Hartcher Political and international editor Tony Abbott sits across the board table from Turnbull in the corporate strategy suite of Liberal leaders. Abbott has been a frequent commentator on the direction of the Liberal Party, but has also always been one of the more active contributors to the intellectual ballast of the party. He is one of whats starting to feel like an outmoded breed of politicians, who reads widely and does his own thinking, laying out his conclusions in writing to create a case for his approach. While you may disagree with his deeply conservative conclusions, they are at least thoroughly reasoned. He articulates them powerfully and succinctly in articles and speeches. After Abbott has laid out an argument, conservatives are often moved to call for his reinstatement as prime minister to which I usually respond that he had his chance, and it wasnt a role in which he excelled. And in any case, hes not gone. Hes exerting his influence from the boardroom which hes been stacking in anticipation of this moment. Abbott was one of those who made a strong case for Taylor ahead of the spill, and he had people in place who would heed his advice. But now hes got to withdraw so that Taylor looks less like hes serving up hotcakes and more like the CEO of the venture. Advertisement Leys leadership never took off because she never stepped into that role. Over the past nine months, her main contribution was a series of speeches outlining Liberal principles. They were good speeches; my compliments to the chef. But they were also consistently frustrating, as the policies were always under development. The only policy-shaped object delivered by the Liberal Party in that time was a formal withdrawal from net zero. Related Article Analysis Political leadership Sussan Ley took this job with ambition and promise. But things soon unravelled An alternative affordable energy plan was initially well sold by Ley and then, apparently, forgotten conviction would have seen the argument sustained. An immigration policy was promised and never released to the public. She always looked like she was waiting to receive instructions. Taylor has started strongly. While articulating policies which are similar to Abbotts in government people who come to this country have to share our values, he said he also spoke to new concerns. Flexibility of choice in childcare a topic close to my heart for a long time and which is important to many families across Australia. And, of course, lower taxes and small government core principles of giving individuals control over their own lives. He and his deputy also apologised for past gaffes a good move which might have been reminiscent of the Dominos pizza apology ads, when executives said sorry for the crappiness of their product in the past and vowed to improve. Advertisement Itll get harder from here, though. There are twin challenges ahead, one from the electorate and one from Taylors supporters. Taylor will have to ensure switched-off voters hear about his new ideas. McDonalds has relegated his namesake burger, the Mighty Angus, to an occasional menu item. The real Angus will need to be consistently available if voters are to come around to a party with a severely tarnished brand. Hell need to be heard across the airwaves on his policy ideas and why theyre important. Related Article Updated Political leadership Change or die: Taylor puts forward new vision as Ley lobs byelection bomb on way out The second challenge is to persuade conservative stakeholders that this is not the time to indulge in culture wars and commentary on issues that arent grounded in economics. Inevitably his supporters will beg him and his opponents will bait him. But the lesson of the Morrison victory was that tuning out that noise and focusing entirely on the one thing that matters to absolutely everyone how well they are able to support themselves and their family wins the centre and not just the fringes. And therein lies the lesson for corporate strategy as well. To succeed, a CEO needs free rein to do what the operational lead of a company does: respond to the market and argue in the best way for serious and innovative decisions. Thats the only way theyll ever make customers McHappy. Advertisement Parnell Palme McGuinness is an independent insights and advocacy strategist. She has done work for the Liberal Party and the German Greens. Get a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up for our Opinion newsletter. Advertisement PoliticsFederalLiberal Party Opinion Taylor-made Libs have three possible futures. Only one will save them Peter Hartcher Political and international editor February 14, 2026 4:00am February 14, 2026 4:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A After a years-long series of disastrous decisions, the Liberal Party interrupted itself by making a smart choice of leader. Its now reversed that decision and returned to form. The party has dumped its first female leader after a bare nine months in the post. And, for most of that time, the Coalition was at war with itself, her own party relentlessly undermining her. Illustration by Simon Letch The initial voter reaction to Sussan Ley was positive. The voters were at least giving her a chance, for her first three months, Resolve Strategic pollster Jim Reed says. If nothing else, the sheer novelty of a female Liberal leader seemed to signal the possibility of something different, a changed party perhaps, worth another look, at least. But the Coalition itself did not give her a chance. For instance, she had an immigration policy ready for announcement, but she was unable to deliver it. Why not? Because of the constant internal destabilisation that meant any announcement would have been lost in the foment. Advertisement So the Liberals have anointed Angus Taylor, the best-qualified idiot anyone has ever met, as Malcolm Turnbull on Friday said hed heard others say. And one of Taylors most urgent priorities will be to deliver an immigration policy. Will the change of leader cost the Liberals many womens votes? Probably not. They have so few to lose. Hard to imagine today, but the Coalition was once the party preferred by Australian women. In 1996, 53 per cent of women voted John Howard into office over Paul Keating. Howard didnt need to be a woman; he did need to be able to address the concerns of women and families, and not be seen to be hostile to women. Angus Taylor is the new leader of the Liberal Party. According to the Murdoch-Sky After Dark test, hes not right-wing enough. Dominic Lorrimer By last year, the Coalition had managed to lose nearly half of that share. A mere 28 per cent of women voted for the Coalition under Peter Duttons leadership, according to the Australian Electoral Study. Advertisement Reed has been testing voter responses to a Taylor leadership in the past couple of days. What has he found? He discovered that the change of leader made scant difference among women or men. My reading, he says, is that the Coalition has lost everyone. They havent got a woman problem; theyve got a voter problem. Not worth another look. It will just confirm the votes of women who have already switched away from the Liberals, and in many cases, to the teals, says Judith Brett, professor emeritus of politics at La Trobe University. It ensures that the Liberals wont get those women voters back. Goodbye to the biggest constituency in the country. So it was unfair and unwise to dump. For Anthony Albanese, it was entirely predictable. When Ley was first elected Liberal leader, Albanese agreed that it was an intelligent move by the Liberals, but he said that theyd dump her in short order. Surely they wouldnt be dumb enough to dump their first female leader without giving her a fair go, I put to him. Of course they are, he told me at the time, in a conversation I can relate now with his permission. How could he be so sure? They wouldnt allow her to remain as leader until the next election because, he said, its who they are they have a born-to-rule mentality, theyve shrunk in on themselves, and theyre a bunch of blokes with a right wing thats determined to drag them further to the right. Sussan Ley addressed the media after her ousting as Liberal leader on Friday. Dominic Lorrimer Advertisement Its not that right-wingers wont vote for a woman. Look at the poll surge for Pauline Hanson. But Ley wasnt right-wing enough. Albanese said nine months ago that she was extra vulnerable because the right-wing cheer squad of the Murdoch media and Sky News After Dark had not fully endorsed her. Today, Angus Taylor begins with a similar problem. As a member of the Liberal conservative faction, hes seen as more right-wing than Ley. But, according to the Murdoch-Sky After Dark test, not right-wing enough. Im not convinced that the party will be united behind Angus, says former Liberal strategist Tony Barry of the Redbridge Group. Look at some of the commentary from The Australian and Sky; its not exactly enthusiastic for Angus. The inevitable discontent with Taylor will lead to agitation to dump him in favour of Andrew Hastie, who is seen as more right-wing than Taylor. They have to stop living in this populist right-wing bubble, Turnbull told the ABC. Sky News and the Murdoch media are the best thing thats ever happened to the Labor Party. Labor agrees. As Angus Taylor on Friday promised a tougher immigration policy, Pauline Hanson made the point that no one will ever be as strong as One Nation on immigration. Alex Ellinghausen Advertisement A frontbench Liberal in October said no Liberal leader can survive a fire on the right. And the Murdoch-Sky ideological-media complex makes sure to generate new fires on the right whenever theres an opportunity to force a further rightward shift. Sussan Ley thought shed put out the fire when she agreed to scrap the Liberals commitment to net zero carbon emissions. But, of course, soon there was another fire amid demands to install Hastie as leader. Which goes to the central problem confronting the Coalition. Angus Taylor says that the Liberals are in their worst position since the partys founding by Robert Menzies in 1944. Judith Brett, who has written extensively on Menzies and the partys history, agrees: Because they dont have a clue what theyre doing. I dont think they have a clear sense of who they represent. The structural mismatch between the Coalition and the electorate is that the Coalition increasingly caters to its own cheer squad, which moves it further away from the electorate. If theres one single problem the Liberals could fix itd be to make the party competitive in the suburbs, where the vast majority of Australians live. The Liberal Party has no real estate in the suburbs of Australia, Barry says. The astonishing statistic that should drive Liberal strategy is that, of the 88 seats classified by the electoral commission as urban, the Liberals hold just nine. Yet a central theme of the permanent Murdoch-Sky campaign is to sneer at the teals whove taken the Liberals traditional heartland seats, to overlook the suburbs as if theyre somehow unrepresentative, and to clamour for more votes in rural areas and the city outskirts. Advertisement Which brings them into Pauline Hanson territory. Where they try to compete but cannot. For example, as Taylor on Friday promised a tougher immigration policy, Hanson made the point that no one will ever be as strong as One Nation on immigration. Former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull sees a possible new centre-right party emerging from the current political maelstrom. Dominic Lorrimer Even if Taylor adopted a racist, anti-Islam immigration policy like Hansons, he couldnt compete with Hanson because shes been consistent for decades; the Libs would be seen as inauthentic. Hed only lose more votes from the centre of the electorate. Tony Barry again: MPs from all parties have two speeds ignorance and panic. In the last term, there was a lot of ignorance from the Coalition about how they were perceived by the electorate. Polls showed discontent with the government. The Coalition mistook this as support for itself. Advertisement But, Barry says, when it came to the election, they had no support at all. And, in this term, theyre characterised by panic, looking for shortcuts like dumping Ley instead of sitting down to draft a serious, bold economic reform policy. Related Article Liberal Party The Coalition is in tatters. The race is on to replace it in the centre Australia is in a moment of extreme political fluidity. The collapse of the Liberals and the surge of One Nation open three possible futures. If the Liberals want to satiate their Murdoch-Sky base, they will continue to pander to increasingly right-wing positions and continue haemorrhaging votes. They will be reduced to a rump and One Nation will take some of their seats while Labor takes the rest. A new right-wing coalition could emerge with Hanson as a dominant figure. This is a dark nightmare, Turnbull tells me. They all say Hanson cant win. But we used to say Tony Abbott cant win, and Trump cant win. If the only alternative to Labor is the lunar right, theres always a chance Labor screws up, as the Democrats did, and we end up with Hanson and something truly awful. In a two-horse race, the second horse always has a chance of winning. Australia under a racist leadership would cease to be the Australia we know. As one of the worlds most multicultural countries, society would be riven with hatred and conflict. Even One Nation supporters would recoil from this vision, surely? A recent Redbridge poll showed that 49 per cent of intending One Nation voters want to see major changes and 35 per cent want the system burnt down so we could start again. This is not unhappiness; this is rage. Advertisement Why have so many voters moved from the Liberals to One Nation? Because, says Barry, based on his research, theyve lost hope in the future under the two major parties. A second possible future is that a new centre-right grouping arises to fill the vacuum left by the fast-retreating Liberals. Theres an intense but subterranean conversation occurring to explore the possibilities. Related Article Political leadership Teals to the left, One Nation to the right: Why the byelection for Leys seat will be a test for Taylor Would the teals or other community independents form some sort of alliance, perhaps with some disillusioned Liberal moderates? Turnbull is driving much of the discussion in a bid to avert the dark nightmare. But he sees a possible new party. The community independent movement, on the other hand, wants to preserve its independence from the rigidity of a party. As the original community independent, former MP Cathy McGowan, tells me: These questions are being actively talked about by everybody. Theres a huge restructuring going on and I dont know what the options are. But I do know that, where I hang out, people dont want a party, they value their independence. Advertisement The third possibility is that the Liberals rebuild hope for the whole country, not compete with Hanson to burn Australia down. How did Menzies salvage the 1944 centre-right to win power as Liberals in 1949? Menzies did a massive amount of organisational work to create organisational unity and a fair bit of policy work, says Brett. He attracted a lot of new candidates. There was a greater common sense of national purpose. And held out hope for positive change. No pressure, Angus. Peter Hartcher is political editor. Get a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up for our Opinion newsletter. Advertisement InspirationFoodie travel Food was never a highlight of this tiny European country until now Ute Junker February 15, 2026 1:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Malta should be an easy sell. This island nation is blessed with such an over-abundance of attractions, its hard to narrow down the highlights. Like history? Maltas includes everything from prehistoric sites to palaces built by medieval warrior knights to a key role in World War II, thanks to its strategic location. Enjoy a city break? In the beautiful baroque capital, Valletta, you can visit mighty monuments such as the gloriously over-the-top St Johns Co-Cathedral, or go exploring down the narrow, sloping city streets. Prefer some downtime on the beach? Malta has plenty of those, all washed by clear Mediterranean waters. Vallettas narrow city streets invite exploration. iStock In fact, its a simpler task to narrow down the things that Malta isnt known for. Top of that list would be food. Malta never laid claim to being a great dining destination, but that is now changing. The food scene has been transformed in the past few years, and there is now plenty to enjoy for food lovers who know where to look. When I first came here 20 years ago, Maltas most famous culinary contribution to the world was the flaky, diamond-shaped pastizzi pastry. These days, other traditional favourites are stepping into the spotlight, even as a new generation of chefs takes Maltese cuisine to fresh heights. Advertisement The refined and the rustic sit very comfortably together [in Malta], says chef Jonathan Brincat, whose Michelin-starred restaurant, Noni, is one of Vallettas most memorable dining experiences. Sign up for the Traveller Deals newsletter Get exclusive travel deals delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up now. High-end restaurants can show you how far Maltese cuisine has evolved, how traditional flavours can be reimagined with new techniques. But the roots of our food live just as strongly in the simple things, like a good pastizz eaten by hand, a fenkata [garlic- and herb-studded rabbit stew] shared with friends. Michelin-starred chef Jonathan Brincat of Noni in Valletta, Malta. Visitors who book a degustation dinner at Noni housed in a former bakery in Valletta can expect a full-flight dining experience where elegantly plated morsels packed with delicate flavours may include anything from amberjack cured in seaweed to suckling pig teamed with white onion, persimmon and a sauce of roasted bones. Each dish on the menu relates to a Maltese tradition. Take Brincats version of aljotta, or fish stew. As the son of a fisherman, the dish is close to his heart. It was always the first thing my mother prepared when my father came home with the bycatch, he says. Advertisement Brincat has taken the ingredients his mother used lemon, mint and rice to create an aromatic sauce that elevates a gently cooked piece of wreckfish. It carries the same soul as the dish from my childhood, but with a cleaner, more focused expression, he says. One of Brincats dishes at Noni. Noni is popular with food-loving travellers, but locals also appreciate seeing traditional flavours on a menu. Over on the smaller neighbouring island of Gozo, George Larry Zammit, chef-owner of the popular Maldonado restaurant, weaves both innovation and nostalgia through his seasonally updated menu. Our eating habits have changed over the years, but people remember the smell and the taste of their grandmothers food, Zammit says. His menu always includes a couple of local favourites such as balbuljata: scrambled eggs made with an Italian-style sofrito blending tomatoes, capsicum, onion and garlic. Advertisement Maltas food, like its architecture, reflects its turbulent history; this island nation has been governed by everyone from Romans to Arabs, from the Normans to the British, all of whom left a culinary legacy. Trying to get your tongue around the names of some of the dishes can be tricky for English speakers, as the Maltese language blends Arabic with Sicilian influences. One easy rule: if you encounter a dish you dont know on a menu, ask its probably a local favourite. A culinary workshop at Maldonado, one of Maltas hottest new eateries. That strategy was how I got to try my first ftira, a moreish snack of a bread roll stuffed with tuna, tomatoes, capers, olives and onions. Everyone loves the flavour, says Charles Bugeja, who hosts cooking classes specialising in dishes such as ftira and balbuljata at his Ta Xmun olive farm, which is halfway between the cities of Mdina and Valletta. You can eat it for breakfast, you can eat it for lunch it works any time. Advertisement Advertisement EAT Michelin-starred Noni serves up tasting menus in an intimate, barrel-vaulted cellar in Valletta. See noni.com.mt Maldonado Bistro on Gozo offers cooking classes as well as contemporary takes on Mediterranean classics. See maldonado.com.mt Ta Xmun Olive Grove has cooking classes and olive oil tastings in a rural setting. See facebook.com MORE visitmalta.com The writer was a guest of Visit Malta. Traveller Guides Advertisement WorldAfricaReal life Opinion I have visited every country in the world. Heres what hurt and what made my soul soar Andrew MacLeod Professor February 15, 2026 4:00am February 15, 2026 4:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A A dry windswept stretch of coast unfolds in front of the derelict Red Sea Diving Resort, a site made famous by a film of the same name. In the mid-1980s, Israeli Mossad agents used it as a secret base in the evacuation of Ethiopian Jewish refugees who were being persecuted. Today, the wind blows through the rusted door frames. There is no glass in the windows. I am in Sudan, and I have now visited every country in the world. Andrew MacLeod, pictured in Libya, found an antidote to the trauma he has witnessed in a place close to home. Fewer than 500 people (including about 10 Australians) have had the privilege of doing this, according to NomadMania, a group that verifies peoples claims, including mine. Visiting a country is not about ticking it off a list. It is about meeting people, sharing experiences and making friends across cultures and communities. It is a mindset as much as an activity. It is, above all, about a willingness to learn. Advertisement I have seen a lot in the years of visiting every country things traumatic and things that made my soul soar. And I have learnt a lot. This is a small selection of what I experienced. Working for the Red Cross in Rwanda in the 1990s, I had 3500 rotting corpses at my feet in a church outside Kigali. The smell has never left me. I saw scenes of devastation in the former Yugoslavia; the dead children remain burnt into my soul. I returned to Rwanda and Bosnia in 2016 to see a peace if fragile in both countries. MacLeod with Xanana Gusmao in Timor-Leste in 1999. In 2002, Gusmao became the countrys first president. In 1999, I had the privilege of being part of the team that monitored the independence referendum in Timor-Leste, and later, I helped train officials to monitor their own elections. The president-designate, Xanana Gusmao, surprisingly turned up to one of my training sessions. He said to me: Andrew, you are helping my country, so you dont come to see me, I come to see you. The mans humility was inspiring. From 2005 to 2008, I was in Pakistan, dealing with the emergency relief and recovery following the massive earthquake in Kashmir. I worked with a leader in the Pakistan army, Nadeem Ahmed, not something I would have expected when I did my own military training with the Australian army. Nadeem was the military co-ordinator for the relief effort and later head of the reconstruction. We developed a close relationship, like a big brother, little brother, through the shared experience of fighting a natural catastrophe. I stay in touch with him to this day. Advertisement In the Philippines, I ran a program using advanced DNA techniques to help children find their sex tourist fathers and gain the rights and support to which they are entitled. In a central African country that shall remain nameless, I was contacted by the prime minister who asked me to transfer some money to his nephew in Italy. I kept giving excuses until I could get out of the country. In Tuvalu, the country in the world perhaps most at risk of sea-level rise, I met a child whose life objective was to be a climate warrior to save her mother, Tuvalu. In Saudi Arabia, I saw how fast and real the change is, and how genuinely excited young people, including women, are for the future there. Advertisement In North Korea, I was stunned by just how much a government can control the thinking of a population. Human beings can only have choice if they have two or more sources of competing information. In North Korea, people have only one source of information, and most believe, wrongly, that they live in a good country. Surprisingly, North Korea was one of the easier countries to visit. On the other hand, two of the most difficult countries for me to visit were Nauru and Nicaragua. A Sudanese woman displaced from El Fasher collects food aid at El Afadh refugee camp in November 2025. AP In Libya, I met Hails Kennedy, a blind forty-something woman with alopecia. She is the first registered disabled female to visit every country. In many difficult countries, the frequent travellers I met most were female. It was they who taught me that gender doesnt prevent or restrict travel, mindset does. And then to Sudan, my last country to visit. About 20 years ago, I wrote an internal UNHCR document that recognised killing in the Sudanese region of Darfur as genocide. The killing continues today, and the number of deaths far exceed that of Gaza. In Sudan now, I think of the Black Lives Matter movement, and the massive protests supporting Palestinians, and I cant help but wonder why it is that these black lives dont matter enough to protest, too? Advertisement Related Article Opinion Tourism After this trip home, Im breaking up with the Australian summer for good Lisa Martin Writer I have trauma from some of the things I have seen and experienced, particularly in the 1990s. But even though I have travelled to every corner of the world, I find an antidote to the trauma in a very Australian place. When I go to the MCG and watch up to 100,000 people enjoying a game, supporters all mixed together, I think of how lucky we are. This place helps me bury the worst of my memories. Of all things I have learnt from visiting every country in the world, three things rise above all others. Firstly, most people in the world want the same thing. They want a better future for their children. Its just that often they have a different definition or idea of the word better. Secondly, I learnt that one should never feel guilty about ones privilege. Feel guilty only if you do nothing with it. Advertisement Thirdly, never assume the safety we have in Australia will remain. We must be constantly vigilant to protect what makes us great both tolerance and multiculturalism. Our strength and culture is being tested now. Andrew MacLeod is a former high-level United Nations official, a former CEO of the Committee for Melbourne, and founder of anti-child abuse charity Hear Their Cries. The Opinion newsletter is a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up here. Advertisement Analysis WorldAsiaPrabowo Subianto Albanese says no country is more important to Australia than Indonesia. Is this really true? Zach Hope February 14, 2026 8:30am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Australia-Indonesia relations are the strongest in 30 years. So says Anthony Albanese when he, repeatedly, evokes the days of Paul Keating and the late Indonesian leader Suharto, implicitly transposing that uniquely close bond of the mid-1990s to his own budding friendship with Indonesias modern-day hardman, Prabowo Subianto. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Jakarta last week. EPA There is a basis for the prime ministers enthusiasm. It is called the Treaty on Common Security, a vague agreement inked in Jakarta last week against the geopolitical backdrop of a rising, pugnacious China and a vengeful United States. In the event of adverse challenges, the text says, both nations will consider measures which might be taken either individually or jointly. Albanese described it as historic. Prabowo couched it as good neighbourliness. Advertisement The view from some in Indonesia is that it doesnt go much further than the Lombok Treaty of 2006 and the Defence Co-operation Agreement of 2024; that it was the Australians who wanted it to be called a treaty because it sizzles more than the word agreement. Related Article Opinion Foreign relations Why Indonesias worrying shift is hard to ignore Zach Hope South-East Asia correspondent Even so, Albanese has Prabowo engaged and looking south, which is a big deal for an Australian prime minister. Since 1999, when Australia supported East Timors independence, the bilateral relationship has been marked by periods of scandal, indifference and frustration. The government is right to say that bilateral relations with Indonesia are on a firmer footing than in the past, says Susannah Patton, a South-East Asia expert at the Lowy Institute. What was previously a rollercoaster relationship has been stable for about the past 10 years, without a major crisis. Advertisement But with two such vastly different neighbours and world outlooks, she says: Its inevitable that there will be downturns in future. Critics accuse Prabowo, an ex-special forces commander once blacklisted by the Americans for human rights abuses, of continuing his predecessors democratic backsliding. Meanwhile, Transparency Internationals latest corruption perceptions index, released on Tuesday, has Indonesia slipping 10 places since last year to 109th out of a total of 182 nations. None of this can trouble Albanese too much, however, or he would hardly be able to deal with any South-East Asian nation, not to mention the US. Trade between the two nations is on the agenda and while it is improving, its hardly booming. Indonesias 290 million citizens are right next door, yet it has only just broken into Australias top-10 two-way partners. Indonesias economic fortunes are rising with a bullet. Over the next 15 years or so, it is predicted to rise from being the worlds 17th biggest economy to the top five. Advertisement Related Article Indonesia Defence treaty will see more Australian military on Indonesian soil Echoing Keating, Albanese, in his post-signing statement last week, went again to the mantra that No country is more important to Australia. But is this really true? Professor Marcus Mietzner, from the ANU, says its not borne out in the statistics. Under the surface of the enthusiastic rhetoric, the economic relationship remains structurally underdeveloped, he says. Indonesia literacy in Australia is the lowest in decades, he says. Albanese and Prabowo are both doing a good job in upholding the day-to-day and ceremonial side of the relationship, and they deserve credit for that. Advertisement But the fundamentals that is, where money is spent and on what are best reflected in trade, investment and the core of defence relations, which for Australia remains intertwined with the US, not Indonesia. The signing comes months after Australia formalised the Pukpuk Treaty a mutual defence pact with Papua New Guinea, which, though unlikely, could cause problems with Indonesia. The simmering conflict between the Indonesian military and separatists just over the porous PNG border spilled into public view just this week when Free Papua Movement rebels attacked a convoy of miner PT Freeport, killing an Indonesian soldier, according to the Indonesian government. Separately, an Indonesian pilot and a co-pilot were chased into the forest and killed by unknown gunmen this week in Papua only about 100 kilometres from Australias newest ally. It is conceivable that clashes involving the Indonesian military could spill into PNG. Asked about such a scenario at his press conference in Jakarta last week, Albanese deflected, saying Australia respected both Indonesias and PNGs sovereignties. Advertisement In some ways, we wont really know the value of the treaty until there is a crisis. Susannah Patton, South-East Asia expert at the Lowy Institute The trip to the palace was Albaneses second since Prabowos inauguration in October 2024 and the welcoming ceremony was another grand and expensive gesture reflective of the leaders rapport. Prabowo has what seems a genuine affection for Australia. As a young man, he trained at Duntroon in Canberra. He talks about Australian wharfies 1945 boycott of Dutch ships during Indonesias fight for independence. When he was in Sydney last year, Indonesian media were tickled by the fact that he called his Australian counterpart Albo. Still, Australia perhaps should not feel too special about the love. Unlike the previous president Joko Widodo, Prabowo is a globe-trotter testing the limits of Indonesias tradition of non-alignment. He likes the line, 1000 friends are too few, and one enemy is too many, and he has been cultivating deeper ties with nations such as Russia and China at the same time as Australia. Advertisement The friend Prabowo really wants to add to his list, however, is Donald Trump. After more than a year trying to curry favour with the US president, and with a tariff deal hanging over his head, Prabowo joined Indonesia to Trumps Board of Peace, causing problems at home from powerful Islamist groups who view the initiative as a means to Israels ends in Gaza. Related Article Trump diplomacy We do not have a plan B: Is Trumps Board of Peace destined to fail? This week, Indonesia said it could send as many as 8000 peacekeeping troops to Gaza, the only country so far to put forward a number since the boards formation last month. Prabowo will attend its first meeting in Washington, DC, on February 19. Maybe hell finally get his sit-down with Trump. Prabowos relationship with Albanese sits within his broader push to raise Indonesias heft to a level befitting the third-largest democracy in the world. Exactly how the new treaty with Australia, which is not an alliance, might play out in real-world scenarios is not spelled out in the text. This is intentional so that neither country is locked into a move it regrets. Advertisement Patton, from Lowy, says it has a brittle foundation on the Indonesian side because it comes top-down from Prabowo (as is his style) and lacks strong buy-in from the bureaucracy. That could limit efforts to use the treaty to catalyse other co-operation, but its still better to have the agreement than not, she says. If there were crises over Taiwan or in the South China Sea, she says, Australia could argue it should be at the front of the queue with Indonesia to discuss a common response. I think thats an important consideration, even if we accept that Indonesia is unlikely to respond the same way to these crises as Australia because there is a risk that Indonesia could make decisions that would be adverse to Australian or US interests, she says. In some ways, we wont really know the value of the treaty until there is a crisis. Thrown together by geography and timing, the lefty raised by a single mum in Sydney council flats and the lectern-thumping military man are solid. At least for now. Advertisement WorldNorth AmericaEpstein fallout Epstein files reveal scope of Ghislaine Maxwells role in Clinton circle Danny Hakim February 15, 2026 4:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A New York: Jeffrey Epsteins long-time companion, Ghislaine Maxwell, played a substantial role in supporting the creation of the Clinton Global Initiative, one of former US president Bill Clintons signature post-White House endeavours, new documents released by the Justice Department show. Maxwell took part in budget discussions related to the first Clinton Global Initiative conference; talked through challenges about it with both Clinton aides and Publicis Groupe, the company that produced the inaugural event; and arranged to wire $US1 million to pay Publicis for its work on the Clinton project, according to emails in the massive cache of documents collected as part of the governments investigations of Epstein. Former US president Bill Clinton pictured with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell in a photo provided by the Department of Justice. NYT The source of the money is unclear, including whether Epstein provided the funds. However, the emails show he was aware of the payment. Ask him to tell you why i million now and where will it be going, Epstein wrote to Maxwell a few days after she received the wiring instructions from Publicis. Advertisement Maxwells involvement in the launch of the Clinton Global Initiative took place in 2004, before Epsteins 2006 indictment and 2008 guilty plea for solicitation of prostitution with a minor, and long before Maxwell, a daughter of media baron Robert Maxwell, was sentenced in 2022 to two decades in prison for conspiring with Epstein to sexually exploit under-age girls. Related Article Epstein fallout Clintons raise white flag after months-long battle to avoid testifying on Epstein The emails support an assertion Maxwell made last year in an interview with the Justice Department that she played a key role in helping set up the global conference. Clinton has said he stopped speaking with Epstein sometime before his 2006 indictment. In a statement, Angel Urena, a spokesperson for the Clintons, said the former president had called for the full release of the Epstein files and has nothing to hide. He knew nothing about Epsteins crimes, Urena said. When it became clear Epstein had no genuine interest in life-saving philanthropic work, there was no reason for further contact. The facts are the facts and the truth is the truth, and theyre both on our side. Advertisement The new documents provide texture about the connections between the Clinton and Epstein circles, which have long generated a swirl of conspiracy theories and unverified allegations. The emails reinforce previous accounts that Clinton and those around him had a more enduring relationship with Maxwell than with Epstein. In addition to her involvement with the Clinton Global Initiative, the records reveal that Maxwell had flirtatious exchanges in the early 2000s with Doug Band, who at the time was Clintons top aide. Maxwell, among guests pictured right, watches Bill Clinton walk his daughter Chelsea down the aisle in 2010. AP She was known to have attended Chelsea Clintons 2010 wedding along with her then-boyfriend, Ted Waitt, a tech billionaire who was a friend of the Clintons and a prolific Clinton Foundation donor. And she remained in the Clinton orbit even after reports began surfacing accusing her of misconduct related to Epsteins abuse of young women. Maxwell told the Justice Department last year that she last saw Bill Clinton sometime between 2016 and 2018, when she said they had dinner together in Los Angeles. In a Justice Department interview last year, Maxwell said president Clinton was my friend, not Epsteins friend. Her lawyer did not return requests for comment. Advertisement A review by The New York Times of references to the Clintons in the recently released files found very little related to former US secretary of state Hillary Clinton and limited new information about the former presidents interactions with Epstein, a Democratic donor who supported Bill Clintons 1992 political campaign and donated $US10,000 to help refurbish the White House. He also donated $US20,000 to Hillary Clintons Senate campaign in 1999. Logs that have previously been made public show that Epstein visited the White House a number of times during the Clinton administration and that Bill Clinton took four international trips on Epsteins private jet in 2002 and 2003. Hillary Clinton has said she never flew on Epsteins plane. Clinton and Maxwell in a photograph provided by the US Justice Department. NYT The former president has said he never visited Epsteins private island in the US Virgin Islands, an account supported by emails between Epstein and his associates. (The Secret Service has indicated in the past that its agents have not been to the island, and said in a statement that at this time, we have no new information to provide regarding this matter.) House Republicans have sought to put a spotlight on ties between the Clintons and Epstein, and threatened to hold them both in criminal contempt of Congress if they did not testify in the House oversight committees investigation into the convicted sex offender. Those depositions are scheduled for the end of this month. Advertisement Bill Clinton has tried to downplay his association with Epstein. In a sworn declaration submitted to the House panel last month, Clinton said while Epstein may have visited the White House while he was president, I do not recall encountering Epstein, or any specific interactions with him, while in office. The former president also said that he did not recall when he first met Maxwell, though I believe she was working for Epstein at the time. Clinton said he did not recall his specific interactions with her or when he last saw her, but it was many years ago. US President Donald Trump, who socialised extensively with Epstein and also travelled on his private plane, has expressed misgivings that the Clintons are being forced to testify, despite his repeated attacks on both of them over the years. I think its a shame, to be honest, Trump told reporters this week. I always liked him. Her? Yeah, shes a very capable woman. For his part, Trump had warm words for Maxwell in 2020, after her arrest, saying, I just wish her well, frankly. Both presidents appear to have provided messages for a book put together for Epsteins 50th birthday, though Trumps staff has denied it. Advertisement A behind-the-scenes role The Clinton Global Initiative was conceived in the early 2000s as Clintons version of the annual gathering of the global elite in Davos, Switzerland, with the goal of imbuing it with a more charity-minded mission to shape his post-presidential legacy. Band, who has since had a bitter break with the Clintons, has long been credited with being the driving force behind the project. Maxwells involvement has been largely unknown. Clinton speaks at the Clinton Global Initiative annual meeting in New York in 2022. Bloomberg But in her Justice Department interview last year, Maxwell said she had a very central role in setting up the Clinton Global Initiative, though she added that the idea was not originally hers. I dont try to elevate myself in any form of importance here, she added. Advertisement Maxwell also indicated that Epstein was engaged in the effort, saying he supported me to help them, but then I think he may have tried to use that to insert himself in some way. Richard Attias, a former top executive at Publicis, said in an interview this past week that Maxwell had played a key role in getting the project going. She was in Davos with president Clinton, and this is when they realised the amazing impact of Davos, and they came up with the idea of creating something similar, but with a different philosophy, he said. Attias said Maxwell sent the $US1 million to Publicis to pay for its work producing the event, which was held in New York in September 2005. He said he was not aware of who provided the funding but believed it likely came from multiple sources. After initially saying he did not believe Epstein was involved, Attias later described Epstein as one of the sponsors, but in follow-up texts to the Times, he also said he didnt really remember, noting the discussions took place more than two decades ago. Advertisement Attias, who left Publicis in 2008 and who has since produced conferences for the Times said in texts and the interview that he was ultimately uncertain about the extent of Epsteins involvement in the Clinton conference. In 2007, when Epsteins lawyers were seeking lenient treatment for their client as he was being investigated for sex trafficking, they asserted in a letter to prosecutors that he was part of the original group that conceived the Clinton Global Initiative. President Clinton was my friend, not Epsteins friend. Ghislaine Maxwell in a Justice Department interview last year The Times identified one 2004 email to Maxwell from Attias in which he appeared to reference Epstein. I trust you and JE at 300 percent, Attias wrote, while pleading for her to call off what appeared to be a lawyer for Epstein who was demanding a wide range of specific budget details early in the planning stages. (We have no idea of what will be the programme, the venue, the hotels, the consultants, the speakers, etc. Attias wrote to Maxwell.) Advertisement In a statement, the Clinton Foundation, which now runs the Clinton Global Initiative, said it accepted only one $US25,000 donation in 2006 from an Epstein-affiliated foundation, which has been previously reported. The foundation said it did not have any record of any other financial contributions to the Clinton Foundation or the Clinton Global Initiative related to Epstein or Maxwell. Publicis funded the development of the event which they were ultimately hired to produce, the foundation said, adding that it was not responsible for raising money for Publicis business. Loading Post-presidential ties Maxwells involvement in the kick-off of the Clinton Global Initiative came during a period when she and Epstein were both socialising with the former president. Advertisement In 2002, less than two years after leaving the White House, Clinton flew on Epsteins plane on a 10-day trip to seven countries, including Ghana and Nigeria. Other passengers on the trip, which has been previously reported, included Maxwell and actors Kevin Spacey and Chris Tucker, according to flight manifests and photos that are among the documents that have been released. Related Article Epstein fallout When Bill met Jeffrey: What was Clinton and Epsteins real relationship? At some point, Clinton appears to have handwritten a thank-you note to Epstein on stationery that Epstein kept on one of his planes. The Times obtained a photo of the undated note, which was framed and recovered from Epsteins estate. In it, the former president thanked the financier for letting him invade your private space and explained that he had been exhausted and had to get away from the crowd. He also wrote that as we forge ahead, ill finally figure out the financial stuff! The newly released files show numerous interactions between Maxwell and the former presidents aides. In November 2002, Maxwell arranged to send Clinton what she described as devil slippers for his birthday, an email shows. The next month, Maxwell and a Clinton aide corresponded about talking points for how to respond to a Vanity Fair reporter who was writing a profile on Epstein. The same day, another Clinton aide, Ira Magaziner, sent Maxwell an email describing a Clinton project to combat AIDS. Advertisement Asked about the contact, Magaziner said in an email to the Times that he had sent the kind of information he shared with potential donors about what would become the Clinton Health Access Initiative, a group that fights disease in dozens of countries. During this period, Maxwell and Band, then a Clinton aide, were also exchanging suggestive emails, the documents show. Maxwell and Epstein with Clinton at the White House in 1993. The William J. Clinton Presidential Library Booboo, Maxwell wrote to him in 2002, are you around? I am very ill and require immediate medical attention I am suffering from boobooitis a very serious condition. Without a booboo fix the symptoms become very pronounced. She referred to cries into the night that sound like Shakespeare sonnets that sound like this Oh Douglas oh Douglas wherefore art though Douglas. Advertisement The same day, Band replied that my boobooitis is also reaching epic poportions, adding, Lots going on but will be In boobooville the second you arrive. Related Article Opinion Jeffrey Epstein Epstein files give weight to conspiracy theories we once dismissed Jacqueline Maley Columnist and senior journalist During their exchanges, they facilitated connections between Clinton and Epstein. In an April 2002 message, Band wrote: the pres wanted me to tell you to tell jeffrey he says hello and he misses him. In a statement to the Times, Band said his communication with Maxwell occurred when he was in his late 20s and unmarried. There was absolutely no physical relationship that occurred between us. Ever, he said, calling Maxwell a monster. Advertisement In 2011, Band sent an email to another Clinton aide, directing him to remove Maxwell from all lists giving her access to Clinton-related events as questions about her conduct grew, according to a copy of the email viewed by the Times. Earlier that year, a Daily Mail report had dubbed her Epsteins Girl Friday Fixer. Urena, the Clintons spokesperson, said nothing was communicated broadly across the organisation at the time about banning Maxwell. Maxwell resurfaced at a Clinton Global Initiative event in 2013, after Band left the Clintons employ, and was honoured for an ocean conservation project. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter. Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share A A A Shes there on the sidelines in the most damning of photographs the one in which the disgraced pariah once known as Prince Andrew has his arm sleazily slung round the bare waist of a teenage girl. And in the notorious shot of him lying across the laps of five women at Sandringham, hers is the only female face not redacted. Ghislaine Maxwell, scion of The Mirror newspaper dynasty, who once partied with supermodels and graced the pages of Tatler, makes for an oddly detached presence in these pictures. With sharp features and a mannish mop of hair, she could almost be mistaken for a bystander as she hovers in the background. Almost, but for the half-smile of pride on her rather thin lips, as she witnesses each squalid mise-en-scene engineered for the monstrous sexual gratification of billionaire paedophile, Jeffrey Epstein. The then Prince Andrew with Virginia Roberts Giuffre (centre) in 2001 and Jeffrey Epsteins then personal assistant, Ghislaine Maxwell. Maxwell fixer, procurer and enforcer extraordinaire was no bit player. Court documents and the slew of newly released material build a picture of a woman so slavishly dedicated to her co-conspirator that she was willing to exploit, abuse and destroy lives to gain his approval. According to the US Department of Justice (DoJ), one victim was 14 years old, with recently released papers also alleging a girl aged just nine was abused. In her heartbreaking posthumous memoir, Nobodys Girl, Virginia Giuffre told how she was trafficked to have sex with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor when she was just 17. Advertisement In marrow-chilling detail, she described how she was initially preyed upon by apex predator Maxwell. A smiling, well-dressed woman with a reassuring accent that reminded her of Mary Poppins approached her, suggesting she could get a job as a masseuse. After being invited to Epsteins house at just 16, where she found herself coerced into a threesome in which the two adults laughed at her little-girl knickers, Maxwell took over her training. It was everything down to how to give a blow job, how to be quiet, be subservient, give Jeffrey what he wants, she later said. Now 64, Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence in the US for child sex-trafficking and other offences. She is currently trying to negotiate a bizarre deal for clemency in exchange for exonerating US President Donald Trump and former president Bill Clinton. Epstein and Maxwell were long-time companions. She was convicted of recruiting young women for him. AP Meanwhile, her name and her face crop up daily as the media pores over the latest damning dossier of fresh evidence. Not only did Maxwell traffic and take an active part in the degradation of vulnerable teenage girls, she also handed them over to a cabal of wealthy, powerful men who passed them around like they were the disposable spoils of privilege. And with every appalling story, the same question resurfaces: just how did a woman born into British high society, a privately-educated Oxbridge graduate with prospects and connections, end up as part accomplice, part puppet master in these most heinous of crimes? Advertisement Those who know her say the seeds were sown long before her path crossed that of Epstein, and she fell into the thrall of this manipulative outlier whose shadowy business dealings had made him an equally opaque fortune. It was, they believe, a case of history repeating itself, only this time as an out-and-out tragedy. The neglected daddys girl became a sugar daddys girl, desperate to please, even if it meant facilitating Epsteins twisted and abhorrent urges. When she was first on trial, I thought it was a spectacular fall from grace. In my wildest dreams, I couldnt have imagined how deeply and how much further she could fall, says journalist Anna Pasternak, who moved in the same social circles as Maxwell in 1980s Oxford, where they both grew up and later studied. A court sketch of Maxwell giving evidence to a New York court in June 2022. AP These girls were non-people to her, which is why they could be trafficked and they could be abused. It is so abhorrent and so at odds with the smiling, glossy-haired, social girl that I would encounter at parties. We were never friends. I just knew her as an air-kissing acquaintance, who would always be looking over your shoulder to spot somebody who was richer and more useful usually a man. Among those who knew her at that time, the consensus seems to be that Maxwell came across as entitled. She was self-possessed, gushing and charming, but also calculating a consummate hostess who instinctively gravitated towards the most important guests in any room. Those who knew her also say she was emotionally guarded. Advertisement Pasternak was younger than Maxwell. Both families lived in Oxford, and Pasternaks sister went to prep school with Maxwells brothers, Kevin and Ian, who lived in the grandeur of Headington Hill Hall. In those days, the fearsome reputation of patriarch Robert Maxwell led some observers to feel sympathy for poor, little Maxwell, awash with luxury, but starved of love. I think the tyrannical behaviour of Ghislaines father fostered a ruthless survival instinct in her, Pasternak reflects. She learned to look after those who could be useful and trampled everyone else underfoot. In Robert, the very worst of blueprints was laid down. The former MP and self-made media tycoon was a loud, aggressive bully. An arriviste, who was deemed to have money but no class, he strove to be accepted by Britains elite, weaponising his charm to court politicians and members of the establishment. The parallel with Brooklyn-born Epstein is impossible to ignore except in the American billionaires case, Maxwell had an extraordinary contacts book of the famous and influential that would benefit him. The youngest of nine children, Maxwell was ostensibly Roberts favourite child, but that was no bar to being punished and bullied by him. Yet instead of driving her away, it fuelled her need to gain his approval. Maxwell and her parents, Robert and Elisabeth Maxwell, at the 1987 Cannes Film Festival. Getty Images Advertisement Shortly after she was born, Maxwells brother suffered catastrophic injuries in a car accident, aged 15, which left him in a coma until his death seven years later. In the immediate aftermath of the crash, a dark pall was cast over the already dysfunctional family, and her parents took no interest in their new child until she asserted herself. In her mothers memoir, A Mind of My Own, one anecdote about Maxwell seems to sum her up: Aged three, she planted herself in front of me and said simply, Mummy, I exist, her mother, Elisabeth, wrote. I was devastated and, from that day on, we all made a great effort with her, fussing over her so much that she became spoiled. Maxwell was dispatched to boarding school at age eight, which rather contradicts claims she was cosseted. Indeed, a former colleague of her father, journalist and broadcaster Anne Robinson, once reflected on Maxwells early life, She had a horrendous childhood she lacked goals she just went from one strongminded man to another. A shiny glamazon with naughty eyes Later, at Marlborough College, alma mater of the Princess of Wales, sources say Maxwell was popular, sporty and socially ambitious like her father, she was acutely conscious of status. She went on to Balliol College, Oxford, where it was widely assumed she had gained her place thanks to a generous donation by her father rather than academic merit. Here, she blossomed into a social butterfly. Fellow student Rachel Johnson remembered her as something of a livewire, A shiny glamazon with naughty eyes holding court astride a table. Others recollect how she would flirt with Johnsons brother, future prime minister Boris Johnson. But even as a young adult, Robert Maxwell was a controlling force, and Ghislaine was never permitted to take boyfriends home. Advertisement Advertisement WorldNorth AmericaTrump's America The best thing that could happen: Trump hints at change in power in Iran Konstantin Toropin , Aamer Madhani and Jon Gambrell February 14, 2026 9:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A A A Washington: President Donald Trump has said that a change in power in Iran would be the best thing that could happen as the US administration weighs whether to take military action against Tehran. Trump made the comments on Friday (US time) shortly after visiting with troops in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and after he confirmed earlier in the day that hes deploying a second aircraft carrier group to the Mideast for potential military action against Iran. It seems like that would be the best thing that could happen, Trump said in an exchange with reporters when asked about pressing for the ouster of the Islamic clerical rule in Iran. For 47 years, theyve been talking and talking and talking. President Donald Trump speaking to US troops in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. AP Trump said earlier that the USS Gerald R. Ford, the worlds largest aircraft carrier, is being sent from the Caribbean Sea to the Middle East to join other warships and military assets the US has built up in the region. The planned deployment comes just days after Trump suggested another round of talks with the Iranians was at hand. Those negotiations didnt materialise as one of Tehrans top security officials visited Oman and Qatar this week and exchanged messages with U.S. intermediaries. Advertisement In case we dont make a deal, well need it, Trump told reporters about the second carrier. He added, Itll be leaving very soon. Already, Gulf Arab nations have warned any attack could spiral into another regional conflict in a Mideast still reeling from the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, Iranians are beginning to hold 40-day mourning ceremonies for the thousands killed in Tehrans bloody crackdown on nationwide protests last month, adding to the internal pressure faced by the sanctions-battered Islamic Republic. Related Article Protests How Iran crushed a citizen uprising with lethal force The Ford, whose new deployment was first reported by The New York Times, will join the USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying guided-missile destroyers, which have been in the region for over two weeks. US forces have already shot down an Iranian drone that approached the Lincoln on the same day last week that Iran tried to stop a US-flagged ship in the Strait of Hormuz. It is a quick turnaround for the Ford, which Trump sent from the Mediterranean Sea to the Caribbean last October as the administration built up a huge military presence in the lead-up to the surprise raid last month that captured then-Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Advertisement It also appears to be at odds with the Trump administrations national security and defence strategies, which put an emphasis on the Western Hemisphere over other parts of the world. In response to questions about the movement of the Ford, US Southern Command said US forces in Latin America will continue to counter illicit activities and malign actors in the Western Hemisphere. While force posture evolves, our operational capability does not, Colonel Emanuel Ortiz, spokesperson for Southern Command, said in a statement. US forces remain fully ready to project power, defend themselves, and protect US interests in the region. The USS Gerald R. Ford, the worlds largest aircraft carrier, is being sent from the Caribbean Sea to the Middle East. US NAVY The Ford strike group will bring more than 5,000 additional troops to the Middle East but few capabilities or weapons that dont already exist within the Lincoln group. Having two carriers will double the number of aircraft and munitions that are available to military planners and Trump. Advertisement Given the Fords current position in the Caribbean, it will likely be weeks before it is off the coast of Iran. Trump has repeatedly threatened to use force to compel Iran to agree to constrain its nuclear program and earlier over Tehrans bloody crackdown on nationwide protests. Iran and the United States held indirect talks in Oman a week ago, and Trump later warned Tehran that failure to reach an agreement with his administration would be very traumatic. Similar talks last year ultimately broke down in June as Israel launched what became a 12-day war on Iran that included the U.S. bombing Iranian nuclear sites. Asked by a reporter about the new negotiations, Trump said that I think theyll be successful. And if theyre not, its going to be a bad day for Iran, very bad. Trump held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday and said he insisted to Israels leader that negotiations with Iran needed to continue. Netanyahu is urging the administration to press Tehran to scale back its ballistic missile program and end its support for militant groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah as part of any deal. Advertisement Iran has insisted its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. Before the June war, Iran had been enriching uranium up to 60 per cent purity, a short, technical step away from weapons-grade levels. Related Article Middle East tensions Whats in the massive armada Trump has heading towards Iran? The USS Ford, meanwhile, first set sail in late June 2025, which means the crew will soon have been deployed for eight months. While it is unclear how long the ship will remain in the Middle East, the move sets the crew up for an unusually long deployment. The Navys top officer, Admiral Daryl Caudle, told reporters last month that keeping the Ford longer at sea would be highly disruptive and that he was a big non-fan of extensions. Carriers are typically deployed for six or seven months. When it goes past that, that disrupts lives, it disrupts things ... funerals that were planned, marriages that were planned, babies that were planned, Caudle said. Advertisement He said extending the Ford would complicate its maintenance and upkeep by throwing off the schedule of repairs, adding more wear and tear, and increasing the equipment that will need attention. For comparison, the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower had a nine-month deployment to the Middle East in 2023 and 2024, when it spent much of its time engaged with the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The ship entered maintenance in early 2025 as scheduled, but it blew past its planned completion date of July and remains in the shipyard to this day. Caudle told The Associated Press in a recent interview that his vision is to deploy smaller, newer ships when possible instead of consistently turning to huge aircraft carriers. Associated Press writer Josh Boak in Washington contributed to this report. AP Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share More: Trump's America Iran sanctions Donald Trump Infosys has announced an average organisation-wide performance bonus payout of 85 per cent for the quarter ended December, according to a report by the Economic Times. This offers a morale boost to employees at a time when technology stocks are under pressure over concerns that artificial intelligence could automate large portions of IT services work. The payout will be disbursed along with the February salary, according to an internal communication rollout, the report noted. Employees said individual payouts ranged between 75 per cent and 100 per cent of target variable pay. Some reported receiving up to 15 per cent more than in the previous quarter, while a few said they received the full 100 per cent. The company had paid an average of 75 per cent of the target bonus for the JulySeptember quarter. According to a person aware of the matter, who spoke to The Economic Times, the payout is the highest in FY26 so far and exceeds any quarter in the previous financial year. Strong business performance The higher payout follows a quarter marked by steady business momentum and deal wins. While announcing its third-quarter results in January, the company raised its revenue guidance, citing a strong performance and favourable demand environment. ALSO READ: TCS, Infosys retain top positions in global IT brand value rankings At a town hall meeting last month, Chief Human Resources Officer Shaji Mathew had indicated that employees could expect improved variable pay compared with earlier quarters. Infosys has around 323,000 employees. The company completed its appraisal cycle for the period November 2024 to October 2025 and released individual ratings in December. Awaiting clarity on salary hikes Employees are now awaiting communication on annual salary revisions. Ahead of the town hall, several had sought clarity on timelines for increments. Last year, the company issued salary revision letters in February, granting raises of between 5 per cent and 8 per cent to most employees, depending on performance ratings. The latest payout comes even as technology shares witnessed volatility on concerns that rapid advances in AI could reshape demand for traditional IT services. However, the improved bonus may help stabilise employee sentiment within the sector. NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of the Department of Space, will resell the products of Bengaluru-based private space technology company GalaxEye under an agreement signed by the two entities, officials said on Saturday. The products include advanced satellite imagery solutions, such as SyncFused OptoSAR data products, which are designed to deliver insights across critical sectors, including agriculture, disaster management, and natural resource management. "Collaborating with NSIL allows us to bring advanced Earth observation capabilities to a wider set of users while contributing to India's strategic and developmental priorities," Suyash Singh, co-founder and CEO of GalaxEye Space. According to officials, the agreement made GalaxEye the first private Indian satellite operator to formally collaborate with NSIL under a data reseller partnership agreement. "Beyond commercial impact, the reseller agreement is a milestone in India's space policy, where government bodies and private enterprises work hand in hand to drive innovation, enhance global competitiveness, and build sustainable growth in the space sector," an official said. GalaxEye specialises in building payloads, such as Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), a special type of imaging radar that is deployed in space where large dish-like radars, similar to those installed on the ground, cannot be sent. SARs use sophisticated technologies and algorithms to mimic the power and resolution of large ground-based radars. The company will soon launch its "Mission Drishti", a multi-sensory Earth observation satellite, and scale it up to a constellation of 10 satellites by 2030. In days, global CEOs and tech elites will join tens of thousands of attendees at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. Investors, tech firms and governments increasingly see India as the next AI centre: a place to test scale, to accelerate talent development and to anchor the future of AI in the Global South. But Indias leadership will not be measured solely by the business it attracts or celebrities on panels it will be judged by whether it is willing to set rules as well as the stage. Investors do not only want innovative approaches to growth, but also assurances of responsibility embedded into the governance of new technology. This is especially true in markets that are historically vulnerable to the costs of unchecked technology deployment. If the global south is to shape the future of AI, it must also lead in establishing respect and accountability for users' rights from the outset. India's opportunity is to show that responsible AI development is not a brake on growth, rather a competitive advantage, and companies doing business in India should expect a regulatory model that embraces both objectives. The Indian governments own seven principles for responsible AI recommend a rigorous independent oversight model as the most desirable form of regulation. This is important because the way a giant like India defines its approach to the technology will influence the industry and regulation outside its own borders. The Oversight Board, where I am a Board Member, is the only such mechanism offering a check in respect of human rights on Big Techs decisions. It addresses, independently, Metas most contentious content issues using a consistent framework based on human rights principles. It provides redress for users and promotes accountability and transparency, which is good for businesses that also use Meta's platforms to advertise or for investors who want to invest responsibly. The Board has defended free expression and judged when limits on it are permissible to stop real-world harms, including violence. It has helped shape and refine Metas policies and processes independent of government interference and commercial interests for instance, making rules available in more languages and ensuring users know what standard they have broken before receiving a strike on their account. Such independent oversight can be applied to AI governance. We have already ruled on AI-generated posts and automated content moderation. In a case on manipulated imagery of then US president Joe Biden, the Board made clear that AI-generation or modification of imagery is not itself grounds for removal, as that would limit free speech. But labelling content as fake can mitigate harm by informing people that what they are seeing is not real. And when necessary to prevent harm, we have said content must be removed from Metas platforms, for example, in a case of explicit AI images resembling female public figures from India and the United States violating the womens rights to privacy and protection from mental and physical harm. While much more still needs to be done, Meta credits our work here as the initiator for its AI-labelling program and says it consequently labeled 100s of millions of AI-generated or manipulated content in a single one-month period. We have urged Meta to identify and treat equally AI-generated posts across formats audio, still images and video including amid situations like elections and financial scams, where fraudulent content can have outsized impacts. Right now, we are debating how Meta should deal with the most consequential issues of the day, including what to do about AI content inflaming wars and aiming to monetise interest in them, including the recent Israel-Iran conflict. Social media and LLMs are not like-for-like. The former deals mainly with user posts; the latter synthesizes information from multiple sources for users. But users of both need to be able to object and receive redress for content they believe is hateful or harmful, or if their access to information is denied. Social media and LLMs are also both global. They need policies with local political and cultural understanding, while having consistency across borders. The number of languages in India alone will necessitate tailored approaches to LLM development and governance that is inclusive of local contexts. Independent oversight helps ensure those local voices are represented in governance our Board has more than a dozen nationalities on it. This has meant, for instance, when moderators have excised words from platforms that have been misinterpreted, we have had them restored. In the fog of AI development and rollout, independent ethical decision-making bodies can drive companies to make better, rights-respecting decisions. To date, Meta is the only firm that has submitted its platforms to such meaningful independent oversight and public scrutiny, for which it deserves credit. Other companies, which for now are relying on advisory bodies, should have similar oversight, whether from our organisation or another. We have many hard-fought learnings to share that can help AI companies grapple with these challenges without starting afresh. One glaring contrast between social media and LLMs is in the content policies that manage them. Social media content policies take up masses of webpages. LLMs content policies are scant. Meta AIs published user policy is just over three pages. OpenAIs guidelines barely breach 1,000 words. Anthropic recently launched Claude's updated constitution, which is supposed to establish its values and behaviour, but which provides no mechanism for outside enforcement. While it might be argued that AI companies do not want moderation, Meta, for instance, has already banned its LLMs carrying out impersonation and disinformation so it is happening. Inevitably, there will be regulation of what is permissible on AI platforms, as on social media. AI companies can act now or will likely be legislated into change. At this pivotal moment for Indian and global AI companies development, independent oversight can help them grow in a way that is responsible to local users and satisfies markets around the world, whether the EU, US or elsewhere. That is also reassuring for investors pushing for India to be the next AI super hub. Sudhir Krishnaswamy is Vice Chancellor and Professor of Law at the National Law School of India University, and a member of the Oversight Board. (Disclaimer: These are the personal opinions of the writer. They do not reflect the views of www.business-standard.com or the Business Standard newspaper) The City Vitality Index (CVI) report by the data analytics company for the first quarter of 2026 said India is undergoing rapid urbanisation, with the urban population expected to reach 600 million 40 per cent of the total population by 2036, up from 31 per cent in 2011. The report said the pace of urbanisation is likely to gather speed in the coming years, with the number of urban local bodies in India having already risen by 8.56 per cent over eight years, to 4,958 in 2025 from 4,567 in 2016. Class Y (Tier-II and Tier-III) cities are emerging as the top alternatives for establishing global capability centres, likely to provide a further boost to investment and employment generation, the report said. This comes at a time when the Union Budget 202627 gave a major push to city-led urban development, with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announcing an allocation of 5,000 crore over five years per city economic region for the development of Tier-II and Tier-III cities, as well as temple towns. Among metropolitan cities, Ahmedabad ranked first in terms of growth, followed by Bengaluru and Delhi. Among these large cities, Pune had the highest number of Udyam registrations at 620,000. Udyam Registration is the governments online system for recognising and classifying micro, small and medium enterprises. Major emerging cities, according to the report, include North 24 Parganas, followed by Thane and Jaipur. Thane had the highest number of Udyam registrations among the emerging cities at 430,000. The CVI identifies and ranks the top 100 non-metropolitan cities based on economic size, growth momentum, and overall vitality. A city with a high size rank but a lower growth rank may be nearing economic saturation large in scale but growing at a slower pace. In contrast, cities with a high growth rank and a lower size rank represent rising stars smaller today, but rapidly expanding, with strong prospects for improving ranks, the report said. For instance, Pune ranked first in size based on population and land mass but ranked fifth in growth as well as overall ranking. Among non-metropolitan cities, North 24 Parganas ranked second in size but 115th in growth. Similarly, Thane ranked first in size but lagged far behind in growth, with a rank of 290. Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi will undertake a four-day visit to Australia beginning Monday to explore ways to boost bilateral defence ties and jointly contributing to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. The defence ministry said the Army Chief will hold wide-ranging interactions with senior leadership of the Australian defence forces, especially focussing on enhancing army-to-army engagements including training and joint exercises. It said the visit is aimed at further strengthening India-Australia defence cooperation and reinforcing the growing convergence between the two nations. "The visit reaffirms the shared commitment of both nations to further enhancing defence cooperation and jointly contributing to peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region," it said in a statement. In Canberra, Gen Dwivedi will hold talks with Lt Gen Simon Stuart, the Chief of the Australian Army. Lt Gen Stuart and Gen Dwivedi are alumni of the US Army War College's 'Class of 2015' and share a strong professional bond, accoding to the min istry. The talks between the two military officials will be followed by a comprehensive round table in Australian Defence Forces Headquarters, on the aspects of defence cooperation, modernisation and futuristic operations. Gen Dwivedi will also address the officers at the Australian Command and Staff College. From Canberra, Gen Dwivedi will travel to Sydney where he will meet senior officials of Australia's Forces Command (FORCOMD) and the Special Operations Command (SOCOMD). The UK and India share a dynamic and forward-looking partnership built on trust, collaboration, and shared ambition, UK's Trade Commissioner for South Asia Harjinder Kang has said. Speaking during the annual King's Birthday Party celebrations here, Kang said this year's celebration follows a milestone year in UKIndia relations, marked by the signing of a Free Trade Agreement, a shared India-UK Vision 2035, and reciprocal visits by Prime Ministers Keir Starmer and Narendra Modi to each other's countries. The past year reflects a partnership that is deeper, broader, and more forward-looking than ever before, he said. "The UK and India share a dynamic and forward-looking partnership built on trust, collaboration, and shared ambition," Kang, who is also the Deputy High Commissioner, said on Friday. Kang hosted the King's Birthday Party on Friday, bringing together distinguished guests to celebrate the birthday of King Charles III. The evening brought together senior representatives from the Maharashtra government, business leaders, cultural figures, distinguished sportspersons, media representatives, non-profit organisations, and UK key partners across business sectors from Mumbai and Western India. It is also a celebration of the ambition that underpins the UK-India relationship, spanning trade and investment, culture and education, defence, climate action, innovation, and people-to-people ties, he said. Likening the air quality of the national capital to a 'gas chamber', Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday asserted that people in Uttar Pradesh enjoy a clean environment and are not being suffocated, despite all the developmental work. While speaking at an event in Gorakhpur, Adityanath stated that one of the biggest global challenges today is environmental degradation. "The environment here is quite good; there is no pollution. Without pollution, there are fewer diseases. Whenever pollution exists, it harms the lungs. If our supply of oxygen is compromised, the entire body suffers," he explained. Adityanath was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the renovated Block Development Officer's office in Jungle Kauria, Gorakhpur, the UP government said. He shifted his focus to Delhi's air quality, saying, "You see the condition in Delhi? It feels like a gas chamber. The situation is dire; breathing is difficult, and there's a burning sensation in the eyes. Doctors advise those suffering from asthma, as well as the elderly and children, to stay indoors. What kind of life is this?" He cautioned that any disruption to the environment could lead to similar circumstances. "We are fortunate here; we have development without a suffocating environment," Adityanath added. Delhi's air quality was recorded in the "poor" category at 9 am on Saturday, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 211, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed. According to the CPCB, an AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 to 100 'satisfactory', 101 to 200 'moderate', 201 to 300 'poor', 301 to 400 'very poor', and 401 to 500 'severe'. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched an all-out attack on the Congress, accusing it of neglecting the Northeast and promoting insurgency in Assam during its rule. Addressing BJP workers at a rally here, Modi alleged that the Congress always endangered the nation's security, with fear and insecurity prevailing during its tenure in Assam. ''The Congress indulged in polarisation and vote bank politics, and took decisions that promoted these,'' he said. "The partition of the country took place due to the Muslim League, but now there is 'MMC' Maoist, Muslim, Congress and people should be aware,'' Modi said. The PM accused the Congress of protecting infiltrators, but the BJP is "committed to end illegal immigration, and so the next five years are very important for the state''. He also claimed that the Congress, being out of power in Assam for 10 years, is "more dangerous than when it was in power, and this is evident from the venomous statements made by its leaders". For seven decades, the Congress built only three bridges over the Brahmaputra, but the BJP government constructed five bridges in 10 years, he asserted. The PM said all-round development is taking place in Assam due to the efforts of the BJP government. The remaining stretches of the 82-km Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor, connecting Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi with Modipuram in Meerut, are expected to be inaugurated on February 22 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, an official said requesting anonymity. Alongside the Namo Bharat inauguration, the 23-km Meerut Metro with 13 stations will also be launched, the source said. The remaining sections, a 5-km stretch in Delhi between Sarai Kale Khan and New Ashok Nagar, and a 21-km stretch from Meerut South to Modipuram, are now complete and slated for inauguration in February 22. The 82-km Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor includes several prominent stations such as Sarai Kale Khan, Anand Vihar, Ghaziabad, Guldhar, Muradnagar, Modinagar South, Modinagar North and Meerut South, among others, which together form the backbone of the regional rapid transit system connecting key residential, commercial and industrial clusters along the alignment. The NCRTC said that a 55-km stretch of the corridor with 11 stations is already operational, and the remaining sections are nearing completion. It mentioned that the integrated corridor is expected to support mobility, spur socio-economic shifts and unlock new residential and commercial hubs across Delhi, Ghaziabad and Meerut. The corporation highlighted that real estate activity has seen a noticeable rise along the Namo Bharat alignment, particularly in Meerut, Ghaziabad, Muradnagar and Modinagar. Values within a two-kilometre radius of stations have jumped 3067 per cent in two years, with Meerut land rates rising from Rs 8,00012,000 to Rs 12,00020,000 per sq. yard. A National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) official told PTI that developers have begun responding to the growing demand by announcing new projects along the corridor. The official said that Paras Buildtech has recently launched a 25-acre plotted development in Meerut offering around 220 premium plots, while Alpha Corp is developing its MeerutOne project in Modipuram. Shalabh Goel, Managing Director, NCRTC, shared, "When the Namo Bharat project was conceptualised, one of the aims was to enable polycentric development in NCR. We are also harnessing the potential of TOD in the region to foster communities." Additionally, Pritam Mishra, Vice President of Sales, Paras Buildtech, said, "The Namo Bharat corridor has been a game-changer for Meerut's real estate landscape, elevating erstwhile peripheral zones into high-demand urban nodes." The first Namo Bharat corridor has already triggered double-digit appreciation in property values and heightened investor interest, the official said. The proposed second corridor is expected to expand this growth wave to newer geographies, leading to a broader socio-economic impact across the region. The official added that with the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor set to become fully operational, attention is now shifting to the second Namo Bharat corridor, the Delhi-Gurugram-SNB route. It mentioned that the corridor will originate from Sarai Kale Khan and include a key station at Aerocity, strengthening regional and multimodal connectivity. The NCRTC official highlighted that public transport projects have historically reshaped the economic and social fabric of cities. Improved access to hubs such as Aerocity is expected to enhance connectivity between Meerut, Ghaziabad, Noida, Delhi and Gurugram, and improve the attractiveness of major business districts. Alongside the Namo Bharat inauguration, the 23-km Meerut Metro with 13 stations will also be launched, the official told PTI. He added that the Metro and Namo Bharat services will share the same infrastructure, ensuring seamless connectivity across Meerut and better integration with the regional rapid transit system. One of the notable outcomes of the corridor has been the emergence of reverse migration, with professionals who earlier moved to Delhi and Noida reconsidering a return to Meerut due to improved connectivity, it stated. He added that this trend is expected to further support housing demand, especially in the mid-income and premium segments. The Karnataka government has requested the Ministry of External Affairs to extend all necessary assistance, coordinate with local law enforcement, and provide support to the family of a 22-year-old Indian postgraduate student who has gone missing in California, the US. Saketh Sreenivasaiah, a student at the University of California, Berkeley, hailing from Karnataka, has been reported missing in Berkeley since the morning of February 12, officials said. In a letter to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Karnataka Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh said Saketh is enrolled in the Master of Science programme at the University of California, Berkeley. According to information received from his family and housemates, his whereabouts remain unknown despite a formal complaint being lodged with the Berkeley Police Department, the February 13 letter stated. Given the critical nature of the situation and the mounting anxiety of his family in Karnataka, she requested the ministry's intervention and support. "It is requested that the Ministry of External Affairs, through the Consulate General of India in San Francisco, extend all necessary assistance, including coordination with local law enforcement and facilitation of support to the family," Rajneesh said. When contacted, Saketh's father, Sreenivasaiah, said he had submitted a memorandum to the state government requesting steps to help locate his missing son. He said he last spoke to Saketh on February 9 and later learned from his roommates that he had been missing since the morning of February 12. The police are actively investigating the case; however, his whereabouts remain unknown. "We still haven't been able to locate him. We are in touch with his roommates and others. We have written to the government seeking support and assistance to find our son," he told PTI. When asked whether he would travel to the US, Sreenivasaiah said he was considering it. In a letter to Rajneesh seeking the state government's cooperation and assistance, Saketh's parents stated that his housemates had searched all known places and, after confirming he was untraceable, lodged a formal complaint with the Berkeley Police Department. Meanwhile, Yashovardhan Singh Thakur, Assistant Section Officer (Community Affairs) at the Consulate General of India in San Francisco, confirmed that the mission is coordinating with the Berkeley Police Department to provide updates and assistance in the search. In an official communication dated February 14, Thakur said he had spoken to Saketh's father, Sreenivasaiah, and his brother, Sudhamshu, and had taken updates from his roommate, Baneet Singh, regarding the search. "We are in touch with Saketh's family and his roommate. We have also contacted the Berkeley Police Department to get updates regarding the case and are providing all possible assistance from the mission in the search for Saketh," he said. Thakur further stated that the police have so far recovered his laptop, bag, and passport near the Anza Lake area and are searching for Saketh. He added that he would promptly update the parties concerned as soon as there is any development. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said a thorough probe will be conducted into the metro rail slab collapse incident in Mulund in Mumbai on Saturday, which killed one person and left three others injured. The probe will cover aspects of safety, precautions during construction etc and action will be taken against those responsible for the incident, he said. A safety audit will be initiated immediately at all such sites so that incidents of this nature can be prevented, the chief minister said on the sidelines of an event here. One person died and three others were injured after a slab of the girder bridge of the under-construction metro rail line 4 collapsed on a few vehicles in Mumbai's Mulund area this afternoon, police and civic officials said. A slab of the parapet wall of the girder bridge fell near Johnson and Johnson factory on the arterial LBS Road some time after noon on an autorickshaw and a Skoda car, both of which were heavily damaged. Line 4 is an under-construction route from Wadala in south-central Mumbai to neighbouring Thane with a large section passing over the arterial LBS Road connecting areas like Vikhroli, Bhandup, Mulund etc. "The accident in Mulund is very unfortunate. Our prayers are with the kin of the deceased and those injured. The medical expenses of the injured will be taken care of by MMRDA and the state government," Fadnavis said. "An inquiry will be initiated into whether proper care was taken into the safety aspects. Action will be taken against those responsible," he said. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang will not be travelling to India next week for a India AI Impact Summit, which global technology industry and political leaders are likely to attend, the company said on Saturday. Huang was expected to be one of the biggest attractions at the summit, which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday. While Huang was due to address the media in New Delhi on Wednesday, the company's media agency in India, MSL, said in an email that he would not be traveling ??due to "unforseen circumstances." Union Health Minister J P Nadda on Saturday said India has witnessed a substantial reduction in out-of-pocket expenditure on healthcare over the past decade, easing the financial burden on households, particularly among economically-vulnerable sections. He made these remarks while addressing the 8th convocation ceremony of Swami Rama Himalayan University in Dehradun. Highlighting the transformative strides made in India's health sector over the past 11 years, Nadda stated that the number of AIIMS has increased from 6 to 23, substantially expanding access to advanced tertiary healthcare services across the country. He further informed that institutional deliveries have risen to nearly 89 per cent, reflecting strengthened maternal healthcare systems. Emphasizing financial protection in healthcare, Nadda spoke about Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), which provides health cover of Rs 5 lakh per family. He stated that the scheme now benefits nearly 62 crore people, covering approximately 40 per cent of India's population. Referring to evidence from reputed international medical journals and independent evaluations, he noted that AB-PMJAY has significantly improved access to timely cancer care and strengthened financial protection for eligible beneficiaries across the country. "India has witnessed a substantial reduction in out-of-pocket expenditure on healthcare over the past decade, easing the financial burden on households, particularly among economically vulnerable sections," Nadda said. Despite accounting for nearly one-sixth of the global population, India has made significant progress in reducing malaria incidence and mortality through sustained vector-borne disease control efforts in line with WHO-reported trends, he highlighted. Underscoring the importance of comprehensive primary healthcare, the minister informed that more than 1.82 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been operationalized nationwide as the first point of contact for citizens. Of these, 50,000 centres have already been certified under National Quality Assurance Standards, with a target to scale up to 1 lakh NQAS-certified Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in the near future. Nadda noted that the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) has declined from 130 per lakh live births a decade ago to 88 per lakh live births, while the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) has reduced from 39 per thousand live births to 27 per thousand live births, demonstrating sustained progress in maternal and child health outcomes. Citing estimates from the World Health Organization and UN agencies, Nadda stated that India has achieved a significantly faster decline in the Under-5 Mortality Rate over the past decade compared to the global average, underscoring the impact of focused policy interventions and expanded healthcare access. Referring to tuberculosis control efforts, he noted that India has recorded a substantial decline in TB incidence, outperforming the global average reduction through sustained public health measures and community-based interventions. The Union Health Minister further highlighted India's historic COVID-19 vaccination drive, under which more than 220 crore vaccine doses, including precautionary and booster doses, have been administered nationwide, demonstrating the scale, resilience, and efficiency of India's public health system. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday virtually flagged off 25 electric buses for Chandigarh under the PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme. Modi, who was in Guwahati to inaugurate several infrastructure projects, flagged off the buses as part of the Centre's push to promote green public transport. Punjab Governor and Union Territory Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria, Mayor Saurabh Joshi, Chief Secretary H Rajesh Prasad and other officials were present at the event here. The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has sanctioned 428 electric buses for Chandigarh under the Prime Minister e-Bus Sewa Scheme, according to an official statement. For the first lot of 100 buses, Convergence Energy Services Limited invited e-tenders for the hiring of buses, and an agreement was signed by the Chandigarh Administration with the lowest bidder, it said. Under the hiring model, procurement, maintenance and operation of the buses are handled by the operator, while fare revenue is collected by the department. Currently, 80 electric buses are operational in Chandigarh, and with the induction of 25 more, the total has risen to 105, it said. After the delivery of the remaining 75 buses from the first lot, the city will have 180 electric buses by April or May 2026. The newly inducted 12-metre low-floor, air-conditioned buses have a range of 224 km on a single charge. The buses are equipped with a 400 mm low floor for easy boarding, especially for senior citizens, children and women; a power-operated ramp and electronically controlled kneeling mechanism for commuters with disabilities. A bus has a seating capacity of 36 passengers plus driver and wheelchair space, with a standing capacity of 20 passengers, the statement said. For enhanced safety and monitoring, the buses are equipped with people-counting cameras at both doors, five CCTV cameras (including passenger area, driver behaviour, reverse and dashboard views), GPS devices, panic buttons integrated with the Command Control Centre of the State Transport Authority, and stop request buttons for passenger convenience. The Chandigarh Administration aims to replace all diesel buses operating in the tri-city area with electric buses by the end of the 202728 financial year, it added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Saturday unveil a range of projects in Assam, including a bridge over the Brahmaputra River and a data centre for the northeastern region. Modi reached the state on a day-long visit to inaugurate an emergency landing facility (ELF) at Moran and launch projects worth over Rs 5,500 crore. The projects aim to boost connectivity, strengthen digital infrastructure, promote higher education and enhance public transport, officials said. The PM will inaugurate Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu across the Brahmaputra in Guwahati, built at a cost of around Rs 3,030 crore. The six-lane extradosed Prestressed Concrete (PSC) bridge will connect Guwahati with North Guwahati and is the first extradosed bridge in the Northeast. It will cut travel time between Guwahati and North Guwahati to just seven minutes. Presently, only the Saraighat Bridge in Jalukbari area connects the two banks of the Brahmaputra in the capital region, with the travel time taking around 30 minutes. Considering the high seismicity of the region, the bridge incorporates base isolation technology using friction pendulum bearings, according to a release from the prime minister's office. The high-performance stay cables have been used to ensure durability and long-term structural performance, it added. "A Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS) has also been incorporated for real-time condition monitoring, early damage detection and improved safety and service life of the extradosed bridge," the PMO said. Modi laid the foundation stone for the bridge on February 9, 2019 and construction started on March 1, 2020 by the then Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal. The initial cost of the bridge was Rs 2,608 crore, which escalated to Rs 3,030 crore, and the project was estimated to be completed within four years. The length of the bridge is 7.75 km, including approach roads and flyovers on both sides of the Brahmaputra, while the actual bridge over the river is 1.24 km long. The project was implemented by the Assam Public Works Department with consultancy services from Systra Engenharia Consultoria Ltd of Brazil. The contractor for the bridge was S P Singla Construction Pvt Ltd and the funding agency was the New Development Bank, with 20 per cent of the total project cost borne by the Assam government. A senior official of the Assam government told PTI that after its formal opening to the public, the bridge will remain open exclusively for pedestrians until February 28. The PM will later virtually inaugurate the National Data Centre (NDC) for the northeastern region, set up at Amingaon in Kamrup district of Assam, from Lachit Ghat. The state-of-the-art data centre with a total sanctioned load of 8.5 MW and an average rack capacity of 10 kW per rack will host mission-critical applications of various government departments and also function as a disaster recovery centre for other NDCs. "This will enable governments in the Northeast to digitally facilitate the delivery of essential citizen-centric services," the PMO said. Aligned with the vision of Digital India, the NDC for the Northeast has been envisaged as a strategic intervention to strengthen the region's ICT backbone and ensure robust, secure and always-available digital infrastructure. Following this, the PM will inaugurate the temporary campus of the Indian Institute of Management Guwahati, which is expected to give a major fillip to higher education and management education in the northeastern region. "The permanent campus will be developed at Palasbari near Guwahati, while the institute will commence its academic session from a transit campus at Tech City, Bongora. IIM Ahmedabad will monitor the temporary arrangements," the Assam government official said. The central government had approved the setting up of an IIM in Guwahati last year. This will be the second IIM in the Northeast and the 22nd in the country. The first IIM in the region is in Shillong. Modi will also flag off 225 electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme from the same place, the PMO release stated. Out of these, 100 buses are for Guwahati, 50 each for Nagpur and Bhavnagar, and 25 for Chandigarh. "With the launch of e-bus operations under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in these four cities, more than 50 lakh citizens are expected to benefit through access to clean, affordable and reliable public transport services, contributing to improved urban mobility and enhanced quality of life," the release added. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday described Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as "immature" and lacking understanding of the economy and accused the opposition party of spreading misinformation as it had no constructive agenda to criticise the Narendra Modi government. Speaking to reporters here in Mumbai on the Union Budget, Goyal said Rahul Gandhi is "thousand miles away from the truth" and asserted "discredited leaders" like him may try but would not be able to stop Prime Minister Modi and his service to the nation. "The Congress is frustrated. It has no other scheme or solution except spreading misinformation and fabricated claims. It does not have any point to criticise us. They are trying to mislead our farmers by spreading wrong and false information," he said. "I am confident that discredited leaders like Rahul Gandhi of the Congress and its allies, including TMC, DMK and SP, which are parties rejected by the people, can try hundreds of thousands of times, but nobody can stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his service to the nation," the minister further said. The Mumbai North BJP Lok Sabha MP said the Congress has failed to understand its own limitations. "Rahul Gandhi does not have any understanding of the economy, only tweeting false and misleading information on social media. He is thousands of miles away from the truth. India's cotton cultivation capacity and requirement both will grow. This policy of importing material and processing it for export is an old practice in global trade," the minister said. When immature people come into politics, allegations of such level are made, he said in a further attack on Rahul Gandhi over the latter's criticism of the Indo-US trade deal with regards to cotton cultivation and the textile sector. Textiles are a shining example in the country's overall exports, accounting for nearly Rs 3.60 lakh crore of the total, which will more than double in the coming time, Goyal said responding to a question. "Among the FTAs that India has pushed forward in the last few months, the textile sector's contribution would be nearly USD half a trillion, which comes to about Rs 45 lakh crore, With the textile market now opened for us, it will benefit us. The United States alone procures textile products worth around Rs 9 lakh crore annually. Moreover, reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods have been reduced to 18 per cent from earlier 50 per cent," he pointed out. Roughly half of the total exports to the US from India will go at zero duty, and the 18 per cent tariffs on the rest is the lowest when compared to any other competing nation, Goyal asserted. "We are lower than China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia. India has received the lowest tariffs from the US compared to our competitors, and it has opened a USD 30 trillion market for India. I think it is a game-changer for the future progress of India," he said. The Union minister also noted that the European Union procures around Rs 22-23 lakh crore worth of goods from India, adding that textile products would be exported at zero duty to markets such as the EU, New Zealand, and the UK. "The US produces around 480 million pounds bales of cotton every year, which is valued at Rs 1.25 lakh crore. It cannot damage the interests of India's cotton growers. The US exports around Rs 45,000 crore worth of cotton. In my guess, India's one region produces more cotton than that," the minister said. The nation's demand for cotton is much higher and it is rising, the senior BJP leader added. NCP (SP) president Sharad Pawar, who was undergoing treatment for a chest infection at a private hospital here, was discharged from the facility on Saturday afternoon. The 85-year-old Rajya Sabha member left the hospital around 1 pm. Pawar's daughter and NCP (SP) working president Supriya Sule said he has been advised to rest for three to four days. "Accordingly, he will rest at home and will resume his daily work thereafter," she said in a social media post. Pawar was brought to Ruby Hall Clinic here earlier this week from his residence in Baramati town, Pune district, after he complained of difficulty in breathing and a persistent cough. "He (Pawar) sincerely thanks everyone for inquiring about his health. He also expresses heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and supporting staff at Ruby Hall Clinic who treated him and took care of him," Sule wrote. Dr Purvez Grant, chief cardiologist, chairman and managing trustee of the hospital, had said in the morning that Pawar was in good health and had recovered well. Pawar would be discharged later in the day, he had said. "The medical team has advised him to take adequate rest for a few days, following which he may gradually resume his routine work and public engagements," the doctor had said. Vitthal Maniyar, a close friend and aide of Pawar, said the NCP (SP) chief will rest at his Pune residence for the next couple of days and will likely travel to Mumbai after completing his course of medication. The former Union minister, who lost his nephew and Maharashtra deputy CM Ajit Pawar in an air crash on January 28, is an oral cancer survivor. The situation in violence-hit Moava village in Nagaland's Chumoukedima district was under control on Saturday, with no flare-up reported amid tight security arrangements, police said. At least 26 people were injured in a clash triggered by a protracted land dispute in the village under the Medziphema sub-division on Friday. The clash broke out between villagers and members of the Chakhroma Youth Organisation (CYO). Moava Village Council chairman Sutminlal Vaiphei, addressing the media on Saturday, said efforts are underway to resolve the issue through dialogue. He clarified that the violence stemmed from a dispute over a specific plot of land, and there was no attempt to obstruct developmental activities. The police appealed to the public to maintain peace, refrain from spreading rumours, and cooperate with authorities to ensure harmony and prevent recurrence of such an incident. Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday urged the Tamil Nadu government to work closely with the Centre to further strengthen the state's startup ecosystem, noting that despite significant progress, it still has immense untapped potential. Addressing the inaugural session of the two-day Research, Industry, Start-up and Entrepreneurship (RISE) Conclave here, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences highlighted India's exponential growth in the sector, which has increased from 350 startups in 2014 to over 2 lakh today. "Tamil Nadu has contributed 34,000 registered startups, but there is still significant untapped potential. We need to create an enabling ecosystem, particularly in tier-II and tier-III cities, to accelerate innovation-driven entrepreneurship," Singh said. He encouraged youth in growth hubs like Chennai and Coimbatore to leverage central initiatives to scale up their ventures, pointing out that startups have already created over 21 lakh jobs nationwide. Highlighting the union government's focus on the state, Singh referenced the installation of the 'sengol' in the new Parliament building as a mark of respect for Tamil heritage. He also listed central welfare milestones in the state, including 40 lakh Ujjwala connections, 12 lakh houses built with central assistance, and the operation of eight Vande Bharat Express trains. During the event, the minister launched a Centre of Excellence established by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) in Kanchipuram. Additionally, umbrella Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged between the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and various academic institutions and incubation centres to bolster collaboration. The conclave, which saw participation from over 120 institutions, was also addressed by M Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, and N Kalaiselvi, Secretary, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR). The officials emphasised the government's commitment to ensuring the seamless transfer of innovations from state-funded laboratories to the public and industry. Later, speaking to reporters, the minister said that in a significant push for India's deep-tech sector, the government has rolled out a Rs 1 lakh crore RDI (Research, Development, and Innovation) fund to accelerate entrepreneurs in the private sector, specifically targeting those at the Technology Readiness Level 4. On India's space missions, Singh dismissed reports of cancellations or delays, stating that ISRO's confidence and credibility remain intact. He confirmed that 18 launches are scheduled for this year, including participation from six private parties. Singh clarified that the timeline for the Gaganyaan mission is set for 2027, with a critical preliminary robo-flight carrying the female robot Vyommitra expected to take place before the end of this year. He further noted that the PSLV is slated for a relaunch as early as June or July 2026. Singh also said that these conclaves are being held across various regions, including Hyderabad, Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu, and Lucknow, to ensure that information about enabling schemes is accessible to youngsters everywhere. The first week of December brought more than winter chills to Indias capital, it delivered chaos in the skies. As Parliament gathered for the Winter Session, airports across the country were gripped by scorching winds and, unexpectedly, by a crisis on the tarmac. IndiGo, the nations largest airline, stumbled into an unprecedented operational breakdown, grounding flights and leaving nearly a million passengers stranded, turning what should have been a routine travel month into a national spectacle of frustration and scrutiny. ALSO READ: IndiGo raises crew buffer, pilot ratio as DGCA rest relaxations end today The timing could not have been worse. December was expected to be a month of recovery, erasing the traumatic memories of the June Air India crash. Instead, Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu found himself in the Rajya Sabha under intense scrutiny from opposition MPs. We are not taking the situation easily, Naidu said, promising a strict inquiry and stern action against all erring airlines. Deciding the penalty for Indigo Eventually, IndiGo was fined 22 crore and asked to furnish a 50 crore bank guarantee on January 17, the largest penalty ever imposed on an Indian airline. But an Economic Times report revealed that Naidu had initially planned a much harsher fine, potentially nearing 100 crore. The original plan was to levy 1 crore per day from December 3 until February 10, covering the period when IndiGo operated under older pilot-duty rules. While this would have cost roughly 69 crore, the government ultimately opted for a lighter touch, seeming to balance public anger with pragmatic concerns about IndiGos market dominance. Dominance, delays, and damage control IndiGo controls nearly 65 per cent of Indias domestic aviation market, making it difficult for regulators to take extreme action. Other airlines simply do not have enough capacity to absorb a fraction of IndiGos flights, which means any disruption has wide ripple effects. Adding to the airlines burden is the cost of complying with new pilot-duty norms. Hiring 5001,000 pilots could cost 5001,000 crore annually, with a captain commanding around 8 lakh per month and co-pilots earning roughly half. The government, it seems, weighed these challenges before finalising the penalty. Leadership gaps and missteps The crisis also exposed leadership vulnerabilities. CEO Pieter Elbers, who is not formally accountable under Indian regulations, left for Amsterdam even as early signs of operational strain appeared in November, returning only on the third day of the crisis. Meanwhile, non-native executives concentrated decision-making, but were largely absent, leaving second-line managers scrambling without clear guidance. Human resources missteps compounded the problem. A freeze on pilot hiring and promotions, aimed at cutting costs, ignored repeated warnings from operations leaders about staffing shortages. When the crisis hit, flights were delayed rather than cancelled, creating heightened chaos at airports nationwide. DGCA scrutiny ALSO READ: IndiGo plans to hire over 1,000 pilots after December flight crisis The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) initially issued a report that some officials felt was uneven, protecting certain executives while disproportionately targeting others. Notices to responsible leaders were delayed, enforcement action pushed into late January, and IndiGo leveraged procedural loopholes to stall regulatory action. Looking ahead: Hiring and reforms In the weeks following the December meltdown, IndiGo has moved to stabilise operations and shore up its workforce. The airline has ramped up pilot recruitment, aiming to hire 1,000 new pilots to prevent future disruptions and comply with stricter duty regulations. Training schedules are being accelerated, and second-line managers are being empowered to take faster operational decisions when senior leadership is away. At the regulatory level, the crisis has reignited discussions on aviation reforms, with the DGCA reviewing penalty structures and enforcement mechanisms to ensure accountability in large-scale disruptions. For passengers, Decembers chaos may be a distant memory, but for IndiGo and Indias aviation authorities, the challenge remains- building resilience, restoring trust, and avoiding another meltdown as travel demand continues to surge. Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday asserted that Maharashtra will be among the biggest beneficiaries of the Union Budget 2026-27, citing provisions made for infrastructure, railways and industry, which will have a direct impact on the state's growth. Speaking to reporters here about the Union Budget, the commerce and industry minister said Mumbai and Navi Mumbai are major destinations for data centres as subsea cables land there, which would attract foreign direct investment and generate employment. "The budget provides Rs 12.21 lakh crore for infrastructure development. Projects such as Vadhawan Port, the new airport and the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway will benefit Maharashtra. A rupee spent on infrastructure gives a return of Rs 3 to Rs 3.5. This will boost economic growth and reduce logistic costs," he said. He pointed out that the budget focuses on the MSME and manufacturing sectors through credit guarantee schemes, renewable energy use and expansion of cloud services. Goyal said three chemical parks linked to sea ports and textile parks have been announced, along with safe harbour rules to attract foreign investors. He further said that the allocation for railways in Maharashtra has increased significantly compared to previous years. Between 2009 and 2014, the rail budget provision for the state was Rs 1,170 crore, while the current provision stands at Rs 24,000 crore, the Union minister said. He noted that Rs 1 lakh crore has been earmarked under the state component for Maharashtra in the budget. He also listed projects such as the high-speed railway corridors between Mumbai and Pune, Pune and Hyderabad, along with the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, which will strengthen connectivity. Speaking about trade, Goyal said nine free trade agreements have been finalised with 38 developed countries under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Nearly 70 per cent of the global market is open to India with preferential access, he said. "Sensitive sectors such as dairy, agriculture and GM foods have been kept away from these agreements. Labour-intensive sectors, including textiles, footwear, leather, handloom, handicrafts, engineering and electronic components, will benefit. This will support exports and attract investment," he said. Sales rise 17.46% to Rs 2265.01 crore Net profit of Fortis Healthcare declined 21.85% to Rs 193.73 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 247.90 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024. Sales rose 17.46% to Rs 2265.01 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 1928.26 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024.2265.011928.2622.3219.45431.73352.92311.59255.59193.73247.90 Powered by Capital Market - Live News Sales decline 11.37% to Rs 579.15 crore Net profit of Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation declined 9.89% to Rs 133.06 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 147.66 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024. Sales declined 11.37% to Rs 579.15 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 653.42 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024.579.15653.4217.4214.07201.58205.72179.42179.29133.06147.66 Powered by Capital Market - Live News Sales decline 2.35% to Rs 155.32 crore Net profit of India Power Corporation declined 30.19% to Rs 1.85 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 2.65 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024. Sales declined 2.35% to Rs 155.32 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 159.06 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024.155.32159.06-4.065.4212.2113.073.214.171.852.65 Powered by Capital Market - Live News Sales rise 9.99% to Rs 429.36 crore Net profit of Rana Sugars declined 10.42% to Rs 12.72 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 14.20 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024. Sales rose 9.99% to Rs 429.36 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 390.35 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024.429.36390.355.405.0723.2622.3112.9423.7912.7214.20 Powered by Capital Market - Live News Sales decline 20.06% to Rs 11.40 crore Net profit of Surat Trade & Mercantile declined 58.24% to Rs 2.51 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 6.01 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024. Sales declined 20.06% to Rs 11.40 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 14.26 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024.11.4014.26-2.89-4.143.193.943.063.862.516.01 Powered by Capital Market - Live News Sales rise 26.15% to Rs 72.22 crore Net profit of Swiss Military Consumer Goods declined 14.16% to Rs 2.00 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 2.33 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024. Sales rose 26.15% to Rs 72.22 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 57.25 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024.72.2257.254.244.723.213.263.103.162.002.33 Powered by Capital Market - Live News Sales rise 9.31% to Rs 4979.09 crore Net profit of The Bombay Burmah Trading Corporation declined 6.68% to Rs 316.33 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 338.98 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024. Sales rose 9.31% to Rs 4979.09 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 4554.83 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024.4979.094554.8318.9419.18978.31925.28889.99839.68316.33338.98 Powered by Capital Market - Live News For supply of Type IV composite hydrogen storage system Time Technoplast has secured its first trial order for a Type IV composite hydrogen storage system valued at approximately Rs 2.30 crore. The project has been awarded to the Company through an EPC contractor for a Navaratna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) in the energy sector, with the end use supporting the Indian Armed Forces. The scope of work includes the design, engineering, manufacture in India, supply, integration, and commissioning of a Hydrogen Cascade Storage System with a usable capacity of 200 kg at 250 bar, utilizing advanced Type IV Composite Hydrogen Gas Cylinders. The system will feature a cascaded configuration, integrated safety devices, and comprehensive mechanical and environmental protection toensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation. Execution will be carried out in coordination with the end user and relevant stakeholders, in full compliance with applicable safety, quality, and performance requirements for defence and strategic installations. Powered by Capital Market - Live News Sales rise 33.77% to Rs 93.29 crore Net profit of Tolins Tyres declined 3.67% to Rs 10.49 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 10.89 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024. Sales rose 33.77% to Rs 93.29 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 69.74 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024.93.2969.7415.2118.0713.8113.2012.7112.5910.4910.89 Powered by Capital Market - Live News Sales rise 7.92% to Rs 478.09 crore Net profit of Western Carriers (India) declined 17.95% to Rs 10.83 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 13.20 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024. Sales rose 7.92% to Rs 478.09 crore in the quarter ended December 2025 as against Rs 443.00 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2024.478.09443.005.005.2822.5423.9914.6517.8110.8313.20 Powered by Capital Market - Live News Gold Price Today: The price of 24-carat gold fell 10 in early trade on Saturday, with ten grams of the precious metal trading at 1,55,770, according to the GoodReturns website. The price of silver also dropped by 100, with one kilogram of the precious metal selling at 2,79,900. The price of 22-carat gold decreased by 10, with ten grams of the yellow metal selling at 1,42,790. The price of ten grams of 24-carat gold stood at 1,55,770 in Mumbai and Kolkata, and 1,57,080 in Chennai. In Delhi, the price of ten grams of 24-carat gold stood at 1,55,920. In Mumbai, the price of ten grams of 22-carat gold was 1,42,790, the same as in Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and 1,43,990 in Chennai. ALSO READ: 62% Gen Z, mllennials buy gold under 5 grams, pick bullion over MFs, stocks In Delhi, the price of ten grams of 22-carat gold stood at 1,42,940. The price of one kilogram of silver in Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai stood at 2,79,900. US gold and silver rebounded on bargain-hunting on Saturday after sliding to one-week lows in the previous session, with a break below key supports deepening losses as selling pressure intensified after strong US jobs data curbed rate-cut bets. Spot gold was up 1 per cent at $4,966.83 per ounce by 0127 GMT after falling more than 3 per cent in the previous session to a near one-week low below the key $5,000 level. US gold futures for April delivery gained 0.7 per cent to $4,985.40 per ounce. Spot silver rose 2.1 per cent to $76.76 per ounce, after a 11 per cent drop on Wednesday. The US dollar was mostly flat against peer currencies on Thursday, holding steady after mixed signals from the latest release of US economic indicators. A stronger dollar makes greenback-priced metals more expensive for holders of other currencies. Spot platinum added 1.7 per cent to $2,033.15 per ounce, while palladium rose 1.4 per cent to $1,639.99. (with inputs from Reuters) Todays writeups circle a common question: How power is exercised, protected and sometimes misused. From global tax negotiations to Manipurs fragile politics, from celebrity boardrooms to documentary film sets, the focus is accountability, who has it, who avoids it, and who pays the price.Writing on global taxation, that attempts to dilute multilateral tax cooperation reflect a deeper push by the ultra-wealthy to erode democratic checks. They describe the OECD/G20 Inclusive Frameworks exemption for American multinationals from the 15 per cent global minimum tax as a capitulation to US pressure, reviving tax-haven dynamics and weakening national sovereignty. The authors point to progressive reforms in Brazil, Colombia and Spain, along with public support in France and California, as evidence that wealth taxes are politically viable and economically compatible with growth.the difficult inheritance facing Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh in Manipur . His appointment in New Delhi, just before the end of Presidents Rule, was designed to balance ethnic representation, with Kuki-Zo and Naga deputies included. Yet violence persists. The Meitei demand for Scheduled Tribe status, which triggered mass unrest in 2023, remains unsettled. Cross-border instability in Myanmar and the long shadow of Naga negotiations complicate recovery. Restoring order, curbing weapons and rebuilding institutional trust will test the new government far beyond symbolic gestures.to celebrity entrepreneurship, questioning whether fame converts into durable enterprise . While Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan have built diversified portfolios, those like Deepika Padukone and Hrithik Roshan have launched promising ventures, Goyal notes that many celebrity-backed brands fade once initial publicity wanes. Inflated revenue claims and weak operational depth often surface later. The column concludes that capital, discipline and execution not visibility determine business survival. geopolitics as a contest shaped by leverage and time . Lesothos vulnerability to sudden US tariff shifts contrasts with Chinas strategic patience and scale. Europes dependence on American security and Washingtons electoral volatility compress their room for manoeuvre. Democracies operate under political time limits; authoritarian systems often do not. For India, sustained growth, trade openness and defence reform remain the only reliable sources of future leverage.Finally, in Eye Culture, documentaries that openly incorporate re-enactment and performance . Films such as Hanging by a Wire and Everybody to Kenmure Street use staged elements to deepen emotional truth without disguising construction. Together, these works accept that documentaries are shaped artefacts. By foregrounding their own construction rather than concealing it, they argue for transparency as a safeguard of truth at a time when digital manipulation makes authenticity harder to assess.Stay tuned! Bangladesh's Election Commission has published a gazette of newly elected members of Parliament from the 13th general election, paving the way for their swearing-in, media reports said on Saturday. The gazette was published for 297 out of the 300 parliamentary constituencies late on Friday, state-run BSS news agency reported. The notification was signed by Akhtar Ahmed, secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat. The next step is the swearing-in ceremony, which will officially seat them in Parliament, according to the bdnews24 news portal. Parliamentary elections were held in Bangladesh on Thursday across 299 of the country's 300 constituencies, while the results from two seats were withheld. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) bagged 209 out of 297 seats and is making a return to power after a gap of two decades. The right-wing Jamaat-e-Islami, known to be close to Pakistan, secured 68 seats. The Awami League party of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina was barred from contesting the elections, which recorded 59.44 per cent voter turnout. The 13th Parliamentary elections assumed significance as they were held after a period of tumultuous political vacuum, instability and fragile security situation, including widespread attacks on minorities after the student-led protests brought down the 15-year rule of Hasina in August 2024. Tariq Rahman will take the oath as Prime Minister of Bangladesh on Monday. South Asian leaders have been invited to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Tariq Rahman and his cabinet. "As the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Tariq Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), will take the oath on Monday alongside his cabinet. South Asian leaders have been invited to the ceremony, and several invitations have already been sent. However, due to weekend holidays in those countries, it may take some time, and the attendance of the leaders, especially the Prime Ministers, will depend on their availability at that time," a reliable source told ANI on Saturday night. The new Prime Minister and the other members of his cabinet usually take the oath in the Durbar Hall of Bangladesh's Presidential Palace, Bangabhaban. However, this time, the oath ceremony will be held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhavan. A senior official of the Bangladesh government told ANI that, because many more guests have been invited to the ceremony, the Durbar Hall could not accommodate the large number, so the ceremony is being held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhavan. "Invitations have been sent to the Prime Ministers of the South Asian countries, but they will confirm by Sunday who will actually attend. They mentioned that they will inform us of their schedules and whether the Prime Minister can come on Monday. However, each country will send a representative at some level, and if a Prime Minister cannot attend, the Foreign Minister will definitely come -- this was indicated," the source added. Meanwhile, party sources indicate that Tarique Rahman has begun forming his cabinet. However, this cabinet will be very small initially. It may expand later, but at the outset, it will not be large. Therefore, the cabinet taking the oath on Monday is expected to be small. PM Modi to be invited Bangladesh is learnt to be in the process of inviting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other regional leaders to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the country's next prime minister, Tarique Rahman, on February 17, people familiar with the matter said on Saturday. It is learnt that Dhaka has already communicated its plan to New Delhi. Rahman's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has indicated that the leaders of several countries in the region would be invited for the ceremony. There is no official word on the invitation yet. Modi is unlikely to travel to Dhaka as he is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai on February 17. New Delhi may send a senior government functionary to attend Rahman's swearing-in ceremony, it is learnt. In a phone conversation with Rahman on Friday, Modi congratulated the BNP leader on his party's remarkable victory in the Bangladesh parliamentary election. "I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh," Modi said after the call. "As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India's continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples," he said. February 12, 2026: For at least six years, China has been testing 4th Generation nuclear weapons. First Generation was fission atomic bombs using uranium-235 or plutonium-239. These were the bombs dropped on the Japanese cities Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945, compelling Japan to surrender. Second Generation was Thermonuclear hydrogen bombs using a small fission explosive to detonate a much larger explosion through the fusion of hydrogen isotopes. Third Generation consisted of ERW/Enhanced Radiation Weapons, or neutron bombs designed to produce a lot of lethal radiation with minimal blast effects. Fourth Generation: The Chinese are ahead in this area, with very low-radiation explosives using metal nitrogen/total nitrogen anion salt. These devices could weigh 100-200 grams and be carried by a drone weighing less than ten kilograms. There would be ongoing arguments over whether these weapons were really nuclear or not. That sort of debate is oft all a country needed to declare the 4th Generation nukes non-nuclear and use them in whatever conflicts they were involved in. The 4th Generation nuclear device is another project in the decades-old Chinese efforts to upgrade their nuclear weapons and delivery systems. For example, two years ago China decided to reform and upgrade their Rocket Force, the military organization which operates all Chinese ballistic missiles. The problems were numerous and usually ignored. For example, in 2021 some of these missiles were moved to a new silo field in northern China. Here there are three new missile silo fields, containing a total of 320 missile silos. China planned to put missiles in only in some of the silos and thus force the United States to attack all the silos in a first strike. Such a first strike is unlikely because China already had dozens of missiles being moved around on truck mounted launchers. These trucks constantly moved between hiding places and were meant to keep an enemy unsure of where all the Chinese nuclear missiles were. This was a fortunate move by China as most or all of the newly built, and quite expensive, missile silos were inoperable. Their lids couldnt be opened due to Chinas constant corruption. China had several thousand ballistic missiles, most of them known to be armed only with a variety of conventional/non-nuclear warheads. It turns out China had a lot more of these than earlier believed. Another revelation is that China purportedly considers nuclear warheads much less important than previously believed. A recent effort to calculate how many nuclear warheads China had concluded that they had not been producing enough plutonium for an expansion of their nuclear warhead inventory and apparently configure their longer range ICBM and IRBM missiles with several types of conventional warheads and keep a small number of nuclear warheads in a separate location. This meant that even ICBMs were seen as primarily non-nuclear missiles, which is surprising as the cost of ICBMs far exceeds all other ballistic missiles while the damage done by conventional warheads is only the same at best. Reports of new missile silos being built inland were apparently not for nuclear missiles, but long-range missiles armed with conventional warheads. This strategy had long been suspected because for decades China openly threatened Taiwan with over a thousand short range ballistic missiles armed with several types of conventional warheads and standing by for a surprise attack that would be able to overwhelm any BMD/Ballistic Missile Defense capability Taiwan had, even if reinforced by American or Japanese Aegis BMD destroyers. The hundreds of new silos in central China would be more difficult to disable by airstrikes and provide longer range ballistic missiles with conventional warheads to assist attacks on Taiwan, as well as South Korean, Japanese and American bases in the Pacific. This use of non-nuclear ballistic missiles is more in line with published Chinese strategy, which emphasizes avoiding the use of nukes at all costs while also using all ballistic missiles as artillery equipped with non-nuclear warheads. To maintain this large force of ballistic missiles requires regularly using some of them to test new guidance systems and conventional warhead designs. This means China carries out far more test launches than anyone else. In 2019 China was noted to have carried out more missile launches, for testing and development, than the rest of the world combined. China is a nuclear power that is not particularly concerned about boasting of how many nukes and delivery systems it has. China is also better able to keep secret most of its missile tests. Rather than firing missiles out to sea, where they have to issue a warning to ships to avoid the area where the warheads will land, China conducts most of its missile tests at an inland test site near the Gobi Desert. Plenty of open space and far from prying eyes. The only nation with a good idea of how many Chinese missile tests there are each year is the United States, which has a worldwide network of early-warning satellites that can spot the heat generated from a ballistic missile launch anywhere on the planet. For a long time, the U.S. did not disclose how many Chinese missile launches they spotted each year but in a 2018 speech an American official commented that China launched more missiles each year than the rest of the world combined. Similar comments since then indicate that China is currently launching more than a hundred missiles a year, most of them aimed at the remote inland test site in the northwest. The Americans also have a network of electronic monitoring satellites that can collect telemetry data. This is what the test warhead transmits back to earth about how the missile is performing. This data is encrypted, and the U.S. says even less about how many of these signals it captures and decrypts. A growing number of American analysts, including the more senior ones that specialize in ballistic missile and nuclear weapons trends, have maintained that the large Chinese missile force, including the ones the West classifies as nuclear only, exist mainly to support surprise attacks by missiles carrying non-nuclear warheads. Chinese military journals describe over a dozen types of non-nuclear warheads, but little is said about any nuclear warheads except basic models. The U.S. is very interested in finding out details of new Chinese missiles because some will have capabilities that the U.S. and Russia gave up for several decades because of the INF/Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces disarmament treaty signed near the end of the Cold War. The U.S. did admit that the main reason for not renewing the INF Treaty with Russia in 2019 was not just Russian cheating, but also because China never signed the INF treaty and was free to develop ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of 500 to 5,500 kilometers forbidden by the INF. China had openly developed lots of such ballistic missiles. Originally INF was created to reduce the proliferation of shorter-range missiles with nuclear warheads. The Chinese preference for non-nuclear missiles was ignored or played down for a long time. China also insists it is unconcerned about who the target for nuclear armed missiles is. In 2009, China announced that its nuclear-armed ballistic missiles were not aimed at anyone and that was probably true. Like most countries, China had long refused to say who its nuclear-armed missiles are aimed at. Most of those missiles only have enough range to hit Russia, or India, or other nearby nations. For a long time, most were very definitely aimed at Russia, which had rocky relations with China from the 1960s to the 1990s. But after the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991, the new, much smaller, Russia became much friendlier with the wealthier, more capitalist, but still run by communists, China. Relations between China and India also warmed up then went into a deep freeze as China claimed more and more Indian territory. Currently China is believed to have over 500 nuclear warheads but only about half of them are purportedly ready for use and most of them are the new standard 400kt type, which is smaller and lighter than the megaton/1,000kt warheads China originally produced. Fewer than a hundred Chinese ballistic missiles could reach the United States. These include the older, and about to be retired, DF-5, plus the newer DF-31A and DF-41. Now it turns out that these missiles normally carry a non-nuclear warhead, but with nuclear warheads stored somewhere else. Some are stored near ICBMs but even those long-range missiles are kept ready to fire with non-nuclear warheads. Few Chinese ballistic missiles lacking intercontinental range are armed with nuclear warheads, or apparently even equipped to handle nuclear warheads. Chinese strategy had long been to use lots of ballistic missiles armed with various kinds of high-explosive warheads. China was long believed to have about 2,000 ballistic missiles, most of them short, under a thousand kilometers, range plus over 300 cruise missiles. It turns out that China actually had about 50 percent more ballistic missiles, assigned to local theater commands that have these missile brigades as a form of long-range artillery. China is also developing more cruise missiles concentrating, as is the United States, on stealth and additional capabilities. In recognition of all this China created a fourth branch of the military, the Rocket Force, in 2016. At the time this was assumed to signal a major expansion of nuclear-armed ballistic missiles. That didnt happen. China is also developing and deploying many new missiles. In fact, China had more types of ballistic missiles, at least 40, than any other nation. What was long overlooked was how many of these shorter-range ballistic missiles China had built. China also invests heavily in its new missile technologies, like its hypersonic glide missile, the DF-ZF. Chinas current ballistic missile inventory apparently includes about 90 DF-41, range of 14,000 kilometers, about 60 DF-31 50, 8,000 kilometers, 70 DF-5 - 14,000 kilometers, 100 DF-26 4,000 kilometers, an unknown number, perhaps none of DF-21D and DF-2. The only cruise missile is the CJ-10A 1,500 kilometers. There are several hundred other short-range ballistic missiles as well, some of them still in development. Since the 1990s China had always had a few active DF-5 ICBMs. For a long time, these were their only missiles that could reach the United States. The U.S. had since installed 18 ICBM interceptor missile systems in Alaska. There are to deal with North Korean missiles but could also destroy most Chinese missiles headed for the western United States. It makes sense for China to simply say that it is not aiming nuclear missiles at anyone. Modern guidance systems can be quickly, in minutes, programmed for a new target, so it doesn't really matter that, normally, the missiles have no target information in them. The DF-5s, moreover, are liquid-fueled, and the considerable activity required to ready them for launch can be detected by spy satellites. The DF-5s have been largely replaced by 84 solid fuel DF-41s. These missiles can be moved, erected, and launched from a special truck. With a 15,000-kilometer range, they can reach all of the United States. The third stage contains multiple warheads, each with an explosive yield of about 400 KT. India is of growing concern to China, but there are shorter range ballistic missiles, like the DF-21, to deal with that threat. The Chinese introduced the DF-21 in 1999 and now had nearly a thousand in service or on order. Most have non-nuclear warheads. This missile had a range of over 1,800 kilometers and was designed to use the new 400 kiloton nuclear warhead. It's a two-stage, 15 ton, solid-fuel rocket. Launched from Tibet, the DF-21 can reach most major targets in India. Back in 2006 China put the larger DF-31 into service. Sort of. There are few in service now. This was China's first solid-fuel ICBM with a range of over 8,000 kilometers and roughly equivalent to the U.S. Minuteman I of the 1960s. The DF-31 weighs about 46 tons and is 20 meters long and 2.25 meters in diameter. It was designed for use on submarines, land silos and mobile launchers which would halt at those parking lots in the middle of nowhere visible in satellite pictures of Qinghai province. The DF-31 had been shown stored in a TEL transporter, erector & launcher vehicle. Driving these vehicles along special highways in remote areas provides more protection from counterattacks than using a reinforced silo. Later, the improved DF-13A appeared, with multiple warheads and more range up to 12,000 kilometers, which could cover all the United States. No DF-13As are currently in service. The DF-31 was in development for over twenty years and only had its first successful launch in 1999. It's now believed to have a reliable and accurate guidance system, as well as a third stage that carries at least one 400 kiloton warhead. DF-31s are in service, along with DF-31As and most of these appear to be aimed at European Russia. Then there is a submarine-launched missile, the JL Julang 2 SLBM Sea Launched Ballistic Missile. This missile had had a lot of problems as had the SSBNs ballistic missile carrying nuclear subs that carry them. The 42-ton JL-2 had a range of 8,000 kilometers and would enable China to aim missiles at any target in the United States from a 094 class SSBN cruising off Hawaii or Alaska. Each 094 boat can carry twelve of these missiles, which are naval versions of the existing land based 42-ton DF-31 ICBM. The JL-2 was supposed to have entered service in 2015 but kept failing test launches. China decided that JL-2 was reliable enough and ordered 72 built and some were installed in four SLBMs. A few Chinese SSBNs have gone on a combat cruise, but not too far from China. These are used to threaten India because these boats, as well as the SLBMs, have been very unreliable. It always seemed strange to foreigners that China was not putting more resources into making its SSBNs capable of regular service. Now we know; China does not value or fear nukes as much as other nations. This is not really novel, as China continues to use classic Chinese strategies and tactics. China does not try to hide this as most of their foreign foes do that for them. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party, which clinched a landslide victory in 13th parliamentary polls, on Saturday said it looked forward to constructive engagement with India with a shared commitment to peace and stability in South Asia. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) was replying to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's post on X congratulating party chairperson Tarique Rahman on "a decisive victory," which "shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh." Rahman's BNP on Friday secured a sweeping victory with more than two-thirds majority in the landmark parliamentary elections held on Thursday. Thanking Modi for his "kind acknowledgment of Mr Tarique Rahman's leadership in securing the BNP's decisive win in the national elections," the BNP said in a post on X said, "This outcome reflects the trust and confidence the people of Bangladesh have placed in our leadership and in the democratic process." "Bangladesh remains committed to upholding democratic values, inclusivity, and progressive development for all its citizens. "We look forward to engaging constructively with India to advance our multifaceted relationship, guided by mutual respect, sensitivity to each other's concerns, and a shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in our region," the party said. Earlier on Friday, Modi in his post on X congratulated Rahman on "leading BNP to a decisive victory" and said, "This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership." "India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals," Modi added. Soon after, Modi spoke with Rahman on his party's victory and extended India's continued commitment to the peace, progress and prosperity of the people of both countries. "Delighted to speak with Mr Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections. "I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India's continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples," Modi wrote on X after the call. The 13th parliamentary election assumed significance as it was held after a period of tumultuous political vacuum, instability and fragile security situation including widespread attacks on minorities after the student-led protests brought down the 15-year rule of Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. Hasina fled to India on August 5, 2024 and three days later, Muhammad Yunus took over as the Chief Adviser of the Interim government, under whose tenure Dhaka's relations with New Delhi witnessed a significant downturn. On Saturday, apart from their reply to Modi's message on X, the BNP posted multiple 'thank you' messages on the platform thanking leaders and heads of the governments from South Asian countries, including Pakistan, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and even China. By Alicia Diaz China is providing crucial support for Russias aggression in Ukraine and could end the war with a phone call, US Ambassador to Nato Matthew Whitaker said. China could call Vladimir Putin and end this war tomorrow and cut off his dual-purpose technologies that theyre selling, Whitaker said during a Friday panel at the Munich Security Conference. China could stop buying Russian oil and gas. You know, this war is being completely enabled by China, the US envoy added during a panel on US foreign policy moderated by Bloombergs Francine Lacqua. China and Russia have forged an even tighter partnership since the start of the war, and Russia relies on China for critical parts and components for drones and other war material. China is also once again the biggest buyer of Russias crude oil shipments even as international pressure intensifies on Moscows critical oil trade. Tracking data show 1.65 million barrels a day of crude offloaded at Chinese ports in January. Thats the most since March 2024 and the second-highest monthly total since Moscows 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Even still, Beijing has repeatedly said it wants to have a constructive role in ending the crisis. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, in Munich this week and offered humanitarian aid to the country as it deals with Russian attacks against its energy system, according to readouts from both Sybiha and Beijing. Democratic contenders in Munich The Munich conference, which extends from Friday to Sunday, attracts global policy leaders to discuss foreign relations and international security. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron are among the dignitaries assembled. Whitaker was joined on the Munich Security Conference panel by two potential 2028 Democratic presidential contenders, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a New York Democrat, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Other prominent Democratic political figures including California Governor Gavin Newsom traveled to the conference, seeking to reassure European allies of US commitment to the transatlantic alliance as President Donald Trump threatens to uproot relationships across the globe. The Democratic Party is here for our allies, Ocasio-Cortez said. The vast majority of the American people do not want to see these relationships frayed, and they are committed to our allies. Whitmer said strains between the US and European allies, including trade tensions and Trumps pressure campaign to obtain Greenland from Denmark, have ruptured allies trust in the US. However, she said that damage isnt a permanent, irredeemable change. It will take time to rebuild but Im confident that well do that, the Michigan governor said. Whitaker, who Trump appointed as his envoy to NATO, said the alliance is stronger than ever because of the US presidents pressure on allies to ramp up military spending. The United States of America keeps showing up, and we will keep showing up. We just expect our allies to be equally as strong, Whitaker said. By David Welch, Keith Naughton and Jenny Leonard Ford Motor Co.s top executive spoke to senior Trump administration officials about a potential framework in which Chinese automakers could build cars in America while offering some protection for domestic companies, according to people familiar with the discussions. The idea discussed by Ford Chief Executive Officer Jim Farley and Trump cabinet members last month involved Chinese carmakers partnering with US companies through joint ventures in which the American company holds a controlling stake, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the discussions were private. The ventures would be structured so that both the Chinese and US partners would share profits and technology in the JV, the people said. No decision has been made on the matter and the discussion was characterised by the people as informal and preliminary. Such a setup would be a mirror image of what China required of western automakers three decades ago when they had to partner with Chinese carmakers in order to set up factories in that country. The discussions, which havent been previously reported, come as Chinas automakers move ever closer to Americas doorstep. Canadas government recently announced a plan to allow some Chinese EVs into the country, while BYD Co. vehicles are becoming commonplace on streets in Mexico. Farley discussed the matter with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin when they visited the Detroit Auto Show last month, the people said. The discussion took place days after President Donald Trump indicated that hed be open to allowing Chinese automakers into the US if they built plants and hired Americans, saying let China come in during a Jan. 13 speech at the Detroit Economic Club. Ford said Farley gave the cabinet secretaries a tour of the Ford stand at the auto show and that they discussed a variety of industry topics, but declined to reveal specifics. Fords talks generally about China with the Trump administration have consistently emphasized the need to protect our home market from a flood of subsidized vehicles built in China, Mark Truby, Fords chief communications officer, said in a statement. We have also been clear about the privacy and national security issues associated with Chinese vehicles in the US and we will continue to reiterate this in our discussions with policymakers, Truby said. While Farley was not pushing the JV option, it was discussed as a way to protect American interests in a scenario in which Chinese companies make inroads in the US, the people said. Still, it got a cold reception from the Trump officials, who felt it would face opposition in Washington, the people said. However, an investment deal like that is seen by some in the administration as a possible outcome of Trumps planned meeting in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping in April. Representatives for the EPA, USTR and DOT had no immediate comment. Fords shares rose less than 1 per cent Friday in New York. The stock is up 7.6 per cent this year, ahead of the S&P 500 Index, which is little changed. Watershed Moment Chinese competitors gaining a foothold in America would be a watershed moment with massive implications for domestic automakers, their supply chains and consumers. Chinas carmakers have rapidly gained market share in Europe, Mexico and South America with lower-cost models that feature advanced electric-vehicle batteries and infotainment systems. They also receive significant government subsidies and can offer technology at low prices in part because they tolerate slim margins and losses, giving them a competitive edge that western rivals struggle to match. Trumps January comments surprised Detroits automakers, whod felt formidable trade barriers erected by the US would keep Chinese automakers out of the country long enough to allow them to catch up on Chinas lead in electric vehicles, batteries and other automotive technology. General Motors Co. has told the Trump administration that the company opposes a Chinese entry to the market, one of the people said. GM has argued that existing companies would lose market share and a flow of parts from China could have a devastating effect on North American suppliers. GMs opposition echoes a wider view among Trumps cabinet that the US should keep Chinas automakers out of the US market. While the president has said that he may welcome Chinese companies into the US if they build cars here, many on his team oppose such a move due to economic and national security concerns. Farley too has warned that Chinas low-cost, high-tech cars represent an existential threat. Their cost, their quality of their vehicles is far superior to what I see in the west, Farley said last summer at the Aspen Ideas Festival, where he revealed he had visited China a half dozen times in the last year. We are in a global competition with China and its not just EVs. And if we lose this, we do not have a future at Ford. At the same time, Ford has been open to working with Chinese companies. Farley has sought to partner with Chinese carmakers and battery makers to learn from them, while at the same time developing its own low-cost electric vehicle coming in 2027 that aims to be competitive with Chinas BYD, the worlds top seller of EVs. Just in the last few weeks, Ford held talks with BYD about expanding a battery-supply partnership and explored a manufacturing partnership in Europe with Chinas Geely. In December, Ford expanded a licensing agreement with Chinese battery giant Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., or CATL, from building cells for electric vehicles to also manufacturing stationary power sources for utilities and data centers. A recent report by the Financial Times that Ford was weighing a JV with Xiaomi to build vehicles in America was flatly denied by both companies. BNP chairperson and soon to be prime minister of Bangladesh on Saturday said extradition of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina "depends on the legal process." The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader's comments at a press conference here came a day after one of his senior colleagues reiterated the party's firm stance on seeking Hasina's extradition from India to face trial. Rahman's BNP on Friday secured a sweeping victory with more than two-thirds majority in the landmark parliamentary elections held on Thursday. A massive student-led protest ousted Hasina's Awami League regime on August 5, 2024. Since then she has been living in exile in New Delhi as an Interim government led by Muhammad Yunus took charge three days later. After a trial in absential, Hasina, 78, was found guilty of crimes against humanity by the country's International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in November 2025 and sentenced to death. Her aide and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal was also given a death sentence on similar charges. There are multiple other cases against Hasina and several of her ministers. Yunus' government had banned Awami League from participating in the 13th parliamentary polls. On Saturday, during his first press conference after the party's massive electoral victory, Rahman was asked whether the BNP would seek Hasina's extradition from India, according to Dhaka Tribune. "That depends on the legal process," Rahman answered. Rahman spoke about multiple parties participating in the polls but did not mention Awami League. "In a democratic state and political system, political parties are the true beacon of democracy," Rahman said, however, without reflecting upon his stance on lifting the ban on Awami League. Some 50 political parties took part in the election, the BNP leader said, adding, "Your (parties') ideas and views are important to us in the nation-building process." Earlier on Friday, senior BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed said, "The foreign minister has already persuaded the case for her (Hasina's) extradition, and we also support it." "We always press for her extradition according to the law. This is between the foreign ministries of the two countries. We also asked the government of India to please send her back to face trial in Bangladesh," he added. Following the November 2025 verdict, Bangladesh sent a letter to India seeking her extradition and the foreign ministry demanded that she be immediately handed over to Dhaka under an extradition treaty in view of her sentencing. India on November 26 said it is examining a request by Bangladesh's interim government to extradite Hasina and asserted that it is committed to ensure the best interests of the people of that country. "The request is being examined as part of ongoing judicial and internal legal processes," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. "We remain committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in that country and will continue to engage constructively in this regard with all stakeholders," he said. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said India will continue to exercise strategic autonomy in its foreign and energy policy decisions, amid questions over whether a recent trade understanding with the United States could affect New Delhis purchases of Russian oil. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Jaishankar said Indias independent decision-making remains central to its approach. We are very much wedded to strategic autonomy because it is very much a part of our history and our evolution, he said. He added, It is something which is very deep, and it cuts across the political spectrum as well. Energy sourcing decisions driven by market factors: Jaishankar Responding to a question on whether India may reduce its reliance on Russian oil, Jaishankar said energy markets are complex and decisions are taken by companies based on commercial considerations. As for energy issues, this is a complex market today. Oil companies in India, as in Europe and in other parts of the world, look at availability, look at costs, look at risks and take decisions that they feel are in their best interest, he said. Jaishankar said global conditions are evolving and countries are reassessing their positions. So many things are changing and so many of us are doing our calculations and recalculations, he said. Jaishankar added that differences among partners are possible but dialogue continues. We would not necessarily agree on everything, but I do believe that if there is an inclination to find common ground and overlaps, that would happen, he said. Jaishankar also met G7 foreign ministers and other counterparts at the conference and reiterated Indias support for the UN80 agenda, while underlining New Delhis role in global security discussions. On Indias independent choices, he said, If the bottom line of your question is, would I remain independent-minded and make my decisions? And would I make choices which sometimes may not agree with your thinking or somebody elses thinking, yes, it can happen. Balancing energy security and diplomacy Indias position on Russian oil remains shaped by a balance between securing affordable energy supplies and managing diplomatic pressure, particularly from Western partners. Russia continues to be a major supplier to India, though its share has declined to around 27-35 per cent from a peak of nearly 40 per cent last year. Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had committed to stop purchasing Russian oil as part of a trade arrangement that lowered US tariffs on Indian goods from 50 per cent to 18 per cent. The Ministry of External Affairs has not confirmed or denied the claim. It has said Indias approach focuses on diversifying energy sources to ensure security for 1.4 billion people. Russian officials, including Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, have said Moscow has received no formal communication from New Delhi regarding any halt in purchases and described Russia as a longstanding partner. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday held bilateral meetings with leaders of Germany, Canada, France and Czech Republic on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Jaishankar, who is attending the Munich Security Conference from February 13 to 15, said in a social media post he held a "productive" bilateral meeting with his German counterpart Johann Wadephul and the two leaders assessed the progress of cooperation in various domains. "Also spoke about regional hotspots," he added. The external affairs minister also met Czech Republic's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Petr Macinka and discussed strengthening economic and defence cooperation. "Hope to welcome him soon to India," he added. Jaishankar also met with his Canadian counterpart Anita Anand. "India-Canada ties continue their steady progress," he said. The external affairs minister also met his French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot and Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlic-Radman. Earlier, Jaishankar also met his counterparts from the G7 countries as he reiterated India's support for reform of the UN Security Council (UNSC). The meeting comes after India concluded a free trade agreement (FTA) with the 27-nation European Union in January. Jaishankar in a social media post said he was pleased to engage with G7 Foreign Ministers and reiterated India's support of the UN@80 agenda, particularly meaningful reform of the UN Security Council. Jaishankar started his Munich Security Conference with a roundtable 'Delhi Decided: Mapping India's Policy Calculus', organised by the Ananta Aspen Centre, a non-partisan organisation. The external affairs minister said he highlighted the "importance of a nimble and dynamic foreign policy to meet the demands of multipolarity". By Skylar Woodhouse President Donald Trump said regime change would be the best outcome for Iran, ratcheting up pressure on the Islamic Republic in negotiations over its nuclear program as he builds up the US military presence in the region. It seems like that would be the best thing that could happen, Trump told reporters Friday following an event at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. Yet the president sidestepped a question about who he would like to take power in Iran, responding that he did not want to talk about it. The US and Iran opened negotiations in Oman last week with Trump seeking an arrangement that would curb Tehrans nuclear ambitions, and threatening to strike the country if he does not secure a deal. The US president mobilized warships and fighter jets near Iran in response to a recent deadly crackdown by the regime there following mass protests, but has shifted his focus to Irans atomic capabilities. Reuters, citing an unnamed source, reported Friday night that an American delegation that includes Trumps son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, would meet with Iranian diplomats in Geneva on Tuesday. US-led talks between Ukraine and Russia are scheduled to take place in Geneva, starting the same day. Tremendous power has arrived, and additional power, as you know, another carrier is going out shortly, so well see it out if we can get it settled for once and for all that would be good, Trump said. The arrival of a US aircraft-carrier strike group in the Middle East has given Trump options to carry out an attack. He indicated on Friday that he was moving to heighten that presence, saying an additional carrier was heading to the region. Last year, the US and Israel struck nuclear facilities in the country. While Trump at the time said the mission had completely obliterated Irans nuclear program, he has resumed his pressure on the country to reach an agreement in exchange for sanctions relief. Trump reiterated he wanted a suitable deal with Iran to avoid a similar strike. We dont want any enrichment, Trump said in response to a question about what he would see in the negotiations. On Thursday, Trump told reporters the discussions with Iran could drag out for as long as a month. Earlier this week, he met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has sought to convince Trump to use the talks to secure a more sweeping rollback of Irans military influence in the region. Trump said his talks with Netanyahu were very good and he told the Israeli leader his preference is to continue with negotiations for now. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned by the Kremlin with a rare and lethal toxin found in the skin of poison dart frogs, five European countries said Saturday. The foreign ministries of the UK, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said analysis of samples taken from Navalny's body "conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine." It is a neurotoxin found in the skin of dart frogs in South America that is not found naturally in Russia, they said. A joint statement said: "Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison." The five countries said they were reporting Russia to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons for a breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. The announcement came as Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnaya, attended the Munich Security Conference in Germany as the second anniversary of Navalny's death approaches. Navalny, who crusaded against official corruption and staged massive anti-Kremlin protests as President Vladimir Putin's fiercest foe, died in an Arctic penal colony on February 16, 2024, while serving a 19-year sentence that he believed was politically motivated. "Russia saw Navalny as a threat," British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said. "By using this form of poison, the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition." The poisoning of Navalny shows "that Vladimir Putin is prepared to use biological weapons against his own people in order to remain in power," French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot wrote on X. Navalny's widow said last year that two independent labs had found that her husband was poisoned shortly before he died. She has repeatedly blamed Putin for her husband's death. Russian officials have vehemently denied the accusation. Yulia Navalnaya said Saturday that she had been "certain from the first day" that her husband had been poisoned, "but now there is proof." "Putin killed Alexei with chemical weapon," she wrote on social network X. She said Putin was "a murderer" who "must be held accountable." Russian authorities said that the politician became ill after a walk and died from natural causes. Epibatidine is found naturally in dart frogs in the wild, and can also be manufactured in a lab, which European scientists suspect was the case with the substance used on Navalny. It works on the body in a similar way to nerve agents, causing shortness of breath, convulsions, seizures, a slowed heart rate and ultimately death. Navalny was the target of an earlier poisoning in 2020, with a nerve agent in an attack he blamed on the Kremlin, which always denied involvement. His family and allies fought to have him flown to Germany for treatment and recovery. Five months later, he returned to Russia, where he was immediately arrested and imprisoned for the last three years of his life. The UK has accused Russia of repeatedly flouting international bans on chemical and biological weapons. It accuses the Kremlin of carrying out a 2018 attack in the English city of Salisbury that targeted a former Russian intelligence officer, Sergei Skripal, with the nerve agent Novichok. Skripal and his daughter became seriously ill, and a British woman, Dawn Sturgess, died after she came across a discarded bottle with traces of the nerve agent. A British inquiry concluded that the attack "must have been authorised at the highest level, by President Putin." The Kremlin has denied involvement. Russia also denied poisoning Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian agent turned Kremlin critic who died in London in 2006 after ingesting the radioactive isotope polonium-210. A British inquiry concluded that two Russian agents killed Litvinenko, and Putin had "probably approved" the operation. By Erik Larson, Patricia Hurtado and Janet Lorin The Justice Department sued Harvard University for allegedly failing to hand over documents related to investigations into racial discrimination in admissions, the latest legal clash between the Trump administration and the Ivy League institution. The suit filed Friday in Boston federal court alleges that Harvard for 10 months hasnt produced the necessary documents and other information the government needs to ensure the university isnt violating federal civil rights laws. The probe relates to a compliance review started in April 2025, the US said. Under President Trumps leadership, this Department of Justice is demanding better from our nations educational institutions, Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement. Harvard has failed to disclose the data we need to ensure that its admissions are free of discrimination we will continue fighting to put merit over DEI across America. The university said it has complied with civil rights law under a 2023 Supreme Court decision, which effectively barred universities from using race as a factor in university admissions. Harvard has been responding to the governments inquiries in good faith and continues to be willing to engage with the government according to the process required by law, said Jason Newton, a spokesman for the university. President Donald Trumps administration has aggressively targeted elite universities by withholding federal grants over alleged antisemitism as well as racial and ideological diversity. Though other Ivy League schools like Columbia and Brown have reached deals with the administration, Harvard has publicly fought back by filing its own suits against the government. After the New York Times reported earlier this month that Trump had dropped his demand for a $200 million payment from Harvard, the president announced he was now seeking $1 billion in damages from the university. He did not specify under what authority he would seek the money. In Fridays suit, the government said it had asked Harvard to produce all admissions data for the past five academic years, including applicant test scores (SAT/ACT), GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and admission outcomes, disaggregated by race and ethnicity. It made similar demands of Harvards law and medical schools. Harvard has slow-walked the pace of production and refused to provide pertinent documents relating to applicant-level admissions decisions, the Justice Department said in the complaint. The government asked the court to declare Harvard in violation of the law and order the university to comply with the governments document requests. Trump is no doubt trying to push Harvard for an out-of-court settlement, said Peter M. Shane, a professor of law at New York University School of Law. If he can cudgel the most richly endowed university in the country into subservience, other private institutions will find it harder to resist. The suit comes days after the Defence Department said it is severing academic ties to Harvard and ending professional military education fellowships at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government at the end of the current academic year. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who attended the Kennedy School, said in a post last Friday night that the school no longer meets the needs of the Department or the military services. The University will continue to defend itself against these retaliatory actions, which have been initiated simply because Harvard refused to surrender its independence or relinquish its constitutional rights in response to unlawful government overreach, Newton said. By Myles Miller and Hadriana Lowenkron The Trump administration spent more than $35 million to deport roughly 300 migrants to countries they had no connection to, doling out millions of dollars in lump-sum transfers to foreign governments without a system to track how the money was used, according to a report released Friday. The figures from Senate Foreign Relations Committee Democrats average out to a cost of roughly $116,666 per person deported. In Rwanda, which received seven deportees, the total cost reached about $1.1 million per person, the report found. The report outlines the cost of President Donald Trumps controversial policy of sending non-citizens to countries other than their own. The White House has argued that this method is necessary to remove undocumented criminals whose home nations wont take them. Immigration groups that have challenged the practice in court have said the practice has wide-ranging effects on law-abiding non-citizens who are at risk of being sent to unfamiliar countries with little, if any, opportunity to fight it. A US official told Senate committee staff in a private interview that the program was intended as an intimidation strategy and a costly deterrent aimed at pressuring migrants to drop asylum claims, according to the report. The person said destinations such as Palau, a Pacific island nation, or Eswatini, a kingdom in southern Africa, were selected in part to signal that migrants could be sent to remote locations far from home. The bulk of the money went to five countries Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, El Salvador, Palau and Eswatini which collectively received $32 million. The funds were transferred directly to foreign governments rather than through third-party implementing partners, and the State Department is not using outside auditors to track how the money is spent, the reports authors said. Equatorial Guinea, which ranks 172 out of 182 countries in Transparency Internationals corruption index, received $7.5 million more than the total American foreign assistance provided to the country over the previous eight years combined, according to the report. The report detailed specific examples in which migrants were sent to countries far from their home nation. A Mexican national, for instance, was flown more than 8,000 miles to South Sudan at an estimated cost of $91,000 per person, including housing at a United States military base in Djibouti along the way. He was sent back to Mexico weeks later. President Claudia Sheinbaum said her government was not informed of the deportation, according to the report. And a Jamaican national was sent to Eswatini at an estimated cost of more than $181,000, despite having deportation orders to Jamaica. Weeks later, the US again paid to fly him home. Jamaican officials said they had not refused his return, the reports authors added. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security did not respond to a request for comment about the report. Separately, The Trump administration is moving ahead with a $38.3 billion plan to remake the US immigration detention system, in a sweeping expansion that officials say will streamline operations and speed deportations. The plan, known as the Detention Reengineering Initiative, calls for acquiring and renovating eight large-scale detention centers, adding 16 processing sites and taking control of 10 existing turnkey facilities where Immigration and Customs Enforcement already operates. February 13, 2026: Two months ago, China conducted its most elaborate live wargames around Taiwan. This included live firing exercises in international waters near Taiwan. This was a Chinese demonstration of its ability to cut Taiwan off from American, South Korean, and Japanese support. China declared that the recent exercises were meant to discourage outside support. This comes less than two weeks after the United States revealed another arms sale to Taiwan, this one for $11 billion. Taiwan has been relatively quiet about its long range missile programs. Taiwan has missiles that can reach targets deep inside China. Also mentioned was a recent wargame, where Taiwanese used these missiles to defeat a Chinese attempt to invade Taiwan. Two years ago, Taiwan tested a cruise missile version of its Hsiung Feng anti-ship missile. With a range of over 500 kilometers, and a highly accurate guidance system, the missile could do a lot of damage to the many Chinese military targets near the coast. Taiwan held off on mass production of the missile, so as not to alarm China, and to avoid the enormous expense of building up a Hsiung Feng stockpile. The missiles cost over $300,000 each. There are already over 700 Chinese medium and intermediate range ballistic missiles sitting across the 160 kilometer wide Taiwan Straits. The Hsiung Feng is capable of hitting land targets along the Chinese coast, and deep inland, via a GPS guidance system. Taiwan also revealed that it had developed yet another version of its Hsiung Feng II anti-ship missile. This one is launched from trucks or fixed launchers, has a range of at least 600 kilometers and is intended to go after targets on the Chinese mainland. Only if China attempts to invade Taiwan, of course. Three prototypes have been built, and production has apparently already begun. So far 500 of these one ton Hsiung Feng IIE cruise missiles are in service. They use GPS guidance and some stealth features, to make them less liable to getting shot down. Using a more efficient engine, range could be extended to 1,000 kilometers or more. The Hsiung Feng IIE is pretty cheap, about $300,000 each, and carries a 228 kg warhead. The Hsiung Feng IIE project was kept quiet, with few details released officially. Apparently, this was done so as to not alarm the Chinese, at least in public. Taiwan also built their own version of the American AGM-154A JSOW/Joint Stand Off Weapon. The Taiwanese version is called the Wan Chien. JSOW is basically a smart bomb with wings. That enables it to glide up to 70 kilometers from the aircraft dropping it, to a target on the ground. Range is about 25 kilometers if dropped from low altitude. JSOW also contains more elaborate fins and software that enables it to follow a specific route. Like the wingless JDAM smart bomb, JSOW uses GPS and inertial guidance as a backup to find its target. Like JDAM, JSOW hits within ten meters of its aiming point. The U.S. pays about $250,000 for each JSOW. The Taiwanese could use their Wan Chien. JSOW is a form of HARM/Homing Anti-Radar Missile to take out the latest Chinese air defense radars. Taiwan is also building its own version of HARM, called Tien Chien 2A. JDAM technology is a lot simpler than these two other projects, and Taiwan could easily design and build its own. Refusing to sell them just costs the U.S. export sales. On the other hand, it allows the United States to tell China that it didn't sell JDAM to Taiwan, thus defusing tensions over Taiwan. In reality, of course, Taiwan can just go build their own JDAM, which they can do and apparently have, but kept quiet about it. Breaking News Would you like to receive our breaking news news? Signup today! e-Edition Subscribers e-Edition Only - $39.00 Year This is the exact replica of our weekly printed paper. Great for searching archives! General Interest Imported List: General Interest February 14, 2026: India is making a multi-billion dollar effort to expand the Indian shipbuilding industry. Currently China builds 70 percent of commercial shipping while India builds only 7 percent. India is investing $5.4 billion to expand Indian shipyard capacity. India is emulating the Chinese expansion that, in roughly two decades, increased their share of shipbuilding from 14 percent to about 65 percent. Most of their competition is local with South Korea at 20 percent and Japan at 12 percent. American shipyards account for a tenth of a percent. The global shipbuilding market is growing, from $165 billion to more than $200 billion by the end of the decade. India is providing affordable loans to the shipyards as well as government-backed insurance. These are the same techniques the East Asian ship builders used. Indian labor costs are lower than China and shipyard managers are emulating their Chinese counterparts. India is also providing the U.S. Navy with needed maintenance support. Three years ago, India and the U.S. Navy signed a Master Ship Repair Agreement/MSRA that allows American warships to use an Indian shipyard to supply repair and maintenance services for American warships. This is convenient for the growing number of U.S. warships operating in the region and provides more business for Indian shipyards. Since the end of the Cold War in 1991, there has been a major shift in naval power in the Indian Ocean. With the demise of the Russian fleet, seen as an Indian ally, and the rise of Chinese naval power, India has sought cooperation from a growing U.S. Navy presence in the area. This is all about keeping Indian naval power supreme in the Indian Ocean. The rising Chinese threat is seen as more than India can handle alone. With Indian inability to expand, or even maintain their current naval power, more help has to come from somewhere. While India was technically neutral during the Cold War, India was generally hostile to the United States and quite cozy with Russia. India still has good relationships with Russia but the Russians have no fleet to speak of these days and suddenly the Americans are seen as potential allies. In part this is because the anti-American slant was more the product of Indian postcolonial nationalism that was generally anti-Western and infatuated with socialism. Both those policies proved failures and, while many Indian politicians do not accept the shift to a market economy and better relations with the West, these changes have happened anyway. Above all this there is China, which has already taken some disputed territory on the Indian border and claims still more. Chinese ships, both commercial and military, are more frequently seen in the Indian Ocean. Chinese shipping firms have refurbished ports throughout the region and manage them to handle growing Chinese trade with the countries where these ports are located. The Chinese presence cannot be ignored and the Indians are now welcoming the Americans. Yet there wont be a lot of Americans. The U.S. defense budget is growing but the size of the American fleet is not. Most of the U.S. naval presence in the Indian Ocean is in and around the Persian Gulf and is there mainly to curb growing Iranian aggression. The only major American base actually in the Indian Ocean is Diego Garcia, a 44 square kilometer island 4,700 kilometers south of Pakistan and Afghanistan. The U.S. Navy maintains a base in Bahrain in the Persian Gulf and several Gulf states host American warplanes. What India wants is some American warships closer to the Indian coast. That does not seem to be happening soon enough to influence the Chinese fleet moving into the region. The MSRA is part of an Indian effort to gain more support from the Americans to defend Indian naval dominance in the region. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. China's Long March-10 passes key tests, paving way for future rocket reuses Xinhua) 09:29, February 14, 2026 The first stage of the Long March-10 carrier rocket safely splashes down in the predetermined sea area in a controlled manner as planned, Feb. 11, 2026. (Photo by Han Qingce/Xinhua) WENCHANG, Hainan, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- The recent successful key tests have laid the groundwork for the maiden flight of China's Long March-10 rocket series, a launch vehicle designed to support the country's manned lunar exploration missions, according to the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC). On Wednesday, China successfully conducted a low-altitude demonstration and verification flight test of the Long March-10 carrier rocket, along with a maximum dynamic pressure abort flight test of its new-generation crewed spaceship Mengzhou, with both the rocket and spaceship still in their prototype phases. During the tests, the rocket prototype undertook three tasks -- verifying the maximum dynamic pressure abort conditions during the Mengzhou spaceship's ascent, demonstrating the reliability of its multi-stage parallel operations, and testing critical return-phase technologies, according to Yang Shutao, an expert from the CASC. The Long March-10 rocket series includes two configurations: the Long March-10 with three stages and bundled boosters, and the Long March-10A with two stages and no boosters. Approximately 55 meters in length, the prototype rocket tested on Wednesday is powered by seven liquid oxygen/kerosene engines in parallel, generating nearly 1,000 tonnes of thrust. It currently has the largest single-module thrust among China's rockets, Yang said. In the future, the Long March-10 rocket will integrate two identical boosters in parallel with its seven-engine core stage, giving it a significantly larger carrying capacity, according to Yang. MULTIPLE RECOVERY STEPS To ensure the safety of the abort operation during the tests, the rocket and spacecraft systems were jointly designed, with careful optimization of the separation and escape timeline, and meticulous planning of the relative positions, speeds and angular relationship between the rocket and the spaceship, Yang said. After the spaceship separated, the rocket continued its flight until the first stage reached the predetermined height and speed, at which point its engines were shut down. During the unpowered upward glide phase, the rocket continuously adjusted its attitude, shifting from nose-forward to tail-forward, to meet the subsequent ignition requirements. At an altitude of about 110 km, the rocket deployed its four grid fins, just like a bird spreading its wings, getting ready for the return and recovery. Then came the powered deceleration phase. Two engines were ignited for the second time to decelerate while correcting the rocket's flight position and attitude. When the engines shut down and the rocket entered the aerodynamic deceleration phase, it further slowed down by relying on its own drag and the aerodynamic forces generated by the grid fins, while deflecting the fins to adjust its position and attitude. During the final landing phase, three engines ignited successively, and the rocket maneuvered toward the predicted landing site. At about 120 meters above sea level, the onboard tether mechanism was deployed to simulate the capture by a ground-based recovery net system. When reaching about 5 meters in altitude, the rocket achieved a quasi-hovering state before executing a controlled splashdown in the sea. A low-altitude demonstration and verification flight test for the Long March-10 carrier rocket and a maximum dynamic pressure abort flight test for the new-generation crewed spaceship system Mengzhou are successfully conducted at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, Feb. 11, 2026. (Photo by Wang Heng/Xinhua) WAY TO FUTURE REUSES Before the latest flight tests, China conducted two static fire tests on the same rocket, in August and September 2025, respectively. After the second static fire test, the development team completed the streamlined maintenance of the rocket's engines, a comprehensive examination of the rocket, and the replacement of a small amount of consumable items, Yang said. Multiple tests on the same rocket not only reduced research and development costs, but also accumulated continuous and genuine experimental data, providing valuable experience for the subsequent maintenance and repair of the rockets for future reuse. Yang noted that the Long March-10 rocket series will adopt a rocket-ground coordinated recovery solution. It involves "four tethering structures onboard the rocket and a ground-based grid-shaped net recovery device," which will transfer the functions of capture, buffering and stabilization from the rocket to the ground-based net. It will reduce the onboard complexity, thereby enhancing the rocket's carrying capacity. "Rocket reuse can significantly reduce launch costs and increase launch frequency. It is an essential path for large-scale free access to space in the future and provides important support for the progress of China's space sector," Yang said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) China is trying to mediate a peace deal between Thailand and Cambodia. Meanwhile, three months ago, Thai troops advanced further into Cambodia and seized a compound that had housed several thousand people engaged in scams carried out via audio and video communications. The compound contained a six story building where most of the employees and several hundred slave laborers worked. There were also studios decorated to look like the interior of police stations or banks in various Asian countries as well as Australia and Brazil. The volunteer or enslaved workers use scripts and coerce people to pay fines or extortion for non-existent offenses. The scripts were designed to deceive the victims and worked often enough to keep this scam center in business for years. Those in charge of the operation bribed local officials to ignore foreign demands to shut down the operation from countries, including the United States, where the victims lived. Chinese gangsters operated the scam center, as well as three more in Cambodia plus ones in the Philippines and other Asian countries. Thai military forces had recently moved into this part of Cambodia, forcing several hundred civilians out of their homes temporarily. Several dozen civilians were killed or wounded. Last year a ceasefire agreement in Thailands war with Cambodia went into effect on July 28. This conflict was brief with 350 dead and wounded. With all the shooting between soldiers and armed civilians, it is difficult to obtain accurate casualty figures. Thai forces, better trained, organized, and led, experienced far fewer casualties. So far Thailand has reported about 300 killed or wounded, mostly military personnel, with approximately fifty civilians killed or injured. Earlier this year the United States sent $58 million to help implement the peace agreement with Thailand. What triggered this years violence was a February incident when Thai soldiers entered Cambodia and ordered Cambodian tourists to stop singing the Cambodian national anthem at the Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple. In late May, Cambodian and Thai soldiers briefly exchanged fire, resulting in the death of one Cambodian soldier. Attempts to halt the fighting failed, and continued tensions led to the closure of border checkpoints. Talks between Thai and Cambodian officers took place on May 29. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet responded to the May 28 incident by seeking a ruling from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), stating that he did not want conflict with Thailand. Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said neither side wanted to escalate the conflict and that it had been resolved. Fourteen years ago, fighting on the Cambodian border continued over a weekend. The action was not intense, mostly involving assault rifle fire. Local villagers reported hearing machine guns, artillery, or mortars. There were approximately twenty casualties. This was a sharp break from recent peace efforts. Three months ago, after two years of armed stalemate, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to reopen border crossings at the site of the ancient Preah Vihear Hindu temple on the border. The two countries have long disputed ownership of parts of the ancient site. In 1962, an international court declared the temple Cambodian, but Thailand continues to claim adjacent areas that Cambodians insist are part of the temple complex. Each side maintains about 3,000 troops near the temple, and there have been a few shooting incidents since 2008, though none were serious. The two countries have been negotiating the withdrawal of soldiers. The most recent fighting damaged portions of the temple, which Cambodians occupied, and caused over 20,000 local civilians to flee the area. This dispute is one of many similar conflicts. The fundamental issue is that the current 730-kilometer-long border, defined in 1907 by the placement of only 73 border markers, leaves the exact border location open to interpretation. Occasionally, these interpretations clash, as is happening now. Neither side wants a full-scale war, even though Thailand has a larger and better-equipped military. In recent years, Cambodia doubled its annual military budget to $500 million. Thailand spends more than six times that amount and has done so for decades. Thailand has 300,000 troops, while Cambodia has only 100,000. However, Thailand faces distractions, including Muslim terrorists in the south, rebellious populists in the north, and unrest across the northwest border with Mynamar. The Preah Vihear temple is 340 kilometers east of the capital. The government believes that a major war with Cambodia would soon become unpopular and strengthen Thailands anti-army red shirt faction, potentially allowing them to take power. The red shirt populists claim they have proof that the army planned a violent crackdown in 2010. This elicited surprise among military and police planners, who consider it standard to prepare plans for all imaginable contingencies. The attack on the red shirts last year was similar to the 1989 Chinese response to the massive demonstrations in Tiananmen Square. The government has asked the army to be more flexible and effective in the south. Senior officials believe that Islamic radicals and Muslim gangsters are adapting their tactics more innovatively. The generals are being urged to be more creative and quicker to adapt. The military is asked, not ordered, because in Thailand, the generals wield significant political power and are not easily pushed around. The army believes its tactics are effective and that the Islamic terror groups are being gradually defeated. Royalist yellow shirts continue to occupy Ratchadamnoen Road, a historic district in the capital, to pressure the government to take a more aggressive stance against Cambodia. The yellow shirts are also threatening to occupy key locations in the capital. Earlier this year, Thai and Cambodian troops agreed to a ceasefire at the Preah Vihear temple. It lasted less than 24 hours. Elsewhere in the area, three policemen were killed, and five Buddhists were shot dead, apparently by Islamic terrorists seeking to drive all non-Muslim infidels out of the region. State Rep. Dan Howell, R-Cleveland, announced that Meigs County has been awarded $100,000 through the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Developments Site Development Grant program to support due diligence work at Meigs County Industrial Park. The Site Development Grant program is part of the Rural Economic Opportunity Act established in 2016 to strengthen the local economy and workforce of Tennessee's rural communities by investing in infrastructure and engineering improvements that prepare industrial sites for economic development and job creation. The grant program supports strategic investments that make industrial sites more competitive and marketable by funding planning, grading infrastructure and related improvements.This investment equips Meigs County for future economic growth and job opportunities, and I'm thankful for Governor Bill Lee and Commissioner Stuart McWhorter's foresight to protect the fiscal climate of rural communities, said Rep. Howell. Site readiness is one of the most important factors in attracting new industry, and this grant supports the critical work necessary to place Meigs County on a level playing field when bidding for highly competitive projects.Meigs County is one of 13 counties awarded a Site Development grant, totaling than $13 million in award funding.Applications are reviewed by an advisory committee made up of TNECD, Austin Consulting, the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and the Tennessee Department of Transportation. More information can be found on the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development webpage Photo credit: Unsplash/ Aaron Owens Fewer than one in three Protestants who attend church at least once a month say they read the Bible every day, according to new findings from Lifeway Research. The report, released Tuesday, draws from Lifeways State of Discipleship study, which surveyed 2,130 Protestant churchgoers online between March 19 and March 26, 2025. Researchers found that 31% of respondents read Scripture daily, while another 30% reported reading it a few times per week. Fourteen percent said they read the Bible once weekly, and 11% said they engage with it a few times a month. Five percent indicated they read it only once a month, and 9% acknowledged they rarely or never read it. Despite the relatively modest daily reading rate, Lifeway noted that Bible engagement has increased compared to earlier years. In 2007, just 16% of respondents said they read the Bible every day, rising to 19% in 2012. Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research, said the proportion of daily readers has remained stable in recent years. The portion of churchgoers reading the Bible a few times a week or more on their own has leveled off recently after rising dramatically since 2007, but the churchgoer population was also changing during this period, stated McConnell. A lower percentage of Americans attend a Protestant church once a month today than when this series of studies began. Clearly, the remnant of Americans attending church each month are more willing to regularly read the Bible on their own than when churches were more populated. The study also examined how respondents view Scriptures influence in their lives. Seventy-four percent agreed that the Bible has authority over every area of their lives, while 15% said they were unsure and 11% disagreed. Additionally, 72% said they find themselves thinking about biblical truths throughout the day, compared to 19% who were uncertain and 10% who disagreed. A previous Lifeway survey conducted in 2019 reported similar trends, with 32% of regular churchgoers saying they read the Bible daily, 27% reading it a few times a week and 12% indicating they rarely or never engage with Scripture. Home News Senior British lawmaker urges CofE to back same-sex marriage at General Synod Calvin Robinson asks if Penny Mordaunt has asked the Catholic Church, Muslim imams to support gay marriage One of the most powerful voices in the British government is urging the Church of England to change its doctrinal teaching on same-sex marriage. Penny Mordaunt, the leader of the British House of Commons, tweeted an image of a letter Monday in which she called on her local bishop to back reform and permit parishes and clergy to conduct weddings for same-sex couples or, at a minimum, enable authorized blessings. I have written to the Bishop of Portsmouth in advance of Februarys General Synod regarding discussions on how the Church will move forward on the issue of same sex relationships. I hope they will back reform. pic.twitter.com/MqGWhgmxjS Penny Mordaunt (@PennyMordaunt) January 16, 2023 She tweeted: I have written to the Bishop of Portsmouth in advance of Februarys General Synod regarding discussions on how the Church will move forward on the issue of same sex relationships. I hope they will back reform. In her letter to the Rev. Jonathan Frost, the bishop of Portsmouth, Mordaunt referred to her time as a minister in the British Armed Forces in which she enabled such ceremonies to take place in non-shared churches. While the issue is expected to be taken up next month at the churchs parliament, known as the General Synod, Mordaunt wrote that she fears if it is not resolved.....the matter will continue to fester and detract from the positive contribution the Church of England makes to our society." Mordaunt also warned about what she described as pain and trauma experienced by the LGBT community. It is also important to recognize the pain and trauma this continues to cause many [LGBT] people who are left feeling that they are treated as second class citizens within our society," she wrote. In response to the letter, Calvin Robinson, a former CoE minister, questioned whether it was appropriate for a political figure to wade into matters of the church. Robinson tweeted: Has @PennyMordaunt written to the Catholic Church and the Muslim Council, too? Should a cabinet member be politicizing matters of faith? Mordaunts letter was timed to coincide with a scheduled all-day meeting Tuesday, where bishops are expected to decide on a recommendation to present to the General Synod, according to The Guardian. Last November, a Church of England bishop released an essay arguing that clergy within the denomination should be allowed to bless same-sex unions. In the essay titled Together in Love and Faith, Rt. Rev. Steven Croft, the bishop of Oxford, argued that the Church of England should remove its prohibition on blessing same-sex unions, but stopped short of citing church infallibility. I confirm my affection and respect for those who will want to argue, in good conscience, against change and potential provision for such change. I also make no claim whatsoever to infallibility: I may be wrong, either in the detail or in the overall argument, wrote Croft. Despite formerly ascribing to a biblical view on the issue, Croft argued that there were fruits and benefits of same-sex partnerships that the Church could benefit from, adding that the current stance of the denomination created hurt and pain for the LGBT community. Vaughn Roberts, a theologically Evangelical same-sex attracted clergyman who Croft dialogued with in advance of announcing his views, wrote an essay in disagreement with Crofts push for the floundering denomination to support and advocate for same-sex marriage. One point of content put forth by Roberts was his belief that the bishop had failed to adequately engage with same-sex attracted Christians who had chosen celibacy over homosexual romance. There is a reference to one meeting with some same-sex attracted Christians, who hold to the traditional teaching of the Church, but there is no evidence of any greater engagement with what is a significant group, wrote Roberts. The deep pain they feel at being undermined by church leaders who are, in effect, telling them that their efforts to remain godly are unnecessary, needs to be recognized, along with any wider engagement with the experience of LGBTQ+ people in our churches. Roberts acknowledged that there are examples of long-term same-sex relationships, yet cautioned that this does not mean, however, that the relationships are morally good in every aspect, or that the positive fruit is necessarily a result of them being sexual. Bishop Steven is certainly right in recognizing the missional challenge caused by these cultural shifts, but there is, of course, nothing new in the Church experiencing such dissonance within and hostility from its surrounding culture, he added. Home News Church of England General Synod votes against blessing same-sex marriage after long debate The Church of Englands General Synod has voted to end plans for stand-alone blessing ceremonies for same-sex couples in churches after extended debate. The decision also closes a years-long process that had examined whether such ceremonies could be introduced. Members this week approved a motion from bishops to conclude the Living in Love and Faith process and halt further work toward permitting special services for same-sex couples in civil marriages, The Telegraph reported. The vote followed hours of discussion and confirmed that agreement between conservative and liberal factions had not been reached. The Synod supported forming new working groups on relationships, sexuality and gender to continue discussion in the future rather than advancing blessing ceremonies now, according to Church Times. The motion included an apology for the distress and pain experienced during the process and formally drew the nine-year project to a close. Bishops had concluded that theological and legal barriers prevented the introduction of stand-alone blessing ceremonies at this stage. The Synod nevertheless held that conversation on the issue should continue through newly established bodies. Gay marriage and dedicated blessing services for same-sex couples are therefore excluded from current church practice. Blessing prayers within regular Sunday services remain permitted under rules introduced in 2023. The vote in favor of the bishops motion passed by 252 votes to 132, with 21 abstentions. Separate tallies recorded strong majorities in the houses of clergy and laity and unanimous support among bishops, with two abstentions. Attempts to amend the bishops motion from both liberal and conservative sides failed. Proposals included extending the project, accelerating the movement toward blessing ceremonies or removing planned working groups. The conclusion of Living in Love and Faith ends the nine-year program that included the past three years of work toward permitting special services for couples already married in civil ceremonies. Documents released before the meeting showed the wider project had cost about 1.6 million ($2.18 million) between 2017 and 2025. Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell acknowledged disappointment during the debate and said the denomination had reached a place he had not hoped for three years earlier, according to the BBC. He also said bishops accepted responsibility for failures in the process and for relying on ambiguity where clarity had been needed. Cottrell apologized for the pain and tension felt across the denomination and said bishops sought to express sorrow for their role. He said they had been wrong to treat Living in Love and Faith as a project to be delivered. Conservative members spoke about distress linked to uncertainty over traditional teachings. Some said the pain experienced by those holding historic biblical doctrine required recognition alongside the experiences of LGBT-identified members. Busola Sodeinde, a lay member of the Synod, was quoted as saying that Anglicans in the Global South believed they hadn't been adequately consulted and objected to being labeled homophobic. Some Anglican churches outside England have taken different positions on same-sex marriage or blessings. Decisions within the Synod do not determine teaching in other provinces of the Anglican Communion. Archbishop of Canterbury Sarah Mullally told Synod the debate had touched core theological convictions and identity within the Anglican denomination. She said the process had left individuals and the institution wounded, but expressed gratitude that members remained engaged. Home News Court hears case of female student facing 10 years in prison for transphobic social media post Quick Summary AI Summary Court hears case of female student facing 10 years in prison for social media posts about gender identity. Prosecution concerns two posts from November 2020 by Isadora Borges, stating that males who self-identify as female are 'obviously born male.' Potential sentencing could total up to a decade in prison if convicted on both counts of 'transphobia' under Brazilian law. An artificial intelligence-powered tool created this summary based on the source article. The summary has undergone review and verification by an editor. See Summary A Brazilian student who's facing four to 10 years in prison over social media comments about gender identity appeared before a federal court this week. The hearing addressed whether the posts constituted criminal transphobia under Brazilian law. Judicial questioning during the session this week focused on whether the statements were published from the defendants own social media account, and the judge indicated the content appeared to reflect personal opinion rather than discriminatory intent while granting the defense five days to submit written conclusions before any ruling, according to the legal advocacy group ADF International. The prosecution concerns two posts published in November 2020 on X, where the student, Isadora Borges, stated that transgender women were obviously born male and wrote that a person who identifies as transgender retains their birth DNA and that surgery, hormones or clothing do not change that fact. The online comments drew attention and prompted a report to federal police by politician Erika Hilton, who identifies as transgender, leading to a criminal investigation and later prosecution on two counts of transphobia, each carrying a potential prison term of two to five years. Authorities notified Borges, a 34-year-old veterinary student from Paraiba, of the criminal charges in September 2025, several years after the original posts, setting the stage for the recent court proceedings and possible sentencing exposure that could total up to a decade in prison if convictions occur on both counts. Public attention increased ahead of this week's hearing after Elon Musk reposted commentary about the case on X, bringing wider international focus to the prosecution and the legal questions surrounding online speech in Brazil. Legal counsel supporting the defense said the courts willingness to allow further written argument suggested careful consideration of the legal and factual issues, while the defendant expressed hope that the court would recognize a right to express views peacefully without criminal punishment. The prosecution unfolds within a larger legal framework shaped by a 2019 decision of Brazils Supreme Federal Tribunal that equated homophobia and transphobia with the crime of racism, extending an existing anti-discrimination law to cover sexual orientation and gender identity. In recent years, several individuals in Brazil have faced investigations or charges related to public statements about gender identity, including social media influencer Isabella Cepa, who was investigated in 2025, and Nine Borges, who is under criminal investigation for an Instagram video that criticized the financing and influence of pro-LGBT organizations and referred to Brazils LGBT National Secretary, Symmy Larrat. Assemblies of God pastor Douglas Baptista also faced criminal charges for authoring a book presenting a Christian view of sexuality, though those charges were later dropped. Separate legal actions also involve elected officials who have challenged alleged restrictions on expression before the Inter American Commission on Human Rights, including Senator Eduardo Girao and members of the Chamber of Deputies Marcel Van Hattem, Adriana Ventura, Gilson Marques and Ricardo Salles, who claim violations tied to state censorship and actions affecting online platforms during an election period. The Wall street Journal opinion columnist Mary Anastasia OGrady recently argued that the prosecution of Borges reflects a larger expansion of judicial power in Brazil that threatens free expression and democratic accountability. She links the case to the Supreme Courts 2019 decision to treat homophobia and transphobia as forms of racism without legislation from Congress, subsequent court actions that restricted political speech and online content, criminal proceedings involving political figures, and international sanctions imposed and later lifted against a Supreme Court justice. In the columnists account, the developments together indicate a judiciary exercising lawmaking, enforcement and political authority in ways that weaken constitutional limits and expose individuals to criminal penalties for expressing dissenting views. Home News Trump's week in review: EPA deregulation, ICE withdrawing from Minnesota, voter ID law Over the past several days, President Donald Trump has dealt with an array of national and international matters, such as trade deals with other countries, immigration enforcement and environmental regulations. Here are a few important policy updates that occurred this week. Home Opinion 4 things Christians should think about in Canada's mass school shooting On Feb. 10, the small town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, witnessed one of Canadas deadliest school shootings in decades, this time at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Ten people are dead, including the shooter. At least 35 others are wounded. The attacker was 17-year-old Jesse Strang, a biological male who identified as female. The shooter was found dead from a self-inflicted wound. Survivors described chaos, barricaded doors, hiding for over two hours, and the terror of not knowing if they would live or die. Media reports confirm that Strang was biologically male but began identifying as female around 2023. Strangs family background included hunting experiences and firearm exposure. His social media profile featured the trans flag and shooting range activity. His mothers own Facebook account posted things mentioning childhood violent tendencies. While Canadian officials have yet to identify a motive, we have actually seen this before, and it is by no means in isolation. Those who are at war with their very nature are at war with everyone else. Those who commit violence against their own bodies have no regard for violence against anyone else. And when gender ideology allows anyone to view themselves as victims of injustice, they will justify any violence against oppressors as a righteous cause. So how should Christians think about this? Here are four points. First, trans-victim ideology is a natural pathway to death and destruction When you teach people that they are oppressed victims, that society is fundamentally unjust to them, that truth is an enemy, that affirmation is the only appropriate response to dysphoria, and that regular people are oppressors, these become the necessary conditions for violence. Critical theory, along with gender ideology and intersectionality, divides the world into two categories: the oppressor and the oppressed, teaching that the oppressed have a moral license to strike back and to hurt others, even ending their life. A few years ago, we witnessed this with the Nashville shooter at Covenant Christian School. Christians were the oppressor in the shooters written manifesto. Victimhood became violence when ideology trumped reality and the truth. Second, denying biological reality has deadly consequences Trans ideology teaches people to deny the most basic truth about themselves: their biological sex. But denial of reality doesnt just end there. It extends to denying moral reality, spiritual reality, and the truth itself. Remember that in Genesis 1:27, God declares that He created us male and female, in His image. This is not oppression. This is truth that sets all of us free. Our identity comes from our creator, not from our feelings and certainly not from gender confusion. A society that cannot define what a woman is cannot protect women. And a society that celebrates and encourages this delusion cannot prevent destruction of the innocent. Third, the Gospel is the only answer to ideological violence The world offers the false gospel of victimhood and grievance versus the true Gospel of victory and gratitude. Romans 3:23 reminds us that we have all sinned and that there are no victims, only sinners who need a Savior. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 tells us that sexual immorality, idolators, and men who practice homosexuality will not inherit the Kingdom of Heaven, but it adds this: And such were some of you, but you were washed, sanctified, justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Gospel doesnt celebrate sin, nor does it wallow in self-pity and sorrow of victimhood. But Jesus Christ does rescue and transform sinners sinners into victors. Fourth, Christians must speak the truth with courage and compassion We must refuse to participate in the delusion that biological men can become women or that gender confusion should be celebrated or even coddled for fear of what harm transgendered men and women might do to themselves or even do to others. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the good news that Jesus rescues every person every person who calls upon the name of the Lord. And that includes those who are struggling with gender dysphoria. We cannot help people by affirming self-delusion or the cultural lies all around us. We love them by speaking the truth in love. The reason we see so much trans violence is that trans people are at war with nature and they are at war with innocent life. Our society needs more than a love is love response or total affirmation at the cost of truth, moral decency, and public sanity. We need Christians willing to stand firm on the truth, even when culture demands we bow to gender ideology. Because silence will not save us. Compromise will not protect our children. Only truth can turn back the tide of trans violence. The families grieving in Tumbler Ridge need our prayers, but they also need the truth that overcomes spiritual blindness and the fog of political correctness that only aids and abets the insanity of the gender delusion. So pray for the victims but continue to speak the truth and stand firm on the Word of God because it will always accomplish Gods purposes and it will never be in vain. Originally published at the Standing for Freedom Center. World Book Day 2026 Gibraltar Cultural Services (GCS), on behalf of the Ministry for Culture, is once again looking ahead to World Book Day events, which is kindly being sponsored by the John Mackintosh Hall Trust. As part of its commitment to literature and reading, GCS is excited to announce that once again it will issue around 1000 free books to children in lower primary schools. In the UK,School children can access book tokens on World Book Day, to collect a free book. Unfortunately, this is not available in Gibraltar and so GCS has decided to ensure young people have access to reading at home by providing a book to each child. This years title is Bear Rescue by Hannah Gold and will be provided to all Year 1 and Year 2 students in Gibraltar. World Book Day will be celebrated on Thursday 5th March. The theme this year is Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Schoolchildren will take part in a drama workshop based on creating characters; an art theme workshop involving the creation of their own bookmark sword, and a storytelling session bringing the books to life. Over 450 students will visit John Mackintosh Hall throughout the day to celebrate World Book Day and encourage reading for pleasure. A public interactive storytelling session will take place in the Hall after school hours, designed for children aged 5 to 8 and presented by GAMPA Juniors. The session will be based on Greek Myths. Families are warmly invited to join us in a cosy setting where children can immerse themselves in the magic of storytelling. Children are welcome to come in fancy dress should they wish. Tickets are priced at 5 per child, accompanying adults and babies in arms go free. These are available on www.Buytickets.gi For further information please contact The Development Unit on 20041839 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Home Opinion How do you teach your kids to honor their elders? February is recognized as National Senior Independence Month a time to celebrate older adults and their yearning to live independently in everyday life. For children, its easy to see why they tend to avoid interacting with senior citizens, as there is a large age gap between them. The older generation can sometimes seem out of touch to children, while the physical challenges that often come with aging might seem scary or difficult to manage for some kids. Older adults are not only seasoned from decades of life, but theyre full of stories, wisdom and perspective regarding their experiences; something that can inspire, delight and guide children as they begin their own journey. Biblical foundation for honoring the elderly Scripture clearly teaches us to honor older generations. Leviticus 19:32 instructs, Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. Throughout the Bible, elders are portrayed as sources of wisdom and guidance. Proverbs 16:31 states, Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness. When we teach children to value and respect seniors, were helping them fulfill Gods instructions while also preparing them for a lifetime of meaningful relationships across generational lines. Here are three ideas on how to help kids treat and build relationships with seniors. 1. Teach kids how to show care for the elderly While kids will benefit greatly from relationships with seniors, they first need to be taught what to expect and then how to treat them with respect. For example, some seniors might have speech or hearing impairments, which can be frustrating for kids if they arent prepared ahead of time. Other seniors might not be able to keep up with children very well and may need their young friends to move more slowly for them. Encourage your kids to speak clearly and loudly when talking to the elderly, to be patient, and to let their older friends or grandparents set the pace in activities. Similarly, instruct children to have respectful tones and attitudes when talking to seniors. Its easy for kids to think older generations are boring simply because they experience life differently than children do, so encourage them to have a happy heart and a good attitude when in conversation. In fact, they may realize its fun to have friends or family who are different from their usual social circle, and even find that the wisdom and stories seniors have to share are often exciting and inspiring. 2. Show kids that seniors make great friends Second, encourage children not only to treat seniors well but also to make them their friends. Many seniors love having younger children as their friends. Kids, too, can have that same excitement, as they are impacted through seniors who invest in their lives as well. If you know an older, trustworthy relative, grandparent or friend, encourage kids to spend time with them and to build a friendship. Similarly, if you have a story about a senior who positively impacted your life, share this experience with your children so they can see what a blessing they were to you. Another way to help kids build a relationship with a senior is to get them excited about a common hobby or interest. Whether its participating in an arts and crafts project, reading a book, solving a puzzle, or playing a game together, kids will love spending time with their grandparents or an older adult while engaging in a fun or learning activity. 3. Make spending time with seniors a priority Finally, give kids opportunities to build relationships with seniors. Once kids discover a shared interest or hobby, encourage them to invite that person to spend time together around that activity and to make connecting with seniors a regular priority. Holidays and school breaks are a great time for relationship building. If you have older parents, grandparents or neighbors that you check up on, bring your children along to help you. Is there a simple errand or chore that your kids can do to help them? What about seniors who dont have family close by? These small acts of service can build meaningful relationships and show children the value of caring for others across generations. God tells us to care for the elderly The Bible teaches us to love and care for our neighbors, regardless of age. Read the apostle Pauls letters, and youll notice Paul gives special instructions for how the church is to care for widows and seniors. God cares about seniors, and He wants kids to learn to care for them too! Children need to be taught how to treat others with love, dignity and respect. This is especially true for how they treat those who are older. 1 Timothy 5:1-2 instructs us to not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity. This verse emphasizes the family-like relationships we should cultivate within the church community, treating elderly members with the same respect we would show our own parents. Everyone grows old eventually, and aging is such a meaningful part of the human experience that God has gifted us with. Teach kids how to care for the elderly and befriend seniors early in life, so they can take advantage of all the blessings the older generation has to offer them. In the world of big food, artificial intelligence is nothing new. McCormick , which owns brands including Frank's RedHot, Cholula and Old Bay, has been using AI in flavor development for nearly a decade, with the company saying its development timelines have been cut by 20% to 25%, on average, by identifying promising flavor combinations and narrowing down which ideas are worth testing in physical prototypes. It's a similar story at Unilever , where AI is deeply embedded across food research & development, with systems able to test thousands of recipes digitally in seconds and get to viable concepts with fewer physical trials. Unilever's Knorr Fast & Flavourful Paste, as an example, was developed in roughly half the usual time. On the packaging side of the business, AI modeled how formulations behave in Hellmann's Easy-Out squeeze bottle which the company says saved months of physical lab work. All the way back in 2017, a team from Google Brain (which is now part of DeepMind) used AI to help create a recipe for the "perfect" chocolate chip cookie. But even as AI is increasingly shaping how food companies decide what ends up on grocery store shelves, the food companies are quick to stress that AI is not taking over the kitchen. "Human creativity and judgment lead the way, and AI is a tool to help us amplify our impact," said Annemarie Elberse, head of ecosystems, digital and data for foods R&D at Unilever. "These tools help inspire our flavor scientists' creativity," Anju Rao, McCormick's chief science officer, told CNBC. Rao emphasized that AI functions as a co-creation tool, not a replacement for human expertise. "Our greatest asset will always be our people who bring global perspectives, flavor expertise and human creativity to the table," she said. As a growing ecosystem of startups position AI as a way to approximate and predict sensory outcomes using large datasets to model how consumers might respond to new food products before they are physically tested, it's not clear how successful their efforts will be in cracking the code in the test kitchen. Companies including Zucca, Journey Foods, NielsenIQ, and AKA Foods market their platforms as "virtual sensory" or AI-powered systems designed to digitally screen recipes, suggest formulation changes, and predict consumer liking before physical prototypes are made. These companies are promising much of what the food giants say they've been doing already: creating systems that can reduce the size of traditional taste panels, lower the risk of failed launches and compress product development cycles by identifying promising concepts earlier in the process. Industry analysts estimate the global market for artificial intelligence in food and beverages will grow from roughly $10 billion in 2025 to more than $50 billion by 2030, driven by rising investment in data-driven product development, automation, and personalization. But some early food AI pioneers have already moved on. McCormick's early AI work was developed in partnership with IBM, which previously explored AI-driven food projects such as Chef Watson. An IBM spokesman said in a statement the company is "not actively focused in this area anymore." Behind the marketing language, food scientists who have tested these platforms say the technology is still early and that many of the claims are as much about attracting capital as replacing human expertise. Brian Chau, a food scientist and founder of food science and food systems consultancy Chau Time, said many AI food startups are still in the data-collection phase, working to aggregate enough real-world information to make their models meaningfully predictive. "I think all the AI companies coming out are, to some extent, overstating what they can do that's true of most startups," Chau said. "They need to attract investors, they need to build datasets, and they need real industry partners before any of this really works at scale." Chau said most current platforms resemble large language models trained on existing recipes, manufacturing data, and consumer trends rather than systems capable of independently generating viable new products. "When I tested one platform, the output was basically what you'd get from any general AI system," he said. "There wasn't much added value without proprietary data from real companies." In his view, the technology's long-term potential depends on whether startups can secure partnerships with large food manufacturers willing to share internal formulation data something many companies are reluctant to do because of intellectual property concerns. "Without big industry players feeding real data into these systems, it's very hard for them to become truly predictive," Chau said. "It's a numbers game." Where AI food science still falls short From a scientific standpoint, researchers say the biggest obstacle is not computing power it's biology. Dr. Julien Delarue, a professor of sensory and consumer science at the University of California, Davis, said expectations around AI-driven sensory tools may be inflated by misunderstandings about what AI can realistically model. "I would say there is probably a little bit of hype," Delarue said. "It doesn't mean that AI is not useful, it's just not what people expect from it." While AI can help analyze chemical data and improve efficiency in food development, Delarue said trying to predict how people will perceive complex flavors remains fundamentally limited. "Trying to predict what people will perceive from a complex mixture of compounds the answer is no," he said. One of the core challenges, he explained, is that human sensory perception is inherently variable. People perceive the same chemical compounds very differently depending on genetics, culture, experience, and even personal history. "There is no such thing as the average consumer," Delarue said. "Trying to predict what the 'average' person may perceive is probably a dead end." To unlock this limitation, Delarue says, we would need much more data than we currently have access to data at the individual level, knowing what each person or group actually perceives. "And that's a huge task," he added. That variability makes it difficult for any model human or machine to serve as a universal proxy for taste, he said. Even the companies building these tools emphasize that human judgment remains central. David Sack, founder of AKA Foods, said his company's platform is designed to organize internal R&D knowledge, not replace food scientists or sensory experts. "Food R&D teams sit on large amounts of valuable knowledge, from past formulations and sensory data to tacit know-how held by individuals," Sack said. "But it's often fragmented and difficult to reuse systematically." Why humans will remain the tastemakers AKA's platform helps teams test ideas digitally before committing to physical trials, allowing scientists to focus on the most promising formulation paths. "It does not replace food scientists or sensory experts," he said. "Ultimately, humans define the goals, constraints, and success criteria. Sensory experts design and interpret panels. Scientists decide what to test and what to launch. AI can reduce the number of tests needed, but it does not eliminate the need for real human tasting or validation. Humans will always need to be in the loop when the end consumer is human," he said. "Consumers decide with their palate whether they like a product," said Jason Cohen, founder and CEO of Simulacra Data, a company that uses AI to analyze sensory and consumer data. "We still start with real human sensory data. AI just helps us extrapolate insights faster and cheaper." Cohen, who also founded Analytical Flavor Systems, which was acquired in 2025 by NielsenIQ, said AI is most useful for identifying off-flavors, narrowing formulation options, and prioritizing which ideas are worth testing, not for replacing human perception. Chau says large food companies are uniquely positioned to benefit from AI-driven tools because they already control vast amounts of proprietary formulation, sensory, and manufacturing data something most small brands are still trying to build. Delarue thinks the real value of AI within the food industry will be in efficiency not creativity helping researchers analyze data faster, manage complexity, and operate under increasing constraints around health, sustainability, and cost. "Designing food today is much more challenging than before," he said. "You don't just want to make food that people enjoy. You need to make food that is healthy, sustainable, and affordable. AI gives us more power to handle that complexity." But when it comes to taste itself, humans are still the reference point. "Consumers will always be the ones who decide what tastes good," he said. "Not machines." In this article AC-CA Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT Cuba's President Miguel Diaz-Canel (C) takes part in the "Anti-Imperialist" protest in front of the US Embassy against the US incursion in Venezuela, where 32 Cuban soldiers lost their lives, in Havana on January 16, 2026. Yamil Lage | Afp | Getty Images Cuba's communist-run government is facing its biggest test since the collapse of the Soviet Union. U.S. President Donald Trump has ratcheted up the pressure on the Caribbean island since the Jan. 3 military operation to seize Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, a long-time ally of Cuba's government. Cuba said 32 of its citizens were killed in the attack. Trump has since effectively cut Cuba off from Venezuelan oil, called its government "an unusual and extraordinary threat" and pledged to impose tariffs on any country that supplies it with oil. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel condemned the move and said: "Surrender is not an option." He's since said the government is prepared to hold talks with Washington, albeit "without pressure or preconditions." The country has warned that international airlines would no longer be able refuel in the country due to fuel shortages. Gripped by a worsening economic crisis, Cuba's government recently adopted rationing measures to protect essential services and ration fuel supplies for key sectors. The plan reportedly includes restrictions on fuel sales, the closure of some tourist establishments, shortening school days and a shorter working week at state-owned companies to four days, from Monday to Thursday. "The current situation in Cuba is as serious as it has been since the 1990s, when Cuba suddenly had to survive without the support of the Eastern Bloc," Par Kumaraswami, professor of Latin American Studies at the U.K.'s University of Nottingham, told CNBC by email. The odds are shortening that President Miguel Diaz-Canel will be forced from power in the weeks or months ahead in a Maduro-style managed transition. Robert Munks Head of Americas research at Verisk Maplecroft Trump's tariff threats have created a deterrent for many nations, Kumaraswami said. Mexico has sent humanitarian aid but suspended oil shipments, as it sought to preserve its relationship with Havana while avoiding Trump's tariffs. Kumaraswami said there was "of course frustration with the difficulties of daily life," but that "many Cubans are resolved to resist threats to their national sovereignty and a new wave of patriotism has emerged." 'An accelerating collapse' Air Canada subsequently has canceled all flights to Cuba amid the fuel shortage, though the airline said Monday that it would bring some 3,000 customers already in the country home over the coming days. Tourism is a significant source of revenue for Cuba's cash-strapped government and the country is a popular winter vacation destination for Canadian tourists. A Turkish Airlines plane takes off at Jose Marti International Airport in Havana on February 9, 2026. Yamil Lage | Afp | Getty Images Unlike in previous crises, Cuba's regime lacks foreign partners that can step in to help, according to Robert Munks, head of Americas research at risk intelligence company Verisk Maplecroft. "Raising the stakes, the US has also limited Cuba's access to hard currency and pressured Nicaragua to end visa-free travel for Cubans," Munks told CNBC by email. The government's pledge to increase the use of limited renewable energy sources is likely "too little, too late," Munks said. He added that outbreaks of civil unrest were possible, given that the island's domestic energy production is far short of what it needs to keep the lights on. "An accelerating collapse of basic services will put the regime under extreme pressure to find a negotiated solution," Munks said. He added that "the odds are shortening" on Diaz-Canel being forced from power in the months ahead in a Maduro-style managed transition, but Munks said it was more likely that "the regime will try to muddle through" until the U.S. midterm elections in November. Cuba's dwindling oil supplies prompted the United Nations to warn of a possible humanitarian "collapse" last week. "The Secretary-General is extremely concerned about the humanitarian situation in Cuba, which will worsen, and if not collapse, if its oil needs go unmet," said UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric. A big test for BRICS Cuba's emergency measures should be seen as crucial test for the BRICS bloc of developing nations, according to Helen Yaffe, a Cuba expert and professor of Latin American political economy at the University of Glasgow, Scotland. "This is probably the most important test now for BRICS If BRICS cannot protect, defend and rally around a member, then what is it worth?" Yaffe told CNBC by telephone. Cuba acquired "partner country" status of the BRICS group in January last year, bolstering its ties with the likes of Brazil, Russia and China. Indeed, each of these three countries have sought to offer support to Cuba in recent days. The Mexican government has dispatched humanitarian aid to the people of Cuba aboard two ships of the Mexican Navy. More than 800 tons of supplies were transported by sea from Asipona, in Veracruz, Mexico, on February 9, 2026. Anadolu | Anadolu | Getty Images Casey Wasserman, CEO of the Wasserman Media Group, interviews during the annual Allen and Co. Sun Valley Media and Technology Conference at the Sun Valley Resort in Sun Valley, Idaho, U.S., on July 9, 2025. The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics chief, Casey Wasserman, is putting his talent and marketing agency up for sale, The Wall Street Journal reported on Friday, following criticism for flirtatious email exchanges with convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell more than 20 years ago. Wasserman has been criticized and called on to resign as the LA28 chief after the release of messages. His firm has lost pop star Chappell Roan as a client, with Roan saying earlier this week she was no longer represented by his company. Wasserman has denied having a personal or business relationship with late financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He has previously apologized for his association with Maxwell, saying their relationship came before her or Epstein's crimes were revealed. Wasserman's talent agency did not respond to a request for comment outside regular business hours. According to the Journal, Wasserman told his firm's staff in an internal memo that he felt that he had "become a distraction" to its work and had begun the process of selling the company. "I'm deeply sorry that my past personal mistakes have caused you so much discomfort," Wasserman wrote in the memo, reported by the newspaper. "It's not fair to you, and it's not fair to the clients and partners we represent so vigorously and care so deeply about," he wrote. The LA28 said earlier this week that Wasserman will remain chairman of the 2028 games after organizers conducted a review of his past interactions with Maxwell and Epstein, and found his relationship with them did not go beyond what had already been publicly documented. watch now Luxury brands from Harry Winston to Loewe are going all in on Lunar New Year collections in a bid to attract Chinese customers. Ahead of the Year of the Horse, which starts on Tuesday, Harry Winston unveiled a limited-edition, $81,500 rose gold watch with diamond bezels and a red lacquer horse. High-end fashion brand Chloe released a capsule collection, ranging from $250 silk scarves to a $5,300 snakeskin and leather shoulder bag with a horse head and tail linked by a horsebit chain. A slew of other brands, including Loewe, Gucci and Loro Piana, have introduced new bag charms with horse motifs. The Year of the Horse arrives at a time of cautious optimism for designer brands and could mark the start of a China's luxury market comeback. Chinese consumers were once the primary driver for the global luxury sector but have cut back sharply in recent years, weighed down by the country's slowing economy and depressed housing values. The Chinese luxury market stood at about 350 billion RMB in 2024, or about $50 billion, according to estimates from Bain. While the consultancy estimates that market contracted by 3% to 5% in 2025, Bain analysts noted that the sector started showing signs of recovery in the second half of 2025 on the back of stronger stock market performance and consumer confidence. Loewe celebrated Year of the Horse with storefront installation in Shanghai, China. Ying Tang/NurPhoto via Getty Images Bernstein senior analyst Luca Solca said he predicts Chinese luxury spending will stabilize, forecasting mid-single-digit percentage growth in 2026. However, the market is still far more competitive than at its peak, he said. Before the Covid pandemic, Chinese consumers accounted for about one-third of the global luxury goods market, according to Solca. That percentage has since dipped to about 23%, he said. The luxury market's fortunes do not solely rest on Lunar New Year, but it is an opportunity for Western brands to show respect for Chinese culture, he said. The annual holiday is associated with the colors red and gold, which symbolize good luck and fortune in Chinese culture. Each Lunar New Year is represented by one of 12 Chinese zodiac animals. Last year's animal was the snake. Get Inside Wealth directly to your inbox The Inside Wealth newsletter by Robert Frank is your weekly guide to high-net-worth investors and the industries that serve them. Subscribe here to get access today. But Solca said in order to best capture the Chinese luxury consumer, brands need to go beyond the expected motifs. "The Chinese are no longer in awe of anything that comes from the West," Solca said. "A perfunctory interpretation of CNY is not going to go far." Veronique Yang, who leads BCG's consumer practice in Greater China, said literal interpretations can come across as lazy or even disrespectful to Chinese consumers. Younger shoppers are also looking for fresher takes, she said. "Chinese young people, they respect the old Chinese culture, but to be honest, a lot of parts of it they don't understand, or they want it to be reinterpreted in a modern way," she said. "It's important to weave a narrative that connects the heritage with a contemporary vision." Lunar New Year collections date back to the early 2010s, as Western brands were eager to tap into the rapidly growing Chinese luxury consumer market, according to Daniel Langer, professor of luxury strategy at Pepperdine University. At the time, newly wealthy Chinese consumers were eager to spend on designer goods, especially when they traveled abroad, he said, as there were few luxury boutiques in China outside major cities like Shanghai and Beijing. Now, with broader access and more choice, brands have to work harder to bring in new clients. And in the 12 years since the last Year of the Horse, Chinese high-income consumers have become more discerning, Langer said. "They've been to the best places in the world. They've dined in the best restaurants in the world. They've shopped in the best shops in the world. Their expectations towards brands are significantly higher," he said. "China has completely changed from a country where there was pent up demand for luxury goods to a country of the highest sophistication." Burberry's Lunar New Year products. Courtesy of Burberry Celebrating Llanito: A Call for Creative Community Initiatives Gibraltar Cultural Services (GCS), on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, is delighted to announce a new initiative, as part of the Youth Arts Jamboree, designed to celebrate, promote and preserve Gibraltars unique bilingual language Llanito. As part of ongoing efforts to foster community engagement, GCS is inviting individuals, groups and organisations to develop artistic and cultural projects that embrace and highlight Llanito. The competition seeks creative and innovative proposals from young people that explore and showcase Llanito through art, performance, media and community activity. Entries might include, but are not limited to: Podcasts or digital storytelling Street theatre or short performances Short films or documentaries Songs, spoken word, or musical collaborations Art installations or exhibitions Educational or creative workshops Other artistic expressions that engage the public with Llanito The selected project or projects will receive support and commitment from GCS to bring their ideas to life. Proposals must include a clear outline, estimated budget and intended community impact. This initiative reflects the Ministry of Cultures commitment to supporting Gibraltars linguistic heritage and to ensuring that Llanito continues to be celebrated as a vibrant expression of local identity and creativity. A similar initiative is being carried out in the Isle of Man in celebration of the Manx language, you can find out more on www.yearofmanx.im Commenting on the initiative, Minster for Equality, Employment, Culture and Tourism, the Hon. Christian Santos GMD MP said, It is no secret that I am passionate about Llanito, with my Llanito plays firstly introducing me to our community. Llanito is an integral part of who we are, a living reflection of Gibraltars unique history and culture and our singular way of expressing our shared experiences. We want to encourage our community, and especially our young people, to explore new ways of sharing, expressing and celebrating the language across generations. The initiative guidelines and Google form for entry can be accessed https://forms.gle/kn36QYSaRLSP17QZA For more information please contact GCS Development Unit on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by calling 200 41839. A state building is covered with a giant anti-U.S. billboard depicting a symbolic image of the destroyed USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) aircraft carrier in downtown Tehran, Iran, on Jan. 28, 2026. The U.S. military is preparing for the possibility of sustained, weeks-long operations against Iran if President Donald Trump orders an attack, two U.S. officials told Reuters, in what could become a far more serious conflict than previously seen between the countries. The disclosure by the officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the planning, raises the stakes for the diplomacy underway between the United States and Iran. U.S. and Iranian diplomats held talks in Oman last week in an effort to revive diplomacy over Tehran's nuclear program, after Trump amassed military forces in the region, raising fears of new military action. U.S. officials said on Friday the Pentagon was sending an additional aircraft carrier to the Middle East, adding thousands more troops along with fighter aircraft, guided-missile destroyers and other firepower capable of waging attacks and defending against them. Trump, speaking to U.S. troops on Friday at a base in North Carolina, said it had "been difficult to make a deal" with Iran. "Sometimes you have to have fear. That's the only thing that really will get the situation taken care of," Trump said. Asked for comment on the preparations for a potentially sustained U.S. military operation, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said: "President Trump has all options on the table with regard to Iran." "He listens to a variety of perspectives on any given issue, but makes the final decision based on what is best for our country and national security," Kelly said. The Pentagon declined to comment. The United States sent two aircraft carriers to the region last year, when it carried out strikes against Iranian nuclear sites. However, June's "Midnight Hammer" operation was essentially a one-off U.S. attack, with stealth bombers flying from the United States to strike Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran staged a very limited retaliatory strike on a U.S. base in Qatar. Country FY26 (in Cr) FY27 (in Cr) Afghanistan 100 150 Bhutan 2150 2288.56 Bangladesh 120 60 Myanmar 350 300 Maldives 600 550 Nepal 700 800 Sri Lanka 300 400 Country/Region FY26 (in Cr) FY27 (in Cr) Mauritius 500 550 Seychelles 19 19 African countries 225 225 Latin America 60 120 Chabahar Port 100 No allocation Indias Union Budget 2026-27 has earmarked 5,685.56 crore for international aid, which is 3.68% higher compared to the previous budget. With Indias neighbours receiving nearly 80% of the total aid, the influence of 'Neighbourhood First' policy cannot be missed.Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs, which administers this aid through its Development Partnership Administration, has received 22,118.97 crore, marking a 7.81% increase in allocation from FY26.Commenting on the FY27 allocation, Amb Rajiv Bhatia, Distinguished Fellow at Gateway House, tells CNBC-TV18 that India needs to allocate more money to the Ministry as well as for external assistance. It is only a marginal increase this year. I am an advocate of proactive foreign policy. For that, more resources are required. Or else, the results will not be optimal, he says.Bhutan continues to be the biggest beneficiary of India's aid, seeing a 6.44% jump in allocation to 2,288.56 crore. The Himalayan kingdom accounts for over 40% of the total international aid provided by India. This comes as no surprise since New Delhi has been the biggest economic benefactor of Thimphu.Nepal is a distant second, securing 800 crore in aid for FY27. The aid to Kathmandu has risen 14% year-on-year, coinciding with the political upheaval in the country. Moreover, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka have seen a relative increase in aid for FY27.The aid to Bangladesh has been slashed by half compared to 2025 from 120 crore to just 60 crore. The decline in funds comes at a time when Indias ties with Bangladesh have been under pressure following the overthrow of former PM Sheikh Hasina in August 2024.Meanwhile, Maldives and Myanmar, too, have recorded a fall in total allocation for FY27.Swati Prabhu, Fellow at ORF, says that India focusing on its neighbourhood is par for the course.That is how every country will look at aid. Even Europe through its Global Gateway programme wants to first safeguard its backyard and then think about other countries, says Prabhu, who specialises in economic diplomacy.Amb Bhatia says that policymakers have made it clear that India wants to help its neighbours. New Delhi, he says, is also using aid & grants as a tool to promote its national interest.These countries are also expected to show their consideration towards India. If some of them are unable to do so, then we are under no obligation to keep being generous to them, the former Indian envoy to Myanmar notes.Just one-fifth of the total aid has been earmarked for countries outside Indias neighbourhood. The allocation for African countries and Seychelles has remained the same, while Mauritius has received only a marginal YoY hike in aid.India has ambitions to lead the Global South. However, the allocation for the African continent, which has over 50 countries, is not adequate, says Amb Bhatia.The meagre allocation for Africa contrasts with Indias growing development partnership with the continent, especially in capacity building, since 2005.Prabhu says that the budget figures do not tell the full story because India also works with Africa through other institutions and programs beyond direct aid.India wants to remain part of Africas development journey, but fiscal constraints and a neighbourhood-first priority affect how much aid it can allocate, she adds.Latin America, on the other hand, has seen its share of allocation increase to 120 crore from 60 crore last financial year.But Hari Seshasayee, co-founder, Consilium Group, a Latin America-based advisory firm, says that there is nothing to infer from the doubling of aid.Indias allocation for Latin America represents only about 2% of its total aid budget. India's contribution to Latin America's total aid is only 0.1% the region's total aid amounts to roughly $12 billion, says Seshasayee while arguing that aid has not played a significant role in shaping India-Latin America relations so far.Nevertheless, Latin America is emerging as a major focus area in Indias foreign policy calculations. Seshasayee believes that New Delhi is courting the region for three things energy security, food security and critical minerals.According to the IEA, Latin America supplies about 35% of global lithium and 40% of copper, both essential for EV batteries and clean-energy technologies. For India, the region accounts for 15-20% of Indias petroleum imports and is a significant source of vegetable oils and other agricultural products.The biggest exclusion in this year's aid Budget has been Chabahar. The Iranian port, where India began operating the Shahid Baheshti Terminal in 2018, has been allocated zero funds in the FY27 Budget.In the last few budgets, the Chabahar Port had consistently received 100 crore.This development follows reports of India winding down its operations at the strategically-important port, amid tensions between the US and Iran.In September 2025, the US imposed crippling economic sanctions on Iran but had granted India a six-month exemption from the punitive measures on the project. The waiver will come to an end on April 26.The Chabahar port aims to boost connectivity and trade ties. India and Iran are also strongly pitching for making the port an integral part of the International North-South Transport Corridor.At present, the allocation reveals its own story. Our interest in Chabahar has been consistent but our engagement keeps changing depending on the geopolitical situation, says Amb Bhatia.However, the veteran diplomat is not giving up on the project yet. He believes that the project may be back on track in the future. But that would completely depend, he argues, on how the India-US equation develops in the next few months or years.On February 6, while replying to a question in Lok Sabha on India's engagement in Chabahar Port, the Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, said that India has fulfilled its commitment of contributing USD 120 million for the procurement of port equipment, as per the provisions of the contract. A major cross-border narcotics smuggling attempt was foiled along the International Border on Saturday with the seizure of over 6.5 kg of heroin worth over40 crore in the RS Pura sector here, officials said.The contraband was recovered during a joint operation of the 165th battalion of Border Security Force (BSF) and police from Nai Basti Karotana village in Baspur area, following information about a drone dropping material from across the border, they said.Police received information about the suspected drone movement on the intervening night of February 13 and 14, a spokesperson said.Two yellow-coloured packets containing 6.582 kg of heroin were found in the fields near the International Border during the search and subsequently seized, he said, terming the seizure as a significant achievement on the anti-drug trafficking front.A case under the relevant section of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act was registered, and further investigation is underway to trace the exact source and destination of the recovered contraband, he said, adding that a breakthrough is expected as the investigation progresses.Police urged the citizens, especially those residing near the International Border, to come forward with any information regarding illegal drug activities in their localities."With continued public cooperation, sincere efforts are being made to build a drug-free and crime-free society, the spokesperson said.The recovery comes a day after police arrested two people for allegedly smuggling heroin from Pakistan using a drone in the border areas of Kathua district.Jatin, a resident of Pathankot in Punjab, and Danish Dogra alias Sajan of Jakhbar in Kathua, were arrested in connection with a case related to drone-dropping near Nagri and the recovery of 150 grams of heroin.The duo was in touch with a Pakistan-based smuggler through VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calls. One day, perhaps, we will know what compelling magnetism drew the strikingly attractive Francesca Cortini into the arms and it is said the bed of Britains middle-aged Nato ambassador Angus Lapsley. It is somewhat easier to understand why the balding, flabby diplomat would be drawn to the glamorous Italian intern almost half his age, a woman not much older than his children. Yesterday the deliciously indiscreet salons and high-end restaurants of Brussels were abuzz with gossipy stories of the envoy, his nubile lover and their trysts amid claims that the relationship had triggered a diplomatic incident. Complaints were focusing on his allegedly improper use of the British residence in the Belgian capital, a stylish five-storey former hotel he shares with two colleagues. Dame Caroline Wilson, the UKs ambassador-designate to the European Union, has reportedly stated that it was inappropriate for the couple to be living together in the taxpayer-provided property. And as it emerged that alarm bells had already been sounded about the promotion of the former mandarin after he narrowly escaped the sack for apparently mislaying 50 pages of top secret defence documents at a bus stop in Kent, senior Tories suggested Mr Lapsley had been protected by an old boys network. Indeed, the extraordinary affair of the former Downing Street aide and his much younger mistress was last night threatening to overshadow the crucial Munich security conference where he was a key part of Prime Minister Keir Starmers delegation. The romance was already deemed serious enough to be brought to the attention of Admiral Sir Keith Blount, the most senior British military official in Nato. Britains Nato ambassador Angus Lapsley To be scrupulously fair, news of the relationship has been received by former colleagues of Lapsley in a somewhat different light something more akin to open-mouthed disbelief. Punching above his weight, was among the more printable descriptions of the ambassador, a portly 55-year-old. All agreed that the comely 29-year-old Ms Cortini possessed the kind of attributes that would, as that old cliche has it, make a bishop kick a hole in a stained-glass window. Attributes that might or might not include her brilliant mind, A-grade political science studies and academic excellence at universities in Bologna in her native Italy and at Angers and Lyon in western France. It is, of course, a story that is as old as time itself: a successful, mature man and the dazzling charms of a younger assistant. Add in the rewards of an expense account lifestyle and an exciting overseas posting and all the ingredients are there for the headiest of romantic cocktails. What is often overlooked in such circumstances, however, is the domestic life that has been left behind. In Mr Lapsleys case, that involves a wife and two sons, now aged 23 and 21. So what is going on? According to briefings, the envoy had already separated from his wife Georgina known as Gina whom he met at Oxford University, before he moved to Brussels and met Ms Cortini, who was working as an intern at Nato headquarters. Mrs Lapsley, 56, an English teacher from Canterbury, still lives in the marital home and, judging from her social media accounts, still follows the workings of the diplomatic service. In one recent post, she approved of another senior diplomats new appointment. Although Mrs Lapsley appears to have reverted to her maiden name of Power, it is not clear whether or not she is now divorced. Figures close to her estranged husband and his lover in Brussels say the pair have made no attempt to hide their relationship. It was an open secret in the Belgian capital, a defence source was quoted saying. Angus used the residence as if it was his and [Ms Cortini] was there [for] Christmas and summer receptions. These same sources are also at pains to protest that, however uncomfortable the relationship might appear, it does not break Nato rules. For, unlike the British military, Nato does not bar romantic relations within the chain of command. Relationships with subordinates in the British military are often a sacking offence. Only last year, Admiral Sir Ben Key, the former First Sea Lord was thrown out of the Royal Navy and stripped of his rank for having an affair with a junior officer. It has also been reported that Mr Lapsley told bosses about the relationship. Glamorous intern Francesca Cortini, 29, has 'a brilliant mind and academic excellence at universities in Bologna, Angers and Lyon' Nevertheless, it has caused consternation in Whitehall. And as the Daily Mail revealed yesterday, there was thinly veiled disapproval from Defence Secretary John Healey who dryly commented: The UK expects the highest standards of its ambassadors for this country. Whatever the technical rights and wrongs, it is hardly an edifying situation. Nor is it the first time Mr Lapsleys conduct has come under fierce scrutiny. Five years ago, the diplomat who was appointed UK ambassador last April faced an investigation after an almost comical blunder while on secondment to the Ministry of Defence from the Foreign Office. He left some 50 pages of confidential documents behind a bus stop in Kent. They contained the secret location of British special forces soldiers in Afghanistan as well as details of Royal Navy operations around Russian-occupied Crimea. At the time, a source said the files had fallen out of his bag as he rushed from Canterbury to work. They were later found, in a wet pile, by a member of the public. The loss triggered a transatlantic row because the US feared it might put its own soldiers at risk. To the bafflement of veterans who demanded he be put on trial, there was no police investigation, although in a similar case in 2008 a senior civil servant was fined 2,500 after pleading guilty to breaching the Official Secrets Act when he left top secret documents on a train. However, Lapsleys security clearance was suspended following the incident, before later being reinstated. Former Tory Defence Secretary Sir Gavin Williamson observed: Despite putting lives at risk he then proceeded to be protected and promoted. Sir Gavin also claimed that civil servants pushing for the envoys promotion included Sir Stephen Lovegrove, one-time National Security Adviser, who went to fee-paying Warwick School with Lapsley, where they were both head boys indicative of what Sir Gavin describes as an old boys network. He [Lapsley] wasnt the best person for the job in my eyes, but everyone was pushing for him, said the former minister. Similar anxieties were raised by another former defence secretary, Sir Ben Wallace, who claimed concerns raised by me and others about Lapsley were ignored. He was appointed to a planning role before succeeding Sir David Quarrey in the Nato top job as ambassador. No one knows exactly when Lapsley and Francesca Cortini began dating, but they met two years ago when he was assistant secretary general for defence policy and planning, and she was assigned to be his assistant. Some have suggested that in the febrile and overtly masculine world of military procurement and international crises, Signorina Cortini was more than just a distraction. She is said to be an intelligent and effective communicator. Did Cupid strike over strategy maps of the Western alliance? No matter, because it wasnt long before rumours began that the two were an item. The British residence in Brussels that Nato ambassador Lapsley shares with his younger lover Other diplomats were uneasy and raised the issue with Foreign Office bosses in the UK. One was reported to have said of Ms Cortini: She is almost the same age as his children. Nonetheless, after the relationship was reviewed internally, Lapsley was said to have made clear his wish to live with his lover in Britains official residence, according to sources. He shares the stylish house, which overlooks Brusselss Royal Park, with two other British ambassadors one to Belgium and the other to the EU. Lapsleys ascent of the greasy pole has been rapid, if not entirely smooth. By the time Francesca was taking her first steps at home in Forli, near Ravenna, close to Italys Adriatic coast in 1997, Lapsleys high-flying civil service career was well under way as private secretary to former prime minister Sir John Major. He made headlines when he wrote on Sir Johns behalf to a ten-year-old boy who asked the then Mr Major to increase the prison sentence handed out to his father for the attempted murder of his mother. A few months later, in September 1997, Lapsley was among the four-man team appointed by Tony Blair to oversee the plans for Princess Dianas funeral. After a string of appointments with the Cabinet Office and postings in Paris where his two sons were born and the Balkans with the Foreign Office, he arrived in Brussels in 2015. There, he spent two years as the UKs political and security ambassador to the EU. During their time in Belgium, Lapsleys wife who originally trained as a solicitor did stints as a DJ and guest-presented on a social media show called Classic Album Sundays. It was around this time that her husbands future girlfriend left school for university. Ms Cortini completed an Erasmus exchange course in France which trains students as future managers for the public and private sector. By now she had as she wrote on the LinkedIn site developed a deep interest in the European environment and had taken the opportunity to polish her intercultural communication skills and foreign languages. Various internships followed before she finally arrived at Nato for the first time in 2021, where she had a string of administrative posts. Not long afterwards, Lapsley, who had returned to Whitehall as director general at the MoD, was back in Brussels after escaping serious censure over the lost documents fiasco. That is when the then 27-year-old Francesca came into his life. What does the future hold for this most unlikely pairing? Theyre certainly not without their critics. The influential Dame Caroline Wilson appears to be one figure unhappy about their shared use of the Brussels house. And as she will soon be in residence in the same property in the fashionable Rue Ducale, her views may carry considerable weight. Neither Lapsley nor Ms Cortini have commented on their living arrangements and the Foreign Office said: It is longstanding policy not to comment on personnel matters. The history books are full of older men whose heads have been turned by younger women but the intriguing question is whether in this instance there is a long-term strategy. Its the kind of puzzle the brass hats at Nato are used to answering. Additional reporting: Simon Trump Judges in the High Court have delivered a Valentine's gift to every thug and anti-Semite who cheerleads for Palestine Action. In a contradictory and deeply concerning ruling, Dame Victoria Sharp, Mr Justice Swift and Mrs Justice Steyn agreed the group had 'organised and undertaken actions amounting to terrorism.' But the judges concluded the process the Home Office followed to ban the group led to a 'disproportionate' decision. Perhaps the most ludicrous aspect of their ruling was that Palestine Action has 'not yet' carried out the 'level, scale and persistence' of activities that would allow it to be proscribed. Only a 'very small number of its actions have amounted to terrorist action,' the judges said. Bafflingly, they would have us believe that Palestine Action has not yet perpetrated enough terrorism to be banned as a terrorist group. Government sources privately described this aspect of the ruling as 'bonkers' last night, and rightly so. Most troubling for Sir Keir Starmer is the role the European Convention on Human Rights played in yesterday's decision. The judges ruled that banning the group was a 'stark' interference with its members' human rights, particularly their right to 'freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of association.' Palestine Action won a High Court challenge against the Home Office's decision to categorise it alongside the likes of Islamic State. Pictured is Palestine Action co-founders Richard Barnard (left) and Huda Ammori (right) Supporters of Palestine Action celebrated the decision outside the High Court in London on Friday Through his long career at the Bar, and since, the Prime Minister has consistently placed the convention and other international treaties above Britain's national interests. As Palestine Action shelters behind human rights law, he is again hoist with his own petard. Even though the group remains banned pending further legal action, the Metropolitan Police has said it will pause arrests of anyone expressing support for it. What a shambles. Shabana Mahmood has rightly said she will appeal against yesterday's ruling. It is hoped the Home Secretary will win but, after that, a further legal challenge is likely at the Supreme Court so any chance of clarity is months and months away. There is, therefore, a solid case for the Government to draw up emergency measures to modify the whole process of banning a terrorist group and eliminate any weaknesses in the legislation that have been exploited by Palestine Action. This mess must be cleared up, and ministers must pull out all the stops to do so quickly. Now give us the facts The PM's judgment is called even further into question by our new revelations over Peter Mandelson's rapaciousness. When the disgraced peer was the European Union's newly-appointed trade commissioner in 2004 he enjoyed a series of flights aboard a private jet belonging to Oleg Deripaska, owner of the world's largest aluminium producer. And, at the time, the EU was right in the middle of discussing cutting tariffs you guessed it on aluminium. It is yet another example of how Mandelson has always prioritised his connections with the rich and powerful, regardless of how it may look to the outside world. And it is also yet another unforgivable flaw in Downing Street's vetting of Mandelson before he was appointed as Britain's ambassador in Washington DC last year. We still wait to learn who knew what, and when. But if Sir Keir's government does not provide full disclosure of the facts, then it, too, will face being destroyed by Mandelson's grasping legacy. Who is the Lord Of The Flies? It was long years after I read this famous book that I took the trouble to find out. He is the Devil, his name a translation of the Biblical Beelzebub. Just so you know that this story, now being expensively dramatised on BBC TV, is about how all humans, especially angelic-looking choirboys, can do terrible evil if chance comes their way. We are shown this when a planeload of such children are the sole survivors of a plane crash during a global nuclear crisis, which means nobody knows they are there. Horror follows. I dont doubt it. My 1950s and 1960s boarding school days took place among boys very similar to those in the story. I even attended a cathedral choir school (though I didnt sing, luckily for all). The books author, William Golding, was a teacher who went on to serve in the Royal Navy in World War Two. He wrote of his war years: I had discovered what one man could do to another anyone who moved through those years without understanding that man produces evil as a bee produces honey must have been blind or wrong in the head. That is why I dont like the BBCs version. It dwells too much on the backgrounds of the main characters. By doing so it suggests cruelty and selfishness are some mental health failing brought on by having horrid parents or a sad childhood. It isnt so. Very few of us are saints. Most love to follow leaders and be part of the crowd. In Lord Of The Flies, a planeload of angelic-looking choirboys are the sole survivors of a plane crash during a global nuclear crisis, which means no one knows they are there It is amazing how long the intelligent, far-seeing Piggy (left) lasts before death comes to him. The others long to lose their individuality in war paint In societies where morals have collapsed or never existed, the reasonable and thoughtful are quickly clubbed to death by the bloodthirsty others. In fact, it is amazing how long the intelligent, far-seeing Piggy lasts in Lord Of The Flies before death comes to him. The others long to lose their individuality in war paint, carry sharpened spears, hunt and butcher pigs and have bloody pagan fun around the fire after they have feasted greedily on scorched pork. They stop wanting to be rescued. Book and TV drama avoid the true horror that Golding only hints at. Just before the last traces of civilisation melt away, the Navy arrives and the killer tribe of ex-choirboys dissolves back into its former self. So we can consign the whole thing to fiction, an embarrassing adventure on a tropical island, long ago and far away. No air crash and no tropical island are needed for this story to take place today. What about a cold, wet island where boys lack fathers and teachers are afraid of their pupils, where police are absent, where morals are no longer taught and teenagers carry knives and fry their minds with drugs? The Lord Of The Flies is here, now, for many of the people of this country. And no rescue is coming. The mighty New York Times admitted last week that it might have been a bit wrong to be so keen on legalising marijuana, that terrible, ruinous drug. It confessed to having mistakenly believed that its ill-effects were relatively minor problems. Alas Vine & Hitchens: What's the big idea? Get the Mail's new politics podcast, hosted by columnists Sarah Vine and Peter Hitchens - wherever you listen to podcasts now. It recalled that legalisers had claimed marijuana was harmless. They even said legalisation might not lead to greater use. Now it admits many of these predictions were wrong.Legalisation has led to much more use more people have also ended up in hospitals with marijuana-linked paranoia and chronic psychotic disorders. But it is now legal in the US. Can America get this evil-smelling genie back in its bottle? I doubt it. But we can still, just, avoid the same mistake. Will we? Can you guess who's friend or foe? Explain this if you can. The stories both begin in 1989. Country A, faced with peaceful crowds demanding democracy, murders them in large numbers in its capital city and then forbids any mention of what it has done. It follows this up with widespread repression and censorship. Country B, faced with peaceful crowds demanding democracy, leaves them unharmed and concedes their demands. Country A tightens its grip on its huge land empire, cramming opponents into labour camps and stamping out their language, religion and culture. It ceaselessly threatens its closest neighbour with aggressive military displays and builds huge modern armed forces. Country B, which sits on a vast land empire but is poor and has obsolete and badly-run armed forces, peacefully abandons control over hundreds of thousands of square miles of territory. How does Britain respond? We treat country B with suspicion and hostility, spy on it with renewed vigour and take part in an expanding military alliance against it. But it is a different story with Country A. We greet its head of state, twice, with effusive submissive hospitality and our police ruthlessly crush tiny, legitimate protests against this on British streets. We even stop calling Country As capital city by its English name and instead use the name Country A bullies us into using. (How they laugh! Even small countries refuse to do this. They just wanted to see how weak we are). We hand over British territory and its inhabitants to Country As rule. We do this on the basis of paper promises which it swiftly breaks, in the end snuffing out all traces of freedom and legality. Yet we continue to treat Country A as a friend and trading partner, allowing it to build a gigantic embassy in London and sending high-level delegations to its capital to dance attendance on its leaders. They respond by jailing a British citizen for life because he dares to speak up for freedom. Yes, you have guessed it. Country A is China and Country B is Russia. The next time anyone tells you our foreign policy is based on morality, laugh. A child's first day at school is challenging enough. But now parents must worry that their four-year-old may come home in the afternoon professing to be a different gender. This might sound far-fetched, but under new guidelines announced by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, teachers will be allowed to affirm the gender choice of any child. Ive seen the danger this kind of approach can lead to. A couple of years ago I met an 18-year-old girl named Aurora for a podcast series on gender ideology. At the age of six, Aurora started to wonder as some young children do whether she might in fact be a boy. After all, she liked playing with trucks and joining in with boys games. But rather than allow the phase to pass, Auroras teachers intervened, affirming her delusion and commanding her parents to do the same. Unbelievably, they warned her mum and dad that, fail to do so, and their daughter may kill herself. Aurora believes her primary school teachers destroyed her life. And it is only now, cresting into adulthood, that she realises the damage that was done. So when I read the Governments new trans guidance for primary schools, released on Friday as a draft and now open to consultation, I sensed the hand of gender activists, whose chief concern is not for child welfare but for political ideology. Under new guidelines announced by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson (pictured) teachers will be allowed to affirm the gender choice of any child But lets not be surprised by Phillipsons relaxed attitude to safety in the classroom, given her departments recent directive to headteachers, as revealed in todays Mail on Sunday, not to expel children caught carrying knives. It is, apparently, better for them to be kept in school, while the wellbeing of their classmates and teachers takes a back seat. Following her absurd Marxist attacks on the successful academy system, her VAT raid on private schools and her wilful ignorance of free speech issues on university campuses, her latest interventions prove she is not only the worst, but the most dangerous Education Secretary in living memory. As someone who has dedicated their life to protecting the rights of women and girls, I have been astounded that the women in the Labour Party are even worse than the men when it comes to putting their own careers ahead of the public interest. Because make no mistake, Phillipsons Left-liberal agenda is politically expedient if youre hoping to make a dash for the party leadership, but its not going to improve education standards or keep children safe. Lets start with the latest trans guidance. While Phillipson reaffirms that single sex spaces in schools are for children of that sex only, and that teachers should not indulge a gender-questioning childs every whim and instead consider the impact on all those affected, the Education Secretary proposes slippery get-out clauses. The previous Conservative draft drawn up in 2023 by then equalities minister Kemi Badenoch was clear and sensible: Primary school-aged children should not have different pronouns to their sex-based pronouns. Guidance issued by Phillipson means teachers are not obliged to inform parents if their child wants to change gender (file photo) Labours re-wording tells schools to exercise particular caution and endorse full social transition, including pronouns, very rarely.' Very rarely is deliberately ambiguous, for who wouldnt consider their case very rare, unless their school is deluged with trans-identifying children? Yet more alarmingly, teachers are not obliged to inform parents if a child wants to change gender. While Phillipson agrees this should happen in the vast majority of cases, she permits secrecy if telling the parent will harm the child.' Again, harm is a broad term encompassing physical and emotional abuse, which has been levelled by activists at parents who do not affirm a childs chosen identity. So, far from giving teachers clarity and shutting the door on this most pernicious of delusions, Phillipson has kept it dangerously ajar. The pronoun police can already count among its many victims maths teacher Kevin Lister, who was sacked from New College Swindon for using gender-neutral language rather than endorsing a trans students preferred pronouns; and Joshua Sutcliffe, who was banned from teaching in 2023 for misgendering a pupil. Phillipsons guidance stirs new life into this witch-hunt. Of course, Labour isnt arguing for primary-aged children to change sex. However, I know from interviewing countless parents that affirming a childs gender imaginings at a young age inevitably leads on to puberty blockers and irreversible sex hormone therapy later in life. It shouldnt surprise anyone that if you tell a child theyre born into the wrong body their entire life, theyll try to address that medically. And as we know, many of those who do take chemical action end up with deep physical and psychological scars. Therefore, its wrong to paint Phillipsons trans guidance as harmless. Affirming gender delusions, even in rare cases, is a slippery slope, which leads not to education, but indoctrination. Then theres higher education. Our university sector has been captured by activists of all stripes acting as judge, jury and executioner, shutting down free speech, stifling debate and running campuses like their own fiefdoms. At the start of last year, Phillipson promised to get a grip on the problem and protect academics from the entitled, ignorant students ready to cancel them for hate speech. And yet, less than a month ago, 370 academics including Nobel laureates wrote to the Education Secretary accusing her of failing to protect freedom of speech in universities and of kicking the scheme into the long grass. I believe Phillipson, somewhere deep down, genuinely does want to see free speech on campus. But yet again, its not something she is willing to legislate for lest it ruins her own shot at the big job. Selfishness before duty. Self before country. And theres more. Her Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which is nearing Royal Assent, is a politically motivated assault on academies. The Governments new trans guidance for primary schools was released on Friday as a draft and is now open to consultation. Pictured: Phillipson speaking at the 2025 Labour Conference Around 41 per cent of schools in England are academies, serving 54 per cent of the student population. They have a level of autonomy outside of local education authorities that means they can make proactive decisions on curriculum, staffing and timetabling without having to follow dogmatic national guidelines. Their success is evident in our PISA scores in maths, reading and science, which have been consistently above the average for advanced economies over the past 20 years. England, where academy freedoms have been embraced with particular gusto, outperformed the other home nations in the last cycle of testing in 2022. Phillipson would risk all of this for slavish centrism. Its the same politics that has driven her to remove VAT exemption on private schools an act of class spite that penalises aspiring working-class parents the most, and those of children with specialised needs that cannot be met in the state system. The Education Secretary is lucky that the failings of her colleagues have largely kept the spotlight from her department over the past 18 months. But the spotlight is on her now. And far from jockeying for the prime ministership, Phillipsons cavalier approach to pupils future performance and welfare should warrant the sack. Kaitie Nash was hanging out the washing on her family's farm when her hands suddenly turned blue. Moments later, the 37-year-old farmer couldn't open her eyes, lift her arms or speak, despite being fully conscious. Speaking to Daily Mail, the mum-of-two from Coonabarabran, NSW, said she has since been diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a little-known condition that disrupts how the brain sends and receives signals. Yet in cases like hers, it's not formally recognised as a permanent disability. Now, the fiercely independent rural mum is fighting to regain control of her body while navigating life on a remote property without the support many city Australians take for granted. Kaitie and her husband uprooted their young family from Darwin to rural NSW in 2018 to run a cattle farm next door to her father-in-law. At the time, she was a new mum to two small children, stepping into an entirely new world and facing the stress of one of Australia's driest years. But looking back now, she wondered if the relentless stress of drought, isolation and raising young children may have taken a toll. In September 2025, Katie Nash (picture with her husband) was hanging out the washing on her family's farm when her hands suddenly turned blue. Moments later, the 37-year-old first-time farmer couldn't open her eyes, lift her arms or speak 'FND is a lot to do with your nervous system,' she told Daily Mail. 'I look back and think there were probably a lot of things I didn't deal with properly. It's a big combination of a lot of things.' After her first hospital visit in September 2025, Kaitie was transferred to Dubbo, where she underwent MRI scans and neurological tests to determine what was wrong. The doctors were baffled, but then the episode struck again in front of them. 'The first thing I said to my husband was, "I can't talk",' she recalled, as tremors began building. 'It's like I know what I want to say, but I just can't say it.' 'Sometimes there's a dizzy feeling, then the tremors. It always starts on my right side and my shoulders and legs begin to shake.' To an onlooker, the episodes can resemble epileptic seizures, but according to Kaitie, she remains completely conscious and insists there is nothing 'electrical' happening in her brain. The mum (pictured with her husband) has since been diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a little-known condition that disrupts how the brain sends and receives signals To an onlooker, the episodes can resemble epileptic seizures, but according to Kaitie, she remains completely conscious and insists there is nothing 'electrical' happening in her brain. 'It's this dissociative attack. I'm awake and aware of it,' she said. (Pictured with two sons) 'It's this dissociative attack. I'm awake and aware of it.' Doctors eventually told Kaitie they suspected she had Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), which is a neurological condition caused by changes in how brain networks function, rather than structural damage to the brain itself. Brain scans such as MRI and CT are often normal. However, the brain struggles to properly send and receive signals, leading to very real physical symptoms. These can include seizure-like episodes, movement problems, tremors, speech difficulties, dizziness, extreme fatigue and cognitive issues. Importantly, symptoms are not intentionally produced and for some the disorder is short-lived, but for others, it can last years and make them wheelchair-bound. Symptoms are not intentionally produced and for some the disorder is short-lived, but for others, it can last years and make them wheelchair-bound. (Pictured: Kaitie and her husband on their wedding day) Currently, she is unable to drive for three months due to her non-epileptic seizure-like episodes a restriction she says is life-altering when you live and work on a remote rural property with little support 'There are people who are wheelchair-bound from this, and also children who have it.' 'I'd take this over my kids having it any day.' Despite how debilitating the episodes can be, Kaitie's condition is not formally recognised as a permanent disability in her case, which limits the support sufferers can receive. Currently, she is unable to drive for three months due to her non-epileptic seizure-like episodes a restriction she says is life-altering when you live and work on a remote rural property. 'Food shopping is 50 kilometres into town and 50 kilometres back. We have to get our kids to school, and my appointments mean my husband has to take time off to take me,' she added. Like many families doing it tough, Kaitie and her husband had previously cancelled their private health insurance to manage costs. Now, specialist physio, occupational therapy and psychological support, which are ideally delivered through a multidisciplinary team, are hundreds of kilometres away. Since going public with her diagnosis, Kaitie has joined online support groups and is determined to raise awareness of her little-known condition Kaitie and her husband uprooted their young family from Darwin to rural NSW in 2018 to run a cattle farm next door to her father-in-law However, since going public with her diagnosis, Kaitie has joined online support groups and is determined to raise awareness of her little-known condition. 'I really hope to utilise my online platform to bring more awareness to it. 'If you're looking for information, use the search bar in those groups. If it's not there, put a post up in the chats. It's vulnerable, but it's worth it.' Her community and family have since rallied behind her too in a bid to help cover mounting medical, travel and accommodation costs while she seeks treatment. But time, she said, is critical. 'I think with anything neurological, the quicker you start doing something, the better. 'If you can start doing things to help yourself, your chances of recovering in a good way are a lot better.' For now, the fiercely independent farmer is learning to accept help, something she admits doesn't come easily. 'My boys have been amazing, they've stepped up. But I also think, you shouldn't have to do that.' As she navigates life with a condition that remains largely misunderstood, Kaitie hopes sharing her story will shine a light on a disorder that hides in plain sight. SATURDAY 10am A 30-minute drive from Nice airport, and were at the pedestrianised, medieval village of Eze. Its clifftop position offers spectacular views across the French Riviera, extending from the Esterel Mountains to the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. 11am A winding climb up ancient stone cobbles takes us to boutique hotel Chateau Eza (doubles from 250 a night, chateaueza.com). After check-in, we head to the terrace for a glass of fizz and the panorama of the Cote dAzur. 12pm Time to explore the villages baroque church and boho boutiques. The stroll is made even better by the bottle of Cotes de Provence bought from the wine shop at the bottom of Eze and quaffed on a seat carved into the cliff face. 1pm As Eze is so small, the eatery options are limited, but La Taverne (lataverne-eze.fr) does delicious and decent-priced pizza. The Napoli (12) is enough for two to share. Dine either on its outside terrace or, on colder days, its ancient, vaulted room. 3pm To walk off lunch, we head up to Jardin Exotique dEze (9, jardinexotique-eze.fr). Set 429 metres above the sea on the site of a medieval fort, its steep pathways flanked by succulents and stylised sculptures of women are magical. 7pm All that walking requires a power nap and shower (one of the best ever, no joke) before sitting down at the hotels Michelin-starred restaurant. The roast pigeon (above) and Domaine Saint Pons Authentique red wine are superb. SUNDAY 9am Dont miss the hotels breakfast, even if youve overdone it on the wine the night before. Pick a table overlooking the sea for yogurt, fruit salad, breads, pastries, cheeses and meats, plus standout scrambled eggs a fluffy, buttery delight. 12pm With Fragonards factory (usines-parfum.fragonard.com) a walk away, we do a free tour of its workshop where its signature duck and rose soaps are made. I leave with a beautiful (and at 8.70, not too expensive) fig soap. 6pm Order fizz at Jamie Olivers Pizzeria in the bougie Nice airport and admire not just views of the Med, but some seriously fancy houses. Catering for the uber-wealthy who stay in Cannes and Monaco, this is no Luton Airport Spoons. An unsung hero of UK motor manufacturing is celebrating its 25th anniversary. BMW's Hams Hall factory in North Warwickshire, which employs 1,700 people, has built more than 7.6million highly efficient pure petrol and plug-in hybrid engines for BMW, Mini and Rolls-Royce cars since it opened in 2001. Head of the Hams Hall plant Dirk Dreher said: 'This anniversary is a special milestone for our site. Unsung hero: The factory has built more than 7.6million pure petrol and plug-in hybrid engines since it opened in 2001 'There's always been a real passion among our workforce to continually improve our manufacturing processes and site. We're looking forward to remaining a successful plant in the future.' Does a 'SaaSpocalypse' loom, or has the alarm been overdone? That's the question that investors are asking themselves after $1trillion was wiped off the shares in various SaaS software-as-a-service companies in just one day earlier this month. The share price slide is being caused by fears that the rise in artificial intelligence (AI) could inflict huge damage not only on software companies, but also on those in the information service sector. Jensen Huang, boss of the chip giant Nvidia, may view this scenario as 'the most illogical thing in the world'. Yet the rout has continued in recent days, its latest victims including Dassault Systemes, the French software group. Dassault shares tumbled by 21 per cent on Wednesday, despite the promise from chief executive Pascal Daloz that the company 'will lead the industrial AI transformation'. This decline followed the fall in shares of the UK price-comparison websites Mony, owner of MoneySupermarket, and Future, which owns GoCompare. Extinction level event: Does a 'SaaSpocalypse' loom, or has the alarm been overdone? Concern is growing that they will be damaged by the arrival of Insurify. This US platform deploys the ChatGPT AI system from the Californian start-up OpenAI to find better car insurance deals. Insurify's chief executive Snejina Zacharia, who set up the company when her own motor premiums were raised, this week said: 'We're redefining the insurance shopping experience by making it feel as simple as having a conversation.' Shares in Charles Schwab, St James's Place and other US and UK wealth managers also suffered. The view is that clients could prefer cheaper offers, such as that from Altruist, a US start-up that relies on AI to devise financial-planning strategies. SaaSpocalypse angst was initially sparked by the decline in the major software names such as Sage. Also hit was Relx whose activities include legal analytics and London Stock Exchange Group, which has an extensive data division. US corporations such as AppLovin, LegalZoom, Oracle and Salesforce were also caught up in the maelstrom. Behind these declines lay the announcement of new updates to Claude, the AI system from the San Francisco-based start-up Anthropic. Claude has been described as 'a more cerebral version of ChatGPT'. Michael Brown, an analyst at broker UBS, summed up the mood of uncertainty: 'We're in this moment where we don't really know what the next 12 or 24 months will bring.' Against this backdrop, it may be tempting to shrug your shoulders at the volatility. After all, Huang contends that AI systems will improve rather than displace software products. He said: 'Would you use a screwdriver or invent a new screwdriver?' It may be too soon to discern who will be the winners and losers from this latest instance of how AI will change the world. But it is not too early to monitor the impact on your portfolio. Opportunity: Sam Altman is the boss of OpenAI THE AI THREAT If you backed the Magnificent Seven US tech shares Google owner Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Facebook parent Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia and Tesla you have largely been a beneficiary of their focus on AI. 'SaaSpocalypse' is an alert to AI's potentially precipitous downside. Jason Hollands of Bestinvest points out that just a year ago it was thought that software and information service companies would prosper from AI's ascent. He said: 'It's a lesson that for investors, AI is both an opportunity and a threat to portfolios not a one-way bet.' The price falls may have turned some software stocks into bargains. Analysts consider both Relx and London Stock Exchange to be 'buys', for example. This week Erik Engstrom, Relx's boss, assured shareholders that it was 'almost inconceivable' that AI could replicate its offer, which is already enhanced by AI. London Stock Exchange shares stand at 7,570p, but Barclays has set a target price of 12,000p, in the wake of news that US activist investor Elliott has taken a stake in the company. Sage is rated a 'hold'. But investing in these stocks now is only for the adventurous, as it may be too early to sort the winners from the losers. The rivalry from AI seems set to depress the fees that software companies can charge so lowering their profits. But, as the US broker Wedbush Securities argues, companies that have spent billions on software infrastructure may be reluctant to sever links with existing providers as this could endanger their data. If you hold the popular trust Finsbury Growth & Income you are particularly exposed to software and information-service companies. The trust's portfolio contains Auto Trader, credit-analytics business Experian, London Stock Exchange, Rightmove and Sage. But Nick Train, the trust's manager, says that these incumbent companies will be mobilising to supply AI-enhanced services to their clients. And some software companies are doing just that. Cloudflare, a US group, has created AI Crawl Control, which helps media companies, keen to protect their subscription income, manage how AI systems scrape their website content. If you are in the mood for a bet, one analyst has set a $300 target for Cloudflare shares which are trading at around $190. THE AI OPPORTUNITY OpenAI, where Sam Altman is chief executive, is poised to make its stock market debut this year with a possible valuation of $830billion, (610billion) thanks to the popularity of ChatGPT which has 800m users. Anthropic, led by ex-OpenAI executive Dario Amodei, is also poised to float with a likely $350billion (around 257billion) price tag. Fortunately for investors like me, the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust bought a slice of Anthropic late last year. This appears a wise move, given the acclaim that surrounds Claude, whose tools enable customers to produce and use software a process that has traditionally required extensive technical skills. The latest Claude 'plug-ins' or updates included a legal service that allows contracts to be drawn up and reviewed quickly and easily. Another set of updates automates tasks in a company's advertising, marketing and sales departments. As a result of these updates, Anthropic is now regarded as one of the four most valuable private companies in the world. Revenues in 2025 were $9billion (6.6billion), with about $30billion (22billion) expected this year. Altman and Amodei may be rivals, but these billionaires are united in anxiety over the fallout from the explosion in AI. In a 19,000-word essay published last month, Amodei wrote: 'Humanity is about to be handed almost unimaginable power, and it is deeply unclear whether our social, political, and technological systems possess the maturity to wield it.' The essay was meant as a wake-up call and you should use it as a signal to monitor the impact of AI on your portfolio since 'SaaSpocalypse' may only be the start. The manager of stock market-listed fund Rockwood Strategic goes searching for investment minnows in waters few others fish in: the UK 'micro-cap' sector. It's a pond, embracing some 500 companies with market capitalisations of below 250 million, that numerous investment houses have deserted in recent years. But not Richard Staveley, who runs the 220 million investment trust with assistant Nicholas Mills. Staveley believes there is money to be made from buying micro-cap public companies, typically when they are struggling, and then holding them as they recover. The recovery, usually involving a change of management, new board members or a restructuring of the business, takes between three and five years to come through and Staveley's aim is to double the value of the trust's investment by the time he exits. It's an approach he has honed over 25 years of running smaller companies' funds. He now works for Harwood Capital Management which has 2 billion of assets under its wing including Rockwood and four other investment trusts. Rockwood's performance indicates that Staveley has come up with a winning formula. Over the past five years it has more than doubled shareholders' money, generating investor returns of 131 per cent. To put this number into perspective, the average UK smaller companies' investment trust has delivered an equivalent return of 32 per cent. 'We go against the herd,' says the fund manager. 'While everyone else is looking at artificial intelligence, gold and crypto currencies, we search out troubled UK companies which we believe can be turned around.' The fund is invested in just 25 businesses all are public with the top-ten holdings accounting for more than 60 per cent of assets. Staveley says that his investments fall into two broad camps. First, there are companies in the process of turnaround when he makes an investment and then he quietly sits on the sidelines as they transform. In this group sits outsourcer Capita, which it bought in May 2024 when the shares were trading at 2.14. As a result of an overhaul in Staveley's words, 'getting rid of a lot of mess' Capita is now in better shape, notwithstanding its acute problems administering the Civil Service pension scheme. Its shares are priced just below 3.60, and Staveley believes there is the potential for further upside. Although its market value is now 405 million, Staveley is content 'to run with our winners' and believes it could break through 1billion. The second camp comprises companies where Rockwood Strategic's approach is more hands on, being part of a shareholder group which agitates for change. In 18 of the businesses it has stakes in, the trust owns more than 5 per cent of the shares. This enables Staveley, on behalf of the trust, to request an extraordinary general meeting if he believes that it will speed up transformation which can sometimes take a while. Rockwood bought a stake in communications company M&C Saatchi five years ago at a share price of around 80p. In 2022, the business was unsuccessfully bid for twice, while late last year a bid for an overseas division was rejected. Staveley is confident that, in the near future, active engagement with M&C Saatchi's board will result in 'value being realised for shareholders'. The shares now trade at 1.26. The trust's total annual charges are high at 1.83 per cent, but are value for money if the trust keeps delivering stellar performance. Its market ticker is RKW and the identification code is BRRD5L6. Over the past four years, high street banks have announced more than 2,200 branch closures as part of a push to move customers some kicking and screaming, others valiantly resisting towards a brave new digital banking world. Closures are now so common that the medias overall reaction to them is somewhat mute. So its no surprise that the decision by Lloyds Banking Group four days ago to axe 95 branches across its three high street brands Bank of Scotland, Halifax and Lloyds warranted no more than a few paragraphs in national newspapers. Press coverage online, admittedly, was more detailed. Lloyds is not the only bank in recent weeks to confirm forthcoming closures: NatWest and Santander have also given details of branches facing the chop. But what merits Lloyds special attention is two things. First, the scale of closures 95 branches compared to 32 and 44, respectively, for NatWest and Santander. Second, and more importantly, theyre happening while Lloyds is simultaneously undermining the community banks which the Government is banking on (apologies for the pun) to keep a semblance of banking service alive on our high streets. Town centres which, as you and I know, are currently being pulverised by a deluge of Government taxes on retailers large and small. Joined up thinking from Labour? Fat chance. Despicable behaviour from Lloyds? Absolutely, as a mix of customers and campaigners confirmed last week when I spoke to them about the big bad wolf that is Lloyds Banking Group. Lloyds Banking Group recently announced a decision to axe 95 branches across its three high street brands Bank of Scotland, Halifax and Lloyds By limiting customers use of these new style community banks (often referred to as banking hubs), Lloyds is effectively sabotaging them before a national network has been fully established. Indeed, if other banks were to follow Lloyds lead (banks tend to act like lemmings), it could result in banking hubs being shut, not opened. If so, it would represent a devastating blow for all bank customers, irrespective of whether they bank with Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, NatWest or Santander or for that matter any other high street bank. For those who have yet to use a banking hub, let me give you a brief summary of what they offer before explaining how Lloyds is harming them. Hubs are set up in towns where all the banks have shut their branches but where it is believed there is sufficient customer demand to support a shared high street bank. The decision to launch a hub is made by cash machine network Link, using strict criteria drawn up by the banks. The hubs are then constructed by Cash Access UK, an organisation funded by the big banks, and operated in nearly all cases by the Post Office. The customer services on offer are basic, essentially centred on the banking of cash and the payment of bills. But staff from the communitys most popular banks are on hand on specific days to assist customers with more complex banking needs. The big bad wolf that is LLoyds Banking Group So far, 214 banking hubs are up and running, with another 58 approved by Link and waiting to go live. Labours promise, outlined in its (grotesquely misleading) 2024 election manifesto, is for 350 of them to be established before it gets kicked out of power as expected in 2029. Maybe Labour will get its 350 hubs before heading into the political wilderness, but it wont be as a result of Lloyds actions. Late last year, the bank let it be known that its customers would no longer be able to deposit cheques at a hub or a post office. The ban kicked in from the start of this year. Instead, they would have to use alternative means: a mobile app (anathema to many customers), putting the cheque in an envelope marked freepost LBG and trusting Royal Mail to deliver it promptly (fat chance), or using a deposit machine at a Lloyds branch (the friendliest option, provided one can be found). Derek French, a retired bank executive and a long-standing advocate of banking hubs, told me last week that Lloyds move represents the first blow in eroding the value of hubs as a customer-acceptable replacement for the closure of local bank branches. And he is dead right, based on the conversations I have had with numerous Lloyds customers in the past few days. Among them is 72-year-old Rob Pepper, who before retiring actually worked for Lloyds for 37 years as a commercial manager. Rob lives in Cheadle near Stoke-on-Trent in Staffordshire. The town lost its Lloyds branch in late 2022. A year later, a banking hub was launched in Cheadle before relocating to new premises at the end of 2024. Lloyds is undermining the 'community' banks which the Government is banking on to keep a semblance of banking service alive on our high streets Until this year, the hub was so convenient, says Rob. I regularly receive dividend cheques from some of the investments I have, so I could just pop in and get them deposited. But not any longer: the hub wont allow him to deposit the cheques. I dont use mobile apps because I consider them unsafe, adds Rob. As for the postal service, its too unreliable. Lloyds withdrawal of the cheque deposit service dilutes the purpose of banking hubs. What makes matters worse is that the most convenient Lloyds branch for him to use to deposit the cheques based in Uttoxeter is on the list of 95 closures announced by the bank four days ago. You couldnt make it up, he says. Rob is not alone in feeling disenfranchised by Lloyds. They will be dismantled and no more David Rayner, an octogenarian from Alcester in Warwickshire, is a regular at the towns banking hub after Lloyds shut the last bank eight months ago. But hes angry that he now cant go there to bank any cheques that he and his wife Diane receive including (rather ironically) dividend cheques from Lloyds. It seems as if we cant win, says Rob, who ran his own buildings supplies business before retiring. First, Lloyds shuts our local branch. Then we get a hub, which is not perfect but allows us to do basic banking only to now be told that Lloyds is restricting what limited banking we can do there. Its as if the bank doesnt want our custom just our money. Derek French suggests Lloyds wont be the only bank to stop customers using hubs and for that matter post offices to deposit cheques. Others, he believes, will follow its lead. He says: Its contrary to the objective of banking hubs and smaller community post offices, which is to provide people with access to basic banking services on the high street. Its an objective which Government supports, but is now in danger of being seriously undermined. The more services that are withdrawn from hubs, the less people will use them and the more reason for banks to turn round at some stage and withdraw their support for them. I asked Lloyds why it had stopped allowing customers to bank cheques through hubs. In response, it said that customers are using alternative ways to bank cheques, reiterating the alternative ways available to customers wishing to deposit them, which I have already mentioned. It then added: Customers want the freedom to bank in the way that works for them, and we offer more choice and ways to manage money than ever before. My fear is that Lloyds has set in train the beginning of the end of hubs. I imagine the next big step and it might not happen for a while could be the withdrawal of banking staff from hubs on the grounds that their services are not being used sufficiently. Sadly, I feel that we are on the cusp of a full-blown digital banking world. Banking hubs are no more than a temporary measure to appease a generation for whom high street banking is the only way to bank. In time, certainly within my lifetime, they will be dismantled and be no more. Confirmation of the final stage of this journey from personal to digital banking will come this week as The Connection Project updates us on how everyone can thrive in a digital society. The thought chills me to the bone. Rachel Reeves' recent comments that the UK must have closer relations with the European Union represent the clearest sign yet of the grip which Labour's power brokers and the Left now have over the Cabinet and the extent to which the Chancellor is fighting for her survival. Reeves, together with the Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has always wanted stronger ties with the European Union. But until now they have taken a sotto voce approach, not wanting to alienate Leave supporters many of whom are Labour voters or be accused of Brexit betrayal. Not anymore. The gloves are off, and Reeves has taken a big gamble in saying out loud what so many in Labour have wanted all along further alignment with the EU across sectors to push for greater trade. Her decision to be so outspoken arguing that closer ties are the 'biggest prize for UK economic growth' has also been made easier by the resignation of Morgan McSweeney, the PM's former chief of staff, who sensibly advised taking the softly-softly approach towards the EU for fear of upsetting Red Wall voters. Reeves is under enormous pressure on all fronts. Even Angela Rayner, her erstwhile front-bench colleague, felt enabled to launch the most extraordinary attack on the Chancellor for her mishandling of the hospitality industry. Quite right too. The gloves are off: Rachel Reeves, together with the Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has always wanted stronger ties with the European Union By throwing red meat to the Rejoiners who after Starmer's near-death experience are flexing their muscles she will have hoped to buy herself some time before the PM sacks her too to save his skin. More pertinently, what does the Chancellor hope to achieve by snuggling up to the EU? She is correct in pointing out the value of EU trade. Almost half of our trade is with the eurozone. There are, of course, always strong arguments for improving trade with our biggest partner, particularly now that the US is imposing tariffs and China is dumping goods, willy-nilly. But how would this be achieved without giving up Brexit freedoms? And why now, when the EU is also suffering from stagnant growth? She has three options. First, rejoining the Customs Union, a move Starmer has ruled out, and would be the ultimate Brexit betrayal but it's still a possibility. Second, joining the European Free Trading Area or the European Economic Area which would give access to the single market. Or third and this is the more likely pick'n'mix approach negotiating alignment in critical sectors such as financial services, agricultural products or tech, one of the UK's most dynamic industries. But why would the EU give us advantages after all the Brexit dramas? Counter-intuitively, it could well be that the EU itself riven with internal politics about how to be more competitive might rather like having the UK on side as it fights off President Trump's volatile tariffs and President Xi's aggressive dumping policy. Yet the danger for Reeves is that, in her hurry to save her job, she will panic when the next round of EU trade negotiations take place later this spring. She might tie herself in knots rather than negotiate closer ties. The Chancellor should be careful what she wishes for. Reversing Brexit won't go down well in the history books. The Treasury's top civil servant has revealed his surprise at not being interviewed as part of an inquiry into Budget leaks despite being privy to all the Chancellor's tax plans. In unusually candid remarks, James Bowler, pictured inset, also spoke of his 'frustration' at the investigation's failure to find the source of a leak that Rachel Reeves would drop plans to raise income tax. A series of other policies which included extending the freeze on income tax thresholds and a downgrade of UK productivity by the official forecaster were briefed to the media before the Chancellor's statement in November last year. The news hit business and consumer confidence as financial markets gyrated on the speculation. Appearing before MPs on the Treasury Select Committee last week, Bowler was asked if he was surprised investigators from the Cabinet Office had not quizzed him about the leaks even though he knew all the key Budget details. What's in the box?: Rachel Reeves' Budget was subject to constant leaks and James Bowler (above right) has revealed his surprise at not being interviewed as part of the inquiry 'Yeah, I was a bit,' he said, confirming he had been questioned 'many, many times' in previous leak inquiries. He added that he didn't know if it was 'special treatment' that he wasn't interviewed this time. Bowler's comments came just days before he was parachuted in to share the role of head of the civil service and cabinet secretary until a permanent replacement for Sir Chris Wormald is found. Wormald last week became the latest casualty in a clear-out of key advisers by beleaguered Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Bowler will share Wormald's responsibilities with fellow mandarins Catherine Little and Antonia Romeo, the Home Office permanent secretary who is tipped to get the top job. MPs were also told that the investigation did not clarify whether the leak came from inside the Treasury. 'Frustratingly, it didn't find the exact source of the leak and that is a source of frustration to me personally,' Bowler said. 'We are determined to learn from the situations that happened in the Budget and tighten our handling of market sensitive information,' he added. Bowler also revealed that a search for a new chair for the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) would begin 'imminently'. The independent forecaster's boss, Richard Hughes, quit in December after details of the Chancellor's Budget were accidentally leaked on its website nearly an hour before she announced them in Parliament. A successor would be appointed before the Budget later this year, Bowler said. He also insisted that the OBR's remit would remain unchanged despite criticism that Rachel Reeves' 'non-negotiable' fiscal rules were stifling growth. The Cabinet Office declined to comment. BAE Systems is set to post bumper profits this week as business booms for defence firms. Its shares have been on a tear since Russia's invasion of Ukraine forced Western governments to reassess their security. Analysts at broker AJ Bell also point to conflict in the Middle East and heightened geopolitical tensions for BAE's 'stunning run'. The shares have trebled since Russian tanks rolled across the Ukrainian border four years ago. Flying high: BAE Systems is set to post bumper profits as business booms for defence firms Led by Charles Woodburn, it is now worth 60 billion and is one of the FTSE 100's best performers. In its November update, the firm revealed it had secured 27 billion of new orders, including contracts for Type 26 frigates from Norway and Typhoon aircraft destined for Turkey, another Nato ally. AJ Bell expects operating profit for the 2025 calendar year to be up a tenth to 3.3 billion and sales to rise a similar amount to 31 billion. The recent US government shutdown may mean money owed for defence work was delayed but this could be more than offset by some big new orders, the broker notes. The defence contractor hopes to be picked for a 24 million Royal Navy contract for remote-controlled submersible vessels to protect critical underwater pipelines and internet cables, and track hostile submarines. Its unmanned submarine will undergo final sea trials next year before entering production. The government is under growing pressure to scrap the 'flawed' business rates system for pubs after a minister admitted the way bills are calculated should be reviewed. Landlords have seen property tax valuations balloon by as much as fourfold, putting thousands in financial jeopardy. After an outcry, pubs and music venues were given a 15 per cent discount on business rates from April and will not see rises for two years. Junior Treasury Minister Dan Tomlinson has 'acknowledged concerns' about the valuation process and promised a 'review of the methodology'. But the Government will not change it until the next three-yearly revaluation in 2029. Tory MP Andrew Snowden, vice chairman of the all-party parliamentary group on beer, said: 'By sticking with current valuations, huge bills are still landing on local pubs and many simply will not be able to cope. Unless urgent action is taken now, hundreds, if not thousands, will close.' His call comes as Angela Rayner and Andy Burnham, tipped as Labour leadership candidates, call for more tax support for pubs. Cheers: Mel Stride says pubs should be given the certainty they deserve Landlords are already under pressure from National Insurance and National Minimum Wage increases, plus high energy bills. Last week accountancy firm Price Bailey said one in eight pubs could face winding up petitions. Recent changes to business rates mean a lower multiplier of the estimated rental value of a property is used to calculate the tax. As well as the 15 per cent discount, Chancellor Rachel Reeves introduced transitional reliefs over the next three years after axing 40 per cent Covid-era discounts. But publicans say revaluations mean the lower multiplier and transitional relief make little difference. Industry bodies UKHospitality and the British Beer and Pub Association have warned the bills will still rise by an average of 15 per cent, or 1,400, in April. Reeves has avoided more fundamental changes to business rates, and other hospitality businesses restaurants, hotels and cafes miss out on any relief at all. Tomlinson's intervention came after a rising backlash from industry bosses and MPs which saw Labour MPs, including the Chancellor, barred by pub landlords in response to November's Budget. In an exchange with Shadow Chancellor Sir Mel Stride, Tomlinson blamed the Tories for the current system and accused trade bodies of changing their position in the wake of November's budget. He said: 'Before the Budget, every pub sector body was broadly signed up to the methodology for valuing pubs. Since then, the same bodies have withdrawn support.' In response, Stride said: 'Labour admit the pub valuation system is flawed, promise a review later but make pubs pay now.' He added the Tories would 'abolish business rates for thousands of pubs and give them the certainty they deserve'. Meanwhile Reform UK, which has proposed a 3 billion support plan for pubs including scrapping business rates and National Insurance rises while reducing VAT and duty, said: 'The current business rates valuations have left the pub sector on its knees.' Publicans are angry that the current revaluation process, by the Valuations Office Agency, factors in turnover to calculate rateable value when it is supposed to use a measure called Fair Maintainable Trade the takings of a fair, competent landlord. Landlords say they are unfairly penalised for upping turnover, such as through offering food or live music, even if it incurs extra costs, regardless of profits. Chris Wright, of the Pubs Advisory Service, which assists landlords and business owners appealing rate valuations, said: The government needs to restore confidence in the rateable values system and prove they are going to stop using turnovers. He added that revaluations should show full data used and supporting evidence. Meanwhile, Allen Simpson, chief executive of UK Hospitality, said the pub sector needs help now rather than at the next valuation. He said: This entire situation proves that the business rates system is still not working for hospitality businesses. The Government's review of valuation methodology is positive, but that is a longer-term reform that will not change the bills that are rising across the sector in April. Hospitality businesses and industry bodies were well aware that rateable values were set to increase significantly and that the existing 40% business rates relief was due to expire. It's why, for months prior to the Budget, we were calling for the Government to introduce a maximum 20p business rates discount, because that was the only way to deliver lower bills. The Government chose not to heed those warnings. A British Beer and Pub Association spokesperson said: 'The methodology has been in question for some time and in light of the recent revaluations and the unprecedented increases many pubs have seen, we withdrew our support for the latest guide. 'We are pleased that Government has listened to our request to now review the pub valuation methodology.' A Treasury spokesman said: 'We are backing Britain's pubs with a cut to their business rates bills followed by a two-year real-terms freeze whilst we review how pubs are valued.' End of an era? There's a temptation to see the sale of Schroders to a subsidiary of a New York teachers' pension fund as the sad final chapter to a story lasting more than two centuries. Johann Heinrich Schroder, born in Hamburg, came to London and founded the asset manager in 1804 during the Napoleonic Wars. Schroders was one of a string of what we used to call merchant banks, started in the City by the scions of Continental families from the early 1700s onwards. They included the Barings, the Hambros, the Kleinworts and the Rothschilds, through to Sir Siegmund Warburg, who founded SG Warburg in 1946. With a few exceptions they were all from mainland Europe, and this country owes them an enormous debt. They built London's financial services industry into what is still the second-largest in the world after New York. Indeed on some measures it remains ahead. Now only Rothschild is independent. There are UK-owned boutique financial advisory businesses and some important home-based asset managers, of which the most important is probably Legal & General. Our clearing banks, notably Barclays and HSBC, do some investment banking, but this hugely important branch of global finance is dominated by the US. Back in the 1980s, it was Kleinwort that led the privatisation of British Telecom, then the largest public stock market flotation of a company's equity in the world. Those days are long gone. End of an era: Schroders was one of a string of what we used to call merchant banks, started in the City by the scions of Continental families Does it matter? Well, the decline of equity culture in the UK certainly matters. To have Britons' pension savings stuffed into gilts Government debt instead of growing our firms has been a disaster. This was largely the result of stupid regulation and tax policy by the Labour government of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown. At last that is being recognised. The narrower point of whether it is troubling that we have ceded investment banking to US financial groups is less clear cut. Until the Big Bang reforms of 1986, the City operated to a different set of rules to the rest of the world and especially the US. Then, in a flash, the restrictions including fixed share trading commissions and a ban on foreign ownership of UK stockbrokers were blown away. We switched to the US system, so it is unsurprising this element of our domestic financial business would end up being US-controlled. In one sense it was a triumph. It gave a huge boost to the City, securing its role as the world's second biggest financial centre. People who work in financial services get paid here. We can buy shares in JPMorgan Chase or Goldman Sachs and get the dividends and capital growth. We can to some extent rely on US clout to ensure European regulators don't damage the City's business, though it's self-interest rather than anything else that drives that. But we would be naive to think the big decisions are not made in New York. In the case of Schroders, the investment banking side of the business was sold to Citigroup in 2000, but it hung on to asset management. Now that has gone too. You can understand why a rich family wants to diversify its wealth. You don't want to have too many eggs in one basket. But it is troubling that a London-based enterprise with more than $1 trillion (750 billion) under management feels it hasn't got the scale to remain competitive. That leads to a further issue. Selling out is one thing. But we need to ask ourselves why so many UK businesses are undervalued, and accordingly are being snapped up by foreign buyers. We also need to look at where the next generation of entrepreneurs or rainmakers be they from the UK, Continent, or North America are basing themselves. We're not doing badly in start-up terms, third behind the US and China, and bigger than France and Germany put together. But we could do so much better. We have lots of ambitious people who can raise the money to get going, but when they need to scale up the cash is in America. We need the modern equivalent of Johann Heinrich Schroder not only to start here but to build businesses that will last into the 22nd Century and beyond. A woman has come forward with startling claims of a latenight alien encounter. Brisbane-based researcher Sheryl Gottschall said she had a terrifying close encounter with three 'grey aliens' in her bedroom in 1991 while her husband slept beside her. 'I was asleep in bed and I woke up in the early hours of the morning. It was still dark and, standing beside the bed, were these three small beings,' she told the Daily Mail. 'We now refer to them as Greys, or grey aliens, who are typically about three to four feet tall, with inverted pear-shaped heads and large dark wraparound eyes. 'They were just staring at me... and I was completely terrified. I didn't move. 'I did a very strange thing. I pulled the sheet over my head and I spontaneously started reciting the Lord's Prayer. Then, the next thing I know, it's morning.' It was only the next day that she recalled the vivid experience and 'had no clue' why she had chosen to recite the prayer. 'I went to Sunday school, but I'm not a religious person,' she said. Sheryl Gottschall (pictured) claims she had a terrifying close encounter with three 'grey aliens' in her bedroom during 1991 in Brisbane Decades later, Ms Gottschall is the president of UFO Research Queensland, which is dedicated to recording and researching UFO sightings and close alien encounters. The 1991 visit was just one of various 'unexplainable' experiences she has had. Ms Gottschall said it is important for Australians to care about UFO sightings to understand that people on Earth are part of a 'galactic neighbourhood.' 'One day, we will evolve to the point where we are past having individual contact... to a collective scale where extraterrestrials might show up in droves,' she said. 'I think we need to be prepared for that... And if we have open contact, what does it mean? And what are they doing here? 'It seems that these beings, whoever they are, aren't intent on making open contact anytime soon. I don't think they've done that throughout history. 'Many researchers have studied history and... people have painted ETs and sketched them centuries ago in a lot of religious art and in Indigenous art. 'But they don't seem to intend to make open contact and that may be because we are being viewed for their own purposes. Australians have also spotted airborne UAP - or Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (pictured, a mystery object flies through the sky in Alexander Heights, WA) 'We could be a very long-term experiment - and you don't want to interfere with the experiment... It could be that they are prodding us to evolve in a certain way.' Beyond 'close encounters' with aliens and UFOs, Australians have also spotted airborne UAP - or Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena. Last year, a mysterious object was found burning in remote Western Australia. Discovered in October near a mining site outside the town of Newman, the large black object resembled known space re-entry debris, police said. It was later linked to debris from a Chinese rocket launch. A month earlier, there were reports of strange lights in the sky near Point Moore in Geraldton, 420km north of Perth. But, to the frustration of researchers such as Melbourne-based UAP activist Grant Lavac, there appears to be little appetite within the federal government to seriously investigate the issue. 'I've been perplexed as to why our US ally is taking this topic so seriously and being as transparent as they possibly can be, but Australia - as well as other allies, like the UK and New Zealand - are very, very reluctant to even talk about it,' he said. UAP activist Grant Lavac (pictured) has questioned why the Australian government has not restarted investigation into unusual aerial sightings across the country In 1996, the Royal Australian Air Force formally stopped investigating reports of 'unusual aerial sightings' as there was 'no scientific or other compelling reason to continue'. But Mr Lavac said that, 30 years later, it's a very different landscape: 'We thought it was nothing back in 1996 but really, there is something to it. 'Our US ally is taking this incredibly seriously as a potential national security threat and safety of flight risk. 'I think the Australian Department of Defence and RAAF are fearful.' While he is fascinated by UAPs, Mr Lavac remains more cautious than Ms Gottschall regarding what people might be looking at when they see a UAP. 'People out in the bush, certainly in the Northern Territory and Western Australia, have reported observations of strange, anomalous objects in the sky,' he said. 'It's just such a vast country that's so uninhabited in some parts that there would be anomalous objects and things happening in the sky now that could include, you know, testing of top-secret, next-generation military technology. 'So it could well be that UAP activity that is observed in Australian skies is our own human-made technology. Pictured, a reprinted in Australian Flying Saucer Review from June 1966 'But then you have reports from credible people who see some incredible things in Australian airspace that just defy our understanding of how things operate.' Mr Lavac said this was enough of a compelling reason for the RAAF to revisit the topic and take it seriously. 'If folks are seeing stuff in Australian airspace they cannot readily identify or reconcile, that is a real potential risk to national security,' he said. He added the items could be foreign and adversarial - so from a hostile nation - or more broadly 'things in airspace that defy our current capabilities'. 'I think it's foolish for people to discount the idea that UAPs might originate from ETs and say, 'It's stupid to entertain the notion that it could be of non-human origin.' 'Well, rather than explain the uninvestigated, we should be investigating the unexplained.' Like all new parents, Arthur Zey and his partner Chase Popp think their one-month-old son Dax is the most perfect baby in the world. They glow with pride when they boast about his good health, his happy demeanor and even his lack of diaper rash. But unlike most parents, Zey and Popp don't attribute their son's excellent temperament to their paternal instincts alone. In March last year, they had a choice of six embryos created by Zey's sperm and a donor's eggs to implant into a surrogate mother. Genetic analysis gave them predictions for the future heights, IQs and multiple health markers for the viable embryos. Zey and Popp then chose which one would become their first-born child, making little Dax a pioneer in today's brave new world of commercial eugenics. Cradling his baby son on his shoulder, Popp - a 29-year-old elementary school teacher - said that everything they had seen in Dax so far vindicated their decision: 'Looking at Dax, he overall seems like he feels good, he looks healthy to me. 'When [people] say he's a designer baby, I take that as a huge compliment: yes, he is a designer baby, and we're proud of it and he should be proud of it.' Zey, a 41-year-old technology product manager who is taking time off to be a stay-at-home dad, says he wishes his parents had access to technology that could have given him favorable traits - such as being more muscular - when he was conceived. 'If it is within your means to affect your child's life for the better, I think that's the responsible, compassionate thing to do,' he told the Daily Mail. Popp and Zey chose which embryo would become their first-born child, making little Dax a pioneer in today's brave new world of commercial eugenics Genetic analysis gave them predictions for the future heights, IQs and multiple health markers for the viable embryos While genetic experts question the effectiveness of screening embryos for traits like intelligence, mental health and height, the service is currently being offered at eye-popping prices. Much of the research and development is funded by Silicon Valley tech bros obsessed with creating a super-race of improved humans. 'Most of them are not concerned with what happens to you or me: they're interested in what happens in Silicon Valley with their reproduction,' said Arthur Caplan, head of medical ethics at New York University Grossman School of Medicine. '[They think] maybe we're not going to be able to go to Mars if we don't genetically alter our bodies in some way to be able to survive the trip. Maybe AI will eliminate humanity because it's too smart, so we need a subset of people to stay abreast of what AI's tricks are.' It sounds like dystopian science fiction: a class of genetically screened or enhanced humans, lording over a genetically inferior class who cannot access or afford the technology foretold in the 1997 science fiction film Gattaca starring Ethan Hawke. In the film, the elite are screened to inherit the best genes from their parents, while an underclass of naturally conceived 'invalids' are barred from entering top professions. It was meant to be a warning about how eugenics can fuel inequality, but many of its concepts have already become a reality. In 2018, Chinese scientist He Jiankui said he had created the first gene-edited babies, claiming to have successfully modified the DNA on three embryos to produce children immune to HIV. He who has referred to himself as the 'Chinese Darwin' and 'Oppenheimer in China' - was sentenced to three years in prison by the Chinese authorities for violating medical regulations, and Beijing banned any further gene editing in reproductive cells. In 2018, Chinese scientist He Jiankui said he had created the first gene-edited babies, claiming to have successfully modified the DNA on three embryos to produce children immune to HIV He was released in 2022 and has said he is determined to continue his research to eliminate conditions such as Alzheimer's in embryos. But he had a stark warning for those wishing to deploy the science for non-medical aims. 'Recently, some billionaires in Silicon Valley have been pushing forward to enhance human IQ, in particular in babies,' he told WIRED. 'I think that is a Nazi eugenic experiment. That should be stopped. The scientists working on this should be arrested if they want to enhance human IQ for the billionaires.' It wasn't clear which billionaires or start-ups he was referencing. There are at least three companies backed by Silicon Valley investigating embryo editing, even though research on human embryos is banned in most of the world. In the US, editing genes in embryos with the intention of becoming babies is banned. While the companies claim to be researching gene editing possibilities for medical purposes to eradicate hereditary illness, the academic community is skeptical. 'The "embryo editors" are deceiving themselves and the public when they speak of using this technology to address the public health challenge of genetic disease,' said Fyodor Urnov, a director at the Innovative Genomics Institute at the University of California, Berkeley. 'Their sole purpose is "baby improvement." This is technically dangerous and profoundly amoral.' The San Francisco-based startup Preventive has raised $30 million for its research into reproductive gene editing and is backed by OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman and his husband, as well as Coinbase co-founder Brian Armstrong. Armstrong has written on X that he envisions Gattaca-style IVF clinics in the future where technologies including genetic testing and embryo editing will 'accelerate evolution.' Nucleus Genomics has plastered the New York subway with posters urging people to 'Have Your Best Baby' Nucleus Genomics has backers including PayPal founder Peter Thiel The San Francisco-based startup Preventive has raised $30 million for its research into reproductive gene editing and is backed by OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman and his husband, as well as Coinbase co-founder Brian Armstrong Lucas Harrington, Preventive's founder, declined to discuss his current research with the Daily Mail, but he did hit back at He Jiankui. 'We are deeply concerned by He Jiankui's recent public statements indicating his intent to pursue embryo editing again, particularly given his apparent lack of contrition for the reckless and unethical nature of his previous work,' Harrington said. 'Heritable genome editing presents real potential risks, and any responsible effort in this space must begin with rigorous, transparent preclinical safety research.' The risks, says Caplan, are that healthy genes are incorrectly targeted, or DNA may be disrupted in a way that has unintended consequences. Then there are the ethical dilemmas: who decides what is a medical issue and what is an enhancement, and what genetic traits are good or bad? Will the technology exacerbate inequality? Could authoritarian governments misuse it? What if a mistake is made then passed down to future generations? While gene editing in embryos is decades from becoming a reality, a handful of companies have emerged offering genetic screening. Nucleus Genomics has plastered the New York subway with posters urging people to 'Have Your Best Baby.' The company whose backers include PayPal founder Peter Thiel - analyzes for traits such as acne, hair color, male pattern baldness, anxiety and alcohol dependence. Parents Arthur Zey and Chase Popp went through a company called Herasight, which began operating last year. For a $50,000 price tag, Herasight says it can analyze embryos and give parents an indication of future traits such as IQ and height, as well as risk factors like schizophrenia, psoriasis and Type 2 Diabetes. Jonathan Anomaly, Herasight's research and communications director, is concerned that alarmist rhetoric over terms like 'eugenics' is creating an environment in which governments are preventing parents from choosing their child's genetic makeup. 'It's not worth gratuitously using that word just to provoke,' he said. 'On the other hand, we should stop focusing on words and start focusing on moral principles. And the moral principle at stake here is individual autonomy.' Popp and Zey went through Herasight, which began operations last year Popp said that everything they had seen in Dax so far vindicated their decision: 'Looking at Dax, he overall seems like he feels good, he looks healthy to me' The technology to screen embryos produced through IVF for chromosomal abnormalities and for mutations to single genes which cause hereditary illnesses like sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis and Huntington's Disease has existed for decades. It is routinely offered to people with hereditary risk factors to prevent debilitating diseases being passed to children. However, many of the diseases and traits Herasight is screening for are polygenic, meaning they are associated with many different genes. This makes it 'near impossible' to identify and reliably predict any outcome, said Urnov. Anomaly disagrees: he says Herasight has access to data from diverse human biobanks around the world and has analyzed the genomes of at least half a million people to determine the genetic variants for the traits that they offer to screen for. 'In the short term, the science has advanced very quickly, and it's going to continue advancing,' he said. He concedes that right now such services are the prevail of the rich and says they have a few well-known billionaires on their client list but hopes that the price tag will come down as the processes become less labor-intensive. Zey thinks there could potentially be a future divide between the genetically enhanced and unenhanced but believes that 'a rising tide raises all ships,' with the more intelligent cohort of humans helping humanity become better. And he is confident that Baby Dax will be up there with the best of them. While he and Popp chose the embryo with the best longevity prediction, the IQ score was also up to scratch. 'Do we have an expectation that he's going to be brilliant? Yes,' Zey said. Zey and Popp were given access to the technology for free as an early proof of concept for Herasight, but Caplan believes there are plenty of super-rich willing to buy themselves an advantage even though they are more likely just being sold a sliver of hope. 'Just look at what people spend in DC or New York for the fancy private school, and spending $90,000 for kindergarten,' he said. 'So when people say, is there a market? Yes - even getting a slight edge appeals to some.' A disturbing new theory has emerged in the baffling disappearance of a South Australian mother, with her own family describing it as 'strange' as investigators continue to piece together her final movements in the state's remote outback. Trisha Graf, 41, was last seen on December 12 driving near the isolated town of Andamooka, in South Australia's far north - an unforgiving landscape hundreds of kilometres from Adelaide. Police say Ms Graf had been drinking with friends earlier that day before setting off alone. She has not been seen or heard from since. As concern for her safety intensified, South Australia Police declared the case a major crime investigation on January 6, confirming they are treating her disappearance as suspicious with specialist officers combing the harsh terrain for any sign of the missing mother. The Daily Mail can now reveal a potentially crucial detail in the weeks leading up to Ms Graf's disappearance. Prior to vanishing, Ms Graf had been advertising valuable uncut opals worth thousands of dollars, listing them for sale on a specialised Facebook page frequented by gemstone collectors. Photographs show two large stones laid out on a plate, yet with almost no description provided. One opal, described as a 'Squid Fossil opal', was listed for $2000, while a second 'Cockle shell opal' was priced at $700. Trisha Graf, 41, was last seen on December 12 driving near the isolated town of Andamooka One opal, described as a 'Squid Fossil opal', was listed for $2000 It remains unclear whether either of the gemstones were sold before Ms Graf disappeared, however both listings remain visible online. Daily Mail has since spoken to Ms Graf's daughter Montanah, who said she had no knowledge that her mother owned the opals or had listed them for sale, describing the revelation as 'strange' amid the growing mystery surrounding her disappearance. Ms Graf's mother, Anne, who lives 600km south of Andamooka in the Barossa Valley, doesn't believe Trisha would leave her children 'in a million years' and fears she has met with foul play. 'There's no way Trisha would have left them willingly, especially so close to Christmas and with Lily's 11th birthday coming up on the 19th,' she previously said. 'Trisha was a big girl. You'd have to have someone else involved. 'The bad thing is there's that many mines out there I don't know if police will be able to find her. 'They're going to have to be smart about it. I do think she's been left in one of those [old shafts].' Trisha moved to Andamooka from Cadell last year with her partner and their two children, 10 and 12. She also has four adult children. It remains unclear whether either of the gemstones were sold before Ms Graf disappeared Ms Graf's family say there is no way she would leave her children Ms Graf was last seen at the Roxby Downs Hotel at 12.19am It is understood the two young children were at a friend's home on the night of their mother's disappearance. Ms Graf was last seen at the Roxby Downs Hotel at 12.19am on December 12, leaving a short time later in a white 2012 Ford Territory (SA registration S254BCX), accompanied by a friend. She drove towards Andamooka, colliding with a kangaroo just outside the township. Despite the accident, Ms Graf and her friend continued into town and visited a house in the north-western area. Shortly before 2am, Ms Graf left that address to make the short trip home. She was last seen driving along Dunstan Drive in Andamooka. Just after midday on December 12, Ms Graf's partner and a friend, who were searching for her, found her Ford Territory perched on a dirt mound near the Blue Dam, east of the township. The vehicle had sustained damage from the collision and could not be driven from its position. SA Police and SES initially conducted ground and aerial searches, followed by a community search in Andamooka. Police say Trisha had been drinking with friends that day The vehicle had sustained damage from the collision and could not be driven from its position Police divers later searched the Blue Dam, but Ms Graf was not found. 'We have established Trisha's movements on the evening and morning she was last seen,' Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke said. 'But we believe there are people who may have seen her within the town who have not yet contacted police. 'We know there were people who were with Trisha at both the Roxby Downs Hotel and who saw her after she returned to Andamooka and we need to speak with them.' Since then, police from the Far North, Port Augusta, the Missing Persons Section and PolAir have carried out further ground, door-to-door and aerial searches. Ms Graf was wearing black pants and a black top at the time of her disappearance. Her hair was also up in a plait, away from her face. Ms Graf is known to have a nose piercing, lip piercing and ear piercings as well as a skull tattoo on her upper right arm and a mermaid tattoo on her lower forearm. Daily Mail has forwarded the new information to SAPOL. While they did not confirm whether they were aware of the information regarding the Opals they did confirm there was still an active investigation around Ms Graf's disappearance. 'All lines of enquiry are being followed up,' the spokesperson said. 'If someone has information that they believe may assist police then they should make contact with police or call Crime Stoppers. 'Police will provide an update at a future time.' Even decades later, Patty Hearst says things will suddenly remind her of her infamous past as if it had 'just happened.' So, did a knock on her door last Wednesday plunge her back to the same evening in 1974 when unexpected callers at her apartment at 2603 Benvenue Avenue in Berkeley, California, would change her life forever? On February 4, 1974, three strangers burst into her home with guns drawn, beating up the 19-year-old college sophomore's fiance, her former teacher Steven Weed, who was tied up along with a neighbor who had tried to help. Witnesses saw a struggling and blindfolded Patty being frog-marched out to a waiting car. As the kidnappers fired wildly with their guns, she was bundled into the trunk and driven away. Hearst was the heiress granddaughter of arguably America's most famous media baron, Randolph G Hearst, and her captors were the warriors of the Marxist-inspired extremist group, the Symbionese Liberation Army. But within months, she'd be firing guns in US streets as she metamorphosed from abused hostage to rifle-toting, bank-robbing rebel. And next month will mark the 50th anniversary of the end of an extraordinary trial in which she was jailed for seven years for the part she played in the SLA's murderous spree. It was a case which made Hearst the poster child for Stockholm Syndrome, a supposed psychological condition that explains why hostages sometimes unconsciously develop a bond with their captors or abusers. It had only been identified - and given its odd name - by a criminologist a few months earlier after four employees (three women and a man) of a Swedish bank developed a peculiar bond with the men attempting to rob it and became hostile towards police attempts to free them. For many at the time, Hearst's shocking behavior could only be adequately explained by Stockholm Syndrome. Hearst was the heiress granddaughter of arguably America's most famous media baron, Randolph G Hearst Her captors were the warriors of the Marxist-inspired extremist group, the Symbionese Liberation Army. But within months, she'd be firing guns in US streets as she metamorphosed from abused hostage to rifle-toting, bank-robbing rebel Since then, however, the condition has fallen out of favor with experts who say it is hardly supported by solid evidence and very likely doesn't even exist. Other explanations, they argue, could explain why victims behave this way, such as an instinctive survival mechanism which could prompt them to take any action - unlike Stockholm Syndrome, a very conscious action - that might protect them from harm. And as Hearst would attest at her trial, she had been repeatedly threatened by her captors with death unless she could persuade them that she'd been converted to their unhinged political ideas and was 'one of them' now. Stockholm Syndrome has also been condemned as implicitly misogynist. Most of those supposedly afflicted by it have - like Hearst - been women and critics have resented the way it seems to undermine their ordeal by suggesting their mental weakness is partly to blame. Even without the speculation over Stockholm Syndrome, Hearst's trial left a gobsmacked America sharply divided over whether as she claimed in court she'd been abused and brainwashed by the group or whether, excited by their outlaw life and radical ideas, she enthusiastically joined the party. The precise reasons for Hearst's alarming transformation from prisoner to predator remain shrouded in mystery. How much of it was involuntary and how much was her choice? After all, can a young woman prepared to empty the entire magazine of an automatic rifle into the storefront (among myriad other violent crimes during more than a year on the run) really be a hostage? It's a question that Hearst herself has never convincingly answered. Born in San Francisco and educated at a succession of smart private schools, Hearst one of five daughters of Hearst Corporation chairman Randolph Apperson Hearst described herself as 'sublimely self-confident' as a child living in an affluent and sheltered home and enjoyed a privileged life that included horse-riding and debutante balls. She wasn't especially political although her college the University of California, Berkeley was a hotbed of left-wing protest. She certainly wasn't snatched at random. Her captors, whose full name of the United Federated Forces of the Symbionese Liberation Army reflected how some of these pitifully self-important groups had more words in their name than members, chose her because correctly, as it turned out they hoped her family's fame would garner the attention that had hitherto eluded them. (The SLA had no trouble finding Hearst as a local newspaper had obligingly published her address when announcing her engagement.) The group, which had been started by small-time crook Donald DeFreeze (who adopted the grandiose title of General Field Marshal Cinque) and ex-Berkeley scholar Patricia Soltysik, took its name from the word 'symbiosis.' Their incoherent ideology involved fighting for a political symbiosis of all left-wing groups including feminists, anti-racists and anti-capitalists. Hearst became the poster child for Stockholm Syndrome, a psychological condition that explains why hostages sometimes unconsciously develop a bond with their captors or abusers As Hearst (pictured during the robbery of the Hibernia Bank) would attest at her trial, she had been repeatedly threatened by her captors with death unless she could persuade them that she was 'one of them' now The group was started by small-time crook Donald DeFreeze (pictured), who adopted the grandiose title of General Field Marshal Cinque, and ex-Berkeley scholar Patricia Soltysik Although they had no more than a dozen members, they proved they could be ruthless when, in 1973, they shot dead a pioneering black school superintendent and seriously wounded his deputy, using cyanide-tipped bullets. Their victim had planned to introduce ID cards into Oakland schools an act the SLA described as 'fascist' and his death backfired, uniting black people and left-wingers against them. Their hapless behavior continued when, after seizing Hearst, they demanded that her family donate free food to Californias poor. $2 million worth was distributed, but negotiations broke down after the hand-out demand increased to the point it would have cost the Hearsts an astonishing $400 million. Patty Hearst would later say the group kept her locked up for 57 days in a closet barely big enough for her to lie down in, allowing her out to eat (still blindfolded) where she would be forced to listen to deranged political discussions and, later, join in. She was given a torch so she could memorize the SLA's half-baked manifesto in her closet. As well as the political indoctrination efforts, she said she was regularly told they were going to kill her and encouraged to join in the group's policy of sexual freedom. The latter resulted, she said, in her being raped by the group's leader, DeFreeze, and another man. 'Blindfold, gagged, tied up,' she said, adding that the close confinement was part of the group's mission to brainwash her. 'They debilitate you by locking you up,' she told CNN's Larry King in 1988. 'You're deprived of sight, light, sleep and food.' According to Hearst, her captors gave her a bleak ultimatum - join them or die. She chose the former. However, in a tape-recorded message released by the SLA two months after her capture, Hearst told a slightly different story. She claimed the group had offered to release her, but she decided to join them and fight 'for the freedom of oppressed people.' She insisted at least on this occasion she had suffered no abuse but had 'changed grown' since being kidnapped. The recorded message was accompanied by a photo of Hearst (who changed her name to Tania in tribute to a comrade of Cuban revolutionary Che Guevara) wearing a Che beret and brandishing an assault weapon in front of the SLA flag a seven-headed serpent. It would become one of the most iconic images of 1970s America. Shell-shocked Americans soon got a far more alarming glimpse of rebel Tania when, to show off their new recruit, the SLA robbed a San Francisco branch of the Hibernia Bank. Bank surveillance cameras captured Hearst clutching an M-1 carbine as she screamed, 'I'm Tania. Up, up, up against the wall, m***********s!' Two bystanders were shot and wounded during the heist but not by her. This photo of Hearst (who changed her name to Tania in tribute to a comrade of Cuban revolutionary Che Guevara) wearing a Che beret and brandishing an assault weapon in front of the SLA flag a seven-headed serpent - would become one of the most iconic images of 1970s America Six SLA members were killed in a blaze in Los Angeles when police surrounded the house they were holed up in The fire started after gunfire erupted between the police officers and SLA members. Pictured is the rubble The following month, she was the getaway driver when SLA members went to shoplift from a sporting goods store in Los Angeles. When they were confronted outside the store by staff, she pulled out an automatic rifle and fired wildly across the street. Miraculously, she failed to hit anyone but managed to extract her comrades and flee. The next day, LA police surrounded a house where most of the group were holed up. Live TV followed the drama as a gun battle broke out that was so intense that the house caught fire. Six SLA members were killed but Hearst hadn't been there. She would later claim in her autobiography that the bloodbath convinced her that if she gave herself up, the police wouldn't let her live. After going on the run in Pennsylvania and New York, Hearst slipped back into California where she was involved in two more bank robberies, one of which resulted in a female customer being shot dead, as well as a plot to plant bombs under police cars. She also helped hijack cars. A young man who was sitting in one of them found Hearst so friendly that he testified at her trial that she'd repeatedly asked if he was OK. Nineteen months after she'd first been abducted, the FBI finally ran her to ground in San Francisco in September 1975. The handcuffed heiress posed defiantly for the media, giving the clenched fist salute of the revolutionary and, when asked for her occupation as she was processed in a police station, gave 'urban guerilla.' The rebelliousness lasted just a few weeks in custody before Hearst repudiated her membership of the SLA and turned her mind to the pressing issue of getting off the hook. She spoke at length to psychiatrists who helpfully came up with diagnoses such as brainwashing (backed up by her shrinking weight, memory and IQ) and 'coercive persuasion' suffered by prisoners of war. Prosecutors weren't impressed and produced their own psychiatrists, one of whom witheringly described Hearst as 'a rebel in search of a cause' during a court battle dubbed 'the trial of the century,' which started in January 1976. Nineteen months after she'd first been abducted, she was arrested in San Francisco in September 1975 Hearst is pictured in the US Marshall's car after a day in court in 1976 Hearst spoke at length to psychiatrists who helpfully came up with diagnoses such as brainwashing and 'coercive persuasion' suffered by prisoners of war As she did her best to distance herself from the SLA, some of its surviving members hit back. In February, a mysterious bomb exploded at Hearst Castle, the palatial family seat in California. Jailed SLA member Emily Harris gave an interview in which she claimed that Hearst had kept a trinket given to her by one of the men she said had raped her because she'd actually been in a romantic relationship with him. Meanwhile, a prosecutor assured the jury that the SLA's female members had all been hardcore feminists and would never have allowed Hearst to be sexually assaulted. And for all her repeated insistence that she'd been in fear of her life throughout her time with the 'army' and her lawyers producing photos which appeared to show other SLA members aiming their guns at her during bank robberies, prosecutors had little trouble flagging moments when she could easily have fled to safety. On March 20, the jury rejected the abuse and brainwashing defenses, and Hearst was convicted of bank robbery and using a firearm while committing a felony. She was given the maximum sentence of 35 years, later reduced to seven. In the event, she served even less than that. Hearst spent much of her prison time in solitary confinement for her own security a dead rat she one day found on her bunk left little doubt what other SLA members thought of her. When she was released on bail in 1978 to appeal her sentence, her father hired a small army of bodyguards to protect her. The appeal failed but she was soon released anyway in 1979 after President Jimmy Carter commuted her sentence to the 22 months served. President Bill Clinton granted her a pardon in 2001. Two months after her release, she married Bernard Shaw, a police officer who'd been one of her bodyguards during her appeal. They moved to Connecticut and have two children, Gillian and Lydia, a fashion model. She later announced she preferred to be called Patricia. She didn't exactly shrink from the limelight. Eccentric director John Waters cast her in a string of feature films including the 1990 romantic comedy Cry Baby, black comedy Serial Mom (1994) and 2004 satire A Dirty Shame. She also had various TV roles including in the teen mystery series Veronica Mars. In 1996, the former gunslinger even wrote a murder mystery, set at Hearst Castle. Hearst (pictured celebrating her commutation) was jailed for seven years, and her sentence was commuted in 1979 by President Carter Hearst is pictured - alongside her fiance at the time, Bernard Shaw - holding the executive grant of clemency in 1979 Hearts (pictured in 2019) went on to appear in movie and television roles as well as compete in dog shows More recently, she started competing in dog shows including the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show - with her French bulldogs. 'When people find out it's me, it's like it doesn't make sense,' she said in 2008 of this unlikely development in her life. 'The Frenchie people know me because I've been around. But others, they seemed surprised.' The wider jury of public opinion is still out over whether Hearst was a beaten-down victim or a zealous urban guerrilla. Jeffrey Toobin, a lawyer and CNN legal analyst who wrote a 2016 biography of Hearst, is not convinced that she's the former: 'If you look at her actions ... you see the actions of a revolutionary, not a victim. 'There was some glamour to what she was doing, the swagger of wearing berets, of carrying machine guns the romance of revolution was an undeniable part of the appeal of the SLA.' Like the jurors at her trial, Toobin was not impressed by her endless failure to get away from her supposed captors. 'She had multiple opportunities to escape over a year and a half,' he told NPR. 'She went to the hospital for poison oak, and she could've told the doctor, "Oh by the way, I'm Patty Hearst." She was caught in an inaccessible place while hiking and the forest rangers helped her out, and she could've said, "Oh by the way, I'm Patty Hearst" ... She didn't escape because she didn't want to escape.' Politicians and celebrities spoke up for Hearst even Hollywood star John Wayne complained at the unfairness of the court not accepting she'd been brain-washed. And two US presidents intervened on her behalf. For seasoned lawyer Toobin, it amounted to 'the purest example of privilege on display that frankly I have ever seen in the criminal justice system.' For him and other skeptics, she remains the rich kid who played at being the gun-toting rebel, but who could rely on the power of the Hearst name when it all turned ugly. She was never going to be an ideal champion for class war and revolution. And as the talk of Stockholm Syndrome has died to a whisper, it's become increasingly hard to believe she was anything like the innocent she claimed to be. Former Vice President Kamala Harris announced a big rebrand last Thursday for her campaign social media accounts, but the details about the bumpy handover of power have critics questioning her leadership. The account launched with the X account @Headquarters_67, prompting ridicule that it was out of touch for trying to jump on the infamous 6-7 trend popularized in 2024 that was now effectively exhausted. Six-seven as the kids used to say, CNNs Dana Bash reported on the air, adding that the kids also used to say thats probably cringe.' To have cable news, frequently dismissed by digital consultants as out of touch, mock the effort as 'cringe' was a crippling blow to the rebrand. In response, the team changed the handle to @Headquarters68_, before quietly deploying a third reboot to brand it as @HQNewsNow. 'Smart to make use of that big audience but missed opportunity to call it Headquarters69,' joked one Democratic consultant to the Daily Mail, referring to a set of numbers frequently used by millennials when they first adopted the internet. The idea was supposed to be simple. Former members of the Harris campaign social media team, Director of Digital Rapid Response Parker Butler, Head of TikTok Lauren Kapp, and Head of Rapid Response Video Arlie Shugaar reunited to form Luminary and breathe life into the old campaign machine that had been dormant for over a year. 'Headquarters' was promoted as a way to compete with conservatives permanent organizing infrastructure and attract young and Gen-Z voters, the group announced. Former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris turned over control of her campaign accounts to Headquarters, new digital content group Investor and Philanthropist George Soros donates to People for the American way who helped launch the new Headquarters digital project Svante Myrick, president of People For the American Way, celebrated their mission as 'leveraging culture to change our politics.' The vice president had accrued millions of followers on her TikTok and X feeds, which are worth a great deal of money in the influencer market. Now Harris was named chair emerita of the project, a role that was described as honorary. The new group, dubbed Luminary Strategies, teamed up with People for the American Way to take control of Harris' accounts under the new Headquarters umbrella. George Soros's Open Society Foundation has donated $4.5 million to People for the American way since 2016. The goal was described as an effort to mobilize pro-justice, pro-fairness, pro-democracy young people against far-right extremism. The former vice presidents encouragement video celebrating the rebooted space for people to get basically the latest of whats going on, also drew jeers from digital Republicans. Kamalas latest rebrand is the gayest thing Ive seen in 2026. Its forced, cringe, and completely out of touch, Billy McLaughlin, a former White House Director of Digital Content for President Trump told the Daily Mail. The account handovers to the wealthy political non-profit were not likely cheap, one source familiar with digital strategy estimated, as social media accounts with millions of highly engaged followers typically sell for significant cash on the political market. Former Director of Digital Rapid Response for Kamala Harris Parker Butler Digital strategist for Harris celebrated 'brat summer' and other viral trends to draw attention to the vice president She absolutely sold her list, one political digital source told the Daily Mail, describing the accounts as worth serious money. One Democratic digital consultant admitted to the Daily Mail that the handover of the accounts was clumsy, but that it was important to use their resources. 'We have a lot of catching up to do,' the consultant admitted. The team of ex-Harris consultants appeared to use the account to imitate the success of Gov. Gavin Newsom's more aggressive approach to challenging and mocking President Donald Trump and his allies directly on social media. But McLaughlin argued that both Democrats were chasing Trump's success. 'Everyone is chasing Trump. The president sets the tone, the pace, the platforms, and the message. The rest of them scramble to copy it months later,' he said. Headquarters did not respond to a Daily Mail request for comment. Republicans mocked the new attempt as a failed rebranding effort. Instead of listening to what Americans actually want, her team shoved another consultant-driven digital fantasy down young peoples throats, McLaughlin said. This will fail, just like the last one. But, congrats to the D.C. consultant getting rich off the wreckage. Luminary is already looking to hire new creators to help generate online content, according to job postings online. The top requirement for the job is a deep passion for saving democracy and fighting fascism and for love for the internet and online culture. Since Harris lost the election, alumni of the failed Harris-Walz campaigns social media team are looking to find their way out of the wilderness and into new paying gigs that will flip politics back to their favor. But their rebrand of Harris social media account left many Democratic strategists with a reminder of the online hangover following Brat Summer and the coconut tree memes from their failed campaign. The apparent grift loomed large to professionals in the digital political space playing with billionaire money. Instead of pandering to young voters with more slop content, Democrats need to do the harder work of investing in long-term, non-stop, youth organizing, complained political strategist Kaivan Shroff in an online op-ed on MS Now. Other Democrats were more generous, welcoming them to their daily online messaging battle with Trump supporters. 'If it's just another meme account then it's really just piling on what's already out there, which is fine,' Democratic consultant Mike Nellis told the Daily Mail. A Republican congressman vying for Donald Trump's endorsement has been caught inflating claims that his premature son spent 'months fighting for his life' in intensive care to explain the worst voting attendance record of any GOP member. Texas representative Wesley Hunt missed 77 votes in 2025, nearly 10 times as many as his colleagues and more than any other Republican, GovTrack shows. That voting record is now under intense scrutiny from his primary opponents, Texas Senator John Cornyn and the state's attorney general Ken Paxton. Hunt claims that his voting ability was impacted by the premature birth of his son who spent months in neonatal intensive care (NICU), and his wife's hospitalization around the same time. 'I missed a large swath of votes because my child was in the NICU for a while when he was first born, when I first got elected to Congress,' Hunt told reporters in December when grilled about Cornyn's criticism. But the claim contradicts previous statements and his wife's social media posts. Hunt and his wife Emily welcomed their son Willie in December 2022. The lawmaker did not miss any votes while his son was hospitalized, according to the couple's statements from the time. His recent claim that the boy spent 'months' fighting for his life in the NICU is flatly contradicted by the record. Hunt's three missed votes on January 6, 2023, do not constitute a 'large swath,' and he said at the time that his son was home that day. Wesley Hunt, his wife, and their three children, Willie, and his two older sisters, Victoria and Olivia Hunt brushed off attacks from Cornyn, arguing in 2025 that his son was born six weeks early Hunt with his son, seen in an image posted to his Instagram Hunt seen with President Donald Trump in an Instagram post Hunt standing over his son in the NICU The only actual 'large swath' of missed votes in 2023 occurred from January 2627 and February 29. During the same period, the family was taking the baby on outings, and Hunt was telling interviewers that everyone was doing great. Hunt claimed on X in October 2025 that his son was born six weeks premature. His own press release from 2023, however, said four weeks. His wife's birth announcement gave a January 2023 due date when the pregnancy was announced the previous November, but their son was born on December 27, 2022. The hospitalization story has shifted just as dramatically. In January 2023, Hunt told C-SPAN his son had spent 'a couple of weeks' in the NICU and that 'everyone is doing perfectly well.' Days later, he assured Steve Bannon his son was 'out of the NICU, gaining weight.' Recalling the time of his son's birth in 2025, however, Hunt said in a press release that the same child had apparently been 'fighting for his life' and spent 'the first months of his life in the neonatal intensive care unit.' Join the debate How should voters react when politicians are caught exaggerating personal stories for political gain? Willie Parish Hunt II, in an image posted to Hunt's political account on X in January of 2023 The NICU story is not Hunt's only credibility problem on the campaign trail. Cornyn further alleges that Hunt was caught spreading additional falsehoods in another release from his team on Friday. Following allegations that Hunt attempted to vote illegally in the 2016 presidential election, his team tried to correct the record, but Cornyn claims they ended up revealing another falsehood. According to newly released documents, Hunt cast a provisional ballot on November 4, 2016, but it was not counted because he was not registered to vote at the time. Records indicate he was informed at the polling place that he was not registered. In an affidavit completed that day, Hunt seemingly told an election judge that he failed to register in time because he had been discharged from the military in October 2016, one month earlier. However, his official congressional biography, campaign materials, and military discharge documents list his separation from service as occurring in 2012. Hunt did not attempt to cure the provisional ballot, and no vote was ultimately counted. The allegations were amplified by Matt Mackowiak, a senior adviser to Cornyn's campaign, who accused Hunt of committing voter fraud and called for an investigation by Ken Paxton, the current Texas AG and fellow primary opponent. Mackowiak alleged that Hunt lied in a sworn statement to cast a ballot. Additional reports have shown that Hunt, then serving on the board of a Houston private school, provided emotional support to students upset by the 2016 election outcome. Hunt's neglect to vote has persisted to this day and has plagued his entire congressional career. Last month, Hunt skipped more than 90 percent of the votes he was scheduled to cast - though one series was held open so he could provide the tie-breaker after a police escort rushed him from Dulles airport. In 2024, he missed votes while acting as 'a top surrogate for President Trump,' as he described it in an October 2025 interview. That loyalty to Trump isn't being returned, as the President has yet to weigh in on the hot primary contest with an endorsement. A University of Houston poll released this week placed Hunt third at 17 percent, behind Paxton, who leads the primary at 38 percent, and Cornyn at 31 percent. The same poll showed Paxton beating Cornyn in a potential runoff, 51 percent to 40 percent. The first round of voting in the Texas primary is March 3. Early voting begins next Tuesday, February 17. The Daily Mail has contacted Hunt for comment. When the first Ukrainian prisoners arrived at Pre-Trial Detention Facility Number Two in the southern Russian city of Taganrog, they were subjected to a 'welcome reception' like no other. Before the outbreak of war in February 2022, SIZO-2 held around 400 Russian inmates and was primarily a pre-trial detention centre for women with children and juveniles. But following Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion, the facility transformed into a torture machine for Ukrainian combatants and civilian hostages alike. Its first Ukrainian inmates arrived that April, tied up and blindfolded aboard military trucks besmeared with the pro-Putin 'Z' symbol. On entering, they were met with a ritualistic battering by the guards, who kicked, punched, and beat them with batons as an indication of what was to become daily life in the concrete hellscape. Human rights groups have sounded the alarm about the infamous facility, after former detainees reported the litany of extensive torture methods they were subjected to, including waterboarding, electric shocks, and being tied up with tape then sat on as 'human furniture'. The sinister techniques used against the Ukrainians recall the horrors of the Chernokozovo detention centre - notorious during the Second Chechen War - where prisoners were dunked in chemicals, stretched out on agonising 'meat racks', and gassed in 'elephant' masks. Since the war began, Ukrainian inmates have given testimony about the return of the horrifying mask - designed to suffocate its victims by restricting oxygen flow - utilised in filtration camps in occupied Kherson. 'They pulled a gas mask over his head with the valve closed so that air could not enter,' a captured law enforcer told Ukrainska Pravda, recounting the time he witnessed the method used on his cellmate. The same fate befell Danylo, the cellmate of Viktor Biletskyi, a soldier from the 406th Separate Artillery Brigade. 'They put a gas mask on Danylo and electrocuted him to make him suffocate faster, but as soon as he started to lose consciousness, they took off the gas mask. They did not let him die: they wanted him to suffer,' Biletskyi said. Plastic ties, which were allegedly used during torture, are seen lying on a broken chair in the basement of an office building in Kherson A makeshift detention building in Kherson is marked with a Z pro-Putin symbol and 'Russia' spelt out in Cyrillic script A view of Pre-Trial Detention Facility Number Two in the southern Russian city of Taganrog Ukraine says some 15,000 civilians have been detained by Russia since 2022, of whom at least 1,800 remain in detention facilities, where the UN has evidence of 'widespread and systematic torture'. In SIZO-2, the infamous facility in Taganrog, Ukrainian inmates are often forced into a dedicated torture room, where they are handcuffed upside down in a foetal position, their knees strapped to a bar, and for 10-15 minutes are severely beaten. Others are subjected to shocks administered using a Soviet-era battery-powered field phone called a TA-57. The technique, dubbed Putins phone by prisoners, involves attaching wires to earlobes, the nose or genitals. Oleksandr Maksymchuk, a prisoner of war who spent 21 months in the facility across two separate stints, wrote in testimony about suffocation, incessant beatings, electric shocks, and a method where officers encased inmates from head to toe in sticky tape and then sat on them 'as human furniture. Yelyzaveta Shylyk, a former soldier who was a civilian at the time of her capture, was hit with batons all over her body, subjected to electric shocks, threatened with rape and attacked with dogs. Talking to the Guardian, she recalled a room containing an electric chair: I was put in the electric chair twice with a device that attached clamps between my toes. Then they turned on the current. She described overhearing officers complaining about having to keep the electrocution time to under two hours to prevent them from killing prisoners, as deaths meant more paperwork. The chief medic of a Ukrainian marine brigade, Volodymyr Labuzov, was transferred to Taganrog in April 2022. He recalled how he was once forced into the boiler room and pushed waist-deep into a stove used to heat water, then shoved on the meat-cutting table in the kitchen, where he was threatened with a knife. Others described psychological torture that included forced indoctrination, forced reciting of nationalistic Russian poems, and incessant threats of sexual violence. Join the debate How should Putin answer for these human rights abuses? A former police building in Kherson lies in ruin during Moscow's occupation of the city The UN has evidence of 'widespread and systematic torture' in detention facilities in Russian- occupied Ukraine A door to a basement hole is seen at a restaurant local residents say was used as a torture site by Russian forces during their occupation of the town on November 23, 2022 in Snihurivka View of torture chambers in police stations in Kherson used by Russian during occupation to intimidate prisoners The majority of prisoners of war that have been returned to Ukraine after enduring months or in some cases years of captivity in Russia all have one thing in common. Upon their arrival back in their homeland, Ukrainian PoWs are almost invariably emaciated, their cheekbones protruding out under paper-thin skin and their eyes bulging out of sunken sockets. Disturbing images released by Ukrainian organisation 'I Want To Live' unveiled perhaps one of the most egregious cases of starvation of a Ukrainian prisoner at the hands of Russian guards. Roman Vasiliovich Gorilyk, one of 74 prisoners exchanged in a prisoner swap on May 31, 2024, was taken hostage in March 2022 and spent more than two years in a Russian cell. On release, the senior controller at Chernobyl power plant looked like an entirely different person to the man who was captured: every sinew, tendon and bone could be seen creaking beneath mottled skin, which in places was seemingly covered with burns and torture wounds. Each one of his vertebrae could be counted at a glance, and his head appeared almost too large for his tiny, shrivelled torso. According to investigators from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), more than 80 per cent of returning Ukrainian prisoners complained about the quantity of food, and claimed the meals they were given were often rotten or contained sand and small rocks. Others described being given just 250g canned food a day for up to three months, while some said that food was used as a weapon of torture, describing how they were force fed burning hot meals which scorched their mouths, tongues and throats. Volodymyr Tsema-Bursov, from the southern Ukrainian city of Mariupol, was captured by Putins forces a few months after Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Before the war, he used to play the tuba in a Ukrainian military band in Mariupol, but in February 2022 he became a soldier in the 56th brigade, exchanging his tuba for a rifle. His time on the battlefield was short-lived, however, when he and his fellow soldiers were apprehended by Russian troops and transferred to Olenivka, near Donetsk, to a makeshift prison. The conditions were terrible. There were no beds, he said. Everything was covered in trash and broken glass. It was cold. We didnt even get drinking water. He recalled how they were severely beaten on arrival and their valuables were confiscated, adding: 'There was a box on the table, and these objects just piled up. He was soon taken to a different detention centre in Russias Smolensk region, 140 miles west of Moscow, where inmates were practically starved and he lost 36 kilograms. He recalled how the Russian guards beat him and the other prisoners and forbade them from sitting down, forcing inmates to stand in their cells for eight hours straight instead. I think they did this to break our will, Tsema Bursov said. To scare us, to kill our spirit, and to degrade us. They wanted to turn us into these kind of nameless beings. As time went on, there were moments when dark thoughts took over his mind, and he became concerned that he would never be freed. We talked about anything, about cars, chocolate candies, anything, just not about prisoner exchanges, Tsema-Bursov said. We got used to the thought that it will happen - but when? Who knows? Only God knows. But the day of freedom did arrive when they were woken up to the sound of prison guards shouting and swearing, telling them to gather their valuables quickly. I heard this magical sound. You know, the sound that a truck makes when it backs up, Tsema-Bursov said. I saw the gate open, and the car pulled in. It was a prisoner transport vehicle. The hazard lights were on. And then, we all got into the truck. After a few delays, he was delivered back to Ukraine following 20 months of torment. Roman Vasiliovich Gorilyk, one of 74 prisoners returned to Ukraine in May 2024 Every sinew, tendon and bone could be seen creaking beneath Roman Gorilyk's mottled skin The OCHCR has documented harrowing conditions of maltreatment and abuse in captivity Photo shows Volodymyr Tsema-Bursov, kept in Russian captivity for 20 months When Yulian Pylepei, a naval infantryman, was captured by Russian forces in April 2022, he had no idea he would spend the next three years passing through six detention centres, each notorious for torture. When he was finally released in summer 2025, it took me a month and a half to realise I was really free, he told Le Monde, but no time at all to realise he would never be the same again. His body still bears the scars of his captivity. A dog bite, in Kursk prison, explained the 30-year-old. The broken nose, the fractured leg, that happened there too. The white, crisscross lines stamped on his forearm remind him to this day of electric shocks. In Olenivka, security forces snatched his wedding ring. 'I tried to stop them by saying: That's sacred! The answer: Give it to us or we'll cut your finger off. When Pylepei was first captured, near Mariupol with his seven-man unit, he was held for a few days in the small town of Sartana, then in Donetsk, a major city in the Donbas region. He was trapped in the basement of a 'kommandantur' the term Ukrainians have used since the outbreak of war for administrative buildings that have been repurposed as the headquarters of Russian occupation authorities. 'Right under the prosecutor's office. Everyone slept on the floor. No toilets, dirty water to drink,' Pylepei recalled. He was then transferred to Olenivka prison, where 'we were beaten in groups of four with electric batons. Dogs bit us. Guys were screaming in the corridor', he said, but that experience paled in comparison to SIZO-2 in Taganrog. 'The worst of the worst I experienced. Just during the "welcome," as they call it, two people out of the 100 arrivals were killed.' Within the prison, 'everything was forbidden', even looking out the window for a moment of peace amid the nightmare. He was then transferred to Novozybkov, in the Bryansk region, and subsequently to Mordovia, southeast of Moscow around the city of Saransk, where he languished in solitary confinement for five months. When Pylepei was finally freed, he weighed 65 kilograms 29 kilograms less than two and a half years earlier and he was disabled, struggling with a limp. 'For a long time, I kept repeating: "A marine never cries." But when, on the day of my release, they handed me a phone and I heard my wife's voice, I cried like a child,' the former prisoner said. Now, he makes sure he personally welcomes fellow Ukrainians back when they finally return home from Russia after months - or years - of captivity, to ensure they feel less alone. 'We talk together about the prisons they passed through, the inmates they met and many other things. I understand them better than anyone, and vice versa.' Russian soldiers film themselves beating and torturing blindfolded Ukrainian prisoners of war, with one of them firing an AK-74M rifle inches from the downed Ukrainian man's head It's not just Ukrainian prisoners whom Russia subjects to its most lethal methods of torture. In fact, ever since war broke out, appalling footage of death and violence have become commonplace throughout the country. While the extreme treatment of criminals by the state is nothing new, the flagrant way in which officials are broadcasting and boasting about their violence is. A watershed moment illustrating authorities' blatant promotion of their own barbarity was the punishment of the four men who carried out the terrorist attack on Moscows Crocus City Hall in March 2024. ISIS quickly claimed responsibility for the attack, which killed 150 and injured over 600. A video released online at the time showed Saidakrami Murodali Rajabalizoda, one of the alleged Islamic State gunmen, held down by a security team who sliced off his ear and shoved it in his mouth, forcing him to eat it. 'Chew, b****rd! I will cut you open and shove it into your mouth,' one man is heard yelling in the shocking footage. Moments later, the suspect was seen with blood streaming down the side of his head as a chunk of skin tumbled out of his mouth. Another suspect, Shamsiddin Fariduni, was seen lying on the floor foaming at the mouth with his trousers forced down around his knees. That is because the group who arrested him had connected a military radio to his genitals via a piece of wire to administer electric shocks - a popular torture method deployed by Russia's armed forces. All four suspected gunmen later appeared in a Moscow court, their faces battered and bruised following what is certain to have been an unflinching beating by the arresting forces. Muhammadsobir Fayzov was brought into the courtroom in a wheelchair and seemed to lose consciousness during the hearing, while photographs spread online appearing to show that one of his eyes was missing. Dalerdzhon Barotovich Mirzoyev, another suspect, arrived at the court with bruises and a plastic bag wrapped around his neck, which observers concluded might have been used to asphyxiate him. What is different now is the clear demonstrative nature of the torture, Tanya Lokshina, the Europe and central Asia associate director at Human Rights Watch, told the Guardian. The footage of the torture seems to be shared not by accident, but in order to warn others who are planning attacks on Russia that they will face the same consequences. The Russian authorities are no longer shy about showing that its security services torture people. There are no window dressing exercises any more. Photographs show Shamsuddin Fariddun lying on a gym floor with his trousers pulled down and wires evidently attached to his groin area Murodali Rachabalizoda sits behind a glass wall of an enclosure for defendants at the Basmanny district court in Moscow, March 2024 Muhammadsobir Fayzov sits in a glass cage in the Basmanny District Court in Moscow Today, one of several Russian facilities notorious for torture in the form of sexual violence is OTB-1, a prison hospital in the Saratov region, close to the border with Kazakhstan. Video reviewed by the Daily Mail documents the abuse of at least five inmates who were urinated on, raped by male prisoners, and violated with blunt objects at the jail. Human rights campaigners say inmates were subjected to the abuse to coerce them into false confessions, then blackmailed with the footage into abusing other prisoners or becoming jailhouse informants. The disturbing videos were leaked from jailhouse archives by a former inmate, and handed to human rights site Gulagu.net. Activists writing on the website said officers in Russia's Federal Prison Service (FSIN) and FSB spy agency oversaw the 'conveyor belt' of abuse at OTB-1. They say gangs of rapists were employed as orderlies and caretakers at the hospital to provide cover for them if their presence was questioned. But, campaigners claim, their actual job was the routine sexual abuse of inmates as part of a 'criminal conspiracy' operating within the jail. The rapes in 2021 were filmed, with footage sent back to the FSIN and FSB so it could be archived and then used as blackmail. Inmates are seen stripped and standing against a wall ahead of a torture session A victim was shown in dark footage being held over a table and beaten with truncheons Activists say the campaign of abuse was carried out with the knowledge and approval of senior members of Russia's prison service and FSB spy agency Campaigners say the operation was carried out with the knowledge of senior members of both agencies and may have gone on for as long as a decade. Footage showed a man screaming in pain as he is violated with a mop handle, one male prisoner raping another who is tied to a bed, and a group of inmates urinating on a fellow detainee. Anton Yefarkin, head of the Saratov prison service, subsequently revealed that 18 officials had been fired with 11 facing 'the strictest' disciplinary measure, but witness testimony of widespread torture in Russias prison complex remains rampant. Besides the Saratov region, clips of such heinous abuse have been recorded in prisons located in the regions of Vladimir, Irkutsk, Belgorod, Transbaikal and Kamchatka. In one harrowing clip, an inmate is seen forced onto his knees before having his head plunged into a toilet bowl. A guard places his boot on the inmate's back, forcing his head into the toilet and preventing him from pulling back. The victim is then held in place while an officer flushes the toilet and effectively waterboards the struggling detainee. Moments later, the spluttering victim is hauled away and whipped, opening gaping wounds on his unprotected back, before being kicked to the floor where prison staff proceeded to urinate on him. There was a time when Grace Tame could do no wrong in polite Australian company. Not because she was infallible, but because the media decided she was untouchable. Any criticism, however measured, was treated as proof of a critic's moral deficiency. She was cast as the unimpeachable victim-advocate whose motives were assumed to always be pure and her judgement on any other matter wasn't to be questioned. That period is over, and it's over largely because she ended it herself. A classic example was when Tame so rudely posed for a photograph with former PM Scott Morrison when visiting his official residence for a function. Rather than just not go, or politely decline to be photographed in the first place, Tame looked like she was in a hostage video while the Morrisons smiled for the camera. I had the temerity to call out the rude, juvenile display unbecoming of our Australian of the Year, only to be shouted at by Tame's conga line of sycophants on the left who hated Morrison and idolised her. And I was an ardent Morrison critic myself! But look at all of Tame's antics since that time - including showing up at one of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's events wearing a T-shirt with the words 'F**k Murdoch' plastered across it. Charming. Grace Tame (right) gave then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison (left) a filthy side-eye glance in 2022. I called it out at the time and was crucified for it. How times have changed Tame was untouchable when she became Australian of the Year in 2021. Since going from laudable, single-focus activism to being a general leftist agitator, she has lost the mainstream Her classy display didn't end there. She later took to social media to exclaim that she didn't mean it literally when referring to the 94 -year-old mogul. But her antics have morphed from juvenile to reckless since then. Tame's decision to lead a crowd chant to 'globalise the intifada' at a Sydney rally wasn't a minor slip or a misunderstood flourish. It was deliberate wording and timing. It landed during a febrile, grieving period in Sydney, with heightened anxiety in the Jewish community and acute political sensitivity around protest rhetoric. While Albanese didn't have the courage to condemn Tame, his Labor colleague and NSW Premier Chris Minns did. And good on him for not falling into the weak orbit of Albo. You don't get to pretend words are weightless simply because you insist you meant them nicely. Tame's defence has been to argue that intifada essentially means 'shaking off' and that her message is non-violent and anti-racist. That line is clever in the way a lawyer's footnote can be clever. It's also evasive in the way a lawyer's footnote can be evasive. In contemporary political usage, 'globalise the intifada' isn't a neutral appeal for human rights. It is a slogan with a freighted history, tied in public memory to uprisings that included suicide bombings and attacks on civilians, and it is heard by many Jews not as abstract solidarity, but as a menace exported to their streets. Tame's decision to lead a crowd chant to 'globalise the intifada' at a Sydney rally wasn't a minor slip or a misunderstood flourish. It was deliberate wording and timing Tame split from her ex-fiance Max Heerey as her public activism took a more radical shift. (The former couple are pictured at the 2022 Australian of the Year Awards in Canberra) Even where supporters argue it can mean uprising in a broader sense, the contested meaning is precisely why responsible public figures avoid it, unless they actively want the provocation. But not Tame. And that is exactly the point of what she has become. 'Globalise the intifada' is politics by dog-whistle, except it's shouted through a megaphone. People pretending this is just a linguistic misunderstanding are kidding themselves. The slogan is useful precisely because it's incendiary, and because it tests how far a movement can go before mainstream institutions blink. Predictably, the radical left quickly defended Tame, but the likes of Albo - who was once in thrall to her - did not. That split is the entire point of her pivot in recent years: the mainstream is something to be baited, not persuaded. The centre is something to be scorned, not won. No PM can continue to support someone who does that. Tame was elevated to Australian of the Year - not unreasonably - because she channelled legitimate anger into a cause that commanded broad moral agreement: confronting institutional failures around sexual abuse. She had credibility because the cause did not require Australians to join a tribe; it required them to face reality. But, bit by bit, she has chipped away at that reservoir of goodwill, substituting seriousness with performative combativeness and replacing persuasion with contempt. The result is predictable. She has lost mainstream Australia in a big way, narrowing her audience, and finding her only reliable applause line in the most radical activist left. However, anyone calling for her to be stripped of her Australian of the Year title should understand what they are really proposing. The National Australia Day Council has a formal 'Withdrawal of Award Policy' that explicitly allows review and revocation, including where, in the board's opinion, the recipient has behaved in a manner that has brought the awards into disrepute. So yes, there is a pathway. That's how Alan Bond was stripped of his award after being convicted of fraud. But the smarter question is whether doing it to Tame would achieve anything other than making her the story she so desperately wants to be. She would love becoming a martyr. She would dine out on it for decades. She would use the revocation as proof positive that Australia punishes her for speaking the truth, and her supporters would weaponise it as evidence that the establishment silences dissent. We've already seen the playbook in action with her defiant response to the backlash so far - reframing criticism as propaganda and positioning herself as a righteous target. A formal stripping of the title would hand her the trophy she craves, and it would do so in a way that drags the awards themselves deeper into the culture wars. There is a better way to deal with someone who keeps trying to turn civic recognition into political theatre: stop treating them like porcelain. Tame, clad in a 'Readers and Writers Against Genocide' T-shirt, said she had 'been cast in a worse light than a criminal state' as she responded on social media to critics of her 'globalise the intifada' chant The kid-gloves era did more damage than people admit, because it taught Tame that celebrity activism comes without consequences. It also taught a generation of journalists to confuse compassion with credulity. The shift now is not cancellation or a right-wing pile-on. It is simply the end of the media's old reflex to protect Tame from scrutiny. And scrutiny is exactly what she earned by stepping into a volatile global conflict she knows little about and choosing a slogan that maximises heat while minimising accountability. If brands won't touch her - remember that Nike ended its association with Tame last year - that isn't some grand conspiracy. It's simple risk management. Corporations don't sponsor moral purity - they sponsor reputational stability. When a public figure starts flirting with language widely experienced as threatening by a minority community, the commercial world does what the commercial world always does - it walks away. The tragedy for Tame - if she's still capable of self-reflection - is that she once had the kind of standing that could have built bridges across causes and communities. Instead she's busy burning them, then complaining about the smoke. And let's be clear about the moral arithmetic here. None of this requires taking a position on Gaza, Israel or the ethics of protesting right now. Plenty of Australians sympathise deeply with Palestinian civilians and still understand that 'globalise the intifada' is rhetorical napalm. This adds to the tragedy of what Tame has become: her antics actively harm her causes, making her a counterproductive agent for the things she is passionate about. That's assuming the causes still matter more to Tame than tribal signalling. If not, we're witnessing narcissism dressed up as activism. Just one in 20 doctors accused of sexual misconduct are struck from the medical register, as whistleblowers warn bosses are more worried about cutting waiting lists than patient safety from predators. At least 1031 complaints alleging sexual harassment, sexual assault, attempted rape and rape have been made to the GMC since 2018, but just 44 have ended in the perpetrator being erased from the medical register. New figures seen exclusively by the Daily Mail show of the 771 cases which have been concluded, just over five per cent resulted in erasure, while another 2.5 per cent led to a suspension, typically of 12 months or less. And even doctors found to have committed the most serious sexual misconduct have avoided erasure - most notably Dr Aloaye Foy-Yamah, who was last year found to have raped a woman at his home but was let off with a suspension because the attack was a 'one-off'. He denies the allegation. Highlighting the figures, MP for Calder Valley Josh Fenton-Glynn told the Daily Mail that sexual misconduct in medicine 'isn't taken seriously enough' and that the profession can even attract those seeking to commit it due to the doctor-patient 'power differential'. And Dr Becky Cox, GP and co-founder of Surviving in Scrubs, said that even when misconduct cases are reported, too many employers prioritise the clinical 'value' of alleged perpetrators over the experiences of victims and patients. She said this can manifest in employers, or tribunal judges, taking factors including a doctor's clinical skills and their contribution to bringing down waiting lists into consideration when deciding on a sanction. 'There is a complete lack of trust in the organisations who are meant to protect us,' she told the Daily Mail. Dr Becky Cox, GP and co-founder of Surviving in Scrubs, said that even when misconduct cases are reported, too many employers prioritise the clinical 'value' of perpetrators and their concerns over waiting lists '[Victims] don't trust the reporting system, they don't trust that their concern will be taken seriously, they worry about repercussions. And certainly, they have that just absolute lack of faith, in if I report this to an employer, will something happen?' Since 2018, 252 people have approached the GMC with allegations of rape by a doctor or other member. Just 19 were referred to tribunal, with six - or three per cent of completed cases - resulting in the perpetrator being erased from the medical register, while five ended in a suspension. 75 cases were still under investigation. The GMC regulates doctors, physician associates and anaesthesia associates in the UK and is responsible for investigating complaints and allegations against its members. If it decides a member's conduct suggests a 'serious failure' to meet its standards, the GMC refers the case to the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service, which is the body responsible for holding hearings and determining appropriate sanctions. At tribunals, which are run by the MPTS, the burden of proof is to a civil rather than a criminal standard, meaning those on the panel need only be satisfied the conduct occurred 'on the balance of probabilities'. Despite this the number of allegations upheld is not substantially higher than the rate of successful convictions by police for the same sexual offences, which are estimated to be three to four per cent. There is also no legal or regulatory obligation for information regarding potentially criminal conduct to be reported to police. Instead, GMC guidelines say a matter might be referred if it 'relates to a particular practioners fitness to practise and we consider that it is in the public interest to do so'. There is no mention of sexual harassment, assault or rape in these guidelines. Dr Cox, who has told previously how she quit surgical training after being subjected to sexual harassment and assault, said she has attempted to report a fellow doctor to the GMC, but the case was 'closed at triage' with no explanation, something she found 'very difficult'. Dr Mei Nortley told the Daily Mail the cases reported to the GMC are just 'the tip of the iceberg' MP for Calder Valley Josh Fenton-Glynn told the Daily Mail that sexual misconduct in medicine 'isn't taken seriously enough' and that the profession can even attract those seeking to commit it due to the doctor-patient 'power differential' It took 18 months of her asking the GMC for clarification before she finally received a letter setting out the reasons for the decision. Of the almost 750 cases of alleged sexual assault reported to the GMC since 2018, a third - 243 - were closed without any investigation. 'So few perpetrators are actually getting to the point of even investigation, let alone to the tribunal,' Dr Cox said. 'There's clearly something wrong with this system that's not working, and these cases aren't progressing as they should be. 'And when they get to the tribunal stage, the outcomes that we're getting from the MPTS are just really appalling. They're completely unfair and don't give a sense of justice to survivors.' She said that too many tribunal judges and employers prioritise a perpetrator's career and skills over the sexual misconduct that has taken place. 'They're thinking about what value is this perpetrator providing to our clinical services, to our patient wait lists? 'We can't put them on a suspension, or can we really take an action against this person because of the value they bring to the service, clinically? 'That hugely undermines patient safety and undermines the faith that we should have in doctors who are meant to look after us.' MP for Calder Valley Josh Fenton-Glynn, who previously worked for the GMC, told the Daily Mail: 'In medicine in general sexual harassment and misconduct isn't taken seriously enough. Among the doctors who have been struck off for sexual misconduct is Vijay Gaikwad, 46, who was last July jailed for six years for sexually assaulting three patients during medical appointments Wayne Davis, 71, was erased from the register in November and jailed for eight years for sexually assaulting patients during examinations 'Fundamentally the job of the GMC isn't to keep doctors happy, it's to make sure patients are safe walking into a doctor's office. 'The cases all start and end with a man who is in a position of power, and a woman who is possibly at her most vulnerable.' He added that the doctor-patient 'power differential' makes it difficult for victims to come forward and be believed when they do. Mr Fenton-Glynn said the statistics are 'indicative of a wider attitude or problem which is we are slightly too forgiving of powerful men who do these things.' 'The medical profession will probably attract people who are looking for those opportunities [to commit sexual misconduct]. The fact that many doctors get away with it means that many people will continue to do that.' But he added the GMC is 'hamstrung by the fact that they don't have quite enough power to strike off doctors in the way that the public would assume that they do.' Even in the few cases which do end in a suspension or erasure, the MPTS has been accused of being too lenient. Last year former Blackpool Victoria Hospital consultant Dr Aloaye Foy-Yamah was found by the MPTS to have raped a woman at his home. He denies the allegation. The MPTS opted to suspend Dr Foy-Yamah for 12 months, described the attack as a 'one-off' and said that as he had not committed the rape in a clinical setting he had not betrayed the trust of patients. The body was accused of 'victim-blaming' and the GMC challenged the decision, arguing only erasure from the medical register was an appropriate sanction. A second tribunal is now set to take place later this year. A report found recently that the MPTS opts for a more lenient sanction than the one recommended by the GMC in one in four cases of sexual misconduct. The co-author of the report, Dr Mei Nortley, told the Daily Mail of the latest data: 'The figures are shocking but unsurprising given our research and concerns about the ability of GMC investigative teams to manage cases of sexual misconduct and MPTS panels to make safe decisions. 'There is a troubling failure to recognise the complexity of this area and the need for specialist expertise; without it, reform risks being superficial and institutional safety will remain compromised. '[Investigators] are not trained to recognise basic sexual offences or prepare allegations competently to enable untrained panels to consider cases safely.' She added: 'This is just the tip of the iceberg. The seemingly lenient and inconsistent sanctions we see in the headlines only serve to silence targets of misconduct who may consider coming forward to report these harmful behaviours.' Among the doctors who have been struck off for sexual misconduct is Vijay Gaikwad, 46, who was last July jailed for six years for sexually assaulting three patients during medical appointments. Elsewhere Wayne Davis, 71, was erased from the register in November and jailed for eight years for sexually assaulting patients during examinations. It comes after the Chief Executive of the GMC Charlie Massey appeared at a meeting of the Health and Social Care Committee earlier this month and said the amount of sexual misconduct which exists in the medical workforce is 'staggering'. 'The level of sexual misconduct we see in the medical workforce is staggering, and should give us all real pause for thought,' he said in response to a question from Mr Fenton-Glynn. Challenged over the failure to pursue more complaints of sexual harassment and assault to tribunal and sanction, Mr Massey said: 'An allegation is not the same thing as reaching a conclusion where there is a clear fitness to practice action that needs to be taken. 'So I think it would be wrong to conflate a number of allegations being made to us as being allegations that were all upheld.' 'I don't think that you're sitting in front of his Committee and saying 94 per cent of allegations were unfounded?' Mr Fenton-Glynn asked him. Mr Massey denied this, adding: 'This is kind of tricky territory because obviously all sexual misconduct and harassment is unacceptable, but there are varieties. 'And the Royal College of Surgeons' report talks about moving from clumsy, to creepy, to criminal. 'And obviously the GMC, as we are talking about earlier, is an organisation that exists to make decisions about taking doctors' licences away, and there are other players, like employers, who perhaps operate at the more clumsy end of that.' A spokesperson for the General Medical Council said: 'Sexual misconduct of any form has no place in healthcare. We support those who want to make a complaint and provide clear, up-to-date training and guidance for our investigators and decision-makers. 'We carefully consider every concern that is raised with us. 'In cases of sexual misconduct, we will often ask for the doctor to be struck off the medical register. Where we feel the sanctions applied by the independent tribunal are too lenient we can, and do appeal. A significant proportion of our appeals are successful and result in stronger sanctions, securing a safer outcome for the public.' A spokesperson for the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service said: 'Allegations of sexual misconduct are taken extremely seriously by our tribunals. We recognise that decisions in these cases have a significant and lasting impact on all involved and are committed to listening to feedback and continually improving. 'We have strengthened our guidance for tribunals, with a clear focus on sexual misconduct, abuse of power and breaches of professional boundaries. The guidance is clear that where there is a serious risk to the public, the most serious sanctions should be applied. 'Tribunal decisions can be appealed, and we carefully consider the outcome of each appeal for any learning points that may assist future tribunals.' Vivek Ramaswamy, a 2024 presidential candidate now running for Ohio governor, is the latest Republican politician who has accepted a campaign donation from a former GOP congressional hopeful who liked to cosplay as a Nazi. The Daily Mail has learned that the Ramaswamy campaign accepted a $500 donation on August 15 from Richard Iott using public campaign disclosure data. Ramaswamy has struggled to gain traction in Ohio - a state President Donald Trump won with a comfortable 11-point margin in 2024. A December poll showed Democrat Amy Acton ahead of Ramaswamy by one point, in an Emerson survey with a plus or minus 3.3 percent margin of error. Several attempts to contact Ramaswamy's campaign on Friday went unreturned. Iott was among the Tea Party-aligned hopefuls to try to enter Congress in the 2010 election, but his campaign was upended when the Atlantic published photographs of him in a 5th SS Panzer Division Wiking uniform. That division was part of Nazi leader Adolf Hitler's military in World War II, mostly fighting along the Eastern Front, and assisted in the genocide of Hungarian Jews. At the time, Iott didn't deny participation in the reenactment group. Vivek Ramaswamy, a 2024 Republican presidential candidate who's now the leading candidate for his party's nomination to be Ohio governor, pocketed $500 in cash from a former Ohio GOP House candidate who liked to dress up in a Nazi-era German military uniform Ohio Republican Richard Iott (second from right) had his 2010 House run derailed when the Atlantic obtained this picture that showed him in a Nazi-era 5th SS Panzer Division Wiking uniform, which he said he wore for 'historical' purposes, not because he believed in Naziism But he did answer, 'No, absolutely not,' when asked if he subscribed to the tenets of Naziism, adding, 'It's purely historical interest in World War II.' 'I've always been fascinated by the fact that here was a relatively small country that from a strictly military point of view accomplished incredible things,' he also said. 'I mean, they took over most of Europe and Russia, and it really took the combined effort of the free world to defeat them.' 'From a purely historical military point of view, that's incredible,' Iott added. Republicans distanced themselves from Iott's campaign, with the GOP's highest-ranking Jewish member, then House Whip Eric Cantor, repudiating the candidate's actions. 'I do not support anything like this,' Cantor told Fox News Sunday at the time. Iott put out a statement on his campaign website trying to smooth over the controversy with Jewish voters in particular, as the Nazis killed more than 6 million Jews during the Holocaust. 'Never, in any of my reenacting of military history, have I meant any disrespect to anyone who served in our military or anyone who has been affected by the tragedy of war, especially the Jewish community,' he said. A month later, Iott was defeated by incumbent Democratic Representative Marcy Kaptur by nearly 19 points, while other Tea Party-aligned Republican candidates were elected nationwide. Vivek Ramaswamy, a 40-year-old Cincinnati, Ohio native launched his campaign from his home town last February. He's the leading contender for the GOP nomination, but is already in a close race with Democrat Amy Acton After endorsing President Donald Trump in the 2024 campaign, Vivek Ramaswamy (left) briefly joined forced with Elon Musk (right) to lead the Department of Government Efficiency, but he was out by the end of January 2025. He launched his gubernatorial bid last February Fifteen years later, Iott's support was still causing Republican candidates political trouble. In June 2025, two months before he donated to Ramaswamy's campaign, the Jewish publication Forward reported that Iott had donated to the campaign of Virginia Republican gubernatorial hopeful Winsome Earle-Sears. Ramaswamy officially announced his gubernatorial bid last February, after he stepped away from his planned role of co-leading the new Department of Government Efficiency alongside Elon Musk the month before. He told Fox News Channel in late January 2025 that he had a 'mutual discussion' with Musk about leaving DOGE, addressing rumors that he had been fired. 'We had different - and complementary - approaches,' Ramaswamy said. The 40-year-old Cincinnati native became a national political player during the 2024 presidential cycle when he launched a long-shot campaign for the Republican nomination. He had become a mouthpiece in the tech community for being anti-woke and positioned himself to be a next-generation, Trump-like candidate without any of the Trump baggage. After a disappointing showing in the 2024 Iowa caucuses in January, he dropped out of the race and quickly endorsed the president. Vivek Ramaswamy is seen on the Republican presidential debate stage in December 2023 when he was running for president. He famously held up a notepad that said 'Nikki = corrupt,' tearing into rival, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley Vivek Ramaswamy (right) is photographed at a UFC fight in November 2024, after President Donald Trump won reelection, alongside (from left) Donald Trump Jr. Eric Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson In November, Trump officially blessed Ramaswamy's gubernatorial bid. Still, Ramaswamy has attracted opponents in the GOP primary, which will be held on May 5. Heather Hill, a former school board president, is running, and last month selected a little-known reality TV star named Stuart Moat to be her running mate. Moat appeared on the show Unstable Lumberbacks. Renea Turner, who mounted a write-in campaign for governor in 2018, has also entered the race as a Republican. She had been reported to the police for allegedly plotting to arrest Ohio's Republican Governor Mike DeWine and put him on trial for 'tyranny' over COVID-19 mandates - allegations she denied, according to Dayton 24/7 Now. In January, business owner Casey Putsch also joined the GOP race. Democrats have rallied behind Acton, a physician who formerly served as the director of the Ohio Department of Health. The brother of a 28-year-old British tourist who died in a mass ethanol poisoning in Laos has lambasted 135 fines being issued to offenders as 'an absolute joke'. Simone White had been backpacking across southeast Asia with her childhood friend, Bethany Clarke, both from Oprington, when tragedy struck in Laos. And what should have been a holiday of a lifetime turned into tragedy on November 12, 2024, when Ms White died after drinking a free shot. The young lawyer was among six people who died in the popular tourist town of Vang Vieng after consuming alcohol laced with methanol at the Nana Backpacker Hostel. The substance is a toxic liquid usually found in paint thinner, which is sometimes illegally placed in alcohol in a bid to cut costs. Initially, the 28-year-old believed she had a hangover. However, after she and Bethany were taken to hospital, she died from a bleed on the brain. Several among the 100 guests who were given free shots fell gravely ill, with six, including Australians Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, both 19, among those who died. Ten people have since been charged with destruction of evidence linked to the poisoning and handed suspended sentences. Simone White was one of six tourists who tragically died following a mass methanol poisoning at a hostel bar in Vang Vieng, Laos, last November Zak White (pictured with his sister Simone) has lambasted 135 fines issued to offenders as 'an absolute joke'. The Nana Backpackers Hostel, where the fatal poisoning took place in November 2024 But, Ms White's devastated brother has condemned the $185 (135) fines received by each as 'an absolute joke'. 'I don't think we're ever going to get to the bottom of what happened and get a fair punishment,' Zack White told BBC Newsbeat. It is believed the owner of the distillery where the spirits are alleged to have been produced is awaiting trial. Mr White revealed he and his family had anticipated a disappointing outcome of the case, describing the Loas authorities as 'very difficult throughout the whole process'. 'We've kind of had a strong kind of indication that there wasn't really ever going to be any justice,' he added. Meanwhile, Ms White's childhood friend Bethany has maintained that there are several questions about the incident, including the names of those charged. 'We haven't got a clue what's going on with any of it. So it's very limited communications from the law authorities,' she said. Foreign Office Minister Hamish Falconer said: 'We share the disappointment of the families at this outcome and we understand their frustration. Simone White had been backpacking across southeast Asia with her childhood friend, Bethany Clarke, (pictured) both from Oprington, when tragedy struck in Laos The young lawyer was among six people who died in the popular tourist town of Vang Vieng after consuming alcohol laced with methanol at the Nana Backpacker Hostel 'We have been clear with the Laos government that we expect robust action to be taken against those responsible for selling alcohol tainted with methanol and our Embassy continues to raise this case directly with the local authorities. 'We remain committed to preventing further tragedies and will continue to raise the issue of methanol poisoning at the highest levels with the Laos government. 'We have now extended travel warnings to cover more than 25 countries following this alarming rise in tragic deaths.' The Foreign Office previously stated that officials in Laos said the hostel would be unable to reopen until the court proceedings were over. It remains unclear if the relayed information from the country's Ministry of Public Security included the trial involving the distillery owner. Listings under its rebranded name, Paradise Hostel, were found by Newsbeat on both Booking.com and Agoda. The firm is understood to be under a new owner. However, the listings have since vanished from Booking.com after 'unusual activity' was flagged in its reviews. Agoda is understood to be probing the listings, while Booking.com has temporarily suspended for breaching its terms and conditions. The Daily Mail has approached Agoda and Booking.com for comment. One of the UK's most prolific romance fraudsters was confronted after trying to meet up with his next victim just days after being released from his seventh jail term. Raymond McDonald has racked up 58 convictions - mostly for fraud and theft - stealing thousands of pounds from women for fake weddings and holidays. After being released on license in November he quickly signed up to dating apps in an attempt to find his next victim. By December 3, his profile was found on an online dating site called Badoo by a reporter from the BBC. Posing as a mother of two named Kaye who had never used dating apps before, the reporter matched with McDonald. She claimed her daughter Lauren was going through a break up and he offered to go halves on a handbag for her. He even offered the use of his van to help her move and said she could stay in his lodge. On top of that he suggested a possible 'wedding in Vegas' and encouraged her to buy items from his friend. After being released on license in November he quickly signed up to dating apps in an attempt to find his next victim Posing as Kaye, reporter Philippa Goymer arranged to meet him for a 'date'. 'It's Rob, isn't it?' she said, as she approached him at the agreed meeting place. 'Yeh,' he said, a moment before spotting her microphone and the camera crew. 'It's not Rob though, is it,' Goymer said. 'It's Ray, or are you Mark today?' He claimed he was using the dating apps to find friendship. Five days after the encounter, on December 15, he was arrested. A spokesperson for HM Prison & Probation Service said he was returned to prison for breaking the rules of his licence conditions. McDonald from Country Durham was discharged from the army in August 2000 briefly worked in a supermarket and at a factory packing chickens. He is considered one of the Britain's most prolific romance fraudsters having stolen thousands of pounds through false promises of love He received his first prison term in 2003, followed by a suspended sentence four years later, on top of four more jail stints. Released during the term he was given in 2019, he immediately began scamming another woman and was recalled to prison. He is considered one of the Britain's most prolific romance fraudsters having stolen thousands of pounds through false promises of love. Several women described to the BBC the high levels of trauma he inflicted on them. One of the victims who spoke to the broadcaster said they first met McDonald through a dating site. He told her he was working over Christmas in a secretive military role, training foreign soldiers, but wanted to stay in touch with her during the festive season. The woman recounted: '(He) just made you feel, I don't know, wanted. Special. I hadn't been in a relationship for such a long time. I suppose in hindsight, it was what I wanted to hear.' However it later turned out that McDonald wasn't just talking to Paula, he formed relationships with several women, arranging to meet and telling them he was newly divorced and starting a new job. He received his first prison term in 2003, followed by a suspended sentence four years later, on top of four more jail stints One claimed McDonald had told her he needed to be on shift at the probation service in the evenings - when actually he was reporting himself to probation. All the women who came forward described him as warm, genuine and even vulnerable at first. However, in the midst of all this, he was taking money from them to pay for things that would never materialise. A Badoo spokesperson said: 'We work closely with law enforcement and maintain dedicated channels for them to share information about individuals who are banned from using dating apps due to court orders or parole restrictions. 'Anyone found to be attempting to defraud or manipulate members will be restricted or banned from the app.' Driving through the vast, scorched landscape, I hear the words that have followed me all day. They roasted the pastor and his wife alive in the church. We heard their screams. Plateau State stretches to the horizon. Rich black soil that once grew cassava and sugar cane is now ash. Trees are encrusted with soot. Fields of maize that shone gold in the sun are grey and lifeless, stalk after stalk standing in formation like an army frozen in defeat. Bricks lie scattered in the scrub. Concrete blocks jut from the earth like jagged teeth. Roofs have collapsed inward. And then come the churches. Burned-out shell after burned-out shell. Crosses broken. Windows blown through. One has been gutted by fire, another reduced to rubble. Its as though someone has tried to erase every visible sign of Christianity from this land. For more than two decades, this stretch of Nigerias Middle Belt the faultline where the largely Muslim north meets the predominantly Christian south has convulsed in recurring waves of bloodshed. David Patrikarakos, centre, with his security escort in Gwet, in the Plateau State of Nigeria According to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, thousands have been killed in one state alone since the early 2000s. Nigerias Security Tracker estimates that more than 60,000 people have died nationwide in communal and insurgent violence since 2011. Yet outside Africa, the carnage rarely holds attention. It pierced Western consciousness in 2014 when Boko Haram abducted more than 270 schoolgirls, sparking the global #BringBackOurGirls campaign and drawing figures such as Michelle Obama into the outcry and then it faded. It flared briefly again last Christmas when Donald Trump ordered air strikes against jihadist targets in the region following renewed attacks on Christian communities, thrusting Nigeria into the centre of American political debate. Then it slipped from the headlines once more. And yet the religious faultline running through Nigeria mirrors anxieties reshaping politics across Europe and America: identity, migration, demography, religious coexistence. In Nigeria, those tensions are simply sharper and bloodier. Nigeria is home to more than 220million people and is projected to approach 400million within decades, on course to become one of the worlds most populous nations. Plateau State, roughly the size of Belgium, has around four million people wedged into a fragile mosaic of farming villages and grazing routes layered over fertile land and mineral deposits. Add rapid population growth, climate pressures, weak institutions and the long shadow of the jihadist group Boko Harams insurgency which has killed tens of thousands and the combustible mix becomes clear. In the face of all this, calling the violence here merely a farmerherder conflict, as government officials try to do, begins to sound like a diplomatic euphemism. Its true that land is in high demand and grazing routes are contested. But that explanation alone feels inadequate when you witness for yourself the ruins of so many churches and hear the stories of so many slaughtered Christians. Mobs attacked at least 17 rural communities in the Plateau areas of Bokkos and Barkin Ladi (pictured), murdering at least 200 and injuring 500 more We arrive in the village of Gwet, parking by a collection of abandoned houses, destroyed fields and another ruined church. In truth, were not exactly welcome. The people who committed these atrocities Muslim Fulani herdsmen can be seen in the distance: the new, unchallenged masters of this once devoutly Christian area. Im told that theyd normally slaughter any stranger who dared to come but unfortunately for them, earlier this morning I met the honourable Dachahat Tongpan, secretary general of the Local Government Area (LGA). This part of the Plateau State has a troubled history. In 2024, a sickening video circulated online of a Muslim mob beheading a young Christian man here and killing a family of five, including three children. The people remember. After he learned that I had come to investigate violence against Christians, the Secretary General insisted on providing an armed escort. You need to see ground zero, he told me. The truck-mounted heavy machine gun would ensure the Fulani left us unmolested. But word spread. Some Christians who once lived here took the chance to return to their homes for the first time since they were driven out. Reverend Iliya Ayuba Fwangle is the local area chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria. As we stand together amid the devastation, he turns to me. His immaculate, pinstriped suit clashes with the devastated landscape. We are being displaced, he says. Our people cannot farm. Our children cannot go to school. We pray you go back and tell the world about the genocide we Christians are experiencing here. The pattern has been identical across the years and locations. Night raids. Armed, baying men descending on sleeping Christian communities. Houses torched; men, women and children cut down or slaughtered in their beds; churches set ablaze. By dawn, whole settlements are smoking ruins. Jonas is 29 years old. He cradles his metal machete like a comfort blanket. For firewood, he says, but also, he adds, looking at the Fulani in the distance, for protection. We stand in the blackened remains of his family home. This is the first time hes dared to come back since May 16, 2023: the day his world was destroyed. He starts to remember. Early that morning, Fulani families had been seen nearby gathering cattle and belongings, moving in unusually large numbers. Within hours they stormed his village screaming Allahu Akbar and calling the Christians living there infidels. They fired into homes, chased families out and burned everything they could. They were methodical in their savagery. We were terrified, he tells me. We ran and hid in the bush and then fled. We cannot forget what they did to us, says Patricia, left. The Fulani shot her husband dead in front of her Ten people once lived in his home: his parents, wife and younger brothers. They were farmers. Now the Fulani cattle graze the familys field beyond their ruined church. The Islamists murdered Jonass father: he shows me the very spot. I shouted to him to run, he says. Then I turned around and saw they had shot him. He was lying in his own blood. Thirteen people were killed in this village of around 800. The churches are always their main target, he says. It is an attack at the heart of their faith. A message written in fire. Christian advocacy group Open Doors reported that the vast majority of Christians killed for their faith globally (between October 2024 and September 2025) were murdered in Nigeria. Government sources reject the claim, arguing the violence is driven by competition over land, farming and resources rather than religion. Yet when the killing comes, it is often Christian villages that burn. To drive between villages in Plateau State is to run a gauntlet of checkpoints. These range from official military installations with guard-huts and sandbags to a tree branch dragged across the road. Many are manned by men wearing Special Forces emblazoned across faded uniforms a promiscuous term out here. We have to be careful, my fixer Abdullahi warns, because bandits erect fake checkpoints to rob travellers especially at night. We round a bend and another checkpoint comes into view. An armed man leans into our window, looking intently at me. I brace for an interrogation. Then he puts his hand to his mouth: asking for money to eat. Not so Special Forces, Abdullahi mutters. The following morning, we pull into a churchyard smothered in the yellow dirt characteristic of the region. Im here to meet several internally displaced persons (IDP), in the humanitarian jargon yet more victims of Muslim violence. We are going to discuss one of the worst atrocities in living memory: the Christmas Massacres of 2023. In 48 blood-spattered hours between December 23 and Christmas Day, mobs attacked at least 17 rural communities in the Plateau areas of Bokkos and Barkin Ladi, murdering at least 200 and injuring 500 more. Although no group claimed responsibility, residents insist it was the Fulani. In Jos, Plateaus state capital at the centre of Nigerias religious divide, where church crucifixes stand just streets away from minarets They also insist the date was deliberate. In the days before the attacks, warnings had circulated: Be careful how you celebrate Christmas or you may not celebrate at all. Inside a surviving church in Bokkos, I take a chair by the stage alongside a lectern and a drum kit. Music is important to Nigerias Christians. Reverend Silas Caleb Dang takes up the story. As Christians across the world prepared to celebrate the birth of their Saviour, gunfire ripped through the hills here. Houses were already burning when one pastor ran inside his church, locked the door and knelt at the altar. He went inside the church to pray to Jesus, he tells me. And they burned him alive. In nearby Muong village, the horror was repeated. At around 5pm on Christmas Eve 2023, gunshots were heard in neighbouring villages. By 6.30pm, the attackers were closing in. Sunday B. Randong, a retired civil servant now also displaced, went to the Special Task Force office in Bokkos to raise the alarm, but the officers just laughed and said they lacked personnel. Soon after, the mob arrived. They torched a house with the pastors wife and her five children trapped inside, he says, sitting across from me in a mustard-coloured kaftan. They were Fulani. We know this because we heard their names as they shouted to each other: Burn this house! Burn that house! It was an anti-Christian attack, no doubt, he concludes. They screamed, Allahu Akbar! as they fired, calling us all infidels. Women and children fled toward a nearby stream, hoping the darkness would hide them, but the Fulani were already there, waiting, Reverend Silas says. They butchered 23 women, children and elderly. Jonas is 29 years old. He cradles his metal machete like a comfort blanket. For firewood, he says, but also for protection' Across the surrounding villages, local leaders say more than 64 were killed over several days. More than 1,300 houses were destroyed. Churches were gutted. Food stores were looted. Later, cattle were driven into Christian irrigation fields to destroy their crops. Reverend John Dakwat believes that, apart from any disputes over land or cattle rustling, Christian communities are attacked because of their religion. Any village they enter, they make sure they burn the church and kill our holy men, he says. They tell us, If you build a new church, one day we will make it a mosque. In Jos, Plateaus state capital at the centre of Nigerias religious divide I see church crucifixes just streets away from minarets. The call to prayer echoes above the corrugated shacks, while the occasional peal of worship music carries in the air. And, I am repeatedly told, there can never be peace among Christians and Muslims here. We cannot forget what they did to us, says Patricia, as her infant children sit beside her in an IDP camp, staring emptily into space. The Fulani shot her husband dead in front of her. Patricia has been in the camp for three years now, with little hope of either returning home or improving her life. David with IDP children in Mangu, in the Plateau State Each morning, she sends her tiny children to the rubbish tip to scavenge for anything they can sell to buy food. I want to hear the other side of the story. Muslim communities have long claimed Christians rustle their cattle and attack their villages. The Christians say these attacks are only ever reprisals for Muslim violence. Back in Jos, we drive through narrow streets filled with hawkers aggressively peddling their wares: for a while, a man sprints alongside our car brandishing a dead chicken. I meet Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, chairman of a national Salafi (the strict, orthodox branch of Sunni Islam) organisation. The community here, he tells me, faces discrimination at every level: especially politically. We are the majority in Plateau, he says. Yet we have never had a Muslim governor. We have no voice. He speaks of earlier crises going all the way back to 1960 and of repeated attacks where hundreds of Muslims were killed, mosques burned and markets destroyed. What surprises us, he says, is that America and Britain talk about human rights. But when Muslims are killed, they are silent. He leans forward. Boko Haram, the Nigerian jihadist group, he tells me, is no mere home-grown insurgency. There are people who say America and Israel created Boko Haram to destabilise Nigeria. He offers no evidence. But its clear that he, and his followers in the room, believe it sincerely. When I raise the killings of Christians in Plateau, he doesnt deny them. He simply insists the story is not one-sided. He recounts an alleged attack on Eid prayers in 2011, claiming worshippers were killed and cars burned. He barely escaped with his life. We chose the law, he says. We did not retaliate. Both sides believe they are the victims. Neither is inclined to yield. As we drive away from this troubled region for the last time, I find myself thinking about something that happened the previous day in Joss city centre. We had paused at a traffic light. On the pavement nearby, a small boy clutching a battered toy stared at me through the car window and followed my gaze to the church across the intersection. Then, he slowly lifted his fingers and, smiling, made the sign of the cross. An 11-year-old boy accidentally killed himself while trying to get high by sniffing a Ted Baker body spray aerosol in his bedroom late at night. Freddie Davis had the spray can concealed in his dressing gown when his cold body was found in bed the next morning by his mother who went to wake him for school. The Year 7 pupil died as a result of inhaling butane aerosol propellant, an inquest into his death heard this week, which prompted the coroner to issue a warning to parents about the dangerous trend. Freddie's mother Roseanne Thompson later said that she had heard of children of her son's age being inspired to try sniffing aerosols by videos on TikTok - and had even preventatively stopped buying him spray-on deodorants to protect him. Releasing pictures of her son to the Daily Mail as a way to highlight the dangers to other parents Ms Thompson said: 'Aerosols do kill.' His parents and both sets of grandparents were present at the inquest at East London Coroners' Court in Walthamstow, east London. The court heard that Freddie was an 'outgoing boy who loved sport and learning', enjoyed school, was popular and respectful. On the weekend of his death in January last year he had been to stay at a friend's house in Brentwood, Essex, and was 'stroppy' when he was told he needed to be home in time for dinner on the Sunday. Freddie Davis, pictured with his mother Roseanne Thompson, accidentally killed himself while trying to get high by sniffing a Ted Baker body spray aerosol in his bedroom The Year 7 pupil Freddie died as a result of inhaling butane aerosol propellant. He had the spray can concealed in his dressing gown when his cold body was found in bed by his mother Freddie's death prompted the coroner at an inquest this week to issue a warning to parents about the dangerous TikTok trend called 'Chroming', which sees people inhale common household substances, like nail varnish, paint and spray cans In a written statement, his mum said she had offered to help him arrange some lights in his bedroom that evening, on the proviso he tidied it first. At around 9.20pm he came downstairs saying he couldn't sleep. After going back up, the rest of the family also went to bed, but Freddie came into his mum's room twice asking for a phone charger. She offered to keep his phone overnight to charge it and Freddie asked if she could wake him up by 6.30am the following morning because he had school - he had recently started at Drapers' Academy in Harold Hill. Ms Thompson said she finally went to sleep, heard nothing in the night and woke at around 6.20am the following morning, Monday, January 20, 2025. 'I went into his room to wake him up,' her statement read. 'I opened the door and called out "Fred" as I do most mornings. 'I could see he was lying on his front with his face down. I called Fred again. Usually by now he would have responded. 'I began to analyse his position and was thinking "Why is he like that?" I put my hand on his shoulder and noticed he was colder than usual. 'I called out for help and said, "I think Fred has gone." I dialled 999 and said to the operator: "I think my son is dead."' Freddie was turned over so CPR could be attempted, but Ms Thompson said: 'I knew he had passed away.' PC Neil Price, of the Met Police, attended the scene in Harold Hill, east London. 'The scene was obviously emotional,' PC Price said. 'There was a smell emanating from the room, but I couldn't distinguish what it was at the time.' As Freddie was rolled over, the Ted Baker spray can fell out from his dressing gown. London Ambulance Service confirmed that the child had died so no CPR was given. A search of the house revealed nothing amiss. No one knows where he got the can, but Ms Thompson believes that a friend must have introduced him to the dangerous trend. Four vapes were also found in Freddie's bedroom. A report compiled by two senior police officers confirmed that a computer and phone taken from the scene contained nothing relevant. It said: 'There was no evidence of any discussion around the inhalation of solvents or discussion with others about the use of such things.' It went on: 'Mum was noticeably shocked by the deodorant. 'They had started to buy Freddie Lynx and in 24 hours it would be empty. 'There was a trend whereby children empty cans of deodorant into socks and use it to get a high. 'He was told of the risks and they began buying him roll-on deodorant.' Police spoke to Freddie's friends and school and there was nothing to indicate bullying or any trends relating to aerosol inhalation. Freddie was an outgoing boy who loved sport and enjoyed school, was popular and respectful The school held follow-up assemblies where they asked anyone with information to come forward but no one could give any relevant information about the death, the court heard. Ms Thompson, 34, said after the hearing that a year before Freddie's death she had heard of a TikTok trend called 'Chroming' and had sat Freddie down to warn him never to take part. Chroming videos are still available on TikTok. It sees people inhale common household substances, like nail varnish, paint and spray cans. A police report into Freddie's death said officers were aware of a trend in which children empty cans of deodorant into socks and use it to get a high. But Freddie had not searched for the trend online, had not researched anything to do with aerosols or suicide and his friends could shed no light on what had happened, the court heard. Ms Thompson said in a statement to the court that she had started to buy him Lynx spray but noticed once that an entire bottle had gone in 24 hours. After this and hearing about the sniffing trend, Ms Thompson had started to buy Freddie roll-on deodorant instead. Forensic toxicologist John Slaughter said propane, butane and isobutane were found in Freddie's tissue samples, consistent with the contents of the can. Spraying aerosol into the airways is highly toxic and can cause coma. The sudden coldness can also stimulate the vagus nerve, causing dangerous heart arrhythmias, he added. Pathologist Dr Liina Palm (CORR) gave the cause of death as inhalation of butane aerosol propellant. At the conclusion of the inquest, coroner Nadia Persaud also said that parents need to be aware of the possibility of aerosol misuse in their children. Area coroner Ms Persaud said: 'I do not know whether parents are aware of the danger of these aerosols but I think there needs to be more publicity.' And she said she would be writing to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) to make them aware of the case. Friends and family raised more than 1,700 for Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity, with a GoFundMe describing Freddie as 'full of life and laughter'. Ms Thompson, who is separated from Freddie's dad Ashlie Davis, 37, said afterwards 'Aerosols do kill. 'Children are easily led and they do not realise the dangers. 'I wouldn't even risk bringing aerosols anywhere near my family now, I won't even have them in the house. 'These things do kill people.' Freddie's death follows dozens of others in the UK, both from intentional inhalation and accidentally breathing in too much spray. Between 2001 and 2020, there were 716 deaths related to volatile substances registered in England and Wales, with an average of 36 deaths each year - and an overwhelming majority (77.9 per cent) among males. Fuels were the most common volatile substances mentioned on the death certificate, involved in 59.5 per cent of deaths, with butane and propane - both commonly found in aerosols - specified in 447 deaths. His mother Roseanne said in a written statement that she believed a friend had introduced him to the TikTok craze that other parents should be warned about. Roseanne said she had started to buy Freddie Lynx spray - but noticed once that an entire bottle had gone in 24 hours At the conclusion of Freddie's inquest, coroner Nadia Persaud also said that parents need to be aware of the possibility of aerosol misuse in their children Ashley Martin, public health adviser at RoSPA, previously said: 'It's easy to assume they are completely safe and totally free from risk. The truth is they're not. 'Inhaling large quantities of aerosols, not just deodorants, can lead to a whole host of life-endangering scenarios - from blackouts and breathing difficulties, to heart rhythm changes and sadly, death. 'There's a common misconception that fatalities from aerosols only happen in a substance abuse scenario, but this is absolutely not true. 'We have seen a number of fatalities over recent years where children and young adults have over-sprayed aerosols - from teenagers conscious of body odour, to children seeking reassurance from familiar smells.' The coroner recorded Freddie's death was accidental. Sir Keir Starmer is facing growing pressure not to rush through the appointment of a controversial mandarin to run the civil service as fresh concerns emerged about her record. The Prime Minister is already under fire from within Whitehall as well as from political opponents for forcing out Sir Chris Wormald after barely a year, as he desperately tries to save his premiership. There are also concerns that he will now try to avoid holding a full recruitment process in order to hand the job to his favoured candidate for Cabinet Secretary, top Home Office official Dame Antonia Romeo. Last night Downing Street was urged to look at a series of debacles that took place on her watch during her time at the Ministry of Justice. It comes after a former top diplomat made an extraordinary intervention to urge No 10 to carry out due diligence on her, amid hotly disputed allegations of bullying when she was HM Consul General to New York that she was later cleared of. Given his record of appalling judgement and the revolving door at the top of his Government, Keir Starmer must be very careful about who he appoints as his next Cabinet Secretary, a Tory source told the Daily Mail. As the Mail on Sunday first reported back in 2017, Dame Antonia was behind a disastrous 4billion privatisation of the probation service that later had to be scrapped. She was in charge of the Transforming Rehabilitation programme and said in 2014: My job as senior responsible officer is to make sure we deliver the benefits of the programme. We need to really understand whats going on and there are no prizes for not listening. But the reforms, which put private firms in charge of supervising criminals leaving prison, were branded irredeemably flawed by the watchdog and eventually completely abandoned. Dame Antonia Romeo (pictured) is the frontrunner to become the first female head of the civil service Richard Garside, Director of the Centre for Crime and Justice Studies, told this newspaper: She dutifully implemented Chris Graylings decision but a number of people felt at the time she could have pushed back harder on that. She hung around long enough to implement it but not to pick up the pieces as the mess developed. Dame Antonia returned to the Ministry of Justice in 2021 as its Permanent Secretary and when asked by MPs about the probation service a year ago insisted: It is doing an absolutely excellent job. But a damning report by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) concluded: Performance of the service in England and Wales has worsened since the Ministry of Justice and HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) brought probation under full public control in 2021. Some also blame her for the MoJs catastrophic decision to sign a 10-year lease on HMP Dartmoor, costing taxpayers up to 100million, in March 2022 despite knowing the site had high levels of radon gas. The jail has been closed on safety grounds since July 2024. PAC chairman Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown said last month it was a perfect example of a department reaching for a solution, any solution, in a blind panic and under pressure. Dame Antonia was challenged by the committee last year and asked if it was fair that we have paid the Chancellor of the Duchy of Cornwall rent for a radon site. She replied simply: It is the contract. Dame Antonia (right) became known for hosting glitzy parties for celebrities such as Vogue editor Anna Wintour (pictured) when she served as HM Consul General to New York However one person who worked with her at the MoJ said that although she had not been a great success there, a lot of the problems were beyond her control. And the senior figure said she would be the best candidate to now run the civil service. Shes so bright, she gives practical advice and she plays Whitehall chess quite effectively. Shes a ruthless operator who serves her political master. Im not sure she inspires massive confidence in her underlings but you want someone who is loyal to the Secretary of State, not the blob. And a Government source said: Antonia is a disrupter. She isnt settled with the status quo. She is one of the few senior officials that has always fought against the computer says no culture embedded in the British state. In light of the crisis we face as a country, Antonia is exactly the leadership the civil service need to embrace systemic reform to rewire the state, take on vested interests and deliver for the British people. Meanwhile a former Cabinet Secretary urged Sir Keir to get a grip of his special advisers after the briefings against ousted Sir Chris, who is now in line for a 260,000 payoff after the PM brushed aside warnings from officials that there was no reason to sack him. Lord ODonnell told the BBC: Where its shabby is the fact that weve got to this place and that they have briefed anonymously against the cabinet secretary saying its not working. ICE pushed back on claims of 'torture' made by an Irishman detained for overstaying his visa, insisting the United States remains 'a nation of law and order.' Seamus Culleton, who spent more than two decades building a life in the Boston area, entered the US in 2009 on a 90-day tourist visa waiver, according to a Texas court ruling. He married a US citizen and applied for a marriage-based green card, but a federal judge in El Paso - where he remains in detention - denied his bid for freedom. Speaking to Ireland's RTE radio earlier this week, Culleton described the detention center as 'torture' and said he is 'in fear for my life here.' 'The best way I could describe it is probably like a modern day concentration camp,' the Kilkenny native said from the facility. 'People have been killed by the security staff here. You don't know what's going to happen on a day-to-day basis. It's a nightmare down here.' On Friday, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) responded to Culletons allegations on its official X account, reiterating that 'this man overstayed his visa BY 16 YEARS.' Seamus Culleton (pictured), an Irishman held in Texas for overstaying his 90-day visa, told RTE Radio this week that the detention center is torture and that he 'fears for his life' Culleton married a US citizen and applied for a marriage-based green card, but a federal judge in El Paso - where he remains in detention - denied his bid for freedom 'We are a nation of law and order,' the post added. 'Overstaying your visa violates federal immigration law.' The departments response comes a day on the heels of a Irish Times report revealing that Culleton was issued an arrest warrant by an Irish court for drug-related offenses soon after entering the US. In April 2009, the District Court in New Ross, Co. Wexford, issued a warrant for Culleton of Glenmore, Co. Kilkenny, over alleged drug possession and possession with intent to sell or supply in May 2008, according to the outlet. He was also reportedly facing charges of allegedly obstructing a Garda - a member of Ireland's national police service - during a search by throwing 25 ecstasy tablets to the ground. Just months later, authorities issued another warrant relating to an alleged criminal damage case from September 2007. The warrants against Culleton are still active, and the outlet reported that he has not yet been apprehended by Irelands police, formally known as An Garda Siochana. His US attorney, Ogor Winnie Okoye, said during an online press conference this week that she had only just learned of the warrants reportedly issued for his arrest, according to the Irish Times. She said Culleton is not aware of any post-US warrants, which were reportedly issued after he entered American territory, and emphasized that a warrant does not imply guilt. ICE responded to Culletons (pictured with wife) allegations of torture on its official X account, reiterating that 'this man overstayed his visa BY 16 YEARS,' and that the US is 'a nation of law and order) The departments response comes a day on the heels of a Irish Times report revealing that Culleton (pictured) was issued an arrest warrant by an Irish court for drug-related offenses soon after entering the US Culleton obtained a statutory exemption to work after marrying a US citizen, 'tied to a green card application,' but his detention meant he missed his final interview in October, Okoye told The Guardian. In September of last year, Culleton said that after finishing work, he returned some items in his van to a Home Depot store and then set off for home, according to RTE News. 'After about two minutes I realized that there was a car following me and it just looked suspicious,' he told the outlet. 'It followed for another couple of minutes and sure enough put on the blue lights. Then out of nowhere it seemed like there were seven or eight cars and a bunch of officers at the window of the van, telling me to roll down the window.' He claimed that he complied with everything they said, explaining that he had a marriage-based petition, a work permit and was on the verge of receiving his green card. He noted that he was also carrying a Massachusetts drivers license. Yet none of that mattered to the agents, Culleton said, who then placed him in handcuffs and took him into custody. 'It was a very unsure moment. I didn't really know what to think,' the Irishman told the outlet. 'I guess when I got thrown in the holding cell in Burlington, Massachusetts, that's when it kind of sunk in, you know, that I might not be getting out of here.' His US attorney, Ogor Winnie Okoye (pictured), said Culleton is not aware of any post-US warrants, which were reportedly issued after he entered American territory, and emphasized that a warrant does not imply guilt His wife, Tiffany Smyth, said she only learned Culleton (both pictured) had been moved to Texas after using an online ICE detainee tracker to try to locate him His wife, Tiffany Smyth, who also spoke on the program, said he frantically called her for probably under a minute to say he had been detained by ICE, and she did not hear from him for nearly a week afterward. She said she only learned he had been moved to Texas after using an online ICE detainee tracker to try to locate him. Culleton's sister Caroline told RTE's News At One that his arrest was the start of the whole nightmare. 'His whole life just ended that day, it was put on hold,' she said. Describing conditions inside the detention center to The Irish Times, Culleton said: 'It's just a horrible, horrible, horrible place.' He said there were 72 people crammed into a tent roughly the size of a 16-by-35-foot room, with no ceiling, two rows of bunk beds along the sides, and a long table down the middle. The conditions at the camp were filthy, the toilets and showers nasty, and illnesses were rampant among those being detained, Culleton told the outlet. He said competition for kid-sized meals was a normal occurrence and admitted that he had definitely lost weight. 'People have been killed by the security staff here,' Culleton told Ireland's RTE radio earlier this week about the El Paso County detention facility Culleton said the conditions at the camp were filthy, the toilets and showers nasty and illnesses were rampant among those being detained 'There is no real quality of life here. I've been locked in the same room now for four and a half months,' Culleton told RTE's Liveline program. 'I have barely any outside time, no fresh air, no sunshine. We have two TVs on the wall, there are 72 detainees here in total.' Culleton publicly said he was struggling to cope with the psychological and physical toll of detention and didnt know how much more he could take. He urged Irish Premier Micheal Martin to raise his case with President Donald Trump during his upcoming visit to Washington. In an emotional appeal to Irish politicians, he said: 'Just try to get me out of here and do all you can, please. It's an absolute torture, psychological and physical torture. I just want to get back to my wife. We're so desperate to start a family.' On January 23, Judge Kathleen Cardone ruled that the visa waiver program Culleton used requires participants to give up the right to contest deportation except on asylum grounds. She noted that under the scheme, entrants 'waive any right... to contest other than on the basis of an application for asylum, any action for removal' from the US. The waiver was designed, she said, 'to enter the country expeditiously while streamlining their removal.' Culleton publicly said he was struggling to cope with the psychological and physical toll of detention and didnt know how much more he could take Culleton urged Irish Premier Micheal Martin to raise his case with President Donald Trump during his upcoming visit to Washington The judge also cited a 2009 precedent, stressing that the waiver still applies even when 'an individual has a pending adjustment of status application on the basis of their marriage to a US citizen.' Culleton confirmed during the November-started case that he was not seeking asylum. The US Department of Homeland Security insists he has been treated fairly throughout the process. Tricia McLaughlin, an assistant secretary at the department, also dismissed criticism of the Texas detention facility where Culleton is being held, amid calls from human rights groups for it to be shut down. 'False,' she told CBS News in a statement. 'Ice has higher detention standards than most US prisons that hold actual US citizens.' Siobhan Whytes last words to her dying daughter Rhiannon were both tender and defiant. I will always love you, she said. And I promise you justice. Rhiannon, just 27 when she died and mother to a little boy, now six, was, smart, kind and funny, with the gentlest, purest heart, says Siobhan. That she worked in a hotel that housed asylum-seekers and was murdered by one of its residents stabbed 23 times with a screwdriver as she waited for her train home after a night shift on October 20, 2024 is the cruellest irony of all. Sudanese national Deng Chol Majek, who had arrived illegally in the UK by small boat just 11 weeks earlier, consistently lied to the court: about his age, his reasons for claiming asylum, his mastery of the English language, but most of damning of all, about his culpability. At Coventry Crown Court two weeks ago, Mr Justice Soole said Majek would serve a life sentence with a minimum term of 29 years, telling him: The evidence against you, in particular from CCTV and DNA, was overwhelming. You continue to deny you were the assailant and the court is thus left with no explanation for what possessed you to murder a member of hotel staff whom, together with her colleagues, had been serving and helping you and your fellow residents. Today, speaking exclusively to the Daily Mail, Siobhans contempt for her daughters killer is so deep she refuses to dignify him with an identity. I never say his name. He is nothing to me. He is obliterated, not worthy of my attention. Rhiannon Whyte, 27, was stabbed 23 times with a screwdriver by evil Deng Chol Majek, who ambushed her after her shift at the asylum hotel where he had been living Rhiannon's mother Siobhan Whyte (pictured) said she holds Sir Keir Starmer's immigration policies at least partilaly responsible for her daughter's death, saying of the PM: 'He's got blood on his hands' Deng Chol Majek, who is from Sudan but arrived in the UK by small boat in July last year, was found guilty last year of murdering mother-of-one Rhiannon Whyte in October 2024 I try not to let the hatred I have for him consume me. I try to be more like Rhiannon because she hated arguments, conflict. 'She wanted to help people. Thats why she did her job. All the hatred I feel for him is overpowered by the love I have for Rhiannon. But what he did to my daughter was demonic. Was justice served for Rhiannon? It is a relief that he is locked away for life, that he is off the streets, that no other woman will suffer at his hands as my daughter did. Do I want him to go back to Sudan? No, because he would just find a way of coming back here. And I dont want him to die either. Dying is too easy. I want him to have a long life of suffering. I relive in my head every day what he did to Rhiannon. I cannot stand the thought of her trying to defend herself and being so scared. What was going through her mind? It literally destroys me.' 'Everyone tells me, You have to stop thinking about it. But tell my mind that. It traumatises me. 'Id hoped to God his face wasnt the last one she saw. But we discovered that it was. She had the most beautiful blue eyes and he blinded her. Rhiannon wanted to be an organ donor but he even denied her that. He insisted he was innocent and because of that the body of the beautiful woman we loved became a piece of evidence that had to be sent for analysis. And we had to sign to give permission for her brain to be sent away for forensic tests, too. It was all too much to bear. I never cried before but now I cant stop. I am still wrapped up in my own guilt and grief that Im her mum and I could not help her. He has no remorse, hes given no explanation. If I could ask him one question it would be, Why? Why her? What had she done to you to deserve this? I watch the CCTV footage constantly searching for just one clue as to why. Your browser does not support iframes. The footage shows Rhiannon leaving the Park Inn Hotel, Walsall, after finishing her late shift and calling her best friend Emma as she makes the short walk to the station. She chats to Emma and Majek follows her. Thirty seconds after she reaches the platform he stabs her with a screwdriver it is a vicious and frenzied attack. Emma hears three really high-pitched, terrified, in pain screams before the line goes dead. Immediately she calls the police. Recalling a night of abject fear and panic, Siobhan says: I was at home and Rhiannons friend phoned me [at 11.15pm]. I missed the call so she phoned my daughter Cara and said, Rhiannon is being attacked. Meanwhile Emmas husband was calling the police, and they phoned me. My first thought was to call Rhiannons mobile. You see my call flashing up on her phone on the CCTV footage. [Majek] had Rhiannons mobile in his hands by then. And then you see him throwing it from a bridge into the river. Police were later to retrieve it. Every part of me was shaking. There were calls back and forth to the police and the hotel, to my children. 'You always try to think the best and then I spoke to the police again and they said Rhiannon was on her way to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham. I went with my daughter Alex and the police met us outside. We went into the family room and thats when the consultant told us Rhiannon had been stabbed. I couldnt comprehend it. I went into shock, just froze. Majek was seen laughing and dancing at the hotel after his crime, clearly excited by his horrific act of violence I remember saying, What do you mean? and he said shed been stabbed in the head and that the family needed to come. The desolation and grief the large and close-knit family felt was unimaginable. Meanwhile, in grotesque juxtaposition, Majek was celebrating. Immediately after stabbing Rhiannon, he swung by an off-licence, bought beer and spent the night dancing round the hotel. During this time Rhiannon, who never regained consciousness before she died three days later, was in a coma in ICU. I held her hand. I thought, Why has she got all those marks over her? I didnt want to leave her side, Siobhan says. I didnt want to eat. I couldnt sleep. The kids told me I had to try to rest so I went home, but I only stayed for two hours, then went straight back to her bedside. I remember saying to the consultant, Please keep her alive for my youngest daughters birthday. She died the next day. All Siobhans children Emma, 37, Daniel 35, Alex, 30, and Cara, 27 are equally adored, but it was Rhiannon and her son who still shared a home with Siobhan in Walsall, just a two-minute train ride away from Bescot Railway Station where she was killed. So I ask Siobhan: What does justice for Rhiannon look like now her killer is locked up for life? She is a woman of quiet courage and tenacity. She sits in the small, neat living room of her flat in Warwickshire she moved after Rhiannons death and considers. She did not want to be drawn into politics, into the small-boats debate, but now she says she has no option. We are not a family of racists, she begins. Wed never judge anyone by the colour of their skin. Only one migrant is to blame for her death, and we all stand by our belief that he was evil. Since Rhiannons death Siobhan, plagued by grief and insomnia, has been unable to work, although she hopes to return to her job as a senior health care worker where many of her colleagues are immigrants. And theyre lovely women. All of them have the proper papers to work here legally and thats fine. But she reserves the full force of her anger for those who come over on small boats without documentation. We dont know who they are, what theyve done even if theyre using their real names. They should come here with proper documentation and if they dont have it, they need to be vetted and deemed safe, or sent back home. 'The Government needs to take its head out of the sand and say, Lets bring a change. Keir Starmer must take some responsibility. He has blood on his hands. Id like to meet him and ask him why he is still allowing this to happen? Wouldnt he be acting more decisively if it was his child whod been killed? She points to small, ineffectual gestures by politicians such as Jess Phillips, Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley and Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls who, says Siobhan, made promises in the name of Rhiannon and femicide but weve not heard from her since. Rhiannon Whyte, 27, a mother-of-one, was attacked moments after leaving work and died in hospital with her family by her side Her local Labour MP suggested crowd-funding for a bench in Rhiannons memory all of which, for Siobhan, is skirting round the real issue. We cannot have dangerous migrants in our country killing our children. Two days after the verdict, Siobhan lost her mother. She was heartbroken for Rhiannon, says Siobhan. So I hold him [Majek] responsible for two deaths. What sustains her is her family notably Rhiannons little boy and her determination to keep Rhiannons memory alive. She grappled with the awful dilemma of how to tell her grandson that his mother had died. If we cannot accept her death, how could a five-year-old child? How do you tell him his mummy is never coming back, that shes been killed? I couldnt speak the words but Alex managed. She said, Mummy had a poorly brain and shes gone to live in heaven. His scream just broke our hearts. We lay in bed with him his auntie Alex and me and we told him how much he was loved and protected. He goes to bed now with his teddy which has a picture of Rhiannon on it. I see his mum as a child in him. He is her double, with her kind heart. When hes older he will know the truth, but now we have to protect him. Weve told him a little more that a bad man hurt her brain and the doctors couldnt make it better, and now he wants to be a brain doctor so he can help people like his mum. Rhiannons son now lives with his Auntie Alex, enveloped in the familys love. It will always plague Siobhan that Majek gave absolutely no reason for her murder. One tiny clue might reside in the malevolent glare captured chillingly on hotel security footage that Majek directed at her as he sat in reception on the night he killed her, watching her handing out biscuits to residents. Siobhan was present for every day of Majeks trial refusing to be intimidated by him, enduring every minutia of the fatal assault. She reserves the highest praise for British Transport Police who arrested Majek within five hours of the killing, who stood by her at every court appearance. I had to look him [Majek] in the eye. I faced him in the witness box. I showed him no disrespect. I stayed quiet while he called everyone the police, forensics, CCTV liars. He genuinely did not care. He made eye contact with me once, then he looked away. He just stood there looking dead behind the eyes. On only one occasion did she feel compelled to leave the court. It was when Majeks barrister, Gurdeep Garcha KC, suggested although Majek had been wearing identical clothes to the killer his identity could have been mistaken. He said, Walsall is a multi-cultural city. It has a lot of people of colour. Maybe it wasnt him. Can you imagine how scared he must have felt being taken into the cells? I just thought, Can you imagine how terrified Rhiannon was when he stabbed her? My daughter was 5 ft 4 in. He is 6 ft tall. Yet she had courage, compassion and a heart of gold, while he has no remorse, no conscience and has taken no responsibility for his actions. Today she does not cry, but sometimes the tears arrive in a flood, unbidden. She has learnt to keep her emotions in check for Rhiannons sons sake. We never say anything negative to him, but he knows he can ask us about his mummy whenever he likes. He is loved so much by all of us, she adds. Not only because of who he is, but because of whose he is. Few had sympathy for the six-figure-earning superintendent of the San Francisco school district as she sobbed over closures during a teachers' strike, while sending her own children off to attend a hoity-toity private school. Maria Su faced intense backlash this week as it was revealed she made $385,000 annually as teachers walked out of class in efforts to secure better wages, health benefits, and more resources for students with special needs, according to KTVU. Su became emotional on February 6 while discussing the impact the school closure would have on students and even tried to relate to those opposed to her. The superintendent, who earns five times more than a 10-year teacher with tenure, said: 'I know the importance of our teachers having fair and competitive and livable wages. It is expensive to be here in the city.' The teachers' strike ended after four days, and the students are expected back on February 18. Su, who appeared to be wearing designer shoes, also had no answer for a reporter who asked her about the disparity between her salary and that of her average teacher, according to the outlet. In another attempt to find common ground, Su highlighted how she grew up in the public school system, but did not comment on a question about her children attending private school. The superintendent's Board of Education contract shows that she could earn a two percent raise in June, bringing her salary to $392,700, if she meets certain goals and the board approves it, the publication noted. The superintendent of the San Francisco school district, Maria Su, earns $385,000 as she was slammed this past week as her teachers went on strike Su appeared ecstatic on February 13 when announcing that the district and the teacher union had reached a deal While the teachers' union was satisfied with five percent raises over two years and fully funded family healthcare, they were initially distraught with Su in particular. Teachers held signs plastered with the superintendent's face as they chanted about their demands. The San Francisco Chronicle reported that, as it drizzled, one sign read: 'Is this rain or Maria Su's crocodile tears pretending she cares about our kids?' Another teacher held up a sign which said: 'Boo Su. Give us a fair contract now.' Jennifer Erskine-Ogden, an eighth-grade science teacher at Presidio Middle School, who held up the crocodile tears sign, told the outlet: 'She knew this was coming.' 'We've done two-strike votes. You don't cry on a Friday and pretend you care about the kids. She should have come to the table before now.' Join the debate Should a public school boss earning $385k and sending her kids to private school be lecturing teachers about livable wages? Su appeared ecstatic on February 13 when announcing that the district and the teacher union had reached a deal. 'I am pleased to stand here to announce that we have a tentative agreement to get our kids back into school,' she said. The Daily Mail has reached out to Maria Su for comment. A newborn baby was killed after her mother allegedly abandoned her in the chemical tank of a portable toilet in New Mexico moments after giving birth, prosecutors said. Sonia Jimenez was arrested Wednesday and charged with one felony count of intentional child abuse resulting in death, according to a statement by the Las Cruces Police Department. The 38-year-old walked into Memorial Medical Center around 10:30pm on February 7 and appeared to medical staff to have just given birth, but had no baby with her, officials said. Hospital staff told police that Jimenezs boyfriend said he took her to the hospital after they had been at Burn Lake, about six miles away, where she used a portable toilet. After searching the mobile toilet, officers found the little girl dead inside the holding tank. Officials believe Jimenez gave birth to the baby, cut the umbilical cord, and placed the newborn in the tank where she drowned. 'This is one of the most heartbreaking and disturbing cases I have encountered in my career,' Las Cruces police Chief Jeremy Story wrote in an email to the Santa Fe New Mexican. 'We will work closely with the district attorney's office to pursue justice for this baby girl.' Sonia Jimenez was arrested on Wednesday and charged with one felony count of intentional child abuse resulting in death, after she allegedly abandoned her newborn inside the chemical tank of a portapotty in New Mexico Officers searched the mobile toilet and found the little girl dead inside the holding tank (Mobile toilets at Burn Lake) An autopsy was performed on February 9 that found the baby was alive when she was dropped into the porta potty. Medical investigators also discovered that the child inhaled and swallowed the blue chemical liquid commonly used in portable restroom sanitation. 'The blue chemical was found in the baby's trachea, lungs and stomach confirming that she breathed and swallowed the liquid while alive,' the statement said. Jimenez was booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center, where she is initially being held without bond. No charges are anticipated to be pressed against her boyfriend as officials believe he was unaware she had given birth. A national nonprofit reported 31 babies across the country were abandoned in dumpsters, backpacks, and other dangerous locations in 2021, cited by The New Mexican. Of those newborns, twenty-two were found dead. Medical investigators discovered that the child inhaled and swallowed the blue chemical liquid commonly used in portable restroom sanitation. Jimenez gave birth to the baby, cut the umbilical cord, and placed the newborn in the tank where she drowned, said officials 'This is one of the most heartbreaking and disturbing cases I have encountered in my career,' Las Cruces police Chief Jeremy Story wrote in an email to the Santa Fe New Mexican A similar tragedy took place in October of 2024 when a newborn baby girl with her umbilical cord still attached was found dead outside of a New York City apartment. Police were called to the rear courtyard of 1150 St. Lawrence Ave in the Bronx around 11:15am on October 23 after a building worker made the gruesome discovery. The infant was unconscious and unresponsive with the umbilical cord still attached. After attempting to provide aid, EMS pronounced the girl dead at the scene. An au pair who schemed with her employer-turned-lover to kill his wife and another man was handed the maximum sentence Friday. Juliana Peres Magalhaes, 25 from Brazil, was sentenced to ten years in prison after helping her American lover, 40-year-old Brendan Banfield, murder his wife Christine Banfield, 37, and Joseph Ryan, 39. Magalhaes's sentence stretched beyond recommendations as part of an earlier deal, involving a guilty plea that could have freed her as early as Friday, the Washington Post reported. 'Your actions were deliberate, self-serving, and demonstrated a profound disregard for human life. You do not deserve anything other than incarceration and a life of reflection on what you have done,' Chief Judge Penney Azcarte said. 'May it weigh heavily on your soul.' Police said the two worked together to lure Ryan - who had no connection to the family - to their $1 million Herndon, Virginia home under the pretense of a sexual encounter and staged the scene to make it look like he killed Christine. At Banfield's trial, Magalhaes testified that the pair created a social media account under his wife's name for people interested in sexual fetishes. She told jurors how she and Banfield impersonated Christine, a pediatric intensive care nurse, on BDSM site Fetlife to lure Ryan to carry out a 'rape fantasy' in which he would sneak into the Banfield's home with a knife to make it look like he was an intruder. Magalhaes testified that she fatally shot Ryan as Banfield, a former IRS agent, was fatally stabbing his wife in the couple's bedroom. Juliana Peres Magalhaes was sentenced to ten years in jail on Friday after helping her employer and lover, Brendan Banfield, kill his wife and another man Magalhaes, right, testified that she fatally shot 39-year-old Joseph Ryan as Banfield, left, was fatally stabbing his wife in the couple's bedroom Banfield's wife, 37-year-old Christine Banfield, seen above, was stabbed in their Virginia home in 2023 She testified that they took Banfield's child to the basement before going upstairs to find Ryan struggling with Christine. 'When I got to the bedroom, he yelled, "Police officer",' she said of Banfield, who at the time was an armed IRS agent. 'Christine yelled back at Brendan, saying, "Brendan! He has a knife!" That's when Brendan first shot Joe,' she told the court. She said she tried covering her eyes as the murder unfolded, but admitted that she then saw Ryan moving on the ground, so she shot him with a gun that Banfield had given her. Deputy Commonwealth's Attorney Eric Clingan revealed in court that blood splatter analysis showed the bodies were moved. He said police received in August 'two definitive reports from expert forensic investigators' who spent more than a year reviewing evidence. 'The facts of this case demonstrate an intentional and calculated level of violence that is the most serious manslaughter scenario this court has ever seen,' Azcarate said. The judge added that while Magalhaes 'may not have come up with a plan, agreed. And an older man may have groomed you to a point' she demonstrated behavior that saw her as an active participant, including 'knowing all along you were bringing him to his death.' 'At any point for at least the month prior - or that day - you could have stopped this,' Azcarate said. 'The plan did not work without your full involvement.' She described Magalhaes's actions as having an 'intentional and calculated level of violence that is the most serious manslaughter scenario that this court has ever seen.' Magalhaes told the court on Friday through tears: 'I hope that my cooperation in this case somehow begins to help repair the damage caused.' Judge Penney Azcarte said that Magalhaes's actions as having an 'intentional and calculated level of violence that is the most serious manslaughter scenario that this court has ever seen' Ryan's aunt said that his family believe he was targeted by 'the worst kind of monsters' 'I have grown so much over the past three years. I look back at my younger self, a 22-year-old falling head-over-heels for someone 15 years older, then only seeing his good side and clinging to someone that showed me love.' 'I lost myself in that relationship, leaving my morals and values behind...I have a burden to carry, knowing I could have prevented it at all from happening,' she added. Ryan's mother, Deidre Fisher, said: 'My son's life was used and thrown away - seen as worthless and utterly disposable. Disposable by those who plotted and executed his brutal murder.' She said that while there could never truly be justice for his murder, she hoped that 'even for a moment' that 'the world and you, judge, will say Joe meant more than nothing. 'That he was someone worthy of dignity and life,' she added. 'I lost my confidant, someone who knew me deeply, listened without judgment, offered advice with my best interests at heart. I lost my biggest ally and my cheerleader.' Ryan's aunt said that his family believe he was targeted by 'the worst kind of monsters.' 'The kind who live among the victims and wait until they're most vulnerable.' Ryan's mother, Deidre Fisher seen above, said: 'My son's life was used and thrown away - seen as worthless and utterly disposable. Disposable by those who plotted and executed his brutal murder' Banfield was found guilty on February 2 of two counts of aggravated murder, one count of child endangerment, and one count of using a firearm in the commission of a murder Fairfax County Sgt. Kenneth Fortner testified that he first entered the Banfield's home in February 2023 as part of the investigation into the double homicide and took pictures of the home, including both the primary bedroom and Magalhaes's room. When he visited the home again eight months later, he said 'red, lingerie-style clothing items' and a yellow t-shirt with green trim that had previously hung in the au pair's closet had been moved to the master bedroom. 'They had gotten new flooring, new bedroom furniture,' Fortner said, noting how photographs that once featured the Banfields had been 'taken down and replaced with Brendan and Juliana together.' But when Banfield took the stand last Wednesday, he said his former nanny's testimony was 'absolutely crazy' even though he admitted to having an affair with Magalhaes and several other women. 'I think it's an absurd line of questioning for something that is not serious that a plan was made to get rid of my wife,' he argued. 'That is absolutely crazy.' He then went on to argue that Magalhaes's description of a plot to kill his wife was a lie, and insisted that 'there was no plan.' Banfield was found guilty on February 2 of two counts of aggravated murder, one count of child endangerment, and one count of using a firearm in the commission of a murder. He faces a life sentence without parole and is scheduled for sentencing on May 8. Lysette Anthony is 'broken'. Her tears won't stop falling and, some days, she is so grief-stricken she can hardly pull herself out of bed. In January, the 'impossibly beautiful' Marcus Gilbert, who played Rupert Campbell-Black in the first TV adaptation of Jilly Cooper's Riders and with whom she shared a 'partnership of dreams' for three years, died at the age of 67 after a courageous battle with cancer. It is impossible not to feel desperately sad for 62-year-old Lysette. When they were in the first throes of this wondrous love affair, she told me she felt 'like a prize' for about the first time ever. Marcus, too, was 'giddy' with happiness when I met him three years ago. He had never anticipated being involved with anyone again after the death of Homaa, his dearly loved wife of 28 years, until he sent Lysette a 'very sweet letter' when he learned she had been diagnosed with Parkinson's. Suffering with the devastating disease himself, he told me he couldn't imagine the 'free-spirited' actress, with whom he'd had a brief affair on the set of Barbara Cartland's A Ghost In Monte Carlo three decades earlier, being similarly afflicted. 'I never remembered much about our affair on that film,' he said. 'But what I do remember is every single word I said to her on set when my character was marrying hers, 'I will love you and cherish you for the rest of my life.' I said it with great heart.' His final words to his 'beautiful Lysette' were similarly heartfelt. He told her: 'I wish we had more time together.' Lysette Anthony (left) has said she feels 'broken' after the death of her partner of three years, Marcus Gilbert (right) But when he died from the throat cancer that spread to his liver and bones, Lysette was apart from him. In a truly tragic twist to a love story that spanned more than 30 years, they'd had a rare argument four weeks earlier over his plans to spend the weekend with some old family friends. Lysette wasn't invited. 'I felt those friends, who had been friends of his wife's since school, never wanted me to really be part of his life,' she tells me. 'I didn't want to put up with it anymore. I'd asked him to make a choice and he chose them. Whether that's because he felt guilty about their history, I don't know, but that's when I said, 'If you choose them choose to hurt me, choose to betray us, then, what is this?' 'As Marcus himself would say, he was no saint. That is precisely what made him so deliciously human and compelling. But we barely ever argued and we weren't very good at it. He walked out of the door. At that moment, I didn't care if he never came back. That was the last time I saw him.' Lysette admits she can be 'a bloody nightmare', particularly on what she calls 'rainy days.' So much so that when Marcus began writing to her, leaving messages and sending flowers a week or so later, she told him to stop. 'He was pleading with me at the end saying, 'What we have is so rare', but I was in so much pain I wasn't going to be wooed back.' When Marcus tried to call her a final time, she didn't answer. Nobody warned her he was dying. She only learned of his death when a mutual friend texted her to commiserate. 'I was devastated,' she says. 'I had not been told definitively, 'He's dying right now.' But then I didn't pick up the last phone call, so is it my responsibility? I don't know.' She shakes her head as if trying to rid it of the thoughts that trouble her. Lysette, 62, was apart from Marcus when he passed away. Marcus had suffered from throat cancer in the years leading up to his death, that spread to his liver and bones 'It seems impossible to say I didn't know he was dying, but he'd been dying since the day I met him. That sounds callous and awful, but how many times do you have to be told someone, who is so vital, has six months to live then another six months and another and' Lysette starts to sob huge, heartrending sobs that make you want to put your arms around her to stop her pain. Suffering dreadfully with Parkinson's, which has increased its cruel hold upon her in the last year, she remains luminous but must set an alarm to remind herself to take her medication every three hours. The drugs are so potent that it takes her a while to rally her thoughts after each dose. 'I keep going back and back saying, 'Did I fail? Did I fail him?' Of course, I failed him. But did I? Whatever happened to us?' What indeed? The last time I met Lysette and Marcus, eight months after they started seeing each other in January 2023, they were so blissfully happy and optimistic. That was despite Marcus having recently completed a course of chemotherapy for the throat cancer he had been diagnosed with just weeks after reconnecting with Lysette, and which would ultimately claim his life. Their love affair was rekindled after 30 years when, following that 'sweet letter,' they met at a restaurant in London for lunch and talked until seven o'clock in the evening. Immediately afterwards, Lysette called her best friend. 'I said, 'I don't know what's happened but my life's changed.' 'I'm not too sure whether Marcus was expecting to turn up for lunch and we'd sort of count our pills and see how miserable we were,' she says now. 'But we spoke about everything. We just didn't stop talking. He spoke about his wife and grown-up children all the wonderful times and we laughed so much, had so much fun. 'I remember him saying, 'This is the third act. There's only one life. Let's go out with a bang.' Two months after that glorious date, when Marcus was told he required chemotherapy, they rented a 'very expensive shed' in the grounds of a country house in Guildford near the hospital where he was being treated. Such was their determination to enjoy this third act, that Lysette remembers a truly joyous summer. 'I used to tease him ridiculously,' says Lysette. 'He'd be straight out of the most horrendous treatment looking like he'd been to a bloody spa. He was very stoic. The way he dealt with everything the way he dealt with the pain just took my breath away. I loved being there. 'We'd eat together, go for lovely drives, walk Delilah [Marcus's beloved golden retriever]. He wasn't confined to bed well, not in terms of illness.' She throws her head back and laughs. 'Christ, he was so beautiful. He was obviously older than when we first made love, but I'd look at the curve at the back of his neck He was so beautiful. When we were on our own we had an ability to live really, really well together.' Marcus had a wide circle of friends, many of them women, who were a huge part of his and his wife's life. Lysette admits it was never going to be easy to be accepted by them all. 'Those friendships were longstanding,' she says. 'Entering that world later in life was never going to be simple. At times, I felt reduced to something far smaller than the adult reality of what we were. The pair starred in A Ghost in Monte Carlo together in 1990 (pictured), having a brief affair. Marcus would later marry Homaa Khan-Gilbert, who died in 2020 'I sensed Marcus was allowed to have a nice little relationship so we could comfort each other over our Parkinson's, but I wasn't allowed to be part of his life. And, as for the fact we were having a very sexual relationship with this amazing chemistry...' She widens her eyes in mock alarm. 'Although Delilah, who slept in our bedroom, did not help. The first time we stayed with these people she took my rather nice lingerie and stockings and ran around the house with them. To get to breakfast after your knickers in the morning is not the best ice-breaker. 'But right from the start they were lecturing me on which so-called friends wouldn't accept me, what problems there were going to be and with whom.' Lysette says things 'settled', particularly when, at the end of that summer, Marcus marked the milestone of having completed his chemotherapy treatment by ringing the bell at Guildford's Royal Surrey County Hospital to signify the start of a new, hopeful future. But shortly before Christmas 2023, which they celebrated with Marcus's two grown-up children and Lysette's son Jimi, now 21, they discovered his cancer had spread to his bones. The following month liver cancer was diagnosed. 'Marcus was told he basically had six months, but nothing changed,' she says. 'He was energetic. He'd eat and drink. He seemed to be amazing. It was clearly miraculous because we'd literally been told he'd be gone by the next Christmas. But Marcus began to cut off from me. 'We'd always had this amazing ease of communication. We weren't frightened of words. We weren't frightened of emotions. We were amazing together but, that Christmas [2024], Jimi was with his dad. I was meant to spend it with Marcus, but then I was disinvited. I spent Christmas on my own and I've never known loneliness like that.' During the course of his life, Marcus tragically lost his first wife Homaa to pancreatic cancer in 2020, when she was just 60 years old (pictured on their wedding day) Lysette chooses her words carefully. She is an astonishingly open, honest woman but knows how dearly Marcus loved his family and wants to spare their feelings. 'He just said it would be difficult for them if I was there,' she says. 'He explained that when his wife was dying [of pancreatic cancer] he felt excluded in part because there was like a pecking order of those who wanted to be with her. 'I understand Marcus's relationships with his family pre-dated me by decades. Those bonds were formed in school days and shaped by the life he built with his late wife. 'I respect that completely and I wasn't competing for a position in grief but I felt, little by little, I was shown the stool I was allowed to sit on. I was definitely being left out. 'I remember one weekend Marcus was going away with his friends for the solstice. He said, 'They just want me and Delilah to go over.' 'There just happened to be another woman there, an old friend of his wife's. So, there were two couples, this woman and him.' Lysette was terribly upset. 'I talked to Jimi about him cutting off from me. He'd say, 'Mum, you know he's complicated but I think he's dying. He just wants to have a nice time.' She shows me her Instagram where there are numerous photo montages of them sharing the sort of blissful times that marked so much of their extraordinary relationship. There is a reel of photographs taken, all those years ago, on the set of A Ghost In Monte Carlo. 'We were so bloody young,' she says. 'I clearly absolutely adored him. I can tell by the way I'm holding my hands sort of a little limp, a little pathetic. Look at him, he was so alive, so young with the whole world ahead of him. 'When we got together [three years ago] and we had this extraordinary experience, there was all that optimism then. We found each other. Marcus had actually stopped acting so I was starting to write a film for us about people meeting in later life. 'I knew he could do it. He had it in him to be magnificent and was just starting to unfurl. I wanted to write this story for him.' She continues to scroll through photographs of the many happy days they shared: walking Delilah, shared laughter, hugs, rolling on meadows of wildflowers. She stops at a montage of photographs from last March. 'We were away in the country,' she says. 'It's probably the last time we were really happy but look.' She points to the final photograph of her and Marcus, in which a hearse passes in the background. A look of pain spreads across her face. The alarm rings to remind her to take her medication. We've been talking for most of the afternoon. Lysette is tired. Marcus' final words to his 'beautiful Lysette' were deeply heartfelt. He told her: 'I wish we had more time together' 'We could have had this amazing, amazing life,' she says. 'An amazing ending.' Again, tears fall. 'When he died his family posted a photograph of him on Instagram. He's literally lying on our bed in the house he bought when we were together. They wrote something like, 'Now Daddy's with Mummy.' 'I understand people mourn in their own way on social media, but I could have done without discovering a photograph of Marcus dead in our bed. That was a brutal moment. 'But, as Jimi said, 'Mum, you were never going to be there. It was always going to be that.' 'So yes, I feel broken. Yes, I feel more lonely than I've ever felt. And yes, when I heard he'd died, I was devastated and shocked. But he made a profound sort of choice between two worlds, so I'm not going to feel guilt.' It's just a flash of orange amid the concrete grey of a bleak New York detention centre. But for some it could be the most significant of all the revelations amid the three million documents recently released from the Epstein files. For this blurry snippet of video could shed new light on the most hotly contested of all the arguments over paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein: The truth about his controversial death while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges in August 2019. According to documents released by the US Department of Justice, investigators reviewing surveillance video from the night Epstein was found dead in Manhattans Metropolitan Correctional Center observed a fuzzy, orange-coloured shape moving up a staircase toward the wing (known as a tier) of the jail that contained his cell. Inmates were issued with orange clothing and bedclothes, yet this sighting occurred at 10.39pm when prisoners should have been locked up for the night. Less than eight hours later, the corpse of 66-year-old Epstein would be discovered in his cell in Tier L of the prison. The mysterious flash of orange is but one of many details in the latest release of Epstein files fuelling doubts about the official line that he took his own life. Take, for example, the discovery of an official death announcement dated before Epstein died a revelation seized upon by those convinced he was murdered with the connivance of the so-called Deep State. We now know, too, there had been talks between the federal authorities and Epsteins lawyers about a deal he might have been hoping to strike with prosecutors to identify other perpetrators in exchange for a reduced sentence. What people might he have named and did they know about these discussions? The files have fuelled speculation that Epstein was laundering money on behalf of Russian criminals and, potentially, collecting blackmail information on behalf of the Kremlins intelligence services. Almost seven years after his death, there are many who still passionately believe Jeffrey Epstein was killed in an attempt to silence him before his trial on sex trafficking charges. Pictured: Epstein in July 2019 in images released by the DOJ after a 'possible suicide attempt' In disarray: Epsteins cell shortly after his death with orange clothes and sheets strewn around A shadowy, orange object could be seen moving up the stairs to Epstein's cell block at the New York prison at around 10.40pm, the night before he was found dead Almost seven years on, there are many who still passionately believe Epstein was killed in an attempt to silence him before his trial on sex trafficking charges. Some close to the financier, including his brother Mark and jailed associate Ghislaine Maxwell, have openly stated they do not believe he took his own life. The more we learn about the vast scale of Epsteins web of powerful friends whose intimate connections with him he repeatedly threatened to expose the more feasible it seems that one or more might have chosen to act before the financier spoke in public. Here, in the light of the new evidence, is what we now know about the final weeks, days and hours of Jeffrey Epsteins life details that might finally point to the truth of how and why he died. July 6, 2019: FBI agents are waiting to arrest him as Epsteins jet lands at New Jerseys Teterboro Airport after a flight from Paris. Epstein is held at the grim, rat- and cockroach-infested, notoriously overcrowded and understaffed Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Manhattan. July 10: Having pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking and conspiracy charges, he is assigned to the jails Special Housing Unit (SHU) over safety and suicide concerns. July 23: Five days after he is denied bail, Epstein is placed on suicide watch after he is found semi-conscious in his cell with an orange fabric noose tied around his neck. Epstein accuses his cell mate, Nicholas Tartaglione a former police officer facing four murder charges of trying to kill him. Tartaglione insists he actually tried to revive his cellmate. Tartaglione, who is hardly reliable, will later claim in a pardon petition that he was deliberately put in with Epstein at the orders of the Trump administration because of his violent reputation and hatred of child sex offenders in the hope hed kill his cellmate. The White House has denied the claim. A medic performing CPR on Jeffrey Epstein after he was found hanged in his cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) in New York Pictured: A medical tag on Epstein's wrist after he was found hanging in his cell July 24: Epstein meets a prison psychologist as confirmed in an FBI report in the latest release of files. He insists he had no interest in killing myself and that it would be crazy to commit suicide. I have a life and I want to go back to living my life, he claims. July 29: According to another FBI report in the files, agents and prosecutors meet his lawyers, who, in very general terms, discussed the possibility of a resolution of the case, and the possibility of the defendants co-operation. Another document in the files mentions the same meeting with the federal agents but notes: Defence counsel did not... indicate what the nature of Epsteins co-operation might be, if any. However, even the rumour that Epstein might be willing to consider a deal would surely have terrified some associates. Neither does such a discussion quite tally with a man considering suicide. July 30: Epstein is transferred back to the SHU after a week on suicide watch in the hospital wing. He is now required to have an assigned cellmate Efrain Reyes so he wont be alone and is given the cell closest to the correctional officers desk. July 31: Epstein is still in low spirits, complaining the toilet in their cell is leaking and he cannot bear the sound of running water. He also says he isnt sleeping well because his cellmate wont stop talking. At a new court hearing, he looks gloomy, although a prison psychologist insists he doesnt need to return to suicide watch as Epsteins made clear he intends to fight and win his case. August 8: Epstein meets two of his lawyers to sign a new will which puts $577million into a trust fund. His Belarusian girlfriend of ten years, Karyna Shuliak, 30, is to be given the bulk of his fortune including $50million in cash and his homes in Florida, New York, New Mexico and the US Virgin Islands. Epstein also bequeaths Shuliak a 33-carat diamond ring and 48 loose diamonds in contemplation of marriage. Ghislaine Maxwell and Epsteins brother Mark get $10million each. Your browser does not support iframes. Friday, August 9 8am: Cellmate Efrain Reyes is moved out after attending court and being released, leaving Epstein alone. Nobody is assigned to replace Reyes and nobody will be even though staff know their warden has stipulated that, after the previous suicide attempt, Epstein must not be alone. The facilitys boss has also insisted the inmate who in prison parlance is on PSYCH Alert (psychiatric emergency) be subjected to 30-minute checks and unannounced rounds. Yet it turns out that two cameras with a view of Epsteins cell are not functioning properly an astonishing lapse so the warden is relying on his staff more than he might realise. 9am: With hundreds of court documents now released alleging new details some of them graphic about sexual abuse claims against him, Epstein spends the day with his lawyers in a conference room. The court developments are hardly encouraging but one of the lawyers, Reid Weingarten, will later insist Epstein showed no signs of contemplating suicide. However, according to an official statement in the latest Epstein files release, the New York US Attorneys Office is already drafting an announcement about his death hours before it happened. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has blamed an unfortunate typo for the wrong date August 9 rather than 10 appearing on the document. Any suggestion that the department drafted a statement in advance of Jeffrey Epsteins death is false, said the DOJ. 4pm: Despite being stationed just 15 feet from Epsteins cell, guards Tova Noel and Ghitto Bonhomme start their shift by failing to make the first of a series of checks on his tier in a 4pm inmate count. Its the first of many lapses. From midnight to 6.30am, Noel will complete and sign at least 75 separate records falsely saying the guards carried out 30-minute rounds to check on Epstein. In fact, Epstein is still with his lawyers and only returns at 6.45pm. 7pm: Noel escorts Epstein to his cell after allowing him to call his girlfriend, Shuliak. According to a prison time log, the guard reports it was a pleasant call in good spirits; nothing unusual. 10pm: By this time, all inmates are locked in their cells for the night. Noel and Bonhomme dont carry out the 10pm inmate count either, although they record that they have done. 10.30pm: Surveillance footage from the only relevant camera known to have been working that night shows Noel briefly walk up to, and then back from, the door to L Tier where Epstein is held. That is officially the last time anyone goes near the entrance to the tier until Epsteins body is discovered. Although the FBI has claimed this functioning camera would have captured anyone going up the stairs towards Epsteins cell, critics point out that the view is in fact partially obscured to the point someone could in fact have ascended without being seen. Orange fabric identified at the scene of Epstein's death. The noose the financier allegedly used has never been officially identified 10.39pm: Surveillance footage shows a flash of orange on the same stairs. Officials have always insisted nobody other than the guards entered the area that night. Yet, in an FBI memorandum included in the new files, an agent notes that a flash of orange looks to be going up the L Tier stairs could possibly be an inmate escorted up to that Tier. The DOJs Office of Inspector General, which also investigated the circumstances of Epsteins death, disagreed, concluding it was an unidentified prison officer carrying orange linen or bedding. Independent experts have since sided with the FBIs theory. 10.41pm: The FBI memorandum notes a person walking into view from the direction of either L Tier or exit to laundry room. Is this the same person? CBS News asked independent video analysts who said the movement of the orange blur was more consistent with an inmate or someone wearing an orange prison uniform than a corrections officer. 11.58pm: The start of a notorious missing minute from the jails 11-hour surveillance footage of the area near Epsteins cell. The gap in the video has long fuelled conspiracy theory claims that this is the moment someone goes into Epsteins cell to kill him and that the authorities have tried to cover it up by erasing the evidence. Attorney General Pam Bondi later said the brief gap came about because the recording system had a nightly reset resulting in a lost minute every 24 hours. However, the latest trove from the Epstein files confirms previous reports that officials had always possessed the full video footage and there was no missing minute. The misunderstanding came about after, in 2024, an FBI agent destroyed the master copy of the video on the grounds the case was considered closed. Saturday, August 10 12am to 6.30am: Noel and Michael Thomas, who takes over from Bonhomme at midnight, fail to complete inmate counts at 3am and 5am, as well as the wellness checks on Epstein every 30 minutes. Instead, the guards remain by their desk, occasionally moving around the SHU common room. They use some of the time searching furniture and motorcycles sales on their computers. According to prosecutors, they were asleep for three hours. The pair were later charged with falsifying records including one in which they claimed Epstein waved at them when they checked on him at midnight but the charges were dropped. 6.30am: The guards walk into Epsteins wing to start serving breakfast, pushing trays of cereal through the cell hatches. 6.33am: Thomas discovers Epstein unresponsive on his cell floor and later says he ripped him down from a near-seated position in which he was hanging from a makeshift noose made from a sheet. Epsteins legs are straight out and his buttocks little more than an inch from the floor. According to a corrections department memo, he is cold with no palpable pulse. Thomas sounds the alarm and tells a supervisor: Epstein hung himself. Thomas swiftly admits they failed to do their checks and had messed up. 6.49am: A photographer takes pictures of Epstein, including his neck injuries, as he lies almost naked on a stretcher with medics trying to revive him. He is taken to hospital where he is pronounced dead at 7.36am. 1.35pm: FBI agents arrive to find Epsteins cell in disarray. As revealed by dozens of photos taken four hours earlier and included in the latest tranche of government files crucial evidence has been rifled through and moved. The cell is strewn with orange clothes and bedsheets, while mattresses have been pushed into a corner and Epsteins belongings and medications are lined up neatly on his bunk. Things had been moved around, former New York police detective Herman Weisberg tells CBS after studying the pictures. It appeared that the scene was, for lack of a better term, staged a bit. Most destructive of all for the investigators, Epsteins body has already been taken out of the cell, making it impossible according to a forensic pathologist, Dr Michael Baden, hired by Epsteins brother to determine the time of death. Dr Baden, who observed the autopsy, renewed his claim this week that Epsteins neck injuries are more consistent with strangulation pressure than suicide in other words, murder and called for the case to be re-examined. Investigators have even now failed to definitively identify the noose which guard Michael Thomas says hed seen tied around Epsteins neck. He tells the FBI: I dont recall taking the noose off... I dont recall taking the thing from around his neck. Although a noose was found in the cell, it was later discounted and according to Dr Baden didnt match Epsteins injuries. The markings [on Epsteins neck] would have required a different type of material, he said. August 12: US Attorney General William Barr admits serious irregularities at the centre without elaborating. He later blames a perfect storm of screw-ups. August 17: New Yorks chief medical examiner rules the death a suicide. The new documents reveal she reviewed the jail surveillance footage and concluded it was too blurred to identify anyone. But successive polls show far more Americans believe Epstein was murdered than committed suicide and theres little sign the mountain of newly released evidence will change their minds. It remains the case that if someone with the necessary wealth and power did indeed arrange the death of Jeffrey Epstein, for now at least they have got way with it. A pilot with nearly 30 years experience has won her job back after she was sacked for alleging her boss was a 'woman hater'. Cassandra Cooke, 54, a First Officer with National Jet Express, was sacked on May 26, 2025, over comments she made about Chief Pilot Wayne Ovens. During a discussion about a medical certificate for a broken toe, Ms Cooke was judged fit to fly but unfit for simulator training, and she was taken off the roster. It was then Ms Cooke was said to have told Crew Training Coordinator Victoria Portelli that Mr Ovens 'hates women' and was 'clearly having marital problems' because he was 'obviously fighting with his wife'. Another employee, Shannyn Van Heerden, overheard the exchange with Mr Ovens later lodging an internal complaint with the airline. National Jet Express launched a formal investigation, which found that Ms Cooke had breached its Harassment, Discrimination and Workplace Bullying Policy. The experienced pilot, the sole provider for her family, was sacked. However, the Fair Work Commission Deputy President didn't buy her explanation and found the witnesses credible and the misconduct proven. National Jet Express Chief Pilot Wayne Ovens is described by the airline as well-regarded The Commission found inconsistencies in how National Jet Express dealt with disciplinary action and investigations While the Commission acknowledged a valid reason to dismiss her, it deemed the punishment harsh, citing Ms Cooke's age, 27 years of service, and the financial impact on her as the family's sole provider. The airline's immediate launch of a formal investigation into Ms Cooke was found to be inconsistent with past practice In a previous incident, Ms Cooke complained that Mr Ovens used profane and misogynistic language during a simulator session, telling her to 'shut that f****** barking b**** up'. Following that incident, the matter was dealt with informally, with no investigation and no disciplinary action against the senior pilot, while Mr Ovens' complaint prompted a full investigation and Ms Cooke's dismissal. That inconsistency influenced the commission's decision, which found her sacking disproportionate before ordering Ms Cooke to be reinstated. It wasn't all good news for Ms Cooke, however: the commissioner declined to award back pay for the months she was out of work. 'I do not consider it appropriate, in the circumstances of the present matter, to put the Applicant into a position where she has suffered nothing out of this exercise,' he said. 'By not making an order for the restoration of lost pay, a very clear message is given to the Applicant as to the consequences that flow from her own conduct.' National Jet Express will not have to back pay Ms Cooke in what was its only win in the case National Jet Express celebrated 35 years of air services to the Australian resources industry in 2025. The airline describes Mr Ovens on its website as 'a highly accomplished professional pilot with a distinguished career spanning military service'. It also says the pilot is 'well-regarded for his appreciation of the dynamic nature of his work, which involves collaborating with a diverse range of individuals'. Daily Mail has contacted National Jet Express for comment. DC's young Republicans were dressed to the nines, wearing faux MAGA hats, trying to find love before the greasy McDonald's was ceremoniously wheeled out and rapper Wacka Flocka performed. At the 'MAGA is in the Air' Republican Valentine's Day party, filled with Trump administration staffers, Capitol Hill aides and other 'patriots,' the crowd of mostly twenty-somethings wore LED wristbands to signal their singleness. Green means available; red means off the market. The ruby bracelets were often spotted close together as couples clung onto each other, as the emerald band singles struck up their best pick-up lines. The ornate, two-story club downtown was crawling with young men donning tuxedos and women in gowns packed in together, often holding drinks - champagne was given out at the door. It was a momentary haven for the city's conservative diaspora - a tiny contingent that has blossomed as the GOP controls the White House, Congress and ostensibly the Supreme Court. There were about 300 to 400 attendees, according to guests' estimates. Still, Republicans can have a hard time finding love in the capital. Almost all voters, 92 percent, are Democrats, according to the 2024 DC election results. In steps CJ Pearson, 23, a conservative influencer and Gen-Z advisor for the GOP, who has taken it upon himself to combat the lopsided dating pool problem for DC's Republicans. Republican branding was ever-present at the black-tie optional affair; a 'MAGA is in the air' poster loomed from a sign over the dance floor nearly the entire night, red and white Trumpian hats with 'Make America Party Again' and 'Cruel Kids XOXO,' match boxes with the president's face were sprinkled around the tables for guests. Guests makeout at a Republican Valentine's Day party in Washington, DC, on Friday, February 13, 2025 'MAGA is in the Air' was the party's theme GOP youth advisor CJ Pearson has hosted several Republican-backed parties over the past year Red Trumpian hats with 'Make American Party Again' and 'Cruel Kids XOXO' were given out to guests South Carolina Republican Congressman William Timmons (L) and White House Staff Secretary Will Sharf (R) pose with guests Rapper Waka Flocka posing with guests Hundreds of guests showed up to a club in downtown DC for the buzzy mixer Notorious Trump aide Edward Coristine (L), who was beaten up after standing up for a girl last year, was praised for his heroics. The aide, who worked with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is commonly known as 'big balls' Guests pose for a selfie But Democrats are more than welcome too, the host stressed. 'Oddly enough, these parties are for everyone,' Pearson told the Daily Mail. 'You'd be surprised the amount of Democrats that ask to be invited because they know that MAGA has more fun and leaves their pronouns and political sensitivities at the door.' The Valentine's Day party was the latest bash thrown by Pearson. A frequent talking head on Fox News, the 23-year-old has thrown several GOP-backed parties since President Donald Trump's inauguration last January. One was a 4th of July party where rapper Soulja Boy performed and guests were told to wear all white. Another was for Halloween and Rick Ross took the mic for 15 minutes as costumed attendees cheered and filmed on their phones. Pearson's parties always feature food from McDonald's, famously one of Trump's favorite establishments. Massive bags of burgers, Big Macs and fries were delivered halfway through the party on Friday in typical fashion. Rapper Waka Flocka spoke to the Daily Mail about his political future. He admitted to having an interest in venturing into politics, though he wouldn't share his party affiliation despite being at a Republican event Pearson's parties always feature food from McDonald's, famously one of Trump's favorite establishments Burgers, fries and Big Macs were handed out freely The Valentine's Day event was the fourth party thrown by Pearson since Trump's second term began last year Guests with the red wristbands to show they are not on the dating market Champagne was given out by the venue as guests arrived Guests immediately grabbed the hats for photos The green bands meant guests were single or interested in meeting someone new Students for Trump Founder Ryan Fournier (C) Rapper Waka Flocka delivered a rousing performance of 'No Hands' that the GOP crowd had to join in as many sang along at the top of their lungs. The GOP crowd is a familiar one for the artist; he performed at Pearson's January 2025 inauguration party. 'CJ's so responsible with the water,' the rapper quipped after spotting the GOP advisor downing a bottle after some trips to the open bar. Flocka, who also tends to a farm in Alabama when he is not traveling across the US performing, told the Daily Mail at an after-party that he is keeping his political future open and would consider running for office. He candidly avoided answering whether he'd run as a Republican or Democrat with a smile and - a politically astute answer with vague generalities - perhaps he is ready for office. Back on the dance floor, young Republicans are looking to make a splash and either find their next date or job opportunity. White House Staff Secretary Will Scharf and Republican Congressman William Timmons of South Carolina stood by chatting. So too were dozens of Trump officials and Capitol Hill aides and GOP influencers, like Students for Trump Founder Ryan Fournier. As the wristbands mingled with like colors, many of the young Republicans appeared successful in their quest for companionship. Couples were seen dancing, making out, exchanging numbers and generally having the type of fun expected at a club. Whether it was the hundreds of people, the mounds of McDonald's, or the flowing cocktails, something, in addition to MAGA, was in the air. A Labour councillor who has admitted being a paedophile was joined on the campaign trail by Keir Starmer and eight ministers, the Daily Mail can reveal. The Prime Minister said it was 'great' to back Liron Velleman, who this week admitted child sex offences. Chancellor Rachel Reeves campaigned for Velleman as recently as 2022, highlighting him as 'brilliant'. Sir Keir has deleted a social media post showing he campaigned for Velleman who worked for anti-racism group Hope Not Hate and advised on the Online Safety Bill to be elected as a councillor in 2018. The then-shadow Brexit secretary tagged him in an X post seen by the Mail that said: 'Great to campaign with you [Velleman] you deserve to win. Good luck!' Velleman sent online messages to somebody he thought was a 13-year-old girl, asking to see her in school uniform and if she was 'home alone'. He also sent a lewd video and asked to see the girl in her underwear. He was actually messaging a police officer conducting a sting operation, Highbury Corner magistrates' court heard this week. Photographs show four now Cabinet ministers campaigning for Velleman in 2022, when he was elected in Barnet, north London. Then shadow chancellor Ms Reeves described him as 'brilliant' at a Labour Friends of Israel event that November. And in April that year, Shabana Mahmood shared a picture on X of her with Velleman with the comment: 'Brilliant to be out campaigning in Whetstone ward in Barnet yesterday for [Velleman].' Labour councillor Liron Velleman, who has admitted being a paedophile,was joined on the campaign trail by Keir Starmer and eight ministers, the Daily Mail can reveal Chancellor Rachel Reeves (far right, pictured next to Velleman) campaigned for him as recently as 2022, highlighting him as 'brilliant' Velleman, 30 (second from left), who quit his role as a councillor with no explanation in April last year, has also been pictured with Mayor of London Sadiq Khan (fourth from right) The Home Secretary, Chancellor, Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, courts minister Sarah Sackman KC, victims minister Alex Davies-Jones, employment minister Diana Johnson and school standards minister Georgia Gould all also campaigned for him that year. None were ministers at the time but some were in the shadow cabinet, including Sir Keir and Ms Reeves. Velleman, 30, who quit his role as a councillor with no explanation in April last year, has also been pictured with Mayor of London Sadiq Khan. There is no suggestion the PM, Sir Sadiq or any minister knew of the offences when they endorsed him. Labour condemned his 'sickening crime' last night and said 'nobody could be aware of his future conduct'. But Tory MP Jack Rankin said: 'Starmer pledged to tackle violence against women and girls, yet sex offenders threaten to be the defining issue of his premiership.' Velleman pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child and attempting to cause a child to watch or look at an image of sexual activity. The offences were committed in December 2024. He will be sentenced at a later date after the prosecutor argued it was too serious to be dealt with by magistrates. It comes in the same week the PM was engulfed in a crisis over handing a peerage to former communications chief Matthew Doyle despite knowing he had remained friends with another Labour councillor charged with child sex offences. It is understood Labour immediately suspended Velleman when it was notified of his arrest. Sussan Ley wore a white power suit in a symbolic nod to the suffragette movement and female solidarity as she called time on her 25-year career in politics. The first woman to lead the Liberal Party forcefully smiled from ear-to-ear as she made her way towards the press pack at Parliament House on Friday. Just minutes earlier, former shadow treasurer Angus Taylor had ousted Ley as leader, winning the ballot 34 votes to 17. Ley began by referencing her late mother's words, in a nod to the woman who she has previously said inspires her every day. 'When something ends in sadness, don't dwell on the disappointment. Be grateful that you had it at all,' she told reporters. 'I leave it for others to judge this period of my leadership, now, and with the passing of time. While I'm sure plenty of people will have plenty to say, I've never sought to influence what other people think of me.' Ley's decision to wear a white power suit was echoed by the host of the ABC's flagship program 7.30, Sarah Ferguson, on Friday night. The belted white suit was perhaps a nod to Ley's incredibly dignified speech, in which she insisted she held 'no hard feelings' towards her colleagues. Sussan Ley wore a white power suit in a symbolic nod to the suffragette movement and female solidarity as she called time on her 25-year career in politics (pictured on Friday) Ley's decision to wear a white power suit was echoed by the host of the ABC's flagship program 7.30, Sarah Ferguson, on Friday night (pictured) In 2016, Clinton's white suits became a political emblem of the suffragette movement, which adopted the colour as a symbol of their fight to get the vote 'The leadership of our party is a gift of the party room, and I respect the decision that they have made,' Ley said on Friday. 'For those who supported me today, I thank you. Your loyalty, your unflinching loyalty, I will always appreciate. For those who did not, I genuinely have no hard feelings. 'I wish Angus Taylor well. I know he has experience, energy and drive. I know the whole team will have what it takes to fight this awful Labor government. 'I will be cheering them on.' In the United States, a slew of high-profile female politicians including Hillary Clinton and Michelle Obama have also worn white power suits. In 2016, Clinton's white suits became a political emblem of the suffragette movement, which adopted the colour as a symbol of their fight to get the vote. Clinton wore white at her final presidential debate against Donald Trump and again at the Democratic National Convention. Ralph Lauren later confirmed he had designed the famous suit, which came to be known as a symbol of power in a male-dominated landscape. In the United States, a slew of high-profile female politicians including Hillary Clinton and Michelle Obama (pictured in 2004) have also worn white power suits More recently, former Liberal staffer and rape survivor Brittany Higgins wore a $575 belted white dress to the Women's March 4 Justice rally (pictured) Bishop wore a tailored white dress for her final speech in parliament in 2019 after she resigned as Foreign Minister and announced she would not contest the next election In her speech, Bishop reflected on her 20 years in parliament, including her time as the first female Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party (pictured with Scott Morrison) Michelle Obama has also chosen to wear a white power suit during key moments in her career, including the launch of her book Becoming in 2019. Back home in Australia, Julie Bishop famously wore a white Armani pantsuit to the White House for a meeting with then-president Barack Obama, prompting the leader to quip: 'How apt - a white suit for the White House'. Bishop wore a tailored white dress for her final speech in parliament in 2019 after she resigned as Foreign Minister and announced she would not contest the next election. In her speech, Bishop reflected on her 20 years in parliament, including her time as the first female Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party. More recently, former Liberal staffer and rape survivor Brittany Higgins wore a $575 belted white dress to the Women's March 4 Justice rally. The 'suffragette white' dress by Reiss was later given to the Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD) at Old Parliament House in Canberra in April 2022. 'Britt did an in-depth interview with MoAD about the particulars of the dress and the conscious link to honour the suffragette movement, including the history and accessibility of white fabric for women,' a spokeswoman for Higgins said at the time. Ms Higgins told over 5,000 attendees at the rally that all Australians need to do better to support victims of sexual violence. Her choice to wear suffragette white, when most attendees wore funeral black, was seen as an intentional choice to symbolise unity, equality and solidarity. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor passed on a confidential Treasury briefing to a banker friend, according to new emails. He was Britains trade envoy in 2010 when he requested an official update on the financial crisis gripping Iceland at the time. When the Treasury sent him one, he forwarded it to his financier friend, Jonathan Rowland, to read before you make your move. The former Duke of York is already facing a police probe over claims he leaked confidential data to Jeffrey Epstein when he was the UKs special representative for trade. Thames Valley Police detectives are assessing whether to open an investigation. Buckingham Palace said it stands ready to support police in any investigation, in a statement in which the King expressed his profound concern at mounting allegations against his brother. Now there is further evidence of Andrews apparent willingness to pass on official documents to rich friends. Mr Rowland was the former chief executive of Banque Havilland, founded by his father David Rowland, to whom the former prince was also close. The former Duke of York is already facing a police probe over claims he leaked confidential data to Jeffrey Epstein when he was the UKs special representative for trade According to new emails, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor passed on a confidential Treasury briefing to a banker friend, Jonathan Rowland (pictured centre) Ex-dukes Gaddafi emails Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor tried to arrange a meeting with Libyan dictator Colonel Gaddafi for Jeffrey Epstein, newly released emails suggest. A series of exchanges between what appears to be the disgraced duke, who at the time was a UK trade envoy, and the billionaire paedophile, reveal Epstein had been approached by Gaddafis associates to help the dictator with managing his finances. The extraordinary emails from 2010 refer to Gaddafi as the father and the leader, while Mountbatten-Windsor is given the alias PA, a Channel 4 News investigation has found. In one email, written on October 7, 2010, to the former dukes associate David Stern, Epstein wrote: i want to go to tripoli lets organize with pa. Days later, Andrew reached out to Epstein, telling him, Libya [is] fixed, although records suggest the meeting did not happen. Advertisement In the emails, Andrew tasked his deputy private secretary Amanda Thirsk to write to Michael Ellam, the Treasurys director general of international finance. At the time, the UK and Iceland were having a diplomatic row over British deposits lost in the 2008 banking crisis. Ms Thirsk wrote on February 8, 2010: The Duke of York met with the prime minister of Iceland at Davos and would very much like to receive an update note on the latest position between the UK and Iceland on the matter of the deposits and the deposit scheme. A week later, a different Treasury official replied with a note, and she forwarded it to Andrew, who passed it to Jonathan Rowland, whose bank had bought assets from a failed Icelandic lender a year earlier. In the email, seen by The Telegraph, Andrew told him: I pass this on to you for comment and a suggestion or solution? Amanda is getting signals that we should allow the democratic process happen before you make your move. Interested in your opinion? Banque Havilland was connected to a major investigation by Icelandic authorities. The email was sent days after Icelands office of the special prosecutor raided the offices of Kaupthing Bank, part of which had been acquired by Banque Havilland after the Icelandic institution collapsed. Many who lost access to cash were British. Andrews connections to the Rowland family go back years. It was reported in 2022 that documents suggested David Rowland had in 2017 paid off a 1.5million bank loan for the duke. Mr Rowland and Banque Havilland were approached for comment. An Oregon politician was investigated after accusations that he called female colleagues 'spinsters' and 'strippers.' The full investigation into Lane County Commissioner David Loveall was released on Monday and concluded that the politician violated county policy through his actions against at least three fellow employees. One of his accusers, County Administrator Steve Mokrohisky, said Loveall's actions displayed a pattern of 'defiant' and 'demeaning' behavior, per Oregon Live. Loveall allegedly likened a female community partner to a stripper and made religious comments in the workplace. He also threatened to 'get rid of' people who complained about him. The investigation concluded that Loveall violated county policy by retaliating against employees. In October 2024, he reached a $250,000 settlement after former city attorney Erin Pettigrew claimed the commissioner said he 'worried about her becoming a spinster.' She resigned in April 2024, citing the commissioner's 'hostile, demeaning, belittling and gender biased remarks,' reported Lookout Eugene-Springfield. Lane County Commissioner David Loveall faced multiple complaints in an investigation into his workplace behavior Erin Pettigrew resigned after claiming the commissioner made s 'hostile, demeaning, belittling and gender biased remarks' Another incident in May 2025 included Loveall commenting that an anonymous county employee's hands reminded him of a stripper. 'I think of a stripper on a stripper's pole, her hands moving like this,' he reportedly said to a community partner. The employee reported the politician's comments to county officials for discriminatory behavior. A third complaint listed in the investigation alleged he used 'Christian religious language' with an employee. Specifically, the term 'Kingdom work' was written on the unidentified employee's birthday card. The employee claimed they had religious trauma and wanted that language to stay out of the workplace, reported KVAL13. Join the debate Should officials who bully or demean colleagues face harsher consequences for their actions? Loveall allegedly likened female employees to 'spinsters' and 'strippers' When Loveall met with Mokrohisky about the complaints against him in June 2025, he reportedly claimed commissioners could 'do what they want.' 'Tell the employees to eff off, commissioners can do what they want and there's nothing anyone can do about it,' he said. '..And if you don't fix this, then you and I have a problem and I am going to do everything I can to get rid of these people.' Mokrohisky reported the incident, but Loveall allegedly continued to publicly make disparaging comments about him until the end of 2025 and even publicly threatened to replace him. Loveall has defended himself on Facebook after the investigation came to light, calling it a 'partisan attack' amid his bid for reelection in May. Loveall reportedly publicly disparaged County Administrator Steve Mokrohisky (pictured) and threatened his job 'It's clear these allegations are being brought forward now as a brazen attempt to influence the upcoming election,' he wrote. 'I'm exploring every avenue to pursue against the county for their mishandling of this matter and look forward to a quick resolution of these baseless accusations brought by activist staff members attempting to insert themselves into the political process.' Loveall said the investigation was 'flawed' and 'ignored any evidence that did not support the seemingly pre-decided conclusion.' The Board of County Commissioners discussed the investigation in a closed meeting on Wednesday. Their next course of action has not been announced. The Daily Mail contacted Loveall and Lane County for comment. Democrats have demanded Peter Mandelson testifies before the US Congress following the latest revelations of his links to Jeffrey Epstein. In the files released by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) Mandelson appears to have given the disgraced financier 'critical information' while serving as business secretary during the 2008 financial crash. Epstein sent Mandelson a message on the day he was appointed, congratulating him on one of the 'greatest poliical (sic) revival opportunitis (sic) of all time'. Epstein added: 'Laws need to be changed. It will take time, Gordon thinks like an old man. Old solutions will not work. You will be the architect of LABOR 2.O.' The revelations have led Democrats to urge Mandelson, who was sacked as US ambassador last year because of his past connections to Epstein, to make himself available for an interview. Robert Garcia, a US Representative and Democrat member wrote to Mandelson in a joint letter with fellow Democrat Suhas Subramanyam. It reads: 'While you no longer serve as British ambassador to the United States and have stepped down from the House of Lords, it is clear that you possessed extensive social and business ties to Jeffrey Epstein and hold critical information pertaining to our investigation of Epstein's operation. 'Given the appalling allegations regarding Epstein's conduct, we request that you make yourself available for a transcribed interview with committee staff regarding the crimes of Jeffrey Epstein and his co conspirators.' Pictured: Peter Mandelson pictured with Jeffrey Epstein on a yacht Robert Garcia, a US Representative and Democrat member wrote to Mandelson in a joint letter with fellow Democrat Suhas Subramanyam It comes after the Metropolitan Police launched a criminal probe into allegations that Mandelson passed 'market-sensitive information' to Epstein. While he has always denied wrongdoing, he is now likely to be interviewed by officers over claims that his dealings with Epstein broke the law. In a message to Mandelson in October 2009, Epstein seemingly had the idea to try and manoeuvre his friend to the top of Government. He joked about marrying Mandelson off to Princess Anne, saying if they divorced he 'could be prime minister, as the peerage evaporates on a merger with the monarchy'. In another message later that day, Epstein also suggested he 'marry Princess Beatrice', adding 'the queen would have a queen as a grandson'. The former MP appears to have replied: 'Remember, I am already her Lord President', to which the disgraced financier said: 'Does that make it incest, how exciting.' But despite his apparent jokes, Epstein grew more and more incessant that Mandelson should make a move within the struggling Labour party. In November 2009, Epstein appeared to urge Mandelson to make a pact with David Miliband, to seize the leadership. Peter Mandelson in a photo released as part of the Jeffery Epstein-related files by the United States Department of Justice Mandelson and Epstein appeared to message each other mocking Brown's inevitable departure just days before he resigned 'Can we put together for you the equivalent of a Putin Medvedev deal. Choose someone who will be seen to be your stand-in, run as a team.. Milibrandelson. 'The voters would be voting for you?' Another email later that month showed Epstein checking in on Mandelson, before urging him again to push for a bigger role in Government - potentially to replace Alastair Darling as Chancellor. 'As a politician I can't let you walk away from an Olympic Silver medal,' he wrote on November 18. Mandelson's reply seemingly implied that he had floated the idea to Gordon Brown himself, but was not receptive. 'The PM totally against. I have to accept, I think,' Mandelson wrote. But less than two weeks later, Epstein was at it again. On November 29, he appears to once again urging Mandelson to push for a move. 'Tell gb you see the winds blowing and you are loyal, first second and third it actually is true, i don't suggest you tell him to step down' i tell him you are his friend and am frustrated as much as he.' 'He will immed[iately] push panic button - highly sensitised to movement of my eyebrow,' Mandelson replied. In February, as the Labour government began to unravel, Epstein advised Mandelson to distance himself from the PM. He wrote: 'He lacks support and you do not want to be seen as anything but a true loyal subject. You would be being duplicitous to make believe there was not a crisis in the future. 'He knows you, if you go off on vacation and then the hatchets come in, he will know it was you, and you would have lost his and others respect.. YOU are super strong.. tell the truth.' Mandelson replied: 'If I continue as now people will say I am one of the few (only) big figures. And I have to deliver a reasonable campaign that only he f**** up. And that I perform well in the campaign itself.' Epstein then added: 'You could win if you ran, however, you will be seen as the architect of a losing campaign, your loyalty i believe will not be rewarded, I would consider taking a strong position, then at least when gordon does not follow. 'You will have been seen to have given great advice that wasn't taken and therefore he lost. if you merely play his brilliant party speaker, I fear, you will be attached to the eventual smell.' A few months later, Epstein again messaged Mandelson again urging him to keep his distance. 'Jess view is that you must be seen as a statesman, and not a personal -man, of gb, supporting gb will be seen as bad form commercially, he has lost the confidence of the public. Lord Mandelson talking to a woman in a white bath robe while in his underwear. His spokesman claimed he had 'no idea' where it was taken but the interior appears to match the inside of Epstein's Paris flat, known as the House of Sin 'JPM (JP Morgan) is very concerned that the pound could be the next currency to falter. and big time. Uncertainty is not in your favor.' The next day, Mandelson and Epstein appeared to message each other mocking Brown's inevitable departure. 'Bye, bye smelly?' Epstein asked, before Mandelson replied: 'Think has to be bye GB. He has now gone to church!' On May 10, Mandelson informed Epstein that Brown had finally agreed to step down from government, saying: 'Finally got him to go today' Brown resigned the next day. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr admitted to snorting 'cocaine off of toilet seats' before his sobriety. In a candid conversation on Theo Von's podcast, This Past Weekend, Kennedy said his past drug use was the reason he could not be afraid of germs. 'I'm not scared of a germ,' he said Thursday. 'I used to snort cocaine off of toilet seats.' Kennedy met Von during 7am recovery meetings in Los Angeles. The meetings, which Kennedy attended daily, stopped during the COVID-19 pandemic. But Kennedy and a group of 'pirate' recoverees held in-person meetings during lockdown, despite restrictions being in place at the time. 'I said I don't care what happens, I'm going to a meeting every day...' he said. 'I know this disease will kill me, right? Like, if I don't treat it, which means for me going to meetings every day, it's just bad for my life. For me, it was survival.' Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr admitted to doing cocaine off of toilet seats before his sobriety Kennedy spoke about his experience with addiction on a podcast on Thursday Kennedy has been open about his past drug use. The cabinet member was previously addicted to heroin for 14 years. With 43 years of sobriety under his belt, he has explained that his addiction began after his father, Robert F. Kennedy, was assassinated in 1968. According to USA Today, Kennedy Jr. took LSD at a party that summer and was quickly introduced to opioids. 'They said, "Try this," and it was a line of crystal meth,' Kennedy said in April 2025 'I took it, and all my problems went away. My addiction came on full force. By the end of the summer, I was shooting heroin, which was my drug of choice for the next 14 years.' The 72-year-old told The Shawn Ryan Show in 2024 that substance abuse 'hollows out your whole life.' Theon Von, who hosted the show, met Kennedy while attending recovering addicts meetings Kennedy was arrested and charged with heroin possession in 1983. He pleaded guilty to a felony drug possession charge. He was sentenced to two years' probation and community service. Kennedy has said the arrest helped him get sober, calling it 'the best thing that could have happened.' He added that his policies are informed by his history with addiction. 'I know that the only way I stay sober is through taking responsibility for my daily actions,' he said, addressing the Rx and Illicit Drug Summit last April. 'I accept the things I can't control and try to practice gratitude for them. I can have control over my behavior, my daily conduct, but not the world around me.' Peter Mandelson took ghost flights on a Russian oligarchs private jet to a summit with Vladimir Putin when he was EU trade commissioner, the Daily Mail reveals today. The now-disgraced peer accepted luxury flights aboard a Gulfstream jet controlled by one of the Kremlin strongmans favourite tycoons aluminium billionaire Oleg Deripaska. The EU subsequently slashed aluminium tariffs to the delight of Mr Deripaska, who became one of the worlds ten richest men. A Daily Mail investigation has unearthed extraordinary details of the private jet flights an agitated Mandelson took on November 25, 2004, to a crucial trade summit in The Hague. Last night Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch demanded the disturbing new revelations be investigated, while shadow minister Alicia Kearns said Mandelson stinks of a man who holds the British people in complete contempt. Mandelsons woes intensified last night as Democrats demanded the New Labour architect testify as part of the US Congress probe into his long-term friend, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. They sent him a letter formally requesting that he appear for an interview to help them uncover the identities of Mr Epsteins co-conspirators and enablers. They pointed out that Mandelson had called Epstein his best pal and, according to bank statements, received payments of at least $75,000 (55,000) from him. As the Epstein fallout continued, it emerged: Keir Starmer offered a friend of Mandelsons a peerage despite the fact he visited Epstein while the paedophile was on house arrest; Sir Keir and eight Labour ministers campaigned for a London councillor later caught in a police paedophile sting; Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor passed a confidential Treasury briefing to a banker friend, according to emails. Peter Mandelson accepted luxury flights aboard a Gulfstream jet controlled by one of the Kremlin strongmans favourite tycoons aluminium billionaire Oleg Deripaska Now the Mail can reveal shocking details showing that when he was the EU trade commissioner, Mandelson took two freebie flights on Deripaskas Gulfstream IV executive jet to get to a trade summit where he met Vladimir Putin (pictured) The Gulfstream IV that took Mandelson to the Netherlands in 2004 The Mails investigation caps a torrid fortnight for Britains former ambassador to the United States. A parade of high-powered lawyers have been seen visiting his 12million London townhouse in the days since Scotland Yard launched an investigation into allegations of misconduct in public office. The most recent Epstein Files more than three million pages published by the US authorities suggest Labours Prince of Darkness had passed confidential British government information to financier Epstein. Now the Mail can reveal shocking details showing that when he was the EU trade commissioner, Mandelson took two freebie flights on Deripaskas Gulfstream IV executive jet to get to a trade summit where he met Putin. The EU has confirmed he did not declare the flights, as he should have done. They were from Brussels to Luton, and then Luton to Rotterdam. The Mail has spoken to a member of the flight crew who said Mandelson was quite ratty because he wanted to get there faster. Around that time, Mandelson enjoyed cosy relations with some of Putins inner circle. In 2005, he had a private, unofficial and undeclared dinner with the Russian finance minister, arranged by Deripaska, and flew 2,000 miles to Siberia where he stayed at the aluminium oligarchs dacha before being flogged in a traditional Russian banya or sauna. Mrs Badenoch said: As Keir Starmer flies to the Munich Security Conference to lecture us about the Russian threat, these disturbing new revelations reinforce the recklessness of his decision to hand Britains most vital security relationship to Peter Mandelson, a man now facing serious questions over his dealings with Kremlin-linked oligarchs. 'The intelligence and security committee must be provided with all relevant material relating to Mandelsons time as EU trade commissioner. Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) and one of the Kremlin strongmans favourite tycoon Oleg Deripaska (right) at Sochi in 2008 Peter Mandelson (second from left) at The Hague in the Netherlands with Putin and EU Commission president Jose Manuel Barroso Peter Mandelson with Jeffrey Epstein in one of the recently released batch of photographs Ms Kearns, shadow home affairs minister, said: Funny how after a few flights on an aluminium magnates private jet, suddenly tariffs melt faster than scrap in a smelter. First Epstein, then the Chinese Communist Party, now Putin Mandelsons black book knows no limits. Mandelson stinks of a man who holds the British people in complete contempt. 'He thought hed got away with giving out confidential government information to his friends, he thought hed got away with simpering to a paedophile, and he thought hed get away with betraying the EU to Putins pet oligarch until the Mails revelations today. Theres a movie yet to be made of all of this: Licence To Shill. Former prime minister Gordon Brown has said Mandelsons email contacts with Epstein could constitute a crime. When the Mail put the latest revelations to Mandelson, he said he could not recall travel arrangements from so long ago but they would have been made by his office at the Commission. If your day isn't shaping up to be a passionate love-fest, you could put it down to the fact that Britain appears to be less a nation of hopeless romantics than one of useless partners. Millions expect to be disappointed by their other half's attempts at romance today, with 38 per cent faking their delight with gifts and gestures and 44 per cent claiming the occasion is a washout. Some 32 per cent said their partner's attempts to make a home-cooked Valentine's Day meal had 'left them feeling let down,' a survey of 2,000 people revealed. The poll also found that one in five would rather spend the occasion with friends than their other half. Another 20 per cent have pretended to like a partner's restaurant choice to avoid hurting their feelings, according to the Censuswide poll for Burger King. Experts say the added pressure for couples on Valentine's Day can magnify disappointment when gestures don't meet expectations. Jennifer Theiss, a professor of communication at Rutgers University in the US, said: 'Couples should try to be direct and explicit about their expectations. Disappointment and dissatisfaction are likely to arise when a partner doesn't live up to unspoken expectations. 'People place different levels of meaning and importance on the holiday, so a partner may not realise how significant Valentine's Day is unless that is clearly communicated. 'Some people worry that it feels less romantic or genuine to talk openly about expectations, but these conversations can reduce stress, hurt and conflict.' A poll has found 38 per cent of people fake their delight with romantic gifts and gestures, while 44 per cent claim Valentine's Day is a washout Experts have said the added pressure for couples on Valentine's Day can magnify disappointment when gestures don't meet expectations She added: 'When affection and appreciation are part of everyday communication, the pressure surrounding a single holiday tends to diminish.' A separate study has found that Valentine's Day spending in Britain is expected to rise 12 per cent to 1.6billion this year. The poll of 1,000 shoppers by the marketing agency Savvy found 42 per cent will celebrate the occasion, with 77 per cent of them choosing to stay in with their partner. But in a clue as to why some may be left disappointed, 68 per cent will look for discounts or offers on food or drink, prioritising value over luxury. Saint Valentine's Day was marked from the early Middle Ages to honour the third-century Roman saint, but evolved into a celebration of romance and love and was commercialised in the 19th century. The bar should be set 'very high' for local councils postponing votes at the ballot box, the head of the Electoral Commission has warned. Chief executive Vijay Rangarajan has spoken out against the decision to allow 30 local councils to delay elections due to have taken place in May despite warnings the move is 'almost certainly illegal'. Communities secretary Steve Reed said polls could be postponed to free up resources for a costly shake-up of local government. The move will deprive 3.7million people of the vote, but could boost Keir Starmer's chances of survival. Some 21 of the councils involved are currently controlled by Labour - more than two-thirds of the total. In some cases, the elections are being delayed for a second consecutive year creating 'double delays'. Four county councils - West Sussex, East Sussex, Suffolk and Norfolk - all fall into this category, with councillors elected in 2021 now set to serve seven-year terms. Polls suggest Labour is on course to take a drubbing in this May's elections, and the contests are widely seen as a litmus test of Sir Keir's survival prospects. Chief executive Vijay Rangarajan has spoken out against the decision to allow 30 local councils to postpone elections in May Polls suggest Labour is on course to take a drubbing in this May's elections, and the contests are widely seen as a litmus test of Sir Keir's survival prospects Postponement however could limit the party's losses - and deprive Reform UK of the chance to gain further political momentum against both Labour and the Conservatives. Mr Reed insisted the process for delay was 'locally led' - and said holding elections for councils that are due to be abolished could slow down vital reforms that will save money in the long run. But shadow communities secretary Sir James Cleverly accused him of political 'cowardice', while Nigel Farage has branded the decision the act of a 'banana republic'. He has already launched legal action to force the elections to go ahead. While Mr Rangarajan agreed with the logic of delaying elections where councils are due to be abolished, he said the bar in other cases needed to be high. Speaking on Friday, he said: 'We would hope that no government would go and say that somehow elections are fungible with other parts of council money. 'It's a fundamental point that they have to run elections on those timescales, and we would put the bar very high for postponement.' He added that there was a 'conflict of interest' in asking councils to decide how long voters should wait before they can go to the polls. Electoral Commission chief executive Vijay Rangarajan said: 'We would hope that no government would say that somehow elections are fungible with other parts of council money' 'We think it should be the other way around the voters should decide how long it is before they [councillors] face voters.' Mr Rangarajan's comments follow the publication of Labour's elections bill this week, which is seeking to lower the voting age to 16. The Electoral Commission previously said the delays are not justified and warned that they risked 'damaging public confidence'. Robert Jenrick added his opinion to the debate, saying the scale of the postponement was far greater than in the past - and there was no precedent for cancelling elections two years running. Mr Jenrick, who defected to Reform last week, served as communities secretary in the last Conservative government. He told MPs: 'When I was secretary of state, the legal advice that I received, including from the government's chief legal adviser, was that it was not legally sustainable to delay for a second year. 'Hence, we didn't, even during Covid. We kept the elections going. Did not delay for two years. 'What the Secretary of State is doing is almost certainly illegal.' Ukrainian forces 'destroyed' a British brigade in a simulated Nato wargame in Estonia last year, it has been revealed. The head of Estonia's unmanned systems unit has said that Hedgehog 2025, a military exercise involving more than 16,000 troops from 12 Nato countries, reproduced a battlefield 'contested and congested' with various drones. A British brigade and an Estonian division were in a battle group consisting of thousands of troops and were defeated by Ukrainian forces in a 'horrible' result for Nato. One participant, who played the enemy, said the battle group was 'just walking around, not using any kind of disguise, parking tents and armoured vehicles'. The aim of the simulation, according to Lt Col Arbo Probal, head of the unmanned systems programme for the Estonian Defence Forces, was to test soldiers' ability to adapt under fire. He said: 'The aim was really to create friction, the stress for units and the cognitive overload as soon as possible.' The scenario imagined a battlefield where tanks and troops could advance, replicating the earlier years of the Ukrainian war, as opposed to the largely stagnant front lines along which troops are currently fighting. To counter the Nato forces, the Ukrainian team utilised Delta a battlefield-management system that allowed their troops to gather intelligence in real-time and use artificial intelligence to coordinate strikes, identify targets and analyse data. Ukrainian forces 'destroyed' a British brigade in a simulated Nato wargame in Estonia A British soldier (pictured) from 1 Mercian is seen here riding a quad bike during exercise Hedgehog in Estonia. In one scenario, a team of 10 Ukrainians acting the enemy counter-attacked Nato, carrying out 30 mock 'strikes' over the course of half a day and 'destroying' 17 armoured vehicles. This result, said Aivar Hanniotti, an Estonian systems coordinator who led another unit on the opposing side, was 'horrible' for Nato. He said: 'We quite easily found cars and mechanised units, and we were able to take them out quite fast with strike drones.' 'Two battalions were eliminated in a single day,' Mr Hanniotti added, confirming: 'They were not able to fight any more after that.' One commander reportedly said, 'We are f****d,' after observing the drill. The simulation has underscored the importance of drones as the defining weapon of the Ukraine war, with analysts averaging the drones are responsible for approximately 70 per cent of casualties. As a result, European allies have started producing drones and began to instruct their forces in unmanned warfare. The first strike drone jointly produced by Ukraine and Germany was revealed on Friday by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Join the debate What lessons should NATO learn from being outperformed by Ukraine in drone warfare? A Challenger 2 (pictured) main battle tank is seen here deployed on exercise Hedgehog in Estonia At the Munich Security Conference, Mr Zelensky said: 'This is modern Ukrainian technology. Battle-tested. Powered by AI. It will strike, it will scout, it will protect our soldiers.' Last year, Britain also confirmed it would invest 2billion in drones to make their forces 'battle-ready'. Britain's defence review, which was unveiled one month following Estonia's battlefield simulation, said drones were 'an essential component of land warfare' and that the Army must now invest in a mix of unmanned aerial vehicles. This push comes as the United States continues to strive for Russia and Ukraine to end the war in Ukraine, with US President Donald Trump recently setting a June deadline for the two sides to negotiate peace. On Friday, Mr Trump said Mr Zelensky would miss an opportunity if he doesn't 'get moving', and claimed Russia was willing to end the war through a peace deal. He said: 'Russia wants to make a deal and Zelensky's going to have to get moving. Otherwise he's going to miss a great opportunity. He has to move.' However, the Financial Times reported that US secretary of state Marco Rubio did not attend a meeting with European leaders on the war in Ukraine held on Friday He was meant to go to the meeting alongside the leaders of Germany, Poland, Finland and the European Commission but pulled out, after citing scheduling conflicts. One European official labelled this 'insane', however, Mr Rubio did meet Friedrich Merz, the German Chancellor, and the leaders of Greenland and Denmark. Between February 17 and 18, a new round of peace negotiations involving Ukraine will be conducted by the US and Russia in Geneva. The Kremlin has confirmed Vladimir Medinsky, a presidential aide to Vladimir Putin, will lead the Russians. However, this could suggest Moscow attempting to delay peace talks after Medinsky was previously described by Ukrainian officials as a 'pseudo-historian' over his demands. During negotiations last year, he compared the war in Ukraine to the Great Northern War - a 21-year-long war between Russia and Sweden during the rule of Peter the Great. The Ukrainian delegation is to be led by Rustem Umerov and Kyrylo Budanov, Mr Zelensky's senior advisors. The US military launched a lethal strike on a suspected drug trafficking vessel, leaving three dead. The strike, carried out Friday under the authority of US Southern Command and Joint Task Force Southern Spear, targeted what was described as a suspected narco-terrorists boat in the Caribbean. 'Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Caribbean and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations,' US Southern Command confirmed the deadly encounter in a statement. Operation Southern Spear has killed at least 124 people in strikes on suspected drug boats, according to CNN. The controversial military campaign is aimed at disrupting drug trafficking across maritime routes. Friday's strike marks the fourth reported attack this year. The press release did not identify the exact location of the kinetic strike, but most recently, a separate strike took place on Monday in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing two people and leaving a single survivor. The operation earlier this week also described the ship as traveling along 'known narco-trafficking routes.' The military added that 'two narco-terrorists were killed and one survived the strike,' and said US forces moved quickly to initiate rescue efforts for the lone survivor. US Southern Command and Joint Task Force Southern Spear carried out the Friday operation, striking a suspected narco-terrorists boat at an undisclosed location Officials said the vessel was traveling along 'known narco-trafficking routes in the Caribbean and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations' 'Following the engagement, USSOUTHCOM immediately notified the US Coast Guard to activate the Search and Rescue system for the survivor,' the command said. In the immediate aftermath of the strike, rescue crews rushed to locate and recover the survivor, sparking a multinational search across the vast waters of the eastern Pacific. The boat attacks, which began in September 2025, have slowed in frequency since January, a month that saw just one strike following the raid that captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. By comparison, the Pentagon targeted more than a dozen vessels in December 2025. Critics have questioned whether enough evidence exists to conclusively link those targeted to drug trafficking operations, and whether the use of lethal military force in such circumstances is justified. The legality of the strikes has also been challenged by military lawyers and legal experts. Multiple current and former military attorneys said the operations 'do not appear lawful,' raising concerns about the precedent of using military force against suspected smugglers outside traditional war zones. Join the debate At what point does anti-drug enforcement become armed conflict? Operation Southern Spear has killed at least 124 people in strikes on suspected drug boats, according to CNN The controversial military campaign aimed at disrupting drug trafficking across maritime routes Meanwhile, the families of two Trinidadian nationals killed in an October boat strike under the Trump administration sued the federal government earlier this month, calling the attack a war crime and part of an 'unprecedented and manifestly unlawful US military campaign.' The lawsuit is believed to be the first wrongful death case linked to the campaign and is expected to test the legal justification for the attacks, which many experts argue violate the laws of armed conflict. President Donald Trump has said the US is in 'armed conflict' with cartels in Latin America and has defended the strikes as a necessary escalation to stem the flow of drugs. However, his administration has provided little evidence to support its claims of killing 'narcoterrorists.' Chinese authorities have touched down in Brisbane to help police find the mystery man who allegedly poured hot coffee on a baby at a park 18 months ago. Luka was with his mother and a friend at Brisbane's Hanlon Park on August 27, 2024, when a man approached and poured scalding coffee over the helpless infant. The nine-month-old was rushed to hospital with serious injuries and has since undergone eight surgeries after suffering severe burns to his chest, neck and face. A 33-year-old Chinese national identified as the suspect fled the scene immediately, sparking an international manhunt that remains ongoing. Police believe the man boarded a flight to China just a few hours before authorities managed to identify him on August 31, 2024. Despite being protected from extradition by Chinese law, Queensland Police and Australian Federal Police (AFP) will work with overseas authorities to solve the case. 'The AFP values the ongoing co-operation from Chinese authorities and their shared commitment to pursue all avenues for justice in light of the alleged offender's location,' police said in a statement. 'China has extraterritorial jurisdiction to prosecute its citizens for conduct which occurs outside China. The AFP is working jointly with Chinese authorities on appropriate options to take this matter forward.' The man, who is believed to be a Chinese national, fled the scene immediately Queensland police take Chinese authorities through the park where the incident occurred Police talk with their Chinese counterparts earlier this month in Brisbane They were also taken through a shopping centre during the investigation Chinese Ambassador Xiao Qian confirmed in January that a 'working group' would travel from China to Brisbane to investigate the incident. 'To talk with Australian colleagues, to see exactly what happened, how it happened, and see how both sides can work together,' he said. 'We're now preparing for the working group to come, so we are serious in addressing this concern, and we're serious in taking the necessary actions.' On Friday, Queensland Police took the Chinese authorities through the Brisbane park, retracing the steps of the attack. Luka's family met with the Chinese authorities when they were in Brisbane between February 2 and 6. 'We continue to thank the public and media for their ongoing support,' they said. 'We have no further comment at this time.' Chinese media reports revealed the man had entered and exited Australia many times since 2019 - initially using a working holiday visa before switching to a student visa. Baby Luka had had eight operations since the incident and faces a long road to full recovery Luka recovers after the horrific attack which left him badly burned When his latest visa application was rejected, the man allegedly erupted - resulting in the coffee attack on Luka, Chinese media reported. 'Finally, he vented his anger and allegedly hurt a baby before leaving Australia,' reported China's New Tang Dynasty Television. The man reportedly has 'a brain problem' according to a co-worker who posted on a Chinese social media platform. 'On the mainland social media 'Little Red Book', a Chinese person in Australia who claimed to know him, broke the news that this man has always been weird and difficult to deal with,' added NTD Television. The TV station alleged the man 'probably attacked Luka to take revenge on the white people, before running away'. Two women have died and a man 'well known to police' has been arrested following a horror two-car smash that shut down a major highway in both directions. Emergency services were called to a service station on King Georges Road, South Hurstville, in Sydney's south on Saturday morning following reports of a stolen car. Officers were told a 25-year-old man was allegedly assaulted by a 31-year-old man who then stole his red Toyota Camry and fled the scene. A short time later, highway patrol officers tracked down the vehicle on King Georges Road in Beverley Hills and launched a pursuit when the car failed to stop. Officers followed the vehicle along the M5 before the chase was terminated at Bankstown due to safety reasons. A police helicopter continued to follow the car. About 11.10am, the Toyota collided with a white Alfa Romeo sedan travelling along the Old Hume Highway at Camden South. Two women aged 60 and 84 in the Alfa Romeo both died at the scene, despite the efforts of emergency responders. Police have since confirmed the pair were family members. The 31-year-old man allegedly fled the scene on foot into a nearby retirement village but was located and arrested by police a short time later. Two women have died after an allegedly stolen Toyota Camry crashed into their Alfa Romeo Police were called to the major highway on Sydney's outskirts shortly after 11am A man was seen being consoled by a witness at the scene following the crash The man was seen putting his hands on his head at one point The man was transported to Campbelltown Hospital for mandatory testing, and has since been taken to the police station to be interviewed. No charges have yet been laid. A critical police investigation has been launched. The 31-year-old man is 'well known to police' and is expected to face 'significant and substantial charges', according to NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden. 'It was one of the most reckless and dangerous, demonstrations of driving I've seen in a long time,' he told reporters. He added that the stolen car wasn't being pursued by police during the 40 minute period leading up to the crash. 'I've watched the footage from our aviation support aircraft, and I can tell you that there were no police vehicles around this driver,' Commissioner McFadden said. In footage from the scene, the Toyota Camry and the Alfa Romeo are seen with significant damage, with the Romeo's windshield completely shattered. A man was seen being consoled by bystanders at the scene. A man remains in custody over the fatal crash. No charges have yet been laid The two women killed were members of an extended family Emergency responders are seen erecting a Fire and Rescue NSW tent at the scene A witness told Daily Mail they saw the Toyota Camry driving on the wrong side of the road while being followed by about 4-5 marked and unmarked police cars. Other shocked witnesses described the incident as confronting. 'There was just a very loud crash and violent bang and after that, it was just sirens and helicopters,' Bruno told Ten News. 'As someone who lives here, it happens a lot. 'We had two fatalities in the same spot last year. It's just devastating that it keeps happening.' Veronica added: 'The cops were doing a revival on a lady. It was very confronting and very sad to see.' Dozens of police officers attended the scene in South Camden on Saturday The Old Hume Highway was closed for much of Saturday Shocked retirement village residents watched the dramatic arrest unfold. 'I was just sitting on my veranda talking to my daughter when I saw this young bloke rushing up here, running for his life,' Lesley Dickson told reporters. The highway was closed in both directions at the intersection of Camden Bypass, with drivers diverted via Burragorang Road and Cawdor Road. Motorists were urged to avoid the area. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem quickly fled the podium at a news conference after a reporter pressed her about a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) possible balloon blunder that forced an airport to close. Noem abruptly ended a presser on Friday discussing election security after she was questioned about the closure of El Paso airspace on Tuesday due to a party balloon possibly being mistaken for a Mexican cartel drone. 'Can you confirm that CBP actually hit a party balloon that it thought was a drone with a laser earlier this week?' asked a reporter. 'If that is true, why wasn't the action coordinated with the FAA?' An FAA administrator decided to close the airspace on Tuesday without alerting the White House, the Pentagon, Homeland Security officials, or local officials. Hours later, the agency lifted the ban, adding that the military had refused to give it information on when the anti-drone laser would be used. 'You know, this was a joint agency task force mission that was undertaken,' said Noem during her Friday press conference. 'And, we're continuing to work on the communication through that, but recognize we're grateful for the partnership of the Department of War and the FAA as we go forward.' The reporter went for a follow-up question but was denied by Noem, who turned away to thank the rest of the press before stepping away. A laser was, in fact, used to shoot down party balloons, sources told NBC News. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem quickly fled the podium at a news conference on Friday after she was questioned about the closure of El Paso airspace on Tuesday due to a party balloon possibly being mistaken for a Mexican cartel drone An FAA Administrator decided to close the airspace on Tuesday without alerting the White House, the Pentagon, Homeland Security officials, or local officials Officially, the US Border Patrol has not said whether its employees were behind the deployment of the laser, meant to obliterate drones using extreme heat. When asked by the Daily Mail whether its agents had used the laser, an agency spokesman told us to direct our questions to the White House. The department also refused to say exactly where the laser was used and what it was shot at. Border Patrol agents who spoke with Daily Mail did not know who had deployed the laser; however, they believe the unverified narrative about the balloons is incorrect. They explained that drones sent by Mexican cartels often breach US airspace in and around El Paso- calling it a 'regular occurrence.' The White House stated on Wednesday, saying: 'Mexican cartel drones breached US airspace.' The restricted airspace covered a ten-mile-wide area centered roughly five miles southwest of El Paso, extending from the ground up to 18,000 feet A plane flies over El Paso International Airport after the airspace over the city was reopened a few hours after the closure 'The Department of Defense took action to disable the drones,' it added. El Paso airport describes itself as the gateway to West Texas, southern New Mexico, and northern Mexico. Southwest, United, American, and Delta all operate flights from there, among others. The last time US airspace was shut down for national security was after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The FAA also temporarily closed airspace over New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, but that was due to storm damage. Unlike previous restrictions, the El Paso closure blocked all flights over the city, including police and medical helicopters. It is a move rarely, if ever, seen in modern US aviation. Three individuals have been detained during a SWAT operation just 1.9 miles from Nancy Guthrie's Tucson, Arizona home, according to reports. A man and a woman were pulled from a house in Marana by Pima County Sheriff's SWAT team in a huge raid Friday night as the search for Nancy Guthrie intensified, Fox News reports. According to TMZ, the individuals appeared to be a mother and son. The second man was detained at a traffic stop nearby, per NewsNation. Pima County Sheriff Chamonis Valdez told the Daily Mail that the raid was in connection with the Guthrie case. The home in question is the only location police are focusing on as of tonight. The Pima County Police Department released a statement late on Friday. 'Law enforcement activity is underway at a residence near E Orange Grove Rd & N First Ave related to the Guthrie case,' it read. 'Because this is a joint investigation, at the request of the FBI, no additional information is currently available.' Roads were closed off near the residence as the SWAT raid continued Pima County police were seen standing near the blocked off roads Several media members and law enforcement officials surrounded the home Nancy Guthrie is the mother of TODAY show host Savannah Guthrie A source told Fox News that a judge issued a warrant to enter the home, though it remains unclear at this time if the detained individuals are suspects in the missing 84-year-old's disappearance. The raid saw officers surround the property and pull the two detainees from the residence, NewsNation reported. FBI officials told CNN Nancy Guthrie has yet to be located and her abductor has not been identified. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said the operation was part of investigators 'actively working a lead,' AZ Family reported. Roughly two dozen officers, including FBI officials, were seen standing near blockedoff streets in the pouring rain, as one Pima County Sheriff's Office plane was spotted flying over the Tucson neighborhood. Law enforcement activity increased at the site Friday night as more vehicles arrived, including units believed to be federal agents. Marked sheriffs cars were followed by a federal evidence truck, according to CNN. SWAT were seen leaving the scene earlier, while forensic teams remain in the area. Some earlier reports suggested the home belonged to a former county attorney. The Pima County Sheriff's Department clarified that these claims were 'not accurate.' Swarms of police officers surrounded the property in the pouring rain Armored SWAT vehicles were seen leaving the scene during the SWAT operation The SWAT team was reportedly activated around the same time that the aircraft was launched. This comes just days after the FBI asked for the public's assistance in identifying a masked figure seen near Guthrie's home before she disappeared. Doorbell camera images of the individual showed the masked man wearing a black jacket, a backpack and gloves. Residents within a two-mile radius of Guthrie were asked to check their doorbell and security camera footage dating back to the beginning of January. Guthrie was last seen entering her home in Tucson on the evening of January 31 after having dinner with her daughter, Annie, son-in-law, Tommaso Cioni, and her grandchildren. The next morning, she was reported missing when she failed to attend a virtual church service with friends, Nanos said. An individual was spotted outside of Guthrie's Arizona home before she went missing on February 1 Nancy Guthrie has been missing from her home since February 1 Nancy was last seen entering her home in Tucson, pictured here on Tuesday, on the evening of January 31 On Friday, investigators discovered that DNA found on Nancy's property during the investigation did not belong to her family or anyone 'close' to her. 'DNA other than Nancy Guthrie's and those in close contact to her have been collected from the property,' the sheriff's department said, adding that investigators are working to identify who it belongs to and are not disclosing where it was found. Investigators also found several gloves, ranging from roughly two to 10 miles away from Nancy's home. Officials described the suspect as a 5-foot-9-inch or 5-foot-10-inch male with an average build. The FBI has offered a $100,000 reward for information in Guthrie's case. The Daily Mail contacted the Pima County Sheriff's Office for more information. "Happy Chinese New Year" campus event held at Kulosaari Secondary School in Finland Xinhua) 09:53, February 14, 2026 Students watch a performance during a "Happy Chinese New Year" campus event at Kulosaari Secondary School in Helsinki, Finland, Feb. 13, 2026. A lively "Happy Chinese New Year" campus event was held at Kulosaari Secondary School in Helsinki on Friday. (Photo by Matti Matikainen/Xinhua) A student (R) , under the guidance of a performer, tries on Chinese traditional opera costume and practices basic opera movements during a "Happy Chinese New Year" campus event at Kulosaari Secondary School in Helsinki, Finland, Feb. 13, 2026. A lively "Happy Chinese New Year" campus event was held at Kulosaari Secondary School in Helsinki on Friday. (Photo by Matti Matikainen/Xinhua) A Chinese traditional opera performance is staged during a "Happy Chinese New Year" campus event at Kulosaari Secondary School in Helsinki, Finland, Feb. 13, 2026. A lively "Happy Chinese New Year" campus event was held at Kulosaari Secondary School in Helsinki on Friday. (Photo by Matti Matikainen/Xinhua) A student (R) , under the guidance of a professional instructor, tries out an intangible cultural heritage shadow puppetry during a "Happy Chinese New Year" campus event at Kulosaari Secondary School in Helsinki, Finland, Feb. 13, 2026. A lively "Happy Chinese New Year" campus event was held at Kulosaari Secondary School in Helsinki on Friday. (Photo by Matti Matikainen/Xinhua) Students try out an intangible cultural heritage shadow puppetry during a "Happy Chinese New Year" campus event at Kulosaari Secondary School in Helsinki, Finland, Feb. 13, 2026. A lively "Happy Chinese New Year" campus event was held at Kulosaari Secondary School in Helsinki on Friday. (Photo by Matti Matikainen/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The large Opel Zafira minivan returned to the brands lineup in 2019 under the name Zafira Life, helping distinguish it from the previous generation Zafira Tourer passenger model. After a 2024 refresh, Opel simplified the naming strategy by dropping the Life suffix. Today, the vehicle is once again called simply Zafira, although the naming depends on trim level. In Germany, the entry version with black bumpers, basic seating, and a simplified interior is sold as the Vivaro Kombi, while the Zafira name applies starting with the mid-level Edition trim and continues through the flagship GS model. For buyers, the name split is a quick shortcut: Vivaro Kombi signals a more utilitarian, work-focused setup, while Zafira points you toward the better-equipped passenger versions meant to feel more like a family or shuttle vehicle. Flexible Seating and Practical Layout Photo Courtesy: Autorepublika. The base Vivaro Kombi comes standard as a nine-passenger vehicle, featuring a two-seat front passenger bench alongside the driver. Higher trims typically include eight seats as standard, though buyers can configure the interior with either nine seats for maximum capacity or six seats for a more comfortable, executive-style layout. Advertisement Advertisement Like many vehicles in the Stellantis commercial van ecosystem, the current Zafira is part of the large K0 family of light commercial vehicles, meaning it shares its underlying engineering with French-developed models from across the group. The Opel branding reflects positioning rather than unique platform development. Until 2022, the Zafira Life with a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine was also assembled in Kaluga, Russia, at the PSMA Rus facility. Production there ended when Western automakers withdrew from the Russian market. Diesel Returns With a New 2.2-Liter Engine Powertrain availability has shifted over time by market and trim. In Germany, Opel currently sells the Zafira and Vivaro Kombi with a choice of electric or diesel powertrains. Opel now offers the Zafira with a new 2.2-liter turbo diesel that produces 180 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and certified to Euro 6e. Advertisement Advertisement Opel quotes 0 to 62 mph in 10.6 seconds and a top speed of 115 mph for the 2.2-liter diesel when paired with the eight-speed automatic transmission. Pricing and Body Styles Photo Courtesy: Autorepublika. In Germany, diesel pricing starts at about $47,500 for the Vivaro Kombi, $50,000 for the Zafira Edition, and $58,500 for the Zafira GS, which adds upgraded upholstery and additional comfort features. The Vivaro Kombi is available only in the shorter body configuration measuring 196 inches in length, while Zafira models can also be ordered in the extended XL version, which stretches to 210 inches and provides significantly more cargo capacity behind the third row. A Practical Alternative in a Changing Market Photo Courtesy: Autorepublika. The return of diesel power highlights the continued importance of efficient long-distance people movers in Europe, even as manufacturers expand electric offerings. Large passenger vans like the Zafira occupy a niche that electric vehicles still struggle to fill, particularly when it comes to long-range travel with heavy loads and multiple passengers. Advertisement Advertisement By introducing the new Multijet Evo engine, Opel ensures the Zafira remains competitive for families, shuttle services, and commercial passenger transport operators who still rely on diesel efficiency and range. This article originally appeared on Autorepublika.com and has been republished with permission by Guessing Headlights. AI-assisted translation was used, followed by human editing and review. Read More Men with jet skis luring them out to sea Women have been urged not to accept jet ski rides from strangers at an iconic landmark as authorities ramp up efforts to crack down on a disturbing crime trend. Beachgoers at Melbourne's St Kilda Pier are on high alert following a recent spike in reports of women being lured out to sea to be pressured for sex. It is understood that men with jet skis offer women a free ride and tell them to leave their phones behind. The women are then taken out to sea, where they are sexually harassed. 'Community alert. WARNING. Do not accept jet ski rides from men. They are predators looking for young women to sexually assault,' a recent poster on a community noticeboard read. Port Phillip councillor Serge Thomann is among those concerned about the recent spate of incidents. 'It's almost like a hostage situation,' he told news.com.au. 'If the girls don't perform, they say they won't take them back.' Melbourne women and tourists are being urged to avoid men offering jet skis in St Kilda Several women came forward with their own stories of similar attempts The warning prompted Melbourne YouTuber TJ to raise awareness on his online video channel and was inundated with first-hand accounts from women who have been approached. One woman recalled how she and her sisters accepted a ride before the man 'accidentally' flipped his jet ski, launching them into the ocean. 'As we were swimming he asked me if I was single and if I could give him my number and I felt scared so I said "yes, that's fine, when we get back I will" and then he tried to come behind me and asked if I wanted a kiss so I was like "let's get on the jet ski first",' she said. 'As we're way out far, I can swim but can't swim that far without potentially drowning and when we got on I said I felt sick, like vomiting.' Another woman recalled her terrifying ordeal after she accepted a ride back to shore. 'Usually I would've said no but I was tired and couldn't be f***ed swimming,' she recalled. 'He reached back clearly trying to touch my crotch area but he grabbed my leg instead, I immediately said "WTF are you doing" and he goes "oh I'm giving you a lift, least you could do is give me something in return".' 'I said no and he crashed the f*** out and (started) accelerating really fast then braking really fast. Multiple women have recalled being offered jet ski rides Port Phillip councillor Serge Thomann said it was like a 'hostage situation' for the women 'I assume he was just trying to scare me into letting him hit on me. By this point, we were way closer to shore, so I just jumped off. 'Obviously it could've gone a lot worse but I'm glad it happened the way it did because now I know not to get on random jet skis in future.' A third woman recalled how she and a friend were 'begged' by a group of men to join them but thankfully ignored the request, despite their persistent pleas. The iconic pier recently underwent a $53million renovation, sparking a rise in visitors this summer. Victoria Police has launched Operation Summersafe with increased water patrols of the area until March. 'Several other operations targeting safety during summer are also being conducted simultaneously, including ones targeting boat users and jet skiers, putting others at risk,' a spokesperson said. 'Additionally, the water police will maintain a bolstered presence right across Victoria's waters to ensure everyone is following the rules.' A recent renovation to St Kilda's pier have sparked an influx of visitors this summer Port Phillip Council is now examining ways to prevent similar incidents. There is already a ban on watercraft coming within 200m of the shore at St Kilda, with council looking to add jet skis to the banned list. However, only the Victorian government can introduce or amend the laws. . A childcare centre has been suspended from operating for six months over alleged serious safety and compliance failures, as authorities continue a crackdown in the troubled sector. Activities at Sunshine Kiddies Early Learning Centre in Bankstown, in Sydney's southwest, were immediately halted due to 'serious breaches' of quality and safety standards, the NSW Early Learning Commission announced on Friday. The regulator last week struck off two other daycare services and suspended a third following a series of high-profile scandals in 2025 including allegations of sexual abuse, illicit restraints and low-quality meals. Acting Commissioner Daryl Currie said key concerns prompting the six-month suspension of Sunshine Kiddies were inadequate supervision of children, failure to maintain educator-to-child ratios and not reporting child protection concerns. The service also exposed children to harm and hazards, including leaving young children in a room without air conditioning during hot weather, the commissioner said. 'While we understand the impact service closures have on families, we will not hesitate to take decisive action when children's safety is at risk,' he said in a statement. 'We will continue our investigation, and this service will not reopen its doors to families unless all safety and quality concerns have been addressed.' Authorities issued 22 closure orders in the first three months of 2025-26, up from 12 in the previous corresponding period, according to official data. Sunshine Kiddies Early Learning Centre in Bankstown (pictured) has been suspended over serious breaches of quality and safety standards The centre left young children in a room without air conditioning during hot weather, according to the NSW Early Learning Commission The commission became a standalone agency in December. In October, the NSW government, responding to calls for reform, overhauled state laws, increasing penalties, boosting transparency requirements and bringing in a mobile phone ban at the state's more than 6000 early learning centres. The federal government has also acted in the area, launching a website to name and shame non-compliant centres and passing reforms to strip childcare providers of funding if they fail quality, safety and compliance standards. Productivity Commission data released in February showed serious incidents at federally-approved centres hit a record high in 2024/25, lifting to 160 incidents per 100 services. Rape survivor Gisele Pelicot said she was deeply moved by a letter from Queen Camilla, who lauded the 'extraordinary dignity' Pelicot showed throughout the harrowing legal proceedings against her husband. Camilla, who has long campaigned against domestic violence and sexual abuse, praised Ms Pelicot's 'extraordinary dignity and courage' in the letter. Ms Pelicot's ex-husband Dominique Pelicot was jailed for 20 years for drugging and raping her and allowing other men to rape her while she was unconscious, in abuse which lasted nearly a decade. The 73-year-old, who waived her right to anonymity as a survivor of sexual abuse, said shame should fall on her abusers, not her. Emerging as a global icon of strength and feminism, Ms Pelicot drew daily crowds to the 15-week Avignon trial, where supporters gathered with signs to champion her courage and demand justice. Ms Pelicot said their presence gave her strength as she endured what she described as humiliating and painful proceedings inside. Fifty men were found guilty of rape or sexual offences after a three-and-a-half-month trial in Avignon, which ended in December 2024. Her former husband has also admitted to a 1999 attempted rape after a DNA match, and is under investigation in connection with the 1991 killing of an estate agent. He denies murder. Gisele Pelicot was at the centre of the largest rape trial in French history. For almost a decade, she had been drugged unconscious by her husband Dominique Pelicot and raped by dozens of men he had recruited on internet chat rooms The Queen said to Ms Pelicot in her letter: 'I very much wanted to write to express my heartfelt admiration for the courage, grace and dignity with which you have faced the horrific crimes committed against you' In a moving exchange with Victoria Derbyshire, Ms Pelicot described the 'inconceivable' shock of discovering that the man she loved was capable of such horrific crimes During an interview with BBC Newsnight, she explained how she firmly rejected attempts by defence lawyers to characterise the footage as 'sex scenes' while in court. 'A sex scene is when you consent,' she said. 'These were scenes of rape. They were crime scenes.' She said she had carried shame for four years before deciding to oppose a closed trial and waive her anonymity. The Queen said to Ms Pelicot in her letter: 'I very much wanted to write to express my heartfelt admiration for the courage, grace and dignity with which you have faced the horrific crimes committed against you.' Speaking to Victoria Derbyshire, Ms Pelicot said: 'It was an honour for me to receive this letter, I wasn't expecting it at all. 'I was overwhelmed that the Queen could send me this letter. 'Although my words touched the whole world, I wasn't expecting a letter from the Court of England. The 73-year-old waived her right to anonymity as a survivor of sexual abuse Speaking to Victoria Derbyshire, Ms Pelicot said: 'It was an honour for me to receive this letter, I wasn't expecting it at all Ms Pelicot's ex-husband Dominique Pelicot was jailed for 20 years for drugging and raping her and allowing other men to rape her while she was unconscious, in abuse which lasted nearly a decade 'I felt moved and very honoured that she had become aware of what had happened to me. I am grateful to her.' Last year, Camilla praised the 'brilliant' efforts of health workers and other staff supporting sexual assault victims at a specialist centre she officially opened in Exeter. Opening a new Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Exeter, Queen Camilla heard firsthand from a survivor about the 'difference' the specialised facility had made to her life. The Queen has dedicated her royal charity work to supporting victims of sexual assault and a number of years ago, championed the idea of washbags for those attacked, an idea that has recently been revived. In an ITV documentary last year, she vowed she would 'keep trying' to end domestic violence, until she is 'able to no more', and was followed over the course of a year for the programme looking at her work in the field. Sir Keir Starmer will use a landmark speech in Munich today to warn British voters they will risk war if they vote Reform or Green. Speaking at the annual Munich Security Conference, the prime minister will hit out at the easy answers of the extreme left and extreme right. Claiming that both parties are ideological extremists who are soft on Russia and weak on NATO, the PM will say they would undermine Britains national security and bring war to Europe if they were in power. Drawing on language famously used on the eve of the First World War, he will argue that Reform and the Greens would bring nothing but division and capitulation and warn the lamps would go out across Europe once again. These ominous words were used by former British foreign secretary Sir Edward Grey on the brink of war with Germany in 1914. Its striking that the different ends of the spectrum share so much, Starmer will say. Soft on Russia and weak on NATO if not outright opposed. '[They are] determined to sacrifice the longstanding relationships that we want and need to build on the altar of their ideology. The future they offer is one of division and then capitulation. The lamps would go out across Europe once again. He will add: We must level with the public and build consent for the decisions we will have to take to keep us all safe. Because if we dont, the peddlers of easy answers on the extreme left and the extreme right are ready. They will offer their solutions instead. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper arriving at Munich Airport, Germany, ahead of the Munich Security Conference Heads of state and government as well as foreign and defence ministers from all over the world are expected to attend the security policy talks from February 13 to 15 Starmers speech, which will also set out his foreign vision of bringing the UK closer to Europe and warn against becoming too close to the US, come as the PM fights for his political survival and ahead of what will be a three-way fight for the key seat of Gorton & Denton in Manchester. If Labour loses the seat, which it won with a 13,000 majority at the last election, the prime minister could face a leadership challenge. Reform said: 'This is a speech from a prime minister on the verge of being hounded out of office by his own party. This is a man that refuses to find the money to increase defence spending and is making our country weaker and less secure. Reform UK believes our priority should be rebuilding our armed forces, properly funding defence to at least 3.5 per cent of GDP, standing up to China and Russia and strengthening our bilateral relationships. Meanwhile a Green Party source told todays Times: This is a caretaker prime minister running scared, losing whats left of his authority by going abroad to a summit on our future security and making cheap smears against the Green Party, because he knows Labour have blown it in Gorton & Denton. In his speech to world leaders, military chiefs and security officials who are also gathered for the three day conference, Starmer will say Britain must turn towards Europe, end its military reliance on America and be prepared to stand on its own. He will call for a more European NATO and a shift from overdependence on the United States to interdependence with Europe, forging a new path towards sovereign deterrence and hard power. We are not the Britain of the Brexit years any more. Because we know that, in dangerous times, we would not take control by turning inward. We would surrender it. And I wont let that happen, he will say. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (left) attends a trilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron (right) and German Chancellor Freidrich Merz at the Munich Security Conference in Munich Sir Keir is joining approximately 50 world leaders at the summit, having already held high-level talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron There is no British security without Europe and no European security without Britain. That is the lesson of history and it is todays reality too. While Starmer will confirm that the US remains an indispensable ally, he will also say: Im talking about a vision of European security and greater European autonomy that does not herald US withdrawal but answers the call for more burden-sharing in full and remakes the ties that have served us so well. And in what he hopes will be a rousing speech to bring Europes leaders closer to the UK, he will praise Europes latent power, describing it as a sleeping giant. noting that the continents combined economies dwarf Russias, ten times over. He will say: We have huge defence capabilities. Yet, too often, all of this has added up to less than the sum of its parts. Across Europe, fragmented industrial planning and long, drawn-out procurement mechanisms have led to gaps in some areas and massive duplication in others. Sir Keir is rubbing shoulders with around 50 world leaders at the conference, where he has already met with Germany's Friedrich Merz and France's Emmanuel Macron. The leaders have also met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss efforts to end the conflict between Ukraine and Russia as the four-year anniversary of Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion nears. European defence and the future of the transatlantic relationship are on the agenda at the conference, at a time when America's commitment to NATO has been called into question. Tensions flared over Mr Trump's recent threat to take over Greenland from NATO partner Denmark, and insults directed at various leaders. In a briefing on the fringes of the meeting, defence secretary John Healey insisted the prime minister was re-establishing Britains proud role in the world and its necessary role within Europe. Healey also opened the door to France and Germany joining Britains Tempest fighter jet project, also known as GCAP. The billionaire heiress of the Ferrero Rocher empire, who ironically didn't like chocolate, has died aged 87. Maria Franca Ferrera passed away at her home in Alba, in Italy's Piedmont region, on Thursday. She was the widow of Michele Ferrero, owner of the Ferrero Group - the company behind Nutella, Kinder and Ferrero Rocher, among other confectionery brands. When Michele -Italy's richest man at the time - died in 2015, Maria inherited a business spanning around 40 factories, more than 47,000 employees and an annual turnover exceeding 15.7billion. She is survived by her son Giovanni, the current chairman of the group, her daughters-in-law Paola and Luisa, and five grandchildren. Her other son, Pietro, died in 2011 from a sudden illness. Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paid tribute to Maria, saying: 'With her passing, Italy loses a figure who embodied - with elegance and quiet dignity - a model of enterprise that creates value while never losing sight of the community.' Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paid tribute: 'With her passing, Italy loses a figure who embodied - with elegance and quiet dignity - a model of enterprise that creates value while never losing sight of the community.' Pictured: Maria Franca Ferrera and her son Giovanni Ferrero during the funeral of Michele Ferrero on February 18, 2015 Maria was born in Savigliano on 21 January 1939. After finishing school, she attended an interpreters' college in Milan and, in 1961, was hired as a translator and interpreter at Ferrero, where she met her husband. It was love at first sight and the couple married in 1962 - even though, as she later recalled, 'I didn't like chocolate'. A year later, their firstborn Pietro was born, followed by Giovanni in 1964. Her discreet philanthropic work earned her several honours, including the title of Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic - the country's highest-ranking honour - in 2024. On 19 December, she was unanimously appointed honorary life president of the Ferrero Group at an extraordinary shareholders' meeting. Reform MP Nadhim Zahawi said it's time to send in the army to the streets of London because the capital doesn't 'feel safe'. Speaking on LBC, the Tory defector was asked: 'Do you feel safe in London?' Mr Zahawi responded: 'No, and I'm a big guy. I don't feel safe that my 13-year-old can walk in London - that can't be right.' He continued: 'If I were Home Secretary I'd be calling the chief of police saying "listen, if you need help we'll send the army in".' New crime statistics show that homicides in London are at their lowest number in a decade, with just over one unlawful killing (1.07) per 100,000 people last year. Mr Zahawi, 58, also said he wanted to 'thank Jim Ratcliffe', the billionaire owner of Manchester United whose comments earlier this week that the UK had been 'colonised' by immigrants caused public outrage. LBC host James O'Brien responded to Mr Zahawi's comments: 'If you want to bring in the army to do something in this country it costs the local council 4,000 per soldier per week. 'So you're calling for other taxpayers to pay that while you're on the hook for 5million to the England revenue for avoiding paying your own share.' Mr Zahawi was sacked as Tory Party chairman in 2023 after an ethics inquiry found he had failed to disclose that HMRC was investigating his taxes. He subsequently paid nearly 5million to settle his tax affairs. Nadhim Zahawi said it was time to send in the army because the streets of London didn't 'feel safe' anymore - despite crime statistics in the capital being a record low James O'Brien continued: 'Whilst 17billion [in taxes] is paid by? Immigrants in the UK.' Mr Zahawi recalled an incident that left him feeling unsafe, saying: 'Yesterday I walked from my home in one of the most upmarket areas of London and an individual walked past me. 'I literally walked off the pavement into the middle of the road, kept a very close eye, at 8am. 'He just looked like he hadn't slept for a week and just looked like somebody that might be violent, I don't know, but I just walked away from the pavement.' London Mayor Sadiq Khan responded to Mr Zahawi's comments that he needed to 'stop being a pound shop version of Donald Trump'. He said: 'Rather than trying to copy Donald Trump, why not talk about our capital city? 'We are the tech capital of Europe, the second biggest tech place in the world, cultural capital of the world, the music capital of the world. 'Rather than talking our capital city down, why doesn't the Reform Party behave like true patriots and talk our capital city up instead of copying the ideas of Donald Trump and JD fans? Think for yourself, man.' Former Tory chancellor Nadhim Zahawi was all smiles as he posed alongside Nigel Farage to announce his defection, despite having once branded his vision for Britain as 'frightening' and calling the Reform leader 'racist' Mr Zahawi went on to 'thank' Jim Ratcliffe for his comments on immigration this week, saying: 'I thank Jim Ratcliffe because actually his, erm, misspeaking has raised the debate to a level where people like Nigel (Farage) are saying let's talk about this. 'Let's just discuss is this really sustainable or should we have a big change in our country about how we deal with migration? 'You walk down the Edgware Road, walk down parts of Birmingham, you know, lots of parts of our country, I would much rather see, like my parents did, integration. 'Be proud of where you live.' Mr Zahawi also criticised West Midland Police's handling of the grooming gangs scandal, saying: 'It's the same with the rape gangs. 'The reason they never dealt with it at the time was because it was too difficult because they might be labelled racist, that's why they didn't actually take those poor girls seriously.' He also spoke about an alleged incident whereby a cinema manager showed a film that 'offended a group of people', who 'were supposed to be talking to him but of course all had their faces covered and were very aggressive, and they took the film off'. The former Tory MP, who defected to Nigel Farage's Reform UK Party on January 12, said he regretted 'not doing this stuff' or standing up to more issues when his former party was in power. He was criticised by his fellow Tory MPs after turning to Reform, as Conservatives said their ex-chancellor only defected after 'begging' in vain for a peerage. Mr Zahawi joined Farage's party despite previously branding him 'racist'. He also denied that he had been promised a peerage by Reform or a specific role in a future government led by Mr Farage, saying he was only a 'foot soldier' in his new party. Last month, Scotland Yard had to defend London's reputation after President Trump's repeated criticisms of the capital. Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner Matt Jukes said that London 'does not deserve the reputation which it is sometimes given' in what is bound to be seen as a thinly veiled dig at the US President's recent jibes about safety in the capital. New figures showed there was just over one unlawful killing (1.07) per 100,000 people last year - an historic low for the capital. Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley paid tribute to the results of 'relentless work' to drive down violent crime in the capital, despite claims from the likes of the US President that London has 'no go' areas. He added: 'The results speak for themselves - fewer lives lost, fewer families shattered. 'Every murder is a tragedy, but we will continue to use every tool at our disposal to drive down serious violence. 'This work will not stop, and neither will our determination to keep Londoners safe.' The Deputy Commissioner told reporters he would not 'get involved' in political commentary, but said the figures proved the criticism was unfounded. US politicians have demanded Lord Peter Mandelson testifies before Congress as part of a probe into his long-term friend, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. The former British ambassador to the US received a letter formally requesting he appears for an interview to help them 'uncover the identities of Mr Epstein's co-conspirators and enablers'. They pointed out that Mandelson had called Epstein his 'best pal' and, according to bank statements, payments of at least $75,000 (55,000) were sent to him. It comes as a Daily Mail investigation exclusively revealed today the ex-Labour grandee took 'ghost flights' on a Russian oligarch's private jet to a summit with Vladimir Putin when he was EU trade commissioner. He accepted luxury flights aboard a Gulfstream jet controlled by one of the Kremlin strongman's favourite tycoons aluminium billionaire Oleg Deripaska. The EU subsequently slashed aluminium tariffs to the delight of Mr Deripaska, who became one of the world's ten richest men. The European Commission previously insisted there was 'no political interference' from Lord Mandelson in this decision. The revelations cap a torrid fortnight for Lord Mandelson, whose links with Epstein have led to calls for Sir Keir Starmer to stand down as Prime Minister. Critics have questioned the PM's judgment in appointing the peer as US ambassador, which is considered the most prestigious posting in British diplomacy. Peter Mandelson with Jeffrey Epstein in one of the recently released batch of photographs Peter Mandelson leaves London's Eurostar terminal at Waterloo Station to take up his position as European Commissioner for Trade in Brussels in 2004 Pictured: Supplies are brought to Peter Mandelson's house on Saturday An image shows the letter to Lord Mandelson asking him to testify in front of Congress The letter to Lord Mandelson, signed by representatives Robert Garcia and Suhas Subramanyam, said: 'While you no longer serve as British Ambassador to the United States and have stepped down from the House of Lords, it is clear that you possessed extensive social and business ties to Jeffrey Epstein and hold critical information pertaining to our investigation of Epstein's operations. 'Given the appalling allegations regarding Epstein's conduct, we request that you make yourself available for a transcribed interview with Committee staff regarding the crimes of Jeffrey Epstein and his co-conspirators.' It added: 'Numerous pieces of evidence have come to light demonstrating your close ties to Jeffrey Epstein over the span of multiple years. 'For example, in 2003, you authored a handwritten note that was included in Epstein's 50th Birthday Book, referring to Epstein as your 'best pal' and praising him as 'an intelligent, sharp-witted man. 'In bank records obtained by the Committee, Epstein transferred sizable sums of money to you, including payments between 2003 and 2004 totaling more than $75,000.' Last week, Scotland Yard launched a probe into allegations Mandelson passed confidential British government information to financier Epstein. Officers raided both his 12million London house and rented farmhouse in Wiltshire and were seen fetching cardboard boxes from their cars to collect evidence. Peter Mandelson accepted luxury flights aboard a Gulfstream jet controlled by one of the Kremlin strongman's favourite tycoons aluminium billionaire Oleg Deripaska The Gulfstream IV that took Mandelson to the Netherlands in 2004 Now the Daily Mail can reveal shocking details of the private jet flights an 'agitated' Mandelson took on November 25, 2004, to a crucial trade summit in The Hague, where he met Putin. The EU has confirmed he did not declare the flights, as he should have done. They were from Brussels to Luton, and then Luton to Rotterdam. The Daily Mail has spoken to a member of the flight crew who said Mandelson was 'quite ratty' because he wanted to get there faster. Around that time, Mandelson enjoyed cosy relations with some of Putin's inner circle. In 2005, he had a private, unofficial and undeclared dinner with the Russian finance minister, arranged by Mr Deripaska, and flew 2,000 miles to Siberia where he stayed at the aluminium oligarch's dacha before being flogged in a traditional Russian 'banya' or sauna. Last night Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch demanded the 'disturbing new revelations' be investigated, while shadow minister Alicia Kearns said Mandelson 'stinks of a man who holds the British people in complete contempt'. Mrs Badenoch said: 'As Keir Starmer flies to the Munich Security Conference to lecture us about the Russian threat, these disturbing new revelations reinforce the recklessness of his decision to hand Britain's most vital security relationship to Peter Mandelson, a man now facing serious questions over his dealings with Kremlin-linked oligarchs. 'The intelligence and security committee must be provided with all relevant material relating to Mandelson's time as EU trade commissioner.' Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) and one of the Kremlin strongman's favourite tycoon Oleg Deripaska (right) at Sochi in 2008 Peter Mandelson (second from left) at The Hague in the Netherlands with Putin and EU Commission president Jose Manuel Barroso Ms Kearns, shadow home affairs minister, said: 'Funny how after a few flights on an aluminium magnate's private jet, suddenly tariffs melt faster than scrap in a smelter. First Epstein, then the Chinese Communist Party, now Putin Mandelson's black book knows no limits. 'Mandelson stinks of a man who holds the British people in complete contempt. 'He thought he'd got away with giving out confidential government information to his friends, he thought he'd got away with simpering to a paedophile, and he thought he'd get away with betraying the EU to Putin's pet oligarch until the Mail's revelations today. 'There's a movie yet to be made of all of this: Licence To Shill.' Former prime minister Gordon Brown has said Mandelson's email contacts with Epstein could constitute a 'crime'. When the Daily Mail put the latest revelations to Mandelson, he said he could 'not recall' travel arrangements from so long ago but they would have 'been made by his office at the Commission'. King Charles 'would very much like' his brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to testify before the US Congress, a close friend of the monarch has claimed. Historian and broadcaster Jonathan Dimbleby suggested His Majesty wants his brother to help with investigations into convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. 'I would strongly believe, I can't say with 100 per cent certainty, but I strongly believe that he would very much like him to stand up and testify, but knows to stand up and say that is a hiding to nothing,' Dimbleby told BBC Newsnight. Dimbleby, who has been a close friend of the King for more than 30 years and even wrote his biography, went on to suggest that Charles is appalled by the allegations involving Andrew. 'It would be astonishing if he wasn't concerned, appalled by the allegations and of course affected in his role as monarch as well, because the headlines are all about this, which, you know, no institution wants that, and he is trying to do and is doing an extraordinary job in his role as head of state.' His remarks come as pressure continues to mount on Andrew, whose name appeared in the newly released Epstein files. It was revealed yesterday that police were being urged to launch a sex trafficking probe into Andrew amid claims a woman was flown in one of Epstein's private jets and smuggled into Buckingham Palace using the codename Mrs Windsor. The paedophile's Boeing 727100 private jet, which he used to host orgies and traffic girls, landed around 90 times in the UK - including after his conviction for child sex offences in 2008, the Epstein Files reveal. Jonathan Dimbleby told BBC Newsnight he believes King Charls wants Andrew to testify in from if US Congress He also said Charles is appalled by the allegations involving Andrew Pictured: Andrew and Charles pictured in 2012 Stansted, Britain's fourth busiest airport, was allegedly used as a hub to transfer victims from one Epstein plane to another. Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown has called it 'by far the biggest scandal of all' and urged Scotland Yard to begin a criminal investigation into the former Duke of York beyond misconduct in public office and breach of the Official Secrets Act. 'The Stansted revelations alone require them to interview Andrew. I have been told privately that the investigations related to the former Prince Andrew did not properly check vital evidence of flights', he said. Yesterday it was claimed that at least one Epstein victim was flown into Britain on board and then taken to Andrew at Buckingham Palace. The disgraced former Duke of York allegedly told aides: 'Mrs Windsor will arrive shortly, please let her in and show her up'. Sources have claimed that other women would be whisked in to see him at his late mother and father's London home using the same coded requests and with no security clearance. Andrew has been linked to four women in the Epstein Files, along with Virginia Giuffre. The Mail on Sunday revealed this week how Epstein took a young Romanian model to a private dinner at Buckingham Palace with his friend Andrew. Epstein said the royal thought she was 'beautiful', adding: 'No man looks at your clothes, they see through them.' Pressure continues to mount on Andrew, whose name appeared in the newly released Epstein files. Pictured in 2025 Andrew also invited Jeffrey Epstein and an 'enchanting' Russian model named Vera to dinner at Buckingham Palace during a trip to London. Epstein also offered to introduce him to a 26-year-old Russian woman known as 'Irina' in August 2010. The Epstein Files have laid bare just how many times the paedophile financier's private jet landed in the UK. Flight logs show it landed at Stansted and Heathrow as well as quieter, lesser-known airports across the south of England. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said mass migration is 'a crisis destabilising the west' as he told Europe's leaders America does not want allies that are 'shackled by shame'. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday morning, Rubio claimed the west has 'opened our doors' to an 'unprecedented wave of mass migration' as he appealed to Europe to be 'proud' of its culture and Christian heritage. But he also struck a somewhat conciliatory tone in parts, saying that America and Europe 'belong together' and said the continent is one of the US's 'cherished allies and oldest friends'. 'We will always be a child of Europe,' he added, to applause from the crowd. Among those present at the conference is British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, alongside around 50 world leaders. Starmer has already met with Germany's Friedrich Merz and France's Emmanuel Macron and is set to speak later and warn European allies to take more responsibility for their own defence, rather than rely on America. The leaders have also met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss efforts to end the conflict between Ukraine and Russia as the four-year anniversary of Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion nears. European defence and the future of the transatlantic relationship are on the agenda at the conference, at a time when America's commitment to Nato has been called into question. Addressing 'mass migration' during his speech this morning, Rubio said: 'Mass migration is not, was not, some fringe concern of little consequence. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said mass migration is 'a crisis destabilising the west' as he told Europe's leaders America does not want allies that are 'shackled by shame' Starmer has already met with Germany's Friedrich Merz and France's Emmanuel Macron (right) at the conference, and is due to speak later today 'It was and continues to be a crisis that is transforming and destabilising societies all across the west.' He added: 'Controlling who and how many people enter our counries, this is not ane expression of xenophobia, it is not hate. It is a fundamental act of national sovereignty.' He said failing to do so would be a 'fundamental abdication' of 'duty', and described migration as an 'urgent threat to the fabric of our societies and to the survival of our civilisation itself'. Elsewhere in his wide-ranging address, which spoke to the history of the United States, the US Secretary of State said: 'We want allies who can defend themselves, so that no adversary will ever be tempted to test our collective strength. This is why we do not want our allies to be shackled by guilt and shame. 'We want allies who are proud of their culture and of their heritage, who understand that we are heirs to the same great and noble civilisation, and who together with us are willing and able to defend it. 'And this is why we do not want allies to rationalise the broken status quo, rather than reckon with what is necessary to fix it. For we in America have no interest in being polite and orderly caretakers of the West's managed decline. 'We do not seek to separate but to revitalise an old friendship and renew the greatest civilisation in human history.' He also said that the fate of the United States and Europe 'will always be intertwined'. Rubio said that Donald Trump 'demands seriousness and reciprocity from our friends here in Europe' because 'we care deeply about your future and ours'. 'And if at times we disagree, our disagreements come from our profound sense of concern about a Europe with which we are connected, not just economically, not just militarily. We are connected spiritually and we are connected culturally. Addressing 'mass migration' during his speech this morning, Rubio claimed it is 'destabilising' western societies 'We want Europe to be strong. 'We believe that Europe must survive because the two great wars of the last century serve for us as history's constant reminder that, ultimately, our destiny is and will always be intertwined with yours. 'Because we know that the fate of Europe will never be irrelevant to our own.' Wolfgang Ischinger, the chairman of the Munich Security Conference who acted as a moderator for Mr Rubio as he took questions, claimed there had been a 'sigh of relief through this hall' during the speech, in reference to its contrast with the address by US vice president JD Vance in 2025. Mr Rubio snubbed a Ukraine meeting at the conference on Friday, where allies rallied around the war-torn country as the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion nears. US officials reportedly blamed scheduling conflicts but his absence may have been seen by Europeans as a sign of the White House's dwindling interest in including them in its bid to end the conflict. Later, Sir Keir said that Europe must relinquish its overdependence on the United States. The Prime Minister argued for the UK to move closer to the European Union, saying turning inwards such as in the Brexit years would amount to a 'surrender' of control in a perilous era for geopolitics. It comes amid a prickly global backdrop after tensions flared over Mr Trump's recent threat to take over Greenland from Nato partner Denmark, and insults directed at various leaders. In his speech to the summit on Saturday, the Prime Minister called for a more European defence alliance and greater autonomy for the continent. Sir Keir said that this should be underpinned by stronger ties between Britain and the EU. He said: 'We are not the Britain of the Brexit years anymore. 'Because we know that, in dangerous times, we would not take control by turning inward - we would surrender it. And I won't let that happen. 'There is no British security without Europe, and no European security without Britain. That is the lesson of history - and it is today's reality too.' The Prime Minister also praised the US's contribution to European security and added it remains a key ally. But as Mr Trump's administration has upended the international order and denigrated traditional allies in Europe, the bloc must reduce its dependence on the US and take more responsibility for its own defence, Sir Keir will suggest. In his speech, Sir Keir said: 'I'm talking about a vision of European security and greater European autonomy, that does not herald US withdrawal but answers the call for more burden sharing in full, and remakes the ties that have served us so well.' He will highlight Europe's failure to make the most of its defence capabilities and call for closer UK-EU defence co-operation 'to multiply our strengths and build a shared industrial base across Europe which can turbocharge our defence production'. It comes after talks on Britain joining the EU's new 150 billion euro (130 billion) Security Action for Europe (Safe) rearmament fund were reported to have broken down at the end of last year, as the price for entry was thought to be too high. 'Europe is a sleeping giant. Our economies dwarf Russia's, 10 times over,' Sir Keir said. 'We have huge defence capabilities. Yet, too often, all of this has added up to less than the sum of its parts. 'Across Europe, fragmented industrial planning and long, drawn out procurement mechanisms have led to gaps in some areas - and massive duplication in others.' The Labour leader also hit out at Reform UK and the Green Party - 'the peddlers of easy answers on the extremes of left and right'. He added: 'It's striking that the different ends of the spectrum share so much. Soft on Russia and weak on Nato - if not outright opposed. 'And determined to sacrifice the longstanding relationships that we want and need to build, on the altar of their ideology. 'The future they offer is one of division and then capitulation. The lamps would go out across Europe once again. But we will not let that happen.' The United States used a form of artificial intelligence during the military operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The use of Anthropic artificial-intelligence tool Claude highlights how AI use is gaining tractions in the Pentagon. But the program's makers have raised concerns about the risks of using the modern technology. It is understood that Anthropic was the first AI model developer to be used in classified operations by the US's Department of Defense following a $200 million with the company last year. However, the developers have refused to comment on whether the software was used in any specific operation. They have also said Anthropic's usage guidelines prohibit Claude from being used to facilitate violence, develop weapons or conduct surveillance. Despite this the mission to capture Maduro and his wife on January 3 involved the bombing of several sites across Venezuela's capital Caracas. 'We cannot comment on whether Claude, or any other AI model, was used for any specific operation, classified or otherwise. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro aboard the USS Iwo Jiwa following his capture. The United States used a form of artificial intelligence during the military operation Multiple fires blazing across the Venezuelan capital of Caracas following the US's military operation. It is understood that Anthropic was the first AI model developer to be used in classified operations by the US's Department of Defense 'Any use of Claud - whether in the private sector or across government - is required to comply with our Usage Policies, which govern how Claude can be deployed. We work closely with our partners to ensure compliance,' a spokesperson for Anthropic told the Wall Street Journal. The use of Claude occurred through Anthropics partnership with data company Palantir Technologies. However, the companies concerns about how Claude can be used by the Pentagon have pushed administration officials to consider canceling its contract worth up to $200 million. And the Chief Executive Dario Amodei has been publicly grappling with the power of the technology and the risks they could pose to society and he's called for greater regulation and guardrails to prevent harms from AI. Mr Amodei intervention has put the company at loggerheads with the Trump administration after Anthropic also publicly expressed concern about AIs use in autonomous lethal operations and domestic surveillance. It was later accused of undermining the Trumps low-regulation AI strategy by calling for more guardrails and limits on AI chip exports. Despite this, the adoption of AI by the US military is seen as a key boost for AI companies that are competing for legitimacy and seeking to live up to their enormous valuations from investors. Other companies such as OpenAI and Googles Gemini are now used by three million US military personal including a custom version of ChatGPT which will used for analysing documents, generating reports and supporting research. President Donald Trump speaking following the capture of Maduro. The Chief Executive of Anthropic Dario Amodei has been accused of undermining the Trumps low-regulation AI strategy by calling for more guardrails and limits on AI chip exports After weeks of meticulous planning and waiting for the weather to be 'perfect', Mr Trump gave the go-ahead for Operation Absolute Resolve at 10.46pm Eastern Standard Time on Friday January 3 (11.46pm in Venezuela, 3.46am on Saturday in the UK) with the words: 'Good luck and God speed.' US forces reached the Venezuelan leader's home at 1.01am EST and were back over the sea returning to the USS Iwo Jima by 3.29am, although a Pentagon source said the ground firefight and capture of Maduro took less than 30 minutes. Around a dozen Special Forces troops entered Maduro's heavily guarded compound by 'fast roping' deploying rapidly from helicopters by sliding down ropes before facing heavy gunfire. After Maduro and his wife were found they were were taken out in a matter of seconds', Trump said. The debut of the new Highlander heralds the launch of another seven-seat family hauler later this year. Although Subaru was initially hesitant to embrace the electric revolution, the brand has since plugged in and expanded its BEV lineup in rapid order. After all, following the launch of the Solterra and the bZ, Subaru and Toyota have worked together on a series of joint projects taking the form of the Trailseeker and the bZ Woodland as well as the Uncharted and the CH-R. As if that wasnt enough, Lexus has even managed to get in on the action with a few rebadged luxury versions of its own. Subarus Trailseeker will be joined by another EV that shares its bones with the Highlander. - Credit: Subaru According to a new report, theres a fourth Subaru EV on the way, and this one is set to be bigger than the rest. With three rows, itll maximize its family-friendly seating capabilities. Following the Highlanders footprint Now, at this stage, Subaru has yet to announce such a vehicle or release any official details. However, according to Automotive News, Subaru of America chief operating officer Jeff Walters confirmed that the brand will be releasing a new three-row all-electric SUV later this year. Subarus fourth EV should borrow heavily from the Highlander. - Credit: Toyota As was the case with its predecessors, this upcoming battery-powered Subaru will share its underpinnings with a Toyota counterpart. Accordingly, itll likely borrow from the recently launched 2027 Highlander, and production is slated for the same facility in Kentucky. Advertisement Advertisement Powertrain-wise, this means that chances are pretty good it will feature similar single- and dual-motor options. Moreover, output could be comparable to the Solterra, as Toyotas new Highlander makes an equivalent 338 horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque in AWD guise. Only time will tell whether itll offer the same powertrain options as its Toyota twin. - Credit: Toyota Advertisement Advertisement Whether itll follow the Uncharted as one of the few FWD-available Subarus only time will tell. The Highlander is set to be offered in a front-wheel Limited trim, so that will also ultimately determine the pricing structure. In any event, given the Highlanders three-row seating (and even longer wheelbase as part of the redesign), this new EV could also be big. Whereas the Trailseeker is comparable to the Outback, the upcoming model should be more in line with the Ascent. Even with the Outback getting a more SUV-like appearance, this BEV should be bigger and boxier still. - Credit: Subaru Doubling down on electric SUVs While that undoubtedly comes as good news if you happen to be in the market for a three-row, its not without some complications. Chiefly, does Subaru really need another EV? Its hard to say. On the one hand, the brands lineup would certainly benefit from the diversity (and the efficiency). Subaru doesnt currently offer hybrid versions of the Ascent or even the Outback, and the Forester only just received a hybrid last year. Subarus Uncharted is joining the Solterra this year as part of the brands EVs. - Credit: Subaru However, even if a fourth BEV would give buyers a larger, more efficient option, that doesnt mean that they would necessarily appreciate such an alternative. Advertisement Advertisement After all, following the discontinuation of federal tax incentives, electric vehicles have experienced a noticeable decline in demand across the board. With Subaru in particular, the Solterra sold 45.6 percent fewer examples in January 2026 than it did at the start of last year. Subarus Solterra hasnt exactly been a hot seller since it debuted. Does the brand need four EVs? - Credit: Subaru At 572 sales in total for the month, it even slipped behind the discontinued Legacy. Furthermore, seeing as niche models like the Ascent are already moving more than four times that amount, it doesnt seem like a favorable segment within which Subaru can field another EV. Still, according to AN, Walters stated that there are a lot of people like that out there, who fit the target market two vehicles and access to a home charger. Until Subaru pulls the curtain back on a three-row EV, well just have to keep an eye on how things unfold with the new Highlander. About the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When hes not chasing the latest industry news, hes probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers. Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When hes not chasing the latest industry news, hes probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers. Advertisement Advertisement Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results. Police investigating the disappearance of Nancie Guthrie held up a sheet as they removed items from a Range Rover after a man was held at a traffic stop. Three people were questioned last night during a SWAT operation just 1.9 miles from the 84-year-old's home in Tuscon, Arizona. Officers were reportedly acting on a tip. The mother of TV host Savannah Guthrie vanished from her $1million property nearly two weeks ago with police believing she was taken against her will. It is unclear whether any of the individuals subject to the police raid last night are suspects in her disappearance. However, new images from the restaurant parking lot where one of the raids took place show police recovering items from a grey Range Rover. At least two officers can be seen holding up a sheet, while other members of law enforcement take objects out of the car. They are believed to have been collecting evidence but it is not known exactly what was recovered. Separate photographs show police inspecting the boot of the Range Rover, before loading the vehicle onto the back of a pick-up truck. Police remove items from a Range Rover in a restaurant parking lot where a man was detained At least two officers can be seen holding up a sheet, while other members of law enforcement take objects out of the car Separate photographs show police loading the Range Rover onto the back of a pick-up truck The other two individuals were pulled from a house in Marana. They appeared to be a mother and son, TMZ reported. Pima County Sheriff Chamonis Valdez told the Daily Mail that the raids were in connection with the Guthrie case. The home in question was the only location police were focusing on as of last night. Roughly two dozen officers, including FBI officials, were seen standing near blockedoff streets in the pouring rain. One Pima County Sheriff's Office plane was also spotted flying over the Tucson neighborhood. The SWAT team was reportedly activated around the same time that the aircraft was launched. Law enforcement activity increased at the property on Friday night as more vehicles arrived, including units believed to be federal agents. Marked sheriffs cars were followed by a federal evidence truck, according to CNN. SWAT were seen leaving the scene earlier, while forensic teams remain in the area. Pima County Sheriff Chamonis Valdez told the Daily Mail that the raids were in connection with the Guthrie case Nancy Guthrie is the mother of TODAY show host Savannah Guthrie Officers swarmed the grey Range Rover in the restaurant parking lot Some earlier reports suggested the home belonged to a former county attorney. The Pima County Sheriff's Department clarified that these claims were 'not accurate.' Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said the operation was part of investigators 'actively working a lead,' AZ Family reported. The Pima County Police Department released a statement late on Friday. 'Law enforcement activity is underway at a residence near E Orange Grove Rd & N First Ave related to the Guthrie case,' it read. 'Because this is a joint investigation, at the request of the FBI, no additional information is currently available.' A source told Fox News that a judge issued a warrant to enter the home. The development comes days after the FBI asked for the public's assistance in identifying a masked figure seen near Guthrie's home before she disappeared. Doorbell camera images of the individual showed the masked man wearing a black jacket, a backpack and gloves. Residents within a two-mile radius of Guthrie were asked to check their doorbell and security camera footage dating back to the beginning of January. An individual was spotted outside of Guthrie's Arizona home before she went missing on February 1 Nancy Guthrie has been missing from her home since February 1 Swarms of police officers surrounded the property in the pouring rain Armored SWAT vehicles were seen leaving the scene during the SWAT operation Guthrie was last seen entering her home in Tucson on the evening of January 31 after having dinner with her daughter, Annie, son-in-law, Tommaso Cioni, and her grandchildren. The next morning, she was reported missing when she failed to attend a virtual church service with friends, Nanos said. On Friday, investigators discovered that DNA found on Nancy's property during the investigation did not belong to her family or anyone 'close' to her. 'DNA other than Nancy Guthrie's and those in close contact to her have been collected from the property,' the sheriff's department said, adding that investigators are working to identify who it belongs to and are not disclosing where it was found. Investigators also found several gloves, ranging from roughly two to 10 miles away from Nancy's home. Officials described the suspect as a 5-foot-9-inch or 5-foot-10-inch male with an average build. The FBI has offered a $100,000 reward for information in Guthrie's case. The Daily Mail contacted the Pima County Sheriff's Office for more information. Sir Keir Starmer has announced he is sending a Navy carrier force north towards Greenland as he warned Putin's strength is growing in a speech at a major security conference today. Speaking at the annual event in Munich, the Prime Minister said Russia is rebuilding its army and hit out at the 'easy answers of the extremes of left and right', hinting voting for Reform or the Greens could hasten war in Europe. Claiming that both parties are ideological extremists who are 'soft on Russia and weak on NATO', the PM said they would undermine Britain's national security and bring war to Europe if they were in power. Sir Keir hit out at past leaders for 'looking the other way' and warned that Russia could be ready to invade the rest of Europe by 'the end of the decade'. 'Now we feel the solidity of peace, the very ground that we stand on softening under our feet,' he told the conference. 'It is the job of leaders to be ahead of these seismic shifts, yet that is against the grain of history. Time and again leaders have looked the other way, only rearming when disaster is upon them. This time must be different.' He continued: 'Even as the war goes on, Russia is rearming, reconvening their armed forces and industrial base. NATO has warned that Russia could be ready to use military force against the alliance by the end of this decade.' Sir Keir said that reaching a peace deal in Ukraine would not 'end' the threat of Russia to the west, rather 'increase' it - as Putin could accelerate his country's rearmament. Speaking at the annual event in Munich, the Prime Minister said Russia is rebuilding its army and hit out at the 'easy answers of the extremes of left and right', hinting voting for Reform or the Greens could hasten war in Europe A carrier strike group, led by the HMS Prince of Wales (pictured) is being deployed to the north Atlantic, the PM announced today Sir Keir also revealed a major deployment of some of the UK's fiercest naval assets. He said: 'I can announce today that the UK will deploy our carrier strike group to the north Atlantic and the high north this year, led by the HMS Prince of Wales, operating alongside the US, Canada and other NATO allies.' It is thought this could signal a deployment towards Greenland amid recent tensions over the Danish territory. It is not clear exactly when the group will be sent. A typical carrier strike group consists of a Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carrier, two surface escorts, a submarine and a fleet tanker. Elsewhere, Sir Keir avoided mentioning Reform UK and the Greens by name but strongly hinted neither party has the capability to effectively defend the UK. Drawing on language famously used on the eve of the First World War, he argued that Reform and the Greens would bring nothing but 'division and capitulation' and warned the lamps 'would go out across Europe once again'. These ominous words were used by former British foreign secretary Sir Edward Grey on the brink of war with Germany in 1914. 'It's striking that the different ends of the spectrum share so much,' Sir Keir said. 'Soft on Russia and weak on NATO if not outright opposed. '[They are] determined to sacrifice the longstanding relationships that we want and need to build on the altar of their ideology. The future they offer is one of division and then capitulation. The lamps would go out across Europe once again.' He added: 'We must level with the public and build consent for the decisions we will have to take to keep us all safe. Because if we don't, the peddlers of easy answers on the extremes of left and right are ready.' Elsewhere, Starmer avoided mentioning Reform UK and the Greens by name but strongly hinted neither party has the capability to effectively defend the UK (Pictured: Reform UK leader Nigel Farage) Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper arriving at Munich Airport, Germany, ahead of the Munich Security Conference Heads of state and government as well as foreign and defence ministers from all over the world are expected to attend the security policy talks from February 13 to 15 Sir Keir also accused the 'extremes of our politics' of 'chipping away' at the NATO alliance. He added: 'Europe must not turn its back on this, instead we must move forward together to create a more European NATO. 'As I see it Europe is a sleeping giant. Our economies dwarf Russia's more than ten times over. We have huge defence capabilities yet too often this adds up to less than the sum of its parts.' Sir Keir's speech, which also set out his foreign vision of bringing the UK closer to Europe and warned against becoming too close to the US, came as the PM fights for his political survival and ahead of what will be a three-way fight for the key seat of Gorton & Denton in Manchester. If Labour loses the seat, which it won with a 13,000 majority at the last election, the Prime Minister could face a leadership challenge. Before his speech, Reform UK said: 'This is a speech from a Prime Minister on the verge of being hounded out of office by his own party. This is a man that refuses to find the money to increase defence spending and is making our country weaker and less secure. 'Reform UK believes our priority should be rebuilding our armed forces, properly funding defence to at least 3.5 per cent of GDP, standing up to China and Russia and strengthening our bilateral relationships.' Meanwhile a Green Party source told today's Times: 'This is a caretaker Prime Minister running scared, losing what's left of his authority by going abroad to a summit on our future security and making cheap smears against the Green Party, because he knows Labour have blown it in Gorton & Denton.' Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (left) attends a trilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron (right) and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the Munich Security Conference in Munich Sir Keir is joining approximately 50 world leaders at the summit, having already held high-level talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron In his speech to world leaders, military chiefs and security officials who are also gathered for the three day conference, Sir Keir said Britain must turn towards Europe, end its military reliance on America and be prepared to stand on its own. He called for a more 'European NATO' and a shift from 'overdependence' on the United States to 'interdependence' with Europe, forging a new path towards sovereign deterrence and hard power. 'We are not the Britain of the Brexit years any more. Because we know that, in dangerous times, we would not take control by turning inward. We would surrender it. And I won't let that happen,' he said. 'There is no British security without Europe and no European security without Britain. That is the lesson of history and it is today's reality too.' While Sir Keir confirmed that the US remains an indispensable ally, he added: 'I'm talking about a vision of European security and greater European autonomy that does not herald US withdrawal but answers the call for more burden-sharing in full and remakes the ties that have served us so well.' Sir Keir is rubbing shoulders with around 50 world leaders at the conference, where he has already met with Germany's Friedrich Merz and France's Emmanuel Macron. The leaders have also met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss efforts to end the conflict between Ukraine and Russia as the four-year anniversary of Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion nears. European defence and the future of the transatlantic relationship are on the agenda at the conference, at a time when America's commitment to NATO has been called into question. Tensions flared over Mr Trump's recent threat to take over Greenland from NATO partner Denmark, and insults directed at various leaders. In a briefing on the fringes of the meeting, defence secretary John Healey insisted the Prime Minister was 're-establishing Britain's proud role in the world and its necessary role within Europe'. Healey also opened the door to France and Germany joining Britain's Tempest fighter jet project, also known as GCAP. Aussie superstar Jakara Anthony has bounced back from heartbreak to win a historic gold medal in the women's dual moguls at the Winter Olympics. The 27-year-old breezed through the early rounds of the dual moguls in ruthless fashion and then downed three Americans in a row, including beating singles champion and eventual bronze medallist Elizabeth Lemley in the semi-finals. With skiers racing side by side down the Livigno course and judged on turns, jumps and speed, the Victorian overcame American Jaelin Kauf in the big final to snatch gold. Judges awarded Anthony the victory, scoring 20 points to 15. It was Australia's third gold in Milano-Cortina - the nation's best ever result at a single Winter Olympics campaign. Anthony also became first Aussie Winter Olympian to win two gold medals and celebrated afterwards with IOC Member and fellow Aussie Olympic legend Jessica Fox. 'Man, that's crazy,' Anthony told Channel Nine's Ally Langdon. 'I think it's the same as the first one. It's just never going to sink in. Jakara Anthony has become Australia's first ever two-time Olympic gold medallist The Aussie won gold in the women's dual moguls three days after she crashed out in the final run in the singles moguls event Jakara Anthony celebrates with IOC Member and fellow Olympic great Jessica Fox I'm just riding the high of this one right now. I can't even think about the fact that I have two (gold medals). This is really special.' It was the first time the Winter Olympics has held the women's dual moguls event. Fellow Aussies Charlotte Wilson and Emma Bosco bowed out in the early rounds. Just three days ago, a devastating fall in the super final crushed Anthony's hopes of winning back-to-back gold medals in the single moguls. Anthony went into the super final as the final competitor and red-hot favourite to defend her title from Beijing four years ago, before a mid-race stumble left her pondering what may have been. 'There's been a lot of tears shed over the last few days,' Anthony said. 'It was a real rollercoaster today. The heartbreak the other day in singles was a pretty tough pill to swallow. 'I'm lucky to be so well-supported and we were able to reset and look forward to what it is we can do in duals. Jakara Anthony overcame American Jaelin Kauf in the final to snatch gold Jakara Anthony defeated US moguls stars Jaelin Kauf (left) and Elizabeth Lemley (right) on her way to gold 'This is actually only my second duals event in about two-and-a half years because I was out injured all last season and missed a lot of dual events this season, and then a lot of events getting cancelled this year so I only got the one event leading in. 'So, you know, there were just a lot of unknowns, also first duals event at the Olympics so we didn't really know how certain things were going to go. 'I was rolling with a lot of unknowns heading into this competition and we were able to work out a plan and follow that and roll with the punches a little bit, and we got it done.' Anthony joins fellow moguls skier Cooper Woods and snowboard cross racer Josie Baff as Olympic champions in Italy, while Scotty James won a silver medal in the men's snowboard halfpipe. 'We were saying in the lead up, this is probably our best team yet, and we were expecting big things these Games, and I think the whole team's delivered across the board,' Anthony said. Car slammed into them outside a takeaway Confronting CCTV captured the moment a car lost control and slammed into two teenage boys on a footpath outside a busy takeaway. Firefighters had to free the trapped pair pinned against a wall outside Carmen's Seafood and Takeaway in Ipswich, southwest of Brisbane, on Friday afternoon. CCTV captured a blue Ford Falcon with green P-plates sliding sideways before veering off the road and smashing into the boys, aged 13 and 14, sitting at tables outside the takeaway, waiting for their post-school snacks. The boys were unable to get out of the way in time. The driver and passengers jumped out of the car to try and push the vehicle off the teens as shocked bystanders rushed to their aid. A winch was used to free the teens, who were rushed to the Queensland Children's Hospital with life-threatening injuries. 'We were just here and I heard a loud bang and some screaming,' a takeaway worker told Nine News. 'Then we came out and saw a car right in front of the shop. They just came home from school I think, they were just getting a feed. A P-plater lost control and slammed into two teenage boys on a footpath outside a busy takeaway on Friday Firefighters had to use a winch to free the trapped boys, who suffered life-threatening injuries 'It was very frightening, I'm hoping they're okay.' Both boys remain in hospital. The 14-year-old remains in a critical but stable condition, while the 13-year-old remains in a stable condition. The Ford Falcon occupants were assessed by paramedics but were not physically injured. Officers have launched an investigation into the crash. Anyone with information or footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. The US military is gearing up for the possibility of sustained, weeks-long operations against Iran. Two US officials spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity and highlighted what could become a far more serious conflict than previously seen between the countries. The disclosure by the officials raises the stakes for the diplomacy underway between the US and Iran. The planning underway is complex, the officials said. In a sustained campaign, the US military could hit Iranian state and security facilities, not just nuclear infrastructure, one of the officials said. Experts say the risks to US forces would be far greater in such an operation against Iran, which boasts a formidable arsenal of missiles. Retaliatory Iranian strikes also increase the risk of a regional conflict. The same official said the US fully expected Iran to retaliate, leading to back-and-forth strikes and reprisals over a period of time. The White House and Pentagon did not respond to questions about the risks of retaliation or regional conflict. Trump has repeatedly threatened to bomb Iran over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and the crushing of internal dissent. The US military is gearing up for the possibility of sustained, weeks-long operations against Iran. Pictured: Donald Trumpp gestures as he arrives at Palm Beach, Florida on February 13, 2026 The USS Abraham Lincoln along with a strike group is currently stationed outside Iran On Thursday, he warned the alternative to a diplomatic solution would 'be very traumatic, very traumatic.' Iran's Revolutionary Guards have warned that in case of strikes on Iranian territory, they could retaliate against any US military base. The US maintains bases throughout the Middle East, including in Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey. Asked for comment on the preparations for a potentially sustained US military operation, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said: 'President Trump has all options on the table with regard to Iran.' 'He listens to a variety of perspectives on any given issue, but makes the final decision based on what is best for our country and national security,' Kelly said. It comes after US officials said on Friday that the Pentagon was sending an additional aircraft carrier to the Middle East, adding thousands more troops along with fighter aircraft, guided-missile destroyers and other firepower capable of waging attacks and defending against them. The nuclearpowered behemoth will bolster American forces already stationed in the region as Washington ramps up its military presence to a formidable new level. The deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford, a $13 billion floating fortress, is a clear signal of intent, effectively doubling the US Navy's carrier strike power in the area. The move adds significant military weight to President Donald Trump's efforts to pressure Iran into a new deal regarding its nuclear program. Instead, a top Iranian security official visited Oman and Qatar this week to exchange messages with US intermediaries rather than engaging in direct dialogue. The deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford will station two American aircraft carriers and their accompanying warships in the region simultaneously. The massive vessel and its strike group are set to join the USS Abraham Lincoln and its fleet of guidedmissile destroyers, which are already patrolling the Arabian Sea. Currently positioned in the Caribbean, the USS Gerald R. Ford is expected to take up to four weeks to steam into the region. The arrival window aligns perfectly with the highstakes ultimatum issued by President Trump on Thursday. Trump set a blistering deadline to finalise a deal by next month, warning he is prepared to 'change course' should negotiations fail to materialise. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was killed by the Russian state, the Foreign Office has revealed. Navalny's death was the result of poison from a South American dart frog toxin called epibatidine - a claim that Moscow has swiftly rejected as 'a Western propaganda hoax.' The politician died aged 47 while in a remote Arctic penal colony two years ago. He had been sentenced to decades of imprisonment on dubious embezzlement charges. His death was announced by the Russian state on February 16, 2024. At the time, his allies accused the Kremlin of murdering Navalny because of the political threat he posed. The toxin epibatidine is said to be 200 times stronger than morphine and is used by some indigenous tribes in South America in darts or blowguns during hunts. It attacks nerves, causing numbness and paralysis. It is not clear how the frog poison was allegedly administered to Navalny. The UK and its allies Sweden, France, Germany and the Netherlands said the 'barbaric' act - using a neurotoxin that is classed as a chemical weapon - could only have been carried out by Vladimir Putin's government. In a statement released by the Foreign Office in conjunction with other European nations, a spokesperson said: 'The UK, Sweden, France, Germany and the Netherlands are confident that Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a lethal toxin. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny makes a heart with his hands as he appears in court in Moscow on February 2, 2021 Yulia Navalnaya, widow of Navalny, is seen in St Mary's Church in Berlin after lighting a candle on what would have been her husband's birthday in June 2024 Navalny is pictured with his wife after a rally in Moscow, Russia, in September 2013 The UK and its allies Sweden, France, Germany and the Netherlands said the 'barbaric' act - using a neurotoxin that is classed as a chemical weapon - could only have been carried out by Vladimir Putin's (pictured) government Navalny's death was the result of poison from a South American dart frog toxin called epibatidine (Pictured: Ecuadorian poison dart frog) 'This is the conclusion of our Governments based on analyses of samples from Alexei Navalny. These analyses have conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine. 'Epibatidine is a toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America. It is not found naturally in Russia. 'Russia claimed that Navalny died of natural causes. But given the toxicity of epibatidine and reported symptoms, poisoning was highly likely the cause of his death. Navalny died while held in prison, meaning Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison to him.' The statement said that 'only the Russian state had the combined means, motive and disregard for international law to carry out the attacks'. It added: 'There is no innocent explanation for its presence in Navalny's body.' The Foreign Office also insisted that Russia had not destroyed all of its chemical weapons, as Moscow claimed it had done in 2017, and highlighted again the Salisbury poisonings which took place on UK soil in 2018. But the Russian government, which has repeatedly denied any responsibility for Navalny's death, dismissed the latest allegations as 'a Western propaganda hoax', according to the Russian state's TASS news agency. 'When the test results are available and the formulas for the substances are disclosed, we will comment accordingly,' Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by TASS. 'Until then, all such assertions are merely propaganda aimed at diverting attention from pressing Western issues,' she added. The report also said she described Navalny as a blogger 'officially designated as a terrorist and extremist in Russia'. Navalny was serving a 19-year sentence on charges of extremism, having campaigned against official corruption and led major anti-Kremlin protests. Following the announcement, his widow, Yulia Navalnaya said she had 'always been certain' her husband had been poisoned, hailing the European allies for providing 'proof'. She said: 'Scientists from five European countries have established: my husband, Alexei Navalny, was poisoned with epibatidine a neurotoxin, one of the deadliest poisons on earth. 'In nature, this poison can be found on the skin of the Ecuadorian dart frog. It causes paralysis, respiratory arrest, and a painful death. 'I was certain from the first day that my husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof: Putin killed Alexei with chemical weapon. 'I am grateful to the European states for the meticulous work they carried out over two years and for uncovering the truth. Vladimir Putin is a murderer. He must be held accountable for all his crimes.' It is not clear how the frog poison was allegedly administered to Mr Navalny (Pictured during his imprisonment) Yulia Navalnaya attends the 2024 Munich Security Conference on the day Russia announced her husband's death Ms Navalnaya meets with the British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday The Foreign Secretary embraces Ms Navalnaya at the Munich Security Conference today A Kremlin spokeswoman hit back, calling the allegations 'a disinformation campaign by the West'. The Russian Embassy in London added: 'This isn't a quest for justice, but a mockery of the dead. 'Even after the death of a Russian citizen, London and European capitals cannot give him peace, which speaks volumes about the instigators of this campaign.' Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: 'Alexei Navalny displayed huge courage in the face of tyranny. 'His determination to expose the truth has left an enduring legacy, and my thoughts are with his family today. I am doing whatever it takes to defend our people, our values and our way of life from the threat of Russia and Putin's murderous intent.' British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has met with Mr Navalny's widow Ms Navalnaya at the Munich Security Conference this weekend. Ms Navalnaya announced her husband's death at the gathering in 2024. Ms Cooper said: 'Since Yulia Navalnaya announced the loss of her husband here in Munich two years ago, the UK has pursued the truth of Alexei Navalny's death with fierce determination 'Only the Russian government had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin against Alexei Navalny during his imprisonment in Russia. 'Today, beside his widow, the UK is shining a light on the Kremlin's barbaric plot to silence his voice. 'Russia saw Navalny as a threat. By using this form of poison the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition.' Last year Ms Navalnaya said the Kremlin's claim that he died of natural causes was a lie. She said two independent laboratories had confirmed he was poisoned. Ms Navalnaya did not provide details on the poison allegedly used, on the samples or on the analysis but challenged the laboratories to publish their results. In a video posted to social media at the time she said: 'I will not stay silent. I assert that Vladimir Putin is responsible for the murder of my husband, Alexei Navalny.' Navalny's death while in Russian detention was announced on February 16, 2024 Navalny takes part in a march at Strastnoy Boulevard in memory of Russian politician and opposition leader Boris Nemtsov in 2019 An emotional Ms Navalnaya is pictured attending the Munich security conference today, two years after her husband's death The Foreign Office released a statement alongside the UK's European allies Sweden, France Germany and the Netherlands What is the deadly toxin epibatidine? A tiny poison dart frog such as the Ecuadorian produces one of the most powerful natural painkillers ever discovered, but the substance is so lethal that it has never become a medicine. Epibatidine is highly toxic - up to 200 times more potent than morphine. It is found in the striped skin of the poison frog Epipedobates tricolor. The poison is only found from frogs in the wild - it is formed via their diet of beetles, ants, mites and flies and then stored in their skin. When the frogs are reared in captivity, they produce no epibatidine. The compound was first isolated in the 1970s by the American chemist John W Daly from frog skin extracts. Laboratory testing revealed extraordinary potency - scientists have been unable to harness its potential, with a tiny gap between an effective dose and a life-threatening one. In the standard 'hot plate' test, rats placed on a heated surface normally leap into the air in pain. A dose of around 1 milligram of morphine per kilogram of body weight enables the rat to withstand the burning heat. The same effect can be achieved with just 5 micrograms per kilogram of epibatidine, making it roughly 200 times more potent than morphine. One frog's worth dose is enough to kill a water buffalo, and toxic exposure triggers a rapid and often fatal reaction beginning with intense sweating and muscle tremors, progressing to severe seizures, complete paralysis, and an inability to breathe. Loss of consciousness and death follows. There is, though, an antidote - mecamylamine, which is usually used to treat severe high blood pressure. Advertisement She added: 'The killers worked carefully to erase traces, but we managed to preserve some evidence. We were able to obtain samples of Alexei's biological material and securely smuggle them abroad. Labs in at least two countries examined these samples independently of each other. And these labs... reached the same conclusion: Alexei was killed. More specifically, he was poisoned.' Denying allegations that he was murdered, the Kremlin blamed his death on a sudden spike in blood pressure and chronic diseases. Previously, Ms Navalnaya has accused unnamed western countries of trying to hush up the true cause of her husband's death due to 'political' considerations. 'They wouldn't want the inconvenient truth to come out at the wrong moment,' she said. 'I demand that the labs that conducted the analyses publish their results. Stop pandering to Putin on account of so-called higher considerations. You will not appease him. As long as you remain silent, he will not stop. I demand full public disclosure of the results showing exactly what poison was used against my husband.' Joe Biden, who was US president when Navalny died, said shortly after his body was discovered that there could be no doubt that Putin was responsible. Ms Navalnaya, who has lived outside Russia for years, published photos of the cell where her husband died. They showed vomit and some of Navalny's personal items, including an English-Russian dictionary and his mittens. 'This is where his murder took place,' she said. In the video, Ms Navalnaya also detailed her husband's last days based on what she said was testimony by employees at the penal colony. On the day he died, she said, her husband was taken out for a walk but felt ill. When he was taken back to his cell 'he lay down on the floor, pulled his knees up, and started moaning in pain... then he started vomiting. 'Alexei was having convulsions... the prison guards watched [his] agony through the bars of the cell window.' An ambulance wasn't called until 40 minutes later Navalny became ill. He died shortly afterwards. Prison authorities told his mother Lyudmila that her son had experienced 'sudden death syndrome'. Putin, who studiously avoided naming Navalny while he was alive, briefly referred to him a month after his death by stating that a person passing was 'always a sad event'. Last year Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnaya said the Kremlin's claim that he died of natural causes was a lie Reacting to the statement from the UK and allies today, Ms Navalnaya said she was 'grateful' to have 'proof' her husband had been poisoned Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's parents Anatoly and Lyudmila, accompanied by Alla Abrosimova, who is the mother of Navalny's widow Yulia Navalnaya, come to Navalny's grave to mark the first anniversary of his death at a cemetery in Moscow in February 2025 After Navalny's death, people gathered across Europe to mourn (Pictured: Mourners at the Russian embassy in Warsaw, Poland) Official Russian documents leaked in 2024 and published by a Russian opposition website showed that Navalny had symptoms consistent with poisoning before his death. The documents also appeared to show that officials had tried to cover up the cause of death. An anti-corruption activist who led the biggest protests of Putin's 26-year rule, Navalny was widely seen as the only figure with enough standing and charisma to unite Russia's fragmented opposition movement. In his final court appearances he spoke out against the war in Ukraine and urged Russians to rise up. Navalny survived a previous assassination attempt in 2020 when FSB security service agents poisoned him in Siberia with a Soviet-era nerve agent. After international pressure, Putin allowed him to be airlifted to a clinic in Berlin for treatment. He returned to Moscow in January 2021, where he was arrested as soon as his aircraft touched down. It was his last day as a free man before his death. The Kremlin initially insisted on a secret burial for Navalny over fears that a public funeral could lead to a show of dissent. His elderly mother, Lyudmila, was forced to trudge in sub-zero temperatures between Arctic morgues to try to locate his body. 'Time is not on your side, corpses decompose,' she is said to have been told. After an outcry, the Kremlin eventually released Navalny's body and he was buried at Moscow's Borisovskoye cemetery. His funeral service became an opposition rally, thought to be the biggest since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. However, since Navalny's death his exiled allies at his anti-corruption foundation (FBK) opposition movement have struggled to remain relevant within Russia and have lost the backing of key financial sponsors. Last month Ivan Zhdanov, the FBK's director, left his post. He said: 'It's not the same at all without Alexei.' The Russian authorities have previously strenuously denied any involvement in his death. A group of women who were left in agony by gynaecological operations performed by an NHS surgeon have won a more than half a million pound payout. Derek Klazinga made the series of disastrous blunders while working for the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board in North Wales between 2002 and 2016. The clinician gave several women an implant known as vaginal mesh, which supports pelvic tissue in cases of incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse. But its use, which was paused in the UK in 2018 over safety concerns and is now only used as a last resort, subjected the patients to years of pain they still deal with now. Some 25 women have been compensated, with seven of them receiving a total of 600,000 since 2015, as per an investigation by Welsh-language broadcaster S4C. One of them is Kerry Watson, 40, from Kinmel Bay, Conwy, who received a payout in April last year, after her surgery for bladder prolapse in 2014, when she was 29. The mother-of-three now takes around 120 tablets a week to manage her ongoing pain and was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in 2024. 'I didn't want to be here anymore. I couldn't deal with the pain, I couldn't deal with the thoughts I had,' she said. Derek Klazinga (pictured) made the series of disastrous blunders while working for the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board in North Wales between 2002 and 2016 One of the woman who has been compensated is Kerry Watson (pictured), 40, from Kinmel Bay, Conwy, who received a payout in April last year, after her surgery for bladder prolapse in 2014, when she was 29 'I was nobody, just a bag of pain. Ten long years of that. Ten long years.' Ms Watson had two types of mesh implanted to support her organs. 'When I woke up the next morning, I had this awful pain in my back, on the left side,' she said. 'The pain was off the scale. I've never felt anything like it.' She continued: 'I was leaking when I exerted myself or tried to play with the boys or pick them up - I've got three boys.' In 2023, Ms Watson came across a law firm's website mentioning legal cases against the the Betsi Cadwaladr health board related to surgery performed by Mr Klazinga. She then launched her own case against the board, in which a gynaecological expert told her she did not even need the surgery in the first place. The expert claimed a simpler, less invasive treatment - such as injections, or a removable, silicone device called a pessary - would have eased her symptoms. The health board denied injections would have worked for her - but admitted other non-surgical treatments, like a pessary, should have been discussed with her. It also confessed the process of obtaining her consent for the surgery fell below the standard expected of a reasonable, competent surgeon. 'I wasnt told about the risks involved with mesh. I didn't receive the correct information before the surgery,' she said. Ms Watson received her payout on the basis she was not offered an alternative to the procedure known as tension-free vaginal tape obdurator (TVT-O) mesh surgery. The judgement also took into account that she was not fully informed of the risks of such an operation. 'I was initially offered a low amount, so I declined their first offer,' she said. 'I ended up accepting 110,000 and then fees are taken off that' After paying legal fees, Ms Watson was left with 97,200, she said: 'Is that going to cover all those nights I'll be up crying in pain? That doesn't touch the sides, really.' She was one of seven women affected who bravely spoke to S4C TV programme Y Byd ar Bedwar, meaning the World on Four in Welsh. Several others also said they did not consent to the procedure - and most described chronic pain which has had a profound impact on their lives. Betsi Cadwaladr health board declined to provide the total figure for payouts received by all 25 of the patients, information it said it holds, citing data protection concerns. But it confirmed it has paid more than 5million in compensation in the past decade after errors in gynaecological treatment. Solicitor Michael Strain, who has represented one of the 25 women in a claim against the board, described the situation as a 'scandal' and called for better transparency. The mother-of-three (pictured) now takes around 120 tablets a week to manage her ongoing pain and was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in 2024 He said it is highly unusual both for one clinician to be linked to so many claims and for the board not to inform patients this was the case. Klazinga took himself off the medical register in 2021 before a scheduled General Medical Council (GMC) fitness to practise hearing, which therefore never took place. In a statement, he said: 'Firstly, I wish to express my sincerest sympathy that these ladies have had to endure such physical and psychological pain caused by, what we now know to be, defective medical products used in their treatments. 'These products were identified as potentially harmful and temporarily banned in 2018. 'This was followed in 2020 by a National Enquiry: The Independent Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Review, chaired by Baroness Julia Cumberlege. 'I ceased practising medicine ten years ago, more than two years before the ban. 'Before retiring in 2016, I always practised with the patient at the centre of my care, while abiding by the first principle of medicine: "First, do no harm". 'I acted with the utmost professionalism and integrity. 'I was, of course, completely unaware of the defective nature of the products, which wasn't subsequently exposed until two years after I retired.' It is unknown which manufacturer made the mesh Mr Klazinga used. But some firms have paid out over complications arising from mesh surgery without admitting liability. In several cases, the health board acknowledged patients were not fully informed about alternative treatment options or the potential risks and side effects of procedures, including those involving TVT and TVT-O vaginal mesh, before surgery took place. Dr Clara Day, BCUHB's Executive Medical Director, said: 'Firstly, I want to sincerely apologise to all women who have suffered complications through the insertion of vaginal mesh after treatment within our Health Board. 'Across the UK, we know a number of claims have been settled and I want to acknowledge the stress and pain this has caused to a small proportion of women in our region who underwent those procedures. 'Since I became BCUHB's Executive Medical Director in September last year, I have been made aware of some historic claims in relation to one clinician who left the Health Board in 2016. 'Via the legal system, we have acknowledged physical harm to some patients who underwent procedures and we have found record keeping and consent had not been completed to the required standard in a number of cases. 'In all cases we have followed the correct legal processes and sought to finalise those claims as quickly as possible, in the best interests of those patients - and within the rules and requirements covering such claims. 'Every claim has resulted in learning for us, which has been scrutinised by experts outside of our Health Board.' The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has been contacted for comment. The full investigation can be seen on Y Byd ar Bedwar: Dan Gyllell Klazinga on BBC iPlayer. English subtitles are available. Sir Keir Starmer has come out fighting and insisted his government is completely united as he laid out his vision for the UK to urgently move closer to Europe in Munich today. In what many will see as a betrayal of those who voted Brexit and a possible snub to the US, the PM said the UK was ready to align closely economically with Europe not just in defence and it was in all of our interests. The Prime Minister, who has been at the centre of a maelstrom of rumours over his survival for weeks, also loftily dismissed questions over whether he was in a vulnerable position as he was quizzed at the Munich Security Conference. After giving what has been seen as a speech key to his chances of continuing as PM as his premiership is continually called into question and rocked by a series of scandals, the embattled premier said he rejected questions over any likely departure from No 10. I reject that. I ended the week much stronger than I started it and that's a very good place to be, he said. My party and my Government are completely united on the question of Ukraine and defence and security and the need for stronger relations with Europe on defence, on security and on economy as well. And so I think that there is real strength in the position I've now set out. Sir Keir Starmer at the Munich Security Conference today. Speaking at the conference the PM loftily dismissed questions over whether he was in a vulnerable position Sir Keir used his speech to send out salvoes back home to both Reform UK and the Green Party. Using evocative language first used on the brink of the First World War in 1914, he effectively warned British voters they risked war if they voted for either party In what many see as symptomatic of Labours desire to set aside Brexit and rejoin the European Union in all but name, Sir Keir said the UK sought deeper economic integration with the EU. He told the assembled European and World leaders that he wanted the UK to move closer to the single market in more sectors, as the status quo is not fit for purpose. My message today is the United Kingdom is ready. We see the imperative. We see the urgency. We want to work together to lead a generational shift in defence industrial co-operation. Now this includes looking again at closer economic alignment, he said. We are already aligned with the single market in some areas to drive down the prices of food and energy. We are trusted partners, and as the Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves) said this week, deeper economic integration is in all of our interests. The PM insisted we must look at where we could move closer to the single market in other sectors as well, where that would work for both sides. The prize here is greater security, stronger growth for the United Kingdom and the EU, which will fuel increased defence spending, and the chance to place the UK at the centre of a wave of European industrial renewal, he said. I understand the politics very well. It will mean trade-offs. But the status quo is not fit for purpose, and to me there's no question where the national interest lies, and I will always fight for what's best for my country. Sir Keir with the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and France's President Emmanuel Macron. The PM said the UK was ready to align closely economically with Europe not just in defence and it was in all of our interests. The Prime Minister with Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper. Sir Keir has faced a series of back to back scandals including ongoing questions about what he knew when about his sacked US ambassador Peter Mandelsons links with the paedophile billionaire Jeffrey Epstein Earlier Sir Keir used his speech to send out salvoes back home to both Reform UK and the Green Party. Using evocative language first used on the brink of the First World War in 1914, he effectively warned British voters they risked war if they voted for either party. He said Reform and the Greens would bring nothing but division and capitulation and warned the lamps would go out across Europe once again. These same words were uttered by former British foreign secretary Sir Edward Grey as Britain stood on the eve of war with Germany. The PM slammed both parties as ideological extremists who are soft on Russia and weak on NATO, and would undermine Britains national security, hitting out at the easy answers of the extreme left and extreme right. He said: We must level with the public and build consent for the decisions we will have to take to keep us all safe. Because if we dont, the peddlers of easy answers on the extreme left and the extreme right are ready. They will offer their solutions instead. His words were widely seen as an attempt to stave off Labour annihilation in the forthcoming by-election in the key seat of Gorton & Denton in Manchester which could further destabilise his tenure in Downing Street. If Labour loses the seat, which it won with a 13,000 majority at the last election, the prime minister could easily face a potential leadership challenge. Sir Keir with the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen in Munich today. In what many see as symptomatic of Labours desire to set aside Brexit and rejoin the European Union in all but name, Sir Keir said the UK sought deeper economic integration with the EU Reform said: This is a speech from a Prime Minister on the verge of being hounded out of office by his own party. This is a man that refuses to find the money to increase defence spending and is making our country weaker and less secure. Reform UK believes our priority should be rebuilding our armed forces, properly funding defence to at least 3.5 per cent of GDP, standing up to China and Russia and strengthening our bilateral relationships. Meanwhile a Green Party source told The Times: This is a caretaker prime minister running scared, losing whats left of his authority by going abroad to a summit on our future security and making cheap smears against the Green Party, because he knows Labour have blown it in Gorton & Denton. In his speech, Starmer also said Britain must end its military reliance on America and be prepared to stand on its own. Calling for a more European NATO and a shift from overdependence on the United States to interdependence with Europe forging a new path towards sovereign deterrence and hard power, he said: We are not the Britain of the Brexit years any more. Because we know that, in dangerous times, we would not take control by turning inward. We would surrender it. And I wont let that happen. There is no British security without Europe and no European security without Britain. That is the lesson of history and it is todays reality too. The PM has faced a series of back to back scandals including ongoing questions about what he knew when about his sacked US ambassador Peter Mandelsons links with the paedophile billionaire Jeffrey Epstein. Sir Keir and Defence Secretary John Healey walk through Munich earlier today. In his speech, Starmer also said Britain must end its military reliance on America and be prepared to stand on its own The scandal which has engulfed the government and was drip-fed in real time by revelations contained in the three million pages of correspondence released a fortnight ago by the US Department of Justice in the so-called Epstein Files, saw last weekends departure of his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney. McSweeney apparently took the fall over the decision to appoint Labour grandee Lord Mandelson as US ambassador amid growing evidence of Mandelsons links to the late financier including allegations of possible financial crimes which saw police raid Mandelsons two properties last weekend. Barely had the dust settled on the controversy surrounding McSweeneys departure when the PMs judgment was called into questioned again this week over the ennoblement of former Labour communications chief Lord Doyle who was linked to a convicted paedophile. It emerged that Sir Keir knew about Doyles ties to former Labour councillor Sean Morton, charged and later convicted of child sex offences, at least two weeks before his peerage was confirmed. Labour ministers including Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy openly questioned the PMs judgment, asking why on earth he did not withdraw the peerage nomination as soon as he heard Doyle was supporting Morton. Leadership challenges from his former deputy Angela Rayner and Health Minister Wes Streeting have also been rumoured for months as his premiership weakens. Scottish Labour Party leader Anas Sarwar also made an unprecedented call for Starmer to stand down for the sake of the party just days ago. It is all part of what Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch labelled Labours psychodrama as the PM is plagued by brickbat after brickbat just 18 months since taking up the reins. Two doctors who were married for 58 years died just 22 days apart this year, their devastated family said. George William Moran died of acute myeloid leukemia on January 13, and on February 4, Marguerite T. Moran died of complications from Alzheimer's disease. They were both 82. George and Marguerite spent the remainder of their lives in Baltimore, where for years after their retirement, they volunteered at a medical clinic to help underserved patients. Marguerite, born in Brooklyn, New York, was the first person in her family to attend college, according to an obituary in The Baltimore Sun. Her mother, Carmela Falco, worked as a machine operator in a garment factory, while her father, Alexander D'Agostino, was a sanitation worker. She graduated from St. John's University and New York Medical College, before completing her residency at the University of Maryland in College Park. 'My mother was a respected geriatric internist known for her compassionate, thoughtful care,' her daughter Christina Kitchen told the Sun. George, also born in New York City, was the son of homemaker Wilma Trommer and George Moran Sr., who was an executive at New York Bell Telephone Co. His father also served in World War II. Pictured: George William Moran and Marguerite T. Moran died in January and February of this year, respectively. They were married for 58 years and were both accomplished physicians George was a graduate of Brooklyn Technical High School, St. Johns University and the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. George and Marguerite met during their senior year at St. John's University, a private Roman Catholic college that has campuses in Manhattan and Staten Island. 'The well-worn anecdote recounts that Marguerite joined the chemistry class late. Dad allowed her to join his lab group only after his partner suggested she would "do all the work." He soon discovered not only her diligence but also a person of immense passion and drive,' their daughter Esther Hamm told the Sun. 'It was our mother who truly saw and understood him as no one else could,' Hamm added. Following his training in internal medicine and cardiology at the Veterans Administration Hospital and the University of Maryland, George joined MedStar Union Memorial Hospital, serving as chief of cardiology for two decades. George was described by his colleagues as serious, thoughtful, down-to-earth and having great judgment. 'His only motivation was what was the best thing for the patient,' Dr. Marc A. Mugmon said. Marguerite had a private medical practice at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital. And as a faculty member at the University of Maryland Medical School, she mentored nurse practitioners. 'My parents not only were dedicated physicians they were also humanitarians and social activists,' said daughter Ruth Moran. 'They always took a stance for what was right and just for all people.' The couple has three surviving daughters, Ruth Moran of Jackson, Wyoming; Christina Kitchen, of Jackson, Wyoming; and Esther Hamm of Boise, Idaho; and six grandchildren. George is also survived by his brother, John Moran of Phoenix, Maryland; and a nephew, Bryan Moran of Frederick, Maryland. Six inches of snow is on the way for parts of the UK as the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning amid plunging temperatures this weekend. Fresh alerts for snow and ice will come into force later today after a widely dry and sunny Saturday. A yellow warning for snow and ice stretching from Derby to Scotland will be in place from 9pm tonight and will run until 10am on Sunday. As much as 15cm, or six inches, is expected overnight on higher ground, with the mercury set to drop as low as -1C. The Met Office said snow might be 'heavy at times', adding that this could cause 'some disruption to travel'. It is predicting 1-3cm of snow at low levels, 3-7cm at about 150m elevation, and as much as 10-15cm above 400m. Meanwhile, another yellow snow and ice warning will come into force in parts of Northern Ireland at 5pm on Saturday until 10pm. The warning says that 2-4cm of snow could fall above 200m, affecting the Glenshane Pass for a time. Temperatures dropped below freezing in Flintshire, north Wales this morning Vehicles travel along roads surrounded by snow-covered moors and blue skies in Weardale, County Durham this morning A worker enjoys a solitary walk in the snow in Dipton, County Durham, yesterday morning The expected snow will later turn to rain at lower levels, with a risk of freezing rain in places which could make for tricky travel conditions. Saturday itself will be a sunny and cold day for most as Arctic maritime air sweeps across the country, the Met Office has said. Met Office meteorologist Dan Stroud said: 'We do start to see skies turn hazy from the west during the course of the afternoon, pushing eastwards overnight. 'That rain, sleet and snow continues to push eastwards during the course of the morning.' Around lunch time on Sunday, a band of heavy showers will move across parts of Northern Ireland and northern England, before sunny spells and blustery showers will be seen in the afternoon, the forecaster added. The start of next week will remain unsettled, Mr Stroud said. It comes after one of the wettest starts to the year on record, thanks to a 'blocked pattern' in the jet stream. Some areas of the UK have seen rain for six weeks, or 42 days, straight. The Environment Agency has urged the public to remain vigilant amid the ongoing flood risk. On Saturday morning there were 77 flood warnings and 160 flood alerts in place. Join the debate Is extreme weather caused by climate change? Horse riders enjoy a misty sunrise in Richmond Park, south west London on Saturday A yellow warning for snow and ice stretching from Derby to Scotland will be in place from 9pm tonight and will run until 10am on Sunday. Pictured: Pink skies in Flintshire Jonathan Day, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, said more than 24,000 homes and business have been protected but about 330 have been flooded. Met Office figures for February show that rainfall is already well above average across much of the UK. By February 8, the city of Aberdeen had already reached 180 per cent of its February average, ahead of Kincardineshire (152 per cent), and Angus (130 per cent). Further south, by this same date, the Isle of Wight had reached 108 per cent of its average and Worcestershire 103 per cent. 'These earlymonth figures illustrate how the persistent unsettled pattern has frontloaded rainfall totals, with some locations surpassing an entire month's typical rainfall within the first eight days,' the Met Office explained. The jet stream, a fastmoving river of air flowing several miles above Earth's surface, is to blame, as it is positioned further south than expected for this time of year. 'When the jet stream shifts south across the Atlantic, it tends to funnel lowpressure systems directly towards the UK, increasing the frequency and intensity of rainbearing weather fronts,' the Met Office explained. Cold plunges over in North America have helped to strengthen the jet stream, which is then propelling areas of low pressure towards northwest Europe. However, high pressure has also established over parts of northern Europe at the same time, resulting in what the Met Office describes as a 'blocked pattern'. This has stopped the jet stream from shifting and has limited the UK's chance of drier weather. The Met Office added: 'This blocking high has also prevented the weather fronts pushing through and clearing the UK. 'Instead they have been stalling over the UK, leading to persistent slow moving bands of rain.' In late April 2025, General Motors launched a sweeping recall affecting nearly 600,000 fullsize trucks and SUVs in the United States. Federal records show this recall targeted vehicles equipped with the naturally aspirated 6.2liter L87 V8 gasoline engine that powers Cadillac Escalades, Chevrolet Silverados and Suburbans, and GMC Sierra and Yukon models from the 20212024 model years. Regulators cited potential defects in internal engine components, specifically the connecting rods and crankshaft, that could lead to engine damage or complete failure while the vehicle was in operation. Owners reported noises, check engine lights, loss of power and, in some cases, engine compartment fires. Image Credit: GM-Trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), after receiving tens of thousands of complaints, determined the issue was serious enough to warrant a formal recall and inspection program. Vehicles that passed this inspection have been treated differently than those found with defects. Advertisement Advertisement Engines that fail must be repaired or replaced at no cost, while units deemed sound receive a prescribed oil change and other service measures. The Initial Remedy and the Role of Motor Oil Almost immediately after the recall notice, GM instructed dealers to replace factory 0W20 engine oil with a thicker dexosRapproved 0W40 grade in engines that passed inspection but were not replaced outright. Image Credit: Shutterstock. This was intended to improve lubrication and reduce stress on critical engine bearings believed to be a root cause in prefailure conditions. Owners were also to receive a new oil filter and a special oil fill cap that reflected the updated specifications. This solution drew swift criticism from drivers and consumer lawyers. Multiple class action lawsuits accused GM of offering an inadequate remedy that does not truly fix the underlying mechanical flaws. Advertisement Advertisement Plaintiffs in these suits argue that a simple oil change cannot address manufacturing errors in the crankshaft or rod bearings, and that many vehicles will continue to fail even after the recall work. One complaint argues GM knew or should have known about the engine problem for years before recalling the vehicles. New Bulletin: Oil Blend Swapped Again in 2026 On February 8, 2026, automotive outlets (including Carscoops) and dealer technical bulletins revealed a subtle but noteworthy change. Image Credit: Shutterstock. GM is now directing its authorized service centers to use a different 0W40 oil blendMobil 1 FS 0W40in place of the previously specified Mobil 1 Supercar 0W40 for vehicles that pass inspection under the recall program. While both oils share the same viscosity rating, they are formulated for different purposes. Advertisement Advertisement The Supercar designation is primarily marketed toward highperformance applications and may be harder to source and more expensive than the FS variant. The FS blend is more widely available, often approved for a broader array of gasoline and diesel engines and likely more affordable per quart. Image Credit: GM-Trucks. Advertisement Advertisement Both meet GMs highload, hightemperature performance spec for the recalled engines. Some technical commentary suggests the FS formula may have slightly higher antiwear additive levels, but GMs own shift appears driven less by performance than by logistics and cost. Owner Frustration and Dealer Challenges The recall has sparked notable frustration across social media and owner forums. Some owners report limited availability of approved oil at local dealerships, added costs of oil changes over time, and confused messaging about what constitutes proper service under the recall. Others have shared stories of long waits for appointments, cancelled parts orders and uncertainty over whether replacement engines are reliably solving the problems. Dealers themselves have reportedly struggled with inventory constraints and have at times deferred service or been unable to perform work outside the recall process. Advertisement Advertisement Some owners with serious engine failures prior to the recall window were told their vehicles were not covered, even as they exhibited the same defects described in the official safety action. As of early 2026, multiple lawsuits remain active over this core issue, alleging GMs fixes are insufficient and that the company concealed known defects for an extended period. Plaintiffs seek more comprehensive remedies, including new engine designs or broader compensation for owners who argue their vehicles are unsafe or worth less than advertised. Federal safety regulators continue to monitor complaint trends and GMs execution of the recall program. Sources: Reuters, valerolaw.com An 80-year-old San Francisco woman who drove her Mercedes into a family of four, killing them, will likely not face any prison time due to her old age. Mary Fong Lau had pleaded no contest to four counts of vehicular manslaughter for the deaths of Apple executive Diego Cardoso de Oliveira, his wife Matilde Ramos Pinto, and their two children, Joaquim and Caue, in March 2024. She had previously pleaded not guilty, but changed her plea on Friday. The family of four had been waiting for the bus to go to the San Francisco Zoo when Lau hit them at a high speed in a residential neighborhood. Despite killing four, Lau will more than like only serve two to three years probation because of her age, the 'remorse' she showed in changing her plea and fact she does not have a criminal record. She is also expected to lose her ability to drive, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. San Francisco Superior Court Judge Bruce Chan acknowledged the family's deaths are 'incomprehensible,' but said giving Lau prison time would be 'sentencing her to die within the state prison system.' 'Mrs. Lau is going to spend the rest of her days living with the knowledge of the harm she has caused to others,' Chan said in court. Her sentence will be confirmed at a separate hearing. Mary Fong Lau, 80, had pleaded no contest to four counts of vehicular manslaughter on Friday, changing her plea from not guilty Apple executive Diego Cardoso de Oliveira , his wife Matilde Ramos Pinto, and their two children Joaquim and Caue were sitting at a bus stop in March 2024 when they were fatally hit Lau had been driving at a high speed through a residential neighborhood Chan also factored in Lau's husband dying years ago in a car crash into his tentative decision to give her a lesser sentence, The Chronicle reported. Lau had cried at the hospital when she learned of their deaths and told medical staff she wish she could have traded places with them, the judge said. Relatives of the parents weren't entirely happy to hear the judge was considering letting Lau off free, and requested she be sentenced to home detention, community service, and have her license revoked, The Chronicle reported. 'It feels like we have no rights,' Cardoso de Oliveira's sister, Denise Oliveira, told the judge. 'I feel deeply disrespected by this process. It doesn't feel like this is justice.' Assistant District Attorney Samantha Persaud agreed, also objecting to Lau's no-contest plea. She indicated she would also like to see home detention as her sentence. The victim's attorney, James Quadra, said a plea of no contest 'avoids the moral accountability that this case demands,' according to KTVU. 'What happened on March 16, 2024, was not a minor mistake,' he said. Fong's attorney, Seth Morris, however, said his client had to seek psychiatric help to deal with her grief and that she was tearing up in court on Friday while a translator advised her. Lau was seen being comforted in court on Friday. She will more than likely only receive probation for her crimes, as the judge is taking her age into account Diego, a creative director at Apple, was from Brazil and Matilde was a film and advertising producer from Portugal The couple was taken their children to the zoo to celebrate the wedding anniversary Morris said the potential lesser sentence is 'good news' and that's 'going to be the end of this chapter.' However, despite Lau's criminal case almost being over, her time in court isn't ending. The couple's parents filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Lau. They filed an additional civil lawsuit to void any financial transfers Lau may have made after their wrongful death suit was filed. They have accused the elderly lady of transferring properties and new limited liability companies, which could amount to millions of dollars, which could affect their lawsuit. The Daily Mail has reached out to Fong for comment. The family had been planning to spend the couple's anniversary at the zoo when the tragedy happened. Other people waiting for the bus to arrive were also injured in the crash and received medical attention. One witness, Nikki Mashburn, told The San Francisco Chronicle that she heard the crash and that it sounded like 'an explosion.' Diego, a creative director at Apple, was from Brazil and Matilde was a film and advertising producer from Portugal. Progressive Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez gave a garbled answer when asked about how the US would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion. Ocasio-Cortez, a Democrat who represents parts of the Bronx and Queens, said: 'Um, you know, I think that I, uh, this is such a, you know, I think that this is a, um, this is of course, a, uh, very longstanding, um, policy of the United States,' she began. 'And I think what we are hoping for is that we make sure we never get to that point and we want to make sure that we are moving all of our economic, research and our global positions to avoid any such confrontation and for that question to even arise,' she finished. This how she responded to the question, 'Would and should the US actually commit US troops to defend Taiwan if China were to move?' at the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Friday. Ocasio-Cortez's stumble came as she tried to boost her foreign policy chops and will likely come back to haunt her should she ultimately decide to make a White House run. Other panelists included Matthew Whitaker, the US Ambassador to NATO since April of last year, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Whitaker, who had a controversial stint as acting Attorney General in Trump's first administration, offered a bit more clarity on what US policy should be on Chinese expansionism. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York gave halting answers at times to foreign policy questions posed to her during panels at the Munich Security Conference on Friday When asked if the US should miltarily defend Taiwan if China were to invade it, AOC launched into a flurry of 'ums' and 'ahs' before finding her words. (Pictured from L-R: Ocasio-Cortez,Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, US NATO Amassador Matthew Whitaker and Bloomberg TV anchor Francine Lacqua) Pictured: Taiwanese soldiers engage in an artillery training exercise on August 7, 2024 'Well, I mean obviously that would be the president's prerogative as to how to deploy our military. I would just say that we have to deter and defend like we do here on the European continent,' Whitaker said of Taiwan. Whitmer gave a brief answer but equated defending Taiwan's independence as being as important as defending Ukraine from Russia's ongoing invasion. Ocasio-Cortez was likely hoping for a decisive performance in Munich, while also seeking to make a stark contrast with Vice President JD Vance's appearance at the conference last year. Last February, Vance castigated European countries for their supposed efforts to erode free speech and free expression, while also demanding they spend more of their own budgets on national defense. If Ocasio-Cortez runs for president, Vance could be her opponent. In fact, she celebrated a poll in December that had her beating him 51 percent to 49 percent. Ocasio-Cortez struck a different tone to Vance during her two panels, arguing that the growing gap between the rich and the poor is what is giving way to the rise of authoritarianism around the world. 'Extreme levels of income inequality lead to social instability,' she said, adding that countries should get their 'economic houses in order and deliver material gains for the working class, or else we will fall to a more isolated world governed by authoritarians.' On other foreign policy questions, Ocasio-Cortez was able to give answers that weren't as halting. When asked about whether the US should initiate strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities if diplomacy fails, she was quick to call that 'a dramatic escalation no one in the world wants to see'. Ocasio-Cortez sought to distinguish herself from Vance, who spoke at the Munich Security Conference last year and could be her opponent in the 2028 presidential election. She was the most confident in answering questions about how she would deal with the Israel-Palestine conflict (Pictured: A Palestinian boy walks through the ruins of his neighborhood in Gaza on Friday) 'Right now, what the Iranian regime is doing particularly with respect to protesters is a horrific slaughter of, some estimates have it at tens of thousands of people,' she said. 'I think that jumping into strikes is, I think that right now we have so much, to me, there's still so much runway, so much that we can do to avoid that scenario.' On the topic of the US providing aid to Israel, Ocasio-Cortez was perhaps the most clear. 'I think that the United States has an obligation to uphold its own laws, particularly Leahy Laws,' she began. The Leahy Laws, named after Senator Patrick Leahy, are statutes within the US code that prohibit the Departments of State and Defense from funding or training foreign militaries that commit gross violations of human rights. 'The idea of completely unconditional aid no matter what one does, does not make sense. I think it enabled a genocide in Gaza, and I think that we have thousands of women and children dead that was completely avoidable,' Ocasio-Cortez continued. The topic of her possibly running for president was baked into many of the questions she received on Friday, but she consistently did not take the bait. Katrin Bennhold, a New York Times reporter who moderated one of the panels Ocasio-Cortez was on, asked her if she would impose a wealth tax or a billionaire's tax if she became president. Ocasio-Cortez laughed and shook her head. 'I don't think...we have to wait for any one president to impose a wealth tax. I think it needs to be done expeditiously.' The 36-year-old congresswoman, who met the Constitutions minimum age requirement to run for president last year, has not announced her intention to run. She is hugely popular among progressives, but faces an uphill battle to win centrist Democrats and undecided voters should she run for president. There is also speculation she will run a primary campaign against Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. The owner of a Boston pottery studio visited by Zendaya have been accused of harassing customers and making homophobic comments to employees. Allison 'Allie' Carroll, 46, owns a quaint shop, Rainbows Pottery Studio, in the wealthy Back Bay neighborhood that is full of frilly decor, brightly painted ceramics, and cute hand-painted window displays. But the charming display is simply that, according to former employees and past customers, who are now accusing Carroll, a former prom queen, of creating a toxic environment. She's reportedly sued customers for bad reviews, asked them to take down videos about her registered sex offender assistant, and made homophobic comments to a gay employee. She denied the allegations when approached by The Boston Globe, saying that comments she is accused of making were 'doctored.' However, many of her detractors came with evidence, including her former employee, Ethan Stoehr, who said Carroll sued him in court after accusing him of stealing and demanded his $670 paycheck back in 2024, he told The Globe. She reportedly told him she would 'make your life a living legal hell' and mocked his sexuality, he said. In a January TikTok, Stoehr revealed text messages between him, Carroll, and Carroll's daughter Maggie, who works for her mother's company. Allison 'Allie' Carroll, 46, owner of Rainbows Pottery Studio, has been accused of harassing customers, mocking an employee's sexuality, and creating a toxic environment The studio has been visited by Zendaya and Tom Holland, who are pictured with Carroll 'Where is your big time job in Boston?' Carroll reportedly asked. 'Let me guess, Seaport market?! Working for Julie making 20 bucks an hour.' Her daughter then reportedly replied: 'Ahahha shut up fata**, nobody wants to hear you speak ever. Make sure to clean the skin that overlaps, which is everywhere. We all know how sweaty that p*** is. We saw it on your nasty forehead, wonder what the fat disgusting jiggly a** holds.' The mother replied: 'OMGoodness, I just spit out my drink.' Carroll later sent a Salt Bae gif, where Nusret Gokce was edited to be wearing fairy wings, seeming to make fun of Stoehr's sexuality. She captioned the gift: 'Ethan!!!!!!!' Maggie replied: 'How's your p***y holding up you f**?' The Daily Mail has reached out to Carroll for comment. Stoehr did win his court battle against Carroll, who he said has sued several former employees. Madison Parrott was celebrating her birthday at Rainbows in January when she reportedly heard Carroll berate an employee. Former employee, Ethan Stoehr, claimed Carroll and her daughter made fun of his sexuality and that the owner accused him of stealing and took him to court Zendaya (right, in white) was seen enjoying the studio around October 2024 Chris Evans was seen with Avengers-theme ceramics from the studio Parrott went outside with the employee, telling her that Carroll shouldn't be talking to her employees like that, she told The Globe. Carroll then came outside to confront Parrott, refusing to allow her back into the studio, causing the 26-year-old to write a one-star review. Parrott's boyfriend later confronted Carroll via text about their experience, causing Carroll to sent back vile messages. 'Does your prostitute need a box of tissues??' she reportedly responded. 'Let me guess your favorite position is missionary?' She then reportedly asked him to have Parrott remove her bad review 'before I teach you a big lesson in life,' The Globe reported. Wendy Ji visited Carroll's busy in 2021 and after an unpleasant experience trying to coordinate pickup of their pottery pieces, she also wrote a one-star review, she told The Globe. Carroll replied to her Google review and claimed Ji had made 'derogatory' comments, which caused the woman to take to TikTok to ask people to 'hold this lady accountable for her action.' She'd come to regret the video as Carroll sued her for $75,000 for emotional distress and claiming Ji had threatened to have a 'gang member kill her and her family.' Despite the colorful and cozy decor, former customers said they had unpleasant experiences Carroll (pictured) reportedly took one former customer, Wendy Ji, to court, claiming she threatened her and got charges pressed against her after she left a one-star review She reportedly kicked out Madison Parrott on her birthday after she went outside the shop (pictured) to comfort an employee Carroll had reportedly berated. She then reportedly made comments to Parrott's boyfriend via text about their sex life It led to criminal charges against Ji. It eventually ended with the charges being dropped after Ji took down her video and wrote Carroll an apology for her review. Rainbows Pottery Studio currently has 4.5 stars on Google and a 2.3 on Yelp. On Yelp, the studio has gotten 49 one-star ratings and 23 five-star ratings. Many complained of the hefty price she charges and the bad service. Prior to the influx of bad reviews, actress Zendaya had been pictured enjoying the pottery studio, including posing for a photo with Carroll and her fiance and fellow actor Tom Holland. The actress visited around October 2024. Actor Chris Evans has also been pictured with pottery pieces, including Avengers-themed ones, from Carroll's studio. The Catholic Church has installed a new leader for England and Wales, who has said he is 'most aware' of the times the church has failed abuse victims. Bishop Richard Moth was officially made 12th Archbishop of Westminster in front of a 2,000-strong congregation at Westminster Cathedral in central London on Saturday. Shortly after midday, the cleric knelt at the church's Great West Door, before blessing a line of people with holy water and processing down the nave. He replaces the retiring Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who stepped down embroiled in scandal aged 80, having held the role since 2009. The incumbent had been criticised in a report into sexual abuse within the Church, which said he 'seemingly put the reputation of the church' above his duty to victims. Archbishop Moth, by contrast, has asserted, upon his accession, his keen awareness of the institution's failings. He said in a homily at his installation ceremony: 'This work of evangelisation is vital, but it is fragile and adversely impacted by our failures in love, power and self-control. 'Here I am most aware of every occasion on which members of the Church, or the Church as a whole, have failed, most especially when the vulnerable have been abused. Bishop Richard Moth (pictured at the installation Mass) was officially made 12th Archbishop of Westminster in front of a 2,000-strong congregation at Westminster Cathedral in central London on Saturday Shortly after midday, the cleric (pictured at the installation Mass) knelt at the church's Great West Door, before blessing a line of people with holy water and processing down the nave He replaces the retiring Cardinal Vincent Nichols (left, with Archbishop Moth, centre, when his successor's appointment was announced in December), who stepped down embroiled in scandal aged 80, having held the role since 2009 'Such failure calls for listening to and learning from those who have suffered so grievously and a continuing commitment to ensuring that our communities are places where all are safe in their encounter with Christ and with one another.' Before the Vatican announced his appointment in December, Archbishop Moth had been Bishop of Arundel and Brighton for ten years. He also previously served as Catholic Bishop of the Forces from 2009 until 2015. As the Archbishop of Westminster, he becomes president of the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales, heading up all the nations' Catholic clergy. This will see him become the Catholic Church's spokesman and figurehead, and the leader of the four million faithful who follow the denomination across the UK. He also said, in his installation homily: 'We need not fear the great questions of our time: the need for all peoples to live in peace; the value and dignity of every person; the right to life at every stage; the protection of the vulnerable; the plight of the refugee and the dispossessed; and the protection of our common home.' When named in the role in December, Archbishop Moth had indicated he would speak out on societal issues including migration. He also gave a nod to his controversial predecessor, Cardinal Nichols, who he said is now moving on to 'slightly more restful pastures'. His words came after a homily from the new Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, who praised his 'deep concern for the dignity of every person'. She was announced as the leader of the Church of England in October but awaits formal enthronement, in March. Also acting as a representative of Churches Together in England, which encourages different traditions to work in unity, she said: 'Your service as priest and bishop has been marked by a faithful pastoral care, a commitment to justice and a deep concern for the dignity of every person made in the image of God.' Dame Sarah added: 'In the months ahead, you and I will share a particular responsibility as presidents of the Churches Together in England, and I very much look forward to working with you to deepen our relationships and to strengthen our shared Christian witness. 'In a world marked by division and uncertainty, the call to unity flows from the heart of the Gospel itself - our traditions are not weakened by friendship, they are deepened when we walk together in charity, honesty and truth.' The new Archbishop of Westminster left the cathedral to applause at about 2.15pm. The installation mass came after Friday's service of solemn vespers attended by clergy and representatives of schools, parishes and Catholic organisations in the Westminster diocese. It came after the Catholic Church found itself mired in controversy under Archbishop Moth's predecessor. Archbishop Moth (pictured, at his installation Mass) asserted, in his installation homily at Saturday's service, his keen awareness of the Catholic Church's failings when it comes to victims of abuse He said: 'I am most aware of every occasion on which members of the Church, or the Church as a whole, have failed, most especially when the vulnerable have been abused'. Pictured: Archbishop Moth at his installation Mass 'Such failure calls for listening to and learning from those who have suffered so grievously and a continuing commitment to ensuring that our communities are places where all are safe in their encounter with Christ and with one another,' he continued: Pictured: Archbishop Moth at his installation Mass Before the Vatican announced his appointment in December, Archbishop Moth (pictured arriving at his installation Mass) had been Bishop of Arundel and Brighton for ten years As the Archbishop of Westminster, he becomes president of the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales, heading up all the nations' Catholic clergy. Pictured: Clergy attend Archbishop Moth's installation Mass His homily came after one from the new Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally (pictured, at the Church of England's General Synod earlier this week), who praised his 'deep concern for the dignity of every person' Upon his appointment in December, Archbishop Moth said he was 'greatly moved by the trust Pope Leo has placed in me'. Pictured: Pope Leo at his weekly general audience at the Vatican in December Liverpool-born Cardinal Nichols had offered his resignation as is usual when cardinals reach the age of 75, but said the late Pope Francis asked him to stay. He came under fire around that time over a damning report, published in November 2020, on child sex abuse allegations in the Catholic Church. The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) found the cardinal 'seemingly put the reputation of the church' above his duty to sex assault victims. It added he demonstrated 'no acknowledgement of any personal responsibility to lead or influence change'. The findings were met with calls for Cardinal Nichols to resign. But when asked at the time if he was, regardless, the right person to lead the Catholic Church in England and Wales, he said: 'I do what I'm told. 'The Holy Father put me here and he tells me to stay here - that's enough for me.' The report found the Church repeatedly failed to support victims and survivors but protected alleged perpetrators, including by moving them to different parishes. Cardinal Nichols said in a statement December, when Archbishop Moth was named his successor, that he was 'delighted' by the news. He said: 'Archbishop-elect Richard will bring to our Diocese many gifts and considerable episcopal experience from his years of ministry in the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton, and before that as Bishop of the Forces. 'I look forward very much to his Installation as our new Archbishop on Saturday, February 14, 2026. 'It is, of course, St Valentine's Day, as well as the Feast of Saints Cyril and Methodius, co-Patrons of Europe. 'I remember being present in Westminster Cathedral on September 29, 2009. for the Episcopal Ordination of Bishop Richard as Bishop of the Forces. 'So today I can say: "Welcome back, dear Bishop Richard. You are most welcome indeed".' Meanwhile, Archbishop Moth said at the time he was 'greatly moved by the trust Pope Leo has placed in me' in appointing him Archbishop of Westminster. 'As I prepare to move to the diocese, I am so grateful for the support being given to me by Cardinal Vincent Nichols at this time,' he continued. 'He has given dedicated service to the diocese and will be missed greatly. 'Serving the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton has given me the wonderful opportunity of sharing the Church's mission with lay faithful and clergy, and I give thanks for the many blessings of these last ten years. 'My first task will be to get to know the priests and people of Westminster and I look forward now to serving them. 'With them, and building on the firm foundations that have been laid by so many down the years, I look forward to continuing the great adventure that is the life of the Church and witness to the Gospel.' It came after Cardinal Nichols took part in his first conclave in Rome last year to elect Pope Leo XIV in May, following the death of Pope Francis a month prior. Cardinal Nichols, who said he had known the new pontiff for a few years, paid tribute to him as a gentle and calm person. He said he would be a decisive figure going forward for the Church, as someone able to resolve difficulties 'in a way that didn't leave enemies behind him'. Lord Peter Mandelson has been seen for the first time since the latest scandal into his long-term friendship with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein broke. The former British ambassador to the US, who is facing a police probe into allegations he passed market sensitive information to Epstein, was pictured outside his London home on Saturday. He was carrying a large dog in his arms and was photographed getting into a car that was parked by his front door. Lord Mandelson has not been seen in public since the publication of the latest tranche of Epstein files on January 30, which have led to a series of extraordinary revelations about the former cabinet minister. These include a newly uncovered picture of him standing in his underpants at Epstein's Paris lair, as well as allegations he was sent $75,000 by the paedophile while he was an MP. The sighting of Lord Mandelson today comes just hours after he received a letter from US politicians demanding he testifies before Congress. It requested he appears for an interview to help them 'uncover the identities of Mr Epstein's co-conspirators and enablers' and pointed out that he had called the financier his 'best pal'. Meanwhile, a Daily Mail investigation exclusively revealed today Mandelson took 'ghost flights' on a Russian oligarch's private jet to a summit with Vladimir Putin when he was EU trade commissioner. Former UK ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson leaves through his front door carrying a large dog The former British ambassador to the US was pictured outside his London home on Saturday lunchtime Peter Mandelson with Jeffrey Epstein in one of the recently released batch of photographs The sighting comes just hours after he received a letter formally requesting he appears for an interview to help them 'uncover the identities of Mr Epstein's co-conspirators and enablers' He accepted luxury flights aboard a Gulfstream jet controlled by one of the Kremlin strongman's favourite tycoons aluminium billionaire Oleg Deripaska. The EU subsequently slashed aluminium tariffs to the delight of Mr Deripaska, who became one of the world's ten richest men. The European Commission previously insisted there was 'no political interference' from Lord Mandelson in this decision. The revelations cap a torrid fortnight for Lord Mandelson, whose links with Epstein have led to calls for Sir Keir Starmer to stand down as Prime Minister. Critics have questioned the PM's judgment in appointing the peer as US ambassador, which is considered the most prestigious posting in British diplomacy. The letter to Lord Mandelson, signed by representatives Robert Garcia and Suhas Subramanyam, said: 'While you no longer serve as British Ambassador to the United States and have stepped down from the House of Lords, it is clear that you possessed extensive social and business ties to Jeffrey Epstein and hold critical information pertaining to our investigation of Epstein's operations. 'Given the appalling allegations regarding Epstein's conduct, we request that you make yourself available for a transcribed interview with Committee staff regarding the crimes of Jeffrey Epstein and his co-conspirators.' It added: 'Numerous pieces of evidence have come to light demonstrating your close ties to Jeffrey Epstein over the span of multiple years. Join the debate What's Mandelson's next move? Pictured: Supplies are brought to Peter Mandelson's house on Saturday An image shows the letter to Lord Mandelson asking him to testify in front of Congress Groceries are delivered to the residence of Lord Mandelson in London 'For example, in 2003, you authored a handwritten note that was included in Epstein's 50th Birthday Book, referring to Epstein as your "best pal" and praising him as "an intelligent, sharp-witted man". 'In bank records obtained by the Committee, Epstein transferred sizable sums of money to you, including payments between 2003 and 2004 totaling more than $75,000.' Last week, Scotland Yard launched a probe into allegations Mandelson passed confidential British government information to financier Epstein. Officers raided both his 12million London house and rented farmhouse in Wiltshire and were seen fetching cardboard boxes from their cars to collect evidence. Now the Daily Mail can reveal shocking details of the private jet flights an 'agitated' Mandelson took on November 25, 2004, to a crucial trade summit in The Hague, where he met Putin. The EU has confirmed he did not declare the flights, as he should have done. Peter Mandelson accepted luxury flights aboard a Gulfstream jet controlled by one of the Kremlin strongman's favourite tycoons aluminium billionaire Oleg Deripaska The Gulfstream IV that took Mandelson to the Netherlands in 2004 They were from Brussels to Luton, and then Luton to Rotterdam. The Daily Mail has spoken to a member of the flight crew who said Mandelson was 'quite ratty' because he wanted to get there faster. Around that time, Mandelson enjoyed cosy relations with some of Putin's inner circle. In 2005, he had a private, unofficial and undeclared dinner with the Russian finance minister, arranged by Mr Deripaska, and flew 2,000 miles to Siberia where he stayed at the aluminium oligarch's dacha before being flogged in a traditional Russian 'banya' or sauna. Last night Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch demanded the 'disturbing new revelations' be investigated, while shadow minister Alicia Kearns said Mandelson 'stinks of a man who holds the British people in complete contempt'. Mrs Badenoch said: 'As Keir Starmer flies to the Munich Security Conference to lecture us about the Russian threat, these disturbing new revelations reinforce the recklessness of his decision to hand Britain's most vital security relationship to Peter Mandelson, a man now facing serious questions over his dealings with Kremlin-linked oligarchs. 'The intelligence and security committee must be provided with all relevant material relating to Mandelson's time as EU trade commissioner.' Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) and one of the Kremlin strongman's favourite tycoon Oleg Deripaska (right) at Sochi in 2008 Peter Mandelson (second from left) at The Hague in the Netherlands with Putin and EU Commission president Jose Manuel Barroso Ms Kearns, shadow home affairs minister, said: 'Funny how after a few flights on an aluminium magnate's private jet, suddenly tariffs melt faster than scrap in a smelter. First Epstein, then the Chinese Communist Party, now Putin Mandelson's black book knows no limits. 'Mandelson stinks of a man who holds the British people in complete contempt. 'He thought he'd got away with giving out confidential government information to his friends, he thought he'd got away with simpering to a paedophile, and he thought he'd get away with betraying the EU to Putin's pet oligarch until the Mail's revelations today. 'There's a movie yet to be made of all of this: Licence To Shill.' Former prime minister Gordon Brown has said Mandelson's email contacts with Epstein could constitute a 'crime'. When the Daily Mail put the latest revelations to Mandelson, he said he could 'not recall' travel arrangements from so long ago but they would have 'been made by his office at the Commission'. BrewDog has called in advisers to oversee the potential sale of the craft beer giant after CEO James Watt stepped away from the helm of the beer business. The firm has appointed restructuring experts AlixPartners in a move which could see one of Scotland's best-known companies broken up or sold off. It comes after beer tycoon James Watt claimed to be the 'worst boss in the world' in a sarcastic Instagram post shared with his followers a year after leaving the company. The controversial boss married to Made In Chelsea star Georgia Toffolo claimed he had been described as the 'Darth Vader of CEOs' and listed the 'horrible' moves he made as a boss. This included gifting 20 per cent of his shares to the team, gifting team members and their families 250,000 and rejecting a salary during the pandemic. Since giving up the CEO role in May 2024 - when BrewDog reported losses of 37million - he took on the newly-created position of 'captain and co-founder'. In July last year ten BrewDog bars were closed across the UK - including its first pub in Gallowgate, Aberdeen, not far from its Ellon HQ. And now it is understood the company has started to look for buyers, with a quickfire deadline set for offers. James Watt with his Made In Chelsea star wife Georgia Toffolo The couple are worth 425million combined, according to an August 2025 estimate The beer giant has reported a cumulative 148million in pre-tax losses over five consecutive years of decline. It operates 72 bars around the world as well as four breweries. A BrewDog spokesperson said: 'As with many businesses operating in a challenging economic climate and facing sustained macro headwinds, we regularly review our options with a focus on the long-term strength and sustainability of the company. 'Following a year of decisive action in 2025, which saw a focus on costs and operating efficiencies, we have appointed AlixPartners to support a structured and competitive process to evaluate the next phase of investment for the business. 'This is a deliberate and disciplined step with a focus on strengthening the long-term future of the BrewDog brand and its operations. 'BrewDog remains a global pioneer in craft beer: a world-class consumer brand, the number one independent brewer in the UK and with a highly engaged global community. 'We believe that this combination will attract substantial interest, though no final decisions have been made. 'Our breweries, bars and venues continue to operate as normal. We will not comment on any further speculation.' Last month, BrewDog announced it was closing its distilling brands, sparking concerns for jobs at its facility in Ellon, Aberdeenshire. James Watt stood down as BrewDog's chief executive in May 2024 The company could be broken up or sold off after hiring restructuring experts amid financial crisis The company, founded in 2007, said it made the decision to focus on its beer products. In recent years, BrewDog has found itself at the centre of a number of controversies including over its workplace culture. Former workers accused the beer company in 2021 of operating a 'culture of fear' and said there were 'toxic attitudes' towards junior employees. And in 2022 its controversial former CEO Mr Watt was accused of inappropriate behaviour and abuse of power. Former BrewDog USA workers told the BBC how his behaviour made them feel 'uncomfortable' and 'powerless'. Lawyers for Mr Watt denied these claims but a complaint to Ofcom over the corporation's documentary exposing his alleged inappropriate behaviour was thrown out by the broadcasting watchdog in February 2024. Months later, in May the same year, Mr Watt stepped down as chief executive after leading the company for 17 years. He said in a statement: 'During my time at the helm of BrewDog, there have been highs and lows, up and downs, crazy successes and incredibly hard challenges. Watt's lawyers denied all allegations of inappropriate behaviour and abuse of power made against him Watt's stag do racked up a bill of nearly 159,000 on whisky at Berties Whisky Bar in Braemar, Aberdeenshire, in December 2024 'When I look back on the last 17 years my overwhelming feeling is one of gratitude.' In 2024, BrewDog also sparked fury after announcing it would no longer hire new workers on the real living wage and instead pay below the legal minimum wage. The Daily Mail previously revealed how in December 2024 Mr Watt led a party of 15 through the Aberdeenshire village of Braemar for his stag do. At one point during their night out the group stopped at Berties Whisky Bar in the ultra-fashionable Fife Arms Hotel and racked up an eyewatering bill of nearly 159,000 after ordering ten Laphroaigs dating back to the 1940s - at 4,000 a pop. A further 15 tots of 50-year-old Balvenie were added to the tab swelling it by 67,500. While it was not known who foot the bill, it was certainly well within the former BrewDog boss's financial reach, with an August 2025 estimation that together with his reality TV star wife, the pair were worth 425million. Mr Watt's fortune came from the rise of BrewDog, which began life in his garage nearly 20 years ago. The beer giant rose to fame after a number of publicity stunts which Mr Watt had himself masterminded. These include riding a tank through the City of London and projecting his naked image onto the Houses of Parliament. A bitter Kansas divorcee will be imprisoned for lying that her astronaut ex-wife had hacked her bank account - even though her victim was orbiting the Earth aboard the International Space Station at the time. Summer Worden, 51, was sentenced to three months behind bars on Thursday for making false claims about Anne McClain during a bitter divorce and custody battle involving the couple's then six-year-old son. The youngster is only biologically-related to Worden. Worden, a former US Air Force intelligence officer, began lying in July 2019, a month after McClain returned to Earth from her 204-day mission aboard the ISS, which orbits Earth about 250 miles from the surface. Investigators subsequently discovered that McClain could not have accessed Worden's bank account at the time she was accused of doing so because she was in space. A forensic analysis of the bank account found that the account had been opened in April 2018 and shared by Worden and McClain until January 2019. With their relationship deteriorating, Worden changed the password to the joint account, locking McClain out of it. Worden's lies about her ex-wife could have seen her prosecuted for bank fraud, identity theft or embezzlement. She was later exposed and pleaded guilty to making false, fictitious and fraudulent statements and representations to law enforcement during a November 2025 court hearing. Summer Worden (right) has been sentenced to three months in federal prison for falsely claiming that her then-wife, Anne McClain (left), illegally accessed her bank account Worden claimed McClain, an astronaut and an army veteran, guessed the bank account password while on board the International Space Station in 2019 McClain denied the allegations and was cleared of any wrongdoing by the Department of Justice in April 2020. Worden's claims were made while the couple was divorcing and engaged in a custody dispute over their son (pictured with McClain) The International Space Station orbits around Earth about 250 miles above the surface 'Investigators also determined Worden had granted her spouse access to her bank records, including login credentials, as early as 2015,' the DOJ said in a statement. McClain's attorney told The New York Times in 2019 that she had checked the account to check on the status of their joint finances and had never been told by Worden that she could not access the account. In April 2020, McClain was cleared of any wrongdoing by the DOJ, which also unsealed an indictment against Worden around this time. The DOJ said Worden continued lying about McClain well after an internal investigation also found no evidence of her tampering with the bank account. 'Even after an internal investigation exonerated the former spouse, Worden continued promoting the false claim to news outlets and hired a media consultant to amplify the claim. The evidence further showed Worden publicly released her former spouses personal information,' the DOJ said in a statement. Worden remains out on bond but is expected to report to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to begin her sentence 'in the near future.' She will also be required to submit to two years of supervised release and pay $210,000 in restitution. Ukraine's president has said Vladimir Putin 'doesn't have too much time left' amid questions over the Kremlin leader's whereabouts as he has not been seen in over a week. Speaking to Politico during the Munich Security Conference on Friday, just days before the fourth anniversary of Moscow's invasion, Volodymyr Zelensky said: 'I'm younger than Putin...He doesn't have much time, you know.' While his remarks prompted a laugh from the audience, the Ukrainian president added: 'No, no, believe me, this is important.' The 48-year-old also described his rival, 73, as a 'slave to war' earlier today as he drew parallels between the current conflict and the 1938 Munich Agreement. The agreement forced Czechoslovakia to surrender its bordering region with Germany, the Sudetenland, to Adolf Hitler, a year before World War II began. Zelensky's recent comments come as Putin has mysteriously vanished from the public eye for over a week, with Russian state media broadcasting pre-recorded footage of the Kremlin leader meeting officials in recent days. The Kremlin leader was last seen by the public delivering a speech on February 5, and it remains unclear what has caused his latest absence. It is not the first time Putin has disappeared from public view, with the dictator having cultivated a reputation for vanishing for periods of time with no explanation. Ukraine's president has stated that Vladimir Putin 'doesn't have too much time left' The Kremlin leader was last seen by the public delivering a speech on February 5 Pictured: Firefighters at the site of a Russian drone strike in Ukraine on February 13 Pictured: Damaged cars in Odesa, Ukraine, after they were hit by a Russian strike However, such absences have led to speculation of Putin undergoing secret medical treatment. Zelensky's statement comes as the United States continues to strive for Russia and Ukraine to end the almost four-year war, with Trump recently setting a June deadline for the two sides to negotiate peace. On Friday, Trump said Zelensky would miss an opportunity if he doesn't 'get moving', and claimed Russia was willing to end the war through a peace deal. 'Russia wants to make a deal, and Zelensky's going to have to get moving. Otherwise, he's going to miss a great opportunity. He has to move,' he said. Between February 17 and 18, a new round of peace negotiations involving Ukraine will be conducted by the US and Russia in Geneva. The Kremlin has confirmed Vladimir Medinsky, a presidential aide to Vladimir Putin, will lead the Russians. More recently, Kyiv and its Western allies have accused Moscow of deliberately freezing Ukraine's population with its attacks on the energy grid. 'There is not a single power plant left in Ukraine that has not been damaged by Russian attacks,' Zelensky said. 'Not one.' Pictured: The State Emergency Service of Ukraine on February 13, 2026 Pictured: A house destroyed in a Russian airstrike in Ukraine on February 13 Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks at a panel discussion during the 62nd Munich Security Conference (MSC) at the hotel 'Bayerischer Hof', in Munich, Germany, 14 February 2026 'But we still generate electricity,' he added, praising the thousands of workers repairing the plants. Taking a brutal swipe at the Kremlin leader, Zelensky added: 'He may see himself as a tsar, but in reality he is a slave to war.' The Ukrainian President also appealed once again to his Western allies to deliver air-defence systems to Ukraine more quickly. Russia and Ukraine are set to hold US-brokered talks next week, as Zelensky maintains Kyiv is doing 'everything' to end the almost four-year war. It comes as questions over Putin's health were raised in November when he met with Yekaterina Leshchinskaya, 22, the chair of the Russian Healthy Fatherland movement. As he reached to shake the woman's hand, the Russian leader's right hand was seen with visible bulging veins, prominent tendons, and thin, wrinkled skin. Footage showed the Russian leader appear to nervously move his fingers and clench them into a fist under his blazer sleeve. Following the circulation of the clip on X and later in Polish media, Ukrainian sources suggested that the Russian dictator may be suffering from pain. Join the debate Should world leaders do more to confront Putin over suspected poisonings and his mysterious disappearances? Putin has mysteriously vanished for more than a week, while Moscow state media has been using pre-recorded footage of the dictator Prominent interviewer and media personality Dmytro Gordon said: 'Putin clenches his hands into something resembling fists. 'They look swollen and sore, with veins bulging prominently on one hand.' Another source said the Kremlin leader merely exhibits the normal signs of male ageing, which he seeks - through alleged cosmetic surgery - to hide from Russians after more than a quarter of a century in power. Questions over Putin's whereabouts come as a group of European leaders said on Saturday that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned by the Kremlin. The foreign ministries of the UK, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said analysis of samples taken from Navalny's body 'conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine' - a neurotoxin found in the skin of dart frogs in South America. A joint statement said: 'Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison.' The five countries said they were reporting Russia to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons for a breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention. The announcement came as Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnaya, attended the Munich Security Conference in Germany as the second anniversary of Navalny's death approaches. Navalny, who crusaded against official corruption and staged massive anti-Kremlin protests as President Vladimir Putin's fiercest foe, died in an Arctic penal colony on February 16, 2024, while serving a 19-year sentence that he believed to be politically motivated. 'Russia saw Navalny as a threat,' British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said. 'By using this form of poison, the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition.' It comes after five European countries today claimed that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned by Russia. Pictured: Navalny attends a hearing at a court in Moscow in 2017 Navalny pictured with his wife Yulia in 2020 'Putin killed Alexei with a chemical weapon,' she wrote on X before calling Putin 'a murderer' who 'must be held accountable'. Russian authorities said that the politician became ill after a walk and died from natural causes. Epibatidine is found naturally in dart frogs in the wild, and can also be manufactured in a lab. European scientists suspect this was the case with the substance used on Navalny. The substance works on the body in a similar way to nerve agents, causing shortness of breath, convulsions, seizures, a slowed heart rate and ultimately death. Navalny was the target of an earlier poisoning in 2020, with a nerve agent in an attack he blamed on the Kremlin, which always denied involvement. His family and allies fought to have him flown to Germany for treatment and recovery. Five months later, he returned to Russia, where he was immediately arrested and imprisoned for the last three years of his life. The U.K. has accused Russia of repeatedly flouting international bans on chemical and biological weapons. It also alleged the Kremlin carried out an attack in the English city of Salisbury in 2018, where former Russian intelligence officer, Sergei Skripal was targeted with Novichok - a nerve agent. Skripal and his daughter became seriously ill, and a British woman, Dawn Sturgess, died after she came across a discarded bottle with traces of the nerve agent. The poisoning of Navalny shows 'that Vladimir Putin is prepared to use biological weapons against his own people to remain in power,' French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot wrote on X. Yvette Cooper pictured with Navalny's widow Yulia today during the Munich Security Conference Yulia Navalnaya, human rights activist and wife of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, gives a press statement on the death and circumstances of her husband's death on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Saturday Feb. 14, 2026 Navalny's widow said last year that two independent labs had found that her husband was poisoned shortly before he died. She has repeatedly blamed Putin for her husband's death. Russian officials have vehemently denied the accusation. Yulia Navalnaya said Saturday that she had been 'certain from the first day' that her husband had been poisoned, 'but now there is proof'. A British inquiry concluded that the attack 'must have been authorised at the highest level, by President Putin'. The Kremlin has denied involvement. Russia also denied poisoning Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian agent turned Kremlin critic who died in London in 2006 after ingesting the radioactive isotope polonium-210. A British inquiry concluded that two Russian agents killed Litvinenko, and Putin had 'probably approved' the operation. At the Munich Security Conference this weekend, Zelensky also poked fun at Hungarian leader Victor Orban's belly, while arguing Ukraine's fight against Russia has allowed Europe to live freely. Zelensky was describing how Europe has gained from having Ukrainian forces battling Russian troops. Ukraine's relations with neighbouring Hungary have been strained by Orban's support for Russia and have deteriorated further in recent weeks as the veteran leader has ramped up attacks on Ukraine ahead of a closely fought parliamentary election in April. 'There can be a sovereign Moldova and a Romania without dictatorship and even one Victor can think about how to grow his belly, not how to grow his army to stop Russian tanks from returning to the streets of Budapest,' Zelensky said. 'But look at the price. Look at the price, look at the pain Ukraine has gone through, look at the suffering Ukraine has faced. It's Ukrainians who are holding the European front,' he said. Although Ukraine applied to join the European Union days after Russia invaded, it has been unable to advance accession talks because of Orban's vetoes. Unlike other European countries, Hungary has not diversified its imports from Russia since Moscow's assault on Ukraine. The Foreign Office's retired chief mouser Palmerston has died in Bermuda. Larry the cat Downing Street's chief mouser has led emotional tributes to his feline colleague. Palmerston was a rescue cat from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home before he joined the foreign office during Boris Johnson's tenure as Foreign Secretary. He retired in 2020 after four years of service in Whitehall and moved to the island paradise of Bermuda. Announcing his death, a post on Palmerston's X, formerly Twitter, account read: 'Palmerston, Diplocat extraordinaire, passed away peacefully on 12 February. '"Palmy" was a special member of the Government House team in Bermuda, and a much loved family member. 'He was a wonderful companion, with a gentle nature, and will be sorely missed.' Tributes to Palmerston have poured in with Larry leading the way. A post on the cat's satirical X account which has over one million followers read: 'Farewell old friend x.' Palmerston, the former chief mouser for the Foreign Office, has died at his home in Bermuda Palmerston on duty in 2018. He was a rescue cat from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home before he joined the foreign office during Boris Johnson's tenure as Foreign Secretary Palmerston was rumoured to have had a longrunning feud with Number 10's chief mouser Larry during his time in Westminster. Today is also Larry's birthday according to his X account. Meanwhile, Labour MP Sarah Champion wrote: 'RIP.' And former staffers from Whitehall have took to the platform to share their pictures with Palmerston. On his retirement in 2020, a letter to Sir Simon McDonald, permanent undersecretary at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, read that the cat would like to spend more time 'away from the limelight' after enjoying 'working from home' during the coronavirus pandemic. 'I have found life away from the front line relaxed, quieter, and easier,' the letter signed in Palmerston's name read. Palmerston, Diplocat extraordinaire, passed away peacefully on 12 February. Palmy was a special member of the Government House team in Bermuda, and a much loved family member. He was a wonderful companion, with a gentle nature, and will be sorely missed. pic.twitter.com/W0V6fRniFj Palmerston (@DiploMog) February 13, 2026 Downing Street's chief mouser with his Foreign Office counterpart in 2017. The pair were rumoured to have had a longrunning feud Tributes to Palmerston have poured in with Larry leading the way. A post on the cat's satirical X account which has over one million followers read: 'Farewell old friend x' 'My 105,000 twitter followers show that even those with four legs and fur have an important part to play in the UK's global effort,' Palmerston's letter said. 'I have championed our work, built our relationships, and celebrated the diversity of our staff.' Foreign Office staff paid tribute to the outgoing mouser at the time with Jon Benjamin, director of the department's Diplomatic Academy, wishing him a 'very happy retirement'. 'He left us a slightly chewed dead mouse next to my desk in @UKDipAcademy once, and we were of course not very grateful,' he added. Spanish police have launched an urgent search for a 79-year-old British tourist who has not been seen since vanishing three days ago. Iain Stanley, 79, was last seen near the Perla Marina Hotel in Nerja on the eastern end of the Costa del Sol on February 11. He is understood to have disappeared after leaving a holiday home in the holiday resort, with the last sighting recorded at about 2pm that day. His wife reported him missing on Thursday and the Civil Guard has now launched an investigation to try to establish what happened. A taxi driver has been questioned by investigators after saying he believed he had taken a man matching his description to the nearby town of Torrox, but cops are understood to have reached the conclusion it was a false lead. Mr Stanley, said to be in good health despite his age, was wearing black jeans, a shirt and a blue jacket when he was last seen. He was without his mobile phone or his passport. News of his disappearance is now circulating in several local expat Facebook groups, with relatives also appealing for information on his whereabouts. It was not immediately clear this afternoon where in the UK Mr Stanley is from. One well-wisher who helped by publishing the appeal on social media said he was in Nerja for a two-month holiday. Iain Stanley, 79, was last seen near the Perla Marina Hotel in Nerja on the eastern end of the Costa del Sol on February 11 Last Saturday a British holidaymaker was airlifted to hospital after dramatically being found in a ravine in Tenerife nearly 30 hours after she went missing during a three-hour hike. An appeal had been put out a day earlier for information on Susan Hornsby, 76, from Dorset after she disappeared on the Friday morning during a trip to the island with her husband Peter. Worried Louise Bakewell said in a first online message: 'Can anyone help? My sister in law's mother Susan Hornsby, aged 76, has gone missing in Tenerife after a walk on her own. She was wearing a red coat and white hat. 'We have contacted the police but the language barrier is difficult. Any help would be wonderful thank you.' In an update just before she was located, she added: '27 hours still missing. 'Set off at 10am on a three-hour hike. 'At midday sent an email saying she needed medical help. Police are involved. British embassy in Tenerife closes at the weekend. 'If anyone is able to help in any way that would be wonderful. It is a well known walking route.' Around 2pm local time on Saturday afternoon Louise revealed the pensioner had been found alive and was being airlifted to hospital. She said: 'I managed to find her IMEI number and she's just been found, alive after 28 hours. 'She is being airlifted to hospital. I'm so relieved. 'She was found in a ravine and has been airlifted to hospital. That's all I know at the moment.' In a subsequent update on a Facebook group dedicated to giving assistance for people reported as missing in Tenerife where she had first raised the alarm, she added: 'She's been found alive. And being airlifted to hospital. 'Thank you so much for all your help and advice. What a wonderful group of people - my faith in humanity well and truly restored. Thank you . 'Just to clarify- she went off on a walk alone and then became unwell. She did not have find my iPhone enabled on her phone- please tell your friends and relatives to always enable this if they can, just to be safe.' Saudi Forces Deploy in Ataq, Shabwah Following UAE Withdrawal 07:38 (Bawabatii - Exclusive ) A local source reported that Saudi forces arrived in Ataq, the capital of Shabwah Governorate in eastern Yemen, on Saturday, and have begun deploying to several military positions previously held by Emirati forces in the province. According to the source, the Saudi forces have started to take positions at strategic sites to bolster security and stability in the city, while local observers continue to monitor developments on the ground. No official statement has been issued so far regarding the details of the deployment or the nature of any related operations. The UAE had withdrawn from Hadhramaut and Shabwah provinces in early January, following a decision by the Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Dr. Rashad Al-Alimi, issued in late December, which mandated the end of the Emirati presence in the country. An imam has been found guilty of raping women and girls as young as 12 after using his position as a faith leader at his east London mosque to convince them he had magical powers. Abdul Halim Khan, 54, has been found guilty of twenty one counts of rape and sexual assault as well as child sexual offences against seven women and girls at Snaresbrook Crown Court. The offences took place between 2004 and 2015, and three of his victims were young teenage girls at the time. All seven were members of the local Muslim community, and Khan abused his position to convince them all to meet him in isolated places to carry out the sex attacks. Khan would claim he needed to meet with the girls and women to prevent anything bad happening to them. He then raped or abused them and claimed he had been possessed by a 'Jinn', or evil spirit, while doing so. His victims were left too scared to tell friends or family for fear of him doing them harm via 'black magic', the CPS said. Khan's actions were finally discovered in February 2018 when his youngest victim bravely told a teacher what had happened to her. Abdul Halim Khan, 54, has been found guilty of twenty one counts of rape and sexual assault as well as child sexual offences against seven women and girls At Snaresbrook Crown Court (pictured) Khan was convicted of offences against seven victims, including three who were young teenage girls at the time On Friday, Khan was convicted of nine counts of rape, four counts of sexual assault, two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, five counts of rape of a child under 13 and one count of assault by penetration. Officers from the Met Police interviewed more than 50 witnesses as part of their investigation. They charged Khan in March 2023. Following the verdicts on Friday, one of the former imam's victims said: 'The abuse I suffered as a child has had a profound and lasting impact on my life. 'What happened to me did not end when the abuse stopped, it affected my sense of safety, my ability to trust others, and the way I understood relationships and authority. 'Someone who should never have harmed me violated that trust, and the effects of that betrayal have stayed with me for many years and I continue to carry that trauma with me. 'Like many survivors of childhood sexual abuse, I lived with shame, fear, and confusion that were not mine to carry. The loss of trust, in people, in systems, and at times in myself, shaped much of my adult life. 'Coming forward was an extremely difficult decision. Speaking about what happened meant revisiting painful memories and facing emotions I had tried to suppress for years. 'However, being listened to, believed, and treated with dignity throughout the investigation helped restore some of the trust that had been taken from me. I am grateful to the Metropolitan Police officers who handled my case with care, professionalism, and sensitivity. 'I hope this outcome acknowledges not only the abuse itself, but the deep and lasting harm it causes. 'I also hope it encourages other survivors of childhood sexual abuse to know that they are not alone, they are not to blame, and that what happened to them matter, regardless of how much time has passed.' Khan has been remanded into custody ahead of sentencing at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Thursday, May 14. Detective Sergeant Sara Yems, who led the investigation, said: 'It shows remarkable strength for anyone to report abuse, especially when the abuser is believed to be a trusted figure. 'The seven woman who came forward have shown extraordinary courage in speaking with police and I hope they serve as inspiration to other victims and survivors. 'While nothing will undo the harm suffered by these women yesterday's conviction will hopefully offer a small measure of comfort. I'd like to thank the dedicated team of Met officers who left no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice. 'We remain absolutely committed to tackling violence against women and girls, targeting dangerous offenders and removing them from London's streets.' Melissa Garner, Specialist Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service, said: 'Abdul Halim Khan a former imam abused his position of trust and authority to carry out a vicious series of rapes and sexual abuses against seven victims including three vulnerable teenage girls. 'Khan coerced and deceived them into thinking that he possessed supernatural powers which could protect them and their families from harm in exchange for hideous acts of sexual abuse without their consent. 'The lifelong physical and emotional trauma caused to victims by men like Khan cannot be understated. 'We would like to thank the victims in this case for coming forward and reporting this devastating crime. I hope this conviction sends a clear message that the CPS will relentlessly pursue justice and prosecute those who sexually exploit women and children, whenever that abuse took place. 'I encourage any victims of child sexual abuse and sexual violence to report the crimes committed against them to the police. You are not alone and there is always help available.' An anti-immigration demonstration has been held outside the RNLI headquarters to demand the service stop acting as a 'taxi service' for asylum seekers crossing the Channel. Dozens of campaigners gathered at the charity's gates at their premise in Poole, Dorset, claiming its lifeboats are 'facilitating' illegal immigration. They argued it should not rest on RNLI volunteers to 'ferry' asylum seekers in small boats across the English Channel. The protesters, many of whom were draped in Union and St George's flags, also said the RNLI could lose donations from the British public if they continued to facilitate crossings. However, the 50 campaigners, many of whom were carrying placards reading 'Stop the Taxi Service,' and chanting 'stop the boats, send them home,' were outnumbered by almost 100 left-wing protesters from Stand Up to Racism. Police had to separate the two groups after Stand Up to Racism accused their counterparts of wishing to see women and children drown in the Channel. Tensions also grew further after one woman wearing a St George's flag with 'Tommy Robinson' written on it walked towards the rival group. She was stopped by police. Anti-immigration protesters (pictured) gathered outside the RNLI's headquarters in Poole, demanding the service stop aiding migrants crossing the Channel The campaigners (pictures) held Union and St George's flags, with some carrying signs reading 'stop the taxi service' Police (pictured) had to separate the two groups after Stand Up to Racism and anti-immigration protesters went to head to head in Poole This is the second anti-illegal immigration protest staged at the RNLI headquarters. Last May, 30 campaigners gathered outside the building. One anti-immigration attendee, who travelled from London for the event, said: 'I think the RNLI are great and do a fabulous job. 'The issue here is what they are doing is bringing economic migrants over from France and a safe Europe so they can enjoy all the benefits of being here. 'The RNLI is going out of its way to facilitate them by going to collect them from French waters. They have got it wrong by being a taxi service for illegal immigrants.' Prior to the protest, the anti-illegal immigration campaigners asserted that 'Poole Patriots' demands a 'stop the taxi service'. They said: 'Please come and stand with us and help protect our communities and Britain.' Counter-protesters from Stand Up to Racism (pictured) accused the anti-immigration campaigners of wishing to see women and children drown in the Channel Liberal Democrat MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, Vikki Slade, attended the counter-protest wearing a T-shirt which read, 'you will have to go through me'. She said: 'The RNLI is such a special charity and my own family have twice been rescued by them. 'They don't ask questions first. I think it is completely disgusting the idea that an organisation should be targeted. 'It's part of a really slippery slope. Where does it stop? Do we expect firefighters to check passports before going into a burning building?' Grieving relatives of a man killed during Iran's violent protester crackdown joined thousands marching through London supporting the overthrow of the state - as the last shah's son called on the US to help 'bury' the Islamic regime. Mehdi Hosseini was 28 when he was killed as he tried to take a wounded friend to hospital, his family revealed. They had been caught up in the deadly repression enacted by Iranian forces against demonstrators, who have been taking to the streets across the country in unprecedented numbers since January. His aunt, Farah, who wouldn't give her name out of fear for family still living in the country, told the Daily Mail '[Hosseini] was fighting for freedom and democracy against the terrorist regime.' She joined droves of demonstrators on Saturday who gathered in central London to march to the Iranian embassy and protest against the regime. Many were seen carrying Union Jacks, Israeli flags, and the Shahist flag of Iran, containing a lion holding a sword as they gathered at Whitehall. They also sung God Save The King and chanted 'Long Live Reza Pehlavi', the heir to the last Shah of Iran. Farah and another family member, Parvaneh, held up signs showing images of Hosseini and Pehlavi, who today said it was 'time to end the Islamic republic'. Grieving relatives Farah (left) and Parvaneh (right) of 28-year-old Mehdi Hosseini, who was killed during Iran's violent protester crackdown, joined thousands marching through London supporting the overthrow of the state Droves of demonstrators on Saturday who gathered in central London to march to the Iranian embassy and protest against the regime Declaring her support for the return of the Shah, Farah said: 'We have been a monarchy for 2,000 years. Reza Pehlavi is the legal ruler of Iran. It's not only us we are fighting for. We are fighting to make the whole world safe.' Parvaneh said: 'There have been lots of young people killed by the IRGC. They're only 14, 15, or 16, it's been horrible. 'If this is how they treat their own people, how do you think they will act if they get their hands on nuclear weapons?' Their comments came as Washington continues to engage diplomatically with Tehran, with Switzerland confirming mediator Oman would host a fresh round of talks in Geneva next week. US-based Pahlavi, who has not returned to Iran since before the 1979 Islamic revolution that ousted the monarchy, added it was 'time to end the Islamic republic' while speaking to reporters at the Munich Security Conference. Outside, around 200,000 of his supporters thronged the streets near the gathering of world leaders, calling on them to ramp up pressure against the Islamic republic. 'Javid shah' (long live the shah),' the crowd chanted as they waved Shahist flags. 'The Iranian regime is a dead regime,' expressed Said, a 62-year-old protester originally from Iran. 'It must be game over. Many demonstrators were seen carrying Union Jacks, Israeli flags, and the Shahist flag of Iran , containing a lion holding a sword as they gathered at Whitehall. According to US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 7,008 people, mostly protesters, were killed in the crackdown, though rights groups warn the toll is likely far higher Pahlavi has urged Iranians at home and abroad to continue demonstrations against the authorities, calling on them to chant slogans from their homes and rooftops to coincide with protests taking place outside the country. Trump had said on Friday that a change of government in Iran would be the 'best thing that could happen', as he sent a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East to ratchet up military pressure on Tehran. He had earlier threatened military intervention to support a wave of street protests in Iran that peaked in January and were met by a violent crackdown that rights groups say killed thousands. 'To President Trump... The Iranian people heard you say help is on the way, and they have faith in you. Help them,' Pahlavi told reporters in Munich. 'It is time to end the Islamic republic. This is the demand echoing from the bloodshed of my compatriots who are not asking us to fix the regime but to help them bury it,' he added. When Iran began its crackdown on protests, Trump initially said the United States was 'locked and loaded' to help demonstrators. But he has recently focused his military threats on Tehran's nuclear programme, which US forces struck last July during Israel's unprecedented 12-day war with Iran. Representatives of Iran and the United States, who have had no diplomatic relations since shortly after the 1979 revolution, held talks on the nuclear programme last week in Oman. Reza Pehlavi, the exiled son of Iran's last shah, called on Trump to 'bury' the Islamic regime Videos verified by AFP showed people in Iran chanting anti-government slogans despite the ongoing crackdown, as the clerical leadership celebrated the anniversary of the Islamic revolution. According to US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 7,008 people, mostly protesters, were killed in the crackdown, though they and other rights groups warn the toll is likely far higher. More than 53,000 people have been arrested, it added. Pahlavi had encouraged Iranians to join the wave of protests, which Iranian authorities have said were hijacked by 'terrorists' fuelled by their sworn enemies Israel and the United States. Many protest chants had called for the monarchy's return, and Pahlavi, 65, has said he is ready to lead a democratic transition. The Iranian opposition remains divided and Pahlavi has faced criticism for his support for Israel, making a highly publicised visit in 2023 that fractured an attempt to unify opposition camps. He has also never distanced himself from his father's autocratic rule. Trump declined on Friday to say who he would want to take over in Iran from supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but he added that 'there are people'. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has said she believes Donald Trump is still 'very serious' about his desire to take over Greenland. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference earlier today she was asked whether the crisis had now passed as Copenhagen and Washington have started to take part in negotiations. 'I think the desire from the US president is exactly the same. Hes very serious about this,' she said. Frederiksen also emphasised that this issue goes back to 'one of the most basic democratic principles' of representing sovereign states. Adding that it is not possible to put a price tag on a country. She said: 'Can you put a price on a part of Spain, or a part of the US, or a part of anywhere else in the world? 'The Greenlandic people have been very clear: they dont want to become Americans.' It comes after Trump intensified pressure on Britain and other NATO allies over Greenland's future. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has said she believes Donald Trump is still 'very serious' about his desire to take over Greenland Since starting his second-term, the president has suggested the US should acquire Greenland to stop Russia and China from taking over strategic positioning in the Arctic region Framing the island as essential to US and NATO security - and accusing Copenhagen of negligence. The US President has declared that the US will have 'total access' to Greenland as part of a new deal with NATO. But negotiations with NATO are in the preliminary stage and the exact terms of the final agreement remain unclear. At the end of January he told Fox News: 'We're gonna have total access to Greenland. We're gonna have all military access that we want. 'We're going to be able to put what we need on Greenland because we want it. We're talking about national security and international security.' The US military already has multiple bases throughout the Danish territory with leeway to establish more in the future, according to multiple reports. It is understood that Demark could cede 'small pockets of Greenlandic' territory to the US where it could build bases. Trump previously threated Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland with a 10 per cent tariff after they sent troops to Greenland. It comes after Trump intensified pressure on Britain and other NATO allies over Greenland's future But he quickly U-turned after it led to the stock market crashing. Since starting his second-term, the president has suggested the US should acquire Greenland to stop Russia and China from taking over strategic positioning in the Arctic region. The Danish territory provides strategic access to the Arctic, where China and Russia have, in recent years, flexed their geopolitical might as the melting polar ice provides greater access to shipping lanes and natural resources. Greenland, which houses NATO military bases, is also rich in oil, gold, graphite, copper, iron, and other rare earth elements. The Trump administration believes Greenland could provide infrastructure for the proposed Golden Dome missile defense system to protect North America from ballistic threats. Leon has revealed hundreds of jobs have been axed after the fast food chain closed 22 branches across the country. The firm, famed for its halloumi and waffle fries, fell into administration in December, laying blame on the hospitality industry's 'unsustainable' tax burdens. Administrators Quantuma Advisory said in an update that the restaurant currently has 573 staff, showing that 244 roles had been slashed. Leon also suffered losses of 12.5million in 2023, 8.3million the following year and nearly 10million in 2025, draft figures indicate. The firm fostered its reputation on fast food that was natural, but had been grappling with financial struggles since it was purchased by Asda's owner, EG Group, in 2021. Last October, Leon was sold back to one of its co-founders John Vincent, at a steep discount by the global retail giant. The two firms did not disclose the terms of the deal however, The Times reported that Vincent paid the supermarket between 30million and 50million. This was substantially less than the 100million that the billionaire Issa brothers, Mohsin and Zuber, paid for the chain in 2021. John Vincent (pictured with his wife Katie Derham) co-founded Leon and bought back the company from Asda's owners, EG Group, last October Administrators Quantuma Advisory said in an update that the restaurant currently has 573 staff. The chain has cut 244 toles and shuttered 22 locations (stock image) The sale included 46 Leon restaurants and 20 UK franchises, as well as three franchise sites in the Netherlands and one in Italy. Meanwhile, Mr Vincent has boiled down the firm's current financial woes to 'increasingly unsustainable taxes'. 'In the last two years, Asda had bigger fish to fry, and Leon was always a business they didn't feel fitted their strategy,' he said. Mr Vincent hoped the chain would be able to provide 'jobs to many more people once [they had] returned to profitability and can continue to grow again'. But this is not the first time the Leon boss has blasted tax changes, branding Rachel Reeves's hikes on national insurance as an 'incredibly toxic tax regime'. Speaking on the BBC's Big Boss Interview podcast, he warned restaurants would 'disappear' under Labour and only those making 'cr** food' would survive. The Leon boss also said antisocial Gen Z customers threaten the industry because they 'don't want to talk to humans, they just want to order on a screen or a phone'. However, he suggested the increasing popularity of weight loss jabs could present an 'opportunity' for his faltering business. Leon previously said it hoped to place employees in other restaurants or offer redundancy where it was not possible to do so. The chain has also created a route for impacted members of staff to apply for roles at Pret A Manger. Administrators have now suggested a company voluntary agreement (CVA), meaning Leon could restructure the firm and keep running by negotiating its debts. Meanwhile, Quantuma Advisory has also been trying to broker with landlords in a bid to reduce rent. It comes after the firm came under pressure from 'internal challenges', changing habits from commuters linked to the pandemic and tax increases. After buying the business back, Mr Vincent said he planned on bringing Leon back to its roots. 'My time away from Leon has given me new perspectives and I'm excited by what we can achieve for people this time round,' he added. 'There will likely be some big decisions ahead, but first we need to take a good look under the bonnet.' One of its other co-founders, Henry Dimbleby, had criticised Asda's stewardship of the brand. Last October, he accused the business of straying from its ethos of healthy and convenient food. He told The Telegraph: 'What they've gone to here is they've realised chips sell, air fryers sell that's the cheapest way to make money. 'But in the long-term, that's going to destroy the brand.' Mr Vincent has now also admitted Leon was 'always a business Asda didn't feel fitted their strategy'. He added: 'In the last two years, Asda had bigger fish to fry. 'If you look at the performance of Leon's peers, you will see that everyone is facing challenges - companies are reporting significant losses due to working patterns and increasingly unsustainable taxes.' The Daily Mail has approached Leon and Quantuma for comment. Posing in a black tulle dress by high-end designer Roksanda, former Harry Potter star Katie Leung casts a different kind of spell in a new photoshoot for lifestyle bible Harpers Bazaar. The stunning shoot featuring the Scots actress, whose break-out role saw her play Hogwarts student Cho Chang in the wizarding movies, is the latest glamorous outing from Ms Leung as she continues to promote her new role as Lady Araminta Gun in the Netflix smash-hit Bridgerton. Ms Leung plays a twice-married, twice-widowed aristocrat in series four of the alternative history Regency romance. The plot has sharp similarities to that of Cinderella, with Lady Araminta effectively taking on the role of the wicked stepmother as she seeks to marry off her two daughters, while one of her female servants attends a grand ball in disguise and captures the heart of the most eligible bachelor. However, Ms Leung argues theres more to the character than any comparison to the classic fairytale. She said: At the beginning, the show-runners emphasised how important it was to find Aramintas humanity, to include her past struggles. She has a real sense of purpose and the decisions she makes are out of love and protection in a world where marriage is all. Speaking of her similarities with her Bridgerton character, Ms Leung told Harpers Bazaar: Theres something romantic about the way she floats about. On the outside, she seems poised and calm, but the cogs are turning underneath. Katie Leung wears a Roksanda dress in a photoshoot for Harper's Bazaar. Picture: Harper's Bazaar UK / Charlie Clift Find the full awards-season portfolio in the March issue of Harpers Bazaar, which is in shops now Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter and Katie Leung as Cho Chang in the Harry Potter franchise Thats how Ive been for the best part of my life, because I was afraid to express myself. But 38-year-old Ms Leung also revealed that, despite enjoying playing Lady Araminta in the romantic Netflix show, she is still drawn to gritty scripts and is about to shoot a Channel 4 series Careless, also starring fellow Scot Solly McLeod which focuses on the foster care system. Theres always a lot of melodrama in my roles. Id love to do a kitchen-sink drama. Or comedy, which scares me, she added, laughing. When I was younger, I was determined to meet everyone elses expectations, while I could never reach my own. I dont have those same goals and, as a result, Ive been given many more opportunities. Its been really freeing. Growing up in Motherwell, Ms Leung had no formal acting training before she was thrust into the spotlight, at the tender age of 16, to play Harry Potters first love in The Goblet of Fire, the fourth film in the wizard franchise a role that has shaped her public image ever since. She then featured in all the subsequent sequels, including The Order of the Phoenix, The Half-Blood Prince and both parts of The Deathly Hallows. Last week, I did something that many people will have been surprised by. I made the difficult decision, and one no Scottish party leader would want to make, to call for a change in Downing Street. And the moment that made me realise that I had to think about making that hard call came just after I had grilled John Swinney in parliament about one of the most heartbreaking and vitally important issues I have faced in my political life - the ongoing scandal surrounding the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. Ive spent the last seven years investigating and raising concerns on behalf of brave whistle-blowers and grieving families. Patients died, and families still dont understand why after years of deceit from the health board and SNP ministers. It truly is the biggest scandal for our country in the devolution era. Yet when I left the Holyrood chamber moments after interrogating the First Minister I was faced with a barrage of questions from journalists, not about the QEUH, those grieving families or the governments attempt to conceal the truth, but about Peter Mandelson. It shook to me to the core. It was the realisation that the judgements of some in my own party had become the news agenda in Scotland, and not what it should have been - the victims of Jeffrey Epstein or the issue of lives lost and hearts broken because of failures of this SNP government. I realised it wasnt credible to call out the lies and dishonesty of John Swinney and his party while having to face questions about the lies and dishonesty of Peter Mandelson. Having made that decision, I feel liberated. I did what I believe is right for the people of Scotland - and my party in Scotland. This is the moment Anas Sarwar said he realised that the scandal surrounding Peter Mandelson's appointment was stopping him from highlighting issues in Scotland I acted alone, and I stand by what I said. But that lightbulb moment as I faced questions about Mandelson changed things. I will always be straight with people - unlike the SNP, I wont dress things up, hide behind process, or say one thing in public and another in private. As I demonstrated after I made my decision I will always do what is right for Scotland even if that means difficult decisions for me personally. And the truth is that only Scottish Labour can beat the SNP - Reform will only help them cling onto power for another miserable decade. I know many are angry with a UK Labour government. I understand that. But Id ask you to look past your anger at Labour - only we can beat the SNP in the seats needed to end 20 years of nationalist misrule. The fact is this SNP government is addicted to secrecy and waste, and they are utterly incompetent. From sex offenders in womens prisons or shamefully applying pressure to open a hospital before its ready, then trying to cover up infections and deaths in patients at the QEUH, enough is enough. The choice we have in May is not without consequence. This election is about one thing - removing the SNP from office. We need a First Minister who will be honest that isnt what we have with John Swinney and this rotten SNP government. Lets look at their record - Across the country, there are 10,000 homeless children. We have patients waiting hours in A&E, and others waiting far too long for tests and vital operations. That is unacceptable. Thats why, if I have the honour of being elected First Minister, cutting waiting lists will be a day-one priority for my government. Its not a slogan for a leaflet. Its a clear plan that will be backed by relentless focus on delivery. Along with the NHS, our schools and local services have been allowed to run down too. For years the financial incompetence of SNP ministers has hollowed out council funding, leaving communities to bear the brunt of cuts. This is not a distant tale from the past. The culprits are still on the scene. That is what this election is: a choice between more of the same, or a change of direction. That change requires honesty about failure, and I make a point of calling out failure whenever I see it. I wont dodge the difficult questions. Thats why I called for a change in leadership at Downing Street and I stand by that. Ive been clear that I believe Keir Starmer is a decent man. Its no secret Ive always got on well with him. He has dedicated his life to public service. But Scotlands interests must come first even when that means making difficult decisions, when it upsets people, and even when it invites a wave of commentary from those who think Scotland should simply follow along. The election on May 7 is going to come down to people voting for the party which is best placed to defeat the SNP. In Scotland that is Scottish Labour. We can finally bring an end to their time in office. When a government has been in charge as long as the SNP has, they dont like scrutiny. They want to point the finger anywhere else rather than face the consequences of their decisions. But the public is not fooled. People know the difference between leadership and deflection. Take the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. This isnt just another political row. This is about patient safety, life, and death. We now know that Scotlands largest hospital isnt validated or verified. Let me say this plainly: patient safety must come before politics. Always. The commitment I make to families, patients and staff is that Scotland must have an open, transparent process. If remedial work needs done, it must happen. If wards need to temporarily close, they should close. Because I will not compromise patient safety. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar launch Scottish Labour's General Election campaign in 2024 People died at that hospital because it wasnt safe when it opened. Why? Because political pressure was applied to open it before the General Election in 2015. SNP ministers wanted the good publicity and to use a hospital as campaign material instead of doing right by patients. It has been 11 years since it opened and rather than come clean about the part they played, John Swinney and the SNP have chosen to deflect and cover up. They have avoided responsibility and denied families vital answers. That is not leadership. That is cowardice. And it tells you everything you need to know about why this election matters. A government that cannot be honest about a hospital scandal cannot be trusted with the NHS. One addicted to secrecy cannot be trusted to run public services. A government that treats the public purse as if it were their own cannot be trusted to fix the basics that allow people to build a decent life. If you want to end the SNP chaos, cut waiting lists and make our NHS fit for the future, if you want a government that respects the law and your money, if you want the truth told plainly and the job done properly, then we must remove the SNP. Thats the choice in front of us. And I am determined to win it, for Scotland. Voting for Nigel Farages party will keep the SNP in power for another decade, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has warned. The MSP, who last week called for Keir Starmers resignation, has told the Scottish Mail on Sunday that voting for Reform would allow the SNP to cling on rather than force a change in Holyrood. Mr Sarwar acknowledged voters anger with his counterparts in the UK Labour party but said: Id ask you to look past your anger at Labour - only we can beat the SNP in the seats needed to end 20 years of nationalist misrule. The truth is that only Scottish Labour can beat the SNP - Reform will only help them cling onto power for another miserable decade. The choice we have in three months time is not without consequence. The election in May is about one thing - removing the SNP from office. We need a First Minister who will be honest that isnt what we have with John Swinney and this rotten SNP government. The Scottish Labour leader addressed his bold decision to call for the Prime Minister to step down on Monday, and revealed it was prompted by a media scrum in which he was bombarded with questions about Peter Mandelson rather than about the real issues he felt were impacting the lives of Scots today. Anas Sarwar has said the election in May is about removing the SNP from power Mr Sarwar said voting for Nigel Farage's Reform UK party would allow the SNP to cling on rather than force a change in government at Holyrood The MSP said he had a lightbulb moment when he left the Holyrood debating chamber after quizzing John Swinney about his governments failure over the infections scandal at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. He said: I was faced with a barrage of questions from journalists, not about the QEUH, those grieving families or the governments attempt to conceal the truth, but about Peter MandelsonI realised it wasnt credible to call out the lies and dishonesty of John Swinney and his party while having to face questions about the lies and dishonesty of Peter Mandelson. Mr Sarwar claims his party are the only ones with a credible chance of blocking the SNPs return to government in May, rather than Reform. The threat of lost votes posed by Nigel Farages party has been brought into sharp focus by polls in the run up to this years Holyrood elections. The most recent a survey by More in Common last week showed Reform in second place with 20 per cent of the list vote, ahead of Labour in third on 19 per cent, the Liberal Democrats on 13 per cent, the Conservatives 12 per cent and Greens 9 per cent. While the SNP still has a lead on the constituency vote on 35 per cent, this is two percentage points lower than in September. Reform meanwhile is on 19 per cent, with Labour on 18 per cent, the Conservatives 11 per cent and Liberal Democrats 10 per cent. Analysis by Sir John Curtice, professor of politics at Strathclyde University, estimated that the result would mean the SNP would win 59 seats - six short of a majority - with Reform and Labour on 19, the Lib Dems 13, Conservatives 11 and Greens eight. Sir John also said that the potential pathway to the SNP winning the election has been paved by the rise of Reform. Mr Sarwar said his calls for the Prime Minister to quit illustrated that he would always be straight with people and will always do what is right for Scotland even if that means difficult decisions for me personally. The MSP added: Unlike the SNP, I wont dress things up, hide behind process, or say one thing in public and another in private. A woman who was abused in a council-run childrens home has told how she was also a victim of grooming gangs while living in care. Holly Alex has bravely waived her right to anonymity and is speaking publicly for the first time about her experiences at the hands of rape gangs in Edinburgh. The 35-year-old has written a book detailing the extent of her shocking abuse, which she hopes will help the government and authorities to understand the damage vulnerable young people face long into adulthood when they suffer at the hands of sexual predators. She has also backed calls for a full public inquiry into the scandal after officials tasked with conducting a watered down review confirmed last week that there was no timeline for its completion while the first stage would take at least 18 months. Ms Alex said: For the government its all about not wanting to be portrayed as racist. I dont hold the whole of an ethnicity responsible for what happened to me, but it happened and is still happening. Its being perpetrated by people who are of a certain ethnicity, yes, but regardless of whether it was white men doing it or another ethnicity, there still should be an investigation. How can you say that you protect young people and protect children if youre not willing to look at whats been going on for decades? It angers me. Holly has decided to speak out about grooming gangs for the first time in her new book Holly Alex's new book exposes her experiences of abuse by grooming gangs and a senior social care worker In 2003, after the imprisonment of her dad, and a fraught relationship with her mum, Ms Alex known at the time as Holly Hamilton was placed in Drylaw childrens home, then Northfield childrens home, both run by Edinburgh City Council. It was there she began socialising with the Asian men who would rape her. She said: There were older girls whod come for respite or temporary stay and theyd say: Do you want to head out tonight? I can get drink, weed, cigarettes. That was the pattern. It was always Asian guys who would come and pick us up. Her social work files detail these events, including the registration numbers of vehicles she was getting into, alongside comments that she was socialising with Asian males. Her notes also show the youngster being blamed for her abuse, with one excerpt stating she was engaging in severe risk-taking behaviour including underage sexual behaviour with inappropriate older males. From the age of 14 to 17, she said she was raped by more than 20 men in houses across Edinburgh. Ms Alex said: There were times I said I wasnt doing it, and Id get a sore face or hurt, and there were other times where Id just not go out. But I always ended up falling back into it, especially because I was so heavily addicted to alcohol, as I was just used to being given drink all the time. Ms Alex was absconding so often that she was eventually placed in St Katherines secure unit where residents are under much tighter restrictions. It was in this so-called place of safety that she was further abused, this time by someone employed to look after her. Holly Alex in 2006 when she was in care in Edinburgh Care worker Gordon Collins was in his mid-40s when he preyed on 15-year-old Ms Alex. Her teenage diary helped to secure his conviction, ten years after she first told staff at the unit she was being abused. At the time she wasnt believed, but police reopened their inquiry and Collins was jailed for ten years in 2016, for abusing four girls including Ms Alex. The sex predator died last year behind bars. Ms Alex said the impact of the abuse she suffered left her broken and dysfunctional for years. It is only in the past four years that her life has finally become more stable, and she now lives near Glasgow with her labrador, Chance. She said: The number of girls who have been in the same situations as me and who arent here today to tell the tale of what happened its tragic. Thats partly why I wanted to write my book, so others can see there is a way out and to tell people what it is really like for children in care. Ms Alex said she believed the government must investigate Scotlands grooming gangs because it is still happening today, and children are being badly let down. Her book, I Thought You Cared, is available on Amazon. A Georgia woman is fighting to stay in her home after she says she was tricked into signing it away for $0 while trying to secure a loan. Jamie Norris, 62, of Locust Grove, transferred ownership of her metro Atlanta-area home to a company called T and T Properties Limited Inc. for no money, according to Henry County deed book records obtained by WSB-TV 2 News. The grandmother said she had fallen $6,850 behind on her property taxes when the company offered her a loan to settle the debt. What she believed was routine loan paperwork was, in reality, a quitclaim deed - a tactic often associated with foreclosure rescue schemes. The predatory scam targets homeowners behind on their mortgages, luring them with false promises of saving their homes from foreclosure. Scammers often strip homeowners of equity, charge upfront fees for services that never materialize or, as in Norris case, trick owners into signing over their deeds. Norris now faces eviction for the second time, as T and T Properties has once again filed a dispossessory action against her. 'Why would I sell them the house for nothing, just to give it to him?' she told WSB-TV. 'It doesn't make sense.' Jamie Norris (pictured), 62, of Locust Grove, Georgia, is fighting to stay in her home after she says she was tricked into signing it away for $0 while trying to secure a loan Norris transferred ownership of her metro Atlanta home (pictured) to T and T Properties Limited Inc. for nothing after they offered a loan to cover her $6,850 in back property taxes Norris claimed a man who worked for the company required her to sign the paperwork before issuing her the loan - a practice attorney Sarah Mancini says is far from standard. 'He said, "You're not signing your house over. It's just for collateral,' Norris told the outlet. A quitclaim deed is a legal document that silently hands over whatever stake a person has in a property to someone else with no guarantees, no protections, and essentially, no safety net. It's typically used for non-sale moves: divorces, family transfers or changing ownership between spouses. 'There's really no good reason to have someone sign over a deed to their house if you're lending them money,' Mancini, an attorney with the National Consumer Law Center, told the outlet. 'The person whos claiming to help you is saying theyre lending you money to help get you out of foreclosure, but theyre in reality trying to steal the ownership of the house,' she added. Norris said the company was charging her $700 a month in interest-only payments on the loan, according to WSB. 'This interest is higher than a pawn shop,' she told the outlet. What Norris (pictured) believed was routine loan paperwork was, in reality, a quit claim deed - a tactic often associated with foreclosure rescue schemes Sarah Mancini (pictured), an attorney with the National Consumer Law Center, told WSB that 'the person whos claiming to help you is saying theyre lending you money to help get you out of foreclosure, but theyre in reality trying to steal the ownership of the house' When she requested details on paying off the loan entirely, she discovered the payout figure was much larger than the money she had received from the company. It was at this moment that she learned T & T held the title to her home, leading her to halt all payments. Ed Joyner, T and Ts attorney, insists the company did nothing wrong, arguing that a quitclaim deed is simply a way for a lender to protect its investment without going through foreclosure - not a scheme to deceive Norris into giving up her home. But Mancini said thats exactly the problem: if its a loan, the lender 'should not be allowed to take the entire house.' Nevertheless, in July, the company filed to evict Norris, claiming in court papers obtained by WSB that she was a tenant 'delinquent' on rent. The court sided with Norris, determining that 'no landlord-tenant relationship' existed. The companys attorney said the title would be handed back to Norris upon full repayment of the loan, according to the outlet. For the second time, T and T has filed a motion to remove her, claiming her debt has grown to over $12,000 with added interest, late charges and attorney fees. For the second time, T and T has filed a motion to evict Norris, claiming her debt has grown to over $12,000 with added interest, late charges and attorney fees Last September in Georgia, a widows home was allegedly claimed by an investor who paid not a single dollar for the deed, according to WSB-TV News. Kimberly Gravitt, of Gwinnett County, was hospitalized in a mental health facility after learning she would be evicted from her own home by a company called Georgia Venture Investment Company, LLC, the outlet reported. In 2024, the company took her to court, claiming she had agreed the previous year to sell them her home of 40 years for $150,000 but later backed out. Georgia Venture acquired the deed to Gravitts home after Homesaver 911 - the company she had previously enlisted to help prevent foreclosure - signed it over to them. That same year, the company filed a lawsuit against Homesaver 911 - a company that had also been sued by Georgias Attorney General for allegedly stealing homeowners titles. Georgia Venture argued they were the real owner of the house. Gravitt said the company offered to return $15,000 if she would 'just nullify your deal,' and she agreed - yet Georgia Venture later claimed she had sold them her entire home. 'Someone can rob you with a pen and paper just as surely as they can rob you with a loaded gun,' Mancini told the outlet last year. 'Be careful about signing any piece of paper connected to real estate,' she added. A Massachusetts woman died after plunging through the ice of a frozen river near a Cape Cod beach while walking her dog with her husband, who remains missing. Eastham police and searchers believe the unidentified couple were walking their dog on Bee's River when they broke through the ice. Police arrived at First Encounter Beach on Saturday at 9:07am after they received a report of a loose dog that was wet and appeared to be in distress. The first officer to arrive heard the screams of a woman in Bee's River. The officer tried to pull the woman out but fell through the ice as well. A second officer tried to get them both out, only to also fall in to frigid water that reached his waist, according to a joint press release from the Eastham Police Department and the Eastham Fire Department. Amid the chaos, the firefighters arrived and were able to get the officers safely back to shore. They were later transported to the hospital. It's unclear if the officers were separated from the woman or if she had slipped beneath the ice, but divers with the Barnstable County Technical Rescue Team eventually arrived on the scene to try to find her. At 11:12am, divers found the woman trapped underneath the ice. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Pictured: Rescue teams show up at Bee's River near Eastham, Massachusetts, to try to save a woman who fell in the ice Two police officers fell in trying to pull the woman out. The Eastham Fire Department got them safely out but the woman slipped beneath the ice and was later found dead Rescuers are still on the scene looking for the woman's husband, who is believed to have fallen in the ice as well. The theory is that the couple was walking their dog on the frozen river Your browser does not support iframes. While the dive team had been looking for her, investigators were able to piece together that the woman's husband was with her and likely fell through the ice along with her. The technical team is still looking for the husband, according to the release from the Eastham Police Department. 'The area is still an active scene, and the public should avoid the area,' the department said. The identities of the deceased woman and the missing man are being withheld until their families are notified, police said. Ice that is light gray or dark black signfies that is melting. This ice cannot hold any significant weight and should not be walked on. Blue or clear ice that is more than four inches thick is generally safe to walk on. 'No matter what color the ice is or how sure you are of the strength you should check by using an auger, chisel, or an axe to determine that it is at least 4-6 inches thick,' according to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. Elon Musk has thrown his support behind a former Reform UK MP and his new political party, which is promising to 'reverse' migration and 'do things the [British] way'. Rupert Lowe, now an independent MP representing Great Yarmouth in Norfolk, has announced the launch of Restore Britain. He originally set it up as a 'political movement' after being suspended from Nigel Farage's Reform UK party last March, amid allegations he physically threatened then party chairman Zia Yusuf. The Crown Prosecution Service subsequently dropped the case, stating there was insufficient evidence to proceed. Restore Britain has established itself as an umbrella party that will partner with locally-based candidates who are in alignment with the party's wide-ranging right-wing policies on migration, welfare, taxes and national identity. The Tesla billionaire was among the first to endorse the party with a glittering post on his X social media platform that has been liked 145,000 times. 'Join Rupert Lowe in Restore Britain, because he is the only one who will actually do it!' wrote Musk, who at one time apparently supported Lowe's former political boss. But last January the world's richest man sensationally turned on Farage, saying he should be removed as leader of Reform UK leader because he does not 'have what it takes'. Rupert Lowe, now an independent MP representing Great Yarmouth in Norfolk, has announced the launch of his new party, Restore Britain The Tesla billionaire was among the first to endorse the party with a glittering post on his X social media platform that has been liked 145,000 times Elon Musk has thrown his support behind former Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe and his new political party, which is promising to 'reverse' migration and 'do things the [British] way' Lowe, a businessman, farmer and previous chairman of Southampton FC, is expected to stand again for the Great Yarmouth constituency under the banner of Great Yarmouth First. The party will become the first to partner with the newly-launched Restore Britain, the BBC reported. Lowe announced the creation of the party with a seven-minute long campaign video published onto his social media. Dressed in a wax jacket, Lowe spoke from his farm in Withington, near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire - 'because places like this represent what proper Britain is about', he explained. 'Hard work, responsibility, effort, duty, stewardship. This is the England I know and this is the England I love,' he said. He went on to lament 'the condition of our country', adding 'there are no easy fixes.' On the issue of illegal small boats arriving in the UK, Lowe said Restore Britain 'will not just stop mass immigration, we will reverse it,' before pledging that every illegal migrant would be detained and deported. 'The message will be unrelenting,' said Lowe. 'If a foreign national is unable to speak English, lives in social housing, claims benefits, refuses to work, fails to integrate, commits crime or even actively hates our way of life and wishes to do us harm then they must leave - or be made to leave.' Last January Musk sensationally turned on Farage, saying he should be removed as leader of Reform UK leader because he does not 'have what it takes' His party would also 'make our communities safe again for women and children' and would promise 'a radical overhaul of welfare' and 'suffocating taxes'. Lowe also did not mince his words over how the party would 'resist the relentless creep of radical Islam.' He said: 'That will mean banning the burqa, outlawing Sharia law, blocking cousin marriages and re-imposing Christian-based rule of law.' Restore Britain would also support a ban on halal and kosher slaughter of animals within the UK. 'This is Britain and we will do things our way,' Lowe said adamantly. Conservative former minister Sir Gavin Williamson and Susan Hall, a Tory member of the London Assembly, are both Restore Britain board members but are understood to now be stepping down following its evolution into a political party. Hundreds of young women and girls passed through the revolving doors of Jeffrey Epsteins sordid world, but very few were ever afforded the honour of calling themselves his girlfriend. There was one significant other, of course: Ghislaine Maxwell, the former British socialite, whose ten-year romance and even longer business partnership with the disgraced financier ended with her serving a 20-year prison sentence for trafficking young girls on his behalf, to be used and abused by him and his associates. Few will have heard, however, of the other woman who was a constant at his side for the last ten years of his life. Her name is Karyna Shuliak, a Belarusian-born qualified dentist, more than 35 years his junior, who very nearly became his wife. She was possibly the last person to speak to the convicted paedophile on the phone the day before he was found hanged in his prison cell in Metropolitan Correctional Centre in New York in August 2019, as he awaited trial for sex trafficking. Karyna, now 36, later reported that her lover had sounded far from suicidal. And it is this secret girlfriend who, according to newly released documents, Epstein wanted to inherit most of his vast fortune. Speaking exclusively to The Mail on Sunday, a Russian friend of Karyna insisted theirs was a tempestuous and passionate relationship, based on love. Karyna was madly in love with Epstein, she said. She was nicknamed the inspector because she was jealous and was always investigating who he was in contact with. Karyna Shuliak (left), a Belarusian-born qualified dentist, more than 35 years Jeffrey Epstein's junior, very nearly became his wife Shuliak was possibly the last person to speak to the convicted paedophile on the phone the day before he was found hanged in his prison cell in the Metropolitan Correctional Centre in New York in August 2019, as he awaited trial for sex trafficking After Epsteins death, she became very depressed, her friend says, leaving everyone worried about her and her very complicated situation. She was always next to him, the source added, but she absolutely wasnt there because of [his] money. Many friends and acquaintances turned their back on Epstein after prison, and no-one stayed with him, except Karyna who was there until the very last moment. Widespread theories continue to circulate over Epsteins death. Although an inquest ruled it was suicide, its been suggested that he was murdered to protect high-profile associates he might have named in his forthcoming trial. Whatever happened, two days before his death, aged 66, Epstein signed a will naming Karyna the prime beneficiary of his fortune. Other recipients included his brother Mark, his long-term accountant, lawyer and pilot and Maxwell whose loyalty he wanted to reward to the tune of $10million (7.3 million). But it was Karyna whom he wanted to bequeath the lions share, including his 20million Zorro Ranch in New Mexico, a 7.3million flat in central Paris, his infamous townhouse in New York, which was sold for 37.3million, and the equally disreputable 13.5million estate in Palm Beach, Florida. She was also due to inherit Epsteins two US Virgin Islands, which were sold for 44million in 2023 to be redeveloped as a resort. Epsteins estate was valued at approximately 330million at the time of his death, but recent court filings put the value at only 88million due to fees, taxes and the restitutions to dozens of his young female victims. More claims are said to be outstanding. A question mark remains over what will be left for the little-known Soviet brunette, whose loyalty and discretion Epstein valued so highly. Tantalising details of their toxic, but enduring, relationship have been revealed in the latest cache of more than three million documents published by the US Department of Justice earlier this month. Karyna, a former student at Belarus State Medical University, reportedly came to the US in 2010 when she was 20 after having struck up a flirtatious friendship with the billionaire via email. She was introduced to Epstein by an unnamed Russian woman. By then, Epstein was already a registered sex offender. He had been released from prison in 2009 after serving 13 months of an 18-month jail sentence for soliciting underage girls for prostitution and was living under house arrest in Miami throughout 2010. Yet theyd fallen for each other. The documents include emails in which the pair declare their love all while Epstein continued to assault other girls and young women behind Karynas back. Never-before-seen images of Epstein's last girlfriend, Shuliak, were revealed by the Daily Mail last week as part of the three million documents released by the Department of Justice A set of redacted photos released by the Department of Justice show Epstein and Shuliak dancing. Epstein grabs her from behind and places his hand on her left breast as they sway As they part ways, Epstein's top two shirt buttons are undone, and he is staring at the floor I love you! You are the purest of all men! she said in an email in 2012 after he gave her advice about her immigration status. The couple had various pet names for each other. Bumpy cant wait for Wowie to come back, Karyna wrote to Epstein in the same year. Epstein also called himself Vassily and Karyna Captain. In another missive, Karyna wrote Lublu Vas! a Russian phrase meaning I love you while Epstein replied I do I do I do. There were jealousies too, first and foremost over the numbers of women who flocked around Epstein, which Karyna clearly struggled with. As shown in one email in which he chides her: Your concern over women is unnecessary. It is causing much of the stress between us. 'The first day we became together I told you please, there are always women around, if they will make you jealous or anxious, it will be a problem. Clearly, Karyna and Epstein felt deeply for each other but the age difference and his obsession with other girls continued to bother her. Writing in 2012, Epstein tells her: I would greatly appreciate it if instead of counting days, hours or minutes together, we concentrated on making the time we spend, less stressful, more fun. Curiously, Epstein a man who once boasted that he needed three orgasms a day found himself in his girlfriends bad books in 2013 following a week-long sex drought. For the whole week we didnt have sex, Karyna complained, to which Epstein hit back: Not enough kisses, not enough time, not enough sex, why this, why that, did you, why did you. Jealous tantrums aside, however, being Epsteins girlfriend came with huge advantages: he was instrumental in securing her permanent residency in the US. Based on the documents, in 2013 Epstein encouraged Karyna to enter into a sham marriage with a woman in his orbit, a US citizen called Jennifer Kalin, to qualify for a much-coveted Green Card. To aid the process, Epstein hired New York immigration lawyer Arda Beskardes who also managed to get her full US citizenship five years later, the documents show. Epstein hired Arda Beskardes, a New Yorkbased immigration lawyer, to help Shuliak obtain first her Green Card and then US citizenship Now shes an American, you should throw her a party with a mechanical bull, red, white and blue balloons and deep-fried Snickers bars on flag toothpicks, the lawyer wrote to her client, after the paperwork was rubber-stamped. Epsteins generosity also extended to helping Karyna continue her dental training at Teachers College, part of New Yorks Columbia University, and to obtain a US licence to practice dentistry, after which she began referring to herself as Dr Shuliak. Karyna had initially been denied entrance to its dental school but it reversed its decision after Epstein made a $100,000 (74,000) donation to the Dean and floated a bigger donation of $5million. Last week, Columbia University said a student Karyna was not named in the statement had been admitted via an irregular process that didnt meet Columbias standards for integrity and independence. Karynas parents, Fyodor and Tatyana, back home in Minsk, where Karyna was born, also benefited from their daughters relationship. Today, they live in an upscale apartment worth 370,000 (about 30 times the average salary) in an exclusive neighbourhood with BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches parked nearby. Sources say their quality of life markedly improved after Karyna met Epstein. The latest tranche of files released in the US show evidence of wire transfers to the couple totalling $80,000 (60,000). Epstein also paid for Tatyanas breast cancer surgery at the world-renowned Mount Sinai hospital in New York in 2013 and for all follow-up hospital checks, said the source. She made several trips. He crippled many lives, but he saved hers, and I appreciate him for that. She wouldnt have survived otherwise. Karynas father, meanwhile, was said to be enamoured of his daughters powerful boyfriend and hoped to enter into property deals with the businessman in Belarus. Plans were made for Epstein to visit the family. However, he never made the trip. When approached by the MoS at their apartment, Tatyana did not want to speak about her daughters relationship. So what? was all she had to say. For all her humble beginnings, Karyna developed expensive tastes while living in the US, the documents show. Your browser does not support iframes. Credit card bills from 2017 show she enjoyed shopping sprees in New York, once spending $13,539 (9,900) in the upmarket Bloomingdales department store. Money was also splashed out on restaurants and cafes and bed linen from high-end shops like Pratesi. A small fortune went on food delivery: a single takeaway order from upscale Chinese restaurant Philippe Chow cost $874 (620). Another $880 (644) was marked for personal beauty products. She tried to make herself invaluable to her Svengali-like lover by involving herself in the maintenance of his properties a role once assigned to her predecessor Ghislaine Maxwell and supervised the purchase of rugs, curtains, furniture and artwork. She also oversaw the purchase of staff uniforms for all Epsteins properties, sending multiple emails on Epsteins behalf to a supplier about the location and size of the Epstein logo on the clothing. As well as travelling with Epstein to his many homes, on one occasion she took business-class flights to Tokyo and Kyoto for herself and a friend, largely at Epsteins expense, and also travelled to London with her then wife (they officially divorced in 2019). In April 2016, she was in email contact with David Stern, an intermediary for Epstein and an adviser to the former Prince Andrew and a director of Andrews Pitch@Palace business initiative. He was more than happy to help Karyna and her friend with some sightseeing during their trip to London. Jeffrey told me you were coming to London, he says in an email. Let me know what you are up to and if there is anything I can help? Do you want to go to the Changing of the Guards? Karyna responds that she would be delighted and is advised that she and her companion must bring photo ID and dress formally, suggesting they would be allocated VIP spots for the ceremony. She comes across as being rather bossy with the other young women and girls in Epsteins world; in one email exchange, as they prepared to fly to Epsteins island, she berates them for forgetting to pack his favourite muffins. In 2014, he rebuked Karyna for not balancing her college studies with her personal obligations, scolding her: You are in dental school, not the front lines in a war where people are dying. The telling-off clearly stung: You have absolutely ruined me today, each minute I am struggling to not cry, she wrote. However, there were happy times. Photographs and videos from the files show Karyna laughing as she dances with Epstein on his private jet dubbed the Lolita Express and in his townhouse. Photos show Shuliak on what appears to be Epstein's plane, nicknamed the 'Lolita Express.' Flight logs show she travelled regularly with him It also hints at some of the deeper, darker secrets she may still hold for her ex-lover. One explosive email has emerged, allegedly sent by Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York, in 2011, in which she references Epstein having had a son. At this stage, Epstein appeared to be severing his ties with Ferguson, to whom he gave many generous cash gifts over the years while she seemed to be trying to wheedle her way back into his affections. Heard from the Duke that you have had a baby boy, she wrote. Even though you never kept in touch, I am still here with love, friendship and congratulations on your baby boy. Sarah xxx. Karyna is not named in relation to the child who, if he exists, would be a teenager today. Epsteins brother Mark also denies the existence of any secret offspring. Karynas world came screeching to a halt on July 6, 2019. She was said to have flown with Epstein, aboard his private jet, as they returned from Paris to Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, when FBI agents and New York police officers arrested him. A month later, he was dead. Nearly seven years on, it remains unclear just how much of Epsteins estate is left for his ex-girlfriend to inherit if anything. Karyna is rarely seen in public these days but is said to still live in a New York apartment building owned by Epsteins brother Mark. She did not respond when the MoS approached her for comment. Her Russian friend said: She lives in the past and hopes for his will. She has enough for now to cover her living expenses... but I dont know how long it will last. Ministers are under pressure to publish an internal Government investigation into the lavish New York lifestyle enjoyed at taxpayers' expense by the frontrunner to be the new Cabinet Secretary. Dame Antonia Romeo, 51, is strongly tipped to become the first female head of the civil service after Sir Keir Starmer forced out Sir Chris Wormald as part of his last-ditch attempt to 'reset' No 10 amid turmoil over the Peter Mandelson scandal. But, as The Mail on Sunday revealed in 2020, Dame Antonia, the Home Office Permanent Secretary, was investigated over a flood of allegations relating to her time as Britain's consul-general in New York three years earlier. It is alleged she 'terrorised' staff who criticised her extravagant lifestyle and reportedly lavish spending. Her expenses reportedly included more than 120,000 in fees for her three children to attend an upmarket New York school and business class flights including a last-minute trip to London in February 2017 so Dame Antonia could attend the Bafta awards. Plus she hosted a series of glitzy parties for celebrity figures including Anna Wintour, Joanna Lumley and the now disgraced mogul Harvey Weinstein. A Cabinet Office spokesman said: 'The complaint was thoroughly investigated and all the allegations were dismissed on the basis there was no case to answer.' Her allies insist the spending was part of her job to promote the UK, but some senior diplomats dubbed it a 'whitewash'. Dame Antonia Romeo, 51, is strongly tipped to become the first female head of the civil service Pictured: Dame Antonia Romeo with former Vogue editor Anna Wintour Pictured: Dame Antonia Romeo posing with Harvey Weinstein Last week, her former permanent secretary at the Foreign Office, Simon McDonald, said there should be 'more due diligence' over the appointment. Now the Tories have asked Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper to publish the findings of the expenses investigation. The party's Cabinet Office spokesman Alex Burghart said: 'The Government has forced out the man in charge of the investigation into Mandelson and who the Prime Minister promised was making sure there was no "cover up". Given the way Sir Chris has been forced from office we expect there to be proper due diligence in appointing a new Cabinet Secretary. After this Government's recent scandals, the public deserve complete transparency and honesty.' Traditionalists have also objected to her social media content as permanent secretary, with one insider saying: 'She goes to parties and looks like she's enjoying herself, in contrast with the vast majority of permanent secretaries.' In June 2017 Dame Antonia played host to high-profile celebrities on the rooftop of the British residence in Manhattan in honour of then Vogue editor Anna Wintour. She was pictured smiling with designers Calvin Klein and Michael Kors and Weinstein just four months before sexual abuse allegations came to light. Other soirees include a 'girls' lunch' for former chancellor George Osborne's then wife Frances and Vanity Fair's former editor Tina Brown, and a reception to mark the centenary of British Vogue with then newlyweds model Jerry Hall and media tycoon Rupert Murdoch and model Alexa Chung. The family of a 17-year-old girl who was killed in a three-vehicle collision have paid tribute to the teenager as her brother described her as a 'best friend'. Demi Edmunds was the only pedestrian in a crash on the A4042 in Cwmbran at around 12.25pm on Thursday. Gwent Police and the Welsh Ambulance Service attended the scene following a collision involving three cars. However, the teen from Caldicot, a town also in Monmouthshire, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family have described the 'kind and caring' 17-year-old as 'once met, never forgotten in a heartfelt tribute. Her brother Jake said the youngster was 'the best sister [he could've asked for,' adding how Demi was 'funny, kind and caring. 'Me and her were very close, she was like a best friend to me that I could trust with anything and everything, but she's no longer with us anymore,' he said. 'Hopefully she's in heaven somewhere better.' Demi Edmunds (pictured) was the only pedestrian in a crash on the A4042 in Cwmbran at around 12.25pm on Thursday. The teen was pronounced dead at the scene Her family have described the 'kind and caring' 17-year-old as 'once met, never forgotten in a heartfelt tribute Demi's wider family said in a joint statement that the teenager 'loved her friends, and was loved by all'. 'Demi was a beloved daughter, granddaughter, sister, cousin and niece,' they added. Meanwhile, those from the wider community paid tributes to 'gorgeous angel' Demi following her death. 'So sad,' one wrote. 'Fly high beautiful girl.' 'I still cant believe it. another added. 'God, did we have the best times in town... we all miss you Demi. Wish you were still here. Rest now angel' The teenager's relatives have requested privacy at this time to allow them to grieve, Gwent Police said. The force has urged anyone with information, including CCTV or dashcam footage to contact them by calling 101, visiting their website or on their Facebook or X pages. Anyone getting in contact via the various streams available should quote log reference 2600046163. It has all the ingredients for a prime-time TV cop drama: sex romps, betrayal and alleged police cover-ups. For one of Britain's sleepiest police forces is at the centre of a real life thriller and the lurid tale's twists and turns are set to be played out in court. The case centres on a former detective, Andrew Fearon, who is suing North Wales Police after claiming he caught his fiancee Rebecca Hutt, an officer on the same force, cheating on him with a colleague. Four months before their wedding, Mr Fearon made a formal complaint against Ms Hutt for gross misconduct because the illicit relationship was being conducted on police premises. He also claimed she was guilty of coercive control, domestic violence and fraud. Although an investigation into Ms Hutt was launched, Mr Fearon says it was 'corrupt' and quietly shelved because astonishingly the senior officer investigating, Detective Superintendent Steve Williams, was, so Mr Fearon alleges, also in a sexual relationship with her at the time. To add insult to injury, Mr Williams later married her. Nine years on, Mr Fearon is taking legal action against the force. He claims he faced financial ruin and 'psychiatric injury' as a result of the ordeal and says there has been no justice. Andrew Fearon (pictured) is suing North Wales Police after claiming he caught his fiancee Rebecca Hutt, an officer on the same force, cheating on him with a colleague Pictured: Shaun Parry is alleged to have had an affair with his colleague Ms Hutt - they were both detective constables at the time Steve Williams (right) was originally brought in to investigate the claims of gross misconduct but later married Rebecca Hutt (left) The details of the extraordinary case have emerged from documents lodged at the High Court in Liverpool and have been seen by The Mail on Sunday. The documents claim that in the summer of 2017, Mr Fearon and Ms Hutt were both detective constables with North Wales Police when Ms Hutt revealed she was having an affair with a colleague, Detective Constable Shaun Parry. They allegedly conducted their relationship at the St Asaph police station in Denbighshire, where they were both based, while Mr Fearon was stationed at Menai Bridge 40 miles away. Court papers describe Mr Parry as a 'known sexual predator' and reveal Mr Fearon requested a misconduct investigation take place. It is claimed officers 'conspired' to simply move Mr Parry to a nearby station rather than disciplining him. The court documents obtained by The Mail on Sunday say: 'They [Parry and Hutt] conducted an intimate relationship on the premises. Instead of being properly addressed as a disciplinary matter, Parry was relocated from St Asaph to Wrexham. 'Parry was a known sexual predator, and the defendant's officers conspired to ensure that he was not disciplined for his sexual activity with RH [Hutt].' Mr Fearon, who took four months off work due to stress, asked his force to investigate his separate allegations against Ms Hutt for coercive control, domestic violence and fraud and, in November 2017, Mr Williams was brought on to investigate the claims. One of Britain's sleepiest police forces is at the centre of a real life thriller and the lurid tale's twists and turns are set to be played out in court Mr Williams concluded that no further action should be taken against Ms Hutt and she was allowed to remain in her post. But now it is claimed that while investigating Ms Hutt, Mr Williams was in a serious sexual relationship with her. The court papers allege: 'Det Supt Williams had used his rank to influence the outcome of the investigation in favour of Ms Hutt.' Mr Fearon was left furious when he discovered the truth and told a colleague he wanted to arrest Mr Williams for gross misconduct. But he claims that his work fob, which allowed him access to all North Wales Police premises, was deactivated that evening onwards effectively barring him from work. He requested an external force investigate the case, but this was also denied and he subsequently resigned. Mr Williams married Ms Hutt in 2022 and has now retired. She is still a serving officer. Mr Parry, meanwhile, was dismissed without notice in 2019 over separate allegations of 'inappropriate behaviour' with another female colleague. Mr Fearon is suing North Wales Police for 200,000 in damages for personal injury, as well as 144,000 more for loss of earnings. The documents allege that the 'corruption' he endured 'has had a significant detrimental effect on my physical and mental health'. The case is due to be heard in a Liverpool court in July. Solicitor David Miers, representing Mr Fearon, said: 'Mr Fearon's case centres on North Wales Police's failure to undertake an impartial investigation in light of the alleged offences and the relationships Ms Hutt was having with other officers. 'The failure to do that left Mr Fearon feeling isolated and unsupported, which ultimately resulted in a very serious psychiatric injury.' Mr Williams, speaking from his home in Colwyn Bay he shares with Ms Hutt, insisted he was not having a relationship with her at the time he was investigating Mr Fearon's allegations. Mr Williams told The Mail on Sunday: 'I strenuously deny these claims, which are malicious, without substance, and a continuum of harassment.' Mr Parry, who also lives in Colwyn Bay, said: 'I have no comment about that man [Mr Fearon] and the case. 'I have moved on with my life and have no interest whatsoever.' North Wales Police said: 'As the matters referred to are currently subject to active legal proceedings, with a trial scheduled to take place in July, it would be inappropriate for us to comment at this time.' Ms Hutt declined to comment. The BBC suppressed a Newsnight investigation into Peter Mandelsons alleged links to Moscow after the former Cabinet Minister placed pressure on the corporation, the journalist working on the story has claimed. The 2017 report by veteran reporter John Sweeney was billed in the programme notes as an examination of Lord Mandelsons lucrative relationship with a Russian conglomerate that has had its brushes with organised crime. The investigation into Sistema, a Russian conglomerate with its headquarters in Moscow which Mandelson had left in 2016 after a four-year term as non-executive director included a picture of Arnold Spivakovsky, who held senior positions in the company despite his links to the Solntsevskaya crime gang. Sweeney also questioned whether Mandelson, in his role on Sistemas audit and risk committee, should have examined a billion-pound deal made before he joined the company. Mandelson denied any wrongdoing and emphasised that the deal had been done before he arrived at the company, which he made clear in emails to the programmes then-editor Ian Katz. He severed links with Sistema in 2016. The claims come amid mounting questions about Mandelsons links to Vladimir Putins regime. Sweeney told The Mail on Sunday that powerful forces had worked against him, saying: We worked for months on the story. 'It was cleared by an in-house lawyer and the head of BBC Legal, and given the green light at the 9am Newsnight meeting. The BBC suppressed a Newsnight investigation into Peter Mandelsons alleged links to Moscow after the former Cabinet Minister placed pressure on the corporation, the journalist working on the story has claimed. Pictured: Mandelson leaving his house on February 14, 2026 The 2017 report by veteran reporter John Sweeney (pictured) - which never aired - was billed in the programme notes as an examination of Lord Mandelsons lucrative relationship with a Russian conglomerate that has had its brushes with organised crime Peter Mandelson (second from left) at The Hague in the Netherlands with world leaders including Vladimir Putin in November 2024 EU told to investigate Last night the calls for investigating Peter Mandelsons behaviour at the EU grew louder. Downing Street and Labour MPs piled on the pressure for Brussels to investigate. A Downing Street source told the MoS: This is a story about how one persons treachery has rapidly helped him achieve the status of Britains most hated man. Peter Mandelsons behaviour shows a pattern the EU must investigate at once. And Labour MP Karl Turner said: The Prime Minister should be pushing for an inquiry, and fast. The pressure is now on Sir Keir Starmer to get to the bottom of the Mandelson affair once and for all. Advertisement But later that day the then Head of News, James Harding, called editor Ian Katz, producer Innes Bowen and me into his office and told us that the story would not be running that day: It needed more work done. No one ever said: We are killing this story. But they never found time to run it. We were got at. I felt like we were treading on a step that wasnt there. It is hard for me to prove this but I felt powerful forces moving above our heads, blocking the story. Eventually, the Russian gangster died of a heart attack. After I left the BBC, I wrote a letter to Ofcom complaining about this story not being run. Ofcom did nothing about it. Sistema was sanctioned by the US government in 2023 following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Spivakovsky was arrested in 2017 and died two years later, aged 51, in murky circumstances. The Daily Mail revealed yesterday that Mandelson took ghost flights on a Russian oligarchs private jet to a summit with Putin when he was EU trade commissioner. The peer accepted luxury flights aboard a Gulfstream jet controlled by one of Putins favourite tycoons, aluminium billionaire Oleg Deripaska, before the EU slashed aluminium tariffs. It helped Mr Deripaska to become one of the worlds richest men. Earlier this month, the MoS revealed that MI6 was told Mandelson could be a risk to British security because of his connections with Russian intelligence, and that senior security officials believed his friend Jeffrey Epstein was running a vast honeytrap operation on behalf of the KGB. The Mail this week revealed that when Peter Mandelson was EU trade commissioner, he took two freebie 'ghost flights' on Russian tycoon Oleg Deripaska's (right) executive jet to get to a trade summit where he met Vladimir Putin (left). Pictured: Putin and Deripaska in 2008 The Gulfstream IV executive jet that Peter Mandelson flew to the Netherlands on in 2004 Brussels intelligence sources said EU security services warned their British equivalents in 2008 that Moscow was targeting Mandelson through his relationship with Mr Deripaska, and had been tracking his relationship with Epstein since 2006. As a result of the tip-off, Mandelson is understood to have been interviewed by British security officials. In the script for the unbroadcast Newsnight programme, Mandelson says the deal was undertaken before I took up my duties as director. He adds: Why should I have looked at it closely? My first board and committee meetings were not until the end of August 2013. I am not telepathic and in any case it would be odd for me to raise an issue about a transaction that, as far as I know, was straightforward and occurred before I joined the board. A spokesman for the BBC said: Not all investigations make it to broadcast and many are years in the making. A BBC source added: Having a legal view on a story is not the same as it being ready for broadcast/publication. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor leaked sensitive information about the taxpayer-owned Royal Bank of Scotland to Jeffrey Epstein when he was supposed to be representing the UK as a trade envoy, The Mail on Sunday can reveal. The disgraced former duke passed on details he learned from meetings with bank executives in the wake of its 45billion state bailout, documents released by the US Department of Justice show. Shockingly, Andrew revealed information about RBS shake-up plans and, without foundation, alleged that experts overseeing the bank were privately critical of its chief executive. He also passed on information about Aston Martin, including claims of internal tensions amid a slump in sales. Our revelations will fuel calls for Thames Valley Police to open an investigation into allegations that Andrew leaked confidential reports to Epstein while trade envoy, a taxpayer-funded post he held from 2001 to 2011. Former business secretary Vince Cable last night accused Andrew of dreadful, cynical behaviour adding that the police and Director of Public Prosecutions will have to judge whether criminal misconduct had taken place. City expert Ian Fraser, whose book Shredded detailed the near-collapse of RBS, said last night: Why the hell did Andrew consider it appropriate to glean potentially market-sensitive information about the state-rescued bank RBS from private meetings and then leak this to contacts he clearly wished to impress? Among the three million documents in the Epstein Files is an email exchange from July 2010 between Andrew and Terence Allen, an investment banker in the United Arab Emirates. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor passed on details he learned from meetings with bank executives in the wake of its 45billion state bailout, documents released by the US Department of Justice show Shockingly, Andrew revealed information about RBS shake-up plans and, without foundation, alleged that experts overseeing the bank were privately critical of its chief executive (file image) Mr Allen said there was clearly a bunch of assets for sale at RBS, adding: We are looking at some of their distressed real estate for our clients. His message came as RBS bosses were engaged in a huge fire sale after it was rescued by the Government in 2008. Replying to Mr Allen, Andrew said he had been told by an RBS executive that RBS-owned private bank Drummonds would be reviewed and become more integrated with Royal bankers Coutts. Andrew also revealed that chief executive Sir Stephen Hester was not thinking of selling a stake in RBSs subsidiary brands because he had more important things to worry about. The former duke forwarded his emails to his adviser David Stern, a German-born businessman, who in turn sent them on to Epstein. Mr Fraser said this information could have been very useful to potential investors Andrew also suggested that UK Financial Investments, the organisation overseeing RBS, was privately critical of the way the bank was being run, saying Sir Stephen isnt all that well thought of. Mr Fraser said Andrews comments were shocking and disgraceful as Sir Stephen is widely credited with stabilising RBS (now NatWest) when he took over in 2009. Andrews memo to Mr Allen, again forwarded by Mr Stern to Epstein, also claimed Andrew had been kept in the picture about Aston Martin, claiming there were conflicts between internal parties and tensions between management and its Kuwaiti owners. The car maker last night said it had no evidence in its records of Andrew having had any direct contact with its executives. NatWest Group declined to comment. Police chiefs and ministers last night faced a clamour of demands for a full investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's role as UK trade envoy after a raft of damning revelations by The Mail on Sunday. A dossier of evidence compiled by this newspaper lays bare the extraordinary extent to which Andrew exploited his taxpayer-funded position at the behest of Jeffrey Epstein in a bid to boost the paedophile's business interests. Included in the vast Epstein Files are emails exposing how Andrew allowed the convicted sex offender to organise meetings for him during an official trade mission to China. New photographs hidden in the documents show Andrew socialising with a glamorous Chinese model at a secret dinner in Beijing during a ten-day official trip where he was supposed to be representing the UK. Before the 2010 dinner, Andrew's adviser, businessman David Stern, described the woman in offensive terms, one email reveals. As pressure mounts on police and the Government to investigate the former Duke of York, our investigation reveals how: Andrew leaked sensitive information about Royal Bank of Scotland in the aftermath of its 45 billion taxpayer-funded bailout; A senior palace aide leaked an official diplomatic cable about UK-China trade relations to a banker who was Andrew's friend and business associate; Epstein boasted of getting intelligence from Andrew, former Cabinet Minister Lord Mandelson and a mysterious 'third man', declaring: 'I've got the UK sewn up'; After Andrew's 2010 trade mission, Mr Stern plotted with Epstein to do 'discreet' deals with the Chinese government. Pictured: Andrew enjoying a ride on a bamboo river raft while in China in a photo released in the Epstein Files Pictured: Emails between Andrew's advisor - businessman David Stern - and the former Duke The bombshell findings heap pressure on the Government to release documents from Andrew's time as trade envoy and have sparked fresh calls for the police to investigate whether Andrew abused his position in public office by giving Epstein access to confidential information. Thames Valley Police is already assessing allegations that Andrew shared such material with Epstein, but has not yet launched a criminal investigation. Former Business Secretary Vince Cable told the MoS: 'Of course there should be an inquiry it's disgraceful behaviour. The main issue is whether this is a police matter and it is for them and the director of public prosecutions to decide. But undoubtedly this is very, very bad behaviour.' Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said: 'Andrew has sold our country down the river every chance he gets. It's high time spineless Keir Starmer actually does something and investigates the full extent of the damage he's done to Britain's security.' A Labour aide said: 'Andrew's behaviour as trade envoy is a complete betrayal. He has dragged Britain's name through the mud. There needs to be an investigation to find out the full extent of damage he has caused. The Prime Minister should get on the front foot and give him both barrels.' Royal author Andrew Lownie added: 'It really is time that there was a parliamentary inquiry into the former Prince Andrew's time as a trade envoy and how he personally enriched himself and his business cronies.' Prince Andrew's high-profile public role as roving trade ambassador between 2001 and 2011 was designed to promote British business and attract investment on taxpayer-funded trips overseas. They were meant to be organised by the Government, but in an apparent breach of protocol, emails reveal that Mr Stern, a London-based German businessman who was an adviser to both Andrew and Epstein, was asked to 'help' plan a September 2010 official visit to China. He then told Epstein he would insert meetings with organisations that had been quietly requested by the paedophile. Writing to Epstein just over a year after the financier was released from jail following his conviction for procuring a child for prostitution, Mr Stern said: 'Based on your request I will NOT suggest industry ministries' instead focussing on 'financial/asset management'. Three days before the trade mission started, Mr Stern emailed Epstein a photograph of Miya Muqi, a 23-year-old Chinese model. During the trip, Mr Stern sent photos to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, showing Ms Muqi (pictured) at a dinner with Andrew During the trip, Mr Stern also sent photos to Epstein of Andrew sat next to an unknown woman at the same dinner attended by Ms Muqi Another email shows Epstein arranged for Andrew to have dinner at the five-star St Regis hotel in Beijing with Jes Staley, a senior JP Morgan banker whose role as the paedophile's personal banker was later exposed. Having fixed the dinner with Mr Staley, Epstein then instructed Mr Stern: 'Confirm with Andrew.' Emails seen by this newspaper reveal that Andrew insisted that the first four days of his visit should be 'private'. During the trip Mr Stern emailed Epstein what appear to be discreetly-taken photographs of Andrew meeting multiple young women. There is no suggestion that any were victims of Epstein or of Andrew himself. The photos also show a seemingly unaware Andrew enjoying a ride on a bamboo river raft. Three days before the trade mission started, Mr Stern emailed Epstein a photograph of Miya Muqi, a 23-year-old Chinese model, and said: 'We have dinner in Beijing on Sunday night with this P'. The letter P is repeatedly used by Mr Stern in emails to Epstein as code for a vile and disparaging term for young women. During the trip, Mr Stern sent photos to Epstein, showing Ms Muqi at the dinner along with at least one other young woman who sat next to Andrew. Ms Muqi, who later became an actress and yoga teacher, did not respond to the MoS's request for comment. This newspaper can reveal that the dinner party guests also included billionaire Chinese media mogul Bruno Wu. A month after the dinner, emails show Mr Stern told Epstein they needed to discuss 'if we can do wealth management for Chinese', adding that he wanted to 'partner with Bruno Wu and involve [Prince Andrew]'. Mr Stern emailed Epstein a photograph of Miya Muqi, (pictured) a 23-year-old Chinese model, and said: 'We have dinner in Beijing on Sunday night with this P'. The letter P is repeatedly used by Mr Stern in emails to Epstein as code for a vile and disparaging term for young women Later in the year Mr Stern told Epstein about a potential $1 million investment with Mr Wu, saying: 'Since it involves [Prince Andrew] maybe you want to have a look.' Mr Stern said the deal involved '3 luxury brands and 3 clubs'. There is no evidence any deal went ahead. The MoS has approached Mr Wu for comment. In October 2010, Mr Stern told Epstein that he was planning potential business deals thanks to Andrew's trip. 'Since China trip in September I started to follow up on meetings we had to develop/attract deals. Is this right?,' he said. And in an email to Epstein the following summer, Mr Stern proposed setting up a 'discreet' investment firm to target 'state owned enterprises and private wealth,' adding: 'This is the route to managing Chinese private wealth.' He said the proposed firm could be small but 'must feel, smell and in fact be big money and power including access to power globally see PA [Prince Andrew].' The revelations came as it was claimed that Epstein boasted about the sensitive information he was getting from his Establishment sources in Britain. An adviser to a Middle Eastern government, who repeatedly met Epstein, said the paedophile bragged about getting information from Andrew, Peter Mandelson and a 'third man' from inside 10 Downing Street and declared: 'I've got the UK sewn up'. Thames Valley Police Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: 'We continue to assess all relevant information and have no further comment at this time.' Andrew did not respond to the MoS's request for comment. China talks cable sent to ex-Duke's associate By Mark Hookham One of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's most senior aides leaked a 'sensitive' diplomatic telegram about China to the former duke's business associate. Amanda Thirsk forwarded banker Jonathan Rowland a Foreign Office cable that included details of talks between the then prince and leading Chinese politicians. The cable was marked 'sensitive' and meant for Government officials. An investigation by The Mail on Sunday in 2019 revealed Mr Rowland, whose father David is pictured right with Andrew, was with him on a taxpayer-funded mission to China in 2010 and used his access to try to land clients for his family Banque Havilland. Leaked documents reveal how after the three-day visit, Ms Thirsk, then Andrew's deputy private secretary, forwarded Mr Rowland a cable written by Sebastian Wood, the UK's ambassador to China. Mr Wood had sent the telegram almost a month earlier to London via the Foreign Office's secure system. The cable detailed face-to-face talks during the trade visit with Wang Qishan, China's vice premier, and Chen Deming, the commerce minister. Asked if it was appropriate for Ms Thirsk to send him the cable, Mr Rowland said last night: 'That's a question for her.' She was contacted for comment. Andrew also allegedly forwarded a confidential Treasury briefing to Mr Rowland, who has 'no recollection of it'. Labour should not allow local elections to be delayed in May, the head of the electoral watchdog has warned. In a striking intervention, Vijay Rangarajan, the chief executive of the Electoral Commission, said ministers do not have 'sufficient reason' to stop millions of voters from taking part in the forthcoming local elections. Criticising the Government's decision to allow 30 local authorities to postpone their council elections in what has been seen as an attempt to prevent catastrophe for Labour at the polls, he said voters should decide when councillors faced votes, not the other way round. He added: '[There is] this conflict of interest where you're asking people to decide how long it is before they face voters.' Ministers had given 63 local authorities with elections scheduled for this year the option to delay them, arguing councils cannot afford to hold elections and prepare for local government reorganisation at the same time. But Mr Rangarajan said 'capacity constraint' was not a 'sufficient reason' for a delay. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has accused Labour of behaving 'like dictators' over the election delays, which will be challenged by Reform in the High Court this week. Vijay Rangarajan (pictured), the chief executive of the Electoral Commission, said voters should decide when councillors faced votes, not the other way round Mr Rangarajan also raised concerns over five councils which postponed their elections last year and are set to delay them again, meaning councillors will now serve for seven years after being first elected in 2021. It will affect a potential 3.5 million voters, including in areas where Reform was likely to do well. A string of councillors in Norfolk, one of the five areas, have already stepped down in protest. And some voters have withheld council tax payments, arguing there should be no taxation without the chance to elect representatives. I read Cp.4-Cp.6 of the book Dragon Seed, written by Pearl S.Buck. A) (1) Cp.4 It was the day like any other. The day was clear. So Ling Tan went out to his work and his sons went with him. He pushed the plow from the back and his third son pulled the unwilling beast from the front. He saw in every field men like himself and his sons. It was at mid-morning that he heard the noise of flying ships. Ling Tan and his neighbors watched these silver birds high in the sky and small. And then they saw a silver fragment come out of one and drift down while the ships went on. And it fell into a field of rice. And this they all see, still without any fear or knowledge. They run toward the field to look for the thing that had fallen. They could not find it, and there was the hole. Now what? Ling Tan called, but no one answered, for noon knew. Eight fires over the city wall they counted. Every man went back to his work with wonder in his heart. And they went home. In the night,Ling Tan heard the dog growled. And by the time the whole house was roused. They all went to the gate together. Then they heard a voice speaking, it was a womans voice. Ling Sao ran forward and pulled at the gate. It is our eldest daughter, she cried. She threw open the gate. There stood the eldest daughter and Wu Lien, each with a child, and there was old Wu Sao. The eldest daughter broke out into loud crying. We are all but died, she sobbed. The two servants and clerks lie buried in the ruins. The shop is half gone. Bandits, Ling Tan thought. Why were the city gates not locked? he asked. The city was bombedhave you heard nothing? Wu Lien asked. Bombed? Ling Tan repeated. The word was one he had never heard. To herself Ling Sao said that it must be more mischief from these students who had first ruined Wu Liens shop. But Jade knew better. It means our land lost and our cities taken, Jade said. Why have we not guns and flying ships and battlements? ...Now it happened that next time the flying ships came back Ling Tan himself was in the city. Ling Tan that morning had told his sons to work without him because he was going to the city to see what was to be seen. He went alone, but when he had left his house, he saw his youngest son. Father, let me come with you, the lad panted. They entered at the south city gate. It was an old city where rulers lived. Common fellows could now buy self-burning lights to hold in their hands at night instead of candles. Such things kept the people merry. And all knew these good things came from across the sea, and so the people admired those foreigners. But this was before the flying ships came over the city. Today Ling Tan heard men say sullenly on the street and in a tea shop. The waiter burst into loud weeping. I have a little house against a rich mans house, he said, and his house and mine are gone, and I do not know who is dead in his house but all in mine are gone.... Then Ling Tan and his son went toward that street to see for themselves. He stood gazing, for the street was full of bricks and mortar and beams and dust. As he watched a great wail went up from a woman who saw her husbands foot show out. Then Ling Tan led his son away to the tea shop again. There came into the tea shop a young man, he climbed on a bench. You who love our country, he said, The war was begun. We must be prepared for it. The enemy is succeeding at first but they shall not succeed at last. Fight! Now when Ling Tans son heard these brave words he cried out, Good! and so did other young men. But Ling Tan looked at his empty hands. How shall I fight? he cried out. And suddenly out of the east there came the sound. The ships the flying ships- men gasped . For now they heard great thunders of noise and having seen the thing that burst. Came, Ling Tan cried to his son, let us get to our home. It was evening when they reached the village and men called to Ling Tan to know what he had seen. Then an old man spoke: There are those who say the foreigners are good, but I say this evil that has come upon us from them. In Ling Tans house that night, he said aloud, Today I saw with my own eyes what you, Wu Lien, told us about before . We have nothing but our bare fresh flesh against these foreign weapons . We can only bear what is come and live on if we can, and die if it is must. I said the second son, I will escape it. This Ling Tan heard and he said: If I were a man with no land, I would go also . I think it well that you go. If all who stay here die, then there will be you to carry on our name somewhere else. The next day the flying ships came back again, and everyday they came back and the city was scourged by death and by fire . (2) Cp.5 When all could see that now death was to come every day,then those who lived inside the city walls went out the city. Never had Ling Tan seen such piteous sights as he now saw. And the stream of from the city was joined by a greater stream from the east. For as the enemy toward the east took the land foot by foot. Ling Tan let his house be open to these people. But none of these people thought his house was far enough from the enemy, as they gained the land foot by foot. Now there was the chance for Lao Er to go. One day there came a party of forty young men and women, and Jade liked them. We are students, they told her, and our eyes are on the mountain a thousand miles from here where our teachers are gone already. This pleased Ling Tan very much. When he heard that the enemy envied his nation and land, he understood at once the whole war and its cause. Land he said, land is the bottom of what men want, for from land come food and shelter. Jude sat on the beds edge waiting for Lao Er. Are we to go? she asked. Yes, he said. And he rose and they went out and bowed to his father together and to the elder brother and they called farewell to all others. But the mother they could not find anywhere. Send me a word somehow when the child is born. Ling Tan said. And he let them go. When he come in, he saw there sat his wife. Where were you? he cried. I would not come to see him go, she said. Day after day the flying ships came over, and they grew used to them. For mile by mile the enemy armies drew closer and city after city fell in their grasp. And at last the armies of enemy were winning the victory. The rice was harvested. Ling Tan had to go to the city to sell some of his harvest. It was a sad day. Since he had seen it last the ruins in the city. Ling Tan went to the great rice markets. Any news he heard was not good, and the worst of all was that the white foreigners were leaving the city. They will not all go, Wu Lien said that night when he told him. They catch news from the air. I had them in my shop. I have it in my mind that once the city falls, at least there will not be these flying ships, and I can go back and begin my shop again. On the tenth day of the tenth month they took a rest, for it was a feast day, and to the Ling village came only two young men. You men of the village, they said, The enemy approaches . Do not expect peace. They will rule over you and make you slave and they have violated many women. Soldiers always do these things, Ling Tan called out. The students looked at each other, one asked the other. They do not know what it is to love their country. If they can eat and sleep it is enough for them and they do not care who rules the . We have not been so well served by our own rulers. They have taxed us and eaten our flesh, too, Ling Tan shouted. Ling Tan thought a good deal of what the young man had accused him that he did not love the his country. Do I not love this earth? he thought. And is this earth not my country? The young have left the land , but I love my country too well to leave it. Ling Tan thought to himself. It is better to live than to die, and peace is better than war. (3)Cp. 6 Early in the eleventh month the enemy was near the city. On the seventh day of that month the last of rulers went away. The people groaned when they heard of it. Ling Tan armed himself with an old broad- sword. If I could roll up the land and take it with me, he told his wife, then I could go. I will stay here. Ling Tan called the villagers together in a tea house. Then the ninety- year-old said out of his wisdom, Let us do as we would do to any new gentry coming to our village. Ought we not to discover something? Ling Tans third cousins son asked. How can we? Ling Tan asked. Are you brave enough to go to the city and see what there is? I will go, the young man said. Ling Tan went on to his cousins house, his third cousin said, It says here the enemy have sent down writings from their flying ships telling us all not to be afraid, because they bring only piece and order. If it is true then they are good. Ling Tan replied. I will go home, but if your son comes back let me know, he told his cousin. It was twilight when Ling Tan next looked out of his gate. He heard a moan. He threw the gate open and there on the ground lay his third cousins son. He ran down the shadowy street to his third cousins house. He called, your son has come back wounded, he fell at our gate. And they all ran down the street together. There the young mans impudent face lay, pale and quiet in the flickering lamplight. Ling Tan said: We ought to lift him to his bed and call a doctor. Ling Tan said: We ought to lift him to his bed and call a doctor. They carried the young man home and laid him on his bed. The young man woke from his faint. Oh, my son, tell us how you were wounded! his mother cried. And what they heard was this, that he had been caught with others and stood against a wall and shot and left for dead. But he was not dead and in the night by crawling and moving he had crept into a street and a rich Buddhist in a cart put him in the cart and left him near the village. Why should they kill you? Ling Tan asked astonished. We run, the young man gasped. all who run are killed. Ling Tan knew that he ought to go back to his own home. Where are you? he shouted to Ling Sao, the enemy is coming, bid all get up and be ready for what is to come. He himself ran out of the house, he roused the men of the village and he roused the inn-keeper of the tea house and told him boiling for tea and his cakes set out on the tables. This handful of village men in their best clothes and all with little enemy flags in their hands going out to meet the conquerors they had never seen. Down the road they could now see strange huge shapes. These shapes were machines. The machines went through the village and on. And then they saw the dim shapes of walking men and these they knew were the real enemy. And when the leaders of the enemy drew near, they bowed to the enemy. Sirs, Ling Tan said, we are only farmers, and we are men of peace and reason, we have no weapons, but we have prepared a few cakes and some tea. That one said, Wine - we want win, not tea! Alas, we have no wine, Ling Tan faltered. Then that one spoke again, to Ling Tan: What women have you in the village? Ling Tan and all his fellows run out and he stopped to tell the women in the kitchen of the inn, Run-hide yourself-they look for women! He ran back therefore into the house while the gate held and there he found all his household gathered in the main room. Ling Tan raised his head for silence. Every one of you is to go to that little back gate that has been locked all these years. It was such a narrow gate that he and Wu Lien saw at once Wu Liens mother could never be pushed through it, so Ling Tan pulled her back again. When the gate groaned and gave and he heard the noise of angry men surge into his court. They saw it empty they howled. The enemy had found Wu Liens mother under the vines. She is died. At last the wild enemy went away. Ling Sao followed Ling Tan, and down they crept again into home. They went from room to room, they saw the ruin of the house. They crept out of the door and so to the small back court. There the old woman lay dead. She was naked. Now Ling Tan groaned for if this could happen to an aged soul, what of the young women? All the rest of the day they sat alone in their ruined house, and in the night the eldest and youngest sons came creeping home. Where are the little children?Ling Sao asked. Are all in the city, the eldest son whispered. We came into the little water gate, and there the people told us that though the city was full of death and grief, yet there was one safe place for women and for children. It is a foreign school, and there is a foreign woman there. If women are safe there,Ling Tan told his son, you must take your mother thither, too. And their father told them what happened to the old woman. And so Ling Tan sent out of his house his own wife, and he not sleeping, but waiting his son came back again. And after a long time his eldest son came back safe. B) I think: The article mentions that in that era, farmers in rural China had no newspapers, no radio, and were unaware of politics and war. They have never seen planes or bombs. It was only when the enemy planes were flying over their heads and dropping bombs that they thought of running for their lives. When the students in the city promoted the Anti-Japanese War to them, they thought there was nothing wrong with the Japanese coming because the Chinese government treated them badly either. When students criticized them for being unpatriotic, Ling Tan felt that he loved his own land. Finally, the Japanese soldiers entered the village. The villagers prepared tea and snacks to welcome them. But it was the Japanese soldiers who asked them for women that aroused their fear. Wu Lian's mother was brutally killed by the Japanese. They heard that there was a foreign school in Nanjing that could take in and protect women and children, so they sent Ling Tan's wife there. In present-day China, the people are under the control of the government. People dare not talk about politics for fear of being punished for it. But the Chinese people are awakening. China is bound to move towards democracy, freedom and the rule of law. The people become the masters of the country! Aussies have been left divided after it was announced that NSW would be getting an extra public holiday to commemorate Anzac Day. Anzac Day is fixed to April 25, meaning it will fall on a Saturday this year, and a Sunday in 2027. NSW will now get an extra public holiday on the following Monday in both years. The government insists the extra day off will not replace the significance of Anzac Day itself, which will 'always remain the day of national commemoration,' with Dawn Services, marches and local ceremonies still at the centre of remembrance. The Minns Government claims the additional holiday brings Anzac Day into line with other major public holidays, such as Christmas Day and New Year's Day, which receive substitute weekdays when they fall on weekends. Residents were divided over the extra day off, with many accusing Premier Chris Minns of using it as a political ploy. 'Not necessary. Trying to win votes,' one wrote. 'I totally disagree with this decision,' a second added. NSW will receive a day off on the Monday following Anzac Day in 2026 and 2027 (file) 'Anzac Day is a solemn day. It should not and does not need a holiday attached to reward anywhere in Australia. Leave it alone regardless of political persuasion. I support Labor, but this just doesn't pass the pub test for me.' A third added: 'It is so disrespectful! We dont need a long weekend for this! It isnt a celebration! Its to show respect for our soldiers.' Others threw their support behind the decision. 'Common sense prevails,' one wrote. 'Public holidays that fall on weekends have always been given an additional day. No big deal,' another added. Prior to the move, NSW had 11 public holidays in 2026, compared with 15 in South Australia and the Northern Territory and 14 in Queensland, Victoria and the ACT. Only Tasmania matches NSW with 11. The two-year trial will feed into a broader review of the state's public holiday system in 2027, examining whether NSW should permanently increase its number of holidays and if Anzac Day weekend arrangements should be changed in the long term. Chris Minns (pictured) said that the change would reinforce the significance of Anzac Day The review will consider feedback from the community, businesses, veterans and other stakeholders, as well as economic and social data gathered during the 202627 trial period. Minns said the additional day off reinforces the significance of Anzac Day rather than diminishing it. Anzac Day on 25 April is one of the most important and solemn days on our national calendar, and that will not change, he said. We have a tremendous amount of reverence for Anzac Day across our communities, especially among our veterans and their families. Minns said the change would enable people to further honour Anzac Day. Adding a public holiday when Anzac Day falls on a weekend will not diminish that tradition, he said. If anything, it is a reminder of its importance and another reason for people to get up, attend a local service and ensure the spirit of remembrance continues to be passed on to the next generation. His frame was thin and his eyes hollow, but in the last images of Alexei Navalny, appearing in court via video link from his Arctic penal colony, the Russian opposition leader was in good spirits, even joking with the judge that he needed more money. Barely a day later, in February 2024, he died on the floor of his prison cell, vomiting as he did so. We now know what many suspected from the start: this was no natural death as the Russian authorities reported. It was murder and a particularly bizarre and grotesque one, featuring an extraordinarily powerful neurotoxin derived from South American poison dart frogs. This was an assassination exotic even by the lurid standards of Vladimir Putin. We know this because material from Navalnys body was covertly obtained by his family and allies, smuggled out of Russia and analysed in separate laboratories in different countries. Both identified the neurotoxin epibatidine, which does not occur naturally in Russia, and causes respiratory failure in tiny doses. The use of dart frog poison raises two chilling questions. First: why use such an exotic method of murder? Second: why allow it to be discovered at all? Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's death while in detention was announced on February 16, 2024 Prior to his death, Vladimir Putin had already ordered Navalnys assassination once before, in August 2020 Putin had already ordered Navalnys assassination once before, in August 2020. A team from Russias secret service, the FSB, poisoned him with Novichok the same chemical agent used against Sergei Skripal in Britain. Navalny survived only because his plane made an emergency landing and Russian doctors, unaware that he had been poisoned deliberately, treated him. Yet Putin let Navalny and his family leave for Germany to recover, perhaps hoping that he would stay there. Perhaps hoping, too, that the publicity the poisoning would generate in the West would sow the seeds of paranoia in those of his enemies living there. Navalny bravely returned to Russia in January 2021 and was duly sentenced to decades in prison in a series of show trials that echoed those of the 1930s. If the Kremlin wished to kill Navalny while imprisoned, it had easier options. He could have been beaten to death by overzealous guards. He could have been slowly starved. He could have been left to deteriorate physically until his body failed. Such an outcome would have amounted to a grim, slow death. Instead, Putin and the order for Navalnys death would only have come from Putin had his nemesis murdered in a uniquely theatrical and gruesome way. This was pure, sadistic pleasure from the Russian dictator. Navalny was not merely another critic, a lawyer turned investigator whose reports into corruption cut close to Putins inner circle. Navalny represented another path for Russia, broadly pro-Western and law-governed, so different from the corrupt fusion of secret police, organised crime and crony power that defines the country. Navalny bravely returned to Russia in January 2021 and was duly sentenced to decades in prison in a series of show trials that echoed those of the 1930s. (Pictured during his imprisonment) Putins murder of Navalny was a final show of disrespect, hatred and contempt, killing not only a man but also an alternative future for Russia. Like Ivan the Terrible or Vlad the Impaler, he wants the deaths of his enemies to be special. It says much about the Russian leaders state of mind. But there must have been a risk that the means of death would leak? Perhaps, as with Navalnys earlier escape to Germany, Putin was relaxed or even wanted it. If so, the message is blunt: if Russia cannot be loved, it will be feared. Putins outlook is summed up in a Russian proverb: Beat your own, so that others fear you. However, the announcement from Britain and European countries also sends a message. First, the findings were revealed at the Munich Security Conference a location heavy with symbolism. It was here, in 2007, that Putin declared that the post-Cold War order was over and signalled Russias confrontational path. To Putin, Europe is saying: we see you, we understand your chemical weapons, and we see what you represent. We know you are breaking the Chemical Weapons Convention by developing these toxins. To sceptics within the US, whose commitment to European security cannot be taken for granted, it reminds Donald Trump of the pernicious nature of Putins regime; a threat to individuals as well as to nations. It was 4am on November 13, 2022, when Bryan Kohberger skulked through the sliding door into the kitchen of 1122 King Road. Less than 20 minutes later he was back behind the wheel of his white Hyundai Elantra speeding away from Moscow, Idaho - leaving behind the bodies of four victims he had stabbed more than 150 times. Now, newly unsealed court filings are shedding light on exactly what unfolded during that minutes-long rampage, including what Kohberger potentially did with the victims' bodies. The 155-page court exhibit reviewed by the Daily Mail disturbingly suggests Kohberger posed at least two of his victims after murdering them - something that independent experts say could point to a sexual motivation. The court documents also suggest Kohberger tried to clean up - and possibly wash his bloody murder weapon - before fleeing the scene. The defense and prosecution expert witnesses interpreted the crime scene somewhat differently to one another, with Kohberger, now 31, the only person still alive who truly knows what exactly unfolded in his minutes-long rampage. They are details he has so far refused to reveal. Despite pleading guilty to the murders of University of Idaho students Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, both 21, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin, both 20, last July, Kohberger has never spoken out about his crime spree. Now, two independent experts have weighed in on the shocking details revealed in the bombshell court filings for the first time. It was 4am on November 13, 2022, when Bryan Kohberger skulked through the sliding door into the kitchen of 1122 King Road Best friends Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen (left) and young couple Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle (right) were murdered by Bryan Kohberger As well as offering a forensic analysis of what really took place inside the off-campus house that fateful night, the experts have explained what the chilling evidence indicates about the level of planning that went into Kohberger's crimes - and his potential warped motives. 'Bryan Kohberger posed the victims' bodies' Investigators believe Kohberger went straight up to the third story of the home after entering through the kitchen door on the second floor. Best friends Mogen and Goncalves, both 21, were sleeping in the same bed in Mogen's room after a night out. They were both stabbed multiple times. Dr Brent Turvey, the crime scene expert for the defense, claimed in the court filings that the bodies of Goncalves and Mogen were then 'posed' by their killer. 'Kaylee was moved from a position with her head on her pillow to partially atop of Madison,' the defense claims in the new filing. 'Then the comforter was placed over them both.' The prosecution's expert witness, Dr Paulette Sutton, disputed the theory, saying that 'posing is a possibility but not a determination that can be made to the exclusion of other explanations for their positioning.' Instead, the position of their bodies and the comforter being found partially covering them could have been caused by Goncalves's own movement before she died. Other theories include that their bodies moved due to blows from the killer; movement during the struggle or Kohberger intentionally or inadvertently moving the victims during his violent attack. Bryan Kohberger (seen at his sentencing in Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho, on July 23) inflicted more than 150 stab wounds on his victims It should also be noted the defense claim was made prior to Kohberger's guilty plea, when his attorneys were seeking to sow doubts in his guilt. They argued that the potential posing of the bodies and crime scene clean-up indicated there were multiple killers as it would have taken one person more than 15 minutes to do all of this. Kohberger pleaded guilty in July, as the sole perpetrator of the crime. Dr Gary Brucato, a leading clinical and forensic psychologist who co-led the largest study ever on mass murders, told the Daily Mail that posing a victim is something that killers can do for a sexual thrill. 'Staging of this type is only necessary for the sexual gratification of the offender. They want to take control of the scene and move people around because it means something to them. It is part of the thrill,' Brucato said. Based on the information available in the case, he said it is not possible to determine if Kohberger did or didn't pose the victims' bodies. That said, he admitted it wouldn't be unusual given what is known about Kohberger. 'This was so clearly a fantasy-driven offense. It has all of the typical things that we generally see, fantasizing about it while getting sexually aroused, looking at violent pornography, or getting triggered by an event that makes you go in and do it,' he said, referring to the violent porn searches found on Kohberger's devices. 'And it can also be typical to do something at the scene, either taking something for a trophy or posing the body the way you need for arousal, or so that you can remember it later in a certain way. 'I don't know that that happened here but it would not be inconsistent with this type of offender.' Ohio-based crime scene expert Dr Richard English told the Daily Mail he has analyzed crime scenes where a killer covers their victim with something. Maddie Mogen's bedroom where she and best friend Kaylee Goncalves were found dead The student home at 1122 King Road in Moscow, Idaho, where the murders were committed 'There are times when offenders will cover victims to either hide their crime or because they feel guilty and don't want to look at the victims,' he said. But, like Brucato, he said it is not clear in this case if the bodies were posed or if the positions of the victims and comforter was due to the struggle. 'There could be many reasons why [Mogen and Goncalves were positioned in that way] so it is hard to say somebody posed a body when it is not obvious,' he said. Kohberger clean up the scene? While the posing of the victims' bodies is up for debate, one startling revelation in the documents is not disputed by either the defense or prosecution: that there was diluted blood belonging to the victims on the scene. In several communal areas of the home, outside of the victims' bedrooms, crime scene investigators found drops of diluted blood. Traces of the victims' blood were found on the beer pong table in the living room and stairways between the first, second and third floors, among other locations. Blue agent is seen on the stairs inside the home from crime scene investigators processing the scene New documents indicate Kohberger could have washed his knife - such as in the red solo cups - or cleaned the crime scene before fleeing The stains were caused by cast-off - where blood is released as the result of a bloodied object in motion. Based on the court documents, none of the victims suffered blood loss outside of the two bedrooms where the four bodies were found - meaning that this blood was transferred to the communal areas by someone else. Both the defense and prosecution suggest this shows that attempts were made by the killer to wash or clean-up the scene. According to English, the spatters of diluted blood indicate Kohberger may have washed his murder weapon - a KaBar knife purchased from Amazon months earlier - before fleeing from the home. 'The first thing that came to mind was that the suspect tried to rinse the knife off,' he said of the findings. English pointed out that there were bathrooms on both the third and second floors. Kohberger would have had to pass the bathroom on the second floor after leaving Kernodle's room on his way toward the back door. There were also red solo cups on the beer pong table in the second floor living room that may have contained liquid to rinse the weapon in. The notion of a clean-up is supported by the fact that, despite how bloody and violent the crime scene was, no trace of the victims' blood or DNA was found inside Kohberger's car or apartment following his arrest six weeks after the crime. Left to right: Dylan Mortensen, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen (on Kaylee's shoulders) Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Bethany Funke No blood or DNA was found in Bryan Kohberger's white Hyundai Elantra after his arrest To English, the evidence indicating he tried to wash the knife - and the lack of blood found on his car or apartment - all points to the extent of Kohberger's pre-meditation and the steps he went to in order to get away with his crimes. 'When CSI teams go into a crime scene we wear a Tyvek suit, booties, mask, goggles and gloves to protect the scene and evidence,' he said. 'I would say [Kohberger] was likely wearing something like a Tyvek suit, booties or gloves or that he had a change of clothes and shoes and tried to clean himself up.' Given the short timeframe Kohberger was on the scene that night, English believes the latter is more likely. In the documents, the prosecution also alluded to that possibility, writing that the removal of protective clothing and shoe coverings would take only 'seconds.' As a criminology PhD student at Washington State University at the time of the murders, this preparation was something Kohberger - like a CSI team - was familiar with. However, English said there could be other explanations for the presence of diluted blood, with the possibility that it was contaminated by other liquids from the victims' bodies such as saliva or urine or even the clean-up agent used by the CSI team. The crime scene would have been a highly complex one to process and questions still abound about what exactly happened, the investigator admitted. 'Kohberger is the one person who knows all answers and he's probably never going to reveal them all.' Speaking to Daily Mail's The Trial Australia podcast, reporter Karleigh Smith highlighted a particularly chilling detail from South Australia Police's bombshell Gus Lamont press conference last week. Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke announced that, having conducted the largest search operation in South Australian history, investigators are now treating the four-year-old's case as a major crime investigation. Police also confirmed that a suspect had been identified in connection with the missing boy's disappearance. They revealed this suspect lived at the family's remote sheep station property in Yunta, South Australia, but ruled out both of Gus's parents, Jessica Murray and Josh Lamont. Gus disappeared on September 27, 2025, after his grandmother Josie Murray said she last saw him playing on a mound of dirt at their property around 5pm. Gus disappeared on September 27, 2025, after his grandmother Josie Murray said she last saw him playing on a mound of dirt at their property around 5pm The Trial Australia - Inside Australia's biggest criminal cases: Listen to the new Daily Mail podcast now During the press conference, Smith, who has followed the case since Gus first went missing, said one response by Fielke to a question posed by a journalist raised sinister implications for the case. Smith explained: 'There was a really interesting comment made during the press conference. A reporter asked whether it was possible that Gus was still on the property, in whatever form, when police started the search for him. 'Police pretty much admitted that yes, there is a possibility that Gus might have still been there that night when they were first called. This was around 9pm when they started their really extensive search.' After an initial sweep of the surrounding areas the night Gus disappeared, South Australia Police oversaw a huge search operation for the missing boy which spanned the course of months. The Australian Defence Force alongside Aboriginal trackers were deployed to trawl through an arid, rural area roughly the size of the city of Adelaide. Police also confirmed that a suspect had been identified in connection with the missing boy's disappearance. They revealed this suspect lived at the family's remote sheep station property The Australian Defence Force alongside Aboriginal trackers were deployed to trawl through an arid, rural area roughly the size of the city of Adelaide The sheer scale of the failed search operation seemingly confirmed suspicions of foul play Three dams were drained and six mineshafts were searched, some being twenty meters deep. During the press conference, police reiterated that despite their best efforts, no trace of Gus has been found. The sheer scale of the failed search operation seemingly confirmed suspicions of foul play. I have always said theres just no way there was no sign of him in the Outback, Smith said. A little boy needs to use the toilet - Gus vanished wearing a hat, he must have lost it out there. Nothing about this made sense. I thought this change of direction in the case might have come sooner. Obviously, the police were going through quite a lot of data from all the searches to make sure their case was watertight. To hear an in-depth breakdown of the latest developments in the Gus Lamont case, search for the Trial Australia now, wherever you get your podcasts. Amid the spiralling scandal which continues to drag the House of York into the quagmire, Princess Eugenie posed for the cameras at an art show in Qatar this week, standing in front of a painting worth millions and said to represent the turmoil of the world. If she appeared somewhat jaded then she had good reason. Up until now she and her older sister Beatrice have largely been shielded from the sins of their disgraced parents. But the latest torturous swathe of revelations from the Epstein Files has turned an increasingly uncomfortable spotlight on the royal sisters and their own roles in this appalling saga. Above all, as newly released documents make clear, evil Epstein enjoyed a much bigger presence in the princesses lives than was previously known. Aside from the discovery of a tasteless 2010 email from Sarah Ferguson to Epstein, in which she told him her youngest daughter, then 19, was away on a sha**ing weekend, pressing new questions are being asked about how much, exactly, the York sisters knew about the twisted relationship between Mumsy and Pa and Uncle Jeffrey. And how, in 37-year-old Beatrices case at least, it appears she tried to help her feckless mother shore up that sickening friendship. Theres been a big campaign to portray them as innocents in all this, but theyre not just collateral, says royal historian Andrew Lownie, author of Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York. They are very much part of the story. After yet another excruciating week of revelations, it is now plain that even if she and Eugenie blindly followed their parents, they were adults, not children, when they lunched with their mother and the late paedophile financier in Miami in 2009 just days after his release from prison for prostituting minors and must surely have been well aware of his crimes. Princess Eugenie with her friend Caroline Daur at an art fair in Qatar this week Other emails released by the US Justice Department suggest they were also regularly called upon by him to entertain his contacts and give tours of Buckingham Palace. In one, Epstein reassured a friend due to cross paths with Beatrice: She likes me its ok [sic]. With British police assessing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsors links to Epstein and allegations that as UK trade envoy he shared confidential government information with the late billionaire sex offender, pressure is growing on the two princesses to give their own accounts about what they know. There are concerns, too, that Beatrice and Eugenie, who are not working royals, appear to be following in their fathers footsteps by pursuing their own business interests in the Middle East and building hugely lucrative careers on the back of their royal status, not to mention the contacts they have made in the wake of their parents own connections to mega-wealthy autocrats in the Middle East. As a royal source, speaking exclusively to the Daily Mail, puts it: Andrew and Sarah always felt they were given the deference they were due when they were in the Middle East and the hospitality they received was lavish. It was only natural that Beatrice and Eugenie would take to it. They started accompanying their parents on visits to the region when they were in their late teens. Its clear the sisters see the region as a place where they will aways be treated as princesses, no matter what their parents get up to. But the optics arent good for either of them. At a time when they should be distancing themselves from their parents, these kind of trips serve as a reminder of their fathers own self-enriching links to the area. Eugenies jaunt this week to the Qatari capital, Doha, is just one of multiple visits made by both sisters to the Gulf region where their inherited royal titles continue to carry huge weight. They are regulars at business conventions, art and luxury goods shows and the Bahrain Grand Prix, which both have attended with their husbands. Aside from two trips Beatrice made to Saudi Arabia in November during one she hosted a British tea party for the super rich, which might have come straight out of Andrews playbook the mother of two attended the London opening last August of a branch of the First Abu Dhabi Bank. Eugenie, meanwhile, was in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in January last year as well as at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Eugenie this week in Qatar amid her father's name being brought up often in the press TV presenter Natalie Pinkham, Beatrice's husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi and Princess Beatrice in Bahrain at the Grand Prix last year The sisters were just as busy in 2024. In April that year, Beatrice and Eugenie, who works for the art dealer Hauser & Wirth, were in Riyadh for an event to discuss global challenges and opportunities. Also that month, Beatrice, who runs her own tech advisory firm, BY-EQ, travelled to Dubai for a conference to promote the entrepreneurial corridor between the United Arab Emirates and the UK. In October she was back in Riyadh while Eugenie was in Qatar for another investment conference. In November she returned to Abu Dhabi. On that occasion, she met its ruler, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who has been a close friend of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor since they met at Gordonstoun School in Scotland. Back in 2010, Andrew introduced MBZ, as he calls him, to Epstein, emailing the US financier to tell him: You are in big time. It was also reportedly MBZ who gave Andrew a four-bedroom villa in Abu Dhabi, described as a gilded mini palace in 2010, for the York family to use whenever they needed. According to a former British diplomat who spoke to the Daily Mail this week: No expense was spared in giving them the best time possible. The Daily Mails royal source believes that Andrew may also be considering a move to the region to escape the misery of life in exile in secluded Norfolk. Now that Andrew is effectively under house arrest, moving to the Middle East is an increasingly attractive idea, says the source. It might also move him far away from the grasp of law enforcement in the US and the UK and MPs who could also summon him to answer their own enquiries. It was perhaps no coincidence then that Sarah Ferguson, who has not been seen since Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was booted out of Royal Lodge, and is herself now officially homeless, is said to have visited the UAE in recent weeks. There are rumours, too, of a visit to Doha where Eugenie was this week. Beatrice and Eugenie with their mother Sarah Ferguson, centre, in April last year Given that Ferguson may be called upon by US and UK authorities to reveal what she knew about Epstein, an overseas move may also be an attractive proposition. With their parents apparently hiding themselves away from public and legal scrutiny, the path Beatrice and Eugenie now take is crucial. Ever since the House of York began to self-destruct last October, the sisters have been battling to safeguard their own reputations and hang on to their titles while watching their parents being reduced to mere commoners. A royal source has told the Daily Mail that ever-dutiful Beatrice, in particular, has found herself walking a tightrope, torn between filial loyalty and a desire to preserve her own status within the Royal Family as ninth in line to the throne. Feisty Eugenie, meanwhile, is said to have taken a harder line against her beleaguered father. Another source, who is close to the princesses, described relations between the four as complicated. They are in a difficult spot because they have their duties and their royal positions and then they have these personal relationships with their mother and father. It will never be as simple as a right or a wrong for them. It makes it worse that everyone is watching. The royal source who spoke to the Daily Mail this week says: It seems that the girls are taking two very different approaches to their father. Beatrice is much more a daddys girl and aware of dynasty and her blue blood far more than Eugenie. In public, and in private with his two daughters, Andrew has always denied the allegations of Virginia Giuffre, who alleged she was forced to have sex with the former prince as a 17-year-old after being trafficked by Epstein and his then girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell. The family in a selfie posted on Instagram, including Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Back in 2015, not long after these damaging sexual allegations first emerged in US court documents, Sarah Ferguson gathered the York family together for a crisis summit at Royal Lodge. Beatrice and Eugenie, at that time in their mid-20s, were well aware of their fathers colourful past, but the damning claims were significantly worse than the Randy Andy tales that had previously reached their ears. That clear-the-air meeting, says the royal source, was, in effect, a rehearsal for Andrews now infamous BBC Newsnight interview with Emily Maitlis. He protested, as he still does, that he had no knowledge of Epsteins lewd behaviour and that hed enjoyed his company because it opened important doors for him when he was working as the UK trade envoy, says the source. His clincher was that if Epstein really was dodgy then he would certainly not have invited him to Royal Lodge, introduced him to their granny, the late Queen, or invited him to Beas 18th birthday party. Unlike Maitlis, the girls accepted their fathers explanations and the assurance that Giuffre was just someone else trying to make money out of royalty. It was Beatrice, as we now know, who encouraged her father to take part in that misguided attempt to clear his name with a TV interview. By the time it took place, says the source, Eugenie had already begun to turn against her father. But, the source adds, Beatrice was blind-sided when her father used the Pizza Express alibi during the car-crash interview to explain that he could not have been with Giuffre that night because he had taken his then six-year-old eldest daughter to a childrens party at Pizza Express in Woking. According to the source: Bea baulked at being used as an unwitting alibi and at the nonsense of it. Being in Woking for a childrens party doesnt stop you being at a Mayfair nightclub later that same night. Father and daughter had quite a heated discussion about it once the Newsnight team were on their way with their scoop in the can. The fresh batch of Epstein documents released in the US this week suggest Beatrice had previously advised her mother when the former Duchess of York upset Epstein in a 2011 media interview in which she publicly disowned him. But while she told the Evening Standard in March that year that her involvement with Epstein had been a gigantic error judgment, behind the scenes, she was desperate to remain close to the wealthy sex offender who had bailed her out financially time and time again. In an email Ferguson sent to her supreme friend she said that her then 22-year-old daughter agreed with her that it was important to brief the press that Epstein had done his penance in prison for soliciting sex. She wrote that Beatrice was present when she called a journalist in April 2011 to say it was wrong to call Epstein a sex offender because he was now moving on with his life. She added that Beatrice and I had a discussion and we agreed that it was important. While Beatrice has stuck close to her parents amid their downfall, attending various summits at Royal Lodge while it was still their home, Eugenie has kept more distance, aided by the fact that she lives most of her time with husband Jack Brooksbank and their two sons in Portugal. She co-founded of The Anti-Slavery Collective in 2017 to raise awareness of labour exploitation, including sex trafficking. Its first set of accounts, from 2023, reveal that its income that year of 47,890 included a 10,000 donation from her mothers charity, Sarahs Trust, which has since shut down. Its income from donations and legacies has fallen sharply in recent years with just 31,000 raised last year. Royal biographer Andrew Lownie believes that if the princesses want to send out the right signal, they should give up their titles. They do not represent this country, but they are trading on their royal names the whole time, he says. They dont seem to have learnt any lessons from this. This ongoing debacle is no doubt detracting from official work being done by the King and the Prince of Wales. It sucked the oxygen from coverage of Williams visit to Saudi Arabia on Monday. Later that day, the King was heckled about his younger brother while visiting a Lancashire railway station. Soon after he released an extraordinary statement expressing his profound concern over allegations about Mountbatten-Windsor and said he was ready to support the police. He is said to be furious, too, that the latest batch of Epstein Files has overshadowed the release of a new Amazon documentary about his lifelong dedication to environmental sustainability and efforts to reconnect humanity with nature. Given the torrid events that continue to batter the monarchy, its title Finding Harmony: A Kings Vision seems a tad optimistic. When Michelle Maidenberg met her new boyfriend, she had the strangest feeling that she already knew him. It was, she insists, because they were married in a past life - exactly 178 years ago. 'I know him from 1847, we were married with three children, a little house on the prairie, I was knitting,' Maidenberg, a licensed psychotherapist and college professor at New York University, told the Daily Mail of her and her boyfriend Noel. Until recently, she would never have believed in reincarnation, but then she underwent a past life regression - a therapeutic practice where a person is guided into a relaxed, almost hypnotic state, allowing them to access memories or experiences from what are believed to be their former lifetimes decades or even centuries ago. Maidenberg explained that she and Noel - whose names were Sarah and William in another life - were both divorced, and the vision she saw during her past life regression convinced her that their souls somehow sought each other out. 'I kind of believe that we're back with each other to heal each other, because we had such a good first life that we were the only ones who could heal each other in this life,' she said. People use past life regression for a number of reasons. Some are seeking the hidden trigger to perplexing conditions, such as patients who suddenly develop obsessive-compulsive disorder. Others, however, are seeking answers to strange questions or feelings they just can't shake. In Maidenberg's case, she instantly felt a connection to a man she barely knew. Dr Michelle Maidenberg (right) pictured with boyfriend Noel Spindler (left) Maidenberg described seeing a vision of their past life, living in a simple home with three children in the 19th century 'I've had intuitions, like "that is gonna happen now," in this lifetime. But I have never felt that feeling of "oh my gosh, I know this person." I literally know this person. There's this connection, it feels familiar,' she said of Noel. In search of answers, she turned to her friend and fellow psychotherapist Melanie Ryan, a spiritual advisor, who helped her enter a semi-conscious state where she could have a lucid vision of her life in a past incarnation. According to Ryan, past life regression is not just about proving reincarnation is real, it's about recovering 'stored' memories that can explain current trauma. Ryan compared the unconscious mind to iCloud, sort of like a spiritual storage area where all your past-life experiences, memories and karmic patterns can be accessed in the future. In a past-life regression, then, the job of the spiritual guide is to prompt the patient, asking them questions that trigger the stored memories from a former life. Using the prompts to trigger a memory of her new boyfriend, Maidenberg found herself living in a simple pioneer life with no electricity and just a wood-burning fireplace. She saw herself married to a man with the same face as Noel, and they had three happy children who were playing board games, laughing and singing while Maidenberg did needlepoint. The experience not only convinced her she had a soulmate, but also that her soul would survive this life and continue on in another, possibly centuries from now. 'I believe in the soul... but I didn't know what that looks like, or how that works. I have to say, it makes me feel more hopeful, and it makes me feel less fearful,' she said. Maidenberg, a licensed psychotherapist and college professor, was a skeptic of reincarnation until being guided on a spiritual vision by fellow therapist Melanie Ryan Melanie Ryan (pictured) guided Maidenberg through her past life regression She also now believes that deep, meaningful connections - whether in this lifetime, a past one, or any future lifetime - dont just happen by chance. Meeting her soulmate inspired her to be more deliberate about nurturing real, heartfelt interactions with others every day. 'We have to intentionally put effort into connection, and on a more deep, visceral soul level,' she said. Whenever possible, she advised, 'hug somebody for a minute long, and to feel into the hug. Like, close your eyes and to feel into the connection.' While doing so, she added, people can repeat specific affirmations to themselves, such as, 'I'm loved, I'm cared about, and I'm grateful.' Ryan told the Daily Mail that every patient's experience is unique, but all involve accessing the right side of the human brain, which is tied to intuition and creativity, and helping them cross over into another dimension where their ancient memories live. But even Ryan - who started as an ordinary psychotherapist and addiction counselor - was initially skeptical of the idea that the human soul could live multiple past lives. Her belief in the practice quickly grew after attending spiritual retreats and seeing past life regression find the triggers for certain conditions and heal clients' issues that traditional treatments could not. 'I started doing past life regression for myself, to see who I was in other lifetimes and other timelines, and it all started to make sense for me, in getting a view of the totality of who I am,' Ryan said. 'I'm not just this body, I'm not just Melanie Ryan looking in the mirror, I'm bigger than that, and my past lives are influencing me and my choices all the time.' A massive copper mining proposal in Alaska is once again at the center of a high-stakes legal and political battle, with billions of dollars in potential metals and national security implications on the line. The Pebble Project, located in the Bristol Bay region of southwest Alaska, is described by its backers as 'the largest undeveloped copper prospect in the world.' The project's proponents estimate it contains 80 billion pounds of copper, almost six billion pounds of molybdenum and about 67 million ounces of gold, making it one of the largest known multi-metal deposits globally. The site lies in an environmentally sensitive region that includes the world's largest salmon fishery, a factor that has fueled years of controversy and opposition. After spending over $200 million just on environmental studies, developers sought a federal wetlands permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers in 2017, triggering a federal environmental impact statement released in 2020. Pebble Project CEO John Shively told Daily Mail that the company 'could develop this project without harming the fishery, while at the same time giving a lot of economic opportunity to a place in rural Alaska that basically has very little economic opportunity.' Despite that finding, the Corps denied the permit, prompting appeals and litigation. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) later vetoed the project during the Biden administration, and ongoing lawsuits by the company, the State of Alaska and two Alaska Native village corporations remain unresolved. The project's proponents estimate it contains 80 billion pounds of copper (STOCK), almost six billion pounds of molybdenum and about 67 million ounces of gold, making it one of the largest known multi-metal deposits globally Federal attorneys are required to respond to the litigation by February 17, setting up a pivotal moment for the project's future. Shively argued that the EPA's veto exceeded its legal authority, noting that the Clean Water Act allows vetoes but only under narrow, site-specific circumstances. 'They vetoed 220,000 acres of state land,' he said, adding that discussions are underway with the Trump administration about withdrawing the veto. While the outcome of those talks is uncertain, Shivley said he is confident in its legal position, pointing to recent Supreme Court rulings that limit the scope of federal agency authority under environmental statutes. Beyond environmental concerns, the project's supporters frame Pebble as strategically critical amid surging global demand for copper. One estimate puts the value of the project's copper alone at roughly $400 billion, based on a hypothetical price of $5 per pound. Copper demand is expected to rise sharply due to electrification, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence infrastructure. 'The big, big driving force is AI and data centers,' the developer said, citing rising electricity consumption and rapid expansion of computing infrastructure. Shively also highlighted concerns about the US's reliance on foreign supply chains, particularly China. China currently produces 40 to 50 percent of the world's copper and controls much of the global processing capacity, according to the project representative. Join the debate Should America risk its largest salmon fishery for copper that's vital to our national security? The site lies in an environmentally sensitive region that includes the world's largest salmon fishery, a factor that has fueled years of controversy and opposition He described China's vertically integrated supply chain model, noting that the country can afford to process copper 'basically for free' because profits are made downstream in manufactured goods. That dominance, Shively argued, presents strategic vulnerabilities for the US, which has not built a new copper smelter or major base metal processing facility in decades. Mining, however, is only one part of the supply chain challenge. Shively outlined a three-step process: mining ore, producing concentrate, and refining metal in smelters or alternative processing facilities. He said US infrastructure has lagged in the latter stages and called for government involvement to rebuild domestic processing capacity. Shively also suggested tariffs or other policy measures could help make US-produced copper competitive with Chinese output. If the project clears its legal hurdles, the path to production would still be lengthy. After a potential permit approval, the Corps of Engineers would need to revisit and correct issues in its earlier denial, a process estimated to take four months to a year. Construction could take roughly three and a half years, followed by the start of operations, meaning full production could be several years away even under optimistic timelines. Shively expects legal challenges from environmental groups but believes recent court rulings and potential permitting reforms in Congress could limit delays. The broader timeline for US copper independence is even longer. Shivley suggested that achieving meaningful independence from Chinese supply chains could take a decade or more, with 2040 cited as a potential milestone if the country undertakes a large-scale national effort. He compared the required mobilization to wartime industrial campaigns, saying the effort would require bipartisan support, accelerated permitting, and major investments in processing technology. Copper's strategic importance extends beyond civilian uses. Shively emphasized its role in defense applications, noting that military platforms such as tanks, aircraft, and ships require large amounts of copper for electrical systems. The project also contains rhenium, a metal used in aerospace applications, including jet engines. 'There's no question that controlling our own metal supply is a national security issue,' Shively said. Supporters argued that domestic mining projects like Pebble could strengthen US competitiveness in AI, manufacturing and defense by securing critical materials and reducing foreign dependence. Critics, however, have long warned that mining in the Bristol Bay region could threaten one of the world's most productive fisheries and ecosystems. With Valentine's Day finally here, techsavvy people around the world will be showering their loved ones with heart emojis. From the yellow heart to the heart with a ribbon, users have dozens of options to choose from not to mention several others with a heart element. While you might just select one based on the colour, many of the heart emojis actually have hidden meanings. Now, the Daily Mail has sifted through all 36 options to help ensure you don't cause a stir this Valentine's Day. If someone sends you the classic red heart, they're probably saying 'I love you'. But if it's the yellow heart you receive, you could be getting friendzoned. So, which heart is best suited to your boyfriend, and which could land you in hot water with your mum? Hover over, or tap the 36 heart emojis below to find out their true meanings. Your browser does not support iframes. To understand the true meaning of the heart emojis, the Daily Mail turned to EmojiMeanings.net a site where you can search for any emoji and find out the true meaning. 'The goal is to create a unique resource that everyone can use to find out the meaning of an emoji and maybe even avoid arguments with your loved ones,' explained Mark Berger, who runs the site. 'I want to allow everyone to share their own thoughts and opinions about emoji, thus promoting a diverse understanding of their use. 'Together, we can better understand the world of emoji and avoid misunderstandings.' Red hearts There are two red hearts for you to choose from the classic Red Heart, and the Heart Suit. The Red Heart is the most popular of them all, according to an analysis by Emojipedia. 'This heart appears in 8 of every 1,000 tweets throughout the year, appearing more than twice as often as Two Hearts, the next most popular heart emoji in our sample of tweets,' it explained. There are two red hearts for you to choose from the classic Red Heart, and the Heart Suit Thankfully, you can't go too wrong sending either of the red hearts to a loved one this Valentine's Day. According to EmojiMeanings, the Red Heart is a 'universal sign of deep feelings and intimate relationships', while the Heart Suit suggests 'opportunities should be seized and risks taken'. Other coloured hearts Beyond the classic red, there are 10 coloured hearts to choose from blue, light blue, green, yellow, purple, black, orange, white, brown, or pink. If you're planning to text someone you fancy this Valentine's Day, it's probably best to avoid the blue, green, yellow, pink or orange options. These are all associated with feelings of friendship rather than romantic love, and could land you firmly in the 'friendship zone'. Some of the other coloured hearts could work if you're going a bit leftfield with your Valentine's Day message. The black heart hints at a 'dark and twisted sense of humour, or grief and sorrow,' while the purple heart is 'an expression of glamor or wealth'. If the basic hearts don't tickle your fancy, you might turn your attention to the elaborated hearts Elaborated hearts If the basic hearts don't tickle your fancy, you might turn your attention to the elaborated hearts. The Heart With Arrow is a classic option, indicating that Cupid's arrow has hit you and you're hopelessly in love. However, if you're doting on someone, the Sparkling Heart is the way to go, according to EmojiMeanings. Other classic options include the Growing Heart (shows your feelings are getting deeper), Heart Exclamation (you really like someone), or the Heart on Fire, which represents 'strong love with a lot of passion'. Meanwhile, if you're sad that you don't have a Valentine, you might opt for the Broken Heart or the Mending Heart. Other hearts There are dozens of other heart emojis for you to choose from, including faces with hearts, heart hands, and even an anatomical heart. Be careful if you plan to send the emoji of a building with a heart on it. While many people think this is a hospital, it actually means 'Love Hotel' a hotel that can be rented by the hour However, be careful if you plan to send the emoji of a building with a heart on it. While many people think this is a hospital, it actually means 'Love Hotel' a hotel that can be rented by the hour. Love hotels are found across Japan, and usually feature extravagant signs just like the pink emoji. 'Typically you can rent a room for a minimum of one to three hours during the day, called a "rest", or for the whole night, called a "stay", which usually starts after 10 pm,' Japan Guide explains on its website. 'As the name suggests, the main purpose of love hotels is to provide couples with a room to spend some undisturbed time together.' Dog shelters are being forced to euthanise flatfaced dogs amid a 'heartbreaking' rise in abandonments for these trendy breeds. Social media fame and celebrity endorsements have seen Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Boxers become some of the most popular breeds in the country. However, these dogs' cute appearances often come at the price of lifelong debilitating health conditions that owners are frequently unable to handle. Dog shelters warn they are being overwhelmed by the sheer number of dogs with 'extreme conformations', with one reporting a 500 per cent increase since 2017. Almost all of these abandoned dogs require some level of veterinary treatment, and many require expensive surgery to restore basic bodily functions. The situation has now become so dire that shelter managers have told the Daily Mail they are faced with no choice but to put some dogs to sleep. Sarah Roser, head of operations at Hope Rescue in South Wales, told the Daily Mail: 'We're looking at a dog where nothing is functioning as it should be, and sadly, those are the animals that sometimes we have to make a euthanasia decision for. 'No matter what we do medically, we're never going to get them to a point where they're free of pain.' Animal shelters have warned that they are facing a 'heartbreaking' increase in the number of dogs that requireexpensive surgery to live healthy lives. Pictured: Butch, a oneyearold Bulldog who required surgery for both his breathing issues and cherry eye Truffle the French Bulldog required 2,500 of surgery to allow him to breathe and remove the roll of skin over his nose. Had the charity All Dogs Matter not financed this surgery and find Truffle a new home, he would have been euthanised In the 150 or so years since the modern concept of 'breed' was invented, the physical differences between dogs have rapidly increased. While most types of dogs are still healthy, some breeds have been selected for traits that are incompatible with basic bodily functions known as 'extreme conformations'. Examples include legs that are too short to jump and play, spines that are twisted to produce curly tails, and faces that are so flat that the dog cannot breathe comfortably. These traits frequently lead to shortened lifespans and constant medical issues that require expensive, lifelong treatment. The problem is that many of these traits, such as a Pug's bulging eyes and wheezy snorting, are often seen as cute or desirable. As a consequence, many wellintentioned pet owners are unable to meet the unexpected emotional and financial burdens imposed by their pets and end up abandoning them to shelters and foster homes. Ms Roser, whose dog shelter rehomes around 800 dogs each year, says she has seen a 500 per cent increase in abandonments of dogs with extreme conformations. In 2017, the shelter did not receive a single French Bulldog; in 2024, they took in more than 80. Francois the French Bulldog (pictured) had to undergo surgery to remove painful skin folds after his rescue. But not all dogs are so lucky, and Hope Rescue says it puts down one dog every two months due to extreme conformation The 10 extreme conformations dog owners must avoid Stubby legs Flat faces Bulging eyes Drooping eyelids Skin folds Merle colouration Short tails Misaligned jaw Curved or bowed legs Inflexible spine Advertisement However, this is not an isolated trend, and dog shelters all over the country are now seeing the same problem. A spokesperson for the Mayhew animal shelter in London told the Daily Mail they had seen a 107 per cent increase in requests to relinquish dogs with extreme conformation between 2024 and 2025 alone. That includes a staggering 170 per cent increase in requests to relinquish extremely flatfaced or brachycephalic dogs in a single year. Likewise, the Dogs Trust told the Daily Mail that brachycephalic dogs made up around 12 per cent of all handover requests in the last three years. The Dogs Trust data also suggests that owners are more likely to give up a flatfaced breed due to financial reasons or the costs of vet bills than for any other type of dog. This is because many flatfaced dogs develop a condition called 'Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome' (BOAS), which severely obstructs their breathing. For the dog to be able to breathe, they usually have to undergo an expensive surgery, which can cost around 2,500 from a private vet. However, dogs might also require further surgeries for heart problems, spinal issues, hip dysplasia, skin conditions, or eye issues before they can live even remotely healthy lives. Hope Rescue in South Wales says it has seen a 500 per cent increase in dogs with extreme conformation since 2017. Recently, the charity rescued 38 dogs from a puppy farm, mostly French Bulldogs with severe health issues due to their extreme conformation (pictured) According to shelter managers and dog charities, this cost is often too much for dog owners. When these dogs are abandoned, those vet bills are passed onto struggling charities, who must have the treatments performed before rehoming the unfortunate dog. Ira Moss, CEO of NorthLondonbased shelter All Dogs Matter, says: 'People who have bought dogs online take them to the vet because they can't breathe and get quoted 2,500. That's when they abandon them.' 'Nearly every dog that is coming in is now costing 1,000 if you're lucky, and the costs are just getting higher and higher.' Ms Moss told the Daily Mail about a French Bulldog named Truffles, who the shelter took in from the local council. Truffles is a new type of 'designer' dog called a 'Rope Nose Frenchie', which has been bred to have a large fold of skin that hangs over its nose. This fold, along with Truffles' BOAS, makes it almost impossible for him to breathe naturally and live a healthy life. 'If we hadn't taken in Truffles, he would have been put to sleep, but he's going to cost us at least 2,500,' Ms Moss said. Your browser does not support iframes. Ms Moss' charity is relatively small, rehoming around 300 dogs in a year, making these mounting bills particularly painful. Likewise, Hope Rescue says that its yearly veterinary bills for treating dogs with extreme conformations now exceed 330,000, and even bigger charities are feeling the pressure. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home says that it performed 110 BOAS surgeries on dogs in 2024, up from just seven in 2015. That massive increase includes a 40 per cent jump between 2023 and 2024 alone. Ms Moss says that these bills are now 'unsustainable' and that several smaller charities have been forced to shut their doors. Sadly, Ms Moss says that she is now having to turn away dogs often in the knowledge that they will likely be put to sleep as a result. 'The bills are literally out of control at the moment, and we're having to say no to dogs,' says Ms Moss. 'To help some, you're having to sacrifice some, sadly.' Flatfaced dogs, like Pugs, suffer from debilitating health conditions. According to the Intrinsic Health Assessment, a dog's nose should be at least onethird the length of its skull in order for it to breathe normally Dog shelter operators say that their intake typically tracks pet trends with a few years of delay, making the increase in French Bulldogs, Pugs and other flatfaced breeds unsurprising. However, charity workers now say that the condition of the dogs they are seeing is getting worse. The worst cases are dogs that have multiple types of extreme conformation at the same time. For example, Butch, a oneyearold Bulldog that was brought to Battersea as a stray, required surgery for both his BOAS breathing issues and cherry eye, a painful condition that causes the part of the inner eye to bulge out. Luckily for Butch, Battersea was able to fund Butch's surgery, and he has now recovered and has been placed in a new home. But not every pooch is so lucky, and in some cases, these dogs have such extreme conformations that euthanasia is the most humane option. Ms Roser, of Hope Rescue, told the Daily Mail: 'The majority require some form of vet treatment, and many require surgical intervention.' However, for some dogs, even with complex surgical intervention, they will never live a life which is painfree, and we have to then assess whether it is in their interest to go through surgery for limited benefit.' Mayhew animal shelter in London (pictured) told the Daily Mail they had seen a 170 per cent increase in requests to relinquish flatfaced dogs between 2024 and 2025 alone These physical issues often lead to behavioural problems, as certain breeds lack features like tails or ears that are used for communication with other dogs. Unfortunately, that means some dogs cannot behaviorally cope with the surgery and recovery, even if it could help them. 'Therefore, for some, the kindest welfare outcome is for them to be put to sleep,' says Ms Roser. 'It's frustrating because you know that somebody has purposely created this dog to look a certain way that's going to cause them suffering to make money. I guess sometimes you can feel quite, quite angry that someone has done that.' Ms Roser estimates that around one dog every two months in the care of Hope Rescue has to be put down. Scott Fryer, policy manager at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, told the Daily Mail that this was 'a rising concern that we are starting to see.' 'Unfortunately, medical euthanasia is something that we do have to deal with if the animal is suffering so much that it just won't have any quality of life,' Mr Fryer adds. 'We do see some dogs that have such extreme conformations that, effectively, the best welfare outcome is euthanasia, because their quality of life will be so drastically compromised.' Consciousness exists beyond death and the process of dying should be considered a negotiable condition, a bombshell study claims. Traditionally, death has been defined as the irreversible loss of brain and circulatory function. But experts are beginning to challenge this view arguing that consciousness can persist even when the brain stops working. A researcher from Arizona State University carried out a large-scale review of dozens of studies that focused on what happens when people die. This included publications on near-death experiences, research on the electrical brain activity of dying patients and clinical studies of conscious awareness during heart attacks. Analysis revealed that across heart attack studies, 20 per cent of survivors recall conscious experiences during periods when the brain had stopped working. Brain recordings in dying humans and animals document surges of activity surpassing baseline waking levels, they found. Meanwhile some patients who have experienced complete circulatory standstill when the heart stops beating later demonstrated implicit recall of what was going on around them. Some experts argue that consciousness persists even after the heart has stopped beating. Pictured: A gamma surge following a heart attack Laboratory work has also demonstrated that metabolism, brain activity and blood flow can be restored in mammal brains and organs well beyond accepted limits. This reveals that biological death is not immediately irreversible, Anna Fowler, from Arizona State University, said. Emerging evidence suggests that biological and neural functions do not cease abruptly, she told the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) conference in Phoenix. Instead, they decline from minutes to hours, suggesting that death unfolds as a process rather than an instantaneous event. Elements of consciousness may briefly exist beyond the measurable activity of the brain and death, long considered absolute, is instead a negotiable condition. She added that the findings invite a redefinition of death as a gradual, interruptible process, one that science may increasingly learn not just to delay but to challenge outright. Ms Fowler, whose research is forming part of her thesis, said the findings could have significant implications for resuscitation windows and organ donation timings. After deaththeyve got to procure those organs right away so that they can save the life of another person, she explained. But there have been studies that have shown that up to 90 minutes after the declaration of death, that those neural firings are still going off in the brain. Analysis revealed that across heart attack studies, 20 per cent of survivors recall conscious experiences during periods when the brain had stopped working She believes that death should be more process driven, with phases rather than a singular event. Death, once believed to be a final and immediate boundary, reveals itself instead as a process - a shifting landscape where consciousness, biology and meaning persist longer than we once imagined, she concluded. Consciousness may not vanish the moment the brain falls silent. Cells may not die the moment the heart stops. This research proposes that death is not the sudden extinguishing of life, but the beginning of a transformation, one that medicine, philosophy and ethics must now approach with deeper humility and renewed clarity. Earlier this week Dr Sam Parnia, director of critical care and resuscitation research at NYU Langone School of Medicine in New York, revealed that some people may even hear their death being announced as the brain remains active after the heart stops. Dr Parnia has not only studied what happens to the human brain when you die but has also spoken to patients who survived near-death experiences. That research revealed many occurrences where patients who were clinically dead, noted as when the heart stops beating, who were later revived and described conversations and events taking place in their room with remarkable accuracy. The reason doctors only look at the heart when determining the time of death is because that's the moment when blood flow to the brain stops. However, a study led by Dr Parnia in 2023 discovered spikes in brain waves associated with higher cognitive function up to an hour into CPR. It uncovered spikes in brain waves linked to thinking, memory and awareness showing up to 60 minutes after a persons heart stopped. Travelling with a family to one of the world's most popular honeymoon destinations is not for the faint of heart; it's a long way, for a start...and can come with eye-watering costs. Jenna Carr, a family holiday expert also known as '@thetravelmum', says it is possible though for parents to enjoy a portion of paradise with their offspring in tow. The 37-year-old from Nottinghamshire, who regularly jets off with husband Joao and their two children, one-year-old Luca and six-year-old Leo, says she's keen to dispel the idea that it's difficult to travel to dreamy destinations with your kids in tow. She's on a mission too to counter those 'perfect' social media images of families looking harmonious while away, saying that, in reality, family trips are rarely as they appear on Instagram. Jenna, who shares the best affordable holiday deals each week with her followers online, has written a new book called Yes, You Can Travel With Kids - and she says it's entirely possible to have a luxurious break even with young children and on a budget. One of her best bougie family travel adventures? Three weeks in the Maldives last year for 4,500. Jenna tells the Daily Mail: 'We'd always wanted to go but it was coming out at between 8,000 to 10,000 for a week for our family.' Family fun: Jenna, 37, with her husband Joao and their children, Luca, one, and Leo, six Jenna adds: 'There are lots of local islands in the Maldives that have the exact same gorgeous beaches, amazing food, beautiful sunshine. 'It was paradise, but it was 10 per cent of the cost of staying at a resort. The fancy resorts were 300 a night, but these lovely hotels on local islands were 30 a night. 'So by doing that trip DIY we spent three weeks there in the end, and we spent 4,500. For four of those nights, we went to a water villa, so we did that luxury resort experience too. 'You could fly and do a local island for five nights, and then pay for two nights in the water bungalow, and then you've got your pictures, you've had the experience and you've done a bit of both.' She even admits: 'Actually, we enjoyed the local islands more, there was just more culture there.' Popular local island Maafushi is great, and Jenna's family stayed here for four nights for 151.50 - which worked out at just 37.90 per night. Jenna described her stay in a blog: 'We stayed at Triton Hotel and Spa and paid 37 a night with breakfast included. An absolute bargain as the hotel is brilliant and a very short walk to the beach. The service couldnt have been better.' Currently, rooms at the hotel start from 70 per night, but it's worth keeping an eye out for great deals. Alternatively, if you're visiting the region, Jenna says Dhiffushi is quiet and less commercialised than Maafushi, with stunning beaches and warm hospitality, while Guraidhoo provides an authentic Maldivian village experience. Postcard perfect: Jenna and her family stayed on popular island Maafushi, great for budget-friendly prices Dreamland: The family also stayed on Gulhi island, an uncrowded spot known for its soft sand and turquoise water Have baby, will travel: Jenna enjoying the tranquil beaches on Gulhi island with few tourists in sight Other great options include Gulhi, Thoddoo, Fulidhoo (ideal for those seeking tranquility), Ukulhas for a vibrant marine life and Feridhoo, which is serene and off-the-beaten-path. And it's a similar story across the globe, with bargains to be had if you employ a little lateral thinking. Jenna cut costs on a big Abu Dhabi trip, too, saving 2,600 with one tactic. 'We've just booked a trip to Abu Dhabi. It looks beautiful, a five-star hotel, you'd probably see it as a luxury holiday, but just by implementing a few things, we managed to get the cost down massively. EIGHT OF THE BEST 'LOCAL' ISLANDS IN THE MALDIVES Maafushi Dhiffushi Guraidhoo Gulhi Thoddoo Fulidhoo Ukulhas Feridhoo Advertisement 'To leave on the Saturday of February half-term, it was 2,600 more than leaving on the Tuesday. So, we leave on the Tuesday, which means we'll miss two days of school at the other side, but we've saved 2,600. 'And I know there's a lot of contention with the fines at the moment, but you can't be fined for missing two days of school. It has to be five consecutive days. For 2,600, you have to make the decision as a parent, but it was worth it for us.' Abu Dhabi was 3,000 half board to leave on the Tuesday, and then it was 5,600 to leave on the Saturday, Jenna explains. There are other ways to save cash, Jenna says. 'In the book, we talk about destination dupes, where you might have this kind of bucket list place that you want to visit, but actually there'll be somewhere in the world very, very similar that has all those little things that you're looking for but for half the price. Abu Dhabi instead of Dubai is a great example,' she says. Full house: While many consider the Maldives to be an adult, luxury break, it's absolutely doable as a family Disney delights: The family have enjoyed many overseas breaks together around the world You can, too! Jenna's book is now out, for parents seeking advice on travelling with children The travel fan is keen to share her hints and tips with other parents. She says: 'A lot of travel books and social media accounts will say, "look at these amazing places" - it's very aspirational. It tells you where to go, but not how to get there, or how to do it as a family with all the chaos of family life. 'I think for a lot of families you read travel books, and you see social media accounts posting wonderful things, but you just think it's not really attainable with kids. 'We had a lot of people saying you won't be able to do this once your baby arrives, or you won't be able to do this with two kids, or you won't be able to do this when they're toddlers. 'But we've gone ahead and done these things, and worked out how to do it, so it was about writing something that gave people the how.' Jenna says it was also important to share the reality in the book - 'it isn't going to look like a Jet2 Holidays advert where your kids are running off into the sea giggling with ice creams', she adds. She goes on: 'That's not the reality of it, and I think a lot of people would see social media posts of these perfect trips, and then they'd go and experience chaos, which is completely normal for family travel, and they'd think they were doing it wrong, or that they just aren't made for it. 'I just wanted to make travel doable, and write something that was practical.' Team: Travelling with kids in tow often seems daunting - but Jenna wants to combat this idea Other tactics to save money include looking at food-inclusive packages, which could save cash in the long run. Plus, Jenna advises considering where you depart from as well. She says: 'We live near Manchester airport, so we naturally want to fly from Manchester if possible. 'But we saved lots of money going to London instead. We went to Sardinia last year. I think it worked out about 1,000 cheaper to fly from Gatwick compared to Manchester. 'Sometimes the saving might not be worth the faff. You might think, I'm not going to drive all the way to London to save 200 - but for 1,000, it's probably worth the extra drive.' Overall, Jenna says, travelling with kids is about accepting 'it's never going to be easy' - but there are ways to ensure you have a magical experience nonetheless. Jen's new book 'Yes, You Can Travel With Kids' is available from February 12 and is available for preorder on Amazon. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor will be ripped apart in an outrageous Mock The Week sketch 'exposing what he's really thinking' about the Epstein scandal. In episode three of the new series of Mock The Week, which was rebooted on TLC after it came to an end on the BBC in 2022, the comedians will poke fun at the former prince as the Epstein files scandal rolls on. Host Dara O'Briain will be joined by series regular Rhys James, as well as comedians Sara Pascoe, Katherine Ryan, Glenn Moore, Sarah Keyworth and Hugh Dennis. The comics will take a satirical romp through some of the week's biggest headlines, including 'exposing' what Mountbatten-Windsor, 65, has been 'really thinking' in recent weeks. Rhys, 34, will take on the role of a narrator while Outbumbered actor Hugh, 64, acts out responses while pretending to be the disgraced former royal in the upcoming episode. 'Hello, it's me, Mr Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor,' Rhys begins, before the camera pans to Hugh, pretending to cry as he stifles laughs and says: 'What happened?' Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor will be ripped apart in an outrageous Mock The Week sketch 'exposing what he's really thinking' about the Epstein scandal The comics will take a satirical romp through some of the week's biggest headlines, including 'exposing' what Mountbatten-Windsor, 65, has been 'really thinking' in recent weeks 'I am currently facing some personal challenges,' Rhys adds, before Hugh then quips: 'And that is putting it f***ing mildly.' 'Things are starting to get serious for me,' Rhys responds, before Hugh jokes, nodding towards Mountbatten-Windsor's 2019 BBC Panorama interview in which he claimed he 'doesn't sweat': 'I suddenly realise I do sweat.' Between the laughs from the live studio audience, Rhys goes on: 'I realise now that I should have kept better company.' Hugh takes a swipe at Sarah Ferguson, who last week was revealed to have taken daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie to visit convicted Jeffrey Epstein after he spent time in prison for sex crimes against underage girls. 'Marrying Fergie was a bad idea,' Hugh jokes, receiving a large laugh from the audience, as Rhys goes on: 'I'm facing a lot of criticism, but remember all of the good things I've done.' The skit will end with Hugh standing still with nothing more to say, shrugging his shoulders before doubling over in laughter and leaving the panel chuckling. This week, it was revealed that Mountbatten-Windsor was handed 12million by the Royal Family to pay off Virginia Giuffre - with palace sources saying his brother Charles did not contribute. Queen Elizabeth II is understood to have loaned her second son 7million to help him settle the Epstein victim's civil sexual assault lawsuit in 2022. Join the debate Does humour help the public process scandal, or trivialise serious issues? Rhys, 34, will take on the role of a narrator while Outbumbered actor Hugh, 64, acts out responses while pretending to be the disgraced former royal in the upcoming episode Another 3million came from Prince Philip's estate as the former Duke of York raided the bank of mum and dad. The remainder was apparently raised by a donations from other royals. The 12million deal with Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre, who took her life last April, meant that her allegations that Andrew sexually abused her on three occasions in 2001, when she was 17, were never tested in court. The Sun reported King Charles had contributed to 1.5 million loaned to Andrew. Police are today being urged to launch a sex trafficking probe into Mountbatten-Windsor amid claims a woman was flown in on Jeffrey Epstein's 'Lolita Express' and smuggled into Buckingham Palace using the codename 'Mrs Windsor'. The paedophile's Boeing 727100 private jet, which he used to host orgies and traffic girls, landed around 90 times in the UK - including after his conviction for child sex offences in 2008, the Epstein Files reveal. Stansted, Britain's fourth busiest airport, was allegedly used as a hub to transfer victims from one Epstein plane to another. It was claimed that least one Epstein victim was flown into Britain on board and then taken to Andrew at Buckingham Palace. Sources have claimed that other women would be whisked in to see him at his late mother and father's London home using the same coded requests and with no security clearance. Andrew has been linked to four women in the Epstein Files, along with Virginia Giuffre. Hugh will pretend to cry as he stifles laughs acting as Mountbatten-Windsor The Mail on Sunday revealed this week how Epstein took a young Romanian model to a private dinner at Buckingham Palace with his friend Andrew. Virginia Giuffre's allegations that she was forced to have sex with Andrew are also revealed in FBI documents released in the latest tranche of documents, although her name is redacted. It came as a senior US politician claimed the woman pictured on the floor under Andrew at Epstein's New York mansion was a sex trafficking victim. Three images of the former prince crouching over an unidentified woman in the paedophile financier's home were among the Epstein files released on January 30. Andrew always denied any wrongdoing in his dealings with Epstein, or knowledge of his sex crimes. Mock the Week continues Sunday at 9pm on TLC You can bank on Hugh Bonneville. He is a warm, solid incarnation of bashful, faintly grumpy Britishness. The cuddly star of Downton and Paddington sets you up for the day like a full English breakfast. And here he goes again as CS Lewis, the great writer of the Narnia stories a reclusive, emotionally stunted, 50-something Oxford don who sought refuge in tweeds, literature and the church. Yet the real star of this West End transfer of Chichester Festival Theatres 2019 revival of William Nicholsons biographical drama is Maggie Siff (pictured with Hugh), best known as Damian Lewiss shrink Wendy in TVs Billions. She plays Joy Davidman, the interloping American who turned Lewiss world of dusty regimentation and closeted, anti-American misogyny upside down. She does it not by driving a horse and cart through ancient college protocols, but through quietly determined love and progressive cups of tea. Resistance is great, not least from Lewiss jaundiced fellow Oxford don Christopher Riley, who moans about Americans not understanding English inhibition. She bats him off as either offensive or merely stupid, and Lewis finds himself enchanted by the light and colour she brings to his life. (l-r) Jeff Rawle, Hugh Bonneville, Maggie Siff, Ayrton English and Timothy Watson bow at the curtain call during the press night performance of Shadowlands at The Aldwych Theatre You can bank on Hugh Bonneville. He is a warm, solid incarnation of bashful, faintly grumpy Britishness, writes Patrick Marmion But tragedy awaits with a diagnosis of terminal cancer, in a play asking why God allows suffering. In a series of soliloquy-lectures to students, Lewis asks if God uses suffering as a megaphone to rouse the spiritually deaf, or if hes actually a cosmic vivisectionist. Unashamedly pondering such big questions, the play does so with thoughtful wit and, astonishingly in Rachel Kavanaughs nostalgic production, a modest amount of spectacle. Yards and yards of tall, dreaming bookcases yield to a vision of Narnia beyond, suggesting an afterlife. And while Bonneville is a dependable old stick in whom we trust, as we join him on his journey through faith and despair, its Siff he has to thank for lighting up both his character and the stage. Next stop Broadway? Drama based on the real-life love story between a Norwegian prince and a commoner Year: 2026 Certificate: 12 Watch now on Prime Video Watch now on Viaplay The world of TV movie romcoms is full of tales of royals falling for common folk, but real-life examples - especially happy ones - are harder to come by. Step forward The Commoner, the true love story of Crown Prince Harald of Norway and Sonja Haraldsen, who strike up a secret relationship in defiance of the fact that both the government and more importantly his father, King Olav V, will object to the idea of their marriage. (If you really want to know what happens in the end you can search on the internet, but it seems a shame to spoil it here.) The series presents their romance sweetly, and played with an air of loving inevitability by both leads. Serious and nervous Harald (Sindre Strand Offerdal) meets Sonja (Gina Bernhoft Grvell) in 1959, as she's grieving the loss of her father at a party she almost didn't go to, and they have a meet-cute over a painting and banter over architecture. Through British eyes, the life of the Norwegian royals will feel different to that of our own - there is less pomp and circumstance, less separation, but the themes of media scrutiny and deference are still there, and to be navigated by Harald and Sonja. Look out for a brief appearance from a young Elizabeth II and a yawning Prince Philip in the opening scene at Windsor Castle. (Four episodes) He was Hollywood's leading hard man, fronting blockbuster films such as Die Hard and Pulp Fiction. Now, plagued by frontotemporal dementia, iconic actor Bruce Willis is said to be totally unaware of the action-packed life he once led. Willis, 70, has been living separately from his family including wife Emma Heming Willis, 47, and his brood of devoted daughters in a one-story home with an around-the-clock care team following his diagnosis, made public in 2023. His condition, which causes a rapid decline in the areas of the brain linked to personality and language abilities, has progressed to the point that it is understood Willis doesn't know he has dementia. It is a bittersweet reality for the actor's close-knit family, who spend time every day with him at his home playing music and showering him with affection, multiple sources have told the Daily Mail. While a loved one's cognitive decline can be devastating to witness, the former action hero is said to have adjusted to his new surroundings. Bruce Willis, 70, and his wife Emma Heming Willis, 47, in 2019. It was made public in 2023 that the Hollywood star has been plagued by a form of dementia Willis has been surrounded by his blended family, including wife Emma as well as ex Demi Moore, and all his daughters, who have rallied around to help him cope Insiders suggested that Willis is content with his new normal away from the spotlight. 'Bruce is really well taken care of,' a source told the Daily Mail. 'He's got medical care, he's comfortable and surrounded by people who love him. He is happy. I don't think he knows what he has lost or that he's got dementia. From what I understand, he just thinks this is life and those are his people. 'It's hard on the kids and it's hard on his wife, but it's not hard on Bruce. He is happy.' In August, Emma revealed that Willis had moved into a second, separate family home down the street from their $9.8 million home in Brentwood, Los Angeles, where his specific needs are cared for by a full-time team. The decision was one of the 'hardest' she had ever had to make, the model previously told People, but it has provided her husband with the 'calm and serene atmosphere' his condition requires. Willis's daughters Mabel, 13, and Evelyn, 11, as well as his three adult daughters with ex-wife Demi Moore, see him every day and 'share special moments', according to the source. The entire family, including Moore's daughters Rumer, 37, Scout, 34, and Tallulah, 32, are also on a group text chain, where they coordinate visits and receive daily check-ins on his health. Emma, Willis and their daughters Mabel, 15, and Evelyn, 11, have dinner together several times a week at his home, where he receives 24/7 care for dementia A source told the Daily Mail that Willis's family, above in 2019, have 'accepted his fate' Some of these get-togethers are as simple as eating dinner with Willis or watching movies and TV programs, a second source told the Daily Mail, so that things feel 'as normal as possible' for their father. 'Bruce's kids haven't settled into a routine with their dad in the way where they are feeling bad for him or themselves,' the second insider said. 'They all have accepted his fate and always are there for him and enjoy having dinners with him and watching movies and TV.' The actor is said to have moments of lucidity, during which he recognizes his family members and offers subtle displays of affection. At other times, he appears relaxed and at ease knowing his loved ones are close by. The first insider said that his eldest daughter, Rumer, sees him 'as much as she can,' even with her own two-year-old daughter, Louetta Isley Thomas Willis, at home. 'There are moments where he recognizes her, recognizes all of the family. He'll smile, he'll nod,' the source said. 'He might hold her hand tightly or just seem relaxed and at ease when he sees family members, like he knows that they're friendly and he knows that he loves them and they love him.' The family has also discovered that Willis responds well to music, softly humming or nodding to songs that are 'always' playing throughout the house, the first insider added. A separate source told the Daily Mail that Willis's eldest daughter, Rumer, 37, sees him 'as much as she can' The actor's daughter Scout, 34, posted a photograph featuring her father and her sister Tallulah, 32, to Instagram in September Moore posted a photo to Instagram of her ex-husband cuddling on a couch with their three daughters The update comes in what has been a long road for the actor's blended family, ever since they publicly shared his diagnosis in 2023. Unlike Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, patients with frontotemporal dementia experience shrinking in the brain's frontal and temporal lobes, which impacts personality, behavior and language. The Hollywood star also has anosognosia, a neurological condition in which the brain can't recognize one or more health impairments. Prior to his move, Emma was Willis's primary caregiver. The model, who married Willis in 2009, often provides updates about his declining cognitive health and has become an advocate for dementia awareness and caregiver support. Most recently, she revealed that Willis had never connected the dots when it came to understanding his illness, which she described as a 'blessing' in disguise. Speaking on the Conversations with Cam podcast in January, Emma conceded that she was 'happy' her husband doesn't understand the extent of his condition. 'Bruce never, never tapped in,' she said. 'I think that's like the blessing and the curse of this, is that he never connected the dots that he had this disease, and I'm really happy about that. 'I'm really happy that he doesn't know about it.' His wife Emma conceded that she was 'happy' her husband doesn't understand the extent of his condition She described anosognosia as a condition in which the brain 'can't identify what is happening to it,' meaning those affected 'think this is their normal.' Not only has Willis come to understand his disease as his new normal but family members have also accepted his battle with dementia as playing an ongoing role in their lives. 'They try to make it as normal as possible [for Willis] and it is their normal now,' the second source said. 'They all are trying to remember these times as much as possible and are trying to enjoy all the time they have with him. Sure, he doesn't know the problems and issues he has, and his daughters aren't stressing him out about it. 'But the care that he is getting and the love that everyone is sharing with him, he is having a pretty great life all things considered.' The decision to move Willis to a separate residence, where he is fully taken care of by an around-the-clock team, has also given the actor more freedom to reconnect with friends and family. Emma told the Sunday Times in September: 'It's made such a difference for more friends and family to have their own experience with him without it being my home, without me hovering, or my anxiety of how to manage the guest and their expectations, and then have to see their reactions - their sadness at what is.' She said she visits Willis at his home several times a week, dropping by for breakfast or having dinner together as a family of four. 'We are over there all the time,' she said on the podcast. 'It is our second home, and it's a place where we make memories and that house supports Bruce's every need 24/7, and our other home, where our kids are, now they're supported, now their needs are met and that's worked so well for us.' The Daily Mail has contacted representatives for comment. Jessie Buckley has offered a glimpse behind the curtain of Hamnet in an exclusive clip as she gears up for the BAFTAs next week. The actress, who has so far picked up all the awards she was nominated for this awards season, is tipped to receive Best Actress at the film ceremony on Sunday. The film - about the death of William Shakespeare and Agnes Shakespeare's son Hamnet - has received wide critical acclaim following its release last month. It has picked up top awards at the Golden Globes and looks set to be a big winner at both the BAFTAs and the Oscars in the coming weeks. Particular praise has been made for Jessie, 36, who plays central figure Agnes Shakespeare and follows her journey in the life and death of her son. The film explores how that loss shapes both her family and, indirectly, the creation of one of Shakespeare's greatest works, Hamlet. Jessie Buckley has offered a glimpse behind the curtain of Hamnet in an exclusive clip as she gears up for the BAFTAs next week A behind the scenes clip shows what it was like before the design was complete The cast discussed the high level of construction that took place Ahead of the ceremony, a new clip shows members of the cast, including Jessie, share behind the scenes secrets about the film. Speaking about the creation of the replica Globe Theatre, Jessie says: 'What they've done with the Globe is really incredible, walking in there. It's too much to take in. It's in the deepest part of humanity, being in that Globe. Her co-star Paul Mescal, who plays Shakespeare, adds: 'The way that backdrop was painted, the way the stage looked. It all just felt incredibly authentic and unique. Director Chloe Zhao spoke about her vision for the theatre and how she wanted it to reflect Shakespeare's iconic 'all the world's a stage' speech. She says: 'From the beginning we wanted the film to feel graphic, so much is straight on and everything is designed with symmetry with the understanding that it is going to look like the backdrop of a stage. All of the world is a stage. Executive producer Pippa, adds: 'The design team have created the most extraordinary Globe, which feels utterly real. It's an absolutely incredible piece of design work.' 'It is three quarters the size of the real globe and we built the whole ground floor and one upper level, it was literally a work of art. 'The design team painted these incredible backdrops. Imported old wood from France, they spent weeks and weeks trying to find the right colour oak and creating the whole theatre, so that's been an incredible journey watching them piece this together.' Her co-star Paul Mescal, who plays Shakespeare, adds: 'The way that backdrop was painted, the way the stage looked. It all just felt incredibly authentic and unique Director Chloe Zhao spoke about her vision for the theatre and how she wanted it to reflect Shakespeare's iconic 'all the world's a stage' speech It was announced last month that Jessie has earned an Oscar nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role for Hamnet. After bagging a Golden Globe and a Critics' Choice Award this month, Jessie will go into the March 15 ceremony in Los Angeles as a nominee, four years after she earned a nod for The Lost Daughter. Actress in a Leading Role will be a highly competitive field as Jessie goes up against Rose Byrne - If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, Kate Hudson - Song Sung Blue, Renate Reinsve - Sentimental Value and Emma Stone - Bugonia. Jessie said she is 'so proud and honoured' to have been nominated for her portrayal of Agatha Shakespeare. Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, she said: 'My baby's screaming in the background, but I am thrilled. I'm so proud and honoured to be beside all those extraordinary women and to be there with Hamnet. I'm delighted.' Hamnet is nominated for a total of eight awards, including the coveted Best Picture accolade and Best Director for Chloe Zhao, but Paul Mescal was a surprise snub in the Best Supporting Actor category. However, Jessie believes her own recognition 'belongs' to her co-star just as much as it does to herself because of how much she needed him for her own performance. Asked her reaction to his omission, she said: 'Yeah, look, I think he's extraordinary in this film. I know I've met a partner for life in doing this with him. I don't know what to say apart from he is, to me, my absolute. It was announced last month that Jessie has earned an Oscar nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role for Hamnet Jessie and Paul pictured as Agnes and William Shakespeare in Hamnet 'His artistry is something that will continue to grow and be a theme in so many different ways. 'I know what we created together is something that's so special to us, and I hold that so dearly in my heart, and there's no part of Agnes that exists without Paul.' 'There's no part of what I created or what we created in this story which exists without Paul and what he poured into this story. 'So what is recognised belongs to him as much as him being recognised in his own category would.' The main battle coming March 15 will be Timothee Chalamet vs Leonardo DiCaprio, who face off in the coveted Best Actor category. Timothee, 30, received a nod for Marty Supreme while Leo, 51, earned it for One Battle After Another, as the A-listers will face off against Ethan Hawke - Blue Moon, Michael B. Jordan - Sinners and Wagner Moura - The Secret Agent. Hamnet is available to buy or rent at home now. Jacob Elordi looked relaxed in the company of family and friends on Friday when he arrived at the Vogue Summer Ball. The iconic Sydney Opera House was the backdrop for the inaugural soiree , which also hosted the Vogue Forces of Fashion event earlier in the day. Arriving by boat, Jacob was surrounded by family, including sister Isabella, father John, and mother Melissa, and the heartthrob looked chuffed to be in their company. Cutting a more relaxed figure than his recent red carpet appearances, Jacob was a vision in black, stepping out in a simple collared shirt. He also wore a pair of matching pants and finished the look with a pair of black, patent leather shoes. Wearing his dark brown locks in a tousled 'do', Jacob accessorised with a pair of dark sunglasses. Jacob Elordi looked relaxed in the company of family and friends on Friday when he arrived at the Vogue Summer Ball The iconic Sydney Opera House was the backdrop for the inaugural event, and the Wuthering Heights star, 28, arrived by boat Jacob looked very much in his element as he entertained an entourage of family and friends on the boat's deck before disembarking for the Opera House soiree. He was spotted enjoying an aperitif and some casual conversation before making his way to the venue with sister Isabella, who wore a matching grey skirt suit set. Meanwhile, prior to Jacob's casual entrance, the actor mysteriously disappeared from the Vogue Forces of Fashion event earlier in the day, leaving attendees scratching their heads. Jacob was due to appear on stage alongside his Wuthering Heights co-star Margot Robbie for an interview with fellow actor Joel Edgerton. However, as News Corp reported, when it came time for the chat, Jacob was nowhere to be seen. 'We cant find Jacob,' Margot told the crowd. 'If anyone spots a really tall, handsome man, point him this way.' The publication added that Jacob eventually appeared on stage, five minutes late, offering no explanation for his tardiness. It comes after Jacob and his Wuthering Heights co-star Margot Robbie caused a stir on Friday during a photoshoot in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs. Jacob was surrounded by family, including sister Isabella (pictured) father John and mother Melissa and the heartthrob looked chuffed to be in their company Cutting a more relaxed figure than his recent red carpet appearances, Jacob was a vision in black, stepping out in an untucked collared shirt. He also wore a pair of matching pants and finished the look with a pair of black, patent leather shoes Wearing his dark brown locks in a tousled 'do', Jacob accessorised with a pair of dark sunglasses Jacob looked very much in his element as he entertained an entourage of family and friends on the boat's deck before disembarking for the Opera House soiree The Wuthering Heights stars slipped into their finest and dazzled onlookers as they posed on the cliffs of Bronte Beach for what appeared to be an upcoming editorial. The location was no doubt a nod to author Emily Bronte, whose sole classic novel which focuses on the intense, destructive, and obsessive love between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw on the Yorkshire moors. Margot, 35, looked sensational in an intricate corset in shades of off-white and bone by Dilara Findikoglu that made the most of her stunning frame. Meanwhile, Jacob was the epitome of cool in a red mesh-knit jumper and wide-leg belted jeans. Jacob recently raised eyebrows during a press interview when he declared the pair had a 'mutual obsession' while filming. Speaking to Fandango, with Margot sitting nearby, he said he made sure he was never more than 10 metres away from the Barbie actress on set. 'If you have the opportunity to share a film set with Margot Robbie, you're going to make sure you're within five to ten metres at all times,' he said. 'Watching how she drinks tea, how she eats her food. When is it going to slip? And it never comes undone.' He was spotted enjoying an aperitif and some casual conversation before making his way to the venue with sister Isabella who wore a matching grey skirt suit set The Elordi family looked stunning as they posed on the red carpet. Pictured from left: John, Melissa, Isabella, and Jacob Elordi The mutual 'obsession' helped with getting into character. 'There'd be a moment where we'd be running hand-in-hand through the moors, maybe not even in the scene, just setting it up, where I'd look across at her and she'd be looking at me and you really realised you are looking at Catherine and she was looking at Heathcliff,' he continued. 'And in that moment, we really were a part of their love, for real.' Meanwhile, Margot claimed that she became 'codependent' on Jacob. The rags-to-riches story of Sydney Sweeney is now Hollywood folklore, a tale of talent, luck and sheer grit. How, as she tells it, aged 13, she left Washington State for Los Angeles, living in a single room of a Holiday Inn motel with her parents and brother, all in the dedicated pursuit of fame. Sydney and her mother took the bed while her younger brother and father slept on the pull-out couch. While she struggled to make it, both her parents went bankrupt and eventually divorced. Sydney blamed herself. Afterwards, she said, her father moved to live 'off grid' in Mexico without a mobile phone or internet access. There were ten years of collective penny-pinching before the blonde bombshell hit the big time. But the Daily Mail can reveal that only some of this story is true. More fascinatingly, Sydney's account has omitted some of the most extraordinary details of her rise from rock bottom in particular the toll which America's drug crisis has taken on her wider family. The Daily Mail has discovered one of Sydney's uncles on her mother's side was a meth and heroin addict with a drink problem who died, aged just 52, in 2019. Another uncle, Rob to whom Sydney remains close has numerous convictions for fraud, drug and theft offences and has been in and out of prison. It's undeniable, however, that the steely Sydney was very much the driving force behind her own success, even as a pre-teen. Sydney Sweeney's account of how she rose to fame has omitted some of the most extraordinary details of her rise from rock bottom in particular the toll which America's drug crisis has taken on her wider family Sweeney (right) pictured with her Euphoria cast members Barbie Ferreira (left) and Zendaya (centre) Sydney's uncle, Rob to whom she remains close has numerous convictions for fraud, drug and theft offences and has been in and out of prison Her parents, Steven and Lisa, were the picture of aspiration. He worked for a medical company; she was a criminal lawyer who became the assistant attorney general for the state before giving up her career to care for her young children. Outdoorsy, religious and strongly Republican, the Sweeneys see themselves as proud Americans. Sydney's maternal grandmother Sherry Haislet posted a picture of the whole clan gathered around the stars and stripes on Facebook in 2017, captioning it: 'I stand for the flag, I kneel for the cross.' Sydney's brother, Trent, is a senior airman in the American Air Force and currently posted to RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk. Sydney was born in September 1997 and attended the private St George's School in Washington. Her ambitions to be an actress developed early and, aged 12, she gave her parents a Powerpoint presentation to convince them to allow her to pursue her dreams. A year later, in 2010, she was asked to submit an 'inspirational quote' for her school yearbook. 'I'm too epic to fail' she wrote. Sydney has spoken previously of the 'really deep, deep streak of addiction' that runs in her family without naming names Star on the rise: Sweeney, pictured on the set of 2025 psychological thriller The Housemaid By then the family had moved to LA, where Sydney attended independent school Brighton Hall in Burbank. Here she was on the robotics team and in the maths club in part a response to her looks. 'I studied really hard and I did everything that people wouldn't think I would do, to show them that my body doesn't define who I am,' she has said. Sydney certainly wasn't the only starlet at her school, which had a programme for child performers. Notable past pupils include Janet Jackson and actors Jason Bateman and Blake Lively. One of the parents there, Woody Martin, told the Daily Mail: 'She was just a regular kid. If you had said to me 'Do you think Sydney's going to be on top of the world one day?' I would have chosen somebody else. There were others we thought would be bigger. But what she wrote on her yearbook page she was right on target.' Angie Peiris, head of school, always thought she was exceptional. She told the Daily Mail: 'She has made it big and we are very proud of Sydney. 'She was serious about acting and her Mom was right there, guiding her. I remember she used to come to school and say 'My Mom made me do this or rehearse this or act out this ten times at home.' Sweeney pictured with her younger brother Trent and his girlfriend Samayre Soto Ms Peiris agrees it wasn't easy for the family to meet the bills, saying: 'Financially it's difficult to live here and put kids into private school, so Brighton Hall helped them during that period.' This was when the family lived in the Holiday Inn by Burbank Airport, now the Burbank Hotel. One longstanding hotel employee remembers Sydney. He told the Daily Mail: 'She was a nice girl, very quiet. No bother. She would say hello and smile.' The family lived in the motel for around nine months, her parents working around her needs. But Lisa and Steven split in 2012 when she was 15, and divorced in 2015, the same year that she graduated. Court documents show the split was amicable. The family house in Spokane, Washington, was transferred to Lisa, complete with a $470,000 (345,000) mortgage. Sydney said in 2024 she had paid this off to thank her mother for everything she had done. But while Sydney said in August 2023 her father lives 'off grid' in Mexico, he has a US mobile phone and email address listed by his employers the Washington Restaurateurs Association. Steve declared bankruptcy in 2016. Contrary to what Sydney has said, her mother never has. Sweeney in her younger years with her little brother Trent In her father's bankruptcy filing he said he owed $187,000, mostly in bank loans and unpaid taxes. His income was listed as $7,850 a month, and he noted he was paying Lisa $3,500 a month in child support. Fortuitously, the year after her father's bankruptcy, Sydney booked the jobs which made her name Netflix's comedy series Everything Sucks, The Handmaid's Tale and Sharp Objects, an adaptation of the Gillian Flynn novel. All were broadcast in 2018. That year she filmed the gritty teen drama Euphoria, alongside Zendaya, about addiction, trauma and relationships. From there she has gone on to star in the films Christy and The Housemaid. It was her Euphoria role as party girl Cassie Howard that got her noticed, but the subject matter was very close to home. The year in which Euphoria was streamed, 2019, was also the year her troubled uncle Eric Webb died. Police and court records show he had a history of offending from 2004 to 2014, and had notched up jail sentences, including for possession of meth and heroin. His wife Genie filed for divorce in 2004 and had full custody of their four children, with Eric only able to see them if he produced clean blood tests for two years. A police report filed by Lisa in 2003 confirms her brother's struggles. She reported Eric as a missing person who had left rehab, saying he had 'made plans to harm others because of his addictions'. At the time he living 'as a transient' in Spokane. When he was found by a police patrol he was taken to a mission in Seattle. But he died in October 2019 after collapsing in a diner. Despite efforts to revive him, Eric was pronounced dead at the scene. It was noted he had been drinking heavily for the previous month. The next of kin who was contacted with news of his death was Lisa Sweeney, Sydney's mum. In an interview to promote Euphoria, Sydney spoke of the 'really deep, deep streak of addiction' that runs in her family without naming names. She said: 'I come from a family of Cassies and [recovering drug addict in the show] Rues. Mostly Rues. I've never actually tried any drug, never drank...' Sydney added: 'I'm terrified I'm going to have that addiction.' She could also have been thinking of her other maternal uncle, Rob Webb, whose drug issues have been extensive. It's clear from his social media he is close to Sydney he posted a picture of them posing happily together in 2023. One charge saw him given six months probation for an offence against his ex wife Tammy. He also admitted violating a domestic violence protection order in 1998 after making obscene calls to her. For this he received a 30-day prison sentence concurrent with an existing prison term. Other offences which have landed him behind bars include theft and probation violations and in 2000 he pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of methamphetamine and was jailed for at least a year. It therefore seems surprising that Sydney's mother Lisa became involved in attempting to decriminalise cannabis. Lisa Sweeney's friend Jackie Subeck said they both used to throw events together, adding that Sydney's 'mom really believed in her, as moms do. She must have known something'. Additional reporting: Daniel Bates and Barbara McMahon An actress who acted with some of the most famous leading men of her generation was glimpsed on the New York subway this week. After getting her start on the stage, she exploded onto the Hollywood scene as a major character in Scarface alongside Al Pacino. In the same decade she played opposite Tom Cruise, before acting with Kevin Costner in the 1990s and George Clooney at the dawn of the new millennium. Now aged 67, the Tony-nominated actress was glimpsed in Manhattan holding a bulging shopping bag as she settled into a seat on the subway. She wore a stylish ensemble of a pale grey turtleneck and dark slim-fit jeans, warding off the chill of New York winter with a puffer jacket and a set of mittens. Can you guess who she is? An actress who acted with some of the most famous leading men of her generation was glimpsed on the New York subway this week After getting her start on the stage, she exploded onto the Hollywood scene as a major character in Scarface alongside Al Pacino She is none other than Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, who became a star in Scarface as Gina, the sister of Al Pacino's Miami Cuban drug kingpin Tony Montana. Directed by Brian De Palma from a script by Oliver Stone, the 1983 gangster classic featured Mastrantonio amid a cast that included Michelle Pfeiffer and Robert Loggia, as well as Melanie Griffith's ex-husband Steven Bauer. Born and raised in the Chicago suburbs, Mastrantonio studied drama at the University of Illinois before striking out east to New York City to be an actress. Her ship came in with her Broadway debut in a 1980 revival of West Side Story, when she understudied and then replaced Josie de Guzman as the female lead Maria. Three years later she burst onto the Hollywood scene with her explosive turn in Scarface as Gina Montana, who has a tempestuous relationship with her brother Tony and his right hand man Manny - played by Bauer - who becomes her love interest. Mastrantonio's face became known around the country, the wrinkle being that the people who thought they recognized her had often confused her for someone else. 'People say: "You're Amy Irving!"' she told the New York Times in 1989. 'Well, it's the same hair. One cab driver said to me: "You look just like that girl in Scarface - Geena Davis." I guess it's that Geena and I have the same wide-set eyes.' Her movie career thundered ahead with projects like Martin Scorsese's 1986 release The Color of Money starring Paul Newman and Tom Cruise as pool hustlers. Join the debate Did YOU guess who it was? She is none other than Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, who became a star in Scarface as Gina, the sister of Al Pacino's Tony Montana; pictured in a publicity still for hte movie She wore a stylish ensemble of a pale grey turtleneck and dark slim-fit jeans, warding off the chill of New York winter with a puffer jacket and a set of mittens Three years later she burst onto the Hollywood scene with her explosive turn in Scarface as Gina Montana, who has a tempestuous relationship with her brother Tony Directed by Brian De Palma from a script by Oliver Stone, the 1983 gangster classic featured Mastrantonio amid a cast that included Michelle Pfeiffer and Robert Loggia Her movie career thundered ahead with projects like Martin Scorsese's 1986 release The Color of Money starring Paul Newman and Tom Cruise (left) as pool hustlers Mastrantonio was nominated for a best supporting actress Oscar as the girlfriend of Cruise's character, but lost to Dianne Wiest for Woody Allen's Hannah and her Sisters The 1980s closed with her role in James Cameron's Cold War sci-fi deep sea picture The Abyss, starring her with Ed Harris and Michael Biehn In 1991 she played Maid Marian opposite Kevin Costner as the title character in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, amid a star-studded cast including Morgan Freeman and Alan Rickman The 1990s also saw Mastrantonio act with Patrick Swayze in the fantasy Three Wishes She also worked with Kevin Spacey (left) and Kevin Kline in the thriller Consenting Adults from Alan J. Pakula, director of Klute, Sophie's Choice and All the President's Men Mastrantonio was nominated for a best supporting actress Oscar as the girlfriend of Cruise's character, but lost to Dianne Wiest for Woody Allen's Hannah and her Sisters. The 1980s closed with her role in James Cameron's Cold War sci-fi deep sea picture The Abyss, starring her with Ed Harris and Michael Biehn. In 1991 she played Maid Marian opposite Kevin Costner as the title character in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, which boasted a star-studded cast featuring Morgan Freeman, Christian Slater and Alan Rickman. The 1990s also saw Mastrantonio act with Patrick Swayze in the fantasy Three Wishes, as well as Kevin Spacey and Kevin Kline in the thriller Consenting Adults from Alan J. Pakula, director of Klute, Sophie's Choice and All the President's Men. In 2000 she was part of the ensemble cast of the disaster picture The Perfect Storm, among names like George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, Diane Lane and John C. Reilly. Her stage career also continued apace, with her earning a Tony nod in 2003 as Aldonza in a revival of the classic Don Quixote musical Man of La Mancha. On the personal front, Mastrantonio has been married for 35 years to the Irish director Pat O'Connor, with whom she shares two sons. Cynthia Erivo has been accused of 'using teleprompters' to remember her lines in the latest West End's Dracula adaptation. The Wicked icon, 39, plays Van Helsing, Dracula himself reaching a total of 23 characters played in the sole show. The play kicked off at Noel Coward Theatre in London, but first impressions left many viewers 'disappointed' after spotting the star was being 'fed her lines', according to The Telegraph. Disgruntled theatre-goers raced to social media, as Reddit, and various West End blogs to share their opinions, writing: 'I saw it last night and was SO disappointed. Interesting point about the last 30 minutesI spent that time just wondering when the show was finally going to be over. Im normally such a fan of theatre, but I left frustrated at spending 70 on a ticket, honestly'. Another fan replied to the comment echoing: 'Same I tried so hard to get into it and I just couldnt.' Cynthia Erivo, 39, has been accused of 'using teleprompters' to remember her lines in the latest West End's Dracula adaptation The Wicked icon plays Van Helsing, Dracula himself reaching a total of 23 characters played in the sole show Another pointed out: 'I wish I hadn't bought an early on ticket for this. On my night there were technical issues and staging problems but worst of all Cynthia was struggling with remembering her lines and place in the script (despite visible auto cues on either side of her). 'In my opinion, it was just a retread of the Dorian Gray experience with a weaker story line. 'I'm sure the issues will be ironed out in a couple of weeks and it will be fabulous and I totally accept that if you go for a ticket at the start of a run you have to be prepared for mishaps but honestly it was disappointing.' Meanwhile, others were quick to raise the autocues were simply removed after the early performance. The Daily Mail has contacted The Noel Coward and Cynthia's representatives for a comment. Cynthia made a return to the stage with her one-woman show following a disastrous press tour for the fantasy films, which saw her co-star Ariana Grande, 32, ridiculed over their 'creepy' behaviour. In the gothic snap the actress can be seen with a red wig styled into finger waves while also sporting a pair of fans and her trademark acrylic fingernails. The play kicked off at Noel Coward Theatre in London, but first impressions left many viewers 'disappointed' after spotting the star was being 'fed her lines' Disgruntled theatre-goers raced to social media, as Reddit, and various West End blogs to share their opinions No stranger to the West End Cynthia made her debut in The Umbrellas Of Cherbourg back in 2011, before winning the 2013 Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role in The Colour Purple. She recreated that award-winning role for the Broadway production and scooped the Best Actress In A Musical Tony in 2016. Cynthia could finally start to receive the glory she deserves in her new one-woman following a disastrous Wicked press tour. Since the release of Wicked in 2024 and its sequel last year, she and Ariana have been lambasted with criticism over their behaviour during the promo blitz. Cynthia, who starred as Elphaba, and Ariana, as Glinda, were snubbed of an Oscar nomination this season despite the rave reviews the movie has received. Evan Dando - who is frontman of Boston-based alternative rock band The Lemonheads - was hospitalized for treatment after a fan alleged that he had sent her nonconsensual sexual video content. This comes as a follower of 58-year-old Dando provided screenshots of an alleged message exchange with the musician in which she was sent unsolicited sexual videos which were reviewed by Tony Ortega's Substack The Underground Bunker. Ortega reports that the woman had exchanged a few messages before Dando sent two videos of himself masturbating along with other images. Daily Mail has reached out to Dando's representatives for comment and has yet to hear back. Now, the musician's rep said that their client 'has long struggled with mental health issues dating back to his childhood,' in a statement provided to People on Friday. 'He's been admitted to a local hospital where hes receiving comprehensive help from experienced doctors and mental health professional,' they added. Evan Dando (pictured in Germany back in October 2006) - who is frontman of Boston-based alternative rock band The Lemonheads - was hospitalized for treatment after a fan alleged that he had sent her nonconsensual sexual video content This comes as a follower of 58-year-old Dando (seen September 2023) provided screenshots of an alleged message exchange with the musician in which she was sent unsolicited sexual videos which were reviewed by Tony Ortega's Substack The Underground Bunker Ortega reported on Thursday that the anonymous woman had previously exchanged messages with Dando on X (formally Twitter), then more recently she congratulated him on the release of The Lemonheads album Love Chant which was released in October 2025. The woman claimed that he did not respond for months until he replied 'Cool I'm sorry I'm an exhibitionist' on February 4. She allegedly replied: 'Dont ever apologize for being you, my friend. Always be unapologetic. And you.' The fan then claimed that Dando had sent her a few messages including one asking if he could send her an 'art photo' which was followed by a video of himself masturbating. The woman claimed that she wasn't sure how to 'process' the exchange so she waited for her husband to wake up. However, it did not end there as the fan alleges that Dando sent her another video followed by two messages which read 'ok sorry thanks I just need an outlet' and 'cheers.' The unidentified woman allegedly told Ortega: 'I've never felt anger like that. Don't call me an outlet, that's gross.' Dando's wife Antonia Teixeira spoke to Billboard about the allegations as she told the publication that her husband has had period of heavy drinking and prescription drug abuse for several years before suffering a mental episode earlier this year and believes that he had relapsed earlier this month. Join the debate Should celebrities be held accountable for their actions during mental health crises? Now, the musician's rep said that their client 'has long struggled with mental health issues dating back to his childhood,' in a statement provided to People on Friday (Dando is pictured in Newcastle back in October 2022) Teixeira told the trade publication that this was then he began exchanging sexual videos with numerous women on X including one who had the same name as the anonymous woman as she believes that Dando had confused the woman who made the accusation with another woman whom he was already receiving sexual videos from. She told Billboard: 'He betrayed me Im very pissed, and I think that no women deserve to go through that, and Im very sympathetic to that lady. 'He doesnt remember what happened to start with he was totally out of his mind.' Teixeira - who married the musician in 2024 and lives with him in Brazil - also claims to have spoken to the woman who had made the allegation and apologized. She also said that she gave him an ultimatum that if he doesn't complete the treatment, then she will file for divorce. Last year Dando released a memoir - titled Rumors Of My Demise - where he candidly wrote about his mental health journey and heroin addiction. Dando (pictured in 1988) is the only consistent member of Boston-based alternative rock band The Lemonheads which he founded in 1986 'I was in horrible shape, losing teeth. And living off cheeseburgers which I could barely chew Marlboro Reds, purple Powerade (two for the price of one at Cumberland Farms), and a $200 daily drug budget,' he wrote according to Variety. Dando is the only consistent member of Boston-based alternative rock band The Lemonheads which he founded in 1986 alongside Ben Deily and Jesse Peretz. Their most successful single was a cover of Simon And Garfunkel's Mrs. Robinson which was released in 1992. The band was active until 1997 before going on hiatus and then returned eight years later in 2005. Jessica Alba has finalized her divorce from Cash Warren, one year after she filed to dissolve their marriage of nearly two decades. The former couple, who did not have a prenuptial agreement when they eloped in 2008, have agreed not to pay each other alimony. They will share joint custody of their daughters Honor, 17, and Haven, 14, and their son Hayes, eight, according to court documents viewed by TMZ. Warren, 46, will receive a $3 million payout as part of the division of their assets, which include a $10 million Beverly Hills mansion they acquired in 2017. The sum will be parceled out to him in two non-taxable payments of $1.5 million apiece, one to be made now and the next one in a year. When Alba, 44, filed for divorce last February, she had asked to have her maiden name legally restored, a task that has now been completed. The Daily Mail has contacted Alba's representative for comment. Jessica Alba has finalized her divorce from Cash Warren, one year after she filed to dissolve their marriage of nearly two decades; pictured March 2024 Alba's counsel was the top-flight Hollywood divorce lawyer Laura Wasser, whose celebrity clientele has included Kim Kardashian, Kevin Costner, Angelina Jolie, Ariana Grande, Jennifer Lopez and Johnny Depp. Meanwhile Warren, a former movie producer whose father is Hill Street Blues star Michael Warren, was represented by Adam Lipsic. Alba filed for divorce last February on grounds of irreconcilable differences, with her and Warren both giving the date of separation as December 27, 2024. At the time, sources said that their divorce was 'extremely amicable,' notwithstanding of the vast amount of money involved and the lack of a prenuptial agreement, per TMZ. Along with her acting career, Alba is the co-founder of the beauty and baby products brand The Honest Company, which has a current market cap of $238.11 million and in which she holds a 6% stake despite having stepped down as chief creative officer. Warren has launched a successful business venture of his own, a socks and underwear line called Pair of Thieves, which at the time of the divorce filing was reported to be worth about $100 million. Alba announced their separation in January 2025, writing on Instagram that she had 'been on a journey of self realization and transformation for years - both as an individual and in partnership with Cash.' They filed for divorce the following month, and the pair of them have since embarked on highly-publicized rebound romances with younger paramours. They will share joint custody of their daughters Honor, 17, and Haven, 14, and their son Hayes, seven, whom they are pictured with in May 2024 months before their separation They held an impromptu courthouse wedding in Beverly Hills in May 2008, the month before Alba delivered their firstborn daughter Honor; pictured in 2006 Warren fell into the arms of model Hana Sun Doerr, 25, while Alba took up with actor Danny Ramirez, 33, of Top Gun: Maverick and Captain America: Brave New World. 'The age difference [with their younger partners] is not a big deal,' a source said after news of their new relationships went public, via Us Weekly. 'They think it's common in Hollywood, so there's no issue. They are cool with each other dating. They're happy for each other. There's no negativity or bad feelings.' The estranged spouses were spotted this past autumn having what appeared to be a chilly reunion as they attended one of Haven's tennis matches. 'Jessica did not acknowledge Cash when he arrived and ignored him the entire match,' an eyewitness exclusively informed the Daily Mail. 'They were seated with several people in between them and did not speak until the end, when Cash came up and asked Jessica to take a walk with him into the park.' Alba and Warren first met on the set of the flop 2004 movie Fantastic Four, where she was one of the leads and he served as assistant director. They held an impromptu courthouse wedding in Beverly Hills in May 2008, the month before Alba delivered their firstborn daughter Honor. In 2021, Alba offered a telling reflection on the state of her marriage, saying: 'Its all rosy for two and a half years, but then after that you become roommates'; the pair are pictured in 2010 Alba filed for divorce last February on grounds of irreconcilable differences, with her and Warren both giving the date of separation as December 27, 2024; pictured November 2024 Warren has confessed that he briefly split from Alba 'four years into' their romance because he began 'turning into an a**hole' from jealousy. He shared that when they 'first started dating' he 'was really jealous of other guys and the attention that she was getting from other guys,' on an episode of the podcast Whine Down with Jana Kramer recorded in 2023. 'It just wasnt making me feel good,' he said. 'I was always a pretty confident personand next thing you know, Im looking up and just feeling jealous all the time.' During their time apart, he decided that 'if we ever got back together, I made a promise to myself to channel that in a different way, into a more productive way.' In 2021, Alba offered a telling reflection on the state of her marriage, saying: 'Its all rosy for two and a half years, but then after that you become roommates.' She noted that after 17 years together, they had 'the friendship, the comfort of: Youre not going anywhere, and so sometimes we dont treat those people the best, right?' on Katherine Schwarzenegger's podcast Before, During and After Baby. 'You dont consider their feelings in the way that you would consider other peoples feelings. So that is something that I think is a constant, its a constant one to work on, because youre at different places, right?' she added. 'One night a week, date night might be enough at some point of your life, but it might not be enough in a month. You might need something else.' The Antipodean contingent was strong at New York Fashion Week on Friday, thanks to models Lara Worthington and Georgia Fowler. Lara, 38, and Georgia, 33, were happy to rub shoulders at the Calvin Klein show, with both models putting their best sartorial foot forward. Aussie Lara cut a very chic figure in a Calvin Klein wool blazer and matching skirt. The minimalist blazer featured a rounded collar and sharp, '90s-inspired shoulders, and the sleek look was maintained with a series of hidden button fastenings. Meanwhile, the matching skirt featured a split at the rear and finished just above the knee, showing off Lara's lithe legs. Keeping the accessories to a minimum, Lara wore a pair of subtle silver earrings and a pair of black sunglasses. The Antipodean contingent was strong at New York Fashion Week on Friday, thanks to models Lara Worthington (pictured) and Georgia Fowler Lara, 38, and Georgia, 33, were happy to rub shoulders at the Calvin Klein show, with both models putting their best sartorial foot forward She finished her fashionable look with a pair of black, pointed-toe heels. Lara looked chuffed to be attending the event, beaming broadly for photographers as she arrived. New Zealand-born model Georgia, meanwhile, looked equally chic in a black leather jacket that she wore over a crisp white collared shirt. The brunette left the bottom buttons of her shirt undone, exposing a hint of trim and taut torso. The statuesque beauty also wore a pair of light-blue jeans and a pair of black leather ankle boots to complete the ensemble. Like Lara, Georgia dialled back on the accessories, opting for some subtle gold bling in her ears. She also carried a large black leather shoulder bag. Georgia also offered a telling hint that her marriage with Nathan Dalah was back on following their shock 2024 split. Aussie Lara cut a very chic figure in a Calvin Klein wool blazer and matching skirt The minimalist blazer featured a rounded collar and sharp, '90s-inspired shoulders, and the sleek look was maintained with a series of hidden button fastenings Keeping the accessories to a minimum, Lara wore a pair of subtle silver earrings and a pair of black sunglasses She was spotted wearing what looked to be a wedding ring however, she seemed keen to keep it under wraps, posing with her left hand in the pocket of her jeans. It comes after Lara's husband, Australian actor Sam Worthington, gave a rare insight into the couple's family life. The couple shares three sons, Rocket Zot, 10, Racer, nine, and River, five. They also keep their family life veiled in secrecy and did not disclose the names or ages of their children for some time. However, Sam opened up about his home life when discussing his new film, Avatar: Fire and Ash. He allowed his young sons to watch the film but they quickly switched it off. 'I think it was just too much for them,' Sam told The Washington Post. 'My oldest said, "I felt sorry for the guy in the wheelchair," and I said: "It's me! I can walk! It's all good".' New Zealand-born model Georgia, meanwhile, looked equally chic in a black leather jacket that she wore over a crisp white collared shirt The brunette left the bottom buttons of her shirt undone, exposing a hint of trim and taut torso The statuesque beauty also wore a pair of light-blue jeans and a pair of black leather ankle boots to complete the ensemble Georgia also offered a telling hint that her marriage with Nathan Dalah was back on following their shock 2024 split She was spotted wearing what looked to be a wedding ring however, she seemed keen to keep it under wraps, posing with her left hand in the pocket of her jeans Sam, who lives with Lara and their children in New York, says that he prefers staying out of the spotlight. 'I'm quite an introverted guy,' he admitted. 'When you do interviews, it seems to be about you, but I'm still learning who that is. 'I always like anonymity. Having a blue avatar face, it may not get you nearly as recognised but I'm not in it for that.' Lara also told The Daily Telegraph that the pair, who met in 2013, are enjoying growing old together. 'As a family unit, we're all very close. We've only got each other. Sam and I are a good team,' she said. Lara and Sam began dating in 2013 and married secretly in 2014. Gordon Ramsay has accused his son-in-law's parents of 'self-propelling' negative stories ahead of their son's wedding after being labelled a 'bully' who pushed them too far.' The celebrity chef watched eldest daughter Holly exchange vows with Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty in a lavish ceremony at Grade I listed Bath Abbey on December 27. But the ceremony, which was attended by Ramsay's close friends David and Victoria Beckham, was overshadowed by an acrimonious family row that resulted in Peaty's own mother Caroline being ordered to stay away. Ramsay, 59, was subsequently labelled a bully by members of the Peaty family for claiming the fallout - the roots of which appear to lie in Caroline failing to get an invite for Holly's Soho Farmhouse hen-do - was 'self-inflicted.' Responding to the claim, the chef, who walked his daughter down the aisle at Bath Abbey, told The Sun: 'I am certainly not a bully, and it is so appalling to even suggest there was any bullying, he sighs. 'Thats absolute nonsense. It was sad to see that barrage of negativity that was self-propelled by them. Gordon Ramsay has accused his son-in-law's parents of 'self-propelling' negative stories ahead of their son's wedding after being labelled a 'bully' who pushed them too far' Adam Peaty married Holly Ramsay at Bath Abbey on December 27, but the service was overshadowed by a bitter fallout with his parents (pictured), who did not attend 'But Adam is an incredible young lad and he and Holly are a wonderful, happy, young couple.' Ramsay previously told the Daily Mail that he and his wife Tana had 'done nothing wrong' and despite reports suggesting otherwise had treated the Peaty family 'like royalty' during the build up to their son's wedding. But one relative claimed the Ramsay's denial was a pack of lies and said the TV chef had now 'pushed the family too far'. They said: 'How bl***y dare they. The sheer gall of them'. 'The Ramsays did not treat Caroline like royalty at all they treated her as though she was nothing. They ignored her existence and not once did Mrs Ramsay return any of Caroline's texts.' They told The Sun: 'The get together lunch they promised on the day of the engagement never materialised either.' The Daily Mail have contacted Gordon Ramsay's representatives for comment. Last month the family reportedly told friends they have 'given up hope' of reconciling with their son after Gordon's latest social media comment. Ramsay walked his influencer daughter down the aisle at Grade I listed Bath Abbey The chef was subsequently labelled a bully by members of the Peaty family for claiming their fallout with Adam was 'self-inflicted' (pictured: Caroline Peaty) The chef referred to himself as 'dad' in a comment on Adam's wedding video where the Olympian said he would 'always choose' his new wife Holly. An insider said: 'It's been a really emotional time for them as a family. They're coming to terms with what has happened and that Adam has picked his side. 'It's dashed any hope of reconciliation in the near future. They're keeping their heads down and trying to move on quietly. It's clear Adam's made his choice.' The Sun reported that Ramsay had commented on how beautiful his daughter looked during his wedding speech, telling Adam: 'Look at Tana and that's what you have to look forward to.' The publication went on to claim that he couldn't resist a sly dig at Adam's absent parents he told his daughter Holly: 'Shame you don't have the same.' Newlyweds Adam and Holly spent their honeymoon at a stunning five star resort in Mauritius It was later revealed that the swimmer estranged mother had been left 'outraged' and 'hurt' that Ramsay had referred to their feud in his speech. A family source told the Daily Mail she was left horrified by the moment in the speech and believed the celebrity chef had 'pre planned' the cruel swipe against her, calling it 'cruel' and 'very hurtful'. But Ramsay doubled down on his speech as he appeared on This Morning in January, insisting that what he had to say at the wedding reception was 'perfect and warm'. He said: 'It's tough, honestly. Being the dad with three daughters, you dream of that moment and that moment arrives and you're just like a hot mess. 'But, the speech was perfect, it went well and you've got to find that You've got to be warm, emotional It's a tough gig.' Nicole Kidman posted a glamour shot of herself lounging in bed as she prepares to ring in her first Valentine's Day since her split from Keith Urban. News broke in September that Kidman and Urban had separated after a marriage of 19 years, and later that month she filed for a divorce they finalized in January. In the wake of the news, past clips resurfaced of Urban's cozy onstage antics with guitarist Maggie Baugh, 25, fueling romance rumors about them. One video showed him pointing to Baugh as he sang: 'I was born to love you' in Las Vegas, while another was of him changing his lyric: 'Baby I'll be the fighter,' to: 'Maggie, I'll be your guitar player,' during a show in Chicago. Now Kidman has offered a fans a tantalizing glimpse into the way she will ring in the year's most romantic holiday in the wake of the collapse of her marriage. 'Happy Galentines,' she wrote over a picture of herself sitting in bed wearing pink striped pajama tops without the bottoms, the duvet draped over her lap. Nicole Kidman posted a glamour shot of herself lounging in bed as she prepares to ring in her first Valentine's Day since her split from Keith Urban News broke in September that Kidman and Urban had separated after a marriage of 19 years, and by the end of that month she had filed for divorce; pictured 2023 Her signature golden locks cascaded over her shoulders and her luminous complexion was brought out with makeup including a slick of scarlet lipstick. Kidman closed her eyes and smiled enigmatically downward for the picture, in which she was lit by the sunshine streaming through the window. 'Galentine's Day' was popularized in 2010 by a Parks and Recreation episode of the same name, in which the Amy Poehler character Leslie Knope throws a bash for her female friends on the eve of Valentine's Day. Kidman and Urban - who share two daughters called Sunday Rose, 17, and Faith Margaret, 15 - reached a divorce settlement last month. Court documents obtained by the Daily Mail revealed the couple have agreed to waive all rights to child support and spousal support, with each parent responsible for their own legal fees and expenses. The divorce decree - which the actress noted that details were hashed out on September 6, before filing the petition - ensures that all property, from household furniture and appliances to vehicles, bank accounts, investments, and personal items, is divided to the mutual satisfaction of both parties, with each keeping what is already in their possession. Under the parenting plan, Kidman will spend 306 days a year with the children while Urban, 58, will have 59 days, 'every other weekend.' Despite both parents having reported monthly incomes 'in excess of $100,000,' the court has ordered zero dollars in child support, as agreed by both parties. Under the parenting plan, Kidman will spend 306 days a year with the children, Sunday Rose, 17, and Faith, 15, while Urban, 58, will have 59 days; (pictured October) The final decree also confirms that all alimony and spousal support claims are permanently waived, and any remaining court costs will be split equally between the former couple. The Daily Mail has not received a response to its request for comment from reps for both Kidman and Urban. Its not confirmed whether the pair had a prenup - though there has been speculation. Still, the documents suggest that Kidman and Urban hashed out all the details with their attorneys amicably, avoiding any formal discovery or interrogation. The decree explicitly states: 'Each party indicates that he or she does not want to proceed with formal discovery, including completing interrogatories and requests for production of documents, or discovery depositions, that are designed to discover assets and debts.' The settlement follows reports that reality had started to sink in for Keith following his divorce from Nicole. The country star was allegedly 'wondering if he's made a huge mistake' following their split. Join the debate Do YOU think the stars regret the breakup? Despite both parents having reported monthly incomes in excess of $100,000, the court has ordered zero dollars in child support, as agreed by both parties; (pictured May) The final decree also confirms that all alimony and spousal support claims are permanently waived, and any remaining court costs will be split equally between the former couple; Urban (left) - who is also Sunday (second left) and Faith's (third left) father - as well as Nicole's sister Antonia (right) and Nicole's niece Sybella Hawley (third right) After recently performing private shows for members of Donald Trump's inner circle, the star was reportedly feeling more isolated than ever. 'He's got to pay the bills - and divorce lawyers don't come cheap,' a source told Woman's Day magazine of the couple's settlement. Keith has forked out for the couple's daughter Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret's private school tuition and, according to the publication, needs to make a living in any way he can. 'It's a lonely existence for Keith right now - he's exhausted, isolated and looking at a future he never imagined,' the source added. 'He's also lost his best friend, Nicole, who was also his greatest supporter in life. He's wondering if he's made a huge mistake.' The reports come amid speculation linking Urban to his 25-year-old guitarist, Maggie Baugh. At the time of Kidmans divorce filing, insiders said her camp believed Urban had already moved on with a 'younger woman in the music industry'. Rumors intensified when an unearthed concert video surfaced showing Urban performing The Fighter at Las Vegass Mandalay Bay on April 1. The reports come amid speculation linking Urban to his 25-year-old guitarist Maggie Baugh; (Baugh and Urban in 2024) The guitarist, more than three decades his junior, appeared to share a close rapport with the country star, although neither she nor Urban have publicly commented on the alleged romance During the performance, he pointed to Baugh while singing the lyrics, 'I was born to love you,' while she played alongside him on stage. The guitarist, more than three decades his junior, appeared to share a close rapport with the country star, although neither she nor Urban have publicly commented on the alleged romance. Fans also noted that Urban had reportedly altered the lyrics of the song, which was originally written about Kidman, during live performances. He seemed to replace references to his ex with nods to Baugh, adding further fuel to speculation about his personal life. Kidman and Urban's breakup shocked fans earlier this year - and the Oscar-winning actress had reportedly been dreading the public's response for months prior. The actress and musician's separation was confirmed by the Daily Mail on September 29, and Nicole filed for divorce on September 30, citing irreconcilable differences. Their marriage began to fall apart at the beginning of summer 2025. Before her marriage to Urban, Kidman was married to Tom Cruise from 1990 to 2001; (pictured 1997) Kidman was linked to a handful of high-profile figures in Hollywood, including musician Lenny Kravitz and actor Billy Crudup; (pictured with Kravitz in 2003) The split was reportedly a long-term development, stemming from months of quiet separation and diverging paths due to work commitments, according to Daily Mail sources. Before her marriage to Urban, Kidman was married to Tom Cruise from 1990 to 2001. During their decade together, the couple adopted two children: Isabella Jane, born in 1992, and Connor Anthony, born in 1995. Their marriage ended in divorce after 11 years, with both Kidman and Cruise continuing to co-parent their children. Kidman was linked to a handful of other high-profile figures in Hollywood as well, including musician Lenny Kravitz and actor Billy Crudup. She was also rumored to have had brief connections with Michael Hutchence and media heir Lachlan Murdoch, though these were never confirmed. Despite these early relationships, Kidmans most publicly significant unions remain her marriages to Cruise and Urban. Before his marriage to Kidman, Urban was linked to a few women publicly, though none were as high-profile as his relationship with Kidman. David and Victoria Beckham led the loved-up celebrity Valentine's Day tributes alongside a newly- tattooed Jamie Laing on Saturday. The former footballer, 50, and ex Spice Girl, 51, took to their Instagrams with sweet throwback snaps and declared each other their 'forever Valentines'. While David shared a photo from 2000 as he cosied up to a then blonde Victoria, she posted a snap of them strutting through an airport. Their identical captions read: 'Forever my valentine, Love you'. Meanwhile Jamie marked the occasion with a surprise tattoo dedicated to beloved wife Sophie Habboo, 31, and their baby son Ziggy. The former MIC star took to Instagram with a clip of himself getting their names inked on his arm before heading home to show it off. David and Victoria Beckham led the loved-up celebrity Valentine's Day tributes alongside a newly- tattooed Jamie Laing on Saturday The former footballer, 50, and ex Spice Girl, 51, took to their Instagrams with sweet throwback snaps and declared each other their 'forever Valentines' They both penned: 'Forever my valentine, Love you' Sophie who was cradling the two-month tot in her arms, was left speechless and even needed to check with her giggling husband that the tattoo was in fact real. She soon returned the favour with a sweet snap of Jamie holding Ziggy with the caption: 'Happy V Day to My Best Friend and Baby Daddy'. David and Victoria's youngest son Cruz, 20, followed in his romantic parents' footsteps with his own Valentines post for girlfriend Jackie Apostel, 30. He said: 'Jackie youre my other half, i love u to the moon & back happy valentines day to everyone'. Meanwhile Holly Ramsay and Adam Peaty celebrated the occasion amid their swanky honeymoon in Singapore. The daughter of Gordon Ramsay, 26, and Olympian, 31, tied the knot at Bath Abbey in December amid a bitter feud which saw his mother Caroline disinvited and sister Bethany the only relative in attendance. Holly shared a behind-the-scenes look at the pair during a photoshoot as Adam whisked her off her feet and held him in his arms. She captioned the post: 'Our first Valentines Day as husband & wife !! @adamramsaypeaty my forever valentine' Taking to her Stories Victoria shared another throwback snap of the couple She also reshared David's tribute and said: 'I Love You' She also showed how she a snap of her duing her Spice Girls heyday was still David's screensaver Amid David and Victoria's feud with eldest son Brooklyn, daughter Harper, 14, posted her own Valentine's Day tribute to her parents An emotional David insisted 'I'm not crying honestly' after the teens sweet words The Made In Chelsea star marked the occasion with a surprise tattoo dedicated to beloved wife Sophie Habboo , 31, and their baby son Ziggy The former MIC star took to Instagram with a clip of himself getting the inking of their names on his arm before later heading home to show it off Sophie who was cradling the two-month tot in her arms, was left speechless and even needed to check with her giggling husband that the tattoo was in fact real Jamie revealed that the tattoo was a total surprise for his wife He later shared a more traditional tribute with snaps of him, Sophie and Ziggy He also shared a heartfelt tribute as they marked their first Valentine's Day as parents It read: 'Watching her grow in the role of being a mum has been the most incredible thing over the past couple of months' The TV personality soon returned the favour with a sweet snap of Jamie holding Ziggy with the caption: 'Happy V Day to My Best Friend and Baby Daddy'. David and Victoria's youngest son Cruz, 20, followed in his romantic parents' footsteps with his own Valentines post for girlfriend Jackie Apostel, 30 One snap showed the loved-up pair in matching frog onesies He said: 'Jackie youre my other half, i love u to the moon & back happy valentines day to everyone' Jackie also made sure to give Cruz a shoutout Her tribute read: 'with you, everything is clear, there is zero noise. You can tell what I think of feel' Victoria was quick to comment on Jackie's post Holly Ramsay and Adam Peaty celebrated the occasion amid their swanky honeymoon in Singapore Mel B and husband Rory McPhee were another couple celebrating their first Valentine's Day as husband and wife after tying the knot last September Alongside a string of loved-up wedding snaps she quoted her 2000 solo hit Feels So Good in the emotional post The couple appeared more loved-up than ever '"Oh ye feels so good, I never thought that it could, my feelings are deep inside, this love I found wont ever hide Wrote these lyrics 25 years ago, truly understand that type of LOVE now' Holly Willoughby was whisked off to Verona by her 'Romeo' husband Dan Baldwin Rylan enjoyed a romantic Parisian getaway as he and boyfriend Kennedy Bates celebrated their first Valentines as a couple The TV presenter went Instagram official the boss of Billy Bates & Sons funfair in Leicestershire, in September Rylan and Kennedy appeared happier than ever as they took in the sights before joining pals for dinner with the caption: 'Paris. We cackled' Elsewhere Chris Hughes sent his love to US based girlfriend JoJo Siwa from Italy where he is presenting the Winter Olympics Maya Jama was another surprised with flowers after boyfriend Ruben Dias sent her a huge bouquet of red roses The footballer also treated her to a gift from Chanel The Love Island host and the Manchester City star then headed out for a romantic meal together in the evening During their meal the couple put their artistic skills to the test, by drawing each other's portraits, to mixed results Maya was left in hysterics as she shared their efforts, posting a snap of hers with the caption: 'We went to a restaurant that lets you draw at the table, the wine had me feeling like Picasso because I thought this was 10/10 last night' She then simply wrote a string of crying laughing emojis as she shared Ruben's less than flattering picture of her Mel B and husband Rory McPhee were another couple celebrating their first Valentine's Day as husband and wife after tying the knot last September. Alongside a string of loved-up wedding snaps she quoted her 2000 solo hit Feels So Good in the emotional post. She gushed: '"Oh ye feels so good, I never thought that it could, my feelings are deep inside, this love I found wont ever hide Wrote these lyrics 25 years ago, truly understand that type of LOVE now' Rylan enjoyed a romantic Parisian getaway as he and boyfriend Kennedy Bates celebrated their first Valentines as a couple. The TV presenter went Instagram official the boss of Billy Bates & Sons funfair in Leicestershire, in September. Rylan and Kennedy appeared happier than ever as they took in the sights before joining pals for dinner with the caption: 'Paris. We cackled'. Before adding: 'Happy valentines hubby.. this Love feels soooooooo good'. Rebel Wilson, 45, also shared a gushing tribute as she honoured pregnant wife Ramona Agruma, who is expecting the couple's second child. As well as gifting her a huge bouquet of flowers she posted a sun-soaked snap of her bride showcasing her blossoming bump and penned: 'Im so lucky to have so much love in my life and lovely things happening thanks to this beauty'. 'Happy Valentines Day (and to all those single people out there - I feel you, I was you for most of my life - live your best authentic life and you will shine and the right person will see your light!)'. Chris Hughes sent his love to US based girlfriend JoJo Siwa from Italy where he is presenting the Winter Olympics. The TV personality, 33, who met the dancer, 22, on Celebrity Big Brother last year, shared loved-up photos of the pair from a sun-soaked holiday. Meanwhile Rebel Wilson, 45, honoured pregnant wife Ramona Agruma, who is expecting the couple's second child Rebel gifted Ramona with a huge bouquet of pink roses As well as gifting her a huge bouquet of flowers she posted a sun-soaked snap of her bride showcasing her blossoming bump She penned: 'Im so lucky to have so much love in my life and lovely things happening thanks to this beauty' Tyson Fury's daughter Venezuela, 16, celebrated her first Valentine's since her surprise engagement to boxer boyfriend Noah Price Mum Paris, who shares seven children with her husband, took to her Instagram Stories with snaps of the teen being surprised with a huge bouquet of red roses Tyson also gifted his wife and daughters Venezuela, Athena, four, and Valencia, eight, flowers to mark the occasion. Another couple marking their first Valentine's since getting engaged was MIC's Melissa Tattam who posted a tribute to fiance and co-star Toby Watkins The loved-up pair, who announced their engaged earlier this month, looked happier than ever as they smooched in a string of black and white snaps. Going the less traditional route, Paloma Faith shared a bizarre look at her Valentine's celebrations which came complete with a model human heart The songstress is expecting her expecting her third child, her first with boyfriend Stevie Thomas (pictured together 2025) Millie Mackintosh shared a glimpse of 'Valentine's Alternatives' following her split from husband Hugo Taylor Millie has also partnered up with Sainsbury's to promote their loved up range this February 14th Emily Atack was treated to breakfast in bed by fiance Alistair Garner Rahi Chadda & Alessandra De Tomaso celebrated an Anti-Valentines party at London Members Club George Maya Jama was another surprised with flowers after boyfriend Ruben Dias sent her a huge bouquet of red roses for her flight home to the UK after filming Love Island All Stars in South Africa. Tyson Fury's daughter Venezuela, 16, celebrated her first Valentine's since her surprise engagement to boxer boyfriend Noah Price. Mum Paris, who shares seven children with her husband, took to her Instagram Stories with snaps of the teen being surprised with a huge bouquet of red roses. Venezuela's engagement had echoes of Tyson and Paris' own romance, with the couple having met when they were 17 and 15 respectively. Tyson also gifted his wife and daughters Venezuela, Athena, four, and Valencia, eight, flowers to mark the occasion. In a heartfelt thank you, Paris penned: 'I love them @TysonFury and the girls will be that excited when there [sic] back. Thank you love of my life x'. Another couple marking their first Valentine's since getting engaged was MIC's Melissa Tattam who posted a tribute to fiance and co-star Toby Watkins. The loved-up pair, who announced their engaged earlier this month, looked happier than ever as they smooched in a string of black and white snaps. Going the less traditional route, Paloma Faith shared a bizarre look at her Valentine's celebrations which came complete with a model human heart. The songstress, who is expecting her expecting her third child, her first with boyfriend Stevie Thomas, took to her Instagram Stories as she and her partner enjoyed a kooky romantic dinner. Millie Mackinosh shared a post about having an 'alternative' Valentine's Day after her split from her husband Hugo Taylor. The former Made In Chelsea star took to Instagram and shared a photo of a London Underground whiteboard message titled: 'Valentine's Day Alternatives'. Among the suggestions were: 'Galentine's Day - spend it with the girls, Malentine's Day - spend it with the lads' and 'Palentine's Day - spend it with friends'. It also suggested: 'Salentine's Day - spend it shopping, 'Sailentine's Day - spend it on a boat' and 'Tailentine's Day - spend it with pets'. Holly Ramsay shared a heartfelt tribute to her husband Adam Peaty as the couple marked their first Valentine's Day together as a married couple. Influencer Holly, 26, who is the daughter of Gordon Ramsay, shared a photo of the pair posing for a photoshoot. Stood in front of a beige backdrop, Adam, 31, carried Holly in his arms as she put her hands around his neck. Alongside the snap, she wrote: 'Our first Valentines Day as husband & wife!! @adamramsaypeaty my forever valentine.' Adam shared a photo of the couple at their wedding and wrote: 'Happy Valentines Day @hollyramsaypeaty What a month its been together on our honeymoon and such an incredible way to end it in Singapore. So many incredible moments that Ill cherish forever.' Meanwhile, Gordon shared his own Valentine's Day post for his wife Tana and daughters Holly and Tilly, 24. Holly Ramsay shared a heartfelt tribute to her husband Adam Peaty as the couple marked their first Valentine's Day together as a married couple Gordon shared his own Valentine's Day post for his wife Tana and daughters Holly and Tilly, 24 He shared photos of each of them, including one dancing with Holly at her wedding. The celebrity chef wrote: 'Happy Valentines Day to my amazing Ramsay ladies !@tanaramsay @tillyramsay @hollyramsaypeaty you keep me in my place (some times) ! Love you xxx.' Holly and Adam continued soaking up the sun as they shared the latest glimpse of their honeymoon in Singapore on Friday. The couple first jetted off on 6,000-a-night trip to Mauritius, which was gifted to the couple by her famous parents, before heading to Australia and Singapore. They tied the knot at Bath Abbey in December amid a bitter feud which saw his mother Caroline disinvited and sister Bethany the only relative in attendance. Taking to his Stories Adam shared a loved-up snap of the newlyweds as he rocked a white vest and shades while sitting in a restaurant. Meanwhile a beaming Holly teased a glimpse of her jaw-dropping figure in a crotchet cover up which she wore over a bright pink bikini. The couple later tucked into a lavishly decorated dessert, complete with an edible photo of them on their wedding day. Holly and Adam continued soaking up the sun as they shared the latest glimpse of their honeymoon in Australia before heading to Singapore On Wednesday Holly showed off her toned abs in a yellow bikini as she shared stunning beach snaps to social media. Showing off her sun-kissed skin and glowing features, Holly looked happier than ever on her trip. The Daily Mail revealed earlier this month that Holly and Adam jetted off to the One&Only Le Saint Geran - one of the island's most prestigious five-star hotel and spa complexes. The couple belatedly flew from London to Mauritius after delaying their 10-day escape while three-time Olympic gold medallist Adam took part in a swimming competition in Romania. Shortly after arriving, the couple were seen hurrying down to the white sand beach, where Adam posed for selfies with locals. One onlooker told the Daily Mail: 'They looked very loved-up and relaxed. Adam was happy to stop and chat and seemed in great spirits.' Le Saint Geran, set on an idyllic private peninsula, offers suites that can soar in price to more than 6,000 a night. On Wednesday Holly showed off her toned abs in a yellow bikini as she shared stunning beach snaps to social media The property, among the first luxury resorts built on the island in 1975, has attracted a glittering guest list over the years, including Nelson Mandela, George and Amal Clooney, Rihanna and the Prince and Princess of Wales. Guests can even arrive by helicopter, landing on a pad just steps from the beach, while a chauffeur-driven luxury car service is also available. Private villas on the palm tree dotted estate have reportedly sold for as much as $13.6million (10.1million). The couple's no-expense-spared jaunt has been covered by Holly's father, Gordon, himself a repeat visitor to Le Saint Geran with wife, Tana. Holly revealed to British Vogue that her parents had paid for the trip to Mauritius as a 'wedding present', in what could be viewed as a thinly-veiled jibe at her husband's absent parents. She said: 'We're going to Mauritius to just lie by the sea - that was our wedding present from my parents. I had to tell Adam we weren't basing our honeymoon around a 25-metre pool' Prior to taking off from the UK, Holly shared a snap of her hand luggage showing off a Christian Dior handbag along with a pair of flippers and a snorkel. She wrote: 'The most chic hand luggage, thanks to my husband.' A-listers Eva Mendes and Vanessa Hudgens are among the Hollywood stars celebrating Valentine's Day on social media. The 51-year-old Ghost Rider actress - who recently enjoyed a rare outing with partner Ryan Gosling - jumped to her main Instagram page to share a series of snaps for the special holiday as well as Hudgens. Mendes could be seen putting on a leggy display as she modeled a shirt to promote Gosling's forthcoming film Project Hail Mary, which is set to release later this year on March 20. The short-sleeved shirt had the words 'Believe in the Hail Mary' printed towards the top. In the caption of the carousel of pictures, the mom-of-two penned: 'For my Valentine .' Mendes had a blast during the photo session as she posed standing on top of a spacious bed while her locks flowed down past her shoulders in light waves. A-listers Eva Mendes and Vanessa Hudgens are among the Hollywood stars celebrating Valentine's Day on social media Hudgens also shared an adorable behind-the-scenes image from her wedding day when she tied the knot with Cole Tucker in 2023 Mendes and Gosling struck up a romance after they crossed paths in 2011 on set of the movie The Place Beyond The Pines. The couple - who mainly keep their relationship out of the spotlight - share daughters Esmeralda, 11, and Amada, nine. Back in 2022, Mendes seemingly revealed that both she and the actor had tied the knot when she referred to Gosling as her 'husband.' Hudgens jumped to her Instagram page on Saturday to share a behind-the-scenes picture from her wedding day when she tied the knot with Cole Tucker in 2023. The couple held lighthearted poses for the camera as the High School Musical alum donned a white gown with a scooped neckline. A long, sheer veil was placed at the back of her head while Tucker donned a cream-colored suit for the big day. The former Disney channel actress then wrote in the caption, 'Thru thick and thin I choose you @cotuck.' Michael J. Fox - who has been vocal about his battle with Parkinson's disease - gave a sweet shout out to his wife in an Instagram post. Mendes could be seen putting on a leggy display as she modeled a shirt to promote Gosling's forthcoming film Project Hail Mary, which is set to release later this year on March 20 Mendes had a blast during the photo session as she posed standing on top of a spacious bed while her locks flowed down past her shoulders in light waves Michael J. Fox - who has been vocal about his battle with Parkinson's disease - gave a sweet shout out to his wife in an Instagram post Fox then wrote in the caption, 'Life with you is a beach - be my valentine still and always. Love you! ' Lindsay Lohan also jumped to her Instagram account over the weekend and paid tribute to her family for the special holiday; seen in January in Dubai Fox tied the knot with Tracy Pollan in 1988 and the couple welcomed four children together: Sam, 36, Aquinnah, 30, Schuyler, 30, and Esme, 24. The star uploaded a selfie of himself and Pollan as they flashed cheerful smiles to the camera while enjoying what appeared to be a relaxing vacation. He then wrote in the caption, 'Life with you is a beach - be my valentine still and always. Love you! .' The lovebirds will celebrate their 38th wedding anniversary later this year on July 16. Lindsay Lohan was another celebrity who helped ring in Valentine's Day and took to her Instagram stories to share a couple slides with her followers. One image showed a large bouquet of vibrant red roses placed inside a clear vase. She added the text: 'Happy Valentine's Day.' The Mean Girls actress additionally included a picture as both her husband Bader Shammas - whom she married in 2022 - and their son Luai, two, soaked up the warm sunshine during a pool day. The star also added a caption over the picture by simply penning, 'My valentines,' followed by a pink heart emoji. Kylie Jenner gave a glimpse into her own Valentine's Day celebrations as she uploaded a snap to her Instagram stories to show an array of tasty Krispy Kreme donuts. One image showed a large bouquet of vibrant red roses placed inside a clear vase. Lohan added the text: 'Happy Valentine's Day' Kylie Jenner gave a glimpse into her own Valentine's Day celebrations as she uploaded a snap to her Instagram stories to show an array of tasty Krispy Kreme donuts Some of the yummy treats were heart-shaped while others were topped with sugary pink frosting as well as red, pink and white sprinkles A big vase with red roses was placed on her kitchen counter as the TV personality wrote, 'my mommys still my Valentine @krisjenner' Some of the yummy treats were heart-shaped while others were topped with sugary pink frosting as well as red, pink and white sprinkles. Another image revealed a gift that the beauty mogul received from her mother Kris Jenner. A big vase with red roses was placed on her kitchen counter as the TV personality wrote, 'my mommys still my Valentine @krisjenner.' Khloe Kardashian also took to her Instagram stories to reveal what her children True and Tatum made for her on Valentine's Day. In a short clip, the reality star showed an array of hearts placed on her door with sweet notes. 'Look what I woke up to,' she began. 'So, I do a tradition with my kids where I put hearts on their doors starting February 1 until Valentine's Day. And I woke up to this.' The Good American founder then showed words her kids wrote to describe her such as 'kind' and 'loving.' Another snap was taken as the star had the chance to enjoy a chocolate treat in the shape of 'The Perfect Man.' Khloe Kardashian also took to her Instagram stories to reveal what her children True and Tatum made for her on Valentine's Day 'Look what I woke up to,' she began. 'So, I do a tradition with my kids where I put hearts on their doors starting February 1 until Valentine's Day. And I woke up to this' Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's eldest daughter North West shared a snap to her Instagram account - which she launched late last year in December Amanda Bynes sent a shout out to her boyfriend Zachary Khan with a reel shared to Instagram Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's eldest daughter North West shared a snap to her Instagram account - which she launched late last year in December. The preteen reposted an image from media personality and pal Sophia Tanjali. In the photo, the 12-year-old could be seen holding multiple bouquets of flowers while standing outside. 'Happy valentines dayy @northwest,' Tanjali penned. Amanda Bynes sent a shout out to her boyfriend Zachary Khan with a reel shared to Instagram. The Daily Mail recently revealed that the pair have been in a secret relationship, with sources saying that the business owner is 'level-headed.' 'It's still going,' a source told the Daily Mail. 'It's not serious serious, like they're not going to get married right away, but he's really supportive of her, really good to her.' Bynes filmed herself inside a vehicle with Khan after the sun had set as I LUV IT by Camila Cabello and Playboi Carti played in the background. The former Nickelodeon actress simply added in the caption, 'love u zachary.' Matthew McConaughey shared a black and white photo to Instagram on Saturday to pay tribute to wife Camila Alves - whom he tied the knot with in 2012. Bynes filmed herself inside a vehicle with Khan after the sun had set as I LUV IT by Camila Cabello and Playboi Carti played in the background The Daily Mail recently revealed that the pair have been in a secret relationship, with sources saying that the business owner is 'level-headed' Matthew McConaughey shared a black and white photo to Instagram on Saturday to pay tribute to wife Camila Alves - whom he tied the knot with in 2012 Alessandra Ambrosio celebrated the romantic holiday with boyfriend Buck Palmer. The Brazilian-born supermodel reposted a snap as both she and Palmer shared a loving kiss for the camera Beyonce sent a Valentine's Day message to her 307 million followers on Instagram on Saturday The lovebirds could be seen walking side-by-side as they sent sweet smiles at each other. The Interstellar actor typed out, 'still enjoying our stroll.' Alessandra Ambrosio celebrated the romantic holiday with boyfriend Buck Palmer. The Brazilian-born supermodel reposted a snap as both she and Palmer shared a loving kiss for the camera. A red heart outline was drawn over the photo alongside the words 'Eu Te Amo.' Beyonce sent a Valentine's Day message to her 307 million followers on Instagram on Saturday. The Crazy In Love songstress shared an image that read 'Happy Valentine's Day Love B' with a hot pink background. Jennifer Aniston also gave a look on how she is spending the special day with boyfriend Jim Curtis. The Friends alum jumped to her Instagram stories to share a snap as she held a box of candy hearts with 'Cutie Pie' printed on the front. Her partner could be seen slightly blurred in the background of the image. The Crazy In Love songstress shared an image that read 'Happy Valentine's Day Love B' with a hot pink background Jennifer Aniston also gave a look on how she is spending the special day with boyfriend Jim Curtis The Friends alum jumped to her Instagram stories to share a snap as she held a box of candy hearts with 'Cutie Pie' printed on the front Selena Gomez shared a sweet snap from her wedding to Benny Blanco for the occasion Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton both marked the romantic day with loved-up Instagram posts Among the images Stefani shared was a snap of the country crooner holding a bouquet of flowers Stefani called Shelton 'my favorite cowboy' Shelton posted a snap of him kissing Stefani on the cheek 'My favorite person.. I love you pretty girl!!!!' he wrote in his gushing caption Jada Pinkett Smith revealed that her husband Will Smith surprised her with life size pillows of all their family members The actor also made one of himself Kate Hudson shared sweet snaps with longtime partner Danny Fujikawa 'My Valentine,' she wrote in the caption Jada Pinkett Smith revealed that her husband Will Smith surprised her with life size pillows of all their family members, including one of him. Demi Lovato paid tribute to her first Valentine's Day with husband and singer Jutes as a married couple. One Instagram snap she uploaded showed the lovebirds sharing a sweet kiss, while another unveiled a bouquet of colorful flowers that the former Disney channel star was gifted. Jutes flashed a smile as he presented the flowers to Lovato that additionally contained the note, 'Will you be my Valentine?' The two stars also paused for a selfie inside a spacious room as sunlight poured in through a window. Lovato and Jutes once again shared a smooch while cozying up together on a comfy couch. And lastly, the pair also indulged in tasty cocktails that had images from their wedding day on top. The star wrote, 'our first valentines married!! thank u for making every day better and making me the happiest and luckiest human alive. 'these have been the best 4 years of my life i love u so much my forever valentine. here's to sooo many more,' Lovato added. Demi Lovato paid tribute to her first Valentine's Day with husband and singer Jutes as a married couple One Instagram snap she uploaded showed the lovebirds sharing a sweet kiss, while another unveiled a bouquet of colorful flowers that the former Disney channel star was gifted Jutes flashed a smile as he presented the flowers to Lovato that additionally contained the note, 'Will you be my Valentine?' The two stars also paused for a selfie inside a spacious room as sunlight poured in through a window Lovato and Jutes once again shared a smooch while cozying up together on a comfy couch And lastly, the pair also indulged in tasty cocktails that had images from their wedding day on top Vanessa Bryant also took to social media over the weekend and paid tribute to her late husband Kobe Bryant Vanessa Bryant also took to social media over the weekend and paid tribute to her late husband Kobe Bryant. She uploaded a throwback photo of the pair and added a red heart emoji in the middle. The star also penned, 'Happy Valentine's Day Kob-Kob .' Chris Pratt celebrated the romantic holiday with wife Katherine Schwarzenegger by uploading a sweet image of the pair. The Guardians Of The Galaxy actor additionally typed, 'Happy Valentine's Day @katherineschwarzenegger . 'I'm forever grateful that I get to share this life with you. You make every day such a blessing and I can't imagine spending them without you. Love you Chief.' Gwyneth Paltrow spent her Valentine's Day morning making a savory quiche - and brought her followers along with her. She could be seen keeping it casual in a printed shirt and minimal makeup as she mixed eggs as well as other ingredients such as broccoli into a crust. At one point, the Iron Man actress - who married Brad Falchuk in 2018 - was joined by an adorable pup who kept her company. Chris Pratt celebrated the romantic holiday with wife Katherine Schwarzenegger by uploading a sweet image of the pair Gwyneth Paltrow spent her Valentine's Day morning making a savory quiche - and brought her followers along with her She could be seen keeping it casual in a printed shirt and minimal makeup as she mixed eggs as well as other ingredients such as broccoli into a crust At one point, the Iron Man actress - who married Brad Falchuk in 2018 - was joined by an adorable pup who kept her company Lisa Rinna celebrated her 32nd Valentine's day with husband Harry Hamlin in a sweet Instagram tribute; seen in 2024 in L.A. 'Valentine's #boyfriendbreakfast - gluten-free broccoli, onion, and sausage quiche. Extra love,' she penned. Lisa Rinna celebrated her 32nd Valentine's day with husband Harry Hamlin in a sweet Instagram tribute. The RHOBH star uploaded a variety of red carpet photos of herself with Hamlin over the years as well as throwback images from their wedding day in 1997. Rinna penned, '32 Valentine's Days together and I'll spend every last one with you So many memories here. When you really think about it, it's kind of incredible the journey we've had.' The media personality also promoted her upcoming memoir titled You Better Believe Im Gonna Talk About It which will be released on February 24. And on her Instagram stories, the TV personality also showed off the bouquet of red roses she received which had been put together by floral designer Jeff Leatham. She penned, 'Valentine's Day roses from Harry Hamlin.' And at the bottom the star added, 'Pictures don't so these justice! @jeffleatham.' The RHOBH star uploaded a variety of red carpet photos of herself with Hamlin over the years as well as throwback images from their wedding day in 1997 (seen above) Rinna penned, '32 Valentine's Days together and I'll spend every last one with you So many memories here. When you really think about it, it's kind of incredible the journey we've had' And on her Instagram stories, the TV personality also showed off the bouquet of red roses she received which had been put together by floral designer Jeff Leatham Alicia Keys rang in the romantic holiday with husband Swizz Beatz whom she married in 2010 Selena Gomez shared a sweet snap from her wedding to Benny Blanco for the occasion. Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton both marked the romantic day with loved-up Instagram posts. The singer called her country crooner husband 'my favorite cowboy.' Among the images Stefani shared was a snap of the country crooner holding a bouquet of flowers. Meanwhile Shelton posted a snap of him kissing Stefani on the cheek. 'My favorite person.. I love you pretty girl!!!!' he wrote in his gushing caption. Alicia Keys rang in the romantic holiday with husband Swizz Beatz whom she married in 2010. Along with a series of photos of the couple, the No One songstress wrote, 'Time passes, seasons change, but some connections live outside the clock. 'Written in patience, shaped by love, held together by truth. This love has taught me how to stay open and keep dreaming big. Happy Valentine's Day to my forever @therealswizz.' One image showed the lovebirds cuddling up in stylish ensembles at what appeared to be a party. Another showed Keys and her husband having a blast as they enjoyed a trip to a winery. Along with a series of photos of the couple, the No One songstress wrote, 'Time passes, seasons change, but some connections live outside the clock' 'Written in patience, shaped by love, held together by truth. This love has taught me how to stay open and keep dreaming big. Happy Valentine's Day to my forever @therealswizz,' she added Rebel Wilson celebrated the romantic holiday with wife Ramona Agruma - who is expecting their second child. The pair are already parents to daughter Royce, three 'I'm so lucky to have so much love in my life and lovely things happening thanks to this beauty @ramonaagruma,' Wilson shared Rebel Wilson celebrated the romantic holiday with wife Ramona Agruma - who is expecting their second child. The pair are already parents to daughter Royce, three. The Pitch Perfect star uploaded a snap of Agruma on the beach as she showed off her growing baby bump. 'I'm so lucky to have so much love in my life and lovely things happening thanks to this beauty @ramonaagruma,' Wilson shared. 'Happy Valentine's Day (and to all those single people out there - I feel you, I was you for most of my life - live your best authentic life and you will shine and the right person will see your light!).' Bella Hadid shared a post to her Instagram stories following reports of her 'split' from cowboy boyfriend Adan Banuelos and his recent arrest drama; seen in January in NYC The model gave a shout out to her sibling Gigi Hadid as well as half-sisters Alana and Marielle Hadid with a message from @saluvuspark' Bella Hadid shared a post to her Instagram stories following reports of her 'split' from cowboy boyfriend Adan Banuelos and his recent arrest drama. The model gave a shout out to her sibling Gigi Hadid as well as half-sisters Alana and Marielle Hadid with a message from @saluvuspark.' It read: 'To my sister. Happy Valentine's Day to my beautiful sister. You're not just my sister. You are the person I can always count on for love, laughter, and support. Love you forever.' Hadid then added her own text by writing, 'Oh how I love my sisters.' Katie Price is reportedly furious at her family and has accused them of being 'disloyal' after they threw their support behind her ex JJ Slater. The glamour model has sparked concern from her loved ones after she tied the knot with entrepreneur Lee Andrews in a whirlwind ceremony in Dubai last month, just a week after they first met. Katie had previously split from MAFS UK star JJ in January, with the Daily Mail sharing she ended the two-year relationship after realising she didn't see a future with him. On Friday, JJ then shared a cryptic social media post declaring that he was 'so back,' with Katie's sister Sophie among those to 'like the post'. Now, sources are claiming that Katie's sister Sophie, with whom she hosts a podcast, and the star's family are continuing to support JJ, leaving the mother-of-five upset. Despite the concern around their marriage, Katie and Lee have been enjoying their honeymoon in the UAE, even hinting at a new addition to their family on Instagram on Saturday. Katie Price is reportedly furious at her family and has accused them of being 'disloyal' after they threw their support behind her ex JJ Slater (the star is pictured with her sister Sophie) The glamour model has sparked concern from her loved ones after she tied the knot with entrepreneur Lee Andrews in a whirlwind ceremony in Dubai last month A source told The Mirror: 'Katie's family are very much "Team JJ". Ever since the break up, they've been in touch with him and supporting him. 'They think the way he's been treated throughout this has been awful. They are really disappointed. He was so supportive of Katie and one of the nicest guys she'd been out with. That's why Sophie liked his post. 'Everything Katie is doing is just putting more of a distance between herself and her family. She won't be happy seeing that her sister has liked her ex's post - no matter how nice he is, he's still an ex. She'll think it's disloyal but underneath, she knows she's treated JJ terribly and that he's a nice guy.' A representative for Katie Price declined to comment when contacted by the Daily Mail. Sophie has previously hinted at her disapproval of Katie's new marriage, sharing after the wedding that their podcast would be 'paused' for the foreseeable future. She also shared a video of rolling British fields with the caption: 'This and never stepping foot in Dubai,' after telling her followers she'd had 'one hell of a week' following news of the wedding. Meanwhile, Katie's new husband Lee has hinted that they could be welcoming a new member to their family, having already teased their plans for a baby together. In a post on Instagram Stories, Lee showed Katie playing with a fluffy Pomeranian or Spitz puppy. Sources are claiming that Katie's sister Sophie, with whom she hosts a podcast, and the star's family are continuing to support her ex JJ, after they split in January Despite the concern around their marriage, Katie and Lee have been enjoying their honeymoon in the UAE, even hinting at a new addition to their family on Instagram on Saturday In a post on Instagram Stories, Lee showed Katie playing with a fluffy Pomeranian or Spitz As Katie gave the dog a kiss she nuzzled into its fur, she said: 'That is too cute, look at you. Look at this.' Behind the camera, Lee added: 'Well take one, well take one for the new house.' He captioned the video with three emojis: a dog, a house and a pregnant woman with the latter continuing to fuel pregnancy rumours. On Friday, Lee teased plans for a baby following Katie previously exploring surrogacy amid her relationship with Carl Woods and claimed that she had already found someone who could carry her sixth child. He shared a gothic drawing of a man kissing a woman's belly and penned: 'Good things come to those who have waited' along with a pregnant emoji. Speaking about plans to grow her family in 2023 Katie told the Turning Adversity Into An Asset podcast: 'I have got a surrogate, I haven't got any eggs anymore, I'm 44, I want another baby so what am I supposed to do? I can't pop it out.' When host Lewis Raymond Taylor asked who would be having the baby, Katie said: 'I have got this lady, it will be my egg - she's been a fan of mine for years and she does do surrogacy.' Asked who the father would be, Katie replied: 'If I was with someone it would be with them, if not it would be a sperm donor.' However the surrogate then pulled out after being 'disrespected' by Katie, who she claims treated her and her four children like 's***'. Meanwhile her ex JJ Slater has seemingly moved on with a Katie lookalike who he unveiled on his Instagram Stories on Thursday. Last month, the Daily Mail revealed that the I'm A Celeb star ended her two year relationship with the MAFS UK star, 33, after realising she didn't see a future with him. JJ shared snaps from his holiday in Miami with one of the mysterious woman, whose face remained hidden, boasting many tattoos and an ample bosom, much like Katie. As she sat in the drivers seat wearing skimpy workout gear, JJ was next to her and captioned the snap: 'Passenger Prince.' Last week, amid his trip to Miami JJ showed off his tattoos in a pair of red swimming trunks as he relaxed in a hot tub and simply captioned the snap, 'Recovery'. It comes after Lee shared updates from his and Katie's after she returned to the UAE to reunite with him and celebrate their recent marriage with a sun-soaked getaway. He praised his new 'wifey' as he shared pictures of her in a form-fitting cut-out black dress that showed off her surgically-enhanced figure as she posed by a pool. Entrepreneur Lee has remained in the country since the wedding amid claims he is unable to leave after allegedly forging his ex-girlfriend's signature to take out a 200,000 loan in her name, resulting in a three-week jail stint. Katie has been back to the UK but returned this week to spend time with her new husband amid speculation to relocate there permanently in the near future. Katie shocked fans last month when she revealed she had tied the knot for the fourth time to Lee, after only meeting days before. But her new marriage has sparked concern from loved ones, as Lee's facade has since crumbled, with allegations he's faked his business accomplishments and photos with AI, appeared on an escort site and has a colourful history with women. Several of his ex-partners have made a slew of bombshell accusations against him, and issued public warnings to Katie, urging her to 'run for the hills'. While the Daily Mail previously revealed he spent three weeks locked up in a UAE jail for allegedly forging his ex-girlfriend's signature to take out a 200,000 loan in his ex's name and has been banned from leaving the country. Lee previously teased plans for a baby following Katie previously exploring surrogacy and claimed that she had already found someone who could carry her sixth baby Lee has denied this, but as yet, does not appear to have left the country. And now Katie is said to be relocating to live with him, allegedly putting a deposit down on a house in the UAE for a 'fresh start' amid her financial woes. Katie's family are said to be 'concerned' about the relationship but she 'isn't listening' to them. A source told The Sun: 'They do not want her to go back to Dubai but she has confirmed that she is leaving today. 'Katie doesn't want to be away from Lee over Valentine's Day and said they are planning a honeymoon. Her family have read reports about Lee and are so concerned about Katie's welfare.' Millie Mackintosh looked gorgeous in denim and a white tank top while attending a performance of Cirque du Soleil with her daughter Aurelia, following her split from husband Hugo Taylor. The former Made In Chelsea star, 36, stopped for striking snaps at London's Royal Albert Hall on Friday ahead of the star-studded event. The doting mum rocked a sand maxi cardigan, adding matching boots, as she held her tiny tot, four, close to her. Fellow celebrities in attendance included the likes of Myleene Klass, Irish presenter Laura Whitmore, Pussycat Doll Ashley James, Rogue One star Daniel Mays and many more. Myleene, 47, turned heads in a chic black dress which featured a laced neckline embellishment, adding matching heels. Irish TV royalty Laura, 40, looked effortlessly cool in a stylish leather jack and flared trousers. Millie Mackintosh, 36, looked gorgeous in denim and a white tank top while attending a performance of Cirque du Soleil with her daughter Aurelia The former Made In Chelsea star stopped for striking snaps at London's Royal Albert Hall on Friday ahead of the star-studded event The Celebrity Juice star was joined by her husband and ITV narrator Ian Stirling, 38. Ashley James, 38, caught the eye in a pink T-shirt featuring a bold red bow, teamed with a pair of coquette open-toe heels with tiny bows, and denim trousers. McFly's drummer Harry Judd was also in attendance looking in high spirits, while elsewhere also The Bank Job icon Daniel Mays made an appearance. Elsewhere, British TV presenter Natalie Pinkham kept it classy for the occasion in a multiprint dress teamed with an elegant dove coat, knee boots, and accessorised with a black Yves Saint Laurent bag. English model David Gandy was also among the famous faces, joined by Kimberly Wyatt. The former Pussycat Doll member, 44, grinned from ear to ear on the red carpet while attending with her daughter Maple Lyla Rogers. Millie's appearance comes after she opened up with fans about celebrating an 'alternative' Valentine's Day amid her shock split from her actor husband Hugo, 39. She took to Instagram on Friday and shared a photo of a London Underground whiteboard message titled: 'Valentine's Day Alternatives'. The doting mum rocked a sand maxi cardigan, adding matching boots, as she held her tiny tot, four, close to her Fellow celebrities in attendance included the likes of Myleene Klass (pictured), Irish model Laura Whitmore, presenter Ashley James, Rogue One star Daniel Mays and many more Myleene, 47, turned heads in a chic black dress which featured a laced neckline embellishment, adding matching heels Irish TV royalty Laura, 40, looked effortlessly cool in a stylish leather jack and flared trousers The Celebrity Juice star was joined by her husband and ITV narrator Ian Stirling, 38 Ashley James, 38, caught the eye in a pink T-shirt featuring a bold red bow, teamed with a pair of coquette open-toe heels with tiny bows, and denim trousers McFly's drummer Harry Judd was also in attendance looking in high spirits TV presenter Natalie Pinkham kept it classy for the occasion in a multiprint dress teamed with an elegant dove coat, knee boots, and accessorised with a black Yves Saint Laurent bag English model David Gandy (pictured) was also among the famous faces, joined by Kimberly Wyatt The former Pussycat Doll member, 44, grinned from ear to ear on the red carpet while attending with her daughter Maple Lyla Rogers The ex-Made In Chelsea stars, who share daughters Sienna, five, and Aurelia, announced their separation on February 2, seven years after exchanging vows (pictured together) Among the suggestions were: 'Galentine's Day - spend it with the girls, Malentine's Day - spend it with the lads' and 'Palentine's Day - spend it with friends'. It also suggested: 'Salentine's Day - spend it shopping, 'Sailentine's Day - spend it on a boat' and 'Tailentine's Day - spend it with pets'. The ex-Made In Chelsea stars, who share daughters Sienna, five, and Aurelia, announced their separation on February 2, seven years after exchanging vows. Sources close to the pair say they remain committed to co-parenting their young children, who continue to be their priority, and to maintaining a loving family life. The couple, who met as teenagers and first dated during E4's Made In Chelsea, had been married since June 2018. A source told the Daily Mail: 'Millie and Hugo are currently going through a separation and have sadly decided to split. 'They have known each other for many years, and in recent weeks, have had serious conversations about their future, ultimately deciding it's better for them both to part ways. 'Their main priority remains their children and family life, and separating is not something they ever hoped would happen. 'At present, they are considering what living apart might look like and how they plan to navigate co-parenting their young children. 'It's been an incredibly difficult start to the year, and one they hope to continue managing in private.' Entertainment / Music by Gideon Madzikatidze / Simbarashe Sithole HARARE Renowned Zimbabwean musician Giant Tagarisa has released three new singles that have ignited excitement among fans, showcasing his versatility and commitment to socially conscious music. The tracks Ndipe Rudo, Chiremba Wenhamo and Tiyambutse carry strong messages of love, resilience and spiritual reflection.Speaking after the release of the trending Ndipe Rudo video, Tagarisa said music must remain an agent for social, cultural and economic transformation, reflecting the lived experiences of communities.Music should not divert from being an agent for social, economic and cultural realities whose meaning should be expressed through audiovisuals, he said.Fusing audiovisuals using modern digital platforms is premised on our quest to be nondiscriminatory, prioritising inclusivity for audiences of diverse backgrounds, geography and age groups.Tagarisa added that music must reinforce moral values and mirror societal contexts.Ndipe Rudo has already gained significant traction online, with fans praising its emotional depth and Tagarisas vocal delivery. The video has been widely endorsed by his loyal supporters.Chiremba Wenhamo delivers an uplifting message about overcoming poverty through hard work and determination, while Tiyambutse is a heartfelt plea for spiritual salvation and liberation.Tagarisas producer, Maselo PaBeat, commended the artists passion and dedication to empowering emerging musicians.Tagarisas music has gained significant traction across digital platforms, resonating with diverse audiences, Maselo said.He is passionate about assisting artistes whose music motivates and transforms communities. His work reflects Ubuntu the principle of I am because we are promoting tolerance, unity and inclusive development.Fans have taken to social media to celebrate Ndipe Rudo, applauding its melody and Tagarisas seasoned artistry.With over three decades in the industry, Tagarisa has collaborated with notable musicians including Pah Chihera, Baba Troy and Andy Muridzo. His music often tackles pressing social issues such as child marriages and substance abuse.The videos for Tiyambutse and Chiremba Wenhamo will soon be available on Tagarisas YouTube channel and other media platforms. She is no stranger to a wild get-together, from day-drinking with pal Billie Piper on Primrose Hill during lockdown, to dancing late into the night at a luxury Mexico hotel in January. But it appears Lily James might have bitten off more than she can chew with her latest boyfriend's antics as friends share concerns about his party lifestyle. The 36-year-old has been dating the stuntman Bobby Holland Hanton, 41, who she is believed to have met on the set of the action thriller, Subversion, filmed on the Gold Coast of Australia in September. The couple were pictured last weekend leaving London's Alexandra Palace after watching a five-hour set by the DJ, Solomun. One source close to the Downton Abbey actress told the Mail on Sunday: 'She is really in love with Bobby. He's down to earth and not like the usual actors she dates. 'But there are definitely concerns that he might get a bit too wild sometimes with his partying, especially for Lily, who has been wanting to settle down, start a quieter life and a family, for some time.' As a stunt double for Daniel Craig, Ryan Reynolds and now close friend Chris Hemsworth, Hanton often talks about his fitness routines and how he maintains his muscular physique. In 2020, the actor - who split up from wife Rachel Hunter in 2022 before dating Love Island actress Maura Higgins - decided to quit boozing for 12 months after drinking alcohol while on painkillers for a recent back surgery. Friends of actress Lily James (pictured) have raised concerns about her new boyfriend's party lifestyle James is dating stuntman Bobby Holland Hanton (pictured) who she is believed to have met on the set of the action thriller Subversion, filmed on the Gold Coast of Australia in September Actor Hanton (right) has been a stunt double for Daniel Craig, Ryan Reynolds and now close friend Chris Hemsworth (left) He told the fitness magazine, Centr: 'On average, I'd have a glass or two with dinner with my wife on Thursday or Friday, maybe Saturday night go out to dinner and have a few more drinks, and then on a Sunday, I'd have a couple of beers with a roast. 'So on average, let's say seven to eight drinks a week.' He said he had cut down to just one or two drinks per week and preached: 'I've changed a lot of things for the better and I'm reaping the benefits.' He met Lily at the Red Lion pub in Fareham, Hampshire - a year after he split from Maura following a ten-month relationship - and they were first pictured as a couple there last month. A post on the pub's Facebook page said: 'Tonight we had a visit from Downton Abbey's Lily James alongside Thor stuntman Bobby Hanton. They enjoyed a drink and a game of pool, plus gained a new miniature fan club with staff kids.' A picture showed the Cinderella actress with her boyfriend's arm around her and the pair holding hands and laughing while enjoying some beers. Lily's longest relationship was with actor Matt Smith, the youngest ever Doctor Who, who appeared to break her heart in 2019 when their five-year romance ended. In October 2020, she was pictured nuzzling married actor Dominic West on a scooter in Rome which prompted the actor and his wife, Catherine, to insist their marriage was fine the next day at the marital home in Wiltshire. By 2021, Lily had settled down mostly in LA with 'Mikey Shoes,' real name Michael Shuman, the bassist of the hard-living hard rock band Queens Of The Stone Age, four years her senior. That lasted from 2021 to 2023. Bianca Censori donned very sheer tights in her latest daring fashion stunt as she stepped out for a lowkey outing in West Hollywood on Friday. The 31-year-old architect - who recently broke her silence on her husband Kanye West's antisemitic rants and revealing outfits - enjoyed the solo weekday excursion as she stopped by a spa appointment shortly before Valentine's Day. It comes only weeks after the Heartless rapper, 48, apologized for his past antisemitic posts while also getting candid about his battle with bipolar disorder in a statement published via an advertisement in the Wall Street Journal. Censori sported a pair of pastel purple tights as well as a fitted, off-the-shoulder brown top. She additionally slipped into a pair of closed-toed, white pumps and accessorized the look with black shades. Her brunette locks were parted in the middle and flowed down past her shoulders in light natural waves. Bianca Censori, 31, donned very sheer tights in her latest daring fashion stunt as she stepped out for a lowkey outing in West Hollywood on Friday The architect enjoyed the solo weekday excursion as she stopped by a spa appointment shortly before Valentine's Day Censori was spotted making her way down a small alleyway as she strolled towards a main street before heading to her next destination. Late last month in January, West - who also goes by Ye - offered an apology for his past antisemitic rants on social media. In a paid advertisement titled 'To Those I Hurt' and published in the WSJ, West expressed his remorse for his actions and claimed they stemmed from his bipolar diagnosis. He had penned about recently receiving his bipolar type-1 diagnosis following a car accident 25 years earlier. 'Bipolar disorder comes with its own defense system. Denial. When you're manic, you don't think you're sick,' he wrote. 'You think everyone else is overreacting. You feel like you're seeing the world more clearly than ever, when in reality you're losing your grip entirely.' West later admitted that he had 'lost touch with reality' and 'said and did things I deeply regret.' The music artist also added that he is 'not a Nazi or antisemite' while sharing that he loves the 'Jewish people.' He then offered an additional apology to 'the black community' for letting them down. It comes only weeks after West apologized for his past antisemitic posts while also getting candid about his battle with bipolar disorder in a statement to the Wall Street Journal; seen in 2024 in Milan Censori sported a pair of pastel purple tights as well as a fitted, off-the-shoulder brown top Her brunette locks were parted in the middle and flowed down past her shoulders in light natural waves Censori was spotted making her way down a small alleyway as she strolled towards a main street before heading to her next destination She opted to not carry a purse with her and instead was seen holding her smartphone in one of her hands Censori is no stranger to wearing daring ensembles and has often turned heads in racy looks on numerous outings The wife of Kanye West - whom she tied the knot with in 2022 - made her way over towards a curb of a sidewalk West later admitted that he had 'lost touch with reality' and 'said and did things I deeply regret' After 'hitting rock bottom' a few months ago, he said that Censori 'encouraged me to finally get help.' In conclusion, West also wrote that he is 'not asking for sympathy, or a free pass, though I aspire to earn your forgiveness. I write today simply to ask for your patience and understanding as I find my way home.' West had taken to social media beginning in 2022 with antisemitic remarks, such as posting 'death con 3 On JEWISH PEOPLE' and also voicing support for Nazis as well as Adolf Hitler. His posts resulted in the star from losing partnerships with Adidas and Balenciaga as well as being dropped by his talent agency CAA. During a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Censori broke her silence on West's past antisemitic rants as well as his manic episodes. 'All I can do is always just be there and help,' she emotionally stated. 'This year was a lot like doing CPR for months. 'I have the love and empathy for him to be able to do that, and I understand that the world doesn't.' Censori additionally got candid with the outlet about how she had contemplated leaving the relationship before understanding that the feelings were just 'surface level.' West had taken to social media beginning in 2022 with antisemitic remarks, such as posting 'death con 3 On JEWISH PEOPLE' and also voicing support for Nazis as well as Adolf Hitler During a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Censori broke her silence on West's past antisemitic rants as well as his manic episodes; seen in 2025 in L.A. 'All I can do is always just be there and help,' she emotionally stated. 'This year was a lot like doing CPR for months' She further told the outlet that West - whom she tied the knot with in 2022 - can develop 'extreme obsessions.' Censori shared that she had questioned the rapper about his fixation on Jewish people but said 'she didn't get an answer that made enough sense to remember.' Elsewhere in her conversation with Vanity Fair, the media personality shut down claims that she was being controlled by West, including when it come to her personal style. She went on to express to the outlet that she has an 'obvious obsession with nudity.' Censori added, 'Me and my husband would work on my outfits together. So it was like a collaboration, it was never "I was being told to do something."' She also gave a special shout out to West for encouraging her to enter rehab in Spain in order to work on her 'emotional dysregulation.' Censori added, 'Me and my husband would work on my outfits together. So it was like a collaboration, it was never "I was being told to do something"' The rapper additionally received a 'stabilizing course correction' at a rehab based in Switzerland The rapper additionally received a 'stabilizing course correction' at a rehab based in Switzerland. A source alleged to People in an article published last month in Janaury that Censori had 'tried to get out' of their marriage more than once due to being 'unhappy' before he entered rehab. The insider told the outlet that West has 'been in this vicious cycle for years. When he's not in a good space mentally, he tends to create so much drama, which then has lasting consequences.' But the rapper 'understands what he's done and that weighs heavily on him. By the time he's feeling clearer, there's already so much fallout.' Cynthia Erivo is fully aware of the speculation surrounding her very close friendship with Wicked co-star Ariana Grande, and now she's finally speaking out about it. The two were inseparable during both press tours for Wicked and its sequel Wicked: For Good and were seen clasping hands and posing cheek-to-cheek, leading some to wonder if they were a couple. Erivo explained it away as 'strange fascination' in a new interview with Stylist. 'At first, I think people didn't understand how it was possible for two women to be friends - close - and not lovers,' the London-born star told the outlet. 'I've never really spoken about this, but there was this strange fascination with the two of us, where people either thought we were putting it on for the cameras or that we were lovers.' Erivo, who was accused of 'using teleprompters' to help with her lines in West End's adaptation of Dracula, conceded that their relationship may have been confusing to some people because emotional attachment among women is overlooked as a topic of discussion. Cynthia Erivo (pictured February 1 in London) is fully aware of the speculation surrounding her close friendship with Wicked co-star Ariana Grande, and now she's speaking out about it The two actresses (pictured in November 2025 at the Wicked: For Good premiere in New York) were inseparable and touchy-feely during both press tours for Wicked and its sequel 'I think it's because there's such little conversation around platonic female friendship that is deep and real, even though it exists everywhere. We're not used to seeing it on camera, in front of people,' Erivo said. She emphasized her point by adding: 'A relationship where people are connected sometimes just makes people uncomfortable; we aren't taught that those relationships are good for us.' Grande, 32, admitted she needs to hold her co-star and friend's hand during events. 'I do, I do. I channel a lot of energy through my hands. And so I'm always holding a hand,' the actress said during a chat on the podcast Good Hang with Amy Poehler. 'I'm always, like, squeezing a something, as you've learned. I'm always reaching for something sometimes.' She added that she often clutches 'who I'm with. Yeah, I like to channel support and energy... I didn't even notice that it was a thing about me until that thing happened.' During the Wicked press tour in late 2024, Grande was seen holding on to Erivo's finger, a gesture that soon went viral. 'Yeah, because I didn't know what the f*** was going on,' Grande admitted. 'I just wanted to be supportive. I was like, oh my God. And it felt sweet. It felt beautiful. And it was beautiful,' the Break Free hitmaker added. Erivo and Grande's public displays of affection caused many to wonder if they were a couple Grande certainly admires the London-born star and the feeling seems to be mutual (pictured in November 2025 at a Wicked: For Good Q&A in North Hollywood, California) They were each other's support throughout the filming of both Wicked and its sequel Wicked: For Good (pictured on set with their director Jon M. Chu) Erivo's portrayed Elphaba in the two movies while Grande dazzled as Glinda Erivo rushed to Grande's rescue when a crazed fan lunged at the younger star during the Wicked: For Good Asia-Pacific premiere in Singapore last November, further cementing their close bond. Grande appeared visibly shaken and disturbed by the incident. The fan, later identified as 26-year-old Australian Johnson Wen who goes by the nickname Pyjama Man online, was quickly apprehended by security. Wen was arrested and charged with public nuisance and sentenced to nine days in jail, after which he was barred from re-entering Singapore again. For a woman who was only running an errand taking her dogs to a Beverly Hills grooming salon Nicola Peltz certainly made sure she looked impeccable. Dressed in stylish black capri pants, a white T-shirt and slingback heels, and with subtly glamorous make-up, the heiress and her husband Brooklyn Beckham appeared to have also gone to the trouble of ensuring their outfits were carefully coordinated. Even Brooklyn's sliders were black and white. We know all this because pictures were taken during this outing last Monday by a local paparazzo, who captured the couple lovingly nuzzling their four pampered pooches (rescue dogs Lamb, Label, Birdie and Angel), and duly circulated the images across the world. How unfortunate this must have been for them, given it is only four weeks since Brooklyn, 26, issued his bombshell statement on Instagram about his relationship with his parents Victoria and David, in which he insisted he wanted to live his life in private. The final paragraph of his six-page post could not have been clearer. 'My wife and I do not want a life shaped by image, press or manipulation,' he wrote. 'All we want is peace, privacy and happiness for us and our future family.' Brooklyn also took aim at his publicity-loving parents for valuing 'public promotion and endorsements above all else.' Yet these paparazzo photographs have all the hallmarks of a picture opportunity set up in advance. Brooklyn Beckham (left) and wife Nicola Peltz (right) looked perfectly coordinated as they ran an errand in Los Angeles on Monday In fact the same agency has snapped the couple four other times in little over a month. And each time unsurprisingly the pair look pristine. Arrangements like this, with favoured photographers, are not rare in the celebrity world. Mostly, it's a ruse employed by reality TV contestants and Z-list celebrities keen to raise their profiles or stay relevant. What's raising eyebrows is that this is not a tactic generally employed by those who, like Nicola, 31, and Brooklyn, want to live their lives in private. Indeed, the idea that they may have forged a relationship with a paparazzi agency is causing much bewilderment among some of the friends Brooklyn has left behind in Britain for his new life in the Californian sunshine. 'It's so strange,' one told me last week. 'Brooklyn made it very clear he wanted out of the limelight, but you can't help but think that isn't the case at all. 'If so, then it feels hypocritical and very low rent.' On January 11, eight days before Brooklyn posted his brutal evisceration of his parents on Instagram, the pair were captured on a 'low key' outing to a farmers' market near their home in Beverly Hills. Dressed up for the occasion, Nicola wore a cream jacket, jeans and platform boots. Nicola (pictured) donned a cream jacket and platform boots on a 'low key' outing to a farmers' market near the couple's home in Beverly Hills Then, three days after the statement, a photographer happened to be on hand on what is described to me as a 'random strip of beach' in Malibu, just after sunset. Again, Nicola looked glamorous in jeans, a white jumper and a pair of heels that most would consider impractical on sand. Fast forward a week and the couple were 'papped' at San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara a hang-out also favoured by the Montecito-based Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The ranch is 90 miles north of Brooklyn and Nicola's 10million home and hardly somewhere a photographer might have hoped to glimpse them. The couple were coordinating in jeans again when they were photographed on February 5 while shopping in Los Angeles. Those pictures revealed to the world but also, perhaps, to David and Victoria specifically that Brooklyn had redesigned a tattoo, which had featured the word 'DAD' in tribute to his father, with three new symbols. Surprisingly, Brooklyn and Nicola who have high-powered legal firm Schillings on hand to fire off legal letters have been notably quiet on these five picture opportunities. Yet when a different paparazzi agency took photos of Brooklyn at his home recently, a letter of complaint was issued citing an invasion of his privacy. One former friend tells me: 'Brooklyn hasn't really ever been one to get himself preened to go to somewhere like the groomers, or to the beach, it's most odd. 'The paparazzi seem to be there with them in some very random places, but perhaps it's just coincidence. If not, then it certainly goes against Brooklyn's statement.' Brooklyn and Nicola, the actress daughter of billionaire US businessman Nelson Peltz, have been estranged from David and Victoria since last April, when I first revealed the family's devastating rift, culminating in Brooklyn's dramatic statement last month in which he accused his parents of controlling him for most of his life, claiming that 'Brand Beckham comes first.' He also accused his mother, former Spice Girl Victoria, of hijacking his first dance with Nicola at their 2022 wedding. Brooklyn (right) recently accused his mother, former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham (centre) of hijacking his first dance with Nicola (left) at their 2022 wedding Other guests at the wedding have since rubbished Brooklyn's version of events, including chef Gordon Ramsay a close friend of the Beckhams who said there was 'nothing salacious' about the moment. 'There was nothing inappropriate,' he added. 'Everyone was having fun, having a dance.' I'm told by showbusiness insiders that Brooklyn's incendiary statement may have 'backfired' as some brands will now 'think twice' about hiring them to endorse their products. That was certainly not the case before. Last spring the couple had a very lucrative deal with Italian 'outerwear' brand Moncler and posed together for an advertising campaign. They have also previously partnered jeans brand Pepe for a big-money contract. A source who knows both sides said: 'Brooklyn and Nicola perhaps hoped they'd come out of the war as winners but it may have backfired on them spectacularly. 'We haven't seen much in the way of work from them for a little while, apart from Brooklyn's hot sauce brand and some talk of acting roles with Nicola. 'Maybe things will dry up, it has all been pretty unedifying. 'The thing with David and Victoria is that they are the masters of their own PR, they are pros and they get on with it. 'Victoria went to Paris and was handed a French knighthood [awarded by the culture ministry in recognition of her contribution in the arts] Brooklyn and Nicola seem to be happy being snapped by the paparazzi. 'Life could very well get difficult for them now in terms of their profile, it seems to have all gone wrong for them. 'They only have themselves to blame.' Target recently faced backlash after it ramped up a staff program intended to draw customers in and make them feel more comfortable, but it did the exact opposite. In November, the retail giant strongly encouraged its employees to smile at any and all customers who come within ten feet of them, and to enthusiastically greet anyone who comes within four foot. The program has long been part of worker training at Target, but ahead of the holidays the company reinforced the message. However instead of making people feel more welcome, it creeped them out. Many mocked the program on X, and a thread on Reddit was littered with folks who said they found it over-bearing, some so much so that they said they would avoid Target stores altogether. One Reddit user wrote: 'I will spend any time at Target making sure Im not within four feet of any employee.' Another added: 'All this policy does is force an awkward non-genuine interaction that 95 percent of people aren't interested in.' So, on a busy Tuesday afternoon this week during the lunch rush, I visited a Target in New York City's Union Square to find out how awkward the program truly is, and what shoppers think of it. Upon entering the store, it was notable that despite the company encouraging employees to greet customers, there was no one at the door to do so. Instead, there was a lone security guard who barely acknowledged people as they came in. After spending about 15 minutes walking through the aisles, not a single one of the half-dozen or so workers stocking shelves and moving inventory looked up from what they were doing to smile, and they certainly did not greet me or anyone else. The Daily Mail visited a Target location to see how the company's program encouraging staff to smile and greet customers looked in practice. During the visit, none of the workers looked up from what they were doing to smile or say hi. An employee is pictured moving stock The security guard at the entrance of the store is pictured wearing a yellow vest. There was no greeter despite Target's program Herminia Colon told the Daily Mail that no one greeted or smiled at her, and she had to go out of her way to get help And that was the experience of all the customers in the store interviewed by the Daily Mail. Some even said that they were essentially ignored by the employees while shopping. 'I passed by them, but no one said anything,' said Herminia Colon, a New Yorker who frequently shops at Target. 'I notice some employees sit around. Theyll start gossiping with each other and show each other phone things. But that's about it. 'I actually had to figure out if one of the employees works here, because I saw him in a red shirt. 'Eventually, I saw him putting the labels, and I said, okay, he works here. I had to ask him about the strawberries, but otherwise, everybody's been quiet.' Katherine Rosario, another New Yorker and Target shopper, also told the Daily Mail that no employees smiled or greeted her before adding, 'Sometimes I be pressing the button (to get goods that are locked away), and I'm like, does somebody work here?' The experiences of shoppers interviewed by the Daily Mail, as well as my own, clearly indicated that Target's program was not being heavily enforced in the store. As I spoke to employees, who asked not to be named because they were unsure if they were allowed to speak with the press, I received mixed messages about how much the initiative has been pushed by management. One woman told me she had never heard about it, though she had not been working at the store for long and that may have been why. Katherine Rosario also told the Daily Mail she was not smiled at or greeted, but the program was a good idea in theory Ana Martinez, a frequent Target shopper, said no one smiled at her or greeted her, though she would have welcomed it Customers are pictured browsing the aisles of the Union Square store on Tuesday Another employee told me he had been working at Target for about four years and said that management began pushing for a '10-4' rule late last year, referencing the recommendation of smiling within ten feet and greeting within four. The man added that customer service has always been a priority at the company, which tells employees to address customer concerns before finishing tasks such as stocking shelves. The 10-4 program, he said, was certainly encouraged by management, but it has not been heavily enforced. A third worker, who told me she had been working at Target part-time for about a year and a half, also said that the company's priority is customer service. But her answer as to whether the program has been heavily enforced differed from that of her co-worker. She said that managers had been aggressively pushing it in team huddles, though she also noted that she was unaware of the '10-4' guideline. The lack of consensus among the store's employees may have been part of the reason why no one was smiling or greeting customers. Nearly everyone I interviewed in person said they would welcome a warmer attitude from employees. The Daily Mail visited this Target location in New York City's Union Square during a Tuesday lunch rush The lone security guard standing at the door without a greeter is pictured. He barely acknowledged people as they came into the store Aleyna Torunoglu, a Turkish woman who has been living in New York City for four years, also said no one smiled at her or greeted her, but said the speed of customer service is more important than being smiled at 'It would be nicer,' Rosario said. 'It would be really nice if somebody comes and says, hi do you need help? My name is' 'I dont feel creepy if it's an employee, because theyre there to help you,' Colon said. 'That's what they do, even in a McDonald's, anywhere you go. Theyre there to serve you, to help you.' Ana Martinez, who often shops at Target, said: 'It definitely avoids the occasional awkward interaction with the worker who maybe is a little cold in a way.' But she emphasized, 'I completely understand, because at the end of the day, they're working here all day and they're tired. But I guess it's a good initiative.' Aleyna Torunoglu, a Turkish woman who has been living in New York City for four years, echoed Martinez's sentiments. 'It could make the experience better,' Torunoglu said before adding, 'Other than that, I don't have any issues if the working people don't smile at me. 'But I will appreciate getting help as fast as I can. Sometimes Im in a rush. That's much more important than them smiling at me.' The shoppers interviewed by the Daily Mail did say they understood why some people might be put off by Target's program, but they still thought it was a good idea. Reporter Eliot Force outside the Target store in New York City's Union Square on Tuesday Target told shop assistants they have to slap a massive grin on their faces any time they come within 10 feet of a customer. File photo of a Target worker in an Ohio store 'To some extent, that makes sense,' Martinez said of people's discomfort. 'Because if it comes across as a little disingenuous, then I guess it could feel forced, but at the end of the day, I do think that overall that wouldn't be the case.' Target declined to comment when the Daily Mail reached out. A California restaurant crowned the best in America is facing backlash after diners blasted what they called a 'woke' 20 percent service charge - and the lecture that comes with it. Burdell in Oakland was crowned the best restaurant in the country in 2025 by experts at Food & Wine magazine. It was praised for its 'totally fresh take on California soul food,' and homely dishes serving up 'slow-simmered nostalgia.' But critics are now zeroing in on a message printed at the bottom of customers' receipts. 'Tipping in the US has an ugly past, allowing the continuation of underpaid labor,' the note reads. 'We don't like that history. Included on your check is a 20 percent service charge, which we use to pay hourly staff a consistent and livable wage - not dependent on archaic tipping customs or chance. No need to add anything else.' The automatic charge - and the reference to tipping's historical roots - sparked fury online. In a now-deleted Reddit post that quickly went viral, a customer shared a photo of a Burdell receipt showing the restaurant's automatic 20 percent service charge. A similar complaint surfaced on Facebook from diners Andrian and Mirela, who posted a photo of their February 1 bill. Burdell in Oakland, helmed by chef Geoff Davis, was crowned the best restaurant in America by experts at Food & Wine magazine last year Davis, pictured, opened Burdell in 2023 following a successful stint as a pop-up restaurant Their meal totaled $161 before the automatic service charge was added, pushing the subtotal to $193. After taxes, the final bill came to $214. Expressing their frustration, the couple wrote: 'Two people eat dinner and somehow the bill hits two hundred dollars because they sneak a twenty percent service charge on there like it's cute.' They were even more blunt about the explanation printed below. They added: 'Don't touch my money first and then write a whole damn essay on the receipt telling me why tipping culture is bad. You already took the tip - shut up.' Despite the backlash, Burdell owner and chef Davis told the Daily Mail that the service charge policy is clearly communicated to diners, and the restaurant also does not request additional tips. 'We clearly state our service charge, just like the hundreds of other restaurants that use a service charge,' he said. 'For too long, restaurant workers have been vulnerable. In many states, people are paid a sub-minimum wage starting at $2.13 an hour. 'In this country, the origins of tipping are divisive, and tipping doesn't work. It places the risk of financial harm on the employee. A Facebook post by diners Andrian and Mirela raised the same complaint. Their photo showed that their February 1 dinner totaled $161 before an automatic 20 percent service charge was added Burdells was praised by food experts for its 'totally fresh take on California soul food,' thoughtfully curated vintage interiors, and homely dishes serving up 'slow-simmered nostalgia' 'We pay our employees as professionals - they earn their rate of pay from the moment they clock in. 'There's no luck of the draw with generous tables, no convoluted point system for sharing tips with the rest of the team, no bias toward busy days. Just consistency.' Davis, who opened Burdell in 2023 following a successful stint as a pop-up restaurant, says he has no plans to change the policy despite the criticism. Burdell is far from alone. Across the US, a growing number of restaurants have adopted automatic 20 percent service charges, often arguing it allows them to guarantee higher, more stable wages and move away from the traditional tipping model. While some diners view the practice as excessive, it is becoming an increasingly common - and sometimes mandatory - feature of dining out. Four months after it opened with promises of stable, high-paying factory jobs, a $5.8 billion Ford-backed battery plant in Kentucky is sitting idle - and 1,600 workers are out of work. Ford and South Korean battery manufacturer SK On opened the sprawling 1,500-acre site in Glendale in summer 2025, and it was hailed as a game changer for the region. By December, that optimism had evaporated when the companies ended their joint venture at the site. Soon after, Ford said it would idle the facility for roughly 18 months while shifting production toward energy storage systems instead of car batteries. Ford says the slowdown in EV demand - blamed in part with changes in federal policy under President Donald Trump - upended the companys original plans. Kentuckys Democratic governor Andy Beshear blamed the President. 'Those are 1,600 Kentuckians that lost their jobs solely because of Donald Trump pushing that big, ugly bill, eliminating the credits that had people interested and excited to buy EVs,' Beshear told the New York Times. 'I bet many, if not most, of them voted for him, and he basically fired them.' For the workers suddenly out of a job, the political blame game is secondary to the immediate fallout. Ive been homeless for years and this was supposed to be the grounding moment, said Derek Dougherty, 28, who had just signed a lease near the site when he learned he would be laid off. Trump's policies to halt the growth of the electric vehicle industry have been blamed on 1,600 job losses at a multibillion-dollar Kentucky vehicle battery plant 'We just started renting our apartment over here because of this job. Now that job's not there.' The collapse exposes a contradiction in Trumps America First agenda. He has repeatedly vowed to revive US manufacturing and protect blue-collar workers. But critics say his rollback of EV incentives and environmental rules slowed demand just as billions were being poured into new American battery plants - leaving communities like Glendale paying the price. During his presidency, Donald Trump weakened national vehicle emissions standards and tried to block California from setting even stricter clean-car rules - meaning there was less pressure on automakers to push EVs. He has also vowed to scrap a federal tax credit that knocked as much as $7,500 off each EV and cut government support for charging infrastructure. A Ford spokesperson told the Daily Mail the policy shift had significantly disrupted its long-term strategy - and contributed to the Kentucky plant's closure. 'BlueOval SK was originally intended to be a long-term endeavor,' the spokesperson said. '[But] the realities of customer demand and the regulatory environment have evolved, particularly in the US. They pointed out that, in 2023, analysts projected EVs could make up 45 percent of US auto sales by 2030. But forecasts have since been revised sharply lower - to somewhere between 9 and 18 percent. Join the debate Who do you think is really to blame for the loss of these 1,600 jobs: politicians or automakers? During his presidency, Donald Trump weakened national vehicle emissions standards and sought to block California from setting more stringent clean-car rules, easing regulatory pressure on automakers to accelerate EV production Ford Motor Company and South Korean battery manufacturer SK On partnered to establish battery plants across the US, investing $5.8 billion in a sprawling 1,500-acre facility in Glendale. Pictured, BlueOval SK CEO David Hahm Not all workers see it purely as a political issue. Joe Morgan left a 24-year career to take a job at the plant earning $38 an hour as a maintenance technician. He said the tax credits played some role in slowing sales, but believes Ford also overreached. Taking away the tax credits did play a little bit of a role in not selling EVs, Morgan said. But honestly, I think Ford made a bad decision when they came out with an F-150 they wanted to make all electric. Despite the setback, Ford says the broader BlueOval complex is not dead. A separate subsidiary battery plant at the site is expected to employ more than 2,100 workers when it opens in late 2026 or early 2027. While the facility will still manufacture batteries, production will focus on energy storage systems for utilities, data centers, and other commercial applications. 'BlueOval SK employees will have the opportunity to apply for jobs at the new Ford subsidiary once it begins hiring,' the company said. Globally, China remains the largest EV market, followed by the United States. Within the US, Tesla, Inc. commands roughly half of the EV market share. Automakers, like many industries, are now adopting a wait-and-see posture as they assess whether Trump will follow through on proposals to rescind tax credits and impose new tariffs. Actress Sydney Sweeney promotes the Ford Bronco in 2023. Ford has been forced to rein in its electric vehicle ambitions amid cooling demand Most recently, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced that states receiving federal funds for EV charging infrastructure would be required to install chargers made entirely with US-produced components - a significant shift from the previous 55 percent domestic-content requirement. 'Now we're ensuring that if Congress wants to see these chargers built, we put America First,' Duffy said in a statement. 'Doing so will unleash American manufacturing, protect our national security, and prevent taxpayer dollars from subsidizing our foreign adversaries.' Industry experts, however, caution that producing chargers composed of 100 percent US-made parts may prove nearly impossible under current supply-chain conditions -potentially delivering yet another blow to the growth trajectory of the American electric vehicle sector. On Tuesday, Ford announced its biggest annual loss since before the 2008 financial crisis, with its failed push into electric cars a key factor. A new Mexican fast-food concept has arrived on the scene, offering meals for under $10 in a bold bid to undercut competitors. Food delivery app Wonder, founded by billionaire Marc Lore, has unveiled its own take on Chipotle with the launch of El Diez Mexican Bowls. At the same time, the company has introduced Pop Salad, a lower-priced alternative to Sweetgreen. Unlike traditional food delivery platforms, Wonder enables customers to combine dishes from up to 30 different restaurant concepts within a single order - allowing, for example, steak, pizza and tacos to arrive together. The company operates as both a physical dining destination - a compact, tech-powered food hall offering lower-priced alternatives to rival fast-food and salad chains - and a delivery platform that competes with the likes of Uber Eats and DoorDash. The new Wonder brands debuted this week in Springfield and Hoboken, with 13 additional locations planned across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Long Island, and Philadelphia. Wonder said the new concepts are 'built around bold flavor, full-size portions and transparent, buzzworthy pricing.' It added: 'Backed by Wonder's culinary platform and fresh ingredients delivered daily, Pop Salad and El Diez prove that fast-casual value doesn't have to mean cutting corners - it can still be flavorful, filling and fun.' Food delivery app Wonder, founded by billionaire Marc Lore, has unveiled its own take on Chipotle with the launch of El Diez Mexican Bowls El Diez's standout items include the Chicken Queso Rice Bowl, priced at $9.50, and a Build Your Own Rice Bowl at the same price point. There is also a bowl, chips and drink combo for $10. By contrast, a typical Chipotle chicken bowl in New York can run $12 or more before add-ons. Steak or other premium proteins push the price even higher. Chipotle even admitted that price rises boosted profits. The chain also came has under fire for its portion sizes. Wells Fargo analysts ordered and weighed 75 identical chicken burrito bowls across eight New York City Chipotle locations. Their findings showed noticeable inconsistencies between orders - suggesting uneven portioning rather than an official size reduction. But for customers, the perception stuck. Wonder says El Diez is built around full-size portions and transparent, buzzworthy pricing. Meanwhile, Pop Salad features salads priced at $9.75, a marked contrast to Sweetgreen, where the average menu item costs closer to $16. Alongside the two new launches, Wonder has also acquired the celebrated New York restaurant chain Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken. On the app, El Diez's standout items include the Chicken Queso Rice Bowl, priced at $9.50, and a Build Your Own Rice Bowl at the same price point Over recent years, along with rising prices Chipotle customers have hit back at the brand accusing it of shrinking portion sizes. 'With an incredibly loyal following already in place, we can now scale this iconic brand across the Wonder platform to reach far more people,' Lore said. Lore, a billionaire e-commerce entrepreneur, founded Wonder in 2018. He has since helped secure more than $2 billion in private funding - valuing the company at approximately $7 billion, more than several publicly traded restaurant chains. Originally launched as a fleet of mobile kitchens, Wonder pivoted in 2023 to physical locations featuring a range of restaurant brands secured through licensing deals. Today, the company operates roughly 90 tech-powered 'fast fine' food hall locations across the Northeast, with further expansion plans underway. Each site functions as a modern ghost kitchen, offering a curated selection of 20 to 30 virtual restaurant brands and chef-led concepts for delivery, pickup, or dine-in. While the company's footprint is currently concentrated in the Northeast, continued success could see it expand into other US regions by 2035. In recent years, Wonder has also made several high-profile acquisitions, including meal kit provider Blue Apron for $103 million, and Uber Eats and Door Dash rival. Grubhub for $650 million. It also snapped up Sweetgreen's automated kitchen technology business, Spyce, for $186.4 million. Spyce is an automated kitchen technology business that uses robotics to prepare bowls and other meals with minimal human intervention. The system is designed to improve speed, consistency and efficiency in restaurant kitchens while reducing labor demands. Shares of Bank Hapoalim (OTCMKTS:BKHYY Get Free Report) gapped up before the market opened on Wednesday . The stock had previously closed at $130.5941, but opened at $138.63. Bank Hapoalim shares last traded at $129.52, with a volume of 1,173 shares. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Separately, Barclays cut Bank Hapoalim from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, January 15th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, Bank Hapoalim presently has a consensus rating of Hold. Get Bank Hapoalim alerts: View Our Latest Report on BKHYY Bank Hapoalim Stock Down 4.5% The company has a market cap of $35.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.66 and a beta of 1.19. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a quick ratio of 0.93 and a current ratio of 0.93. The stocks fifty day moving average is $121.80 and its two-hundred day moving average is $106.92. Bank Hapoalim (OTCMKTS:BKHYY Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 20th. The bank reported $2.68 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The business had revenue of $1.99 billion during the quarter. Bank Hapoalim had a return on equity of 14.60% and a net margin of 21.60%. Bank Hapoalim Cuts Dividend The business also recently announced a dividend, which was paid on Thursday, December 18th. Investors of record on Tuesday, December 2nd were given a dividend of $0.9362 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, December 1st. This represents a dividend yield of 266.0%. Bank Hapoalims payout ratio is presently 38.62%. About Bank Hapoalim (Get Free Report) Bank Hapoalim B.M. is one of Israels largest banking groups, providing a broad range of financial services to retail, corporate and institutional customers. Founded in 1921 by the Histadrut labor federation, the bank has developed into a full-service financial institution offering deposit accounts, consumer and mortgage lending, credit cards, payment services, and branch-based retail banking. It also serves small and medium-sized enterprises with working capital and trade finance solutions. In addition to traditional retail banking, Bank Hapoalim operates significant corporate and investment banking divisions. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Bank Hapoalim Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank Hapoalim and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Finning International (TSE:FTT) executives told investors the company delivered another strong year in 2025, citing growth across all three regions, expanding product support revenue, and improved capital efficiency. On the companys fourth-quarter call, President and CEO Kevin Parkes and CFO David Primrose highlighted a record equipment backlog, stronger free cash flow, and continued progress against targets laid out at the companys 2023 Investor Day. Get alerts: Full-year momentum and record backlog Management said 2025 revenue rose 7% to CAD 10.6 billion, with product support revenue up 8% to almost CAD 6 billion. Parkes noted product support activity remained strong in mining, with Canada and South America up 10% and 5% year-over-year, respectively. The company also reported a record equipment backlog of CAD 3.1 billion at year-end, up 20% from December 2024. Fourth-quarter results: higher revenue, strong cash flow, and balance sheet improvement Parkes emphasized steps taken to simplify operations and focus on growth in Caterpillar dealerships, including restructuring parts of the back office and head office and completing the sale of 4Refuel. He said the companys earnings are more resilient, and its cost and capital position has significantly improved, supporting long-term earnings capacity and returns in all market conditions. Primrose reported fourth-quarter revenue of CAD 2.7 billion, up 6% from the prior year, with gains across all regions. Results included a CAD 22 million write-off tied to decommissioning certain technology assets as the company evaluates business needs and aligns with Caterpillars digital and technology strategy. Excluding the write-off, Primrose said adjusted EBIT was down 2% year-over-year, while adjusted EPS of CAD 1 rose 3%, reflecting higher earnings in Canada and the impact of share repurchases. He also noted higher long-term incentive plan (LTIP) expense of CAD 21 million in the quarter, compared with a CAD 3 million recovery in Q4 2024. Cash generation was a key focus. Finning produced free cash flow of CAD 642 million in Q4 and nearly CAD 550 million for the year. The companys net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio declined to 1.2 times at year-end from 1.7 times a year earlier. Invested capital turns improved to 2.34 times, and consolidated adjusted return on invested capital was 19.2%, up 130 basis points from Q4 2024. By the numbers: equipment, product support, and backlog drivers In the quarter, new equipment sales increased 9%, driven by higher construction and power and energy deliveries. Used equipment sales fell 23%, which management attributed to large conversions of mining rental equipment with purchase options in Canada in Q4 2024 that did not repeat this quarter. Product support revenue rose 8%, led by mining activity in Canada. Order intake was described as strong, particularly in Canada where it rose nearly 50% from Q4 2024. Primrose said Finning secured multiple large mining orders and had over 50 ultra-class trucks plus over 20 other large mining trucks in Canadas backlog. In power and energy, backlog support included a large data center order in the UK and Ireland and multiple gas compression orders in Canada. Equipment backlog: CAD 3.1 billion at year-end, up 20% year-over-year CAD 3.1 billion at year-end, up 20% year-over-year Q4 product support: up 8% overall; Canada up 12% up 8% overall; Canada up 12% Q4 new equipment: up 9%; used equipment down 23% up 9%; used equipment down 23% Q4 free cash flow: CAD 642 million; net debt/adjusted EBITDA 1.2x Regional performance and outlook: Canada improving, Chile dynamic, UK&I mixed South America: In functional currency, new equipment sales rose 4% and product support revenue increased 5%, driven by construction activity in Chile. Adjusted EBIT margin was 10.4%, down 50 basis points due to lower product support margins. Parkes described Chile as a dynamic environment, pointing to significant ultra-class truck deliveries over the past two years and fleet reorganization as miners retire older equipment. Management said the longer-term outlook remains positive, supported by global copper demand, strong copper prices, and customer investment interest, while near-term activity could moderate as mine plans and fleets are adjusted. The company also flagged ongoing labor market challenges. Argentina was repeatedly discussed as an emerging opportunity. Parkes said Finning is carefully positioning the business to capture potential growth in oil and gas and mining, while being mindful of historical operating challenges and volatility. He told analysts he expects activity to start showing up in backlog and order intake through the course of this year, adding the company has existing facilities in the region and expects much of the incremental requirement to be investing in people and tooling on-site. Canada: New equipment sales increased 2%, supported by construction, while rental revenue rose 10% amid improving conditions. Product support revenue grew 12% on strong mining demand. Adjusted EBIT margin improved 60 basis points to 8.1%, helped by lower SG&A margin and a richer product support mix. Management said the outlook for Western Canada is improving, citing order intake trends and recent resource and infrastructure-related announcements, though executives cautioned on timing and magnitude. UK and Ireland: New equipment sales climbed 21% in functional currency on strong power and energy project deliveries. Product support revenue was flat, as lower construction utilization was offset by power and energy activity. Adjusted EBIT margin declined to 4.6% due to the higher proportion of new equipment. Adjusted ROIC rose to 20.1%, which Primrose said primarily reflected pension asset optimization. Management expects construction equipment demand to remain soft alongside low projected GDP growth, while power and energy contribution is expected to increase, particularly tied to data center demand for primary and backup power generation. Strategy progress, capital plans, and growth themes for 2026 Parkes said the company delivered on the 2023 Investor Day objectives for full-cycle resilience, highlighting invested capital turns within the 2.32.5 target range and SG&A margin reduced to 15%, below the 17% target. He also pointed to progress on sustainable growth pillars, including used equipment revenue up 31% since Investor Day and power and energy revenue up 41% with backlog up over 70%. Management emphasized ongoing technician hiring and capacity expansion to support product support growth. Parkes said Finning added 225 new technicians across regions and expanded workshop capacity. He also discussed a services commitment in Canada designed to improve responsiveness and build customer loyalty. For 2026, Primrose said Finning expects net capital and net rental fleet expenditures to be greater than CAD 350 million, including plans to build the rental fleet as the Canadian construction market improves and to make selected operational efficiency investments such as warehouse improvements in Edmonton and implementing case and workforce management in Canada. On capital allocation, management reiterated the importance of returning capital to shareholders through dividends and buybacks, noting the company has been repurchasing shares under its NCIB, while also emphasizing that capital allocation remains dynamic based on free cash flow expectations, capital spending, inventory needs, and potential M&A considerations. About Finning International (TSE:FTT) Finning International Inc is a dealer and distributor of heavy-duty machinery and parts of the Caterpillar brand. The company sells and rents Caterpillar machinery to the mining, construction, petroleum, forestry, and power system application industries. Finning International further provides parts and services for equipment and engines to its customers via its owned distribution network and buys and sells used equipment domestically and internationally after reconditioning or rebuilding the machinery. Read More News / Africa by Sapa A Zimbabwean illegal immigrant has been arrested in Botswana and charged with illegal possession of gold, the weekly Echo newspaper reported on Wednesday.Emmanuel Mshonga, 48, who lives in Tlokweng village, was arrested on March 3 at White City in Gaborone, but could not state where he had got the metal.The accused appeared in the Gaborone Magistrate's Court, charged with being in possession of gold in contravention of the Metals Act.Mshonga told the court the police were delaying their investigations. He said he had been in custody for several days before he was formally charged.According to Botswana laws, a detained suspect has to be charged after spending 48 hours in custody.Botswana police Sub-inspector Sinah Boy said he was only given the case a day before the suspect was to appear before court.He said the suspect should remain in custody, as he did not have proper travel documents and had entered the country illegally.Boy said investigators had yet to conclude their investigation, paving the way for possible prosecution.The court reserved plea for the accused and he would remain in custody. Schroders plc (LON:SDR Get Free Report) insider Richard Oldfield acquired 53 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 10th. The stock was bought at an average cost of GBX 467 per share, for a total transaction of 247.51. Richard Oldfield also recently made the following trade(s): Get Schroders alerts: On Monday, January 12th, Richard Oldfield purchased 60 shares of Schroders stock. The stock was bought at an average price of GBX 416 per share, for a total transaction of 249.60. Schroders Stock Down 0.1% Schroders stock opened at GBX 587.16 on Friday. The companys 50-day moving average price is GBX 432.17 and its two-hundred day moving average price is GBX 401.11. The company has a quick ratio of 4.32, a current ratio of 4.90 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 12.95. The stock has a market cap of 9.10 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.33, a P/E/G ratio of 1.28 and a beta of 1.17. Schroders plc has a twelve month low of GBX 283.40 and a twelve month high of GBX 599.50. More Schroders News Schroders ( LON:SDR Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, February 12th. The company reported GBX 36.60 EPS for the quarter. Schroders had a return on equity of 8.65% and a net margin of 12.81%. As a group, analysts expect that Schroders plc will post 33.7347131 EPS for the current year. Here are the key news stories impacting Schroders this week: Positive Sentiment: Nuveen/TIAA agreed to buy Schroders for about $14bn, delivering a takeover premium that materially revalues the company and underpins the recent rally. MarketWatch: Nuveen to buy Schroders Nuveen/TIAA agreed to buy Schroders for about $14bn, delivering a takeover premium that materially revalues the company and underpins the recent rally. Positive Sentiment: Schroders reported a strong set of results (profits up ~21%) at the time the takeover was announced, which supports the rationale and valuation for an acquirer. That earnings strength makes the deal look more attractive and credible. Investors Chronicle: Profits surge Schroders reported a strong set of results (profits up ~21%) at the time the takeover was announced, which supports the rationale and valuation for an acquirer. That earnings strength makes the deal look more attractive and credible. Neutral Sentiment: Analysts and the market are repositioning: Reuters flags the Schroders sale as a catalyst that puts other European asset managers in play, which may spur sector M&A speculation and re-rating across peers. Reuters: Sale puts peers in play Analysts and the market are repositioning: Reuters flags the Schroders sale as a catalyst that puts other European asset managers in play, which may spur sector M&A speculation and re-rating across peers. Neutral Sentiment: Company quarterly results: Schroders reported GBX 36.60 EPS and solid margins/ROE supportive fundamentals but now secondary to the takeover dynamics. Press release: Quarterly results Company quarterly results: Schroders reported GBX 36.60 EPS and solid margins/ROE supportive fundamentals but now secondary to the takeover dynamics. Neutral Sentiment: Small insider purchases (Meagen Burnett, Richard Oldfield) have been reported modestly bullish as a signal of insider confidence but too small to move fundamentals. InsiderTrades: Insider buying Small insider purchases (Meagen Burnett, Richard Oldfield) have been reported modestly bullish as a signal of insider confidence but too small to move fundamentals. Negative Sentiment: Some investors may react negatively to the end of Schroders long-standing independence and family involvement (family reportedly sells out), creating uncertainty around culture, client retention and integration risks under new ownership. MSN: Family sells out / FTSE coverage Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reissued an overweight rating on shares of Schroders in a report on Friday, January 9th. UBS Group reiterated a buy rating and issued a GBX 455 price objective on shares of Schroders in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Jefferies Financial Group reissued a hold rating and issued a GBX 420 price objective on shares of Schroders in a report on Friday, January 9th. Citigroup decreased their target price on shares of Schroders from GBX 435 to GBX 430 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada raised their target price on shares of Schroders from GBX 435 to GBX 440 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Schroders currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of GBX 413.86. View Our Latest Analysis on Schroders Schroders Company Profile (Get Free Report) Schroders plc is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm also provides advisory and consultancy services. It provides its services to financial institutions, high net worth clients, large corporate, local authority, charitable entities, individuals, pension plans, government funds, insurance companies, and endowments. The firm launches and manages equity mutual funds and manages fixed income mutual funds for its clients. It also manages hedge for its clients. The firm invests in the public equity, fixed income, and alternative investment markets across the globe. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Schroders Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Schroders and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Oracle Co. Japan (OTCMKTS:OCLCF Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large drop in short interest in the month of January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 62,290 shares, a drop of 53.5% from the January 15th total of 133,973 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 283 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 220.1 days. Based on an average daily volume of 283 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 220.1 days. Oracle Co. Japan Stock Performance Shares of OTCMKTS:OCLCF remained flat at $60.62 during trading on Friday. The stock had a trading volume of 25 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,740. Oracle Co. Japan has a 12-month low of $60.62 and a 12-month high of $123.32. The company has a 50 day moving average of $87.19 and a two-hundred day moving average of $97.32. Get Oracle Co. Japan alerts: About Oracle Co. Japan (Get Free Report) Oracle Co Japan (OTCMKTS:OCLCF) is the Tokyo-based subsidiary of Oracle Corporation, a global leader in database software, cloud engineered systems, and enterprise applications. The company delivers a comprehensive portfolio of products and services, including database management systems, enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions, human capital management (HCM) applications, and cloud infrastructure offerings. Oracle Co Japan leverages its parents research and development capabilities to provide localized versions of flagship software to meet Japanese language, regulatory, and security requirements. Since opening its doors in the mid-1980s to support the growing demand for advanced IT solutions in Japan, Oracle Co Japan has expanded its scope beyond software licensing. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Oracle Co. Japan Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Oracle Co. Japan and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE:PNI Get Free Report) saw a significant decrease in short interest in January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 4,159 shares, a decrease of 64.3% from the January 15th total of 11,637 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 50,508 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.1 days. Based on an average trading volume of 50,508 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.1 days. Institutional Investors Weigh In On PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in PNI. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $68,000. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. bought a new position in shares of PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II in the second quarter valued at $79,000. Focus Partners Advisor Solutions LLC acquired a new position in PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II during the second quarter worth $108,000. Baird Financial Group Inc. bought a new stake in PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II during the second quarter worth $117,000. Finally, Dopkins Wealth Management LLC raised its position in PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II by 83.8% during the third quarter. Dopkins Wealth Management LLC now owns 28,646 shares of the companys stock worth $199,000 after acquiring an additional 13,061 shares in the last quarter. Get PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II alerts: PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II Trading Up 0.1% Shares of NYSE:PNI traded up $0.01 during trading on Friday, hitting $7.08. 27,377 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 58,549. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $6.96 and a 200-day moving average price of $6.88. PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II has a 52 week low of $6.43 and a 52 week high of $7.47. PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II Dividend Announcement PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II Company Profile The business also recently declared a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 2nd. Shareholders of record on Thursday, February 12th will be paid a $0.0295 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 12th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.0%. (Get Free Report) PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II (NYSE: PNI) is a closed-end management investment company that seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt from both federal and New York State income taxes. The fund is managed by Pacific Investment Management Company LLC (PIMCO), a global fixed income investment firm. PNI invests primarily in investment-grade municipal obligations issued by or on behalf of the state of New York, its municipalities and related public authorities. The funds portfolio is constructed with a focus on New York state general obligation and revenue bonds, including transportation, education, healthcare and utility-backed securities. Read More Receive News & Ratings for PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PIMCO New York Municipal Income Fund II and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. PowerCell Sweden AB (publ) (OTCMKTS:PCELF Get Free Report) was the target of a large decline in short interest in January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 95,066 shares, a decline of 60.3% from the January 15th total of 239,701 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 1,006 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 94.5 days. Based on an average daily volume of 1,006 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 94.5 days. PowerCell Sweden AB (publ) Stock Performance PCELF remained flat at $3.02 on Friday. PowerCell Sweden AB has a 12 month low of $1.45 and a 12 month high of $5.03. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $3.25 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $3.48. Get PowerCell Sweden AB (publ) alerts: About PowerCell Sweden AB (publ) (Get Free Report) PowerCell Sweden AB (publ) is a Swedish technology company specializing in the development and production of hydrogen fuel cell stacks and systems. Its core focus lies in creating scalable, high-performance fuel cell solutions for a range of applications, including stationary power generation, e-mobility and marine propulsion. The companys modular fuel cell modules can be integrated into customized powertrain and power supply systems, enabling zero-emission operation for heavy vehicles, backup power units and distributed energy installations. The companys product portfolio features the PowerCell S3 stack series, which delivers enhanced power density and durability compared to earlier generations. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for PowerCell Sweden AB (publ) Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PowerCell Sweden AB (publ) and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF (NYSEARCA:RSPA Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large growth in short interest in the month of January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 49,130 shares, a growth of 195.9% from the January 15th total of 16,604 shares. Approximately 0.4% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 127,639 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.4 days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 127,639 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.4 days. Approximately 0.4% of the companys stock are short sold. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Jones Financial Companies Lllp grew its stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF by 71.5% in the third quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 169,808 shares of the companys stock worth $8,585,000 after acquiring an additional 70,823 shares during the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. raised its position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF by 4.5% in the 2nd quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 5,055,292 shares of the companys stock worth $252,209,000 after purchasing an additional 216,221 shares during the last quarter. Perigon Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF in the 3rd quarter worth about $1,506,000. Flagship Harbor Advisors LLC grew its position in Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF by 106.8% during the 2nd quarter. Flagship Harbor Advisors LLC now owns 54,221 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,705,000 after purchasing an additional 28,001 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. purchased a new stake in Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF during the 2nd quarter valued at about $353,000. Get Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF alerts: Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF Price Performance NYSEARCA RSPA traded up $0.45 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $52.91. 261,119 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 151,377. Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF has a 52-week low of $43.04 and a 52-week high of $53.58. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $51.83 and a 200 day simple moving average of $51.03. The firm has a market cap of $594.71 million, a PE ratio of 20.77 and a beta of 0.70. Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF Increases Dividend About Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF The firm also recently announced a monthly dividend, which was paid on Friday, January 23rd. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, January 20th were issued a dividend of $0.4056 per share. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, January 20th. This is a positive change from Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETFs previous monthly dividend of $0.40. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 9.2%. (Get Free Report) The Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF (RSPA) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in large cap equity. The fund is an actively managed, fund-of-funds, that utilizes equity securities and ETFs to mirror the S&P 500 Equal Weight Index. The fund also employs an options-based income strategy with equity-linked notes (ELNs) for upside participation and downside protection RSPA was launched on Jul 17, 2024 and is issued by Invesco. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Income Advantage ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF (NYSEARCA:KEUA Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant increase in short interest in January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 4,840 shares, an increase of 209.7% from the January 15th total of 1,563 shares. Approximately 1.6% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 1,005 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 4.8 days. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 1,005 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 4.8 days. Approximately 1.6% of the companys stock are sold short. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A hedge fund recently bought a new stake in KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF stock. Kestra Advisory Services LLC acquired a new stake in shares of KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF (NYSEARCA:KEUA Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm acquired 2,686 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $76,000. Kestra Advisory Services LLC owned about 0.90% of KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF at the end of the most recent reporting period. Get KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF alerts: KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF Price Performance Shares of KEUA traded down $0.68 on Friday, hitting $23.13. 2,213 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,530. KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF has a one year low of $19.08 and a one year high of $29.57. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $27.93 and a 200 day simple moving average of $26.52. KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF Dividend Announcement KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF Company Profile The firm also recently announced an annual dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, December 23rd. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 22nd were issued a $0.6448 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, December 22nd. This represents a dividend yield of 227.0%. (Get Free Report) The KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF (KEUA) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the IHS Markit Carbon EUA index. The fund tracks a liquidity-weighted EUA carbon credit futures index. KEUA was launched on Oct 5, 2021 and is managed by KraneShares. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Vale (NYSE:VALE Get Free Report) released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday. The basic materials company reported ($0.90) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.52 by ($1.42), FiscalAI reports. Vale had a net margin of 14.69% and a return on equity of 18.60%. The firm had revenue of $11.06 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.86 billion. Vale Stock Down 2.3% Shares of NYSE VALE opened at $16.64 on Tuesday. The company has a current ratio of 1.24, a quick ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.49. Vale has a twelve month low of $8.06 and a twelve month high of $17.72. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $14.64 and a 200-day simple moving average of $12.39. Get Vale alerts: Vale Announces Dividend The company also recently announced a special dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, January 14th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 12th were paid a $0.2331 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, December 12th. Vales dividend payout ratio is 67.69%. Analysts Set New Price Targets VALE has been the subject of several analyst reports. Royal Bank Of Canada raised shares of Vale from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and increased their price objective for the company from $11.00 to $14.20 in a research report on Wednesday, December 10th. Wells Fargo & Company restated a cautious rating and set a $15.50 price target on shares of Vale in a research note on Monday. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price objective on shares of Vale from $13.80 to $18.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, January 30th. UBS Group boosted their price objective on shares of Vale from $11.00 to $12.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, December 8th. Finally, Scotiabank restated a sector perform rating and issued a $16.50 target price on shares of Vale in a research note on Monday, February 9th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have assigned a Buy rating, four have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $13.88. View Our Latest Research Report on VALE Institutional Investors Weigh In On Vale Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of VALE. Triumph Capital Management acquired a new position in shares of Vale during the third quarter valued at approximately $34,000. Arax Advisory Partners raised its stake in shares of Vale by 1,167.2% in the 4th quarter. Arax Advisory Partners now owns 4,372 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $57,000 after buying an additional 4,027 shares in the last quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Vale by 1,064.7% in the fourth quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 5,311 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $70,000 after buying an additional 4,855 shares during the period. Kelleher Financial Advisors bought a new position in Vale during the third quarter valued at about $64,000. Finally, Atlas Capital Advisors Inc. bought a new stake in Vale in the fourth quarter worth about $106,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 21.85% of the companys stock. About Vale (Get Free Report) Vale SA is a Brazilian multinational mining company and one of the worlds largest producers of iron ore and iron ore pellets. In addition to iron ore, the company produces and sells a range of bulk commodities and metals, including nickel, copper, coal, manganese, ferroalloys and cobalt, and it participates in the fertilizer inputs market. Vale also operates extensive logistics assets including rail, port and maritime logistics that support its mining and export activities and provide services to third parties in some regions. Headquartered in Brazil, Vale maintains a global operational footprint with mining, processing and shipping activities across the Americas, Africa, Asia and Oceania. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Vale Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vale and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of American Shared Hospital Services (NYSEAMERICAN:AMS Get Free Report) crossed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Thursday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $2.29 and traded as high as $2.39. American Shared Hospital Services shares last traded at $2.27, with a volume of 8,491 shares changing hands. American Shared Hospital Services Price Performance The stock has a market capitalization of $14.72 million, a P/E ratio of -6.62 and a beta of 0.15. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $2.13 and a 200 day moving average price of $2.29. Get American Shared Hospital Services alerts: Institutional Trading of American Shared Hospital Services A hedge fund recently bought a new stake in American Shared Hospital Services stock. DRW Securities LLC acquired a new position in shares of American Shared Hospital Services (NYSEAMERICAN:AMS Free Report) in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund acquired 50,481 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $107,000. DRW Securities LLC owned approximately 0.77% of American Shared Hospital Services at the end of the most recent quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 23.16% of the companys stock. American Shared Hospital Services Company Profile American Shared Hospital Services operates as a specialized healthcare services company focused on delivering diagnostic imaging solutions to community and rural hospitals across the United States. Through strategic joint ventures and management agreements, the company collaborates with hospital partners to develop and operate outpatient imaging centers that provide advanced modalities while sharing the capital and operating costs. By partnering directly with hospitals, American Shared Hospital Services enables facility owners to offer in-house diagnostic capabilities without the burden of full operational oversight and significant equipment investment. The companys service portfolio encompasses a wide range of imaging technologies, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), mammography, ultrasound, bone densitometry (DEXA) and nuclear medicine. See Also Receive News & Ratings for American Shared Hospital Services Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for American Shared Hospital Services and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. AMP (ASX:AMP) executives used the companys full-year 2025 results call to defend what CEO Alexis George described as a credible set of results despite a negative market reaction, pointing to profit growth, an improved balance sheet, and progress resolving legacy matters. Get alerts: George said AMP is positioned to enter the next era focused on growth in retirement-related services after several years of portfolio simplification, balance sheet strengthening, and cost reductions. She highlighted that AMP has returned AUD 1.1 billion of capital to shareholders over the past five years and has recommenced dividends, while also restoring reputation to the highest level since 2008. FY25 results: profit growth, lower costs, higher cash flows CFO Blair Vernon reported underlying NPAT rose 21% to AUD 285 million for FY25, with earnings per share up more than 25%. Revenue increased 2.8%, while controllable costs fell almost 7% following AMPs business simplification program. EBIT increased more than 21%, the group cost-to-income ratio fell more than 6%, and return on equity improved to 8%. AMP also declared a final dividend of AUD 0.02 per share at 20% franking, bringing FY25 dividends to AUD 0.04 per share. Vernon said AMP anticipates consistency in this dividend approach through FY26 and FY27 due to limited franking credits, adding that if additional capital is returned, AMPs preferred method would be an on-market buyback in the absence of a compelling alternative use of capital. Litigation and remediation costs totaled AUD 95 million in FY25, which Vernon said reflected progress in resolving legacy class action matters and recoveries against prior remediation programs. Business simplification expenses were AUD 50 million post-tax, resulting in a strategy impact result of AUD 133 million. Total AUM increased 9% to AUD 161.7 billion, with Vernon highlighting the sharp improvement in platforms net cash flows. Group CET1 capital increased 4.5% while the capital requirement fell more than 4%, leaving a CET1 surplus capital position of AUD 287 million at year-end, or AUD 236 million on a pro forma basis after the final dividend. Platforms momentum continues, but margins pressured by mix Platforms underlying NPAT rose more than 9% to AUD 106 million. Average AUM increased nearly 11%, and net cash flows climbed more than 85% to AUD 5.1 billion. Cost-to-income fell more than 3%, while margins contracted by two basis points on a net AUM basis (three basis points gross), which management attributed in part to mix shift from managed funds to managed portfolios and the impact of tiered fee structures and fee caps. During Q&A, AMP executives said they are examining levers to support margins, including using AMPs internal investment management capability and reviewing trustee-related settings, while emphasizing the need to meet best interest duty requirements. George said the platform space remains competitive but indicated she was not seeing heightened pressure from headline price competition. Management also discussed advisor growth as an important driver of platform flows. George said AMP defines an active advisor as having more than AUD 1 million in assets under advice, and added that AMP typically sees meaningful flows from new advisors around 12 months after engagement. Vernon said managed portfolios remain profitable for AMP and are viewed as a key tool for improving advisor efficiency, enabling advisors to manage more clients in a market where advisors are in short supply. Super & Investments: improved outflows, ambition for positive flows in FY26 In the Super & Investments (S&I) unit, NPAT increased nearly 15% to AUD 62 million, driven mainly by average AUM growth of 7.7%. Net cash outflows nearly halved to AUD 542 million. AMPs cost-to-income ratio improved by almost 5% (reflecting previously disclosed cost allocation rebasing), while net margins were steady at 48 basis points. Vernon said gross margin slipped one basis point, but was offset by reduced IMEs, resulting in net margin stability. Management said fee caps and AUM growth per client continued to affect margins. On the call, AMP reiterated its ambition to reach positive net cash flows in S&I in FY26, while noting the challenge of achieving that goal. George also highlighted continued expansion of digital advice journeys, saying more than 30,000 users have gone through the journeys, and pointed to the launch of Lifetime Boost (with an income stream portion expected in the first half of the current year) and an AMP Rewards program. Bank: margin over volume, Go deposits targeted at AUD 1 billion AMP Banks combined underlying NPAT was AUD 55 million. Net interest margin improved by two basis points year-on-year, while mortgage book growth was 3.8%, below system growth, consistent with AMPs margin over volume strategy. George said loan growth expectations remain quite flat. However, return on capital for the combined bank was down 40 basis points due to AMP Bank Go delivery and scaling costs. Management emphasized return on capital as the primary success measure, with Vernon noting immediate focus is also on reducing the capital deployed against the bank through balance sheet management and risk-weighted asset reduction to release capital back to the group. AMP Bank Go, launched in February 2025, reached AUD 310 million in deposits, with George saying transaction account and customer numbers exceeded expectations. Vernon set a FY26 target of AUD 1 billion in AMP Bank Go deposits, describing it as a scaling proof point, while adding that the NIM benefit is expected to be more meaningful in FY27. AMP guided to FY26 NIM of 125130 basis points. Vernon also cited funding mix changes during FY25, including increased securitization, running off rate-sensitive term deposits, and a one-off NIM impact of about two to three basis points tied to replacing an AT1 instrument with Tier 2 capital. Credit metrics were described as positive, with improvements in arrears rates and nominal bad debts. AMP noted 64% of borrowers were more than one month ahead on repayments, up from 60% in FY24. Partnerships and legacy matters: China strength, class actions progressing AMPs group result was influenced by cost rebasing and partnership performance. Vernon said partnership performance improved more than 15%, led by a more than 53% increase in China partnerships to AUD 72 million. Management said there were no one-offs behind the strong China result, attributing it to growth in Chinas Pillar Two segment and the emerging Pillar Three opportunity, and reiterated expectations for 10% growth through the cycle. AMP highlighted China Life Pension Companys position in Chinas pension market, including an increased dividend payout ratio of 35%. AMP also said China Life AMP Asset Management paid its first dividend in 2025, calling it a milestone, while noting its U.S. property fund exposure is not considered core and divestment options will be explored at the appropriate time. On legacy issues, George said AMP had reached settlement agreements on all four class actions tied to the Royal Commission, with court processes and payments still to be completed, which she expects during 2026. She also noted one new class action emerged in 2025, with limited expected progress for some time, measured in years. Looking ahead, AMP guided to FY26 controllable costs of AUD 630640 million and said its business simplification program is expected to complete during FY26 with a further AUD 20 million of investment. AMPs FY26 platform margin guidance was 4041 basis points, and S&I margin guidance was 6061 basis points, subject to market conditions. About AMP (ASX:AMP) AMP Limited provides banking, super, retirement, and advice services in Australia and New Zealand. It operates through AMP Bank, Platform, Master Trust, Advice, and New Zealand Wealth Management (NZWM) segments. The company provides superannuation, retirement, and investment solutions; pension solutions; and SignatureSuper, a retail master trust. It also offers financial advice and wealth solutions, including retirement planning, investments, and financing; and home loans, deposit, and transaction accounts. Featured Stories Archrock, Inc. (NYSE:AROC Get Free Report) has been given a consensus rating of Buy by the eight brokerages that are presently covering the firm, MarketBeat reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, six have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. The average 1 year price objective among brokers that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $32.40. A number of equities analysts recently commented on AROC shares. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Archrock in a report on Wednesday, January 21st. Zacks Research raised shares of Archrock from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 3rd. Evercore upped their price objective on shares of Archrock from $31.00 to $35.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their target price on shares of Archrock from $31.00 to $32.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Get Archrock alerts: Read Our Latest Report on Archrock Institutional Inflows and Outflows Archrock Stock Up 2.9% Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. First Citizens Bank & Trust Co. lifted its holdings in shares of Archrock by 183.8% during the second quarter. First Citizens Bank & Trust Co. now owns 28,545 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $709,000 after purchasing an additional 18,488 shares in the last quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH increased its holdings in Archrock by 19.8% in the 3rd quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 264,991 shares of the energy companys stock worth $6,972,000 after buying an additional 43,872 shares in the last quarter. Sentry Investment Management LLC purchased a new position in Archrock in the 2nd quarter worth about $319,000. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC lifted its stake in Archrock by 8.5% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 20,574 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $511,000 after acquiring an additional 1,617 shares during the period. Finally, Hsbc Holdings PLC lifted its stake in Archrock by 55.1% during the 2nd quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC now owns 121,089 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $3,049,000 after acquiring an additional 43,023 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 95.45% of the companys stock. Shares of NYSE:AROC opened at $32.69 on Friday. The stocks 50-day moving average is $27.40 and its 200 day moving average is $25.47. The company has a market cap of $5.73 billion, a PE ratio of 21.79, a P/E/G ratio of 1.36 and a beta of 0.93. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.80, a current ratio of 1.56 and a quick ratio of 1.01. Archrock has a 1 year low of $20.12 and a 1 year high of $33.00. Archrock Increases Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, February 18th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, February 10th will be given a dividend of $0.22 per share. This represents a $0.88 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, February 10th. This is a positive change from Archrocks previous quarterly dividend of $0.21. Archrocks payout ratio is presently 58.67%. About Archrock (Get Free Report) Archrock, Inc is a Houstonbased provider of natural gas compression services and equipment to the oil and gas industry in North America. Founded in 2004, the company supplies both shortterm rentals and longterm contracts for compression solutions, serving upstream and midstream producers. Archrocks offerings include engineered compression systems, aftermarket parts, maintenance and field services designed to optimize wellhead and pipeline operations. The companys core business activities focus on the design, manufacture, rental and sale of gas compression equipment. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Archrock Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Archrock and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Chinese FM urges China, France to work together to prevent world from reverting to "law of jungle" Xinhua) 09:55, February 14, 2026 Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 13, 2026. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu) MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday urged China and France to make joint efforts to safeguard the status and role of the United Nations and prevent the world from reverting to the "law of the jungle." Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the appeal during talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Wang said that the successful first China-France-Germany trilateral foreign ministers' meeting, held on Friday, sent a positive and constructive message to the world. Amid the changing and turbulent international landscape when multilateralism is under attack, the three major countries should stand together to uphold the purposes of the UN Charter, the true multilateralism and the free trade system, and provide more positive energy to the world, Wang said. Since French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to China late last year, bilateral relations have maintained a positive and dynamic momentum, with various departments following up on the outcomes of the visit, and exchanges and cooperation across various fields gathering pace, Wang said. The two sides should chart the course for the next stage of exchanges, constantly enhance mutual understanding and trust, and expand mutually beneficial cooperation, Wang added. Both China and France are independent and responsible major countries, and multilateral coordination is an important feature of their bilateral relationship, Wang said, urging both sides to address the deficit in global governance and support each other's multilateral initiatives. For his part, Barrot said that Macron's successful visit to China last year led to in-depth strategic communication and a series of important common understandings between the two leaders. France attaches great importance to China's status and role as a major country and firmly adheres to the one-China policy, Barrot said. He expressed France's willingness to work with China to follow through on the consensus reached by the two leaders, strengthen institutional dialogue across various fields, deepen mutually beneficial economic and trade cooperation, and properly handle frictions through dialogue and consultation. Barrot noted that as France holds the G7 presidency and China hosts APEC this year, France looks forward to maintaining close multilateral communication and coordination with China, working together to address critical issues such as global governance. The two sides also exchanged views on issues such as the Ukraine crisis and the Iranian nuclear issue. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) News / Local by Staff reporter Zimbabwe and Zambia have renewed talks on the Batoka Gorge Hydro-Electric Scheme, a flagship project designed to tackle critical energy shortages affecting both nations.The discussions followed a courtesy visit by Zambia's Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Brigadier General (Rtd) Wilson Tembo, to Acting President Dr Constantino Chiwenga at his Munhumutapa offices in Harare. Energy issues dominated their meeting, with particular focus on the proposed Batoka Gorge Hydro-Electric Power Station, which is projected to generate 2,400 MW of electricity from the Zambezi River that borders the two countries.The scheme is expected to significantly ease the electricity deficit in Zimbabwe and Zambia, both of which have struggled with power supply disruptions exacerbated by the 20232024 drought that lowered water levels at Kariba Dam, the primary source of hydroelectric power in the region.Speaking after the meeting, Ambassador Tembo highlighted the urgent need for alternative renewable energy solutions. "We discussed the energy sector, which has faced severe challenges due to the drought conditions experienced in 20232024. These conditions severely impacted water levels in Kariba Dam, the primary source of our electricity," he said.Ambassador Tembo added that both sides stressed the importance of a firm commitment to advancing the Batoka Gorge project as a strategic solution to the regional energy crisis. "We recognised the urgent need to explore alternative renewable energy solutions, like the Batoka Gorge project, to mitigate these challenges," he said.The renewed focus on the Batoka Gorge Hydro-Electric Scheme signals a strengthened bilateral effort to secure sustainable power generation and energy security for both Zimbabwe and Zambia. Barratt Developments plc (OTCMKTS:BTDPF Get Free Report)s stock price traded up 6% during mid-day trading on Thursday . The stock traded as high as $5.46 and last traded at $5.46. 2,020 shares were traded during trading, an increase of 74% from the average session volume of 1,160 shares. The stock had previously closed at $5.15. Barratt Developments Price Performance The company has a 50 day moving average price of $5.07 and a 200 day moving average price of $5.06. Get Barratt Developments alerts: Barratt Developments Company Profile (Get Free Report) Barratt Developments plc is a leading residential property developer headquartered in Coalville, Leicestershire, United Kingdom. Founded in 1958 by Sir Lawrie Barratt, the company has grown to become one of the largest housebuilders in the UK. It specializes in the design, acquisition, construction and sale of a wide range of new homes including apartments, terraced houses, semi-detached and detached family homes. The companys core business activities encompass land procurement, planning and project management, construction and the marketing of residential properties. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Barratt Developments Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Barratt Developments and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BE Semiconductor Industries NV (OTCMKTS:BESIY Get Free Report)s share price reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Saturday . The stock traded as high as $211.2450 and last traded at $210.00, with a volume of 12042 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $201.12. Analyst Ratings Changes Several research firms recently weighed in on BESIY. Citigroup restated a neutral rating on shares of BE Semiconductor Industries in a report on Tuesday, January 20th. Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating on shares of BE Semiconductor Industries in a research note on Tuesday, January 13th. UBS Group reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of BE Semiconductor Industries in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Sanford C. Bernstein reiterated an outperform rating on shares of BE Semiconductor Industries in a report on Sunday, January 4th. Finally, Kepler Capital Markets lowered BE Semiconductor Industries from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, January 9th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, BE Semiconductor Industries presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy. Get BE Semiconductor Industries alerts: Check Out Our Latest Report on BESIY BE Semiconductor Industries Price Performance About BE Semiconductor Industries The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.46, a current ratio of 5.75 and a quick ratio of 5.02. The firm has a market cap of $15.23 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 103.45 and a beta of 1.85. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $181.07 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $160.35. (Get Free Report) BE Semiconductor Industries NV (OTCMKTS:BESIY), commonly known as BESI, is a global supplier of assembly equipment for the semiconductor industry. The company designs, develops and manufactures capital equipment used in the back-end production of semiconductor devices, including die attach, wire bonding and flip chip packaging systems. BESIs platforms support a wide range of applications from memory and logic chips to advanced power devices and radio-frequency modules, enabling high precision, throughput and yield in device assembly and test processes. Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Duiven, the Netherlands, BESI went public on Euronext Amsterdam in 1999. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for BE Semiconductor Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BE Semiconductor Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. British American Tobacco p.l.c. (NYSE:BTI Get Free Report) declared a quarterly dividend on Thursday, February 12th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 2nd will be given a dividend of 0.8349 per share on Thursday, November 12th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, October 2nd. British American Tobacco has raised its dividend payment by an average of 0.0%annually over the last three years. British American Tobacco has a dividend payout ratio of 66.9% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Analysts expect British American Tobacco to earn $4.99 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $3.25 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 65.1%. Get British American Tobacco alerts: British American Tobacco Price Performance Shares of NYSE BTI opened at $59.50 on Friday. British American Tobacco has a twelve month low of $37.31 and a twelve month high of $63.03. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.68, a current ratio of 0.87 and a quick ratio of 0.55. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $58.04 and a two-hundred day moving average of $55.90. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several brokerages recently weighed in on BTI. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of British American Tobacco in a research report on Friday, November 28th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c+) rating on shares of British American Tobacco in a research note on Wednesday, January 21st. Citigroup reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of British American Tobacco in a research note on Friday, November 28th. Morgan Stanley restated an underweight rating on shares of British American Tobacco in a report on Wednesday, December 10th. Finally, Kepler Capital Markets began coverage on British American Tobacco in a report on Friday, December 12th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, one has issued a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $51.00. Read Our Latest Analysis on British American Tobacco British American Tobacco Company Profile (Get Free Report) British American Tobacco plc (BTI) is a multinational tobacco manufacturer and nicotine products company headquartered in London. Founded in 1902 as a joint venture to commercialize tobacco products outside the United States, the company has grown into one of the worlds largest tobacco firms with a long history in manufacturing and global distribution of combustible tobacco products. BATs core business remains the manufacture and sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products under a portfolio of well-known consumer brands, including Dunhill, Lucky Strike, Pall Mall, Kent and Rothmans. Read More Receive News & Ratings for British American Tobacco Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for British American Tobacco and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. MetLife, Inc. (NYSE:MET Get Free Report) has been given an average rating of Moderate Buy by the thirteen brokerages that are covering the firm, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation, eight have assigned a buy recommendation and two have given a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year target price among brokers that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $95.4167. MET has been the subject of a number of research reports. Morgan Stanley set a $101.00 target price on MetLife and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday, December 15th. Barclays set a $90.00 price objective on shares of MetLife in a research report on Thursday, January 8th. Evercore ISI set a $95.00 price target on MetLife in a report on Tuesday. Mizuho set a $100.00 target price on MetLife in a research report on Thursday. Finally, UBS Group lifted their price objective on shares of MetLife from $94.00 to $98.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, February 5th. Get MetLife alerts: Read Our Latest Research Report on MET Institutional Inflows and Outflows MetLife Stock Performance Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Allworth Financial LP increased its holdings in shares of MetLife by 13.4% during the second quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 10,893 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $876,000 after buying an additional 1,285 shares in the last quarter. Providence Capital Advisors LLC bought a new position in MetLife in the third quarter valued at approximately $6,649,000. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership lifted its position in MetLife by 188.1% in the 2nd quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 417,515 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $33,577,000 after acquiring an additional 272,619 shares in the last quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans increased its holdings in MetLife by 8.9% during the 3rd quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 1,176,469 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $96,905,000 after purchasing an additional 96,523 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. raised its stake in shares of MetLife by 256.8% in the 3rd quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 62,662 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $5,161,000 after purchasing an additional 45,100 shares during the period. 94.99% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. NYSE MET opened at $77.26 on Friday. The business has a fifty day moving average of $78.92 and a 200-day moving average of $78.80. The company has a quick ratio of 0.18, a current ratio of 0.20 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50. The stock has a market cap of $50.91 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.44, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.70 and a beta of 0.77. MetLife has a fifty-two week low of $65.21 and a fifty-two week high of $87.39. MetLife (NYSE:MET Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, February 4th. The financial services provider reported $2.58 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.34 by $0.24. The firm had revenue of $18.61 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $31.43 billion. MetLife had a net margin of 4.38% and a return on equity of 21.81%. MetLifes revenue was up 27.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $2.08 earnings per share. As a group, analysts predict that MetLife will post 9.65 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. MetLife Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, March 10th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, February 3rd will be given a dividend of $0.5675 per share. This represents a $2.27 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.9%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, February 3rd. MetLifes dividend payout ratio is presently 48.30%. About MetLife (Get Free Report) MetLife, Inc is a global provider of insurance, annuities and employee benefit programs. Headquartered in New York City, the company offers a range of risk protection and retirement solutions to individuals, employers and institutional clients. Its core businesses include life insurance, group benefits, retirement products such as annuities, and supplemental health products including dental and disability coverage. In addition to traditional life and group insurance, MetLife provides workplace benefits and voluntary products distributed through employer-sponsored programs. See Also Receive News & Ratings for MetLife Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for MetLife and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cibc World Market Inc. raised its holdings in Weyerhaeuser Company (NYSE:WY Free Report) by 162.3% in the third quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 266,792 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 165,092 shares during the period. Cibc World Market Inc.s holdings in Weyerhaeuser were worth $6,614,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Brighton Jones LLC boosted its stake in shares of Weyerhaeuser by 4.2% in the second quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 10,178 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $261,000 after buying an additional 409 shares during the period. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC increased its stake in Weyerhaeuser by 23.6% during the 3rd quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 2,557 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $64,000 after acquiring an additional 488 shares during the period. Generali Investments Towarzystwo Funduszy Inwestycyjnych raised its holdings in Weyerhaeuser by 11.1% in the 2nd quarter. Generali Investments Towarzystwo Funduszy Inwestycyjnych now owns 5,000 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $128,000 after acquiring an additional 500 shares in the last quarter. Wesbanco Bank Inc. raised its holdings in Weyerhaeuser by 6.4% in the 3rd quarter. Wesbanco Bank Inc. now owns 8,327 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $206,000 after acquiring an additional 500 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cromwell Holdings LLC lifted its position in shares of Weyerhaeuser by 58.3% during the 3rd quarter. Cromwell Holdings LLC now owns 1,361 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $34,000 after acquiring an additional 501 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.99% of the companys stock. Get Weyerhaeuser alerts: Weyerhaeuser Stock Performance NYSE:WY opened at $26.78 on Friday. Weyerhaeuser Company has a twelve month low of $21.16 and a twelve month high of $31.66. The company has a quick ratio of 0.83, a current ratio of 1.29 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $25.09 and its 200 day simple moving average is $24.50. The firm has a market capitalization of $19.30 billion, a PE ratio of 60.86 and a beta of 1.03. Weyerhaeuser Dividend Announcement Weyerhaeuser ( NYSE:WY Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, January 29th. The real estate investment trust reported ($0.09) EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.13) by $0.04. Weyerhaeuser had a return on equity of 1.50% and a net margin of 4.69%.The firm had revenue of $1.54 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.58 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $0.11 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 9.8% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts anticipate that Weyerhaeuser Company will post 0.78 EPS for the current fiscal year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 20th. Investors of record on Tuesday, March 10th will be paid a $0.21 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, March 10th. This represents a $0.84 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.1%. Weyerhaeusers dividend payout ratio is presently 190.91%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of research analysts recently commented on the company. New Street Research set a $28.00 price target on Weyerhaeuser in a research report on Friday, December 12th. Truist Financial upped their price objective on shares of Weyerhaeuser from $28.00 to $29.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Monday, February 2nd. UBS Group reiterated a buy rating on shares of Weyerhaeuser in a research note on Monday, December 15th. Bank of America restated a neutral rating and issued a $26.00 target price (down from $29.00) on shares of Weyerhaeuser in a research report on Monday, November 17th. Finally, Zacks Research raised shares of Weyerhaeuser from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, November 12th. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Weyerhaeuser presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $28.88. Read Our Latest Analysis on Weyerhaeuser Insider Buying and Selling In other news, CEO Devin W. Stockfish sold 90,162 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, December 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $23.33, for a total value of $2,103,479.46. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 1,024,861 shares in the company, valued at approximately $23,910,007.13. This represents a 8.09% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, Director Sara Grootwassink Lewis acquired 4,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 17th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $23.61 per share, for a total transaction of $106,245.00. Following the acquisition, the director owned 25,978 shares in the company, valued at $613,340.58. This represents a 20.95% increase in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this purchase are available in the official SEC disclosure. Company insiders own 0.27% of the companys stock. Weyerhaeuser News Roundup Here are the key news stories impacting Weyerhaeuser this week: Positive Sentiment: Board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.21 per share (annualized yield ~3.1%) and reiterated its cashreturn framework that can add variable returns on top of the base dividend supports income demand and caps downside for yield investors. Dividend Announcement Board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.21 per share (annualized yield ~3.1%) and reiterated its cashreturn framework that can add variable returns on top of the base dividend supports income demand and caps downside for yield investors. Positive Sentiment: Zacks modestly raised its Q1 2026 EPS estimate to $0.00 from ($0.01), a small sign that nearterm weakness may be stabilizing in the first quarter. Zacks modestly raised its Q1 2026 EPS estimate to $0.00 from ($0.01), a small sign that nearterm weakness may be stabilizing in the first quarter. Neutral Sentiment: Zacks published longerrange estimates (FY2028 EPS of $1.08) reflecting a multiyear recovery scenario positive for longerterm thesis but distant for nearterm valuation and cash flow considerations. Zacks published longerrange estimates (FY2028 EPS of $1.08) reflecting a multiyear recovery scenario positive for longerterm thesis but distant for nearterm valuation and cash flow considerations. Negative Sentiment: Zacks trimmed several nearterm and mediumterm forecasts: Q3 2026 EPS to $0.07 (from $0.09), FY2026 to $0.16 (from $0.17), and FY2027 to $0.59 (from $0.60). These cuts indicate analyst skepticism about nearterm margin/revenue recovery and likely pressure the stock today. Zacks trimmed several nearterm and mediumterm forecasts: Q3 2026 EPS to $0.07 (from $0.09), FY2026 to $0.16 (from $0.17), and FY2027 to $0.59 (from $0.60). These cuts indicate analyst skepticism about nearterm margin/revenue recovery and likely pressure the stock today. Negative Sentiment: A recent Seeking Alpha piece argued investors may be too optimistic about Weyerhaeusers recovery potential, highlighting risks to the recovery narrative and adding to downside sentiment. Seeking Alpha Article Weyerhaeuser Profile (Free Report) Weyerhaeuser Company (NYSE: WY) is a leading integrated forest products company whose core businesses are timberland ownership and forest products manufacturing. The company owns and manages large tracts of timberland and harvests, processes and sells wood and wood-derived products used primarily in residential and industrial construction. Its manufacturing operations produce a range of building materials, including lumber, engineered wood products and wood panels, alongside fiber-based products that serve multiple commercial applications. Founded in 1900 by Frederick Weyerhaeuser and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, the company has a long history in the North American forest products industry. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Weyerhaeuser Company (NYSE:WY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Weyerhaeuser Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Weyerhaeuser and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cookson Peirce & Co. Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F Free Report) during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor acquired 66,769 shares of the auto manufacturers stock, valued at approximately $799,000. Several other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in F. Caxton Associates LLP acquired a new position in Ford Motor during the 1st quarter worth approximately $304,000. Empowered Funds LLC increased its holdings in shares of Ford Motor by 41.6% during the first quarter. Empowered Funds LLC now owns 147,760 shares of the auto manufacturers stock valued at $1,482,000 after acquiring an additional 43,385 shares in the last quarter. MGO One Seven LLC increased its holdings in shares of Ford Motor by 74.7% during the second quarter. MGO One Seven LLC now owns 91,275 shares of the auto manufacturers stock valued at $990,000 after acquiring an additional 39,041 shares in the last quarter. TD Asset Management Inc raised its position in shares of Ford Motor by 2.5% during the second quarter. TD Asset Management Inc now owns 1,734,334 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $18,818,000 after purchasing an additional 41,715 shares during the period. Finally, Sagespring Wealth Partners LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Ford Motor by 49.8% in the 2nd quarter. Sagespring Wealth Partners LLC now owns 53,157 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $577,000 after purchasing an additional 17,666 shares in the last quarter. 58.74% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Ford Motor alerts: Ford Motor Stock Performance Shares of F stock opened at $14.10 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.95, a current ratio of 1.07 and a quick ratio of 0.98. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $13.62 and a 200-day moving average of $12.66. Ford Motor Company has a one year low of $8.44 and a one year high of $14.50. The company has a market cap of $56.16 billion, a P/E ratio of -6.84, a P/E/G ratio of 5.93 and a beta of 1.66. Ford Motor Announces Dividend Ford Motor ( NYSE:F Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 10th. The auto manufacturer reported $0.13 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.06 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $45.89 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $41.78 billion. Ford Motor had a negative net margin of 4.37% and a positive return on equity of 10.16%. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 4.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $0.39 earnings per share. Equities research analysts forecast that Ford Motor Company will post 1.47 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 2nd. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 13th will be issued a $0.15 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, February 13th. This represents a $0.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.3%. Ford Motors dividend payout ratio is currently -29.13%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of brokerages have commented on F. Barclays boosted their price target on shares of Ford Motor from $12.00 to $13.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, January 23rd. Wall Street Zen cut shares of Ford Motor from a buy rating to a sell rating in a report on Saturday. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b-) rating on shares of Ford Motor in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. Morgan Stanley upped their target price on shares of Ford Motor from $11.00 to $14.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, December 8th. Finally, TD Cowen raised their price target on shares of Ford Motor from $13.00 to $15.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 13th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have given a Buy rating, eleven have issued a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $13.02. Read Our Latest Report on F About Ford Motor (Free Report) Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is an American multinational automaker headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan. Founded by Henry Ford in 1903, the company became an early pioneer of mass-production techniques with the Model T and the adoption of the moving assembly line. Today, Ford designs, manufactures, markets and services a broad range of vehicles and mobility solutions under the Ford and Lincoln brands, spanning passenger cars, SUVs, pickup trucks and commercial vehicles. Fords business activities extend beyond vehicle production to include parts and aftermarket services, fleet and commercial sales, and automotive financing through Ford Motor Credit Company. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding F? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Ford Motor Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ford Motor and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. EDP Energias de Portugal, S.A. (OTCMKTS:ELCPF Get Free Report) traded up 11% on Thursday . The company traded as high as $5.2050 and last traded at $5.2050. 283 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 89% from the average session volume of 2,677 shares. The stock had previously closed at $4.69. EDP Energias de Portugal Stock Up 0.1% The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $4.55 and a 200 day moving average price of $4.48. Get EDP - Energias de Portugal alerts: About EDP Energias de Portugal (Get Free Report) EDP Energias de Portugal (OTCMKTS: ELCPF) is a leading European energy company headquartered in Lisbon, Portugal. The firm is engaged in the generation, distribution and supply of electricity and natural gas, operating both conventional power plants and an extensive portfolio of renewable assets. Through its renewables arm, EDP Renovaveis, the company develops, constructs and manages wind, solar and hydroelectric projects across multiple continents. Founded in 1976 following the consolidation of several state-owned utilities, EDP underwent a phased privatization beginning in 1997 and has since expanded its footprint beyond the Iberian Peninsula. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for EDP - Energias de Portugal Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EDP - Energias de Portugal and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Co raised its stake in Equifax, Inc. (NYSE:EFX Free Report) by 8.5% during the 3rd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 33,164 shares of the credit services providers stock after acquiring an additional 2,600 shares during the period. Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Cos holdings in Equifax were worth $8,508,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Country Trust Bank acquired a new position in shares of Equifax in the 2nd quarter worth $26,000. Caldwell Trust Co purchased a new stake in shares of Equifax during the second quarter valued at $33,000. Spire Wealth Management boosted its position in shares of Equifax by 82.9% in the 3rd quarter. Spire Wealth Management now owns 128 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $33,000 after purchasing an additional 58 shares during the period. State of Wyoming purchased a new position in Equifax in the 2nd quarter worth about $34,000. Finally, NewSquare Capital LLC increased its stake in Equifax by 98.5% in the 2nd quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 135 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $35,000 after purchasing an additional 67 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 96.20% of the companys stock. Get Equifax alerts: Insider Activity at Equifax In other Equifax news, CEO Mark W. Begor sold 37,791 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $201.89, for a total value of $7,629,624.99. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 230,506 shares of the companys stock, valued at $46,536,856.34. The trade was a 14.09% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, EVP Jamil Farshchi sold 1,167 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $199.87, for a total transaction of $233,248.29. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 39,869 shares in the company, valued at $7,968,617.03. This represents a 2.84% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. In the last three months, insiders sold 45,171 shares of company stock valued at $9,079,441. 1.40% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth EFX has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. The Goldman Sachs Group reduced their price objective on shares of Equifax from $235.00 to $208.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Friday, February 6th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price target on shares of Equifax from $260.00 to $230.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, February 5th. Robert W. Baird set a $250.00 price objective on shares of Equifax in a research report on Thursday, February 5th. Oppenheimer cut their target price on shares of Equifax from $271.00 to $266.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, January 12th. Finally, Needham & Company LLC decreased their target price on Equifax from $295.00 to $265.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, February 5th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have issued a Buy rating and six have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $240.33. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on EFX Equifax Trading Up 2.4% NYSE EFX opened at $192.64 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 0.60, a quick ratio of 0.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.88. Equifax, Inc. has a 1-year low of $166.02 and a 1-year high of $281.03. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $211.39 and its 200-day simple moving average is $225.93. The company has a market capitalization of $23.58 billion, a PE ratio of 36.21, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.66 and a beta of 1.55. Equifax (NYSE:EFX Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 4th. The credit services provider reported $2.09 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.05 by $0.04. Equifax had a return on equity of 19.27% and a net margin of 10.87%.The firm had revenue of $1.55 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.53 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $2.12 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 9.3% on a year-over-year basis. Equifax has set its FY 2026 guidance at 8.300-8.700 EPS and its Q1 2026 guidance at 1.630-1.730 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Equifax, Inc. will post 7.58 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. About Equifax (Free Report) Equifax Inc (NYSE: EFX) is a global data, analytics and technology company that specializes in consumer and commercial credit reporting, decisioning tools and identity solutions. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Equifax is one of the three major consumer credit reporting agencies in the United States and provides credit information and related services to lenders, employers, governments and consumers worldwide. The companys offerings include consumer credit reports and scores, credit monitoring and identity protection services, and a range of business-oriented products for risk management, fraud detection and compliance. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EFX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Equifax, Inc. (NYSE:EFX Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Equifax Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Equifax and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Co grew its position in FedEx Corporation (NYSE:FDX Free Report) by 8.7% in the third quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 34,920 shares of the shipping service providers stock after buying an additional 2,800 shares during the quarter. Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Cos holdings in FedEx were worth $8,234,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of FDX. Grey Fox Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in FedEx during the 3rd quarter valued at about $27,000. NewSquare Capital LLC lifted its position in shares of FedEx by 121.8% during the second quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 122 shares of the shipping service providers stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 67 shares in the last quarter. Twin Peaks Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of FedEx in the second quarter valued at approximately $28,000. Physician Wealth Advisors Inc. grew its holdings in shares of FedEx by 27.5% in the third quarter. Physician Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 218 shares of the shipping service providers stock valued at $51,000 after purchasing an additional 47 shares in the last quarter. Finally, City Holding Co. grew its holdings in shares of FedEx by 167.0% in the third quarter. City Holding Co. now owns 267 shares of the shipping service providers stock valued at $63,000 after purchasing an additional 167 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.47% of the companys stock. Get FedEx alerts: FedEx Stock Up 1.4% Shares of NYSE FDX opened at $374.61 on Friday. The business has a 50-day moving average of $311.56 and a two-hundred day moving average of $266.00. The company has a market capitalization of $88.08 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.65, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.80 and a beta of 1.34. FedEx Corporation has a 1 year low of $194.29 and a 1 year high of $380.86. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.72, a current ratio of 1.27 and a quick ratio of 1.23. FedEx Announces Dividend FedEx ( NYSE:FDX Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, December 18th. The shipping service provider reported $4.82 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.02 by $0.80. The business had revenue of $23.47 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $22.79 billion. FedEx had a return on equity of 16.63% and a net margin of 4.81%.The businesss quarterly revenue was up 6.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $4.05 EPS. FedEx has set its FY 2026 guidance at 17.800-19.000 EPS. On average, analysts forecast that FedEx Corporation will post 19.14 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, April 1st. Stockholders of record on Monday, March 9th will be issued a $1.45 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, March 9th. This represents a $5.80 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.5%. FedExs dividend payout ratio is presently 31.97%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities research analysts have issued reports on FDX shares. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reiterated a buy rating and set a $479.00 target price on shares of FedEx in a report on Friday. Morgan Stanley increased their price objective on FedEx from $200.00 to $210.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Friday, December 19th. Stephens boosted their target price on FedEx from $330.00 to $405.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Friday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reaffirmed a neutral rating on shares of FedEx in a research report on Tuesday, January 20th. Finally, Citigroup lifted their price objective on FedEx from $327.00 to $401.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, February 5th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have given a Buy rating, ten have issued a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $351.75. Read Our Latest Stock Report on FedEx FedEx News Roundup Here are the key news stories impacting FedEx this week: Positive Sentiment: Multiple analysts raised price targets and reiterated buy/outperform views, supporting upside expectations and fueling investor momentum. Jefferies raised its target to $425 and kept a buy rating. Read More. Multiple analysts raised price targets and reiterated buy/outperform views, supporting upside expectations and fueling investor momentum. Jefferies raised its target to $425 and kept a buy rating. Read More. Positive Sentiment: Bank of America, Wolfe Research and TD Cowen also boosted targets/ratings, reinforcing consensus bullishness on FDXs growth and margin plans. Read More. Bank of America, Wolfe Research and TD Cowen also boosted targets/ratings, reinforcing consensus bullishness on FDXs growth and margin plans. Read More. Positive Sentiment: FedEx detailed multiyear targets at Investor Day (higher revenue ambition, focus on highmargin B2B and network transformation) that underpin stronger profit and cashflow outlooks. Investors interpret this as tangible upside to valuation if execution continues. Read More. FedEx detailed multiyear targets at Investor Day (higher revenue ambition, focus on highmargin B2B and network transformation) that underpin stronger profit and cashflow outlooks. Investors interpret this as tangible upside to valuation if execution continues. Read More. Positive Sentiment: The board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.45, a direct return to shareholders that supports the stocks appeal to incomeoriented investors. Read More. The board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.45, a direct return to shareholders that supports the stocks appeal to incomeoriented investors. Read More. Neutral Sentiment: FedEx joined the Hedera Council to explore distributed infrastructure for digital supply chains a strategic, longerterm tech partnership that could improve visibility but is not an immediate earnings driver. Read More. FedEx joined the Hedera Council to explore distributed infrastructure for digital supply chains a strategic, longerterm tech partnership that could improve visibility but is not an immediate earnings driver. Read More. Neutral Sentiment: Industry coverage highlights rising warehouse automation (including FedEx) improves longterm cost structure but requires capital and workforce transition. Read More. Industry coverage highlights rising warehouse automation (including FedEx) improves longterm cost structure but requires capital and workforce transition. Read More. Neutral Sentiment: A technical trading signal flagged around $369.69 and briefly drove intraday momentum; useful for shortterm traders but not a fundamental catalyst. Read More. A technical trading signal flagged around $369.69 and briefly drove intraday momentum; useful for shortterm traders but not a fundamental catalyst. Read More. Negative Sentiment: Some market commentary flagged a weaker catalyst profile despite the strong run, suggesting that absent concrete nearterm operational beats the stock could pause. This cautions momentum traders about timing. Read More. Some market commentary flagged a weaker catalyst profile despite the strong run, suggesting that absent concrete nearterm operational beats the stock could pause. This cautions momentum traders about timing. Read More. Negative Sentiment: Evercore raised its target to $364 still below the current price reflecting at least one analysts more conservative nearterm view and adding a counterpoint to the broad upgrade trend. Read More. About FedEx (Free Report) FedEx Corporation (NYSE: FDX) is a global logistics and courier company headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. Founded by Frederick W. Smith in 1971 and beginning operations in the early 1970s, the company pioneered overnight express shipping and has since expanded into a diversified portfolio of transportation, e-commerce and supply-chain services. FedEx operates an integrated air-and-ground network that moves parcels, freight and documents for businesses and consumers worldwide. FedExs core operating segments include express parcel delivery via its FedEx Express division, domestic and residential parcel delivery through FedEx Ground, less-than-truckload (LTL) freight services, and logistics and supply-chain management solutions. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FDX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for FedEx Corporation (NYSE:FDX Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for FedEx Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for FedEx and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rocket Companies, Joint Stock Company Kaspi.kz, Wealthfront, UP Fintech, IDT, Quantum FinTech Acquisition, and PPDAI Group are the seven Fintech stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Fintech stocks are shares of publicly traded companies whose primary business is using technology to deliver financial servicesexamples include digital banks, payment processors, online lenders, robo-advisors, and blockchain firms. For investors they behave as a hybrid of tech and financial-sector equities, often judged more on user growth and transaction volumes than traditional banking metrics, and typically offer higher growth potential alongside elevated regulatory and operational risk. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Fintech stocks within the last several days. Get alerts: Rocket Companies (RKT) Rocket Companies, Inc., a fintech holding company, provides mortgage lending, title and settlement services, and other financial technology services in the United States and Canada. It operates through two segments, Direct to Consumer and Partner Network. The companys solutions include Rocket Mortgage, a mortgage lender; Amrock that provides title insurance, property valuation, and settlement services; Rocket Homes, a home search platform and real estate agent referral network, which offers technology-enabled services to support the home buying and selling experience; and Rocket Loans, an online-based personal loans business. Joint Stock Company Kaspi.kz (KSPI) Joint Stock Company Kaspi.kz, together with its subsidiaries, provides payments, marketplace, and fintech solutions for consumers and merchants in the Republic of Kazakhstan. It operates through three segments: Payments Platform, Marketplace Platform, and Fintech Platform. The Payments Platform segment facilities transactions between customers and merchants. Read Our Latest Research Report on KSPI Wealthfront (WLTH) Were a different kind of FinTech. We are a technology company that built a financial solutions platform for digital natives, defined as those born after 1980 (i.e., Millennials, Gen Z, and later generations). Our platform is designed to address the needs of the wealth builders within these generations. Read Our Latest Research Report on WLTH UP Fintech (TIGR) UP Fintech Holding Limited provides online brokerage services focusing on Chinese investors. The company has developed a brokerage platform, which allows investor to trade stocks, options, warrants, and other financial instruments that can be accessed through its APP and website. It offers brokerage and value-added services, including investor education, community engagement, and IR platform services. Read Our Latest Research Report on TIGR IDT (IDT) IDT Corporation provides communications and payment services in the United States, the United Kingdom, and internationally. It operates through Fintech, National Retail Solutions, net2phone, and Traditional Communications segments. The company operates point of sale, a terminal-based platform which provides independent retailers store management software, electronic payment processing, and other ancillary merchant services; and provides marketers with digital out-of-home advertising and transaction data. Read Our Latest Research Report on IDT Quantum FinTech Acquisition (QFTA) Read Our Latest Research Report on QFTA PPDAI Group (FINV) FinVolution Group operates in the online consumer finance industry. The company operates a fintech platform that is empowered by borrowers with financial institutions. It operates in China and internationally. The company was formerly known as PPDAI Group Inc. and changed its name to FinVolution Group in November 2019. Read Our Latest Research Report on FINV Further Reading News / Local by Staff reporter PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has effected a Cabinet reshuffle, reassigning three ministers with immediate effect.Dr Zhemu Soda, formerly the Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, has been appointed as the new Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services.Dr Jenfan Muswere, who previously held the Information portfolio, will now oversee the newly created Ministry of Skills Audit and Development.Professor Paul Mavima has been appointed as the new Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, taking over Dr Soda's previous role.In a statement yesterday, Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Dr Martin Rushwaya, said the reassignments were made under Section 104, Subsection (1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe."The President, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, has re-assigned the under-listed ministers as follows: Hon Dr Jenfan Muswere: Minister of Skills Audit and Development; Hon Prof Paul Mavima: Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities; Hon Dr Zhemu Soda: Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services. The re-assignments are with immediate effect," Dr Rushwaya said.The reshuffle comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen government administration and align ministerial portfolios with national development priorities. First Quantum Minerals Ltd. (OTCMKTS:FQVLF Get Free Report) shares saw unusually-strong trading volume on Thursday . Approximately 699,678 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 101% from the previous sessions volume of 348,174 shares.The stock last traded at $27.63 and had previously closed at $27.7407. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms recently issued reports on FQVLF. TD Securities reissued a hold rating on shares of First Quantum Minerals in a research report on Thursday. Raymond James Financial reiterated a market perform rating on shares of First Quantum Minerals in a research note on Wednesday, January 14th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered shares of First Quantum Minerals from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 26th. Scotiabank upgraded shares of First Quantum Minerals from a hold rating to an outperform rating in a report on Thursday. Finally, BMO Capital Markets reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of First Quantum Minerals in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seven have given a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy. Get First Quantum Minerals alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Report on FQVLF First Quantum Minerals Trading Down 1.2% The firm has a market capitalization of $22.14 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -663.50 and a beta of 1.32. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $27.49 and its 200 day moving average price is $22.60. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.45, a current ratio of 1.94 and a quick ratio of 1.08. First Quantum Minerals (OTCMKTS:FQVLF Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 10th. The basic materials company reported $0.01 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.06 by ($0.05). First Quantum Minerals had a negative net margin of 0.53% and a positive return on equity of 0.07%. The firm had revenue of $1.48 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.33 billion. On average, equities analysts forecast that First Quantum Minerals Ltd. will post 0.03 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. About First Quantum Minerals (Get Free Report) First Quantum Minerals Ltd. is a Canada-based mining company principally engaged in the exploration, development, production and marketing of copper and other mineral commodities. Headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, the company develops and operates large-scale open-pit and underground mines and associated processing facilities. Its activities span the full value chain from exploration and feasibility studies through to mining, milling and the sale of concentrates and refined metals to global customers. Copper is the companys primary product, produced alongside by-products such as gold, nickel, zinc and cobalt depending on the orebody. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for First Quantum Minerals Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for First Quantum Minerals and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Harvia Oyj (OTCMKTS:HRVFF Get Free Report)s stock price dropped 12.6% during trading on Thursday . The stock traded as low as C$42.65 and last traded at C$42.65. Approximately 450 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 42% from the average daily volume of 317 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$48.82. Harvia Oyj Stock Performance The companys 50-day moving average is C$48.60 and its 200-day moving average is C$46.57. Get Harvia Oyj alerts: Harvia Oyj Company Profile (Get Free Report) Harvia Oyj is a Finland-based manufacturer specializing in sauna and spa products. The companys core offerings include electric and wood-fired sauna heaters, control units, sauna rooms, stones and lighting accessories, as well as complementary bathroom heaters. Harvia serves both residential home installations and commercial markets such as hotels, wellness centers and public bathhouses, positioning itself as a full-service provider of sauna solutions. Founded in 1950 and headquartered in Muurame, Finland, Harvia has grown into one of the worlds leading sauna specialists. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Harvia Oyj Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Harvia Oyj and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. YETI (NYSE:YETI Get Free Report) and Marine Products (NYSE:MPX Get Free Report) are both consumer discretionary companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, valuation, earnings, analyst recommendations, risk, institutional ownership and dividends. Institutional and Insider Ownership 13.9% of Marine Products shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.9% of YETI shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 75.2% of Marine Products shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth. Get YETI alerts: Volatility & Risk YETI has a beta of 1.77, indicating that its share price is 77% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Marine Products has a beta of 1.1, indicating that its share price is 10% more volatile than the S&P 500. Profitability Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets YETI 8.75% 23.62% 13.98% Marine Products 4.66% 9.81% 6.96% Earnings and Valuation This table compares YETI and Marine Products net margins, return on equity and return on assets. This table compares YETI and Marine Productss gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio YETI $1.83 billion 2.04 $175.69 million $1.92 25.03 Marine Products $244.42 million 1.14 $11.38 million $0.32 24.98 YETI has higher revenue and earnings than Marine Products. Marine Products is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than YETI, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Analyst Ratings This is a summary of current recommendations and price targets for YETI and Marine Products, as provided by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score YETI 0 8 7 0 2.47 Marine Products 1 0 0 0 1.00 YETI currently has a consensus target price of $44.42, indicating a potential downside of 7.57%. Given YETIs stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, research analysts clearly believe YETI is more favorable than Marine Products. Summary YETI beats Marine Products on 12 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks. About YETI (Get Free Report) YETI Holdings, Inc. designs, retails, and distributes products for the outdoor and recreation market under the YETI brand. It offers coolers and equipment, including hard and soft coolers, cargo, bags, outdoor living, and associated accessories, as well as backpacks, duffel bags, luggage, packing cubes, carryalls, camp chairs, blankets, dog beds, dog bowls, and gear cases under the LoadOut, Panga, Crossroads, Camino, Hondo Base, Trailhead, Lowlands, Boomer, and SideKick Dry brands. The company also provides drinkware products, such as colsters, lowballs, wine tumblers, stackable pints, mugs, tumblers, straw mugs and cups, bottles, jugs, and water bottles, as well as accessories comprising bottle straw and chug caps, lids, straw lids, color packs, tumbler handles, and jug mounts under the Rambler brand. In addition, it offers apparel and gear products, such as hats, shirts, bottle openers, and ice substitutes. The company sells its products through independent retailers, including outdoor specialty, hardware, sporting goods, and farm and ranch supply stores, as well as through its Website, YETI.com. It operates in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, and Japan. YETI Holdings, Inc. was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in Austin, Texas. About Marine Products (Get Free Report) Marine Products Corporation designs, manufactures, and sells recreational fiberglass powerboats for the sport boat and sport fishing boat markets worldwide. The company offers Chaparral sterndrive pleasure boats, including SSi Sport Boats, SSX Sport Boats, and the Surf Series; Chaparral outboard pleasure boats, which include OSX Luxury Sportboats and SSi outboard models; and Robalo outboard sport fishing boats. It also provides center and dual consoles, and Cayman Bay Boats under the Robalo brand name. The company sells its products to a network of domestic and international independent authorized dealers. Marine Products Corporation was founded in 1965 and is based in Atlanta, Georgia. Marine Products Corporation operates as a subsidiary of LOR, Inc. Receive News & Ratings for YETI Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for YETI and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hermes International SA Unsponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:HESAY Get Free Report) was the target of a large decrease in short interest during the month of January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 6,893 shares, a decrease of 44.3% from the January 15th total of 12,366 shares. Currently, 0.0% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average trading volume of 111,411 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.1 days. Based on an average trading volume of 111,411 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.1 days. Currently, 0.0% of the companys stock are short sold. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of research analysts recently issued reports on HESAY shares. Barclays lowered shares of Hermes International from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Jefferies Financial Group upgraded Hermes International from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday, January 26th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy. Get Hermes International alerts: Check Out Our Latest Research Report on HESAY Hermes International Price Performance Hermes International Company Profile Shares of Hermes International stock traded down $3.68 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $254.19. 45,267 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 53,016. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $249.36 and a 200-day simple moving average of $247.76. Hermes International has a 52 week low of $232.01 and a 52 week high of $303.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.10, a current ratio of 4.50 and a quick ratio of 3.65. (Get Free Report) Hermes International is a French luxury goods company renowned for its high-end leather goods, scarves, ready-to-wear apparel, watches, jewelry, fragrances and home accessories. Founded in 1837 as a harness and bridle workshop, the firm has evolved into one of the worlds most recognizable luxury maisons, known for artisanal craftsmanship, quality materials and a focus on timeless design. The company is headquartered in Paris and maintains a strong heritage identity that influences its product development and brand positioning. Key product categories include leather goods and iconic handbags, silk scarves and ties, fashion and accessories, timepieces and fine jewelry, as well as fragrances and selected home collections. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Hermes International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hermes International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Indra Sistemas S.A. Unsponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:ISMAY Get Free Report) saw a large decline in short interest in January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 3,356 shares, a decline of 43.8% from the January 15th total of 5,968 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 8,148 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.4 days. Based on an average daily volume of 8,148 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.4 days. Indra Sistemas Stock Performance Shares of OTCMKTS:ISMAY traded up $0.43 on Friday, hitting $30.60. The company had a trading volume of 1,228 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,630. The business has a 50 day moving average of $30.51 and a 200 day moving average of $26.00. Indra Sistemas has a 52-week low of $9.65 and a 52-week high of $35.05. The company has a quick ratio of 1.46, a current ratio of 1.46 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.41. Get Indra Sistemas alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Separately, Oddo Bhf upgraded shares of Indra Sistemas to a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Buy. Indra Sistemas Company Profile (Get Free Report) Indra Sistemas SA is a Madrid-based global technology and consulting firm specializing in information and communications technology (ICT) and defense systems. The company designs, develops and implements turnkey solutions for sectors including transportation, energy, public administration, financial services, telecommunications and security. Through system integration, application development, managed services and outsourcing, Indra helps clients navigate digital transformation and optimize operational performance. In its defense and security business, Indra delivers radar systems, air traffic management platforms, command-and-control centers, simulation and training tools, as well as cybersecurity solutions. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Indra Sistemas Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Indra Sistemas and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. ING Groep NV purchased a new position in Robert Half Inc. (NYSE:RHI Free Report) during the third quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 81,800 shares of the business services providers stock, valued at approximately $2,780,000. ING Groep NV owned about 0.08% of Robert Half as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc raised its position in Robert Half by 0.8% in the third quarter. Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc now owns 46,008 shares of the business services providers stock worth $1,563,000 after acquiring an additional 355 shares during the period. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC grew its position in shares of Robert Half by 9.4% during the 2nd quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC now owns 4,952 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $203,000 after acquiring an additional 424 shares during the period. Yousif Capital Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Robert Half by 1.1% during the 2nd quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC now owns 40,723 shares of the business services providers stock worth $1,672,000 after purchasing an additional 427 shares during the last quarter. Arizona State Retirement System raised its holdings in shares of Robert Half by 1.6% in the 3rd quarter. Arizona State Retirement System now owns 30,231 shares of the business services providers stock worth $1,027,000 after purchasing an additional 462 shares during the period. Finally, Tributary Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Robert Half by 3.4% in the 2nd quarter. Tributary Capital Management LLC now owns 17,277 shares of the business services providers stock worth $709,000 after purchasing an additional 569 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 92.41% of the companys stock. Get Robert Half alerts: Robert Half Stock Performance NYSE:RHI opened at $24.76 on Friday. The businesss fifty day moving average is $28.30 and its 200 day moving average is $30.88. The firm has a market cap of $2.50 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.61 and a beta of 0.88. Robert Half Inc. has a 52-week low of $24.45 and a 52-week high of $61.16. Robert Half Dividend Announcement Robert Half ( NYSE:RHI Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, January 29th. The business services provider reported $0.32 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.30 by $0.02. Robert Half had a return on equity of 10.20% and a net margin of 2.47%.The business had revenue of $1.30 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.29 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $0.53 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was down 5.8% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts predict that Robert Half Inc. will post 2.48 EPS for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 13th. Investors of record on Wednesday, February 25th will be paid a dividend of $0.59 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, February 25th. This represents a $2.36 annualized dividend and a yield of 9.5%. Robert Halfs payout ratio is currently 177.44%. Analyst Ratings Changes Several equities analysts have weighed in on RHI shares. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their price objective on Robert Half from $24.00 to $27.00 and gave the company a sell rating in a report on Tuesday, February 3rd. UBS Group dropped their price target on Robert Half from $30.00 to $27.00 and set a sell rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, October 23rd. Barclays decreased their price objective on Robert Half from $45.00 to $36.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. BMO Capital Markets restated a market perform rating and issued a $35.00 price objective on shares of Robert Half in a research note on Monday, February 2nd. Finally, Zacks Research upgraded shares of Robert Half from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, February 2nd. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have given a Hold rating and four have assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Robert Half currently has an average rating of Reduce and a consensus price target of $33.50. Read Our Latest Research Report on RHI Robert Half Profile (Free Report) Robert Half International Inc, founded in 1948 by Robert Half, is a global professional staffing and consulting firm headquartered in Menlo Park, California. As a pioneer in specialized staffing, the company has built a reputation for matching skilled professionals with leading organizations across a range of industries. Robert Halfs shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker RHI, reflecting its position as one of the longeststanding and bestknown firms in the staffing sector. The company offers a comprehensive suite of services, including temporary staffing, permanent placement, and consulting solutions. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding RHI? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Robert Half Inc. (NYSE:RHI Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Robert Half Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Robert Half and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Insurance Australia Group (ASX:IAG) reported first-half financial results that management said showed the resilience of the business amid seasonal weather impacts in Australia and New Zealand, while also supporting organic capital generation and shareholder returns. Get alerts: Profit, capital management, and shareholder returns Chief Financial Officer William McDonnell said IAG generated over AUD 500 million in NPAT for the half. The company announced an interim dividend of AUD 0.12 per share, representing a 56% payout ratio. Management also announced an on-market share buyback of up to AUD 200 million. McDonnell said the half-year profit was down slightly versus the prior corresponding period, which he noted had been boosted by aandin favorable peril experience. IAG reported a 13.5% reported insurance margin, which management said was impacted by severe perils experience in the RACQ portfolio. Excluding that impact, McDonnell said the group recorded 17.7%. Underlying insurance profit was AUD 804 million, representing a 15.1% underlying margin, with McDonnell noting this included the additional cost of the groups reinsurance protections (which he said have a 50100 basis point impact on margin). On capital, McDonnell said IAG finished the half with a CET1 position above its target range, with solid earnings partially offset by the FY2025 final dividend payment and a 21-point impact from completing the RACQ acquisition. He also cited a negative impact from the weaker New Zealand currency on the foreign currency translation reserve. Management reiterated its CET1 target range of 0.91.1 times and said it was increasingly comfortable operating in the lower part of that range. Weather impacts and reinsurance program Chief Executive Officer Nick Hawkins said IAG had experienced hailstorms, bushfires, and flooding in Australia and a terrible landslide in New Zealand, and he emphasized the role of the insurer in supporting impacted customers and communities. McDonnell highlighted the benefit of IAGs reinsurance program in keeping ex-RACQ net perils in line with the half-year allowance of AUD 646 million, despite several material events. He contrasted this with RACQs experience under its previous standalone reinsurance program: severe Queensland weather events generated over AUD 800 million in gross perils claims, or AUD 224 million net of reinsurance, which was AUD 152 million above RACQs AUD 72 million perils allowance. For the full year, management cited a revised perils allowance of AUD 1,465 million, reflecting the inclusion of the RACQ portfolio into the group reinsurance program and an increase in the quota share to 35%. McDonnell said non-quota share reinsurance costs increased 8% to AUD 676 million, including AUD 60 million related to RACQ; excluding RACQ, he said costs decreased 1.5%. He also said IAG had a favorable January 1 renewal and that integrating RACQ into IAGs reinsurance program delivered a targeted synergy of at least AUD 50 million on an annualized basis. Premium growth and portfolio performance Hawkins said underlying growth across Australia and New Zealand retail portfolios was around 4%, with the RACQ acquisition contributing 6% growth in the half and expected to contribute around 9% growth in the second half. In Australian retail, management reported top-line growth of 14.4%, which included four months of RACQ. Hawkins said underlying growth in the home portfolio was just over 7%, supported by customer and policy growth, while motor underlying growth was about 1.5%, reflecting pricing discipline in a highly competitive marketparticularly in New South Walesdespite strong retention. He said recent go-to-market changes in New South Wales were improving new business volumes in January and early February. Before RACQ, Hawkins said Australian retail delivered a 14.7% insurance margin and an underlying margin that increased half-on-half from 15.2% to 15.9%. Incorporating RACQ, severe Queensland weather affected results, with a reported retail margin of 7.4% and an underlying margin of 13.4%. Hawkins said RACQ integration was on track and that integration costs were reflected above the line, adding that RACQ was protected under the groups reinsurance program from January 1. In New Zealand retail, management reported headline growth of 3.4% in NZD, with volume growth contributing the majority. Hawkins said the reported insurance margin was over 28%, and the underlying margin improved to 26%, citing targeted claims initiatives and pricing capability enabled by the rollout of the Retail Enterprise Platform. He also noted a new Chief Executive, Phil Gibson, would join the New Zealand business on February 23. In Australian intermediated (commercial), Hawkins said the business delivered 3.5% underlying growth and a 17.5% reported margin, which he said was boosted by AUD 86 million of prior-period reserve releases. He said the company was accelerating its Commercial Enterprise Platform program, with completion expected 12 months earlier than previously anticipated. Hawkins also cited improvements at WFI, including an NPS of 63. In New Zealand intermediated (NZI), management said premiums were down 10.4% in local currency, though underlying insurance profit was stable at NZD 78 million. Reported profit was NZD 86 million with a 20% margin. Hawkins said the business retained 33 of 34 large accounts during recent renewals. Claims, expenses, investment income, and profit commissions McDonnell said the underlying claims ratio improved 70 basis points to 51.9%. He said this included an approximately 50 basis points negative impact from RACQ; excluding RACQ, the underlying claims ratio improved 120 basis points. He said results were assisted by around AUD 115 million of profit commission on reinsurance arrangements, compared to around AUD 40 million in the prior half. Management described the profit commission calculation as conservative and risk-adjusted, and said New Zealand received a proportionally greater allocation due to strong earnings. In Q&A, management said profit commissions included both the multi-year peril stop-loss arrangement and whole-of-account quota share arrangements. On expense management, McDonnell said IAG delivered a material reduction in the expense ratio, with ex-levies admin costs improving 20 basis points versus 1H25 and 80 basis points versus 2H25. He said the improvement included the RACQ business and ongoing technology investment, including GenAI capabilities, and he said management was confident in achieving an expense ratio below 11% in FY2027. Investment income on technical reserves was AUD 90 million, which McDonnell said was impacted by mark-to-market movements following an increase in the risk-free rate late in the period. The underlying investment yield declined 90 basis points to 4.6%, though he said IAG continued to deliver a spread of around 100 basis points above risk-free and expected an uplift in yields in the second half, noting an exit yield around 5% at the half-year. FY2026 outlook and strategic updates Hawkins said IAG is forecasting high single-digit premium growth for the full year, slightly lower than earlier expectations due to the stronger Australian dollar versus the New Zealand dollar and softer New Zealand commercial markets. He said management expects double-digit growth in the second half, supported by six months of RACQ and retail growth of at least or above the 4% underlying level delivered in the first half. Management maintained FY2026 reported insurance profit guidance of AUD 1.55 billion to AUD 1.75 billion, aligning with a through-the-cycle target of a 15% reported insurance margin and ROE. Hawkins said the company expected to be towards the bottom of the range, reflecting strong underlying performance offset by one-off RACQ impacts experienced before full reinsurance cover began on January 1. On strategic alliances, Hawkins said IAG completed the RACQ acquisition on September 1, welcomed more than 800 new employees, and gained the opportunity to serve 1.7 million members. He also reiterated commitment to a proposed alliance with RAC in Western Australia and said IAG was reapplying for approval under the ACCCs new mandatory merger regime following a decision received in December. About Insurance Australia Group (ASX:IAG) Insurance Australia Group Limited underwrites general insurance products and provides investment management services in Australia and New Zealand. It offers personal and commercial insurance products, including bicycle, comprehensive motor, commercial and motor fleet, commercial property and liability, construction and engineering, consumer credit, compulsory third party, directors and officers, extended warranty, farm, crop, livestock, home and contents, income protection, marine, veteran, vintage and classic car, boat, caravan, travel, life, professional indemnity, public and product liability, security, workers' compensation, motor vehicle, personal liability, business, and rural and horticultural, as well as reinsurance. Featured Articles iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF (NYSEARCA:EWM Get Free Report)s share price crossed above its two hundred day moving average during trading on Thursday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of $26.44 and traded as high as $30.00. iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF shares last traded at $29.71, with a volume of 276,897 shares changing hands. iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF Stock Up 0.0% The firms 50 day simple moving average is $28.13 and its 200 day simple moving average is $26.48. The company has a market cap of $365.56 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.29 and a beta of 0.55. Get iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF alerts: Institutional Inflows and Outflows Institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. UBS Group AG increased its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF by 175.8% during the third quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 707,500 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $18,338,000 after purchasing an additional 451,008 shares during the period. Sun Life Financial Inc. bought a new position in iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $10,320,000. Breakout Capital Partners LP increased its stake in iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF by 52.3% during the 3rd quarter. Breakout Capital Partners LP now owns 783,676 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $20,313,000 after buying an additional 269,200 shares during the period. Cairn Investment Group Inc. acquired a new position in iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at about $6,817,000. Finally, Citigroup Inc. raised its position in shares of iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF by 164.8% during the 3rd quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 418,120 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $10,838,000 after buying an additional 260,199 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 86.75% of the companys stock. About iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF, formerly iShares MSCI Malaysia Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of publicly traded securities in the Malaysian market, as measured by the MSCI Malaysia Index (the Index). The Index seeks to measure the performance of the Malaysian equity market. It is a capitalization-weighted index that aims to capture 85% of the (publicly available) total market capitalization. Read More Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Kansas City Life Insurance Co. (OTCMKTS:KCLI Get Free Report) was the target of a large decline in short interest in January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 107 shares, a decline of 49.3% from the January 15th total of 211 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 1,279 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 1,279 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days. Kansas City Life Insurance Stock Down 0.4% Shares of OTCMKTS KCLI traded down $0.14 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $33.00. 825 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 419. Kansas City Life Insurance has a 52 week low of $27.45 and a 52 week high of $36.49. The companys 50 day moving average price is $32.82 and its 200 day moving average price is $32.65. The stock has a market capitalization of $319.44 million, a PE ratio of -8.97 and a beta of 0.46. Get Kansas City Life Insurance alerts: Kansas City Life Insurance Company Profile (Get Free Report) Kansas City Life Insurance Company, trading under the symbol KCLI, is a publicly held life insurer founded in 1895 and headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. With more than a century of operations, the company has established itself as a provider of life insurance and retirement products across the United States. The companys core offerings include individual life insurance policiesterm life, universal life and whole lifeas well as fixed annuities designed to help clients build and preserve wealth. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Kansas City Life Insurance Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kansas City Life Insurance and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. KBC Group (OTCMKTS:KBCSY Get Free Report) announced its earnings results on Thursday. The company reported $1.42 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.40 by $0.02, Zacks reports. KBC Group had a return on equity of 13.89% and a net margin of 15.70%.The business had revenue of $3.73 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.64 billion. KBC Group Stock Down 2.5% Shares of OTCMKTS:KBCSY traded down $1.74 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $67.05. 17,505 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 19,378. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $67.48 and its 200-day simple moving average is $62.11. KBC Group has a one year low of $38.90 and a one year high of $73.12. The company has a market cap of $56.01 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.52, a P/E/G ratio of 1.04 and a beta of 0.54. Get KBC Group alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating on shares of KBC Group in a research note on Friday, November 14th. Citigroup reiterated a neutral rating on shares of KBC Group in a research report on Monday, November 24th. Royal Bank Of Canada restated a sector perform rating on shares of KBC Group in a research report on Monday, November 17th. Finally, Barclays lowered KBC Group from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Tuesday, December 2nd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, KBC Group presently has a consensus rating of Hold. About KBC Group (Get Free Report) KBC Group is a Belgian bank-insurance group headquartered in Brussels that combines retail and commercial banking with life and non-life insurance, asset management, leasing and related financial services. The company operates an integrated bank-insurance model designed to serve both individual consumers and corporate clients, offering deposit accounts, lending and mortgage products, payment and treasury services, pension and protection insurance, investment solutions and wealth management. The groups banking activities include retail and private banking, corporate and commercial banking, and specialized finance such as leasing and factoring. See Also Receive News & Ratings for KBC Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for KBC Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. News / Local by Staff reporter Kombi drivers, commuters and vendors at the Basch street terminus (Egodini) in Bulawayo had to flee for dear life on Monday night, after anti-riot police went on a rampage beating up people indiscriminately.The unprovoked attacks, on the eve of the Zanu-PF conference that started in the city on Tuesday, took place between 5 and 6pm when the terminus, popularly known as Egodini, was at its busiest.The area around Egodini resembled a ghost town, as it was deserted following the brutal rampage by the police.As late as 11pm, soldiers had joined up with the police to patrol the streets of Bulawayo. The situation was however calm on Tuesday but there were dozens of Zanu-PF vehicles roaming around the city.Security forces are on high alert in Bulawayo, with helicopters hovering over the city skyline and riot police, armed to the teeth, patrolling everywhere, creating a siege mentality in the area reminiscent of Israeli blockades in the Gaza Strip. Krilogy Financial LLC bought a new position in shares of Armstrong World Industries, Inc. (NYSE:AWI Free Report) during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor bought 3,930 shares of the construction companys stock, valued at approximately $753,000. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. New York Life Investment Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Armstrong World Industries during the 3rd quarter worth about $858,000. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC raised its stake in Armstrong World Industries by 9.7% during the 3rd quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 874 shares of the construction companys stock worth $169,000 after buying an additional 77 shares during the period. Alps Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in Armstrong World Industries by 1,317.0% in the third quarter. Alps Advisors Inc. now owns 36,418 shares of the construction companys stock worth $7,138,000 after acquiring an additional 33,848 shares in the last quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. grew its stake in Armstrong World Industries by 70.0% in the third quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 221 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $44,000 after acquiring an additional 91 shares during the period. Finally, Savant Capital LLC increased its holdings in shares of Armstrong World Industries by 2.7% during the third quarter. Savant Capital LLC now owns 16,551 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $3,244,000 after acquiring an additional 441 shares in the last quarter. 98.93% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Armstrong World Industries alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on AWI shares. UBS Group increased their target price on Armstrong World Industries from $178.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Armstrong World Industries from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, November 2nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on shares of Armstrong World Industries from $210.00 to $220.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Vertical Research initiated coverage on shares of Armstrong World Industries in a report on Monday, October 20th. They issued a buy rating and a $238.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Armstrong World Industries in a research report on Wednesday, January 21st. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have given a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Armstrong World Industries has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $207.50. Armstrong World Industries Stock Performance Shares of AWI stock opened at $200.40 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a current ratio of 1.52 and a quick ratio of 1.04. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $191.40 and a 200-day moving average of $192.47. Armstrong World Industries, Inc. has a one year low of $122.37 and a one year high of $206.08. The company has a market cap of $8.64 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.67, a P/E/G ratio of 1.72 and a beta of 1.33. About Armstrong World Industries (Free Report) Armstrong World Industries, Inc is a leading global manufacturer of commercial ceiling and wall solutions. The company offers a diverse portfolio of acoustical, decorative and specialty ceiling systems designed to enhance interior environments in offices, healthcare facilities, schools, retail outlets and other non-residential settings. Through its focus on performance, aesthetics and sustainability, Armstrong World Industries addresses both functional and design requirements for architects, contractors and building owners. Armstrongs product range includes mineral fiber, fiberglass, wood wool, metal and stone wool ceiling panels, as well as suspension and grid systems. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Armstrong World Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Armstrong World Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. LXP Industrial Trust (NYSE:LXP Get Free Report) posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday. The real estate investment trust reported $0.79 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.85 by ($0.06), Briefing.com reports. LXP Industrial Trust had a net margin of 32.27% and a return on equity of 5.70%. The business had revenue of $86.74 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $86.05 million. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $0.16 EPS. LXP Industrial Trusts quarterly revenue was down 14.0% on a year-over-year basis. LXP Industrial Trust updated its FY 2026 guidance to 3.220-3.370 EPS. Here are the key takeaways from LXP Industrial Trusts conference call: Get LXP Industrial Trust alerts: The company reduced leverage to 4.9x net debt/adjusted EBITDA, repaid about $220M of debt, extended its credit facilities, and held $170M in cash actions S&P cited in a positive outlook and management says this strengthens the balance sheet for disciplined growth. net debt/adjusted EBITDA, repaid about of debt, extended its credit facilities, and held in cash actions S&P cited in a positive outlook and management says this strengthens the balance sheet for disciplined growth. Portfolio occupancy rose to 97.1% and LXP leased nearly 5 million sq ft in 2025 with attractive mark-to-market cash increases (~ 28% , excluding fixed-rate renewals), driven by large-user demand in target Sun Belt and Lower Midwest markets. and LXP leased nearly in 2025 with attractive mark-to-market cash increases (~ , excluding fixed-rate renewals), driven by large-user demand in target Sun Belt and Lower Midwest markets. 2026 guidance calls for adjusted company FFO of $3.22$3.37 per share (midpoint +4.6%) and same-store NOI growth of 1.5%2.5% , assuming Q4 sale proceeds are redeployed into the Phoenix development and no other dispositions. per share (midpoint +4.6%) and same-store NOI growth of , assuming Q4 sale proceeds are redeployed into the Phoenix development and no other dispositions. LXP will break ground on a 1 million sq ft spec project in Phoenix (budget ~ $120M , expected stabilized cash yield 7%7.5% , completion targeted H1 2027), citing tighter supply and lower construction costs as supportive for development returns. spec project in Phoenix (budget ~ , expected stabilized cash yield , completion targeted H1 2027), citing tighter supply and lower construction costs as supportive for development returns. Management sold $389M of assets in 2025 (exiting non-target markets) and says holding cash and redeploying proceeds to development is currently weighing on near-term earnings, with some asset sales expected to be a drag on 2026 FFO before contributing to future growth. LXP Industrial Trust Trading Down 1.0% NYSE:LXP opened at $47.76 on Friday. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $50.05 and a 200 day moving average of $46.77. The stock has a market capitalization of $2.83 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.39 and a beta of 1.10. LXP Industrial Trust has a 52 week low of $44.17 and a 52 week high of $97.90. The company has a quick ratio of 0.26, a current ratio of 0.24 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.18. Institutional Trading of LXP Industrial Trust Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in LXP. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd purchased a new position in LXP Industrial Trust during the third quarter worth approximately $26,000. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of LXP Industrial Trust by 101.7% in the 2nd quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 3,481 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 1,755 shares during the period. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. boosted its stake in shares of LXP Industrial Trust by 82.0% in the second quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 3,623 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 1,632 shares during the period. Corient Private Wealth LLC purchased a new position in shares of LXP Industrial Trust in the 2nd quarter valued at about $90,000. Finally, CW Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of LXP Industrial Trust during the second quarter worth about $112,000. 93.52% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. A number of research firms recently issued reports on LXP. Citizens Jmp raised shares of LXP Industrial Trust from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $57.50 price target for the company in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. JMP Securities set a $57.50 price target on shares of LXP Industrial Trust and gave the company a market outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. Evercore ISI set a $51.00 price target on LXP Industrial Trust in a report on Friday. Citigroup reiterated an outperform rating on shares of LXP Industrial Trust in a research note on Friday. Finally, KeyCorp lowered LXP Industrial Trust from an overweight rating to a sector weight rating in a research note on Thursday, December 4th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $53.50. Read Our Latest Analysis on LXP Trending Headlines about LXP Industrial Trust Here are the key news stories impacting LXP Industrial Trust this week: Positive Sentiment: Company issued aggressive FY2026 EPS guidance of $3.220$3.370, well above the prior consensus (reported at ~1.40), signaling management expects substantially higher earnings next year a major positive for longterm outlook and valuation. Press Release Company issued aggressive FY2026 EPS guidance of $3.220$3.370, well above the prior consensus (reported at ~1.40), signaling management expects substantially higher earnings next year a major positive for longterm outlook and valuation. Positive Sentiment: LXP is actively refocusing its portfolio and advancing a Phoenix development project, suggesting growth and valuecreation from development and disposition activity over time. This supports the stronger FY guide if redeployments and development stabilise cash flow. Article LXP is actively refocusing its portfolio and advancing a Phoenix development project, suggesting growth and valuecreation from development and disposition activity over time. This supports the stronger FY guide if redeployments and development stabilise cash flow. Positive Sentiment: Management emphasized deleveraging and a healthy balance sheet (low debt/equity ~0.18) on the call, which reduces financial risk and gives capacity for selective growth or shareholder returns. Note Management emphasized deleveraging and a healthy balance sheet (low debt/equity ~0.18) on the call, which reduces financial risk and gives capacity for selective growth or shareholder returns. Neutral Sentiment: Detailed Q4 results, slide deck and call transcript published useful for modeling the FY guide drivers (dispositions, development ramps, and oneoffs). Investors will parse these to reconcile the big guide with the modest quarter. Slide Deck Presentation Detailed Q4 results, slide deck and call transcript published useful for modeling the FY guide drivers (dispositions, development ramps, and oneoffs). Investors will parse these to reconcile the big guide with the modest quarter. Negative Sentiment: Q4 FFO (reported as $0.79) missed consensus (~$0.85) and revenue was down ~14% yearoveryear, raising nearterm growth concerns and likely explaining the intraday selling pressure. Zacks Q4 FFO (reported as $0.79) missed consensus (~$0.85) and revenue was down ~14% yearoveryear, raising nearterm growth concerns and likely explaining the intraday selling pressure. Negative Sentiment: Despite the strong FY guide, the Q4 miss and a sharp yearoveryear revenue decline increase shortterm uncertainty; markets may be discounting execution risk on development/disposition assumptions and timing of earnings realization. Earnings Summary LXP Industrial Trust Company Profile (Get Free Report) LXP Industrial Trust is a real estate investment trust that specializes in the ownership, acquisition and management of industrial properties across North America. The companys portfolio consists of warehouses, distribution centers and manufacturing facilities designed to support supply-chain and logistics operations. By focusing on long-term leasing arrangements, LXP Industrial Trust aims to provide stable income streams while delivering value to tenants through modern, well-positioned industrial space. The firms primary business activities include sourcing and under-writing new property investments, overseeing development and redevelopment projects, and implementing asset-management strategies to enhance the performance of its holdings. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for LXP Industrial Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for LXP Industrial Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Martin Marietta Materials (NYSE:MLM Free Report) had its price objective cut by Stephens from $740.00 to $735.00 in a report released on Friday, Marketbeat.com reports. They currently have an overweight rating on the construction companys stock. MLM has been the subject of a number of other reports. UBS Group increased their price target on shares of Martin Marietta Materials from $705.00 to $723.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, November 7th. Stifel Nicolaus increased their target price on shares of Martin Marietta Materials from $637.00 to $681.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 11th. Morgan Stanley lifted their target price on Martin Marietta Materials from $660.00 to $690.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. DA Davidson set a $680.00 price target on Martin Marietta Materials in a report on Thursday. Finally, B. Riley Financial started coverage on Martin Marietta Materials in a research report on Thursday, January 15th. They issued a neutral rating and a $700.00 price objective for the company. Nine investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $689.69. Get Martin Marietta Materials alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Martin Marietta Materials Martin Marietta Materials Stock Performance MLM opened at $679.34 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 2.07, a current ratio of 3.57 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.53. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $646.60 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $625.68. The firm has a market capitalization of $40.97 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.13 and a beta of 1.16. Martin Marietta Materials has a 12-month low of $441.95 and a 12-month high of $710.97. Martin Marietta Materials (NYSE:MLM Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 11th. The construction company reported $4.62 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $4.81 by ($0.19). The business had revenue of $1.53 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.66 billion. Martin Marietta Materials had a return on equity of 10.86% and a net margin of 17.38%.The firms quarterly revenue was up 9.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $4.79 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts forecast that Martin Marietta Materials will post 19.53 earnings per share for the current year. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Martin Marietta Materials A number of hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Lido Advisors LLC boosted its stake in Martin Marietta Materials by 0.8% in the 4th quarter. Lido Advisors LLC now owns 1,920 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,209,000 after buying an additional 15 shares in the last quarter. Schear Investment Advisers LLC boosted its stake in shares of Martin Marietta Materials by 0.6% in the 3rd quarter. Schear Investment Advisers LLC now owns 2,731 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,721,000 after purchasing an additional 16 shares in the last quarter. Ashton Thomas Private Wealth LLC grew its holdings in shares of Martin Marietta Materials by 3.9% in the 4th quarter. Ashton Thomas Private Wealth LLC now owns 424 shares of the construction companys stock worth $264,000 after purchasing an additional 16 shares during the last quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Martin Marietta Materials by 31.4% in the 4th quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. now owns 67 shares of the construction companys stock worth $42,000 after purchasing an additional 16 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Parkside Financial Bank & Trust increased its position in shares of Martin Marietta Materials by 10.4% during the 2nd quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 181 shares of the construction companys stock worth $99,000 after purchasing an additional 17 shares in the last quarter. 95.04% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Martin Marietta Materials News Summary Here are the key news stories impacting Martin Marietta Materials this week: Positive Sentiment: Jefferies raised its price target to $761 and maintained a Buy rating, signaling continued analyst conviction and providing upside support. Jefferies PT raise Jefferies raised its price target to $761 and maintained a Buy rating, signaling continued analyst conviction and providing upside support. Positive Sentiment: Martin Marietta reiterated its strategic SOAR 2030 plan and set a 2026 adjusted EBITDA target of $2.49B, giving investors a management-provided milestone for future profitability and cash flow expectations. SOAR 2030 / EBITDA target Martin Marietta reiterated its strategic SOAR 2030 plan and set a 2026 adjusted EBITDA target of $2.49B, giving investors a management-provided milestone for future profitability and cash flow expectations. Neutral Sentiment: Analyst roundup: a Benzinga/summary piece reviews views from 11 analysts shows mixed opinions and no clear consensus, which can keep trading volatile as investors pick camps. Analyst roundup Analyst roundup: a Benzinga/summary piece reviews views from 11 analysts shows mixed opinions and no clear consensus, which can keep trading volatile as investors pick camps. Neutral Sentiment: Full Q4 earnings call transcripts and highlights are available for investors parsing revenue mix, margin drivers and capital allocation commentary useful for longer-term conviction but less likely to trigger immediate direction without new data. Earnings call transcript Full Q4 earnings call transcripts and highlights are available for investors parsing revenue mix, margin drivers and capital allocation commentary useful for longer-term conviction but less likely to trigger immediate direction without new data. Negative Sentiment: Q4 results missed both EPS and revenue estimates and the company issued a cautious 2026 sales outlook, which triggered an initial gap down and downward pressure on the stock as investors reprice near-term growth. Earnings miss / weak outlook Q4 results missed both EPS and revenue estimates and the company issued a cautious 2026 sales outlook, which triggered an initial gap down and downward pressure on the stock as investors reprice near-term growth. Negative Sentiment: Wells Fargo cut its target to $612 and moved to Equal Weight (larger implied downside), reflecting more cautious short-term expectations and adding selling pressure. Wells Fargo downgrade Wells Fargo cut its target to $612 and moved to Equal Weight (larger implied downside), reflecting more cautious short-term expectations and adding selling pressure. Negative Sentiment: Newsflow from multiple outlets emphasized the earnings miss and soft guidance, reinforcing bearish sentiment among traders focused on near-term revenue and profit trends. Coverage of selloff Martin Marietta Materials Company Profile (Get Free Report) Martin Marietta Materials, Inc (NYSE: MLM) is a leading producer of aggregates and heavy building materials serving the construction and infrastructure markets. The company operates quarries, sand and gravel pits, and other extraction sites to supply crushed stone, sand and gravel, and a range of valueadded products for use in roads, bridges, commercial and residential construction, and other civil engineering projects. In addition to its core aggregates business, Martin Marietta manufactures and sells asphalt, readymixed concrete and related materials and services. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Martin Marietta Materials Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Martin Marietta Materials and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. MidWestOne Financial Group Inc. reduced its position in shares of Deere & Company (NYSE:DE Free Report) by 50.8% in the third quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 4,805 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 4,961 shares during the quarter. MidWestOne Financial Group Inc.s holdings in Deere & Company were worth $2,197,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in DE. Leisure Capital Management boosted its holdings in shares of Deere & Company by 1.8% during the third quarter. Leisure Capital Management now owns 2,952 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,350,000 after purchasing an additional 51 shares during the period. Lyell Wealth Management LP raised its position in Deere & Company by 4.7% during the 3rd quarter. Lyell Wealth Management LP now owns 16,482 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $7,537,000 after purchasing an additional 733 shares during the last quarter. Columbia Bank raised its position in Deere & Company by 2.2% during the 3rd quarter. Columbia Bank now owns 5,073 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $2,275,000 after purchasing an additional 108 shares during the last quarter. Good Steward Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in Deere & Company by 2.6% in the 3rd quarter. Good Steward Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,684 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $770,000 after buying an additional 43 shares during the period. Finally, Public Sector Pension Investment Board grew its position in shares of Deere & Company by 14.6% in the 3rd quarter. Public Sector Pension Investment Board now owns 21,174 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $9,682,000 after buying an additional 2,702 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.58% of the companys stock. Get Deere & Company alerts: Deere & Company News Summary Here are the key news stories impacting Deere & Company this week: Deere & Company Stock Performance Shares of Deere & Company stock opened at $602.54 on Friday. Deere & Company has a 12 month low of $404.42 and a 12 month high of $626.25. The firm has a market capitalization of $163.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 32.55, a P/E/G ratio of 2.39 and a beta of 1.02. The company has a current ratio of 2.22, a quick ratio of 2.01 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.68. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $507.56 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $487.44. Deere & Company (NYSE:DE Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, November 26th. The industrial products company reported $3.93 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $3.96 by ($0.03). Deere & Company had a return on equity of 20.54% and a net margin of 11.00%.The business had revenue of $12.39 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $9.77 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $4.55 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 14.1% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts forecast that Deere & Company will post 19.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Deere & Company Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, February 9th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st were paid a dividend of $1.62 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, December 31st. This represents a $6.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.1%. Deere & Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 35.01%. Analyst Ratings Changes DE has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Deere & Company in a research note on Monday, December 29th. UBS Group reissued a buy rating on shares of Deere & Company in a research report on Tuesday, November 25th. DA Davidson restated a buy rating and issued a $580.00 price objective on shares of Deere & Company in a report on Monday, December 1st. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Deere & Company in a research report on Monday, December 1st. Finally, Wolfe Research boosted their price target on shares of Deere & Company from $520.00 to $550.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, January 2nd. Fifteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and nine have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Deere & Company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $524.20. Check Out Our Latest Report on Deere & Company Insider Activity at Deere & Company In related news, insider Cory J. Reed sold 12,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, January 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $510.00, for a total transaction of $6,120,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 20,792 shares of the companys stock, valued at $10,603,920. This trade represents a 36.59% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CEO John C. May II sold 41,472 shares of Deere & Company stock in a transaction on Thursday, January 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $501.49, for a total value of $20,797,793.28. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 117,970 shares of the companys stock, valued at $59,160,775.30. The trade was a 26.01% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders have sold 64,578 shares of company stock valued at $32,471,682 over the last quarter. Company insiders own 0.29% of the companys stock. Deere & Company Profile (Free Report) Deere & Company, commonly known by its brand John Deere, is a global manufacturer of agricultural, construction and forestry machinery, as well as turf care equipment and power systems. Founded in 1837 by blacksmith John Deerewho developed a polished steel plow to improve tillage in tough prairie soilsthe company is headquartered in Moline, Illinois, and has grown into one of the largest and most recognizable names in equipment manufacturing worldwide. The companys principal businesses include a broad portfolio of agricultural equipment such as tractors, combines, planters, sprayers, harvesters and tillage implements, complemented by precision agriculture technologies and telematics that support farm management, yield optimization and equipment connectivity. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Deere & Company (NYSE:DE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Deere & Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Deere & Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. NatWest Group (NYSE:NWG) outlined broad-based growth, higher income, and an updated capital framework during its full-year 2025 fixed income results update, with CFO Katie Murray and Treasurer Donal Quaid highlighting balance sheet strength, funding plans, and forward guidance. Get alerts: 2025 performance: growth across lending, deposits, and wealth Murray said the group added 1 million new customers in 2025 and delivered growth across its three businesses. Customer loans rose 5.6% to GBP 392.7 billion, customer deposits increased 2.4% to GBP 442 billion, and assets under management and administration (AUMA) jumped nearly 20% to GBP 58.5 billion. Income excluding notable items increased 12% to GBP 16.4 billion, slightly above guidance of around GBP 16.3 billion. Total income included GBP 241 million of notable items. NatWest reported total operating expenses of GBP 8.3 billion (up 1.4%) and an impairment charge of GBP 671 million, equating to 16 basis points of loans. The combination produced operating profit before tax of GBP 7.7 billion and profit attributable to ordinary shareholders of GBP 5.5 billion. NatWests return on tangible equity (ROTE) was 19.2%. Earnings per share rose 27% to GBP 0.68, dividends per share increased 51% to GBP 0.325, and tangible net asset value per share rose 17% to GBP 3.84. Net interest margin, structural hedge, and fee trends Murray said income growth was largely driven by higher net interest income, as balance sheet growth and benefits of the structural hedge more than offset the impact of Bank of England rate cuts. Net interest margin increased 21 basis points to 234 basis points, which management attributed mainly to deposit growth and margin expansion. Non-interest income grew 1.3%, which Murray linked to solid customer activity across investment, foreign exchange, and capital markets. In wealth, NatWest reported net flows into AUMA of GBP 4.6 billion, up 44%, and fee income from higher AUMAs increased 11% to GBP 300 million. A key theme was continued momentum from the groups structural hedge. Murray said the combined product and equity structural hedges total GBP 198 billion. In 2025, product hedge income was GBP 4.2 billion, up GBP 1.2 billion year over year, while equity hedge income was almost GBP 500 million, around GBP 50 million higher than recent years. Based on the groups current macro assumptions and hedge durations, management expects the hedge yield to rise from 2.4% in 2025 to around 3.1% in 2026. The company illustrated expectations for higher hedge income, stating it expects 2026 total hedge income to be around GBP 1.5 billion higher than 2025 and 2027 to be around GBP 1 billion higher than 2026, reaching total hedge income of around GBP 7.2 billion, while emphasizing that results will depend on reinvestment rates and the composition of CAL growth. Costs, impairments, and macro assumptions On expenses, Murray said other operating expenses were GBP 8.1 billion and included one-time integration costs of GBP 96 million, in line with guidance. She said the bank delivered around GBP 600 million of gross cost savings, which supported investment in simplification programs. The cost-income ratio improved to 48.6%, down 4.8 percentage points year over year. For 2026, management guided to other operating expenses of around GBP 8.2 billion. Murray also updated macro assumptions for 2026, describing a base case of moderate growth, slightly lower than the prior view, with unemployment expected to peak in 2026 at levels the bank is comfortable with from a risk appetite perspective. Management expects a terminal bank rate of 3.25% by the end of 2026. NatWest reported expected credit losses (ECL) of GBP 3.6 billion and ECL coverage of 83 basis points, with Stage 3 loans at 1.1% (down year over year). Post-model adjustments for economic uncertainty were GBP 246 million and described as broadly stable. For impairments, Murray said the group saw no significant signs of stress and that performance was broadly in line with expectations. For 2026, NatWest guided to a loan impairment rate below 25 basis points. In Q&A, management said the higher guide versus 2025 reflects normalization, fewer one-off releases, loan growth, and mix changesparticularly an increase in retail unsecured lending, which grew more than GBP 3 billion in 2025 and rose to over 8% of the retail mix from around 6.5% in 2023. Murray emphasized the guidance was not dependent on post-model adjustment releases and did not reflect a material shift in risk appetite. Capital, liquidity, and funding: target CET1 reduced to around 13% Quaid said NatWest ended 2025 with a CET1 ratio of 14%, a total MREL ratio of 31.9%, and a leverage ratio of 4.8%, while average liquidity coverage ratio was 147% and average net stable funding ratio was 135%. Primary liquidity was GBP 157 billion, and the loan-to-deposit ratio was 88%. Capital generation before distributions was 252 basis points in 2025, with almost 300 basis points from earnings partly offset by 89 basis points tied to risk-weighted asset growth. Quaid said distributionsincluding accruals for an ordinary dividend payout of around 50% and a GBP 750 million share buyback announced earlier in the weekaccounted for 213 basis points of capital. Risk-weighted assets rose GBP 10.1 billion to GBP 193.3 billion, within the guided range of GBP 190-195 billion. Quaid also discussed Basel 3.1, which takes effect Jan. 1, 2027, and said the bank currently expects an RWA impact of around GBP 10 billion based on recalibration of a higher balance sheet, driven mainly by operational risk and removal of SME and infrastructure support factors. NatWest announced a reduction in its CET1 target to around 13%, from the long-standing 13%-14% range in place since 2019. Quaid said the revised target considers expected reductions in Pillar 2 requirements on Jan. 1, 2027, and the capital impact of the Evelyn acquisition announced earlier in the week. He described the revised target as maintaining a healthy buffer above minimum requirements. Quaid also noted NatWests performance in the Bank of England stress test, stating the group had the lowest capital depletion under stress and was the only U.K. bank with no strategic management actions required. On funding, Quaid said NatWest completed its 2025 plan with GBP 7.1 billion sterling equivalent of benchmark issuance from NatWest Group across Senior MREL, AT1, and Tier 2, plus GBP 7.9 billion sterling equivalent from NatWest Markets. For 2026, management guided to around GBP 3 billion of Holdco Senior issuance, around GBP 1 billion equivalents each of AT1 and Tier 2 issuance, and described plans for NatWest Bank to return to secured credit markets with an expected requirement of around GBP 1 billion. In Q&A, Quaid said the lower 2026 Holdco Senior figure is driven by the maturity profile and suggested issuance would move roughly GBP 2 billion higher beyond 2026. In discussion of capital optimization, Quaid said the bank completed five significant risk transfer (SRT) transactions in Commercial & Institutional in 2025, delivering GBP 4.6 billion of RWA optimization, and executed retail securitization of Stage 2 and Stage 3 mortgages, generating a further GBP 2 billion of RWA benefits. He said SRTs remain an important tool and that the bank sees demand across multiple asset classes, with potential for further transactions in 2026 and 2027. 2026 outlook and 2028 targets Excluding the impact of the Evelyn Partners acquisition, NatWest guided for 2026 income excluding notable items of GBP 17.2 billion to GBP 17.6 billion, other operating expenses of around GBP 8.2 billion, capital generation before distributions of around 200 basis points, and ROTE greater than 17%, alongside loan impairment rate guidance below 25 basis points. Looking to 2028, Murray said the group aims to: Grow customer assets and liabilities at an annual rate greater than 4% from 2025 to 2028 Reduce the cost-income ratio to below 45% Generate more than 200 basis points of capital before distributions while operating with a CET1 ratio of around 13% Deliver ROTE greater than 18% in 2028 Management said its priorities include disciplined growth focused on key customer segments, making it easier for customers to engage with the bank, and broadening propositions. Murray added that the group plans to continue investing in simplificationin particular in AIand emphasized capital redeployment, dynamic pricing, and the use of data and analytics to improve agility and returns. About NatWest Group (NYSE:NWG) NatWest Group plc is a major UK-based banking and financial services group headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland. The company traces its roots to the Royal Bank of Scotland, founded in 1727, and adopted the NatWest Group name in 2020 as part of a strategic refocus on its NatWest brand. NatWest Group is listed on the London Stock Exchange and also has American depositary shares trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NWG. The group provides a broad range of banking services across retail, private, commercial, corporate and institutional segments. Further Reading NatWest Group (NYSE:NWG) executives outlined what CEO Paul Thwaite called another strong performance in 2025, highlighting customer growth, improved operating leverage and continued capital returns, while also introducing new 2028 financial targets and discussing the recently announced acquisition of financial planning and investment firm Evolent Partners. Get alerts: 2025 performance: growth, higher income and shareholder distributions Thwaite said NatWest added 1 million new customers in 2025 and delivered broad based growth across all three businesses. Group lending increased 5.6% to 393 billion and deposits rose 2.4% to 442 billion. Assets under management and administration (AUMA) increased 20% to 58.5 billion. The activity translated into income growth and improved profitability. NatWest reported income growth of 12% to 16.4 billion, while costs rose 2% to about 8.0 billion, which management said resulted in positive jaws of 10%. The cost-to-income ratio fell 4.8 percentage points to 48.6%. Operating profit was 7.7 billion and attributable profit was 5.5 billion. Management highlighted earnings per share growth of 27% to 68p and a 51% increase in dividends per share to 32.5p. The CET1 ratio ended the year at 14%, with return on tangible equity (RoTE) of 19.2%. NatWest also emphasized capital returns. Total distributions announced in 2025 were 4.1 billion, including 1.5 billion of buybacks and 2.6 billion of dividends. Thwaite noted that this included a 750 million buyback announced earlier in the week alongside the Evolent Partners transaction. Business highlights: retail, wealth and commercial momentum In retail banking, NatWest said its customer base increased by more than 5%, and customer assets and liabilities rose 4% to 421 billion. The Sainsburys Bank transaction added roughly 1 million customer accounts, and management said the deal contributed to unsecured market share rising from 6.4% to 7.2%, including credit card share growth from 9.7% to 10.6%. NatWest also cited improved flow share in mortgages, including first-time buyer flow share rising from 10% to 12% and buy-to-let flow share increasing from 3% to 6%. Private banking and wealth management posted what management described as strong momentum, with more than 50,000 customers investing for the first time during the year. Net new flows to AUMA grew 41%, and AUMA reached 58.5 billion. In commercial and institutional banking, NatWest pointed to FX expansion to 700 additional mid-market customers and said FX revenue grew around 20%. Lending balances in the division rose 10% (up 14 billion), and management cited activity in areas including social housing, infrastructure and climate and transition finance. Efficiency and simplification: cost savings, app enhancements and AI Thwaite said the bank delivered around 600 million of gross cost savings in 2025more than 7% of its 2024 cost baseand created 100 million of investment capacity to reinvest in transformation. Across the group, NatWest described ongoing simplification through technology investment, platform consolidation and reductions in legal entities and property footprint. Management also detailed several digital and AI initiatives. In retail banking, the NatWest app recorded a Net Promoter Score of 51, with more than 100 new features launched during the year. The bank said it rolled out generative AI enhancements to its digital assistant, Cora, increasing the proportion of queries that can be resolved by 20 percentage points. In commercial banking, NatWest highlighted continuing investment in its Bankline platform, which it said customers accessed around 300,000 times last year. During Q&A, executives described cost actions as broad-based, including ongoing application decommissioning, platform consolidation, doing more change at lower cost, and simplification across property and organizational structures. CFO Katie Murray said the bank expects positive jaws in each year toward 2028 and suggested there could be further improvement beyond 2028. Risk, capital and updated targets: lower CET1 target and Basel 3.1 impacts On credit quality, NatWest reported a loan impairment charge of 671 million, equivalent to 16 basis points of loans, and said there were no significant signs of stress across the businesses. For 2026, management guided to a loan impairment rate below 25 basis points, describing this as normalization and mix effects rather than reliance on post-model adjustment releases. Capital generation remained a central theme. Murray said the bank generated 252 basis points of capital in 2025, taking the CET1 ratio to 16.1% before distributions. NatWest also reduced risk-weighted assets by 10.9 billion through capital management actions, including significant risk transfers and a 2 billion mortgage securitization. Looking ahead, Murray said NatWest expects Basel 3.1 implementation in January 2027 to increase RWAs by around 10 billion, largely due to operational risk and the removal of SME and infrastructure support factors. She added there should be some offset in Pillar 2 requirements, though the bank would still need to hold a higher nominal amount of CET1. NatWest also lowered its CET1 operating target, reducing it from a 13% to 14% range to around 13%. Murray cited the banks supervisory minimum of 11.6%, improved stress test performance, stronger earnings and capital generation, and expected Pillar 2 reductions tied to Basel 3.1. Evolent Partners acquisition and guidance Management said the acquisition of Evolent Partners would add 69 billion of AUMA and increase fee income by almost 20% on day one. Thwaite described the deal as creating the UKs leading private bank and wealth manager, with combined AUMA rising to 127 billion and private banking and wealth management customer assets and liabilities (CAL) reaching 188 billion. Murray said the deal would have a day-one CET1 impact of around 130 basis points, reflecting purchased intangibles. NatWest outlined synergy expectations, including greater than 700 million of income benefits and around 100 million of cost synergies, with a cost-to-achieve of approximately 150 million phased over three years. The bank said it expects return on invested capital to exceed the return from a share buyback by year three after completion. For 2026 guidance excluding the impact of Evolent Partners, NatWest forecast: Income (excluding notable items) of 17.2 billion to 17.6 billion (excluding notable items) of 17.2 billion to 17.6 billion Other operating expenses of around 8.2 billion of around 8.2 billion Loan impairment rate below 25 basis points below 25 basis points Capital generation of around 200 basis points before distributions of around 200 basis points before distributions RoTE greater than 17% For 2028, Thwaite introduced targets that include Evolent Partners, including CAL growth greater than 4% annually from 2025 to 2028, a cost-to-income ratio below 45%, capital generation above 200 basis points before distributions while operating with a CET1 ratio around 13%, and RoTE greater than 18%. The bank said it expects to maintain a 50% dividend payout ratio, with surplus capital potentially returned via buybacks. About NatWest Group (NYSE:NWG) NatWest Group plc is a major UK-based banking and financial services group headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland. The company traces its roots to the Royal Bank of Scotland, founded in 1727, and adopted the NatWest Group name in 2020 as part of a strategic refocus on its NatWest brand. NatWest Group is listed on the London Stock Exchange and also has American depositary shares trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NWG. The group provides a broad range of banking services across retail, private, commercial, corporate and institutional segments. Read More NiSource (NYSE:NI) executives emphasized customer affordability, disciplined capital deployment, and expanding large-load opportunities while reporting higher fourth-quarter and full-year adjusted earnings and reaffirming 2026 guidance during the companys fourth-quarter 2025 earnings call. Get alerts: Fourth-quarter results and full-year performance NiSource reported fourth-quarter 2025 adjusted earnings of $0.51 per share, up from $0.49 in the year-ago period. For full-year 2025, the company posted adjusted EPS of $1.90, compared with $1.75 in 2024. Management said 2025 results were supported by disciplined capital allocation and cost management, with outperformance driven by financial management of capital, better-than-expected financing costs, retail sales outperformance, and constructive regulatory execution across its states. These factors were partially offset by higher operating and interest expenses. The company also highlighted balance sheet performance. NiSource reported FFO to debt of 16.1% for 2025, which it said exceeded its targeted range and improved by 150 basis points. The company attributed the result to internally generated cash flows from capital execution, equity issuance through its at-the-market program, junior subordinated note issuance, and higher-than-typical cash flow receipts tied to above-normal weather conditions. Management noted weather effects contributed about 70 basis points to full-year FFO to debt, with a portion expected to be passed back to customers in 2026 through regulatory mechanisms. Guidance reaffirmed; dividend increased NiSource reaffirmed 2026 consolidated adjusted EPS guidance of $2.02 to $2.07. CFO Shawn Anderson said the range reflects roughly 8% year-over-year growth versus 2025 and includes a base business outlook of $2.01 to $2.05 plus an expected $0.01 to $0.02 contribution from GenCo as it begins to ramp in 2026. Management also reiterated its longer-term framework, citing an expected 8% to 9% compound annual growth rate through 2033 supported by a 9% to 11% consolidated rate base CAGR through 2033. The company said its plan assumes modest customer growth of less than 1% across classes and conservative financing assumptions through 2030, along with continued use of capital trackers in most jurisdictions. On shareholder returns, the company said its board approved a 7.1% dividend increase for 2026 compared to 2025, aligning dividend growth with earnings growth and maintaining a targeted payout ratio of 55% to 65%. Amazon agreement and data center pipeline CEO Lloyd Yates highlighted NiSources agreement with Amazon, referencing the companys special contract filing with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC). NiSource said it anticipates $1 billion will flow back to NIPSCO customers, which management described as an estimated $7 to $9 per customer per month upon Amazons full ramp. The company said IURC approval of the special contract remains pending, with a decision expected in the first half of the year. Yates also cited a local milestone for the project, stating that on February 2 a zoning application for five parcels was approved by the Jasper County Commissioners. The next major milestones, he said, include IURC approval and the start of civil site work. Anderson described the companys broader capital plan as including $21 billion of base utility investment over the next five years focused on grid modernization, gas infrastructure replacement, safety, and reliability. Management said the Amazon project at GenCo represents $6 billion to $7 billion of capital investment through 2032, with most within the five-year planning window, and that the contract is designed to align cash inflows with customer ramp rate while incorporating protections intended to support credit quality and financial flexibility. Beyond the base plan, NiSource said it maintains about $2 billion of upside capital investments supporting its utility operations, and it continues to evaluate additional opportunities such as long-range transmission planning and other projects it may later incorporate into base capital spending. On customer demand, the company said its data center pipeline remained robust. Management said it is engaged in strategic negotiations for 1 gigawatt to 3 gigawatts of new capacity and has identified up to 3 gigawatts of additional developing opportunities. Regulatory updates and customer affordability initiatives NiSource executives repeatedly tied investment plans to affordability and regulatory mechanisms. Yates said the company has used proven regulatory and rate design tools to mitigate bill impacts, including Pennsylvanias weather normalization mechanism and a higher fixed charge structure negotiated in its last rate case, as well as Ohios fixed-variable rate design. The company also said it leveraged low-cost gas from storage assets during a severe winter storm, serving about 75% of total load at below-market prices to help limit customer bill impacts. Management reiterated an objective to keep operations and maintenance costs flat across the platform and said it is targeting average annual bill increases of less than 5% over the planned horizon while investing about $28 billion over the next five years to modernize and maintain infrastructure. On rate cases, management said it currently has no pending rate cases. In response to a question about Pennsylvania, Yates noted the company concluded a rate case in December, which included a $55 million revenue increase and a 10% ROE. He said conversations with commissioners included encouragement to continue pipe replacement while also not filing rate cases too frequently, adding that the company is working through possible regulatory solutions but did not provide details. Regarding a potential NIPSCO gas rate case, management said it had not yet determined whether to file. In Ohio, Anderson addressed the significance of newly enacted utility legislation, saying the company is working on optimization to reduce regulatory lag and improve the certainty of capital recovery timelines. He added NiSource has not yet incorporated potential upside from economic development or large-load customer additions into the Columbia Gas of Ohio forecast but said it could be incorporated later. In Indiana, Yates said the company supports House Bill 1002, describing components such as multi-year rate plans and performance-based elements, mandatory budget billing with an opt-out, and low-income plan funding. He said the company believes the bill would be beneficial but noted uncertainty around legislative timing. Operations, safety, and Schahfer coal plant extension NiSource said safety remained its top priority and pointed to certifications including ISO 55001 and API 1173. Management highlighted operational activity in 2025 such as installing more than 0.545 million smart meters and surveying more than 41,000 miles of pipeline using advanced mobile leak detection technology, both of which it said exceeded targets. The company also referenced use of AI and analytics, expansions of its work management intelligence system, and Project Apollo cost-savings efforts. On generation, Yates discussed the Schahfer coal plant after a federal order directed continued operations beyond its planned retirement. He said NiSource would comply with the order and file a proposed cost recovery schedule with FERC in line with Department of Energy-mandated extensions. Yates added that the company has flexibility in its capital plan to accommodate Schahfer operations and expects additional orders approximately every 90 days under the current process, while noting longer-term environmental constraints could affect how long the plant can operate, subject to potential changes in EPA regulations. Finally, Anderson said NiSource expects GenCo to be broken out as its own segment as it becomes more material, and anticipated providing incremental disclosure in 2026 fiscal results, though he did not specify timing within the year. About NiSource (NYSE:NI) NiSource, Inc (NYSE: NI) is a publicly traded energy holding company headquartered in Merrillville, Indiana, that primarily owns and operates regulated local gas and electric utilities in the United States. Through its operating subsidiaries, the company delivers natural gas and electricity to residential, commercial and industrial customers and provides the associated distribution and transmission services that keep local energy systems functioning. The companys core activities include natural gas distribution, electric transmission and distribution, system operations, maintenance and emergency response. Recommended Stories Oncolytics Biotech Inc. (TSE:ONC Get Free Report) insider Jared Ryan Kelly bought 29,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 12th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of C$1.16 per share, with a total value of C$34,220.00. Following the acquisition, the insider directly owned 109,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately C$126,440. This represents a 37.11% increase in their position. Jared Ryan Kelly also recently made the following trade(s): Get Oncolytics Biotech alerts: On Wednesday, February 11th, Jared Ryan Kelly bought 5,600 shares of Oncolytics Biotech stock. The stock was acquired at an average cost of C$1.15 per share, with a total value of C$6,440.00. Oncolytics Biotech Trading Down 1.3% ONC stock opened at C$14.90 on Friday. Oncolytics Biotech Inc. has a 52 week low of C$0.44 and a 52 week high of C$2.08. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 11.75, a quick ratio of 8.86 and a current ratio of 2.99. The companys 50-day simple moving average is C$14.90 and its 200 day simple moving average is C$13.03. The company has a market capitalization of C$1.50 billion, a PE ratio of -40.27 and a beta of 0.80. Oncolytics Biotech Company Profile Oncolytics Biotech ( TSE:ONC Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported C($0.14) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Oncolytics Biotech Inc. will post -0.41 earnings per share for the current year. (Get Free Report) Oncolytics Biotech Inc, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, focuses on the discovery and development of pharmaceutical products for the treatment of cancer. The company is developing pelareorep, an intravenously delivered immunotherapeutic agent, which is in phase 3 clinical trial for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive / human epidermal growth factor 2-negative metastatic breast cancer and advanced/metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. It has a co-development agreement with Merck KGaA and Pfizer Inc to co-develop pelareorep, as well as with Roche Holding AG. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Oncolytics Biotech Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Oncolytics Biotech and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Oneview Healthcare (ASX:ONE) reported full-year 2025 results (year ended December 2025) and outlined product, commercial, and cost initiatives during its earnings call, with management highlighting accelerating deployment activity, continued U.S. focus, and a growing role for AI in product development and operations. Get alerts: Financial performance and margins CFO Darragh Lyons said the company posted a 21% increase in revenue in 2025 versus 2024. Management attributed the growth to an increase in non-recurring revenue and 7% growth in annual recurring revenue, supported by the addition of 18 new logos over the past few years. Lyons noted that currency headwindsparticularly a weaker U.S. dollarnegatively affected reported growth, with the U.S. generating nearly 80% of revenue. On a constant-currency basis, he said year-over-year growth was Gross margin declined by 3 percentage points to 64%, which Lyons said was driven by revenue mix, as non-recurring revenue carries lower margins than recurring revenue. In Q&A, Lyons said he expects gross margin to hold around current levels in 2026, describing expectations as mid- to low-60s. Operating EBITDA loss improved, with Lyons reporting an 8% reduction to EUR 8.1 million, which he attributed to higher revenue while cash operating expenses remained consistent with 2024. Cost actions and liquidity Management emphasized a reduction in operating expenses in the second half following a restructuring executed in May 2025 and additional efficiencies. Lyons said H2 2025 cash OpEx was 9% lower than H1 2025 and 13% lower than H2 2024. In response to a webcast question on the run-rate impact of overhead cost reductions, Lyons said OpEx declined from just under EUR 8.4 million in H1 2025 to just over EUR 7.63 million in H2 2025more than EUR 700,000 in savingsequating to roughly EUR 1.4 million annualized. He added the company expects H2 2025 OpEx levels to hold into H1 2026 while further efficiencies are implemented, with more benefit anticipated in H2 2026 and into 2027. On the balance sheet, Lyons reported cash of EUR 4.6 million at December 31, 2025, with the year-over-year decline broadly in line with the operating EBITDA loss. He also pointed to inventory of EUR 2.9 million, largely proprietary hardware, which he said could help insulate the company from potential pricing or tariff volatility and support planned 2026 deployments. Deployments, endpoints, and expansion strategy Lyons said the company ended 2025 with 14,800 live endpoints. Net deployment growth was impacted by the decommissioning of about 900 endpoints at an Australian customer due to budget constraints, though he noted new endpoint additions are generating more than double the revenue per endpoint compared with the decommissioned units. He also cited a 31% acceleration in deployment activity during H2 2025 versus H1 2025, attributing the change to improvements in deployment efficiency and momentum from recent logo additions. Looking ahead, Lyons said the companys target is an endpoint base of just under 18,000 by the end of 2026, representing roughly a 20% increase, supported by an ability to turn on endpoints at new customers within a 90-day window. CEO James Fitter said the companys land and expand approach has become more powerful with three products added to the portfolio in the last 15 months: Digital Whiteboard, Digital Door Sign, and MyStay Mobile. He said these offerings provide the ability to nearly double revenue with existing customers, describing this as nearly 100% revenue growth potential within installed bases. Fitter also discussed the companys shift from focusing on beds to focusing on endpoints, defining endpoints as any revenue-generating data point in the room, including TVs, tablets, whiteboards, and door signs. He said that across the 18 logos added in the past three years, the company sees approximately 46,000 endpoints as a target opportunity, and in recent contracts the company is averaging around 2.5 endpoints per room. During Q&A, Chief Product Officer Niall ONeill said Oneview previously disclosed revenue per endpoint of about EUR 1.50 per day at the half-year and said it remained solid in the second half. He added that revenue per endpoint will depend on the mix of products deployed over time. ONeill also referenced a 92% upsell opportunity from adding additional endpoints to previously won beds, particularly among legacy customers that signed before newer products were available. Partnership momentum and product roadmap, including AI Fitter highlighted the addition of Michael Dowling to the board effective December 2, describing him as the CEO for the past 23 years of a large New York health system and emphasizing his experience in U.S. healthcare operations and reimbursement. In Q&A, Fitter said Northwell is not a current customer, though it has been in the sales pipeline, and cautioned investors not to assume the board appointment would directly lead to a win. Fitter also emphasized the companys partnership with Baxter (via Baxters Hill-Rom acquisition), describing Baxter as a major supplier of smart beds, nurse call systems, and infusion pumps. He said the partnership has produced over 156 qualified opportunities in the pipeline and noted completed integrations into the Voalte nurse call platform, plus upcoming engagement at Baxters national sales conference. ONeill detailed Oneviews product development initiatives, including a redesigned software development lifecycle using AI with a goal of velocity with quality. He said the company is on its third iteration leveraging agentic AI, with maturity targets for key phases such as requirements definition, build, and test. ONeill said a new staff-facing product, OVI Console, is expected to go from concept to pilot in 2026 using a single high agency engineer leveraging AI, and he cited internal survey data showing the share of engineers reporting more than 15% daily time savings increased from 58% to 76% over two quarters. He also outlined a new user interface for MyStayTV and MyStayTablet designed to improve accessibility, support demographic-specific layouts, and enable a broader digital care assistant concept called Ovie. ONeill described Ovie as aimed at reducing non-clinical interruptions for nurses by routing requests to appropriate teams, delivering reminders and prompts to patients, enabling voice-based control of room functions, and providing operational visibility for staff and leaders. The company described an Ovie ecosystem consisting of four products: Ovie Engage , a context-aware home screen widget launching at the ViVE show and expected to go live with customers in the coming months; , a context-aware home screen widget launching at the ViVE show and expected to go live with customers in the coming months; Ovie Voice , a natural-language voice assistant integrated with MyStay TV and Tablet, expected to enter pilot in 2026; , a natural-language voice assistant integrated with MyStay TV and Tablet, expected to enter pilot in 2026; Ovie Console , a staff-facing real-time visibility tool to be previewed at ViVE with pilots planned in the coming months; , a staff-facing real-time visibility tool to be previewed at ViVE with pilots planned in the coming months; Ovie Rounds, a smart rounding tool in prototype, planned for delivery in 2027 subject to customer validation. Fitter said Oneview was the first ASX-listed company to be ISO 42001 certified for AI management systems, emphasizing governance, privacy, and trust in healthcare settings. He also announced the appointment of Dr. Greg Jackson as AI transformation lead, stating Jackson identified 54 projects to automate or change business processes and was tasked with initiating work across functions including HR, finance, project management, and software development. Looking ahead, management cited improved U.S. hospital profitability and capital availability, growth opportunities through expansion within recent customer wins, and expected ongoing OpEx reductions. Fitter also flagged risks including regulatory uncertainty in the U.S. potentially delaying capital spending, and noted that conversion of the Baxter pipeline is outside the companys control. About Oneview Healthcare (ASX:ONE) Oneview Healthcare PLC develops and sells software and related consultancy services for the healthcare sector in Ireland, the United States, Australia, Asia, and the Middle East. The company operates Care Experience Platform (CXP) Cloud Start that allows customers to implement critical digital engagement capabilities across their entire enterprise; CXP Cloud Enterprise and CXP Enterprise On-Prem that meets enterprise needs across various types of facilities from new construction to existing hospitals with legacy wiring, as well as provides automated device management, system integrations, and data analytics services. Recommended Stories Jefferies Financial Group cut shares of Ormat Technologies (NYSE:ORA Free Report) from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report issued on Friday morning, Marketbeat reports. Jefferies Financial Group currently has $130.00 target price on the energy companys stock, up from their previous target price of $125.00. A number of other equities analysts also recently issued reports on ORA. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Ormat Technologies in a research note on Thursday, January 22nd. Roth Mkm set a $139.00 target price on Ormat Technologies in a report on Wednesday, January 28th. UBS Group restated a buy rating and set a $148.00 price target on shares of Ormat Technologies in a research note on Wednesday, February 4th. Barclays reduced their price target on shares of Ormat Technologies from $118.00 to $108.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, January 15th. Finally, Oppenheimer raised their price objective on shares of Ormat Technologies from $125.00 to $136.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, January 27th. Seven research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $130.00. Get Ormat Technologies alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Report on ORA Ormat Technologies Stock Down 1.9% Institutional Investors Weigh In On Ormat Technologies ORA opened at $118.15 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $7.18 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 54.20, a PEG ratio of 4.83 and a beta of 0.77. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $117.68 and a 200-day moving average price of $106.13. Ormat Technologies has a twelve month low of $62.91 and a twelve month high of $132.58. The company has a quick ratio of 0.70, a current ratio of 0.77 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.79. A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in ORA. Curio Wealth LLC boosted its position in shares of Ormat Technologies by 29,200.0% in the second quarter. Curio Wealth LLC now owns 293 shares of the energy companys stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 292 shares during the period. Los Angeles Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Ormat Technologies during the 4th quarter valued at $32,000. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC bought a new position in Ormat Technologies in the 4th quarter worth $33,000. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC boosted its holdings in Ormat Technologies by 245.3% in the 4th quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 297 shares of the energy companys stock worth $33,000 after buying an additional 211 shares during the period. Finally, Jones Financial Companies Lllp increased its stake in Ormat Technologies by 43.8% in the 3rd quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 371 shares of the energy companys stock worth $35,000 after buying an additional 113 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 95.49% of the companys stock. About Ormat Technologies (Get Free Report) Ormat Technologies, Inc is a leading renewable energy company specializing in geothermal and recovered energy power plants. Through its vertically integrated business model, Ormat designs, develops, engineers, constructs, owns and operates clean energy projects worldwide. The companys core technology centers on the Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC), which converts heat from geothermal sources or industrial waste streams into sustainable electricity without combustion. Ormats offering includes turnkey power plant solutions, proprietary ORC equipment and ongoing operations and maintenance services. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Ormat Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ormat Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. News / National by Stephen Jakes A new youth movement, the United Youth Movement, has been launched with the aim of challenging what it describes as systemic repression that has left many young Zimbabweans without job opportunities, economic security or meaningful participation in national affairs. In a statement, the organisation said it was introducing a new discourse and a new platform for young people across the country, describing the initiative as a call to unity and a push for real freedom.Young people in Zimbabwe are living through a defining moment in our nations history, the movement said.We are growing up in a time marked by political uncertainty, a deep governance crisis, mass unemployment, unaffordable education and healthcare, shrinking civic space, and limited opportunities for meaningful participation.The movement said these challenges had denied young people their dreams, dignity and rightful place in shaping the countrys future.This is not a partisan space, the statement added. It is a national youth platform that belongs to everyone, regardless of background, political affiliation, social status or walk of life. It is rooted in inclusion, dialogue, creativity and decisive action.The United Youth Movement said its mission was to unite young people, rebuild hope and reclaim collective power, noting that the problems facing the youth were systemic and rooted in governance failures.But we also understand our strength. We are not merely victims of circumstance we are a generation capable of transformation, the movement said.It announced plans to roll out a programme of action in the coming weeks, engaging young people across all sectors and communities.We will engage every young person: from street level to campuses, from informal settlements to workplaces, from artists to entrepreneurs, from activists to faith communities, from rural villages to urban centres. No voice is too small. No community is too remote. No young person is irrelevant.The movement described itself as a call to unity and collective action.Now is the time. We are the Denied Generation #GenD but we refuse to be a defeated generation, the statement read. Public Sector Pension Investment Board increased its position in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report) by 150.4% in the third quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 1,098,177 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after buying an additional 659,601 shares during the period. Public Sector Pension Investment Boards holdings in Pfizer were worth $27,982,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Several other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in PFE. Curio Wealth LLC raised its stake in shares of Pfizer by 36,600.0% in the second quarter. Curio Wealth LLC now owns 1,101 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 1,098 shares during the last quarter. Harbor Asset Planning Inc. acquired a new position in Pfizer in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $29,000. Grey Fox Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Pfizer during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $29,000. Howard Hughes Medical Institute acquired a new stake in Pfizer during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Finally, Darwin Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in Pfizer during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $32,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.36% of the companys stock. Get Pfizer alerts: Pfizer Trading Up 0.4% PFE stock opened at $27.58 on Friday. Pfizer Inc. has a 52-week low of $20.92 and a 52-week high of $27.94. The company has a quick ratio of 0.97, a current ratio of 1.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62. The firm has a market cap of $156.78 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.28 and a beta of 0.47. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $25.81 and its 200-day simple moving average is $25.19. Pfizer Dividend Announcement Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 3rd. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.66 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.57 by $0.09. The company had revenue of $17.56 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $16.93 billion. Pfizer had a return on equity of 20.25% and a net margin of 12.42%.Pfizers quarterly revenue was down 1.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $0.63 EPS. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.95 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 6th. Stockholders of record on Friday, January 23rd will be given a dividend of $0.43 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, January 23rd. This represents a $1.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.2%. Pfizers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 126.47%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts have recently weighed in on PFE shares. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Thursday, January 22nd. Morgan Stanley cut their price target on Pfizer from $32.00 to $28.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, December 12th. Guggenheim reiterated a buy rating on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Wednesday, December 17th. Bank of America lowered their target price on Pfizer from $29.00 to $28.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, December 15th. Finally, Daiwa Securities Group cut Pfizer from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $27.00 price target for the company. in a research report on Thursday. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have assigned a Buy rating, fourteen have issued a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Pfizer currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $28.00. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on PFE Pfizer Profile (Free Report) Pfizer Inc (NYSE: PFE) is a multinational biopharmaceutical company headquartered in New York City. Founded in 1849 by Charles Pfizer and Charles Erhart, the company researches, develops, manufactures and commercializes a broad range of medicines and vaccines for human health. Its activities span discovery research, clinical development, regulatory affairs, manufacturing and global commercial distribution across multiple therapeutic areas. Pfizers portfolio and pipeline cover oncology, immunology, cardiology, endocrinology, rare diseases, hospital acute care and anti-infectives, along with a substantial vaccine business. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PFE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of PSQ Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:PSQH Get Free Report) were down 3.8% during trading on Thursday . The stock traded as low as $0.70 and last traded at $0.7150. Approximately 281,658 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 92% from the average daily volume of 3,465,695 shares. The stock had previously closed at $0.7430. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Roth Mkm restated a buy rating and issued a $3.50 price objective on shares of PSQ in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (e+) rating on shares of PSQ in a research note on Thursday, January 22nd. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $3.50. Get PSQ alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on PSQ PSQ Stock Up 8.4% Institutional Investors Weigh In On PSQ The stock has a market capitalization of $35.28 million, a P/E ratio of -0.64 and a beta of 0.05. The company has a current ratio of 2.54, a quick ratio of 2.54 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.91. The firms fifty day moving average is $1.04 and its 200-day moving average is $1.58. A number of large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Concurrent Investment Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of PSQ in the second quarter valued at approximately $25,000. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. raised its holdings in PSQ by 83.3% during the 2nd quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 12,390 shares of the companys stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 5,631 shares during the last quarter. Coppell Advisory Solutions LLC acquired a new position in PSQ during the 2nd quarter valued at about $27,000. Centiva Capital LP bought a new position in shares of PSQ in the 3rd quarter valued at about $34,000. Finally, Shay Capital LLC grew its position in shares of PSQ by 46.1% during the 2nd quarter. Shay Capital LLC now owns 28,516 shares of the companys stock worth $58,000 after buying an additional 9,001 shares during the period. 17.32% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. About PSQ (Get Free Report) PSQ Holdings, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates an online marketplace through advertising and eCommerce in the United States. It operates through two segments, Marketplace and Brands segments. The PSQ platform is accessible through its mobile application and website. The company also sells diapers and wipes to mothers online under the EveryLife brand name. PSQ Holdings, Inc is headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for PSQ Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PSQ and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shiseido Co. (OTCMKTS:SSDOY Get Free Report)s stock price reached a new 52-week high during trading on Thursday after Macquarie Capit upgraded the stock from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating. The stock traded as high as $21.10 and last traded at $21.03, with a volume of 9648 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $19.61. Separately, The Goldman Sachs Group upgraded shares of Shiseido from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, December 10th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has issued a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Buy. Get Shiseido alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Shiseido Shiseido Stock Performance The company has a current ratio of 1.35, a quick ratio of 0.89 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43. The stock has a market capitalization of $8.69 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -31.09 and a beta of 0.36. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $16.36 and its 200-day simple moving average is $16.50. Shiseido (OTCMKTS:SSDOY Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 10th. The company reported $0.05 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of ($0.10) by $0.15. The firm had revenue of $1.77 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.77 billion. Shiseido had a positive return on equity of 0.97% and a negative net margin of 4.27%.Shiseido has set its FY 2026 guidance at 0.680-0.680 EPS. On average, analysts expect that Shiseido Co. will post 0.29 EPS for the current year. About Shiseido (Get Free Report) Shiseido Company, Limited is a leading Japanese multinational specializing in cosmetics, skincare, makeup and fragrance products. Founded in 1872 and headquartered in Tokyo, the company operates through a portfolio of brands that span premium, prestige and mass-market segments. Its core business activities include the development, manufacturing and sale of skincare treatments, decorative cosmetics, hair care and sun protection products. Shiseidos brand portfolio encompasses flagship lines such as Shiseido, Cle de Peau Beaute, NARS and bareMinerals, alongside regional and heritage labels tailored to diverse consumer preferences. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Shiseido Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Shiseido and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Orient Overseas International Ltd. (OTCMKTS:OROVY Get Free Report) was the target of a large growth in short interest in January. As of January 30th, there was short interest totaling 1,523 shares, a growth of 156.0% from the January 15th total of 595 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 239 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 6.4 days. Based on an average daily volume of 239 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 6.4 days. Orient Overseas International Stock Performance OROVY stock opened at $84.42 on Friday. Orient Overseas International has a 1 year low of $60.77 and a 1 year high of $93.89. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $81.41 and a 200-day simple moving average of $84.34. Get Orient Overseas International alerts: Orient Overseas International Company Profile (Get Free Report) Orient Overseas International Ltd is a Hong Kongbased investment holding company with core interests in maritime transport and related logistics services. Through its principal operating subsidiary, Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL), the group specializes in international container shipping, offering scheduled services across major eastwest and northsouth trade routes. The companys operations encompass vessel chartering, container manufacturing, terminal management and intermodal transport solutions. Founded from roots dating back to the mid-20th century maritime expansion in Asia, Orient Overseas International has grown into a global operator serving ports in Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, the Middle East and Australasia. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Orient Overseas International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Orient Overseas International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. SoftBank Group (OTCMKTS:SFTBY Get Free Report) released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday. The technology company reported $0.14 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.10 by $0.04, Zacks reports. The firm had revenue of $12.90 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $12.44 billion. SoftBank Group had a net margin of 48.62% and a return on equity of 24.75%. SoftBank Group Price Performance SoftBank Group stock traded down $1.04 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $14.60. 2,938,150 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,607,846. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $13.89 and a 200-day simple moving average of $14.84. The firm has a market cap of $166.79 billion, a PE ratio of 6.74 and a beta of 1.47. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.76, a current ratio of 0.92 and a quick ratio of 0.90. SoftBank Group has a 12 month low of $4.97 and a 12 month high of $22.50. Get SoftBank Group alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research firms have weighed in on SFTBY. Citigroup assumed coverage on shares of SoftBank Group in a report on Monday, January 5th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. BTIG Research initiated coverage on SoftBank Group in a report on Monday, January 5th. They set a buy rating for the company. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, SoftBank Group currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy. SoftBank Group News Summary Here are the key news stories impacting SoftBank Group this week: SoftBank Group Company Profile (Get Free Report) SoftBank Group Corp is a Tokyobased multinational conglomerate holding company with a primary focus on technology, telecommunications and investment management. Founded in 1981 by Masayoshi Son, the company initially operated as a software distributor before expanding into mobile communications and internet services. Over the years, SoftBank has built a diversified portfolio that spans telecom operators, semiconductor design, cloud computing, and emerging technology ventures. A key pillar of SoftBanks strategy is its investment arm, the SoftBank Vision Fund, which targets highgrowth technology companies around the globe. See Also Receive News & Ratings for SoftBank Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for SoftBank Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Suzano (NYSE:SUZ) executives highlighted record pulp shipments, ongoing progress in its U.S. paperboard operations, and lower costs during the companys fourth-quarter 2025 earnings call, while also pointing to a tightening supply-and-demand picture for hardwood pulp heading into 2026. Get alerts: Record pulp shipments and resilience through the cycle CEO Beto Abreu said Q4 featured record pulp shipment volumes for Suzano, which he attributed to flawless execution by the supply chain organization. Abreu also emphasized that cash costs came in absolutely in line with the plan, and that the company generated strong operational cash flow and free cash flow despite what he described as a lower price cycle. Paper and packaging: U.S. stability, Brazil impacted by prices and FX Abreu additionally called 2025 an inflection point for Suzanos total operational disbursement (TDO), suggesting a new downward trend beginning in 2026 as part of the companys competitiveness agenda. Fabio (paper and packaging lead) said Suzanos paper and packaging business delivered strong volumes in Brazil and the U.S. in Q4, helped by paperboard seasonality. He noted continued declines in export paper prices and described international markets as weak, with oversupply and declining demand. In Latin America, demand was described as more resilient than in the U.S. and Europe, though Fabio cited inflows of Asian papers at very low prices. In the U.S., management said Suzanos packaging business remained a positive highlight with stable pricing quarter-over-quarter and a 21% year-over-year increase (as described on the call). However, the company also pointed to new capacity in the U.S. SBS market pressuring operating ratesparticularly in folding box and food servicewhile liquid packaging board was described as more insulated. On EBITDA, Fabio said the paper and packaging units performance improved quarter-over-quarter, with a 10% increase driven by the ongoing turnaround at Suzano Packaging in the U.S. He added that EBITDA in Brazil was pressured by lower prices and foreign exchange despite higher volumes, and that annual maintenance downtimes at the Suzano and Limeira mills were completed on time and on budget but increased costs. Looking to Q1, management expects lower sales volumes due to seasonality, improved pricing as announced increases are phased in across Brazil and export markets, and better Brazilian cash costs due to no planned downtimes. In the U.S. packaging business, prices are expected to remain stable in dollars given that most volumes are under contract, though Fabio warned of potential cost pressure from winter conditions and higher-than-expected natural gas prices. Fabio also disclosed that Suzano decided in January to cease paper operations at the Rio Verde mill, its only non-integrated paper site. The mill produced about 50,000 tons annually and had the highest cash cost in the portfolio, he said. Management expects a positive impact on 2026 results by relocating production to the more competitive Suzano and Limeira mills and adjusting commercial strategy. Pulp markets: price recovery, China demand, and supply-side shifts Leo (pulp business lead) said Q4 was marked by price recovery in all markets, driven by higher hardwood pulp demand in China and Asia. He also cited a pressured wood-cost base in Asia, raising cash costs for regional producers. In China, he said paper and board production rose 17% in Q4/2025 versus Q4/2024 (per SCI), while full-year 2025 production grew 3%, with Ivory board up 8% and tissue up 6%. Leo said Chinese pulp imports increased by 1.7 million tons in 2025, including 1.4 million tons of hardwood pulp (per Chinese customs statistics). He attributed demand to softwood substitution and textile players increasing purchases of paper-grade pulp. Suzanos order intake in Q4 was above expectations, and he said the company carried delivery backlogs for regions where it invoices directly from Brazil, including China, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. The company reported an average realized pulp price of $538 per ton in Q4, which Leo described as backward-looking due to invoicing backlogs; he said market prices were already above that level and that new orders across regions were captured at higher price set points. Suzano sold record volumes in Q4, above production, driving inventories to very low levels and pressuring logistics operations. Leo also cited $4.8 billion in EBITDA, up 8% quarter-over-quarter, supported by higher volumes and improved U.S. dollar pricing. For early 2026, Leo pointed to strong January production data in China and said the increase did not lead to inventory build at paper producers. He also said order intake remained strong in January with full implementation of announced price increases, including in Western markets. Management identified two supply-side developments that it said improved short- and mid-term pulp price dynamics: Indonesia forestry permit revocations covering more than 1 million hectares, in addition to 500,000 hectares revoked in 2025. Leo said a key producer announced an immediate and unexpected curtailment of 150,000 tons for February and March combined, and that Indonesia may intensify woodchip purchasesprimarily from Vietnamsupporting higher woodchip prices. covering more than 1 million hectares, in addition to 500,000 hectares revoked in 2025. Leo said a key producer announced an immediate and unexpected curtailment of 150,000 tons for February and March combined, and that Indonesia may intensify woodchip purchasesprimarily from Vietnamsupporting higher woodchip prices. APPs OKI project delay from early Q2 to mid-Q4/2026. Leo said this had been the only market pulp capacity addition expected in 2026, and that the delay means no incremental market pulp capacity is expected to reach markets during the year. During Q&A, Leo added that Suzanos more positive tone versus prior discussions was largely driven by these supply-side changes, and he also discussed APPs planned startup of a board machine in Indonesia, which management expects will require pulp sourcing while OKI 2 remains delayed. Leo said Suzano will need to rebuild inventories in Q1 ahead of a maintenance-heavy Q2. He said planned downtime will reduce Q2 output by almost 300,000 tons versus Q2/2025 under the companys production plan, leading to constrained volumes and zero allocation to spot markets for customers purchasing directly from Brazilian ports, including China and other Asian markets, the Middle East, and Africa. Costs, cash flow, leverage, and shareholder returns Aires (costs) said Suzano closed Q4 with cash cost of BRL 778 per ton, a 3% reduction versus Q3, driven by lower input costs, greater operational stability, lower prices for energy and chemicals (including natural gas and caustic soda), lower labor costs, and wood benefits from shorter average radius and better quality. He said Q4 represented Suzanos best cash cost performance since 2021 and that the company expects 2026 average cash production cost of pulp to be broadly in line with Q4/2025, with a more pressured Q1 due to maintenance and then gradual improvement through the year. Marcos (finance) reported free cash flow of $400 million in Q4/2025, helping reduce net debt to $12.6 billion and lowering leverage to 3.2x in dollar terms. He also said Suzano renewed and upsized its revolving credit facility from $1.3 billion to $1.8 billion with 20 banks while reducing the facilitys cost. Management said 2025 CAPEX came in line with guidance and that 2026 CAPEX guidance is being reduced by nearly 20% year-over-year. Marcos also detailed a $6.2 billion FX hedge portfolio as of December 2025, using zero-cost collars with a range of BRL 5.83 to BRL 6.73 per U.S. dollar, and discussed potential positive cash adjustments under certain FX scenarios. On shareholder returns, Marcos said Suzano paid BRL 1.4 billion in dividends (more than 2% dividend yield, per management) and completed its fifth buyback program on February 9, acquiring 15 million shares. The company also announced a new buyback program for up to 40 million shares over the next 18 months. In Q&A, management reiterated a stated ambition (shared previously at Suzano Day) to reduce net debt to $11 billion and said deleveraging is expected to come primarily from operations rather than divestments, though it may consider selling non-core assetsparticularly in forestrywhen land has higher value for other uses. Abreu also said Suzanos joint venture with Kimberly-Clark is progressing as planned, with an expected closing in mid-2026, and emphasized priorities for 2026 around extracting value from past investments, including ramping returns from the new tissue project in Aracruz, continuing improvements at Pine Bluff, and completing the JV carve-out on time. About Suzano (NYSE:SUZ) Suzano SA is a Brazil-based pulp and paper company recognized as one of the worlds leading producers of eucalyptus pulp. The company develops and supplies a wide range of fiber-based products that serve global demand in printing and writing papers, tissue paper, packaging, and specialty paper markets. With an extensive network of industrial units and logistics operations, Suzano manages every stage of production from forest plantations to final delivery, emphasizing integrated operations and quality control. At the core of Suzanos business is its sustainable forestry model, which covers more than one million hectares of managed eucalyptus plantations across Brazil. Featured Articles The Berkeley Group Holdings plc (LON:BKG Get Free Report)s share price hit a new 52-week high on Thursday . The company traded as high as GBX 4,404 and last traded at GBX 4,400, with a volume of 939094 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at GBX 4,318. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research analysts have recently issued reports on BKG shares. The Goldman Sachs Group began coverage on shares of The Berkeley Group in a report on Monday, November 24th. They set a sell rating and a GBX 3,714 price objective on the stock. Royal Bank Of Canada downgraded The Berkeley Group to an underperform rating and decreased their target price for the stock from GBX 4,900 to GBX 3,700 in a research report on Tuesday, December 2nd. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised The Berkeley Group to an overweight rating and upped their price target for the company from GBX 4,700 to GBX 5,000 in a report on Wednesday, February 4th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of GBX 4,475.80. Get The Berkeley Group alerts: Read Our Latest Report on The Berkeley Group The Berkeley Group Stock Performance The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 18.66, a current ratio of 3.39 and a quick ratio of 0.57. The firm has a market cap of 4.20 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.07, a PEG ratio of -0.87 and a beta of 1.22. The stocks 50 day moving average is GBX 3,994.10 and its two-hundred day moving average is GBX 3,870.97. The Berkeley Group (LON:BKG Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, December 10th. The company reported GBX 183.70 earnings per share for the quarter. The Berkeley Group had a return on equity of 11.40% and a net margin of 16.13%. The Berkeley Group Company Profile (Get Free Report) At Berkeley Group we build homes and neighbourhoods across London, Birmingham and the South of England. Our passion and purpose is to build quality homes, strengthen communities and make a positive difference to peoples lives. We use our sustained commercial success to make valuable and enduring contributions that benefit all our stakeholders. We specialise in brownfield regeneration, working closely with local communities and councils to revive underused land and create homes where they are needed most. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for The Berkeley Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Berkeley Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Baxter International (NYSE:BAX Get Free Report) had its price objective dropped by equities research analysts at The Goldman Sachs Group from $21.00 to $17.00 in a research note issued to investors on Friday,MarketScreener reports. The firm presently has a neutral rating on the medical instruments suppliers stock. The Goldman Sachs Groups price target suggests a potential downside of 14.15% from the companys current price. Several other analysts also recently commented on the company. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price objective on Baxter International from $21.00 to $19.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, December 12th. Wall Street Zen cut Baxter International from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, February 7th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their target price on Baxter International from $25.00 to $19.00 in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Barclays cut their price target on shares of Baxter International from $30.00 to $25.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday. Finally, Zacks Research downgraded shares of Baxter International from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 20th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have issued a Hold rating and three have issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Reduce and a consensus target price of $20.10. Get Baxter International alerts: Get Our Latest Analysis on Baxter International Baxter International Stock Up 5.8% BAX stock opened at $19.80 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.21, a current ratio of 1.84 and a quick ratio of 1.18. The stock has a market capitalization of $10.18 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -10.70, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.27 and a beta of 0.59. The company has a 50-day moving average of $19.79 and a two-hundred day moving average of $21.26. Baxter International has a 52-week low of $17.40 and a 52-week high of $37.74. Baxter International (NYSE:BAX Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 12th. The medical instruments supplier reported $0.44 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.53 by ($0.09). Baxter International had a negative net margin of 8.51% and a positive return on equity of 16.31%. The firm had revenue of $2.97 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.82 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $0.58 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 8.0% on a year-over-year basis. Baxter International has set its FY 2026 guidance at 1.850-2.050 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Baxter International will post 2.48 EPS for the current year. Institutional Trading of Baxter International Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of BAX. Basepoint Wealth LLC acquired a new position in shares of Baxter International during the 4th quarter worth approximately $26,000. CoreFirst Bank & Trust acquired a new position in Baxter International during the second quarter worth $27,000. Imprint Wealth LLC bought a new stake in Baxter International during the third quarter worth $27,000. MTM Investment Management LLC bought a new stake in Baxter International during the second quarter worth $30,000. Finally, Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV lifted its stake in Baxter International by 169.6% in the second quarter. Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV now owns 984 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 619 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 90.19% of the companys stock. Trending Headlines about Baxter International Here are the key news stories impacting Baxter International this week: Baxter International Company Profile (Get Free Report) Baxter International Inc is a global healthcare company that develops, manufactures and markets a broad portfolio of medical products, pharmaceutical therapies and biotechnology-based solutions. The companys primary business activities are organized around renal care, medication delivery, acute therapies, pharmacy automation, surgical care and biotechnology. Baxters offerings are designed to support patient care in hospitals, dialysis centers, nursing homes and other healthcare facilities worldwide. In the renal care segment, Baxter provides hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis systems, water treatment equipment and related disposables, including dialyzers, bloodlines and catheters. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Baxter International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Baxter International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Tyler Technologies (NYSE:TYL Free Report) had its price objective reduced by Stifel Nicolaus from $550.00 to $400.00 in a research report sent to investors on Friday morning,Benzinga reports. They currently have a buy rating on the technology companys stock. Other research analysts have also recently issued research reports about the company. Barclays cut their price objective on Tyler Technologies from $715.00 to $410.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Friday. TD Cowen cut their price target on shares of Tyler Technologies from $600.00 to $500.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Friday. The Goldman Sachs Group started coverage on shares of Tyler Technologies in a research note on Tuesday, January 13th. They issued a buy rating and a $560.00 price objective for the company. Piper Sandler restated an overweight rating and set a $543.00 target price (down from $671.00) on shares of Tyler Technologies in a research report on Friday. Finally, Robert W. Baird set a $660.00 target price on shares of Tyler Technologies in a report on Friday, October 31st. Twelve analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $467.54. Get Tyler Technologies alerts: View Our Latest Analysis on Tyler Technologies Tyler Technologies Stock Up 5.8% NYSE TYL opened at $303.74 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $13.07 billion, a P/E ratio of 42.19, a P/E/G ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 0.91. Tyler Technologies has a 52-week low of $283.71 and a 52-week high of $650.97. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $423.20 and a 200 day moving average price of $486.51. Tyler Technologies (NYSE:TYL Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, February 11th. The technology company reported $2.64 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.71 by ($0.07). The business had revenue of $575.18 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $591.09 million. Tyler Technologies had a return on equity of 10.42% and a net margin of 13.53%.The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 6.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $2.43 EPS. On average, equities research analysts expect that Tyler Technologies will post 8.52 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Insider Transactions at Tyler Technologies In other Tyler Technologies news, Director Glenn A. Carter sold 500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $458.73, for a total value of $229,365.00. Following the sale, the director owned 3,172 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,455,091.56. This represents a 13.62% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CFO Brian K. Miller sold 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, November 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $469.08, for a total transaction of $469,080.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer owned 12,781 shares in the company, valued at $5,995,311.48. This represents a 7.26% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 3,500 shares of company stock valued at $1,605,605. 1.10% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Tyler Technologies A number of institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in TYL. Advisors Asset Management Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Tyler Technologies during the first quarter valued at $38,000. NewEdge Advisors LLC raised its stake in Tyler Technologies by 17.8% in the 1st quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 251 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $146,000 after purchasing an additional 38 shares during the last quarter. Woodline Partners LP purchased a new position in Tyler Technologies in the 1st quarter valued at about $2,102,000. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Tyler Technologies by 137.9% during the 1st quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 69 shares of the technology companys stock worth $40,000 after purchasing an additional 40 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Blue Trust Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Tyler Technologies by 30.9% during the second quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 199 shares of the technology companys stock worth $118,000 after buying an additional 47 shares in the last quarter. 93.30% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Trending Headlines about Tyler Technologies Here are the key news stories impacting Tyler Technologies this week: Positive Sentiment: Company guidance lifted upside Tyler raised FY2026 EPS guidance to $12.40$12.65 (vs. consensus ~$11.49), and issued revenue guidance roughly in line with Street expectations; that stronger forward EPS range is supporting the stock today. Company guidance lifted upside Tyler raised FY2026 EPS guidance to $12.40$12.65 (vs. consensus ~$11.49), and issued revenue guidance roughly in line with Street expectations; that stronger forward EPS range is supporting the stock today. Positive Sentiment: TD Cowen still maintains a buy rating with a $500 price target (cut from $600), which implies a large upside from the current price and provides buyside support. Read More. TD Cowen still maintains a buy rating with a $500 price target (cut from $600), which implies a large upside from the current price and provides buyside support. Read More. Neutral Sentiment: Stifel Nicolaus trimmed its price target to $400 but kept a buy rating the cut reduces cushion versus prior targets but preserves positive analyst posture. Read More. Stifel Nicolaus trimmed its price target to $400 but kept a buy rating the cut reduces cushion versus prior targets but preserves positive analyst posture. Read More. Neutral Sentiment: Wells Fargo lowered its target to $335 and moved to an equal weight view, signaling more cautious nearterm expectations and less analyst conviction. Read More. Read More. Wells Fargo lowered its target to $335 and moved to an equal weight view, signaling more cautious nearterm expectations and less analyst conviction. Read More. Read More. Negative Sentiment: Q4 results missed consensus: EPS $2.64 vs. est. $2.71 and revenue also missed that miss triggered downward revisions and initial selling pressure after the print. Read More. Q4 results missed consensus: EPS $2.64 vs. est. $2.71 and revenue also missed that miss triggered downward revisions and initial selling pressure after the print. Read More. Negative Sentiment: Analysts collectively pared forecasts and coverage after the downbeat quarter; commentary and headlines note a selloff and that the stock is trading at a much lower valuation than recent years, increasing nearterm downside risk. Read More. Read More. About Tyler Technologies (Get Free Report) Tyler Technologies, Inc is a provider of software and technology services for the public sector, delivering integrated systems that help government and public agencies manage operations, finances and citizen services. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, the company focuses on developing and implementing solutions for local and state governments, school districts, courts and public safety organizations. Its offerings are aimed at modernizing administrative workflows, improving transparency and enabling digital interactions between governments and the communities they serve. Tylers product portfolio spans enterprise resource planning and financial management, tax and billing systems, court case and records management, public safety solutions (including computer-aided dispatch and records management), land and property management, permitting and licensing, and enterprise asset management. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Tyler Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tyler Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wealthfront Advisers LLC increased its position in shares of Raymond James Financial, Inc. (NYSE:RJF Free Report) by 40.0% in the 3rd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 17,561 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 5,021 shares during the quarter. Wealthfront Advisers LLCs holdings in Raymond James Financial were worth $3,031,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Empowered Funds LLC raised its holdings in Raymond James Financial by 8.2% in the 1st quarter. Empowered Funds LLC now owns 4,142 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $573,000 after acquiring an additional 314 shares in the last quarter. Woodline Partners LP increased its position in shares of Raymond James Financial by 41.8% in the first quarter. Woodline Partners LP now owns 15,580 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,164,000 after purchasing an additional 4,592 shares during the period. Blair William & Co. IL acquired a new position in Raymond James Financial in the second quarter valued at about $272,000. CWM LLC lifted its position in Raymond James Financial by 1.6% during the second quarter. CWM LLC now owns 28,043 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,301,000 after purchasing an additional 447 shares during the period. Finally, Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC grew its stake in Raymond James Financial by 3.7% during the second quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 107,634 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $16,645,000 after buying an additional 3,842 shares in the last quarter. 83.83% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Raymond James Financial alerts: Raymond James Financial Stock Performance Shares of Raymond James Financial stock opened at $158.42 on Friday. The companys 50 day moving average price is $166.12 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $164.91. The firm has a market capitalization of $31.22 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.50, a P/E/G ratio of 1.17 and a beta of 1.00. Raymond James Financial, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $117.57 and a fifty-two week high of $177.66. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 1.06 and a quick ratio of 1.04. Raymond James Financial Increases Dividend Raymond James Financial ( NYSE:RJF Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, January 28th. The financial services provider reported $2.86 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.83 by $0.03. Raymond James Financial had a return on equity of 17.65% and a net margin of 13.07%.The company had revenue of $3.74 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.83 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $2.93 EPS. Raymond James Financials revenue was up 5.6% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts forecast that Raymond James Financial, Inc. will post 11.17 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, January 16th. Stockholders of record on Friday, January 2nd were paid a dividend of $0.54 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, January 2nd. This is a positive change from Raymond James Financials previous quarterly dividend of $0.50. This represents a $2.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.4%. Raymond James Financials payout ratio is 21.14%. Insider Buying and Selling at Raymond James Financial In other news, insider Paul C. Reilly sold 130,687 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, December 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $163.15, for a total value of $21,321,584.05. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 260,546 shares of the companys stock, valued at $42,508,079.90. This represents a 33.40% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.58% of the companys stock. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities analysts have recently commented on RJF shares. Morgan Stanley restated a positive rating on shares of Raymond James Financial in a research report on Monday, December 22nd. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Raymond James Financial in a research note on Thursday, January 22nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their target price on Raymond James Financial from $178.00 to $180.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. BMO Capital Markets raised their target price on Raymond James Financial from $180.00 to $182.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Finally, TD Cowen reissued a hold rating on shares of Raymond James Financial in a report on Wednesday, January 14th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and nine have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Raymond James Financial has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $182.17. Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Raymond James Financial Raymond James Financial Profile (Free Report) Raymond James Financial is a diversified financial services firm headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida. Founded in 1962, the company provides a range of services to individual investors, businesses and institutions through a combination of wealth management, capital markets, investment banking, asset management, banking and trust services. Its business model centers on a network of financial advisors and broker-dealer operations that deliver personalized financial planning, investment advisory services and brokerage solutions. The firms core offerings include private client wealth management delivered by independent and employee advisors, equity and fixed-income research, institutional sales and trading, and investment banking services such as mergers and acquisitions advisory and capital raising. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding RJF? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Raymond James Financial, Inc. (NYSE:RJF Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Raymond James Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Raymond James Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. News / National by Stephen Jakes Police in Harare have intercepted a vehicle carrying an assortment of illegal drugs and arrested four suspects during a patrol operation. The Zimbabwe Republic Police announced the arrests through their official X (formerly Twitter) account.On 12 February, police in Featherstone, who were on motorised patrol, intercepted a Nissan Note vehicle, registration number AGW 8609, at Wadyiwawamira Shops and arrested Angeline Tavengwa (44), Charity Chinyandura (45), Hamilton Nyandoro (34) and Edward Mukwesha (40) for unlawful possession of 20 boxes of Broncleer cough syrup, the police said.In a separate incident, police arrested Timothy Mushati (30) at Mutonhodza Farm Compound in Juliasdale, Nyanga, for selling dagga. The arrest led to the recovery of packed sachets of dagga and rolling papers.The police reiterated their ongoing campaign against drug and substance abuse. Harley-Davidson (NYSE:HOG Get Free Report) was downgraded by equities researchers at Zacks Research from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a note issued to investors on Thursday,Zacks.com reports. Other equities research analysts have also recently issued reports about the company. BMO Capital Markets reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $24.00 price objective on shares of Harley-Davidson in a report on Wednesday. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Harley-Davidson in a research note on Thursday, January 22nd. Citigroup dropped their price target on Harley-Davidson from $28.00 to $23.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, January 14th. Loop Capital started coverage on Harley-Davidson in a report on Tuesday, November 25th. They issued a hold rating and a $21.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Robert W. Baird set a $22.00 target price on shares of Harley-Davidson in a research note on Wednesday. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $24.25. Get Harley-Davidson alerts: View Our Latest Research Report on HOG Harley-Davidson Price Performance Shares of NYSE HOG opened at $20.42 on Thursday. The firm has a market cap of $2.41 billion, a PE ratio of 7.82, a PEG ratio of 0.53 and a beta of 1.39. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $20.77 and a 200 day moving average of $24.69. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a quick ratio of 2.36 and a current ratio of 2.10. Harley-Davidson has a one year low of $19.33 and a one year high of $31.25. Harley-Davidson (NYSE:HOG Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 10th. The company reported ($2.44) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.92) by ($1.52). The company had revenue of $496.16 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $482.21 million. Harley-Davidson had a net margin of 8.03% and a return on equity of 10.27%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 9.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned ($0.93) earnings per share. As a group, research analysts predict that Harley-Davidson will post 3.44 EPS for the current fiscal year. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Donald Smith & CO. Inc. increased its position in shares of Harley-Davidson by 61.8% during the second quarter. Donald Smith & CO. Inc. now owns 5,517,795 shares of the companys stock valued at $130,220,000 after acquiring an additional 2,108,099 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank purchased a new position in shares of Harley-Davidson during the 4th quarter worth approximately $25,766,000. SG Americas Securities LLC increased its holdings in Harley-Davidson by 1,277.0% in the 4th quarter. SG Americas Securities LLC now owns 1,094,119 shares of the companys stock valued at $22,418,000 after purchasing an additional 1,014,660 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in Harley-Davidson by 7.3% in the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 12,958,561 shares of the companys stock valued at $361,544,000 after purchasing an additional 886,998 shares during the period. Finally, Voloridge Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in Harley-Davidson during the third quarter worth $21,761,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 85.10% of the companys stock. Harley-Davidson Company Profile (Get Free Report) Harley-Davidson, Inc is a renowned American motorcycle manufacturer best known for its heavyweight cruiser and touring bikes. Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the company has built a strong reputation for producing distinctive motorcycles characterized by their signature V-twin engines, chrome finishes and robust frames. Harley-Davidson markets its products globally through a network of franchised dealerships and focuses on delivering an immersive brand experience to its customers, emphasizing lifestyle and community alongside its motorcycles. In addition to its core motorcycle business, Harley-Davidson offers an extensive range of parts, accessories and apparel under its Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories and MotorClothes lines. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Harley-Davidson Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Harley-Davidson and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Much of the internet is completely fake, fake ad clicks, fake comments, fake traffic, fake followers, fake articles, fake polls, fake opinions, fake election campaigns, fake everything. Public opinion (especially during elections) can be swayed easily via the use of the massive bot farms employed by state run operations. China, Russia, N.Korea and Iran are the perpetrators of the majority of the fakery along with a plethora of organised criminal activity. The highly treasonous actions of Keir Starmer have also seriously endangered the UK and its Western allies by okaying the massive Chinese Spy Embassy in the centre of London, as well as paying to give away the Chagos Islands to the CCP Belt and Road Initiative owned Mauritius. These stupid actions will, in the future, pose a fundamental military and security risk to the UK and its allies. Dead internet is no longer just a theorypic.twitter.com/PAGsPS1PZo Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) February 16, 2026 CHINA The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and its affiliated entities, including elements linked to the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA), have been implicated in operating extensive bot farms, networks of automated or semi-automated social media accounts designed to spread disinformation, harass critics, and influence public opinion. These operations often employ virtual private networks (VPNs) or proxy servers to route traffic through IP addresses in Western countries like Canada, the US, and the UK, masking their Chinese origins and evading platform restrictions (since platforms like X/Twitter are blocked in mainland China). This tactic helps the bots appear local and authentic, amplifying their reach in targeted regions. A prominent example is the Spamouflage (or Dragonbridge) campaign, identified by researchers and governments as the worlds largest known online disinformation operation, involving hundreds of thousands of fake accounts across platforms like X/Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. Linked to Chinas Ministry of Public Security (MPS) a CCP-controlled entity with ties to intelligence and PLA cyber units, this network has harassed US residents, politicians, and businesses critical of Beijing, sometimes with threats of violence. This is what a bot farm controlled by a single bot looks like. Theres no need for physical phones anymore to manage the accounts. Thousands of comments, hundreds of shares that we interact with and get frustrated over all coming from a piece of code. pic.twitter.com/JXmuEduiUF PaulC (@PaulConRO) March 9, 2025 In 2023, the US Department of Justice charged 34 MPS officers with running a 912 Special Project Working Group based in Beijing, involving hundreds of officers nationwide to target dissidents, discredit US politicians, and undermine companies at odds with CCP interests. These bots often pivot topics en masse, such as shifting from pro-Russia narratives on Ukraine to attacking Western leaders, and have been traced to origins in China while using Western IPs to post in local languages. In Canada, Global Affairs Canada detected a Spamouflage-linked bot network in August 2023 that accelerated in September, posting thousands of comments in English and French on politicians social media accounts, including those of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The bots falsely claimed a CCP critic had accused politicians of crimes and ethical breaches, aiming to sow division. Similar efforts have targeted Canadian MPs and been attributed to CCP/PLA operations using Canadian IPs to blend in. In the US, bot farms have supported broader cyber espionage, such as APT31 (a group tied to Chinas Ministry of State Security, with PLA connections), which targeted critics, journalists, and politicians via phishing emails that collected victims IP addresses and locations for further hacks. In March 2024, the US indicted seven Chinese hackers for a prolific global hacking operation that compromised thousands, including by using US IPs to send over 10,000 malicious emails. These efforts align with CCP goals like stealing intellectual property and undermining democratic processes, as seen in campaigns targeting US businesses in sectors outlined in Made in China 2025. Bots have also flooded discussions on sensitive topics, such as harassing dissidents like billionaire Guo Wengui, using commercial bot networks from mainland China routed through US IPs. The UK has faced similar intrusions, with APT31 hacking emails of politicians in the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), a group critical of the CCP. In 2024, the UK imposed sanctions on groups linked to these operations, which used UK IPs for phishing and data collection to enable device compromises. Overall, these bot farms support CCP/PLA objectives of global influence, with operations often traced to units in cities like Chengdu, using Western IPs to evade detection and amplify propaganda. Governments and platforms continue to counter them through takedowns, but the scale remains vast, with over 5,000 accounts recently blocked in one instance alone. Much of the revenue and streams of modern pop singers and rappers are streamed from bot farms making a mockery of the music biz with fake listens generating huge revenue for the fake artists. Thai police have reportedly busted an illegal Tate McRae streaming farm. ( @ThaiNewsReports ) pic.twitter.com/vvkdUt6vdW alopecia chlamydia (@usedwifi) February 21, 2026 Axis of Evil led by Russia Russia, North Korea, and Iran are all heavily involved in state-sponsored bot farms, disinformation networks, and influence operations, often routing activity through Western IP addresses (US, UK, Canada, etc.) to make their efforts appear local, evade detection, and blend into target societies. These actors frequently share tactics, tools, or even indirect coordination in broader axis alignments against Western interests, though full alliances in bot operations are more opportunistic than tightly integrated. Russias Bot Farms and Use of Western IPs. Russia remains the most prolific and sophisticated in this space, with operations like the Internet Research Agency (IRA) troll factory and newer AI-enhanced networks. In 2024, the US Justice Department (with Canada and the Netherlands) disrupted a major Russian bot farm run by RT (state media) and the FSB (security service). It used AI software called Meliorator to create nearly 1,000 fake profiles impersonating Americans, posting pro-Russia, anti-Ukraine content on X (formerly Twitter). Domains and infrastructure were US-based (e.g., .com registrations), and bots routed through Western IPs to mimic real US users. This scaled propaganda on Ukraine, elections, and divisions. Similar campaigns have targeted Europe and Israel, often using proxies or bought domains in the West for authenticity.Russias tactics include:Fake personas with AI-generated content. Amplification via bots reposting/liking each other. Spoofed sites mimicking local news. These ops often appear organic from US/UK/Canada IPs, making takedowns harder. North Koreas Operations North Koreas efforts lean more toward cybercrime and revenue generation than pure disinformation bot farms, but they overlap. The regime runs massive schemes where operatives pose as remote IT workers (using stolen/fake US identities) to get jobs at Western companies, often routing through laptop farms in the US (physical devices hosted stateside but controlled remotely from abroad, including China/Russia proxies). This evades sanctions, funnels millions back to Pyongyang for weapons programs, and sometimes steals data or plants malware. In 2025, the US DOJ indicted multiple North Koreans and facilitators, seizing laptop farms across states and fraudulent sites. While not classic bot farms like Russias, they use Western IPs extensively (US-based laptops/addresses) to appear legitimate. Disinformation is secondarye.g., occasional anti-South Korea/US propagandabut the infrastructure (proxies, stolen creds) supports influence when needed. No major 2025-2026 bot farm takedowns tied directly to Pyongyang, but the model enables covert ops. Iran Irans IRGC (Revolutionary Guard) runs aggressive disinformation via bot networks, fake personas, and narrative laundering. Campaigns target US/UK politics, amplify anti-Israel/Western narratives, and exploit divisions (e.g., Scottish independence in 2024 UK ops, or Gaza-related content). They use fake UK/US accounts (often with Western-sounding personas) posting in English, sometimes routing through proxies to appear local.In 2024-2025, Iran-linked bots pushed election meddling (e.g., fake news sites, AI deepfakes), harassed critics, and coordinated with pro-Iran narratives. US seizures of IRGC-linked domains (older cases) showed use of Western infrastructure. During escalations (e.g., Israel-Iran tensions), bots flood with doctored images/videos via social media, often from IPs masked as Western to evade bans.Overlaps and AlliancesThese statesRussia, China (as we discussed earlier), Iran, North Koreaform a loose axis of authoritarian actors sharing cyber tactics, malware, or influence goals against the West. Examples:Coordinated disinformation (e.g., anti-Western narratives on Ukraine, elections). Shared tools/proxies for anonymity. Mutual support (e.g., Russian amplification of Iranian/Iran-backed content). Not a formal bot-farm alliance, but convergence: Russia pioneers troll farms, others adapt (Iran for regional influence, North Korea for revenue masking ops). Western IPs/proxies are common across all to bypass platform blocks and seem grassroots.Platforms (X, Meta) and governments continue takedowns, but scale persistsoften thousands of accounts before detection. If youre seeing specific examples on social media, its likely part of these patterns. Individual Bot Farms by Organised Criminals Followers on social media are meaningless if they can be bought/farmed and created out of nothing. Traffic stats for websites, can be manipulated to gain SEO traction on search engines. Advertisements can be clicked by sophisticated bots raising vast amounts of revenue. The internet is essentially fake and riddled with trillions and trillions of bots making money every millisecond for ruthless people with no quandaries about how they make their money. Whilst state actors like the CCP, Russia, Iran, and North Korea run bot farms for propaganda, influence, espionage, or revenue generation (e.g., funding weapons programs), a huge chunk of the ecosystem is purely commercial and profit-driven. Private individuals, small crews, organised cybercrime groups, and even some shady companies treat bot farms as a business, often operating as Bot-as-a-Service (BaaS) or similar setups. They rent out their networks or sell services directly, turning automation into cash with low overhead and high margins.The main ways these private operators make serious money include: Ad fraud and click fraud. This is the biggest moneymaker. Bot farms simulate massive fake clicks on pay-per-click (PPC) ads (Google Ads, programmatic display, etc.), video views, or impressions. Advertisers pay thinking real people are engaging, but the money flows to the fraudster who controls the bots or the fake sites hosting the ads. Reports from 2025 show global ad fraud losses hitting tens of billions annually (e.g., estimates around $37-41 billion in recent years), with bot farms capturing a big slice. Some operations arbitrage this: spend a little on cheap traffic sources, inflate clicks massively, and pocket the difference, returns can hit 100x or more in extreme cases. Individuals or small teams run phone farms (arrays of cheap devices running bots) or use hijacked devices to scale this without much investment. Selling fake engagement and boosting services. Influencers, brands, politicians, or anyone wanting to look popular pays for fake followers, likes, comments, shares, or views on platforms like X/Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, or Twitch. This is a massive underground market, people drop six or seven figures yearly on it. Operators charge per thousand engagements or offer monthly subscriptions. Some engagement farming even ties into platform monetisation: on X, for instance, bots can artificially boost replies/likes from Premium users to trigger payouts under revenue-sharing programs. Its turned into a bot wars arms race where farms redesign tactics to game the system for ad revenue or creator funds. Streaming and view botting. Streamers on Twitch, YouTube, or similar buy bot traffic to inflate viewer counts, which attracts real sponsors, higher ad rates, or platform bonuses. Farms provide this view botting as a service, often using residential proxies to look legit. Other cybercrime angles. Beyond ads, bots scrape data for resale (e.g., emails, credentials), send spam/phishing at scale, spread malware, or run credential stuffing. In crypto spaces, bot farms enable pump-and-dump schemes, fake trading volume to lure investors, or scam operations like pig butchering (building trust via fake romance/profiles then stealing crypto). Some farms even mine crypto or farm in-game rewards (e.g., in games like Counter-Strike or OSRS) for resale. Legit-adjacent or grey-area plays. Not everything is outright illegal. Some companies sell bot services for automation (e.g., social media management tools, trading bots for crypto arbitrage, or AI agents), charging subscriptions or commissions. Crypto arbitrage bots, for example, exploit price differences across exchanges and print money legally for users (and fees for bot creators). But the line blurs when these tools get repurposed for fraud. The economics are brutal for victims but sweet for operators: setup costs are low (cheap phones, VPS, proxies, open-source scripts), detection is asymmetric (cheap to attack, expensive to defend), and profits scale insanely. A single sophisticated farm can net hundreds of thousands to millions monthly, with some documented cases pulling $600k+ from game rewards alone or millions from ad fraud. Platforms and governments keep cracking down (takedowns, indictments), but new ones pop up fast, often in regions with lax enforcement. Its a shadowy digital economy where state ops meet pure greed, and everyone from lone hackers to venture-backed startups (yes, some AI bot firms skirt edges) cashes in. The losers? Advertisers, real creators, and everyday users wading through the spammy noise. Day 3 warming up my TikTok Shop account. Listen to the video below. pic.twitter.com/8k40ZsqOqP WiFi Money Guy (@WiFiMoneyGuy) February 12, 2026 A creator hired 3 interns to spam AI-generated videos across 150 TikTok accounts Their current monthly income is $37,000. pic.twitter.com/soGdYX4Jup China pulse (@Eng_china5) February 14, 2026 bro You literally CANT be lazy right now This is your competition HUNDREDS of AI agents working autonomously at once (thousands in revenue btw) Lock tf in pic.twitter.com/B7lJ4KfJaR Miles Deutscher (@milesdeutscher) February 13, 2026 Sometimes stories are so beyond satire that they can only be looked upon with sheer awe at their audacity and ridiculousness. Certainly, mass hypocrisy is something the Labour Party is known for; however, leftists and far-left Marxists do not comprehend the enormity of these things because they are completely blinded by their confirmation bias built into their ideological programming. Thats why a Labour councillor, touted by Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves, sending pics of his knob to a 13-year-old girl will pretty much go ignored in the press. The fact that this lowlife piece of shit helped draft Labours flagship Online Safety Act is neither here nor there; it is naturally kept under lock and keynot even whispered in hushed tones. In a guilty plea this week, 30-year-old Liron Velleman admitted to trying to have sex with a minor and trying to get a minor to view pornographic material. Enquiring about whether she was home alone, seeing her in school uniform and requesting pictures of her in her panties, Velleman thought he was talking to a 13-year-old girl. He also sent a sexual video and pics of his penis. As it turned out, he was corresponding with a policeman conducting an internet sting. The offences took place in December 2024. Dont forget, Keir Starmer has also awarded a peerage to former communications chief Matthew Doyle despite knowing Doyle remained friends with another Labour councillor charged with child sex offences. Just another episode in Labours Britain that will be conveniently brushed under the rug of inequity and squalor. Its okay, though; our children are all safe now under Labours Online Safety Act. News / National by Gideon Madzikatidze / Simbarashe Sithole MAZOWE Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has urged contractors working on national road projects to speed up construction works and meet set deadlines, saying the government is determined to improve key transport corridors across the country. Speaking during the commissioning of the completed Mazowe road section from Christon Bank junction to Blueridge, Mhona said contractors must accelerate progress on major routes such as the BeitbridgeBulawayoVictoria Falls Road and the GwandaMaphisa Road to support tourism, business and trade.Meanwhile, we urge all our contractors to adhere to prescribed deadlines. They should speed up their paces on our roads so that those areas which were previously known to be inaccessible will ensure ease of access and smooth traffic movements, Mhona said.We kindly request them to speed up construction and maintenance for convenience to our tourism, trade and general business corridors. We will make sure that President Mnangagwa and his administrations policy of leaving no one and no place behind is realised within the prescribed timeframes.Mhona dismissed perceptions of marginalisation, saying no region would be excluded from national development as Zimbabwe prepares for its 46th Independence Day celebrations to be hosted in Matabeleland South.There will be no one and no place to be left behind in the development trajectory. We are also happy that most of these contractors have shown capacity and managed to finish their sections within prescribed timeframes, he said.He added that the number of contractors on the GwandaMaphisa Road had been increased to ensure completion ahead of the national celebrations.The Ministry has also opened the completed BulawayoNkayi Road section in the Inyathi area to traffic. Responding to requests from citizens and legislators, government will extend the dualisation stretch to Mazowe and relocate the toll gate between the National Defence University and the New Parliament roundabout to just after Mazowe.Mhonas remarks reinforce governments commitment to upgrading Zimbabwes road network in line with National Development Strategy 2 (NDS1) and Vision 2030. Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund raised its holdings in shares of Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT Free Report) by 7.3% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 17,262 shares of the industrial products companys stock after buying an additional 1,181 shares during the quarter. Illinois Municipal Retirement Funds holdings in Caterpillar were worth $8,237,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. Get Caterpillar alerts: Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Echo45 Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Caterpillar during the third quarter worth about $208,000. Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Co lifted its position in Caterpillar by 13.3% during the third quarter. Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Co now owns 78,556 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $37,483,000 after purchasing an additional 9,200 shares during the last quarter. Caisse Des Depots ET Consignations bought a new stake in Caterpillar during the third quarter valued at approximately $2,552,000. Savvy Advisors Inc. grew its stake in Caterpillar by 17.8% in the 3rd quarter. Savvy Advisors Inc. now owns 6,014 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $2,870,000 after buying an additional 909 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Willis Johnson & Associates Inc. bought a new position in shares of Caterpillar in the 3rd quarter worth $251,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 70.98% of the companys stock. Key Headlines Impacting Caterpillar Here are the key news stories impacting Caterpillar this week: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research firms have recently issued reports on CAT. Argus lifted their price objective on shares of Caterpillar from $625.00 to $820.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday. Barclays lifted their price target on Caterpillar from $610.00 to $625.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, January 30th. Citigroup upped their price objective on Caterpillar from $710.00 to $760.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, February 2nd. CICC Research initiated coverage on Caterpillar in a report on Friday, February 6th. They set an outperform rating on the stock. Finally, Truist Financial boosted their target price on Caterpillar from $729.00 to $786.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, February 2nd. Sixteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $702.95. Read Our Latest Research Report on Caterpillar Caterpillar Stock Performance Shares of CAT stock opened at $774.37 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.44, a quick ratio of 0.94 and a current ratio of 1.44. Caterpillar Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $267.30 and a fifty-two week high of $789.81. The company has a market capitalization of $362.39 billion, a P/E ratio of 41.15, a PEG ratio of 1.79 and a beta of 1.58. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $634.09 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $540.45. Caterpillar (NYSE:CAT Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, January 29th. The industrial products company reported $5.16 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.67 by $0.49. The company had revenue of $19.13 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.81 billion. Caterpillar had a net margin of 13.14% and a return on equity of 45.76%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 17.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $5.14 earnings per share. Analysts expect that Caterpillar Inc. will post 19.86 earnings per share for the current year. Caterpillar Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, February 19th. Investors of record on Tuesday, January 20th will be issued a dividend of $1.51 per share. This represents a $6.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.8%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, January 20th. Caterpillars payout ratio is currently 32.09%. Insiders Place Their Bets In other Caterpillar news, insider Anthony D. Fassino sold 10,671 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $680.45, for a total value of $7,261,081.95. Following the completion of the sale, the insider owned 41,151 shares in the company, valued at approximately $28,001,197.95. This trade represents a 20.59% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CFO Andrew R. J. Bonfield sold 10,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $575.06, for a total value of $5,750,600.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 45,460 shares in the company, valued at $26,142,227.60. This trade represents a 18.03% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 130,545 shares of company stock worth $88,294,733. 0.33% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Caterpillar Profile (Free Report) Caterpillar Inc is a global manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and locomotives. The companys product portfolio includes earthmoving machines such as excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders and offhighway trucks, as well as a range of power generation products including generator sets and power systems for industrial and commercial use. Caterpillar serves customers across heavy construction, mining, energy, transportation and related industries with both equipment and integrated technology solutions. In addition to manufacturing, Caterpillar provides a broad range of aftermarket parts and support services, including maintenance, repair, remanufacturing and fleet management tools. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CAT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Caterpillar Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Caterpillar and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. The son of Dominic and Mary McGlinchey has met with the Sinn Fein spokesperson on Justice Matt Carthy TD to discuss the urgent need for the Dublin Government to urgently deal with the legacy of the Troubles. Dominic McGlinchey attended the meeting on Thursday, February 12 in Leinster House alongside his uncle, Sinn Fein Councillor Sean McGlinchey. Deputy Carthy hosted the McGlinchey family members with representatives from the NGO Relatives for Justice. The meeting, which has been described as 'very productive' discussed the urgent need for the Dublin Government to get real on dealing with the legacy of the Troubles and the necessity of statutory provisions being enacted in promotion of truth and accountability on an All-Island basis, not just the North. Solicitor Ciaran Mulholland, who accompanied the McGlinchey family, stated: I am very grateful for Deputy Carthy arranging todays meeting and offering a listening ear to our client in his quest for the truth and recovery. For several years now we have been pleading with the various State agencies to sit down with us - all communications to the Garda Commissioner's office has been ignored and requests for a meeting refused. This is shocking given the revelations into the murders of Mary McGlinchey in Dundalk in 1987 and Dominic McGlinchey in Drogheda in 1994 - suspected British collusion and the Garda investigation files and exhibits vanishing with no enquiries made. No victim should ever be forced by the State to litigate when merely seeking the most basic information - it is not fair or just. The Irish State is failing miserably in their obligations as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement to meaningfully promote reconciliation. This is not isolated to the McGlinchey family but all the other victims and survivors throughout Ireland - North and South from Omagh to Dundalk, Monaghan to Dublin, who continue to be ignored and discriminated. These victims are being re-traumatised and denied access to justice. The disingenuous sound bites from the Government need to be called out for precisely what they are - it is time for action. All victims must be acknowledge and their journey in truth recovery assisted, particularly when the State hold the answers. I welcome Deputy Carthy for his time and indeed his agreement that Minister OCallaghan should now extend the McGlinchey family the courtesy of a meeting. Sinn Fein Justice spokesperson, Matt Carthy said: Dominic Og McGlinchey is seeking truth in relation to the killings of both his parents. He witnessed both the killing of his mother Mary and separately his father Dominic as child. There has never a prosecution in either case. The revelation that files and evidence in relation to the 1987 murder of Mary McGlinchey went missing and concerns that the investigation into the case has been substandard and inadequate must be addressed. As has been done in other cases where families are seeking answers in relation to historic and legacy related killings Minister Jim OCallaghan should meet with this family as they have requested. In my meeting with the McGlinchey family and representatives of Relatives for Justice I offered my support for their efforts to ensure that proper investigations are completed into both killings. News / National by Gideon Madzikatidze / Simbarashe Sithole HARARE The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has sharply criticised ZanuPFs proposed constitutional amendments, describing them as a direct assault on democratic rights and a threat to the peoples mandate. In a statement, UDA leader Dr Daniel Shumba rejected proposals to shift the election of the President from a direct popular vote to a parliamentary process, saying such a move would undermine constitutional order.This is a power grab, plain and simple. A President with sweeping executive powers must seek a direct mandate from the people, not hide behind a captured Parliament, Shumba said.The UDA warned that transferring presidential elections to Parliament would entrench patronage, encourage political dealmaking and weaken accountability.Its a recipe for entitlement and partisan conduct, the party said.The organisation also raised concerns about judicial independence, questioning the role of the Chief Justice in overseeing parliamentary elections under the proposed system.According to the UDA, the ruling partys motivations stem from fears of losing a free and fair election.Theyre trying to bypass the people entirely. That would be the greatest betrayal of democracy in the history of the countrys liberation foundation, Shumba said.The party urged Zimbabweans to resist what it called legislative manoeuvring and defend their democratic rights.Nyika ndeyedu tese the country belongs to us all, the UDA declared.Cabinet recently approved draft legislation proposing to extend presidential terms from five to seven years, which would allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030. The bill also includes a provision for Parliament to elect the President instead of citizens voting directly.Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi told journalists that the bill will be sent to the Speaker of Parliament and published in the Government Gazette before being tabled for debate. Childrens Books Ireland is recruiting young readers across the island of Ireland, including in Derry to participate in its Junior Juries programme for the 2026 KPMG Childrens Books Ireland Awards. The Awards shortlist was announced by RTEs Rick OShea at a special event held in the Crescent Arts Centre in Belfast. School classes, youth groups, book clubs and early childhood settings from Derry can register at the Childrens Books Ireland website, make a selection of suitable titles from the shortlist and send their feedback and scores to Childrens Books Ireland. One lucky group will also be chosen to have an in-person workshop from a Childrens Books Ireland author or illustrator for their participation in the programme. In 2025, just under 12,000 readers across the island of Ireland took part in the Junior Juries programme. This year, one winning artist will accept the highly-coveted Junior Juries Award on 18th May, taking place as part of the International Literature Festival Dublin. Speaking at the shortlist announcement, Elaina Ryan, CEO of Childrens Books Ireland said: This years KPMG Childrens Books Ireland Awards shortlist has something to delight every kind of reader. "There are stories steeped in Irish mythology, tales of bravery and resilience and books that will move you to tears or make you cry laughing. Its wonderful to see how childrens literature and publishing in Ireland is evolving through this diverse, excellent shortlist. Our warm congratulations go to the authors, illustrators and publishers whose wonderful work we are so proud to champion. READ NEXT: Derry man marks 20-year journey with powerful new book The shortlisted titles will be in contention for six awards at the KPMG Childrens Books Ireland Awards ceremony on Monday, 18th May 2026. The awards include the prestigious KPMG Childrens Books Ireland Book of the Year, alongside categories celebrating excellence in fiction and illustration. This years shortlist includes: Letters to a Monster This inventive picturebook tells the story of Sophie, who, fed up with the monster who has been hiding under her bed, decides to confront the situation head on! Written by Laureate na nOg Patricia Forde and illustrated by Sarah Warburton (Bloomsbury Childrens Books) This inventive picturebook tells the story of Sophie, who, fed up with the monster who has been hiding under her bed, decides to confront the situation head on! Written by Laureate na nOg Patricia Forde and illustrated by Sarah Warburton (Bloomsbury Childrens Books) The Doomsday Club A debut authored novel set in Dublin that blends adventure, fantasy and humour as school students Jack, Conan and Yash make a strange discovery in the school yard. Written by Kevin Moran (The OBrien Press) A debut authored novel set in Dublin that blends adventure, fantasy and humour as school students Jack, Conan and Yash make a strange discovery in the school yard. Written by Kevin Moran (The OBrien Press) Solo A contemporary young adult verse novel that tells the story of Daisy as she learns to cope with heartbreak, friendship fall outs and Leaving Cert stress. Written by Grainne OBrien (Little Island Books) A contemporary young adult verse novel that tells the story of Daisy as she learns to cope with heartbreak, friendship fall outs and Leaving Cert stress. Written by Grainne OBrien (Little Island Books) Puisin na mBrog This charming picturebook is an Irish language retelling of the popular tale Puss in Boots. Written by Fearghas Mac Lochlainn and illustrated by Paddy Donnelly (Futa Fata) This charming picturebook is an Irish language retelling of the popular tale Puss in Boots. Written by Fearghas Mac Lochlainn and illustrated by Paddy Donnelly (Futa Fata) My Name is Jodie Jones This young adult novel centres a neurodiverse narrator, Jodie Jones, who is struggling to reconcile with her experience of a terrorist attack. It is a celebration of individuality that does not shy away from darker themes. Written by Emma Shevah (David Fickling Books) This young adult novel centres a neurodiverse narrator, Jodie Jones, who is struggling to reconcile with her experience of a terrorist attack. It is a celebration of individuality that does not shy away from darker themes. Written by Emma Shevah (David Fickling Books) The Waters and the Wild This verse novel follows the character of Rowan after her fathers death and thoughtfully deals with the subjects of death, loss and fear. Written by Eilish Fisher and illustrated by David Rooney (Puffin) This verse novel follows the character of Rowan after her fathers death and thoughtfully deals with the subjects of death, loss and fear. Written by Eilish Fisher and illustrated by David Rooney (Puffin) This That What A colourful, rhyming picturebook with accessible text that tells the story of Kiki Dime and her very busy brain. Written by Katy Ashworth and illustrated by Colleen Larmour (Puffin) A colourful, rhyming picturebook with accessible text that tells the story of Kiki Dime and her very busy brain. Written by Katy Ashworth and illustrated by Colleen Larmour (Puffin) Stealing Happy Young adult fiction set in Scotland that brings the reader into the inner life of thirteen-year old Sonny who is living with Tourettes syndrome. A vivid, funny and gripping read that deals with family drama, fear, friendship and even a heist. Written by Brian Conaghan (Bloomsbury YA) Young adult fiction set in Scotland that brings the reader into the inner life of thirteen-year old Sonny who is living with Tourettes syndrome. A vivid, funny and gripping read that deals with family drama, fear, friendship and even a heist. Written by Brian Conaghan (Bloomsbury YA) Dont Trust Fish! A hilarious debut authored picturebook that is filled with reasons why fish are untrustworthy creatures and likely plotting your downfall. Written by Neil Sharpson and illustrated by Dan Santat (Andersen Press) A hilarious debut authored picturebook that is filled with reasons why fish are untrustworthy creatures and likely plotting your downfall. Written by Neil Sharpson and illustrated by Dan Santat (Andersen Press) Skipshock Young adult fiction that takes the reader on a train from Cork to a whole world of different time zones. A science-fiction story with multilayered power dynamics and an electrifying romance. Written by Caroline ODonoghue (Walker Books) Speaking at the shortlist announcement, Claire Browne, Partner at KPMG Belfast said: Once again, weve been impressed by the breadth of imagination and creativity in these books for children and young people. KPMG is proud to sponsor the Childrens Books Ireland Awards and to celebrate these shortlisted books, which we believe will bring joy to all readers, young and old, for many years to come. The KPMG Childrens Books Ireland Awards and Junior Juries programme are supported by the Arts Council/An Chomhairle Ealaion and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland National Lottery Funding. Damian Smyth, joint Head of Literature and Drama at the Arts Council of Northern Ireland said: The books we connect with in childhood are often the ones which we hold in our hearts for life and these annual awards recognise some of the most outstanding books published in the last year across a range of age categories and genres. Congratulations to all of the immensely talented writers and illustrators who have made this years shortlist. Save my User ID and Password Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site. Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site. An appeal has been issued for a driver who was involved in a fatal three-car crash in Limerick overnight. The incident took place on the N24 near Grange West, Boher at around 11.10pm on Friday. A woman aged in her 30s, who was the only person in one of the cars, was pronounced dead at the scene. A man aged in his 40s, the driver and sole occupant of another car, was taken to University Hospital Limerick to be treated for injuries that are not thought to be life threatening. Gardai said the driver of the third car fled and left the vehicle they were driving at the scene. The womans body was taken to the mortuary at University Hospital Limerick where a post-mortem examination will take place. The coroner has been notified. Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the collision to come forward. Road users who may have camera or dash-cam footage and were travelling on the N24 near Grange West, Boher, between 10.45pm and 11.30pm on Friday are asked to get in contact with Gardai. The N24 between R505 and L1132 has been closed pending a technical examination by Garda forensic collision investigators. Bookings are now open for a major tourism conference set to bring industry leaders, innovators and destination experts to the northeast this spring. Hosted by the Dundalk Chamber of Commerce, the half-day conference, Growing Your Visitors Learning from the Best, will take place on Wednesday, April 15, at the Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford from 8.30am to 2.30pm.Organized by Dundalk Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by An Tain Arts Centre, Irelands Ancient East, Louth County Council, Local Enterprise Office Louth, and The Marshes Shopping Centre. This event will bring experts together from various Tourism projects around Ireland and abroad so that you can replicate it in your own business. There will be practical tips on how to improve your tourism business so you can increase your sales and boost attendance figures at your attraction! Speakers at the event include: Paul Hayes & Mary Claire Cowley An Tain Arts Centre will discuss Cultural Tourism & ARTful Partnerships. Olivia McCormack- Louth County Council will cover Visit Louth, Tracks, Tales & Tourism. Grainne OConnor -Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark will discuss Regenerative Tourism & Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Geopark- Celebrating Place, Heritage & Cross Border Collaboration. Rory King- Rorys Travel Club will discuss The Power of Social Media, Email Marketing & Authenticity Raquel Naboa- Fifty Shades Greener will discuss Every job is a green job Tina Novak Samec- Institute for Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sport Brda (Slovenia) will discuss From Borders to Bridges: Best Practices in Cross- Border Cooperation Pol O Conghaile- Travel Editor with the Irish Independent will cover the Trends in Travel 2026! This half day event takes place on Wednesday the 15th April in the Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford from 8.30am to 2.30pm. There will also be a Tourism Advisory Clinic with exhibits from various tourism providers and local organizations. Read Next: Man taken to hospital following Dundalk incident The event is free to attend for Chamber members and 20 plus vat for non-members. Exhibition stands cost 100 plus vat. This event is a must for all in the Tourism and Hospitality sector. You can book your place or stand by calling Brenda on Tel: 353 (42) 9336343 or email Brenda@dundalk.ie or visit https://www.dundalk.ie/event/cross-border-tourism-conference-2026/ There is nothing but bluster from the government on cost of living, Louth Sinn Fein TD, Deputy Ruairi O Murchu, has told the Dail. The Dundalk deputy was speaking during a motion on the cost of living crisis and said that the fact that there was even a debate about it in one of the richest states in the world says something. Deputy O Murchu said the conversation everywhere is about the cost of everything and how it has gone through the roof and people are not impressed with the lack of action from the government. He said he was thinking of workers in Euro Giant which is facing liquidation. Deputy O Murchu highlighted how there are not enough safety nets for all those who fall on worse times, contrasting this with those in very good circumstances who are constantly looked after, including developers and those in power at semi-State companies. He said: There is no cost-of-living crisis for them and there are no worries about increases for those people. That is the problem. Read also: Carlingford Lough Greenway partially closed due to debris The Louth TD pointed to the disaster the Government is going to impose on an absolutely dysfunctional housing market and housing crisis, through the introduction of the Residential Tenancies Bill. And he spoke about the particular difficulties being faced by people with disabilities, reiterating his call for a cost of disability payment. He said: In providing one-off payments, the Government accepted there was a need for a cost-of-disability payment because it made it. The other reason I know the Government believes there is a need for a cost-of-disability payment is because there is a review process ongoing at the minute to provide one for next year. The problem with that is that it is no good for those who have to decide whether to eat or heat. Food and energy costs are, he said, going through the roof and there is absolutely no solution from government. He said: At the very least the Government should do no harm; it should not increase the pain. What do we get? We get carbon taxes thrown on those who can least afford them. We have huge energy costs, huge rental costs and huge mortgage costs. We have no cost-of-disability payments. We have no solutions and no cost-of-living package from the Government. There was no difficulty with cost-of-disability payments and cost-of-living payments before an election, but there is a problem with them now. We need to see action and we have seen nothing but bluster. Five Cork tourism businesses were honoured recently at the CIE Tours annual awards of excellence for 2025. Hayfield Manor Hotel, Kinsale Hotel & Spa, and the River Lee Hotel were all awarded merits in the hotel category. Blarney Castle and Midleton Distillery Experience received merits in the visitor category. The CIE Tours annual awards of excellence celebrate Irish hoteliers and tourist experience operators. The awards were presented based on post stay feedback received from nearly 30,000 customers surveyed throughout 2025. The data and information obtained from these surveys also is invaluable to CIE Tours partners, who use it to continuously improve their offering to their clients. Each of the CIE Tours partners who qualified for an award, delivered in relation to quality experience and welcome to visitors, achieving a customer satisfaction rating of over 92%. Sean Canney, minister of state at the Department of Transport, praised the commitment of tour operators across Ireland and paid tribute to the award recipients. These awards are a testament to the high standards of quality that each operator holds and is a well deserved recognition of their work in welcoming CIE Tours visitors to Ireland, providing them with unique and unrivalled experiences. The Government recognises the importance of the sector and recently launched a national tourism policy statement which sets out a clear ambition to enhance tourisms economic contribution, support regional development and ensure the industry remains inclusive, sustainable, and adaptable to future challenges, said Mr Canney. This is supported by the provision of 233m in Budget 2026 for the tourism services programme which aims to drive regional development and employment in the sector. News / National by Staff reporter President Emmerson Mnangagwa has applauded the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) and other African countries for their solidarity and persistent calls for the unconditional removal of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by Western nations.Addressing fellow Heads of State and Government at the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) session held on the sidelines of the ongoing African Union (AU) Summit, President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe deeply appreciated the support, which he noted had strengthened the country's resolve to stay the course on reforms and development."Excellencies, it is regrettable that for over two decades, Zimbabwe's economic performance has been constrained by harsh unilateral, coercive measures imposed by some Western countries following the Land Reform Programme, which we do not regret," he said."These measures have undermined policy effectiveness, restricted access to investment, technology and international credit markets, and negatively affected ordinary citizens of our country."Zimbabwe deeply appreciates the solidarity shown by Sadc and African Union member States in calling for the unconditional removal of these unilateral sanctions."Through the "Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo" development philosophy and the "Zimbabwe is open for business" mantra, President Mnangagwa said the country had pushed ahead with major infrastructure projects despite the sanctions."The drive is to modernise, industrialise and grow our economy and accelerate its growth ourselves, the owners of the country," he said.The President reaffirmed Zimbabwe's commitment to implement recommendations made by the APRM team, which undertook a targeted review on the country's governance and economic management in November last year. The review was led by Chairperson of the APRM Panel of Eminent Persons, Ambassador Aly El-Hefny.President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe remains steadfast in upholding the principles of the APRM framework, which promotes African solidarity, peer learning and mutual accountability."We take note of the detailed recommendations contained therein," he said.He added that since Zimbabwe acceded to the APRM voluntary self-assessment mechanism in 2020, notable progress had been recorded across sectors."The multiplicity of reforms we are undertaking are enhancing economic governance, fiscal discipline and public sector accountability. This is also in line with Section 13 of the Constitution of the Republic of Zimbabwe," he said.Highlighting reforms in the mining sector, President Mnangagwa said artisanal and small-scale miners had been formalised, resulting in improved access to finance, training and modern technology, as well as enhanced safety standards."Along with responsible mining initiatives for large firms, we are ensuring sustainable mining practices and requisite environmental stewardship," he said.On public financial management, he said Government had introduced an integrated financial management information system and strengthened public sector audits to enhance transparency.Regarding anti-money laundering measures, the President said Zimbabwe was now compliant with 37 of the 40 recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force, safeguarding the integrity of the financial system. He added that Zimbabwe ranked third in sub-Saharan Africa on the Open Budget Survey, reflecting progress in transparency and public finance management.On regional integration, President Mnangagwa emphasised continued engagement with Sadc, the AU, the United Nations system and international financial institutions."In line with the Zimbabwe Investment Development Act (ZIDA), my Government has put in place policies aimed at balancing the attraction of foreign direct investment with empowerment of domestic investors and communities, promoting inclusive and sustainable development," he said.Zimbabwe's engagement with the APRM began when President Mnangagwa acceded to the framework during the 29th Session of the APR Forum of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa in 2020.In March 2024, Cabinet approved the establishment of the National Institutional Framework for the Zimbabwe APRM, focusing on economic governance and management. In November last year, Zimbabwe signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the APRM Committee of Heads of State and Government, paving the way for an assessment mission.Meanwhile, APRM chief executive officer Ambassador Marie-Antoinette Rose Quatre presented the review findings to President Mnangagwa after consultations across all 10 provinces."The Government of Zimbabwe approached us to produce report. Zimbabwe, despite sanctions, it is a case study of African solutions to African problems," she said."We went to all the 10 provinces of the country, and the report is reflecting the reality of the country. Once the report is launched by the Government, then it will be made public and we will support the country in any way towards the implementation of the recommendations."President Mnangagwa reiterated that Zimbabwe remained committed to implementing the recommendations to advance transparency, inclusivity and sustainable development for the benefit of all citizens. If youre treating your beloved to flowers or chocolates today, spare a thought for Irelands peacekeepers, posted far from their loved ones. There are currently 430 Irish Defence Forces members serving overseas, working across a dozen different missions around the world. There are currently 366 Irish Unifil (United Nations Interim Forces in Lebanon) peacekeepers stationed in Camp Shamrock in South Lebanon. This week, three of them asked The Echo to convey their heartfelt wishes to their loved ones at home in Cork. Commandant Kevin Kenny, from Castlelyons, is camp commandant at Camp Shamrock, and he sent his love home to the banks of the Bride, adding that he and his fiancee Pippa face the challenge of trying to match up their time zones to FaceTime a Valentines dinner. I couldnt have a Valentines Day message without mentioning the two princesses Siobheal and Sadhbh, he added, and also a happy birthday to my father Paddy, whose birthday is on Valentines Day, much to my mothers annoyance. Signalman Denver Murphy, from Knocknaheeny, said: Happy Valentines Day to my beautiful wife Georgina. Love you and miss you loads, he said. Signalman Denver Murphy sent Valentine's wishes to his wife Georgina from Lebanon. Corporal Ashley Walsh, from Cloyne, Co Cork, sent Valentine wishes and love to my beautiful wife Aoife. Missing you and Bonnie loads, and thinking of you every day, he said. Cant wait to be home from Lebanon next week and spend some proper time together. A thought doubtless echoed by his many colleagues who are missing their loved ones while far from home in the service of their country. Cork city councillors have voted to approve 20 housing units for victims of domestic violence, to be managed by Good Shepherd Cork in partnership with Cork City Council. The 20-bedroom refuge will provide accommodation to victims of domestic violence at the site of the long-vacant convent at Evergreen Road, Turners Cross, beside the Capwell Bus Depot. The existing Presentation Convent, a three-storey structure dating from the 1930s which is listed on the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, occupies the eastern portion of the site. The plans comprise the renovation and extension of the existing convent building, to incorporate nine one-bed apartments, 11 studio apartments, and associated support services. The project will also involve the construction of two new, four-storey residential blocks, comprising eight three-bed apartments, 16 two-bed apartments, and eight single-bed apartments to be used for social housing. In response to feedback from councillors and residents, the amount of parking was increased from 13 to 15 spaces, which will be put in place alongside 68 bike parking spots. A total of 13 submissions/observations were received by council, expressing concerns about inadequate parking and that there were already inadequate services in the area for residents. The council said that they had increased the amount of parking, and added: It is to be noted that the Domestic Violence Refuge (DVR) is a short-term emergency facility (typically up to 12 weeks), meaning many residents will retain existing GP and school links, minimizing local demand spikes. The plans went to a vote, with all councillors except independent Albert Deasy voting in favour. Mr Deasy said the plans had wholly inadequate parking and constituted gross overdevelopment, which would leave residents (including women and children) living in cramped conditions. Many other councillors spoke in favour of the development, with Social Democrat councillor Niamh OConnor saying opposing this on the grounds that you have concerns for women and children is absolutely ludicrous. Cork City Councils Chief Executive, Valerie OSullivan, said: The proposed development will greatly improve the provision of secure, high-quality social housing and refuge accommodation in Cork City. This article was updated to clarify that the development comprises 20 housing units for victims of domestic violence, with the remaining 32 units to be used for social housing. The article previously stated that all units were catering to victims of domestic violence. New restrictions on drones in Cork city will prevent their use in time-sensitive emergencies, operators say. The airspace restrictions, which came in to effect this week, are being introduced by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) to prevent drones being flown over large parts of the city without two days notice. Christy ODonovan of Cork City Missing Persons Search and Recovery said: We rely very heavily on drones for our operations. We use drones now in every single search mission that we conduct. "They have been a game-changer for us. What used to take us an hour and a half searching on the ground can now be cleared in just over two minutes using a drone. Mr ODonovan said the drones were critical for searching large green areas, and rivers, especially at night. From a health and safety perspective, drones do wonders. Instead of sending our volunteers out in risky conditions, the drones can do it, instead. This all comes down to timing. When we get a call, we act immediately. We cannot wait around. The sooner youre on the ground, the more likely you are to have a positive outcome. Under the new restrictions, the missing persons charity, along with the majority of all drone operators, will have to apply to Cork air traffic control two days before they intend to fly. Serious impacts This will have serious impacts on the likes of Missing Person Search and Rescue, the coastguard, and the civil defence, just as a few examples, said Bob Foley, director and accountable manager of Cork-based company Engineers With Drones. Speaking to The Echo, Mr Foley said anyone flying a drone in Cork city without ATC permission next week including photographers, young children, or recreational users will be breaking the law. The measures will benefit just a handful of companies that hold a beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) licence. These licences allow a pilot to control multiple drones at once without maintaining direct visuals on them. This differs from the majority of drone users, who operate one drone at one time. The IAA said the measures will ensure safety for BVLOS users by making sure visual line-of-sight users the majority of drone operators cannot fly spontaneously in the same airspace. Expanding operations Currently, Cork has no BVLOS operators, but the IAA expects this to change with the new measures. One licensed BVLOS operator is drone-delivery company Manna, which has expressed interest in expanding operations to Cork. Last month, Mannas chief technology officer, Alan Hicks, said the company hopes to operate nationwide by the end of 2026. Another such operator is Wing, owned by Googles parent company, Alphabet. In 2021, the drone operator ran trials to create a rapid medical delivery network in south Dublin. Mr Foley criticised the new measures, arguing that the changes benefit only a small number of companies, while restricting essential services and recreational users. Currently, the IAAs measures are temporary, but the authority said it proposes to make them permanent from May, with a targeted consultation of airspace users being conducted. Eva Osborne Much of the country can expect further heavy downpours on Saturday. An overnight ice warning has now expired, but status yellow rainfall alerts have come into effect for 10 counties as of midday. Connacht, as well as counties Cavan, Donegal, and Longford, will be under a status yellow rain warning from 12pm on Saturday until midnight on Sunday. Met Eireann warned that the rain will be heavy at times and may turn to sleet or snow with strengthening winds causing difficult travel conditions and poor visibility. Speaking on Newstalk, Mark Bowe, forecaster with Met Eireann, said there is no escaping the rain just yet. "We're going to see the heaviest rain across Cork and Kerry and then we're gonna see some travel disruption from the rainfalling as sleet and snow in Connacht and parts of Ulster as well," he said. "Now while those counties in the west are affected by the warnings, the rain will spread throughout the country and become widespread for a time, so we're all going to get a good spalsh from this front as it passes over." Water levels in rivers and canals are being monitored in Dublin after weeks of heavy rain led to flooding in homes and roads in parts of the capital.. Mayo County Council said roads would be gritted on Friday evening and Saturday morning, and urged the public to exercise caution when using the roads. Dublin City Council said on Friday night that it was actively monitoring elevated surface water levels across the city, particularly in the River Liffey around Chapelizod area. The council also said it was working closely with Waterways Ireland in relation to the Grand Canal, which has heightened water levels. The council also said priority routes would be gritted, but warned the public that hazardous driving conditions and travel disruption may occur. Additonal reporting PA. News / National by Staff reporter The Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), Lieutenant-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, yesterday officiated at the pass-out parade of 499 army recruits at Imbizo Barracks on the outskirts of Bulawayo, where he underscored the importance of discipline and diligence in national service.The recruits - 373 males and 126 females - completed eight months of intensive military training at the Recruit Training Depot Imbizo Barracks. The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, traditional leaders and relatives of the graduating soldiers.In his keynote address, Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi urged the new soldiers to uphold the army's long-standing values."The Zimbabwe National Army has a rich history of professionalism and excellence. I challenge you to continue with that fine rich legacy so that you also pass it to the next generation," he said."You must abide by the oath you have taken before us. We don't tolerate absenteeism without permission, stealing, armed robberies and drug abuse in the army."He reminded the recruits that they had voluntarily chosen military service and were expected to live exemplary lives in line with the army's strict code of conduct."You came on your own, no one forced you, and you said I beg to apply. So, show that you volunteered to join the army. We have laws, we have expectations from you as much as you have expectations from us. We must walk together to do the job we were given by the nation," he said.Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi said the recruitment process covered all parts of the country in line with President Emmerson Mnangagwa's mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.He revealed that the army had received an overwhelming number of applications and had to screen candidates to meet its required intake."We started with 500 recruits in June 2025. Today 499 are graduating after one male failed. I congratulate you ladies for showing tenacity as all of you finished the course. We are pushing to reach 30 percent of the female recruits as demanded by our minister," he said.The ZNA Commander reiterated that discipline remains central to army operations and encouraged the recruits to maintain physical fitness to effectively defend the country and its interests."The army has a hierarchy and this must be respected at every level. Disobedience, insubordination and mutiny is not allowed. You must follow commands, that is how the army runs. We thank the trainers who walked with you throughout this training."We also thank our traditional leaders for giving us the recruits. We must continue with the good working relationship," he said.Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi also expressed gratitude to parents and corporate partners for supporting the army and described the parade as impressive."This was a well-turned out parade, very well synchronised and being my first as commander I have also learnt a lot."So, I appreciate you for training me as a commander. I thank you all for the salute you gave me," he said.Among the top three graduating recruits was Mudimba Bululani, who emerged second runner-up and received a shield and US$1 000. Ruvarashe Adelaide Chikomo was first runner-up and received a shield and US$1 500, while Gideon Kanyongo was named best recruit, walking away with a shield, US$2 000 prize money and an immediate promotion.Traditional leaders who attended the event included Chief Sigola from Siphezini, Chief Ndondo from Mbembesi and Chief Deli from Umguza. Airbnb plans to double down on artificial intelligence to improve its user experience for both guests and hosts. During a fourth-quarter earnings call, Airbnb's CEO, Brian Chesky, said the company is building an "AI-native experience" aimed at helping guests book trips, assisting hosts with their listings, and running the company more efficiently. According to Chesky, there's an AI search tool to help guests book trips that's live for a small percentage of users right now. In a shareholder letter posted on Airbnb's website, the company said it's conducting early testing with an AI-powered search that is "focused on giving guests a more natural way to describe what theyre looking for, and ask questions about the listing and location." The letter added that the AI search tool will become "a more comprehensive and intuitive search experience that extends through the trip," but the company didn't offer a definitive date on when it would be available to the public. While it may feel like Airbnb is late to incorporating AI into its ecosystem, it introduced an AI chatbot that handles customer service requests last year. While the AI agent is only available to users in North America currently, Airbnb said that it already handles a third of customer requests without the need for human intervention, as reported by TechCrunch. Chesky also said during the earnings call that the AI chatbot would tackle "significantly more" customer tickets a year from now and that it would roll out to the rest of the world. Disney is going after another generative AI tool, accusing ByteDance and its recently released Seedance 2.0 of using its copyrighted material without permission. As first reported on by Axios, the Walt Disney Company sent a cease-and-desist letter to ByteDance, claiming the Chinese company developed its Seedance tool "with a pirated library of Disney's copyrighted characters from Star Wars, Marvel, and other Disney franchises, as if Disney's coveted intellectual property were free public domain clip art." The letter, which was obtained by Axios, included examples of Seedance videos featuring copyrighted Disney characters, including Spider-Man, Darth Vader, Peter Griffin and more. Even though ByteDance just released Seedance 2.0 on Thursday, it's already earned praise, but also indignation from Hollywood studios, when it comes to its AI-generating capabilities. With the strong early momentum, Seedance has already found itself in hot water with one of the largest media companies in the world. However, it's not the first time that Disney has threatened legal action against an AI company, since Character.AI received a cease-and-desist letter for the same offense in September. A few months later, Disney even accused Google of copyright infringement when training its AI models. On the other hand, Disney partnered with OpenAI in a three-year licensing agreement that allows the AI giant to generate images and videos using that highly sought-after intellectual property. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reportedly been asking tech companies for information on accounts posting anti-ICE sentiments. According to The New York Times, DHS has sent hundreds of administrative subpoenas to Google, Reddit, Discord and Meta over the past few months. Homeland Security asked the companies for names, email addresses, telephone numbers and any other identifying detail for accounts that have criticized the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency or have reported the location of its agents. Google, Meta and Reddit have complied with some of the requests Administrative subpoenas are different from warrants and are issued by the DHS. The Times says they were rarely used in the past and were mostly sent to companies for the investigation of serious crimes, such as child trafficking. Apparently, though, the government has ramped up its use in the past year. Its a whole other level of frequency and lack of accountability, Steve Loney, a senior supervising attorney for ACLU, told the publication. Companies can choose whether to comply with the authorities or not, and some of them give the subject of a subpoena up to 14 days to fight it in court. Google told The Times that its review process for government requests is designed to protect user privacy while meeting [its] legal obligations and that it informs users when their accounts have been subpoenaed unless it has been legally ordered not to or in exceptional circumstances. We review every legal demand and push back against those that are overbroad, the company said. Advertisement Advertisement Some of the accounts that were subpoenaed belong to users posting ICE activity in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania on Facebook and Instagram in English and Spanish. The DHS asked Meta for their names and details on September 11, and the users were notified about it on October 3. They were told that if Meta didnt receive documentation that they were fighting the subpoena in court within 10 days, Meta will give Homeland Security the information it was asking for. The ACLU filed a motion for the users in court, arguing that the DHS is using administrative subpoenas as a tool to suppress speech of people it didnt agree with. In late January, Meta started blocking links to ICE List, a website that lists thousands of ICE and Border Patrol agents names. A few days ago, House Judiciary Committee member Jamie Raskin (D-MD) also asked Apple and Google to turn over all their communication with the US Department of Justice to investigate the removal of ICE-tracking apps from their respective app stores. Support Us Your Support will ensure EPWs financial viability and sustainability. The EPW produces independent and public-spirited scholarship and analyses of contemporary affairs every week. EPW is one of the few publications that keep alive the spirit of intellectual inquiry in the Indian media. Often described as a publication with a social conscience, EPW has never shied away from taking strong editorial positions. 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News / National by Staff reporter HEAVY rains pounded Bulawayo on Thursday evening, leaving a trail of destruction as several houses were damaged and key infrastructure affected.Bulawayo chief fire officer Mhlangano Moyo told Southern Eye that a number of homes in Cowdray Park were hit hard by the storm, including infrastructure belonging to the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC)."There was a trail of disaster following a heavy downpour witnessed in Sigodweni area," Moyo said."There is total disaster at several houses, where roofs and trusses were literally blown off during the storm."He said bricks collapsed from some structures, while a fallen power line damaged roofing sheets at one property."The wind blew off about 10 asbestos roofing sheets and the ridges of the roof were blown off by the wind."We ended up suspending some operations since it was becoming dark, but we will continue to provide temporary cover."Moyo urged residents and builders to prioritise proper workmanship when constructing houses to minimise damage during extreme weather events.Ward 15 councillor Ashton Mhlanga said the rains, accompanied by strong winds, uprooted trees and destroyed several tuckshops across the ward."Some trees along the roads had their roots uprooted, which led to the trees blocking the roads. Zesa poles were also affected and we have no power supply since then," he said.Mhlanga noted that most of the affected houses were built under the government-assisted Garikai/Hlalani Kuhle programme."There was no servicing done, some of them were built in low-lying areas."As we speak, there are 18 houses that have been affected by this problem for many years."The affected families need to be relocated to a better place."He said although land has been identified near a TM supermarket for relocation, the validation process was taking too long, prolonging the suffering of affected families who are forced to replace damaged property repeatedly.Other suburbs, including Mzilikazi and Queens Park, also reported power outages following the storm.Efforts to get a comment from Zesa western region general manager Shepherd Dadi were unsuccessful as his phone went unanswered. FThe World Health Organization has published an update on the global mpox (monkeypox) situation, highlighting the identification of a recombinant strain of the monkeypox virus (MPXV) that carries genetic material from both clade Ib and clade IIb. According to the Disease Outbreak News item released on February 14, 2026, this recombinant form results from a natural process in which two related virus strains infect the same individual and exchange segments of their genomes. Such recombination events can occur with MPXV, especially in settings where multiple clades circulate in the same population. So far, only two confirmed cases involving this specific recombinant virus have been documented through full genomic sequencing: - One case occurred in the United Kingdom in December 2025, involving a traveler returning from an Asia-Pacific country. - The second was identified in India, with symptom onset in early September 2025; the recombinant nature was confirmed retrospectively in January 2026. The genomic sequences from both cases are extremely similar (more than 99.9% identity), suggesting they stem from the same transmission chain, which likely spanned at least four countries across three WHO regions. The exact origin point remains under investigation. Importantly, contact tracing in both instances found no evidence of further transmission. The clinical course in these patients was typical of mpox infections and did not involve severe disease. Given the small number of cases identified to date, the WHO states that it is currently not possible to determine whether this recombinant variant differs in transmissibility, severity, or other biological properties compared with the parental clade Ib and clade IIb strains. The global public health risk assessment for mpox remains unchanged: moderate for certain higher-risk groups (including men who have sex with men with new or multiple sexual partners, sex workers, and others with multiple casual sexual contacts) and low for the general population without those specific exposures. Mpox continues to circulate worldwide, with both clade I (subclades Ia and Ib) and clade II (subclades IIa and IIb) present in different regions. Clade Ib has been primarily associated with outbreaks in parts of Africa but has also been detected elsewhere through travel-linked cases, while clade IIb was responsible for the widespread multi-country outbreak that began in 2022. The WHO continues to recommend standard public health measures: sustained surveillance, laboratory confirmation and genomic sequencing of cases (especially those with travel history or in at-risk populations), prompt case management, infection prevention and control, targeted vaccination where supplies are available, and clear communication with communities. No trade or travel restrictions are recommended for countries reporting mpox cases. Health authorities note that ongoing monitoring remains essential as the virus evolves, including the possibility of additional recombination events when different strains co-circulate in the same areas. JOHNSTOWN, Pa. Every time I visit my grandmothers house in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, I cant go without sneaking down to her cellar and pulling out a few pumpkin or chocolate gobs to munch on later my favorite dessert. Gobs, known as whoopie pies to some, are cake-like sandwiches that come in a multitude of flavors. The origin of this delicious treat goes back decades, and several places claim to have invented it. In my family, we firmly believe gobs were born in Johnstown. Regardless of where you choose to believe this treat was invented, you wont regret trying this recipe out for yourself. Partsch Family Chocolate Gob Recipe Recipe for filling: 1 cup milk gob 5 tbs. flour 2 cup pwd. sugar 1 cup vegetable shortening 1 tsp. vanilla extract Recipe for chocolate gob: cup vegetable shortening 2 cups sugar 2 eggs 1 cup buttermilk 1 cup warm water 4 cups flour 2 tsp. baking soda tsp. baking pwd. tsp salt cup cocoa Step 1: Start your filing. Combine 1 cup of milk and flour in a blender and blend. Pour mixture into a pot on the stove. Cook on low heat stirring constantly until mixture is thick enough that you can barely stir it. Once thick, put the pot in the fridge for it to cool completely. Tip: Be careful not to burn the milk. Step 2: Start on the cake. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. While the milk and flour mixture cools, start the chocolate cake by combining vegetable shortening and sugar. Beat the ingredients. Add eggs, buttermilk and water and beat again. Step 3: Add dry ingredients. Mix in flour, baking soda, powder, salt and cocoa powder. Beat on low speed. Add water if the mixture is too thick. Step 4: Scoop batter onto baking sheets. Each scoop should be about 1 tablespoon. After the tray is filled, hit the tray on the table to flatten gobs out. Step 5: Put tray in oven. Bake for 8 minutes, or until cake springs back up when touching it with your finger. Remove the gobs immediately with a spatula and place on a cooling rack. The cakes needs to be completely cool before filling with icing. Step 6: Finish icing. While the gobs bake, check on the milk and flour mixture to see if it is cool. If not, put back in fridge. If so, take out. In a separate bowl, combine powdered sugar, vegetable shortening and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth. Scoop in flour and milk mixture and beat until combined. Step 7: Assemble. Once cakes are completely cool, place a dab of the icing on one cake and sandwich the icing with another cake. Individually wrap the gobs in plastic wrap or store as you wish, depending on individual preference. Step 8: Eat the best gob ever. Thank you Grandma Partsch for blessing Farm and Dairy readers with this delicious sweet treat. (Liz Partsch can be reached at epartsch@farmanddairy.com or 330-337-3419.)