In other news

The toy industry is experiencing a boost due to adults, often referred to as 'kidults,' who are increasingly purchasing toys. This trend was highlighted at the Nuremberg toy fair, the world's biggest toy expo, which celebrated its 75th birthday. The event featured various toys and collectibles, such as table-top racing tracks and vinyl figurines from popular TV shows like 'Stranger Things.' The article suggests that the toy industry's target market is ageing, and adults are becoming a significant customer base.

The article describes the situation at the last open crossing between Belarus and Ukraine, where Ukrainians are fleeing Russian occupation. The crossing is used by people who have spent years under Russian control and are now seeking to start anew in government-controlled Ukraine. The article highlights the stories of two individuals, Sofia and Serhiy, who are crossing into Ukraine. Sofia, 17, is starting a new life after four years under Russian occupation in the Kherson region. Serhiy, a retired engineer in his 70s, is struggling to decide whether to return to his home in front-line Donbas, which has been hit by Russian drones and cut off from heating. The article paints a picture of the human cost of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

The article discusses Britain's police reforms and their potential impact on public perception of crime and safety. Despite a decline in crime rates, many Britons remain concerned about crime and have lost confidence in the police. The article suggests that the reforms are a step in the right direction but questions whether they will improve public perception.

Britain's trade-union laws are changing, and union officials are optimistic that this shift will lead to a surge in membership and organizing activity. For 40 years, British workers have been leaving trade unions, but with new freedoms, union bosses believe the tide is turning. Officials from various unions, including United Voices of the World and UTAW, report increased interest from workers wanting to organize, particularly in industries that have been difficult to unionize in the past. The article suggests that this change could have significant implications for British politics and the labor landscape.

French President Emmanuel Macron has declared that Europe is facing a 'geopolitical and geo-economic state of emergency' and urged the EU to invest in its economy and lift barriers to growth more quickly to avoid being 'swept aside' by technology from America and imports from China. Macron emphasized the need for the continent to act fast to remain competitive in the global economy.

The article discusses the strained relationship between the nationalist leaders of Hungary and Slovakia, Viktor Orban and Robert Fico, due to a historical disagreement. Fico's decision to make it illegal to criticize the Benes decrees, which led to the confiscation of property and expulsion of ethnic Germans and Hungarians after World War II, has caused tension between the two leaders. The Benes decrees were a retaliatory measure against Germany's invasion and Hungary's alliance with the Nazis. The article highlights the complexities of historical grievances and their impact on current political relationships in Europe.

The article discusses the growing influence of the far-right ideology in Europe, particularly in Germany, through the concept of 'remigration'. This term, popularized by the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has spread from the extremist fringe to the mainstream, presenting a dilemma for the party as it potentially leads to legal trouble. The article explores how far-right groups are extending their influence in democracies and the implications of this trend.

The article discusses how the legacy of Jeffrey Epstein continues to impact influential figures in global capitalism. Epstein's abuse of young women has led to a ripple effect, damaging the reputations and careers of various high-profile individuals who were associated with him. The release of documents by the US Justice Department has further exacerbated the situation, leading to the downfall of several prominent figures, including Les Wexner, Jes Staley, and Leon Black. The article suggests that Epstein's ghost is haunting the grand old men of capitalism, tarnishing the reputations of even the most powerful individuals, such as Bill Gates and Larry Summers.

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has proposed stopping interest payments on reserves held at the Bank of England, a move that has garnered unexpected support from left-wing Greens, centrist Liberal Democrats, and even former Bank of England deputy governors. The proposal has been met with a mix of reactions, with some viewing it as a populist economic measure. Farage's motivation appears to be driven by personal grievance against banks that have 'debanked' him. The article discusses the potential implications of this policy and its surprising alliances across the political spectrum.

The article discusses Daniel Kretinsky, a Czech billionaire who has been actively making deals in Europe over the past year. He has taken Metro, a German wholesaler, private, bought International Distributions Services (IDS), the parent company of Britain's Royal Mail, become a major shareholder in TotalEnergies, a French oil giant, and launched a takeover offer for Fnac Darty, a French electronics retailer. The article highlights Kretinsky's belief in Europe and his concerns about its lack of pragmatism.

The article discusses the effectiveness of management mantras in business, highlighting their potential to be both beneficial and detrimental. It emphasizes that while mantras like 'Garbage in, garbage out' can be useful in embedding a culture or guiding employees' thinking, they should be used judiciously. The article suggests that mantras can be powerful tools but also notes the importance of considering the context in which they are applied.

The United Nations migration agency reported that 53 migrants were dead or missing after a boat capsized off the Libyan coast in the Mediterranean Sea. Only two Nigerian women were rescued, who reported losing their loved ones in the tragedy. The incident highlights the dangers faced by migrants attempting to reach Europe from Africa, with at least 375 migrants reported dead or missing in January alone. The IOM is calling for stronger international cooperation to tackle trafficking networks and provide safe migration pathways.

A record 13 people died in the Italian mountains over the last week, including 10 in avalanches, as the Winter Olympics started. The deaths occurred on ungroomed slopes, away from well-maintained Olympic sites. Rescuers warned of exceptionally unstable snowpack and advised people to heed avalanche bulletins and delay outings. The incidents happened as people rushed to the mountains during brief windows of good weather. Meanwhile, US downhill skier Lindsey Vonn was rescued after crashing during a competition in Cortina d'Ampezzo.

The increasing maritime traffic in the Arctic due to melting sea ice is causing a surge in black carbon emissions from ships, exacerbating the warming of the region. Countries are pushing for the use of cleaner fuels to reduce pollution, but progress is hindered by conflicting interests and loopholes in existing regulations. The issue is complex, with internal tensions within Arctic nations and resistance from industries such as fishing. Environmental groups stress the need for regulation to mitigate the impact of black carbon, which has a warming effect 1,600 times that of carbon dioxide over a 20-year span.

President Trump's executive order to increase imports of beef from Argentina is unlikely to significantly ease costs for US consumers, according to experts. The order allows Argentina to export an additional 80,000 metric tons of lean beef trimmings to the US tariff-free, representing only 0.6% of the overall US beef supply. Beef prices have risen due to extreme weather conditions, such as droughts and wildfires, that have reduced the nation's cattle supply. Experts say rebuilding the cattle supply will take several years and require saving female cows for breeding.

David Becker, Executive Director of the Center for Election Innovation and Research, discusses concerns about President Trump's statements undermining confidence in the upcoming election on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan". Becker notes that Trump's executive order on elections has been blocked by federal courts and that the cybersecurity apparatus built under the first Trump administration has been dismantled. He emphasizes that the Constitution grants states the authority to run elections and that the courts have been firm in holding the limits of executive power. Becker fact-checks claims made in a White House video about election software and security, stating that they are disinformation and that US elections are transparent and verifiable.

Bulgarian authorities discovered the bodies of three suspects linked to a triple murder involving an NGO called the National Protected Areas Control Agency (NAKZT). The suspects, including a 15-year-old boy, were found dead from gunshots in a camping van near Mount Okolchitsa. The triple murder occurred a week prior at a mountain lodge, where three men affiliated with NAKZT were killed. The NGO has been accused of 'sexual abuse of children' and possessing a 'paramilitary' apparatus. Prosecutor Borislav Sarafov likened the case to the TV show 'Twin Peaks' due to its bizarre and horrific nature.

U.S. Olympian Hunter Hess responded to President Trump's criticism, calling him a 'real loser' after Hess expressed 'mixed feelings' about representing the United States at the Winter Olympics. Hess reaffirmed his love for his country while acknowledging its flaws and the right to criticize them. Other American athletes, including snowboarders Bea Kim, Maddie Mastro, and Chloe Kim, also shared their thoughts on representing the U.S. amidst the current political climate. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) spokesperson declined to comment on Trump's remark, while the U.S. and Paralympic Committee reported an increase in harmful messages directed at athletes.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Pablo Guanipa was released on Sunday after more than eight months in prison. Guanipa, an ally of opposition leader María Corina Machado, was detained in late May and accused of participating in a 'terrorist group' plotting to boycott the legislative election. His release comes amid mounting pressure on the government of acting President Delcy Rodríguez to release all people detained for their political beliefs. Rodríguez was sworn in as acting president after the capture of then-President Nicolás Maduro by the U.S. military last month. The government announced it would free a significant number of prisoners, a central demand of the opposition and human rights organizations, but families and rights watchdogs have criticized the slow pace of the releases.

China's central bank upgraded the digital yuan to 'digital deposit money,' allowing it to accrue interest like a bank deposit. However, despite record transactions last year and government incentives, the uptake remains slow as users prefer alternatives like WeChat Pay and Alipay. Analysts say Beijing is likely to maintain a gradual expansion. The digital yuan's new framework incorporates emerging technologies and is seen as Beijing's answer to stablecoins.

China's cruise industry has reached a significant milestone with its first home-grown large cruise ship, Adora Magic City, handling 1 million passengers since its commercial debut two years ago. The industry is receiving strong policy support from Beijing as part of efforts to boost household spending on services and cultivate new growth drivers. The construction of a second domestically made cruise ship, Adora Flora City, is over 90% complete and is scheduled to be delivered this year. Policymakers have identified cruise ships and yachts as key potential growth areas in the transport sector, with plans to support eligible regions in developing cruise services and broadening cruise home port routes.

A Chinese probe into a scandal at the Nanjing Museum has uncovered systemic mismanagement and alleged corruption that allowed national treasures to be sold on the private art market. The investigation found that five paintings from a 137-piece collection donated in 1959 were mishandled, with one appearing at auction in 2025 for an estimated 88 million yuan. The probe, involving over 1,100 interviews and 65,000 archival documents, revealed that a former vice-director and other individuals were involved in the illegal transfer and sale of the artworks.

Indonesia's top economic minister Airlangga Hartarto and Hong Kong's former leader Leung Chun-ying spoke at the South China Morning Post's China Conference: Southeast Asia 2026 in Jakarta, highlighting the strong ties between Indonesia and China. Leung emphasized China's commitment to upholding fairness and stability amid global uncertainty, opposing unilateralism and protectionism, and defending the multilateral trading system. He also praised China's role as a source of economic growth and stability in a period of unpredictability.

Malaysia is upgrading its naval capabilities by acquiring new Norwegian and Turkish missiles to enhance its deterrence in the South China Sea. The move comes amid rising tensions with China, particularly over Chinese coastguard vessels patrolling near Malaysian offshore oil and gas assets. The modernization effort involves replacing the navy's ageing Exocet missiles with newer systems, including the Norwegian Naval Strike Missile and Turkey's Atmaca anti-ship missile system, expected to be delivered by 2028. The defence ministry described the overhaul as a 'phased and prudent approach', emphasizing the evaluation of next-generation platforms for greater range, radar evasion, and better integration with modern sensor networks.

Hong Kong investors are reevaluating their stakes in Panama due to a dispute over a concession held by a subsidiary of CK Hutchison to operate two ports in the country. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu stated that the incident has undermined investors' confidence in Panama's business environment and pledged to work with Beijing to push back. Lee urged Panamanian authorities to ensure 'fair and reasonable' treatment for Hong Kong firms operating in the country. The dispute began after a court ruling invalidated the concession to operate two ports at opposite ends of the Panama Canal.

The UK and US continue to cooperate on cybercrime investigations despite the extradition of Chen Zhi, a billionaire businessman accused of masterminding a vast scam network, to China. Cambodia is working with China, the US, and Britain on the case, according to a senior Cambodian official. Chen's extradition to China followed months of cooperation between the Cambodian and Chinese governments. The US had indicted Chen in October and sanctioned him, and US law enforcement seized about $15 billion worth of bitcoin allegedly linked to his scheme.

Taiwan has conducted a series of shallow-water submerged tests of its indigenous submarine prototype, Hai Kun, as part of its Indigenous Defence Submarine programme. The tests are seen as a key step towards potential navy delivery as early as June. The programme is central to Taiwan's efforts to boost asymmetric naval capabilities amid increasing military pressure from Beijing. However, the project has faced delays, prompting opposition lawmakers to freeze NT$1.8 billion in funding for follow-on submarines until the prototype completes sea trials.

Award-winning actress Catherine O'Hara died of a pulmonary embolism at the age of 71. Her death certificate listed rectal cancer as the long-term cause of death. Tributes have poured in from colleagues and friends, including Seth Rogen, Pedro Pascal, Eugene Levy, and Macaulay Culkin, who praised her talent, kindness, and generosity. O'Hara is remembered for her roles in Schitt's Creek, Home Alone, and The Last of Us.

Singer Chappell Roan has announced that she is leaving her talent agency, Wasserman, led by Casey Wasserman, due to the controversy surrounding Wasserman's name appearing in the Epstein files. The files revealed flirtatious emails between Wasserman and Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for recruiting and trafficking teenage girls to be sexually abused by convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Roan stated that she has a duty to protect her team and that her decision reflects her belief that meaningful change in the industry requires accountability. Wasserman has faced calls to step down from his position as chairman of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games following the release of the emails. He has apologized for his correspondence with Maxwell, stating that it took place over two decades ago, long before her horrific crimes came to light. Two other bands represented by Wasserman have also released statements distancing themselves from the agency.

A BBC News Persian analysis of videos and photographs confirms that Iranian security forces used a wide range of weaponry, including machine guns, sniper rifles, and shotguns, against protesters during recent protests in Iran, resulting in thousands of deaths. The protests, which began over economic issues, escalated into a violent crackdown, with security forces employing lethal force. The Iranian government has blamed the violence on 'rioters and terrorists', but evidence suggests that security forces were responsible for the killings.

New York City has experienced a severe cold snap, resulting in 18 deaths, with the mayor, Zohran Mamdani, urging residents to stay safe and indoors. The cold weather, which included 13 consecutive days of sub-zero temperatures, has led to increased measures to support the homeless, including additional shelter placements and outreach workers. While temperatures are expected to rise, they will remain below average.

The Norwegian police have launched an investigation into diplomat Mona Juul and her husband Terje Rød-Larsen over their links to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Juul resigned as ambassador to Jordan and Iraq after media reports revealed that her children would receive $5m each from Epstein's will. Emails from the Epstein files showed that Rød-Larsen had dinner with Epstein in Paris in 2019. The investigation will examine whether Juul received benefits in connection with her position. Juul and Rød-Larsen were involved in the 1993-1995 Oslo Accords and have been linked to Epstein through various interactions. Other prominent Norwegians, including Crown Princess Mette-Marit and former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland, are also being investigated or have apologized for their connections to Epstein.

The Philippine Supreme Court has ruled that same-sex couples can be considered co-owners of property, applying a provision of the country's Family Code for the first time. The decision involved a former same-sex couple who feuded over plans to sell their house and lot in suburban Manila. The court cited a document showing that one partner paid 50% of the purchase and renovation costs, and ruled that the Family Code's Article 148 applies to same-sex couples. The decision is seen as a landmark ruling, providing some legal protection to LGBT couples in a country where same-sex unions are outlawed and divorce is not allowed.

The Israeli government has approved new measures in the occupied West Bank, which Palestinians and international critics say amount to de facto annexation. The measures, announced by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, aim to increase Israeli control over the territory and make it easier for Jewish settlers to take over Palestinian land. The steps include cancelling a prohibition on the direct sale of West Bank land to Jews, declassifying local land registry records, and transferring building licensing to Israeli authorities in sensitive areas. The Palestinian Authority, Arab countries, and Israeli anti-occupation groups have condemned the moves, warning of increased violence and conflict. The UK and other countries have called on Israel to reverse the decision, citing international law.

San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Keion White was shot outside a nightclub in San Francisco following Super Bowl LX. The 49ers released a statement saying White sustained a bullet wound to his ankle and was undergoing surgery at a local hospital. The San Francisco Police Department is investigating the shooting, which occurred after a verbal altercation between two groups inside the nightclub.

The article discusses Bruce Blakeman, the 2026 GOP candidate for governor of New York, and his potential to bring about real change in the state. It contrasts Blakeman's commonsense agenda with the policies of current Governor Kathy Hochul, who is criticized for giving in to progressive demands and failing to address the state's decline. Blakeman's leadership in Nassau County is highlighted as a successful example of law and order, economic growth, and responsible budgeting. The article argues that Blakeman's experience and principles make him a suitable candidate to lead New York in the right direction, as opposed to continuing with Hochul's policies.

A 63-year-old man, Brian Walton, has been charged with the murder of Claudia Guevara, a 23-year-old woman whose body was found in a drainage ditch in 1996. DNA evidence linked Walton to the crime, which involved sexual assault and stabbing. Walton faces life in prison or the death penalty if convicted. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office announced the charges after a decades-long investigation, praising the relentless pursuit of justice by investigators and prosecutors.

A brawl broke out during a game between the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets on Monday, resulting in the ejection of four players: Moussa Diabaté and Miles Bridges from the Hornets, and Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart from the Pistons. The altercation began when Diabaté fouled Duren while he was shooting inside the paint, leading to a heated exchange between the two players. The situation escalated as Bridges got into a fight with Duren, and Stewart, who was not dressed for the game, ran onto the court to confront Bridges. The NBA is likely to review the incident for supplementary discipline. The Hornets ultimately lost the game 110-104. The incident was marked by intense emotions, with Hornets coach Charles Lee also being ejected in the fourth quarter for arguing with officials.

Blake Garrett, a former child star known for his role in the 2006 comedy film 'How to Eat Fried Worms,' has died at the age of 33. Garrett died in Oklahoma, a week after being hospitalized and diagnosed with shingles. His mother, Carol, suspects that his death may have been accidental and that he may have been self-medicating following his diagnosis. Garrett played the role of Plug in the film, which was directed by Bob Dolman and starred alongside Luke Benward, Hallie Eisenberg, and Adam Hicks. Before his acting career, Garrett appeared in various theater productions, including 'Aladdin and his Magical Lamp' and 'Annie.' The cause of Garrett's death has not been revealed.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was criticized for not attending the installation ceremony of Archbishop Ronald Hicks at St. Patrick's Cathedral, marking the first time in nearly 100 years that a NYC mayor has skipped the event. Mamdani instead sent a deputy mayor and posted a congratulatory message on social media, which was seen as insufficient by many, including the Catholic League. Critics argue that Mamdani's absence was a snub to the Catholic community, which includes hundreds of thousands of his constituents. Former NYC mayors from different faith backgrounds have traditionally attended such ceremonies, highlighting the significance of the event.

The Seahawks defeated the Patriots in Super Bowl 2026, with cornerback Devon Witherspoon revealing that they discovered a 'tell' in the Patriots' offensive line that they exploited to gain an advantage. The Seahawks' defensive strategy, led by coach Mike Macdonald, allowed them to pressure Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, sacking him six times and picking him off twice. The Seahawks forced the Patriots to punt on eight of New England's first nine possessions, holding them to just 78 yards of total offense and five first downs through three quarters. Witherspoon credited coach Macdonald with putting the team in the best position to win, and teammate Leonard Williams praised Macdonald's game-planning abilities.

A group of four Trump administration veterans, including Russell T. Vought and Jeffrey B. Clark, have been working behind the scenes to dismantle federal climate efforts. They drafted executive orders for the next Republican president to revoke the endangerment finding, a scientific conclusion that determined greenhouse gases threaten public health and welfare. The Environmental Protection Agency is expected to revoke this determination, which could hamstring future administrations' efforts to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. The campaign, funded in part by the Heritage Foundation, has been led by conservative activists and lawyers who have been fighting climate initiatives for years.

A federal appeals court has allowed the Trump administration to end deportation protections for over 60,000 migrants from Nepal, Honduras, and Nicaragua, despite lower court rulings that the termination was driven by xenophobic and racist motivations. The decision is a victory for the administration's efforts to curtail the Temporary Protected Status program, which allows migrants fleeing crisis at home to temporarily live and work in the US. The program has been a target of the Trump administration's deportation efforts, with the government moving to eliminate it for over one million people from eight countries.

The Italian military and police forces compete to recruit top athletes to represent them in the Olympics, offering salaries, training facilities, and career advancement opportunities. Many Italian Olympians are also soldiers or police officers, and the different agencies use various tactics to attract and retain top talent. The competition between the forces can be intense, with some athletes switching allegiance for better benefits and opportunities.

The article discusses the Trump administration's consideration of deploying more nuclear weapons and conducting nuclear tests after the expiration of the New START treaty between the US and Russia. The administration is weighing options to bolster its nuclear arsenal, including reusing stored nuclear arms and resuming nuclear testing. The move would reverse nearly 40 years of stricter nuclear control by the US. Experts are divided on whether the administration's actions are intended to push other nuclear powers into negotiations or lead to a new arms race. The article also highlights the potential consequences of the US resuming nuclear testing, including the possibility of China and Russia expanding their nuclear forces.

The Nicaraguan government has blocked Cuban migrants from entering the country without a visa, effectively cutting off a popular route to the United States. The move is seen as an attempt to ease pressure from the Trump administration, which has been critical of Nicaragua's role in facilitating migrant travel. Experts say the decision is 'symbolic' and 'a little too late,' as the number of Cubans traveling to Nicaragua was already expected to be low due to the country's economic crisis and strict U.S. measures. The Nicaraguan government's move comes amid increased tensions with the U.S., including sanctions and restrictions imposed by the Biden and Trump administrations.

The Trump administration plans to rescind $600 million in public health funds from four states led by Democrats, citing that the grants are 'inconsistent with agency priorities.' The cuts affect programs in California, Colorado, Illinois, and Minnesota, including grants to state and local public health departments and nongovernmental organizations. The decision has been criticized by health experts, who argue that it will leave communities less prepared to handle health threats. The cuts include funding for programs aimed at curbing H.I.V. and other sexually transmitted infections, as well as initiatives focused on specific communities. The Department of Health and Human Services has stated that the grants are being terminated because they do not reflect agency priorities.

A U.S. military boat strike in the eastern Pacific Ocean killed two people and left one survivor on Monday, marking the third such incident this year and the 38th under the Trump administration's campaign against drug trafficking from Latin America. The strike, authorized by Gen. Francis L. Donovan, targeted a vessel suspected of carrying drugs, with the Pentagon's Southern Command notifying the U.S. Coast Guard to begin search-and-rescue operations. The campaign, which began in early September, has claimed 130 lives, with only two other known survivors of U.S. military airstrikes. Legal specialists have criticized the strikes as illegal, extrajudicial killings.

BP, the British oil giant, has suspended its share buyback program and will instead allocate excess cash to strengthen its balance sheet due to lower crude prices. The company reported a fourth-quarter profit of $1.54 billion, in line with analyst expectations, and a full-year net profit of $7.49 billion, missing expectations. BP's decision comes as the oil and gas sector faces pressure due to oversupply concerns and lower crude prices, with industry rivals Equinor and Shell also reporting weaker quarterly earnings. BP's new CEO, Meg O'Neill, is set to take over on April 1, and the company has announced a dividend per ordinary share of 8.320 cents for the fourth quarter.

Kering, the parent company of Gucci, reported a 3% decline in sales in the fourth quarter, slightly beating FactSet estimates. Gucci's sales fell 10% during the same period, while other brands under Kering saw flat or moderate growth. Despite the decline, Kering expects a return to growth this year under new CEO Luca de Meo. The company's shares jumped over 13% after the earnings report.

Taiwan's top trade negotiator has pushed back against the US's goal to relocate 40% of Taiwan's semiconductor production capacity to the US, calling it 'impossible'. The US Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, had outlined the onshoring goal in a CNBC interview, citing a recent US-Taiwan trade agreement. Taiwan's Vice Premier, Cheng Li-chiun, stated that the country's semiconductor ecosystem, built over decades, cannot be simply relocated. Analysts agree with Cheng's assessment, citing difficulties in relocating the advanced supply chain, US labor shortages, and elevated costs. The 'Silicon Shield' theory, which suggests that Taiwan's pivotal role in global chip supply makes safeguarding its autonomy a US strategic imperative, may also discourage Taiwan from shifting its supply chains abroad.

Oil prices eased slightly on Tuesday as traders weighed the potential for supply disruptions amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and Iran. U.S. guidance for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz kept attention on the risk of escalation in the area, which is a critical waterway for global oil supplies. Despite positive tone from Iran's top diplomat regarding nuclear talks with the U.S., uncertainty over potential escalation and supply disruptions kept a modest risk premium intact. Meanwhile, the European Union proposed extending sanctions on Russia to include ports in third countries that handle Russian oil.

SoftBank Group Corp's shares surged over 10% after its telecom arm, SoftBank Corp, raised its full-year profit outlook. The telecom unit's revenue for the first nine months of fiscal 2025 rose 8% to a record 5.2 trillion yen, driven by steady execution toward its fiscal 2025 goals. Renewed optimism around Arm Holdings, a British chip designer in which SoftBank has a large stake, also contributed to the bullish sentiment due to its exposure to artificial intelligence (AI). Arm Holdings reported record quarterly revenue driven by demand for AI, with its data center royalty revenue growing over 100% year-on-year.

Hanwha Aerospace, South Korea's largest defense firm, saw its shares plummet 6% after reporting downbeat fourth-quarter results despite a net profit that beat expectations. The company's revenue rose 72.56% year-on-year to 8.33 trillion South Korean won, but missed estimates of 8.64 trillion won. Pre-tax profit plunged 72% to 602 billion won, a significant miss compared to expectations of 1.2 trillion won. However, net profit was a bright spot, coming in above expectations at 934 billion won. The company's full-year revenue skyrocketed 137% year-on-year to 26.61 trillion won, but marginally missed estimates. Hanwha has seen growing demand for its defense platforms following the Russia-Ukraine war, with orders from multiple European countries. Despite the downbeat results, Hanwha's shares have climbed 18.92% year-to-date, following a strong rally in 2025.

A congressional commission has warned that China's infrastructure projects in the Pacific Islands may pose a military threat to the US and its allies. The U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission stated that Chinese-funded projects, such as runways and ports, could be used for military purposes despite being declared for civilian use. Commission members urged lawmakers to tighten oversight and increase scrutiny of China's activities in the region.

The Iranian regime's execution of wrestlers and other protesters has sparked international calls for sports organizations to ban Iran from competitions. Former head coach of Iran's national Greco-Roman wrestling team, Sardar Parshei, and prominent dissident Masih Alinejad are among those urging the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and FIFA to take action. The Iranian regime has been accused of slaughtering over 40,000 protesters, including athletes, children, and teenagers, and exploiting international sporting events to legitimize itself. Afsoon Roshanzamir Johnston, the first American female wrestler to win a medal in world championship competition, has also spoken out against the regime's brutality.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Pablo Guanipa was seized by heavily armed men in civilian clothing shortly after being released from jail on Sunday. María Corina Machado, a key ally, reported the incident on social media, demanding Guanipa's immediate release. Guanipa was among 35 political prisoners released on Sunday, according to the Venezuelan human rights group Foro Penal. The Public Ministry alleged that Guanipa violated the terms of his release, but provided no additional details. Guanipa's party, Primero Justicia, held Delcy Rodríguez, Jorge Rodríguez, and Diosdado Cabello responsible for any harm to Guanipa's life and called for international intervention.

North Korean authorities have reportedly executed teenagers for watching the South Korean television series 'Squid Game' and listening to K-pop, according to human rights researchers. Amnesty International cited testimony from escapees who said people, including schoolchildren, were executed for consuming South Korean media. The organization also documented accounts of forced labor sentences and public humiliation for similar offenses. Defectors described witnessing public executions as a form of state-mandated indoctrination designed to deter exposure to foreign culture. Amnesty International condemned the government's fear of information, stating that it effectively places the entire population in an ideological cage.

Russia plans to interrogate two suspects in the attempted assassination of Lt. Gen. Vladimir Alekseyev, a top military intelligence official, who was shot in Moscow on Friday. Alekseyev, the deputy head of Russia's GRU military intelligence agency, was shot three times and hospitalized. The shooter posed as a delivery person and fled after the attack. Russian investigators have launched a criminal investigation, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused Ukraine of being behind the attempt, which Ukraine denied. Alekseyev has been under U.S. sanctions over alleged Russian cyber interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

A migrant boat carrying 53 people, including two babies, capsized off the coast of Libya on February 6, 2026, resulting in the deaths or disappearance of all but two Nigerian women. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that the survivors lost their loved ones in the tragedy. The incident is part of a larger crisis, with at least 375 migrants reported dead or missing in January alone, and an estimated total of 484 in 2026. The IOM warned that trafficking and smuggling networks continue to exploit migrants, profiting from dangerous crossings in unseaworthy boats. Libya has become a dominant transit point for migrants fleeing war and poverty in Africa and the Middle East since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi.

Prosecutors in France are facing a challenge in a murder trial involving identical twins, Samuel and Jeremy Y, as DNA found on a gun used in a fatal shooting matches both defendants. The 33-year-old brothers are accused of being involved in a double gang murder in September 2020 and several attempted murders the following month. Due to their identical DNA, forensic experts are unable to determine which twin pulled the trigger, making it a complex case that relies on other evidence such as phone records, surveillance footage, and wiretaps.

Scientists have reconstructed the face of a man whose remains were mutilated after death to prevent him from rising as a vampire in 15th or 16th century Croatia. The man's body was exhumed, beheaded, and reburied face down beneath heavy stones in a fortress in eastern Croatia. Archaeologists believe the desecration was done to stop the dead man from returning as a vampire due to his violent death and facial disfigurement. The reconstructed face reveals a man with a scar and other injuries, suggesting a turbulent life. The study's findings were published in the journal OrtogOnLineMag.

The French government is launching a campaign to encourage 29-year-olds to have babies while they still can, as part of a 16-point plan to boost the country's fertility rate. The plan includes providing 'targeted, balanced, and scientifically sound information' to young people on sexual health and contraception, as well as increasing the number of egg-freezing centers. France's fertility rate is currently 1.56 children per woman, below the 2.1 needed to maintain a stable population. Experts are divided on the effectiveness of the plan, with some suggesting that better housing and maternity provision could be more effective solutions.

Brenton Tarrant, the Australian national who killed 51 Muslim worshippers at two mosques in New Zealand in 2019, is seeking to overturn his guilty pleas, claiming that harsh prison conditions affected his mental health and led to irrational decision-making. Tarrant appeared in court via video link and testified that he was not fit to plead guilty due to deteriorated mental health. The appeal hearing is scheduled to last five days, and if successful, the case will be sent back to the High Court for Tarrant to stand trial. Families of victims attended the hearing, expressing frustration and anger at Tarrant's actions.

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is seeking to accelerate its access to cutting-edge technologies to stay competitive with China. The agency announced plans for a new acquisition framework that aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and optimize vendor vetting, enabling faster deployment of innovative tools. CIA Deputy Director Michael Ellis stated that the agency is forming commercial partnerships with start-ups and industry leaders in areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and microchips. The move is a response to the agency's struggles to keep pace with innovation, as noted by CIA Director John Ratcliffe during his Senate confirmation remarks in 2025. The new framework will allow for faster prototype onboarding, enabling officers to test new technologies. The CIA has already partnered with companies like Amazon Web Services and Palantir Technologies for cloud computing and data analysis.

A new study has found that artificial intelligence (AI) tools are more likely to provide incorrect medical advice when misinformation comes from a source that appears legitimate. Researchers tested 20 open-source and proprietary large language models and found that the software was more often tricked by mistakes in realistic-looking doctors' discharge notes than by mistakes in social media conversations. The study highlights the need for built-in safeguards to check medical claims before they are presented as fact.

A federal judge in Los Angeles has struck down a California state law that banned federal officers from wearing masks while on duty, citing that it violates the US Constitution's Supremacy Clause. The law was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in September 2025 amid protests over immigration enforcement operations. The US Department of Justice sued to strike down the law, arguing that it interferes with federal functions and puts federal officers at risk of criminal liability. The judge upheld another California law requiring federal officers to display identification when performing their duties.

The article explores the complex dynamics between the ethnic Chinese minority and the Malay majority in Kelantan, Malaysia, a state governed by the Islamist party PAS. While the Chinese community has historically been integrated into Kelantanese society, recent policies have led to increased regulatory encroachment and economic challenges. The article highlights the paradox between the state's symbols of inter-faith accommodation, such as the 'Beijing Mosque', and the tightening grip on non-Muslim spaces. It also showcases the cultural heritage and identity of the Chinese community in Kelantan, who have maintained their traditions while adapting to the local culture.

The article discusses a CNN investigation by Randi Kaye into the ransom notes of some of America's most notorious crimes, including the JonBenét Ramsey and Patty Hearst cases. The investigation is presented in a video segment that explores the ransom notes and their significance in these high-profile crimes.

Bangladesh is holding its first election since a Gen Z-led rebellion toppled the autocratic government of Sheikh Hasina in 2024. Despite the revolution's promise of change, the election is dominated by the old guard, with two frontrunners: Tarique Rahman, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and an Islamist leader from Jamaat-e-Islami. The National Citizen Party (NCP), formed by students after the uprising, has struggled to gain traction and has formed an alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami, causing controversy among its supporters. The election is seen as a crucial test for Bangladesh's future, with many hoping it will bring positive change.

The US military conducted a strike against an alleged drug-trafficking boat in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing two people and leaving one survivor. This is the third publicly known attack of the year and the second to leave a survivor. The strike is part of Operation Southern Spear, a campaign aimed at curtailing narcotics trafficking. At least 121 people have been killed in such strikes since the operation began in September. The legality of the strikes has been questioned by Congress and military lawyers, who argue that the administration has not provided sufficient evidence that those killed are affiliated with drug cartels.

US federal judges have dismissed three lawsuits filed by Scarlett Pavlovich against Neil Gaiman and his wife Amanda Palmer, alleging sexual assault and human trafficking. The lawsuits were filed in Wisconsin, Massachusetts, and New York, but the judges ruled that the cases should be pursued in New Zealand, where the alleged incidents occurred. Pavlovich alleged that Gaiman sexually assaulted her while she worked as the family's nanny in 2022, and that Palmer was aware of Gaiman's actions and facilitated them. Gaiman denied the allegations, stating that he had never sexually abused anyone, and his attorneys argued that the lawsuits were part of a plan to smear him. The New Zealand police had previously investigated Pavlovich's allegations and found them to be meritless.

The US military's Southern Command carried out a strike on a boat in the eastern Pacific on Monday, killing two suspected drug smugglers. The strike was carried out under the direction of the new commander, Gen Francis L Donovan. This incident brings the total death toll to at least 130 in 38 strikes, according to Pentagon statements. Meanwhile, US military forces boarded a sanctioned tanker in the Indian Ocean as part of an oil quarantine meant to squeeze Venezuela. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth vowed to capture all ships violating US sanctions.

A group of Buddhist monks is nearing the end of a 2,300-mile 'Walk for Peace' from Texas to Washington, D.C., promoting peace, compassion, and nonviolence. The monks, led by Bhikkhu Pannakara, have become social media fixtures and have been greeted by thousands along the way. The walk, which began in October 2025, has been a spiritual offering, inviting people to practice mindfulness and cultivate inner peace. The monks plan to submit a request to lawmakers to declare Vesak, Buddha's birthday, a national holiday, but emphasize that this is not the walk's primary goal. The trek has been challenging, with some monks walking barefoot or in socks, and has included a serious accident in November. The monks will complete 108 days of walking on Tuesday, a sacred number in Buddhism, and will conclude their journey with appearances at Washington National Cathedral and the Lincoln Memorial.