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Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, announced on Thursday at the AI Impact Summit 2026 to establish a full-stack AI hub in Visakhapatnam as part of its $15-billion investment into building the AI ecosystem in India. His announcement came while addressing the global impact of AI on the fourth day of the Summit.&nbsp;“Visakhapatnam, once a modest coastal city, is now becoming a global AI hub with Google establishing a full-stack AI hub as part of a $15 billion investment,” Pichai said, ANI reported. "The hub will include large-scale compute and a subsea cable gateway, bringing jobs and AI capabilities to India. The transformation reflects how far technology and infrastructure have advanced," he added.&nbsp;“No technology has me dreaming bigger than AI. It is the biggest platform shift of our lifetimes,” he further said, and added that AI could enable developing nations to move ahead and create legacy infrastructure gaps via outcomes that require further responsible deployment.<h3>What upcoming features Google AI hub at Vizag have?</h3>The upcoming Google AI hub at Vizag will include the following features: a wide range of digital infrastructure, Gigawatt-scale compute capacity, a new international subsea cable gateway, and large-scale job creation alongside AI adoption across multiple industries.&nbsp;Highlighting the growing optimism around artificial intelligence, Pichai pointed to major scientific advances, particularly the work led by Demis Hassabis at Google DeepMind. He cited AlphaFold, an AI system that cracked the long-standing problem of protein structure prediction.&nbsp;Pichai noted that the breakthrough, recognised with a Nobel Prize, condensed decades of research into an open database now used by over three million researchers in 190 countries to accelerate vaccine development, combat antibiotic resistance, and advance medical innovation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="What is MANAV Vision? PM Narendra Modi unveils groundbreaking AI framework at India AI Impact Summit 2026 | Explained">What is MANAV Vision? PM Narendra Modi unveils groundbreaking AI framework at India AI Impact Summit 2026 | Explained</a>

The upcoming Google AI hub at Vizag will include a wide range of digital infrastructure, Gigawatt-scale compute capacity, a new international subsea cable gateway, and large-scale job creation alongside AI adoption across multiple industries.

Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, announced on Thursday at the AI Impact Summit 2026 to establish a full-stack AI hub in Visakhapatnam as part of its $15-billion investment into building the AI ecosystem in India. His announcement came while addressing the global impact of AI on the fourth day of the Summit. “Visakhapatnam, once a modest coastal city, is now becoming a global AI hub with Google establishing a full-stack AI hub as part of a $15 billion investment,” Pichai said, ANI reported. "The hub will include large-scale compute and a subsea cable gateway, bringing jobs and AI capabilities to India. The transformation reflects how far technology and infrastructure have advanced," he added. “No technology has me dreaming bigger than AI. It is the biggest platform shift of our lifetimes,” he further said, and added that AI could enable developing nations to move ahead and create legacy infrastructure gaps via outcomes that require further responsible deployment. What upcoming features Google AI hub at Vizag have? The upcoming Google AI hub at Vizag will include the following features: a wide range of digital infrastructure, Gigawatt-scale compute capacity, a new international subsea cable gateway, and large-scale job creation alongside AI adoption across multiple industries. Highlighting the growing optimism around artificial intelligence, Pichai pointed to major scientific advances, particularly the work led by Demis Hassabis at Google DeepMind. He cited AlphaFold, an AI system that cracked the long-standing problem of protein structure prediction. Pichai noted that the breakthrough, recognised with a Nobel Prize, condensed decades of research into an open database now used by over three million researchers in 190 countries to accelerate vaccine development, combat antibiotic resistance, and advance medical innovation. Also read: What is MANAV Vision? PM Narendra Modi unveils groundbreaking AI framework at India AI Impact Summit 2026 | Explained

The upcoming Google AI hub at Vizag will include a wide range of digital infrastructure, Gigawatt-scale compute capacity, a new international subsea cable gateway, and large-scale job creation alongside AI adoption across multiple industries.

‘No technology makes me dream bigger than AI’: Google CEO Sundar Pichai announces USD 15 billion AI investment in Vizag

Iran’s atomic energy chief Mohammad Eslami on Thursday (Feb 19) said that no nation can deprive Tehran of its right to nuclear enrichment. His remarks come after US President Donald Trump once again threatened the Islamic Republic with military action following indirect nuclear talks in Geneva.“The basis of the nuclear industry is enrichment. Whatever you want to do in the nuclear process, you need nuclear fuel,” said Eslami, in a video published by Etemad daily. “Iran’s nuclear programme is proceeding according to the rules of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and no country can deprive Iran of the right to peacefully benefit from this technology.”The remarks come after a second round of negotiations mediated by Oman was held between Iran and the United States in Geneva on Tuesday (Feb 17). The talks followed an initial round of discussions held in Oman on February 6 after talks collapsed when Israel launched strikes on Iran. The US also joined the brief military escalation targeting Tehran’s nuclear facilities.On Wednesday (Feb 18), Trump warned the British against giving up sovereignty over the Chagos Islands in the Indian Ocean, saying that the Diego Garcia airbase might be needed to “eradicate a potential attack” by Iran.“Should Iran decide not to make a Deal, it may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia, and the Airfield located in Fairford, in order to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous Regime — An attack that would potentially be made on the United Kingdom, as well as other friendly Countries,” he wrote on his Truth Social platform.Meanwhile, CNN reported that amid the US military build-up in the Middle East, the White House has been briefed that the American forces could be ready for an attack by the weekend, but Trump has yet to make a final decision to authorise such military action on Iran.&nbsp;

Iran’s atomic chief Mohammad Eslami said Tehran cannot be denied its right to nuclear enrichment amid renewed US threats. Trump warned of possible military action as tensions escalate.

Iran’s atomic energy chief Mohammad Eslami on Thursday (Feb 19) said that no nation can deprive Tehran of its right to nuclear enrichment. His remarks come after US President Donald Trump once again threatened the Islamic Republic with military action following indirect nuclear talks in Geneva. “The basis of the nuclear industry is enrichment. Whatever you want to do in the nuclear process, you need nuclear fuel,” said Eslami, in a video published by Etemad daily. “Iran’s nuclear programme is proceeding according to the rules of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and no country can deprive Iran of the right to peacefully benefit from this technology.” The remarks come after a second round of negotiations mediated by Oman was held between Iran and the United States in Geneva on Tuesday (Feb 17). The talks followed an initial round of discussions held in Oman on February 6 after talks collapsed when Israel launched strikes on Iran. The US also joined the brief military escalation targeting Tehran’s nuclear facilities. On Wednesday (Feb 18), Trump warned the British against giving up sovereignty over the Chagos Islands in the Indian Ocean, saying that the Diego Garcia airbase might be needed to “eradicate a potential attack” by Iran. “Should Iran decide not to make a Deal, it may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia, and the Airfield located in Fairford, in order to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous Regime — An attack that would potentially be made on the United Kingdom, as well as other friendly Countries,” he wrote on his Truth Social platform. Meanwhile, CNN reported that amid the US military build-up in the Middle East, the White House has been briefed that the American forces could be ready for an attack by the weekend, but Trump has yet to make a final decision to authorise such military action on Iran.

Iran’s atomic chief Mohammad Eslami said Tehran cannot be denied its right to nuclear enrichment amid renewed US threats. Trump warned of possible military action as tensions escalate.

‘No country can deprive Iran’: Tehran’s atomic energy chief reiterates nuclear enrichment rights amid tensions with US

Two Indian workers were subjected to racial abuse and beating in the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon, nearing the Gaza border, as reported by the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation. Congress leader Pawan Khera posted on his social media platform, urging External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to urgently look into the matter.&nbsp;According to the Public broadcaster, the attack was an "ambush". "Driven by racism and malice, a group of rioters from the south of the country plotted an attack, targeting the Indian workers in the neighbourhood, and beat them violently in the heart of a public park," says the report.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tucker-carlson-detained-ben-gurion-airport-huckabee-israel-1771483797204">Israel briefly 'detained' US conservative commentator Tucker Carlson</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Yesterday, two Indian citizens were brutally attacked in Ashkelon, Israel. It was a premeditated racist assault, planned over private chats. This is not the first such attack. And sadly, it may not be the last. The government’s failure to generate adequate employment at home… <a href="https://t.co/ZPFYcrrfj1">pic.twitter.com/ZPFYcrrfj1</a>&mdash; Pawan Khera 🇮🇳 (@Pawankhera) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pawankhera/status/2024046145631351135?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to the report, the attack was orchestrated on Instagram, and the miscreants followed the two Indian workers, started attacking with the intention to rob them, as foreigners are easy prey. The police arrested the two 19-year-olds in relation to the lynching. The report does not specify the victim's condition or medical care.“It was a premeditated racist assault, planned over private chats. This is not the first such attack. And sadly, it may not be the last,” wrote Congress leader Pawan Khera in a post on social media platform X. Khera accused the government of shrugging off responsibility but celebrating “India-Israel” friendship. &nbsp;India has been sending labourers to work in the construction and hospitality sectors since the October 7 Hamas attack, as Israel suspended the working rights of Palestinians. Since then, Israeli's have made this recruitment drive from India. The payment is lucrative, so workers are easily convinced to travel to conflict areas. The labour trade union, AITUC, sees this export of labour to warzones as a failure of BJP led central government to create 2 crore jobs annually.&nbsp;

Indian workers were lynched in a park in Ashkelon, 50 kms away from Tel Aviv. The suspects have reportedly been arrested, and police alleged racial motivation.

Two Indian workers were subjected to racial abuse and beating in the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon, nearing the Gaza border, as reported by the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation. Congress leader Pawan Khera posted on his social media platform, urging External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to urgently look into the matter. According to the Public broadcaster, the attack was an "ambush". "Driven by racism and malice, a group of rioters from the south of the country plotted an attack, targeting the Indian workers in the neighbourhood, and beat them violently in the heart of a public park," says the report. Also Read: Israel briefly 'detained' US conservative commentator Tucker Carlson

Indian workers were lynched in a park in Ashkelon, 50 kms away from Tel Aviv. The suspects have reportedly been arrested, police alleged racial motivation.

Indian workers assaulted in Ashkelon Israel, racial motivation alleged

Dr Jay Bhattacharya, director of the National Institute of Health under the US Department of Health and Human Services, will take over as acting director of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention of the US, according to NBC News.&nbsp;Bhattacharya succeeds Jim O’Neill, who had served simultaneously as the acting CDC director and deputy secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. His appointment marks the latest development in a series of leadership changes that have unfolded across federal health agencies over the past several months.&nbsp;Former CDC chief Susan Monarez was dismissed in August after just 29 days in the role. In testimony before the Senate health committee, she claimed Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. removed her for refusing to rubber-stamp changes to vaccine guidance, an allegation Kennedy has denied. Her removal prompted several senior CDC officials to resign in protest.<h3>Who is Jay Bhattacharya?</h3>Jay Bhattacharya is a professor of health policy at Stanford University, who also served as a research associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research and a senior fellow at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research, Stanford Freeman Spogli Institute, and the Hoover Institution.&nbsp;He heads Stanford's Centre for Demography and the Economics of Health and Ageing, where his work examines government programs, biomedical innovation, and health economics. He also co-authored the Great Barrington Declaration, which argued against widespread lockdowns in October 2020. His peer-reviewed research has been published in journals across sectors, including economics, statistics, law, medicine, public health, and health policy.&nbsp;A former Stanford Medicine professor, Bhattacharya became a prominent and controversial figure during the Covid-19 pandemic for his opposition to lockdown measures. In addition, Bhattacharya has focused his research on some of Kennedy's areas of interest, including chronic disease and nutrition. He has also inspired scientists to pursue high-risk, high-reward ideas, as well as to conduct more replication studies to substantiate their results.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-freedom-gov-portal-eu-content-vpn-digital-governance-1771479157581">US to launch an online portal featuring banned content from around the world</a> &nbsp;

Bhattacharya succeeds Jim O’Neill, who served as both the acting CDC director and deputy secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. His appointment marks the latest development in a series of leadership changes over the past several months.

Dr Jay Bhattacharya, director of the National Institute of Health under the US Department of Health and Human Services, will take over as acting director of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention of the US, according to NBC News. Bhattacharya succeeds Jim O’Neill, who had served simultaneously as the acting CDC director and deputy secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. His appointment marks the latest development in a series of leadership changes that have unfolded across federal health agencies over the past several months. Former CDC chief Susan Monarez was dismissed in August after just 29 days in the role. In testimony before the Senate health committee, she claimed Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. removed her for refusing to rubber-stamp changes to vaccine guidance, an allegation Kennedy has denied. Her removal prompted several senior CDC officials to resign in protest. Who is Jay Bhattacharya? Jay Bhattacharya is a professor of health policy at Stanford University, who also served as a research associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research and a senior fellow at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research, Stanford Freeman Spogli Institute, and the Hoover Institution. He heads Stanford's Centre for Demography and the Economics of Health and Ageing, where his work examines government programs, biomedical innovation, and health economics. He also co-authored the Great Barrington Declaration, which argued against widespread lockdowns in October 2020. His peer-reviewed research has been published in journals across sectors, including economics, statistics, law, medicine, public health, and health policy. A former Stanford Medicine professor, Bhattacharya became a prominent and controversial figure during the Covid-19 pandemic for his opposition to lockdown measures. In addition, Bhattacharya has focused his research on some of Kennedy's areas of interest, including chronic disease and nutrition. He has also inspired scientists to pursue high-risk, high-reward ideas, as well as to conduct more replication studies to substantiate their results. Also read: US to launch an online portal featuring banned content from around the world

Bhattacharya succeeds Jim O’Neill, who served as both the acting CDC director and deputy secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. His appointment marks the latest development in a series of leadership changes over the past several months.

Who is Jay Bhattacharya? NIH chief to take over as acting head of US CDC

The conservative commentator and a former Fox News anchor, Tucker Carlson, along with his crew, was briefly detained at the Ben Gurion airport after his interview with Mike Huckabee, the U.S. Ambassador to Israel. The US embassy to Israel denied these claims, arguing that Carlson was subjected to the routine procedures. Former Israeli PM Naftali Bennett called Tucker Carlson a “chicken.”“Men who identified themselves as airport security took our passports, hauled our executive producer into a side room and then demanded to know what we spoke to Ambassador Huckabee about,” said Carlson as reported by the British tabloid Daily Mail.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Greetings from Israel. <a href="https://t.co/1uBWvqBNST">pic.twitter.com/1uBWvqBNST</a>&mdash; Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) <a href="https://twitter.com/TuckerCarlson/status/2024109388865155244?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Carlson and his entourage are out of Israel. Carlson travelled to Israel in his private aircraft and stayed for around 180 minutes at the Ben Gurion airport. &nbsp;Ambassador Mike Huckabee has said that Carlson and his team, like everyone else, got their passport checked and had to answer security questions.&nbsp;Former Israeli PM Naftali Bennett called Carlson a “phoney”. “Tucker Carlson is a chicken—. The guy who’s been spouting lies about Israel for the past two years, landed today at Ben Gurion airport, took a quick picture in the logistics zone, tweeted it to pretend he’s actually IN Israel (so he can later claim that he’s a serious reporter who toured Israel), didn’t even step foot in country, then made up a story that he’s being supposedly harassed by our security (didn’t happen), whined about it, got back into the private jet and flew off,” said Naftali Bennett.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-freedom-gov-portal-eu-content-vpn-digital-governance-1771479157581">US to launch an online portal featuring banned content around the world</a><h2>Carlson was asked by Trump to tone down on Israel</h2>According to former Fox Business anchor Melissa Francis, Trump has urged Carlson to &nbsp;“turn down the temperature” on Israel. The rift between the US right has widened, especially regarding the US foreign policy and its support of the genocide in Palestine. Tucker Carlson has had guests on his podcast who have been critical of Israel, and he has been very outspoken against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. From Charlie Kirk, Candace Ownes to, Tucker Carlson, Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Thomas Massie, all of them have vocally opposed the Netanyahu government. Before Charlie Kirk was killed in Utah, he was pressured by Bill Ackman, a Zionist, against hosting Tucker Carlson at Turning Point USA. Marjorie Taylor Greene famously said she left her seat at the US House of Representatives because she did not want to be the “next Charlie Kirk”. &nbsp;“President Trump is telling everyone, including Tucker, ‘Let’s take this down,’” said Melissa.&nbsp;

Tucker Carlson was briefly detained at Ben Gurion Airport after interviewing US Ambassador Mike Huckabee. Israel denies harassment claims.

The conservative commentator and a former Fox News anchor, Tucker Carlson, along with his crew, was briefly detained at the Ben Gurion airport after his interview with Mike Huckabee, the U.S. Ambassador to Israel. The US embassy to Israel denied these claims, arguing that Carlson was subjected to the routine procedures. Former Israeli PM Naftali Bennett called Tucker Carlson a “chicken.” “Men who identified themselves as airport security took our passports, hauled our executive producer into a side room and then demanded to know what we spoke to Ambassador Huckabee about,” said Carlson as reported by the British tabloid Daily Mail.

Tucker Carlson was briefly detained at Ben Gurion Airport after interviewing US Ambassador Mike Huckabee. Israel denies harassment claims.

Israel briefly 'detained' US conservative commentator Tucker Carlson

A South Korean court on Thursday (Feb 19) found ousted president Yoon Suk Yeol guilty of insurrection, saying his martial law declaration was a deliberate blot to “paralyse” the National Assembly. Yoon was sentenced to life in prison on the charges of attempting to impose martial law in the country and sending troops to surround the legislature. The former leader was also found guilty of abuse of authority, the judge told the court. The move triggered the country’s most serious political crisis in decades on December 3, 2024.The verdict was delivered by Seoul Central District Court Judge Jee Kui-youn. Hundreds of police officers were deployed outside the judicial complex as Yoon’s supporters gathered as the prison bus transporting him drove past. While critics demanded the death penalty for the former leader.“The court finds that the intention was to paralyse the assembly for a considerable period,” Jee told Seoul Central District Court. “The declaration of martial law resulted in enormous social costs, and it is difficult to find any indication that the defendant has expressed remorse for that.”&nbsp;“We sentence Yoon to life imprisonment.”However, the court found that there was insufficient evidence to suggest that Yoon had planned the imposition of martial law a year in advance, as alleged by prosecutors.&nbsp;After attempting to impose martial law in the country, Yoon was suspended from office on December 14, 2024, after being impeached by the lawmakers. He was formally removed by the Constitutional Court last year in April. Yoon’s defence minister, Kim Yong-hyun, was also found guilty and will face a sentence of 30 years’ imprisonment.On the night of December 3, 2024, South Korea's president Yoon Suk Yeol suddenly declared martial law in the country for the first time in nearly 50 years, citing “anti-state forces” and threats from North Korea.However, South Korean politicians, including his own conservative People's Power Party (PPP) leaders, called the law illegal and unconstitutional. Soon, citizens protested outside parliament as the MPs voted against it.The opposition Democratic Party (DP), led by Lee Jae-myung, filed a motion to impeach Yoon, which went through on December 14.&nbsp;

Yoon was sentenced to life in prison on the charges of attempting to impose martial law in the country and sending troops to surround the legislature.

A South Korean court on Thursday (Feb 19) found ousted president Yoon Suk Yeol guilty of insurrection, saying his martial law declaration was a deliberate blot to “paralyse” the National Assembly. Yoon was sentenced to life in prison on the charges of attempting to impose martial law in the country and sending troops to surround the legislature. The former leader was also found guilty of abuse of authority, the judge told the court. The move triggered the country’s most serious political crisis in decades on December 3, 2024. The verdict was delivered by Seoul Central District Court Judge Jee Kui-youn. Hundreds of police officers were deployed outside the judicial complex as Yoon’s supporters gathered as the prison bus transporting him drove past. While critics demanded the death penalty for the former leader. “The court finds that the intention was to paralyse the assembly for a considerable period,” Jee told Seoul Central District Court. “The declaration of martial law resulted in enormous social costs, and it is difficult to find any indication that the defendant has expressed remorse for that.” “We sentence Yoon to life imprisonment.” However, the court found that there was insufficient evidence to suggest that Yoon had planned the imposition of martial law a year in advance, as alleged by prosecutors. After attempting to impose martial law in the country, Yoon was suspended from office on December 14, 2024, after being impeached by the lawmakers. He was formally removed by the Constitutional Court last year in April. Yoon’s defence minister, Kim Yong-hyun, was also found guilty and will face a sentence of 30 years’ imprisonment. On the night of December 3, 2024, South Korea's president Yoon Suk Yeol suddenly declared martial law in the country for the first time in nearly 50 years, citing “anti-state forces” and threats from North Korea. However, South Korean politicians, including his own conservative People's Power Party (PPP) leaders, called the law illegal and unconstitutional. Soon, citizens protested outside parliament as the MPs voted against it. The opposition Democratic Party (DP), led by Lee Jae-myung, filed a motion to impeach Yoon, which went through on December 14.

Yoon was sentenced to life in prison on the charges of attempting to impose martial law in the country and sending troops to surround the legislature.

South Korea’s Yoon gets life in prison for declaring martial law

Nancy Guthrie's kidnapper was likely wearing a ring on his pinky finger, which has now become the focus of the investigation. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said on Tuesday that video from the doorbell camera shows a protrusion under the glove, indicating that the abductor had a ring on. "I look at the same photo you look at, and I get it, I see it. I’m going to give that to my team. They’ll look at that. They’ll analyse it, and we’ll see. Maybe, maybe it is," he told NBC News. The case remains unsolved after 17 days of Nancy's disappearance. The FBI has widened its search to Mexico and has contacted law enforcement officials for any clues. However, it hasn't led to any breakthroughs. Meanwhile, TMZ reported that the media outlet has received a new ransom note. The 84-year-old mother of TODAY show host, Savannah Guthrie was taken against her will from her home in Tucson, Arizona, on the night of January 31. The family has issued pleas to the public for help if they come across any clues.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-case-how-investigators-are-using-a-signal-sniffer-to-track-nancy-s-pacemaker-signal-1771435789047">How investigators are using a 'signal sniffer' to track Nancy's pacemaker signal</a><h2>TMZ receives new ransom note</h2>The new ransom note has been described as "sophisticated" by TMZ, and demands a large amount of money in addition to the previous $6 million in bitcoin. The outlet posted on Instagram, "We have received yet another ransom demand—this one is sophisticated and puts the media right in the middle of it. The ransom email warns of consequences in detail if the ransom isn't paid, TMZ said. It puts the media as "a go between, a trigger if you will, for getting this ransom money." It mentions a cryptocurrency account number, which is different from the one in the original ransom message. The FBI is reviewing the new email.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nancy-guthrie-kidna">Nancy Guthrie kidnapping: DNA results will lead to 'three parallel realities', former FBI agent says</a> &nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/nancy-guthrie-abduction-fbi-publishes-footage-in-nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-case-1770780942272/embed<h2>New ‘biological evidence’ inside Nancy's home</h2>Earlier, the FBI said that the DNA on the glove found near Nancy's did not show a match in CODIS. The glove was found about two miles from her home and is likely the same one worn by the suspect. Officials have also found another DNA sample inside Nancy's home, which is expected to fill in the gaps. Officials revealed that new "biological evidence" was found following another search. Sources say investigators used a fine-tooth comb to reveal anything that would have been missed. This seems of have offered a breakthrough. There is no information on what the evidence is. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department said in a statement on Wednesday that investigators are “currently analysing biological evidence”.

Nancy Guthrie kidnapping latest: Police have new leads in the case. Officials will investigate whether the abductor was wearing a ring under the gloves, as it seems to be in the doorbell footage. There is a new ransom note as well, and fresh 'biological evidence'.

Nancy Guthrie's kidnapper was likely wearing a ring on his pinky finger, which has now become the focus of the investigation. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said on Tuesday that video from the doorbell camera shows a protrusion under the glove, indicating that the abductor had a ring on. "I look at the same photo you look at, and I get it, I see it. I’m going to give that to my team. They’ll look at that. They’ll analyse it, and we’ll see. Maybe, maybe it is," he told NBC News. The case remains unsolved after 17 days of Nancy's disappearance. The FBI has widened its search to Mexico and has contacted law enforcement officials for any clues. However, it hasn't led to any breakthroughs. Meanwhile, TMZ reported that the media outlet has received a new ransom note. The 84-year-old mother of TODAY show host, Savannah Guthrie was taken against her will from her home in Tucson, Arizona, on the night of January 31. The family has issued pleas to the public for help if they come across any clues. Also Read: How investigators are using a 'signal sniffer' to track Nancy's pacemaker signal TMZ receives new ransom note The new ransom note has been described as "sophisticated" by TMZ, and demands a large amount of money in addition to the previous $6 million in bitcoin. The outlet posted on Instagram, "We have received yet another ransom demand—this one is sophisticated and puts the media right in the middle of it. The ransom email warns of consequences in detail if the ransom isn't paid, TMZ said. It puts the media as "a go between, a trigger if you will, for getting this ransom money." It mentions a cryptocurrency account number, which is different from the one in the original ransom message. The FBI is reviewing the new email. Also Read: Nancy Guthrie kidnapping: DNA results will lead to 'three parallel realities', former FBI agent says https://www.wionews.com/videos/nancy-guthrie-abduction-fbi-publishes-footage-in-nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-case-1770780942272/embed New ‘biological evidence’ inside Nancy's home Earlier, the FBI said that the DNA on the glove found near Nancy's did not show a match in CODIS. The glove was found about two miles from her home and is likely the same one worn by the suspect. Officials have also found another DNA sample inside Nancy's home, which is expected to fill in the gaps. Officials revealed that new "biological evidence" was found following another search. Sources say investigators used a fine-tooth comb to reveal anything that would have been missed. This seems of have offered a breakthrough. There is no information on what the evidence is. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department said in a statement on Wednesday that investigators are “currently analysing biological evidence”.

Nancy Guthrie kidnapping latest: Police have new leads in the case. Officials will investigate whether the abductor was wearing a ring under the gloves, as it seems to be in the doorbell footage. There is a new ransom note as well, and fresh 'biological evidence'.

Latest on Nancy Guthrie kidnapping: 3 new clues - Pinky ring, ransom note and 'biological evidence'

US is developing an online portal that will feature content banned by the government in Europe and other countries. The portal will be hosted in "freedom.gov," according to anonymous sources cited by Reuters. According to the sources familiar with the matter, the portal will also insert a VPN (virtual private network) function that will make the source of the website traffic appear to be generated from the US itself. One source also claimed that the portal will not track user activity.&nbsp;“Digital freedom is a priority for the State Department, however, and that includes the proliferation of privacy and censorship-circumvention technologies like VPNs," said a US State Department spokesperson.&nbsp;The portal is not launched yet. The project is being headed by the US State Department undersecretary Sarah Rogers. It was reported that the announcement could have been made at the Munich Security Conference. But later it was delayed, whether it was due to some of the concerns raised by the State Department personnel and lawyers remains unclear.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deutsche-bank-epstein-jared-kushner-fbi-1771419278474">Deutsche Bank compliance officer who flagged suspicious transactions linked to Epstein, Kushner was laid off</a>The portal could further strain the relationship between the US and its allies, which is already in historic low, following trade disputes, disagreement over US dealings with the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Trump's public display of desire to assert control over Greenland. With the website US will potentially encourage people to flout the local government laws, which will further agitate traditional US allies. &nbsp;The portal “freedom.gov” was registered on January 12. It features no content but shows the National Design Studio's logo, the words "fly, eagle, fly", and a log-in form. It is unclear how the portal will be different from any commercial VPN.&nbsp;The European Union defends free speech, only excluding content that promotes “hate-speech” or extremist right-wing propaganda that fueled Nazism, including its vilification of Jews, foreigners and minorities, with the EU's Digital Services Act and Britain's Online Safety Act. It had been one of the reason of conflict between the EU and the US Silicon Valley giants like Musk, Zuckerberg and Thiel. The US has mentioned that the European Union is facing a &nbsp;"civilisational erasure" due to its migration policies, and it had planned to actively cultivate resistance to Europe's current trajectory.&nbsp;The world order is changing, and digital governance is emerging. At the moment, there are three types of digital habituses, US market-first model, the EU human-centric regulatory model and the Russia-China authoritarian digital sovereignty model. The current face-off seems like a confrontation between EU-regulators, old guards and the US tech giants, new money disruptors. The European Union is campaigning for a unified Digital ID framework, which has faced massive pushback from the civil liberties group. While the authorities are marketing it as human-centric, civil liberties groups are denouncing it as "bureau-centric".&nbsp;&nbsp;

The US State Department is developing a portal, “freedom.gov”, that could bypass local content laws around the world. The move may potentially strain relations with the European Union

US is developing an online portal that will feature content banned by the government in Europe and other countries. The portal will be hosted in "freedom.gov," according to anonymous sources cited by Reuters. According to the sources familiar with the matter, the portal will also insert a VPN (virtual private network) function that will make the source of the website traffic appear to be generated from the US itself. One source also claimed that the portal will not track user activity. “Digital freedom is a priority for the State Department, however, and that includes the proliferation of privacy and censorship-circumvention technologies like VPNs," said a US State Department spokesperson. The portal is not launched yet. The project is being headed by the US State Department undersecretary Sarah Rogers. It was reported that the announcement could have been made at the Munich Security Conference. But later it was delayed, whether it was due to some of the concerns raised by the State Department personnel and lawyers remains unclear. Also Read: Deutsche Bank compliance officer who flagged suspicious transactions linked to Epstein, Kushner was laid off The portal could further strain the relationship between the US and its allies, which is already in historic low, following trade disputes, disagreement over US dealings with the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Trump's public display of desire to assert control over Greenland. With the website US will potentially encourage people to flout the local government laws, which will further agitate traditional US allies. The portal “freedom.gov” was registered on January 12. It features no content but shows the National Design Studio's logo, the words "fly, eagle, fly", and a log-in form. It is unclear how the portal will be different from any commercial VPN. The European Union defends free speech, only excluding content that promotes “hate-speech” or extremist right-wing propaganda that fueled Nazism, including its vilification of Jews, foreigners and minorities, with the EU's Digital Services Act and Britain's Online Safety Act. It had been one of the reason of conflict between the EU and the US Silicon Valley giants like Musk, Zuckerberg and Thiel. The US has mentioned that the European Union is facing a "civilisational erasure" due to its migration policies, and it had planned to actively cultivate resistance to Europe's current trajectory. The world order is changing, and digital governance is emerging. At the moment, there are three types of digital habituses, US market-first model, the EU human-centric regulatory model and the Russia-China authoritarian digital sovereignty model. The current face-off seems like a confrontation between EU-regulators, old guards and the US tech giants, new money disruptors. The European Union is campaigning for a unified Digital ID framework, which has faced massive pushback from the civil liberties group. While the authorities are marketing it as human-centric, civil liberties groups are denouncing it as "bureau-centric".

The US State Department is developing a portal, “freedom.gov”, that could bypass local content laws around the world. The move may potentially strain relations with the European Union

US to launch an online portal featuring banned content from around the world

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Feb 19) unveiled what he called India's comprehensive "MANAV Vision" for artificial intelligence at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, laying out a human-centric blueprint for how AI should be governed in the decades ahead. "Today at the New Delhi AI Impact Summit, I present the MANAV Vision for AI. MANAV means human," the Prime Minister told a gathering of global policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and civil society representatives.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-underscores-india-s-demographic-edge-at-ai-summit-2026-calls-event-proud-moment-for-south-asia-1771476015689">Humans must not be reduced to data points for AI, warns PM Narendra Modi at India AI Summit</a><h2>What is MANAV?</h2>Modi broke down the acronym to define India's approach to artificial intelligence. "M stands for moral and ethical systems. AI should be based on ethical guidance," he said. "A stands for accountable governance, meaning transparent rules and robust oversight.""N stands for national sovereignty. Whose data, his right," he added, underlining data ownership and digital self-determination. The second "A," he said, represents accessible and inclusive systems. Modi stressed that AI "should be a multiplier, not a monopoly."Finally, "V stands for valid and legitimate. AI should be lawful and verifiable," said the Indian PM.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-future-of-ai-cannot-be-decided-by-a-handful-of-countries-guterres-takes-a-swipe-at-us-china-india-ai-summit-1771474676864">'Future of AI cannot be decided by a handful of countries': Guterres takes a swipe at US, China | India AI Summit</a><h2>What will MANAV do?</h2>According to the Indian Prime Minister, MANAV is a guiding framework not just for India but for the global AI ecosystem. "This MANAV vision of India will become an important link for the welfare of humanity in the AI-based world of the 21st century," he predicted.Modi also flagged emerging risks. "We have to be more cautious regarding children's safety. The AI space should also be child safe and family guided," he said, calling for stronger safeguards as AI tools become more embedded in daily life. His statement comes as the US conducts a landmark social media trial where companies like Meta and YouTube face accusations of "engineering addiction" in children.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-addiction-by-design-meta-youtube-accused-of-engineering-addiction-children-during-us-trial-1770688114440">‘Addiction by design’? Meta, YouTube accused of 'engineering addiction' in children during US trial</a>Describing the current scenario as a turning point, Modi noted, "We are entering an era where humans and intelligent systems co-create, co-work and co-evolve". &nbsp;

At the India AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi, Narendra Modi unveiled India’s “MANAV Vision” for artificial intelligence, calling it a human-centric roadmap for the AI age. “MANAV means human,” he said, framing the blueprint as a global guide for responsible AI governance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Feb 19) unveiled what he called India's comprehensive "MANAV Vision" for artificial intelligence at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, laying out a human-centric blueprint for how AI should be governed in the decades ahead. "Today at the New Delhi AI Impact Summit, I present the MANAV Vision for AI. MANAV means human," the Prime Minister told a gathering of global policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and civil society representatives. Also read | Humans must not be reduced to data points for AI, warns PM Narendra Modi at India AI Summit What is MANAV? Modi broke down the acronym to define India's approach to artificial intelligence. "M stands for moral and ethical systems. AI should be based on ethical guidance," he said. "A stands for accountable governance, meaning transparent rules and robust oversight." "N stands for national sovereignty. Whose data, his right," he added, underlining data ownership and digital self-determination. The second "A," he said, represents accessible and inclusive systems. Modi stressed that AI "should be a multiplier, not a monopoly." Finally, "V stands for valid and legitimate. AI should be lawful and verifiable," said the Indian PM. Also read | 'Future of AI cannot be decided by a handful of countries': Guterres takes a swipe at US, China | India AI Summit What will MANAV do? According to the Indian Prime Minister, MANAV is a guiding framework not just for India but for the global AI ecosystem. "This MANAV vision of India will become an important link for the welfare of humanity in the AI-based world of the 21st century," he predicted. Modi also flagged emerging risks. "We have to be more cautious regarding children's safety. The AI space should also be child safe and family guided," he said, calling for stronger safeguards as AI tools become more embedded in daily life. His statement comes as the US conducts a landmark social media trial where companies like Meta and YouTube face accusations of "engineering addiction" in children. Also read | ‘Addiction by design’? Meta, YouTube accused of 'engineering addiction' in children during US trial Describing the current scenario as a turning point, Modi noted, "We are entering an era where humans and intelligent systems co-create, co-work and co-evolve".

At the India AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi, Narendra Modi unveiled India’s “MANAV Vision” for artificial intelligence, calling it a human-centric roadmap for the AI age. “MANAV means human,” he said, framing the blueprint as a global guide for responsible AI governance.

What is MANAV Vision? PM Narendra Modi unveils groundbreaking AI framework at India AI Impact Summit 2026 | Explained

CEO Mark Zuckerberg said Wednesday he regretted Meta's slow progress in identifying underage users on Instagram, as he faced stinging criticism at a landmark social media trial over accusations that his company deliberately hooked children.Asked to comment on complaints from inside the company that not enough was being done to verify whether children under 13 were using the platform, the 41-year-old head of Meta, which also owns Facebook and WhatsApp, said improvements had been made.But "I always wish that we could have gotten there sooner," he added.Zuckerberg was the most hotly anticipated witness in the California trial, the first in a series of lawsuits filed by American families against social media platforms.The trial marked the first time the multibillionaire addressed the safety of his world-dominating platforms directly before a jury and under oath.Zuckerberg was very reserved at first, an AFP journalist in the courtroom reported. But he grew animated, showing signs of annoyance, shaking his head and waving his hands as he turned toward the jury.The 12 jurors in Los Angeles heard the increasingly testy testimony as plaintiff lawyer Mark Lanier pressed Zuckerberg on age verification and the tycoon's guiding philosophy for making decisions at the vast social media company he controls.During questioning by his own lawyers, a more relaxed Zuckerberg described time spent on the app as a "side effect" of a quality experience and often addressed the jurors directly to emphasise his points.He also stressed his belief that Apple and Google, the companies behind operating systems powering most of the world's smartphones, should arrange for age verification at the handset level instead of leaving it to each app."Doing it at the level of the phone is just a lot clearer than having every single app out there have to do this separately," Zuckerberg said."It would be pretty easy for them."Zuckerberg faced a barrage of internal emails, including warnings from colleagues that age verification was not fit for purpose and others that seemed to plainly display that encouraging more time spent on Instagram was long a central goal of the company.The trial is set to last until late March, when the jury will decide whether Meta, as well as Google-owned YouTube, bear responsibility for the mental health problems suffered by Kaley G.M., a 20-year-old California resident who has been a heavy social media user since childhood.Kaley G.M. started using YouTube at age six, Instagram at nine, then TikTok and Snapchat.Under-13s are not allowed on Instagram, and Lanier pressed Zuckerberg on the fact that Kaley had easily signed up for the platform.<h2>‘Right place now’</h2>Zuckerberg was confronted with an internal document that said Instagram had four million users under 13 in 2015, at the time the plaintiff adopted the app, and that 30 percent of all children age 10 to 12, or "tweens," in the United States were users.Zuckerberg said that "we're in the right place now" when it comes to age verification.Lanier went on to argue that young people like Kaley were subject to Meta's efforts to increase time spent on its wildly popular apps, despite Zuckerberg having told the US Congress under oath that this was not the case.Faced with emails displaying internal targets for usage, Zuckerberg admitted that "we used to have goals around time," but that the company's aim was always to "build useful services" that connected people.Zuckerberg was also read an old email from former head of public policy Nick Clegg that said "the fact that we say we don't allow under-13s on our platform, yet have no way of enforcing it, is just indefensible."The trial is set to determine whether Google and Meta deliberately designed their platforms to encourage compulsive use among young people, damaging their mental health in the process.The case is expected to establish a standard for resolving thousands of lawsuits that blame social media for fueling an epidemic of depression, anxiety, eating disorders and suicide among young people.TikTok and Snapchat, also named in the complaint, reached settlements with the plaintiff before the trial began.

The trial marked the first time the multibillionaire addressed the safety of his world-dominating platforms directly before a jury and under oath.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg said Wednesday he regretted Meta's slow progress in identifying underage users on Instagram, as he faced stinging criticism at a landmark social media trial over accusations that his company deliberately hooked children. Asked to comment on complaints from inside the company that not enough was being done to verify whether children under 13 were using the platform, the 41-year-old head of Meta, which also owns Facebook and WhatsApp, said improvements had been made. But "I always wish that we could have gotten there sooner," he added. Zuckerberg was the most hotly anticipated witness in the California trial, the first in a series of lawsuits filed by American families against social media platforms. The trial marked the first time the multibillionaire addressed the safety of his world-dominating platforms directly before a jury and under oath. Zuckerberg was very reserved at first, an AFP journalist in the courtroom reported. But he grew animated, showing signs of annoyance, shaking his head and waving his hands as he turned toward the jury. The 12 jurors in Los Angeles heard the increasingly testy testimony as plaintiff lawyer Mark Lanier pressed Zuckerberg on age verification and the tycoon's guiding philosophy for making decisions at the vast social media company he controls. During questioning by his own lawyers, a more relaxed Zuckerberg described time spent on the app as a "side effect" of a quality experience and often addressed the jurors directly to emphasise his points. He also stressed his belief that Apple and Google, the companies behind operating systems powering most of the world's smartphones, should arrange for age verification at the handset level instead of leaving it to each app. "Doing it at the level of the phone is just a lot clearer than having every single app out there have to do this separately," Zuckerberg said. "It would be pretty easy for them." Zuckerberg faced a barrage of internal emails, including warnings from colleagues that age verification was not fit for purpose and others that seemed to plainly display that encouraging more time spent on Instagram was long a central goal of the company. The trial is set to last until late March, when the jury will decide whether Meta, as well as Google-owned YouTube, bear responsibility for the mental health problems suffered by Kaley G.M., a 20-year-old California resident who has been a heavy social media user since childhood. Kaley G.M. started using YouTube at age six, Instagram at nine, then TikTok and Snapchat. Under-13s are not allowed on Instagram, and Lanier pressed Zuckerberg on the fact that Kaley had easily signed up for the platform. ‘Right place now’ Zuckerberg was confronted with an internal document that said Instagram had four million users under 13 in 2015, at the time the plaintiff adopted the app, and that 30 percent of all children age 10 to 12, or "tweens," in the United States were users. Zuckerberg said that "we're in the right place now" when it comes to age verification. Lanier went on to argue that young people like Kaley were subject to Meta's efforts to increase time spent on its wildly popular apps, despite Zuckerberg having told the US Congress under oath that this was not the case. Faced with emails displaying internal targets for usage, Zuckerberg admitted that "we used to have goals around time," but that the company's aim was always to "build useful services" that connected people. Zuckerberg was also read an old email from former head of public policy Nick Clegg that said "the fact that we say we don't allow under-13s on our platform, yet have no way of enforcing it, is just indefensible." The trial is set to determine whether Google and Meta deliberately designed their platforms to encourage compulsive use among young people, damaging their mental health in the process. The case is expected to establish a standard for resolving thousands of lawsuits that blame social media for fueling an epidemic of depression, anxiety, eating disorders and suicide among young people. TikTok and Snapchat, also named in the complaint, reached settlements with the plaintiff before the trial began.

The trial marked the first time the multibillionaire addressed the safety of his world-dominating platforms directly before a jury and under oath.

Meta CEO Zuckerberg grilled over underage users on Instagram at social media trial

A Bangladeshi student activist, wanted in the murder of a Hindu police officer in 2024, was arrested at Delhi airport while reportedly trying to flee to Europe. The student leader identified as Ahmed Raza Hasan Mehdi was deported to Bangladesh soon after the arrest, according to a report by NDTV.&nbsp;Hasan Mehdi is a resident of Habiganj in Bangladesh, who is an accused in the murder of Sub-Inspector Santosh Chowdhury on August 5, 2024, during the mass anti-government protest across the country that led to the removal of Sheikh Hasina from the post of Prime Minister.&nbsp;Chowdhury was killed when protestors launched an attack on a police station, after which his body was discovered hanging from a tree on August 5. It was the same day when former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had to flee the country as incidents of arson and looting were reported across multiple parts of Bangladesh.&nbsp;Citing sources, NDTV confirmed that later a video went viral showing Mehdi taking responsibility for the killing of the police officer. Sub-Inspector Santosh Chowdhury had been married for less than a year when violent protests calling for Hasina’s removal erupted. Three months after he was killed in the attack on the Baniachang police station in Habiganj, his wife gave birth to a son. He was the only child of his parents.<h3>Protestors set the police station on fire amid demonstrations</h3>On the day of the incident, students and local residents had organised a protest march over deaths reported elsewhere. When the crowd neared the police station, cops opened fire, killing six people. Enraged villagers surrounded the police station and set it on fire, trapping several cops inside. Meanwhile, reports indicated that Chowdhury was lynched by the mob and burned to death.&nbsp;The protest in Bangladesh surfaced against a quota system for government jobs that turned violent on July 16. Amid this, several student activists clashed with security personnel and pro-government activists, leading authorities to use tear gas and fire rubber bullets to disperse the gathering. When protest turn violent, a curfew was imposed with a shoot-on-sight order, and the internet and mobile data were turned off across the country. &nbsp;

Sub-Inspector Santosh Chowdhury was killed when protestors launched an attack on a police station in Bangladesh, after which his body was discovered hanging from a tree on August 5.

A Bangladeshi student activist, wanted in the murder of a Hindu police officer in 2024, was arrested at Delhi airport while reportedly trying to flee to Europe. The student leader identified as Ahmed Raza Hasan Mehdi was deported to Bangladesh soon after the arrest, according to a report by NDTV. Hasan Mehdi is a resident of Habiganj in Bangladesh, who is an accused in the murder of Sub-Inspector Santosh Chowdhury on August 5, 2024, during the mass anti-government protest across the country that led to the removal of Sheikh Hasina from the post of Prime Minister. Chowdhury was killed when protestors launched an attack on a police station, after which his body was discovered hanging from a tree on August 5. It was the same day when former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had to flee the country as incidents of arson and looting were reported across multiple parts of Bangladesh. Citing sources, NDTV confirmed that later a video went viral showing Mehdi taking responsibility for the killing of the police officer. Sub-Inspector Santosh Chowdhury had been married for less than a year when violent protests calling for Hasina’s removal erupted. Three months after he was killed in the attack on the Baniachang police station in Habiganj, his wife gave birth to a son. He was the only child of his parents. Protestors set the police station on fire amid demonstrations On the day of the incident, students and local residents had organised a protest march over deaths reported elsewhere. When the crowd neared the police station, cops opened fire, killing six people. Enraged villagers surrounded the police station and set it on fire, trapping several cops inside. Meanwhile, reports indicated that Chowdhury was lynched by the mob and burned to death. The protest in Bangladesh surfaced against a quota system for government jobs that turned violent on July 16. Amid this, several student activists clashed with security personnel and pro-government activists, leading authorities to use tear gas and fire rubber bullets to disperse the gathering. When protest turn violent, a curfew was imposed with a shoot-on-sight order, and the internet and mobile data were turned off across the country.

Sub-Inspector Santosh Chowdhury was killed when protestors launched an attack on a police station in Bangladesh, after which his body was discovered hanging from a tree on August 5.

Bangladeshi student activist wanted for Hindu cop's murder arrested at Delhi airport: More details inside

Eight backcountry skiers were found dead near California’s Lake Tahoe, while one remains missing. The skiers were caught in an avalanche, the nation’s deadliest in nearly half a century, authorities said Wednesday. Rescue teams are working to find the remaining skier. Authorities said that the skiers did not get time to react as a load of snow rushed towards them. "Someone saw the avalanche, yelled ‘Avalanche!’ and it overtook them rather quickly,” said Captain Russell Greene of the Nevada County sheriff’s office. The skiers were on a three-day trek in Northern California’s Sierra Nevada. A terrible winter storm has engulfed the region over the past few days. Things turned against the skiers when an avalanche hit owing to the bad weather on Tuesday morning. Six of the skiers were rescued six hours later. Three of the four guides who were part of the tour are presumed dead.<h2>Skiers went despite avalanche watch in place&nbsp;</h2>Officials said that the group of skiers comprised women and men between the ages of 30 and 55. Among those dead are members of the Sugar Bowl Academy community, a private boarding school and ski and snowboard club on Donner Summit. The school confirmed that some of its members were part of the ski group, although it did not name them. The weather forecast was bleak for the day, as the Sierra Avalanche Centre had issued an avalanche watch at 6:49 am. It forecasted large avalanches in the next 24 to 48 hours. Hours before the avalanche happened, the watch was upgraded to a warning. However, despite the warning, the skiers went ahead with the trek. Nevada County Sheriff Shannan Moon said investigators would look into the fatal decision.&nbsp;<h2>Freezing weather and avalanche warning in California</h2>It is not known whether the tour guides knew that there was an avalanche warning in place.Extreme weather conditions have made rescue operations difficult. Three to 6 feet of snow has fallen since Sunday in the area, with subfreezing temperatures and gale-force winds also reported. The Sierra Avalanche Centre has issued a warning of potential avalanches, indicating that the snowpack is unstable and unpredictable.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/california-backcountry-avalanche-leaves-eight-dead-one-still-missing-1771473597372/embed<h2>Deadliest avalanche in US</h2>Skiers had beacons that they used to send signals, while one tour guide also sent text messages. The skier shielded themselves with their equipment to protect themselves amid cold winds and below freezing temperatures. Some of the skiers died waiting. This is the deadliest avalanche in the US since 1981, which killed 11 climbers on Mount Rainier in Washington state. &nbsp;

California avalanche: Dead bodies of eight skiers have been found in California’s Lake Tahoe. They got caught in a deadly avalanche on Tuesday. Six skiers were earlier rescuedm while one remains missing. Officials are investigating why the trek happened despite an avalanche watch.

Eight backcountry skiers were found dead near California’s Lake Tahoe, while one remains missing. The skiers were caught in an avalanche, the nation’s deadliest in nearly half a century, authorities said Wednesday. Rescue teams are working to find the remaining skier. Authorities said that the skiers did not get time to react as a load of snow rushed towards them. "Someone saw the avalanche, yelled ‘Avalanche!’ and it overtook them rather quickly,” said Captain Russell Greene of the Nevada County sheriff’s office. The skiers were on a three-day trek in Northern California’s Sierra Nevada. A terrible winter storm has engulfed the region over the past few days. Things turned against the skiers when an avalanche hit owing to the bad weather on Tuesday morning. Six of the skiers were rescued six hours later. Three of the four guides who were part of the tour are presumed dead. Skiers went despite avalanche watch in place Officials said that the group of skiers comprised women and men between the ages of 30 and 55. Among those dead are members of the Sugar Bowl Academy community, a private boarding school and ski and snowboard club on Donner Summit. The school confirmed that some of its members were part of the ski group, although it did not name them. The weather forecast was bleak for the day, as the Sierra Avalanche Centre had issued an avalanche watch at 6:49 am. It forecasted large avalanches in the next 24 to 48 hours. Hours before the avalanche happened, the watch was upgraded to a warning. However, despite the warning, the skiers went ahead with the trek. Nevada County Sheriff Shannan Moon said investigators would look into the fatal decision. Freezing weather and avalanche warning in California It is not known whether the tour guides knew that there was an avalanche warning in place. Extreme weather conditions have made rescue operations difficult. Three to 6 feet of snow has fallen since Sunday in the area, with subfreezing temperatures and gale-force winds also reported. The Sierra Avalanche Centre has issued a warning of potential avalanches, indicating that the snowpack is unstable and unpredictable. https://www.wionews.com/videos/california-backcountry-avalanche-leaves-eight-dead-one-still-missing-1771473597372/embed Deadliest avalanche in US Skiers had beacons that they used to send signals, while one tour guide also sent text messages. The skier shielded themselves with their equipment to protect themselves amid cold winds and below freezing temperatures. Some of the skiers died waiting. This is the deadliest avalanche in the US since 1981, which killed 11 climbers on Mount Rainier in Washington state.

California avalanche: Dead bodies of eight skiers have been found in California’s Lake Tahoe. They got caught in a deadly avalanche on Tuesday. Six skiers were earlier rescuedm while one remains missing. Officials are investigating why the trek happened despite an avalanche watch.

California avalanche: 8 skiers found dead following deadliest avalanche since 1981

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at India AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi on Thursday (Feb 19) said the event is a milestone not just for India, but for the wider South Asian region. "This summit being held in India is a matter of pride for the entire South Asia," Modi said, noting that India represents nearly one-sixth of the world's population. The Indian leader noted that AI is a tool for humans and not the other way around. He warned against reducing people to mere inputs in the AI ecosystem.&nbsp;<h2>Humans must not become raw material</h2>Warning against reducing humans to mere inputs in the AI ecosystem, Modi said, “Humans should not stay a raw material or data point for AI," underlining that technology must serve people, not the other way around.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-future-of-ai-cannot-be-decided-by-a-handful-of-countries-guterres-takes-a-swipe-at-us-china-india-ai-summit-1771474676864">AI Summit: UN chief takes swipe at US, China, says AI not playground of handful</a>He argued that artificial intelligence should be “democratised” rather than concentrated in the hands of a few powerful actors. He added that AI must function as a medium of inclusion, particularly for countries in the Global South.<h2>India represents one-sixth of humanity</h2>Modi underlined India’s demographic weight, noting that the country represents nearly one-sixth of the world’s population. That scale, he argued, gives India both responsibility and opportunity when it comes to emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/galgotias-university-blames-professor-neha-singh-s-enthusiasm-of-being-on-camera-for-ai-robodog-row-1771467435745">Galgotias Uni blames professor's 'enthusiasm of being on camera' for AI dog row</a> This marks the fourth year of the AI Impact Summit, an international conference dedicated to the swift progress in AI. Previous editions took place in Paris, Seoul, and Bletchley, historically known as Britain's wartime code-breaking centre. The New Delhi summit is the first global AI meeting held in a developing country. The five-day summit was scheduled to be wrapped up on Friday (Feb 20), but has now been extended by a day following strong public response.&nbsp;

PM Modi underscores India’s demographic edge at AI Summit 2026, calls event 'proud moment for South Asia'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at India AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi on Thursday (Feb 19) said the event is a milestone not just for India, but for the wider South Asian region. "This summit being held in India is a matter of pride for the entire South Asia," Modi said, noting that India represents nearly one-sixth of the world's population. The Indian leader noted that AI is a tool for humans and not the other way around. He warned against reducing people to mere inputs in the AI ecosystem. Humans must not become raw material Warning against reducing humans to mere inputs in the AI ecosystem, Modi said, “Humans should not stay a raw material or data point for AI," underlining that technology must serve people, not the other way around. Also read | AI Summit: UN chief takes swipe at US, China, says AI not playground of handful He argued that artificial intelligence should be “democratised” rather than concentrated in the hands of a few powerful actors. He added that AI must function as a medium of inclusion, particularly for countries in the Global South. India represents one-sixth of humanity Modi underlined India’s demographic weight, noting that the country represents nearly one-sixth of the world’s population. That scale, he argued, gives India both responsibility and opportunity when it comes to emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. Also read | Galgotias Uni blames professor's 'enthusiasm of being on camera' for AI dog row This marks the fourth year of the AI Impact Summit, an international conference dedicated to the swift progress in AI. Previous editions took place in Paris, Seoul, and Bletchley, historically known as Britain's wartime code-breaking centre. The New Delhi summit is the first global AI meeting held in a developing country. The five-day summit was scheduled to be wrapped up on Friday (Feb 20), but has now been extended by a day following strong public response.

PM Modi underscores India’s demographic edge at AI Summit 2026, calls event 'proud moment for South Asia'

Humans must not be reduced to data points for AI, warns PM Narendra Modi at India AI Summit

The US military is reportedly prepared to launch strikes on Iran as early as this weekend, as tensions rise between Washington and Tehran amid the US President’s repeated threats. This comes amid a significant US military buildup in the Middle East as the Iranian side claims “good progress” was made in the indirect nuclear talks with the United States in Geneva on Tuesday (Feb 17).According to a CNN report, citing sources familiar with the matter, the White House has been briefed that the American forces could be ready for an attack by the weekend, but Trump has yet to make a final decision to authorise such military action on Iran. One source warned that Trump has privately argued both for and against a military action and polled advisors and allies to decide the best course of action against Tehran.On Wednesday (Feb 18), top administration security officials met in the White House Situation Room to discuss the situation, a person familiar with the meeting told CNN. Trump was also briefed by special envoy Steve Witkoff and advisor Jared Kushner about the indirect talks held a day earlier. It was not clear whether Trump would make a decision by this weekend.The development was first reported by CBS News, which reported that the Pentagon is moving some of its personnel temporarily out of the Middle East ahead of a potential attack or counterattacks by Iran if the US goes ahead with its operation against Tehran.Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in about two weeks for discussions.<h2>‘Iran would be very wise to make a deal’</h2>During a press briefing on Wednesday (Feb 18), White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt warned Iran that it would be “very wise” to make a deal with Trump and his administration.Leavitt said that there are “many reasons and arguments that one could make for a strike against Iran”, but diplomacy is always the first option for the US president. She added that the administration had “a very successful operation in June that targeted Iran's nuclear facilities” and declined to discuss whether a potential atack on Iran would be coordinated with Israel.“Iran would be very wise to make a deal with President Trump and with his administration,” she said.

The US may strike Iran as early as this weekend amid rising tensions, as per reports. Trump has not made a final decision, while the White House urges Tehran to make a nuclear deal.

The US military is reportedly prepared to launch strikes on Iran as early as this weekend, as tensions rise between Washington and Tehran amid the US President’s repeated threats. This comes amid a significant US military buildup in the Middle East as the Iranian side claims “good progress” was made in the indirect nuclear talks with the United States in Geneva on Tuesday (Feb 17). According to a CNN report, citing sources familiar with the matter, the White House has been briefed that the American forces could be ready for an attack by the weekend, but Trump has yet to make a final decision to authorise such military action on Iran. One source warned that Trump has privately argued both for and against a military action and polled advisors and allies to decide the best course of action against Tehran. On Wednesday (Feb 18), top administration security officials met in the White House Situation Room to discuss the situation, a person familiar with the meeting told CNN. Trump was also briefed by special envoy Steve Witkoff and advisor Jared Kushner about the indirect talks held a day earlier. It was not clear whether Trump would make a decision by this weekend. The development was first reported by CBS News, which reported that the Pentagon is moving some of its personnel temporarily out of the Middle East ahead of a potential attack or counterattacks by Iran if the US goes ahead with its operation against Tehran. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in about two weeks for discussions. ‘Iran would be very wise to make a deal’ During a press briefing on Wednesday (Feb 18), White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt warned Iran that it would be “very wise” to make a deal with Trump and his administration. Leavitt said that there are “many reasons and arguments that one could make for a strike against Iran”, but diplomacy is always the first option for the US president. She added that the administration had “a very successful operation in June that targeted Iran's nuclear facilities” and declined to discuss whether a potential atack on Iran would be coordinated with Israel. “Iran would be very wise to make a deal with President Trump and with his administration,” she said.

The US may strike Iran as early as this weekend amid rising tensions, as per reports. Trump has not made a final decision, while the White House urges Tehran to make a nuclear deal.

US to attack Iran this weekend? Report claims military is prepared but Trump…

The United States is planning to withdraw all of its 1,000 troops from Syria over the next two months, according to US media reports.Washington will end its presence in the country after the Syrian government extended its control over the country and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces once key to fighting Islamic State (IS) pledged to integrate into the state, the Wall Street Journal reported.Television network CBS also reported on the plan, citing unnamed US officials.The decision comes after US forces recently withdrew from some bases in Syria including Al-Tanf and Al-Shadadi, which were used in the US-led international coalition's fight against IS.Washington has drawn close to Syria's new authorities since the fall of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, and has transferred thousands of IS fighters from prisons to secure facilities in Iraq.The US is also building up its military capabilities near Iran, where officials have vowed to respond to any attack by laying siege to American military outposts in the region.US media reported Wednesday that Washington will be ready to launch strikes against Iran as early as this weekend, though Trump has reportedly not made a final decision yet.The Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;

The US is reportedly planning to withdraw all 1,000 troops from Syria within two months, according to American media. 

The United States is planning to withdraw all of its 1,000 troops from Syria over the next two months, according to US media reports. Washington will end its presence in the country after the Syrian government extended its control over the country and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces once key to fighting Islamic State (IS) pledged to integrate into the state, the Wall Street Journal reported. Television network CBS also reported on the plan, citing unnamed US officials. The decision comes after US forces recently withdrew from some bases in Syria including Al-Tanf and Al-Shadadi, which were used in the US-led international coalition's fight against IS. Washington has drawn close to Syria's new authorities since the fall of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, and has transferred thousands of IS fighters from prisons to secure facilities in Iraq. The US is also building up its military capabilities near Iran, where officials have vowed to respond to any attack by laying siege to American military outposts in the region. US media reported Wednesday that Washington will be ready to launch strikes against Iran as early as this weekend, though Trump has reportedly not made a final decision yet. The Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The US is reportedly planning to withdraw all 1,000 troops from Syria within two months, according to American media.&nbsp;

US to withdraw 1,000 troops from Syria within two months: Reports

United Nations Secretary General António Guterres, on Thursday (Feb 19), while speaking at the India AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi, delivered a pointed message to global powers: the future of artificial intelligence must not be shaped by a select few nations or tech giants.<h2>AI's future not limited to the whims of billionaires</h2>Addressing leaders and industry stakeholders at the opening ceremony, the UN chief said that decisions about AI governance cannot be "left to the whims of a few billionaires" or dominated by a handful of countries, a remark widely seen as aimed at the United States and China, which currently lead in AI development.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/galgotias-university-blames-professor-neha-singh-s-enthusiasm-of-being-on-camera-for-ai-robodog-row-1771467435745">Galgotias University blames professor's 'enthusiasm of being on camera' for AI dog row</a><h2>'AI must belong to everyone': UN sets up global scientific panel on AI</h2>"AI must belong to everyone," Guterres said, urging governments, industry and civil society to support the initiative. He stressed the need to move beyond "hype and fear", replacing them with "shared data".The UN Chief announced that the United Nations has now appointed a 40-member Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, following a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly last year.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/swiss-president-parmelin-backs-india-s-push-to-democratise-ai-for-all-nations-1771468420970">Swiss President Parmelin backs India's push to democratise AI for all nations</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | At the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAIImpactSummit2026?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAIImpactSummit2026</a>, UN Secretary General António Guterres says, &quot;The message of this summit is simple. Real impact means technology that improves lives and protects the planet. So let&#39;s build AI for everyone with dignity as the default setting&quot;… <a href="https://t.co/kkB3UXqnUH">pic.twitter.com/kkB3UXqnUH</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2024343394219413916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Global dialogue and ‘guardrails’</h2>The UN Secretary-General also highlighted the launch of a Global Dialogue on AI Governance within the United Nations framework. The first session is scheduled to take place in Geneva in July, giving all countries a platform to discuss standards, safeguards and accountability mechanisms.He noted that there was a need for "guardrails" to help preserve human agency, oversight and accountability, warning that without coordinated rules, AI risks deepening inequality and enabling misuse.To ensure developing nations are not left behind, Guterres proposed a Global Fund on AI aimed at building basic capacity worldwide, including skills training, data infrastructure and affordable computing power. "Our target is 3 billion US dollars," he noted. "That’s less than one per cent of the annual revenue of a single tech company," he noted, arguing that inclusive AI development would ultimately benefit businesses as well. "AI must be accessible to everyone," insisted Guterres.&nbsp;

At the India AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi, António Guterres warned that artificial intelligence must not be shaped by a handful of nations or billionaires. He said “AI must belong to everyone” and called for inclusive governance beyond hype and fear.

United Nations Secretary General António Guterres, on Thursday (Feb 19), while speaking at the India AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi, delivered a pointed message to global powers: the future of artificial intelligence must not be shaped by a select few nations or tech giants. AI's future not limited to the whims of billionaires Addressing leaders and industry stakeholders at the opening ceremony, the UN chief said that decisions about AI governance cannot be "left to the whims of a few billionaires" or dominated by a handful of countries, a remark widely seen as aimed at the United States and China, which currently lead in AI development. Also read | Galgotias University blames professor's 'enthusiasm of being on camera' for AI dog row 'AI must belong to everyone': UN sets up global scientific panel on AI "AI must belong to everyone," Guterres said, urging governments, industry and civil society to support the initiative. He stressed the need to move beyond "hype and fear", replacing them with "shared data". The UN Chief announced that the United Nations has now appointed a 40-member Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, following a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly last year. Also read | Swiss President Parmelin backs India's push to democratise AI for all nations

At the India AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi, António Guterres warned that artificial intelligence must not be shaped by a handful of nations or billionaires. He said “AI must belong to everyone” and called for inclusive governance beyond hype and fear.

'Future of AI cannot be decided by a handful of countries': Guterres takes a swipe at US, China | India AI Summit

Retail tycoon Les Wexner on Wednesday (Feb 18) told lawmakers that he was “conned” by Jeffrey Epstein, denying any knowledge of his crimes during a House Oversight Committee hearing as part of the investigation into the late sex offender and his associates. The former Victoria’s Secret CEO was subpoenaed after his links to Epstein surfaced following the release of millions of documents by the Department of Justice.“I was naive, foolish, and gullible to put any trust in Jeffrey Epstein. He was a con man,” the 88-year-old said during his closed-door testimony. “While I was conned, I have done nothing wrong and have nothing to hide.”Democratic lawmakers said Wexner downplayed the closeness of his relationship and provided few new details as they grilled him over his ties with Epstein. The lingerie magnate repeatedly said that he could not recall key events.Despite only a few new details emerging from Wexner’s testimony, Congressman Robert Garcia of California said that it was important in understanding how Epstein amassed the wealth that funded his crimes.&nbsp;“There would be no Epstein island, there’d be no Epstein plane, there would be no money to traffic women and girls – Mr. Epstein would not be the wealthy man he was – without the support of Les Wexner,” Garcia told reporters. During the testimony, Wexner also denied having any sexual contact with Epstein victims, as alleged in the court filings.Wexner met Epstein in the 1980s, with the former granting the sex offender power of attorney over his finances that enabled him to manage his investments and major property deals. Wexner is alleged to be Epstein’s primary client, who helped establish his stature in the elite circles.&nbsp;The former Victoria’s Secret CEO claims that he cut ties with Epstein in 2007 after learned he was charged with soliciting a minor and had stolen large sums from his family.Wexner is not a target in the Epstein investigation and has never been charged with a crime, the DOJ said. His legal team said that he cooperated with federal authorities in 2019, the year Epstein was found dead in his jail cell.

Retail tycoon Les Wexner told lawmakers he was “conned” by Jeffrey Epstein, denying knowledge of his crimes. He said he cut ties in 2007 and has never been charged in the federal probe.

Retail tycoon Les Wexner on Wednesday (Feb 18) told lawmakers that he was “conned” by Jeffrey Epstein, denying any knowledge of his crimes during a House Oversight Committee hearing as part of the investigation into the late sex offender and his associates. The former Victoria’s Secret CEO was subpoenaed after his links to Epstein surfaced following the release of millions of documents by the Department of Justice. “I was naive, foolish, and gullible to put any trust in Jeffrey Epstein. He was a con man,” the 88-year-old said during his closed-door testimony. “While I was conned, I have done nothing wrong and have nothing to hide.” Democratic lawmakers said Wexner downplayed the closeness of his relationship and provided few new details as they grilled him over his ties with Epstein. The lingerie magnate repeatedly said that he could not recall key events. Despite only a few new details emerging from Wexner’s testimony, Congressman Robert Garcia of California said that it was important in understanding how Epstein amassed the wealth that funded his crimes. “There would be no Epstein island, there’d be no Epstein plane, there would be no money to traffic women and girls – Mr. Epstein would not be the wealthy man he was – without the support of Les Wexner,” Garcia told reporters. During the testimony, Wexner also denied having any sexual contact with Epstein victims, as alleged in the court filings. Wexner met Epstein in the 1980s, with the former granting the sex offender power of attorney over his finances that enabled him to manage his investments and major property deals. Wexner is alleged to be Epstein’s primary client, who helped establish his stature in the elite circles. The former Victoria’s Secret CEO claims that he cut ties with Epstein in 2007 after learned he was charged with soliciting a minor and had stolen large sums from his family. Wexner is not a target in the Epstein investigation and has never been charged with a crime, the DOJ said. His legal team said that he cooperated with federal authorities in 2019, the year Epstein was found dead in his jail cell.

Retail tycoon Les Wexner told lawmakers he was “conned” by Jeffrey Epstein, denying knowledge of his crimes. He said he cut ties in 2007 and has never been charged in the federal probe.

‘I was naive’: Former Victoria’s Secret CEO Les Wexner tells US lawmakers he was ‘conned’ by Epstein

Bill Gates will not be attending the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, the Gates Foundation India said in a statement on Thursday (Feb 19). This comes after the Microsoft co-founder was named in the Epstein files released by the US Department of Justice. The organisation will instead be represented by Ankur Vora, President of the Africa and India Offices, who is set to speak at the Summit.“After careful consideration, and to ensure the focus remains on the AI Summit's key priorities, Mr. Gates will not be delivering his keynote address. The Gates Foundation will be represented by Ankur Vora, President of Africa and India Offices, who will speak later today at the Summit,” the Gates Foundation India said. “The Gates Foundation remains fully committed to our work in India to advance our shared health and development goals.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/tGJtEQS97E">pic.twitter.com/tGJtEQS97E</a>&mdash; Gates Foundation India (@BMGFIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/BMGFIndia/status/2024316125400748512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Earlier, Gates had been listed among global tech leaders, policymakers, founders and innovators on the official website of the AI Impact Summit. His name briefly disappeared from the key participants’ list on Wednesday (Feb 18), but the Gates Foundation had said that he would be delivering his keynote as scheduled on Thursday.According to the schedule, Gates was expected to deliver a 12-minute keynote address on Thursday at 11:50 am at Bharat Mandapam, where several global leaders and industrialists are expected to participate.Prime Minister Narendra Modi also delivered his speech at the summit, where he hailed the event as a milestone not just for India, but for the wider South Asian region.This marks the fourth year of the AI Impact Summit, an international conference dedicated to the swift progress in AI. Previous editions took place in Paris, Seoul, and Bletchley, historically known as Britain's wartime code-breaking centre. The New Delhi summit is the first global AI meeting held in a developing country. The five-day summit was scheduled to be wrapped up on Friday (Feb 20), but has now been extended by a day following strong public response.

Bill Gates will skip the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi after being named in US DOJ’s Epstein files. The Gates Foundation said Ankur Vora will represent the organisation at the event instead.

Bill Gates will not be attending the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, the Gates Foundation India said in a statement on Thursday (Feb 19). This comes after the Microsoft co-founder was named in the Epstein files released by the US Department of Justice. The organisation will instead be represented by Ankur Vora, President of the Africa and India Offices, who is set to speak at the Summit. “After careful consideration, and to ensure the focus remains on the AI Summit's key priorities, Mr. Gates will not be delivering his keynote address. The Gates Foundation will be represented by Ankur Vora, President of Africa and India Offices, who will speak later today at the Summit,” the Gates Foundation India said. “The Gates Foundation remains fully committed to our work in India to advance our shared health and development goals.”

Bill Gates will skip the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi after being named in the US DOJ’s Epstein files. The Gates Foundation said Ankur Vora will represent the organisation at the event instead.

Bill Gates to skip India AI Impact Summit after being named in Epstein files

US Congressman Brad Sherman on Wednesday (Feb 18) slammed President Donald Trump's continued pressure on India regarding its purchase of Russian oil, calling the policy unfair and inconsistent. In a statement posted on social media, Sherman accused Trump of "grasping for excuses to slap outrageous tariffs on India." The California Democrat questioned why India was being penalised despite importing a smaller share of crude from Russia compared to some European countries.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-rejects-us-claim-india-will-ditch-russian-oil-says-trump-trying-to-grab-right-to-dictate-to-independent-nations-1771464523183">Russia blasts US over India oil claim, slams Trump's attempt to dictate terms</a>

<h2>India 'being singled out'?</h2>Sherman pointed out that India imports roughly 21 per cent of its crude oil from Russia, yet faces tariff threats. By contrast, he noted, Hungary sources nearly 90 per cent of its crude from Russia but has not been subjected to similar tariff action."He claims it’s about importing Russian oil — yet Hungary imports 90% of its crude from Russia with no tariffs," Sherman wrote. He also highlighted that China, Russia's largest oil buyer, has not faced sanctions specifically tied to its purchase of Russian crude.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-releases-first-official-fact-sheet-on-us-india-trade-deal-says-it-ll-open-1-4b-strong-market-to-american-goods-1770701855280">White House releases first official fact sheet on US-India trade deal; no mention of New Delhi ending Russian oil purchase</a>"India gets just 21% of its crude from Russia, but our ally is being singled out," he added, urging the administration to reverse the policy. "The President should reverse this policy immediately."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump is grasping for excuses to slap outrageous tariffs on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>. He claims it’s about importing Russian oil — yet Hungary imports 90% of its crude from Russia with no tariffs. And China, Russia’s biggest oil buyer, hasn’t been hit with sanctions tied to purchasing…&mdash; Congressman Brad Sherman (@BradSherman) <a href="https://twitter.com/BradSherman/status/2024246649296392496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Russia slams Trump</h2>Congressman Sherman's statement comes on the heels of Russia's vehement rejection that India was preparing to cut back on purchases of Russian oil. Pushing back against claims from Washington that New Delhi has agreed to halt imports of Russian crude, the Russian Foreign Ministry said it had "no reason to believe" that was true.&nbsp;Speaking at her weekly briefing, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Moscow sees "no reason to believe" that India has shifted its position on buying Russian hydrocarbons."India’s purchase of Russian hydrocarbons benefits both countries and helps maintain stability in the international energy market," she said, according to PTI.&nbsp;

US Congressman Brad Sherman slammed President Donald Trump’s pressure on India over Russian oil imports, calling it unfair and inconsistent. He said India, which imports about 21 per cent of its crude from Russia, was being ‘singled out’. Here's what he said.

US Congressman Brad Sherman on Wednesday (Feb 18) slammed President Donald Trump's continued pressure on India regarding its purchase of Russian oil, calling the policy unfair and inconsistent. In a statement posted on social media, Sherman accused Trump of "grasping for excuses to slap outrageous tariffs on India." The California Democrat questioned why India was being penalised despite importing a smaller share of crude from Russia compared to some European countries. Also read | Russia blasts US over India oil claim, slams Trump's attempt to dictate terms

US Congressman Brad Sherman slammed President Donald Trump’s pressure on India over Russian oil imports, calling it unfair and inconsistent. He said India, which imports about 21 per cent of its crude from Russia, was being ‘singled out’. Here's what he said.

India 'being singled out’? US Congressman accuses Trump of using Russian oil as excuse to hit New Delhi with tariffs

Swiss President Guy Parmelin has emphasised the shared commitment between Switzerland and India to ensuring artificial intelligence benefits all people and cultures, rather than a privileged few. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, ahead of the India AI summit, Parmelin said: "Switzerland and India share many values and the vision that AI should be accessible and should benefit every person and every culture, not just a few privileged ones"As Switzerland gears up to host the AI Summit in Geneva in 2027, the president stressed building on previous gatherings, including the New Delhi summit. "As Switzerland prepares for the AI Summit in Geneva in 2027, we want to build on the achievements of the summits held so far, in particular the summit in New Delhi"Parmelin also endorsed the need for diverse AI ecosystems. "Switzerland agrees with India that it is important for our societies and economies to not just be users of AI models built by others, but also to have ecosystems that allow us to develop the models and create the data ourselves"Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/galgotias-university-blames-professor-neha-singh-s-enthusiasm-of-being-on-camera-for-ai-robodog-row-1771467435745">Galgotias University blames professor Neha Singh's 'enthusiasm of being on camera' for AI robodog row</a><h2>Full interview:</h2>WION: On bilateral ties and TEPA: Switzerland and India have enjoyed strong relations for decades, culminating in the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and EFTA entering into force in October 2025, with commitments to $100 billion in investments and job creation. As President, how do you envision this agreement further strengthening economic cooperation between our two countries in the coming years?Guy Parmelin: With TEPA, we have laid the best possible foundation for further expanding our economic relations. Through tariff reductions, improved market access, and greater legal certainty, TEPA facilitates trade in goods and services and strengthens the framework conditions for businesses in both countries. In addition, we are currently negotiating a new bilateral investment protection agreement between Switzerland and India, which will further strengthen investor confidence. I am confident that, through these joint efforts, we will achieve and potentially even exceed the $100 billion investment target within the agreed timeframe.WION: On AI and the India AI Impact Summit: Switzerland has actively supported and collaborated on global AI governance, including a close partnership with India ahead of the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, where you represented Switzerland. How can Switzerland and India build on AI corporations?Guy Parmelin: Switzerland and India share many values and the vision that AI should be accessible and should benefit every person and every culture – not just a few privileged ones. Both countries agree that AI governance should be inclusive and multicultural, and we also share a regulatory approach that is sector-driven. Technological change can transform entire sectors, and both countries recognise the need to foster innovation while ensuring responsible and safe use of AI. Moreover, Switzerland is committed to multilateralism and multi-stakeholder AI governance. To foster international cooperation and dialogue, we participate in various international fora and processes on AI governance. As Switzerland prepares for the AI Summit in Geneva in 2027, we want to build on the achievements of the summits held so far, in particular the summit in New Delhi. We are committed to collaborating with all partners to make sure that everyone can benefit from the potential of AI, and that no one is left behind.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-rejects-us-claim-india-will-ditch-russian-oil-says-trump-trying-to-grab-right-to-dictate-to-independent-nations-1771464523183">Russia blasts US over India oil claim, slams Trump's attempt to dictate terms</a>WION: On sovereign AI models: Switzerland has advanced its own sovereign AI efforts, such as the multilingual Apertus model. In what ways does Switzerland see potential for collaboration with India on developing sovereign or open AI models that prioritise data privacy, ethical governance, and national priorities?Guy Parmelin: Switzerland agrees with India that it is important for our societies and economies to not just be users of AI models built by others, but also to have ecosystems that allow us to develop the models and create the data ourselves – and this goes for all cultures in our societies, and their languages. It is in this spirit that our universities created the Apertus model, which has been trained in over 1,000 languages. All elements of the Apertus production chain are openly accessible, so everything is transparent and traceable. Between India and Switzerland, there is already a vast and diverse ecosystem of cooperation, which will be further developed, not least because of the free trade agreement which was recently concluded.WION: On AI governance and global summits: With Switzerland planning to host the AI Summit in Geneva in 2027, following the India-hosted event in 2026, how do you view the role of neutral platforms like Switzerland in bridging diverse perspectives on AI safety, inclusion, and regulation between the Global South and established tech powers? Guy Parmelin: Switzerland's unique value in global AI governance is rooted in the spirit of Geneva as a neutral platform for international dialogue and cooperation. This is underlined by Geneva's diverse, interdisciplinary and dynamic ecosystem of international institutions focused on issues ranging from technical to humanitarian. Switzerland wants to build on the achievements of the AI Summits held so far, in particular the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, and will collaborate with all partners to help ensure that everyone can benefit from the potential of AI, and that no one is left behind. We will build on the principles established at the Delhi summit: development of human capital; broadening access for social empowerment; trustworthiness of AI systems; energy efficiency of AI systems; use of AI in science; democratizing AI resources; and use of AI for economic growth and social good. To advance these principles, we will also build on several structures for voluntary cooperation, and work with stakeholders willing to give the summits a clearer and more sustainable, but still lightweight and efficient, working structure. Switzerland is also committed to passing the issues discussed here at the summit in New Delhi on to the various international organisations based in Geneva. One key vehicle for this is the annual AI for Good Summit in Geneva. This platform, co-hosted by Switzerland and organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and 30+ partners, is an important platform for bringing the issues discussed here in New Delhi to the technical and capacity-building programmes of the relevant international organisations.WION: On India-Switzerland AI ties: Given the growing bilateral focus on research, innovation, and AI—evident in Switzerland's support for India's vision of safe, inclusive, and impactful AI—what specific areas of AI cooperation (such as multilingual models, ethical frameworks, or joint R&amp;D) do you see as most promising for deepening ties between our two nations in the near future.Guy Parmelin: In addition, Switzerland has been very active in many international fora that develop binding and non-binding technical, legal and ethical standards for developing and using AI. Switzerland wants to keep cooperating closely with India in all of these fields. Along with 55 other countries, Switzerland played a key role in the negotiation of the Council of Europe framework convention on AI – the first legally binding international treaty on AI. A legal instrument of global reach, it is also a framework for global cooperation on democracy, human rights and the rule of law when it comes to AI. With more and more countries from the global south, including Brazil, joining the process, we would like to encourage India to consider joining us, too. And we look forward to working with India to shape the upcoming UN dialogue on AI. &nbsp;

As Switzerland gears up to host the AI Summit in Geneva in 2027, the president stressed building on previous gatherings, including the New Delhi summit. Read the full interview below.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin has emphasised the shared commitment between Switzerland and India to ensuring artificial intelligence benefits all people and cultures, rather than a privileged few. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, ahead of the India AI summit, Parmelin said: "Switzerland and India share many values and the vision that AI should be accessible and should benefit every person and every culture, not just a few privileged ones" As Switzerland gears up to host the AI Summit in Geneva in 2027, the president stressed building on previous gatherings, including the New Delhi summit. "As Switzerland prepares for the AI Summit in Geneva in 2027, we want to build on the achievements of the summits held so far, in particular the summit in New Delhi" Parmelin also endorsed the need for diverse AI ecosystems. "Switzerland agrees with India that it is important for our societies and economies to not just be users of AI models built by others, but also to have ecosystems that allow us to develop the models and create the data ourselves" Also read | Galgotias University blames professor Neha Singh's 'enthusiasm of being on camera' for AI robodog row Full interview: WION: On bilateral ties and TEPA: Switzerland and India have enjoyed strong relations for decades, culminating in the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and EFTA entering into force in October 2025, with commitments to $100 billion in investments and job creation. As President, how do you envision this agreement further strengthening economic cooperation between our two countries in the coming years? Guy Parmelin: With TEPA, we have laid the best possible foundation for further expanding our economic relations. Through tariff reductions, improved market access, and greater legal certainty, TEPA facilitates trade in goods and services and strengthens the framework conditions for businesses in both countries. In addition, we are currently negotiating a new bilateral investment protection agreement between Switzerland and India, which will further strengthen investor confidence. I am confident that, through these joint efforts, we will achieve and potentially even exceed the $100 billion investment target within the agreed timeframe. WION: On AI and the India AI Impact Summit: Switzerland has actively supported and collaborated on global AI governance, including a close partnership with India ahead of the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, where you represented Switzerland. How can Switzerland and India build on AI corporations? Guy Parmelin: Switzerland and India share many values and the vision that AI should be accessible and should benefit every person and every culture – not just a few privileged ones. Both countries agree that AI governance should be inclusive and multicultural, and we also share a regulatory approach that is sector-driven. Technological change can transform entire sectors, and both countries recognise the need to foster innovation while ensuring responsible and safe use of AI. Moreover, Switzerland is committed to multilateralism and multi-stakeholder AI governance. To foster international cooperation and dialogue, we participate in various international fora and processes on AI governance. As Switzerland prepares for the AI Summit in Geneva in 2027, we want to build on the achievements of the summits held so far, in particular the summit in New Delhi. We are committed to collaborating with all partners to make sure that everyone can benefit from the potential of AI, and that no one is left behind. Also read | Russia blasts US over India oil claim, slams Trump's attempt to dictate terms WION: On sovereign AI models: Switzerland has advanced its own sovereign AI efforts, such as the multilingual Apertus model. In what ways does Switzerland see potential for collaboration with India on developing sovereign or open AI models that prioritise data privacy, ethical governance, and national priorities? Guy Parmelin: Switzerland agrees with India that it is important for our societies and economies to not just be users of AI models built by others, but also to have ecosystems that allow us to develop the models and create the data ourselves – and this goes for all cultures in our societies, and their languages. It is in this spirit that our universities created the Apertus model, which has been trained in over 1,000 languages. All elements of the Apertus production chain are openly accessible, so everything is transparent and traceable. Between India and Switzerland, there is already a vast and diverse ecosystem of cooperation, which will be further developed, not least because of the free trade agreement which was recently concluded. WION: On AI governance and global summits: With Switzerland planning to host the AI Summit in Geneva in 2027, following the India-hosted event in 2026, how do you view the role of neutral platforms like Switzerland in bridging diverse perspectives on AI safety, inclusion, and regulation between the Global South and established tech powers? Guy Parmelin: Switzerland's unique value in global AI governance is rooted in the spirit of Geneva as a neutral platform for international dialogue and cooperation. This is underlined by Geneva's diverse, interdisciplinary and dynamic ecosystem of international institutions focused on issues ranging from technical to humanitarian. Switzerland wants to build on the achievements of the AI Summits held so far, in particular the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, and will collaborate with all partners to help ensure that everyone can benefit from the potential of AI, and that no one is left behind. We will build on the principles established at the Delhi summit: development of human capital; broadening access for social empowerment; trustworthiness of AI systems; energy efficiency of AI systems; use of AI in science; democratizing AI resources; and use of AI for economic growth and social good. To advance these principles, we will also build on several structures for voluntary cooperation, and work with stakeholders willing to give the summits a clearer and more sustainable, but still lightweight and efficient, working structure. Switzerland is also committed to passing the issues discussed here at the summit in New Delhi on to the various international organisations based in Geneva. One key vehicle for this is the annual AI for Good Summit in Geneva. This platform, co-hosted by Switzerland and organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and 30+ partners, is an important platform for bringing the issues discussed here in New Delhi to the technical and capacity-building programmes of the relevant international organisations. WION: On India-Switzerland AI ties: Given the growing bilateral focus on research, innovation, and AI—evident in Switzerland's support for India's vision of safe, inclusive, and impactful AI—what specific areas of AI cooperation (such as multilingual models, ethical frameworks, or joint R&D) do you see as most promising for deepening ties between our two nations in the near future. Guy Parmelin: In addition, Switzerland has been very active in many international fora that develop binding and non-binding technical, legal and ethical standards for developing and using AI. Switzerland wants to keep cooperating closely with India in all of these fields. Along with 55 other countries, Switzerland played a key role in the negotiation of the Council of Europe framework convention on AI – the first legally binding international treaty on AI. A legal instrument of global reach, it is also a framework for global cooperation on democracy, human rights and the rule of law when it comes to AI. With more and more countries from the global south, including Brazil, joining the process, we would like to encourage India to consider joining us, too. And we look forward to working with India to shape the upcoming UN dialogue on AI.

As Switzerland gears up to host the AI Summit in Geneva in 2027, the president stressed building on previous gatherings, including the New Delhi summit. Read the full interview below.

Swiss President Parmelin backs India's push to democratise AI for all nations

Russia on Wednesday (Feb 18) vehemently rejected US suggestions that India was preparing to cut back on purchases of Russian oil. Pushing back against claims from Washington that New Delhi has agreed to halt imports of Russian crude, the Russian Foreign Ministry said it had "no reason to believe" that was true. This comes as the United States continues to claim that New Delhi has "committed" to stop importing Russian crude under the US-India trade deal. Here's all you need to know.<h2>Nothing new in Trump's claims</h2>Speaking at her weekly briefing, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Moscow sees "no reason to believe" that India has shifted its position on buying Russian hydrocarbons."India’s purchase of Russian hydrocarbons benefits both countries and helps maintain stability in the international energy market," she said, according to PTI.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-releases-first-official-fact-sheet-on-us-india-trade-deal-says-it-ll-open-1-4b-strong-market-to-american-goods-1770701855280">White House releases first official fact sheet on US-India trade deal; no mention of New Delhi ending Russian oil purchase</a>Zakharova also took aim at remarks by US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who have suggested that India had committed to stopping Russian oil imports as part of broader trade negotiations with Washington."There is nothing new in the claims of US President Donald Trump, as well as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who have grabbed the right to dictate to independent nations," she said.<h2>What sparked the row?</h2>The comments come after a recent phone conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump. Following the call, both sides announced a reduction in US tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent from 50 per cent. That move included scrapping a 25 per cent duty imposed by Trump last August over India’s continued purchases of Russian oil.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/white-house-revises-us-india-trade-deal-fact-sheet-removes-key-references-including-pulses-and-digital-taxes-what-changed-explained-1770781073665">White House revises US-India trade deal fact sheet, removes key references, including pulses and digital taxes: What changed? Explained</a>Soon after, Rubio said India had "committed" to stop importing Russian crude. Trump, while announcing the trade deal, also claimed that Indian PM Modi had promised to end such imports.India, however, has neither confirmed nor publicly denied the claim. Officials in New Delhi have repeatedly stated that "national interests" remain the guiding principle in energy procurement decisions.

Russia has rejected US claims that India will halt Russian oil imports under a trade deal, saying it sees no shift in New Delhi’s position. Moscow dismissed remarks by President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as baseless.

Russia on Wednesday (Feb 18) vehemently rejected US suggestions that India was preparing to cut back on purchases of Russian oil. Pushing back against claims from Washington that New Delhi has agreed to halt imports of Russian crude, the Russian Foreign Ministry said it had "no reason to believe" that was true. This comes as the United States continues to claim that New Delhi has "committed" to stop importing Russian crude under the US-India trade deal. Here's all you need to know. Nothing new in Trump's claims Speaking at her weekly briefing, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Moscow sees "no reason to believe" that India has shifted its position on buying Russian hydrocarbons. "India’s purchase of Russian hydrocarbons benefits both countries and helps maintain stability in the international energy market," she said, according to PTI. Also read | White House releases first official fact sheet on US-India trade deal; no mention of New Delhi ending Russian oil purchase Zakharova also took aim at remarks by US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who have suggested that India had committed to stopping Russian oil imports as part of broader trade negotiations with Washington. "There is nothing new in the claims of US President Donald Trump, as well as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who have grabbed the right to dictate to independent nations," she said. What sparked the row? The comments come after a recent phone conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump. Following the call, both sides announced a reduction in US tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent from 50 per cent. That move included scrapping a 25 per cent duty imposed by Trump last August over India’s continued purchases of Russian oil. Also read | White House revises US-India trade deal fact sheet, removes key references, including pulses and digital taxes: What changed? Explained Soon after, Rubio said India had "committed" to stop importing Russian crude. Trump, while announcing the trade deal, also claimed that Indian PM Modi had promised to end such imports. India, however, has neither confirmed nor publicly denied the claim. Officials in New Delhi have repeatedly stated that "national interests" remain the guiding principle in energy procurement decisions.

Russia has rejected US claims that India will halt Russian oil imports under a trade deal, saying it sees no shift in New Delhi’s position. Moscow dismissed remarks by President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as baseless.

Moscow blasts US claim India will ditch Russian oil, says Trump trying to 'grab right to dictate to independent nations'

The Vatican has formally declined an invitation to join US President Donald Trump’s proposed "Board of Peace," signalling unease over the structure and scope of the new initiative. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Holy See’s Secretary of State and its top diplomat, confirmed Tuesday (Feb 10) that Pope Leo XIV would not participate in Trump's board touted by the POTUS as a shot at "GREATNESS FOR ALL.". The decision comes after the pontiff was invited last month to take part in the board, which was initially conceived to oversee reconstruction efforts in Gaza but has since expanded into a broader global peace body.<h2>Vatican expresses concern over the UN's role</h2>Speaking to reporters after an event marking the anniversary of the Lateran Pacts, Cardinal Parolin said the Vatican was left "perplexed" by certain elements of the proposal and said that "critical issues" still need to be resolved. He emphasised that crisis management at the international level should remain under the authority of the United Nations.One of the points on which they have insisted, Parolin said, "is that at the international level it should above all be the UN that manages these crisis situations. This is one of the points on which we have insisted".<h2>Board of Peace under Trump's control</h2>The board, chaired indefinitely by Trump, would reportedly allow the president to appoint members, shape the agenda, and oversee finances. That structure has drawn concern from several governments and diplomats who fear it could sideline existing international mechanisms.Britain, France and Norway have also declined invitations, while Italy and the European Union have indicated they may participate only as observers. Meanwhile, war criminal Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, sometimes referred to as 'Europe's last dictator', have been invited to join.<h2>White House pushback</h2>The White House described the Vatican’s decision as "deeply unfortunate," with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt slamming the pontiff's refusal to join the Board of Peace, saying peace efforts should not become "partisan or political."Defending the board as a legitimate international body with broad participation. "This is a legitimate organization where there are tens of member countries from around the world, and we think that’s an unfortunate decision," she said.The board is expected to hold its first meeting in Washington this week.

The Vatican has turned down UD President Donald Trump's invitation for American Pope Leo to join the Gaza Board of Peace. This has led White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt to hit back at the pontiff. Here's the reason behind the Vatican's snub.

The Vatican has formally declined an invitation to join US President Donald Trump’s proposed "Board of Peace," signalling unease over the structure and scope of the new initiative. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Holy See’s Secretary of State and its top diplomat, confirmed Tuesday (Feb 10) that Pope Leo XIV would not participate in Trump's board touted by the POTUS as a shot at "GREATNESS FOR ALL.". The decision comes after the pontiff was invited last month to take part in the board, which was initially conceived to oversee reconstruction efforts in Gaza but has since expanded into a broader global peace body. Vatican expresses concern over the UN's role Speaking to reporters after an event marking the anniversary of the Lateran Pacts, Cardinal Parolin said the Vatican was left "perplexed" by certain elements of the proposal and said that "critical issues" still need to be resolved. He emphasised that crisis management at the international level should remain under the authority of the United Nations. One of the points on which they have insisted, Parolin said, "is that at the international level it should above all be the UN that manages these crisis situations. This is one of the points on which we have insisted". Board of Peace under Trump's control The board, chaired indefinitely by Trump, would reportedly allow the president to appoint members, shape the agenda, and oversee finances. That structure has drawn concern from several governments and diplomats who fear it could sideline existing international mechanisms. Britain, France and Norway have also declined invitations, while Italy and the European Union have indicated they may participate only as observers. Meanwhile, war criminal Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, sometimes referred to as 'Europe's last dictator', have been invited to join. White House pushback The White House described the Vatican’s decision as "deeply unfortunate," with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt slamming the pontiff's refusal to join the Board of Peace, saying peace efforts should not become "partisan or political." Defending the board as a legitimate international body with broad participation. "This is a legitimate organization where there are tens of member countries from around the world, and we think that’s an unfortunate decision," she said. The board is expected to hold its first meeting in Washington this week.

The Vatican has turned down UD President Donald Trump's invitation for American Pope Leo to join the Gaza Board of Peace. This has led White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt to hit back at the pontiff. Here's the reason behind the Vatican's snub.

Vatican snubs Trump’s Gaza Board of Peace invitation over governance concerns; Leavitt hits back at Pope

French President Emmanuel Macron joined the AI bandwagon and generated a picture with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the image the two are seen making a heart with hand gestures, also signaling the growing technological collaborations between the two countries. The French president is on a 3-day visit to India with First Lady Brigitte Macron.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/macron-in-india-india-france-elevate-ties-to-special-global-strategic-partnership-1771431261941/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/macron-in-india-india-france-elevate-ties-to-special-global-strategic-partnership-1771431261941/embed</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Sharing the creative on X, he wrote, “When friends connect, innovation follows. Ready for The AI Impact Summit!”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">When friends connect, innovation follows. Ready for The AI Impact Summit! <a href="https://t.co/oh4700pQ09">pic.twitter.com/oh4700pQ09</a>&mdash; Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/2024122658221080903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Even before netizen could create an image of the two leaders, Macron himself got creative with his AI commands. During his visit the leader was seen interacting with Hindi cinema actors in Mumbai. And while on work tour, he ensured fitness was not taking a backseat, Macron was seen jogging on the streets of the maximum city. The internet couldn’t get enough of him and was all praises. And even before expressing his plans for the year in collaboration with India, he spoke of how people of Indian-origin as are leading from Silicon Valley to Champs-Élysées, he named CEOs of tech giants to major fashion houses. He said, "The CEO of Alphabet is Indian. The CEO of Microsoft is Indian. The CEO of IBM is Indian. The CEO of Adobe is Indian. The CEO of Palo Alto Networks is Indian. The CEO of Chanel is from Kolhapur, right here in this state” Furthermore, the president added, “India does not just participate in global innovation; India leads it..." Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/macron-in-india-pm-modi-hails-special-ties-with-france-says-we-will-eliminate-terrorism-from-roots-1771329704617">Macron in India: PM Modi hails 'special ties' with France, says ,'we will eliminate terrorism from roots'</a><h2>List of CEOs:</h2><ul><li>Alphabet - Sundar Pichai</li><li>Microsoft - Satya Nadella</li><li>IBM - Arvind Krishna</li><li>Adobe - Shantanu Narayen</li><li>Palo Alto Networks - Nikesh Arora</li><li>Chanel - Leena Nair</li></ul>

Macron turns trendsetter! See the viral "cute" AI-generated photo of President Macron and PM Modi making a heart sign at the 2026 IndiaAI Impact Summit.

French President Emmanuel Macron joined the AI bandwagon and generated a picture with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the image the two are seen making a heart with hand gestures, also signaling the growing technological collaborations between the two countries. The French president is on a 3-day visit to India with First Lady Brigitte Macron. https://www.wionews.com/videos/macron-in-india-india-france-elevate-ties-to-special-global-strategic-partnership-1771431261941/embed Sharing the creative on X, he wrote, “When friends connect, innovation follows. Ready for The AI Impact Summit!”

Macron turns trendsetter! See the viral "cute" AI-generated photo of President Macron and PM Modi making a heart sign at the 2026 IndiaAI Impact Summit.

Macron turns trendsetter: French president shares AI-generated 'cute' picture with PM Modi

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday (Feb 18) that the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was making a "big mistake" by entering a 100-year lease over Diego Garcia, an island in the Indian Ocean. "I have been telling Prime Minister Keir Starmer, of the United Kingdom, that Leases are no good when it comes to Countries, and that he is making a big mistake by entering a 100 Year Lease with whoever it is that is “claiming” Right, Title, and Interest to Diego Garcia, strategically located in the Indian Ocean," teh American president wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;"Our relationship with the United Kingdom is a strong and powerful one, and it has been for many years, but Prime Minister Starmer is losing control of this important Island by claims of entities never known before. In our opinion, they are fictitious in nature," the POTUS added.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/epstein-was-obsessed-with-girls-like-every-unmarried-billionaire-yale-professor-defends-emails-with-sex-offender-on-good-looking-blonde-student-1770906176284">Epstein was 'obsessed with girls, like every unmarried billionaire': Yale professor defends emails with sex offender on 'good-looking blonde' student</a>&nbsp;He further said that the island may be crucial if Iran fails to make a deal with America on its nuclear programme. "Should Iran decide not to make a Deal, it may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia, and the Airfield located in Fairford, in order to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous Regime — An attack that would potentially be made on the United Kingdom, as well as other friendly Countries," Trump wrote.&nbsp;"This land should not be taken away from the UK; if it is allowed to be, it will be a blight on our Great Ally. We will always be ready, willing, and able to fight for the UK, but they have to remain strong in the face of Wokeism and other problems put before them. DO NOT GIVE AWAY DIEGO GARCIA!" Trump concluded the post.&nbsp;In early February, the Maldives President, Mohamed Muizzu, had said he was ready to work on an "arrangement" via which the US would continue its presence at Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia. But in return, the Maldives must get control of the Chagos Archipelago, a UK-held Indian Ocean territory. London was planning to transfer the territory to the island nation of Mauritius.&nbsp;The deal between the UK and Mauritius was confirmed last year - and was supported by Trump. However, the American president has now voiced opposition, citing national security concerns. Although Mauritius has claimed that the US and UK would have the privilege to maintain operations on the territory.

Donald Trump criticised UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over a proposed 100-year Diego Garcia lease, citing security risks as Britain prepares to transfer Chagos Archipelago sovereignty to Mauritius.

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday (Feb 18) that the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was making a "big mistake" by entering a 100-year lease over Diego Garcia, an island in the Indian Ocean. "I have been telling Prime Minister Keir Starmer, of the United Kingdom, that Leases are no good when it comes to Countries, and that he is making a big mistake by entering a 100 Year Lease with whoever it is that is “claiming” Right, Title, and Interest to Diego Garcia, strategically located in the Indian Ocean," teh American president wrote on Truth Social. "Our relationship with the United Kingdom is a strong and powerful one, and it has been for many years, but Prime Minister Starmer is losing control of this important Island by claims of entities never known before. In our opinion, they are fictitious in nature," the POTUS added. Also read: Epstein was 'obsessed with girls, like every unmarried billionaire': Yale professor defends emails with sex offender on 'good-looking blonde' student He further said that the island may be crucial if Iran fails to make a deal with America on its nuclear programme. "Should Iran decide not to make a Deal, it may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia, and the Airfield located in Fairford, in order to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous Regime — An attack that would potentially be made on the United Kingdom, as well as other friendly Countries," Trump wrote. "This land should not be taken away from the UK; if it is allowed to be, it will be a blight on our Great Ally. We will always be ready, willing, and able to fight for the UK, but they have to remain strong in the face of Wokeism and other problems put before them. DO NOT GIVE AWAY DIEGO GARCIA!" Trump concluded the post. In early February, the Maldives President, Mohamed Muizzu, had said he was ready to work on an "arrangement" via which the US would continue its presence at Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia. But in return, the Maldives must get control of the Chagos Archipelago, a UK-held Indian Ocean territory. London was planning to transfer the territory to the island nation of Mauritius. The deal between the UK and Mauritius was confirmed last year - and was supported by Trump. However, the American president has now voiced opposition, citing national security concerns. Although Mauritius has claimed that the US and UK would have the privilege to maintain operations on the territory.

Donald Trump criticised UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over a proposed 100-year Diego Garcia lease, citing security risks as Britain prepares to transfer Chagos Archipelago sovereignty to Mauritius.

'DO NOT GIVE AWAY DIEGO GARCIA': Trump warns Starmer, says would need island if Iran fails to make deal

Poland has officially banned the entry of Chinese-made cars and other vehicles from entering the country’s military facilities to prevent the collection of sensitive data by technologically advanced automobiles. The Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces said that the decision aims to reduce the risk of “uncontrolled acquisition and use of data by these systems.”&nbsp;The Polish army’s move comes after a risk analysis was conducted on the increasing use of digital systems in vehicles and is meant to enhance the security of the infrastructure at military premises.&nbsp;&nbsp;NATO member Poland still maintains trade ties with China, and SAIC Motor Corp.’s MG brand, Chery Automobile Co.’s models, and BYD Co. lead sales among Chinese auto manufacturers in Poland.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-russia-trying-to-drag-out-process-says-zelensky-as-ukraine-talks-end-without-breakthrough-1771433866725">‘Russia trying to drag out process,’ says Zelensky as Ukraine talks end without breakthrough</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Modern vehicles equipped with cutting-edge technology, capable of…’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Besides, Poland has also prohibited government workers from “connecting official phones to infotainment systems in motor vehicles manufactured in the People’s Republic of China.”&nbsp;The Polish army said in a blog post that the decision addresses concerns about digital systems in modern vehicles and their potential for data collection.&nbsp;&nbsp;Modern vehicles equipped with cutting-edge technology are capable of “uncontrolled acquisition and use of data,” it said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-uk-pm-rishi-sunak-hails-india-s-enormous-optimism-trust-for-ai-unlike-scepticism-in-west-1771424112864">Former UK PM Rishi Sunak hails India’s ‘enormous optimism, trust for AI,’ unlike scepticism in West</a>&nbsp;The Polish army’s Colonel Marek Pietrzak said in a blog post that besides cars, the restrictions will also apply to other motor vehicles equipped with devices capable of recording position, image, or sound.&nbsp;&nbsp;Such vehicles will be permitted within protected areas of military installations only if certain functions are disabled and appropriate preventive measures are implemented in accordance with facility security regulations.&nbsp;Commanders, chiefs, and unit leaders have been asked to provide alternative parking spaces outside the military units for restricted vehicles.&nbsp;These rules will, however, not be applicable to military facilities open to the public, like clinics, hospitals, libraries, prosecutors’ offices, and garrison clubs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-extends-ai-impact-summit-by-a-day-amid-record-turnout-event-to-go-on-till-feb-21-1771411580595">Govt extends AI Impact Summit by a day amid record turnout, event to go on till Feb 21</a><h2>‘Establish appropriate legal and technical conditions for safety’</h2>&nbsp;The Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces has also requested that his superiors take steps to establish appropriate legal and technical conditions that enable manufacturers of vehicles having advanced monitoring systems to obtain information security approval to verify the safety of vehicles offered on the Polish market.&nbsp;&nbsp;Modern vehicles equipped with advanced communication systems and sensors can collect and transmit data, which requires appropriate security regulations for their use in protected areas, Pietrzak added.&nbsp;The measures are consistent with practices used by NATO countries and allies to ensure strong standards for defence infrastructure protection.

Poland has also prohibited government workers from connecting their official phones to infotainment systems in motor vehicles manufactured in the People’s Republic of China. The decisions address concerns about digital systems in modern vehicles and their potential for data collection.

Poland has officially banned the entry of Chinese-made cars and other vehicles from entering the country’s military facilities to prevent the collection of sensitive data by technologically advanced automobiles. The Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces said that the decision aims to reduce the risk of “uncontrolled acquisition and use of data by these systems.” The Polish army’s move comes after a risk analysis was conducted on the increasing use of digital systems in vehicles and is meant to enhance the security of the infrastructure at military premises. NATO member Poland still maintains trade ties with China, and SAIC Motor Corp.’s MG brand, Chery Automobile Co.’s models, and BYD Co. lead sales among Chinese auto manufacturers in Poland. Also Read: ‘Russia trying to drag out process,’ says Zelensky as Ukraine talks end without breakthrough ‘Modern vehicles equipped with cutting-edge technology, capable of…’ Besides, Poland has also prohibited government workers from “connecting official phones to infotainment systems in motor vehicles manufactured in the People’s Republic of China.” The Polish army said in a blog post that the decision addresses concerns about digital systems in modern vehicles and their potential for data collection. Modern vehicles equipped with cutting-edge technology are capable of “uncontrolled acquisition and use of data,” it said. Also Read: Former UK PM Rishi Sunak hails India’s ‘enormous optimism, trust for AI,’ unlike scepticism in West The Polish army’s Colonel Marek Pietrzak said in a blog post that besides cars, the restrictions will also apply to other motor vehicles equipped with devices capable of recording position, image, or sound. Such vehicles will be permitted within protected areas of military installations only if certain functions are disabled and appropriate preventive measures are implemented in accordance with facility security regulations. Commanders, chiefs, and unit leaders have been asked to provide alternative parking spaces outside the military units for restricted vehicles. These rules will, however, not be applicable to military facilities open to the public, like clinics, hospitals, libraries, prosecutors’ offices, and garrison clubs. Also Read: Govt extends AI Impact Summit by a day amid record turnout, event to go on till Feb 21 ‘Establish appropriate legal and technical conditions for safety’ The Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces has also requested that his superiors take steps to establish appropriate legal and technical conditions that enable manufacturers of vehicles having advanced monitoring systems to obtain information security approval to verify the safety of vehicles offered on the Polish market. Modern vehicles equipped with advanced communication systems and sensors can collect and transmit data, which requires appropriate security regulations for their use in protected areas, Pietrzak added. The measures are consistent with practices used by NATO countries and allies to ensure strong standards for defence infrastructure protection.

Poland has also prohibited government workers from connecting their official phones to infotainment systems in motor vehicles manufactured in the People’s Republic of China. The decisions address concerns about digital systems in modern vehicles and their potential for data collection.

Poland bans entry of Chinese vehicles at army locations, fears data ‘acquisition’

Investigators searching for Nancy Guthrie are deploying advanced signal-detection technology as the case enters its third week. The device, known as a “signal sniffer,” is designed to locate electronic signals emitted by nearby devices, including Guthrie’s pacemaker. David Kennedy, a former NSA hacker and creator of the signal-sniffing tool, explained to CBS News that Guthrie’s pacemaker likely uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). Authorities determined the device disconnected from its companion phone app at 2:28 am, suggesting the pacemaker continues to transmit a low-power Bluetooth signal intended to conserve battery life for years.&nbsp;Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” co-host Savannah Guthrie, disappeared overnight from her home in Tucson after failing to attend church on Feb. 1. Officials are treating the case as a suspected abduction. Kennedy said Bluetooth Low Energy typically operates within a 10- to 15-foot range. However, by incorporating amplifiers and high-gain antennas, the detection distance can stretch hundreds of feet. In a home experiment using a modified consumer drone and standard equipment, he was able to detect signals from as far as 800 feet away.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosions-reported-in-tehran-and-shiraz-as-smoke-rises-over-residential-areas-1771429039617">Smoke columns seen over residential areas in Tehran and Shiraz</a>&nbsp;According to Kennedy, aerial deployment dramatically improves coverage. He noted that helicopters or drones equipped with the technology can scan large areas and then narrow in on a signal to within just a few meters. Because the pacemaker emits a signal every two to three minutes, investigators can potentially track its location in intervals.Law enforcement sources told CBS News that the device was mounted on a helicopter earlier this week. The aircraft reportedly flew at low altitude over areas of interest in hopes of capturing a signal tied to Guthrie’s pacemaker.&nbsp;Kennedy described the helicopter operation as a rapid response method to gather initial data. While drones may be more efficient for sustained searches due to their maneuverability and speed, helicopters and vehicles can face signal interference from dense structures such as metal buildings and concrete barriers. He added that signal-sniffing technology remains relatively new in law enforcement operations.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ramadan-2026-crescent-moon-sighted-signaling-start-of-ramzan-1771436676968/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ramadan-2026-crescent-moon-sighted-signaling-start-of-ramzan-1771436676968/embed</a>&nbsp;Agencies currently lack large drone fleets dedicated to such searches, meaning manpower and equipment limitations could slow efforts. Kennedy estimated that deploying 50 to 60 drones, each covering between 300 and 800 feet, could significantly accelerate the search, potentially reducing coverage time for a 120-square-mile area to a matter of days rather than weeks. Ultimately, he said, the pace of progress depends on available drone operators, technology, and coordination on the ground.

Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case: How investigators are using a 'signal sniffer' to track Nancy's pacemaker signal

Investigators searching for Nancy Guthrie are deploying advanced signal-detection technology as the case enters its third week. The device, known as a “signal sniffer,” is designed to locate electronic signals emitted by nearby devices, including Guthrie’s pacemaker. David Kennedy, a former NSA hacker and creator of the signal-sniffing tool, explained to CBS News that Guthrie’s pacemaker likely uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). Authorities determined the device disconnected from its companion phone app at 2:28 am, suggesting the pacemaker continues to transmit a low-power Bluetooth signal intended to conserve battery life for years. Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” co-host Savannah Guthrie, disappeared overnight from her home in Tucson after failing to attend church on Feb. 1. Officials are treating the case as a suspected abduction. Kennedy said Bluetooth Low Energy typically operates within a 10- to 15-foot range. However, by incorporating amplifiers and high-gain antennas, the detection distance can stretch hundreds of feet. In a home experiment using a modified consumer drone and standard equipment, he was able to detect signals from as far as 800 feet away. Also Read: Smoke columns seen over residential areas in Tehran and Shiraz According to Kennedy, aerial deployment dramatically improves coverage. He noted that helicopters or drones equipped with the technology can scan large areas and then narrow in on a signal to within just a few meters. Because the pacemaker emits a signal every two to three minutes, investigators can potentially track its location in intervals. Law enforcement sources told CBS News that the device was mounted on a helicopter earlier this week. The aircraft reportedly flew at low altitude over areas of interest in hopes of capturing a signal tied to Guthrie’s pacemaker. Kennedy described the helicopter operation as a rapid response method to gather initial data. While drones may be more efficient for sustained searches due to their maneuverability and speed, helicopters and vehicles can face signal interference from dense structures such as metal buildings and concrete barriers. He added that signal-sniffing technology remains relatively new in law enforcement operations. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ramadan-2026-crescent-moon-sighted-signaling-start-of-ramzan-1771436676968/embed Agencies currently lack large drone fleets dedicated to such searches, meaning manpower and equipment limitations could slow efforts. Kennedy estimated that deploying 50 to 60 drones, each covering between 300 and 800 feet, could significantly accelerate the search, potentially reducing coverage time for a 120-square-mile area to a matter of days rather than weeks. Ultimately, he said, the pace of progress depends on available drone operators, technology, and coordination on the ground.

Investigators are now using Bluetooth signal-sniffing technology via helicopter and drones to locate missing 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Savannah Guthrie

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How a 'signal sniffer' could lead investigators to find Nancy Guthrie